Loveland, OH July 2026

All the Ways to Explore

I decided to Google the actual definition of “explore” and found that there were several “core definitions” listed ... and we actually touch on two of the three in this issue.

There is “physically exploring,” traveling through an unfamiliar area. Exhibit A:  Yellow Springs, Unscripted. Whether you visit this town for the art, culture, nature, or festivals, you are guaranteed to have a wonderful time. Exhibit B: Local Experiences. A day trip to the sea is not a possibility in this Midwest state, but we do have lakes. A lot of them. We explored five local faves so you can keep your family active and cool this summer.

Then there is “conceptual exploring,” to scrutinize, analyze, or discuss an idea or option in detail. Our team did a lot of this “exploring” when we planned and selected the recipes in Stars, Stripes, and Summer Bites. We wanted to showcase nostalgic Fourth of July treats, and we quickly realized we each had different favorites. Finally settling on our featured four, we then discussed different ways to elevate these classic confections. Your sweet tooth will thank us.

The only one we didn’t include was “medical.” Maybe we will save that for next January’s health and wellness issue. Happy Summer!

July 2026

PUBLISHER

Emily Barlow | emily.barlow@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Stephanie Meinberg

stephanie.meinberg@citylifestyle.com

SALES SUPPORT DIRECTOR

Courtney Kraemer | courtney.kraemer@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Kelsie Ruoff | lovelandlifestyle@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Courtney Kraemer, Ali Waychoff, Mary Kate Lenard, Bill Furbee, Lisa Fletcher, Nicole Browning, Courtney Stone Smith, Kali Kasprzyk

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Matthew J. Capps, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

Perennial Professional Services, LLC

There’s no need to look any further than your own backyard to find a reputable remodeler for all your home improvements. Perennial’s experts have the ability to not only design remarkable INTERIOR projects, but OUTDOOR updates as well. Imagine having your very own BACKYARD OASIS where you can spend time with your family and friends. We even offer options to “keep the bugs out!” Finally, our in-house craftsmen bring superior workmanship to your residence, completing a unique and seamless transformation of that important place you call HOME!! Contact us for a consultation today.

city scene

1: @LifeFoodPantry’s guest bartender fundraiser @DVDBrew was a huge success on Cinco de Mayo. Salud! 2: Volunteers kept up with the happy, hungry crowds during the @LMRChamberAlliance’s annual Food Truck Rally. 3: Celebrating mom! Mother’s Day brunch at @PaxtonsGrill followed by a walk on the bike trail. 4: Loveland Primary School had some hands-on fun at the @LovelandLearningGarden this spring. 5: The Cocoa Muse honored Loveland Veteran Roland Boike—naming their press coffee “The Boike Black.” 6: Congratulations, MaxStrength Fitness! They had perfect weather for their ribbon cutting on May 29th. 7: An office perk for @LMRChamberAlliance—prime seats during the Memorial Day Parade in downtown Loveland.

An Oar-some Time

Join local nonprofit Adventure Crew in their biggest event and fundraiser—Ohio River Paddlefest on August 1st, as they attempt to set the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS® title for “Largest Paddle Craft Party!” This is Paddlefest’s 25th year, and features the popular Outdoors for All Expo, a free community event and Friday night party! On Saturday, choose your paddle distance, and join fellow kayakers, canoers, and SUP-ers to cruise for a cause down the Ohio River. OhioRiverPaddlefest.org

Wish Grant-ed

Congratulations to Loveland Museum Center on being awarded sums from the 2026 Ohio History Fund Grant to digitize their 3-D replica of late-19thcentury Loveland. This will enable the installation of an interactive digital display about the effect of the railroad on Loveland. The display will show archival images instead of relying just on the 3-D model, so visitors can see the real thing, and learn by reading digitized historic documents, enhancing guests’ experiences. LovelandMuseum.org

Overflowing with Potential

Our friends over at Junk King located here in Sharonville have been busy expanding their reach to other cities across the U.S.! From Cleveland to Fairfax, Virginia, and Washington D.C., plus Florida’s Sarasota and St. Petersburg – Clearwater, Jack Brendamour’s business is booming. Not only are they growing rapidly, but Junk King Cincinnati just won Franchise of the Year for all of the hard work they’ve dedicated in making a difference across the city.

When your air conditioner quits in the middle of a summer heatwave, you need more than a quick fix—you need a team you can trust to show up fast and get the job done right. At Time Savers Heating and Cooling, we specialize in emergency HVAC service you can count on—because we know comfort can’t wait. Our local team is ready to respond when your system goes down, with expert technicians who are friendly, professional, and fast.

LOCAL experiences 5

Perfect Lake Days & Cool Water Play

1. STONELICK STATE PARK

Over 1,000 acres of forest and meadow surround a peaceful lake, plus camping, fishing, and hiking.  OhioDNR.gov/ go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/ stonelick-state-park

2. COWAN LAKE STATE PARK

Escape to 700 acres of calm water perfect for boating, kayaking, and lakeside adventures.  OhioDNR.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/ find-a-property/cowan-lake-state-park

3. EAST FORK LAKE

Just 25 miles away, this 7K+-acre park offers paddling, fishing, swimming, camping, and miles of trails.  OhioDNR.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/ find-a-property/east-fork-state-park

4. SHARON WOODS

Bring your own kayak to Sharon Lake’s floating launch, or rent canoes, kayaks, and pedalboats at Lakeside Lodge.  GreatParks.org/ parks/sharon-woods

5. LAKE ISABELLA

Stocked weekly through October, this pay lake offers a relaxed setting without an Ohio Fishing License requirement, plus rowboats and kayaks rentals. GreatParks.org/parks/lake-isabella

Stars, Stripes, and Summer Bites

Celebrating 250 Years the Sweetest Way We Know How

Two hundred and fifty years. A quarter of a millennium of cookouts and county fairs, of fireflies and fireworks, of recipes passed hand-to-hand on index cards with butter-stained edges. If ever there were a summer to really savor, this is the one. Some traditions don’t need updating ... they need honoring. And this July, with America turning 250, we’re leaning hard into the flavors that feel like home. The ones that taste like your grandma’s kitchen, like a picnic blanket in the grass, like the first cool sip of something sweet on a sweltering afternoon. So pull out the red-checked tablecloth and call your people, the celebration is about to begin.

ARTICLE BY ALI WAYCHOFF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW J. CAPPS

Red, White + Blue Cake

Recipe adapted by Michelle Moody, West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle

Ingredients

• 1 box vanilla cake mix (plus any additional ingredients indicated on the box)

• 1 pint (about 12 oz) blueberries

• 16 oz fresh strawberries

• 1 container whipped topping

Directions

1. Bake cake mix according to package instructions in a rectangular baking dish, preheating oven as directed on the box.

2. Wash and thoroughly dry berries. Remove stems from strawberries and

slice thinly. Tip: An egg slicer makes quick, uniform pieces.

3. Once cake is completely cool, spread whipped topping evenly over the top.

4. Place blueberries in the upper left corner. Arrange strawberries in even rows to create the stripes.

5. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

6. Variation: For an elevated twist, bake in two round pans sized to fit a trifle bowl, then alternate layers of cake, whipped topping, and berries.

“Red, white, blue, and absolutely delicious. Some color combinations just never go out of style. And these need exploring.”

Red, White + Blue Cocktail

Recipe adapted by Michelle Moody, West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle

Ingredients

• 1 oz grenadine

• Ice

• 3 oz pre-mixed lemonade (dye-free brand, as clear/ white as possible)

• 1.5 oz vodka

• 2 oz blue curaçao

• Optional: sugar-free or low-sugar blue sports drink (higher-sugar options will sink to the bottom)

Directions

1. Add the grenadine to a tall 12–16 oz collins or highball glass.

2. Fill the glass with ice.

3. In a separate mixing tumbler, combine the lemonade and vodka. Slowly pour into the glass over the back of an upside-down spoon, to layer the liquid and preserve the color separations.

4. Add the blue curaçao to the top using the same slow, spoon-method pour.

5. Serve immediately; the layers are only half the fun!

6. Variation: For a non-alcoholic version, omit the vodka and replace the blue curaçao with a blue sports drink; it’s still every bit as festive.

Red, White + Blue Parfaits

Recipe adapted by Stephanie Meinberg, Loveland Lifestyle

Ingredients

• 2 cups boiling water — for red layer

• 1 box (6 oz) strawberry gelatin

• 1 box (4 envelopes) unflavored gelatin, divided

• 1 cup boiling water — for white layer

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 2 cups boiling water — for blue layer

• 1 box (6 oz) berry blue gelatin

• Whipped cream and sprinkles, for serving

Directions

1. Whisk strawberry gelatin, 1 packet unflavored gelatin, and 2 cups boiling water until dissolved. Divide among 8 jars or tall glasses (about ¼ to 1/3 cup each). Chill until set, 45–60 minutes.

2. White layer: whisk 2 packets unflavored gelatin with 1 cup boiling water. Stir in condensed milk until smooth. Cool slightly, pour over red layer. Chill 45–60 minutes.

3. Blue layer: whisk berry blue gelatin, remaining unflavored gelatin, and 2 cups boiling water until dissolved. Cool slightly, pour over white layer. Chill 3 hours or overnight.

4. Top with whipped cream and sprinkles.

5. Note: Slow-build layers are the secret, and yes, they’re worth every minute.

Strawberry Pretzel Dessert with Blueberry Drizzle

Recipe adapted by Stephanie Meinberg, Loveland Lifestyle

Ingredients

• 2 cups (8 oz) salted pretzels, crushed (measured after crushing)

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1½ cups sugar, divided

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 8 oz whipped topping (thawed if frozen)

• 2 boxes (3 oz each) strawberry gelatin

• 2 cups boiling water

• 3 to 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced thin

• 2 cups fresh blueberries

• 1 tbsp fresh-squeezed lemon juice

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°. In a large bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and ¼ cup sugar until well mixed. Press evenly into an ungreased 9x13 glass baking dish, ensuring a fully flat surface. Bake 10 minutes. Cool completely.

2. Using a hand or stand mixer, beat cream cheese and 1 cup sugar on med-high speed until fluffy and smooth. Fold in whipped topping. Spread over cooled pretzel crust, smoothing to the edges to create a tight seal. Refrigerate at least 1 hour, longer if time allows.

3. In a large bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water. Cool to room temperature. Stir in sliced strawberries; chill until partially set, 10–20 minutes. Spread evenly over cream cheese layer. Refrigerate until firm, 6 hours minimum or overnight.

4. Blueberry sauce topping: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, stir blueberries, lemon juice, and ¼ cup sugar until dissolved. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat, cool, and purée until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to drizzle over set dessert.

5. Note: For best results, don’t rush it. Think of this as “make-ahead required.” If you love making everything from scratch, resist that temptation and stick to store-bought Cool Whip. Homemade whipped cream, while dreamy and creamy, doesn’t hold up as long and will muddy the layers.

Yellow Springs, Unscripted

AN ARTSY, TRAIL-FILLED GETAWAY WHERE CREATIVITY, COMMUNITY, AND ADVENTURE ALL MEET

ARTICLE BY LISA FLETCHER

Just an hour from Loveland, Yellow Springs feels like stepping into a completely different rhythm of life.

Murals brighten brick alleyways. Hikers wander downtown in muddy boots. Musicians play on patios while visitors drift between bookstores, coffee shops, and locally owned boutiques. Equal parts nature escape, arts hub, and small-town gathering place, Yellow Springs has a way of turning a simple day trip into something truly memorable.

“Yellow Springs itself is a welcoming experience,” explains Phillip O’Rourke, Executive Director of the Yellow Springs

Chamber of Commerce. “In a world that moves so fast and is filled with so much noise, Yellow Springs stands out as a place of rest.”

That feeling is woven into nearly every part of the town. One moment might be spent flipping through records in a tucked-away shop or discovering local artwork hanging in a downtown gallery. The next could be grabbing coffee from Dino’s Cappuccinos before wandering through The Shops of King’s Yard, a hidden courtyard filled with small businesses, patios, and gathering spaces. At night, Phillip says, it all becomes “simply magical.”

“In a world that moves so fast and is filled with so much noise, Yellow Springs stands out as a place of rest.”

Crave-worthy food is part of the experience, too. Visitors can settle into breakfast at Sunrise Cafe, enjoy a craft beer or two at Yellow Springs Brewery, or end the evening with decadent dinner at Winds Cafe (known for its cozy atmosphere and farm-to-table menu). And for something more casual and cool, people line up at the Corner Cone Dairy Bar for sweet treats and soft serve after a long summer walk downtown, or take a short drive to Young’s Jersey Dairy ... creating an even more unforgettable experience.

The village also rewards people who simply wander. Around nearly every corner, there’s something unexpected: an enchanting doorway that irresistibly draws in eyes and attention, live music drifting from a patio, or a locally owned shop filled with handmade art, vintage finds, or books stacked floor-to-ceiling. It’s the kind of place where plans tend to loosen a little … and that’s part of the charm (maybe the best part).

“You can get ‘stuff’ anywhere,” Phillip reflects. “But experiences ... those are what people are seeking.”

In Yellow Springs, those experiences stretch well beyond the central shops and stops and into the abundant outdoors. Within minutes of downtown, visitors can explore more than 20 miles of trails at Glen Helen Nature Preserve or hike the dramatic limestone gorge at John Bryan State Park. Cyclists and walkers regularly travel the Little Miami Scenic Trail, which runs directly through town and adds to the village’s laid-back, outdoorsy feel.

“What makes these areas especially meaningful to both locals and visitors is not just their size, but their immediacy,” Phillip explains. “People can walk or drive just minutes from downtown Yellow Springs and be surrounded by protected wilderness, waterfalls, and canyon views.”

That balance — vibrant culture alongside peaceful natural beauty — is what makes Yellow Springs feel so unique and special. It’s a town where visitors can spend an entire day exploring without ever feeling rushed.

And still leave feeling like they’ve only scratched the surface.

Part of what gives Yellow Springs its unique personality is its history. The village’s identity was shaped in part by the opening of Antioch College in 1852, which brought a progressive approach to education centered on creativity, civic engagement, and experiential learning. Over time, the town attracted artists, educators, entrepreneurs, and freethinkers who helped shape the welcoming, independent culture that visitors experience today.

Downtown businesses feel personal rather than commercial. Store owners greet customers by name. Public art appears around unexpected corners. Conversations spill onto sidewalks outside cafés and breweries. Even longtime favorites like Ye Olde Trail Tavern, recognized as one of the oldest taverns in Ohio, feel more like gathering places than tourist stops.

“The biggest difference between Yellow Springs and many other small towns is the incredible sense of community.”

And while summer may be the season that first draws many visitors in, locals know Yellow Springs evolves beautifully throughout the year. “That rare blend of small-town culture and major natural assets is a defining part of why the area draws visitors year-round,” Phillip shares.

Fall brings brilliant foliage across hiking trails and nearby countryside. Winter introduces quieter streets, cozy coffee shops, and the famous holiday lights at nearby Clifton Mill. Spring fills the glens with wildflowers and brings renewed energy back to downtown patios and festivals.

“Yellow Springs is a special place because each season has its own brilliance,” Phillip smiles.

Community events also help define the town’s spirit yearround. The Yellow Springs Street Fair draws thousands of visitors each summer and fall with live music, artists, and local vendors. Other traditions — from PorchFest all the way through to Holiday in the Springs — showcase the village’s creativity and deep sense of connectedness.

That connection may be what visitors remember most. It’s not just the hiking trails or the murals or the ice cream cones after dinner, but the feeling of slowing down enough to notice the music drifting through downtown. Or how easy it feels to spend an afternoon wandering without an agenda.

That’s the kind of experience that makes Yellow Springs more than just a quick getaway. It’s the kind of place you find yourself wanting to return to again and again — and one well worth adding to your summer bucket list.

YellowSpringsOhio.org

“ Kyle has been pressure washing my deck, cleaning the exterior of the house and concrete walks and driveway AND the outside of my windows for at least 4 years. He does a terrific job and his price is commensurate with the quality of the work. He is also very personable. Call him — Osborne Pro Wash — you will be very glad you did. ”

Keeping Comfortable, At Home

ONE LOCAL SPECIALIST OFFERS COOL ADVICE FOR UNEXPECTEDLY HOT SCENARIOS

ARTICLE BY BILL FURBEE

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

“Our team isn’t just skilled, we genuinely care about making your home comfortable,” smiles Preston Franklin of Preston’s Heating and Cooling. For Preston and his wife, Elayna, it’s a matter of local pride. “We grew up in Blue Ash and Montgomery, and spent a lot of time on the bike trail. Now that we have a family, we love living in Loveland … it’s very full circle to be able to serve this community.”

Preston’s Heating and Cooling offers full-service residential and light commercial HVAC — including service, maintenance, and installation. “We’re committed to providing transparent and honest quotes,” Preston says, “never offering solutions that you don’t actually need.” Especially when it comes to keeping your home cool this season.

“CHECK YOUR FILTER FIRST ... IT’S THE BIGGEST CAUSE OF

AC MISHAPS, AND THOSE CAN COST BIG MONEY.”

One top installation project for this local company is ductless mini-splits. “These are perfect for sun rooms, house additions, or a second floor that just never seems to be temperate. We use the LG brand for mini-splits, which is extremely effective and reliable. We also install Tempstar products if people need a whole-house system.”

It’s all based on what he calls “Preston’s Promise: transparent pricing, quality work, and technicians who love to help.”

And now that hotter days are in full swing, Preston readily offers advice on everything from DIY maintenance to what to do if you wake up to an unresponsive air conditioning system.

“Check your filter,” he advises first. “It’s the biggest cause of AC mishaps, and those can cost big money.” He also stresses the importance of checking breakers and thermostats. “Does your thermostat have batteries on the backside? If so, try changing them if it’s not working correctly.”

Preston also highly recommends annual servicing, which includes outdoor condenser cleaning and assessment, to make sure everything is running smoothly even before sweltering summer days arrive. “We often find unwanted critters in condensers, wires out of place, and thick dirt and dust on outdoor units that cause your system to have to work harder.” Common issues easily taken care of before they cause bigger problems.

Fortunately, Preston’s Heating and Cooling proudly provides free estimates and financing options to make even all-new systems more accessible for homeowners if needed — both of which can be a great thing in a pinch. “Summertime is busy for HVAC calls,” Preston reminds us. “Reaching out now ensures you can get on our schedule before it gets too hot.”

PrestonsHVAC.com | 513.581.3667

TAKE YOUR NEXT VACATION WITH EFFORTLESS FLAIR

YOU WORK HARD ALL YEAR—YOUR VACATION STYLE SHOULD FEEL CINEMATIC, EFFORTLESS, AND UNMISTAKABLY MAIN CHARACTER.

Effortless vacation style isn’t about having the perfect outfit for every moment—it’s about having the right foundation to make every moment look intentional. When you know how to build a capsule travel wardrobe, you’ll avoid agonizing over what to wear and spend more time actually enjoying your getaway, all while looking like you have a personal stylist tucked in your carry-on. Here’s your go-to list for this season’s travels:

1. THE EFFORTLESS STATEMENT SET

A coordinated two-piece (linen, silk, or cotton) that transitions from day to night. Sets are easy to wear, photograph, and offers effortless ways to look put together. Bonus: you can mix and match the pieces with other items that you pack. I would recommend packing multiple sets to make it even easier to mix and match. For both men and women, simply focus on neutrals and, if you want to add color, make sure it coordinates well with other items in your luggage.

2. THE MOOD-ALTERING PIECE

A sweeping dress in a bold print or luscious fabric that makes you feel sensual, grounded, and free. Find something that moves with you and captures light beautifully. This is your dreamy piece— flowy fabrics with movement that captures the eye and works for any kind of event.

3. THE LUXE FLAT OR SCULPTURAL SANDAL

Find footwear that balances style and comfort. Look for interesting shapes or materials (like leather with architectural cutouts or metallic finishes). More than shoes—they’re anchors for adventure, grounding your aesthetic wherever you land. This goes the same for men.

Your footwear can also make an impact through the braided details of your sandals or the canvas of a casual slip-on loafer.

4. THE TRANSITIONAL THIRD PIECE

Think: kimono, over-sized linen blazer, a lightweight duster, or a gauzy button-down left open. This is your layering hero that adds polish without effort. It’s an aura amplifier that instantly makes your outfit feel styled and intentional.

5. INTERESTING AND IMPACTFUL SUNGLASSES

Sunglasses with personality is a must. They could be over-sized, cat-eye, or tinted lenses that feel more like “cinematic escape” than “just functional.” Because you’re not sightseeing—you’re starring in your own travel film.

6. A SCULPTURAL CARRYALL

A bag that holds your essentials but looks like art—think woven textures, unique shapes, or buttery leather. Practicality meets poetry. You deserve a vessel that carries your dreams...and your SPF.

7. SIGNATURE SCENT OR TRAVEL CANDLE

Pack travel-sized fragrance or a tiny candle that evokes your essence or complements the location. Scent is meant to ignite memories and set the tone—infuse your travels with an olfactory signature.

8. ACCESSORIES WITH A STORY

A few intentional pieces such as a ring from a market you found during your travels, a layered necklace that serves as an easy throw-on, or a straw hat to protect your face from the sun (even if it’s a cooler climate, because remember, safety first: don’t get burnt).

ARTICLE BY COURTNEY STONE SMITH

Tranquility Transformation

GET INSPIRED TO EXPLORE A FUNCTIONAL SPACE TURNED

SPA-LIKE SANCTUARY

Before brewing your morning coffee, before lacing up your sneakers for an early jog, and even before sending your impatient pup out for a break, your day begins somewhere else. With a mirror that’s seen better days and a parade of almost-empty bottles … shoot, is the toothpaste cap missing again? Well, it’s safe to say your bathroom is hardly paradise.

But here’s a secret: it could be.

John Wood of Bath Inspirations Home Renovations partnered with Wilder Rodriguez of Nika Remodeling LLC as both a contractor and client to show that your

Free Floating

That intent is clear in the shower’s design, with a floating shower bench featuring under-lighting and an illuminated shower niche. The floating bench opens the space, creating greater depth while also serving stylistically as a modern focal point. It’s anchored in pure practicality, while the soft lighting elevates and calms every inch of the space.

ARTICLE BY MARY KATE LENARD PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

bathroom doesn’t need to feel chaotic. In fact, it could be your favorite room in the house.

“We absolutely love turning our customers’ outdated, old, tired, spaces into beautiful, relaxing environments … adding luxury at an affordable price,” John shares.

The goal of the remodel was to transform the bathroom from a place of pure function to one that felt as calm as it did intentional. “Almost like a boutique hotel or spa at home,” says Wilder. “We wanted it to feel modern and indulgent, but still warm and comfortable for everyday use.”

Designed with Intention

That balance shaped the project. “We tried to keep design minimal,” Wilder shares, prioritizing functionality while focusing on meaningful designs and fixtures that had a clear purpose.

The shower niche, too, leverages lighting to bring luxury to a nook that is designed for storage and use. The lighting serves a dual purpose, eliminating the need for harsh overheard lighting while contributing to the spalike look and feel of the space.

Tried, True Tile

The linear drain also leans into luxury, sleek and seamless. The style and location of the drain allows for the large-format porcelain tile featured in both the shower and bathroom. “The porcelain tile became one of the biggest focal points,” Wilder shares. “We loved the soft earthy tone because it made the space feel warm, seamless … calming.”

Fitted for Style

The tile and matte black fixtures alike bring consistency, flowing from the shower to the rest of the bathroom. The fixtures are a gorgeous contrast to the warm, light tones of the tile, creating a feel that is both high-end and enduring.

Sleek Synchronicity

It’s a space as curated as it is functional, and Wilder is thrilled with the result. “Even simple things like getting ready in the morning or showering at night feel more peaceful because the environment feels so tranquil and intentional.”

Lighting the Way

For those looking to achieve the same, this contractor/homeowner had some words of wisdom to share. “My biggest advice would be to focus on simplicity, lighting, and cohesion,” says Wilder.

“You don’t always need overly expensive materials to make a bathroom feel luxurious. Thoughtful design, warm lighting, clean lines, and consistent finishes make the biggest difference.”

Advice noted. But we’ll leave this up to the professionals at Bath Inspirations ... and count on them to help turn bathroom chaos into dreamy oasis.

From cotton candy to salt water taffy — we’re here to ensure your kid’s smile

YES, VISITING THE DENTIST CAN BE A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE AT ANY AGE, BECAUSE WE OFFER:

» State-of-the-art, modern dentistry — offered in a playful, comfortable environment.

» Sensory room for children who are younger, anxious or have sensitivities to noises, colors and textures.

» Various sedation options and levels based on your child’s individual needs.

» Parents are welcome to stay with their child during the visit.

COMPLIMENTARY FIRST EXAMS FOR CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF TWO.

(513) 806-2060 » pediatricdentistloveland.com » 10570 Loveland Madeira Road in Loveland

ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE

The 10% Target Mindset

Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT

Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.

He calls days later.

That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.

The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.

The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.

“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”

FEATURING JEN COHEN

Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.

1 2

MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS

The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.

STACK THE DECK

Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.

3

DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE

No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.

4

SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP

Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.

5

NEVER MISS A MONDAY

The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.

events

SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

JULY 22ND

Magnolia Springs Loveland Hot Rod & Classic Car Cruise-In

Magnolia Springs Loveland Senior Living | 4:00 PM

Have a classic car, or just appreciate them? Check out Magnolia Springs Loveland Senior Living’s free summer Cruise-In. With a host of different gorgeous classic cars for you to admire, as well as goodie bags, residents’ choice trophy, a food truck, and live music, it’s sure to be a night that will rev everyone’s engine, whether gearheads or casual fans. Facebook.com/MagnoliaSpringsLovelandSeniorLiving/events

JULY 24TH - 26TH

SMOY Fest 2026

St. Margaret of York Church

Don’t miss out! It’s time to get to SMOY Fest and enjoy everything from carnival rides to games galore to festival food faves. Be sure to catch live music from Stays In Vegas, The Menus, and Parrots of the Caribbean, or watch (maybe participate?) in either the wing-eating contest on Saturday or the ice cream-eating contest on Sunday. SMOYFest.org

JULY 25TH

Movie in the Park: Back to the Future

Phillips Park

Jump back in time with Marty McFly and Doc in this outdoor screening of all-time classic, Back to the Future! Bring the whole family for an 88-mph night of laughter and adventures. Don’t forget your lawn chairs and blankets for the optimal flux capacitor-viewing experience ... as the sun goes down, the movie goes up on the big screen. lovinlifeloveland.com/events/movie-in-the-park/

JULY 26TH

ASTROVAN Concert in the Park

City Hall Lawn | 6:00 PM

We featured ASTROVAN last month, now come hear their signature Outlaw Indie this July as they play original hits that are both family-friendly and irresistibly energetic. The kind of music that’s meant to be appreciated, promising a feet tappin’, feel-good night of free tunes! Bring the whole fam and rock on with these Loveland locals! lovinlifeloveland.com/events/concert-in-the-park-3/

JULY 30TH

Cones for the Cure

Across OH, KY & IN

The sweetest way to fight cancer starts NOW, and runs through August 9th at all Graeter’s locations in the tristate! It’s 11 days of giving back while indulging in your favorite flavors — and the only time Elena’s Blueberry Pie will be available this year. Every purchase, every donation helps The Cure Starts Now fund much-needed research for childhood brain cancer – the key to finding a cure for all cancers (a goal worth sinking your teeth into). ConesForTheCure.org

JULY 31ST

Loveland Shorts Film Festival

Loveland Stage Company Theater

Film fans, it’s back! A purchase of your ticket to the Loveland Shorts Film Festival is a guarantee of three days full of entertainment, curiosity, film-craft, and fun. See carefully curated shorts from independent film-makers across the country in all genres, from romance and horror to animation and comedy. The festival will feature six unique screenings and three workshops. Facebook.com/lovelandfilmfest/