A Season to Be Thankful
Thank you to our Founding Partners
Hailee Sage
SANDUSKY BAY LIFESTYLE PUBLISHER
Ace Insurance Agency
Acc Adult Home Care
Oasis Senior Advisors Northeastern Ohio
Edward Jones - Financial Advisors Of Sandusky And Port Clinton
Stefano Dental & Stefano Professional Aesthetics
BCT Alarm Services, Inc.
The Botson Agencies
True Alpha Wealth Management
Budget Blinds Of Amherst And Sandsusky
Linda Armstrong & The A Team
Re/Max Quality Realty
Sagebrush Artistry & Gardens
Barnes Nursery
Groff Funeral Home & The Legacy Center
Chim-Cheroo Chimney Service
Chris Pisano Of Union Home Mortgage Corp.
Sarringhaus & Scott Co. Lpa - Pamela Spargo
CTG Sports Center
Wild By Nature Design
Every Step Seniors
Life Plus Financial
Pam Johnston Photography
Stein Olsen & Stang
Sharareh Photography
Simply Vitality
Work Space Of Sandusky
Welcome to Sandusky Bay City Lifestyle
As the leaves turn and we embrace this season of gratitude, I’m filled with heartfelt thanks for the chance to introduce myself, my family, and our exciting new venture to you. I’m Hailee Sage, and alongside my wonderful husband, Sam, we’ve built a life here in Sandusky Bay, raising our two incredible children who’ve grown up chasing sunsets along Lake Erie, cheering at local games, and soaking in the warmth of this extraordinary commu nity. I’m endlessly grateful for the roots we’ve planted here, surrounded by neighbors who feel like family and a landscape that inspires me every day.
It’s with immense pride that I introduce Sandusky Bay City Lifestyle, a publication crafted with love to celebrate the vibrant lifestyle of our region. This magazine is our vision for showcasing the very best of Sandusky Bay—from exclusive features on local real estate and interior design, to stories about fine dining, artisanal craftsmanship and the local events that make our community shine.
Sandusky Bay is more than a place—it’s a way of life that I’m deeply thankful for. From the sparkling waters of Lake Erie to the historic charm of our downtown, the thrill of Cedar Point, and the serenity of our vineyards and state parks, this region is a treasure. I’m grateful for the entrepreneurial spirit that pulses here, the natural beauty that surrounds us, and the tight-knit bonds that make every moment feel like a celebration. Through Sandusky Bay City Lifestyle, I hope to honor that spirit, weaving together stories that foster connection and pride in our shared home.
With warmest thanks and excitement,
HAILEE SAGE, PUBLISHER
@SANDUSKYBAYCITYLIFESTYLE
November 2025
PUBLISHER
Hailee Sage | Hailee.Sage@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Sam Sage | sam.sage@citylifestyle.com
PHOTO EDITOR
Shari Rae Design's | shariraedesign@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Hailee Sage, Angela Broockerd, Emily McKeever, Alison Stanton, Mel Boban
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sharareh's Photography, Pam Johnston Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Eva Tucker
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Proverbs 3:5-6
We provide advanced, professional dental treatment plans paired with state-of-the-art amenities that prioritize your health while ensuring comfort every step of the way.
“Dr. Stefano and her team embody excellence in dentistry. They are skilled, knowledgeable and dedicated to providing exceptional care while ensuring every patient’s comfort is a priority. A true standard of distinction in their field.”
Chimney
city scene
1: Harbourtown Fine Arts Center Fundraiser staring John Riddle, Vermilion’s own Broadway Star. 2: Work Space Sandusky’s Grand Opening Celebration. 3: Work Space Sandusky’s Grand Opening Celebration. 4: Marketing & Mimosas Working Women Connection Networking Group. 5: Sharareh’s Photography’s New Studio soft open. 6: Simply Vitality joins The HALO Beauty Lounge in Rooting for Remi #RemiStrong. 7: Greater Sandusky Partnership’s 2025 GSP Annual Meeting at Sawmill Creek Resort.
SHARAREH’S PHOTOGRAPHY MEGAN LUNSFORD
TESSA STEINMANN
The Power of Loyalty: Stefano Dental’s Incredible Workplace Legacy
In an era when employees change jobs often, longevity absolutely speaks volumes. At Stefano Dental, Dr. Lata Stefano has built more than a practice—she’s built a loyal, trusted team. Years of service aren’t just numbers—they reflect trust, consistency, and care. Thank you to Colleen Casselberry (40), Montie Buckner (35), Melanie Dix (21), Julie O’Dwyer (21), and Janet Reilly (21) for decades of dedication. Your commitment defines the heart of Stefano Dental.
It All Begins with Family: The Sage Gardens Story
Right along the shore of Lake Erie in Huron, Ohio, Sage Gardens is the creative biproduct of husband-and-wife duo Jon & Beth Sage. Beth, a seasoned muralist with 40+ years of painting magic, fuses art with nature, while Jon—our resident “Rose Whisperer”— cultivates over 45 rose varieties for their signature potpourri. Their studio also features hand-poured botanical soaps, homegrown herbs and charming home goods—each crafted with care. Ready to stop and smell the roses? sagebrushartgardens.com
Photography by Pam Johnston Photography
Stay Cozy and Save Energy This Winter
As temperatures drop, the right window coverings can make all the difference. Budget Blinds offers stylish, energy-efficient solutions that help keep warmth in and cold drafts out. Our insulating cellular shades and thermal blinds add a layer of comfort and can help reduce heating costs— all while enhancing the look and feel of your home this winter.
H O P E
Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN
The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?
The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.
Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.
“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”
Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:
SCAN TO NOMINATE
“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”
Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:
“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”
Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.
This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.
“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”
Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.
This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.
To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.
Tips on meal prepping for less stress
ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON
Let’s face it: hosting Thanksgiving dinner can be stressful.
Between grocery shopping, house cleaning, cooking and baking, it’s no wonder the day devoted to giving thanks can feel a tad daunting.
Here’s some very welcome good news: whether this is your first holiday hosting rodeo or you’ve stuffed many a turkey over the years, you can knock out most of the Thanksgiving meal prep work in advance – some of it two weeks before the big day.
To make this year’s Thanksgiving meal easier and more enjoyable, consider the following timeline of tips.
2 WEEKS BEFORE
Create Your Thanksgiving Menu
• Print out the recipes you plan to use – this will be much easier than constantly tapping your phone to prevent the screen from going dark or scrolling when your hands are covered with flour or onions.
• Using your menu and printed out recipes as a guide, compose a complete shopping list.
• Double check your supply of herbs and spices to see what you have on hand –even the ones you are pretty sure you have enough of, like salt and pepper (this tip comes from personal experience!).
• Shop for all non-perishable and frozen food items. Basically, if it doesn’t need to be stored in the fridge, or if it doesn’t have a short shelf life, it’s going in the cart.
• Plan three easy and tasty dinners for the days leading up to Thanksgiving and purchase those ingredients during your shopping trip. Or plan at least one night of takeout. CONTINUED >
4-5 DAYS BEFORE
Clean & Organize, Buy Fresh Groceries
• Clean your home completely, enlisting family members to help. Then, as the big day approaches, you can touch up as needed.
• Finish your grocery shopping for fresh vegetables like potatoes, onions and carrots and other items not purchased earlier.
• Go through your fridge and toss any old, expired condiments, leftovers and mysterious food items that no one is eating. This will free up valuable real estate for your various dishes.
Prep Meals & Set the Table 2-3 DAYS BEFORE
• Wash and chop all veggies and place the prepped produce into plastic baggies or airtight food storage containers. If some recipes call for “minced onion” and others require “chopped onion,” label the bags accordingly.
• Set the table, and include the empty serving dishes. This will help you figure out ahead of time where the larger dishes can go (and if they will all fit!) Add Post-It notes to the empty dishes to remind you what will go in what. Use a clean sheet to cover everything and keep it all dustfree until Thursday. You can also do this for a buffet.
• Gather all needed serving spoons and other serving pieces.
• Pre-measure herbs and spices for your recipes and store them in labeled small plastic bags with the name of the dish they are for and what’s in the baggies. You can also do the same for any flour, sugar or other non-perishable ingredients you’ll use in your dishes.
Tidy, Prepare Dishes & Drinks 1 DAY BEFORE
• Do a quick clean and tidy around the home; for instance, run the vacuum and shine up the bathrooms.
• If you haven’t already done so, bake your pies, or, at the very least, prepare your pie dough. Wrap the dough in plastic and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake the pies.
• Make the mashed potatoes. Bonus tip: on Thanksgiving, put the potatoes into a slow cooker and heat them up using the “warm” setting.
• Prepare the gravy. If you have a second slow cooker, it too can be warmed up this way on Thanksgiving. This will also help free up pots, pans and burners on the stove!
• Set up a separate drink station where guests can help themselves or someone can serve them away from the kitchen. Stock it with glasses of different sizes, napkins, bottle and can openers and straws.
ARTICLE BY HAILEE SAGE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAM SAGE AND CHRISTI JO GUHN PHOTOGRAPHY
Hometown Hits Must
MUST-DO’S WE CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF
Sheldon’s Marsh
Sheldon’s Marsh is one of our favorite Erie County spots! Our family loves exploring the trails, spotting wildlife, and making memories together. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and perfect for outdoor adventures with our kids.
Our family always has an amazing time at Twin Oast! The beautiful setting, great food, and fun community events make it unforgettable. We love the live music and family-friendly vibe.
Ball Field
There’s nothing better than getting dirty and cheering on our team at the ball field, especially when mom is coaching. Catch us all summer long making memories in the dirt.
Watching, analyzing, coaching and being a part of local sports is what we live for. Nothing beats football season especially when Chomps shows up. Big smiles, big plays, and big fun!
Exploring Erie MetroParks is one of our favorites! The trails, playgrounds, and open space are perfect for outdoor fun. So thankful for this beautiful spot close to home!
Mill Hallow
Twin Oast
ARTICLE BY HAILEE SAGE
Gratitude in Action
Honoring Edward Jones’ Local Team
Gratitude extends beyond our dinner tables—it reaches into our communities. It’s both a feeling and a choice. And it’s powerful. Three professionals from our local Edward Jones team share a special connection to gratitude through service. Two are military veterans, and the third was shaped by parents who proudly served. Their stories reflect leadership, resilience, and a lifelong commitment to others—first in uniform, now through financial guidance.
FLYING HIGH: KERI MAY
Keri May made history as one of the first female aviators in the Marine Corps. Her path wasn’t easy— she faced doubts, challenges, and pressure—but through grit and focus, she forged ahead.
Keri served as a weapons and sensors officer in the F/A-18D Hornet. Over 11 years, she deployed overseas, supported Operation Enduring Freedom, and was later inducted into the Women in Aviation International Hall of Fame. Today, she brings that same discipline and clarity to helping clients reach their financial goals.
A LIFE OF SERVICE: PAUL CHRISTMAN
After 9/11, Paul Christman joined the U.S. Navy, where he trained in operating nuclear reactors and electrical systems. Over a decade of service, he patrolled in ballistic missile submarines and deployed aboard the USS Nimitz in the Persian Gulf.
Paul, a highly decorated veteran, brings Navyhoned discipline and problem-solving to his
financial advising work. His story is a reminder to be thankful not only for military service—but also for the lasting leadership veterans bring to civilian life.
A LEGACY OF DEDICATION: BEN HARAWAY
Ben Haraway didn’t serve in the military—but the example of service was always close. Both of his parents served in the U.S. Army, and their values shaped his own.
A CPA by background, Ben helps families make smart, tax-efficient investment decisions rooted in their goals. His work is built on collaboration, trust, and a deep respect for clients’ long-term visions.
“Understanding your values and priorities is the foundation of preparing for tomorrow,” he says.
What unites Keri, Paul, and Ben goes beyond their Edward Jones titles. It’s a shared belief that service—whether to country, family, or community—is one of life’s greatest callings.
FEAST YOUR WAY TO WINTER
Fall’s best cookbooks for perfect cold season prep
Crisper air and shorter days call for cozy nights, whipping up a homemade meal in soft slippers and your favorite robe. Staying home on a Friday night in the fall doesn’t mean you’re giving up — quite the opposite! Think of it as carb loading before the championship game or a prep session before that major test. You’re practicing your winter hibernation skills, stretching those lounging muscles, and getting ready to win winter. And consider this roundup of cookbooks as your personal trainer. If you can make a hearty, succulent roast with confidence and ease as the leaves fall outside, imagine what you can do when it’s 20 degrees and snowing. Now, go get ’em!
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
Pizza Night:
Deliciously
Doable Recipes for Pizza and Salad
When you hear “Pizza Night”, a picture appears of the entire family gathered ’round with good food and lots of laughs (with popcorn and a movie to wrap up the occasion, naturally). This collection of yum contains 52 seasonal pizza varieties, each with unique salad pairings. It’s like pizza night on overdrive. Now, when you plan the family’s favorite end-of-the-week event, you’ll have this in your arsenal.
Mastering Bread:
The Art and Practice of Handmade Sourdough, Yeast Bread, and Pastry
We know you want to turn and run in the opposite direction after reading this title, but don’t be afraid! Take a glance at the reviews, and you’ll see words like easy, lovely, informative, inspiring, and our favorite, “great for beginner bread makers!” No equipment is required, just basic ingredients and a can-do attitude. It’s also a nice little piece of décor for your kitchen countertop.
The Modern Hippie Table: Recipes and Menus for Eating Simply and Living Beautifully
You’ll find more than 70 recipes in this gorgeous compilation. Author/lifestyle blogger Lauren Thomas wants her readers to slow down and create a whole mood around their food, one that is beautiful, inviting, and… delicious. Her recipes are achievable for the novice and experienced chef and come with tips on tablescaping, cocktail mixing, and more. So, double knot that apron because you’re going to learn some stuff and eat very, very well.
Health Nut: A Feel-Good Cookbook
You may see Health Nut and say to yourself, ‘Booooring!’ but healthy food doesn’t have to be tasteless food. Flip through the vibrant pages of this trusty sidekick, and you’ll find good-for-you dishes with flavorful combinations the whole family will love. With practical instructions and helpful tips, it’s almost as if the author peeked into your pantry and built her recipes around ingredients you already have.
uniqueGIFTING
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
ADVICE EDITORIAL: ALTERNATE GIFT IDEAS FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON
The holiday season is officially on, and gifting is top of mind. We’re all used to scrolling online, browsing the malls or hitting the local boutiques, but sometimes it’s fun and unexpected to switch it up. If looking to surprise and delight recipients this year and to bring a new tradition to the season, offbeat gifting can be a great way to turn a new leaf on stale routines.
1) PRE-HOLIDAY SURPRISE.
For those traveling, send gifts early, such as cheeses, fruit or pies.
2) FUTURE FUN.
Browse winter or spring events; snag tickets to enjoy with recipients.
3) GENEROSITY.
Donations make heartfelt, thoughtful ideas.
4) TRAVEL.
Gift a loved one with a trip.
5) TIME.
Is a recipient busy, overloaded and overworked? Treat them to a whole home cleaning before or after the holiday.
6) LOVE OF LEARNING.
If a loved one is planning international travel, grab them a gift card for a language learning app.
7) THOUGHTFUL MESSAGES.
Ask friends and family to record loving messages on cellphones; combine recordings using a video app for meaningful holiday greeting.
8) BON APPÉTIT.
Sign up special someone for cooking class regarding favorite cuisine, or cuisine they struggle to make.
9) RECIPE BOOK.
Gather traditional family recipes and create printed books for guests as priceless keepsakes.
Rossy Binette Katey Eirons Linda Armstrong Gwen Kelley
Cooking With Fresh Herbs
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD| PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
JANIE JONES
Garlic Herb Butter
This butter is versatile and goes with just about anything. You can use this on top of bread, popcorn, veggies, as a sandwich spread and more.
Ingredients
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 4 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon herb of your choice (dill, basil or oregano are my go-to herbs.)
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• cracked pepper to taste
Process
Add all ingredients in a food processor (or mix by hand in a bowl). Transfer butter mixture on parchment paper or plastic wrap. Cover butter tightly and roll into a log. Place in refrigerator until firm. Enjoy!
Hailee turned a magazine into community.
City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?
Sandusky Bay City Lifestyle
Published by Hailee
Loved by Sandusky Bay
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER 1ST
Fall Vegetable Showcase Dinner Featuring Forge Cellars
12304 Mudbrook Rd Huron, OH United States | 6:00 PM
Join us for our final vegetable showcase series of 2025 and enjoy A five-course progressive tasting menu showcasing fall vegetables from The Chef's Garden prepared by the team at The Culinary Vegetable Institute, accompanied by 7 wines from Forge Cellars presented by Rick Rainey - managing partner and conductor of Forge Cellars.
NOVEMBER 5TH
Best of the Bay - Food Competition!
Cedar Point Sports Center, 2701 Cleveland Rd. (US 6) Sandusky, OH 44870 | 6:00 PM
A Food Competition Like No Other! The Cedar Point Sports Center will host vendors in a number of categories, allowing you to sample items from restaurants in the Shores & Islands Ohio area. Guests will receive 20 meal tickets and 1 drink ticket to be redeemed for samples while you spend time conversing with family and friends!
NOVEMBER 8TH
2025 Corks & Kegs Walk Vermilion
5495 Liberty Ave, Vermilion, OH | 12:00 PM
Beer and wine samplings, shopping deals, and Ohio State vibes - yes, please! Join the Corks & Kegs Walk for an afternoon full of flavor and fun. Must be 21+, Cheers! Be sure to Register with the Vermilion Chamber.
NOVEMBER 8TH
Veterans Day at the Liberty Aviation Museum
Liberty Aviation Museum 3515 E. State Rd. Port Clinton, OH 43452 | 10:00 AM
For Veterans Day in 2025, we are giving veterans, active military, and their immediate families FREE Admission to the Liberty Aviation Museum as a thank you for your service.
NOVEMBER 16TH
Freedom and Flourishes Orchestra Concert
Sawmill Creek by Cedar Point Resorts 400 Sawmill Creek Dr. Huron, OH 44839 | 4:00 PM
Experience the sweeping beauty of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2, brought to life by Piano Cleveland artist and Cleveland International Piano Competition Medalist Maxim Lando. Combining lush Romantic-era music with themes of honor, memory, and reflection, we celebrate our veterans and active military personnel with John Williams’ Liberty Fanfare and Aaron Copland’s A Lincoln Portrait
NOVEMBER 28TH
Sandusky Christmas Market 2025
108 W Shoreline Dr. Sandusky, OH 44870 | 5:00 PM
City of Sandusky is thrilled to announce the Second Annual Sandusky Christmas Market, returning to Mylander Plaza this holiday season! This festive event is set to bring together this extended community to celebrate the Most Wonderful Time of the Year! The three weekend long Market event will go through Sat, Dec 13.
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