Mason & Deerfield, OH July 2023

Your health care should always revolve around you

Whether it’s tackling a serious health issue or improving your overall well-being, we’re committed to helping you stay healthy and strong. Our doctors and health care professionals are passionate about providing you with personalized health care solutions so you can be there for what matters most. Because whether in our office, or virtually from the comfort of your own home, we believe your health care should always revolve around you. Visit

Summer Adventures for Everyone

As the days grow longer and the weather gets warmer, I find myself thoroughly enjoying everything about summer. There’s just something about this season that brings about a sense of excitement and adventure.

For local business owners Brent Crank and Dianna Knudsen, their love for exploring the great outdoors and hiking to epic peaks has taken them across the country and abroad. Read more about their most memorable experiences and their advice for those wanting to begin hiking.

Looking for more of a luxurious, less strenuous getaway? We have you covered! Join us on a trip to French Lick, Indiana where there is truly something for every type of traveler. If you’re looking for something closer to home, get inspired to transform your backyard into a relaxing, entertaining oasis.

Fishing has always been a favorite summertime activity. While it is a fun and relaxing hobby, a local nonprofit also sees it as a therapeutic outlet. Learn how Casting Freedom is helping local veterans and Gold Star families by providing fishing equipment and support to lean on while working through difficult times.

Just like this season has a way of bringing people together, we hope the stories inside this month’s issue will enrich your experiences in Mason and Deerfield Township this summer!

July 2023

PUBLISHER

Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Karen Andrea

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Abby Allen, Nan Paraskevopoulos, Michelle Moody, Amanda Stout, Jon Stout

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Michelle Moody, Mark Lyons—Lyons Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Hunter Richie

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

Learn

Proverbs 3:5-6

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Toast & Berry Now Open at Liberty Center

Mason-based Looking Glass Hospitality Group recently opened their latest Toast & Berry location at Liberty Center. Located on the ground floor of the AC Hotel by Marriott, the brunch restaurant is open daily from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Toast & Berry boasts many specialties, such as Chicken & Toast, the Waffle & Smoked Pork Sandwich, and their housemade French Toast selections that take 24 hours to prepare. Their full menu and more can be viewed at ToastandBerry.com .

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Charm at the Farm Returns for a New Season

Charm at the Farm Vintage Market in Lebanon is returning for its seventh year of open-air shopping with markets set for August 18-20 and October 20-22. Their charity effort this year will donate $1 of every 2023 Charm at the Farm ticket sold to Madi’s House programming which provides support and activities for young adults who struggle with addiction and mental illness. View all details, ticket options and more at CharmAtTheFarm.com .

Gems of Excellence Annual Awards Night

The Mason Deerfield Chamber is currently accepting nominations for the 2023 Gems of Excellence Annual Awards Night. Each year the Chamber awards 12 individuals or companies in a variety of categories, including MADE Business of the Year, Community Partner of the Year and the brand-new Happiest Hour Award. Awardees are nominated by and voted on by MADE Chamber members. To learn more about the October 26 event and to nominate your favorite member, visit GemsOfExcellence.com .

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Therapy in the Outdoors

Casting Freedom supports veterans and their families with fishing equipment and a new hobby.

Summertime is all about being outside, and one local organization is helping veterans and their families enjoy the great outdoors.

Casting Freedom is a local nonprofit started by Landen resident Ron Potter, a Marine veteran and Purple Heart recipient who fought in the second battle of Fallujah. They strive to equip combat-wounded veterans, veterans, and Gold Star family members with necessary fishing gear. This enables them to experience the therapeutic benefits of nature while enjoying recreational activities.

“As an organization, we wanted to change the narrative about the support veterans actually need through hobbies. I myself enjoy going out and fishing with my kids and sharing an activity I love with them,” shares Ron.

Monthly, Casting Freedom provides a veteran or family with fishing supplies and equipment to enjoy being out on the water. The idea is to offer veterans the chance to find a hobby or activity they can

lean on through tough times to find solace at home after serving their country. Along with the equipment given to these recipients, it offers ease of access to a new hobby without the hurdle or stress of paying for nice gear that will last.

“Fishing is expensive to get into, so we thought, let's provide the equipment to support the veteran from day one,” says Ron. “We can be proactive by offering a hobby to a veteran who may need time to themselves and to do something they love to have a better day.”

As the recipient list grows, so does the team of Casting Freedom. Each veteran or family of a fallen soldier is considered a partner who can help breathe life into the mission. One part of this is fishing trips with veterans who can introduce resources like scholarships, financial assistance, adopt a family, and VA assistance while creating a solid support foundation.

You can support Casting Freedom by donating or purchasing merchandise online at CastingFreedom.com .

NEXT LEVEL OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING

GET INSPIRED TO CREATE AN OUTDOOR OASIS FOR COOKING, ENTERTAINING, RELAXATION AND FAMILY FUN.

While you revel in the outdoors this summer, it’s the perfect time to think about your dream outside spaces. Extending your home’s living area into your backyard can give you more room to entertain friends and enjoy alfresco meals with the family. Whether your grilling setup needs an upgrade, your hangout area would benefit from a dose of luxurious comfort or you’re longing for a next-level fire pit, we’ve got plenty of ideas and advice.

Believe it or not, if you want to have updates installed by next spring or summer, now is the time to start talking to contractors about your plans.

“Design is a process, and it certainly takes time to plan and revise. I would ideally start a year before you plan on building. Early spring as soon as the ground is warm enough through later fall are good times to build,” explains Debi Ash, director of design & project development at Creative Contracting.

“Get the design process and material selection done about 6-9 months before installation,” advises Jeanne Crutchfield, graphic design manager at Creech’s Garden & Stone Center. “Most companies book projects 5-12 weeks out so it is best to keep that in mind.” Plus, be sure to factor in current economics and long waits for certain types of materials.

When thinking about your plans, it’s also important to consider how the space will be used and need to grow over time.

“It’s key to think about the overall size needed,” says Jeanne. “Homeowners can tend to make the grill stations or bar top areas a little too small or install in areas that do not support adding onto it or using it to its full potential.”

Steve Lichtenberg, owner and registered landscape architect of Lichtenberg Landscaping shares, “We always design spaces for how people want to use them. To create outdoor rooms with purpose and function there should be ample room for circulation between spaces to be user-friendly and comfortable.”

In addition to the size and how you will use the space, you will need to consider the furniture plan and the type of cooking and entertaining you want to do outside (grill, smoker, griddle, pizza oven, bar area). There are also weather considerations such as how many months you plan to use it, where the sun rises/sets, how wind or other elements may affect your enjoyment, and what time of day you will use it the most.

Some special features you may not have even considered include electrical outlets, lighting design, outdoor speakers, retractable screens or large TVs, icemakers and heating.

“A great lighting plan is key, it creates the ambiance at night and entices you to go outside,” describes Steve.

“The ice maker is a huge bonus when planning an outdoor kitchen, so you have easily accessible cold drinks for your outside guests,” explains Debi.

By including radiant heated flooring or built-in ceiling heaters homeowners can lengthen the amount of time they can use outdoor spaces. Pergolas, roof structures, and awnings are also crucial for enjoying your space in high sun or rainy weather.

Everyone agrees that firepits and fireplaces are a current favorite feature for homeowners.

“Fireplaces with gathering areas are so nice to relax in front of in the evenings,” says Debi.

Steve shares, “All generations love sitting around the fire pit. They are a great area to bond plus you can accommodate 16-20 people comfortably around a well-designed fire pit.”

Popular materials for outdoor spaces include stone (real and veneered) for fireplaces, posts and walls; granite, porcelain, and Dekton for countertops; porcelain pavers, concrete, stamped concrete and composite decking for flooring. Great outdoor designs take cues from the interior but use durable, sustainable materials that are also easy to clean.

At the end of the day, whatever choices you make to create your ideal outdoor cooking and entertaining spaces, filling it with family and friends will fully bring it to life.

Debi shares, “It provides so much more square footage of functional living space to your home. Outdoor living spaces can be the best place to gather with friends and family.”

“After a long day, it is the best place to unwind. Getting fresh air and relaxing in the great outdoors is good for the soul,” imparts Steve.  Creative-SBC.com

“All generations love sitting around the fire pit. They are a great area to bond plus you can accommodate 16-20 people comfortably around a well-designed fire pit.”

At Wagner Law, we genuinely care about our clients who find themselves in difficult life situations. Our own personal family experiences have fueled our passion for helping our clients and their families navigate through the legal system while resolving these matters.

We provide professional, knowledgeable services in a caring, compassionate manner.

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“Heirloom Chef has been such a blessing to our family. We have used Heirloom Chef for about two and a half years. As a professional athlete, I am highly aware of the food I eat and how it effects my body. And as a dad of two girls, who are always on the go, the ability to consistently cook healthy meals is difficult. Heirloom Chef provides easy-to-cook, healthy ingredient-conscience meals that help my body feel good and feed my family well. Everyone in the Hagglund family looks forward to Heirloom Chef Nights!” Visit

UNLEASHING THE SPIRIT OF EXPLORATION

There's something undeniably enchanting about venturing into the great outdoors. Surrounded by towering mountains, lush forests, and breathtaking vistas, it's a chance to reconnect with the beauty and tranquility of nature. For Mason business owners, avid hikers and outdoor enthusiasts like Brent Crank, of Brent Thomas Renovations, and Dianna Knudsen, a certified financial planner™ with Edward Jones, the call of the wild is irresistible. They have each embarked on remarkable adventures, creating unforgettable memories along the way.

Brent, an enthusiastic explorer of the national parks, has traversed some of the most iconic landscapes in the United States. One of his memorable moments was hiking Mount Rainier in Washington, the most prominent mountain in the lower 48 of the U.S., where he experienced the exhilaration of conquering an elevation of 14,410 treacherous feet.

"It was on a scale far beyond anything I had ever experienced before,” Brent says. “It is something I will never forget, and the friendships forged through that training and experience will be lifelong.”

Dianna, on the other hand, finds solace and adventure amidst the picturesque landscapes of Colorado. From the rugged peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the serene alpine lakes, Colorado offers a hiker's paradise. Dianna's most cherished hiking experience was conquering the challenging but rewarding feat of hiking 10 of Colorado’s “fourteeners” (mountain peaks exceeding an elevation of 14,000 feet). She felt a profound sense of accomplishment and witnessed the world from a perspective few get to experience.

“I started hiking Torreys at 3 a.m.,” shares Dianna, “and reached the summit to see the sun rise over Denver.”

Both Brent and Dianna have a list of dream locations they hope to explore in the future. Brent's current hiking goal is to go from the rim to the crater of the Grand Canyon. Both, he says, because it is a rare experience, but also because it is the inverse of most of his hiking challenges - going down instead of up. Dianna’s dream is to hike on every continent - to see the world through the lens of a true explorer.

For those who are inspired to start hiking, Brent and Dianna have some valuable advice to share. First, it's essential to start slow and choose trails that align with your fitness level and experience. Begin with shorter hikes on well-marked paths, gradually increasing the difficulty and distance as your confidence and stamina grow.

Investing in proper gear and attire is crucial for a safe and comfortable hiking experience. A comfortable pair of hiking boots, moisture-wicking clothing, a durable backpack and safety equipment like a compass and first aid kit are essential items to consider. Brent and Dianna both emphasize the importance of staying hydrated, carrying enough water and packing nutritious snacks to fuel your adventure.

"Always be prepared for changes in weather and carry extra layers," advises Dianna. "Conditions can change rapidly, especially in mountainous areas. Dressing in layers allows you to adjust your clothing accordingly and stay comfortable throughout the hike."

Additionally, they highlight the significance of respecting and preserving nature. Leave no trace behind—pack out what you pack in, and follow the principles of responsible hiking and camping. Treat the environment with care, appreciate wildlife from a distance, and be mindful of the impact you leave behind. Leave no trace ethics ensures that future generations can revel in the beauty of our natural spaces.

“If you are the type of person that wants to just experience beauty and solitude, a lovely walk along a creek may be the perfect scenario,” says Brent. “If you are the type of person that wants to challenge yourself both mentally and physically, then taking on a quest like a mountain climb might be the experience of a lifetime. My advice would be just to get out there and see what nature has to share with you!”

The great outdoors has transformative powers. The beauty, serenity, and challenges of nature enrich our lives, leaving us with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the world around us. So, lace up your hiking boots, pack your backpack and embark on your own adventure. The wonders of the natural world are yours to take in.

"My advice would be just to get out there and see what nature has to share with you!"

LUXURY VACATION DESTINATION

French Lick Resort offers the perfect summer or fall getaway for all types of travelers.

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE MOODY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELLE MOODY & PROVIDED

If you’re searching for a new destination for a weekend escape, we’ve found the perfect luxury, midwest vacation spot. Just a short three-hour drive away, nestled in the Indiana hills of the Hoosier National Forest, is the historic French Lick Resort.

The resort is home to two AAA Four-Diamond nationally historic hotels, the French Lick Springs Hotel and the West Baden Springs Hotel. Both are the epitome of classic elegance and sophistication, paired with modern amenities. The French Lick Springs Hotel features stunning murals and historic photographs that capture its rich history, dating back to 1845. The West Baden Springs Hotel is best recognized for its stunning domed atrium, which serves as both a focal point and gathering spot for hotel guests.

The French Lick Resort has something to please every type of vacationer.

SPORTS ENTHUSIAST

French Lick is a golf lover’s paradise. The resort boasts 45 holes of picturesque and legendary golf with three highly acclaimed courses designed by Donald Ross, Pete Dye and Tom Bendelow.

Saddle up and enjoy a trail ride through the scenic woods on one of the stable’s statuesque horses. If you have little ones in your party, pony rides are also available.

For the sharpshooters, their sporting clays allow guests to try a different type of outdoor sporting challenge.

FAMILY FUN

There are activities for all ages to enjoy in and near the resort. Families can bowl on one of their six lanes or play one of the many lawn games available.

An outdoor activity perfect for all ages is FootGolf, which combines soccer with golf. Each player kicks the ball to the pin in this unique, family-friendly game.

Just ten minutes away is the Wilstem Wildlife Park. This animal encounter experience allows visitors to feed animals like emus, alpacas, elands, llamas and more right from their car. The drive also takes visitors past zebras, Asian elephants and bison. Visitors can pay a small extra charge to have a photo taken with a grizzly bear, feed a giraffe or pet a kangaroo. We recommend a four-wheel drive vehicle for this tour.

RELAXATION

If you prefer a more relaxing vacation, you’ll find ample opportunities to unwind at French Lick. The resort features two luxurious spas, offering a full range of services to rejuvenate the mind and body. Enjoy a soak in the legendary Pluto mineral bath, relax with a sacred stone massage or turn back the clock with one of their signature facials.

The hotels also feature four heated pools, both indoors and outdoors, and two hot tubs, perfect for relaxing at the end of the day.

Nature enthusiasts can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens or on ten miles of scenic trails. Plaques displaying stories of historical events that occurred at the resort are located along many of the trails.

MUSIC LOVER

Music abounds at the resort. The West Baden Springs Hotel features live music in the atrium every evening, ranging from piano soloists to jazz trios. Throughout the summer and early fall, the Pluto Tappers perform a mix of ragtime, gospel and military tunes Friday, Saturday and some Sunday nights on the

veranda of the French Lick Springs Hotel. National headliners also perform at the resort with artists like Travis Tritt scheduled for August and The Marshall Tucker Band in September.

FOR THE FOODIE

The resort features ten restaurants ranging from fine dining to a casual pizzeria. One of their claims to fame is that tomato juice was first served at the hotel when they ran out of orange juice and needed a quick alternative to serve. The neighboring communities of French Lick and West Baden Springs also offer a variety of food and dining options.

If bourbon is your drink of choice, take the bourbon tour. This self-paced tour guides visitors to six locations across the resort, each offering a bourbon-based food or drink item. Just off the main property is the French Lick Winery. Enjoy a tasting to sample from the dozens of locally made wines before purchasing some to take home.

MUCH MORE

This is just a taste of the many amenities and activities available at the French Lick Resort. Other unique features include trolley rides, historical tours, carriage rides, surrey cart rentals and train rides. The resort even has a full casino and conference center. So, as you finalize your end-of-summer and fall travel plans, consider a visit to French Lick Resort. FrenchLick.com

FRENCH LICK IS A GOLF LOVER’S PARADISE. THE RESORT BOASTS 45 HOLES OF PICTURESQUE AND LEGENDARY GOLF WITH THREE HIGHLY ACCLAIMED COURSES DESIGNED BY

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

JULY 3RD

Red, Rhythm and Boom 2023

MASON MUNICIPAL AND COMMUNITY CENTER CAMPUS | 4:00 PM

The City of Mason hosts Red, Rhythm and Boom on the Mason Municipal and Community Center campus on July 3. Festivities feature multi-platinum rock band Gin Blossoms with opening act Lit. The festivities begin at 4 p.m. with carnival and kid zone activities. Food truck options and adult beverages will also be available. Free lawn seating. ImagineMason.org

JULY 8TH

The

O.F.F. Market

SUMMIT PARK | 10:00 AM

The O.F.F. Market is a monthly marketplace that brings together small businesses, artisans, brewers, bakers and farmers to provide a unique shopping experience that supports strong community connections and strives to grow a hearty local economy. Taking place at Summit Park at 10 a.m., this event is free and fun for the whole family.  TheOffMarket.org

JULY 14TH

Little Sounds of Deerfield with Wild Carrot

KINGSWOOD PARK PAVILION | 10:00 AM

Kids and families can enjoy an hour of music and an hour of art-making on July 14 as part of a series of kid-oriented concerts held at the Pavilion at Kingswood Park. All ages are welcome. Attendees are invited to bring their own chairs/blankets. This event is free but registration is required for art-making. Register at Eventbrite.com .

JULY 19TH

Cincinnati Summer Wedding Show by A Bridal Affair

HILTON GARDEN INN CINCINNATI MASON | 6:00 PM

The Cincinnati Summer Wedding Show features the area's premier wedding professionals. Held on July 19 at 6 p.m. at Hilton Garden Inn Cincinnati Mason, every attendee will receive a special wedding gift card valued at $200. In addition, there will be multiple giveaways, including wedding rings and $10,000 in gift cards. Admission is free but registration is required at Eventbrite.com

JULY 20TH

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 20 at 7 p.m. The Cincinnati Shakespeare Company will present Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors featuring their touring company. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets, lawn chairs and snacks to this free community event. DeerfieldOh.MyRec.com .

JULY 28TH

Movies in the Park: Jumanji (1995)

COTTELL PARK- GRASS LOOP | 8:00 PM

Enjoy a free outdoor showing of Disney’s Jumanji (1995) at Cottell Park on July 28. Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets as well as snacks. Jungle-themed games, crafts, and special animals handled by Cool Critters will be on display before the movie at 8 p.m. Find out more information at DeerfieldOh.MyRec.com.

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