MasonandDeerfieldLifestyle.com
APRIL 2020
Spring Fresh for
ECO-FRIENDLY BEAUTY PRODUCTS
STUDENTS ADVOCATE FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION
DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP PARK CLEAN UP
Enhance your home with full color custom lighting controlled with a fully integrated app on your phone!
Resort-Style Living in Your Own Backyard F U L L - S E RV I C E L A N D S C A P E D E S I G N & I N S TA L L AT I O N
Steve Lichtenberg ¡ Landscape Architect 513.770.4011 | sales@LichtenbergLandscaping.com | www.lichtenberglandscaping.com
Call us Today and Let Our Imagination Bring Your Dream to Life!
Jackie Quigley Jackie Quigley is the team lead for the Quigley Team which serves the Greater Cincinnati area with over 30 years of real estate experience. She is consistently ranked as a top-selling agent in the Cincinnati MLS with a concentration in the Mason area. Jackie and her team bring a passion and knowledge of the housing market that provides an unparalleled experience for buyers and sellers. The Quigley Team is dedicated to serving the real estate needs of their clients with the utmost professionalism, quality customer service and attention to fine details that creates a great experience and keeps the client’s best interest at heart.
Contact Jackie today to learn how the Quigley Team’s
30+ Years of Experience provides unparalleled success
QuigleyTeamOH.com
for home buyers & sellers
(513) 615-4798 | QuigleyTeamOH.com | jquigley@comey.com 7590 Tylers Place Blvd West Chester, Ohio 45069
LIFESTYLE LETTER
APRIL 2020 PUBLISHER
Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@lifestylepubs.com
A Breath of Fresh Air I’M PARTIAL TO SPRINGTIME. The sun shines more. Temperatures are getting
AD DESIGNER
Miranda Williams LAYOUT DESIGNER
Dana Rudolph
warmer. The air is crisper. In this month’s issue of Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle, we share
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
ways for you to get outdoors to enjoy that beautiful weather, plus opportunities to give
Amanda Stout, Jonathan Stout, Karen Andrea, Laura M. Leavitt, Kaelyn Rodrigues
back to the community while helping the environment.
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Every year Deerfield Township hosts Community Clean Up Days. The next event is on April 18 at Cottell Park. Read about how you can connect with your neighbors to
Remember When Portraits, Len Kaltman-West Chester Corporate Photography
help clean up and keep this local gem shining. We are all aware that we can do better when it comes to the environment. Local students took the initiative and started an organization, Environment Plus, which now includes students across the United States and around the world. Learn more about the group and how your students and local businesses can get involved. More and more, companies are creating products that are not only better for you but are also eco-friendly. We spoke with the experts at Kim Harper Salon and Spa about several products that will have you feeling good about yourself and the environment.
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
If you like to cook from scratch at home, you are likely left with a lot of food scraps. We
AD MANAGER Chad Jensen
share ways to use those scraps with composting basics, whether you do it in your own
REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams
backyard or at the Mason Community Garden.
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
For those who prefer to venture out for their meals, we highly recommend a trip to Ichiban Japanese Cuisine here in Mason. From freshly made sushi to traditional Japanese favorites, there is something for everyone…just look at this month’s cover—yum! With that, we hope you enjoy these stories on your porch or patio and get a breath of fresh air! ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
Mark Andrea, Publisher ON THE COVER Ichiban Japanese
Mark.Andrea@LifestylePubs.com 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO
Cuisine in Mason offers up high quality sushi at affordable prices. PHOTOGRAPHY BY REMEMBER WHEN PORTRAITS 4
Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | April 2020
Proverbs 3:5-6
MasonandDeerfieldLifestyle.com
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 APRIL 2020
FEATURES 14 A Taste of Japan Ichiban in Mason makes high quality Japanese cuisine accessible for everyone.
18 Environmental Educators Mason High School students founded Environment Plus to help young activists initiate change.
22 Clean Beauty Kim Harper Salon and Spa is committed to ethical and eco-friendly beauty products and services.
26 Collecting Community The third annual Deerfield
26 18
Township park clean-up expands neighborhood connections.
22
14
DEPARTMENTS 4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Good Times
12
Around Town
14
Locally Owned
18
Inspired By
22 Trend Setter 26 Giving Back 28 DIY 30 Lifestyle Calendar
Curb appeal starts at your front door. C I N C I N N A T I
R P
DOOR & WINDOW TRANSFORMATIONS
Schedule an appointment to visit our showroom today!
513-459-4867 | 1224 CASTLE DRIVE IN MASON www.upgrademydoor.com
AFFORDABLE | PROFESSIONAL SERVICE | TOP-QUALITY PRODUCTS | THE BEST SELECTION
GOOD TIMES
Cultural Diversity Celebrated at Taste of Mason The 12th annual Taste of Mason was held at Mason High School (MHS) on February 5. The Mason community came together and celebrated its diversity by sampling food from many ethnic and independent local restaurants, while watching incredible multicultural performances. Attendees enjoyed a global carnival hosted by MHS World Language Societies, the Comet Zone and Comet Savings & Loan. MasonOhioSchools.com
Experienced care one SureStep at a time! Comprehensive, Compassionate and Experienced Care! SERVICES: Heel Pain • Plantar Fasciitis • Bone Spurs • Gout • Tendon/Ligament Ruptures Flat Feet • Arch Pain • Bunions • Hammer Toes • Ingrown Nails • Foot and Ankle Sprains & Fractures • Total Ankle Replacements & Reconstructions Visit our website for full list of treatments.
DR. CHRIS CULLUM & DR. ROBERT M. BRARENS*
*BOARD CERTIFIED IN FOOT SURGERY AND BOARD CERTIFIED IN REARFOOT/ANKLE RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
11821 MASON MONTGOMERY RD
6499 MASON MONTGOMERY RD
(NEAR FIELDS ERTEL RD)
(ACROSS FROM MASON MIDDLE SCHOOL)
513.489.2400 | SURESTEPFOOTANDANKLE.com 8
Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | April 2020
GOOD TIMES
Lindner Center of HOPE's Touchdown for HOPE Event Lindner Center of HOPE’s eleventh annual Touchdown for HOPE Super Bowl Sunday event at the Great American Ballpark Champions Club raised $195,000. Approximately 250 people attended the event, hosted by Jim Breech, former Bengals star kicker, and his wife, Denise. Proceeds from sponsorships and ticket sales will be used to fund a mental health services financial assistance program for first responders. LindnerCenterOfHope.org
Happy Hour Tuesday-Friday 4-6pm www.clybornes.com
5948 Snider Road, Cincinnati, OH 45040 10
Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | April 2020
The Greatest Gift a Child Can Give an Aging Parent Our experience has shown that in many cases an adult child is instrumental in playing a key role in helping an aging parent with the decision of finding and moving into the right retirement community. At The Christian Village at Mason, care is at the heart and soul of everything we do. Our residents not only experience the peace and comfort of living in a beautiful, safe community, they are able to enjoy their own desired level of independence while still being a part of a Village — full of exciting things to do — with new friends and acquaintances to meet.
Schedule Your Personal Tour Today!
Add in a maintenance-free lifestyle and the peace of mind knowing that there is priority access to our award-winning continuum of healthcare, and you’ve got the secret to our success as the area’s premier Life Plan Community.
www.christianvillages.org
The Christian Benevolent Association does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, religion, age, qualified handicap or veteran status.
The Christian Village at Mason 411 Western Row Rd. Mason, OH 45040 (513) 398-1486
AROUND TOWN reservations for Mother’s Day and they'd love to be part of your celebration. Enjoy brunch, dinner and a top-notch beverage selection. Everything on the menu is made from scratch using fresh seasonal ingredients. You can make a reservation by phone at 513-204-7922 or online at Clybornes.com.
"KINDNESS MATTERS" MOTHER'S DAY BRUNCH Join the Shine Like Sable and Live Like Maya foundations for a very special Mother's Day brunch benefiting the Cincinnati Children's Hospital child life and pediatric cancer research departments. The event takes place on Saturday May 9th at the Manor House Event Center in
CANSTRUCTION DESIGN|BUILD COMPETITION
Mason. The doors open at 11 a.m., with programing beginning at noon. It's a perfect event
C3 Architecture & Design of Mason would like
for the entire family, featuring games, danc-
to invite readers to the 23rd Annual Canstruction®
ing, a photo booth, raffles, a silent auction and
Design|Build
the
more! Brunch tickets for adults are $40 including
Society of Design Administration (SDA) and the
two drink tickets (mimosas and bloody Mary’s
American Institute of Architects (AIA) and benefit-
only), and $30 with no drink tickets. Children’s
ting the Freestore Foodbank. Teams of local archi-
tickets (10 and under) are $20. For more infor-
tecture and engineering firms, as well as general
mation and to purchase tickets please visit:
contractors, designers and students build giant
LiveLikeMaya.org/events.
Competition
sponsored
by
structures made entirely of canned goods, which will be donated to the Freestore. The event runs from April 7-26 at the Weston Art Gallery at the Aronoff Center and several other downtown buildings. CincinnatiCanstruction.org
UC HEALTH’S WEST CHESTER HOSPITAL EARNS NATIONAL ACCREDITATION The Commission on Cancer (CoC), a quality program of the American College of Surgeons (ACS), has granted three-year accreditation to the cancer program at UC Health’s West Chester Hospital. To earn voluntary CoC accreditation, a cancer program must meet 34 CoC quality care standards, be evaluated every three years through a survey process and maintain levels of excellence in the delivery of comprehensive, patient-centered care. Because it is a CoC-accredited cancer center, West Chester Hospital takes a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to treating cancer as a complex group of diseases that requires consultation among surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, diagnostic radiologists, pathologists and other cancer specialists. This multidisciplinary partnership results in improved patient care. “Our receipt of this import-
MOTHER’S DAY AT S.W. CLYBORNE CO. PROVISION & SPIRITS
12
ant quality accreditation offers significant benefits for our patients, their families and the communities we serve," says Tom Daskalakis, chief administra-
Treat the special ladies in your family to a delicious
tive officer for West Chester Hospital. Many UC
meal at S.W. Clyborne Co. Provision & Spirits, the
Health locations have received national recogni-
winner of Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle's Fine Dining
tion for outstanding quality and patient satisfaction.
Reader's Choice Award. They are now accepting
Learn more at UCHealth.com.
Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | April 2020
serving 1/2 pr ice sushi a l l d a e v e r y d ay ! high quality and fresh ingredients 6 176 Tyler sville Road, Mason
513 .4 66. 8020
ichibanmason .com
B
mention MASON & DEER FIELD LIFESTYLE for a free appetiz er WHEN YOU SPEND $20 *Appetizers f or $6 or u nder. Doe s no t include alc ohol . C anno t c ombine w i t h o t her off er s . E x pire s 04/30/2020.
OPEN FOR LUNCH DAILY
Expires 4/30/2020.
ENJ OY L IF E W I TH L E SS PAI N
Get rid of your CPAP and sleep better today! Miami Valley Smiles is proud to offer a non-invasive and comfortable solution for those with Sleep Apnea or chronic snorers. The custom mouthguard-like device is designed to fit your mouth and individual needs to help you sleep soundly.
Schedule your FREE consultation with Dr. Lance today! 4200 Aero Drive, Ste. K, Mason, Ohio
513-445-4064 miamivalleysmiles.com
April 2020 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle
13
LOCALLY OWNED
A TASTE OF JAPAN ICHIBAN IN MASON MAKES HIGH QUALITY JAPANESE CUISINE ACCESSIBLE FOR EVERYONE.
ICHIBAN JAPANESE CUISINE OPENED THEIR MASON
LOCATION
IN
2019,
BRINGING
AWARD-WINNING SUSHI CLOSER TO HOME FOR LOCAL RESIDENTS—MANY OF WHOM MADE THE TREK TO THEIR POPULAR MT. LOOKOUT LOCATION. “We had so many customers who told us, ‘I wish you were closer,’” says manager Stacy Chen. This, along with the growing, family-oriented Mason-Deerfield area, made it an appealing place to expand for the owner, Troy Pan. The new Mason location is simple and elegant with a larger dining room, sushi bar and patio. Ichiban takes pride in their affordable prices, high quality ingredients and excellent service. Their fish comes directly from Saskatchewan, Canada and their sushi rice is made fresh each morning. Great sushi rice requires the right percentage of vinegar for a slight sourness that perfectly complements the fish. They serve Sashimi (raw fish alone), Nigiri (raw fish atop rice) and Maki (rolled raw fish, rice and other ingredients). “Half-price sushi is not low-quality sushi,” says Stacy. “Our prices reflect a desire to get people to try sushi and to experience traditional Japanese food.” In addition to tempura rolls, Ichiban provides many options for people who don’t enjoy raw fish. Chicken, beef and salmon teriyaki dishes come paired with beautifully cooked veggies and a flavorful sauce.
ICHIBAN JAPANESE CUISINE 6176 Tylersville Rd, Mason 513.466.8020, IchibanMason.com
Ramen, sukiyaki, and udon noodle bowls feature delicate broths and a choice of proteins and vegetables. Create a full meal with appetizers, desserts and a cocktail, beer or glass of wine with excellent deals like half-price sushi and happy hour every day. 14
Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | April 2020
ARTICLE AMANDA STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY REMEMBER WHEN PORTRAITS
POPULAR DISHES INCLUDE (FROM TOP LEFT TO BOTTOM RIGHT): + Coconut shrimp with creamy coconut sauce (appetizer) + Chicken Teriyaki with stir-fried vegetables (served with soup, salad and rice) + Cherry Blossom Roll (salmon, tuna and roe), Honeybee Roll (king crab, salmon and shrimp) and Rainbow Roll (crabstick, tuna, salmon and white fish) + Green Tea Mochi (dessert) Â April 2020 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle
15
JOIN US THURSDAY, APRIL 2 FROM 3:30 TO 5:30 FOR OUR OFFICIAL RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY AND HAPPY HOUR. Celebrate our new location with local treats, door prize, 35% off on products April 2 and 3, and Maui Jim will be doing a trunk show too! Ribbon cutting is sponsored by Mason Deerfield Chamber.
6667 Western Row Road, Mason, OH 45040 (513) 770-4220 // masoneyecenter.com
16
Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | April 2020
April 2020 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle
17
INSPIRED BY
ARTICLE KAELYN RODRIGUES | PHOTOGRAPHY LEN KALTMAN-WEST CHESTER CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY
MASON HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS FOUNDED ENVIRONMENT PLUS TO HELP YOUNG ACTIVISTS INITIATE CHANGE IN THEIR COMMUNITIES.
E N V I R O N M E N TA L E D U C AT O R S 18
Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | April 2020
CLAIRE HU
+ Co-E xecutive “I REALIZED THAT WE HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO EXPAND ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION LOCALLY AND AROUND THE WORLD.”
Mason High School (MHS) senior Claire Hu co-founded
students alike. “We’re hoping to form curricula in Mason and in
Environment Plus, a nonprofit organization that mentors
local school districts, and then scale that to all the chapters that
young activists around the globe and helps them execute
we have in different cities around the world,” she says.
projects in their communities.
Since Environment Plus has primarily focused on its international
Environment Plus focuses on three pillars: education,
projects, Claire says she also hopes to create more of a local impact.
legislative reform, and service. Claire was inspired to
Currently, they are planning to combine their artistic and techno-
create the organization after noticing the lack of environ-
logical skills by painting a mural in downtown Mason and pairing it
mental education in school curriculum.
with an augmented reality application to raise awareness about pol-
“I went on a trip to San Francisco and I met a lot of
lution and conservation. “The mural depicts two koi fish in a natural
students who were the same age as myself, and we got
environment, and we’re going to use augmented reality,” Claire says.
to talking about environmental education,” Claire says. “I
“When you scan the mural, it will come to life on your phone.”
realized that we had an opportunity to expand environmental education locally and around the world.”
In addition to her work with Environment Plus, Claire is a self-published author. She utilized her passions for art and envi-
In response, Claire connected with her former teach-
ronmental literacy to write and illustrate “A Graphical Guide to
ers to begin the process of creating a new curriculum to
the Environment,” a book she wrote to expand on her environ-
increase environmental literacy among local and global
mental literacy projects.
CONTINUED >
April 2020 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle
19
INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)
“IN THE MIDWEST, EDUCATORS DON'T ALWAYS PUT THE ENVIRONMENT INTO THE CURRICULUM BECAUSE WE DON'T SEE THE EFFECTS AS DIRECTLY.”
K AT H E R I N E HU + Co-E xecutive
Katherine explains. “Using technology and virtual reality, we get students to realize not only how polluted some areas are, but how beautiful other areas are and why we should preserve them.” One way the organization globalizes its efforts to help the environment is through establishing and mentoring chapters throughout the world. So far, there are 30 chapters in 18 U.S. states and 6
Katherine Hu, Claire’s twin sister, is also a co-founder of
countries. Katherine says one of her favorite experiences was help-
Environment Plus and a MHS senior. “I work on communicating
ing a girl in Pakistan create a chapter and increase environmental
with chapters and driving the nonprofit’s mission. I also work on
literacy in her community.
sponsorships, which is how we get companies involved by tapping into their resources for our education initiatives,” she explains. Another major aspect of their education pillar is helping teachers understand the importance of implementing environmental awareness into their curriculum, especially in areas that don’t necessarily see the direct impacts of pollution. “In the Midwest, educators don’t always put the environment into the curriculum because we don’t see the effects as directly,” 20
Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | April 2020
“She did a bunch of workshops with her local elementary school and got students together to plant trees,” Katherine says. “It was a cool initiative to see in action in a very different culture and a part of the world that we otherwise wouldn’t have interacted with or learned about.” In the future, Katherine hopes to expand the environmental curriculum initiative to other schools in the area, such as Cincinnati Public Schools. “We’re hoping to work with the Ohio Board of Education to expand our curriculum,” she says.
NAOMIE GAO
+ Outreach Director “THE WHOLE REASON WE STARTED ENVIRONMENT PLUS WAS BECAUSE WE THOUGHT INTERNATIONAL EFFORTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL ADVOCATES HAVE BEEN REALLY ISOLATED.”
“I’ve had a lot of experience with teaching kids, so I’ve written MHS senior Naomie Gao was motivated to create positive
some of the lessons that we publish on our website for others to use,”
environmental change after seeing firsthand the inconsistencies
Naomie explains. “I also write the press releases every month and
in environmental legislation throughout the world.
contact the press to raise more awareness about what we’re doing.”
“I’ve moved around a ton, so I’ve lived in countries like Canada
The next step for Environment Plus, Naomie says, is to make use
and China, which are polar opposites in terms of the environ-
of the network of environmental activists the organization has men-
ment,” Naomie says. “Two years ago, my grandpa was hospi-
tored to initiate change on a larger scale.
talized after going to China for a business trip, and it opened
“Besides our local focus, we’re also trying to think of ways to lever-
my eyes to how much of a problem (pollution) was. That’s really
age our international connections,” Naomie says. “The whole reason
what sparked my interest in helping.”
we started Environment Plus was because we thought international
As the Environment Plus Outreach Director, Naomie recruits young environmentalists in various parts of the world to start their
efforts of environmental advocates have been really isolated. We’d like to connect all of our chapters in the future.”
own chapters and is in charge of public relations. In addition, she creates the curriculum and resources for the website.
To get involved or learn more, visit EnvironmentPlus.org.
April 2020 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle
21
TREND SETTER ARTICLE KAREN ANDREA | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
clean beauty KIM HARPER SALON AND SPA IS COMMITTED TO ETHICAL AND ECO-FRIENDLY BEAUTY PRODUCTS AND SERVICES.
SUSTAINABLE. ETHICAL. ECO-FRIENDLY. For many, these are just trendy terms, but for the management, stylists and estheticians of Kim Harper Salon and Spa, they describe the environment, services and products provided every day for their clients. Salon Director, Tara Thal explains, “Kim, our owner, was way ahead of others when it came to researching and providing high quality, eco-friendly products and salon services in a sustainable environment.” “We are committed to continually educating our stylists. It is vital to keeping our services above and beyond what other salons provide,” adds Senior Stylist and Educator, Heather Hogan. Sixteen stylists and two estheticians provide a full array of hair and skin services and products. Personal consultations which include budgetary and lifestyle considerations are key to delivering the best service to each client. The recently remodeled salon features huge picture windows, comfy sitting nooks and unique stylists’ stations, creating a welcoming, relaxing and professional experience. “Our salon is very customer friendly and community-minded. We are upscale, but comfortable and approachable,” Heather says. KIM HARPER SALON AND SPA 5150 Socialville-Foster Rd., Mason 513.229.8188, KimHarperSalonAndSpa.com 22
Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | April 2020
OI ALL-IN-ONE MILK: A lightweight, hydrating, leave-in treatment that detangles, softens and enhances shine, controls frizz and protects your hair from heat damage. It is created by Davines, an Italian company committed to ethical, sustainable and eco-friendly beauty products. BEDROOM.HAIR: Kevin Murphy, the first beauty brand to manufacture their packaging from 100% ocean waste plastic, offers a touchable, flexible, texturizing finishing spray that leaves you with great smelling, perfectly imperfect amazing hair. ANTI.GRAVITY: This Kevin Murphy oil-free volumizer and texturizer creates bigger, thicker-looking hair instantly. Your style, whether long, short, curly or blown-out, will be held in place with a lush shine, while flyaway strands stay under control. COLOURING.ANGEL TREATMENTS: Kevin Murphy’s line of four color-enhancing treatments offers a range of tones with pigments that boost existing tones, neutralize unwanted tones and improve color longevity and the condition of all hair types. All Kevin Murphy products are paraben, sulfate and cruelty free.
April 2020 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle
23
€ ‚ƒ
 Â?Â? Â? Â?Â?Â? Â?  Â
*Mention “MD April� when booking to receive discount
24
Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | April 2020
Choosing Insurance is Hard. I Can Help!
health • medicare • dental vision • small business • supplemental
Dr. Susan Baim is a professor with the Miami University
Regional
Campuses
Department
of Commerce. She has a creative way to ignite academic potential. “There are a number of students within any given class that earn the highest grade I can give them”, she explains, “but
Ernest Tate
Licensed Insurance Agent
513-970-8617
Alex Meer
Licensed Insurance Agent
513-570-5734
Call us for a FREE QUOTE TODAY!
the pursuit of excellence should be unlimited”. In her dog-eat-dog business world, Dr. Baim uses class participation, enthusiasm and extra credit work as metrics through which she ultimately discerns the class’ weekly “BIG DOG”. Once crowned the BIG DOG is greeted by Dr. Baim and the class with a chorus of barks and howls. But now Dr. Baim has extended her BIG DOG model to her dental experiences. Emily, one of our Chairside Dental Assistants has so impressed Dr. Baim during recent appointments that she too has earned BIG DOG status, and is entreated to a shower of barks from Dr. Baim. I’ve got to confess that I’m a little jealous, but hey, this isn’t about me. This is about Dr. Baim’s celebration of Emily and her satisfaction with the ways in which she has been served. “Emily is a positive person who is an excellent communicator”, says Dr. Baim. “Many times Emily has put me at ease when I’ve had to deal with a complex procedure.” So congratulations Emily (pictured here with her big dog, Diesel), you are the BIG DOG! BARK!! BARK!!
GREGORY P. DAVIS | D.D.S. BRIANNA M. WEBB | D.M.D. (513) 459 -1377 Gregor yDavisDDS.com 4834 Socialville-Foster Rd, Mason, OH April 2020 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle
25
GIVING BACK
THE THIRD ANNUAL DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP PARK CLEAN-UP DEEPENS NEIGHBORHOOD CONNECTIONS.
collecting
community IT’S EASY TO FEEL LIKE WE KNOW OUR NEIGHBORS EVEN WHEN WE DON’T ACTUALLY STOP AND CHAT VERY FREQUENTLY. Volunteering in our local area can be a path to deepening those connections while also getting practical work done for a worthy cause.
Clean Up Day brings a group of about 30 people (the maximum is 35) for a day of getting to know each other
Bringing people together and getting tasks accomplished motivated Deerfield Township to start Clean Up Day.
while tackling some of the major needs of the park. Kristin Malholtra, local resident and a Deerfield
“We started doing the Clean Up Day in 2018, but this will be
Township Trustee, remembers the first Clean Up Day.
the first year at Cottell Park. Previously we held it at Kingswood,”
“We got there early in the morning, and they had
explains Joel Smiddy, parks and recreation director. “Clean Up
donuts and coffee for the volunteers. Some groups
Days are important to the Deerfield Township community because
picked up big pieces of garbage, like parts of old golf
our residents really take pride in our parks.”
carts, and another group was picking up large sticks after a storm that had come through, and other groups were picking up trash by the side of the road,” says Kristin. For Kristin, connecting with neighbors ended up being a big part of the appeal. “It was a good way to feel like you have an impact while getting to know some of your neighbors,” she says. “You run into your neighbors at the grocery store or out and about, but when you are volunteering, walking along the path, you are picking up trash and working together. You strike up conversations and get to know each other on a deeper level.”
ARTICLE LAURA M. LEAVITT | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
26
Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | April 2020
These reflections show that the Clean Up Day efforts are hitting the goals that the Township hopes to achieve. “Our Park Clean Up Days allow us to collaborate and create connections with our residents and foster environmental stewardship,” says Joel. The Clean Up events are representative of the Deerfield Recreation vision statement from the Parks Master Plan: “Connect our growing community with safe places to reflect, gather, and play while promoting healthy active lifestyles, community wellness, and environmental sustainability.” This year the Clean Up Day moves to Cottell Park, a flagship park of Deerfield Township, where there will be weeding, mulching, and flower planting in addition to cleaning. The day is also gaining an additional fun activity. “This year we added a volunteer appreciation component of kite decorating after we finish working,” explains Joel. “Groups of friends, families, and individuals who volunteered can gather together in the Snyder House to enjoy light refreshments and get creative with kite decorating. They can then go outside to fly their kites and enjoy the park. It’s a way to say thank you and celebrate all of their hard work.” Registration is open now at DeerfieldRec.com, but spots are limited, so sign up soon. Adults, teens and families with children 10 and up are welcome. All minors 13 and under must be accompanied by a participating adult. COTTELL PARK CLEAN UP DAY, 5847 Irwin Simpson Rd, Deerfield Township. April 18, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
April 2020 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle
27
DIY
HOME COMPOSTING MADE EASY LEARN HOW TO COMPOST IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD.
ARTICLE JONATHAN STOUT | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
WHETHER YOU HAVE A GARDEN OR ARE SIMPLY
LOOKING
TO
FORTIFY
YOUR
LAWN, COMPOSTING CAN BE A GREAT WAY
TO
STRENGTHEN
YOUR
CROP.
Composting creates nutrient rich, neutralized soil from unwanted food scraps, yard waste and other decomposing organic matter. According to the USDA, composting helps to, “improve soil structure which contributes to good aeration and moisture-holding capacity.” Don’t be intimidated to try composting, it’s easy to get started and requires minimal maintenance. The simplest place to begin composting is your backyard. A DIY compost bin can be built by drilling holes into a plastic storage bin with the bottom lined with “brown” scraps. From there, vegetable, fruit and other “green” scraps can be added. If you don’t have space for gardening or composting at your home, the city of Mason has a community garden with composting capability. Applications to participate in the community garden can be found at ImagineMason.org.
28
Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | April 2020
5 COMPOSTING TIPS
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. COMPOST THINGS LIKE: Balance your compost with 50% green matter (grass clippings, fruit/vegetable scraps)
and 50% brown matter, including leaves, egg cartons, coffee grounds, newspapers,
etc. If compost is filled with green scraps only the compost can become wet or slimy.
Avoid adding any meat or animal matter, as
this can create odor that attracts vermin.
Also try to avoid any diseased plants or anything treated with pesticides.
Stir your compost bin every few days with
a rake or shovel. This will help to aerate the compost and aid in the decomposition of newly added scraps.
Items will decompose faster when cut into
smaller pieces, so consider chopping your
materials up before stirring them into your compost. Make sure all paper has been shredded before composting.Â
Be patient! It can often take six months or
longer for food scraps to fully compost. Items
decompose quicker in warmer temperatures, so progress is much slower during winter.
EGG SHELLS, FRUIT AND VEGETABLE SCRAPS, COFFEE GROUNDS, SHREDDED PAPER BAGS OR NEWSPAPER, GRASS CLIPPINGS, DEAD LEAVES
April 2020 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle
29
APRIL
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
2
inflatables, a petting zoo, pictures
For more information and tickets
with the Easter Bunny, face painting,
visit MasonEmptyBowls.org.
RIBBON CUTTING AT MASON EYE CENTER
Separate hunts will be provided for
games and egg hunts from 2 to 4 p.m. friends in wheelchairs, and those with
Mason Eye Center
visual impairment and sensory needs.
Join the Mason and Deerfield Chamber
Grace-Chapel.com/Events
of Commerce for a ribbon cutting and grand opening at the new Mason Eye Center location at 6667 Western Row Road in Mason. The ribbon cutting will begin at 4:30 p.m. and the event ends at 6 p.m. There will be door prizes and special discounts available for attendees. MADEChamber.org
30
4
11 DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP EASTER EGG HUNT Cottell Park
Deerfield Township partners with Origins Church to offer a free, com-
MASON EMPTY BOWLS 2020 - BENEFIT LUNCHEON TO FIGHT HUNGER
munity Easter egg hunt. Cincinnati Children's, Deerfield Fire Rescue and the
Warren
County
Sheriff's
Mason Grange Hall
Department will provide booths,
Join the Mason Community Grange’s
activities and giveaways. There is
4
6th annual Mason Empty Bowls
an egg patch for toddlers and two
fundraising luncheon, featuring the
egg hunt sessions from 10 to 10:30
SPECIAL NEEDS EASTER EGG HUNT
creations of area chefs and artists.
a.m. and 11 to 11:30 a.m. Eggs are
Your $20 donation pays for soup,
traded in to reduce environmental
Grace Chapel Campus
bread, beverage and the handcrafted
impact. DeerfieldRec.com
Join Building Blocks for Kids and Grace
bowl of your choice. Proceeds ben-
Chapel for an Easter Egg Hunt just for
efit eight organizations that help
guests with special needs and their
feed 6,700 food-insecure Warren
siblings. This fun event will include
County
Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | April 2020
residents
each
month.
CONTINUED >
April 2020 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle
31
Introducing BrightStar Senior Living Mason Ohio
It’s Senior Living made personal. Opening this summer, Mason’s newest senior living community brings premier person-centered assisted living and the region’s leading complex memory care expertise closer to home.
Featured Amenities
18 SPRING INTO HEALING GRIEF RETREAT Sabin Hall-Liberty Center
APRIL
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
Companions on a Journey invites you to join them for a day of healing and reflection at their Spring into Healing Grief Retreat on Saturday, April 18th
from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Liberty
Center’s Sabin Hall. The event is free
Herb garden
to attend, but registration is required
Art classes
CompanionsOnAJourney.org.
On-site salon
18
Cooking classes
by calling 513.870.9108 or visiting
WHITNEY DIXON PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT Pop Revolution
Pop Revolution in Mason will host a photography exhibition opening on April 18 from 7 to 9 p.m. The exhibit by Whitney Dixon is called Hidden in Plain Sight: The Micro World. Stop by to see new art at the gallery. PopRevolutionGallery.com
19 MASON COMMUNITY BAND SPRING CONCERT Mason Middle School
Join the Mason Community Band for their annual spring concert. The band will perform a variety of French themed pieces spanning the genres from pop to classical. This is a great event for all ages and admission is free for all guests. Small desserts and refreshments will be served during intermission. For more information and a performance schedule, visit MasonCommunityBand.org.
513-770-1778 6491 Reading Road, Mason, Ohio 45040 BrightStarSeniorLiving.com/Mason 32
Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | April 2020
CONTINUED >
APRIL Dianna M Knudsen, AAMS® Financial Advisor 5770 Gateway Blvd Suite 103 Mason, OH 45040 513-398-2699
edwardjones.com
Member SIPC
April 2020 | Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle
33
20 LITTLE MIAMI CONSERVANCY ANNUAL DINNER Marriott Northeast
APRIL
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
You are invited to join 200 of your Little
Miami River friends at this year's Little Miami Conservancy Annual Dinner on Monday, April 20, at the Marriott NE in
ESTATE PLANNING | PROBATE ELDER LAW | FAMILY LAW
Mason from 5:30 to 8:45 p.m. There
will be a cash bar, silent auction, book signing and a 6:30 p.m. dinner
and program. Cost is $49 per person. LittleMiami.org
24 What our clients are saying: “Nancy was wonderful from beginning to end with our Estate Planning. Everything was spelled out perfectly from what we would be provided to what it would cost.” B.C. “Everyone in this firm was helpful, efficient and friendly. I have already recommended them to friends.” P.O. “Amie was absolutely amazing and what I liked most was she was unbiased. She helped me in my custody case, that I won! She doesn't care if it's the mother or the father, she looks at strictly what's best for the child. Amie is now my go to for any legal needs.” S.W. “Everyone was caring, kind, and made the task of creating our will, our trust, executor etc. easy. Never felt rushed and all questions were answered.” J. S.
UC WEST CHESTER HOSPITAL SPRING FUNDRAISER The Oscar Event Center
Join
UC
Health
West
Chester
Hospital for the 2020 Spring Fundraising Event, Intergalactic Gala. This year’s event offers a unique opportunity for guests to celebrate the cosmos and look toward the future. Dust off your moon boots and space suits, and come dressed in your best cosmic attire. Proceeds from this event support the creation of a Simulation Center. Foundation.UC.edu
30 CHRISTIAN VILLAGE DOWNSIZING SEMINAR Christian Village at Mason
If you plan to sell or downsize your home, you’ll want to attend the
www.wagner-lawfirm.com 4770 Duke Drive Mason, Ohio
513-336-7200 -Legal Advertisement-
Christian Village at Mason downsizing seminar. Learn tips for selling with ease, the best time to sell your home, easy, inexpensive ways to make it more appealing to buyers and the latest trends in real estate. RSVP by April 24 to 513-7013408 or CVMmarketing@christianvillages.org. ChristianVillages.org
34
Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle | April 2020
APRIL
SPRING INTO A NEW HOUSE! Call Me to get Listing Today. Featured Listings – see your home here next month! e ic
LaDy atg Pr
SO1 D skin
in f a o % 7 0 1
8203 Alpine Aster Excellent condition in desirable Four Bridges! Hardwood floors in open foyer and kitchen. Stainless appliances and gas range. Huge walk-in pantry and oversized laundry room with cabinets. Butler’s pantry. Jack & Jill bedroom and 4th bedroom with private bath. Finished lower level. New water heater 2015. Minutes to Liberty Center, VOA & more!
5172 Lexington Ct
3579 Wild Cherry Wy Excellent condition Zicka resale in desirable Cherry Brook on Cul-de-sac location! Hardwood floors throughout first-floor. Gorgeous, wooded backyard. Gourmet kitchen with gas range and huge island. Finished lower level. Luxury master suite with two walk-in closets. Jack & Jill Bedrooms. 4th Bedroom with private bath. New H2O heater 2014. Deerfield Twp - No Mason earnings tax!
Rare opportunity in desirable Concord Crossing! Three bedroom ranch with full basement. Open floor plan with spacious great room, First-floor laundry and master with en-suite. All appliances including washer & dryer stay with home. Minutes from downtown Mason, Library, Mason Community Center, Liberty Center, VOA & More!
In 2019, Tiffany’s average days on market was 23 and list-to-sale price was 97.63%
Tiffany Allen-Zeuch EXECUTIVE SALES VICE PRESIDENT PBD, SRS, RELOCATION SPECIALIST
(513) 349.7311
tzeuch@sibcycline.com www.tazhomes.com
#1 Agent Sibcy Cline West Chester
Visit
CABR-Circle of Excellence: 2005, 2009-2019 Sibcy Cline Top & Premier Clubs: 2004-2019 OAR President’s Sales Club: 2005-2019 Five Star Agent (customer service award): 2012-2018
www.tazhomes.com Connect with me on Social Media!
#tazhomes