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As our team began preparing for an inspiring June Gentlemen’s issue, I couldn’t help but reflect on the men who have profoundly impacted my life — childhood soccer coaches, managers, mentors, friends, peers, and, most importantly, my husband, Jay. These men helped me discover my own willpower and resilience. They encouraged me to break through discomfort, acknowledged my strengths, demonstrated servant leadership, guided me on my spiritual journey, and patiently stood in my corner through the darkest hours. The memories and significance of these men are imprinted on my life forever.
We had the honor of interviewing six incredible men on a mission to transform communities in Cincinnati. A common thread among them was giving back, discovering their unique ways of serving others through faith, outdoor adventure, food, home, and sneakers. It reminded me of our interconnectedness — the importance of walking beside each other in moments of grief and celebration. I often tell my daughters that one of the most important things in life is taking the time to understand people. It’s the most beautiful gift you can give yourself and others.
We also had the privilege of interviewing real estate expert Barry Bates. He spoke about the importance of understanding a client’s “why” and the power of discovering what he calls “the black swan.” You’ll have to read on for all the inspiring details.
I’d also like to take a moment to acknowledge our community heroes. We share the story of Evan Huey, this year’s Hyde Park Blast ambassador. Evan is the epitome of resilience, humility, and determination. His story will undoubtedly fill your heart with hope. It’s incredible how our community comes together in times of need, encouragement, support and honor.
Who are the men who have left a mark on your life? Maybe this is the moment to reach out and thank them for sharing their gifts of wisdom, patience, and strength.
PUBLISHER
Brandy White | brandy.white@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Heather Spinks | heather.spinks@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Rob Pasquinucci, Heather Spinks, Tera Michelson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Bonnie Phillips, Ross Van Pelt Photography, Alli Mullikin Photography, Gary Kessler/Kessler Photography
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
3:5-6
At Pro Improvement Services, our goal is to provide professional craftsmanship along with exceptional communication every step of the way. We pride ourselves in ensuring our customers receive the quality service they deserve along with the comfort and trust of knowing the project will be done right the first time. We strive to be the trusted leader in home improvement services by redefining the expectations of quality workmanship through the integrity of our skilled professionals.
We specialize in Interior/Exterior Painting, Drywall Installs/Repairs, Basement Remodeling, Exterior Repairs (siding, soffits, fascia, and trim), Commercial (Drywall, Interior & Exterior Painting)
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: American Institute of Architects Cincinnati CRANawards held at The Bell Event Centre 2: OTR Chamber of Commerce ConnectHER luncheon at Bakersfield OTR 3: The Cure Starts Now Gala fights pediatric brain cancer while honoring warriors and inspiring change. 4: The Cure Starts Now, Gala 'Game Show' theme, live auction, and entertainment 5: The Cure Starts Now Gala fights pediatric brain cancer while honoring warriors and inspiring change. 6: The Cure Starts Now, Gala 'Game Show' theme, live auction and entertainment 7: WLWT meteorologist, Randi Rico takes the mic as emcee at The Cure Starts Now gala
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Embracing
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TRANSFORMING COMMUNITIES IN CINCINNATI
De’Mico Coleman is the Outreach Director at Queen City Church and a life coach for the Men’s Transformational Recovery Program at City Gospel Mission. Through his work, he leads initiatives that bring practical support and care to people across Cincinnati, while helping men in recovery rebuild their lives through personal growth and faith. Coleman is passionate about building bridges between the church and community, and between people and purpose, and believes wholeheartedly in the power
of restoration. On the toughest days, it’s his faith that keeps him going. He sees his work as a calling and chooses to show up with obedience, trust, and compassion. He hopes to leave a legacy of resilience, servant leadership, and impact that reaches far beyond himself. To anyone looking to make a difference, his advice is simple: begin with compassion. Notice the needs around you. Use what you already have to serve others. You don’t have to be perfect—just consistent, faithful, and willing to love well.
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Nate Krugman is the founder of EXO Clarity, an initiative that invites people to step outside the ordinary and into meaningful transformation. Through outdoor adventures designed to push boundaries, Krugman helps individuals confront fear, rediscover inner strength, and gain clarity on their purpose. After navigating seasons of grief, depression, anxiety, and cancer, Krugman discovered that the only way forward was to walk through fear, not around it. That realization became the foundation of his life’s work.
At EXO Clarity—“exo” meaning “outside” in Greek—adventure becomes a tool for healing and growth. Whether walking 337 miles to encourage a friend with cancer, kayaking 470 miles in honor of his late father, or cycling across the country to raise money for families at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Krugman has learned that clarity comes when we leave behind routine and comfort.
He is driven by the people walking hard roads: the burnt-out, the brokenhearted, the battling. Adventure is his way of encouraging others to keep going. Behind every mile is his family—his wife Sarah, their children, and his faith, which grounds and fuels his mission.
Krugman hopes to leave a legacy of courage. He wants his life to speak gently but clearly: “Keep going.” Not because you have it all figured out, but because you were made to walk through the hard things and come out stronger on the other side. His advice to anyone who wants to make a difference but doesn’t know where to start? Begin by stepping outside—into nature, into discomfort, into clarity. That’s where we often find the truest version of ourselves.
Owner, Daley Design + Build, LLC
Graeme Daley runs Daley Design + Build, LLC, a highend custom homebuilding company in Cincinnati, offering comprehensive services from architectural and interior design to 3D visualization and a detailed bidding process. His passion stems from growing up around estate homes and exploring European châteaux. After realizing his calling while in engineering school, Daley has spent over 20 years building homes with uncompromising quality. His philosophy is that success is about caring for people, creating homes that last for generations. His advice: practice your craft, even for free, and keep working until you’re doing what you love and getting paid for it.
Steve Del Gardo is the owner of Del Gardo’s Cannoli Bar in Covington, Ky., lovingly known as “The Cannoli Guy.” After surviving male breast cancer, Del Gardo founded Protect the Pecs to raise awareness and educate others. But he wanted to reach people in an even more joyful way—through dessert. His mission is simple: to make the world a better place, one cannolo at a time. For Del Gardo, success isn’t measured by money—it’s measured in smiles. Every cannoli he serves is a reminder that life is a gift, and that faith, strength, and sweetness can go a long way.
Derrick Braziel runs Pata Roja Taqueria in downtown Cincinnati, but it’s not just a taco shop—it’s a celebration of culture, community, and creativity. Through food, he tells stories, honors his heritage, and creates jobs while bringing people together. Braziel’s work is rooted in building something real that reflects the people and places that shaped him. Pata Roja is his way of creating space for others to build something of their own. Braziel’s path hasn’t been traditional. He didn’t grow up aspiring to run a restaurant or launch businesses, but his
passion for helping others, particularly those who have been overlooked, led him to co-found MORTAR. There, he saw the transformative power of giving people the tools, belief, and community to thrive. Pata Roja grew from that same energy—a love letter to Mexico City, to hustle, and to healing.
What keeps Braziel going is his faith, responsibility, and the legacy he wants to leave. He reflects on his sister, Denita, and the people who believed in him before he believed in himself. Braziel knows that what he’s building now will serve as an answer to someone else’s prayer.
When he thinks about his legacy, Braziel wants to be known for helping others believe in themselves. He wants to create spaces where people, especially Black and Brown creatives and entrepreneurs, can thrive without compromising their identity. His advice: start small, show up, and surround yourself with people who remind you of your strength.
Matt Tomamichel is the owner of Corporate, a retail destination, and the co-founder of the nonprofit Bigger Than Sneakers. What he loves most about his work is creating a place for people to connect—beyond transactions, it’s about the community. Retail is his craft, but the people he serves make it truly meaningful. Tomamichel’s path was shaped by his love for sneakers and retail. He dreamed of building a company with reputable accounts and becoming one of the best in the game. This passion for his craft drove him to pursue this journey.
What keeps Tomamichel moving forward on the toughest days is his faith. He feels that without it, he could have given up many times over. His belief that God is using his love for people to connect him to so many others motivates him to keep pushing through. When it comes to his legacy, Tomamichel thinks of significance over success. He believes that success is about what you can do for yourself, while significance is what you can do for others. His goal is to leave behind a legacy where, alongside taking care of his own family, he always makes time to help others and
impact their lives in a positive way. For anyone looking to make a difference but unsure where to start, Tomamichel’s advice is simple: “Everyone starts somewhere.” Find your starting point, pursue it, and remember that while you may be inspired by others, your own journey is uniquely yours. And never forget— everyone needs help along the way.
Hannah Wright
Maronda Homes Community Sales Manager
Maronda Homes was founded in 1972 by William J Wolf. After years of working in the home building industry, Mr. Wolf ventured out on his own to build superior new homes that were cost-effective. With this philosophy, more individuals could afford a new construction home. We continue to streamline our process while using quality materials to maintain this philosophy for our current and future customers.
Barry Bates Helps Clients Find Their ‘Why’ in Real Estate
ARTICLE BY ROB PASQUINUCCI PHOTOGRAPHY BY BONNIE PHILLIPS
A cozy corner for kids to open presents on Christmas morning. A quiet backyard garden to cultivate a hobby. An investment property to build wealth. For Barry Bates, real estate is more than buying and selling houses, it’s a chance to elevate lives.
“For sellers, pricing remains flat. His advice: Be strategic about your asking price and invest in marketing.”
“By understanding their unique goals, I guide my clients toward opportunities that align with their dreams,” Bates said.
He works to uncover what motivates his clients, their “why” — before showing properties.
“It doesn’t come in that first consultation, and it doesn’t come in that first house you go into with them,” Bates said. “It comes at that moment when they give you what I call ‘the black swan’, that hidden piece of information you didn’t get until you’re in the space with them.”
One client initially wanted a condominium, but after getting to know her, Bates suspected a single-family home would better suit her needs. That’s ultimately what she bought.
That customer-first approach has earned Bates honors, including the Coldwell Banker West Shell President’s Club and Circle of Excellence awards.
But his real estate journey began with a personal “why.”
With four children at home, Bates wanted a career that allowed for more family time. Real estate offered the flexibility he was looking for. He took 10-hour classes on weekends, passed the exam, got his license, and closed his first deal on day one. Fourteen years later, he’s grateful for the move. It gave him time with his wife, Linda, and children — Jason, Holly, and de Léon — and now with his grandchildren.
Together with his wife, he also started an LLC to renovate and resell residential properties, an experience that gives him an eye for issues others might miss.
Bottom: Barry Bates prepares to assist clients with their home search, seated in a model home that reflects the kind of personalized spaces he helps buyers find.
Before real estate, Bates worked at Kroger and Liberty Mutual Insurance, where he learned customer service and how to handle objections, skills that still serve him well.
“I see my background as an advantage compared with others who came straight into real estate,” he said.
That includes one of his top values: accessibility.
“When my phone rings, I try to answer it as often as I can,” he said. “This is a highly anxious process, and just picking up the phone can give clients peace of mind.”
Market conditions — from fluctuating interest rates to limited inventory — add to that anxiety. But Bates encourages clients to stay informed.
“Do your own homework and stay locked into what’s happening next,” he said.
Low inventory can create opportunities for buyers, particularly with homes that have lingered on the market.
“Be ready to negotiate if you see something that’s been sitting,” he said.
For sellers, pricing remains flat. His advice: Be strategic about your asking price and invest in marketing.
“Do all the things to accelerate foot traffic in the property,” he said.
While Bates continues to guide clients through buying and selling, he’s also focused on giving back, mentoring the next generation of real estate professionals.
“I tell clients, I can sell your house with both hands tied behind my back, blindfolded and my feet bound,” he said, laughing. “But what I really get out of this is the opportunity to train and coach young professionals — the next generation.”
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ARTICLE BY HEATHER SPINKS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BONNIE PHILLIPS
When you hear Evan’s story, you realize quickly: it’s not just about a diagnosis. It is about how strength, faith, and love from family, friends, and an entire community can lift someone through the hardest battle of their life.
Just over a year ago, Evan was like any other 19-year-old. A freshman at the University of Cincinnati, working two jobs and full of dreams. But when he started noticing coordination issues on his right side, his mom, Debbie, knew something was wrong. After pushing through countless doctor
Their community wrapped around them in ways large and small. Meals appeared on doorsteps. Messages of hope filled their phones. And Evan — humble, charismatic, and determined — began the long, grueling journey of relearning the basics: walking, talking, even swallowing.
Today, Evan is walking with a cane, regaining his independence step by step. Every therapy session, every milestone, is a testament to his strength and resilience. Debbie remembers a moment early in his recovery when
visits and tests, they finally got an MRI in March 2024. That was the day their world shifted: a brain tumor diagnosis no one ever saw coming.
"You do not even have time to process it," Debbie recalls. "You just know you have to keep moving for your child."
Six days later, Evan underwent brain surgery. Yet even in those early days of fear and uncertainty, light still found a way to shine. Evan’s baptism took place just two days before surgery. Family and friends flooded them with love, and “Team Evan” bracelets began popping up across the country.
Evan looked at her and said, “I'm gonna be okay, Mom. God gives His toughest battles to His strongest soldiers.”
It is that mindset, full of perseverance and hope, that made choosing Evan to be the 2025 Ambassador for the Hyde Park Blast an easy decision.
Founded in 2001 by Hyde Park residents Cheryl Neiheisel and Chad Sims, the Hyde Park Blast started as a way to bring people together for a bigger purpose: raising money to fight cancer. What began as a small neighborhood gathering has grown into a signature Cincinnati event. Over the years, the
Hyde Park Blast has donated more than $600,000 to local cancer charities, including The Cure Starts Now — a groundbreaking organization dedicated not just to treating cancer, but to curing it.
The Cure Starts Now focuses on what they call the "Homerun Cure," believing that by targeting the most treatment-resistant and aggressive cancers, especially those affecting children, researchers can unlock breakthroughs that will defeat cancer as a whole. It is a bold, visionary approach that has already changed countless lives, including Evan’s.
"The Cure Starts Now gave us community and support when we needed it most," Debbie says. "They made me feel like I wasn’t alone. They understood in a way that very few people could."
For the Huey family, being part of Hyde Park Blast this year is a full-circle moment. Last year, Evan could not even attend. This year, he will be front and center, showing everyone what hope and determination look like in real life. And next year? His goal is even bigger: to walk the race himself.
“It is not just a race,” Debbie says. “It is about celebrating life, celebrating community, and celebrating every step forward.”
Hyde Park Blast is set for June 28 and promises a full day of events for every age and energy level. There is a four-mile run and walk through historic Hyde Park, bike races that wind through tree-lined streets, and a block party to end the night. Every dollar raised goes directly to
support cancer research and patient support efforts in the Cincinnati area.
And if you want to get involved beyond race day, Debbie has one simple message: “Learn about it. Support it. You never know when it could be your family, your neighbor, or your friend.”
Hope has a ripple effect. It spreads through bracelets worn across the country, through friends showing up for a block party, through every mile walked and every dollar raised. It is a reminder that when communities come together, no challenge is too great.
Cancer impacts more lives than we realize. But so does hope.
Thanks to Evan and the hundreds of families who refuse to give up, they are proving every day that the cure really does start now.
Sign up for the Hyde Park Blast today: www.hpblast.org
Learn more about The Cure Starts Now: www.thecurestartsnow.org
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Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance Celebrates 47th Year of Premier Classic Car Show to Benefit Juvenile Arthritis
ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
GARY KESSLER/KESSLER PHOTOGRAPHY
Meet & mingle with car collectors & enthusiasts at the 2025 show.
The Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance is ready to roll into the blooming gardens of historic Ault Park with 250 collector vehicles. Now in its 47th year, it is the premier classic car show event of its kind—a full weekend of events ramps up to the internationally recognized fundraiser for Juvenile Arthritis on Sunday, June 8.
This year’s theme, “Icons of British Motoring,” promises a look at twenty-one classes of classic, vintage and exotic automobiles and motorcycles, including a James Bond tribute car outfitted with Agent 007 spy accessories. The show also features special display classes celebrating the 100th anniversary of Chrysler, Indian Motorcycles and Automotive Oddities: The Strange and Wonderful.
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“Our event gets bigger and better year-over-year with something for everyone, from car enthusiasts to families with young children–from supercars to classic cars and motorcycles,” says Julie Wyte, Executive Director of the Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance Foundation. “Ault Park is one of the most beautiful public parks in our country and is the perfect backdrop to display such glorious automotive beauty,” she adds.
The Concours weekend begins Saturday, June 7 with a Countryside Tour—participants motor through scenic roads of the Cincinnati region. Saturday evening brings the Hangar Party at Lunken Airport, featuring exotic cars, motorcycles and private jets. Tickets include beverages and dinner by the bite.
The main event is the Concours d’Elegance, Sunday, June 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Ault Park. A VIP Brunch catered by Eat Well will be offered on Sunday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Ault Park Pavilion. The Craft Beer Garden & Bourbon will be on the show field this year, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance is as much about community as it is about cars. A well-oiled team of more than 400 volunteers work together to make the show a success. The passion behind the purpose is what makes the show truly one of a kind.
“Ault Park is one of the most beautiful public parks in our country and is the perfect backdrop to display such glorious automotive beauty.”
“Some of our volunteers have been with us for more than 40 years,” Wyte shares. “We have a lot of multi-generational help—families that return year after year. I am honored to be working with such great people and hand-in-hand with The Arthritis Foundation,” she continues. “All of the money stays local and supports a camp for children with Juvenile Arthritis and their families.”
This June, brake for the Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance, the event of the season that fuels a good cause.
For details and advance tickets for Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance events, visit OhioConcours. com . Free parking with a shuttle to Ault Park is available at Fifth Third Bank Madisonville Operations Center, 5020 Duck Creek Road.
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JUNE 15TH
3301 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209 | 11:00 AM
Rev up your Father’s Day plans at MadTree Brewing’s Gears & Beers! Hosted at the Oakley Taproom, this annual celebration brings car enthusiasts together for a day of chrome, craft beer, and community. Enjoy coffee, brunch, and cold MadTree brews while celebrating the dads who drive us forward.
JUNE 19TH
5090 Observatory Circle, Cincinnati, OH 45208 | 6:00 PM
The June Summer Music Festival returns to Ault Park! Enjoy live tunes from The Whammies, food trucks, local drinks, plus family fun with games, inflatables, and crafts. This free community tradition supports Ault Park and is the perfect way to kick off summer. Bring your lawn chairs, grab a drink, and let the music move you!
JUNE 28TH
2700 Erie Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45208 | 7:00 AM
Join us June 28, 2025, in Hyde Park Square for the Hyde Park Blast—a full day of racing, riding, and celebrating, all benefiting The Cure Starts Now. With a 4-mile run/walk, Kids Fun Run, elite cycling, and a lively block party, it’s a high-energy community tradition that’s raised over $600,000 for Cincinnati cancer charities.
Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of.
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an intro.
High Watch Home Group is a dedicated team of real estate professionals—Maurie, David, and Sierra—serving the Tri-state area with expertise and heart. As a family-founded team, we understand the importance of finding a place to call home and strive to make every client’s real estate journey smooth and enjoyable. Whether buying, selling, or investing, we’re here to help you reach new heights in real estate in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana!