Issuu

Gratitude

N OV E M B E R 2 022

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

With Gratitude

November 2022 PUBLISHER

Michelle Moody | Michelle.Moody@CityLifestyle.com EDITOR

Tera Michelson | Tera.Michelson@CityLifestyle.com

With both Thanksgiving and Veterans Day being celebrated in November, this issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, gratefulness and giving back to our community. We are so thankful for the residents and businesses in our community who support so many wonderful organizations and help make our townships the vibrant communities that they are. This month we spotlight some truly inspiring people. Our cover story shares the journey of the Trans from when they fled their homeland after the Vietnam War to today, when they have a thriving family and dental practice in West Chester. On page 28, we introduce you to two realtors who have built a business that prioritizes giving back to veterans, first responders and teachers. We also meet a local artist that sells her crafts to raise money for veteran’s organizations. This issue is also packed with ideas for how our readers can give back. We showcase a brand new community event that puts your creativity to the test while collecting much needed items for our local food and clothing pantry. This month’s Business Monthly section on page 12 is an open invitation to give back to nonprofits in our community. We are excited to celebrate the seventh anniversary of West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle this month. As we reflect back on the past seven years we are especially thankful for our advertising partners who help bring this magazine to your doorsteps each month. They are part of our vision and purpose of bringing inspiring stories and the good news of the community directly to you. This magazine would not exist without them, and the best way we can show our appreciation is by purchasing goods and services from these local businesses. This Thanksgiving season, let’s set time aside to consider what truly makes life meaningful and stop to reflect on all the blessings in our lives. Blessings to you and your family,

COPY EDITOR

Laura Leavitt AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kirstan Lanier CONTR IBUTING WR ITER

Mia Hilkowitz CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Anjali Fong, Janie Jones, Len Kaltman

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

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Proverbs 3:5-6 West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the West Chester & Liberty 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 West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle™ is gathered from

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sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue The Thankful Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

15 Joy on the Journey

Lifestyle Letter

The Tran Family Lives the American

City Scene

Dream with Gratitude for Family,

Business Monthly

Community + Opportunity

Inspired By

20 Crafts for a Cause

Maker’s Studio

Must See

Giving Back

LI FE + C U LT U R E

Hosting Tips

FO O D + B EV ER AGE

Events

Local Artisan Upcycles Vintage Goods to Support Injured and Ill Military Members

24 Can Creations

LI FE + C U LT U R E A RTS + C U LT U R E

A RTS + C U LT U R E

Reach Out Lakota Brings a Can Sculpture Competition to Town

28 Supporting the Ultimate Sacrifice

Local Realtors Keith Taylor and Rich Davey Support Community Heroes

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Len Kaltman Dr. Phuoc and Sang Tran take a break from their business at West Chester Family Dentistry in their beautiful West Chester home. Read about the Tran’s gratitude for family on page 15.

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

CAMI ELLIS

3 6

PAULA BERRYMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

1: Bethany School Awarded LEED® Platinum Certifications, Designed to be Most Energy-Efficient School in the Midwest. To learn more, visit BethanySchool.org. 2: Tiffany Allen-Zeuch achieved the Ruby Level, which is the highest level at Sibcy Cline. TAZHomes.com 3: $29,000 was raised at Play It Forward for Reach Out Lakota, held at Top Golf. ReachOutLakota.org 4: The America 250! Plaque was unveiled at Dudley Woods Park in Liberty Township. 5: Daughters of the American Revolution + Cincinnati Sons of the American Revolution at the plaque unveiling. 6: The annual Bunco for Boobies event was held to raise money for Pink Ribbon Girls. 7: Women gathered for a night of bunco at the annual fundraiser for Pink Ribbon Girls. PinkRibbonGirls.org

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business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses. Giving Tuesday: Make a Community Impact with Northern Cincinnati Foundation November 29 is Giving Tuesday, the annual global giving day to counteract the holiday shopping season with nonprofit support. Large or small, your end-ofyear financial gifts to the Northern Cincinnati Foundation will make a lasting impact as they go directly to our community in support of causes important to you. Build your philanthropic footprint by partnering with the Foundation. Since 1999, they have granted more than $25 million to local nonprofits and causes. NorthernCincinnati.Foundation, 513.874.5450

Scan to read more.

Change Children’s Lives with PARACHUTE: Butler County CASA Volunteer Program Are you that special person feeling the nudge to be an advocate for neglected and abused children? Be a positive and consistent adult in the lives of Butler County children in the court system as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) through the PARACHUTE program. Give 6-8 hours per month to act in the best interest of these vulnerable children, giving them hope and a voice. Apply online now; training begins this February. ParachuteCASA.org, 513.867.5010

Volunteers + Donations Needed for Hope’s Closet Winter Wonderland Event Hope's Closet, a nonprofit organization in West Chester, provides support for foster families. At their annual Winter Wonderland event in December, foster families select Christmas gifts for their children at no cost. Donations of toys valued at $25-30, gift wrapping supplies and 100 volunteers are needed to make this event a success. Popular gift items include gift cards, Legos, dolls, art supplies and action figures. To donate or volunteer, visit HopesClosetOhio.org. 513.773.4018

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Be present in all things

and thankful for all things

-Maya Angelou

We hope you have a great Thanksgiving!

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THE TRAN FAMILY LIVES THE AMERICAN DREAM WITH GRATITUDE FOR FAMILY, COMMUNITY + OPPORTUNITY

ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEN KALTMAN

Joy on the Journey

The American dream is alive and well in West Chester—just ask Dr. Phuoc and Sang Tran, first-generation immigrants from Vietnam. You may know them as your local dentistry experts at West Chester Family Dentistry, or the friendly neighbors with a porch that is decorated for every holiday. You may have attended their annual Halloween event or encountered them at a community meeting. The Trans are known for their welcoming spirit, kindness and fun parties. CONTINUED >

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

Sang Tran with a photo of her father holding a photo of her mother.

The life journeys of Phuoc and Sang Tran began on the other side of the world, in 1970’s Vietnam. They recount how their families left everything behind to flee a war-torn country. Phuoc traveled for days to an unknown destination in the belly of a fishing boat that fell under attack by pirates in the open sea not once, not twice, but three times. Sang’s family was separated as they had to leave her elderly Grandmother and two eldest siblings at home. Both landed in foreign refugee camps before they finally set foot on American soil to begin anew. These are the harrowing tales that make up their humble beginnings.

SANG’S STORY “I was 7,” says Sang, telling her family’s story. “I was holding onto my oldest sister Becky’s hand. She told me ‘Don’t ever let go.’ So many families got separated from each other in the chaos of that day. My Grandma couldn’t keep up, so my two oldest brothers had to take her back home.”

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

That day was April 29, 1975, one day before the Fall of Saigon. Sang and her family escaped on a fishing boat. They landed at a refugee camp in the Philippines, then Guam where they received American culture and basic English lessons, then to yet another camp in Fort Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania. After four months, Sang and her family were welcomed to Cincinnati. American churches sponsored Vietnamese families from the refugee camps so they would have a support system for the transition to their new homes. “Luckily St. Lawrence Church in Price Hill sponsored my family and Our Lady of Lourdes, 10 minutes away, sponsored my Uncle Ngoc and his family and my Aunt Thach, so we got to stay together,” says Sang. Landing in America brought instant luxuries young Sang had never known: an escalator at the airport, Juicy Fruit gum, flushing toilets and apples, a fruit reserved for the wealthy in Vietnam. “I started first grade that fall,” she says. “We learned English from school and watching cartoons.”

PHUOC’S STORY “When we fled Vietnam, my parents were younger than I am now,” shares Phuoc. “They just picked up everything and grabbed their kids and went into the unknown to seek freedom and opportunity on the other side of the world. I’m not sure I could do what they did,” he says. “I was 10 years old,” says Phuoc of his family’s departure from Vietnam in 1979. “I remember my father talking about gold bars—8 gold bars for each adult and 3 or 4 for each child. That was the price we paid to get on a small fishing boat packed with others that were leaving. “Dad knew the captain of the boat, so we were seated by the kitchen and had access to food,” he says. “We ate dry ramen noodles and raw garlic. My father later told me that he wanted us to eat the garlic to keep us from getting seasick. “We were in a refugee camp in Malaysia for over a year,” he continues. “It was about two years from when we fled Vietnam to our arrival in the U.S. “Union Lake Baptist Church near Walled Lake, Michigan sponsored my family,” Phuoc adds. “Michigan became our new home.”

Dr. Phuoc Tran showing a photo of his family from his childhood.

CONTINUED >

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THEIR STORIES COME TOGETHER For both Phuoc and Sang, education and hard work were highly valued by their parents. They were brought together by chemistry—a BioChem class Phuoc was taking in the Pharmacy School Sang was attending. When a homesick Sang spotted another Asian face outside the Pharmacy School building, she blurted out “Are you Vietnamese?” And the rest is history. After six years of dating and earning their degrees, Phuoc in Dentistry and Sang in Pharmacy, they married in 1996. “Tradition said we should get an education, get a job, get married, then have a family,” explains Phuoc. “We had to graduate before we got married,” Sang agrees. They followed the traditional plan, step by step, those steps leading to a successful family dentistry practice, four children and life journeys that led them to put down roots in West Chester. Their home is a hub for family, friends and neighbors. “We love being in West Chester,” says Phuoc. “Being a part of the community and giving back is really important to us,” adds Sang. “We are surrounded by supportive family and friends.” “We’ve been blessed,” Phuoc reflects. “We are very thankful for what we have and for the opportunities we have been given.” The inspiring stories of Phuoc and Sang Tran have a humble beginning with a Hollywood ending— together, happy, successful and grateful, with a lot of joy on the journey.

WEST CHESTER FAMILY DENTISTRY 9000 Cincinnati-Dayton Road, West Chester WCFamilyDentistry.com NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

Crafts for a Cause LOCAL ARTISAN UPCYCLES VINTAGE GOODS TO SUPPORT INJURED AND ILL MILITARY MEMBERS

The studio of Mason artisan Maureen LaBoa hosts a parade of worn-out books, furniture and vintage papers. Where others see worthless junk, Maureen sees potential, finding beauty and purpose for items that others might discard. The transformation is inspiring: bookmarks crafted from books beyond repair, and furniture given a second life with paint, illustrations, maps, blueprints and nautical charts. With her lovingly and skillfully crafted creations, Maureen gives second chances to the forgotten, and she does it all for the benefit of U.S. military personnel.

ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | A RTS + CULTURE

Find Painting for Patriots at these upcoming local events: • November 5 Loveland High School Craft Show • November 11 C3 Veterans Event • November 19 Sycamore High School Craft Show CONTINUED > CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

Maureen and her former Navy officer husband Tony LaBoa are avid supporters of Semper Fi & America’s Fund, a national nonprofit that supports injured and critically ill members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families. The LaBoas were first introduced to the organization when Tony was preparing to run the 2006 Marine Corps Marathon, a popular road race that required fundraising. “This was back when Iraq and Afghanistan were very busy and unfortunately, the military hospitals were very busy and there was a definite need. I asked Maureen if she wanted to run with me…” Tony begins. “Um, no,” Maureen chimes in, “Somebody has to ring the cowbell,” she says with a laugh. “She didn’t want to run, but Maureen wanted to be involved in the fundraising,” Tony explains. The LaBoas held a big October Tag Sale each year and donated the proceeds. Maureen started Painting for Patriots, a creative endeavor to gather even more funds, donating 100% of her net proceeds to the cause. Tony’s first Marine Corps Marathon was a starting gun for 16 years of support. Since 2006, this passionate couple has used their talents to give more than $113,000 to the Semper Fi & America’s Fund. “It’s so cool to be part of something bigger than yourself,” Maureen says. “Tony loves to run and I love to create. We are lucky that we get to do what we like and really help people we want to help by dovetailing with a great organization.”

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | A RTS + CULTURE

“We are lucky that we get to do what we like and really help people we want to help by dovetailing with a great organization.”

Their commitment to support Semper Fi & America’s Fund is a full family affair. The LaBoas’ two adult children, Jackson and Katie, a Navy nurse, can also be found at races and booths alongside their parents. Last October, Tony ran his sixteenth race for the Fund, the longest of any of the marathon team’s participants. “Once we were connected with Semper Fi & America’s Fund, we realized how much good they were doing,” Tony shares. “They are very good stewards. They are incredible at finding out what’s needed and making it happen.” “When military families ask, I tell them, ‘You served for me, without knowing me, so I can raise money for you without knowing you,’” Maureen explains. “We feel very strongly that we owe them. They go off and serve and make a thousand sacrifices and sometimes fight for us. When they come back less than whole, it is all of our responsibilities to do as much as we can for them,” she says. Make a meaningful purchase that makes a difference—find Maureen’s unique handmade goods at local craft shows or online via Facebook and Instagram: Facebook.com/paintingforpatriotssemperfi Instagram.com/paintingforpatriots TheFund.org

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can creati ons REACH OUT LAKOTA BRINGS A CAN SCULPTURE COMPETITION TO TOWN

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE MOODY

M UST SE E | A RTS + CU LTURE

Imagine walking into your favorite local businesses and seeing towering sculptures made entirely of canned goods and pantry staples. That scene will be unfolding at businesses and schools all around our community as Reach Out Lakota (ROL) debuts the Can Creations Sculpture Contest this February. “We were looking for a new way to drive excitement behind doing a canned food drive,” says Scott Stephens, ROL executive director. “Food drives drop off in the winter and this will help with that lull. Our volunteer team came up with this idea for a friendly sculpture competition that will bring in needed food.” Anyone can form a team—businesses, classes, clubs, neighbors. Teams plan their designs, host their own canned food drive or purchase the supplies needed, then build their creations. “We’ve made it so that all types of groups can participate,” says Sue Cheney, ROL special program coordinator. “Those without a way to publicly display their sculpture can simply send us a photo of their finished masterpiece.”

Building structures takes planning and some trial and error, so ROL is spreading the word early to give participants ample time to prepare. “One tip is to browse the grocery aisles to find items in sizes and colors that fit your design before doing your food drive,” says Sue. “For example, if your plan is to build a giant apple you’ll want your drive to focus on foods with red labels.” It’s important that labels are kept on the cans and that no permanent adhesion is used for the structures since ROL will be donating all the cans to local families in need. “ROL gives thousands of pounds of food each month, all year long,” says Scott. “This competition will help bring in food long before summer when our shelves often run low.” This unique competition is a great way to develop teamwork and camaraderie between co-workers, members of clubs and classmates, all while benefiting area residents in need. Organizations may attract visitors by keeping their sculptures on display for up to six weeks. CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

“IT’S A FUN WAY FOR BUSINESSES TO LET OTHERS KNOW YOU ARE HERE SUPPORTING THIS COMMUNITY. IT ALSO GIVES FOLKS A CHANCE TO SEE WHERE THEY ARE LOCATED.”

M UST SE E | A RTS + CU LTURE

“It’s a fun way for businesses to let others know you are here supporting this community,” says Scott. “It also gives folks a chance to see where they are located.” The Lakota School District is encouraging student groups to get involved as a hands-on way to apply what they learn in class while also supporting our local food and clothing pantry. “Can Creations is a great build to Lakota’s usual district-wide food drive in the fall,” says Lauren Boettcher, school & community relations manager for Lakota Local School District. “This is an opportunity that combines learning and service and we are excited to have another fun option to continue supporting Reach Out Lakota.” Teams and sculptures can be big or small, simple or complex. Awards will be given in eleven categories, including four specifically for small groups. A few of the categories include Most Creative, Best Student Entry, Most Donated Items Used and the People’s Choice award, which will be decided based on votes on the ROL Facebook page. “We hope to see some friendly competition among groups,” says Sue. “Along with bragging rights, our contest winners will receive a truly unique trophy in recognition of their creativity and generosity.” Follow ROL on Facebook to vote for your favorite sculpture and find displays in the community February 14-28. Details and registration is available online. ReachOutLakota.org, Facebook.com/ROLakota, 513.779.7515

LSO IN 2022 IMPACTING OUR COMMUNITY

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supporting the ultimate sacrifice ARTICLE BY MIA HILKOWITZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANJALI FONG PHOTOGRAPHY

Local Realtors Keith Taylor and Rich Davey Support Community Heroes

G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

Rich Davey and Keith Taylor of the Taylor/Davey group at Comey & Shepherd

Each winter the team enters the local Dollar Store with one goal in mind: clear the aisles. With the help of neighbors, friends and coworkers, hundreds of items are piled at the registers. As the total price runs high into the thousands, Keith Taylor and Rich Davey grow even more excited knowing that their purchases will end up in the hands of military personnel serving overseas. Since 2018, local realtors Keith Taylor and Rich Davey have committed to helping military and community members. Keith and Rich have been working together as partners and co-owners of the Taylor/Davey group at Comey & Shepherd since September of 2020. The team first began their charity efforts in 2018, working with the Yellow Ribbon Support Center, a volunteer group that works to support troops, to assist a campaign called Stockings for Soldiers. The realtors were first introduced to this initiative by Ken and Tina Martin, the owners of Priority National Title Services, after working on closings for clients together. During this charity event each year, the Yellow Ribbon Support Center prepares approximately 1,300 packages filled with 2,000 non-perishable items to send to troops during the holiday season. According to Yellow Ribbon Support Center Director Keith Maupin, the organization has been able to send more than 34,200 packages to troops since its founding in 2004, giving soldiers “a touch of home and letting them know there are people back home who appreciate them.” Each winter, the realtors raise money to purchase these non-perishables. The first two years, Rich worked on this initiative alone, raising approximately $700 each year for the cause. When Keith joined the effort in 2020 Rich says the campaign “just kind of exploded.”

“That year we raised something like $3,500,” Rich says. “I recruited my neighbors and we just divided and conquered [the dollar store to buy products]. We went through a lot. It takes a while to ring up $3,500 worth of stuff when it’s a dollar store.” Keith and Rich’s efforts haven’t stopped there. The two have also taken their knowledge and skills in real estate to help local heroes buy and sell homes in the Cincinnati and Dayton areas. At the beginning of 2022, the group joined two nationwide programs, Military on the Move and Homes for Heroes. Both programs connect heroes with local real estate specialists like the Taylor/Davey Group to help them save on a home by rebating a portion of every commission back to these clients. While Military on the Move focuses specifically on active and retired military personnel, Homes for Heroes also provides the same benefits to firefighters, emergency medical services workers, law enforcement, healthcare professionals and teachers. After going through a series of training sessions, Keith and Rich started providing their services to these community leaders looking to buy or sell homes. “They are always very appreciative,” Rich says. “When Keith and I walk into people’s houses and we talk about this and it registers with them that they qualify, it gets their attention.” Keith says that participation in these programs make it “easy to give back and is something [clients] can use over and over again.” Additionally, Military on the Move can be particularly helpful for military personnel that may be moving to a new house without first seeing the home. “Honesty and full transparency are two of the most important things to us,” Keith says. “We always tell the CONTINUED >

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

“We both really have soft spots for those who are willing to make that ultimate sacrifice. They’re very selfless and their job is to help other people, so we want to be there to help them...” people that we’re working with that we’re agents who tell you what you need to hear, not necessarily what you want to hear. I think that for people who are buying houses without being able to step foot in it, [working with us] makes them feel a bit more comfortable.” Community members are invited to join them in supporting these charity initiatives. While monetary donations are welcome to purchase non-perishable goods for Stockings for Soldiers, Rich and Keith will gladly coordinate a pick-up of donated goods. For Military on the Move and Homes for Heroes, Rich says that the best way for the community to be involved is to promote the program by word-of-mouth. “If you see an ad on our social media, share that information with whoever you think might use it or reach out to us,”

G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

Rich says. “We will contact you if you know somebody that wants to sell or buy [a home]. We’re happy to reach out to anybody who could benefit from the program.” While neither are military veterans, both are driven to support these brave leaders. Keith says, “We both really have soft spots for those who are willing to make that ultimate sacrifice.” “They’re very selfless and their job is to help other people,“ Keith adds. “So we want to be there to help them with what’s already going to be the biggest transaction of their life. Any extra money that you can put in the pockets of any of these military heroes, teachers, educators and first responders is a good thing.” TheTaylorDaveyGroup.com 513.580.4607

WE’VE GOT THE HOLIDAYS, YOU’VE GOT THE SPIRIT. We’ve got everything you need for the holidays at Liberty Center. We just need your spirit! Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift or a fun-filled event — the holidays are here. What will you make of them?

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NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Your Autumn Dinner Party Is Served Catering experts Chef Kyle and Hannah Williams, owners of Savor & Swirl culinary company, create an outdoor dinner party with chef-driven perennial dishes served in beautiful seasonal settings.

For this alfresco Autumn Dinner Party, Chef Kyle draws on favorite fall recipes updated for a modern palate and paired with wine selections to complement the bountiful feast. Hannah creates an iconic autumn ambiance using artisanal table settings and mixed flannels for each guest to blanket any chill on a brisk evening. Whether for Friendsgiving, Thanksgiving or a new November tradition, it’s time to get outdoors again surrounded in sweater-weather coziness while sharing bites and clinks with family and friends.

“Thin k f l an n el bl an k ets , woo d e n t a bl es , f ire pit s , o pe n g r ill s , st r ing light s an d can dl es to c reat e a really cool e nv iron m e nt you h ave n’t bee n a bl e to d o all s u m m e r.”

H OST IN G T IP S | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Insider Tips for Hosting:

• Build a menu around the season. “In November, people crave turkey, sage stuffing and cranberry sauce,” Chef Kyle says. “Autumn dinners mean bigger-course meals with varied proteins, like turkey, duck and sirloin, hearty starches, and good fall produce, especially root vegetables such as butternut squash and pumpkin.” • Always greet guests with a beverage and appetizers. “Offer champagne for wine-lovers or a sparkling drink or signature cocktail. It’s all about serving guests to the highest caliber,” Kyle says. • Draw inspiration from the season’s changing colors, cooler temps and lower humidity to move back outdoors. “Think flannel blankets, wooden tables, fire pits, open grills, string lights and candles to create a really cool environment you haven’t been able to do all summer.” • “You can’t go wrong with fresh flowers,” Hannah says, “but keep bouquets low to not interfere with conversation flowing. For fall, I like richer, jewel-toned florals to mix and match and keep whimsical. I vary glass vases with burnished brass for warm fall vibes.” • An easy but thoughtful detail is to put a simple menu at each place setting, so guests know what to expect. “Add a pen, so guests can jot tasting notes, especially for wine pairings or multiple courses,” Hannah says. “Guests can share comments, then take the menu home as a sweet reminder of the event.” • Follow the French principle of mise en place or everything in place before your event. “This is actually our company’s name,” Kyle says. “It’s that important to us. Make sure the wines are all open, cocktails are pre-made, place settings are out, candles are lit and music is playing. When guests arrive, it gives that wow-factor and shows you intentionally made them feel special.” • To build confidence as a host, start small and practice. “Keep the menu and guest list small,” Kyle says. “Choose recipes you already have confidence in. If you make a great Beef Stroganoff, then go with that. People will love it!” • As fun as it is to dine outside, always have an indoors back-up plan. “We’ve had to bring it indoors before,” Hannah says. “It’s still fun.”

savorandswirl.com Instagram: @savorandswirl, #savorandswirl

Want to see more? For this fall dinner party, Chef Kyle created the perfect dinner menu to tantalize guests’ taste buds. For a complete list of recipes, scan the QR code. NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 2

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. N OV E M BE R 2 N D , 3 RD, 5T H & 6T H

NOVE M BE R 4 T H

The Old Man and the Old Moon

LAKOTA W EST HIG H S CHOOL T H E AT R E | 7 :30 P M Follow the adventures of the Old Man, caretaker of the moon, as he chooses between duty and love, onstage at Lakota West Theatre, November 2, 3, 5 + 6. This charming story will capture your heart with songs and shadow puppets. Showtimes and tickets are available online at LakotaWestTheatre.com.

Christmas Open House

IN TERIOR S PLUS | 10:00 AM Interiors Plus is hosting their annual Christmas Open House on Friday and Saturday November 4 and 5 from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Stop in to enjoy holiday refreshments while shopping for unique Christmas décor at their new location at 7400 Liberty One Drive in Liberty Township. InteriorsPlusMasonOhio.com NOVE M BE R 9 T H

Animal Hospital Open House

AN IMAL HOS PITAL OF WEST C H E ST E R | 1 0 :0 0 A M Animal Hospital of West Chester is hosting an Open House on Saturday, November 9 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Stop in to meet the staff and take a tour of the building. There will also be raffle baskets and goodie bags. This is a pet-free event. AnimalHospitalOf WC.com CONTINUED >

KEEPING VETERANS AND FIRST RESPONDERS ON THEIR FEET

Thank you to our Veterans OF ALL BRANCHES OF THE MILITARY!

Most insurances accepted.

We treat Heel Pain, Tendinitis, Stress Fractures, Athlete's Foot, and most foot and ankle conditions. NEW PATIENTS, CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!

6770 Cincinnati-Dayton Road - Suite 201 Liberty Township, OH 45044 36

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(513) 729-4455 CincinnatiFootCare.com

Dr. Kristin Titko BOARD CERTIFIED AND OFFERING THE LATEST TECHNOLOGIES

Playtime! Playtime! Playtime! BOARDING • DAYCARE • GROOMING • TRAINING

And a bit of down time to get ready for more PLAYTIME. You in? BOOK NOW!

NEW CUSTOMER OFFER

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PETSUITES MASON 2690 Water Park Drive, Mason, OH 45040 Call 513.914.3129 | mason.petsuitesofamerica.com

* Offer is valid for new customers at PetSuites Mason only. No cash value. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE —

ALL UNDER ONE ROOF

AT WEST CHESTER ACADEMY, YOUR CHILD WILL BUILD LIFE SKILLS, CONFIDENCE, AND CHARACTER MUSIC • DANCE • GYMNASTICS • AERIAL SILKS • GO NINJA • ACTING IMPROV • MUSICAL THEATER • GROUP KEYBOARD • UKE CRAZY® • MORE!

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513.829.2345 WESTCHESTERACADEMY.COM

BACK-TO-SCHOOL

SPECIAL! $30 OFF 1ST MONTH

CALL OR TEXT

513-829-2345 TO REGISTER TODAY! HURRY! EXPIRES NOVEMBER 30, 2022 *New students or current students adding a class *Must mention at time of registration

We put our commitment to local police and fire first. They are the first call when seconds matter. First responders trust Shiver to make the right call. Our verified alarms and 24/7 Central Station are trusted by those we trust to protect ourdetails. community. Call for

513.719.4000 (EXT. 101) | SHIVERSECURITY.COM

6404 THORNBERRY COURT, #410 MASON, OH 45040 NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

EVENTS CONTINUED

NOVE M BE R 1 1 T H

C3 Veterans Event

MIAMI UN IVER S ITY VOA LEARNI NG C E NT E R | 1 1 :30 A M Join the Caring Community Collaborative (C3) at A Tribute to our Veterans, November 11 at 11:30 a.m. Held at Miami University’s VOA Learning Center, the annual gathering will honor those who have served in the armed forces. Veterans and those who want to honor them are invited to attend. Free lunch provided. Register online. C3Ohio.org, Facebook.com/ C3CaringCommunityCollaborative NOV EMBE R 1 2 T H

Community Blood Drive

MIDPOIN TE LIBR ARY, W EST CH E ST E R | 1 0 :0 0 A M Share with those who are most in need by giving the gift of life. Meet the mobile blood lab to make a donation at the Community Blood Drive, November 12, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. in the Midpointe Library, West Chester parking lot. Appointments are encouraged and available using sponsor ID #1479 online at DonorTime.com. N OV E M BE R 12 T H & 1 3T H

NOVE M BE R 1 3T H

Lakota East Holiday Arts + Craft Show

LAKOTA EAST HIG H S CHOOL | 9 :0 0 A M Bring your friends for a unique holiday shopping experience at Lakota East High School, where 200+ artisans come together on November 12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and November 13 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy lunch, support East students and kick off the season with this local holiday tradition. LakotaEastCraftShow.com

Bethany School Open House

BETHAN Y S CHOOL, G LEN DAL E | 2:0 0 P M Visit Bethany School in Glendale on Sunday, November 13, 2-4 p.m. to learn more about the innovative programs of Bethany School’s lower (K-2), middle (3-5), and upper (6-8) schools. Meet staff, see classrooms and ask questions to learn more about what makes this school community a special place to learn and grow. BethanySchool.org CONTINUED >

Style starts with radiant skin! Introducing Hydra Facial Club Membership!

Hydra Facial treatment was recognized as one of the BEST healing procedures. It combines deep cleaning, chemical exfoliation, intense hydration, and rejuvenation in one session with no downtime.

Now offering MINT PDO Threads!

This safe, nonsurgical facelift solution to sagging skin can allow you to see instant results in just one hour with no pain and downtime! MINT is backed by science and innovation.

PLEASE CALL US TO CHECK ON THESE NEW INCREDIBLE TREATMENTS!

www.DermatologyAndSkincare.com | 513.770.3263 Visit our new West Chester office at 7249 Liberty Way 38

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GET GREEN CHECKING

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To earn your rewards, we just ask you to meet 3 simple criteria each monthly qualification cycle: • Have at least 12 debit card purchases post and settle • Be enrolled in and agree to receive eStatements • Be enrolled in and log into online banking

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Premier Adult Assessment and Residential Services are right here in your backyard

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*APY=Annual Percentage Yield. APY is accurate as of the last dividend declaration date. APYs accurate as of 10/1/2022. Rates may change after account is opened. If qualifications are met each monthly qualification cycle: (1) Balances up to $15,000 receive APY of 1.50%; and (2) balances over $15,000 earn 0.15% dividend rate on portion of balance over $15,000, resulting in 1.50% - 0.15% APY depending on the balance. If qualifications are not met, all balances earn 0.05% APY. Qualifying transactions must post to and settle account during monthly qualification cycle. Transactions may take one or more banking days from the date transaction was made to post to and settle an account. ATM-processed transactions do not count towards qualifying debit card transactions. “Monthly Qualification Cycle” means a period beginning one day prior to the first day of the current statement cycle through one day prior to the close of the current statement cycle. For example, if it is the month of March, there are 31 days in the month, therefore all your debit card transactions must clear and post by the close of business on March 30th. Items clearing and posting on March 31st will count toward your April debit card transaction count for qualification purposes. Transfers between accounts do not count as qualifying transactions. Fees may reduce earnings. Limit one account per SSN.

E X C E L L E N C E

Lindner Center of HOPE’s assessment and residential programs offer an individualized path to answers that patients, families and referral sources are seeking. Williams House Stabilizing Evaluations in a safe and supportive residential setting for thought disorders, mood disorders, emotional dysregulation, addiction and chronic co-morbid issues Sibcy House Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessments and treatment in a therapeutic residential setting

Fresh perspective within a short drive

We Can

Help!

Please contact our admissions team to learn how Lindner Center of HOPE’s premier assessment and residential services can help you or your loved one set forth on a new course.

Speak to someone now by calling.

513-536-HOPE (4673) 4075 Old Western Row Rd. Mason, OH

Call 513-536-0537

Or visit Lindnercenterofhope.org/residentialtreatment-programs/ to learn more. NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

EVENTS CONTINUED

NOV EM BE R 1 4 T H - JA NUA RY 1 6T H

Middletown Holiday Whopla Spectacular

NOVE M BE R 1 7 T H

Journalism: The Oxygen of Democracy

DOW N TOWN MIDDLETOWN | 4:0 0 P M Middletown's Holiday Whopla Spectacular is an interactive holiday lights festival that features an ice-skating rink, musical performances, artist vendors, themed venues, specialty storefronts and more. Festivities begin on November 14 and continue through January 16. Skate, shop, play, relax and celebrate the holiday season at the Whopla! See the online calendar for details and tickets. HolidayWhopla.com

NATION AL VOA MUS EUM OF B R OA DCAST I NG | 7 :0 0 P M The National VOA Museum of Broadcasting hosts Journalism: The Oxygen of Democracy, a monthly series featuring VOA experts in a virtual presentation, November 17, 7-9 p.m. Join the museum audience to connect with VOA journalists and leaders via the big screen to discuss international broadcasting. Admission is free, but seating is limited. Register at 513.777.0027 or online at VOAMuseum.org/events. NOVE M BE R 1 8T H

Women of Excellence Awards Dinner + Gala

CIN CIN N ATI MARRIOTT N ORTH | 6 :0 0 P M Join the West Chester • Liberty Chamber Alliance in celebrating local women at this year’s Women of Excellence Awards Dinner and Gala, November 18 at 6 p.m. at Cincinnati Marriott North. Community members are invited to honor women from our community who have enhanced our region through outstanding service in their careers or volunteer work. Advance tickets required. TheChamberAlliance.com NOV EM BE R 1 9 T H

Liberty Center Holiday Parade + Tree Lighting

LIBERTY CEN TER | 4:00 PM Kick off the holiday season with the annual Liberty Center Holiday Parade + Tree Lighting. All are invited to meet Anna + Elsa, The Grinch and Mrs. Claus and enjoy the Lakota East Marching Thunderhawks in the parade, beginning at 4 p.m. on Foundry Row and concluding at The Park where Santa himself will light the tree. Liberty-Center.com

(513) 847-1261 40

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Plan Today for Your Holiday Meals and Gift Giving!

the Ultra Premium Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar E S TA B L I S H E D I N 2 0 1 2 original

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Celebrating 10 Years as a locally operated, woman-owned business! Visit TheSpicyOlive.com for recipes, wine tasting events and our online store. West Chester

*Wine Cellar @ The Spicy Olive

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STRONGER IS BETTER

Train with a Coach 3x/week Text to schedule a free phone consultation: 513-201-7510

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

WE BUILD BEAUTIFUL POOLS Experts at Pool Service and Vinyl Liner Replacements

937-439-9283

heatwavepools.com B 7320 Kingsgate Way in West Chester

FIEHRER MOTORS INC. IS CELEBRATING

90 YEARS IN BUSINESS!

Founded in 1932 by Albert C. Fiehrer, Fiehrer Motors Inc. is a family-owned, community staple serving Butler County and surrounding areas. We are known for our amazing service, top models of vehicles and community involvement. Visit us at your local Buick and GMC dealership today!

FIEHRERMOTORS.COM

Conveniently located near Bridgewater Falls at 6720 Gilmore Road, in Hamilton 42

The 5th Year in a Row! Thank you for voting me, “Best Real Estate Agent” for West Chester & Liberty.

FEATURING: 8181 ASCOT GLEN

#1 REAL ESTATE AGENT IN LAKOTA SCHOOL DISTRICT*

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6128 Wiltshire Ct

Excellent condition, updated & great location! Huge addition added to this home to create a large great room with fireplace (plus huge storage room that could be finished in the lower level). Remodeled kitchen with large island with counter bar and Butler’s Pantry. Updated bathrooms. Walkout, finished lower level with half bath & 4th bedroom. Trex deck overlooks yard. New HVAC in 2022. New windows 2016. Excellent condition-like new-in desirable Trails of Four Bridges! Gourmet kitchen with granite counters, stainless appliances, gas cooktop. Hardwood floors throughout 1st floor. Huge mud room with cubbies. Plantation shutters & updated lighting throughout. 4th bedroom with private bathroom. Huge walk in closet & walk in shower in primary suite. Great room features 2-story stone fireplace with built-ins.

SCAN TO FIND OUT THE VALUE OF YOUR HOUSE

C U STO M BU I LD O P P O R T U N IT IE S

Contact me today for custom build and finished home opportunities in Kensington. Experience why WP Land is changing the custom build experience.

*based on sales per MLS from 1/1/22-6/21/22

TIFFANY ALLEN-ZEUCH EXECUTIVE SALES VICE PRESIDENT PBD, SRS, RELOCATION SPECIALIST

(513) 349-7311

tzeuch@sibcycline.com | www.tazhomes.com

Connect with me on Social Media!

#tazhomes