Issuu

MasonandDeerfieldLifestyle.com

DECEMBER 2019

Celebrate

the Season DIY HOLIDAY WREATHS

COATS FOR A CAUSE

GIFT GUIDE FOR KIDS

LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2019 PUBLISHER

Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Here's to Another Year AND JUST LIKE THAT, WE ARE AT THE END OF THE YEAR. 2019 has been packed with celebrations as we awarded the winners of the inaugural Readers’ Choice Awards in January and then released our first-anniversary issue in May. We loved sharing the stories of our community while shining a light on local charities, organizations and businesses. This month’s issue is no different! For our Giving Back story, we sat down with the Karen Carns Foundation to learn about the organization's mission and annual winter coat drive that has helped more than 16,000 children feel safe and warm with a new coat.

Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER

Dana Rudolph COPY EDITOR

Kate Baxendale CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Karen Andrea, Amanda Stout, Jonathan Stout, Laura Leavitt, Stephanie Meinberg CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Len Kaltman-West Chester Corporate Photography, Alicia + Will Photography

If you are in need of gift ideas, we have you covered. Learning Express Toys at Deerfield Towne Center shares the latest trends that will be at the top of every kids’ wish list. For a unique gift, take a look at handcrafted pens by Len Kaltman, one of our talented photographers. A special part of the holiday season is spending time with family and creating memories at home. Discover how Cedar Village makes its senior living community feel like home for its residents. Caring staff and a wide range of amenities and services provide a place for seniors to live life to the fullest.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

We are proud to work with some amazing advertising partners, writers and photog-

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

raphers who support and contribute to our publication reaching your home each

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

month. We invite you to visit their locations, use their services and let them know you saw them in the magazine! Lastly, be sure to check out our Good Times section as we recap the Mason Deerfield Chamber’s Gem of Excellence Awards. I was humbled to have been selected as the Ambassador of the Year for the MADE Chamber and am honored to represent an

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

ON THE COVER Nellie Ashmore

of That Girl's Flowers shares wreath-making basics from her upcoming ART BAR workshop.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEN KALTMAN-WEST CHESTER CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY 4

Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | December 2019

Mark Andrea, Publisher Mark.Andrea@LifestylePubs.com

MasonandDeerfieldLifestyle.com

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO Proverbs 3:5-6 Mason & Deerfield™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Mason & Deerfield areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Mason & Deerfield™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2019

FEATURES 16 Heart of the Matter From God to Growth to Giving Back, Tony’s Treats Us All Like Family

20 Gift Giving Guide: Kids Get Ready for the Holidays with Top Kids Gift Recommendations from Learning Express Toys

26 Make-Your-Own Holiday Wreaths Get the Basics for Building Your Own Fresh Holiday Wreath from Flower Grower Nellie Ashmore

30 Home Sweet Home Cedar Village in Mason Strives

30 16

to Provide Older Adults a Caring Environment They’ll Call Home

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Giving Back

24 Artist’s Palette 26 DIY 30 Open House 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Local’s Choice

C ALL FO R A FR E E CO N S U LTATIO N & 3 D R E N D E R I N G

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GOOD TIMES

MADE Chamber Gems of Excellence Awards The winners of the Mason Deerfield (MADE) Chamber Gems of Excellence awards were announced at the Annual Awards Night at Manor House in Mason this fall. The event honors those who have made significant contributions to the Mason-Deerfield area, making it a better place to live, work and play. For the full list of nominees and winners, visit GemsOfExcellence.com, MadeChamber.org.

Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | December 2019

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AROUND TOWN

WATSON'S PRESENTED WITH THE PRESTIGIOUS APOLLO AWARD

CITY OF MASON CITY DEDICATES SPACE TO NEW AQUATIC CENTER

Cincinnati-based Watson’s was named the

The City of Mason has set aside space for a

winner of the most prestigious award in all of

state-of-the-art aquatic center. A fundraising com-

outdoor furnishings. The Apollo Award recognizes

mittee called A Matter of 50 will work to raise $5

“an exceptional dealer in their trading area and a

million in private funding.

model for others within the industry, as well as

“When we established the Mason Manta Rays

characterized by innovative marketing and mer-

15 years ago, we had no idea how successful this

chandising strategies.”

program would become,” said Chrissy Avery, Parks

The International Casual Furnishings Association

and Recreation Director with the City of Mason.

(ICFA) announced the honor in September in front

“We’ve grown to more than 300 swimmers and

of top retailers, manufacturers, sales representa-

have a waitlist of 150. Creating a 50-meter aquatic

tives and designers.

center is a huge deal for everyone interested in

“Our mission has always been to help people

competitive swimming and aquatic sports.”

make the most of their time with their family and

The Mason Manta Rays are a USA Swimming

friends. Our all-new store took that experience to

Gold Medal Club, ranked in the top 1% of 3,000 USA

a whole new level,” CEO Erik Mueller said. “We’re

Swimming teams and are the highest-rated team

honored to accept the Apollo Award and to bring

in the country without a 50-meter pool. Manta

it home to Cincinnati.”

Rays have competed in every Olympic Trial since

Watson’s was founded in Cincinnati in 1968, fea-

2008, with 11 competing in the Olympic Trials

turing indoor furnishings, outdoor furnishings, home

for the 2020 Games. The new Mason Municipal

recreational products and more. Watsons.com

Aquatic Center will be a versatile, year-round facility, designed for swimmers of all ages and abilities and provide a foundation for an even stronger competitive program. ImagineMason.org

UC WEST CHESTER HOSPITAL HOSTS FALL CLASSIC GOLF OUTING West Chester Hospital hosted its annual golf outing fundraiser this fall at The City of Mason Golf Center. All proceeds benefited the hospital’s patient care fund for neurological enhancements and annually awarded student scholarships. The presenting sponsor for the outing was Heritagespring of West Chester. In addition to this year’s four-person scramble format, guests enjoyed breakfast and lunch, contests, prizes and more. Lunch was provided in partnership with the Mason

MASON DANCE CENTER PRESENTS THE NUTCRACKER: ALL JAZZED UP! Local dance studio Mason Dance Center will perform its 18th annual production of The Nutcracker: All Jazzed Up! on Sunday, Dec. 15, at

Deerfield Chamber of Commerce’s Taste of MADE, which featured gourmet bites from local restaurants scattered throughout the course. UCHealth.com

NEW PHOTO WALL ART AVAILABLE AT POP REVOLUTION

the Mason High School (MHS) Theater. The show

Pop Revolution Gallery offers framing, fine art and

features new costumes and choreography every

photo printing services in Mason. Recently, they’ve

year and benefits the MHS After Prom. MCS

added print products for high-resolution art repro-

Superintendent Jonathan Cooper and his wife

duction and photography onto HD metal (aluminum

will be part of the Act I party scene for the sec-

panel), brushed metal with resin coating and wood

ond year in a row. Tickets can be purchased on

panel prints. A new natural Belgian linen canvas was

the Mason Dance Center website for $10 each.

also added to the mix. These techniques offer unique

There are two showtimes, 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.

texture and depth for a photograph or art print. Learn

MasonDance.com/Nutcracker

more about these techniques the next time you stop in to visit their gallery. PopRevolutionGallery.com

Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | December 2019

December 2019 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle

GIVING BACK ARTICLE JONATHAN STOUT | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

coats for a cause THE KAREN CARNS FOUNDATION STRIVES TO KEEP STUDENTS WARM AND IN SCHOOL

Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | December 2019

HE KAREN CARNS FOUNDATION, BASED IN MASON, SERVES CHIL-

ANNUAL COAT DRIVE

DREN BY ENSURING THAT THEY ARE NOT REMOVED FROM THEIR

The annual coat drive is held

PRIVATE ELEMENTARY OR HIGH SCHOOL ENVIRONMENTS DUE TO

at local retailer Gabe’s. The

LIFE-CHANGING EVENTS THAT AFFECT THEIR FAMILY’S FINANCIAL

foundation schedules “shopping

SITUATION. In addition to scholarships for students in need, the foundation

days” with local school adminis-

also holds an annual coat drive that provides new winter coats to those less fortunate. Karen Carns, the foundation’s namesake, was diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic

trators, counselors and teachers who

nominate

different

chil-

Leukemia in June 2000. After battling the disease for 14 months, she succumbed on Aug. 18,

dren to be coat recipients. The

2001. Children’s education was very important to Karen.

foundation’s Executive Director,

“Life has so much to offer, and the more you learn, the more options and chances you have,” Karen wrote in the letter used for her memorial mass. “Knowledge is awesome.”

Courtney

Stables,

inventory

needs

coordinates with

Gabe’s

Since the foundation’s inception, more than $2 million of tuition has been raised to

for the Nov. 2 Coat Drive. The

help students from more than 30 schools. A few of the schools they’ve worked with

foundation is always in need

include Moeller High School, Elder High School, Ursuline Academy, Mount Notre Dame

of more volunteers, so if you’d

High School and many others.

like to be a part of next year’s

The coat drive concept began humbly in the late 1990s when Karen organized a used-

drive or would like to donate

coat drive for orphans at St. Aloysius. She was disappointed with the quality of the coats

to the foundation, please visit

and wanted to do better for the students. When her husband, Thomas Carns, received an

KarenCarnsFoundation.org.

unexpected bonus, they decided to use the extra money to buy new coats for the orphans. “The reaction of the kids receiving brand-new coats made us realize we have to reach more kids,” Thomas says. To date, the foundation has purchased and distributed more than 16,500 coats along with more than 1,000 hats and gloves. Coat Drive Chairman Dan Engen joined the foundation in 2002. “My favorite aspect of the coat drive is speaking with the counselors, administrators and teachers from the schools that participate in the program,” Dan says. “Their stories about the kids who receive the coats are very moving.” In addition to the annual coat drive, the Karen Carns Foundation holds three other annual fundraising events. These events include the winter Black and White Formal at the Madison Event Center in Covington, the fall Golf Outing at Stonelick Hills and the 1K race that begins at Heritage Oak Park and ends with a party at the Wildflower Café in Mason. Those inspired by the Karen Carns Foundation’s mission can keep up to date with upcoming events by visiting KarenCarnsFoundation.org, where donations can also be made. December 2019 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle

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ARTICLE STEPHANIE MEINBERG PHOTOGRAPHY TONY’S CORPORATE, ALICIA + WILL PHOTOGRAPHY

HEART OF THE MATTER

FOR MOST, OPENING A RESTAURANT REQUIRES A GIANT LEAP OF FAITH. The location, the concept, the service, the food—it’s a recipe requiring the kind of preternatural timing and instinct even the most seasoned restauranteurs can get wrong—and often do. But for Tony Ricci and his wife, Debra, theirs wasn’t just a leap of faith; it was an act of one. “We opened on a Monday, and Friday we had payroll,” Tony remembers. “My bookkeeper told me we didn’t have enough money if we didn’t do the business that week. So that afternoon, I went to St. Columban … the organist was practicing, but I was the only one in the church. I looked at the Guy above, and I said, ‘You know what I promised you … it’s all on you now. It’s all on you.’ “That Friday, we made payroll,” he smiles. “And I’ve never thought about cash flow again.”

FROM GOD TO GROWTH TO GIVING BACK, TONY’S TREATS US ALL LIKE FAMILY

Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | December 2019

“It was a tough time … emotionally, psychologically. My wife and I were down to the nitty-gritty.” When a friend casually commented, “Why don’t you do what you’re good at?,” it sparked an ember that would fully ignite when Tony realized the old Bravo restaurant was empty—and for sale. Thus was born Tony’s of Cincinnati. With no marketing budget, a real estate deal that nearly fell through, on a two-lane road under substantial construction, it should never have worked. “But I had one belief—if we treat people right, if we show them how much we care about their experience in our restaurant, I knew we would succeed … and keep my promise to the Lord above—that I would give back to the community. That’s the deal I made. And here I am.” Here, for Tony, means 10 years open next May, a milestone topped only by the fact that he also commands two other Tony’s locations in Lexington and Indianapolis, all with the same deep dedication to truly fine food—and abundant community giving. “Every city I go to, I want to embed myself in the community and help out as many charities as I possibly can. We give back a lot. It’s who I am.”

CONTINUED >

No stranger to the hospitality industry, Tony wields a wealth of restaurant expertise. He says it was love at first sight, following his server debut at Hyde Park’s Marjorie P. Lee, where he won over retirees with chocolate sauce and charm. What followed were decades in and around the restaurant biz, until 2009, when he found himself at a turning point—without clear direction on what to do next. December 2019 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle

HEART OF THE MATTER

(CON TI N U ED)

Tony’s Choice “My favorite steak is the porterhouse.” His suggestion: order it to share, then eat the filet side first. “You’ll never want a different filet again.”

Flying somewhat under the radar, most people don’t realize the magnitude of Tony’s generosity—or that he’s been doing it from the start. Supporting LIFE Food Pantry, he donates pies and Thanksgiving meals to families in need. He works with the Anthony Muñoz Foundation and Lexington’s Swings for Soldiers. He helps the Dragonfly Foundation, from fundraisers to inviting Dragonfly families to enjoy a meal—on him. Tony also contributes to high school sports programs, in Loveland as well as surrounding schools here and in Lexington—feeding the football team at his restaurant before every home game being just one example in a long list of local support. That same level of care and consideration is tangible inside his restaurants, too. “It’s just the whole experience,” Tony explains. “Here, we can truly say, whether we see you for the first time or for the hundredth time, you’re family … from the minute you walk in the door.” It’s a lesson his entire staff has learned well from Tony himself—looking you in the eye. Remembering your name. An uncommon, uncanny knack for both putting you at ease and making you feel like the center of attention. “We take hospitality to the next level.” Recent renovations have elevated the Tony’s of Cincinnati experience even more, stemmed by a desire to cover an often-sunbaked patio. “It was supposed to be just the bar and the patio, but then my wife got involved and we did the whole thing,” he laughs. “We needed a fresh look. It was dark, and there was too much of the Bravo thing still going on.” Completed in October, Tony’s now boasts an upgraded bar; a patio with a roof, heaters and fans; plus overall lightening and brightening throughout. And the food? Still fantastic. Always consistent—steaks, seafood and pastas with a luxurious Mediterranean flair, surrounded by the energy and vibe of something a little more familiar. “It’s just a bigger version of Cheers.” TONY’S OF CINCINNATI 12110 Montgomery Road, Loveland 513.677.8669, TonysOfCincinnati.com 18

Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | December 2019

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ARTICLE AMANDA STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY LEN KALTMANWEST CHESTER CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY & PROVIDED

G I F T G I V I N G G U I D E : GET READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS WITH TOP KIDS GIFT RECOMMENDATIONS FROM LEARNING EXPRESS TOYS

Kids

LEARNING EXPRESS TOYS OF MASON IS A LOCALLY OWNED FRANCHISE, LED BY A MOM OF EIGHT, KELLEY STEVENS. The store in Crestview Hills, Kentucky, was her first job after her kids were in school. It was there that she fell in love with the franchise, became a manager and eventually the owner. “I love my job and working with customers,” Kelley says. “Caring for them and offering personal service are big parts of what we do.” Learning Express also features many perks you won’t find at big-box stores. “We make shopping and gift-giving as easy and fun as possible,” Kelley says. They offer free gift wrapping, free name or design personalization for certain toys, makeyour-own party favor bags and a Birthday Box Registry. For their birthdays, kids get to pick out items from the store to put in a box with their name on it. Then, friends and family can come in to purchase presents they know the child will love (with a 10% discount!). Learning Express carries a variety of toys, arts and crafts, kids jewelry, games and more from popular brands like Melissa & Doug, Lego and Fat Brain Toys. They also have large play sets like the Melissa & Doug Baby Care Center and Fresh Mart as well as current fads like L.O.L. Surprise and Squishmallows. “We try to have a good mix, and STEM toys are always well-stocked,” Kelley says. Check out these bestsellers and trending favorites hand-selected by Kelley, and stop in for an easy and unique holiday shopping experience!

Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | December 2019

LEARNING EXPRESS TOYS OF MASON 5555 Deerfield Blvd., Mason 513.486.3031 LearningExpress.com

G I F T S

F O R

K I D S

VSCO Girl Essentials: Pink Glitter Slimcase with Girl Power Design, $12.99, Can be personalized Decorative Stickers, $.99 Mavi Band Scrunchies, $9.99 STMT D.I.Y. Cosmetics Case, $24.99 Learning Express Exclusive, Can be personalized Funtime Tractor, $39.99 Stacked String Art Unicorns, $19.99 Spin Again Stacking Toy, $29.99 Clack! Categories Game, $24.99 Tangle Nightball Basketball, $24.99 and Football, $19.99 Calico Critters Red Roof Cozy Cottage Starter Home, $34.99 Calico Critters Sweet Pea Rabbit Family, $24.99 Strong is the New Pretty by Kate T. Parker, $17.95 The Heart of a Boy by Kate T. Parker, $18.95 Beaker Creatures Liquid Reactor Super Lab, $24.99 Beaker Creatures Reactor Pod, $4.99 Squishmallows Humphrey, $24.99 Squishmallows Elton, $14.99 Melissa & Doug Fresh Mart, $149.99

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ARTIST’S PALETTE

“THE KNOTS OF THE BUCKEYE WOOD, CALLED THE BURL, ARE BEAUTIFUL AND UNIQUE; EACH PEN IS LIKE A FINGERPRINT. NO TWO ARE EXACTLY ALIKE, WHICH MAKES EVERY PEN A UNIQUE GIFT.”

LEN’S PENS A COMMITMENT TO CRAFTSMANSHIP USING OHIO'S LOCAL BUCKEYE WOOD

ARTICLE LAURA LEAVITT | PHOTOGRAPHY LEN KALTMAN-WEST CHESTER CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY

Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | December 2019

LEN KALTMAN IS KNOWN LOCALLY AS A CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHER; YOU’VE PROBABLY SEEN HIS PHOTOS REGULARLY IN THIS MAGAZINE. But in his spare time, he enjoys creating high-quality wooden pens in his home woodshop. Len learned about pen-turning at his favorite woodworking store and was quickly making more pens than expected. “When I’d made about 50 pens, my wife suggested that I start selling them,” Len says. Rather than purchasing the wooden “blanks,” which are small rectangular pieces of wood sized for pens, Len purchases large pieces of wood cut from the buckeye tree (Ohio’s state tree) and cuts his own blanks. “The knots of the buckeye wood, called the burl, are beautiful and unique; each pen is like a fingerprint. No two are exactly alike, which makes every pen a unique gift.” Cutting his own blanks creates opportunities for personalization: Len once was able to make a pen set for a grandfather, father and son, which lined up next to each other in a similar pattern from a single piece of wood. The process requires intricate, time-consuming work, and for Len, it utilizes a different side of creativity from his photography business. While some pens are sold through local shops, Len also showcases his pens online. They make excellent Ohio-themed corporate gifts for clients or executives, as well as great holiday gifts. BuckeyePens.com

December 2019 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle

DIY

MakeYour-Own Holiday Wreaths GET THE BASICS FOR BUILDING YOUR OWN FRESH HOLIDAY WREATH FROM FLOWER GROWER NELLIE ASHMORE

ARTICLE AMANDA STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY LEN KALTMANWEST CHESTER CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY

Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | December 2019

BELIEVE IT OR NOT, YOU MAY HAVE ALMOST EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO CREATE A FABULOUS HOLIDAY WREATH RIGHT IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD. Owner of That Girl’s Flowers, Nellie Ashmore, loves to encourage people to look around their lawns for fresh options rather than faux. “I choose clippings like pine, boxwood, arborvitae, cedar, holly berries and pine cones,” Nellie says. “They will last throughout the season, so there really is no reason to use artificial unless you don’t want to create a new wreath every year,” she adds. If you’re new to wreath-making or just want to spend quality time with friends, Nellie will be teaching an ART BAR workshop on Dec. 7 at 2:30 p.m. in Deerfield Township. Workshops are usually held at the Snyder House at Cottell Park or local breweries and businesses around Mason and Deerfield. “The ART BAR programs have opened up so many learning opportunities for people within the community, including this workshop with Nellie Ashmore. These workshops show people that they are very capable of creating a work of art,” says Meredith Raffel, executive director of The Arts Alliance. Nellie runs That Girl’s Flowers out of her parents’ Clarksville, Ohio, farm where she grew up. Her flowers are certified organic and available from June through October. She also makes dried floral wreaths, offers flowers by the bucket and sells fresh flower bouquets through the farm store, Pipkin’s Market in Blue Ash and Dorothy Lane Markets around Dayton.

“THE ART BAR PROGRAMS HAVE OPENED UP SO MANY LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR PEOPLE WITHIN THE

For this year’s wreath-making event, Nellie will

COMMUNITY, INCLUDING THIS WORKSHOP WITH NELLIE

be making traditional wreaths like the larger style

ASHMORE. THESE WORKSHOPS SHOW PEOPLE THAT THEY

shown here. She also shared tips with us for making a modern ring wreath.

ARE VERY CAPABLE OF CREATING A WORK OF ART.”

To get more information about The Arts Alliance events or to sign up for the workshop, please visit The-Arts-Alliance.org and for more information about Nellie’s flower offerings, visit ThatGirlsFlowers.com.

Supplies: + Wreath frames or hoops, floral wire, clippers and wire cutters. A wreath hanger or ribbon. + The Wreath: Greenery and accents like pine cones, holly berries, dried fruit and a bow. CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle

DIY

(CON TI N UED)

Traditional Wreath Tips + For a full-size wreath, you will need a large armful of greenery. + Create small bunches of greenery and lay on the frame. Secure the bunches to the frame by wrapping around the greenery and frame with floral wire. Continue to layer on top of your previous bunches, making sure the wire is covered up by each section. + Play with your wreath to find the best angles and placement for accents.

Modern Ring Wreath Tips + For a modern ring wreath, you will need a large handful of greens. + Don’t cover the whole ring. Simply center accents between two greenery sections. The greenery can be as layered or kept simple and sparse. + Ring wreaths are versatile and can be hung or displayed at different angles.

Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | December 2019

From our family to yours,

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ZOOM Whitening for the holidays- Get those teeth looking their best to “WOW” your holiday guests. Are holiday stressors leaving you with facial lines and creases? Dr. Webb can talk with you about BOTOX cosmetic solutions. Dental stocking stuffers: Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, MATCHBOX Toys (Dr. Davis IS the Matchbox Dentist). Come on in. We’ll give you what you need! Consider sugarless gum and/or mints as a stocking stuffer. When used following a sugary snack these sugarless products can stimulate saliva to dilute harmful acids. A quality electric tooth brush (Oral-B or Sonicare) will improve plaque removal and reduce tooth brushing abrasion. This is an excellent gift idea! Cleaning between teeth is essential to combat both tooth and gum disease. Consider dental floss, flossing aids, waterflossers and Waterpiks for yourself or as quality gift ideas. Is now the time to gift yourself with that dental implant you’ve been wanting to fill that missing tooth gap? Santa knows you’re worth it! Provide dental care as a Christmas gift! Call and talk with Keely about creating a financial credit for your loved one’s dental care. Keep up on your sleep during this hectic season. How is your sleep quality? Sound? Restless? Any signs that you may have sleep airway compromise? Holiday foods are often sugary! To minimize tooth decay risks, try to group your sugary indulgences into one or two selective times, as opposed to spreading them throughout the day. Step up your use of fluoride products for the season. If you’re concerned that holiday snacks could lead to tooth decay try adding to your fluoride exposure. Either pick up a fluoride rinse at the store or talk with us about a prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste. And finally, how are those front teeth looking? Could it be that all you want for Christmas this year is two, or four or six stunning new e.max crowns or veneers to give you the smile of your holiday dreams?

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OPEN HOUSE CEDAR VILLAGE IN MASON STRIVES TO PROVIDE OLDER ADULTS A CARING ENVIRONMENT THEY’LL CALL HOME

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A PLACE YOU WILL CALL HOME IS CENTRAL TO THE CARING MISSION OF MASON’S CEDAR VILLAGE. “Cedar Village is Mason’s best-kept secret. Some retirement communities are just places to live, but for everybody here, it is very much home,” says Elizabeth Mefford, director of Marketing and Admissions. Family-first, a true sense of community, personalized enrichment, maximizing independence and living life to the fullest are all phrases consistently lived out at Cedar Village. As you enter the winding, tree-lined driveway, a stunning and tranquil senior living campus greets you. Near the sparkling lake and fountain, you will see an entrance sign with the words, “Life begins at Cedar Village.” Built in 1997 by the Jewish Federation, Cedar Village originally catered primarily to those of the Jewish faith. Now, however, the village welcomes seniors of all faiths, while still providing kosher options for Jewish residents. A highly trained, professional and attentive staff provides 24-hour care. The community can house up to 268 residents and offers a full range of services including short-term rehabilitation, outpatient therapy, independent living apartments, assisted living, skilled nursing, long-term care and memory support. “You can come in and age in place,” Elizabeth says. With their family members involved, each resident receives ongoing assessments as needed to ensure the proper level of care is being provided. The goal is to give seniors the freedom to live life as they choose while maximizing their independence as much as possible. Cedar Village is truly a village with amenities such

CEDAR VILLAGE 5467 Cedar Village Drive, Mason CedarVillage.org

as a gift shop, deli, beauty and barber shops, religious services, banking center, library, restaurant-style dining room, recreation and lounging areas, aquatic center with a swimming pool and daily social, cultural and educational events and programs. 30

Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | December 2019

ARTICLE KAREN ANDREA PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

One unique amenity is the on-site medical

Cedar Village’s legacy of consistent care

clinic, which provides dental, podiatry, audiol-

and commitment has not gone unnoticed.

ogy, optometry and nurse practitioner services.

They are recipients of Pinnacle Quality

This valuable amenity allows residents to con-

Insight’s 2019 Customer Experience Award

veniently remain on the campus and receive

for continued dedication to providing best-

timely attention to some of their medical needs.

in-class senior healthcare services. Third-

Engaging and connecting with the local

party Pinnacle Quality Insight randomly

community is important to Cedar Village.

samples residents and families, conducting

They offer regular excursions for residents

monthly interviews to achieve their scor-

to restaurants, shopping and events around

ing. Cedar Village scored in the top 15% of

town and bring in entertainment from the

the nation across a 12-month average to

surrounding area. Driving assessments for

receive this award.

older adults are also a valuable commu-

The residents agree that Cedar Village is

nity-wide service. Exceptional outpatient

home. Recently, when someone visited the

therapy and rehabilitation, including both

community wearing a suit and tie, a resident

physical and occupational, is another bene-

exclaimed, “You don’t have to wear a suit

ficial service offered to non-residents.

when you come to my home!”

“Cedar Village has always had a great reputation for therapy and rehab. And it’s open to the community. You don’t have to live here to receive outpatient therapy,” Elizabeth says. “Our pool allows us to pro-

For more information and to tour the campus,

vide aquatic therapy, which sets us apart

please contact Elizabeth Mefford, 513.687.5480,

from other communities.”

infoCV@cardon.us.

December 2019 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1 - 27

SHOP LOCALLY MADE & WIN

MASON TREE LIGHTING CERMONY

DEERFIELD HANDMADE MARKET

Win gift cards to your favorite restau-

Join the community at 6:30 p.m.

Get ready for the holidays with

rants and businesses, just by shop-

to celebrate the beginning of the

diverse offerings from local cre-

ping this holiday season with the

holiday season with the annual

ators and makers at The Deerfield

Mason Deerfield Chamber’s Shop

Tree Lighting Ceremony at Mason’s

Handmade Market on Dec. 7 from

Locally MADE & Win program. Pick

Downtown Plaza. This event is free

11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Sonder Brewing.

up a punch card at participating

and open to the public to enjoy.

Guests will enjoy family art-making

Mason and Deerfield businesses

Gather with your neighbors for holi-

opportunities, activities and local

and bring full cards to the chamber

day music, activities and crafts, food,

food vendors. The event is free to the

office for weekly gift card draw-

refreshments—and best of all—the

community and offers ample parking.

ings and one grand prize drawing.

official lighting of the Christmas

The-Arts-Alliance.org

The contest starts 11/30 and runs

tree! ImagineMason.org

Mason and Deerfield

Mason Downtown Plaza

through 12/27. MADEChamber.org/ shop-locally-made

SHOP LOCAL MASON

7 INFINITE CHANCE MASQUERAID GALA

15 HOLIDAY SHUK Mayerson JCC

Find unique gifts for your family and

Manor House

friends this holiday season! Visit

Mason Community Center

Infinite Chance, a nonprofit, 501(c)(3)

the JCC's inaugural Holiday Shuk,

The annual holiday Shop Local event

organization dedicated to providing

a market where local vendors and

at Mason Community Center will

infinite chances to Guatemalan chil-

artisans will sell crafts, jewelry, and

feature more than 50 Mason-area

dren through education, is holding

other hand-crafted goods. A spe-

merchant and home sales represen-

its first large-scale fundraiser, the

cial kids-only section will let kids

tatives selling unique crafts, gifts and

MasquerAID Gala, on Dec. 7. Wear

get gifts for all of their loved ones!

home goods. The event is free and

your favorite mask and elegant

JewishCincinnati.org

open to the public from 9 a.m. to 4

cocktail attire and enjoy live music,

p.m. Patrons can pay for items with

food and drink, auctions, entertain-

cash or place an order in time for the

ment by Cincinnati Circus and much

holidays. ImagineMason.org

more. The event runs from 6-9 p.m. InfiniteChance.org

6 CHRISTMAS IN MASON ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE

7 SANTA'S WORKSHOP

15 MASON DANCE CENTER NUTCRACKER: ALL JAZZED UP! Mason High School Theater

Local dance studio Mason Dance Center will perform its 18th annual production of The Nutcracker: All

Snyder House, Cottell Park

Jazzed Up! on Sunday, Dec. 15, at the

Join the Mason Historical Society at the

Santa will stop by Snyder House

Mason High School (MHS) Theater.

Alverta Green Museum for its annual

to feed his reindeer and to listen to

Tickets are $10 and benefit the

holiday open house. There will be light

Christmas wishes! This is a free par-

MHS After Prom. There are 1 p.m.

refreshments and the museum will

ent-child (ages 3-8 years old) event

or 4

be decorated for Christmas. Enjoy

for Deerfield Township residents.

MasonDance.com/Nutcracker

music from Dream Theater cour-

Two crafts will be offered, along with

tesy of the refurbished player piano.

cookies and juice. Bring your cam-

Admission is free and donations are

era for taking pictures with Santa!

always welcome. The event runs from 5

to 9 p.m. MasonHistoricalSociety.org

DeerfieldRec.com

Mason Historical Society

Sonder Brewing

Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | December 2019

p.m.

showtimes

available.

serving 1/2 pr ice sushi a l l d ay e v e r y d ay ! high quality and fresh ingredients 6 176 Tyler sville Road, Mason

513 .4 66 . 8020

PURCHASE

$50

ichibanmason .com

PURCHASE

$100

WORTH OF GIFT CARDS

GE T AN E X TR A $10 GIF T CARD

WORTH OF GIFT CARDS

GET AN EXTRA $25 GIF T CARD

* C anno t c omb in e w i t h o t h e r o f f e r s . E x p ir e s 12 /3 1/2 0 19 .

Silent Auction!

Mason-Deerfield Rotary Club

Prizes Awarded!

Join us for our annual

$130 Ticket admits 2 people | Heavy Hors D’Oeuvres | Drinks 6:30 - 9:30 PM – Sat. Jan 25th | Marriott Northeast

A chance to win up to $5,000. All proceeds benefit the local community and Rotary International projects. Corporate sponsorships and gift baskets are still available.

Reserve your tickets by contacting masondeerfieldohrotary@gmail.com or 513-615-4108. Limited tickets available.

Celebrating Service Above Self for 25 years | Join us for breakfast each Tuesday morning! | Marriott Northeast in Mason 7:30 am - 8:30 am

DON’T LET YOUR HSA & FSA GO TO WASTE!

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Neck PAIN Solutions. December 2019 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle

LOCAL’S CHOICE

year-end

reflections LOCAL BUSINESSES CELEBRATE 2019 AND LOOK FORWARD TO 2020 NAME: KARA LYONS, ESQ Kara is grateful for her four years as managing attorney at Lyons and Lyons law firm. “I am thankful that I am lucky enough to work alongside and learn from my father, Rob Lyons,” she reflects. The entire staff is like a family who always provides the support needed to keep the business growing and operating smoothly. Kara appreciates the opportunity to meet and work with many people and businesses in the Mason area. “Mason is a remarkable place to live, work and raise a family.”

LYONS AND LYONS LAW 8310 Princeton Glendale Road, West Chester 513.777.2222, LyonsAndLyonsLaw.com

NAME: TED SNYDER, O.D. A dream came true in 2019 for Ted, owner and doctor at Mason Eye Center. “A journey I started seven years ago came to fruition as I finalized adopting my foster teen, Mike. He is a great kid, and we are good for each other,” he explains. Reflecting on his 25 years doing business in Mason, he says, “The families are so nice. Many of my patients feel more like friends.” Mason Eye Center's 2020 plans include improved glaucoma management and adding new frame lines. MASON EYE CENTER 7567 Central Parke Blvd., Mason 513.770.4220, MasonEyeCenter.com

NAME: PHILLIP LANCE, D.D.S. Family and growth keep Phillip, owner and dentist at Miami Valley Smiles, grateful. He is thankful for his four children and wife of 13 years. “I am continually proud of who they are and the joy and love they show,” he reflects. The business is growing, and the patients are wonderful. “We have grown many friendships that started over ‘tooth talk’ and blossomed into meaningful relationships,” he explains. In 2020, they will start Smiles for Service, a program for earning credits to pay for dental work by volunteering with local charities. MIAMI VALLEY SMILES 4200 Aero Drive Suite K, Mason 513.445.4060, MiamiValleySmiles.com

ARTICLE KAREN ANDREA | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED 34

Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | December 2019

y p p a H

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Beautiful Zicka resale on a cul-de-sac location in desirable Cherry Brook! Hardwood floors throughout first floor. Gourmet Kitchen with gas range and huge island. Luxury master suite with two walk-in closets. Jack & Jill bedrooms. 4th bedroom with private bath. Finished lower level. Gorgeous, wooded backyard. New H2O Heater 2014. Deerfield Twp - No Mason earnings tax!

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IN 2018, TIFFANY’S AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET WAS 27 AND LIST-TO-SALE PRICE WAS 98.23%

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(513) 349.7311

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