I am the Riverway - Crystal

We are educators. We are welders. We are doctors, and we are mothers. We are the people who chose a diverse and approachable place of heritage and community. Our Riverway offers distinct community explorations that are easily reached by foot, car, boat, or bike. Offering a variety of experiences in the heartland of America, our communities are each unique in character but connected in leisure.

We are the Riverway. And here is one of our stories.

Crystal Ford Bingle, Coordinator of Service Learning & Volunteerism

I moved to the Middletown area in June 2014.  I was drawn here for my career at Miami University Regionals, but as I explored the area, I fell in love with the community and the layout of the area. It is important for people to have outdoor spaces to explore, be creative, take pride in and enjoy.  Some of my favorite outdoor spaces are Smith Park, RiversEdge at Marcum Park, and Riverscape MetroPark…just to name a few.  I think the Riverway provides spaces for people of all ages to be educated about our waterways, while engaging in activities that promote a sense of well-being and community involvement. 

When I first moved here, it did not take long to feel connected to the area.  Granted, my career helped to jumpstart that process, but I truly experienced a special connection with the community.  Today, only 4 years and 6 months later, it feels as if I have lived here most of my life.  A majority of the community feels like family to me.  I think that this is an important asset.  If we do not feel like we belong or are connected, it is hard to want to stay somewhere.  This community is a beautiful example of belonging.

I encourage my students to visit our local businesses that are within the Riverway such as Triple Moon Coffee and Uncle Joe's Candy Shop. RiversEdge is a great event recommendation during the summer months.

In my younger years, farm life was a significant part of my existence.  I lived in rural areas and the great outdoors was my playground and animals of all kinds were my playmates.  Growing up in a faith-based home and learning the importance of the responsibilities that the earth and its creatures require of us, truly made an impact on my perspectives in life.  Granted, I have lived in city environments for many years now due to the school and career choices made throughout my young adult life to present.  Nonetheless, I yearn for elements of a country life again.  Something magical happens when we slow our pace in the technological world of today and immerse ourselves in the beautiful natural world around us.  I want my stepson to develop an understanding and appreciation for the simpler things in life and hope to encourage that as he grows up.  Our youth are our future leaders of tomorrow.  Let us hope that we can instill a sense of balance regarding an appreciation and knowledge of our natural world within an ever changing technologically advanced society.

 

This is the first story as part of our “I am the Riverway” series. Want to add your story? Email econnor@mcdwater.org.