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Summer Adventures

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WELCOME HOME TO...

ENJOY family fun at our Carriage Clubhouse Pool

R E L AX and refresh at our Gatehouse Adults-Only Pool MILLIKIN ROAD

MILLIKIN ROAD

CAVERN COURT

517

CAVERN LANE

515

490

PROPERTY LIMITS

NOW S E L L I N G

SECTION 21

516

NORTH LAKE COURT

O.S. 518

PROPERTY LIMITS

488

489

514 491 513

492 512

SECTION 19 511

493

508 506 510

494

our FINAL section of 7 home sites in Cavern Creek, located off Millikin Road

509 495

505

496

SECTION 15

UR T

504

507

497 503

498 499

PROPERTY LIMITS

O.S. 519 502

500 501 TR OT

W AY

NORTH

S C A L E 60’ 30’

0’

I N 60’

F E E T 180’

THIS DRAWING IS FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

CarriageHillLiving.com 513.894.4455 Libert y Township, Ohio

CAVERN CREEK AT CARRIAGE HILL

SECTION 19 & 21

PROJECT NUMBER: 04476.06 | DATE: JANUARY 7, 2019

LIFESTYLE LETTER

JULY 2021 PUBLISHER

Michelle Moody | Michelle.Moody@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Summer Adventures JULY IS PRIME TIME FOR ALL OF THE BEST ACTIVITIES SUMMER HAS TO OFFER. From pool parties and backyard barbecues to baseball games and family vacations, summer activities are in full swing once again and it's time to have some fun! Our summer issue is full of ideas for exploring new things in our townships and neighboring cities. In this issue we explore some of the historical sites in West Chester, showcase an audio tour of the murals in Hamilton and highlight ten fun things to do in Middletown.

Tera Michelson | Tera.Michelson@LifestylePubs.com COPY EDITOR

Laura Leavitt AD DESIGNER

Miranda Read L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dana Rudolph CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Laura Leavitt CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Len Kaltman—West Chester Corporate Photography, Ali Wolfe Photography

This month we also debut a brand new section of the magazine—Local Experiences. Each month this section will spotlight between five and fifteen things to do or places to visit in our towns and the surrounding region. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Snap a photo of the QR codes and you’ll see even more ideas on our website at CityLifestyle.com. If you haven’t visited City Lifestyle recently, you’ll be amazed at all we have to offer. You can read recent issues of West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle, learn more about local businesses and read new stories that we’ve never published before. If you’re traveling out of town, City Lifestyle can show you information about any city in the US! We’re sure you’ll find something in this issue to get you in the mood for summer fun. As always, thanks for reading, and we’ll see you around town!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Michelle Moody, Publisher Michelle.Moody@LifestylePubs.com 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ON THE COVER Take a trip through Hamilton to see this and many other colorful murals on the streetscape. Read the story on page 20 to learn more.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEN KALTMAN—

neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’

WEST CHESTER CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY 6

Proverbs 3:5-6 West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is

West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle | July 2021

distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the West Chester and Liberty area’s most affluent 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 West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

SUMMER READING PROGRAM 2021

June 1

JuLY 31

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INSIDE THE ISSUE JULY 2021

FEATURES 20 A Journey Into Art Follow an Artsy Audio Tour on a Scenic Drive Through Hamilton

24 Exploring Middletown Ten Things to See and Do in the Historic City of Middletown

29 Drive-By History Motor Through West Chester’s Rich History on a Driving Tour

34 Introducing the Northern Cincinnati Foundation The Community Foundation of

24 29

West Chester/Liberty Expands Reach and Impact

DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Local Experiences

20 Artist’s Palette 24 Travel Destination 29 Our Town 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Inspired By

LIFE HAPPENS IN

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GOOD TIMES

Cocktails, Careers and Conversations The inaugural Cocktails, Careers and Conversations gathering took place in May at the Roosevelt Room. This quarterly event was organized to bring female executives together in a social environment. The next gathering will take place at The Monkey Bar & Grille in Maineville on September 23 from 4-6 p.m.

Power of the Purse The Power of the Purse giving circle met to select three local, nonprofit organizations as finalists to receive a $10,000 grant. Finalists will present at their meeting on August 10 at Sabin Hall in Liberty Center, then members will vote on the winner. Pre-registration is required. To join the group, attend an event or learn more, visit their website. NorthernCincinnati.Foundation

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West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle | July 2021

6404 THORNBERRY COURT, #410 MASON, OH 45040

FREE THROWS AND PHILANTHROPY MARK & SARAH JOHNSTON

It all started one day on the basketball court. Mark Johnston was at the gym shooting hoops, a place he could often be found in the spare moments of a busy week. That day his mind was on a friend whose child was undergoing treatment at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Mark wanted to find a way to offer practical support, not only to his friend but to other families with children at the hospital. With each shot of the basketball, his idea came into sharper focus – to combine his love of the game, with a mission to raise funds for families at Cincinnati Children’s. After brainstorming with his wife, Sarah, and a group of friends, Free Throws for Kids was born. Since the inaugural event in 2014, Mark and Sarah Johnston, and a dedicated volunteer board, have led Free Throws for Kids (FTFK) to raise more than $900,000 through an annual team free-throw event at Lakota West High School. Proceeds from the event, which attracted more than 700 participants in 2019, fund the purchase of 1,000+ care packages for kids and families at Cincinnati Children’s throughout the year, as well as grants to hospital support programs and Cincinnati Ronald McDonald House. “Our mission from day one was to show hope and God’s love to kids and families going through these challenging times, in a very practical way,” says Mark. Mark and Sarah believe in seeking opportunities to help others, and they have lived that philosophy both with Free Throws for Kids and in their everyday life. By creating a culture of giving

back, they hope to set an example for their own children and the community. “Find something that connects with your heart,” says Sarah. “Nothing feels better than helping others, but you have to start somewhere.” The Johnstons launched Free Throws for Kids as a fund at the Community Foundation, before securing their own nonprofit status. Foundation staff provided administrative support as FTFK grew rapidly following their first event. Mark and Sarah have continued a strong relationship with the Community Foundation as committee volunteers, and recently decided to join the Foundation’s Legacy Society with a gift in their estate plan. “It is a way for us to continue giving back long after we are gone. We trust the foundation 100% to ensure our funds are properly allocated to kids and families at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Cincinnati’s Ronald McDonald House. The Foundation made this process extremely easy.” The 2022 Free Throws for Kids Event is scheduled for April 9th, with a goal to surpass $1M raised. Visit www.FTFK.org to learn more and get involved. “We believe it is in our DNA to help others. We hope Free Throws for Kids is around for many years not only helping those in need but also setting an example of charitable giving for future generations.”

What will your legacy be?

Contact the Community Foundation of West Chester/Liberty to learn how we can help. www.wclfoundation.org

513.874.5450

GOOD TIMES

Give Teens The EDGE EDGE Teen Center hosted the 5th annual Give Teens The EDGE event at EnterTRAINment Junction. Festivities included dinner prepared by Chef Tyler Simpson and teens from Butler Tech Culinary Arts, comedian Jay Armstrong and more. Funds raised support their mission of empowering teens to impact the world, specifically programs promoting academic success, healthy living, life skills and community service. EDGETeenCenter.com

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West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle | July 2021

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AROUND TOWN

SUPPORT REACH OUT LAKOTA’S BACK TO SCHOOL PROGRAM It may be the height of summer vacation, but Reach Out Lakota is hard at work to ensure a

The Lakota Educator of Excellence Award was established in 2007 to recognize educators who motivate, share ideas, inspire, support, create and go above and beyond to make a difference in the community.

successful start of the 2021-22 school year for all

Students, colleagues, parents and community mem-

Lakota students. Donate a backpack filled with

bers are invited to make nominations. Nominations are

school supplies from the specific school lists to

not limited to classroom teachers and may be either

equip a local student in need for the year. From

in-person or virtual educators. Winners are chosen

pens and spiral notebooks to pocket folders and

by a committee of representatives from Lakota Local

markers, all kinds of supplies are necessary for stu-

Schools and the Community Foundation. Submit

dents of all ages. Donated items will be collected

your nominations online through Friday, September 3.

through July 30; volunteers will begin the pack-

NorthernCincinnati.Foundation, 513.682.8061

ing process August 2. Find supply lists, donation needs, collection sites and volunteer information online. ReachOutLakota.org

SUPPLEMENTAL SCHOOL SUPPLIES NEEDED The Liberty Community Advisory Committee is collecting non-traditional school supplies for our most at-need, local students for their back to school backpack and school supply giveaway. The curated donations list extends beyond traditional requests and will help round out the list of items required by schools. This group of dedicated community leaders is collecting earbuds with microphones, tissues, storage bags (gallon and sandwich-sized), hand sanitizer, pencil pouches and headphones. Bring donations to Liberty Center on July 22 between 12-2 p.m. at the Lakota bus parked on Sloan Way,

LIBERTY TOWNSHIP CELEBRATES THE OPENING OF FIRE STATION 112

across from Northstar Cafe. Donations will also be

Liberty Township Fire Station 112 recently

collected at the West Chester Liberty Chamber

opened in its new location at 7655 Princeton Road.

Alliance office at 8922 Beckett Road, West Chester

The new 15,760 square foot fire station replaces a

Township, any weekday before July 22.

facility opened in 1974 when the LTFD was a vol-

NOMINATE A LAKOTA EDUCATOR OF EXCELLENCE The Community Foundation of West Chester/

unteer department serving a population of only about 5,000. Today, three fire stations serve the Liberty Township community of more than 42,000 residents and about 500 businesses.

Liberty, now known as the Northern Community

The new facility features a state-of-the-art alert-

Foundation, in partnership with Lakota Local

ing system, built-in training props, four bays and

Schools, is currently accepting nominations for

space to house up to 10 personnel. The new station

the 2021 Lakota Educator of Excellence Awards.

was built to serve the township well into the future.

Honorees will be celebrated in the fall.

OptiCom, a traffic control system that provides

The award is made possible through generous

a green light, and therefore intersection right-

sponsorship from Phelan Insurance Agency. Two

of-way, to emergency vehicles was also recently

winners will receive a $1,000 grant to be used

implemented in 11 intersections, with the expec-

for a special project at their school. A third, non-

tation for improved response times and reduced

monetary award will be presented to a Lakota

travel times to local hospitals.

administrator who has shown extraordinary com-

Learn more about Fire Station 112 and other

mitment to the students and teachers of Lakota

exciting Liberty Township news in their Annual

Local Schools, as well as the community.

Report, available online. Liberty-Township.com CONTINUED >

West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle | July 2021

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AROUND TOWN

exploring

OHIO

Middletown 4 Breweries · 1 Distillery · 1 Winery Adventures Through Art Mural Tour 2 Stops on the Donut Trail Pickleball Capitol of Ohio Historic Downtown New Discoveries GeoTour Ohio's First DORA Great Miami River Access

SAVOR SUMMER PROGRAMMING FOR TEENS AT EDGE The Get EDGEucated 2021 Summer Program continues through July with safe, fun and educational summer opportunities for local teens—all free. Make a college campus visit to Miami Regionals (Hamilton) on July 6, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Community Service Blitz Week is July 12-14. For these three days, teens choose from a variety of volunteer projects to match their specific interests and skills and give back to the community. Have fun and hang out with friends at an EDGE Summer Bonfire at the Teen Center on July 15, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Life Skills courses are offered July 8 and 22, 6:30-8:30 p.m. In July, learn First Aid 101 and about Jobs & Budgeting. EDGE provides high school students with a diverse, youth-driven teen center dedicated to creating mentoring relationships with caring adults through community service opportunities, social activities, tutoring, counseling and life skills courses. Register for summer programs and enroll for the next school year online. EDGETeenCenter.com

Your midpoint for new discoveries!

NEW GAME IN TOWN: WEST CHESTER-OPOLY If you’ve been searching for the perfect graduation, wedding or birthday gift, consider WEST CHESTER-OPOLY, the newest game in (and about!) our town. Created and released in 2021, the game showcases favorite landmarks and the most well-known parts of West Chester, including Voice of America Park and The Cone. WEST CHESTER-OPOLY is sure to be a hit with everyone who lives in or loves West Chester. The WEST CHESTER-OPOLY games are made in Cincinnati by Late for the Sky Production Company which began making licensed, collegiate board games with a property trading theme in 1985. WEST CHESTER-

www.itsmiddletown.org #itsmiddletown

OPOLY games launched exclusively at our local Walmart store, located on Cincinnati Dayton Road, retailing for $19.98. LateFortheSky.com

West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle | July 2021

Interiors Plus Full Service Interior Design Refresh or Remodel for All Spaces

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LOCAL EXPERIENCES

SUMMER ADVENTURE SUMMERTIME IS THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY FOR ADVENTURE! School is out, the weather is warm and we have vacation time to spend with our families. Make the most of this summer by exploring all our community has to offer. There are plenty of fun summertime activities and perfect places to cool off in the water. Seize this season of adventure and make some memories!

WATERY WAYS TO STAY COOL + The wooded trailheads of Keehner Park lead to Mill Creek, the perfect spot to skip rocks and soak your feet. + Learn the sport of rowing at Voice of America Park or in the Great Miami River, coached by the experts at Great Miami Rowing Center. + Cool off at more than 50 water activities for all ages at Soak City Water Park, located inside Kings Island, the area's world-class amusement park. + Launch your own watercraft or rent from the wide selection available at Sharon Woods Harbor, a summer boating and fishing paradise. + Get soaked in the Marcum Park fountain and creek bed, two water features side-by-side at Hamilton's downtown park located along the Great Miami River.

West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle | July 2021

Hamilton Parks Conservancy

scan for more photos & the full list

SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES + Kick off your weekends at the outdoor concerts and food trucks of Takeover on the Square, in the heart of West Chester each summer Thursday. + Bring your own chair for the Lord of Life Food Truck & Summer Concert Series, the first and third Wednesdays of each month, 5:30 p.m. + Pack a picnic and enjoy the varied summer tunes of the Keehner Park Concert Series at the Amphitheater, 7-9 p.m., on most summer Saturdays. + Create your own adventure with MidPointe Library's Summer Reading Program, a family favorite for celebrating reading, having fun and winning prizes. + Rev up your Fourth of July celebration at Taps Tastes and Tunes, a funfilled weekend for the whole family, ending with a fireworks display.

West Chester Township

scan for more photos & the full list

At locally owned Skally’s we’re committed to higher quality delicious food using no preservatives or chemicals. We make all our products – including salad dressings, BBQ sauce, and desserts. Try the best gluten-free pizza in Cincinnati. We are excited for you to taste and experience the difference!

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ARTIST’S PALETTE

M M Alexander, designed by Nicole Trimble, at Armstead Park, Main and D Streets

West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle | July 2021

FOLLOW AN ARTSY AUDIO TOUR ON A SCENIC DRIVE THROUGH HAMILTON

A JOURNEY INTO ART ARTICLE LAURA LEAVITT PHOTOGRAPHY LEN KALTMAN—WEST CHESTER CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY

JUST A FEW MILES AWAY IN HAMILTON IS

are the eyes of the robots, and they light up

A DRIVEABLE, OUTDOOR ART MUSEUM.

when you view the mural in the evening!

Local designers and painters come together

Classic and inspiring, Taking Flight by Taylor

to create vibrant works of art that take

Welch overlooks beautiful Rotary Park, while

up entire walls: murals! The organization

Inspiring the Future by Jamie Schorsch shows

Streetspark organizes a call for proposals,

what is possible for children who attend the

finds great locations and coordinates sum-

community center where the mural is located.

mertime painting of new murals in Hamilton.

There’s so much more to explore when

Murals like Alexander by Nicole Trimble bring

you download Otocast, an audio guide app

a fun new feel to the historic figure that gave

with insight into each piece and information

Hamilton its name, and Make Way for McCloskey

about art tours in your area. Hamilton also

celebrates the beloved children’s books created

features a sculpture audio tour and a tour of

by Hamilton native Robert McCloskey. Prefer a

the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, if you catch

little wilder fare? Check out the music-inspired

the bug and want to explore more art. See

Golden Ethos by Christian Dallas, on the side of

the Streetspark website through the Fitton

popular live-music pub N2.

Center for Creative Arts for a map of all the

Ro-Bros by Logan Walden combines the fun of robots with a twilight secret: the windows

available sights and to download Otocast. FittonCenter.org/streetspark

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterandLiberty

ARTIST’S PALETTE (CONTINUED)

A R 01

01 Taking Flight, designed by Taylor Welch, at Rotary Park, High and Second Streets | 02 Golden Ethos, designed by Christian Dallas, North Second Tap, 134 N. Second Street | 03 Make Way for McCloskey, designed by Stephen Smith, at Hamilton Mill, 20 High Street | 04 Inspiring the Future, designed by Jamie Schorsch, Booker T. Washington Community Center, 1140 S. Front Street Ro-Bros, designed by Logan Walden 22

West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle | July 2021

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TRAVEL DESTINATION

PENDLETON ART CENTER (PAC)

Exploring Middletown

The PAC serves as both workspaces and storefronts for close to 50 local artists. Creativity abounds with art studios focused on painting, photography, custom clothing, fiber art, quilting, glass art, jewelry and much more. Exhibitions, events and classes are also available. Hours vary, so check their website. 1105 Central Avenue, PendletonArtCenter.com

TEN THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN THE HISTORIC CITY OF MIDDLETOWN Mz Jade’s offers homemade southern dishes “Flavored with God’s Favor and Highly Seasoned with ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY MICHELLE MOODY

Love.” Best known for her seafood weekends which include crab legs, shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob and a hard-boiled egg—all bathed in a buttery sauce. Other favorites include ribs, chicken wings, pork chops and fresh homemade side dishes. 6 South Broad Street, MzJadesSoulFood.com

JUST A FEW MILES TO OUR NORTH IS MIDDLETOWN, A CITY WELL KNOWN FOR ITS

MZ JADE’S SOUL FOOD

HISTORY ROOTED IN STEEL AND PAPER MILLS. Many of the historic buildings have recently found new life as unique shops and amazing restaurants, bringing a new vitality to the downtown area. “We are a city of makers,” says Chris Xeil Lyons, economic development director for the city of Middletown. “Middletown is home to numerous, authentic independent businesses. Whether you are looking for a family outing, mural art, local distilled bourbon or a fun night out, we have something for everyone.” After exploring the city, we compiled our list of ten things to see and do in the revitalized downtown area of Middletown this summer.

West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle | July 2021

BAD ASS AMERICAN BAR, BISTRO, BIKING & BOATING (BAABS)

WHITE DOG DISTILLERY

The distillery was started by West Chester resident

Summer is the perfect time for a scenic kayak tour of

and retired chemical engineer Mike Dranschak and his

the Great Miami River. BAABS offers their rentals and

wife, Debbie. Their dog Kody serves as the inspiration

livery service for two, six or ten-mile kayak trips. They

behind the labeling for the distillery’s smooth line of

also have a full-service bistro and bar with patio seat-

handcrafted spirits. Their line of bourbon, agave, gin, rum

ing near the river. Advance reservations are strongly

and vodka is available for purchase or can be enjoyed in

recommended during their peak summer season. 2401

cocktails served at their indoor bar or outdoor patio. 1357

Carmody Blvd., BAABSEnt.com

Central Avenue, WhiteDogDistillingCompany.com

Established in 1838, they are the oldest continuously operating stained glass studio in the US. They create custom pieces for homes, businesses and places of worship. Their studio is part gallery and part museum, with tours available. They also offer classes, an event space, restoration and repair services. 1054 Central Avenue, BeauVerre.net BEAUVERRE RIORDAN

BUZZZ AT GRACIE’S

STAINED GLASS STUDIO

BUZZZ is the newly opened summer patio concept from Gracie’s, a restaurant known for providing delicious big city comfort food since 2017. The spacious patio offers a neighborhood feel in a fun, urban setting. Some favorite dishes include Gracie’s meatloaf, crispy pimento cheese balls, charred Brussel sprouts and seared ahi tuna, to name a few. 1131 Central Avenue, GraciesMiddletown.com

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterandLiberty

TRAVEL DESTINATION (CONTINUED) ROLLING MILL BREWING COMPANY

GRANDPA JOE’S CANDY SHOP

The shop offers a tempting assortment of candy, ranging from contemporary favorites to classic hard-

Rolling Mill is Ohio’s only dedicated gluten-free brew-

to-find items. They also feature glass bottled craft

ery. The owners spent years learning how to brew a

soda, homemade ice cream and unique gifts. A visit

quality beer that could be enjoyed by people with celiac

to Grandpa Joe’s is like traveling back in time—you’ll

disease and other gluten intolerances. The result is a

feel like a kid in a candy store. 1212 Central Avenue,

line of flavorful and refreshing craft beers that includes

GrandpaJoesCandyShop.com

American lager, German pilsner, IPA, stout, brown ale

and more. 916 1st Avenue, RollingMillBC.com

Bourbon’s specializes in gourmet street food served with a selection of over 130 whiskeys and craft cocktails. You’ll find unique items like queso poutine fries and pineapple slaw, along with classics like chicken and waffles. Sandwiches are offered with either two steak patties or chicken in styles ranging from “truffle & gouda” to “sweet n’ smoky.” 2231 N. Verity Parkway, BourbonsKitchen.com BOURBON’S CRAFT KITCHEN & BAR

SORG OPERA HOUSE Don’t let the word ”opera” mislead you, the Sorg offers rock concerts, magicians, musicals and more. Upcoming theatrical productions include Children of Eden, Drinking Habits 2 and Tuck Everlasting. Finish out the summer with their Blues & Roots Rock Extravaganza 2 on August 13, followed by musical performances by Aja! A Tribute to Steely Dan, Terrapin Flyer and Night Fever—Tribute to the Bee Gees. 63 South Main Street, SorgOperaHouse.org 26

West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle | July 2021

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A Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

“There is something special about the K-8 environment. Watching the older students interact with my 4th grader warms my heart. The upper grades do a great job being positive role models.”

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FALL OPENINGS

513-779-6585 • mtces.org Liberty Township, OH 28

West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle | July 2021

OUR TOWN

D R I V E MOTOR THROUGH WEST CHESTER’S RICH HISTORY ON A DRIVING TOUR

B Y ARTICLE TERA MICHELSON PHOTOGRAPHY LEN KALTMAN— WEST CHESTER CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY

H I S T O R Y IMAGINE WHAT WEST CHESTER LOOKED LIKE BEFORE THE SUBDIVISIONS, BUSINESSES AND INTERSECTIONS WE KNOW TODAY WERE BUILT UPON OUR GRASSY HILLS AND SWEEPING VAL-

1900 W E C H S C

S E H

T S O

T E R O L

Our community has a rich tradition of valuing education. Classes were originally taught in a log cabin, then at Wakefield School (stop 7), before relocating to West Chester School (stop 14) from 1900-1917. It will continue as a place of learning when it reopens as the West Chester History Center.

LEYS. German, Irish and English settlers were first drawn to the area for its farming potential. West Chester is a part of Butler County, named after General Butler, a Revolutionary War hero. For more than a century, West Chester was known as Union Township. The West Chester-Union Township Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the heritage of our area through education and research. Made up of volunteer historians, the Society is preparing West Chester School as the West Chester History Center. Located at 6670 Station Road, the historic building is the ideal spot to house a museum to teach West Chester’s past. President Mary Jo Bicknell hopes to open the Center soon.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterandLiberty

OUR TOWN (CONTINUED)

“We love history!” Mary Jo says. “We are excited to have acquired the West Chester Schoolhouse as a permanent home to show off our artifacts. We are hoping to be up and running by this fall.” This summer, view our hometown through historical eyes. Follow the 19-stop driving tour of the township’s historical features, as presented in a downloadable brochure at the Historical Society’s website. The map and photos will guide you from the area’s first churches in Port Union and Gano, through landmarks in the heart of Olde West Chester, to cemeteries in Pisgah. Enjoy this adventurous tour of historical spots that have a story to tell. WestChesterHistoricalSociety.org, Facebook.com/groups/westchesterhistoricalsociety/

West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle | July 2021

S M

E N

V E

E Y

N S

Possibly the oldest structure in West Chester Township, stop 18 on the driving tour is Seven Chimneys, dating to 1839. Once a stagecoach stop, hotel, restaurant, tavern and even a stop on the underground railroad, this historical home is said to be mentioned in Harriet Beecher Stowe's 1852 book, “Uncle Tom's Cabin.”

1839

Indicating 17 miles to Cincinnati and 33 miles to Dayton, this white mile marker stands in Olde West Chester alongside what once was a buffalo path used by Native Americans. In 1840, the route was smoothed and named the Great Miami Turnpike and is now known as Cincinnati-Dayton Road.

M I R K

L E

E R

1800’s

At the top of a residential cul-de-sac, Pioneer Cemetery is stop 17 on the Driving Tour. Many of the stone markers date back to the Revolutionary War.

CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterandLiberty

JULY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

EVERY THURSDAY

East High School will be playing as the

FIRST FRIDAY YOGA IN THE PARK

Liberty-Township.com

Enjoy a free, 60-minute yoga class in the

Grainworks Brewing Company

beautiful setting of Dudley Memorial

Be careful not to spill your craft beer, cider

Park. Please bring your own mat. No

or wine as you scramble to “Name That

registration required. Participants must

Tune” at Grainworks Brewing Company’s

be ages 12+. Liberty-Township.com

dinner fare. For live music entertainment, visit Grainworks on Friday and Saturday evenings. Grainworks.Beer

EVERY THURSDAY THE TAKEOVER ON THE SQUARE

TAPS TASTES AND TUNES

the third annual Taps Tastes and Tunes

Web. A pizza dinner and Web tokens

Festival presented by Miller Lite at the

are

VOA Museum of Broadcasting. Featuring

camps are also available for ages 4-14.

many local restaurants and live music,

the event ends with a fireworks finale on

Location/WestChesterTwp

included.

Weeklong

online.

summer

Snapology.com/

the fourth. The festival takes place July

door concert, every summer Thursday

Events.com/taps-tastes-and-tunes

at the West Chester clock tower. Food

2, 16, 30 STORYTIME AT THE PARK

13 REGIONAL BUSINESS EXPO Lakota West High School

The West Chester Liberty Chamber Alliance hosts the Regional Business Expo at Lakota West High School on

Various Parks

July 13, 12-4 p.m. The largest Business-

Terrific. Presented by First Financial Bank.

Bring the little ones out to this sum-

to-Business Expo on the I-75 Growth

6-9 p.m. WestChesterOH.org

mer’s Storytime at the Park, hosted by

Corridor, the event offers businesses

MidPointe Library System. Storytimes

the opportunity to showcase their

meet every other Friday in July at 10

products and services. There is no fee

a.m. and are free and open to the pub-

for community members to attend.

lic. On July 2 and 30, meet at Keehner

TheChamberAlliance.com

Revival and Gee Your Band Smells

SELECT SATURDAYS KEEHNER CONCERT SERIES Keehner Park Amphitheatre

Shakespeare in the Park kicks off the Keehner Concert Series, free outdoor

Park and on July 16, gather at Ft. Liberty Playland Park. MidPointeLibrary.org

22 GRANT CELEBRATION Reach Out Lakota

FOURTH OF JULY PARADE

Join Reach Out Lakota and the Northern

Liberty Township

Cincinnati Foundation at a celebration

7-9 p.m. The stage will be set for Romeo

Happy Independence Day! The annual

of their 20-year partnership. An outdoor

and Juliet on July 10, Jump n Jive Big

Liberty Township 4th of July Parade

Happy Hour extends from 4-6 p.m., with

Band on July 17, the Cincinnati Brass

begins at 9 a.m. at Lakota East High

a 5 p.m. presentation of a $200,000

Band on July 24 and The Gamut on July

School on Sunday, July 4. The stars

grant to support Reach Out Lakota in

31. WestChesterOH.org

and stripes will be waving and the

their continued efforts in our commu-

Marching Thunderhawks from Lakota

nity. RSVP online. Eventbrite.com

shows on select summer Saturdays and Labor Day at the park’s Amphitheatre,

is on July 10; Emmett’s Adventures

Fill up on flavors of Butler County at

4, 12-9 p.m. CincinnatiFestivalsand

Karate Girls, Pandora Effect, 3 Piece

VOA Museum of Broadcasting

2, 5-11 p.m., July 3, 12-11 p.m., and July

mances from 90 Proof Twang, Naked

The Web

2-4

Start your weekend early with a free out-

eats and treats. Watch for July perfor-

SNAPOLOGY WORKSHOPS tional STEAM-centered classes for

The Square @ Union Centre

trucks and breweries will be on hand for

10, 31 Snapology hosts fun and educa-

Music Trivia Nights, held each Thursday a team. Food trucks will be on hand with

the Liberty Junior School parking lot.

Dudley Memorial Park

MUSIC TRIVIA NIGHT

in July, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Play alone or form

patriotic parade marches by, ending at

West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle | July 2021

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INSPIRED BY THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF WEST CHESTER/ LIBERTY EXPANDS REACH AND IMPACT

Introducing the Northern Cincinnati Foundation THE

COMMUNITY

FOUNDATION

WEST

CHESTER/LIBERTY IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT THEY ARE BECOMING THE NORTHERN their charitable giving. Donors can discuss poten-

TINUE THEIR EXCELLENT WORK IN OUR TOWN-

tial grant recipients with the foundation’s staff, and

SHIPS WHILE OFFERING EXCELLENCE IN CHAR-

receive guidance about charitable needs that they

ITY FUNDING TO OTHER NEARBY COMMUNITIES.

would like to support.

In recent years, the Foundation has been support-

With their wider scope and vision comes the oppor-

ing donor families from communities like Indian Hill,

tunity to fund excellent nonprofit work that reaches

Loveland, Madeira, Mason and Deerfield.

even more people.

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

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

anthropic needs for those living in northern Hamilton

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

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

the work they are doing in other communities, expand-

Northern Cincinnati Foundation. “We’ll also serve Butler

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

County, Warren County and Clermont County.”

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

“This growth happened organically. Initially, we focused

funds that support the Northern Cincinnati region.”

our services within the townships of West Chester and

Want to learn more about the Northern Cincinnati

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

Foundation? Their office will remain in Olde West

those communities. In recent years, we have found that

Chester, at 8897 Cincinnati Dayton Road. Watch for their

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

new branding as the Northern Cincinnati Foundation in

Chester and Liberty Townships,” says Erin.

July with an updated website and signage coming soon.

Community

foundations,

the

Community

Foundation of West Chester and Liberty, provide valu-

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

able grants to nonprofit organizations, and this may be

“We are looking forward to this new chapter and the

one of the most visible ways they impact our community.

positive impact it will have for the Foundation and the

Another part of their mission is to help individuals and families allocate money to great causes through donor-advised funds (DAFs). These investment accounts grow the impact that families can have with

West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle | July 2021

communities we serve,” says Erin.

ARTICLE LAURA LEAVITT | PHOTOGRAPHY ALI WOLFE PHOTOGRAPHY

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