West Chester & Liberty February 2016 by City Lifestyle

West Chester & Liberty FEBRUARY 2016

WestChesterandLibertyLifestyle.com

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Lifestyle Letter

All things local. I

n West Chester & Liberty Townships we are fortunate to have some of the biggest companies in the world right here in our backyard. These businesses provide jobs, opportunities, financial resources and charitable contributions to our residents. Large corporations make a significant contribution to enable our communities to thrive. In this issue of West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle, however, we turn the focus to our many smaller, locally owned businesses. These locally owned companies help build community and encourage local prosperity. They keep our towns unique, reduce environmental impact and strengthen the local economy. Homegrown businesses represent the dreams of our neighbors. They help shape the character of West Chester & Liberty Townships. This month we are showing our “Home” string art by AB Underwood, $80 support for all things local. We’re at Celebrate Local. showcasing local restaurant owner Michelle Brown, local authors Kellen and Dee Montgomery and local family law firm Lyons & Lyons. We’re sharing the story of our own local Olympic hopeful, Kate Telles. This month’s Giving Back story highlights how local churches are coming together to help homeless families in our Butler County. February is also American Heart Month, and local store owner, Melanie Cedargren of The Spicy Olive, tells us about the many health benefits from olive oil. We’re also highlighting locally made items from one of Liberty Center’s most unique stores, Celebrate Local. As you read this month’s issue, please keep in mind that you receive West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle for free because of our advertisers. If you enjoy receiving this magazine each month, the best way to express your appreciation is by visiting these local businesses and letting them know that you heard about them here, in these pages. Thank you to our advertisers and readers—together we can shape our community when we take a "Local Focus."

FEBRUARY 2016 publisher

Michelle Moody | Michelle.Moody@LifestylePubs.com editor

Tera Michelson | Tera.Michelson@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers

Tom W. Brewer, Tom May, Abbey McMahon, Diana Telles contributing photographers

Michelle Lloyd, Masterworks Imaging

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WestChesterandLibertyLifestyle.com ON THE COVER Stainless steel fusti tanks line a wall of The Spicy Olive, an inspirational taste emporium for olive oils and balsamic vinegars. Find the story on page 12. PHOTOGRAPHY BY MASTERWORKS IMAGING 4

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | February 2016

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Do you have a will? Wills. Financial/ Estate Planning. Juvenile. Traffic/ DUI Criminal. Divorce. Business Law. Auto/ Injury February 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

February 2016

Departments

Good Times

Around Town

Healthy Lifestyle

Giving Back

Page Turners

Hot Spot

Culinary Creations

Lifestyle Calendar

Localâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice

16 Family-Style Law

Meet the Father-Daughter duo of Lyons & Lyons Law.

20 Flair for Air

Follow local teen Kate Telles on her gravity-defying journey to the Olympics.

24 Non-Profit Promises

Focus on family homelessness with Family Promise of Butler County.

HOME your most valuable possession

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Good Times

Centre Park Grand Opening

Centre Park Event & Banquet Center opened with a dazzling party, featuring music by Matt Snow, prizes and cocktails. Center stage at the event was Holiday Inn’s award-winning design, Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse’s tasty eats and Centre Park’s stunning space. Centre Park is the new centerpiece of West Chester’s business district.

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | February 2016

Be a Santa to a Senior Program Gifts Local Seniors

Home Instead Senior Care wrapped up a season of generous giving with 518 gifts for more than 250 local seniors. Partnering with local nursing facilities and community businesses, they facilitate gift-giving to seniors who might not otherwise receive holiday gifts. Volunteers wrapped donated gifts with supplies contributed by Thrivent Financial.

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Good Times

Star Wars Day at MidPointe Library, West Chester The force was strong at MidPointe Library, where 350 patrons celebrated the epic film release in December. Buckner Martial Arts provided â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jedi Training,â&#x20AC;? the Automation Technology Club gave robotics demonstrations and several characters were there in costume, supplied by the 501st Legion. Twenty teen volunteers assisted at the family-friendly event.

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | February 2016

Around Town

AROUND TOWN

ADULT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT EDGE TEEN CENTER

removal of the old playground and installation of the new playground is estimated to be just over $28,000. The playground is expected to be installed soon. WestChesterOH.org

WEST CHESTER ANTIQUE CENTER OPENS The wait is over! West Chester Antique Center opened its doors for business at the end of January. This unique retail center specializes in high quality antiques, vintage and art items, which are updated daily from 500 quality antique dealers. West Chester Antique Center is one of the largest antique malls in Ohio with 70,000 square feet, 250 booths, 300 showcases and 50 display towers. Space is still avail-

EDGE Teen Center, a non-profit organization located near La-

able for quality dealers. Starry Night Gallery has relocated from Leba-

kota East High School, provides a safe, supportive and fun envi-

non to their new location inside West Chester Antique Center. Starry

ronment for teenagers in Liberty Township during the after-school

Night Gallery boasts Cincinnati’s largest selection of oil paintings.

hours of 2:30-6 p.m. EDGE is soon launching its “Fishbowl Se-

Visit them both at 4924 Union Centre Pavilion Drive, West Chester.

ries,” a weekly 30-minute small group conversation between an adult moderator and a group of teenagers on topics of inter-

WAntiqueCenter.com

DAUBIGNY EXHIBIT PREMIERS AT TAFT MUSEUM OF ART

est to teens. EDGE is recruit-

Taft Museum of Art partners with the Scottish National Gallery,

ing adult volunteers who are

Edinburgh, Scotland, and the Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam, The

subject matter experts: topics

Netherlands to bring to Cincinnati Daubigny, Monet, VanGogh: Im-

range from basics of investing

pressions of Landscape. An examination of works and the influence

and finding a summer job to

of French artist Charles-François Daubigny, the exhibit premiers in

creative writing and managing

Taft Museum of Art’s Fifth Third Gallery, February 20-May 29, 2016.

stress. Volunteers may host

Seen as a mentor and friend to the Impressionists, Daubigny is a less

these discussions as a one-time guest or on a regular basis. Make

understood artist of his era. This show explores his impact on the

a difference for our community’s teens with your time, energy and

Impressionists and Post-Impressionists by showing 42 of his mas-

experience. Contact Teen Center Director Annie Droege for de-

terpieces alongside 16 works by Camille Pissarro, Claude Monet and

tails. Annie@EDGETeenCenter.com, EDGETeenCenter.com

Vincent VanGogh. After its premier at Taft, the exhibit moves on to

EDGE volunteer Cheryl Keitel of West Chester discusses skin care with teens.

ALLEN-ZEUCH WINS REALTOR AWARD Congratulations to Tiffany Allen-Zeuch, who was given the Circle of Excellence Award by the Cincinnati Area Board of Realtors (CABR). CABR’s annual award ceremony was held at Horseshoe Casino in January. This is the eighth time she has earned the award, this

Europe. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience these art classics with your own eyes on its single American stop. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike Street, Cincinnati. TaftMuseum.org

RICK PRINZ NEW FIRE CHIEF IN WEST CHESTER TOWNSHIP

year at the 4th Level of Achievement. She was an honored recipient

Congratulations to Rick Prinz who was named West Chester Town-

in 2005, and again each year since 2009. As Executive Sales Vice

ship’s Fire Chief in December. Prinz was serving as interim chief since

President with Sibcy Cline Realtors, Allen-Zeuch specializes in re-

former Fire Chief Tony Goller retired in 2015. Prinz has been with West

location and new construction in the Greater Cincinnati area, with

Chester’s Fire Department since 1990 and is a West Chester Township

focus on the northern suburbs. TAZHomes.com

resident. He was promoted from Lietuenant to Captain to Assistant

NEW PLAYGROUND COMING TO KEEHNER PARK West Chester Trustees have approved the replacement of the 20-year-old playground equipment at Keehner Park’s picnic area. The new playground will offer more accessibility for children and meets

Fire Chief before his appointment to Fire Chief. The West Chester Fire Department consists of five fire stations across the township and responds to approximately 6,000 calls each year. WestChesterOH.org

SHARE YOUR VACATION PHOTOS FOR UPCOMING TRAVEL ISSUE

modern safety standards. The equipment, purchased from bid-win-

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle wants to feature you in our up-

ner GameTime, includes fun for everyone: three climbing areas, three

coming Travel issue. Tell us about your favorite vacation destination

slides, a log roll and sky wheels—popular spinning monkey bars. The

and send your best vacation photos. You may be selected as a fea-

playground is designed to be fun, community-building and green.

ture story for our April issue. You inspire us! Tera.Michelson@Lifestyl-

The equipment is fashioned from recyclable materials. The cost of

ePubs.com WestChesterandLibertyLifestyle.com February 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

Healthy Lifestyle

NATURE'S HERO THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF HIGH-QUALITY OLIVE OIL

ARTICLE DIANA TELLES PHOTOGRAPHY MASTERWORKS IMAGING

he olive branch has a distinguished historical significance, representing peace, renewed life and immortality. Crowns made of olive branches were once placed on the heads of Olympic champions as a symbol of victory in ancient Greece. Olive oil is named countless times in the Bible. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no wonder that this product of the esteemed olive tree is recognized as a hero in the world of nutrition, offering unparalleled health benefits. A genuine, high-quality olive oil is regarded as one of nature's most bountiful gifts. The list of its health benefits is extraordinary. In order to realize the benefits of olive oil, it is crucial to understand its healthful features. The most ideal form for consumption is ultra premium extra virgin olive oil, which contains the highest amounts of antioxidants. Compelling evidence points specifically to micronutrients in quality olive oils that possess the anti-inflammatory properties of ibuprofen. Regular ingestion of high-quality olive oil may aid in reducing pain as well as inflammation indicated in a myriad of health issues such as asthma and degenerative joint diseases. 12

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | February 2016

Nutritionists believe that a moderate amount of olive oil, when used in conjunction with healthy eating habits, can effectively prevent and treat issues ranging from heart health to blood sugar regulation. It’s even incorporated into skin care products. What's more, olive oil has a reputation in the prevention of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Mounting evidence also points to its effectiveness in the prevention of several types of cancer, as well as cardiovascular disease. Olive oil contains the highest amount of monounsaturated fat in the plant oil family. The American Heart Association recognizes monounsaturated fats as being heart healthy, helping to lower LDL or “bad” cholesterol in the blood, thus decreasing one’s risk for high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke. Moderate amounts of monounsaturated fats can also help increase HDL or “good” cholesterol in the blood which is known to decrease the risk of coronary artery disease. CONTINUED >

The Spicy Olive owner and olive oil expert, Melanie Cedargren.

February 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

Physicians promote a Mediterranean diet as an eating plan that may thwart a number of chronic diseases. Influenced by lower rates of cardiovascular disease in the Mediterranean region, the diet advocates a regimen that replaces butter and other unhealthy fats with olive oil. Melanie Cedargren, owner of The Spicy Olive stores in West Chester, Miamisburg and Hyde Park, can attest to her and her husband’s measured improvement in blood chemistry results after establishing the use of premium olive oil in their diet. “My doctor called me directly to tell me my blood levels were perfect,” Cedargren says. The gratification of such a report is considerable because she works to bring the best quality olive oil to our community. Cedargren champions her ultra premium extra virgin olive oils for being flavorful, dense in antioxidants and an essential part of a healthy diet. Cedargren warns that generally speaking, olive oil found in grocery stores will not offer the health benefits of the fresh, high-quality oils she markets at The Spicy Olive. “Our oils are the healthiest we can buy. To ensure freshness, they come from different regions depending on the time of year. They are never older than six months.” Olive oils purchased in grocery stores may be flavored to cover rancidity or topped off with a cheaper, substandard oil like canola. The healthy components of grocery store 14

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | February 2016

olive oils are far less stable and more easily depleted by age, heat, air and light. There is never a bad time to wave the proverbial olive branch to your health, and commit to healthier eating habits. While olive oil contains 120 calories per tablespoon, Cedargren cites studies indicating weight loss in those who allow three to four tablespoons of olive oil per day as their main source of fat. Incorporating quality olive oil into your diet can be simple and delicious. The Spicy Olive offers an extensive variety of flavored and infused olive oils that can easily replace less healthy oils you are already using. Cedargren specifically recommends butter flavored olive oil in baked goods, for sauteing vegetables and pan-frying favorite foods like French toast. The Spicy Olive assists with in-store and online recipes, cooking classes, tastings and a wide range of balsamic vinegar flavors for endless pairing ideas for salads and meats. Healthful eating with high-quality olive oil can be a true victory of good taste.

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ARTICLE TOM W. BREWER | PHOTOGRAPHY MICHELLE LLOYD & PROVIDED

Family Law Lyons & Lyons' Homegrown Law Team

hink of all that has changed in West Chester and Liberty Township over the last thirty years. The farms gave way to homes, turning the rural landscape to a series of well-kept, family-friendly subdivisions. One large high school budded into two. The Union Centre exit in West Chester brought commerce and development to the area. Recently, Liberty Center has made Liberty Township a regional shopping and entertainment destination. Over the last three decades, streets have been widened and renamed. Businesses have come and gone. Nearly everything has changed. One constant in town is the law firm of Lyons & Lyons. Since the time when the area was populated with more barns than homes, the family practice has been defending the rights of local residents. “We aren’t doing much differently than we did thirty years ago,” Founder Rob Lyons says. “I’ve always wanted to help people in my hometown, and that’s what we’ve done. Maybe we used to represent more farmers than we do now, but not much else has changed.” Lyons, who has served as a Judge in Butler County Area I Court for seventeen years, began practicing law in the early 1980s. He opened his first local law office in 1983, and in 1991 he opened Lyons & Lyons. The firm offers a wide range of legal services— everything from estate planning to medical malpractice claims to defense of those charged with Operating a Vehicle Impaired and Driving Under the Influence (OVI/DUI). Lyons followed his father Robert into law. The elder Lyons was an entrepreneur, attorney and animal enthusiast. He was a champion for the Cincinnati Zoo and at one time the

Father and daughter team: Rob Lyons and Kara Lyons of Lyons & Lyons Law.

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | February 2016

president of the Cincinnati Zoo Safari Club. Late in his career, when he could have rested after a lifetime of accomplishment, Robert practiced law with his son at Lyons & Lyons. He retired in 2004 and passed away in 2013. The inclination toward family continues to this day, as the firm’s newest attorney is Judge Lyons’ daughter. Kara Lyons joined the family business in November of last year, with an eye toward helping older West Chester and Liberty Township residents. Her practice focuses on wills, trusts and elder law. According to Kara, her role at the firm fulfills a lifelong dream of becoming an attorney. “I’ve always been interested in the law,” she says. “But more than anything I wanted to help people. I remember seeing people thank my father or ask him for advice, and I knew that’s what I wanted to do.” Often times business and loved ones don’t mix, but not so in the case of Lyons & Lyons. Both Rob and Kara speak highly of working together so closely. “Working with my dad has been great. He knows so much, it’s like having a law encyclopedia at my fingertips,” Kara explains. Rob echoes her positive sentiments. “It has been wonderful, working with Kara. My dad and I had a great working relationship that helped us build an even stronger friendship, and Kara and I are building the same thing.” From the start, Judge Lyons has made an effort to make the practice a community cornerstone. He coached wrestling in the Lakota district for 18 years. The name Lyons & Lyons is emblazoned across dozens of youth sports uniforms every year. The deep community roots at the firm extend beyond Rob and Kara Lyons. The firm includes a former local police officer and a lifelong West Chester resident. “Everyone who works here either lives or grew up around Lesourdsville-West Chester Road,” Judge Lyons says. “We’re as homegrown as you can get.” Lyons & Lyons has been a trusted area fixture through thirty years of growth and change in West Chester and Liberty Township. They plan on helping their neighbors with their legal needs for at least thirty more.

Rob Lyons, 1999, being sworn in with his parents, Kate and Bob, by his side.

Kara & Rob Lyons, 1996.

Three generations of Lyons'

Judge Rob Lyons, 2015. February 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

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Fearless Flyer Kate Telles' Journey to the Olympics

ARTICLE TERA MICHELSON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

t all started on the swing set at Kate Telles’ preschool—she was three. Diana Telles,

Kate’s mother, received a concerned call from the teacher, telling her how high Kate would swing and then dangerously jump from the seat. “But she could land it!” Diana declares. Mom wasn't worried. Kate has always been an adrenaline junkie. Given her history, it’s not a surprise that she is now, at age 14, on a journey that could take her to the Olympics. As she grew, Kate’s appetite for air grew, too. At seven, she received her first skateboard as a birthday gift. The board was shredded after only a few hours.

CONTINUED >

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | February 2016

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FEARLESS FLYER (CON TI N U ED)

“Skateboarding fulfilled my need to be crazy and to get air,” Kate says. Kate also enjoyed team sports throughout her

with Kate and her family. He encouraged her to try Trampoline Camp and tumbling training. When she excelled, he taught her to ski.

childhood. Her soccer coach, Patrick Longo re-

Next, Curran introduced Ramp Camp,

flects, “I saw this unbelievable drive in Kate. She

where Kate took her first trip down a ski ramp

has a tenacity to her that is amazing to watch.”

to land in a lake, simulating an aerial ski jump.

Terry Brokamp, Kate’s childhood basket-

“With her balance and athleticism, I

ball coach agrees. “As a coach, you can’t

thought she could ski. So, I brought her over

teach aggressiveness. You’ve either got it, or

to skis from the snowboard. She’s a quick

you don’t. Kate would drive to the basket as if

learner. She’s got coordination.”

no one else was there. There’d be kids falling

In August of 2014, at Curran’s urging, she

all over the floor; she did whatever it took to

tried out for an exclusive training program, the

get the ball where it needed to go.”

Elite Aerial Development Program (EADP) at

Team sports were fun, but didn’t meet Kate’s

the Olympic Training Center in Lake Placid,

need for a challenging thrill factor. She dis-

New York. She proved herself with a video of

covered snowboarding. She loved the rush of

a 12-foot drop-in on a skateboard ramp and

tricks, grabs and lots of glorious air. She en-

was extended an invitation to join the pro-

joyed the feel of the snow and liked the cold

gram. Kate had finally found her sport.

weather. It was a prophetic shift to snow sports.

This past fall, Kate left her home in West

At a skateboard camp at a Sharonville skate

Chester to move in with a teammate’s family in

park at age 10, Kate befriended another skater.

Lake Placid. She is training with 14 other athletes

His dad, John Curran, noticed Kate’s skills. “She

in the EADP, alongside others in training for win-

was very impressive on a skateboard,” he says.

ter Olympic sports. She trains and schools at the

Curran, now Recruiting Coordinator for

facility three weeks of each month, and spends

the United States Ski Team, kept in touch

one week off, back here at home.

Telles' home away from home.

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | February 2016

Telles with Coach Jaroslav "Jadi" Novak.

“It’s fun when I am up there. I know that gravity hasn’t forgotten me, but I want to stay up as long as I can.”

“I try to make the most of my weeks off

The traits that make Kate an Olympic-level

at home. I love catching up with family and

athlete are her balance, strength, coachable

friends,” Kate says.

spirit and fearlessness.

Kate’s new normal includes long days of training and workouts, hanging out with bobsledders and Olympic medalists during her rare free time and her favorite part—skiing off ramps to fly

“I don’t usually get scared,” Kate says. “If I crash, at least it means I got to try something new.” Curran says one of the most important factors of Kate’s talent is the ability to take a hit.

through the air. Kate feels most at home mid-air.

“She can crash and hit hard,” Curran says, “but

“Coming off the ramp feels quick, but it’s a

she gets up, brushes off and goes back for more.”

good feeling,” explains Kate. “It’s fun when I

“If she does a good job, works hard, stays

am up there. I know that gravity hasn’t forgot-

healthy, stays on schedule and continues to

ten me, but I want to stay up as long as I can.”

progress from the EADP to the National Team,

Aerial Skiing is a sport of precision. It fol-

who knows?” Curran muses. Two years to the

lows a methodical progression, requiring

2018 Olympic Games in South Korea may be

mastery of one skill at a time, advancing to

too early, but it’s only six years until Beijing,

the more complicated twists and flips that

where the Winter Olympics are to be held in

define the sport.

2022. Since she has started intensive training at

Having progressed to this level of training from skateboarding is rare.

such an early age, Kate could train for 12 years or more to perfect her sport. She has the possibility

“In aerials,” Curran explains, “we usually

of seeing at least three Olympic games.

recruit kids with gymnastics and trampoline

No one knows yet just how high Kate will

backgrounds, then we cross-train in skiing.

fly. This local athlete has her eye on an Olym-

Kate is a different breed than what we nor-

pic gold medal. To keep your eyes on this

mally take. She’s a skateboarder, snowboard-

amazing young woman from our neighbor-

er and basketball player. She picked it up

hood, you’d better look up, because that’s the

very quickly because of her athletic ability.”

only direction Kate Telles is headed.

February 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

Giving Back

The Promised Land of Butler County FAMILY PROMISE OF BUTLER COUNTY MOVES INTO THE NEIGHBORHOOD

ARTICLE TOM MAY PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

t can be hard to hold a family together, even in the best of times. Imagine the uncertainty of being a homeless family: Where will we sleep? Where will our next meal come from? How do we keep our kids safe? Family Promise of Butler County has moved into the neighborhood to help restore promise to homeless families. In Butler County, there are over 500 children on record as homeless. There simply are not enough shelters in the area to meet the need, and most do not have the facilities to keep families together. At a time when family needs each other the most, they are often split up and shipped off to different shelters. Family Promise, an affiliate of National Family Promise who runs the Interfaith Hospitality Network Program, and its network of local partners provide the typical resources of shelter, meals and clothing, but keep families together while they do it. Local congregations provide space in their buildings to serve as temporary homes, allowing for families to lodge together. Family Promise achieves this goal by mobilizing our community’s greatest resource—its people. Volunteers are tapped to use their skills, knowledge and compassion to help people struggling with homelessness in our community reconnect. They help 24

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | February 2016

families feel welcome and safe, help find employment, care for children and make steps toward permanent housing. President of the Board of Directors of Butler County Promise, Randy Stearns explains, “We are not successful if a family stays homeless. Our success is helping each family move up and out to another level of stability in their lives." Sue Mahlock, Personnel Committee Chair with Family Promise of Butler County, says that the point of Family Promise is not only to feed and lodge families who happen to be homeless, but also to empower them with the tools they need to get their lives back on track. Mahlock has been involved with helping the homeless for years with the Interfaith Hospitality Network of Greater Cincinnati, through her church, Crestview Presbyterian in West Chester. “Bringing my whole family to play with the children, eat and pray with the guests, was one of the best things I have ever done to show God's love to others who desperately need it,” Mahlock says. A minimum of thirteen local congregations have partnered with the new Family Promise of Butler County affiliate, each agreeing to host families about four times a year. Over half of the current host congregations are in West Chester and Liberty Township: Center Pointe Church, Christ the King Lutheran Church, Crestview Presbyterian Church, Faith Community United Methodist Church, Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Princeton Pike Church of God and St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church. The other six are in Fairfield and Hamilton: Fairfield Church of Christ, Fairfield West Baptist Church, First United Methodist Church in Hamilton, Lighthouse Indian Springs Church, New Life Vineyard Church, St. Julie Billiart Catholic Church. Family Promise makes just as strong an impact on the lives of the volunteers and congregations as it does upon families. Patti Paulett, who helps coordinate the efforts of the program at her church, Lord of Life Lutheran Church in West Chester, says the program has

been a blessing even before they’ve actually been hosts. “We have always been involved in a lot of outreach efforts in the community, but hosting local families who are homeless inside our own doors takes our outreach to a whole new level. What a blessing!” Pastor Lowell Michelson of Lord of Life Lutheran Church in West Chester adds, “Homelessness can seem like an overwhelming problem. Many people wonder what one person or congregation can do to truly make a difference. Together, and with God’s help, we’re offering our space, love and lives to be part of the solution.”

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Volunteers are the foundation of Family Promise. You can make a difference in the lives of families who have suffered the ordeal of losing their home. Family Promise is seeking congregations in Butler County and volunteers. For information about how you can help, contact Family Promise of Butler County: 513.777.9533, extension 111 info@familypromisebutlercounty.com FamilyPromiseButlerCounty.com Facebook.com/FamilyPromiseButlerCo Family Promise of Butler County is an affiliate of Family Promise, Inc., which has been providing overnight lodging to children and families who are homeless throughout our nation since 1988. Family Promise of Butler County became its own 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in December, 2014. It joins Warren County Interfaith Hospitality Network and the Interfaith Hospitality Network of Greater Cincinnati to address family homelessness in Southwest Ohio.

Page Turners

Life Lessons by the Book LOCAL MOTHER & SON AUTHOR A REAL-WORLD BOOK SERIES ARTICLE DIANA TELLES | PHOTOGRAPHY KAREN M. JENKINS

Kellen and Dee Montgomery, co-authors of powerful book, NOT Invited.

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | February 2016

f the list of reasons why a mom might grab a paper towel in an emergency moment—juice box explosion, runaway meatball or even a sniffling nose— to write a book does not rise to the top of the list, but that’s what happened in one local family’s kitchen. When Kellen Montgomery, at age eight, declared a strong disdain for reading and writing, despite being a smart and capable student at Endeavor Elementary in West Chester, it was an emergency moment for his mom, Dwylett “Dee” Montgomery. Fueled by her family’s value of education, Dee wanted to foster a love of reading and writing in her son. One day nearly a year ago, in a burst of sudden inspiration, Dee grabbed a marker and a nearby roll of Bounty paper towels. She began writing, right there in her kitchen. When Kellen discovered what she was doing, he was immediately engaged, adding ideas and edits to the story. Through a common interest of wanting to help kids, the mother-son writing team authored NOT Invited, a compassionate and honest story about a boy named Kellen. What began as notes and ideas on paper towels grew into much more. NOT Invited was released in late 2015 as the flagship book in an emerging series titled, “When Life Hurts.” The Montgomerys aim for the series to address real-life solutions for kids dealing with exclusion, jealousy and grief. By design, children are drawn to NOT Invited even before opening the book. The engaging cover features illustrations by local artist Elsie Mort, who studies in the Design, Architecture, Art and Planning (DAAP) program at University of Cincinnati. The animated characters easily engage the reader with warm thoughtful eyes, large print and easy-to-read dialogue bubbles. As the story unfolds, the main character, Kellen, is grieved by a painful and all-too-realistic situation, obliging readers—even older ones—to identify with his heartache. An honorable bit of wisdom from an unlikely source helps storybook Kellen and the empathetic reader reconcile his suffering.

The success of NOT Invited has generated firm roots and a fertile platform for the future. Dee and her family started their self-publishing company, Kids’ Reality Books, and plan to continue their creative efforts. NOT Invited has been beautifully received in the community. It is a legacy of the hard work and thoughtful effort of two authors who considered every possible detail of publishing. They even retain a Kids’ Advisory Board of a dozen students who offer a youthful perspective for their publishing projects. The board’s valuable advice ranges from design suggestions to size and paper recommendations. An unexpected reward in the process of publishing their first book has been read-in events that Dee and Kellen have hosted. Such occasions allow students to use props to act out and truly feel the

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story. Both have been deeply moved by the impact the presentation of NOT Invited has had on students and teachers alike. Dee describes the read-ins as the most gratifying days of her life. A teacher commented that the events have exposed honest dialogue that reminds her to see students as the young, vulnerable kids they still are. Kellen, now a fourth grader, is very much a part of the company and the decision-making. “I like going to meetings because I like it when they ask me what I think about what we're discussing. Sometimes I don't understand, but the adults are pretty nice and they explain things in a way that I can understand,” Kellen says. He also admits being proud of his mother for the work she is doing. For now, mother and son are devoted to seeing through the present momentum of NOT Invited. Dee says, “It's our commitment to provide kid-approved solutions. It drives us to work hard to get NOT Invited into the hands of kids, parents, teachers, counselors, school administrators, churches, child care providers and anyone who has an interest in giving kids tools that build character and problem-solving skills.” When you open this powerful book, prepare to be absorbed. NOT Invited invites you to soak up life's lessons. NOT Invited by D. Chambers Montgomery and Kellen Montgomery is available for purchase at Amazon, Apple and Barnes & Noble. KidsRealityBooks.com

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February 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

Hot Spot Jag's Majority Owner and Executive Chef Michelle Brown.

LOCAL FLAVOR WHAT IT TAKES TO GET THE SEAL OF APPROVAL FROM JAG'S OWNER & CHEF MICHELLE BROWN

he’s a mother, wife and charitable community member. She’s a mentor, coach and leader in her industry. And she just so happens to be right here in our backyard. Chef Michelle Brown, executive chef and majority owner of Jag’s Steak and Seafood/ Piano Bar, is a longtime West Chester resident and Cincinnati native whose passion for cooking has taken her all over the world, but her love for Cincinnati has kept her right here in this community. Since 2003, Brown has been preparing the delectable plates that guests have come to associate with Jag’s. Brown worked alongside former owner John Allgaier for more than ten years before buying the business in June, 2015. She says while the majority ownership has changed hands, the quality of the brand and entertaining atmosphere of the Union Centre restaurant has not—and neither has the team.

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | February 2016

ARTICLE ABBEY MCMAHON PHOTOGRAPHY MASTERWORKS IMAGING

Red Velvet Cheesecake by Jag’s Pastry Chef, Tracie Lockhart: red velvet cake layered with cheesecake, cream cheese icing and chocolate glaze ($9).

“I’m fortunate enough to have people who are trained in a position who have been there a very long time,” Brown says, smiling. “When you put people in a position where they’re the master of their craft and they’ve been working alongside these people for so long, it’s a very collaborative environment. It’s kind of like a symphony.” Brown gets an adrenaline rush from the hustle that takes place within the kitchen of Jag’s. Comparing it to a sporting event she says it’s like playing a game every night where the team must lean on each other to work toward a common goal. In her case, the goal is to create “a thoroughly entertaining experience” for the guests. “To me it’s not just about having a great meal [at Jag’s’]. It’s about pulling up to the [parking] lot, being greeted at the valet, welcomed at the hostess stand, to the service and the food. It’s entertainment to our guests,” Brown says. “That’s our goal with every guest: to put on a show for them and hopefully exceed their expectation.” Of course, what guests see on their plates is an important piece of the entertaining experience, which is why Brown and her team are constantly creating new features. For a new menu item idea to come to fruition, the staff must agree as a whole on the answer to this question: “Is it badass?” “That’s our seal of approval. Is it badass?” Brown explains. “If it’s just okay, we keep tweaking it. My kitchen staff, all of them have a desire to cook and eat. They’re all foodies themselves and they all bring different ideas to the table. My goal is to coach them, mentor them, and help them develop these ideas.” CONTINUED >

February 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

Hot Spot

(CON TI N U ED)

For Brown, mentoring in the kitchen is one of her greatest joys. Even after becoming majority owner of Jag’s, Brown continues coaching in her kitchen. She says it’s important to not only produce top-of-theline menus at the restaurant, but also to be a good role model for the younger generation coming up through the ranks. “I have a lot of women in my kitchen. To those young girls and young women, I have to set the example. They see that I have a great marriage, two young kids, but I can still run the restaurant, buy the restaurant and walk away at night and go be a great mother,” Brown says. “It’s important for me to show them that.” Show them she does. Brown balances a busy schedule alongside her husband, who is General Manager of the Golden Lamb in Lebanon, in order to run the restaurant and raise her children. Prioritizing her family and business is one reason why she has chosen to stay in West Chester with her family. Although she’s had opportunities throughout the country and abroad, Brown finds a sense of calmness and peace in the West Chester community, where she sees her siblings and parents every Sunday. Brown looks forward to one day growing the business outside its four walls. While no concrete plans are in place, Brown has ideas to create other restaurant concepts under the Jag’s umbrella. However, right now she’s comfortable focusing on offering topnotch entertainment at Jag’s. “It’s been a long year and a half,” Brown says as she reflects on her new ownership. “It was very, very stressful, but I learned a lot about myself. God only gives you what you can handle, and it was meant to be.”

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | February 2016

Seared Diver Scallops served over spiced Rumchatta beurre blanc, topped with cranberry chutney and toasted hazelnuts ($42).

Culinary Creations

Valentine Wow Your

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Month, with this unique and tasty dessert from the files of The Spicy Olive. Loaded with flavor and the heart-healthy benefits of quality olive oil, Blood Orange Brownies and Macerated Berries are a fan-favorite at The Spicy Olive, which is known for this recipe.

MACERATED BERRIES

Their Blood Orange Fused Olive Oil gives this treat its unexpected

• 2 cups fresh strawberries

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• ½ cup The Spicy Olive Blood Orange Olive Oil

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• ½ cup fresh basil, rolled lengthwise

BLOOD ORANGE BROWNIES

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• Fresh whipped cream

and then sliced lengthwise

except vegetable oil • Blood Orange Fused Olive Oil

DIRECTIONS

Prepare a boxed brownie mix (Melanie Cedargren at The Spicy Olive recommends Ghirardelli brand) according to the package instructions, but replace the vegetable oil with Blood Orange Fused Olive Oil. Bake the brownies as instructed on the box. While the brownies bake, clean and hull the berries, then cut them lengthwise into thin slices and place in a bowl. Add equal parts of the balsamic and oil. Gently fold in the fresh basil and sugar. When the brownies are cooled, cut them into serving sizes. Immediately before serving, top each brownie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Spoon the Macerated Berries generously over the top of the ice cream and brownie. Add an artful finish to your dessert with a dollop of fresh whipped cream. February 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

February Lifestyle Calendar

MONDAYS IN FEBRUARY, 6:30-7:30 P.M.

FEBRUARY 13

ZUMBA CLASSES

WEST CHESTER

WEST CHESTER MIDPOINTE LIBRARY,

Come to this free Shaklee

COMMUNITY ROOM A/B

smoothie tasting event in West

Dance your way to a healthier you at MidPointe’s free, weekly Zum-

Chester to learn what makes a

ba classes. No registration is required for this Latin-inspired exercise

great smoothie for Heart Health. Walk away with recipes and sam-

class for participants 16 years of age and older. Show up ready to

ples. For more information, contact Rita McCormack or Tara Root by

work up a sweat as you complete this total-body workout designed

email or phone. 513.607.3941 ThinkHealthyToo@gmail.com

SMOOTHIE TASTING EVENT

for fun and fitness. MidPointeLibrary.org/Events

FEBRUARY 5 & 19 ARMCHAIR PROGRAM WEST CHESTER ADMINISTRATION BUILDING Dreaming of exotic places this winter? Get away on an adventure trip without packing a bag or even leaving town through West Chester’s Armchair Program. Soak in your neighbors’ journeys as they share pictures and stories from favorite vacations: desert sands, tropical waters, majestic glaciers and mountain peaks. WestChesterOH.org

FEBRUARY 6 & 20

FEBRUARY 13 & 14, 12-5 P.M.

WEST CHESTER WINTER FARMERS MARKET

JUNGLE JIM’S BIG CHEESE FESTIVAL

MUHLHAUSER BARN

JUNGLE JIM’S INTERNATIONAL MARKET, FAIRFIELD

Now on the Winter Schedule, the West Chester Farmers Market gath-

Delight all of your senses at this annual celebration of cheese. Sam-

ers under the shelter of Muhlhauser Barn twice per month. Bundle up

ple delicious varieties of cheeses, meats, olives and appetizers from

against winter winds to support local vendors who are selling locally

around the world and enjoy family-friendly activities. For a ticket up-

grown produce, locally made baked goods and other unique prod-

grade, beer and wine booths offer tastings for those aged 21 and over.

ucts. 2-4 p.m. WestChesterOhioFarmersMarket.org

Children under four are free. JungleJims.com

FEBRUARY 13 MURDER MYSTERY DINNER VOA METROPARK, RONALD REAGAN LODGE You are invited to a PG-rated, whodunit dinner show, Till Death Do Us Part, led by The Murder Mystery Co. Arrive 30 minutes early dressed in costume to be part of the action as it unfolds. Ticket includes dinner and beverages. Adult

FEBRUARY 10 HEARTSAVER CPR/AED

beverages are available for purchase. 513.867.5835 YourMetroParks.net

Want to earn a certification in Adult, Child and Infant CPR? Join this

FEBRUARY 15, MORNING & AFTERNOON SESSIONS

interactive class for first responders. For $25, learn CPR, how to use

ADVENTURE CAMP WITH METROPARKS

an AED and how to assist a choking victim. The class follows Ameri-

VOA METROPARK, RONALD REAGAN LODGE

can Heart Association guidelines for certification, good for two years.

School is out and MetroParks’ Adventure Camp is on! Choose from

513.777.1133 WestChesterOH.org

two sessions, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. or 1-3 p.m. Adventures include making ice

WEST CHESTER FIRE DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | February 2016

cream the old-fashioned way, trying your hand at the mystical game of Quidditch and sledding down Chill Hill. For children ages 6-12; registration is required. For details, call 513.867.5835. YourMetroParks.net

business directory ART & PHOTOGRAPHY

Masterworks Photography (513) 494-6015 wedding-photographerscincinnati.com

AUTOMOTIVE

FEBRUARY 27 WEST CHESTER SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CONCERT MIDPOINTE LIBRARY, WEST CHESTER The melodies of the West Chester Symphony Orchestra will whisk you away from winter at this free concert, a part of the ArtsWave’s Macy’s Art Sampler 2016 weekend. The weekend holds a schedule of free art events around Greater Cincinnati including theater, music, dance, crafts and more. 513.777.3131 TheArtsWave.org WestChesterSymphony.org

FEBRUARY 27 PERSONAL WELLNESS SERIES: BREATH GRACETREE YOGA & GROWTH STUDIO Breath is a bridge between body and mind, conscious and subconscious. Come to this class to rethink how you breathe and learn how to use breath to manage your stress. Speaker Pooja Malhotra leads this course, one in a series of Personal Wellness classes available at GraceTree. GraceTreeStudio.com

FEBRUARY 27, 2 & 7:30 P.M. SHEN YUN ARONOFF CENTER, PROCTER & GAMBLE HALL Journey back in time to the lost world of ancient China with a mystical performance by Shen Yun. As the world’s premier classical Chinese dance and music company, Shen Yun delivers an inspiring show evoking the days of dragons and heroes, fortresses and emperors. 513.621.ARTS (2787) CincinnatiArts.org

FEBRUARY 29 & MARCH 2, 6-8 P.M. LAKOTA SCHOOLS' SUMMER FUN FAIR LAKOTA WEST & LAKOTA EAST HIGH SCHOOLS Plan your summer at Lakota Schools’ Summer Fun Fair. Attend one of

BMW of Cincinnati North (513) 782-1122 bmwofcincinnatinorth.com/

DANCE

West Chester Academy (513) 829-2345 westchesteracademy.com

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION The Web Extreme Entertainment (513) 860-2882 FunAtTheWeb.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING Burke & Schindler (513) 455-8200 burkecpa.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Diet Center (513) 779-6500 dietcentercincinnati.com Gracetree Yoga & Growth Studio (513) 759-4458 gracetreestudio.com

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

Pop Revolution (513) 492-7474 poprevolutiongallery.com

LEGAL SERVICES Lyons & Lyons (513) 777-2222 lyonsandlyonslaw.com

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE

Scot Avery - Huff Realty (513) 325-1361 averyteam.com Tiffany Allen-Zeuch - Sibcy Cline (513) 349-7311 tazhomes.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE

Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse (513) 874-2744 johnnysitaliansteakhouse.comwest-chester The Jaded Fork (513) 201-8706 thejadedfork.com

SPECIALTY SHOPS The Spicy Olive (513) 847-4397 thespicyolive.com

Welling & Co. (513) 779-8883 wellingsjewelers.com

Shaklee - Rita McCormack & Tara Root (513) 607-3941 thinkhealthytoo@gmail.com

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS Carriage Hill (513) 894-4455 carriagehillliving.com

two events to browse booths of educational and recreational organizations for kids. On February 29, see the displays at Lakota West High School, 513.874.5699. On March 2, attend the fair at Lakota East High School 513.755.7211. LakotaOnline.com February 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

Local’s Choice 3

SHOP LOCAL OUR FAVORITES FROM CELEBRATE LOCAL

8 ARTICLE MICHELLE MOODY PHOTOGRAPHY MICHELLE LLOYD Last fall, Celebrate Local opened the doors of their second retail location right here in Liberty Township. This unique store features an ever-changing array of items from over 300 Ohio artisans, small businesses and farmers. Everything in the store is Ohio-made, making Celebrate Local a shining example of this month’s “Local Focus” theme. Here are a few of our

favorite locally made items featured in the store. Facebook.com/CelebrateLocalLiberty

1. Ohio-shaped granite lazy Susan by Sisters Found Stone, $175, Hamilton. 2. Leather men’s belt by Flores Leather Works, $79, Middletown. 3. Zipper heart pin made of recycled wool felt by P39 Designs, $18, Cincinnati. 4. K-cups and ground coffee by La Crema Coffee Company, $8.85 to $9.75, Hamilton. 5. A Bit of a Bite Salsa, $6.99, Miamisburg. 6. Women’s hat by Chapeau Couture, $35, Cincinnati. 7. Dog treats by True Nature Dog Treats, $7, Hamilton. 8. Rubs & Seasonings by Mortar & Pestle, $6.99, Liberty Township. 9. Glass heart necklace by Heart For Glass, $25, Springboro. 10. Leaf serving dish by G is Creative Pottery, $28, Cincinnati.

Would you like a chance to win one of these items from Celebrate Local? Visit our Facebook page for full sweepstakes details and to enter to win. A new winner will be announced each week of February at Facebook.com/WestChesterandLibertyLifestyle. 34

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | February 2016

CREATE EXPRESSIONS OF LOVE A SECRET LOCKED IN YOUR HEART. OR TIED IN A BRILLIANT BOW. SHOWN: ‘JOINED TOGETHER’ CHARM WITH HAND-SET PAVÉ INSET.

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Italy

Did You Know?

Make your healthy New Year’s Resolutions work this year by putting fresh olive oil in your diet! 7671 Cox Lane West Chester, Ohio 45069 • 513-847-4397 • TheSpicyOlive.com February 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

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In 2015, Tiffany’s average days on market was 46 and list to sales price was 96.79%

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