Dave Allen, Jaap-Orr, GreenBird + the 5 Q’s

This is Dave Allen of Jaap-Orr and GreenBird.

One thing I have noticed about people who really enjoy OTR is that they have some connection to the arts, or the need to create is a driving force in their life.  That is certainly true with Dave Allen.  Dave’s need to create was so strong one creative outlet just wasn’t enough, his advertising agency gig – creative as it is – just wasn’t totally scratching the itch he had to create.  Dave introduced a completely recyclable birdhouse a few years back and since then his line of bird friendly products GreenBird continues to grow and grow.

What do you do in Over-The-Rhine?
I work for Jaap-Orr Company.  The oldest advertising agency in Cincinnati still operating under the original name.  I also started another business here three years ago, designing and producing green products for wild birds: GreenBird LLC.

Why did you decide to set up business/work in OTR?
Jaap-orr has been here since 1934 and I’ve been here since 1998 so there have been a lot of changes witnessed from our windows.  We are located in the Germania Building on the corner of 12th and Walnut.

Is there anything that has surprised you about working or having a business in OTR?
I have been surprised at how 3CDC has truly changed this neighborhood.  It is becoming more upscale with interesting people and businesses moving in.  They capitalize on the historic feel of the Italianate architecture but make it so up-to-date and cool.  It is really a great place to be.

Do you have a favorite place you like to go in OTR?
No I don’t: I love it all!  I’m particularly happy that it is becoming a real arts center with theaters, galleries, art institutions/schools, everything.  I participated in Paint the Street last summer and it was exciting and positive to see so many people from all over working together to create art.  OTR is also becoming a great dining mecca with a super selection of restaurants and bars.  And I always shop here first because I find great, interesting things that you won’t find at the chains or box stores.
If you had a magic wand what would you change in OTR?
First the perception a lot of people still have about OTR.  I think that is slowly changing as places like SPCA, The Art Academy, Ensemble Theater, Know Theater, the restaurants and shops pull people into the area and they see how much it has changed for themselves.  Also the make over of Washington Park with our gem, Music Hall right there will really help.

Thanks Dave for taking the time to answer our 5 Questions and also thanks for all the support you bring to neighborhood events!