Indian Hill, OH February 2026

LOVE Local

This month, show your furry friend some extra love with our special Valentine's

Celebrating Love

Who doesn’t love LOVE?! As February rolls in, I always find myself in a familiar tug-of-war. On one hand, I want to resist the pull of another commercialized holiday, yet on the other, I can’t help but savor the sweet moments it brings—an excuse to celebrate love in all its forms.

If I am being honest, I used to loathe this holiday. It just seemed like a candy-heart-filled construct with no real depth. Traditionally, Valentine’s Day is for lovers, but over the years it has become so much more to me. In a world where we are perpetually bombarded with bad news, we can all use the reminder that LOVE is our highest calling.

So how does that look this year?  Do we opt for a Valentine’s Day date out or settle in for a cozy night at home? A handwritten card or a heartfelt kind word? For me, it’s usually a mix of both—and not just for one special person, but as an opportunity to remind all of those around me just how important they are.

This month’s issue is dedicated to helping you do just that—celebrating love for love’s sake, and highlighting the best of what’s to love in our local community. And what a spectacular community we have!

“Love Local” isn’t just about supporting the businesses in our area—it’s about cherishing what’s near to you in every sense. So, why not grab a cup of coffee at The European Café or enjoy a game night by the fire with your family? Or pick up a bottle of wine and cheese from Piazza Discepoli for a relaxed movie night in. Or try something new with your partner, like learning to ballroom dance with our very own internationally acclaimed Maura Garuccio.

At the heart of everything we do is the belief that together, we’re stronger. And when we take the time to see and discover one another with fresh eyes, the world is just a little bit brighter. Every month, the stories shared within these pages prove that again and again.

Thank you for allowing us to be part of the life you’re building. Our greatest hope is that this issue helps you love it just a little more than before.

Here’s to a February filled with love—both local and beyond!

DEBORAH MEKENESE, PUBLISHER @INDIANHILL.CITYLIFESTYLE

Proudly serving Indian Hill, Mariemont, Madeira, Montgomery, Terrace Park & the Kenwood/Blue Ash Business District

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Deborah Mekenese

Deborah.Mekenese@CityLifestyle.com

EDITOR

Tera Michelson | Tera.Michelson@CityLifestyle.com

PUBLICATION MANAGER

Michelle Numann

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Brooke Griffin Farmer, Leann Parker, Amanda Stout

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Sarah Hone, Janie Jones, Len Kaltman, Kohta Rincon Photography, Mark Lyons—Lyons Photography, RF Graphics, Kandace Smith, David Uy

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

The

Are You Saving Enough for the Future You Want?

Saving money is about discipline and so much more. It’s about clarity, priorities, and a plan that fits your life. It’s commonly suggested to save at least 15% of gross income to stay on track for retirement, but many people aim higher to reach goals like early retirement or long-term financial independence. Those higher targets require intentional lifestyle choices, thoughtful spending, and a clear understanding of trade-offs, including non-financial decisions such as caregiving responsibilities. Because pensions are rare today, the responsibility for retirement is often shouldered by individuals. Starting early, leveraging compound growth, and understanding the risks and rewards of investments can make a meaningful difference over time. A strong financial plan isn’t rigid; it evolves as life changes. The key is aligning your savings strategy with what matters most to you, now and in the future. Visit fosterandmotley.com to learn more.

That’s

Reach One, Teach One, Touch One

Patti

"I had Amy and her crew do 4 of my bathrooms recently Her crew was fabulous and did great work. They were very conscientious and considerate of us They understood that we were living through the whole process. I love my bathrooms!!" - Steph S

Two of a Kind: The Story of Tricia & Jill

Friendship, Fun, and the Magic of Seasons

At Seasons, friendship is more than a feeling it ’s part of what makes the community shine. Few people embody that better than Tricia Feitlinger, Director of Resident Services, and Jill James, Director of the Magic of Seasons.

The two have been best friends for 21 years, their friendship beginning long before their time at Seasons. Their kids went to school together, and their first real outing was a family trip to Perfect North Slopes “ We took the kids tubing,” Tricia laughs. “ We even put Jill’s oneyear-old in a tube to join the fun That ’s how it all started ”

Years later, Jill then a stay-athome mom was offered a position at Seasons Soon after, she invited Tricia to come help dye Easter eggs with the residents. One introduction to the Executive Director later, and Tricia was hired “Little did we know,” Jill says, “ that 13 years later we’d still be working together.”

Their workdays have been filled with laughter, creativity, and purpose ever since. “ We love sharing our experiences with the

residents and what they mean to us,” Tricia says. “They bring us joy. Our circle of friends has grown by 250 our Seasons residents.”

Outside of work, the pair enjoy concerts, theater, dining out, biking, and long walks. “Work has actually enriched our personal lives,” Jill says. “We do so many things with our residents on and off campus that it just deepens our friendship.”

When asked about the best part of working together, both agree it’s knowing someone always has your back. “In all aspects of life work, home, good or bad it’s nice to know your best friend is right there,” Tricia says.

After two decades of friendship, they have plenty of inside jokes but they’re keeping those private “If we told you,” Jill grins, “they wouldn’t be inside jokes anymore.”

If they could plan the perfect “Best Friend Day” at Seasons, it would include coffee, a spa day, a walk, and dinner with cocktails “Best day ever!”

“How lucky we are,” Tricia reflects, “to come to work every day in a place we love and to share it with your best friend.”

That’s the magic of Seasons: where friendship, laughter, and care come together to create a true sense of home

business monthly

Findlay Market’s Sweet & Savory Stroll—Sunday, February 15

Findlay Market’s annual Sweet & Savory Stroll returns on Sunday, February 15, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m, combining the celebrations of both Valentine's Day and Mardi Gras. Sample sweet and salty dishes from participating businesses onsite. Enjoy seasonal treats as you stroll the market, from gelato and beignets to muffulettas, chocolate covered bacon and gumbo. Purchase tasting event ticket bundles online; one ticket equals one sample. Findlay Market, 1801 Race Street, Cincinnati | FindlayMarket.org

Cincinnati Country Day School Named as 513 Green Certified School

Cincinnati Country Day School was named a 513 Green Certified School by Hamilton County, only the fourth school to earn this recognition. To be eligible, organizations must earn points in five categories: sustainable actions, waste diversion, transportation and air quality, water conservation and energy conservation, plus achieve a minimum of 45 points overall. The school scored 88 points, displaying a shared dedication to environmental responsibility that reflects a school-wide philosophy. CountryDay.net

Cincinnati Open is Committed to Serving Cincinnati— 2026 Tickets Now Available

The Cincinnati Open reaffirmed its commitment to serving Cincinnati through sport, service and community investment in 2025, creating a tournament experience that reflects our region’s diversity and goals for access for all. The tournament donated more than $588,000 to local and national nonprofits. Powered by 1,607 volunteers from 35 states and 8 countries, logging over 91,000 hours, the annual tournament returns to the Lindner Family Tennis Center August 11-13. Register for pre-sale packages online. CincinnatiOpen.com

NEVER STOP BEING CREATIVE

Local Muralist David Uy Leads an Artistic Life that Combines Creativity, Commerce & Community

ARTICLE BY AMANDA STOUT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID UY, MARK LYONS—LYONS

PHOTOGRAPHY & PROVIDED

Muralist David Uy’s signature graffiti-inspired paintings have left their swirling, abstract mark all over southwest Ohio. Locally, his vibrant work adorns walls at malls, adds art to community gatherings and fundraisers and enhances many homes and businesses in between. Uy built

his artistic career through dedication to the process, being in community with other artists and enthusiastically connecting with businesses and homeowners. Between his day job in real estate and his thriving art business, David Jonathan Creative, he’s no stranger to the hustle it takes to find success as an artist.

“Don’t ever let anyone knock your hustle,” Uy laughs. “Keep going even if you’re feeling down or aren’t feeling creative every day.”

Uy’s interest in art began around third grade, when he spent time doodling and drawing with his friends. He’s grateful for receiving early encouragement and inspiration from his dad (who was excellent at copying Disney characters), art teachers and Aunt Bonnie. It was Aunt Bonnie's projects and support that led to his first mural jobs at multiple CrossFit gyms and a Jewish community center.

“My parents were so open to me doing my thing, knowing that I would turn out alright,” shares Uy. “My Aunt Bonnie had me do art projects for her for free, which all along were setting me up for success with future work.”

When Uy found skateboarding in junior high, he was introduced to street art. He soon became a full-blown graffiti artist alongside painting, sculpture and graphic design classes in high school. He was drawn to graphic design because of its balance of art with commerce. He went on to attend Sinclair Community College, where he studied visual communication. All the while, he continued to do graffiti, which ultimately led to his first job in graphic design.

“The whole reason I got my job in graphic design was that the senior designer at the firm came to our portfolio show where he saw my graffiti work and was obsessed with it,” Uy relates.

He didn’t enjoy working at a desk all day and decided to pivot to real estate, allowing more flexibility to continue working toward his art goals.

“I realized that painting murals scratches that itch for graffiti art, but I could get paid for it,”

Uy explains.

He completed small mural jobs here and there while working in real estate, but he envisioned a future where he could paint murals full-time. He founded

“Never stop being creative. Don’t let another job stop you from being your creative self.”

David Jonathan Creative in 2014 and, in 2021, registered it as an LLC. While murals are his focus, he also enjoys leading community art projects and fine art painting in his spare time, selling pieces through his website and gallery exhibitions.

“Even though I never stopped doing art, I also never thought I would paint 25 murals in one year and not have to sell as much real estate because I was able to paint so much. I want to be humble, but I also want to stay motivated to do even more than I’ve already done,” Uy shares.

His medium shifted from graffiti to mural painting, but the lessons in work

ethic, volume and quality remain. He’s also learned that staying connected to other artists often leads to more opportunities. He swaps advice, inspiration and regularly collaborates on projects with local artists Brian Beck and Brent Billingsley.

Uy’s advice to other up-and-coming artists?

“Never stop being creative,” he says. “Don’t let another job stop you from being your creative self. Make sure you do something every day that gives you a creative outlet because that compounds over time, providing a body of work to come back to.”

@DavidJonathanCreative | DavidJonathanCreative.com

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 introduction.

Beyond the Steps

Discover Joy, Confidence & Community with Dance Instructor

at International Ballroom Academy

ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEN KALTMAN

When Maura Garuccio steps onto the dance floor, she brings more than technique—she brings presence and passion. Born in Brindisi, Italy, and now firmly rooted in Cincinnati, Maura carries the elegance of the European ballroom dancing tradition, alongside the warmth and accessibility of a local teacher who loves to dance.

Italian born, internationally trained and globally recognized, Maura’s credentials are impressive. In 2012, she earned the prestigious title of Italian Champion in International Standard. More recently, she was named Top Female Teacher in the 2024 Global Dancesport Series and 2025 Ohio Star Ball Top Teacher. Despite her many accolades, Maura’s focus remains refreshingly humble and personal.

“My students range widely in both age and experience,” she says, “from young adults discovering dance for the first time to active seniors who want to stay connected to their bodies and community.”

Maura works with beginners, social dancers, competitive students and those returning to dance. Her students aren’t defined by skill level.

“Many of my students come to me looking for confidence, connection, personal growth or a meaningful hobby,” she explains. “Dance becomes the vehicle, but the transformation goes far beyond steps.”

Maura teaches a full range of ballroom and partner dance styles, including International Ballroom, International Latin and American styles, including CONTINUED >

Smooth and Rhythm, Salsa and social dancing for weddings, events and personal enjoyment. She also offers competitive training for Pro/Am and amateur dancers, drawing on more than 15 years of professional experience and training under seven world champions.

“My background allows me to tailor the style and approach to each student’s goals,” says Maura, “whether that’s social confidence on the dance floor or high-level competition preparation.”

At the heart of her work is a teaching philosophy built on connection, clarity and confidence. In practice, that means meeting students exactly where they are.

“I believe everyone can dance when they feel safe, supported and understood,” Maura shares. “Dancing well starts with believing you belong on the floor.”

What Maura finds most rewarding isn’t trophies or titles—it’s transformation.

“The most rewarding moment is watching someone realize they are capable of more than they believed,” she says, “that moment when their posture changes, their face lights up and they stop apologizing for themselves. That’s powerful! Being part of that journey is incredibly meaningful to me,” she explains.

Maura’s lessons are a place where mistakes are welcomed and growth is celebrated.

“Many people think ballroom dance is intimidating, elitist or only for people with ‘natural talent,’” she says. “I make dance accessible, modern and deeply personal. You don’t need perfection; you need willingness.”

When students leave her lessons, she hopes they carry more than choreography.

“I want my students to leave feeling stronger—not just physically, but emotionally,” she says. “Long after the music stops, I hope they remember how it felt to be fully present, connected and proud of themselves. If they walk a little taller and believe a little more in their own potential, then the lesson has truly done its job.”

Maura elevates the local dance scene by bringing in world-class coaches and fostering a vibrant, inclusive community. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, she notes that dance lessons can be a memorable way to celebrate—whether for couples, friends or individuals looking to try something new.

“Dance, for me, is not just a profession—it’s a purpose,” Maura says with a grin. “Dance has the power to change lives and I am honored to be part of that process every day.”

Maura Garuccio | International Ballroom Academy | info@internationalballroomacademy.com | 513.401.2893 | InternationalBallroomAcademy.com

Reach One, Teach One, Touch One

BY AMANDA STOUT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RF GRAPHICS & PROVIDED

Patricia “Pepperminte Patti” Collins, President of the Bootsy Collins Foundation (BCF), has been recognized for her philanthropic work with the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and celebrated alongside BCF by Cincinnati’s Women100. She’s also lived a life as a Ben-Gals cheerleader, business owner, fitness instructor and the wife of international funk music legend, producer and beloved Cincinnatian William “Bootsy” Collins. For all the people she has touched with her boundless energy, Collins is an angel among us.

“I am the luckiest woman to have met Patti and seen how every challenge becomes a joyous and loving catapult for change,” shares Michele Young, attorney, breast cancer survivor, leader of the Pink Eraser Project and Collins’ partner in the BCF Land of Superheroes program.

While Collins is grateful for the support and recognition, it’s not what sparks her to give back.

“I’m all about reach one, teach one, touch one. Whatever success is supposed to come will come. I don’t worry about awards; when I get them, I’m so thankful. But it’s not the focus,” Collins relates.

BCF began humbly at the Collins’ dinner table, when the couple discussed feeling called to serve and do more for their communities. With a little help from a friend to file the necessary paperwork, the Bootsy Collins Foundation was born in 2010.

“The reason we started the foundation is that Bootsy and I are both servants. We realize that when you have a presence and platform, you can maneuver a little more easily and get more folks involved. BCF has a mission to inspire and educate communities,” Collins explains.

In its 15 years, BCF has fulfilled that mission and then some. Collins considers the foundation a working group with many projects that grow over time. One of these programs is Funk Not Fight, community events with the mission to help calm violence through the power of music and dance. BCF plans to expand Funk not Fight by activating gaming trucks in cities where they hold rallies for peace, aiming to connect with middle schoolers and young adults using video games and Bootsy’s new Fortnite game, Capture the Funk

“We believe we need to meet kids where they are. It’s one thing to have curfews or not allow them to wear certain things or be in certain places, but if you give them something to do that they love and you do it with them, they can see we do care, we understand and we’re with them,” says Collins.

To inspire younger children, Collins and Young partnered to create the Land of Superheroes, based on their desire to give every child the opportunity to discover their superpowers and build skills to help end the cycle

of bullying. They’ve already partnered with several local organizations for their events and plan to work with the Mercy Health Foundation this year.

“Because we’re lacking some of the inspiration from the heroes we had growing up, Michele and I thought we should remind the young ones that they can be our superheroes,” Collins says.

Young adds, “Patti so embodies the spirit of my heroes, one of such love and compassion that identifies with the bullied, forgotten and abused.”

Collins’ newest project is her podcast, Is Anybody Out There? With encouragement from Bootsy and inspiration from his song “Anybody Out There?,” she finally felt it was time to share her story of escaping an abusive situation with her daughter, Summer. Collins, alongside co-host Andrea Langefield of Women Helping Women, and featuring the music of Jess Lamb and City Queens Sound artists, has created a truly special space for sisterhood, healing, connection and education about domestic abuse.

“If I can help just one person heal and tell their story, it will feel worth it,” Collins affirms.

BootsyCollinsFoundation.org

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 (www.silvertoothhome.com/blog/diy-stationery)

• Hand Lettering Template (www.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/ diy-stationery) 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.

A Look Behind the Lens of Local Photographer Kohta Rincon

THE ART OF A PORTRAIT

ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KOHTA RINCON PHOTOGRAPHY

If beauty is in the eye of the beholder, local photographer Kohta Rincon is surrounded by it. The world looks lovely from behind her lens. You’ve seen it here in these pages—horses and riders, stunning models and a big-hearted football star. Kohta’s unique style matches her personality: warm, vibrant and compelling. Her artistic portraits tell a story, skillfully capturing a two-dimensional image of a three -dimensional moment.

“I see myself as an art-focused photographer,” Kohta shares. “I break pretty much every posing rule in the book till I see what looks best.”

Photography comes naturally to Kohta, a self-taught artist motivated by the challenge of capturing genuine expressions in images that evoke emotion.

“I’m just motivated to get some good pictures,” she shrugs.

Kohta’s good pictures start with her warmth. She has a way of connecting with people and bringing out their best in a photograph. Each session is preempted with a discovery call, scheduled well before picture day, so she and her clients are on the same page when the camera comes out.

“Even if we’ve just met, by the time we're shooting, we're friends,” she says. “That comfort level comes quickly and opens the opportunity to capture an authentic moment.”

Kohta’s photography business, Kohta Rincon Photography, was born of a relationship with a horse. A farmer on the east side of Cincinnati, she has enjoyed horses since her childhood. The speckled coat and tolerant spirit of Jazz, her Arabian rescue, led Kohta to put a unicorn horn on her head and do fantasy photo sessions with kids in princess wear.

“It’s an unlikely story to have your horse ownership turn you into a photographer,” she laughs. “It was like Jazz was pushing me into the business.”

Brand and Business, Beauty and Boudoir, Equestrian and Seniors—Kohta is a master at putting people at ease, getting the best angle and capturing connections between people and their loved ones (especially four-legged family members).

Contact Kohta for your own discovery call and a visit to her Old Milford studio for an authentic portrait experience.

Kohta Rincon Photography | 435 Main Street, Milford | KohtaRinconPhotography@gmail.com | 513.808.3989 | KohtaRinconPhotography.com

An Enduring Light

Honoring the Beautiful Life of Marvel Gentry Harmon

As we reflect on all things local in this issue, we honor the life of local wonder woman, Marvel Gentry Harmon, a colleague as the award-winning publisher of Madeira and Indian Hill Neighbor magazines.

A 1971 Walnut Hill High School graduate, Marvel earned a degree from Chicago’s Northwestern University in 1975. During her time at NU, she made history as the first Black pompom girl and the only person of color on the homecoming court.

Marvel’s greatest accomplishment is her beautiful daughter, Epiphany Elease Gentry Davis. Upon her 2017 marriage to Arthur W. Harmon, Jr., she gained two more daughters, Christina Reeves and Justin Harmon, and two grandsons, David and Christian Reeves. The romance of Marvel and Art led to many shared adventures.

Marvel enjoyed travel, music, golf, swimming—but most of all, she loved the arts and the stage. As the Producing Artistic Director of Ballet Tech Cincinnati, later arts innovation movement (aim: cincinnati), she fostered countless performance opportunities for dancers of all ages. She brought the best of the best in the dance world to Cincinnati.

Marvel was an outstanding performer in her own right—from her childhood days of dancing through adulthood. More recently, she discovered musical theater and found a community with the Loveland Stage Company, taking weekly dance classes and performing there several times a year.

Marvel’s life was her greatest performance, filled with love, faith and joy. Though the curtain has fallen, her light endures, reminding us that it is not the length of life, but the beauty of how it is lived, that truly matters. She was, in every sense, a wonderful woman, wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend, remembered forever as a true marvel.

Honor the life of Marvel Gentry Harmon with a legacy gift to GentryScholarship.org

FEBRUARY 2026

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

FEBRUARY 10TH - 22ND

Shucked

Aronoff Center for the Arts, 650 Walnuts Street, Cincinnati

The Tony-award winning musical comedy Shucked comes to the Aronoff Center this month. The farm-to-table tale follows the plight of Maizy, a smalltown girl from Cobb County that is trying to save the local corn crop and her wedding. Don’t miss this hilarious (and corny) show! Cincinnati.Broadway.com/ shows/shucked/

FEBRUARY 12TH

Powerful Strategies to Help Children Develop Independent Executive Function Skills

Springer School and Center, 2121 Madison Road, Cincinnati | 6:30 PM

In this workshop for teachers and parents of children with ADHD, presenter Sarah Ward, M.S., CCC-SLP, offers easy, practical strategies to help children manage time, stay organized and build independence. Hosted by Springer Learning Center with Cincinnati Children’s, 6:30-8 p.m. at Springer School and Center. Tickets are available online. Bring a guest at a discounted rate. Springer-LD.org/empowered-learner

FEBRUARY 12TH - 15TH

USA Fencing North American Cup

Duke Energy Convention Center, 525 Elm Street, Cincinnati

Spectators are invited to see the top fencing competitors in the Division I, Junior, Veteran Age, Veteran Combined, Veteran Team and Parafencing events at the USA Fencing North American Cup Championships, returning to Cincinnati in February. Find the full and updated schedules online. USAFencing.org

TAILORING AN Elevated Lifestyle

CONTINUED

FEBRUARY 13TH - 21ST

Swan Lake

Music Hall, 1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati

Experience the breathtaking, romantic tragedy of Swan Lake, presented at Music Hall by the Cincinnati Ballet with a live musical performance by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. Revered as one of the greatest ballets of all time, this production features the virtuosic choreography of Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, with Kirk Peterson. CincinnatiArts.org/events/ detail/ballet-swan-lake

FEBRUARY 19TH, 20TH, 26TH, 27TH

Maple Date Night: A Taste Through Time

Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods, Krippendorf Lodge, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford | 7:00 PM Love is in the maple-scented air at Rowe Woods! Enjoy a date night for adult couples (ages 21+) to savor foods and stories of maple syrup. Bundle up and head into the sugarbush to search for sap under lantern light. Share maple-themed appetizers and cocktails. Dress for the weather, as this program is mostly outdoors. Register online. CincyNature.TicketApp. org/portal/product/300/events

FEBRUARY 20TH - 22ND & 27TH - MARCH 1ST

Cincinnati Home + Garden Show

Cincinnati Convention Center, 525 Elm Street, Cincinnati | 10:00 AM

Get your next home project started with ideas from the annual Cincinnati Home + Garden Show, these six days only. Meet with trusted experts face-toface for practical advice and great deals on home improvement and gardening projects. The annual show features 400+ exhibitors highlighting kitchens to landscaping and everything in between. CincinnatiHomeandGardenShow.com

REALTY REPORT

Sponsored by Daley Design + Build

A Sample of Recently Sold Properties in and around Indian Hill

BUILDING BETTER HOMES

Wellness Corner

A SINGLE-SERVING VALENTINE TREAT THAT PACKS A PROTEIN PUNCH

February always has me craving cozy desserts made with intention—simple comforts that feel like a little act of love at home. This single-serving cherry chocolate cheesecake packs 23 grams of protein into a creamy, no-bake treat that’s perfect for savoring winter evenings. Made with high-protein Greek yogurt, a naturally sweetened oat-date crust and finished with fresh cherries and dark chocolate, it’s satisfying and perfectly portioned.

No-Bake High-Protein Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

Yield: 1 serving

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Chill Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons chopped Medjool dates

• 3 tablespoons finely chopped walnuts or pecans

• 1 tablespoon quick oats

• Pinch of sea salt

• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract  Cherry Cheesecake Filling

• ½ cup cherry-flavored high-protein Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons light cream cheese

• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup

• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice  Topping

• ¼ cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped

• 1 tablespoon dark chocolate chunks or shavings

• Optional: flaky sea salt (to taste)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the chopped dates, nuts, quick oats, sea salt and vanilla extract. Mix well. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a small ramekin, creating an even, compact layer. Refrigerate.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the yogurt, cream cheese, syrup, vanilla and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.

3. Spoon the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top with the back of a spoon.

4. Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes, or until set. For a quicker option, freeze for 15–20 minutes.

5. Top with chopped cherries and dark chocolate. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Serve chilled within 24 hours for optimal texture.

Nutrition Info: Calories 320, Protein 23g, Carbohydrates 30g, Fiber 8g, Sugars 18g, Fat 14g, Saturated Fat 4g

About Brooke Griffin Farmer, Brooke Griffin Farmer is a USA Today best-selling author, entrepreneur, former Cincinnati Bengals cheerleader and Fitness Universe champion. She’s passionate about helping women live well—body, mind and spirit. Brooke is the creator of Move Pray Love, a podcast and lifestyle brand that blends faith, food and wellness. She lives in Cincinnati with her husband and children.  @BrookeGriffinFarmer | OurFarmerHouse.com