Mason & Deerfield, OH August 2023

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Get Inspired with Kids + Pets

AUGUST 2023
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August 2023

PUBLISHER

Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com

Spotlighting Our Kids and Pets

It’s no secret that kids and pets can bring immense feelings of joy and fulfillment to our lives. That’s why we love to celebrate them in our Kids + Pets issue.

If you were to look at my Instagram feed, you would see a lot of dog content—specifically golden retriever puppies. While I know my parents would prefer a grandchild instead, I do hope to welcome a puppy to my home soon.

One thing I admire about children is their limitless imagination, from big dreams to stories of wild adventure. Our region is full of ways to cultivate children’s creativity through exploring the great outdoors. Read about the whimsical world of Aullwood Audubon and why this nature sanctuary should be on your end-of-summer bucket list.

Every issue, we love sharing about nonprofits and people making a positive impact in our area. This month we are excited to spotlight three incredible students: Charvi Seeta, Sofia Martin, and Renee Perpignan. Learn more about how they have been helping local students in and out of the classroom.

Throughout life we reach certain milestones. Getting a driver’s license is at the top of the list for teenagers but can be a bit terrifying for parents. Luckily, RIX Automotive is here to provide some peace of mind. Learn more about the I AM READY 101 car care program they offer for teen drivers.

If your dog is in need of training, look to the experts at PetSuites Mason. Canine trainer, Katie New and General Manager, Carrie Downey share different types of training options available as well as key canine commands that will help improve your dog’s behavior. Also, be sure to check out their many resort amenities and pet services.

With summer winding down, we hope that you take time with your family and fur babies to explore our wonderful community as well as the August issue of Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle

COPY EDITOR

Karen Andrea

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jonathan Stout, Nan Paraskevopoulos, Amanda Stout, Michelle Moody

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Cathy Lyons–Lyons Photography, Michelle Moody, Jenna Beers–Photography by Jenna

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Hunter Richie

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

MARK ANDREA, PUBLISHER @MASONANDDEERFIELDLIFESTYLE

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Learn Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Mason & 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.

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Visit our website to order www.heirloomchefcincy.com or for questions email heirloomchefcincy@gmail.com NICK HAGGLUND Defender, FC Cincinnati LET US BRING DINNER TO YOU (859) 445-5192 | B HeirloomChef | V The_Heirloom_Chef New menus posted weekly on Tuesdays 9 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/MASONANDDEERFIELD AUGUST 2023
inside the issue The Kids & Pets Issue AUGUST 2023 ON THE COVER DEPARTMENTS 6 Lifestyle Letter 12 City Scene 16 Business Monthly 18 Garage Tech AUTO + MARINE 24 Inspired By EDUCATION 30 Road Trip EDUCATION 34 Pet Friendly LOCAL SERVICES 38 Outdoor Living LIFE + CULTURE 42 Events 18 34 24 30
For new puppy parents or frisky fidos that need a little extra support, PetSuites Mason has a variety of training options and tips to share this month to promote safety and good dog manners. FEATURED 18 The Importance of Road Preparedness I AM READY 101 workshop for teens at RIX Automotive promotes safety and confidence. 24 Young Changemakers Create Meaningful Impact Local students lead initiatives for kids to help improve their communities. 30 Whimsy in the Woods Aullwood Audubon provides the perfect setting for a nature-filled family outing. 34 Safe, Happy & Healthy PetSuites Mason sets furry pals up for success with enriching experiences and plenty of playtime. 10
Photography: Cathy Lyons—Lyons Photography
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city scene

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1: Mason Kiwanis Club held its 40th Golf Classic at The Grizzly Golf and Social Lodge. 2: Mason City Council recognized the anniversary of the Golf Classic which funds scholarships for high school seniors. 3: Mason Kiwanis has awarded more than $630,000 in scholarships through the Mason Scholarship Foundation. 4: This year’s scholarship recipients, MHS graduates: Aiden Albers, Anna Gogul, Maria Habra and Grace McKay. 5: Mason Kiwanis thanks golfers, sponsors, donors, partners and volunteers for making this outing a success. 6: Mason-Deerfield Rotary Club held its 27th annual Charity Golf Classic at Four Bridges Country Club. 7: Proceeds from the well-attended event support the Rotary Club’s student scholarship program and community initiatives.
AUGUST 2023 CITY SCENE
PEG ELFERS COLLEEN KELLEY ANNIE DROEGE SAM SLATER PEG ELFERS AMY HAAKE AMY HAAKE
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Where neighbors can see and be seen.

8: The ROYAL Theatre Company presented Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, June 9-11 at Mason High School. 9: The cast performs “Gaston” in a pub-like setting. 10: The stage version includes songs written by Alan Menken, Howard Ashman and Tim Rice. 11: Bell and Prince Adam celebrate their admiration for each other in this scene. 12: The Beast takes a look into his magic mirror. 13: The ROYAL Theatre Company offers children the opportunity to participate onstage or as crew members. 14: The ROYAL Theatre Company produces two large-scale productions each season.

Photography by Lance Moody with Mechanical Bug

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business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

BB4K Welcomes new Development Manager

Building Blocks for Kids (BB4K) is excited to announce their newest staff member: Susan Thiemann. Susan is the new development manager and will take a pivotal role in event organization, donor relations and fundraising. She brings a wealth of experience and a new perspective to BB4K. Building Blocks for Kids’ mission is to provide support, resources, scholarships and hope to families who have children with physical, emotional and/or developmental challenges. BB4K.org

Scan to read more.

Mason Athletics Names Brackenridge as Boys Head Golf Coach

The Mason Athletic Department announced that Keith Brackenridge will become their new boys head golf coach pending Board of Education approval. Brackenridge replaces Tim Lambert, who resigned this past spring after 12 seasons. Keith briefly coached one of the Comet's varsity teams in 2019. His experience includes a long tenure with the Sycamore Girls Golf program from 2000-2015. He is currently a math teacher at West Clermont High School. Find out more at GoMasonComets.com

MHS Athletes’ Random Acts of Kindness Everywhere Program

On June 10 the Mason High School (MHS) men’s and women’s soccer teams along with the MHS women's cross country team built 40 beds at the Mason Intermediate campus to support Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP). SHP provides first-time beds to kids who do not have them. This is one of several activities that these athletes have participated in as part of the Random Acts of Kindness Everywhere (RAKE) program. For more information, visit SHPBeds.org .

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BUSINESS MONTHLY
Photography by BB4K Photography by Mason Athletic Department Photography by MHS Men's Soccer
AUGUST 2023
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THE IMPORTANCE OF ROAD PREPAREDNESS

I AM READY 101 WORKSHOP FOR TEENS AT RIX AUTOMOTIVE PROMOTES SAFETY AND CONFIDENCE.

Rick Williams of RIX Automotive in Mason is a lifelong automotive enthusiast.

“Going back to my teenage years, cars have always been a passion of mine,” Rick tells us.

He’s been involved in the automotive industry since graduating from Universal Technical Institute’s Automotive Technology program in 2001.

Rick opened RIX Automotive four and a half years ago after being motivated by poor customer service experiences he encountered in auto repair shops.

“I wanted to offer our customers not only quality workmanship but also transparency and communication,” Rick explains.

GARAGE TECH | AUTO + MARINE
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RIX Automotive is an independent Honda and Japanese auto repair specialist, providing maintenance services for all makes and models. They also offer maintenance and repair services for fleet vehicles and light trucks. Complete auto care services offered include: oil changes, all factory/manufacturer recommended maintenance, brake repairs, tire replacement, batteries, filters, fluid leak repairs, timing belts, check engine light diagnoses and countless preventative maintenance, diagnostic and repair services.

In addition to these services, RIX Automotive is partnered with I AM READY to provide 101 workshops for teens. I AM READY delivers a simple, yet comprehensive class series that helps to ensure the safety of young drivers.

“We teach the importance of preventative maintenance,” Rick informs us.

When it comes to teenagers learning to drive, Rick stresses the importance of knowledge and preparedness.

“How do you get better at anything? You practice!” he imparts.

Rick further recommends that his students go driving in parking lots and side streets with parents, and read through their vehicle's owner's manual.

“It’s important to understand how your car works,” Rick tells us. “Learning what to do in the event of an emergency or accident will help reduce anxiety.”

Only five students are allowed per class to keep the experience personal and engaging. The workshop demonstrates best practices for handling accidents, emergencies and basic car care. Parents and teenagers are taught the essentials - checking fluid, battery location, dash warning lights and their meanings and more. Hands-on experience is given with step-by-step instructions for safely changing a tire among other demonstrations.

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Rick Williams (far right) with RIX Automotive team members.

“We find that once students complete the workshop they feel more confident and have a sense of relief that they know what to do when emergencies or accidents happen,” Rick explains.

Each participant receives a “go bag” that includes the best available tools on the market to prepare young drivers. From jumper cables to safety gear, participants will have what they need to feel safe on the road.

I AM READY 101 workshops are provided at RIX Automotive on Tuesday and Friday evenings from 5:30 to 8 p.m. and two sessions Saturday mornings from 7:30-10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The workshop schedule and more can be viewed at IAMREADYWorkshops.com

RIX Automotive

4152 Mason Pointe Dr, Mason 513.500.9373 | RixAuto.com

WORKSHOP TIPS & ADVICE

• Check fluid levels often and before road trips.

• Know the location of your vehicle's owner's manual and read it.

• Check your tire pressures often.

• DO NOT ignore dash lights.

• Avoid all distractions when behind the wheel.

GARAGE TECH | AUTO + MARINE
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See how we are growing!

Women Walking West has been helping foreign-born women in Butler, Warren, Hamilton county, and beyond with their educational goals and dreams since 2015. Located in Mason, Ohio, Women Walking West is a nonprofit organization that provides mentorship and financial assistance to female learners who want to achieve more through education. Women Walking West has helped more than 140 women from 43 different countries. Every week we receive emails from new female learners seeking mentorship and guidance. Not only are we growing in numbers we are also expanding our programming and outreach.

Check out our upcoming events:

1. Mentee/Mentor Training Workshop (July)

2. 3rd Annual Essay Writing Contest (August-September)

3. Resume Writing Workshop (October)

4. 4th Annual RISE Gala at the Manor House (November 9th)

To find out how you can support W3 please visit: WOMENWALKINGWEST.ORG

WOMEN WALKING WEST SEEKS TO EMPOWER AND EDUCATE ONE WOMAN AT A TIME!
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YOUNG CHANGEMAKERS CREATE MEANINGFUL IMPACT

LOCAL STUDENTS LEAD INITIATIVES FOR KIDS TO HELP IMPROVE THEIR COMMUNITIES.

Charvi Seeta Harnessing Big Emotions

As a sophomore at Mason High School, Charvi has already undertaken a transformative project to support students' emotional well-being at Mason Elementary. Charvi recognized a significant increase in neurodivergence in students after the COVID-19 pandemic, and was inspired by her mother who is an educator. Her project aims to help students in need of emotional regulation and coping strategies throughout their school day.

“No one really tells you how you’re supposed to cope with emotions,” explains Charvi, “so I just wanted to give them a starting place.”

Charvi earned her Girl Scouts Gold Award by creating social-emotional learning toolboxes that were distributed to all third and fourth-grade homeroom teachers as well as intervention specialists in the elementary school. The toolboxes contain fidget toys, infinity cubes, stress balls and small brain games to help the students calm down, or get energized, depending on what they need.

She also created instructional videos that include mindfulness practices and help guide students to effectively and respectfully use the toolbox once teachers integrate it into the classroom.

INSPIRED BY | EDUCATION
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Left to right: Sofia Martin, Charvi Seeta

“The main focus of the project is to help students recognize when they may be experiencing a big feeling,” explains Charvi. “This includes the importance of letting your teacher know, as they could help mitigate it with the toolbox, but also without if necessary.”

To fund this initiative, she successfully raised $2,357 through online fundraising tools and secured an additional $2,030 grant from the LoveLikeJJ Foundation. These funds were entirely dedicated to developing the toolboxes which Charvi assembled herself.

LoveLikeJJ Board Member Jenn Mosier says, “I was seeing the impact that COVID had on my own daughters, two third graders and a fourth grader. The school counselors are amazing, but with the toolboxes, teachers can help students stay in the classroom. This project gives my kids the means to manage any anxieties they might have later on in life.”

The toolboxes have become an essential resource in classrooms, providing students with tangible tools to navigate their big feelings effectively. Charvi’s project is not only providing immediate support but also empowering students with lifelong emotional well-being skills.

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Prom and graduation ceremonies hold special meaning for high school students. However, not all students can afford the expenses associated with these events. That’s where Sofia, a junior at Liberty Bible Academy, stepped in to make a difference with her “Dress Drive” campaign.

Sofia was inspired while shopping for prom dresses with her mom. While they could afford a dress at a department store, Sofia was amazed at the high prices and lack of selection. “I’m lucky to have my mom and her support. But not everyone has what we have,” says Sofia.

She initiated the campaign last year through the National Honor Society and continued it this year, collecting gently used or new prom dresses, shoes and accessories in partnership with Cinderella’s Closet, a nonprofit that aims to give everyone the prom experience. Sofia’s goal is to help provide these dresses and accessories to girls who may not have the means to purchase their own, ensuring that everyone can experience the joy and excitement of prom and graduation.

With plans to lead the dress drive once again during her senior year, Sofia hopes to pass on the responsibility to other students in the National Honor Society after she graduates.

“I wanted to help the girls who were just like me,” says Sofia. “Prom’s a special day, but dress shopping is so difficult and expensive.”

INSPIRED BY | EDUCATION
Sofia Martin Spreading Joy through Dress Drives
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“I wanted to help the girls who were just like me. Prom’s a special day, but dress shopping is so difficult and expensive.”

Renee Perpignan Bridging the Coding Gap

Renee Perpignan is a graduate and former valedictorian of Kings High School who is currently studying data science with a minor in African American studies at Harvard University. She is determined to give back to her community, and her summer Coding Camp initiative is a testament to her commitment.

While Kings High School has a couple of computer science courses, Renee’s camp picks up where those classes leave off. She endeavors to teach her students all the tools they need to code a website, including learning several coding languages. By introducing coding to young minds, Renee is empowering them with a skill set that will give them an advantage when they get to college and that will be increasingly valuable in the digital age.

“I want to eventually expand this program to target overlooked communities,” says Renee. “It is important to have everyone be part of the equation and to tap into all of the creativity that comes from people who may not have access to technology because of where they live.”

When she graduates, Renee’s goals are to do research to find where the biggest unmet needs are and to bring computer science education to Black communities. Her dedication to bridging the coding gap ensures that children from all backgrounds have access to coding education, opening doors to endless possibilities and career paths in technology. Students of all backgrounds are welcome to this summer’s camp, and Renee especially encourages girls and students of color to attend.

“In general there are not enough women and not enough women of color in computer science, and I felt like I could do something about that,” she says.

The initiatives undertaken by young individuals like Charvi, Sofia and Renee serve as a source of inspiration and admiration. Their commitment to addressing social needs and creating positive change demonstrates the remarkable potential of young people to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

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Aullwood Audubon provides the perfect setting for a nature-filled family outing.

ROAD TRIP | EDUCATION
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Bibbi attempts to fly so she can talk to the mama “bird.”

WHIMSY IN THE WOODS

Denmark-based recycle art activist Thomas Dambo builds stunning, largerthan-life trolls from recycled materials. One hundred of these creative creatures can be found around the world in locations as far away as Australia, South Korea and Belgium. Three of his woodland masterpieces call Aullwood Audubon their home, just a short 50-minute day trip to the north.

Aullwood Audubon is a 200-acre nature sanctuary and educational farm with eight miles of tree-shaded trails, open prairies and category-three wetlands. Aullwood is an environmental organization dedicated to the conservation of birds and their habitats.

“We’re all about what birds need to survive and thrive,” says Laurie Cothran, development and marketing manager at Aullwood Audubon. “That’s why Audubon exists. It’s also to get people excited about birds.”

Many of Aullwood’s attractions and events are hands-on, so the COVID-19 pandemic had a devastating impact on the organization. The team was looking for something big and unique

that would encourage people to come back to the woods while also incorporating their focus on science, nature, conservation, recycling and a love of birds. The Executive Director at that time, Alexis Faust, knew of Thomas Dambo.

“She knew that he built trolls from wood and all recycled materials, which follows our mission,” says Laurie. “He had an opening in his schedule to create trolls at Aullwood. It was like a miracle!”

The staff had only six months to gather all the materials, line up the volunteers and coordinate the visits from the artist. Most of the wood used to build the sculptures came from fallen trees on the property. What resulted are three whimsical trolls and a giant-sized nest tucked along the winding nature paths. The sculptures are woven into their mission of education and stewardship of birds through a delightful tale.

“How fun it is to go out in the woods and see these incredible structuresthat are really like a genius built them,” describes Laurie.

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Staff member Bev Holland feeds the baby Nigerian Dwarf goats. 31 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/MASONANDDEERFIELD AUGUST 2023
Bodil gathers the fallen “eggs.”

“The Troll That Hatched an Egg” exhibit opened in the fall of 2021 and tells the story of a family of trolls that loves birds and calls Aullwood Audubon their home. One day a large metal “bird” (airplane) drops her “eggs” (propane tanks) into the woods. The family decides to build a nest to try to hatch these eggs. Father troll Bo, mother Bodil, their daughter Bibbi and the nest can be found nestled along the trails at Aullwood.

“Thomas Dambo inspires people all over the world to look at trash as something other than trash–it could be a treasure,” Laurie reflects. “I think it's a wonderful perspective that Thomas helps people want to protect and preserve our beautiful earth and recycle as much as possible.”

Beyond the trails and trolls, Aullwood offers educational workshops, camps, events, wedding venues, a hands-on nature center and more. Its farm is home to unique breeds of animals that are on the Livestock Conservancy’s endangered and threatened species list. In July, they opened a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk that spans 800 feet along the marsh.

To help maintain the nonprofit sanctuary, there is a small admission charge, but they also offer a variety of low-cost annual membership options. One of the many benefits of membership is reciprocity with Cincinnati Nature Center, the Association of Nature Centers and the National Audubon Society, which collectively includes 180 nature centers around the country.

“You can never get too much nature-it always gives back to you,” says Laurie.

For a unique end-of-summer activity or a special kickoff to fall, add an afternoon of outdoor exploration at the Aullwood Audubon to your plans. Check the website for lists of events and other educational opportunities happening throughout the year at Aullwood.org .

ROAD TRIP | EDUCATION
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Bo takes a rest from gathering sticks to build the nest.
We Make Giving Easy. Schedule your furniture pickup today. nlfurniture.org When you donate your gently-used furniture, you help families who are transitioning out of homelessness, escaping abuse, and other devastating circumstances in Greater Cincinnati, Northern KY, and Dayton. SCHEDULE A PICKUP ONLINE WE PICK UP THE FURNITURE FROM YOUR HOME Yourfurniture donations give hope 33 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/MASONANDDEERFIELD AUGUST 2023

safe, happy & healthy

PETSUITES MASON SETS

FURRY PALS UP FOR SUCCESS WITH ENRICHING EXPERIENCES AND PLENTY OF PLAYTIME.

As a pet parent, you want your dog or cat to be safe, happy and healthy above all else. At PetSuites Mason they promise to provide a personalized, safe and loving environment for your pets and memorable service for you.

“A lot of our pet parents are very happy to find out that we are owned and operated by National Veterinary Associates (NVA), so everything that we do is guided by veterinary directives,” explains PetSuites Mason General Manager, Carrie Downey.

PetsSuites began in Erlanger, Kentucky and the Mason location just celebrated their first anniversary. Their state-ofthe-art resorts are colorful, inviting and sparkling clean, always ready for hours of enrichment with their pet guests.

The PetSuites resort experience offers many options including luxurious suites, double-level cat condos, grooming, training, and playtime with dog friends or one-on-one with Pet Pros. No matter your pet's temperament, there is a tailored boarding or daycare experience for everyone.

“One thing that sets us apart is that we’re all about enrichment for pets. We offer social play during their stay, but if your dog is not social they can still feel safe with us because we offer individual play options. What’s neat is individual play allows us to provide what your dog or cat tells us they want,” shares Carrie.

For new puppy parents or frisky fidos that need a little extra support, PetSuites Mason has a variety of training options and tips to share to promote safety and good dog manners.

PET FRIENDLY | LOCAL SERVICES
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DOG-FRIENDLY TRAINING

Carrie, who started her PetSuites career as a certified dog trainer, advises that you can never start training too early.

“I am a big believer in setting your dog up for success because then you’re setting yourself up for success,” she says.

Pups can start group training sessions at eight weeks with Puppy Kindergarten and then move on to Good Dog Manners classes which are interactive group training sessions for pets and pet parents. After completing their training, dogs can test for the American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Certificate.

If your dog needs to brush up its skills or is picking up bad habits, you can try a one-on-one session with the trainer or add tutoring to your daycare or boarding stays.

“You can teach an old dog new tricks! It’s a matter of meeting them where they are and teaching them that training is fun,” Carrie describes.

The PetSuites company policy is to use only positive reinforcement. “It’s all about creating a positive connotation to the relationship between you and your pet. That sets a great precedent for good behavior and good recognition,” explains Carrie.

Katie New, PetSuites Mason’s fulltime canine trainer, has five-plus years of experience training dogs and an Associate’s Degree in Veterinary Technology. She also offers seminars just for pet parents such as potty training tips and tricks. Some techniques are best learned in a classroom setting to help set the knowledge base so training practice can happen at home.

PetSuites Mason is open from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week for daycare and boarding, plus enrichment

activities like play, grooming and training. Dropping off and picking up can happen anytime during business hours and there’s no difference in the price. They also don’t charge for the last day of boarding.

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“Training is beneficial for the dog and their human’s quality of life. Routine and regimen can build a dog’s confidence and help prevent dangerous situations."

“We want pet parents to enjoy their time away and not worry about their pets or rush to get them picked up by a certain time,” explains Carrie.

It’s easy to book through their app and keep track of your dog or cat through features like “paw-gress” reports, photos and video snippet updates.

key canine commands

LOOK The ‘look’ command is one of the best ways to teach your dog to avoid potentially dangerous situations. If they get away from you, using the ‘look’ command instantly focuses their attention. “That would be the very first thing to start teaching your dog. It teaches them that good things come from your human,” shares Carrie.

PLACE PetSuites is partnering with local breweries like Cartridge and Sonder to teach dogs good ‘patio manners.’ “Our trainers visit dog-friendly patios and help reinforce good dog manners such as the ‘place’ command,” Carrie says. ‘Place’ helps your dog learn that good things happen when they go to a specific spot and stay. Their human can then sit with friends and enjoy a beer without their dog lunging or pulling.

FOCUS/RECALL If your dog learns good focus and recall, you can get them away from a busy street or a dog that may not be so friendly. “Training is beneficial for the dog and their human’s quality of life. Routine and regimen can build a dog’s confidence and help prevent dangerous situations,” explains Carrie.

A new PetSuites resort is being built in Liberty Township with a tentative October opening. To learn more or book your furry pal’s first resort stay or service, visit Mason.PetSuitesofAmerica.com .

PET FRIENDLY | LOCAL SERVICES
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Backyard Chickens

Everything you need to get started on your backyard coop.

Chickens have become increasingly popular as pets in both suburban and urban areas during the last 20 years. Backyard chickens may seem to be an unsuspecting animal to keep as a pet but the tried and true egg producers are back in fashion as food costs are soaring and families are looking for more food independence in light of recent supply chain shortages. There’s a lot to like about raising chickens in your backyard. Surprisingly, chickens are relatively low maintenance. And bonus – unlike dogs, they don’t need to be bathed or groomed, and they don’t shed on your clothes or require training. Oh and bonus – they make you breakfast.

The eggs from backyard chickens are the best—tastier and fresher than any store-bought eggs. Much of the day, the birds entertain themselves, picking at grass, worms, beetles, and all of the good things that go into making those delicious farm eggs. Plus, with their keen eye for insect pests, chickens make for great gardening companions.

Chickens can provide family companionship, fun, entertainment, sustainable fresh food, and plenty of poop that gardeners prize as a natural fertilizer/composting material. Could backyard chickens be the perfect pet/producer to add to your home?

OUTDOOR LIVING | LIFE + CULTURE 38

Backyard Chicken Q&A:

HOW MANY CHICKENS SHOULD I KEEP?

Chickens are sociable creatures, so plan to keep three to six birds at least. With this amount, you’ll always have a steady supply of eggs, since an adult hen lays about two eggs every three days, on average. Local ordinances also dictate how many chickens one household can keep.

HOW MUCH DOES KEEPING CHICKENS COST?

All of this costs money, of course. The materials to build and furnish a coop and a 20 x 5-foot run—including wood, fencing, and hardware—are going to set you back at least $300. If you can’t do this work yourself, you’ll also be buying skilled labor.

Overall, expect to spend between $500 and $700 when getting started depending on the size of your flock, coop and run. For prefabricated coops, expect to pay $600 or more.

WHAT KIND OF SHELTER DO THEY NEED?

Chickens need to have an enclosed coop that provides adequate space, protection from the elements and predators, and good ventilation. A modified shed, barn, or stable with an outdoor run is a good option for a coop. The outdoor run should be fully enclosed if you have predators like hawks or owls nearby. Ideally, coops are slightly elevated off the ground to prevent flooding and have windows on each side, enough nest boxes to allow several chickens to nest simultaneously, outlets for lighting, fans if they’re needed, air inlets or ventilation holes on the roof, and a concrete floor treated with a pet-safe waterproof coating that allows for easy cleaning and drainage.

Want to go the fancy route?

Search Pinterest for “chicken coop building plans” if you’re building your own or consider going the luxury route with a gorgeous custom-built coop from a company like CutestCoops.com

WHEN DO CHICKENS START LAYING EGGS?

Most hens will start laying eggs when they’re about 18 to 20 weeks old, although it may take more time for them to reach their peak output. Often, the first eggs are laid irregularly or are smaller or oddly shaped when compared with a typical egg. This is nothing to worry about! Once a cycle is established, most hens will lay one egg per day.

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events

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

AUGUST

Lebanon Blues Festival

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN LEBANON | 5:30 PM

The Lebanon Blues Festival will be held August 4-5 in downtown Lebanon. Guests will enjoy 11 blues bands (three on Friday night and eight Saturday), food, a deluxe beer garden and a redesigned artisan and craftsman row. Guests can view 150 classic cars in the Blues, BBQ, and Bumpers Car Show on Broadway Street. Find out more at LebanonBluesFestival.com

Little Sounds of Deerfield with Zak Morgan

KINGSWOOD PARK | 10:00 AM

Families can enjoy an hour of music and an hour of art making at the Kingswood Park Pavilion on August 11. The music begins at 10 a.m. with Zak Morgan, followed by an art project with Kelli Gleiner. All ages are welcome. This is a free event, but registration is required for the art portion. Registration can be found at Eventbrite.com .

Free Community Education Series: Radical Openness

MANOR HOUSE | 6:00 PM

The Lindner Center continues their free Community Education Series on August 16 with Allison Mecca, PsyD, staff psychologist with the Harold C. Schott Foundation Eating Disorders Program at Lindner Center of HOPE. Allison will discuss the two overarching styles of coping based on bio-temperaments and identify your temperament, as well as other related topics. Register for the event at LindnerCenterOfHOPE.org .

Powder Keg 5K Trail Run

CARTER PARK | 9:00 AM

The Powder Keg 5K Trail Run, presented by Deerfield Township and The Arts Alliance, will be held at Carter Park on August 26 at 9 a.m. Guests can explore a fun and challenging course on the trails of Carter Park. A portion of the proceeds benefits The Arts Alliance toward future arts programming. For more information and to register, visit DeerfiledOh.MyRec.com .

2023 Bubble Blast 4K

CORWIN NIXON PARK | 10:00 AM

The 2023 Building Blocks for Kids (BB4K) Bubble Blast 4K will take place at Corwin Nixon Park on August 26. Participants can enjoy food, music, dancing, games, bubble pits and more. Proceeds support one of the selected BB4K children. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and Bubble Blast starts at 10:30 a.m. Tickets can be purchased at BB4K.org .

ARTFest on Main

S. MAIN STREET, SPRINGBORO | 10:00 AM

ARTFest on Main is on August 26 in Springboro and features fine art from approximately 100 artists, music, entertainment and a children's tent. The festival also offers food, beer and wine vendors and the third annual Dinner on Main fundraising event. The event is free, pet friendly and held rain or shine. More information can be found at ArtFestOnMain.com .

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/MasonAndDeerfield

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