Mason & Deerfield, OH July 2024

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A Summer to Remember

“Got any big plans for summer?” That’s a question we hear often this time of the year. While many will answer with vacation spots around the country, we are also blessed to have many summer fun activities to explore in our own backyard.

Road trips are one of those quintessential summer family activities. With so much invested in making those memories, it’s important to be prepared. Before hitting the road, read about car care tips from the local experts at Üro Werks (formerly Prestige Auto Repair) to ensure your car is ready for the adventure ahead.

Summertime is full of farmers markets to explore and they’re great places to support local growers and makers. Longtime favorite Deerfield Farmers Market and the new Mason Market on the Mile are open and ready to help you enjoy the freshest produce and artisanal goods around the area. Learn more about our local markets and two of the many vendors that will be featured this season.

As we celebrate America this Independence Day holiday, the night skies will be filled with awe-inspiring firework displays at Red, Rhythm and Boom, Kings Island and more. While we love seeing these huge displays of patriotism, smaller acts can have just as big of an impact. We spoke with local veteran Cody Vernon to learn how he is honoring fallen veterans and preserving their history by cleaning one headstone at a time.

Travel, explore and celebrate! We hope this month’s Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle helps your family have a summer to remember.

MARK ANDREA, PUBLISHER

July 2024

PUBLISHER

Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Karen Andrea

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Karen Andrea, Jonathan Stout, Nan Paraskevopoulos

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Matthew J. Capps Image Services, Cathy Lyons–Lyons Photography, Mark Lyons–Lyons Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

inside the issue

A Labor of Love

Mason

Hit the Road with Confidence

Get

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN JULY

city scene

1: The MADE Chamber hosted their Annual Lunch on May 21 at Manor House in Mason. 2: The event united businesses, community leaders and residents for networking, inspiration and collaboration. 3: A highlight of the event was the Paint the Town ORANGE! Battle of the Businesses. 4: MADE Chamber members competed for the title by transforming their tables into vibrant orange displays. 5: The energy and enthusiasm were palpable, reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit within the community. 6: Lindner Center of HOPE hosted more than 200 community members at Community Education Day. 7: Dr. Leadbetter began his friendship bus tour highlighting the importance of friendship and connection for mental wellness.

business monthly

MADE Chamber Community Basket Program

MADE Chamber would like to welcome new homeowners in the Mason City School District with a warm embrace. The MADE Chamber Community Basket, delivered right to your doorstep, contains valuable information, exciting promotional materials, exclusive coupons and special deals from our esteemed Chamber members. Businesses - don't miss this prime opportunity to showcase your business to more than 1,000 new residents annually. You can learn more at MADEChamber.org

New Head Coach Appointed for Mason Girls Basketball

Mason Athletics proudly announces the appointment of Gideon Dudgeon as the new head coach for the girls basketball program, pending approval by the Board of Education. Gideon has served as an assistant coach since 2018 under the leadership of Rob Matula. He has 16 years of coaching experience spanning various levels, most notably as head coach at Lakota East High School from 2016-2018. GoMasonComets.com

Mercy Health-Kings Mills Hospital Unveils Scenic Cintas Walking Trail

Mercy Health–Kings Mills Hospital hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony on May 17 to commemorate the opening of the Cintas walking trail encircling the hospital's campus. The newly unveiled walking trail, linking Kings High School to the hospital, was designed to promote physical activity and well-being. Noteworthy speakers at the dedication included Chad Poeppelmeier, Vice President of Healthcare at Cintas, Brian Gwyn, President of Mercy Health–Cincinnati and Jason Asic, President of Mercy Health–Kings Mills Hospital. Mercy.com

ALABOR OFLOVE

MASON RESIDENT AND U.S. NAVY VETERAN CODY VERNON HONORS DECEASED VETERANS BY REFRESHING THEIR GRAVESITES.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK LYONS–LYONS PHOTOGRAPHY & CODY VERNON

“I am amazed and very impressed.  I know the family members of the veterans are very appreciative.."

Never forget. As patriotic Americans, we repeat these words to honor and thank our veterans for their service and sacrifice. So many who served our country are no longer with us, filling our local and national cemeteries. Each one deserves to be remembered well and one local Veteran and Founder of Refreshing Memorials, Cody Vernon, is showing his respect by ensuring their resting places reflect the honor they have earned.

“I had the privilege to spend time with Pearl Harbor and WWII survivors during our tours in Hawaii and have also visited many national cemeteries like Arlington and Punchbowl. In national cemeteries, headstones are routinely maintained, but veterans buried in private cemeteries rely solely on family members or volunteers to

maintain the grave markers,” Cody tells us reflecting on his work.

Cody joined the U.S. Navy in 1996 as a supply officer and served a combined eight years as active and reserve, attaining the rank of Lieutenant. His wife Kyle joined the Navy in 1983. She retired after 34 years of active service, reaching the rank of Commander. The two met in San Diego while serving together onboard a nuclear submarine dry dock.

They settled in Mason in the summer of 2018 after retiring and traveling the country for a year in an RV.  “What drew us to the community was that our son would be able to attend one school for his high school years. Raised as a military child up to that point, he had been in six schools in eight years. Mason offered him stability for his high school years,” Cody relates.

“I encourage everyone to remember those who served or gave their life in service to our country.”

Cody began restoring headstones about one year ago and estimates he has refreshed more than 100 grave markers in Deerfield and Symmes Townships. “I primarily focus on military graves at Rose Hill and Union Cemeteries, serving veterans from the War of 1812, Civil War, SpanishAmerican War, WWI, WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War, Iraq War and Afghanistan War,” Cody remarks.

The cleaning process begins with obtaining permission, documenting with photos and then conducting a thorough inspection, looking for erosion, surface cracks and noting the stability of the marker. He determines whether cleaning could cause further damage or instability. “I strictly follow the national cemetery administration’s guidelines on cleaning government-furnished headstones and markers,” Cody explains.

He uses soft bristle brushes and water to remove any soiling. If staining remains from biological growth such as algae, moss or mold, a specially formulated solution is applied. This one-time, gentle application works over several weeks and months to reduce any staining and helps restore the service member’s marker to an honorable condition. Cody points out, “Household cleaning products, bleach, wire brushes and power washing should never be used as they will destroy the integrity of the stones and markers.”

“I am amazed and very impressed,” Union Cemetery Sexton Bill Pitman tells us after seeing the work Cody has completed on some of the almost unreadable stones. “I know the family members of the veterans

are very appreciative and quite surprised when they see how good the headstones look when he is finished.”

Cody volunteers his time and his supplies are self-funded. He never seeks praise for his work, but his wife Kyle tells us of a letter he received from a former Mason area resident who had moved away and thanked him for caring for her loved one’s headstone. She wrote, “My father served in WWII and received the Bronze Star. He and his wife are laid to rest at Union Cemetery. I knew there was deterioration over the years, but not living in the area any longer, I had no way of maintaining the headstone. This past fall when we were visiting, it was the first stop I made. Thank you for your resources and time."

“There will always be a need for refurbishing due to the effects of nature and time,” Cody stresses. “My intent for the families is that their loved one’s service is honored and not forgotten, despite them not being with us anymore. Every single memorial I interact with holds meaning for me. But the ones where the veteran died in defense of our country truly humbles me every time.”

Cody adds, “A quote from Benjamin Franklin has always struck a chord with me: ‘Show me your cemeteries and I will tell you what kind of people you have.’ I encourage everyone to remember those who served or gave their life in service to our country. A visit to our local cemetery will quickly reveal how many men and women in our community have paid the ultimate sacrifice.” CONTINUED

For more information:

Visit the National Cemetery Administration website: CEM.va.gov/HMM/Cleaning.asp

The Warren County Genealogical Society offers workshops. Visit their website at WCGSOhio.org/cemetery-restoration-workshops.

Discover the histories of many local veterans at MasonHistoricalSociety.org

Contact Cody or request refurbishing via refreshingmemorials@gmail.com.

Before and after pictures are posted on the @refreshing_memorials Instagram page and updated photos can be viewed at FindAGrave.com

ROSE HILL CEMETERY:

Rose Hill Cemetery, located at 171 S. Mason-Montgomery Rd., was established in 1868. It is the largest of three cemeteries owned and operated by Deerfield Township. More than 1500 veterans who represent every national war are buried there along with their loved ones. William Mason, Revolutionary War Veteran and Founder of Mason is buried at Rose Hill.

UNION CEMETERY:

Union Cemetery can be found at the intersection of Montgomery and Union Cemetery roads. Originally privately owned, it became a public cemetery in 1861 and is one of three cemeteries managed by Symmes Township. There are 369 veteran gravesites at the cemetery. Born in 1757, the oldest veteran buried at Union Cemetery is Revolutionary War soldier John Ross (8th Co. 7th Battalion), who died in 1820.

Kemba Money Market

HIT THE ROAD WITH CONFIDENCE

specialized services for European and exotic automobiles and peace of mind for every journey.

As summer settles in, it’s important to keep your car serviced and updated before hitting the road for everyday travels, weekend road trips and vacations. We talked to Mason’s Üro Werks (formerly Prestige Auto Repair), the Cincinnati area’s premier independent European and Exotic car care specialists, about their pre-road trip service recommendations.

It’s helpful to start with a full vehicle inspection. Full vehicle inspections include checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid), tire pressure and tread, brakes, lights and battery. If your car is due for an oil change, make sure you schedule one before your trip. Clean oil ensures optimal engine performance, especially on long trips.

Tire checks help to identify signs of wear or damage and ensure that tires are properly inflated. Make sure to include the spare tire in your inspection. Brake inspections are recommended in order to check for wear and to ensure brake fluid is at the proper level.

Not all preparations are mechanical, however. It’s important to assemble an emergency kit with essentials such as a first-aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables and basic tools. Make sure your kit is easily accessible, as you’ll need to acquire it swiftly in case of an emergency.  Get

If it's a long-distance trip you’re taking, it’s important to remember post-trip services as well. Recommended post-trip services include a fluid level check, tire and brake inspection, interior cleaning and scheduled maintenance. Keeping up on scheduled maintenance is especially important, as you may need to address needs that have arisen during the trip, such as unusual noises or handling issues. When inspecting tires, watch for any signs of wear or damage, as it’s easy to roll over small sharp objects during long-distance highway driving.

All of this can be done at Üro Werks, but standard maintenance is only part of why customers seek out this specialized mechanic. “We are not just maintaining vehicles. We are ensuring peace of mind and reliability for every journey,” owner Jay Edwards explains.

Üro Werks specializes in servicing some of the world's most prestigious and high-performing brands, including Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Lamborghini, Bentley and more. Whether it's routine maintenance for your Mercedes-Benz, a performance upgrade for your Porsche or intricate repairs for your Audi, Üro Werks is equipped to handle it with precision and care. Their ASE Master Certified and factory trained technicians specialize in everything from complex diagnostic procedures to recommended preventative maintenance.

“You will be hard pressed to find someone who has more dedication for perfection or the wealth of knowledge of so many brands,” owner Jay says of his personal experience. “I am a Mercedes-Benz repair specialist. My entire career has been spent learning the workings of a dealership; the good, bad and the ugly."

Üro Werks recently underwent a rebrand from their previous name, Prestige. “The change from Prestige to Üro Werks reflects our passion for European and Exotic automotive excellence and our dedication to becoming the premier destination for luxury European and exotic car maintenance and repair,” Jay explains.

Üro Werks’ main objective is to perform high-quality automotive repairs while providing superior customer service; honest, accurate repairs, fixed right the first time. “We stand out due to our unwavering dedication to quality and customer service,” Jay tells us. “Our team of certified technicians uses state-of-the-art equipment and the latest techniques to ensure your vehicle receives the best care possible.”

Üro Werks

(513) 883-0504 | UroWerks.com

MASSAGE CHAIR EXCLUSIVE

This high-end massage chair isn’t like those chairs in the mall or salons, it’s like having a masseuse in your house! Custom designed by Dr. Berring, all the upgrades are included. Deeper tissue work from head to toe using gentle compression, rollers and more to work out the knots. Limited quantity available for purchase. Stop in the o ce and try it for yourself. You won’t regret it.

ARTICLE BY NAN PARASKEVOPOULOS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATHY LYONS–LYONS PHOTOGRAPHY

Farm to Market to Table

Farmers markets provide local, seasonal goods to the community.

As summer heats up, farmers markets become a hub of fresh produce, artisanal goods and community spirit. Two standout local markets are the Deerfield Farmers Market and the newly formed Mason Market on the Mile. Among the vendors, That Guy's Family Farm and Keever Creek Farms will provide residents with a taste of summer's bounty.

Guy and Sandy Ashmore have been mainstays of local farming for decades. They are well-known faces at the Deerfield Farmers Market, bringing along a variety of organic produce that highlights the best of each season.

Their commitment to organic farming means that everything they sell is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. This dedication ensures the health of their land and provides their customers with the freshest and most nutritious produce.

Guy explains, "We firmly believe that healthy soil leads to healthy plants, animals, people and ultimately to a healthy community."

The Deerfield Farmers Market is a beloved community event where families gather, neighbors catch up and everyone enjoys the best local products. In addition to That Guy's Family Farm, the market features diverse vendors offering everything from fresh flowers to homemade baked goods.

Guy reflects, "When we helped found the Deerfield Farmers Market 23 years ago, we were unsure where the journey would lead us. Our expectations have been overwhelmingly exceeded. Some have been coming from the beginning and now we see their children shopping."

The market's long-standing presence in the community is proof of its importance. It supports local agriculture, provides a venue for small businesses

and fosters a sense of community. Visitors can expect live music, food trucks and special events throughout the season, making it a perfect weekend outing.

The Mason Market on the Mile is the latest addition to the market scene. Located in the heart of Mason, this market promises to bring fresh, local produce and artisanal products to the community on July 19, August 9 and September 13 from 4-7 p.m.

Chris Heim, market organizer shares, "The market offers seasonal produce throughout spring and summer and into fall. There are also baked goods, homemade bread, spices, flowers, honey, fresh eggs, crafts and more! We have a wide assortment of vendors."

This new market is part of the Music in Mason concert series and was inspired by valuable feedback from the Make the Mile campaign. The City of Mason and the Mason-Deerfield Community Development Corporation aim to build on the success of nearby markets by offering a convenient evening option for those who can't make it to the morning markets.

CONTINUED >

"We firmly believe that healthy soil leads to healthy plants, animals, people and ultimately to a healthy community."

"I think there are many benefits to a farmers market, first and foremost that it’s a shop local event. Most of our vendors are from the greater Mason area, so by shopping at the market, it’s supporting local business," explains Chris.

Keever Creek Farms is one of the vendors joining the Mason Market on the Mile. Tim and Whitney Smith moved from Kansas City during the pandemic, seeking to be closer to family and to manage the family farm. They bring a deep connection and commitment to sustainable farming practices.

Tim shares, "Farming and gardening allow us to connect to the land and to the passion my father-in-law,

Marvin Duren, has for composting, good soil and growing for those in need. We love working with our hands, playing in the dirt and getting back to the basics of living off the land together."

Keever Creek Farms also operates a year-round roadside shop offering fresh eggs, seasonal produce, compost, topsoil, mulch, hay, sawmill services and firewood in the fall and winter.

Both the Deerfield Farmers Market and the Mason Market on the Mile offer a unique opportunity to explore the region's rich agricultural heritage. Shopping at these markets supports local farmers and ensures access to the freshest and most nutritious food.

Deerfield Farmers Market

• DeerfieldFarmersMarket.com

• Saturdays, May - October, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m

Mason Market on the Mile

• ImagineMason.org

• 7/19, 8/9, 9/13, 4 - 7 p.m.

Seasonal Offerings ThatGuysFamilyFarm.com

• Summer: Heirloom tomatoes, greens, cucumbers, zucchinis, bell peppers

• Fall: Pumpkins, winter squashes, root vegetables

KeeverCreekFarms.com

• Summer: Cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, potatoes, greens, eggplants, peppers, zucchini

• Fall: Butternut squash, delicata squash, sweet potatoes, pumpkins

events

JULY 3RD

Red, Rhythm and Boom 2024

Mason Municipal and Community Center Campus | 4:00 PM

Red, Rhythm and Boom festivities, held on the Mason Municipal and Community Center Campus, will feature alternative rock band, Sister Hazel, followed by a performance by the triple-platinum band, Spin Doctors. The event begins at 4 p.m. with carnival and kid zone activities. Enjoy a variety of food truck options and adult beverages. This event is free. Lawn seating is first come, first served. ImagineMason.org

JULY 14TH

Little Sounds of Deerfield - My Nose Turns Red

Kingswood Park - Community Pavilion | 10:00 AM

Deerfield Township and The Arts Alliance have partnered to bring Little Sounds of Deerfield, a free performing arts series for the little music lovers of the community. Join them on July 14 at the community pavilion of Kingswood Park for the musical stylings of My Nose Turns Red. Please bring your own blankets, lawn chairs, drinks and snacks. DeerfieldOh.MyRec.com

JULY 14TH

Maya's Game Night

16 Lots Brewing Company | 5:00 PM

Join the Live Like Maya Foundation at 16 Lots Brewing Company for their 6th Annual Family Game Night on July 14th! Proceeds benefit a brain cancer research initiative at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. This year's special honoree is Wyatt Reber, a pediatric brain cancer survivor. Enjoy a few rounds of Disney trivia, bingo, prizes, raffles and silent auction items. LiveLikeMaya.org

JULY 18TH

Shakespeare in the Park

Cottell Park - Grass Loop | 7:00 PM

Deerfield Township and The Arts Alliance have partnered to bring a performing arts series to Cottell Park on July 18 at 7 p.m. The Cincinnati Shakespeare Company will present Hamlet, featuring a stunning ensemble cast directed by Candice Handy. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs and snacks to this free community event. For more information visit CincyShakes.com

JULY 19TH

Movies in the Park: Elemental

Cottell Park- Grass Loop | 8:00 PM

Enjoy a free outdoor showing of Disney’s Elemental at Cottell Park on July 19. Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets as well as snacks. Fun, Elemental-themed games and crafts will be offered before the movie at 8 p.m. Find out more information at DeerfieldOh.MyRec.com

JULY 20TH & 26TH

Abe’s Lincoln

Performances

Bicentennial Park-Lebanon/Fretboard Factory 52

Abe’s Lincoln, a feel-good 80s/90s pop-rock cover band based in the Mason Deerfield area, is quickly gaining popularity across Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Catch one of their exciting upcoming shows at the Lebanon Pride Festival on July 20 at 2 p.m. or at Fretboard Factory 52 on July 26 at 6 p.m. Find their full schedule on Facebook @AbesLincolnOfficial or at AbesLincoln.com.

Immediate Benefits:

• Increase stamina and energy to perform your best in any physical activity.

• Be mentally alert and focused on meeting your fitness or athletic goals.

• Strengthen muscles before and after intense physical activity.

• Recover your energy levels naturally and bounce back from complete exhaustion.

NEW HOURS: MON - FRI: 9AM-7PM SAT: 9AM-5PM SUN: 11AM-4PM

USING THESE TIPS YOU CAN MAKE A DELICIOUS HOMEMADE BARBECUE SAUCE.

A good barbecue sauce is comprised of a variety of the same six components. The key is to discover what style you enjoy most, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Oh, and taste often during the preparation process to adjust if so desired.

SOMETHING SWEET

This can be honey, cola, molasses, preserves, brown sugar, or syrup. This caramelizes as you cook, bringing those smoky, sugary flavors.

SOMETHING TANGY

Think vinegar, mustard, or citrus. This is what brings the zing to your sauce.

SOMETHING SPICY

This provides your heat: a hot sauce is a great choice. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1/2 teaspoon for every cup of sauce you’re making.

SOMETHING LIQUID

It can be beer, water, chicken stock, soda, or wine. Start with about 1/2 a cup and see what happens.

SOMETHING TOMATO

You’ll most likely use ketchup, but you can also use tomato paste.

THE SPICE COMBINATION

This can depend on your liking and taste and can include anything from onion powder to garlic powder to chili powder to allspice to cayenne pepper to mustard powder to liquid smoke to cumin to Worcestershire sauce and more. Start with a teaspoon of salt, and keep tasting as you experiment with your desired spices.

HOMEMADE

BBQ SAUCE

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups ketchup

• 1 cup water

• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

• 5 tablespoons brown sugar

• 5 tablespoons sugar

• 1/2 tablespoon  black pepper

• 1/2 tablespoon onion powder

• 1/2 tablespoon ground mustard

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

DIRECTIONS

In a medium saucepan, combine all ingredients. Bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat to simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 1 hour 15 minutes.

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2023

Realtor® of the Year/Sales

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Stunning home on the 17th hole of Four Bridges Golf Course. Great hardwood floors throughout the 1st level. Family room with custom built-ins, fireplace and a wall of windows with golf course views. Remodeled kitchen with quartz counters, new cabinets and stainless appliances. Primary suite Includes fireplace and a luxurious bathroom. Finished lower level complete with a bar, theater space and guest room. Enjoy a quick golf cart ride to the clubhouse.

Spacious ranch with an abundance of modern updates and features. Updated kitchen with stainless appliances, and quartz counter tops. LVP flooring in the foyer and dining room. Freshly painted interior (2024). Walkout lower level, featuring a convenient second kitchen and two flexible rooms. Recently updated with new furnace in 2021, new A/C in 2023. Outdoors features deck with a charming pergola, overlooking the fenced yard.

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— Barb & Ted Sheets