Loveland, OH March 2026

Come On In

It’s fun to invite people into your home. Whether it’s a fancy soirée or an intimate dinner party, you want your house to be inviting, a welcoming space. That’s why we love this issue. From home makeovers to kitchen pantry tips, we want to help your house be that warm, comfortable, welcoming home.

When it comes to expertise and advice on how to spruce up your address, you’ll find all you need in these pages. Starting with the inside — kitchen renovations, flooring options, cooking must-haves. Then moving to the outside with picture-perfect screened-in porches and clutter hauled away. We’ve packed a lot into these pages.

So, what are you waiting for? Sit back, relax, read up and plan your next home project. EMILY

March 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, Lisa Fletcher, Nicole Browning, Shannon Roberts, Carly Tamborski, Kathy Doane, Pamela McWhorter, Chris Sherritt, Mary Kate Lenard

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Matthew J. Capps, Brittany King, Stephanie Meinberg

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

They say home is where the heart is. We couldn’t agree more. That’s why we love what we do. Ensuring that our clients’ vision—whether it’s installing a new deck, adding a patio cover or replacing siding—becomes reality is paramount. It never gets old, gazing at a finished project with a client and hearing them say, “Wow, this looks amazing!”

Contact us today. It’s time to fall in love with your home again.

MARCH 2026

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

@ALLTHEINGREDIENTSYUM

@SARAHNICOLEREDESIGN

@BIKETRAILBOOKS

@LMRCHAMBERALLIANCE

@LIFESTYLED_BY_HANNAH

1: Congratulations to All the Ingredients on the grand opening of their new brick-and-mortar location! 2: The Loveland Valentine Ladies celebrated their new 2026 Valentine Lady, Cynthia Tait. 3: Content creator, Hannah, showing love and support for BentOn, a cherished local Japanese homestyle meal business. 4: Planning for spring! First gardening book club of the new year at Bike Trail Books. 5: Sarah Nicole Redesign shares affordable, practical home décor tips with ladies at MomCo Loveland. 6: Valentine ladies gathered with Major Kathy Bailey to unveil the new official Loveland Valentine card. 7: @GalleryVeronique was spotlighted on @Fox19Now during XTRA in the Nati!

Perennial Professional Services, LLC

Locally owned and operated for over 35 years!

There’s no need to look any further than your own backyard for a reputable remodeler to furnish all your home improvements. Perennial’s Computer-Aided Design Program, featuring our American-made cabinetry, enables our design professionals to provide our clients with a detailed plan for each project. Finally, our inhouse 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!

8: The Loveland @FleetFeetCincy Running Group is geared up and ready to kick off Spring Training. 9: During the national @CityLifestyle conference, our publisher, Emily, got to meet @TimTebow! 10: @LMRChamberAlliance kept us well informed about community updates at the State of the Region event. 11: @RotaryClubCincinnati of Northeast Cincinnati, District 6670, generously donated books to Loveland Schools’ thirdgrade reading program. 12: Guests were able to meet @LifeFoodPantry’s new Executive Director, Carol Rountree, at their open house. 13: At the heart of it all! One Loveland family enjoying some snow day fun!! 14: The winter storm brought big smiles along with the cold and snow drifts.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Fifty Years of Fun

O’Bannon Creek Golf Club is turning 50 and celebrating this milestone all year, with week-long festivities kicking off on July 4th. With parties, golf events, and the unveiling of a commemorative Verdin post clock, the anniversary — dubbed “Fifty Years of Fairways and Friendships” — will be a par-tee . “It’s a great testament to the founders, the many members along the way, and the staff,” says Director Marianne Utz Sahms on the club’s growth.

Oh, The Art You Will See!

Nostalgia has arrived at Gallery Veronique through the iconic work of Dr. Seuss! Featuring prints of original sketches and personal paintings from his once-secret collection, the gallery has received esteemed recognition as an official distributor of Dr. Seuss artwork — the only one in Ohio. The 14-piece collection will expand by 30 additional pieces this spring, and owner Veronique Hammons invites the community to come get lost in the creative mind of Dr. Seuss.

Spreading Pawsitivity

Introducing Odin, Loveland High School’s first four-legged student! Thanks to efforts and fundraising from the Ben Morrison Memorial Fund, years of collaboration with Loveland schools, and specialty dog training programs, the 1-year-old German Shepherd joined our community in January. Odin is making teacher and handler Jayme Smith’s dream of having a therapy dog in her classroom a reality, and offers support lifelines to students through connection, affection, and stress relief in honor of Ben.

Bridge Street Health

I M A G I N E

Health care that embraces every dimension of your well-being; physical, mental, emotional, spiritual.

Appointments that give you time to explain how you feel and medical professionals who listen to what you have to say.

Everyone knows your name & office visits built around your needs with the doctor waiting for you in a comfortable setting.

Medical professionals who treat your underlying health problems, not just your symptoms.

A focus on keeping you healthy and active so you can enjoy your life's passions - today and tomorrow.

Looking for a different approach to primary care? Schedule a free 15-minute ‘meet & greet’ to see how Bridge Street Health can help you.

1. THE LIVING ROOM

Cozy meeting areas and creative spaces perfect for teams, research, and meaningful work. HelloLivingRoom.com

2. FUELED COLLECTIVE

Business meets social, this Rookwood club has co-working space, offices, conference rooms, private events. FueledCollective.com

3. CAALMA

A co-working destination in Madisonville providing flexibility when you need to get things done. Caalma.org

4. COHATCH

Launch something new, scale what’s built, make connections. Two locations where work and community grow together. COhatch.com

5. CHASING CALI

Relax in their spa, grab a coffee, utilize the on-site childcare, socialize, or find space to focus on work. ChasingCali.com

sarah nicole redesign

At Sarah Nicole Redesign, we believe that home isn’t really about a specific place, it’s a feeling . A happiness that comes from embracing where you are, in every stage. Your home should evolve with you and your lifestyle; and you shouldn’t have to wait to create that feeling or to love your home. There are practical, affordable changes you can incorporate today to bring beauty and warmth to every day.

Imagine your home decorated, but designed for real life...like real real life. Sarah Nicole Redesign specializes in the unique concept of Redesign, a practical approach to interior decorating. We reimagine what you already own. We value placement over purchase. Pair that principle with affordable updates, like paint, adequate lighting, and window treatments to unveil the beauty that has always existed. Some of the most personal, stylish homes are created by reimagining what’s always been there.

Decorating with what you already own is about seeing potential instead of limitation. It encourages creativity, honors your history, and results in spaces that feel both beautiful and deeply personal. Home is where life happens; and there’s no place like it - cherish it, cultivate it, care for it.

Schedule your Sarah Nicole Redesign in-home design consultation today to discover the style and beauty waiting in your own home. UNVEILING

ARTICLE BY LISA FLETCHER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW J. CAPPS

BEYOND MOVE-IN READY

LOVELAND REALTORS ELLIE AND EMILY KOWALCHIK HELP TURN VISIONS INTO FOREVER HOMES

Ellie Kowalchik has seen enough houses to know when one is waiting for the right people.

As Team Lead of the Move2Team with Keller Williams Pinnacle Group, she’s learned to spot what many buyers overlook: strong bones, untapped potential, and the kind of layout that can quietly grow with a family. An insight she’s shared with her daughter, Emily, a licensed member of the team. When Madison and Ben Dennis began house-hunting from California in spring 2023, Emily recognized early on they weren’t looking for a perfect reveal, they were looking for possibility.

The Dennises were relocating to the Loveland area with big hopes and an open mind. “Our must-have list was a mix of practical and emotional,” Madison explains. “We needed at least three bedrooms and a space that could handle a young couple and a growing family. Above all, we wanted a ‘forever’ feel, something with inherent character we could refine and elevate.”

Emily remembers their mindset well. Some buyers, she notes, have what Ellie jokingly calls “HGTV-itis,” hoping for instant perfection. Madison and Ben were different. “They were looking for

location and good bones, knowing they could change the rest and make it their own,” Emily shares. That perspective opened doors others might have passed by.

The house they ultimately chose had been listed for 49 days, an outlier in the competitive market. The longer time on market gave the Dennises leverage, allowing them to secure the home for significantly less than list price. “It was a perfect example of how vision can pay off,” Emily reflects.

Buying from across the country could have been overwhelming, but Ellie and Emily became steady navigators throughout the process. Madison recalls the mother-daughter duo touring homes with them via FaceTime, walking through decisions in real time, handling all the behind-the-scenes details. “They took the stress off our plates so we could focus on the excitement of the move,” she shares.

Once the keys were in hand, the real transformation began.

The Dennises weren’t intimidated by renovation, in fact, it’s something they enjoy. What they needed was a trusted eye to help guide decisions that balanced personal taste with long-term

value. “Emily’s eye for potential was a game-changer,” Madison explains. “She didn’t just see the house as it was, she saw what it could be.”

And Emily and Ellie’s roles didn’t end at closing, a hallmark of how the team operates. Drawing on long-standing relationships with trusted contractors and a deep understanding of the local market, they helped the Dennises map out renovations that would both reflect their style and protect long-term value.

The updates were extensive but intentional: hardwood floors throughout the first floor, new vinyl flooring and carpet in the basement, modern trim and doors, a completely reimagined kitchen, new cabinetry in all bathrooms, accent walls and wainscoting, and a wet bar refreshed with new cabinetry, countertops, and wallpaper.

Ellie and her team often consult with clients during remodels, helping them balance personal taste with smart

resale strategy. Whether discussing return on investment or future buyer appeal, the team stays closely involved.

Today, the Dennis home feels updated, personal, and ready for its next chapter. With two children and two dogs, the space functions beautifully while still feeling elevated. For Madison and Ben, the experience exceeded expectations. “The level of professionalism and attention to detail they provide is, quite simply, the gold standard in real estate,” Madison smiles. “They didn’t just meet our expectations. They redefined them.”

For Ellie, stories like this are the reason she’s built her business the way she has. While she sells homes across Greater Cincinnati, the real reward is helping families recognize potential others might overlook, guiding them as a house becomes the place they truly belong.

ELLIE KOWALCHIK & THE MOVE2TEAM

With more than two decades of experience in Ohio real estate, Ellie leads the Move2Team at Keller Williams Pinnacle Group with a full-service, relationship-driven approach. Licensed in Ohio since 2001, Ellie founded the Move2Team in 2014, growing it into a 12-agent team supported by dedicated operations, marketing, and staging professionals. Averaging 150+ transactions annually, the team celebrated a record 200 clients served in 2025. Deeply rooted in Loveland, Ellie and her team actively support local schools, charities, and community organizations — long after the keys change hands.

1-on-1 training Just 20 minutes, Twice a week

distraction-free studio

science-backed strength training

MaxStrength Fitness-Montgomery: 1010 Vintage Club Dr. #202 Montgomery, Ohio 45249 www.maxstrengthfitness.com/montgomery-oh/ montgomery@maxstrengthfitness.com

ARTICLE BY CHRIS SHERRITT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE MEINBERG

Stock Your Pantry Like a Pro

MUST-HAVE COOKING & KITCHEN ESSENTIALS FROM A LOCAL TOP CHEF

Leah Moss put All The Ingredients together for her incredibly successful fromscratch meal prep and catering business in 2018. Now, she’s spicing things up with a brand-new kitchen and pickup location at 390 Loveland-Madeira Road, right in the heart of Loveland.

Want to shop like a chef? We asked Leah for her top 5 tips on how to quickly and easily turn up the heat on your home culinary game.

Photoprovided by All The Ingredients

Just a few options will do. Kosher salt for most cooking and baking needs, sea salt for fresh items like salsas and finishing grilled vegetables, and Maldon salt for a delicious smoky and salty finish on lots of things. Add more to taste…

A spice cabinet staple for Chef Leah. “It has an amazing aroma and flavor that works well in a variety of dishes. We use it often in marinades, to add a kick to black beans, and in both Mexican and Indian dishes.”

Juice or zest, like a ray of sunshine to your palate. Chef Leah says most recipes need a little punch of acidity to bring the flavor up a notch, and lemons are the best way to do it. A little goes a long way.

But don’t fall for the most expensive option — it’s the pits. Leah’s go-to for the All The Ingredients kitchen? Kirkland Brand. Yep. “It has good flavor for the price, and we use so much of it.”

Choose a good-quality machine. “We use ours at home and in the ATI kitchen a lot. It’s great for making sauces, spreads, and dips, crushing nuts for recipes, and emulsifying dressings and marinades.”

AllTheIngredients.square.site Facebook.com/AllTheIngredients 390 Loveland-Madeira Rd, Loveland 513.268.7235 | atimealpreps@gmail. com | aticaterings@gmail.com

Premier Contemporary Quilting Studio

Many patients have been with us since they were babies — we love seeing our patients at all ages.

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

A SCREEN FOR ALL SEASONS

Thinking Outside the Box When It Comes to Enclosing Your Dream Spaces

ARTICLE BY NICOLE BROWNING

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Your home is where you spend most of your time, relaxing, entertaining, living. It’s naturally the most functional, built to your standards, a place crafted just to your liking. So shouldn’t your outdoor spaces be just as functional (and dreamy) all year round? Well, there’s a way you can fix up those drafty garages and chilly patios so they’re usable

throughout the whole year. The Screen Shoppe, a local staple for the past 25 years, is here to help. With modern technology and a variety of screening options, they’ll help you better utilize those porches, garages, and patios whenever (however) you want, no matter the season!

The Screen Shoppe started with humble beginnings right here in Loveland, a place you could take your items to get rescreened. “As time continued, we started seeing a need for more big screen projects, screening in ‘large format,’” explains Josh Pickle, owner and general manager. “We can screen as big as 10-15 feet high, and 20-30 feet long.”

But modern technology, retractable awnings and screens — as well as motorized screens — are changing the game even more for the Screen Shoppe. And their customers. “I think people want screens on-demand, rather than choosing if they want a permanent screen or not. Now, they can have both with motorized screens,” explains Josh. “These screens are a big portion of what we do. Same with SunSetter awnings and retractable awnings in general, we’ve started to see an uptick in those, too.”

Not only are you getting a local business with some of the best craftsmanship, the Screen Shoppe also provides truly top-notch customer service. “The relationships we’ve curated over 25 years and the level of service that this shop brings to home service are unparalleled,” Josh continues. “We answer the phone, you don’t get a call center. We’re local, you can come in and talk to us, we have an open-door policy.”

With employees who come from diverse backgrounds, bringing different experiences to every project, it’s easy to tell why the Screen Shoppe thrives. “Our guys are thinking about the big picture – communication matters, the way you set expectations matters. There’s a level of old-school customer service here … all these small touches that they’ve learned from previous jobs, they understand the importance of it, and they bring that to the table.”

But it starts with fine craftsmanship. “We just always do the right thing, which makes it easy for people to do business with us,” Josh promises with pride. “It’s not complicated … we stand by everything we do. All the guys agree, we’re not going to leave until it’s done right.

And if a customer calls and something’s wrong, there’s no questioning them. We’ll be out there today to fix it. You don’t see a lot of that anymore … everyone’s cutting corners to be more efficient and trying to scrape the barrel on cost. But the Screen Shoppe doesn’t do that. We’re the same as we were 25 years ago, and I think that’s why customers continue to come back to us, because they love that.”

So the possibilities? Endless. Maybe you want a motorized screen in your garage, making your shop useable all the time or transforming it into another man-cave space. Or you want to install retractable screens outside of your large windows so you don’t have to mess with blinds. Maybe you’ve been dreaming of screening-in that oversized porch. Whatever the project, the Screen Shoppe can do all that and more.

But they’re also the go-to choice for your favorite local businesses, making their outdoor spaces available even in the winter. If you’ve stopped by Pig Candy, then you’ve seen the Screen Shoppe’s work. “Their screens help keep things ventilated if it’s super muggy out or if the bugs get bad in the summer. In the winter, they roll the screens down because they’ve got four really nice heaters on that porch, and it stays the temperature they want all season,” Josh states.

Whether it’s enclosing the patio at your favorite bar or restaurant, or helping you make your outdoor spaces accessible all the time, the Screen Shoppe has something to offer everyone.

TheScreenShoppe.com | 467 Wards Corner Rd, Loveland 513.774.8090

ingredient SECRET

For Kitchen Remodeling That’s Easy as Pie, Just Add KBI

ARTICLE BY PAMELA MCWHORTER

Imagine making a lemon meringue pie and the recipe says you had to grow your own lemons. Or it called for using a specific pie pan— which was on backorder. The experience would leave a bad taste in your mouth, no matter how well the pie turned out.

Remodeling projects can be like that, too. You have high expectations for your new space, but setbacks cause the vision to fall flat. Maybe you spent too much time and money chasing down the materials. Or the installers didn’t arrive on time as promised.

When Greg Gumbert opened the doors to Kitchen and Bath Innovations on Beechmont Avenue, he wanted to offer his clients a better recipe for kitchen remodeling.

TAKING THE HASSLE OFF YOUR PLATE

“We want to make the entire remodeling process as easy and seamless as possible,” says Greg’s daughter Corina Sprankles, who resides in Loveland. She runs Kitchen and Bath Innovations alongside her dad and younger brother, Steven Gumbert, who also calls Loveland home. “From start to finish, every single part of your job is under one umbrella.”

Kitchen and Bath Innovations doesn’t rely on subcontractors, they don’t send clients out to source their own materials, and they have two designers on staff to help clients bring their ideas to life.

“We measure it. We design it. We order it, and we install it,” says Steven. “It’s what sets us apart.”

Kitchen and Bath Innovations has perfected its recipe for a smooth kitchen remodeling process by bringing together just the right mix of imagination, expertise, and ongoing communication.

A PINCH OF INSPIRATION

It all starts when a client shares their remodeling ideas, either in person or online. Next, a designer visits the client’s home for a complimentary consultation to gather ideas, take initial measurements, and go over budgeting.

At the second complimentary consultation, the designer presents the proposed kitchen design at the showroom and discusses all the financial details. If the client decides to move forward, it’s time to get cooking!

After the final selections have been made and the contract has been signed, Steven conducts a walkthrough at the client’s home to ensure all the details are set. Once the materials arrive, their dedicated installation crew will start work, which typically takes about six to eight weeks to complete.

A TIME-HONORED TRADITION

Like grandma’s lasagna or a favorite family cookbook passed down for generations, Kitchen and Bath Innovations represents a longstanding family tradition. The business can trace its beginnings to 1964, when Greg’s dad Robert Gumbert was among the original owners who started the company. Back then, they were subcontractors for some of the bigger stores of the day, such as Central Hardware and Sears. When Robert retired in 1993, Greg took the reins and moved the business away from subcontracting to becoming the all-inclusive kitchen and bath remodeler it is today.

Growing up, Corina can remember her little brother following their dad around, wearing a small tool belt their dad had given him. As the third generation of Gumberts now leads Kitchen and Bath Innovations, it’s that sense of family that keeps clients returning.

COMING BACK FOR SECONDS

Standing in her kitchen surrounded by handsome new navy cabinets, Nichelle Trigg shares why she and her husband, Jarrod, have chosen Kitchen and Bath Innovations time and again for their remodeling projects.

“Greg and Steven just made us feel very, very comfortable,” she explains.

The Triggs had hired them for remodeling jobs in their previous home, and they were “very, very happy.” So, when they wanted to update the kitchen in their current home, Nichelle didn’t hesitate.

“I knew I wanted to hire them again,” she recalls.

For this kitchen remodel, Nichelle wanted to replace wasted space with more storage and try something new— blue cabinets. Knowing that Nichelle is a self-professed “neat freak,” Greg and Steven told her fingerprints would show more on painted cabinets. They suggested she first try them out in two bathrooms and a laundry room. After her year-long tryout, Nichelle was ready to add the blue cabinetry to her kitchen.

“They don’t push me to follow the latest trends,” she explains. “They respect what we’re trying to accomplish when we create a space.”

Today, that space feels as fresh as ever, which is good considering Nichelle spends lots of quality time there, cooking three meals a day most days of the week for her hungry crew.

MADE WITH LOVE

At Nichelle’s house, framed family recipes dot the wall above the kitchen table. It’s a reminder that the kitchen is the heart of a home. It’s where meals are shared, milestones are celebrated, family and friends gather, and a lifetime of memories are made.

That’s why Steven, Corina, and the entire Kitchen and Bath Innovations staff take great care to follow that “family recipe” for a seamless renovation experience to create kitchens their clients will love for years to come. Bon appetit!

k-binnovations.com | 8001 Beechmont Ave, Cincinnati 513.631.8210

Everything Old Is New Again

Junk King Rules When It Comes to Recycling

ARTICLE BY KATHY DOANE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

“A lot of junk removal companies will take everything, but it’s all about what we do with it that sets us apart,” says Junk King CEO Jack Brendamour. And what they do with it represents a second life for around 70% of the items their large red trucks collect.

Jack walks into the conference room at Junk King headquarters in Sharonville. Red-and-black theater seats removed from a local cinema line one long wall, matching the red-and-back conference table hauled out of an office building. Nearly every piece of furniture and decor throughout the building came from a job.

If Jack’s last name sounds familiar, it’s because his grandfather (and namesake) owned the Brendamour Sporting Goods stores that were a fixture in the area for decades.

Ask 40-year-old Jack how he got into the junk removal business, and he’s quick to respond. “Divine Intervention. I think I was led here,” he says emphatically. It started with a chance encounter in 2015 with Junk King’s franchise owner Pete McCreary; several conversations later, Pete offered Jack the job as general manager. Pete passed away tragically in 2019. Today, Jack is CEO and co-owner with Pete’s wife, Judy, and Steve Jordan.

Jack freely admits that he had reservations about entering the junk removal industry, but now holds immense pride in it.

“The first thing we want to do is repurpose items in their original form or get them fully functional. If we can’t do that, sometimes we can take part of the item to recycle.” For example, pulling electrical components from a hot tub to use in a different capacity.

The goal? Keeping as much out of the landfill as possible. That has always been the mindset of the company. Their motto: America’s Greenest Junk Removal Company. And they come to you, making it easy to arrange a pickup at your home or business, no matter how small or large.

“We’ve taken it to a level far above where it started,” Jack says, walking into the large warehouse where items are sorted and organized. What can’t find a new home will be repurposed if possible, including the number one polluter of landfills, styrofoam It never breaks down and represents 30% of landfill contents.

Along the back wall, Jack points to a Styrofoam Densifier that shows how Junk King handles the mountains of styrofoam it collects. The machine reduces the material’s volume by almost 98%, turning it into dense logs that can be transformed into other things — park benches, insulation, clothes hangers, more.

When it comes to electronics and paperwork, Junk King can provide certificates of destruction, so customers know their devices and personal information will be properly recycled. Laptops are refurbished and given to local school districts.

Many items, especially in situations where a family member has passed and nearly everything picked up can be recycled in its original form, are passed along to those in need.

“We’ve built relationships with a lot of nonprofits in the area,” Jack explains. “The neat thing about that is we know who needs what and when they need it.”

Being a good community partner also extends to sponsorships and helping with events throughout Greater Cincinnati, like annual Earth Day celebrations in the area. Sometimes, it even means returning valuables.

“Four years ago, we cleared out a house of a gentleman who had passed away. When we got back to the warehouse, we found a coin collection in a drawer that was valued at $80,000. Obviously, the family didn’t mean for us to take that, so we tracked them down and gave it back.” Which also says something important about Junk King’s employees.

“We hire people for their smiles and personalities. Everything else is trainable,” Jack says with a smile of his own. “Our customers have to have a good interaction with our employees.” That respect and empathy for others are especially important to the company culture — downsizing or getting rid of a lifetime of possessions can be very emotional for family or friends tasked with the project.

“We’ve learned a lot over the years and gotten better at what we’re trying to do,” Jack explains. Which ultimately is to benefit our world at large. “I believe we’re setting up future generations for a bad outcome if we don’t take better care of our environment. It takes businesses like ours to take the lead and that first step.”  Junk King’s 19 trucks are on the road every day supporting that mission.

PASS IT ON

“One person’s trash is another’s treasure” is a reality Junk King lives daily. Donated items include:

1. 20,000 children’s books to Bloc Ministries’ Side By Side outreach program.

2. Tractor tires to the Loveland Football Programs for workout sessions.

3. Pallets of paint and handicapped equipment to Matthew 25 Ministries.

4. 1,000 new toys to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Cincinnati holiday toy drive in 2025.

5. Outfitting an apartment with a table, couch, TV, mattresses, pots, pans, and dishes for a woman and her three children who’d been living in their car, in addition to a Christmas tree and decorations, the first they’d ever had.

Junk-King.com/Cincinnati | 513.206.8945

Timeless Beauty, Lasting Value

Loveland Flooring Center Shares Their Top Flooring Recommendations for Every Home

ARTICLE BY CARLY TAMBORSKI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW J. CAPPS

Simple truth: flooring plays a huge role in how your home looks, feels, and functions. More to the point, the right choice can also add comfort, durability, and even increase your home’s value. The choices are endless. Maybe, too endless. We turned to the experts to get their go-to recos and reasoning behind which floor fits flawlessly — Loveland Flooring Center.

Hardwood

A classic choice that never goes out of style.

The gold standard when it comes to floors. “Hardwood is durable, elegant, and provides natural warmth under your feet,” Joe says. “Hardwood floors can dramatically increase your home’s value. And nothing looks better than the real thing.”

Carpet

Comfort and coziness for everyday living.

“Carpet provides true comfort while being kid- and petfriendly,” Joe explains. “It provides added insulation, and it’s also really affordable.” The classic go-to for families, but also great for seniors or retirement living where throw rugs or variable surfaces can be hazardous.

Loveland Flooring Center (formerly Carpet Depot) has been helping homeowners transform their spaces with beautiful, high-quality flooring for years. Locally owned and rooted in family values, the company blends expert craftsmanship with personalized service to deliver flooring solutions that are as functional as they are stylish.

Serving homeowners, interior designers, high-end home builders, and management firms, Loveland Flooring Center offers thoughtfully curated selections and professional installation — making every project feel seamless, inspired, and built to last.

But with so many options available, where do you begin? Understanding the differences of each type of

Luxury Vinyl Plank

Stylish and built for real life.

“Luxury Vinyl Plank is waterproof, scratch resistant, and easy to clean,” Joe offers. “It’s great for common rooms and living spaces, as it mimics the look of real wood. Another plus, it’s also DIY friendly.” Perfect for homes with pets and kids.

flooring’s qualities and functionality can help you make the best choice for your lifestyle (ever slipped on hardwood running around in socks?).

Which is where Loveland Flooring Center expert Joe Farrish comes in, recommending four flooring options designed to meet your needs and enhance your home … whether you’re a household prone to kids and chaos, a budget-conscious couple looking for style, empty-nesters wanting easy comforts, and everyone in between.

LovelandFlooring.com | 10450 Loveland-Madeira Rd, Loveland | 513.239.8621

Luxury Vinyl Tile

Practical elegance for tough spaces.

Much like its plank alternative, Luxury Vinyl Tile is also ideal for easy cleaning and long-lasting durability. “We love using this in bathrooms, utility spaces, and basements because it can give an authentic stone or tile look at a more reasonable expense.”

STEP INTO HISTORY

Bookcase Styling your

Tips for an Organized and Aesthetic Display

ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS

A bookcase is often more than just a storage unit for books; it’s a focal point of a room that can enhance the overall decor and reflect personal style. Styling a bookcase can be a rewarding endeavor, allowing you to showcase your literary collection and curate a space that feels inviting and visually appealing. Here are some tips to help you achieve a beautifully styled bookcase.

Styling a bookcase is a creative process that combines practicality with aesthetics. By using these tips, you can transform an ordinary bookshelf into a stylish, engaging focal point that complements your home’s decor while showcasing your personality and interests.

Step 1

Strategically Place Books on the Bookcase While Incorporating Decorative Elements.

When placing books back on the shelves, think about the arrangement, vertical stacks are more traditional, horizontal stacks more modern, or both for more visual interest. Adding decorative elements such as picture frames, vases, or sculptural objects to break the monotony. Incorporating items with varying heights can create a dynamic arrangement. Use larger items like art pieces or baskets on lower shelves and smaller decorative objects higher up. Aim for a balanced look while avoiding perfect symmetry. This creates an organic flow, drawing the eye naturally across the shelf. Incorporate asymmetrical groupings for added interest, mixing textures, colors, and shapes.

Step 2

Use Color Wisely and Add Natural Elements.

Color plays a role in styling a bookcase. You can opt for a monochromatic palette for a sophisticated look or introduce pops of color for a more energetic vibe. If your books are of various colors, pick a few colorful decorative pieces that complement or contrast them effectively. Integrating plants or natural elements can breathe life into your bookcase. Small potted plants can add color and texture.

Step 3

Create Zones and Add Personal Touches.

If your bookcase has multiple shelves, consider creating zones or themes for different sections. Infuse your personality into the bookcase through memorabilia, travel souvenirs, or personal artwork. These pieces add a storytelling dimension and make the space uniquely yours.

events

MARCH 7TH

Ohio Valley Voices Annual Gala: Palms & Pearls

Westin Cincinnati | 4:30 PM

Slip into island vibes with a side of elegance at Ohio Valley Voices’ 18th annual Palms & Pearls Gala. Guests will enjoy cocktails, dinner, raffles, and live and silent auctions during a night filled with celebration and impact — all in support of OVV’s Loveland-based school and its mission to help children with hearing deficiencies find their voices. OhioValleyVoices.givecloud.co/events/18thannualgala

MARCH 11TH

Eastside Business Bash

Oasis Conference Center | 4:00 PM

The region’s largest business expo tips off with a March Madness vibe at a brand-new, larger location. Presented by TimeSavers Heating & Cooling, in partnership with LMRCA and the Milford Miami Township Chamber, this free, high-energy event features dozens of local businesses, giveaways, and prime networking opportunities. Come make connections, scout new services, and see why we’re winning big. LMRChamberAlliance.org/Events

MARCH 12TH

Game On! Mother/Son Game Night

Scene75 Entertainment Center | 6:00 PM

Moms and sons, get ready for a night of nonstop fun! Game On! at Scene75 in Milford will be serving up pizza, drinks, prizes, and two hours of unlimited games. Race go-karts, conquer the Lazer Maze, bowl, play mini golf, spin bumper cars, and more. Pre-registration is required. This action-packed evening perfectly complements the beloved Bows & Bowties dance. www.miamitwpoh.gov/recreation.html

MARCH 22ND

Read Between the Wines with Bike Trail Books

Rosé Boutique & Wine Bar | 6:00 PM

The only thing better than a good book? A good wine to go with it. Sip four curated pours from Rosé Boutique while Bike Trail Books pairs each with the perfect read. Enjoy charcuterie, snacks, lively conversation, and head home with a good book. One unforgettable night (but demand is high and seats vanish fast!). Purchase tickets in advance. BikeTrailBooks.co/events

MARCH 28TH

The Bunny Chase 5K

Downtown Loveland | 8:30 AM

Hop to it! The Bunny Chase 5K turns downtown Loveland into a playful egg hunt on the run. Collect eggs, outsmart riddles, and chase bunnies while enjoying a fitness-filled adventure with friends and family. Created by the Loveland Amazing Charity Race team, every step supports the DoItForJack Foundation and its mission to save lives and fight the fentanyl crisis. Facebook.com/LovelandsAmazingRace

MARCH 28TH

Easter Extravaganza

Miami Township Civic Center | 10:00 AM

Somebunny special is coming to town, bringing crafts, cookies, and Easter magic along for the ride. Kids can enjoy hands-on activities, cookie decorating, face painting, games, and a visit from the Easter Bunny, who’ll be handing out treats. With a returning magic show and plenty of smiles, it’s a morning made just for little ones. MiamiTWPOH.gov/free.html