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The 2026 45th Annual David W Leonard Fraternal Order of Eagles #2295 Walleye Festival

Enjoy one of Ohio’s premier outdoor weekend celebrations with free live concerts, kids fishing derby, grande parade, carnival rides, and more than 130 vendors from around the nation.

THURSDAY MAY 21 -

MONDAY MAY 25 2026 ST TH,

THURS & FRI 5:00PM - 11:00PM SAT & SUN 11:00AM - 11:00PM MON - 11:00AM - 5:00PM

We take the time to truly get to know you, since how we help turn your vision into reality is unique to you. Then we'll partner together over time to help keep you on track.

Ben Haraway

173 E Washington Row Sandusky, OH 44870 419-609-9299

Keri

173 E Washington Row Sandusky, OH 44870 419-609-9299

3866 Harbor Light Landing Dr Port Clinton, OH 43452 419-960-0142

Paul Christman

A Letter from the Publisher: Investing in People

As I look out across our community this spring, I am struck by a simple, profound truth: our greatest local resource isn’t our shoreline or our real estate, it’s the people. When we talk about “investment” this month, I want to move past the balance sheets and talk about the heart. To me, the most vital investment we can make is in people of all shapes, sizes, and walks of life.

Investing in people means recognizing that every one in our neighborhood, regardless of their age, their background, or the challenges they face, has a story worth telling and a value that is immeasurable.

You see this “Human ROI” in the eyes of a student at a local trade school finally finding their spark. You see it in the tireless compassion of professionals, who understand that “investing in people” means creating a space where everyone feels like they are special. You see it in the artist who pour their soul into a craft just to bring a smile to a neighbor’s face.

When we invest our time, our patience, and our kindness in one another, we are planting seeds that will outlast any building or bank account. It’s about the mentor who stays an hour late, the volunteer who shows up when no one is watching, and the community leader who ensures that our “investment” reaches the people who are often overlooked.

This issue is a tribute to that spirit. It is a reminder that when we support one another, we aren’t just “doing business”, we are building a legacy of belonging. Thank you for being a community that knows the highest return on any investment is the growth and happiness of the person standing right next to you.

With Love,

HAILEE SAGE, PUBLISHER @SANDUSKYBAYCITYLIFESTYLE

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Hailee Sage | Hailee.Sage@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Sam Sage | sam.sage@citylifestyle.com

PHOTO EDITORS

Shari Rae Design’s | shariraedesigns@gmail.com

EK Designs | e.k.designssss@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Sharareh’s Photography, Shipwrecked Creative, Pam Johnston Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

– 4: Successful Speed Volunteering event at Work

connecting 70 potential volunteers with 23 local organizations.

Space,

5 – 6: Gideon Owen Winery Bridal Show & Expo 2026. 7: Gideon Owen Winery Bridal Show & Expo 2026 featuring vendor Wild By Nature.

SHARAREH’S PHOTOGRAPHY

business monthly

Reineke Family Dealerships: Investing in the Journey

For the Reineke family, selling cars is only a small part of their story, the real work lies in investing in the community. By providing reliable transportation and exceptional service, they empower neighbors to safely reach their jobs, schools, activities and families. Their commitment to local community-focused initiatives proves that their greatest asset isn’t found on the showroom floor, but in the long-term relationships and trust they build with every generation they serve.

Scan to read more

Capturing the Soul: Sharareh’s Photography

A portrait is more than a picture; it’s an investment in your legacy. Sharareh’s Photography specializes in capturing the unique spirit of people from all walks of life. Whether documenting a milestone or the quiet beauty of the everyday, Sharareh invests her heart into ensuring every subject feels seen and valued. Celebrate your journey with a timeless image that honors who you are today. Contact Sharareh to invest in a memory that lasts forever.

Stefano Dental: Your Gateway to Total Wellness

Investing in your smile is an investment in your life. At Stefano Dental, we look beyond cavities to screen for precursors to systemic issues. Signs like worn teeth from grinding, a scalloped tongue, or chronic dry mouth are often early red flags for sleep apnea and airway obstruction. By identifying these risks during routine exams, we serve as your first line of defense. Trust us to protect your oral health and your overall well-being.

Photography by Pam Johnston Photography

Artistry in Bloom: The Wild By Nature Investment

At Wild By Nature, Carla Roesch brings her fine arts background to every creation, blurring the line between nature and art. Her custom “permanent botanicals” offer a sophisticated, zero-maintenance solution for upscale residential and corporate spaces. These aren’t just artificial flowers; they are handcrafted, “wild-inspired” designs that bring year-round elegance to your home or business. Invest in a lasting aesthetic that remains flawlessly “guest-ready” every single day.

Healing Homes: The Clean Team’s Mission of Hope

As a cancer survivor, founder Amber Gardner understands firsthand the physical and emotional exhaustion that comes with fighting for your life. Through The Clean Team’s partnership with Cleaning for a Reason, the company provides free, professional cleaning services to local cancer patients, giving them one less burden during one of the most difficult times imaginable. For someone undergoing treatment, a clean home isn’t just a simple luxury; it is a vital part of healing.

Scan to read more

Photography by Sharareh’s Photography

Investment Looks Good on You

The most meaningful investments aren’t always financial, they’re personal. Prioritizing your health, wellness, and skin is a long-term strategy for confidence, vitality, and longevity. Preventative treatments, advanced esthetics, restorative wellness services, and intentional self-care protect your future while enhancing how you feel today. Radiant skin and vibrant health aren’t indulgences; they’re assets that appreciate over time. When you invest in yourself, the return is lasting, refined, and beautifully visible.

Planting Peace of Mind

Spring is a natural time to plant seeds for the future, including the peace that comes from planning ahead. At Groff Funeral Homes & Crematory, preplanning is a gift of clarity for your family, ensuring your wishes are known and easing tomorrow’s decisions. We’re here to help you nurture thoughtful, com passionate plans that will bloom into comfort when it’s needed most. Call us to set up a free pre-planning appointment, (419) 626-3632!

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

for the exclusive reveal and more with Tim Tebow unfiltered.

the first time ever, Tim shares the inspiration behind a project he’s been holding close to his heart.

Redefining MVP

FEATURING TIM TEBOW

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Backed by 35 years of experience, we are proud to b e the area’s first choice for chimney care.

ARTICLE BY HAILEE SAGE PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHIPWRECKED CREATIVE

MY PERSONAL JOURNEY

TO A NIGHT TO SHINE

Through my work with City Lifestyle, I recently took a deep dive into the Tim Tebow Foundation. While I’ve certainly heard the name over the years, I quickly realized that I had been missing the full picture. What I’ve discovered since then has been a genuine revelation. My life has been profoundly impacted by the mission of Night to Shine, and now that I’ve seen the “why” behind the magic, I simply can’t stop talking about it.

THE ARCHITECTURE OF EXCELLENCE

If you know me, you know I appreciate a well-executed plan. While I love a spontaneous celebration, I have a deep respect for professional precision. When I first looked into the logistics of hosting a Night to Shine event, I was stunned by the “Manual.”

This isn’t just a list of suggestions; it is a meticulously defined blueprint for excellence. To host this event, a church must adhere to a strict set of standards that govern everything from the angle of the red carpet to the specific sensory requirements of the “quiet rooms.” At first glance, one might wonder why the Foundation is so exacting. But as I peeled back the layers, I realized the strictness is actually an act of radical love. It ensures that our guests with special needs, our local kings and queens, receive a five-star, dignified experience that is consistent across the globe. It’s a promise that “good enough” is never enough when it comes to celebrating these incredible individuals.

THE CHAPEL: A MASTERCLASS IN SERVICE

Here in Sandusky, the monumental task of executing this manual falls to The Chapel. It is one thing to read a list of requirements; it is quite another to breathe life into them with such grace and enthusiasm. The team at The Chapel doesn’t just “follow the rules”, they elevate them. They transform their facility into a world-class venue, managing the complexities of the event with a level of professionalism that is truly inspiring. They remind us that the most significant way to serve a community is to do so with both a joyful heart and an uncompromising standard of quality.

A SYMPHONY OF COMMUNITY SUPPORT

One of the most rewarding aspects of my role as a publisher is witnessing our local business community come together. Night to Shine is the ultimate example of this synergy. It was incredibly moving to see so many of our partners, the same entrepreneurs and professionals I see at our networking mixers, setting aside their own busy schedules to contribute.

From the intricate lighting details and expert photographers to the catered dinner and party bus arrivals, these local experts poured their professional talents into the evening. This is the “investment” we speak of so often. These businesses aren’t just donating services; they are investing their best selves into the fabric of our community. They recognize that when we elevate our neighbors, we elevate the entire region.

Night to Shine magic was fueled by Great Lakes Audio and Visual’s production, Shipwrecked Creative’s media, Chick-fil-A meals, and Sharkey’s Limousines. Thanks to Erie County Board of DD, Stay Teams, Sandusky Bay Pancake House, and massage volunteers. We also appreciate One Digital, Hartung Title, and discounts from Blue Ribbon, Castalia Flower Shop, and Violet Pineapple.

THE HEART OF THE VOLUNTEER

Then, of course, there are the volunteers. To see hundreds of our neighbors, from CEOs to students, donning their finest attire to serve as “Buddies” is something I won’t soon forget. There is a specific kind of magic that happens on that red carpet. While the manual provides the structure, the volunteers provide the soul.

I’ve realized that while Night to Shine is a gift to the guests, it is an even greater gift to the rest of us. It challenges our perspectives and reminds us that every person, regardless of ability or background, deserves to be seen, heard, and celebrated.

THE HIGHEST RETURN

I may have been a little late to the party in realizing the scope of Tim Tebow’s vision, but I am now one of its most passionate advocates. This month, we are focusing on Investment. After experiencing the brilliance of Night to Shine, I am convinced that the greatest return we can ever hope for comes from the intentional, professional, and heartfelt investment we make in one another.

The Heart of Placement

Gina

Journey from Senior Advocacy to Red Carpet

In the world of professional networking, we often talk about “finding your why.” We search for that elusive spark that connects our personal passions to our professional callings. For Gina Munafo of Oasis Senior Advisors, that spark didn’t just flicker; it ignited into a brilliant flame on a recent Friday night. Gina attended a Night to Shine event, and while she went there to serve, she walked away with her perspective forever changed.

If you know Gina, you know her heart. It is the kind of heart that doesn’t just beat; it radiates. It was this innate compassion that led her to volunteer for Night to Shine, an event dedicated to celebrating individuals with special needs. But as Gina stood on that red carpet, cheering for the kings and queens of our community, she realized that the energy she was pouring into these incredible guests was the exact same energy she pours into her seniors every single day.

A CONNECTION OF CARE

Volunteering for an event like Night to Shine requires a specific set of personality traits: patience, radical empathy, and a total lack of ego. You have to be willing to meet someone exactly where they are, to celebrate their unique light without agenda. Gina navigated the evening with a natural, bubbly grace, ensuring that every guest felt seen, heard, and deeply valued.

ARTICLE BY HAILEE SAGE PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHIPWRECKED CREATIVE

What Gina discovered in the midst of the glitter and the dancing was a profound parallel to her role as a senior living placement agent. Working with families who are navigating the complexities of assisted living requires that same caring heart. Just like a Night to Shine guest might feel overwhelmed by the bright lights and big crowds, a senior and their family often feel overwhelmed by the daunting transition into a new phase of life. Gina’s gift is her ability to step into that “manual of chaos” and provide a calm, steady hand.

THE ART OF THE PIVOT

In senior placement, as in volunteering with special needs individuals, things rarely go exactly to plan. It requires a professional who can pivot with a smile and a solution. Gina brings a level of emotional intelligence to Oasis Senior Advisors that simply cannot

Munafo’s

be taught. Whether she is advocating for a guest’s comfort at a prom or advocating for a senior’s dignity in a new facility, her mission is the same: to ensure they feel like royalty.

She understands that placing a senior in assisted living isn’t just about finding a room with a view; it’s about finding a home where their spirit can continue to thrive. It takes a certain “Night to Shine” spirit to look past the logistics and see the human being underneath. Gina treats every senior she works with as if they are walking down their own red carpet toward a bright future.

THE RETURN ON EMPATHY

Gina’s experience has reaffirmed her belief that the most important investment we can make is in the dignity of others. She takes the lessons of that night—the importance of a kind word, the power of presence, and the necessity of advocacy—and carries them into every consultation.

When families work with Gina, they aren’t just getting an agent; they are getting a woman whose heart has been expanded by her community. She knows that the same patience required to guide a child through a crowded room is the same patience needed to guide a family through the emotional landscape of aging. Gina Munafo doesn’t just place seniors; she honors them. And because of that, our community is a much brighter place.

ARTICLE BY HAILEE SAGE

Finding Purpose at Home

For many, retirement is viewed as a finish line—a time to reflect on a career wellspent. But for John McKinnon, a Huron native with a lifetime of service behind him, retirement was simply the beginning of a new chapter. After decades of serving his country and his community, John found himself searching for a way to reinvest his experience into the roots that raised him. He found that answer in Erie County CASA

John and his wife are the definition of “servants at heart.” Both born and raised in Huron, they share a deep-seated commitment to the North Coast. Their professional lives were built on the pillars of protection and care; John’s background in law enforcement and his wife’s career in the medical field provided them with a unique lens through which to view human needs. Furthermore, both are Veterans of the U.S. Air Force, carrying

with them the discipline that military service instills.

When they returned to Huron, John felt a pull to find a new “why.” While many find the idea of becoming a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) daunting, John saw it as a natural extension of his life’s work. For a man who has spent his life protecting others, the opportunity to be the voice for a child in the foster care system was a calling.

One of the greatest hurdles for potential volunteers is the fear of being overwhelmed by a large caseload or navigating the legal system alone. However, John’s experience highlights the reality of the program: you are never alone. Volunteers typically advocate for just one child or sibling group, allowing them to truly “invest” in that child’s future. The professional support system provided by the CASA staff ensures that advocates have the training

“John

McKinnon is living proof that our most valuable investment isn’t found in a portfolio, but in the children of our community.”

John McKinnon’s Journey with Erie County CASA

and backup they need. You don’t need to be a lawyer; you just need to be a consistent, caring adult.

The impact of this advocacy is often felt in quiet, life-changing moments. John recalls a specific instance that solidified his purpose. During a supervised visit over Zoom, he watched a young child interact with his mother. When the mother asked the boy who his best friend was, the child didn’t hesitate. He responded simply, “It’s John. John is my best friend.”

In that moment, John’s “why” came to life with startling clarity. He knew that the child understood the most important part of the CASA mission: that John was always in his corner.

John McKinnon is living proof that our most valuable investment isn’t found in a portfolio, but in the children of our community. He has traded his uniform for an advocacy role, proving that when we invest our time in a child, the return is a legacy of belonging and hope.

A MILESTONE TRADITION

THE 45TH ANNUAL WALLEYE FESTIVAL

ARTICLE BY HAILEE SAGE

For nearly half a century, the Memorial Day weekend in Port Clinton has been synonymous with community heritage and celebration. This year marks a significant milestone as we gather for the 45th Annual David W. Leonard Fraternal Order of Eagles #2295 Walleye Festival. From Thursday through Monday, the city’s scenic waterfront will transform into a premier destination, welcoming guests from across the region to experience one of Ohio’s most enduring traditions.

Since its inception in 1980, the Walleye Festival has evolved into a vital economic and social pillar for Ottawa County. The event’s scale is impressive: featuring over 120 merchandise vendors and 45 diverse food booths, it draws an average of 12,000 visitors daily. However, the festival’s significance extends far beyond its five-day run. The net proceeds constitute 100% of the annual operating budget for Main Street Port Clinton, ensuring that our historic downtown remains a vibrant place to live and do business year-round.

The weekend itinerary offers sophisticated entertainment for all attendees. Highlights include the annual Grande Parade, a diverse lineup of live music in the Entertainment Tent, and the educational Kids’ Fishing Derby, which has introduced over 10,000 children to the sport.

Managed by a dedicated committee and supported by local non-profit organizations, the festival represents a masterclass in professional event coordination and civic pride. Whether you are enjoying the fresh local cuisine or exploring the merchant displays, you are participating in a legacy 45 years in the making. We look forward to seeing you at the Waterworks Park to kick off the summer season.

ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY

The drink that makes you look forward to TAX DAY

INCOME TAX cocktail

INGREDIENTS:

• 1½ oz. Gin

• ¾ oz. Dry Vermouth

• ¾ oz. Sweet Vermouth

• ¾ oz. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice

• 2 Dashes Angastura Bitters

• Orange Twist

• Glass Type: Coupe

DIRECTIONS:

1. Squeeze your OJ.

2. Add everything to your shaker with ice.

3. Shake.

4. Pour into your coupe.

5. Twist your orange peel again, like you did last summer.

6. Garnish.

7. Enjoy being done with taxes.

8. And a good cocktail.

The Income Tax Cocktail likely popped up during the Prohibition party scene of the 1920s. Its exact origin story remains a bit blurry, but it was definitely a hit in speakeasies. The name? Well, it's like a cheeky nod to the idea that sipping on this cocktail might be more fun than paying actual taxes! Made with gin, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and a dash of bitters, it's like a boozy adventure for your taste buds, with hints of citrus and herbs. Despite its vintage roots, the Income Tax Cocktail still brings the party vibes, transporting you back to the roaring '20s.

APRIL 4TH

Easter Egg Hunt at Quarry Hill Winery

Quarry Hill Winery | 1:00 PM

Join Quarry Hill Winery on Saturday, April 4th, at 1:30 PM for our second annual Easter Egg Hunt! Explore our 400-acre vineyard with Lake Erie views. Adults ($25) enjoy a glass of wine and 1,000 hidden eggs. Children’s tickets ($5) include age-specific hunts. Secure your spot—limited tickets available! Check in at the rocks to begin your adventure.

APRIL 11TH

Charlie Chaplin Cinema Concert

Sawmill Creek Convention Center | 7:30 PM

Join Firelands Symphony Orchestra for their first ever cinema concert! Step back into the silent film era as members of the FSO perform live scores to two Charlie Chaplin classics: Shoulder Arms and A Dog’s Life. This unique concert showcases the music as the starring voice, perfectly syncing to Chaplin’s iconic onscreen moments.

APRIL 25TH

2026 Annual Chocolate and Wine Walk

Victory Park Gazebo | 11:00 AM

Experience downtown Vermilion for an afternoon of shopping, dining, and chocolate and/or wine sampling! Don your most creative Derby-style hat for our “Derby Hats” theme to win a special prize. Registration is $30 per person and participants must be 21 or older. Join the fun and celebrate in style!

APRIL 25TH

Behind

the

Brew: Brewery Tour & Tasting Experience

Twin Oast Brewing — Brew House | 5:00 PM

Explore the art and science of brewing with Behind the Brew at Twin Oast! This intimate experience includes a guided brewhouse tour, insider stories, and a deep dive into our unique ingredients and methods. Enjoy a curated beer sampling and take home a souvenir taster glass. Perfect for enthusiasts and the curious alike—discover the craftsmanship behind every pour!

ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Inquiring Chef

START WITH A VEGETABLE

Jess Smith is the founder of the popular food blog InquiringChef. com, which she started in 2010 after moving to Thailand with her husband. She explored Thai cuisine, took cooking classes, and documented her experiences on the blog. Over time, her passion for cooking grew, leading her to focus on quick, easy meals for families. Today, Inquiring Chef receives over 5 million page views annually and supports a small team. She shares new recipes weekly through email, her blog, and social media, helping home cooks simplify mealtime without sacrificing flavor.

Smith is now an author. Her debut cookbook, Start with a Vegetable, published in 2025 reimagines meal planning by putting vegetables at the center of the plate.

“Start with a Vegetable was the result of a natural transition in the way I started thinking about preparing dinner for my family. At the end of a busy day, I often didn't have the energy to think about dinner in parts by preparing a separate protein, vegetable, and starch,” says Smith. “I realized that if I put a vegetable at the center of the dish, the rest was easy to fill in.”

The book features 100 flexible recipes proving vegetables aren’t just a side—they’re key to simple, satisfying meals.

As chief recipe developer for the Cook Smarts meal-planning app, Smith worked closely with families struggling to get dinner on the table. She noticed a common challenge: people wanted to eat more vegetables but didn’t know how to build meals around them.

“As I started planning and testing recipes for the book, I just loved how easy it made dinnertime feel. Are there carrots in the fridge? Here are a bunch of ways to turn them into dinner. Nearly all of the 100 recipes are complete meals and include easy swaps to make them vegetarian. The book is truly flexitarian, with vegetable-forward recipes for all types of eaters.”

Unlike most cookbooks, Start with a Vegetable is organized by ingredient. Each chapter focuses on a different vegetable, offering multiple ways to turn it into a meal.

“The concept is resonating with many readers who tell me they love that the chapters are organized by vegetable, making it easy to use whatever they have on hand.”

Smith went through a rigorous testing process, starting with over 300 ideas before narrowing them down to 100.

“I always have running lists of recipe ideas. I started sorting recipes into categories, making sure there was variety for each vegetable. I wanted different cooking methods and types of dishes, so each chapter might have a soup, a salad, a roasted dish, a stove-top dish, and a sandwich or pasta.”

After perfecting the recipes in her own kitchen, she passed them to a trusted friend, an everyday home cook, to ensure they worked under real-world conditions.

“I want to know how these recipes worked for a home cook who was shopping at regular grocery stores and trying to make dinner for a family on a weeknight. She sends me feedback on any ingredients that are hard to find, anything that is unclear in the recipe, and tracks how long it takes her to make it with reallife interruptions.”

To further refine the book, Smith enlisted 30 volunteer home cooks through Instagram and her email list to test the recipes.

“My goal was to ensure that the recipes in this book are reliable, easy, and adaptable. I wanted this to be a cookbook for real home cooks. I'm so grateful to that team of volunteers for helping to ensure that it is.”

To order a copy of the cookbook visit: InquiringChef.com