Love, LocalAll Month Long
February brings a season of connection, celebration, and heart. It’s a month that naturally highlights love—but not just in the traditional sense. Love shows up in shared experiences, thoughtful gestures, and the businesses and people who shape the rhythm of our community every day.
While Valentine’s Day often takes the spotlight, February offers many opportunities to celebrate connection in all its forms—romantic, familial, friendly, and communal. One of the most meaningful ways to do that is by supporting the local businesses that invest their creativity, passion, and care into everything they offer.
February 2026
PUBLISHER
Brandy White | brandy.white@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Allison Mackey | allison.mackey@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bill Furbee, Jeni Keeler, Allison Mackey
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Bonnie Phillips Photography
From restaurants designing menus meant to be enjoyed together, to shops curating gifts with intention, to service-based businesses creating memorable experiences—our local community delivers moments that feel personal and purposeful. These are the places that turn everyday plans into meaningful memories.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to be over-the-top to be memorable. A beautifully chosen local gift, a favorite neighborhood reservation, or a handwritten note paired with something special can say far more than a grand gesture. Thoughtfulness, when rooted in community, always leaves a lasting impression.
February is also a reminder that love isn’t limited to one day. Supporting local throughout the month—trying a new business, sharing a recommendation, or simply expressing gratitude—strengthens the connections that make our community thrive.
As we move through February, let it be a time to celebrate boldly, give generously, and show love in ways that feel authentic and meaningful. When we choose local, we’re choosing connection—and that choice makes our community stronger, more vibrant, and deeply connected.
With heart,
BRANDY WHITE, PUBLISHER
@HYDEPARKCITYLIFESTYLE
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Proverbs 3:5-6
Premier Dermatology & Associates
Premier Dermatology & Associates in Hyde Park, led by Dr. Jewell Gaulding, offers personalized, high-quality dermatologic care. Dr. Gaulding is committed to treating each patient as an individual, taking time to listen and create tailored treatment plans. With a focus on both medical and cosmetic dermatology, she combines expert care with genuine compassion in a welcoming, patient-centered environment.
Scan the QR code to check out all of the services provided.
Cincypremierderm.com | 5138713376 | 3665 Erie Ave, Suite 5, Cincinnati OH 45208
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Found Village Board members gathering for their annual Holiday party at MadTree! 2: Wendy and Tatum welcome shoppers to Monmouth St. Mercantile & Hyde Park City Lifestyle's event. 3: Shoppers filled Monmouth St. Mercantile, enjoying a festive holiday experience with Hyde Park City Lifestyle. 4: Hyde Park City Lifestyle & Monmouth St. Mercantile host a holiday shopping event. 5: Monmouth St. Mercantile showcased enchanted goods, versatile staples and curated items for everyday style. 6: Holiday toy donation and raffle at Hotel Covington - a chance to donate and win! 7: Santa brunches at Hotel Covington - festive dishes and holiday treats!
business monthly
Cincinnati’s Historic Emery Theater Welcomes a New Era of Youth Theatre
The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati returns “home” to the newly restored Emery Theater, now one of the nation’s most advanced proscenium venues. Founded in 1919, TCT is America’s oldest professional theatre for young audiences and serves more than 110,000 attendees each year. Its move to the Emery strengthens historic preservation, downtown revitalization, and tech-forward performance. MainStage shows are at 1112 Walnut Street. Tickets start at $12 at thechildrenstheatre.com or 513-569-8080 x10.
Coda Co.
Coda Co. is a modern, eclectic boutique in Bellevue, KY, offering handmade prints, soft textiles, contemporary and vintage-inspired clothing, unique jewelry, artisanal pottery, and a lush selection of plants. Thoughtfully chosen home décor, woven throws, and one-of-a-kind wall hangings reflect the shop’s creative spirit. Every item is handpicked to tell a story, making it the perfect spot for meaningful gifts. Visit Coda Co. at 400 Fairfield Ave. or shopcodaco.com.
BMW Store Cincinnati
The BMW Store began as Tom Schwartz’s repair shop and has grown into a dedicated BMW dealership with expert staff, strong inventory, and modern service facilities. For more than 45 years, drivers across Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky have relied on the team for knowledgeable support, BMW-focused service, and competitive financing and lease options. The dealership continues to prioritize customer experience and a smooth, confident path to BMW ownership.
If you’re looking to elevate your next event with unforgettable sweetness, look no further than Del Gardo’s Italian Dessert Catering. Renowned for their gourmet cannoli and tiramisu, each creation becomes a beautiful piece of art.
WORLD-CLASS Therapy
Local Fyzical Outlet Brings Olympic-level Fitness Training Within Reach
ARTICLE BY BILL FURBEE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BONNIE PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHY
In Greater Cincinnati, a much-needed physical therapy training center is helping residents raise the bar on their recovery with state-of-the-art equipment and Olympic-level expertise.
Alan Howell, owner of the FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Center on Red Bank Road, served as a training team member for the Commonwealth Games, which was held in New Zealand in 1990. He was also a member of the training team for the Pan American Games in 1991, and was selected to be on the National Olympic Committee in 1992 and 1996 due to his knowledge and experience treating athletes.
It was after experiencing that Olympic-level notoriety that Howell opened Howell Rehabilitation in 1999. In 2019, he and his wife, Chris, purchased their FYZICAL franchise. Howell has called the Queen City home for 47 years and has been a physical therapist for 46 of those years.
According to Howell, providing cutting-edge physical therapy services allows him to serve neighbors, making a positive impact on the community and helping others to make the most of their lives, no matter their age or personal goals.
“Everyone wants to be able to live a full, active life,” he explains. Often, however, those recovering from an injury or surgery require the assistance of a skilled physical therapist— one who “knows the body and knows how to restore your body to good health and the full active life you desire,” Howell says.
FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Center offers a wide range of services, including orthopedic rehabilitation, pediatrics, balance therapy, fitness and wellness, vestibular therapy, and other specialty services tailored to individual needs. The center is staffed by experienced professionals and filled with specialized equipment.
Howell’s personal expertise is one of the biggest advantages it can offer clients.
At FYZICAL, other specialists lend their abilities as well. “We love the fact that we have the very best balance and vestibular instructor at Fyzical HQ,” Howell says. “Brian Werner been a great source of information for location owners like myself, who have added balance and vestibular training to our own FYZICAL location.”
FYZICAL Therapy & Balance assists individuals of all backgrounds, Howell clarifies, citing individuals recovering from a stroke, vehicle accident survivors, and even one patient who survived being trampled by a buffalo as examples.
Regardless of the reason treatment is sought, one thing tends to unite clients: “We see our patients come in for their first visits and, as you can imagine, most of the time they are in pain,” Howell says. “But we really enjoy seeing them come in for subsequent visits, smiling and feeling much better. It’s wonderful to see them ‘graduate’ to a full and active life.”
Howell also points out that, despite what many people believe, therapy is an important part of the physical recovery process. “If you break a foot, that foot will never be the same again,” he acknowledges. “But without physical therapy, you may never be able to walk on that foot the same way again. Physical therapy is as important as surgery,” he advises.
Serving the community and helping neighbors improve their physical capabilities one step at a time is central to the mission that FYZICAL Therapy & Balance sets out to accomplish each and every day.
“It’s a privilege to be trusted by someone to take care of their physical therapy needs,” Howell says. “We truly enjoy our patients and they become like family to us.”
Ready to get started? You’re not alone in wanting to make the most of the cold-weather season.
“There are many winter sports out there to be played,” Howell eagerly points out. “Just look at the Olympics!”
Additionally, he adds, there is good reason to maintain tip-top conditioning, no matter the time of year. “You really should stay in good physical shape yearround,” Howell says, explaining that it reduces your chances of sustaining an injury. “You can also recover from an injury quicker,” he explains, “if you are in good physical shape.”
To learn more, visit http://www.fyzical.com.
FYZICAL Therapy & Balance
FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Center on Red Bank Road brings a rare blend of advanced technology and elite athletic insight to Cincinnati’s rehabilitation landscape. Led by longtime physical therapist and former Olympic training team member Alan Howell, the center delivers evidence-based care designed to restore strength, mobility, and confidence. Howell’s decades of experience—spanning international competition, private practice, and communityfocused service—inform a comprehensive approach that supports patients recovering from injury, surgery, or balance-related conditions. With specialized equipment, a skilled clinical team, and a commitment to individualized treatment, FYZICAL provides a high-caliber environment where patients can progress safely and return to the active lives they value.
WHERE DENTISTRY MEETS Wellness
ARTICLE BY JENI KEELER PHOTOGRAPHY BY BONNIE PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHY
APPLEGATE DENTISTRY AND MEDSPA
BRING WORLD-CLASS TECHNOLOGY AND CARE TO TOTAL BODY WELLNESS
Just a 10 to 15-minute drive from Hyde Park across the blue Roebling Bridge lies a practice redefining modern healthcare. Applegate Dentistry and MedSpa combines 30 years of trusted dental excellence with innovative non-invasive aesthetic treatments in downtown Covington.
Dr. Barry Applegate and co-founder Mark Salmon launched the med spa in June 2024, transforming a space adjacent to the existing dental office into a face, body and mind wellness facility. For them, it was a natural transition to marry dentistry, aesthetics and wellness.
HEALING FROM WITHIN
“Our mantra is more about heal yourself from within, as opposed to fill yourself full of a bunch of stuff,” Dr. Applegate shares. Rather than fillers that can cause a variety of issues, treatments stimulate natural healing.
The practice uses radio frequency and electromagnetic technology. “Our goal is to turn the clock back, and then continue with maintenance to minimize aging moving forward,” Dr. Applegate explains.
For example, an EmFace non-surgical facelift stimulates collagen while toning facial muscles. The heat causes a reaction in the skin, like a micro-injury, which calls all the healing cells, which increases elastin and collagen at tremendous rates.
“OUR MANTRA IS MORE ABOUT HEAL YOURSELF FROM WITHIN, AS OPPOSED TO FILL YOURSELF FULL OF A BUNCH OF STUFF.
RATHER THAN FILLERS THAT CAN CAUSE A variety of issues , TREATMENTS STIMULATE natural healing .”
CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY
Using advanced technology in the dental office is one thing that spurred growth into the wellness arena. Dr. Applegate has been using lasers in dentistry for years and sees how it benefits patients.
The Solea Laser allows 80 percent of fillings without injecting anesthetic. “It’s not a hot, painful drill we’re familiar with in the past,” Dr. Applegate explains. Instead, the laser works like an ablation on teeth and soft tissue requiring minimal anesthesia and downtime.
“Nobody wants more shots, and so it’s so easy to sit there and have the work done correctly and beautifully all in one visit,” according to Applegate.
He even employs the laser to treat snoring issues by using it on the soft palette.
GUARANTEED RESULTS
Applegate MedSpa guarantees every treatment result. “We guarantee that you are gonna get the results we promise, whether that’s for the face and body treatment or the mind - we do ExoMind treatments for mental wellness,” Salmon explains.
After seeing hundreds of patients, they’ve only given one refund though. That’s because they work with patients until the promised results are achieved. “Sometimes we don’t get it right in terms of how many treatments we need to be successful, but that’s on us to eat that cost,” Mark shares.
EXPERT CARE TEAM
The practice features a dermatology nurse practitioner, Eleanor Bullock, who was carefully selected after extensive interviews. A physician medical director oversees all med spa protocols, ensuring the highest standard of care. This expert team performs over 70 med spa treatments weekly.
BEYOND AESTHETICS
EmSculpt has FDA clearance to treat lower back pain and arthritis. “When you dial them differently, you can help relax muscles and help speed up the healing and recovery process from injury,” Dr. Applegate informs.
“OUR GOAL IS TO TURN THE clock back , AND THEN CONTINUE WITH MAINTENANCE TO minimize aging MOVING FORWARD.”
ExoMind addresses mental wellness. The Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation system delivers targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain. It’s used to treat depression. They also offer treatments for pelvic floor strengthening. Building core and pelvic floor muscles improves balance and stability for aging patients, addressing quality-of-life concerns that extend far beyond appearance.
WORTH THE JOURNEY
The founders live in Hyde Park and commute daily. “I make that drive every day, and it’s no big deal. Ten-minute drive,” Salmon says.
Dr. Applegate adds: “I guarantee a heck of a lot of people are driving to Kenwood, and that’s even further. Plus they’re getting a lot of fillers. What we’re doing is non-invasive, healing yourself from within - with much more natural results.”
Whether seeking standard or cosmetic dentistry or non-invasive aesthetics with guaranteed results, Applegate Dentistry and MedSpa represents integrated healthcare worth the drive.
BENEATH THE FUR
CARING FOR PETS FROM THE INSIDE OUT
ARTICLE BY ALLISON MACKEY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BONNIE PHILLIPS
PHOTOGRAPHY
For Chris Davis, owner of 4 Hounds Gear and Grooming, nutrition is the foundation of pet health. In our conversation, he emphasized that what happens inside a pet’s body directly affects what we see on the outside. “Having a healthy gut and healthy insides is integral to the overall health of a pet, just like us,” Davis explained. Issues like inflamed ears, irritated pads, yeast buildup, or skin irritation often trace back to an imbalanced system. By guiding pet parents toward better nutrition, he and his team help pets look and feel their best.
A balanced diet, he noted, means the right mix of protein, fat, roots, vegetables, and grains—plus pre- and probiotics to support digestion. Hydration is equally vital, especially for cats. “Cats are notoriously dehydrated,” Davis said. “Their tongues are not designed for drinking water... you have to make sure you’re providing them with as much nutrition and hydration as possible.” Proper hydration supports kidney function, skin health, and overall vitality.
Misconceptions around food are common. Many owners assume that “any food is good food,” but Davis stressed that quality and processing make a meaningful difference. Some dogs thrive on kibble, which can support dental health, but adding supplements or raw components can elevate their diet. “Studies have shown that if you can add 25% of a raw component to your pet’s diet, it is going to help and prolong their overall health,” he said.
Label reading is another area where owners can be misled. While many look for “chicken” as the first ingredient, Davis explained that “meal” forms of protein often provide more nutrients. “When you see ‘chicken meal’ or ‘fish meal,’ that’s actually a good thing. You’re getting organ meat, muscle tissue, collagen—variety that supports whole health.”
When it comes to supplements, Davis recommends starting with prebiotics and probiotics because they directly support digestion and gut balance. Goat milk, bone broth, or specialized powders can all deliver these benefits. From there, he suggests tailoring additional supplements to a pet’s age, activity level, or specific needs.
Nutrition supports internal health, but grooming protects pets from external challenges. In winter, coats and paw protection matter more than length. “Most people think, ‘I need to keep my dog long in the winter because they’re going to get cold.’ If it’s an aesthetic, that’s fine, but a consistent short haircut year-round isn’t a problem.”
Double-coated breeds are the exception. “You can do outline trims, but you really shouldn’t cut your dog’s fur because that undercoat can be destroyed.”
Bathing routines vary by species. Cats need less bathing, though brushing helps reduce hairballs and dander. Dogs can be bathed weekly if properly dried. “Don’t rub a dog vigorously with a towel,” Davis cautioned. “Pat dry or follow the flow of the fur.” For most dogs, a bath every six to eight weeks, paired with regular brushing, keeps coats healthy. If there’s one simple practice every pet parent should adopt, Davis says it’s brushing. “Brushing with the correct brush or comb for your pet…will make your dog’s life, your life, and your groomer’s life infinitely easier and happier."
Whether he’s talking nutrition or grooming, Davis returns to the same core belief: true pet health starts with owners who nurture their animals from the inside out.
DIY GOLD LEAF JEWELRY DISHES
supplies you’ll need:
• Wooden bowls, trays, etc.
• Gold leaf (or metallic gold paint)
• Gentle gold leaf brush
• Mod Podge (or gold leaf adhesive)
• Acrylic paint
• Paint brushes
• Painters tape (optional)
steps to do:
• Grab a wooden bowl, some acrylic paint, and a brush.
• Hand paint some paint on one section of the bowl.
• Let the first coat dry and paint another two to three coats of paint until you’re happy with the result.
• Let the paint fully dry.
• I wanted my gold leaf paper to overlap the paint for a layered look, so I took a paint brush and painted some Mod Podge in an overlapping pattern.
• Once the Mod Podge gets tacky, use your hand to apply the gold leaf and accompanying wax sheet.
• Push the gold leaf onto the tacky glue, then remove the top layer of paper.
• Use your fingers to gently push the gold leaf onto the glue a little further.
• Next, use the gold leaf brush to smooth over the whole area and gently wipe away any excess gold leaf. Pay extra attention to the edges.
• Next, smooth the gold leaf section as much as possible, but don’t worry about any imperfections. The organic look of the gold leaf being imperfect gives the piece character.
• Next, work your way to the outer edge.
• Once the gold leaf is perfected, gently brush over the leaf with some Mod Podge to seal it to the bowl.
• Let it completely dry and enjoy!
“They’re a great and affordable gift idea for friends.”
TO MY
Valentine
ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Create timeless keepsakes for those you love with this easy DIY Valentine Stationary. There is something special and reminiscent of our earlier years of creating homemade valentines for those special in our lives. While stores are filled with Valentine candy, cards and gifts, the thoughtfulness and time put into to a handmade card holds a different meaning. Words are the things we treasure most, so let those you care about most know how you treasure them this Valentine’s Day.
What you will need
• Kitchen Knife
• Red or Russet Potato (for heart)
• Romaine Lettuce (for rose)
• Acrylic Paint
• Paint Brush
• Blank Envelopes
• Blank Cards
• Heart Template (SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIY-stationery)
• Hand Lettering Template (SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIY-stationery)
• Light Box
Instructions for Heart Prints
1. Cut the potato in half. Using a small knife, carefully carve a heart shape onto the flat side of the potato. Carve freestyle or use the free template under “DIY Stationery” on the blog at silvertoothhome.com/ blog/diy-stationery. Even when using the template, each carving will come out as unique art like the ones you see here.
2. With a paint brush, apply paint to the heart shape on the potato.
3. Stamp the potato heart onto blank stationery.
4. Set aside until completely dry.
Instructions for Rose Prints
1. Cut the end off of romaine lettuce. Set leaves aside and use the stem.
2. Using a paintbrush, apply paint to the lettuce stem.
3. Stamp the lettuce “rose” onto blank stationery.
4. Set aside until completely dry.
Once your stationery is completely dry it is time to add beautiful Valentine’s Day lettering. If you have beautiful handwriting then draw free hand. If you’re not as confident use a light box and my hand lettering template (found on the blog at SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIYstationery) to transfer lettering onto the stationery. To do this, first lay the hand lettering template on a light box with the stationery on top. Then trace the hand lettering onto the stationery with a pen or marker of choice.
REALTY REPORT
Sponsored by Daley Design + Build
A
Sample of Recently Sold Properties in and around Hyde Park
BUILDING BETTER HOMES
FEBRUARY 2026
Better Care. Better Results.
Experience the
Fact: Hospital-based physical-therapy clinics often charge more for equivalent care.
Fact: You may end up being treated by someone who’s been out of school only six months—or by a physical therapy assistant (PTA.)
Fact: At FYZICAL Red Bank, you receive one-on-one care from experienced, licensed physical therapists who are personally invested in your recovery
Fact: You’ll get expert attention and better outcomes— without the hospital price tag.
At FYZICAL Red Bank, we design a treatment program uniquely for you-no “one-size-fits-all” approach. Whether you want to attend a Reds game, enjoy a family outing, or return to your favorite activity, our team is here to help you move better, feel stronger, and live fully again.
Choose experience. Choose Value.
Choose FYZICAL Red Bank. www.fyzical.com/red-bank-oh | 513-618-7878 4625 Red Bank Road, STE 102 Cincinnati, Ohio 45227
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS
Boots, Beats & Beginner Steps
Lori’s Roadhouse | 4924 Union Centre Pavilion Dr., Ste B, West Chester Township, OH 45202 | 7:00 PM
Lori’s Roadhouse turns weeknights into a two-step escape, with happy hour sips from 4–6 PM and dance lessons for every age and skill level. It’s an easy, lighthearted way to laugh, learn, and make a little midweek magic with your valentine.
THURSDAYS - SUNDAYS
From Classical Roots to Contemporary Vision
Contemporary Arts Center | 44 E 6th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 | 10:00 AM
The exhibition at the Cincinnati Contemporary Art Center highlights a selection that reflects how collecting has taken shape over the past 200 years, pairing UC’s contemporary works with historical pieces to reveal cultural and technical throughlines. Built through students, faculty, patrons, and regional artists, the collection reflects a legacy of learning, community connection, and creative inspiration across generations.
FEBRUARY 6TH
A Sweetheart Paint Sesh
| GRADUATIONS
Rhinegeist Brewery Taproom | 1910 Elm St. Cincinnati, OH 45202 United States | 7:00 PM
Celebrate early at Rhinegeist Brewery with “Perch for Two,” a cozy pre-Valentine’s paint and sip featuring a dreamy moonlit lovebirds scene. This guided, beginner-friendly night is perfect for couples, friends, or anyone craving a relaxed, romantic creative escape with a craft beer in hand.
FEBRUARY 7TH
Dads & Daughters: An Evening to Remember
NKU Student Union Ballroom | 20 Kenton Dr. Highland Heights, KY 41099 United States | 6:00 PM
Dads and daughters ages 3–12 are welcomed to a charming night out filled with dancing, treats, and the kind of memories that make growing up feel extra special. The fun happens Saturday, February 7, from 6–8 p.m. Space is limited, and all attendees must register. For pricing and more details, visit andersonparks.com.
FEBRUARY 13TH - 15TH & 19TH - 21ST
Swan Lake: A Timeless Romance
Cincinnati Music Hall | 1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Swan Lake returns to the Cincinnati Music Hall February 13–21, 2026, bringing its sweeping romance and heartbreak to life through Kirk Peterson’s elegant choreography after Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov. With the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra performing Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, it’s an unforgettable, heart-stirring evening—and a perfect date night. Times and tickets can be found on their website at cballet.org.
FEBRUARY 15TH
Couple Shuffle
Sawyer Point Park | 705 E Pete Rose Way Cincinnati, OH 45202 US | 9:00 AM
The Couple Shuffle brings couples, friends, families, and solo runners together for a fun, family-friendly race morning on February 15. With great swag, youth pricing, free photos, and plenty of finish-line treats, it’s an easy way to challenge yourself and share the miles with your favorite people. Registration fills fast, so be sure to grab your spot!
wwww.bonniephillipsphotography.com
