What do you do?
I am the owner and General Manager of De'Lish Cafe, a Cajun-Creole comfort food restaurant in the heart of the Performing Arts District.
What's one word you think people would use to describe you?
One word I'd think people would use to describe me would be humble.
Where do you live (city or neighborhood)?
I live in University Row in Dayton.
What do you love about life in Dayton?
The thing I love about life in Dayton is that it's easygoing and it's inexpensive. There are so many things to here to do, if you're willing to be open to different things. I love the new hotspot of urban living downtown.
(Source: Jasmine Brown)
Where do you go for a great time?
Where do I go for a great time, hmmm of course I'm going to say De'Lish. We have great live entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays with some of the best bands in the Ohio region and it's FREE.
What would you change about Dayton?
The one thing I would change about Dayton is segregation. I think we still have a long way to go. Being such a small city, it can be troubling at times.
What should people know about Dayton?
One thing people should know about Dayton is that there are things to do here. I constantly hear so many people complain (that) there isn't enough stuff to do, but when I open my Facebook page at the beginning of every week, it typically says "You have 10 events" this week, sometimes more or less.
Why did you decide to settle in Dayton?
I decided to settle in Dayton honestly because of my fiancé -- it was his idea to open up this restaurant. At the time I had planned on us moving to Columbus to get our foot out the door. Five years ago I had sort of given up on Dayton, but I believe that would've been the worst mistake of my life.
What does the community need now to make it a better place for future generations?
To make Dayton a better place for future generations, our community needs to learn to work together. There are so many organizations trying to help Dayton become great, but a lot of times they are doing the same thing, but separately. If we all work together Dayton could be what it once was. It's on its way, but together we could get there a whole lot quicker.
What was the most challenging part of what you do?
The most challenging part of what I do is dealing with mean people. I'm such a nice person and I'm always trying to see the good in everyone, but some people make it so hard….
What inspires you about Dayton?
What inspires me the most about Dayton is our youth, they get such a bad rap sometimes. I've seen and met some of the most talented kids and it makes me happy knowing that there are still some great ones out there. I haven't given up on them.
How can people help change Dayton for the better?
People can help Dayton change for the better by getting out and supporting the people that are trying to make a difference. Support your local business, the money goes right back into the community.
If you could change or bring one thing to Dayton, what would it be?
If I could bring one thing to Dayton, besides a grocery store downtown, it would be an NBA or NFL team to help further boost our economy.
What do you think Dayton will look like in 10-15 years?
I think in 10 to 15 years, Dayton will be home to some of the greatest locally owned restaurants and businesses. Right now there is a big boom in entrepreneurship, people are stepping out and opening businesses at such a fast rate. Not to forget a lot of these businesses are woman-owned, which is so awesome.
(Source: Jasmine Brown)
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