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LIFESTYLE LETTER

We Love Our Local Arts February is a month all about love! Just walk into any store this month and you’ll find a pink and red explosion of hearts everywhere. Here at West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle, we like to celebrate this month of love by highlighting our local artists. There is so much talent here in our community! I’ve attempted a wide array of artistic pursuits over the span of my lifetime, but most didn’t pan out. My clarinet playing sounded like a wounded duck. I had a lovely assortment of oil pastels that I used to create many “masterpieces,” but even my mom couldn’t tell what I was trying to draw. Whenever I attempt to dance, it looks like a baby giraffe taking its first steps—we both have long limbs and no idea what to do with them. Fortunately after many, many failed artistic attempts I found something I enjoyed and could do pretty well—singing. I took a very long hiatus from singing after high school, but am so glad it is back in my life as I sing each week with my church’s praise band. As we grow older, if the arts aren't part of our career, it can be hard to find time to fit them into our lives. How often have you said the words, “I used to” before sharing a hobby? I hope that the artists we highlight in this issue encourage you to get rid of the words “I used to” and reignite an old passion or motivate you to try something new. Perhaps one of the most inspiring stories is that of 91-year-old Sugar who still paints (thank you to her neighbor Mary Beth for letting us know about her!). If you know a West Chester or Liberty Township resident who has done something that inspires you, we’d love to know about them. It’s a leap year, so we have an extra day on February 29—what a perfect day to explore something you’re passionate about. Wishing you a month full of love!

February 2024 PUBLISHER

Michelle Moody | Michelle.Moody@CityLifestyle.com E D I TO R

Tera Michelson | Tera.Michelson@CityLifestyle.com C O PY E D I TO R

A.J. Lape CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

A.J. Lape, Jennifer McGhee, Nan Paraskevopoulos C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

John Johns, Len Kaltman, Cathy Lyons–Lyons Photography

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

M I C H E L L E M O O D Y, P U B L I S H E R M I C H E L L E . M O O DY @ C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. 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

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

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 4 | LOV E LO CA L

24 18

Featured

14 18

24 30 8

Do What You Love

91-Year-Old Madeline “Sugar” Ritter Pursues a Passion for Family + Art

Star Students

The Education Revolution at Butler Tech’s School of the Arts

14 On the Cover

Departments

Trombonist Spencer Merk plays a concert with his brothers, Charlie on trumpet and Alex on drums, to celebrate the release of At Least, the 2023 debut album for the jazz trio. Read more on page 24.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Artist’s Palette LIFE + CULTURE

Education Corner EDUCATION

Back Stage ENTERTAINMENT

Inspired By LOCAL SERVICES

Expert Help ARTS + CULTURE

Events

Band of Brothers

Introducing The Merk Brothers—A Jazz Trio with West Chester Roots

Bridging the Gap

Neighborhood Bridges is a Gateway for Kindness for Lakota Families

Photography: John Johns

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FEBRUARY 2024

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Mercy Health Opens New Kings Mills Hospital + Medical Offices Mercy Health recently opened its new hospital and attached medical offices in Kings Mills, bringing state-of-the-art healthcare services to the area. The hospital is equipped with advanced medical technology and services, including cardiac and surgical services, emergency care, imaging and more. The medical office building offers ENT, audiology, pulmonology, orthopedics, cardiology, general surgery and lab services. With its convenient locations and commitment to excellence, Mercy Health is a trusted healthcare provider in Greater Cincinnati. Mercy.com

Shamrock Shuffle 5K Race is Back —Save the Date: March 16 The Shamrock Shuffle is coming back this March under new management by the EDGE Teen Center. Save the date for this family-friendly race and block party for the entire community. Designed for runners, joggers and walkers, the race benefits EDGE Teen Center programs and a multitude of other nonprofit organizations—choose your favorite Charity Team. The day’s festivities begin at 9 a.m. on March 16 at The Square at Union Centre. Register online. RunSignUp.com/Race/ OH/WestChester/shamrock

Happy 90th Anniversary to Kemba Credit Union In 1934, employees of the Kroger Manufacturing Plant met in the cafeteria and organized the Kemba Cincinnati Credit Union, Inc. to serve factory and packinghouse workers. Today, 90 years later, Kemba’s team of nearly 300 serves more than 125,000 members and continues to build on their core values of Stability, Excellence, Reliability, Versatility, Innovation, Collaboration and Education. Congratulations to Kemba for providing quality service to its members and the community for 90 years! Kemba.com

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DO what you L OV E

91-YEAR-OLD MADELINE “SUGAR” RITTER PURSUES A PASSION FOR FAMILY + ART

ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEN KALTMAN

The act of doing is so closely linked to being— inspiration can strike from the smallest spark. When Madeline Ritter, known by her Liberty Township neighbors as “Sugar,” discovered a metal box of mementos that was passed to her by her father, it ignited a journey of self-discovery and compelled her to create something beautiful.

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | L I FE + CU LT U RE

Ritter, 91 years old and a lifelong artist, cleared out the garage and began an evolving project that went way beyond anything else she has ever painted—a vibrant mural of her great-grandparents’ sprawling Kentucky farm, covering an entire garage wall with an idyllic scene of a bygone era. As she sorted through the clippings, letters and photographs in the historic box, Sugar felt connected to her family in a new way. Through her art, she processes and celebrates her life, faith and relationships, connecting past and present in colors and textures. Sugar’s story isn’t a fairytale, but she creates beautiful pieces from moments of sadness and fear. “I didn’t have the happiest of childhoods,” she shares. “Working on this project was a source of healing, mentally. It is helping me feel like I am a part of something.” Ritter started painting as a teenager after she finished her schooling at Cincinnati’s Hughes High School. With no formal training and only a passion to create art, she developed her own distinct style based on the Romantic era, realistic portraits popularized at the end of the 18th century. Ritter’s home is peppered with her pieces, paintings hanging over her fireplace, above the sofa and between doorways. The canvases depict historic people, places and even pets in her trademark Romantic style. The images allow glimpses into her life, sharing stories of loved ones who have passed and their influence on her. The mural shines with Sugar’s signature sparkle: sequins, beads and rocks embellish the dresses,

“I don’t let anything stop me.” -Madeline “Sugar” Ritter gardens and grounds recreated on her wall in a three-dimensional masterpiece that brings the scene to life. “I want to add a lot of details—that’s what takes me a long time,” she says. “I have a lot of work yet to do.” The 1864 home called Idlewild still stands near Horse Cave in south central Kentucky. She traveled with a CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

“I told my kids I am not going to sit on the couch and wait to die.” cousin to see it in person. She researched the family home and studied original writings by her great-grandmother that give many details of the time. “I never met my great-grandmother, but I’ve read all of her writings—she was a fantastic poet and a wonderful human being,” Ritter says. “I even have an original brick from the house.” Ritter’s neighbors couldn’t help but notice the start of something important. “You have to see this to believe it,” says Mary Beth Lachmann, Ritter’s neighbor in Hughes Woods. “She is amazing!” Ritter bypasses any obstacles and pursues her passion for painting and art. She is still working on the mural, adding the details that are important to her memories to complete the image. “I’ve got a bad foot and I shouldn’t be doing this, but I don’t let anything stop me,” says Ritter. “I told my kids I am not going to sit on the couch and wait to die,” she adds with a defiant lift of her head. This mother of three adult daughters continues to create and grow. Like her mural, she’s not finished yet. “I’m a work in progress,” she says with a grin.

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | L I FE + CU LT U RE

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

S TA R STUDENTS The Education Revolution at Butler Tech’s School of the Arts

Visitors at Butler Tech’s School of the Arts (SOA) are greeted by the sounds of songs from the movie Footloose, followed by cheering. Auditions are underway, and each performance elicits applause and encouragement. What began as a corrections academy in the mid-2000s is now an education revolution in career tech. Principal and Creative Director for SOA Kimheart Moeung says, “I have never worked for a company so passionate about its product and so intent on removing any possible barriers.” Students and parents from 13 affiliated school districts are catching on to the unique opportunities provided through

the SOA. Students are admitted through a lottery process. There aren’t auditions or interviews; all levels are accepted– even beginners. The SOA offers five programs: Dance, Instrumental Music, Theatre, Visual Art and Design and Vocal Music. Moeung refers to the SOA as a “business of entertainment school.” Students learn to be their own boss by tracking expenses, giving pitches, marketing themselves, forming an LLC and more. When hiring instructors, Moeung looks for individuals passionate about student success. It’s important for art instructors to practice their art and for academic CONTINUED >

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER MCGHEE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELLE MOODY

EDU CAT ION COR N E R | ED U CAT ION

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

EDU CAT ION COR N E R | ED U CAT ION

Butler Tech’s Hand s- On P rog ram s In addition to the SOA, Butler Tech offers hands-on learning for high school and adult students, launching locals in a wide range of successful careers.

• Automotive Technology • Aviation • Biomedical, Dental, Healthcare + Exercise Sciences • Business

Hig h Sc h ool P rogra m s

teachers to integrate art into the curriculum. Their teachers across all subjects exemplify devotion to students and the arts. Instrumental Instructor Mark Becknell is a freelance musician who teaches students how to make a living as musicians. They study performing, recording, technology, music marketing, networking and more. He says, “I appreciate that the SOA allows students to focus on what they want to do with real-life skills.” The instrumental music program at the SOA is unique because it is a commercial program centered on modern music as opposed to the classical approach found in most schools, including the college level. Students participate in five big shows and student-led mini-shows where they are responsible for auditions, setlists, running rehearsals and more. Recently, Becknell arranged to have the mini-shows performed at Pullman Lanes, an entertainment complex in Hamilton that offers bowling, volleyball and live music. Social Studies Instructor Valerie Folz cultivates meaningful relationships and creates an open culture so students feel safe and valued. She helps students demonstrate their mastery of state standards through art. She is currently leading a unique civic involvement project with her students. “[It] involves students choosing a civil issue, researching using credible sources, developing a personal stance to form their political identity and using their art to educate or influence others,” Folz explains. “I love how Butler Tech takes risks to benefit students,” she adds. Zea, a senior in the dance program at the SOA, lights up when talking about Folz’s civic involvement project. He recognizes that using art in academic classes is helpful for students with different learning styles. A fan of the block schedule–two academic and two art classes–Zea also appreciates the responsibility and trust given to students. “I chose to attend Butler Tech because of the sense of community I felt when I visited,” Zea says. From administrators to instructors to students, at the SOA and throughout Butler Tech, the gratitude and passion for the school are easily seen and felt. Butler Tech gives students the opportunity to thrive as they learn to do what they love. ButlerTech.org

• Career Exploration Academy • Construction • Cosmetology • Criminal Justice • Culinary Arts • Dance • Digital Media • Emergency Medical Technician • Engineering • Equine Science • Firefighting Technology • Graphic Design • Green Engineering • Information Technology • Mechatronics • Music: Instrumental + Vocal • Theatre • Veterinary Science • Visual Art + Design • Welding Technology

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Butler Tech Theatre students in a production of the play "Out of the Frying Pan."

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Charlie on trumpet, Spencer on trombone and Alex on drums at a winter concert at Caffé Vivace, a Cincinnati venue.

Band of Brothers

Introducing The Merk Brothers—A Jazz Trio with West Chester Roots

ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN JOHNS Music is one of many of West Chester and Liberty’s local loves. Our area is known for award-winning band and choir programs and year-round concerts of all styles. It is no wonder that The Merk Brothers, a local jazz trio, emerged from these musical roots. Meet Spencer, Charlie and Alex Merk, three talented brothers who have been making music together for more than 15 years.

B ACK STAGE | ENTERTAI N ME N T

Last summer, The Merk Brothers’ debut album, At Least, was released on Golden Mean Records to rave reviews. The project highlights the writing, improvisational and instrumental skills of each player. Listening to the music by Spencer, age 25, on trombone, Charlie, age 23, on trumpet and flugelhorn and Alex, age 21 on drums, is a lot like overhearing a family conversation. Each tune is an animated heart-to-heart about shared life, space and time in foot-tapping rhythms and memorable melodies. They allow each other a beautiful give and take with each expressing their own voice but telling a shared story. “We all contributed three original songs to the album,” says Spencer. “It’s not nine of the same songs, it’s a bunch of different stuff. It’s unique voices, but unified, because we all have a similar musical upbringing.” The opportunity to play together extends beyond the usual connection in a music ensemble. “When the three of us get to play together, it feels really natural—like a musical link that feels familiar,” says Alex. “We never even had to talk about the vision for the album,” Spencer adds. “We all knew from the beginning what it was going to be.” During recording in the winter of 2022, the timing was important because they knew life transitions were coming. “We knew that the time when we were all still living in the same city was coming to a close, so we wanted to get together and collaborate as closely as we could,” Charlie explains. When not playing together, Spencer, Charlie and Alex can be found on stage and in the studio with other jazz musicians or leading other ensembles like the Charlie Merk Quartet and We Are the Walrus. Two of their professors and mentors from University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music (CCM) joined them on the At Least project: Aaron Jacobs on bass and Sergio Pamies on piano.

Spencer on trombone.

CONTINUED >

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“The fact that each of us had the experience of working for years in the city with other musicians made it easier for the three of us to collaborate and work as a team,” says Charlie. The Merks’ love of music started in their West Chester home. “As young children, we were always surrounded by music,” says Spencer. “Our dad is a big music fan, even though he has never played music himself. As kids, whenever we were in the car or around the house, there was always music on.” Charlie adds, “Our mom was a great flute player through high school and college…she really knew the value of what the arts and band programs can do for students.” As youngsters, they explored a variety of activities, but settled into the study of music. “We all got started with a great piano teacher, Susan Hartman in West Chester,” says Charlie. “Alex was in kindergarten, I was in 2nd grade and Spencer was in 4th grade. From there, we all took to music and found our other CONTINUED >

Top: Spencer on trombone and Charlie on trumpet playing with saxophonist Gunnar Gidner. Bottom:Alex on drums.

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

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instruments.” The Merks attribute their growth of leadership, audition and improvisation skills to their experiences in the band programs at Lakota West High School and the doors that opened to them while at CCM. “All three of us were active in the Lakota West band programs,” says Spencer. “It was my entire social group, too. That’s where people like us could really belong.” As expected, 2024 finds the trio branching out in different directions. While Alex follows in his brothers’ footsteps and finishes an undergraduate degree at CCM, Spencer is working toward a Master of

Music in jazz trombone at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, and Charlie is soon headed to basic training to join the U.S. Air Force in a jazz trumpet position. “We have drawn inspiration and encouragement from one another throughout our entire musical journey, relying on one another to rise to the occasion musically as we have grown,” says Alex. “Now, we are enthusiastically pursuing our own ventures. As a less familiar but exciting future looms, we can look fondly upon these years we’ve spent getting started together and know that At Least we have this recording to remember them by.” “We have a lot of love for West Chester and attribute much of our success to growing up there,” Spencer says. Watch for more music to come from The Merk Brothers. Even while apart, Spencer, Charlie and Alex Merk are tuned into life together. Hear At Least on Spotify and Apple Music or purchase the album online. Follow West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle on Instagram during the month of February for a chance to win your own copy. SpencerMerkMusic.com, CharlieMerkMusic.com

Pianist Chris Caporale joins The Merk Brothers at the At Least release show.

“ W E H AV E A LOT O F LOV E F O R W E S T C H E S T E R A N D AT T R I B U T E M U C H O F O U R S U C C E S S TO G R O W I N G U P T H E R E .” — S P E N C E R M E R K FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

BRIDGING the gap

NEIGHBORHOOD BRIDGES IS A GATEWAY FOR KINDNESS FOR LAKOTA FAMILIES. ARTICLE BY A.J. LAPE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Left: Generous donations via Neighborhood Bridges provided a minivan outfitted for mobility for a local family. Right: Leah Aguilar + Kelley Casper of Neighborhood Bridges Lakota.

I NSP IR E D BY | LO CAL S ERVICE S

Behind the scenes in the Lakota Local school system, a quiet revolution is underway, fueled by the spirit of local love. Neighborhood Bridges, a national 501(c)(3) charitable organization, is on a mission to bridge the gap between poverty and success. Dedicated to an equitable education, they’re rewriting the narrative for students in need, connecting them with anonymous community donors who can break down barriers and help them on their pathways to success. Local leaders Kelley Casper and Leah Aguilar are the backbone of Neighborhood Bridges Lakota. If a student or family has a need, advocates like school nurses, administrators, counselors or resource officers reach out to Neighborhood Bridges and make a quick referral. Casper and Aguilar swiftly get to work, ensuring the need is promptly addressed. The process is simple and confidential: liaisons log onto the Lakota Neighborhood Bridges website, fill out a form documenting the need and an email alert system is activated, reaching several thousand subscribers. Aguilar, an educator in the Lakota District for twenty years, recalls one of their favorite success stories where a mother’s car wasn’t equipped to handle her son’s wheelchair, making family outings challenging. “An advocate at a junior high worked with this family and knew what the need was,” shares Aguilar. “So we put [the need on the Neighborhood Bridges site], and a generous community member donated a minivan. We were then able to get it fitted through donations from the community, Mobility Works and Butler County Developmental Disabilities. We also got them a year’s worth of insurance by donations.”

CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

“Neighborhood Bridges is almost instantaneous…in a couple of hours [a need] can be filled.” - Kelley Casper Casper, a Lakota School Board member and former educator, says, “What attracted me to Neighborhood Bridges is the immediacy of it. Neighborhood Bridges is almost instantaneous… in a couple of hours [a need] can be filled.” Casper emphasizes Neighborhood Bridges’ commitment to filling every need, irrespective of income level. “The only stipulation is you have to be a Lakota student,” she explains. Aguilar shares another example of the profound impact of a simple act of kindness. “We had a mom who lost her spouse at Christmastime a couple of years ago,” she recalls. “She had to get all new tires, and when she got home, her refrigerator had died. Mom was devastated, and theirs was an immediate need that impacts a child’s ability to be successful.” Neighborhood Bridges swiftly rallied once the need was posted, providing not only a new refrigerator but also groceries and gift cards. Residents can sign up for alerts, find a need and commit to meeting it. Donations can be dropped off at one of four donation sites: West Chester Fire Departments 72 and 74, Liberty Township Fire Department 112 and Lakota Local Schools Central Office.

I NSP IR E D BY | LO CAL S ERVICE S

Casper explains, “We pick those up, and distribute to the advocate who requested on behalf of the family. This keeps things anonymous unless a large item is donated that must be delivered to someone’s home.” Any funds donated or raised for Neighborhood Bridges/Lakota stays in Lakota. “But if we get someone who offers a bed, and we don’t have a current need,” Aguilar adds, “we would try to connect with another Neighborhood Bridges community to fulfill a need they might have.” Casper and Aguilar would love to see the vision of Neighborhood Bridges expand with more subscribers, eventually instituting a program specifically for unaccompanied minors who are no longer in the care of their parents. Put your love for our area into action and meet a need for our neighbors through Neighborhood Bridges. To find more information, contribute to fulfilling a need or make a direct donation, visit their website. Residents are invited to explore opportunities with their employers, as many are willing to provide matching funds when presented with evidence of a specific need. NeighborhoodBridges.org/community/ Lakota-oh, Lakota@NeighborhoodBridges.org

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

Coming Into Frame

Pop Revolution Art + Frame Shop Preserves Memories As Art

ARTICLE BY NAN PARASKEVOPOULOS PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATHY LYONS— LYONS PHOTOGRAPHY

EXP E RT H E LP | ARTS + CU LT U RE

Francis Michaels' journey in the world of art began as a boy in Upstate New York. He was fascinated by the interesting scenery and old, worn-down buildings. The textures of the peeling surfaces, the varying colors of the fading paint and the gradients of rust against the background of the landscape caught Francis’ eye. They called him to capture the way he saw things in film. It was a passion. “I was always saving up to buy my own cameras,” says Michaels. After moving to Ohio, Michaels earned a degree in photography. With a keen eye for

detail, his education helped him develop a deep understanding of color and balance, as well as digital craftsmanship. He embarked on a mission to create a space that would celebrate not only the art itself but also the ingenuity of presenting memories in the most respectful and captivating way. In 2008, Michaels opened the doors to Downtown Mason’s Pop Revolution with business partner Ben Neal. Michaels had been selling his original photography and

regularly collaborated with Neal to frame his personal work. Pop Revolution specializes in custom framing, photo printing and preservation. It’s not just a place to encase art; it’s a dynamic space where frames become an integral part of the artistic narrative. Michaels’ business partner Neal has been working with frames for more than 25 years, having been trained by some of the best craftspeople in the Cincinnati area. “He understands what needs to be done to preserve photos and important items correctly,” shares Michaels. CONTINUED >

Left page: Francis Michaels of Pop Revolution This page, middle: Ben Neal of Pop Revolution crafts a frame FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

EXPERTI Y M E SE T S U I “ OH E S T B P E O SS I B ELP TH T E G LE P C RO USTO DU M E RS CT.. .” - Francis Michael

Pop Revolution uses top-of-the-line printers, designed for art reproduction and specialty paper to facilitate the longevity of prints. Michaels can work with painters and other visual artists to photograph their art to create prints on either paper or canvas that they can sell. He also works with customers who want to reproduce portraits, landscapes or any everyday image they have. Michaels explains, “I use my expertise with customers who are not professional photographers to help them get the best possible product based on the materials they provide. I spend a lot of time with

EXP E RT H E LP | ARTS + CU LT U RE

people who can take a great picture but need a little help on the back end.” Some of the most requested non-art items that people have preserved are sports memorabilia, jerseys, coins and even swords. One memorable item that Michaels and Neal preserved was a soldier’s uniform from World War II. “All the material we use—the mat boards, paper and glass—are archival quality. There is no acid in the materials…We use UV glass which helps protect what we are framing from UV rays. Most framed items are not put outside, but in your home, where there is light coming in no matter where you are, it helps protect items from fading,” says Michaels. For items like memorabilia and coins, Michaels and Neal might use acid-free silicone to hold the items in place inside the frame. Michaels says, “One of my favorite projects was for a woman whose husband was a professional pianist. She brought in whole piano keys—not just the black and white part you see but the whole key that goes into the piano. We didn’t use any glass, to allow the keys to stick out for a more dynamic effect. We were able to set those on top of copies of his favorite sheet music.” The story of Francis Michaels and Pop Revolution is one of passion and innovation. Michaels and Neal are committed to the highest quality of care for the memories their customers hope to preserve for years to come.PopRevolutionGallery.com

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STC H E STE RA N D L I BE RT Y

FEBRUARY 2024

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S F EB RUA RY 3 RD

Greater Cincinnati Fly Fishing Show Oasis Conference Center, Loveland | 9:00 AM All ages of fly fishers are invited to the Greater Cincinnati Fly Fishing Show, the premier Midwest regional show hosted by the Buckeye United Fly Fishers. Enjoy presentations and workshops by nationally-known experts and visit the exhibition hall featuring nearly 70 booths specifically related to fly fishing. $10 admission fee at the door. Find details online. BuckeyeFlyFishers.com F EB RUA RY 3 RD + 1 7 T H

West Chester Winter Market Muhlhauser Barn, Beckett Park | 2:00 PM Shop local for homemade goods and homegrown produce at the West Chester Winter Market, on select cold-weather Saturdays. Dress warmly for the unheated but historic Muhlhauser Barn venue at Beckett Park on February 3 and 17, 2-4 p.m. WestChesterOH.org F EB RUA RY 1 1 T H

2024 Touchdown for HOPE Great American Ballpark, Bally’s Sports Club | 5:30 PM Celebrate Big Game Sunday with the best party in town! Tickets include parking and an unlimited Touchdown Buffet. Proceeds benefit Lindner Center of HOPE’s Transforming HOPE Campaign. Purchase tickets online. Discounts available for young professionals age 35 and under. LindnerCenter.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/TouchdownforHOPE2024 CONTINUED >

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events

CONTINUED

F EB RUA RY 1 4 T H

Magic in the Maples Forest Run MetroPark, Hamilton | 7:00 PM Take a romantic Valentine’s Day night hike under the magic maples of Forest Run MetroPark’s Timberman Ridge Area. Explore maple syrup from tap to table and enjoy some sweet treats made from the liquid treasure of those trees. Adults only; tickets and registration online. YourMetroParks.net F EB RUA RY 2 6T H

Black History Month Lecture MidPointe Library, West Chester | 6:30 PM Hear the heartwarming story of the friendship of two Navy pilots who became “brothers in arms” before and during the Korean War, despite the racial boundaries between them. Eric Guttag will share “Devotion: Friendship & Comradeship Formed Across Race,” a free lecture to celebrate Live the Dream: Black History Month. All are welcome to this public event. MidPointeLibrary.org F EB RUA RY 2 8T H

Cocktails, Careers and Conversations Dermatology & Skin Care Associates, 7249 Liberty Way, West Chester | 4:00 PM Ladies are invited to gather with other female executives and business owners from around the Greater Cincinnati region for the quarterly Cocktails, Careers and Conversations event, 4-6 p.m. Enjoy open networking, cocktails and a short presentation from a local female leader. No RSVP is required for this free event. Facebook.com/FemalePowerhouses

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FEBRUARY IS CHILDREN’S DENTAL HEALTH MONTH

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

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Need help with college? Until March 31st, Emery Federal Credit Union is accepting scholarship applications for 2024!

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

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