Daytonian of the Week: Meet that fireball Rachel Jensen

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Credit: Submitted

Blink and you might just miss this Fireball-selling fire cracker.

Rachel Jensen seemingly spreads unicat dust, goodwill  and alcoholic cheer wherever she goes.

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We caught her just long enough to crown her the latest Daytonian of the Week.

Why are you a crazy cat lady? 

Because cat noses are the cutest, cat paws are the softest and cat cuddles are the bestEST.

Credit: Photo: submitted

Credit: Photo: submitted

What are you passionate about in Dayton? 

Charity. I am a huge fan of The Dayton Art Institute's Art Ball and Bourbon and Bubbles, as well as Dayton History's Dayton Fight Night. Dayton has a very charitable heart. If someone is sick or a business has an unforeseen disaster, the rest of the community does everything in their power to bring them back up.

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Credit: Submitted

Where do you go for a great time? 

Lately, Gem City Catfe. They make an amazing Cinnamon Honey Latte and house 12 adorable adoptable kitties. Also, cat people are friendly people. So if you go alone you'll make new furry friends and meet new people friends.

 >> Here’s how you can visit the cats at Gem City Catfé

What would you change about Dayton? 

Year-round patio weather, please. Several Dayton restaurants and bars have the best patios in the Midwest. And I would love for someone to bring the First Four Festival back.

What should people know about Dayton? 

Dayton is a big warm, fuzzy and friendly mix of everything.

The Flyer and Raider support is legit.

The LGBT Community shines.

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There's a great selection of arcades with bars. You can release your inner child again with a cocktail in hand. My favorites are Hole in the WallDK Effect and Canal Street Arcade and Deli.

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What’s your favorite Dayton hidden gem? 

Air City Wine and Liquor. This is where Century BarLily's BistroCanal Street Deli and Arcade and Basil's on Market purchase their liquor from. They have an extraordinary selection of scotch, bourbon, whiskey & unique spirits (like Fernet Branca Menta -- a Lily's favorite). You will not be able to go there and get a bottle of Pappy Van Winkle, but you will be able to find the knowledge and guidance you need from owners Adam Boyd and Chris Anders. These guys are top-notch when it comes to customer service and conversation about a good bottle of whiskey. After a few visits you will consider them your friends.

Credit: Photo: submitted

Credit: Photo: submitted

Why did you decide to settle in Dayton?

Dayton has a small-town friendly feel but big city ideas and culture. There's always plenty to do without breaking the bank. The people you meet here are kind and genuine. This is a very sincere community full of huggers and friends.

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How did you get involved in your line of work? 

I got the bug in my early 20s at Uno's in Downtown Dayton. I went from being a Theatre Major to a restaurant manager quickly. I loved the chaos and excitement of the business. I moved onto managing at Brio Tuscan Grille and then to a bar manager position at Vue Ultra Lounge. 
While bartending at Vue I became passionate about creating cocktails and learning about various spirits. I loved bartending there, but having a young son made me want to strive for more consistent hours and weekends free to be a mom. I then decided to apply for the job I have now and I love it.

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Credit: Photo: submitted

Credit: Photo: submitted

Credit: Photo: submitted

Credit: Photo: submitted

Credit: Photo: submitted

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