West Chester Our Town January-February 2010

WEST CHESTER

& LIBERTY TOWNSHIP

family | community | life january | february 2010

protect your pets

West Chester woman sounds coyote alarm

wine tastings Planning tips to make yours a success

Winter market Wholesome food year-round

Our Town’s guide to …

meeting the neighbors • Where to Eat • the buzz what’s new • all-stars from lakota east and west connectwestchester.com

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connectliberty.com

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january | february 2010

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38 getconnected!

Submit your West Chester and Liberty Township stories, photos and events at your community Web sites, connectMason.com and connectDeerfield.com.

• Announce your business • Celebrate your kids’ achievements • Highlight community news • Submit your upcoming events for our free calendar listings

the buzz What’s making headlines in West Chester and Liberty Township.

5 questions …with Lakota Schools board member Ray Murray.

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what’s new New businesses are popping up in the area.

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protect your pets Julie Dorn lost a loving family member to coyotes in the area, and wants to prevent it from happening to anyone else.

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west chester farmers market Open-air farmers markets aren’t just for summer anymore.

editor’sNOTE

D

id you know that in 2008, Americans consumed more than 753 million gallons of wine? That’s an all-time high, according to the Wine Institute, an increase of almost 33 percent from 2000.

Wine’s popularity has brought a surge in the number of wine tastings happening locally. You can easily find one a week or more on social event calendars, especially as charity fund-raisers.

But hosting a successful tasting isn’t as simple as just visiting the wine section at the local grocery store, and sending out a few e-mails to friends.

The best wine-tastings are well-planned and publicized, and local wine vendors are ready to help you set up one. You can get tips for hosting a wine tasting in Karen Andrews’ story inside this issue.

Protecting your pets from predators has become a big concern in West Chester Township, especially in neighborhoods visited by coyotes. Beloved pets have been snatched away, and one family is taking the lead

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to alert neighbors about the danger.

Julie Dorn lost a West Highland terrier in October, and now she’s on a mission, giving advice to worried pet owners and prompting a meeting with Ohio Department of Natural Resources officials. Sheila McLaughlin writes about her experiences in this issue.

Will fitness and exercise be part of your New Year’s resolution? You can find recommendations for home exercise machines on page 46.

If you decide to buy, be sure you’re ready to commit, experts say, or you could end up with a $500 dust collector.

Or you can follow the simple advice of my grandfather, who liked to say that the best exercise was “pushing yourself away from the dinner table.”

Especially before that second serving of pumpkin pie with whipped cream.

YOURschools

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school news and notes All you need to know from the Lakota school districts. arts all-stars These Lakota students have many diverse artistic talents.

YOURfreetime

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where to eat: el rancho grande Here’s some Mexican food everyone can enjoy.

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salute!

Wine-tasting fund-raisers are growing in popularity. Here are some expert tips for throwing a successful event.

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events calendar Dozens of great places to go and things to do.

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YOURhome

38

meet the sebrallas A story from the Tri-State to Thailand and back.

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family | community | life JANUARY | FEBRUARY (&'&

YOURhealth

46

FHEJ;9J OEKH F;JI

well equipped How to find the best exercise equipment for you.

West Chester woman sounds coyote alarm

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M?D; J7IJ?D=I Planning tips to make yours a success

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finalthoughts

48

danger: resolutions ahead Our Town columnist Monica Scalf reflects on the changes that a lot of us were forced to make in 2009, and how that will affect us in 2010.

Winter market

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Wholesome food year-round

38 24 10

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6

Our Town’s guide to …

MEETING THE NEIGHBORS t WHERE TO EAT t THE BUZZ WHAT’S NEW t ALL-STARS FROM LAKOTA EAST AND WEST CONNECTWESTCHESTER.COM

t

CONNECTLIBERTY.COM

ON THE COVER: Linda Rosselot stands beside some of the produce she sells at the West Chester Farmer’s Market.

Photography by Amanda Davidson.

january | february 2010

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thebuzz What’s going on in West Chester and Liberty Township COntributed BY Elaine Trumpey, Sheila McLaughlin and Caitlin Varley

PHOTO by leigh taylor

Librarian Carol Schweinberg works at the Information Desk at the new West Chester Library.

new library, new features

police levy passed

West Chester opened a new library in November, replacing its Cox Road location with a building three times the size near The Square at the Union Centre.

The building includes six study rooms, each seating two to 14 people.

It also has a quiet reading room with soft seating and study carrels.

The new community meeting room seats 180.

The children’s area features a story time room, 10 computer stations for kids, two AWE computers for preschoolers and a lounge area for parents with comfortable seating and parenting books.

Another computer room has 24 Internet-ready computers for adults.

Most tables in the library have outlets for users to plug in their laptops.

The library is still operated by the Middletown Public Library System, but was built with tax increment financing (TIF) in West Chester.

Despite hard economic times, Liberty Township was successful in winning approval of its police levy in the November election.

Residents of this fast-growing township in Butler County approved a levy that keeps round-the-clock police coverage in their community.

Residents approved the five-year, 3-mill replacement levy that will generate about $2 million a year starting in 2010 for police services provided by the Butler County Sheriff’s Office.

Of the 8,282 votes cast, 5,201 residents, or 63 percent, voted for the levy; 3,081, or 37 percent, voted against it.

The levy replaces one passed in 2005. It will cost the owner of a $200,000 home an additional $57 in property taxes per year.

want community news...and more?

Discover and discuss the latest news, events and school happenings in West Chester and Liberty Township at connectWestChester.com and connectLiberty.com.

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fox indicted Former state lawmaker and Butler County commissioner Michael A. Fox, who held office for more than 30 years, was indicted in October on federal charges of mail fraud, conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, and one count of filing a false income tax return.

Federal prosecutors said Fox took money from county contractors and nearly a half-million dollars in kickbacks.

He has entered not guilty pleas to all charges and has said he intends to fight them in court.

The indictments against Fox and a longtime friend, Robert C. Schuler, a Dublin attorney, are the product of a three-year investigation by the FBI, IRS and the U.S. Attorney’s office into corruption in Butler County government.

incumbents re-elected In a tight trustee race with nine candidates vying for only two spots, West Chester reelected its two incumbents in the November election.

Catherine Stoker and Lee Wong defeated six other candidates after one candidate withdrew in the November 2009 election.

Important issues for the election included the economy and incorporation. Most of the candidates said they opposed transitioning West Chester from a township to a city.

Ultimately, incorporation is an issue that would be decided by West Chester’s citizens.

dispatchers take hit In a sign of the economic times, West Chester’s 11 emergency dispatchers agreed to take smaller raises and pay more for their health care in a three-year union contract approved in October.

Starting next year, dispatchers will get 2 percent raises, with increases of 2.5 percent in 2011 and 3 percent in 2012.

The former union contract gave dispatchers raises of 3.75 percent in 2007, and 3 percent in each of 2008 and 2009.

Dispatchers will pick up 10 percent of health care costs next year, and the tab increases to 12 percent for the last two years of the contract.

Visit: Cincinnati.Com/LOL or search: living LOL is ... Local bloggers writing from your perspective on cooking, wine, romance and more!

YOURcommunity

fivequestions WITH Lakota

schools board member

ray murray

photo by Cara Owsley

L

ong-time Lakota Schools resident and volunteer Ray Murray is taking the office of elected board member in stride, which is easy for him because he based a large portion of his first political campaign on going door-to-door in West Chester and Liberty townships.

Murray, a business manager in the hotel industry, and his family moved to Liberty Township 22 years ago and he has been volunteering in the schools for years. With his election in November to the five-member board that governs Lakota Schools, Murray will be the first African American school board member in the 52-year history of the school system.

We caught up with him recently to ask five questions:

You’ve won over voters in your first try at political office. Why did you choose to run for the Lakota Board of Education and why is public schooling important to you?

A decision to run for the board and serve my community is something that I consider both a civic duty as well as an opportunity to participate in the continual shaping of our school district as it continues to grow and strengthen. I have always been involved in a variety of programs and activities in education, both at the local and state level. Running for the board and serving as a board member seemed to me to be a natural way to continue that service. When serving the community, I am always inspired by the words of the late congresswoman Shirley Chisholm: Service is the rent we pay for the privilege of living on this earth.

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You are a long-time resident of Liberty Township and a school parent with a child in the schools and two graduated. How does your personal history – and status as a Lakota school parent – allow you to bring different strengths to your newly elected position?

The first school that I attended did not have bathrooms or running water. My education, or my studies as it was called back then, depended on the books that I brought to school. That was it. Horace Mann described education as “the divinely appointed ministry of teaching in the temple of education.” My teacher had that quote prominently displayed behind her desk. However, taped to her desk were her daily duties which included having enough firewood for the next day, mopping the floor and scraping any gum from underneath the chairs. Wow, reality is a real eye opener. So I for one understand the changes that education has undergone. By being a parent and resident of Liberty Township, I am able to look toward the future and see the expected growth, while also being aware of our past and how far we have come as a district. If there is one thing that categorizes Lakota, it is growth. I think part of my responsibility is to look with a balanced view at the district – as to what the parents and rest of the community wish to see for Lakota.

In what ways do you anticipate your business background will be an asset as a school board member?

School districts the size of Lakota really need to be run like a

large business. While ensuring that the educational structure and planning are sound, there are also ways to enhance operations and customer service by looking at the ways that business works.

My experience in the hotel industry will hopefully help me to emphasize customer service for Lakota as well as looking at the operational side of Lakota, including the accounting and finance structure, human resources, technology as well as communications.

What’s at the top of your to-do list as a new board member and why?

My bucket list of actions for Lakota is strong. I think one of the most important things facing us is looking toward creating a sustainable economic picture for Lakota that allows the district to continue to provide an excellent education for its community while keeping in mind the current economy and the hardships that many of our residents are facing in their own homes right now. That is a main focus, but other things that I would like to work on include continuing my participation in the parents group in Columbus, such as the State Superintendents Parent Advisory Council.

Looking at the operations of the district to ensure that we are operating as effectively as possible.

To parents and residents considering volunteering, what advice do you have to urge them to pitch in and what can they expect to gain from the experience?

As a volunteer, I think that the thing that parents or community members can expect is to have the opportunity to make a difference in young students’ lives. Because of caring people who helped me during my earliest school years, I have had the opportunity to now give back and do the same thing for our community’s children. If people are thinking of working in a school as a volunteer, I encourage them to do so – because with just a few minutes a day, they can impact a child’s life in ways that will give back to our society in ways that they can sometimes never imagine.

michael d. clark

YOURcommunity

what’s new

in west chester and liberty township

COMPILED BY JENNY CALLISON PHOTOS BY TONY TRIBBLE

bruno’s pizza 6752 Cincinnati Dayton Road, suite 103 513-777-8333 or www.brunoslibertytownship.com

Jon and Karen McClellan bring the uptown Oxford flavor to West Chester.

Jon and Karen McClellan became such fans of Bruno’s Pizza while they were students at Miami University that they decided to open a location of the Oxford pizzeria in Liberty Township. Under an agreement with the owner of the company, which began in West Lafayette, Ind., the McClellans started tossing their dough July 31 at the new Bruno’s.

“We’ve eaten Bruno’s pizza since 1967 and have always liked it,” Jon McClellan says. “We make our own dough and sauce, and we think that the fact that the dough is hand-tossed really makes a difference.

Our blend of cheeses is distinctive, too.”

The new owners are targeting the 15,000 Miami grads who live in Cincinnati’s northern suburbs, and betting that these Bruno’s aficionados will share their enthusiasm with non-Miami friends.

Bruno’s is open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday-Wednesday and 11 a.m. to midnight Thursday-Saturday.

downing dental studio 8919 Brookside Ave., Suite 102 513-331-2122 or www.downingdentalstudio.com The new dental practice of Dr. George A. Downing Jr., is planned around the schedules of its patients. The practice, which opened in July, offers appointments in the evening and on Saturdays, so folks don’t have to miss time at work to address dental needs.

“Patients who have toothaches can be seen the same day at their convenience,” says Amber Downing, George Downing’s wife, who is the practice administrator.

Downing, a graduate of the University of Dayton and Indiana University School of Dentistry, practices general dentistry.

Dr. Downing does dental work, on your schedule.

third federal savings & loan 9464 Civic Centre Blvd., The Streets of West Chester 513-612-3100 or www.thirdfederal.com Expanding the financial services options available in West Chester, Third Federal Savings & Loan opened an office in October. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday; and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.

The institution, which specializes in home mortgages, home equity loans, and a variety of investment products, was founded in 1938 with a mission of offering personal service along with its loans and savings accounts. It has 10 Ohio locations as well as locations in Florida.

Third Federal has locations in Ohio and Florida.

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YOURcommunity

west chester bar & grill 7334 Tyler’s Corner Drive 513-777-2247 (CQ) or www.westchesterbarandgrill.com

West Chester Bar & Grill serves up food until way past your bedtime.

This recent addition to the culinary scene offers casual dining in a sports-oriented environment. It also boasts Happy Hours that extend from 1-7 p.m. every day.

The restaurant, which opened in July, specializes in traditional American fare: burgers, hearty sandwiches, soups and salads. Also on the menu are a variety of sides and appetizers, along with kids’ specials and desserts. Domestic and imported beers, wines, and mixed drinks are available.

“Our signature item is probably our West Chester Township Burger,” says manager Jay Bedi, although the burger list includes the eatery’s Porkopolis, Hell Burger, and Pizza Burger.

The full menu is served from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., with a late menu and full bar extending until 2 a.m. daily.

another routine 7400 Liberty One Drive 513-755-1580 or www.anotherroutine.com

Beth Kilburn shows that Another Routine has everything you need to get your dance on.

Owner Beth Kilburn indulges her love of clothes and costuming with this specialty shop, which outfits gymnasts, dancers and exercise enthusiasts with just the right attire. Another Routine offers gently used and new clothing, and features new items by Leo’s Dancewear, Dasha Designs, and Bunheads.

“We try to carry a mix of clothing, but are expanding our selection of fitness wear,” Kilburn said.

The shop, which opened in August, accepts clothing items on consignment.

Hours are 6-8 p.m. Monday, 2-8 p.m. Tuesday and Friday, 2-7 p.m.

Wednesday, 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

Another Routine is located directly behind the Liberty Kroger store in Lakota East Commerce Center.

blue chip gourmet 6752 Cincinnati Dayton Road, Suite 101 513-755-7642 or www.bluechipgourmet.com

Wayne and Teresa Kiphart are smiling. Who wouldn’t, when you have access to 25 different flavors of cookies?

“Eats, sweets, and treats all day” is the way that Loveland-based Blue Chip Gourmet describes its business model. Its newest franchise opened in July in Liberty Township, with co-owners Teresa and Wayne Kiphart planning future stores in southern Ohio.

Starting in 1983 as a fresh-daily cookie store, Blue Chip Gourmet has gradually evolved to satisfy its customers’ taste for morning pastries and breakfast sandwiches, specialty sandwiches and wraps, salads, soup and chili, smoothies, coffee beverages, and gelato, sorbetto and ice cream. Currently, the bakery café offers more than 25 flavors of cookies. The café can accommodate meetings and other gatherings, and provides free WiFi service. It is open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday; 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday; and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

january | february 2010

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YOURcommunity

Protect your

pets

photo By malinda hartong

J

ulie Dorn was the stay-at-home mother of two who usually minded her own business.

She didn’t like conflict and she made it a point not to draw attention.

That was, until shortly before 9 p.m. Oct. 4, when Champ vanished from his West Chester yard.

Just shy of a week later, after searching the woods and fields around her West Chester Station neighborhood, the remains of the Dorns’ family dog were found in a wooded swale about 200 yards from home.

Champ’s skull, a chewed-through collar bearing his name, and a bit of white fur were all that was left of the 11-year-old, 22-pound West Highland terrier.

On that day – Oct. 10, 2009 – Dorn became the poster child for a suburban community that seems to have more than its share of coyotes.

“She’s on a mission, even if it’s to save one little doggie,” said her husband, Tom. Dorn, with help from her husband and teen-age son, has tossed 500 fliers into driveways warning people that coyotes were on the hunt and to keep their pets safe.

She sought out publicity.

She stirred uproar in a community that has a reputation for showing restraint.

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By Sheila mclaughlin

Her complaints were the driving force behind a neighborhood visit and townshipwide November informational meeting that drew close to 150 concerned residents.

Dorn has answered countless phone calls and e-mails from people who want to tell her about their experiences and missing pets and want advice.

And she has taken her share of insults along the way on blogs and comments on local media web sites.

“People are cruel,” Dorn said. “Somebody said, ‘You fat lazy soccer moms need to get off your (expletive) and instead of sitting around doing nothing, you need to walk your dogs.’ I quit reading the comments.”

Dorn said she just couldn’t stand by and let more pets get snatched as a coyote snack.

Dorn first thought Champ might have been stolen.

She even offered a $500 reward and hired a pet detective to find him.

Dorn never figured the dog that stuck to her heels like glue at home and sometimes traveled to nursing homes and Ronald McDonald House on pet therapy visits had become prey for a omnivorous wild canine.

But as she walked the streets of Rolling Hills and West Chester Station daily looking for Champ, she heard story after story from

people who had witnessed their dogs and cats being killed by coyotes. Five dogs and two cats dead since August, Dorn said.

“It really started to bother me, all this going on in this neighborhood and I didn’t even know about it,” Dorn said. “It was alarming to me.”

It still is – enough that she pulls aside walkers in the neighborhood to warn them about the killer coyotes.

“I want to make people aware that it’s not just talk. It’s happening. It’s real,” Dorn said.

She knows the township won’t get involved because the attacks are on private property. She understands.

So Dorn hired a trapper for her yard, hoping her efforts will eliminate some of the local coyote pack.

Even so, she’ll never be able to rest easy knowing what’s lurking in the neighborhood.

The Dorns have decided to get another dog. But it will never get the same carefree privileges as Champ.

He loved rooting around in his yard and never tried to escape the boundaries of his pet fence in the brief times he was out alone – safely for more than a decade.

“That dog will never ever see outside unless we are with it 24/7,” Dorn said.

YOURcommunity

>> Tips for protecting your pets • Do not feed coyotes or other wildlife or leave pet food outdoors.

• Securely cover outdoor trash cans.

• Do not let pets run loose.

• Keep yards well lighted at night.

• Make loud noises, such as clapping, banging or shouting, and throw rocks to drive off approaching coyotes. Keep your distance.

Sources: Ohio State University and Ohio Department of Natural Resources

photo By tony tribble

OPPOSITE: Ohio Department of Natural Resources Assistant Wildlife Management Supervisor Bret Beatty looks over a map with West Chester resident Tom Dorn.

THIS PAGE: Julie Dorn holds up a flyer for a meeting about coyotes and pet safety.

january | february 2010

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YOURcommunity

Linda Rosselot and her son Lane stand beside some of the produce they sell at the West Chester Farmer’s Market.

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YOURcommunity

Year-round

Farmer’s

market

By elaine trumpey photos by amanda davidson

O

pen-air farmers markets aren’t just for summer anymore. Winter markets are popping up even in colder climates like Fort Collins, Colo., and Milwaukee, Wis. West Chester’s Farmers Market is no exception. Vendors and consumers alike brave sometimes cold, blustery weather for once-a-month markets at The Square @ Union Centre November through May (except February).

Vendors park their trucks or set up their booths along the street in front of the Dingle House Pub and the Learning Kitchen near the clock tower plaza. This is the second year for the winter market at the Square. Longtime customers may remember going to the market’s previous site at the former Feed Barn location on Cincinnati-Dayton Road.

Beekeeper Ray Alley brings Chris’ Honey products – jars of honey and beeswax candles – to sell at the market. The Lebanon resident watches die-hard regulars make a “beeline” to purchase his products as soon as he opens up the back of his truck.

Consumers are motivated to come out in the cold by their passion for good, wholesome local products, according to Alley.

“People drive from wherever they live for a $6 jar of honey,” said Alley. He credits their

loyalty to the taste of the honey produced by his honeybees. “My girls do a good job,” he said.

Linda Rosselot manages both the summer and winter West Chester markets. She and her husband, Jim, have a long history of raising chemical-free produce in a “no-spray zone” at their Gravel Knolls Farm on Cincinnati-Dayton Road. The farm, certified organic in 1989, is at the eastern end of the now highly developed Union Centre Boulevard.

Summer and winter markets are a trend that’s on the upswing in the food industry. A search at www.localharvest.org yields a list of 355 markets in Ohio alone.

There is a reason for the growing interest in items sold at farmers markets, according to Rosselot. “People want local, clean, unsprayed produce,” she said.

Sales of locally grown produce receive a boost as well when there is a lot of media attention to food recalls prompted by salmonella outbreaks, said Rosselot.

She plans to bring squash, pumpkin pies, and garlic to the first two winter markets. If the weather doesn’t turn too cold, she might also have some produce to sell. Some hardier greens like arugula can be harvested late in the growing season.

january | february 2010

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YOURcommunity Naturally raised meats are a staple at farmers markets as well. The term “natural” means animals have been raised without the use of antibiotics or hormones.

Ruth Schaefer of Schaefer’s Meats brings a freezer truck of poultry, pork, beef and lamb down from Trenton. The farm’s best selling product year-round is chicken, but turkeys and hams are popular items at Thanksgiving and Christmas, she said.

Regular customers in the West Chester/ Liberty Township area pre-order for their holiday needs and Schaefer delivers their order to the market for convenient pickup.

Business is “non-stop” at the winter market because it’s compressed into just a few hours in the afternoon, she said.

Susan Schechter and her daughter, Jennie, sweeten up the streetside market’s offerings with scones and lemon curd, some of the menu items they also serve at their business, the Tea Parlor on Yankee Road in Liberty Township.

Customers can purchase a package of frozen scones and take them home to pop in the oven one at a time, or by the tray.

The specialty flavor at the Tea Parlor booth during the early winter months? Pumpkin.

Matt Alley of Twin Creek Farm Seasonings Co. will be on hand to “endure those breezy 30-degree days this winter” to sell his company’s seasoning mixes for dips, spreads, cheese balls, and desserts – no MSG or preservatives added.

Jennifer De Marco and Jordan Aversman offer a variety of naturally fermented goods from their Fabulous Ferments booth. These include krauts, kimchi, beet kvass and kombucha.

Handcrafted items are also featured at both summer and winter farmers markets.

Debbie and Charles Fowler of Hamilton will sell soaps made without synthetic colors or fragrances at their Blackbird Pond booth.

West Chester resident Bill Miller plans to sell his Intarsia, or wood inlay, wall hangings at the winter market. He has participated in the West Chester markets since their Feed Barn days.

The list of vendors might change monthly throughout the course of the winter season, but consumers can expect to find a variety of locally grown or handmade products from Southwest Ohio at the West Chester market.

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YOURcommunity

Booths are set up at the West Chester Farmers Market on at Union Centre.

january | february 2010

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YOURschools

schoolnotes By sue kiesewetter

three hopewell musical groups to play at state conference Hopewell Junior School musicians will be well represented at this year’s Ohio Music Education Association’s professional development conference.

It is the first time three groups from the same Lakota junior school have been selected to perform at the annual state conference. This year’s gathering will be Jan. 28-30 in Cincinnati.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our kids. We never dreamed all three groups would be selected,” said principal David Pike. “It’s a chance to show off our kids.”

Two Hopewell Junior bands and one choral group are among the 16 ensembles selected to perform at the conference. They beat more than 120 vocal and instrumental groups ranging from elementary to college level that had applied.

The school’s Eighth Grade Concert Band will play at 8:30 a.m. Jan. 29 in the Millenium Hotel’s grand ballroom. Julie Fuqua and Joe Tignor will direct.

The Hopewell Junior Vocal Chamber Ensemble performs at 12:15 p.m. Jan. 29 at the Hyatt Hotel’s ballroom. That group is under the direction of Jennifer Akers.

Hopewell’s Eighth Grade Jazz Band is set to perform at 8:30 a.m. Jan. 30 in the Millenium Hotel’s bronze ballroom. The group is also under the direction of Fuqua and Tignor.

east and west seniors compete for scholarships Lakota East and West high school seniors are well represented in the 55th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

Three students from East and seven from West are among 230 Greater Cincinnati high school seniors and 16,000 nationally named semifinalists, and will go on to compete for scholarships. They represent less than 1 percent of high school seniors across the

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photo provided

Wokini staff members Amy Anderson, Matt Baltzer, Principal Laura Sage, Butler Tech vice president Mike Parry, Mitch Ehrman and Andrea Fuerst accept the Crystal Star Award. country.

Semifinalists from East are Kevin Li, Radhika Madhavan and Nathan Miller.

Those from West are Eric Dobson, Ryan Fore, Jacob Hamilton, Cameron Hammel, Alexander Hart, Rachel Sawicki and Daniel Shen.

Along with the semifinalists, 10 Lakota West and 14 East students were named commended students in the program. They are among 34,000 commended students nationally, placing among the top 5 percent of the 1.5 million students who took the 2008 preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

Students from Lakota West named commended students were: Kristen Bolte, Tyler Buchheim, Jennifer Carpenter, Melissa Freeland, Travis Hance, Alex Lambert, James Lin, Austin McCarthy, Kara McManus and Alex Mickle.

Those from Lakota East who earned the honor were: Emily Baumgardner, Chelsea Bell, Taylere Bernett, Tyler Castner, Kaitlyn Conner, Kevin Crowder, Daniel Garrett, Lucas Hall, Hannah Harris, Matt Helmer, Dana Sand, Carol-Anna Van Milligen, Casey Wertepny and Heidi Yang.

wokini keeps students on target The Wokini Options Academy has received an award from the National

Dropout Prevention Network.

The academy was given a Crystal Star Award for being a National School of Excellence in three areas: credit recovery, intervention and dropout prevention.

The alternative school run by Butler Tech accepts Lakota students in grades 9-12 who are short on credits and in danger of dropping out of school. Last year teens earned an average of 6.24 credits compared to 1.83 credits at a traditional school the previous years.

Average attendance for Wokini students was 97 percent. That compares to 76 percent the previous year in a traditional school.

nursery school registration West Chester Cooperative Nursery School will host an open house on Jan. 28 for families interested in sending their child for the 2010-11 school year.

Located within the Crestview Presbyterian Church, 9463 Cincinnati-Columbus Road, the open house runs from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

During that time attendees can tour the school, meet with teachers and learn about the school.

Parents will also be able to register their children for fall 2010 classes. Half-day programs are offered for ages 2½ to 5.

In case of inclement weather, the open house will be held Feb. 4.

Information: 513-847-1289.

For The Fridge lakota SCHOOLS

January 2010

Elementary

4 School resumes

5 Cherokee Scrip gift card forms due; Woodland volunteer luncheon, 11:30 a.m.

7 Cherokee health night, 6:30 p.m.; Lakota East Winter Jazz Festival, 7 p.m.

8 VanGorden Family Luau, 5 p.m.; Hopewell Junior dance, 3:15 p.m.

10 Honor Jazz Band concert, 2 p.m., Lakota East 11 Lakota West Winter Jazz concert, 7 p.m.

12 Heritage sixth-grade band concert, 7 p.m.

13 District Parent Council, 10 a.m., central offices; Adena sixth-grade band concert, 9 a.m., cafeteria 14 First semester ends 15 No school, teacher professional development day; Wyandot movie night, 6 p.m.

18 No school, Martin Luther King Jr. Day 19 Wyandot and Woodland principal’s coffee, 7:30 p.m., at Wyandot for both schools

22 Second quarter report cards go

8 Shawnee Jump Rope for Heart begins 10 District Parent Council, 10 a.m., central office; Liberty Early Childhood box top for education turn-in; Shawnee PTA, 7 p.m.

12 Adena fourth-grade immigration program, 2:15 p.m., gymnasium; Cherokee custodian appreciation luncheon; Ridge ice cream social for honor roll students; Hopewell Junior dance, 3:15 p.m.; Independence Mom’s Breakfast, 8 a.m.

15 No school, Presidents Day 16 No school; calamity makeup day if needed

17 Ridge winter athletics awards night, 6:30 p.m.

18 Interims go home; Plains winter sports banquet, 6:30 p.m.; Hopewell Junior winter sports awards, 7 p.m.

19 Adena fourth-grade immigration

home; Plains, Ridge dances, 3:15 p.m.

program, 2 p.m.; Endeavor spring book fair begins

25 Shawnee begins Pennies for Patients

21 Woodland book fair begins

collection; Liberty Early Childhood principal’s coffee, 7 p.m.

26 Hopewell Junior eighth-grade and jazz band concert, 7 p.m.

27 Woodland PIE awards, 8:30 a.m.

28 Report cards go home 29 Plains second quarter student recognition, 6:30 p.m.

February 2010 2 Hopewell Junior Science Fair, 5-6 p.m.

4 Center of Science & Industry brings “Launch Into Space” to Hopewell

23 Ridge spring pictures 25 Plains Student of the Month luncheon, 12:15 p.m.; Plains band concerts, 6:30 p.m., seventh grade followed by eighth grade at 8 p.m.; Ridge bands concerts, 6:30 p.m., seventh grade followed by eighth grade at 8:15 p.m.

26 Third quarter interim grade reports go home; Ridge homework incentive pizza lunch; Cherokee movie night, 6:30 p.m.; Heritage carnival, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

arts all stars

Sinclair Community College Courseview Campus

By Michael D. Clark and Sue Kiesewetter photography by TONY TRIBBLE and malinda hartong

Megan Marshall, senior Lakota West senior Megan Marshall can’t get enough acting roles. She recently completed the high school acting certificate program at the University of Cincinnati’s College Conservatory of Music after five years of acting and dance classes. Megan, 17, has worked with Cincinnati Outdoor Shakespeare, Fairfield Footlighters and Clearstage Cincinnati. She is on the Lakota West Theatre Students on Stage’s executive board and is a Firebird Link Leader. She was on the dance team three years.

Following graduation Megan wants to go to college majoring in theatre with the goal of becoming a professional actress.

How did you get involved in acting? I danced competitively for several years with All That Jazz Dance Centre in West Chester. I got more involved in theatre as I started coming across more opportunities to take acting classes and be in shows. Through these opportunities I met a few great teachers and mentors.

hall Megan Marssch ool

lakota west high

Zach Reber, senior

What has been your most exciting moment in acting? Recently I got a small part in Cincinnati Outdoor Shakespeare’s “As You Like It.” A lot of current CCM students were cast in the show and they taught me so much. I also won the Bravo! Award last year for theatre. It is an award that is given to local high school students for talent and leadership in different art forms.

How has acting played a role in your life? At school I spend five out of seven bells of the day in the theatre and I wouldn’t have it any other way. My teachers and peers are so talented and I learn something new from them every day. At home, I’m also surrounded by the arts. My dad makes his living as an artist, my sister is a singer, and my mom is always helping me find ways to grow and be a successful performer.

If life is a song then Zach Reber is getting into key. The Lakota East High School senior discovered he had a good set of pipes when he was just seven years old.

“I was in the first grade and I just started to sing and I realized I could sing so my parents got me into some singing lessons,” said the 17-year-old tenor who plans to study vocal performance in college.

How did you get involved in singing? I started singing at the age of 7 with my first solo song in first grade. I then joined my fourth grade choir and made All-State Choir in Kentucky for fivc years straight until I moved to West Chester in 2006. I kept on singing and it eventually turned into something I wanted to make my career. I am planning on going to the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music for music production or vocal performance, from there, I would like to produce music in Nashville.

What was the most exciting moment in singing for you? When I was accepted as a finalist in Ohio for the Colgate Country Showdown. I was chosen from thousands of people who entered as top 10. It was a great honor because it is one of the biggest singing competitions in the country. I did not win, but it was a great feeling just to be chosen.

How has singing affected your life? Singing is what I love to do and my life would be such a bore without music. I do it every day for at least three hours and never get bored or tired. It’s not just a hobby, it’s a passion, that is why I am going to make a career out of it. I used to do other things besides performing arts like soccer, baseball, and basketball. But I didn’t really enjoy them as much as singing and acting.

Zach

lakota east hReber igh school

Casey Clyde, Junior Casey Clyde started her musical performing career with the clarinet but it was the siren call of the flute that eventually wooed her. “Well my family already had a clarinet so that was part of it,” the 15-year-old Lakota East High School junior said.

“I started playing in the sixth grade and when I go to college I hope to major in flute performance.” She is considering the Eastman School of Music, New England University, Peabody Conservatory and the Colburn School of Music.

How did you get involved in playing the flute? As a sixth-grader I thought that being in band was cool. After participating in various musical groups, I realized that I loved music and wanted to pursue it as a career. Now that I’m a junior, I realize that being in band isn’t really considered cool, but I have embraced my inner band-geek and am continuing to immerse myself in the world of music.

What was the most exciting moment in playing the clarinet for you?

Attending the three-week summer program, Music Horizons, at The Eastman School of Music in Rochester, N.Y. It was wonderful to be surrounded by other students who were so passionate about music – we pushed each other to excel in our learning and in our performing. I still keep in touch with the friends that I made there.

e Casey Ciglhyd school

lakota east h

How has the playing the clarinet affected your life? Instead of spending my Saturdays like a normal teenager, I have my dad take me to CSO concerts. I don’t own a bike, but I have a flute, a piccolo, a clarinet, a saxophone and a piano. The radio is always turned to classical music in my house. And the colleges that I am considering applying to don’t have football teams. Even so, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Lyndsey Vu, senior Lyndsey Vu is serious about art.

Besides taking as many art classes as her schedule at Lakota West High School will allow, she also takes lessons at Greg Storer’s studio. That’s along with participating in service projects as a member of the National Honor Society and the Mu Alpha Theta math honor society. After graduation next June, Lyndsey, 17, would like to pursue a career in art. She is interested in attending Ringling College of Art and Design or Savannah College of Art and Design, where she’d like to major in illustration or digital art – animation of visual effects for movies.

How did you get involved in art? When I was little, I saw my two older cousins draw the Tasmanian Devil from Looney Tunes. I thought it was the coolest thing ever, so I wanted to be able to draw just like them. After that, I just loved drawing.

What was the most exciting moment in art for you? Working at ArtWorks this past summer. I met really amazing artists and had a blast painting the Jim Tarbell mural in Cincinnati. It’s really fun to create art that everyone is able to see while at the same time making new friends. It was definitely an amazing experience.

How has art played a role in your life? I’m always thinking about art, it seems, whether I’m reading, driving, or just sitting in math class – my sketch book goes with me wherever I go. Art also helped me meet some of my closest friends and experience great opportunities, such as going to Washington, D.C., for the Congressional Art Competition. It’s really a big part of who I am, and I couldn’t see my life without it.

Lynd

lakota westshey Vu igh school

Cole Soldo, freshman Lakota West freshman Cole Soldo’s heart may be in drama but he also has a talent for music. At school Cole, 15, is involved not only in Drama Club but jazz and concert band. He is a past member of the Cincinnati Youth Wind Ensemble.

He’s also participate in community theatre in Mason, Lebanon and Loveland, plays tennis and takes trombone and piano lessons.

Following graduation he would like to continue acting for fun. He is considering becoming a pediatrician.

How did you get involved in drama? My acting interest bloomed from my love of playing piano. My mom...suggested I broaden my horizons and explore different areas of the arts. She signed me up for a summer drama camp at Unity Church and I loved it. This led to my audition for “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever”…where I was given a great part by director Paula Whitaker. Paula was the person who really led this push into theatre by encouraging, teaching, and believing in me. She has been a mentor and a person who means a lot to me.

ldo Cole So igh school

lakota west h

What was your most exciting moment in acting? Getting the part of Jack Scott in “High School Musical, “presented by Acting Up Young People’s Theatre in Mason. I was thrilled, because in most of my acting ventures I have enjoyed participating with minor or ensemble roles, but this supporting lead part marked a turning point for me. My hard work and participation in 16 previous productions had finally paid off.

How has drama played a role in your life? Helping me meet some of my best friends. The arts help me express my feelings in ways I hadn’t thought possible – mainly through my music – and have offered me exciting experiences. They’re fun, and a great way to relieve stress.

Jeremy Martin, senior When it comes to pursuing his passion, there’s nothing sketchy about how Lakota East High School senior Jeremy Martin is drawing up his future. “I started drawing when I was kid and the first things I drew were cartoons,” said Jeremy, 18. He credits art teacher Karen Saunders “for inspiring me and making me realize how you can push things.” He plans to major in advertising design and is considering the Art Institute of Cincinnati, Wichita State University and the Columbus College of Art and Design.

How did you get involved in drawing and painting? Growing up I watched a lot of cartoons and Japanese animations, so I was always doodling my favorite characters. Until sophomore year I just drew as fun and because I love to, it was one of my hobbies. Then I saw some art galleries and my eyes opened. I really realized what you could do and how you could speak hundreds of words through one picture and not utter one word.

What was the most exciting moment in drawing and painting for you?

Being able to express yourself with no boundaries, and no one can say if it’s right or wrong. Being in a class with others whose perspective on the world and every day life is appreciated … brings a happiness and realization of how much you really have in this world and not to take it for granted.

How has you art work affected your life? With career choices and overall view on the world. I never noticed how much art is in this world. Every billboard was just a sketch and idea at one point, same with your shoes, chairs, televisions, clothes, cars, toothbrush, and so much more. Art just makes me want to leave an impression on the world once I’m long gone.

Jeremy

lakota east hMartin igh school

YOURfreetime

¡Muy Bueno!

»

El Rancho Grande

Photo by tony tribble

4978 Union Centre Pavilion Drive West Chester, OH 45060 (513) 860-2601

I didn’t experience Mexican food until I was an adult, so I am continually amazed that my kids think of it as comfort food. As we tossed around restaurant ideas the other night, we had the usual disagreements about who wanted what and who wanted to go where until finally someone said, let’s just get Mexican, and everyone agreed.

El Rancho Grande, conveniently located on Union Center Boulevard by The Rave theater and lots of shopping, sports your typical Mexican restaurant décor – warm and inviting – and has employed some of the friendliest staff you’ll find in the area.

Our waiter kept the chips and salsa coming, and our four kids devoured three or four baskets of the warm chips and homemade salsa in the first 10 minutes we were there. The salsa is addictive – really fresh tasting and perfectly spiced with cilantro and just enough heat. The only thing our waiter filled faster than the chip baskets were the kids’ drinks – my son probably drank three large Cokes during the course of the meal.

Though he had just eaten his weight in chips, my son ordered the Chicken Nachos ($6.95) as his dinner. The plate was piled high with the same homemade chips, and they were covered with shredded chicken and green peppers and onions in a quesotype cheese sauce that was really tasty. The sauce did make the chips a little soggy, but the flavor made up for it.

Two of my girls and I decided to split two types of fajitas. We ordered the Chicken Fajitas ($11.95) and the Lobster Fajitas 24

our town

($12.95). Both orders came with grilled onions, tomatoes and bell peppers and were sizzling when they came to the table. The Chicken Fajitas were delicious – the meat was tender and really soaked up the flavors of the grilled vegetables. The Lobster Fajitas seemed to be made with imitation lobster which has a really sweet flavor that did work as well with the spicy veggies. I did not care for it, but my 9-year-old not only ate three lobster fajitas, but then picked out all the rest of the pieces of lobster and ate them, too. Both orders were served with a plate of rice, refried beans, pico de gallo and guacamole.

My husband ordered the Tilapia del Sol ($12.95) and enjoyed the pairing of the mild, white fish with the tangy, red sauce. The fish was served with rice and a fresh pico de gallo that he tossed into a tortilla that he swiped from our plates and made into a makeshift fajita. Tilapia is offered in a number of spots on the menu – including the fajitas – and probably would have been a better choice than the lobster.

Our youngest ordered her standard dinner of Chicken Fingers and Fries ($3.75). The chicken was bit overcooked, and the fries were a bit undercooked, but she ate most of the meal with no complaint.

While there is nothing fancy about the food at El Rancho Grande, its standard Mexican fare is served in good-sized portions at reasonable prices – comfort food at its best. jill i. solimini

Seconds

»

Aladdin’s Eatery 9344 union centre blvd.

513-874-1302 www.aladdinseatery.com The Mideastern restaurant satisfies whether you’re a carnivore, a vegan or something in between. It lets anyone eat a healthy meal – and then tempts them with baklava and big desserts. Lentil soup with chicken, Pitzas, which are a cross between pita and pizza, shishkabobs and smoothies are all on the menu. The Arayiss Pitza topped with hummus, ripe tomato, spicy ground meat, fresh parsley and toasted pine nuts wraps up many of Aladdin’s flavors in a divine combination. Aladdin’s original home is Cleveland; it now has several locations throughout the state.

»

Rafferty’s Restaurant and Bar 9238 floer drive 513-870-0111 www.raffertys.com Rafferty’s is a casual, Americanstyle restaurant that concentrates on the “three s’: salad, sandwiches and steak. The chicken finger salad, the prime rib sandwich, which is a delicious pile of shaved beef on a roll, and a $15 ribeye are among the choices in each category. Enjoy them in a rustic dining room surrounded by brick, stone, wood and hanging plants, or outside on the deck. The dining room is lined with televisions, so you’re not likely to miss any sporting event going on elsewhere.

There are 22 Rafferty’s throughout the Midwest.

- POLLY CAMPBELL, The Enquirer

For more restaurant reviews or to rate and review where you’ve eaten lately, visit connectWestChester.com or connectLiberty.com.

YOURfreetime

Salute!

Wine-tasting fund-raisers are growing in popularity. Here are some expert tips for throwing a successful event.

By Karen Andrew

I

> 26

our town

f you combine wine, friends and an auction, what do you have? A charity wine tasting fundraiser that can rake in the big bucks if a few rules are followed.

Jay Cohen, president of Miami University Alumni Association, Middletown Area Chapter, held a wine tasting and auction on Nov. 7 at the Voice of America Learning Center.

His advice for setting up a successful event includes:

• Find a quality vendor • Set a budget • Match food selections carefully with wines

• Get all the required permits • Avoid conflicts with other big events • Identify your target market • Publicize the event widely.

He says vendor representatives need to be experts who don’t act like experts. “You want them to be able to converse with the guests at the gathering so people will feel comfortable with them,” Cohen says.

He also says food should be paired well with the wine; ideally, both should come from the same vendor.

Sara Straight Wolf, co-chair of the Rotary

Club of West Chester/Liberty’s recent Wine & Beer Gala at the Manor House, said it’s important to “pick interesting wines at reasonable prices, and pick out a star wine, thereby inducing attendees to buy bottles.”

The Rotary’s vendor was Gina Ahrens, co-owner of Little Sonoma Fine Wines and Gourmet Foods. She made the introductions at the gala and the participants sampled wines paired with tapas, or small plates of appetizers.

“For a tasting with appetizers, I recommend a pour of 2 ounces per taste,” says Ahrens. “People will go through and taste everything and then go back for the ones they liked.”

When purchasing the wines, Ahrens says, determine how many people will attend and how large each sample will be.

“For example, if you’re having 100 people you’d need nine bottles at 2 ounces per pour or seven bottles at 1½ ounces per pour. Usually you will want to order a little extra of each bottle, as I can guarantee that people will want to ‘revisit’ their favorites,” says Ahrens. “There are also the people who refuse to drink white (or red) and they’ll just drink more of their respective choice.”

Which varieties should you buy? It depends on the audience. If it’s an older

photo By tony tribble

photo By tony tribble

YOURfreetime

Gina Ahrens of Little Sonoma Fine Wines, Rotary president Susan Hendel, Jeff Ahrens, and Rotary member Doug Robbins enjoy some vino.

january | february 2010

27

YOURfreetime crowd with seasoned wine drinkers, more reds should be served, Ahrens says.

“But, for a mix, I’d recommend two whites: Chardonnay and a pinot grigio or a sauvignon blanc; and three reds: Cabernet, a red blend, red zinfandel, pinot noir or Australian shiraz,” Ahrens says.

She says merlots are great, but be wary: some people have a negative opinion about merlot after it was slammed in the movie “Sideways.”

Entrance fees are important, event planners say, because they help cover the cost of the wines, venue and permits.

Kathee Van Kirk of the Wine Merchant also recommends giving people the option of purchasing the wines for retail price, “and the wine stores will give the 10 percent discount back to the organization.

That way people get something out of their donation.”

Jewelry, art and gift baskets also help to raise a large portion of funds.

Cohen says if you’re working with a group, get everyone involved during the planning stages, and with securing donations.

“Everyone on our board solicited donations for the silent auction,” he says. “Items from hundreds of dollars to $10 to $15 were acquired.

You need a variety of price options.”

It also helps to have unique items, several things that attract multiple bidders, Cohen says.

“Because of our target market, we had Miami University sports items for auction. A hockey jersey was signed by the whole MU hockey team and it was donated and sold for $75.”

Wolf says that for the Rotary Club, “Our first goal was to raise funds for our charities.” Instead of an expensive sit-down dinner, she suggested a wine tasting, which made it easier.

“It also made the evening more social, and we learned about wines in the process.”

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YOURfreetime

>> Wine Tastings!

Monday Dec. 14 Wine Tasting Mondays, 5-8 p.m. weekly, Troy’s Café and Catering, 4877 Smith Road, West Chester Township. $12. 513-860-3206; www.troyscafeandcatering. com.

Wednesday Dec. 16 Wine Pairing Dinner, 7-10 p.m., Parkers Blue Ash Grill, 4200 Cooper Road, Blue Ash. Chef $40. Reservations required. 513-891-8300.

january | february 2010

29

YOURcommunity

Events calendar For even more event listings, visit connectWestChester.com or connectLiberty.com.

Jan. 1 Christmas Christmas Journey, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.,

EnterTrainment Junction, 7379 Squire Court, West Chester Township. Two themed walk-through experiences: A Christmas Carol and Journey to the North Pole. Santa visit. Free parking. $10, free ages 2 and under. 513-898-8000.

Holiday Fest—The Beach on Ice, 5-10

p.m., Beach Waterpark, 2590 Water Park Drive, Mason. Millions of lights. More than 12 holiday attractions including ice skating, carriage rides, petting corral, miniature train display and more.

Some additional fees, discounts available online.

Free parking. $9; $5 military personnel, ages 50 and up and children 48 inches and under; free ages 2 and under. 513-398-7946; www. thebeachwaterpark.com.

Holiday Lights on the Hill, 6-10 p.m., Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum, 1763 Ohio 128 (Hamilton-Cleves Road), Hamilton.

Drive-through exhibit with more than a million lights and laser light displays. Friday-Sunday: $75 nightly, $40 11-25 passengers, $20 6-10 passengers; Monday-Thursday: $30 6-10 passengers, $15 2-5 passengers; $10 one person.

513-887-9514; www.pyramidhill.org.

Winter Floral Show—A Swedish Holiday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Krohn Conservatory, 1501 Eden Park Drive, Eden Park. Lucia’s Garden features Swedish holiday traditions along with the traditional poinsettias, cyclamen and amaryllis flowers, train and Cincinnati landmarks displays.

Holiday tree features hundreds of handmade ornaments created by park volunteers. Nativity.

Free. 513-421-5707.

Recreation Fountain Square Ice Rink, 2-10 p.m., Fountain Square, Fifth and Vine streets, Downtown. $2.50 skate rental. Dates and times subject to change due to weather conditions, special shows and events. $2.50. www. myfountainsquare.com.

Art Exhibit Harmony: Winter Quilt Show, 10 a.m.

to 5 p.m., Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 101 S. Monument Ave., Hamilton. Fiber works by 15 acclaimed artists accompanied by figurative sculptures inspired by music legends. Through Jan. 6. 513-863-8873, ext. 110; www.fittoncenter.org.

Jan. 2

Saturday

Fashion Show Wendy’s Bridal Show, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.,

Duke Energy Convention Center, 525 Elm St., Downtown. Grand Ballroom. Over 150 local wedding professionals. Fashion shows with 2010 designer styles presented by Wendy’s Bridal and Cincinnati Bride. Visit WendysBridalShow. com for $2-off admission. $10. 513-984-1708; WendysBridalShow.com.

JAN. 4 Monday

Food & Drink Wine Tasting Mondays, 5-8 p.m., Troy’s

Café and Catering, 4877 Smith Road, West Chester Township. Includes three glasses of wine and food that compliment wine. Weekly tastings feature wines from around the world. $12. 513860-3206; www.troyscafeandcatering.com.

Support Group

The Connection, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse, 700 Walnut St., Downtown. . 513-7841200.

Perinatal / Neonatal Loss, 7-9 p.m., St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, 5720 HamiltonMason Road, Liberty Township. For those who have suffered the death of a child very close to birth. All welcome. . Free. 513-870-9108; companionsonajourney.org.

Art Exhibits

JAN. 5

R&B

Raymond Nation: Raymond ThunderSky’s Northside, noon to 5 p.m., Thunder-Sky,

Tuesday

Inc., 4573 Hamilton Ave., Northside. Inaugural exhibit featuring Raymond Thunder-Sky works depicting Northside, and tribute works by Antonio Adams, Brian Joiner and David Mack. Benefits fund to purchase headstone for Raymond, who died in 2004. Free. Through Jan. 31. 513-823-8914; www.thunder-skyinc.blogspot.com.

Story Time

Jan. 3

Art Exhibits

Sunday

Food & Drink Sunday Brunch, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza, 35 W. Fifth St., Downtown. Made-to-order omelettes, roasted carved meats, salmon, award-winning pastries and more. $29.95, $19.95 ages 65 and up, $12.95 ages 5-12. Reservations recommended. 513-421-9100; www.orchidsatpalmcourt.com.

Art Exhibit Raymond Nation: Raymond ThunderSky’s Northside, noon to 5 p.m., Thunder-Sky, Inc., 4573 Hamilton Ave., Northside. Inaugural exhibit featuring Raymond Thunder-Sky works depicting Northside, and tribute works by Antonio Adams, Brian Joiner and David Mack. Benefits fund to purchase headstone for Raymond, who died in 2004. Free. Through Jan. 31. 513-823-8914; www.thunder-skyinc.blogspot.com.

Children’s Morning Story Time and Activities, 10:30-11 a.m., Barnes & Noble

Fields-Ertel, 9891 Waterstone Blvd., Deerfield Township. Children’s Department Stage. New, popular and obscure favorites read with matching activity to help get involved in story. 513-683-5599.

Gallery 42 Art Open, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Gallery 42 Fine Art, 105 E. Main St., Mason.

Eclectic array of selected artists compete at Gallery 42. Variety of mediums have been entered into show including painting, mixed media, photography, and fine art jewelry. Free. 513-2347874; www.gallery42fineart.com.

Support Group Survivors After Suicide, 7-9 p.m., St.

Maximilian Kolbe Church, 5720 Hamilton-Mason Road, Liberty Township. For those who have suffered death of a loved one, friend or close associate by suicide. All welcome. Free. 513-8709108; companionsonajourney.org.

jan. 6

Wednesday

Education Historic Survey Artifacts Display,

7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Butler County Engineers

30

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Fountain Square Ice Rink Strap on your skates and come downtown to hang out. Dates and times are subject to change, depending on the weather and special shows.

Office, 1921 Fairgrove Ave., Hamilton. Compasses, transits, chains and more tools used to survey lands before modern technology. On loan from Butler County Historical Society and Museum.

513-867-5744.

Business Meeting Olde West Chester Architectural Advisory Committee, 3 p.m., Community

Development Department, 9577 Beckett Rd., Suite 100, West Chester Township. Meetings conducted only when an application has been submitted that requires committee action. 513-777-4214.

Support Group Child Loss Support Group, 7-9 p.m., Indiana Wesleyan University, 9286 Schulze Drive, West Chester Township. For those who have suffered death of a child. All welcome.

Registration required. 513-755-9433; www. companionsonajourney.org.

jan. 10 Sunday

Special Event Curious George Live!, 1 p.m., 4:30 p.m.,

Bank of Kentucky Center, 500 Nunn Drive, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights.

Musical. Follow Curious George on his quest to win the Golden Meatball Contest. Family friendly. $28, $20, $17, $12. 800-745-3000; www. ticketmaster.com.

Recreation

where 5th and Vine, Downtown cost $2.50. www.myfountainsquare.com

Downtown. $2.50 skate rental. Dates and times subject to change due to weather conditions, special shows and events. $2.50. www. myfountainsquare.com.

jan. 12 Tuesday

Support Group Open Grief Group/ Parent/Sibling/ Friend, 7-9 p.m., St. Maximilian Kolbe Church,

5720 Hamilton-Mason Road, Liberty Township.

Group designed to help anyone who has suffered death of a parent/ sibling/ friend. Ages 18 and up.

Free. Call before attending first meeting. 513-8709108.

Fountain Square Ice Rink, noon to 6 p.m., Fountain Square, Fifth and Vine streets, january | february 2010

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jan. 13

Wednesday

Lecture Celebrating Self Series, 11:45 a.m., Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 101 S. Monument Ave., Hamilton. Ballroom. Includes buffet luncheon.

“Group Travel:” best places for group weekend or day trips. $17, $15 members. Reservations recommended. 513-863-8873, ext. 110; www. fittoncenter.org.

Sports Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey, 7:30 p.m.,

U.S. Bank Arena, 100 Broadway, Downtown.

Professional minor league ice hockey. vs.

Kalamazoo Wings. $12-$24.50. 800-745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com.

Northern Kentucky University Women’s Basketball, 7 p.m., Northern

Kentucky University, Nunn Drive, Highland Heights. . vs. SIU Edwardsville. $12 bankers club, $10 coach’s club, $7 end zone. 800-745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com.

Xavier University Men’s Basketball, 7:30 p.m., Cintas Center, Xavier University, 1624 Herald Ave., Evanston. . vs. Charlotte. A-10 conference. $21 and up. 800-745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com.

Support Groups Living Again Widowed Support Group, 7-9 p.m., Indiana Wesleyan University, 9286 Schulze Drive, West Chester Township. Sign in in lobby. For those widowed persons who are typically a year and a half into healing process.

Free. Registration required. 513-870-9108; www. companionsonajourney.org.

New Beginnings Widowed Group, 7-9 p.m., Huff Realty West Chester, 6192 Mulhauser Road, West Chester Township. Sign in in lobby.

For those who have been widowed more than or less than one year. Free. 513-870-9108; www. companionsonajourney.org.

Young Widowed Support Group, 7-9

p.m., St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, 5720 HamiltonMason Road, Liberty Township. Father Porter Family Life Complex. For widowed persons ages 20-early 50s. Free. Registration required. 513-8709108; www.companionsonajourney.org.

jan. 14 Thursday

Story Time Children’s Morning Story Time and Activities, 10:30-11 a.m., Barnes & Noble FieldsErtel, 9891 Waterstone Blvd., Deerfield Township.

Children’s Department Stage. New, popular and obscure favorites read with matching activity to help get involved in story. 513-683-5599.

jan. 16 Saturday

Sports Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey, 7:30 p.m., U.S. Bank Arena, 100 Broadway, Downtown.

32

our town

Professional minor league ice hockey. vs. Toledo Walleye. $12-$24.50. 800-745-3000; www. ticketmaster.com.

Art Centers & Art Museums

Monday

Fitton Family Fridays, 7:30 p.m., Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 101 S. Monument Ave., Hamilton. Ages 4-16. Includes light reception 6:30 p.m. Combination of illusion, juggling, music and comedy with David Kaplan’s World of Comedy. $17, $15 members; $8, $7 members ages 16 and under. Reservations Recommended.

Through April 23. 513-863-8873, ext. 110; www. fittoncenter.org.

Food & Drink

jan. 23

Xavier University Men’s Basketball,

11 a.m., Cintas Center, Xavier University, 1624 Herald Ave., Evanston. . vs. University of Dayton.

A-10 conference. $21 and up. 800-745-3000; www. ticketmaster.com.

jan. 18 Wine Tasting Mondays, 5-8 p.m., Troy’s

Café and Catering, 4877 Smith Road, West Chester Township. Includes three glasses of wine and food that compliment wine. Weekly tastings feature wines from around the world. $12. 513-860-3206; www.troyscafeandcatering.com.

jan. 19 Tuesday

Story Time Children’s Morning Story Time and Activities, 10:30-11 a.m., Barnes & Noble Fields-

Ertel, 9891 Waterstone Blvd., Deerfield Township.

Children’s Department Stage. New, popular and obscure favorites read with matching activity to help get involved in story. 513-683-5599.

Support Group Young Adult Grief Support Group, 7-9

p.m., St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, 5720 HamiltonMason Road, Liberty Township. Group designed for ages 19-29 years of age who have suffered the death of a loved one or friend. Call before attending first meeting. 513-870-9108.

jan. 20

Wednesday

Sports Xavier University Women’s Basketball,

7 p.m., Cintas Center, Xavier University, 1624 Herald Ave., Evanston. . vs. Saint Louis. $8, $5 ages 17 and under. 800-745-3000; www.goxavier.com.

Support Group Child Loss Support Group, 7-9 p.m., Indiana Wesleyan University, 9286 Schulze Drive, West Chester Township. For those who have suffered death of a child. All welcome.

Registration required. 513-755-9433; www. companionsonajourney.org.

jan. 22 Friday

Community Dance Ballroom Dancing, 8-11 p.m., Manchester Inn, 1027 Manchester Ave., Middletown. Bob Gray Orchestra. Swing, Waltz, Rumba, Cha Cha Foxtrot and more. Prize giveaways. Basic dance lesson 7:30 p.m. $15, $13 advance. 513-217-5551.

Saturday

Classic Rock Derby Dance, 6:30 p.m. to 1 a.m., Mother

Teresa Elementary School, 6085 Jackie Drive, Liberty Township. Dancing and music by the Rusty Griswolds. Includes gaming activities. Ages 21 and up. $30. 513-779-6585; www.mtces.org.

Museums Great American Ball Park Tour, 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, 100 Main St., Downtown. $15 ages 3 and up. Reservations recommended. 513-7657923.

jan. 25 Monday

Sports Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey, 7:30 p.m., U.S. Bank Arena, 100 Broadway, Downtown.

Professional minor league ice hockey. vs.

Johnstown Chiefs. $12-$24.50. 800-745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com.

jan. 26 Tuesday

Art Openings Boundaries, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 101 S. Monument Ave., Hamilton.

Reception. Artists combine objects in unusual ways, pushing perceived edges of self and formation of identity. Exhibit continues through March 12. Exhibit on view January 26, 2010 March 12, 2010. 513-863-8873, ext. 110; www. fittoncenter.org.

jan. 27

Wednesday

Lecture Smart Talk Connected Conversations, 7:30 p.m., Aronoff Center,

Procter & Gamble Hall, 650 Walnut St., Downtown. Performance lecture series. Valerie Bertinelli presents “Taking Back Your Life.” $499-$559 VIP package and meet the speakers, $164-$339 new subscribers, $149-$309 renewal; $40-$85 single tickets. Reservations required.

513-621-2787; www.cincinnatiarts.org.

YOURfreetime

Xavier University Men’s Basketball Watch the Musketeers dominate another season in the A-10 conference.

where Cintas Center, Xavier University, 1624 Herald Ave., Evanston. tickets $21 and up.

800-745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com.

Art Exhibit

Sports

jan. 29

Boundaries, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 101 S. Monument Ave., Hamilton.

Artists combine objects in unusual ways, pushing perceived edges of self and formation of identity.

Through March 12. 513-863-8873, ext. 110; www. fittoncenter.org.

Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey, 7:30 p.m., U.S. Bank Arena, Downtown. Professional minor league ice hockey. vs. Charlotte Checkers. $12$24.50. 800-745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com.

Student Theater

Business Meeting

Thursday

Schoolhouse Rock Live! Junior, 7 p.m., Lakota East High School, 6840 Lakota Lane, Liberty Township. $5. Through Jan. 31.

513-755-7211, ext. 15305; www.seatyourself.biz/ lakotaeasthigh.

Art Exhibit

Theater

West Chester OH Networkers, 5-7 p.m.,

Office Suites Plus, 9075 Centre Pointe Drive, Suite 450 , West Chester. Open networking and round table discussions. Share ideas and promote you business. Food and drink provided. Email registration required: jgonzalez@brsinsurance. com. 513-276-1983.

jan. 28 Boundaries, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Fitton Center for

Creative Arts, 101 S. Monument Ave., Hamilton.

Artists combine objects in unusual ways, pushing perceived edges of self and formation of identity.

Through March 12. 513-863-8873, ext. 110; www. fittoncenter.org.

Friday

Harriet Tubman and the Train to Freedom, 7-8 p.m., Fairfield Community Arts

Center, 411 Wessel Drive, Fairfield. In 1849, Harriet Tubman escapes to freedom in Philadelphia.

Harriet journeys back into slave country to rescue her family and many others. Family friendly. $7, $5 ages 12 and under. Registration required. 513-8675348; www.fairfield-city.org/cac.

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33

YOURfreetime

cincinnati cyclones hockey Come watch the 2007-08 Kelly Cup winners and 2008-09 ECHL North Division champs break more league records this season.

Too Big to Fail, 7:30 p.m., Gates-Abegglen Theatre, Miami University Center for Performing Arts, Oxford. San Francisco Mime Troupe presents comedy about banking bureaucracy, international finance and contradictions of Capitalism. $14, $13 seniors, $7 students and children. 513-529-3200; arts.muohio.edu/performing-arts-series/events/ san-francisco-mime-troupe.

Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey, 7:30 p.m., U.S. Bank Arena, Downtown. Professional minor league ice hockey. vs. South Carolina Stingrays. $12-$24.50. 800-745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com.

Education

Saturday

Historic Survey Artifacts Display,

7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Butler County Engineers Office, 1921 Fairgrove Ave., Hamilton. Compasses, transits, chains and more tools used to survey lands before modern technology. On loan from Butler County Historical Society and Museum.

513-867-5744.

34

our town

Sports

jan. 30 Concert Miami University Hamilton Artist Series, 7:30 p.m., Parrish Auditorium, 1601

University Blvd., Hamilton. . Solas with the April Verch Band. $22; $20 faculty, staff and senior citizens; $15 students and children. 513-529-3200; www.ticket.muohio.edu.

where U.S. Bank Arena tickets $12-$24.50. 800-7453000; www.ticketmaster.com.

Blues Dwight Lenox, 8 p.m., Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 101 S. Monument Ave., Hamilton.

Ballroom. Evening of blues, ballads, jazz and swing. Includes post-performance hors d’oeuvres buffet with wine and beer reception. $17, $15 members. Reservations recommended. 513-8638873, ext. 110; www.fittoncenter.org.

Dance ZviDance, 8:30 p.m., Aronoff Center, Jarson-

Kaplan Theater, 650 Walnut St., Downtown.

Company comprised of athletic and lyrical dancers blending contemporary aesthetics with lush, full-bodied movement. Presented by Contemporary Dance Theater. $27, $22. 513-6212787.

YOURfreetime Student Theater Schoolhouse Rock Live! Junior, 2 p.m., 7 p.m., Lakota East High School, 6840 Lakota Lane, Liberty Township. . $5. Through Jan. 31.

513-755-7211, ext. 15305; www.seatyourself.biz/ lakotaeasthigh.

Sports Xavier University Women’s Basketball, 6 p.m., Cintas Center, Xavier University, 1624 Herald Ave., Evanston. . vs. Dayton. $8, $5 ages 17 and under. 800-745-3000; www.goxavier.com.

jan. 31 Sunday

Student Theater

league ice hockey. vs. Wheeling Nailers. $12$24.50. 800-745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com.

Support Group Child Loss Support Group, 7-9 p.m.,

Indiana Wesleyan University, 9286 Schulze Drive, West Chester Township. For those who have suffered death of a child. All welcome.

Registration required. 513-755-9433; www. companionsonajourney.org.

feb. 4

Thursday

Classical Canadian Brass and Miami Collegiate Chorale, 7:30 p.m., Hall Auditorium, Miami

Schoolhouse Rock Live! Junior, 2 p.m., Lakota East High School, 6840 Lakota Lane, Liberty Township. $5. 513-755-7211, ext. 15305; www. seatyourself.biz/lakotaeasthigh.

University, Oxford. Canadian Brass with Miami’s mixed 90-voice choir, Collegiate Chorale, under baton of Dr. Ethan Sperry. $29, $28 seniors, $14 students and children. 513-529-3200; arts.muohio. edu/performing-arts-series/events/canadian-brass.

Sports

Sports

Xavier University Men’s Basketball, 2

p.m., Cintas Center, Xavier University, 1624 Herald Ave., Evanston. . vs. Fordham. A-10 conference. $21 and up. 800-745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com.

Feb. 1 Monday

Education Historic Survey Artifacts Display,

Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey, 7:30 p.m., U.S. Bank Arena, 100 Broadway, Downtown.

Professional minor league ice hockey. vs. South Carolina Stingrays. $12-$24.50. 800-745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com.

feb. 6

Saturday

Museums

death of a parent/ sibling/ friend. Ages 18 and up.

Call before attending first meeting. 513-870-9108.

feb. 10

Wednesday

Lecture Celebrating Self Series, 11:45 a.m., Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 101 S. Monument Ave., Hamilton. Ballroom. Includes buffet luncheon.

Your Hometown – A Photographic Journey with Greg Lynch. $17, $15 members. Reservations recommended. 513-863-8873, ext. 110; www. fittoncenter.org.

Sports Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey, 7:30 p.m., U.S. Bank Arena, Downtown. Professional minor league ice hockey. vs. Kalamazoo Wings. $12$24.50. 800-745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com.

Xavier University Women’s Basketball, 11:30 a.m., Cintas Center, Xavier

University, 1624 Herald Ave., Evanston. . vs. Saint Joseph’s. $8, $5 ages 17 and under. 800-745-3000; www.goxavier.com.

feb. 11 Thursday

Theater Catch Me If You Can, 8 p.m., Parrish

Auditorium, 1601 University Blvd., Hamilton.

Mystery comedy. Presented by Greater Hamilton Civic Theatre. $15, $14 seniors and students.

Through Feb. 14. 513-737-7529.

7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Butler County Engineers Office, 1921 Fairgrove Ave., Hamilton. Compasses, transits, chains and more tools used to survey lands before modern technology. On loan from Butler County Historical Society and Museum.

513-867-5744.

Great American Ball Park Tour, 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, 100 Main St., Downtown. . $15 ages 3 and up. Reservations recommended. 513-765-7923.

feb. 12

Support Group

feb. 7 Sunday

Dance

Perinatal / Neonatal Loss, 7-9 p.m., St.

Maximilian Kolbe Church, 5720 Hamilton-Mason Road, Liberty Township. For those who have suffered the death of a child very close to birth. All welcome. 513-870-9108; companionsonajourney. org.

Sports Xavier University Women’s Basketball,

4 p.m., Cintas Center, Xavier University, 1624 Herald Ave., Evanston. . vs. Richmond. $8, $5 ages 17 and under. 800-745-3000; www.goxavier.com.

feb. 2

feb. 8

Support Group

Book Club

Survivors After Suicide, 7-9 p.m., St.

Avid Reader’s Cafe, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Forest Park Branch Library, 655 Waycross Road, Forest Park. Adults. 513-369-4478.

Tuesday

Maximilian Kolbe Church, 5720 Hamilton-Mason Road, Liberty Township. For those who have suffered death of a loved one, friend or close associate by suicide. All welcome. 513-870-9108; companionsonajourney.org.

feb. 3

Wednesday

Sports Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey, 7:30 p.m.,

U.S. Bank Arena, Downtown. Professional minor

Monday

feb. 9

Friday

Cinderella, 8 p.m., Aronoff Center, Procter

& Gamble Hall, 650 Walnut St., Downtown.

Featuring a cast of children, fairies and riotous bumbling characters. Victoria Morgan, choreographer. Presented by Cincinnati Ballet. $80, $60, $40, $25. Through Feb. 14. 513-6212787; www.cincinnatiarts.org.

Theater Catch Me If You Can, 8 p.m., Parrish

Auditorium, 1601 University Blvd., Hamilton.

Mystery comedy. Presented by Greater Hamilton Civic Theatre. $15, $14 seniors and students.

Through Feb. 14. 513-737-7529.

Feb. 13 Saturday

Tuesday

World

Support Group

Zili Misik, 8-9 p.m., Fairfield Community Arts Center, 411 Wessel Drive, Fairfield. . Ages 18 and up. $15, $12 seniors and students. Registration required. 513-867-5348; www.fairfield-city.org/cac.

Open Grief Group/ Parent/Sibling/ Friend, 7-9 p.m., St. Maximilian Kolbe Church,

5720 Hamilton-Mason Road, Liberty Township.

Group designed to help anyone who has suffered

january | february 2010

35

yourfreetime

Holiday Fest—The Beach on Ice Millions of lights. More than 12 holiday attractions including ice skating, carriage rides, petting corral, miniature train display and more.Some additional fees, discounts available online. Free parking.

Dance

Sunday

Cinderella, 2 p.m., 8 p.m., Aronoff Center,

Dance

Procter & Gamble Hall, 650 Walnut St., Downtown. Featuring a cast of children, fairies and riotous bumbling characters. Victoria Morgan, choreographer. Presented by Cincinnati Ballet. $80, $60, $40, $25. Through Feb. 14. 513-621-2787; www.cincinnatiarts.org.

Theater Catch Me If You Can, 8 p.m., Parrish

Auditorium, 1601 University Blvd., Hamilton.

Mystery comedy. Presented by Greater Hamilton Civic Theatre. $15, $14 seniors and students.

Through Feb. 14. 513-737-7529.

Sports Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey, 7:30 p.m.,

U.S. Bank Arena, 100 Broadway, Downtown.

Professional minor league ice hockey. vs.

Johnstown Chiefs. $12-$24.50. 800-745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com.

feb. 14

where Beach Waterpark, 2590 Water Park Drive, Mason. tickets $9; $5 military personnel, ages 50 and up and children 48 inches and under; free ages 2 and under. 513-398-7946; www.thebeachwaterpark.com.

Cinderella, 2 p.m., Aronoff Center, Procter &

Gamble Hall, 650 Walnut St., Downtown. Featuring a cast of children, fairies and riotous bumbling characters. Victoria Morgan, choreographer.

Presented by Cincinnati Ballet. $80, $60, $40, $25.

513-621-2787; www.cincinnatiarts.org.

Theater Catch Me If You Can, 2 p.m., Parrish

Auditorium, 1601 University Blvd., Hamilton.

Mystery comedy. Presented by Greater Hamilton Civic Theatre. $15, $14 seniors and students. 513737-7529.

feb. 15

that compliment wine. Weekly tastings feature wines from around the world. $12. 513-860-3206; www.troyscafeandcatering.com.

feb. 16 Tuesday

Support Group Young Adult Grief Support Group,

7-9 p.m., St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, 5720 Hamilton-Mason Road, Liberty Township. Group designed for ages 19-29 years of age who have suffered the death of a loved one or friend. Call before attending first meeting. 513-870-9108.

feb. 17

Wednesday

Monday

Theater

Food & Drink

Guest Artist, 8 p.m., Fitton Center for Creative

Wine Tasting Mondays, 5-8 p.m., Troy’s

Café and Catering, 4877 Smith Road, West Chester Township. Includes three glasses of wine and food

Arts, 101 S. Monument Ave., Hamilton. Young man comes face to face with dreams of youth and wisdom of age. Preview. All seats $10. Presented

by Mad Anthony Theatre Company. $17, $15

members. Reservations recommended. Through Feb. 21. 513-863-8873, ext. 110; www.fittoncenter. org.

Sports Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey, 7:30 p.m., U.S. Bank Arena, 100 Broadway, Downtown.

Professional minor league ice hockey. vs. Toledo Walleye. $12-$24.50. 800-745-3000; www. ticketmaster.com.

Xavier University Men’s Basketball,

7:30 p.m., Cintas Center, Xavier University, 1624 Herald Ave., Evanston. . vs. Saint Joseph’s. A-10 conference. $21 and up. 800-745-3000; www. ticketmaster.com.

Support Group Child Loss Support Group, 7-9 p.m., Indiana Wesleyan University, 9286 Schulze Drive, West Chester Township. For those who have suffered death of a child. All welcome. Registration required. 513-755-9433.

Feb. 18 Thursday

Theater Guest Artist, 8 p.m., Fitton Center for Creative

Arts, 101 S. Monument Ave., Hamilton. Young man comes face to face with dreams of youth and wisdom of age. Presented by Mad Anthony Theatre Company. $17, $15 members. Reservations recommended. Through Feb. 21. 513-863-8873, ext.

110; www.fittoncenter.org.

Feb. 19 Friday

Special Event The Peking Acrobats, 7:30 p.m., Aronoff Center, Procter & Gamble Hall, 650 Walnut St., Downtown. Chinese acrobatics perform daring maneuvers, showcasing tremendous skill and ability with special effects and traditional music. $32, $28, $22. 513-621-2787.

Classical A Hailstork Celebration, 7:30 p.m., Hall

Auditorium, Miami University, Oxford. Adolphus Hailstork compositions featuring Miami University student ensembles. Chamber Singers and Adolphus Hailstork premier new work written in honor of Miami’s Bicentennial. $18, $17 seniors, $9 students and children. 513-529-3200; arts. muohio.edu/performing-arts-series/events/hailstork-celebration.

Theater Guest Artist, 8 p.m., Fitton Center for Creative

Arts, 101 S. Monument Ave., Hamilton. Young man comes face to face with dreams of youth and wisdom of age. Presented by Mad Anthony Theatre Company. $17, $15 members. Reservations recommended. Through Feb. 21. 513-863-8873, ext.

110; www.fittoncenter.org.

Sports Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey, 7:30 p.m., U.S. Bank Arena, Downtown. Professional minor league ice hockey. vs. Wheeling Nailers. $12$24.50. 800-745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com.

Feb. 20 Saturday

Theater Guest Artist, 8 p.m., Fitton Center for Creative

Arts, 101 S. Monument Ave., Hamilton. Young man comes face to face with dreams of youth and wisdom of age. Presented by Mad Anthony Theatre Company. $17, $15 members. Reservations recommended. Through Feb. 21. 513-863-8873, ext.

110; www.fittoncenter.org.

Sports Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey, 7:30 p.m., U.S. Bank Arena, Downtown. Professional minor league ice hockey. vs. Wheeling Nailers. $12$24.50. 800-745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com.

Xavier University Women’s Basketball, 1 p.m., Cintas Center, Xavier University, 1624 Herald Ave., Evanston. . vs. Massachusetts. $8, $5 ages 17 and under. 800-745-3000; www.goxavier. com.

Feb. 21 Sunday

Theater Guest Artist, 2 p.m., Fitton Center for Creative

Arts, 101 S. Monument Ave., Hamilton. Young man comes face to face with dreams of youth and wisdom of age. Presented by Mad Anthony Theatre Company. $17, $15 members. Reservations recommended. 513-863-8873, ext. 110; www. fittoncenter.org.

Recreation Fountain Square Ice Rink, noon to 6 p.m., Fountain Square, Fifth and Vine streets, Downtown. $2.50 skate rental. Dates and times subject to change due to weather conditions, special shows and events. $2.50. www. myfountainsquare.com.

Feb. 22 Monday

Food & Drink Wine Tasting Mondays, 5-8 p.m., Troy’s

Café and Catering, 4877 Smith Road, West Chester Township. Includes three glasses of wine and food that compliment wine. Weekly tastings feature wines from around the world. $12. 513-860-3206; www.troyscafeandcatering.com.

Feb. 23 Tuesday

Support Group Open Grief Group/Parent/Sibling/ Friend, 7-9 p.m., St. Maximilian Kolbe Church,

5720 Hamilton-Mason Road, Liberty Township.

Group designed to help anyone who has suffered death of a parent/ sibling/ friend. Ages 18 and up.

Call before attending first meeting. 513-870-9108.

Feb. 26 Friday

Classical Miami University Symphony Orchestra, 7:30 p.m., Hall Auditorium, Miami

University, Oxford. Iovcho Cruschev, piano.

Mendelssohn’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” overture and new work by Dr. James Lentini, School of Fine Arts dean. $18, $17 seniors, $9 students and children. 513-529-3200; arts.muohio. edu/performing-arts-series/events/iovchocruschev.

Feb. 27 Saturday

Concert Miami University Hamilton Artist Series, 7:30 p.m., Parrish Auditorium, 1601

University Blvd., Hamilton. . Blue Highway with Bill Evans and Megan Lynch. $20; $18 faculty, staff and senior citizens; $12 students and children.

513-529-3200; www.ticket.muohio.edu.

YOURhome Meet the Sebrallas: Barry, Maria, Mary Catherine, Matthew, Peter, and Luke.

Meet the Sebrallas 38

our town

YOURhome

by Jill I. Solimini | photography by deogracias Lerma

T

he Sebralla home sits on a family friendly cul-de-sac filled with children of all ages. Their wide front yards serves as the neighborhood football field, and at any given time 20 or more kids can be found tossing the ball in a pick-up game.

“Our neighbors are just wonderful – they are actually more like extended family,” says Maria Sebralla. “We have an incredible support system here. There are so many kids, and the big ones look out for the little ones.”

Her husband, Barry, a sales representative for Chase Doors, agrees.

“It’s an old-fashioned neighborhood. You can ask anybody for a stick of butter or to pick something up for you if they’re going to the store.”

When Barry and Maria moved into their house in 1997, they knew living in a tight-knit community would be important to them. Barry, originally from Charlotte, N.C., and Maria, who is from

Morgantown, W.Va., were introduced to each other by Barry’s sister and maintained a long distance relationship until they married in 1995. When they moved into their West Chester home, they knew it would be the place they would raise their family.

“We both come from smaller families and knew that we wanted a big family,” says Maria.

When they realized adoption would be the way they grew their family, Barry and Maria tackled the long and difficult process head on.

After signing up with a local agency, they chose Holt International, a world leader in adoptions, as their international agency. Drawn to Asia because of its reputation for healthy children, Barry and Maria settled on Thailand as the country they would adopt from.

“The children are beautiful, and we love the food,” jokes Barry. january | february 2010

39

YOURhome Mary Catherine, now 8 and a second grader at Royalmont Academy, came home in May 2003. The bond between parents and daughter was so quick and so strong that they soon began paperwork for their second adoption. They brought Luke, now 7 and in first grade, home in October 2004.

“At the end of the adoption proceedings in Thailand, one of the officials says, ‘We assume this completes your family,’” says Barry. “And so far, we have always said no.”

Peter, now 4 and affectionately known as Dennis the Menace, came home in January 2007, and 2-year-old Matthew just joined the family in June.

“Thailand has a three child limit – to adopt more you have to have special permission,” says Maria. “We were thrilled when they allowed us to adopt again.”

Neighbors, friends and family have supported them on their journies to bring home their children. Barry’s parents have stayed with the other children each time they traveled, and Maria’s parents have come when they have returned to help get each new arrival settled.

The addition of their children has made the neighborhood quite international – one family is from Ireland and another family has children adopted from Guatemala.

“The adoption network is amazing,” says Maria. “You realize what a small world it actually is.”

Maria recently ran into a woman at Walgreens. She and her daughter came up to Maria and asked her if she had a green van because the door had been left open. Maria noticed that the woman’s daughter was adopted from China, and they began to talk. The woman was in the process of adopting a son from Thailand and showed her some pictures.

Amazingly, the boy they were adopting was with the same foster family that had taken care of Luke. Maria was able to reassure the woman about the wonderful

40

our town

YOURhome

january | february 2010

41

YOURhome care her new son was receiving.

“It was such a coincidence,” says Maria, “but you hear about stories like this all the time in the adoption world.”

With two children in school and two at home, life is busy, but good, for the Sebralla family. Maria and Barry chose Royalmont Academy for their children because of its strong academic reputation and commitment to helping its students become strong Christian leaders in the community.

Last fall, Mary Catherine was chosen to represent the second-graders at the school’s fall banquet and presented a speech she had written about what Royalmont means to her to more than 300 people.

The older children take swimming lessons, and Mary Catherine has a year of soccer under her belt.

“We are careful not to over-schedule our children,” says Barry. “Our priorities are a little different. We value family time and just letting the kids play in the neighborhood.”

When the kids outnumber the parents, there is always plenty to do. But things run pretty smoothly, and Barry and Maria credit the fact that their marriage is a true partnership.

“Barry does all the grocery shopping and enjoys cooking on the weekends,” says Maria. “I thank his mom all the time for the way she raised him.”

“I work hard,” says Barry. “But as a stayat-home mom, Maria works harder. If I can help her out by grocery shopping or filling her gas tank, I’m happy to do it.

“We make a really good team.” says Maria.

“If one of us falls short, we pick each other up.”

The Sebrallas are hoping to present their case to Thailand and bring home a fifth child soon. “We would go back in a heartbeat,” says Barry. “We would love another daughter, and Mary Catherine has mentioned more than once that she would like a sister.”

It’s clear there is plenty of love to go around in this family. Barry sums it up: “Life is as good as you decide it is going to be, and we wouldn’t change our life a bit.”

42

our town

YOURhome

january | february 2010

43

YOURhome

44

our town

YOURHEALTH Several peolple use the elliptical machines at Ideal Fitness in Mason. photo by tony tribble

Well equipped: finding the best

fitness machines

for you

By Jeanette McClellan photo by tony tribble

46

our town

YOURHEALTH

E

very year, thousands of Americans make resolutions to lose weight or gain fitness. One of the first steps many of them take is to either join a gym or buy new fitness equipment for their homes.

If you find the right equipment, working out at home can save you money over time, rather than paying for a gym membership month after month. And, it’s convenient.

On the other hand, working out at a gym gives you access to a variety of different machines, and up-front costs are lower.

If you’re thinking about investing in equipment for your home, here are tips from local experts about which machines you should consider: Decide whether you want equipment for strength training or cardiovascular fitness, recommends Jim Janssen, sales manager at Exercise & Leisure in Pleasant Ridge.

“People think you can buy one piece that does it all and it doesn’t really work that way,” he said. “For cardiovascular, the main choices are treadmills, elliptical machines and exercise bikes. For strength training, it can be something as simple as a multipurpose utility bench that can go in different positions and a set of dumbbells. For the next step up, you can get a home gym machine.”

Gordie Gronkowski, manager of The Fitness Store in West Chester, says the right equipment depends on the user.

He recommends considering medical circumstances, such as whether you have knee, ankle or hip issues, or whether you’ve had surgeries in the past.

He says it’s tough to go wrong with an elliptical machine for cardio work.

“The ellipticals are popular because they have a relatively low impact on your body, particularly with nicer ellipticals like the Precor and Life Fitness machines. They put so much technology and design into their products to really mimic that perfect stride for each user,” he said. “They can help strengthen your knees and ankles and can even be beneficial for those who have had back or hip problems.”

He added that quiet performance and multiple positions are additional benefits of elliptical machines.

“Unlike a treadmill with a motor, many elliptical machines are smooth and quiet.

You can use one without worrying about interrupting or waking others up with the noise,” he said. “You can go forward or you can reverse your stride to work different muscles.”

If you’re looking for something that will push you harder and burn more calories in less time, Josh Smith, of Ideal Fitness in Loveland and West Chester, recommends the Cybex Arc Trainer.

While the Arc Trainer looks a little bit like an elliptical machine, it produces a different movement that Cybex says burns more calories in the same amount of time and puts even less pressure on joints.

“The Cybex Arc Trainer burns anywhere from 700 to 800 calories per hour if you have your heart rate in the target zone,” said Smith.

“I can do it for about 20 minutes and I’m ready to stop. I think the devil created them. We have a girl that calls them the butt kicker.”

Another version of the Arc Trainer is the Power Plate, which also claims to help its users achieve fitness goals in a shorter time when they perform exercises such as push ups and squats on the plate instead of on flat ground.

“It’s a vibration and acceleration trainer,” said Gronkowski. “It vibrates a plate, moving side to side, back to back, up and down. If someone is pushing you, you have the natural tendency to stabilize and not fall over. The Power Plate sets up rapid involuntary muscle contractions and your body senses these shifts and automatically reacts … This puts more muscles to work than you’d use doing the same exercise or using weights on the ground.”

Don and Bonnie White of Milford purchased a Power Plate, along with other home gym equipment, including an elliptical, treadmill, weights, therapy balls and more.

“I finished a membership at the gym,” said White. “After I work all day I don’t really feel like going back out. We use the treadmill and elliptical and then the Power Plate and weights. We work out together and that’s a big motivator for us.”

While White says she and her husband have been happy with the Power Plate and their other equipment, you have to pick what is best for you. “A treadmill is a good starting point for a lot of people,” she said. “It’s a piece of equipment nearly everyone can use.”

Before making a big investment, though, White also recommends getting yourself in the habit of exercising so that you know you’ll stick with it once you spend the money on equipment.

“Something as simple as walking can get you started,” said White. “I have been using Sketchers Shape Ups, shoes with thicker soles that are supposed to get you in shape without you having to set foot in a gym. I wore them around the house, on the treadmill and have gone out walking in them. I felt a difference in my tone and in my legs. This is a $100 investment instead of thousands.”

No matter what you want to spend or whether you want strength or cardio equipment, Janssen has a piece of advice that will apply to everyone.

“The best piece of exercise equipment is the piece you are going to use. Whatever you like is what we’re going to recommend,” he said. “If you like it, the chance of sticking with it is much greater.

Go with what you like, not with what you have read or what your sister tells you to buy.”

january | february 2010

47

Finalthoughts

DANGER: Resolutions ahead By monica scalf

T

he New Year is an open invitation to renew. And I’m not just speaking of the library books that have been sitting by the door racking up fines for the last three weeks. I consider my perpetual library lateness to be one more opportunity for charitable giving. Over the years, I think I’ve paid enough late fees to finance a wing for the latest jewel in our town crown.

The New Year is a chance to see everything with new eyes. It’s time to wipe the slate clean, to forget about the disappointments of the last year, and to set our sights on achievements to come. I’m going to start with trying to cut back my visits to Servatii’s to just once a day. I need to be saving dough, not consuming it at an alarming rate. There should be a flashing red DANGER sign upon entering.

The good thing is that in 2009, I developed a few new habits that are worth keeping around. I recently ran 26.2 miles. (Ok, you can close that dropped jaw now.) I may be stretching the truth since it took me 7 weeks running 2 miles twice a week on the treadmill in our basement.

Even so, it’s a huge accomplishment figuring that on the first workout day back in June I barely completed one minute before having hallucinations accompanied by breathing patterns akin to childbirth. My husband sent one of the kids down to see if I needed to be rescued. Too bad he didn’t send them with an oxygen tank. I could have used a few hits.

I may be paying more attention to exercise, however, there are still a whole host of things that I’m neglecting. Most of them have to do with the house. My husband and I have an unwritten rule that unless something is smoking, smelling, or soaking it can wait until tomorrow. Our kids handle things the same way. After our initial panic about the brokenness of said item, we’re content to let it sit unfixed for weeks.

My son likes to remind us as much as possible about the time he injured his wrist at football practice and we waited two whole days before taking him to the doctor and finding out that it was fractured. (I have a feeling my grandchildren will know this story before I even get a chance to defend myself. I swear he was acting fine and using it like normal.) Now, it’s just another entry in the Mommy Guilt log. I figure I can use this winter to update the latest entries for the year.

However, I’ll probably be too busy sorting through the mish-

mash of unmatched gloves and boots for that first unexpected snow day. I might have to try letting the kids just wear their tennis shoes and make them wear baggies over their socks - a method my Mom utilized 30 years ago. It takes weeks for the ankles to thaw out, but think of all the money we’ll save on snow boots.

Because more than anything, 2009 made us, and everyone else out there, experts in cutting back and doing more with less. In my family, we entertained ourselves with television and skipped the movie theatre. Which was great, except for the fact that we can tell you the name, occupation, and fatal flaw of every reality star. We unconsciously got addicted to junk food TV. The stuff seems so good while you’re consuming it, but afterwards you feel bloated for days.

We also got into the habit of selling off unused items on ebay and Craigslist. Being an Internet garage sale novice does have its drawbacks though. My satisfaction turned to utter surprise when I realized the Spongebob toys we sold were going to South Africa instead of someplace more mundane like South Carolina. I think we lost a dollar or two on that transaction and more than a few precious minutes filling out forms at the post office. But to know that Spongebob and Patrick are living it up on the other side of the world is a reward all of its own.

But the most rewarding thing about the New Year is that it is, in fact, new. We don’t have to recycle it or settle for hand-medowns. It’s brand new and all ours to create in whatever way we wish. What will you do with yours?

As for me, I’m going to start by settling up my delinquent account at the library. And then watch out Blockbuster, here I come. As soon as I find those missing DVDs.

Monica Scalf is a freelance writer and mother of two in West Chester.

If she’s not listing items on Craigslist, she can be found at mscalf@fuse. net. Check out her Web site at www.theordinarymatters.com.

You can be a HERO! Josh beat cancer with the help of blood donors like his parents, Jim and Sharon, of West Chester.

Nikkia and her mother, Lisa, survive sickle cell anemia with the help of Cincinnati area blood donors.

You can be a hero to patients like Josh, Nikkia and Lisa by giving the gift of life through blood donation.

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Call 513-451-0910 to schedule your appointment to donate!

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An OMNIMAX® Film Lost Egypt was produced by COSI in cooperation with the Science Museum Exhibit Collaborative, and was built by the Science Museum of Minnesota. Photography © 2008 Brad Feinknopf.

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