Issuu

AU G U S T 2 02 1

All Creatures, Great and Small

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

AUGUST 2021 PUBLISHER

Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@lifestylepubs.com

EDITOR

Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@lifestylepubs.com

Hands-On Learning PEOPLE OFTEN ASK ME, “HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THE MAGAZINE BUSINESS?” Many are surprised to hear that it all started more than 15 years ago in the classroom. It was working with my fellow “Sparkies” at Lakota East High School on the student-run and nationally-renowned Spark newsmagazine that opened up my eyes to the different facets of publishing a magazine. Writing was not a natural strength

AD DESIGNER

Miranda Read L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dana Rudolph CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Karen Andrea, Kaelyn Rodrigues, Laura M. Leavitt, Jonathan Stout CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

April Sova—Remember When Portraits, Jenna Beers—Photography by Jenna

of mine, so I gravitated towards the business side of the magazine and that is where I found my calling. I was 16 years old overseeing a $30,000+ budget, selling ad space to local businesses, while also carefully planning the layout of each issue with the Chief Editors. I am almost certain, that without this incredibly challenging and rewarding hands-on learning experience, I would not be here today as the local owner and publisher of Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle. With the start of the school year and each August issue, I’m reminded of my time with Spark, as well as our advisor, my friends and the organizations that played a role in shaping my future.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

Here in Mason, students are blessed to have so many opportunities to explore

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

their talents and passions with a supportive community around them. We hope

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

this issue inspires you to celebrate and get involved in helping expand the hori-

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

zons of our local youth.

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Mark Andrea, Publisher

ON THE COVER Mason High

Mark.Andrea@LifestylePubs.com

School HOPE Squad returning members Kaya Rossey,

Audrey Glaser, Yana Parker,

Anna Gogul, Sydney Minick

SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

and Nikith Vangala with faculty advisor Alex Beurket and MHS therapy dog, Hibbs.

CityLifestyle.com/MasonandDeerfield

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA BEERS. 4

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | August 2021

Proverbs 3:5-6 Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Mason and Deerfield area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

N A C E V I L U O Y E V E I R L WHE E HOW YOU G N A H C At Mason Assisted Living & Memory Care, we help residents create a story that’s as unique as they are, finding happiness and the ability to Age fearlessly, live colorfully.® See for yourself by scheduling a tour.

INSIDE THE ISSUE AUGUST 2021

FEATURES 20 Goodnight, Sweet Dreams Local community groups partner to make sure every child has a bed of their own.

24 Let the Students Lead MCS’ HOPE Squad and BRAVE Ambassador program address mental health and promote student leadership.

28 Empowered to Succeed Author Terrance Bacchus coaches young people on the keys to financial literacy.

34 Introducing the Northern Cincinnati Foundation How the Community Foundation of

20 28

West Chester/Liberty is expanding their reach and impact.

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Local Experiences

20 Giving Back 24 Hometown Hero 28 Financial Buzz 30 Healthy Lifestyle 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Inspired By

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GOOD TIMES

Dragonfly Foundation Grand Gala The Dragonfly Grand Gala, presented by Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, welcomed donors, supporters, volunteers and Dragonfly families for the first major fundraiser in over a year. Entertainment included artists, stilt walkers, a silent auction and photo booth. More than $285,000 was raised, supporting Dragonfly’s programs for pediatric cancer patients and their families. Dragonfly.org PHOTOGRAPHY BY MCGINGER SNAPS PHOTOGRAPHY; HARTONG DIGITAL MEDIA

Love like JJ 5K The Love Like JJ Foundation 5K was held on June 12 at Corwin Nixon Park, with 757 in-person and virtual participants. More than $21,000 was raised and funds will be donated to BB4K, JDRF, Joshua’s Place and St. Jude's Children’s Hospital. Sponsors included Prasco Park, Fleet Feet, Cincinnati United, Genesis Engineering, Boxfull and Norwood Chiropractic. LoveLikeJJ.org PHOTOGRAPHY BY LITTLE RASCALS PHOTOGRAPHY

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | August 2021

The Jewish Hospital — Mercy Health Expert care close to home

MEET

DR. MATTHEW VAJEN “As a general otolaryngologist, I treat a wide variety of issues ranging from sinusitis and nasal obstruction to voice disorders and tumors of the head and neck. I have developed a special interest in treating dizziness and imbalance. My practice welcomes both children and adults. I look forward to helping you.”

(6-21)

From a runny nose to cancer, our ENT’s have you covered. Our otolaryngologists (ear, nose and throat doctors) evaluate and provide comprehensive medical and surgical care to patients with problems that affect the ears, nose, tonsils, sinus cavities and related areas of the head and neck. Our team of highly skilled doctors can help you get relief.

Go to mercy.com/TheJewishHospital to learn more. Call 513-936-0500 to schedule an appointment. Mercy Health — Ear, Nose and Throat, Deerfield 5075 Parkway Drive, Suite 101 Mason, OH 45040 513-936-0500

GOOD TIMES

Anthony Muñoz Foundation 20th Annual Hall of Fame Experience The Anthony Muñoz Foundation hosted its 20th Annual Hall of Fame Experience June 13-14. The event convened 380 local partners, 170 golfers, 120 volunteers, five Pro Football Hall of Famers and dozens of local celebrities. More than $380,000 was raised for Impact Programs, and $428,000 in scholarships were awarded at the Hall of Fame Dinner. MunozFoundation.org

Mason Deerfield Rotary Club Charity Golf Classic The Mason Deerfield Rotary Club's annual day of fun and fundraising was held at Four Bridges Country Club in Liberty Township on June 22. Blue Ash Industrial Supply served as title sponsor and all volunteers, sponsors and players made the event a huge success. Funds raised will help the club serve the community. Mason-DeerfieldRotary.org

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | August 2021

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GOOD TIMES

Horter Investments and Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle Happy Hour Horter Investments hosted a summer happy hour and open house with Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle at their beautiful home office in June. The event featured drinks, delectable bites from Tony's of Cincinnati, Manor House Event Center and Crumbs Cookie Company, door prizes and an appearance from the longtime voice of the Reds, Marty Brennaman. HorterInvestment.com PHOTOGRAPHY BY HONEY LIT MOMENTS

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | August 2021

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AROUND TOWN Albany's Ben Belinko. "It was quite a finish to a great season," Mason tennis coach Mike Reid says. "We thought the season might come down to Eric at the end. I tried to inspire him in practice. I think he got the message. He played a pretty inspiring match." GoMasonComets.com

COMING SOON: MASON SCHOOLS FOUNDATION ANNUAL GALA The Mason Schools Foundation (MSF) Annual Gala is back in person for 2021 at the Manor House Event Center on October 30 from 6-11:00 p.m. This is a great opportunity to help fundraise, connect with friends and make a positive impact for the community.

MHS STUDENT WINS OVERTURE AWARDS THEATER CATEGORY

Supporters of MSF help provide the ability to continue Above & Beyond enrichment of education opportunities for the entire district. Fundraising

Mason High School (MHS) senior Claire Northcut

events like the gala, provide the necessary funds

is the winner of the 2021 Overture Awards theater

for MSF to invest in a variety of grants proposed

category. Claire has been a familiar face on Mason

by educators. These grants are reviewed by a dedi-

stages since she began performing at six years old.

cated committee to evaluate impact and feasibility.

The Overture Awards are the region’s largest solo

Those with a student in the district have likely had

arts competition, which recognizes, encourages

their educational journey enriched by one of these

and rewards excellence in the arts among Greater

approved grants. Last year, MSF covered the pro-

Cincinnati students (grades 9-12). Its mission is

duction costs for The Chronicle when advertising

to encourage arts education as an integral part

revenue fell short, and funded the Comet Cafe

of a student’s academic experience and to create

Cart, providing the nutrition staff another way to

an environment that encourages training in, and

distribute food at a distance. MSF also funded

appreciation of, the arts. CincinnatiArts.org

safe mental health spaces in each of the district’s buildings. Check the website for more details on grants and information about the annual gala. MasonSchoolsFoundation.org

GREATER CINCINNATI SCORE AND MADE CHAMBER FORM PARTNERSHIP Greater Cincinnati SCORE and the Mason Deerfield Chamber of Commerce (MADE) recently formed a partnership to help local startups and small businesses. SCORE helps small business owners by providing free, one-on-one or team counseling, matching small business owners to a counselor with relevant experience. They offer workshops for creating business plans, navigating legal issues, budgeting, marketing and much more.

MASON BOYS TENNIS TEAM WINS THIRD STRAIGHT OTCA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

Those looking for a way to stay connected to the community and share their business experience are also encouraged to serve as volunteer mentors with Greater Cincinnati SCORE. By lending their prosper-

The Mason Tennis dynasty continued with

ous and diverse backgrounds, these volunteers ensure

their third consecutive Ohio Tennis Coaches

the success of small businesses in the community.

Association (OTCA) State Championship. For the

SCORE volunteers provide counseling, coordinate

Comets, the day came down to one match against

workshops and connect small business owners with

New Albany featuring senior Eric Tang and New

CONTINUED >

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | August 2021

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AROUND TOWN the resources they need. In 2019, SCORE volunteers mentored 1,100 greater Cincinnati small businesses and helped open 193 new small businesses. MADE Chamber members who would like to benefit from SCORE’s resources can contact the SCORE counselor-in-residence Ed Barkley

ed.barkley@scorevolunteer.org.

ChooseDeerfield.com

I grew up in the southeast corner of Michigan. My parents both worked just across the state line in Toledo. In the post-World War II years Toledo, like many cities was growing. What had been farmland became roads and houses and ultimately shopping centers. Miracle Mile was Toledo’s most ambitious effort and, opening in October of 1955 it quickly became the darling shopping venue for the city. Miracle Mile was my mom’s primary shopping target. She bought most of our clothes at the JC Penny store. There was a Kroger, a Woolworth’s, and a children’s shoe store with a small squirrel monkey in a cage. And if we behaved while shopping, Mom would take us to the Hobby Center. My brothers and I would peer through the glass case at the fancy cardboard Matchbox Toys display and select which of the 75 assorted Matchbox treasures we would take home for our collections. For a kid in the 1960s it really was kind of like a miracle! It may come as a surprise, but something very akin to miracle often unfolds for people at our dental office. We’ve seen and heard stories involving pain, embarrassment and a lack of proper function. We’ve painted pictures of potential solutions and ultimately we discover followable paths that result in health, function and beauty. Please know that we’ve got time for your story, and, if you behave, I’ll take you on a personal tour of my Matchbox Toys collection!

MASON CITY SCHOOLS BOARD EXTENDS SUPERINTENDENT CONTRACT The Mason City Schools (MCS) Board of Education unanimously approved a new contract for Superintendent Jonathan Cooper in June ensuring that he will continue to lead the high-performing district through the 2025-2026 school year. “Over the course of his first three years as Superintendent, Jonathan has demonstrated a relentless commitment to building meaningful relationships and inspiring innovation throughout the MCS community,” says Charles Galvin, MCS Board President. Jonathan shares, "I can’t wait to see what we will all accomplish together during the next chapter of our Comet Story." MasonOhioSchools.com

LOCAL WOMAN PUBLISHES BOOK TO HELP END MENTAL ILLNESS STIGMA Emma Thomas of Deerfield Township recently published the book, Live for Me, to help end the stigma of mental illness. Emma was diagnosed with ADHD and depression in her teens. In college, she had her first manic episode and was diagnosed

GREGORY P. DAVIS | D.D.S. (513) 459 -1377 Gregor yDavisDDS.com 4834 Socialville-Foster Rd, Mason, OH

with Bipolar II. Emma worked for years to cover up her diagnosis due to mental illness stigma. Her book tells the story of two struggling people whose worlds collide, taking them on a roller coaster of good times and bad. Available on Amazon.com and at Barnes & Noble. AuthorEmmaThomas.com.

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | August 2021

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CityLifestyle.com/MasonandDeerfield

LOCAL EXPERIENCES

KIDS + PETS WHILE IT’S NOT OVER YET, SUMMER IS SOON COMING TO AN END AND WHAT BETTER WAY TO BID ADIEU THAN TO SPEND TIME WITH FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND OUR FAVORITE FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS! Embrace the end of the season by gathering the kids, dogs, and adults alike for some indoor and outdoor recreation and exploration, and pet-friendly destinations that embrace our furry friends.

KIDS AT PLAY

Tanner Pearson

+ Mason's inclusive Makino Park includes Common Ground Playground, FCC Field mini pitch soccer, a shelter area for gathering and restrooms designed for all visitors. 6100 Kopfler Ct, Mason + Kings Island features more than 100 rides, shows and attractions, including 15 roller coasters. Kids love Planet Snoopy and 33-acre Soak City Water Park. 6300 Kings Island Dr, Mason + At Great Wolf Lodge kids can swim and slide, then head into the adventure park. Enjoy bowling, arcade games, mini golf, MagiQuest and more. 2501 Great Wolf Dr, Mason + The Mason Municipal Aquatic Center hosts several fun events in August. Enjoy a Dive-In Movie (Aug. 5), Sunrise Yoga (Aug. 6) and Teen Night (Aug. 10). 6249 Mason Montgomery Rd, Mason + Tucker's Whippy Dip is a summer staple. Drive through or grab a cone and take a stroll through downtown Mason with friends or family. 127 E Main St, Mason, OH 45040 18

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | August 2021

scan for more city-wide tips

PET-FRIENDLY EXPERIENCES + Lucky Dog Grille is pet friendly on their patio every day. Pups are welcomed with water bowls, treats, a dog menu and frozen yogurt. 729 Reading Rd, Mason + Kingswood Park features peaceful walking trails, towering trees and wide open spaces. Walk your furry friend, while enjoying the Farmer's Market and native gardens. 4188 Irwin Simpson Road, Deerfield Township + Brewhaus Dog Bones uses grains from Mason breweries to create delicious dog treats. Young adults with disabilities hone their skills at the Madeira-based bakery. 6927 Miami Ave, Madeira + Wags and Whiskers is a family-owned pet groomer in downtown Mason. Grooming, baths, teeth brushing, nail trims and more available for dogs and cats. 306 4th Ave, Mason + Common Beer Company is a great neighborhood gathering space for people

April Sova— Remember When Portraits

scan for more city-wide tips

and pups alike. They have a dog-friendly patio and sell Brewhaus Dog Bones. 126 E Main St, Mason

CityLifestyle.com/MasonandDeerfield

GIVING BACK

G O ODN IGH T, SWEET DR E A M S

LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS PARTNER TO MAKE SURE EVERY CHILD HAS A BED OF THEIR OWN.

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | August 2021

ARTICLE KAREN ANDREA PHOTOGRAPHY MARK ANDREA & PROVIDED

THERE ARE FEW THINGS IN LIFE MORE COMFORT-

of ownership. Lots of these kids haven’t had anything to

ING THAN A COZY BED TO REST IN AT THE END OF

call their own and now this bed is theirs.”

THE DAY. We might even take such a simple pleasure

Even though they were shut down for most of 2020,

for granted. But for many children, a bed of their own is

the Lebanon/Warren County chapter of SHP has

a luxury, and bedtime instead finds them on the floor, a

enlisted 450 volunteers who have built more than 150

couch or crowded into one bed with other siblings.

beds in less than two years.

“No kid sleeps on the floor in my town” is the motto

“We are not only providing a needed service to the

and motivation for Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP), a

community, but we are also providing people a way they

nonprofit founded in 2012 by Luke and Heidi Mickelson

can help others. The community coming together is

in Twin Falls, Idaho. When Luke discovered there were

amazing,” Greg states.

children from his church sleeping on the floor, he real-

This past May, the community came together for one

ized this was a need he could do something about.

of the largest local builds to date. The Mason Deerfield

Today, more than 35,000 beds have been built by 260

and Lebanon Rotary clubs partnered with Sinclair

SHP chapters across the United States.

Community College—Mason to sponsor a build.

In 2019, the Lebanon/Warren County chapter of SHP

Mason Deerfield Rotary Community Service Chair,

was started by local resident and current president of the

Julie Ilg explains, “Rotary is always looking for ways to

chapter, Greg Davis. After a presentation about SHP at his

help people in our own backyard. It was a great commu-

Lebanon Rotary club, Greg helped the Butler County SHP

nity partnership. The two Rotary clubs funded the sup-

chapter with a bed delivery. He shares, “At the time I was

plies and Sinclair provided space for volunteers to build.”

looking for something that would make an impact in the

Julie continues, “This was our first build. After COVID-

community. I never knew there was bedlessness. I real-

19 stalled our plans, we realized it would be safe to

ized this was something that was tugging at my heart.”

work outside this past spring. It was a great experience.

“There are lots of food and clothing drives, but nobody really thinks about kids who don’t have beds,” Greg adds.

Everyone loved the purpose and being together in person for our first service project in over a year.”

“Beds are a luxury for some families. Not only are we giv-

Typically, a group sponsors a build day by providing

ing these kids a bed, but we are also giving them a sense

the funds for the supplies, a space to build and most of

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MasonandDeerfield

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED) SLEEP IN HEAVENLY PEACE, LEBANON/WARREN COUNTY CHAPTER 844.432.2337x5948 | SHPBeds.org MASON DEERFIELD ROTARY CLUB, OHIO Mason-DeerfieldRotary.org

online themselves. In addition to their own new bed, each child receives a new mattress, pillow and all new bedding. “The bed deliveries are very emotional experiences,” Greg shares. “The kids are so excited and the parents are so appreciative.” the volunteers. The local chapter of SHP is com-

Greg notes, “We are losing our storage

pletely portable and brings everything needed,

warehouse soon and we could use a larger

including the tools and training. An all volun-

warehouse to build inside all year long. Since

teer, experienced core team directs each of the

we are a completely volunteer organization, the

work stations, so no experience is needed and

community can help us with build and delivery

‘non-builders’ are welcome.

days, making monetary donations online or

After Lowe’s delivers the wood, volunteers are

“Our Rotary was drawn to this project

holes and sand the pieces. The wood is stained

because of what it provides for families in our

and branded with the SHP logo. All the pieces

local community,” Julie reflects. “There are chil-

needed to make the beds are built, but not

dren who need a bed of their own and we can

assembled, for easier storage.

help. The motto at Sinclair is, ‘find the need,

A bed delivery is scheduled after a request is made and approved. Recipients may be referred by local social service agencies or can apply

sponsoring a bedding drive.”

grouped in work stations to measure, cut, drill

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | August 2021

and then endeavor to meet it.’” Each bed built means one more child can sleep in heavenly peace.

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HOMETOWN HERO

let the students lead ARTICLE KAELYN RODRIGUES | PHOTOGRAPHY JENNA BEERS—PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA & PROVIDED

MHS Hope Squad returning members with Faculty Advisor, Alex Beurket and Therapy Dog, Hibbs.

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | August 2021

MASON CITY SCHOOLS’ HOPE SQUAD AND BRAVE AMBASSADOR PROGRAMS RAISE AWARENESS FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND LIFT VOICES OF STUDENT LEADERSHIP.

IN 2017, MASON CITY SCHOOLS (MCS) STUDENTS BEGAN RECOGNIZING THE MENTAL HEALTH CRISES THEIR PEERS WERE FACING AND BROUGHT IT TO THE ATTENTION OF THEIR SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS. The MCS administration was quick to take action, implementing a series of directives focused on equipping students with resources and support and raising awareness for

more likely to reach out to a peer for help rather than

mental health throughout the district.

a teacher, counselor or other trusted adult. That’s why

The following year, a chapter of the Utah-based

the HOPE Squad program has been introduced in more

peer-to-peer suicide prevention program, HOPE

than 1,000 schools across the continent. It allows stu-

Squad, was established at Mason High School

dents to talk to their peers about struggles they may be

(MHS). The mission of the program is to “create a

facing in a casual setting that may feel less intimidating.

safe space for members to listen and refer peers to

Although MCS has a plethora of counselors and

help” while “breaking down the stigma around men-

mental health resources available for students (and

tal health,” according to HOPE Squad member and

HOPE Squad members acknowledge that they are not

rising MHS senior, Kaya Rossey.

alternatives to professional help), the student advo-

MHS Advanced Placement (AP) Psychology teacher

cates have an advantage that staff members do not.

and HOPE Squad advisor, Alex Beurket, says that when

HOPE Squad members can see their peers’ activity on

students are facing a mental health crisis, they are

social media, where students may post more personal content for their friends to see. HOPE Squad members are first nominated by their peers to the program before they undergo training. It teaches them to listen to other students and refer them to other resources when needed. HOPE Squad services are available as a comforting first step students can take to feel heard and then be directed to professional help. This year, the HOPE Squad also welcomed a different kind of member: Hibbs, MHS’ new therapy dog, who Alex hosts. “Hibbs has been great for our students,” Alex says. “He’s a source of calm and relaxation when he comes into classrooms to hang out with the kids.” In discussions about health, Alex says the conversation is often divided into mental, physical, and emotional aspects without considering how they

Kaya Rossey, Yana Parker, Eliava Li, Estelle Apewokin, Anna Gogul, Gabby Affatato, Ella Hardesty, Donovan Brown, Ryan Howard, Sydney Minick, Nikith Vangala, Sydney Vargo, Audrey Glaser

impact each other. “We’re one body, one system, and everything we do impacts our health— everything is interconnected. We try to talk with our members about the CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MasonandDeerfield

HOMETOWN HERO (CONTINUED)

importance of being healthy, setting boundaries, practicing self care and doing things that actively make them healthier,” he explains. Kaya, who is also an advocate for mental health outside of HOPE Squad, says that she wants her generation to be the last to experience a stigma around mental health. “I want to acknowledge the difficult, uncomfortable aspects of mental illness that can leave people feeling Students at the BRAVE Ambassadors end-of-year celebration at Pine Hill Lakes Park, where they cleaned up trash.

isolated, so we as young people can work to end the stigma,” Kaya says. Another program working to lift the voices of MCS students is the Building Relationships And Valuing Experiences (BRAVE) Ambassador program. Alicea Wortham, a 4th grade English as a second language (ESL) teacher at Mason Elementary School, serves as the Building Leader of the BRAVE program. Alicea says the mission of the program is “to provide space for young learners to take on leadership roles and proactively integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion into our school and our community.” As ambassadors for the BRAVE program, 3rd and 4th grade students are encouraged to put their own ideas into action by forming committees. The committees meet regularly so the ambassadors can collaborate and plan activities. Fifteen Mason Elementary staff members also volunteered their time and helped facilitate the work of the committee groups. Through

Staff facilitator from the Student Focus committee, Missy Mecum, standing with one of the BRAVE student ambassadors at their park celebration.

their projects, the ambassadors have impacted not only their school, but the Mason community as well— and all during a pandemic. “They have spread inspiring messages to the student body and personalized tokens of appreciation for our students and staff members,” Alicea says. “Beyond that, our committees have worked on projects that shine a light on our essential care workers, spread kindness to elders in the community, provide care packages to the homeless, and help keep our area parks clean.” Alicea says being a facilitator for a student-led program has been a dream of hers for years. “Sometimes, we as adults have to step aside and

Student Kindness Committee members placed bookmarks of encouragement on lockers. This committee was facilitated by Becky Roussos and Patty Quill.

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | August 2021

listen to the thoughts, ideas, passions and concerns our children have about the world around them,” Alicea says. “When we give them an opportunity to act on it, the end result is something quite beautiful.” MasonOhioSchools.com

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FINANCIAL BUZZ Terrance Bacchus

ARTICLE JONATHAN STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY APRIL SOVA— REMEMBER WHEN PORTRAITS

Empowered to Succeed AUTHOR TERRANCE BACCHUS COACHES YOUNG PEOPLE ON THE KEYS TO FINANCIAL LITERACY.

AUTHOR TERRANCE BACCHUS GREW UP IN A LOWINCOME NEIGHBORHOOD OF BOSTON, WITHOUT MANY POSITIVE ROLE MODELS OF SUCCESS. “I didn’t see many of my peers go to college and earn a degree,” Terrance explains. Determined to build a different life for himself, he proceeded to become a first generation college graduate from Bentley University. From there, he began working in the Consumer Food Sales department of General Mills, where he remained for 29 years. During this time, he received many relocation opportunities, but eventually accepted the offer to move to Cincinnati. He and his family relocated to Mason in 2002 and fell in love with the community. His two daughters have since graduated from Mason City Schools (MCS), but Terrance made sure to be active with the school during their attendance, serving on the MCS Diversity Council. “I’ve always thought it was important to have a presence in the community as an African American representative,” Terrance explains.

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | August 2021

For more information about Terrance’s book and coaching services, visit TerranceBacchus.com

Terrance Bacchus

In 2020, Terrance wanted to give back to the Black

HOW WOULD YOU COACH A YOUNG

community after achieving personal success and

PERSON WHO SHOWS INTEREST IN

wrote the book, Financially Empowered: Achieving

INCREASING THEIR SAVINGS?

Success Through Sacrifice.

The first thing I do is try to understand their back-

We sat down with Terrance recently to talk to him

ground, to find the appropriate individualized approach.

about his book and learn about his perspectives on

In general, I’d advise building up an emergency fund

the importance of financial education and empow-

with at least 6 months worth of pay. Then max out

erment for young people.

your 401K, start an IRA, and pay off any debts. If you start to build up disposable income by that point, then

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WRITE YOUR BOOK? I didn’t have many role models from the Black com-

you can feel comfortable buying stocks. The order of investment is very important.

munity when I was younger. I didn’t think it was possible for me to live the life I’m living now in Mason. A lot of

YOU LAUNCHED YOUR OWN COMPANY,

people I grew up with live paycheck to paycheck and it’s

BACCHUS EMPOWERED COACHING, IN 2020.

mainly because they don’t have anyone coaching them

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER?

on how to succeed. My story isn’t necessarily unique,

My goal is to speak to young people, particularly

but I thought it could serve as an inspiration to motivate

in college, because those are the people who have

people of color who may not think that they can over-

shown specific initiative to better themselves and

come the obstacles necessary to be successful.

get an education. I want to reach them before they enter the workforce to tell them that when they get

WHY DO YOU THINK IT’S IMPORTANT FOR YOUNG

hired, they need to take advantage of the 401K if it’s

PEOPLE TO FEEL FINANCIALLY EMPOWERED?

offered or they need to start investing.

Due to the huge wage gap in our country, people of color need to find a way to build generational wealth.

WHAT WORDS OF MOTIVATION WOULD

What I wanted to do was put my children on an even

YOU GIVE TO A YOUNG PERSON, WHO COMES

playing field with their peers. I think it’s very important

FROM A SIMILAR BACKGROUND AS YOURSELF,

that our culture strives for this moving forward.

WHO MAY FEEL DISCOURAGED WITH THEIR ECONOMIC STATUS AND HOW IT RELATES TO

DO YOU THINK THAT FINANCIAL LITERACY OR INVESTMENT CLASSES SHOULD BE A PART OF

THEIR FUTURE? You have to have a mindset of success. Success and

THE CURRICULUM AT THE HIGH SCHOOL LEVEL?

fulfillment are not gifts to be given, but rather accom-

Yes, I believe it should be included at every high

plishments that must be earned. Surround yourself

school. A lot of schools just don’t spend time talking

only with positive people who are focused on growing

about building wealth.

their lives. And finally, you’ve got to dream big.

A lot of schools just don’t spend t i m e ta l k i n g a b o u t b u i l d i n g w e a lt h . CityLifestyle.com/MasonandDeerfield

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

ARTICLE JENNIFER ANDERSON MSPH RDN

TE AC H I N G YO U R K I D S TO E AT H E A LTH Y

AS PARENTS, ONE OF OUR BIGGEST PRIORITIES

IS ENSURING THAT OUR KIDS ARE GETTING THE NUTRIENTS THEY NEED. But getting them to eat their

fruits and vegetables isn’t always easy, especially if your kids are picky eaters like many seem to be.

Let’s talk about the benefits of introducing healthy

food to your kids at an early age. Read on to find helpful information about feeding picky eaters.

3 T I P S F O R G E T T I N G YO U R K I D S TO E AT H E A LT H Y F O O D S Real Easy

MAKE SNACKS AND MEALTIME FUN

Weekdays

We all know that kids like to play and have fun, so why not make food fun? Whether you’re turning broccoli into a microphone at dinner, or playing tic-tac-toe with edible carrot sticks, kids get into it. DON’T GIVE UP Parents often assume that if a child doesn’t eat a food the first or second time it’s served, the child doesn’t like the food. Many children may

Meal Plan

G R E E K YO G U R T RANCH DIP This goes great with raw veggies like celery,

need to see or taste a food 10 or 20 times before they are willing to eat it.

carrots, broccoli, snap peas, cauliflower, or any

FORCING HEALTHY FOODS ON KIDS OFTEN BACKFIRES

great with whole-grain crackers and pita chips!

veggie your kids might like raw. It also goes

Often, making a child eat food or eat a certain amount of food backfires. It may backfire in the short run by making a child more

INGREDIENTS

selective and less likely to eat the foods you want them to eat.

+ ½ cup full-fat Greek yogurt + ½ to 1 Tablespoon of Trader Joe’s Onion

S TA R T H E A LT H Y H A B I T S E A R LY

Salt (alternatives include Ranch dressing mix, onion salt, or a combination of onion powder and garlic powder)

The key takeaway here is to introduce healthy foods to your child at an early age. Be patient with your pickiest of eaters, and re-intro-

METHOD

duce a food several times. Stick with it; their long-term health habits

1. Mix Greek yogurt with seasoning. Serve.

depend on it! 30

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | August 2021

Patient Success Story

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Regenerative Medicine Seminars August 25 at 6:00 pm

Call 513-390-0778 to learn more and reserve your spot for an upcoming Regenerative Medicine Seminar!

R E G E N E R AT I V E M E D I C I N E

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CityLifestyle.com/MasonandDeerfield

AUGUST

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

DUE TO EVOLVING COVID-19 CONDITIONS, PLEASE CHECK EVENT WEBSITES OR CALL ORGANIZERS FOR THE MOST UPTO-DATE INFORMATION.

research to eradicate childhood can-

be held at Mason Community Center

cer. The fest is held at Cottell Park

on August 19 from 10:30-11:45 a.m.

from 1-5 p.m. DeerfieldRec.com

ImagineMason.org

14-22

WESTERN & SOUTHERN OPEN

MOVIES IN THE PARK

Lindner Family Tennis Center

Cottell Park-Grass Loop

DIVE-IN FAMILY MOVIE

The Western & Southern Open is

Bring blankets and chairs and enjoy a

Mason Municipal Aquatic Center

back on its home courts for 2021 at

movie under the stars with Deerfield

Visit the Mason Municipal Aquatic

the Lindner Family Tennis Center in

Township's Movies in the Park. Movies

Center on August 5 for a family-friendly

Mason on August 14-22. Tickets will

begin at dark, around 9 p.m. The

Dive-in Movie at 8 p.m. Relax and float

be fully digital this year through the

August 27 movie is The Adventures of

while enjoying The Little Mermaid. The

Western & Southern app, and the

Rufus: The Fantastic Pet. Arrive early

pool is heated, but you can also watch

event will take place at full spectator

to paint pottery at Snyder House

the film from the pool deck. Feel free

capacity. For more information and to

from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Pottery prices

to bring towels or blankets to sit on.

purchase tickets, visit: WSOpen.com.

start at $9. For more information,

Inner tubes and drinks will be provided for guests. ImagineMason.org.

5, 6, 7, 13, 14

visit: DeerfieldRec.com.

SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK Cottell Park-Grass Loop

BB4K BUBBLE BLAST 4K

MUSIC IN MASON

Deerfield Township and The Arts

Mason Golf Center

Alliance have partnered to bring the

Run, walk, roll and play in the bub-

Music in Mason continues with five

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company to

bles with Building Blocks for Kids.

final dates at the Mason Golf Center.

Cottell Park on August 19 as part of

Join BB4K at Corwin Nixon Park for

All events begin at 6 p.m. Pat Riley

their free community Performing Arts

bubble pits, food, music, superheroes,

performs on August 5, Low County

Series. The Cincinnati Shakespeare

princesses, games and a 4K. The

Boil returns on August 6, Jim Teepen

Company will present a full length

fun begins at 8:30 a.m. with the 4K

plays on August 7, Kay Dee re-joins

production

beginning at 10:30 a.m. Register

the fun on August 13 and Katie

Midsummer Night's Dream. Bring your

before August 10 for early bird pricing.

Pritchard offers signer-songwriter

blankets and beverages (non-alco-

For more information and to register,

sounds on August 14. For more infor-

holic) to enjoy the performance start-

visit: BB4K.org/BubbleBlast.

mation, visit: ImagineMason.org.

ing at 7:00 p.m. DeerfieldRec.com

KIDCHELLA FAMILY MUSIC FESTIVAL

LIVING WITH ALZHEIMER'S SERIES

Shakespeare's

Corwin Nixon Park

28 POWDER KEG 5K TRAIL RUN Carter Park

Mason Community Center

The Powder Keg 5K Trail Run is

Cottell Park-Grass Loop

In the middle stage of Alzheimer's

presented by Deerfield Township

Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy

disease,

become

and The Arts Alliance. The race course

the 5th annual Kidchella Family Music

hands-on caregivers. This program

explores the trails of Carter Park and

Festival. The free event features music

will offer helpful strategies to pro-

a portion of the proceeds benefit

from local artists, items from local

vide safe, effective and comfortable

The Arts Alliance, funding future arts

vendors, pet adoptions and treats

care during the middle stage of this

programming. Adult men and women

from the Mobile Cone. Proceeds from

disease. The presentation discusses

can register online to walk or run. The

the event benefit CancerFree Kids.

symptoms, communication, personal

3.5 mile trail trek begins at 9:00 a.m.

CancerFree Kids funds promising

care, and some safety issues. It will

DeerfieldRec.com

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | August 2021

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New Location

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INSPIRED BY HOW THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF WEST CHESTER/ LIBERTY IS EXPANDING THEIR REACH AND IMPACT.

Introducing the Northern Cincinnati Foundation THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF WEST CHESTER/ LIBERTY IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT THEY ARE BECOMING THE NORTHERN CINCINNATI Another part of their mission is to help individuals

fantastic work in these townships while offering excel-

and families allocate money to great causes through

lence in charity funding to other nearby communities.

donor-advised funds (DAFs). These investment accounts

In recent years, the Foundation has supported donor

grow the impact that families can have with their charita-

families from communities like Indian Hill, Loveland,

ble giving. Donors can discuss potential grant recipients

Madeira, Mason and Deerfield Township.

with the foundation’s staff, and receive advice about

“We’re now going to be formally supporting the phil-

charitable needs that they would like to support.

anthropic needs for those living in northern Hamilton

With their wider scope and vision comes the oppor-

County,” says Erin Clemons, President and CEO of the

tunity to fund excellent nonprofit work that reaches

Northern Cincinnati Foundation. “We’ll also serve Butler

even more people.

County, Warren County and Clermont County.”

“Moving forward into 2022, we’ll be expanding our

“This growth happened organically. Initially, we focused

grants process. We’ll be able to fund organizations for

our services within the townships of West Chester and

the work they are doing in other communities, extend-

Liberty. However, over time, our impact grew outside of

ing our impact,” says Erin. “A lot of nonprofits will be

those communities. In recent years, we have found that

excited about this—they will be able to apply for grant

more than 50% of our growth has been outside of West

funds that support the Northern Cincinnati region.” The Northern Cincinnati Foundation offices will

Chester and Liberty Townships,” says Erin. Community

remain in Olde West Chester, at 8897 Cincinnati Dayton

Foundation of West Chester/Liberty, provide valuable

Road. Watch for their new branding as the Northern

grants to nonprofit organizations, and this may be one

Cincinnati Foundation, through the summer with an

of the most visible ways they impact the community.

updated website and signage.

Community

foundations,

the

For instance, their grant priorities, which are based

“We are looking forward to this new chapter and the

on extensive research, have focused on education,

positive impact it will have for the Foundation and the

transportation, and workforce development. These

communities we serve,” says Erin.

priorities help children and adults in local areas gain independence and success.

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | August 2021

To learn more about their mission and new branding, visit NorthernCincinnati.Foundation.

ARTICLE LAURA M. LEAVITT | PHOTOGRAPHY ALI WOLFE PHOTOGRAPHY

FOUNDATION. This will enable them to continue their

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