The Gentlemen's Issue











An inspirational man has the incredible power and privilege of shaping and mentoring the young people in his life to grow and mature in a multitude of ways. Whether he is a father, a coach, an uncle or a boss, being a role model and leading by example can make a lasting impact.
We can all probably think of a man in our life who has had a significant impact on us. As I reflect on the lessons I learned from my father over the course of my life, I can see I’ve tried to emulate his loyalty, patience and kindness. Most of all I learned how important it is to just show up with love and support.
This month we are honoring local men and their contribution to the betterment of our community. Our cover story highlights men who are working hard to support local youth through medicine, school, and sports. Learn more about Aaron Eechaute-Lopez, Cedric Tolbert, and Dr. Mukund Dole.
Finding that work-life balance can often be challenging and can have a profound effect on not only an individual, but also their families. Lindner Center of HOPE has been providing care for those struggling with their mental health for nearly 15 years. Read more about their family therapy program and the importance of communication in bringing stability to the family unit.
Losing someone close to you is never easy. For Nick Redlin, creating a memorial scholarship was his way of honoring and preserving the legacy of one of his longtime childhood friends and teammates. Learn how the Jeff Kennard Memorial Scholarship is supporting local high school baseball players and how you can get involved in their upcoming community events.
To all of the men out there who are making a difference in someone’s life, big or small, we applaud you. The lasting impact that you are making and the ripple effect that often ensues is worth it. Enjoy this month’s issue of Centerville Lifestyle and Happy Father’s day to all of the dads throughout our community!
June 2023
PUBLISHER
Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Karen Andrea
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Nina Weierman, Jonathan Stout, Nan Paraskevopoulos, Rod Bluhm
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kelly Settle–Kelly Ann Photography, Christina Littleton Photography
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
ANDREA, PUBLISHER @CENTERVILLELIFESTYLEMARK
The gentlemen profiled this year are Aaron Eechaute-Lopez, Cedric Tolbert and Dr. Mukund Dole. We're happy to celebrate these three special individuals who work every day to support kids and families in our community.
Living with memory loss or dementia is never easy. At Bethany Village, our aim is to fill each resident’s life with meaning and connection, enriching each day by keeping both mind and body active. All in safe, soothing spaces, with the support of a caring team of Certified Dementia Practitioners. Because your loved one’s happiness, and your peace of mind, are at the heart of everything we do.
Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @centervillelifestyle
Photography by Centerville Noon Optimists
Scan me now
• Unlimited Visits to the Collection Galleries
• Admission to Special Exhibitions
• Invitations to Members-Only Events
• FREE Admission to the Bob Ross Auto Group Jazz & Beyond Series
• FREE Member Magazine & Exclusive Email Offers
• 10% Discount at the Museum Store
• Discounted Programs (Classes, Workshops, Lectures & Art Camp)
• Discount on Oktoberfest Preview Party Tickets
Classic Memberships (Individual $50, Duo $70 or Family $80) daytonartinstitute.org
• Reciprocal Privileges at Participating Ohio Museums
for all that matters to you
above and beyond
Uptown Upgrades, the Centerville Community Improvement Corporation (CCIC) grant program created to incentivize streetscape improvement, will award more funding in 2023. “This program shows Centerville’s commitment to creating vibrancy in this district,” says Economic Development Administrator Joey O’Brien. The grant provides a 50% match up to $10,000 for projects, awarded in the form of a forgivable loan. This is a competitive application that prioritizes large, transformative projects. Contact the Centerville Development Department to request an application. CentervilleOhio.gov
The Centerville City Schools Athletic Department launched a fundraising campaign with the goal of building an elite performance facility to expand space for students, coaches and community members. Construction of the facility will be funded by private donations only, with future operating costs offset by facility rental fees. About $3.5 million has been pledged to the project so far. Donors or corporate sponsors interested in contributing can find more information at GoElksAthletics.com
The City of Centerville and Centerville Arts Commission recently launched the Uptown Music Series sponsored by Minuteman Press of Centerville, Bethany Village and City Barbeque. The series will feature a variety of intimate performances by musicians from Centerville and surrounding communities, including The Unity Sax Quartet on June 2 and 30 and Noele Grace Music on June 16. Performances are on select Friday nights through September 29 on the northeast patio at Main and Franklin Streets from 6–8:00 p.m. CentervilleOhio.gov Want
“Jeff and I were really close. Being able to carry on his legacy is important. This is one way of keeping his influence on people in baseball and in life alive. His reach goes beyond the community, so part of our mission is telling his story and getting it out there, not just in Centerville but in the surrounding communities as well,” Nick explains.
The Jeff Kennard Memorial Scholarship was established in 2019 to support a graduating senior on the Centerville High School (CHS) varsity baseball team. Centerville’s Dugout Club funded the first scholarship to honor Jeff, who lost his fight with cancer just months before.
Jeff Kennard was a two-sport Hall of Famer at Centerville High School. He still holds receiving records for the Elks football team. Jeff attended Rend Lake College in Illinois and was drafted by the New York Yankees in 2001. In 13 professional seasons with four baseball organizations, Jeff was an all-star at every level of play.
He was offered a job as a pitching coach upon retirement but chose to return to the Centerville area to work with young athletes. Jeff instructed pitchers and hitters at Extra Innings before opening Beyond the Game (BTG). After BTG closed, Jeff transitioned to hitting and pitching instruction at Elevate Sports Training. Unfortunately in 2018, Jeff and his family learned he had a rare and aggressive form of cancer.
Nick Redlin and Jeff were close friends, having played baseball and football together from sixth grade through their senior year in 2000. After Jeff’s passing, Nick initially worked with the Centerville Baseball Dugout Club, then created a vision with key committee members to establish The Jeff Kennard Memorial Scholarship as its own nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.
The scholarship fund provides $2,500 to a player or players who exemplify the attributes that Jeff taught and portrayed. Recipients are team players who not only show strong leadership, professionalism, and great sportsmanship but also support and ensure the inclusion of all teammates. CHS coaches have the final say in the selection process, accounting for classroom leadership and volunteer work as well.
Colin Becker is a 2022 recipient of the Jeff Kennard Memorial Scholarship. He is currently a freshman at the University of Findlay and a pitcher on the baseball team. Colin worked with Jeff years ago. He remembers pitching advice Jeff gave him, “He told me, ‘It doesn’t matter if you hit a batter. It’s their fault if they don’t get out of the way.’” The advice helped him pitch without fear.
Regarding the scholarship, Colin says, “It was an unexpected honor. I was thankful to be part of a team that was supportive of each other. The scholarship has helped me with my future.”
Donations are also awarded by the scholarship fund. The first donation was given in the form of a sponsorship for Tommy Ward, who worked with a recreational baseball league in West Carrollton. He explains, “I knew Nick from coaching against him. I was caught off guard and humbled. We were able to purchase equipment for the league.”
THE JEFF KENNARD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP CONTINUES A LOCAL ATHLETE’S TRADITION OF SUPPORTING YOUNG BASEBALL PLAYERS.
Douglas Taylor, Jeff’s father says, “Parents want to know they raised their kids right. There was never a doubt with Jeff.” He stresses, “We are honored and thrilled with Nick and the committee's work. They understand how much the community meant to Jeff.” He acknowledges that Jeff’s friends understood his impact and legacy: "Jeff’s impact wasn’t completely apparent to me until I experienced five hours of mourners.”
Nick reflects on Jeff and how he would react to the attention the memorial scholarship brings: “In terms of how he interacted on the field, I don’t know that you’d ever know that he was this top-line pitcher. He was a great team player and a great friend. He’s probably yelling at me right now because he never wanted to be in the spotlight. He’d much rather stay under the radar, do his work, and put in the time.”
Nick considers 2023 as the second full year the Jeff Kennard Scholarship is able to proceed with all plans. COVID safety protocols made some fundraising activities difficult during the first few years, but fundraisers are now scheduled throughout 2023.
The Jeff Kennard Memorial Classic Baseball Tournament will be held from June 30 to July 2 at Action Sports Center in Dayton. Nick says, “The baseball tournament is what we’ve wanted to do since we started since Jeff was a baseball player. We’re excited about this.” There are already 40 teams signed up for the tournament. For registration and more information, visit Play.USActionSports.com
The Third Annual Jeff Kennard Memorial Golf Outing is scheduled for August 4 at The Golf Club at Yankee Trace. The golf outing provides numerous opportunities to participate through donating, volunteering or golfing. Jeff’s family often assists with the outing. Tommy, who is registered for the golf outing says, “The work they’re doing is fantastic.” An event schedule, sponsorship, and registration information are available at JeffKennardMemorial.com .
The Second Annual Jeff Kennard Memorial Softball Tournament is planned for the fall. Elevate Sports Training sponsors the girls' softball tournament. The event will look to build on the success of last year’s tournament, which featured 28 teams.
Jeff’s motto was, “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” Jeff worked hard in all phases of his career. The Jeff Kennard Memorial Scholarship mirrors that commitment and carries on a great legacy of caring for young athletes in the community.
You can support The Jeff Kennard Memorial Scholarship through attendance, sponsorship, raffle donations, or volunteering. Monetary donations should be directed to JeffKennardScholarship.com
This is a celebration of three special individuals working every day to support kids and families in our community. Influenced by the mentors who helped them become the people they are today, each of these men are paying it forward and helping to create a brighter future. They possess rare talents and dedication to their work including attributes like empathy, listening, representation and a love for giving back. These are some of the heroes that live among us.
ARTICLE BY NINA WEIERMANPHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY SETTLE–KELLY ANN PHOTOGRAPHY
Depending on how you met Cedric Tolbert, you might know him as the intervention specialist teaching your child math and language arts at Cline Elementary School, a realtor, personal trainer, track & field or football coach. Each of these roles highlights Cedric’s strong ability to build relationships and desire to help others.
As a former University of Cincinnati football player, coaches and teachers had a substantial influence on Cedric's life and ultimately inspired him to pursue teaching as a way to have a positive impact on his community. “I wanted to provide representation, hope, advice, compassionate listening and high expectations for all students,” he shares.
Cedric has been an important part of Centerville City Schools for many years having coached high school football for 12 seasons as a defensive back coach and track & field for 14 years. He is also a core member of the Centerville City Schools Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion team. Whether coaching, teaching or real estate, Cedric is focused on helping individuals achieve their goals. “There have been numerous athletes whom I’ve coached in football and track & field who have earned full-ride collegiate scholarships. Any contributions to their success and witnessing their maturation are some things I am proud of,” he states.
Cedric keeps a sense of balance in his life with effective time organization abilities. When he isn’t working he enjoys spending time with his wife, Windai and their young daughter watching a movie, attending sporting events, being active or savoring a delicious meal together.
Centerville resident Dr. Mukund Dole has been a pediatric hematologist-oncologist for more than 30 years, serving over 27 of those years at Dayton Children’s Hospital. He currently leads the Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology at Dayton Children’s and is also the Ben Wegerzyn Endowed Chair for Blood and Cancer disorders. Recently, he was honored for his work with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation's first annual Friends & Family Walk.
Families who have been in Dr. Dole’s care describe his bedside manner as genuine and the care he offers as personalized. When asked about his approach to treatment, Dr. Dole humbly replies, “I simply put myself in the shoes of the parents and ask myself, ‘What would I do to improve the health of the child in this case.’ I try to provide the best possible care plan for the child’s condition.”
Dr. Dole was inspired to go into oncology through personal experiences of family members suffering from cancer and going through treatment. “I decided I would be an oncologist to help improve treatment options and the plight of those suffering. I’ve also always loved kids so dealing with cancer in children was the automatic choice,” he explains.
Dr. Dole’s empathetic approach has made a difference in the lives of countless families. He recalled one case in particular where a young boy was diagnosed with a widespread, serious form of cancer called Neuroblastoma. He was cured of his cancer with the help of Dr. Dole and others. “His family has moved away, but I get regular updates and it warms my heart to see him as a bright, young man,” he shares. It’s these kinds of success stories that help keep Dr. Dole’s passion to serve alive.
“Dayton Children’s has been a wonderful place to work and practice medicine and I am surrounded by folks who are passionate and caring and who love what they do,” he says.
Aaron Eechaute-Lopez is committed to the kids he serves as the middle and upper school counselor with The Miami Valley School (MVS). Having spent the last 12 years teaching, Aaron quickly discovered that what he found most rewarding is connecting with and providing support to his students. “It soon became clear that the relationships that educators could build with students was the defining characteristic of my teaching style,” shares Aaron. Growing up with two parents who were educators, Aaron went into education after seeing how many lives they impacted in their day-to-day work. This passion for making a difference is what ultimately led Aaron to become a school counselor.
Listening to the students of MVS is important to Aaron who implemented a peer-to-peer suicide prevention program called the HOPE Squad upon it being suggested by a student. Along with HOPE Squad, Aaron created a group called “The Lads” that specifically helps male students learn to feel comfortable with and have a safe place to express their feelings. “As a male mental health professional, I wanted to try to model for students that it is not only okay for them to have and express any emotions and feelings, it is normal and healthy to do so," he explains.
Aaron’s zeal and enthusiasm for guiding others are also demonstrated in his passion outside of work with the Springboro Community Theater where he has directed several productions, most recently Rent Additionally, Aaron serves as the Youth Program Coordinator for the Springboro Community Theater. His love for theater can be traced back to Aaron’s high school drama teacher, KC. “She was authentically herself, joyful, caring, and was always ready to be ‘that person’ for any of us students,” shares Aaron. It’s clear that KC’s impact can still be felt today in the great work that Aaron is doing at MVS and in the community.
LINDNER CENTER OF HOPE DISCUSSES FAMILY THERAPY AND THEIR EXPANSION PLANS.
Lindner Center of HOPE (Helping Our Patients Excel) is a nonprofit, comprehensive mental health center motivated by the philosophy that by working together, hope can be offered to people living with mental illness.
“Reducing stigma may be the single most important thing we can do to improve life not only for ourselves and our loved ones but also for the country as a whole,” Jennifer Wilcox, PsyD, staff psychologist at Lindner Center of HOPE tells us. “We need to talk about mental illness on par with any other physical illness."
Featuring one of the largest and most diverse groups of clinicians in the Midwest, their work is done collaboratively to provide a comprehensive, holistic view of patients’ needs. Additionally, they are one of the first centers designed as a fully integrated system of care. Their partnerships with UC Health and Cincinnati Children’s have helped them serve more than 53,000 patients from around the world.
“Mental illness is the nation’s #1 public health problem,” Jennifer states. She cites the Surgeon General, who proposed in 2022 that “the mental health crisis is the biggest concern facing the country because it impacts everybody and all facets of life.”
Additionally, the World Health Organization states that one in four people in the world will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives. An estimated 450 million people currently suffer from such conditions, placing mental health disorders among the leading causes of illness and disability worldwide.
“Not receiving the right treatment early enough is the biggest contributor to this problem,” Jennifer notes.
Struggling with mental illness not only affects the individual but also the family. The patient and family are at the center of treatment offered at Lindner Center of HOPE. In addition to their inpatient, outpatient and residential services for individuals, they also provide counseling for families and couples.
“People should seek out couples or family therapy if they feel that they are unable to function well together on a dayto-day basis, have trouble communicating effectively or engage in aggressive behaviors,” Jennifer clarifies.
There are many reasons why a family might need counseling.
“Some reasons that families seek counseling include problems communicating, a major change within the family (such as moving, divorce, death), one family member engaging in behavior that is affecting the other family members negatively, or to learn how to understand each other better,” Jennifer explains.
Although it can be hard work, there are many potential benefits of family counseling. “Family therapy allows families to improve their communication, resolve their conflict, and provides a safe place for them to express their emotions,” Jennifer tells us.
The goal of family therapy is to draw family members closer and strengthen the bonds between them. Jennifer stresses the importance of acknowledging how the actions of one family member will affect the lives of all other family members.
“A family is a system that needs to maintain balance and stability,” explains Jennifer.
“Each person needs to continuously adapt to maintain stability. Family therapy can help to reestablish this balance by improving communication and providing a voice for each family member,” Jennifer says.
The Lindner Center of HOPE is also doing a bit of adapting themselves, as they’ve begun preparing big expansion plans. They recently acquired approximately 18 acres of land adjacent to the north of their current property. The land is intended to accommodate the Center’s future growth needs, which includes an expansion of the treatment capacity, a new Wellness Center and a state-of-the-science Assessment Center. The acquisition is the latest update to the Center’s $30 million development campaign launched in May 2022. The campaign has received a total of $18 million in gifts and pledges to date. They hope to finalize their plans by the fall of 2023.
“The campaign will help establish a dedicated fund to build and retain the clinical team,” Jennifer explains.
Hopefully, it will help ensure their ability to provide high-quality mental health care and mental wellness services to the community for many years to come.
Training Nation empowers the Dayton community to achieve their physical goals with performance therapy.
Dr. Luke Barhorst and his wife Ali moved back to Ohio in 2020 after learning they were going to have a baby. The pandemic brought an end to both of their jobs and with the added pressure of new parental responsibilities, they had to get creative. Their business, Training Nation, was born.
The business started with a fold-up massage table in the back of Luke’s car. He traveled to clients' homes and gyms in the Dayton area. Pretty soon, as Luke deepened relationships with local gym owners, their clientele grew and Training Nation became a full-time commitment.
According to Luke, “We love creating relationships with people. Getting to know them, their goals, and helping them feel their best so they can continue enjoying the things they love to do.”
Training Nation’s physical therapy practice, located inside Centerville CrossFit and M-Power Gym in Vandalia, focuses on empowering clients to achieve their goals so they can thrive. Luke believes that everyone deserves the dignity to perform the tasks they want to - whether it's getting dressed, walking, going up or down stairs, swimming, throwing, running or lifting. While traditional physical therapy is reactive, performance therapy is proactive and aims to help people prevent injuries and perform better. With performance therapy, Training Nation aims to help people achieve, optimize, and enhance their physical goals.
Training Nation offers one-on-one sessions with a doctor of physical therapy for 60 minutes, personalized treatment sessions and program design, pain relief with short and long-term plans, and support for weekly workouts, nutrition, stress management, hydration and sleeping habits.
Their approach to helping people follows three steps: assess and find the cause of the problem, create an individualized plan to help clients feel and move better, and offer long-term support to help them achieve more physical feats. This approach has helped them build a strong relationship with their clients and establish a reputation for providing high-quality performance therapy services.
According to one of their clients, “I have never met a doctor who cares more about outcomes and his patients. He’s an amazing person who really desires to help people heal.”
Training Nation is a performance therapy practice that enables the Dayton community to feel better, move better and perform better. Their client-focused approach to empowering people through proactive, personalized treatment sessions and long-term support sets them apart from the competition. Whatever your goals are, Training Nation is here to help. For more information about Training Nation, text 937.802.4283 to set up a free discovery call with one of their performance physical therapists or visit TrainingNationPT.com
TRAINING TIPS:
1. Back stays flat.
2. Keep feet flat and screwed into the ground.*
3. Knees track over your toes.
4. Hips move first, then bend your knees to lower.
5. Shoulders and hips should raise at the same time when standing.
1. Back stays straight.
2. Screw your feet into the ground.*
3. Hips push backward until you feel a stretch in the back of the legs, then bend your knees.
4. Stand with shoulders and hips raising simultaneously.
1. Body stays straight.
2. Screw your shoulders into the ground.*
3. Lower down to the floor.
4. Press up.
Modify pushing up from your table, coffee table, the bottom of the stairs, or start on your knees.
1. Place a rolled towel under your back (following your back’s natural curve).
2. Lie on your back with the bottoms of your feet together, hips open and arms raised overhead.
3. Sit up to touch your toes.
*Imagine your right hand/foot twisting clockwise and your left hand/foot twisting counterclockwise, but your hands/ feet don’t move.
>
1. 2. 3. 4.What do you buy for the man who has everything? Perhaps an experience oriented around what dads value most – time together – is just what he needs. Fathers and father figures are invaluable in our lives. They help shape and mold us. They’re there for us and support us. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!
Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Dad feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your dad, husband, brother or father figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.
Family heritage websites can offer insight into dad’s past and be an interesting way to study the history of your family. Present Dad with a report on his ancestors or dig in together!
You don’t need to go very far to have a great time with Dad! Explore a new neck of your own woods with a family staycation. You can go out on the town, stay at a fancy hotel and maybe even enjoy some room service!
Lay out a blanket in your backyard and grab your binoculars for a peaceful, naturefilled day. Make a list of how many different kinds of birds you see and guess if you can identify them.
Bowling is a timeless classic Dad is sure to enjoy. Bonus if the bowling alley has an arcade, chicken wings and Dad’s favorite beverage of choice.
Find a local frisbee golf course and grab a slot for the family to play. This activity is fun for both young and old and helps you take advantage of being in the beautiful outdoors together.
| DaytonPowderBrows.com Let Us Take Care of Your Beauty Needs! 32
JUNE PERMANENT MAKEUP • WAXING • THREADING TEETH WHITENING • TOOTH GEMS • MORE
A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.
JUNE 4TH, 11TH, 18TH & 25TH Summer Concert Series
STUBBS PARK | 7:00 PM
The Summer Concert Series is back at Stubbs Park. These free events, presented by Cincinnati Children’s, will feature music from fan favorites, food trucks, and concessions. All concerts begin at 7:00 p.m. June performances include Practically Petty, The Rock Show: A Tribute to Journey, and Hotel California. For additional information visit CentervilleOhio.gov
JUNE 8TH - 25TH
World Premiere Musical: Indigo
THE LOFT THEATRE | 8:00 PM
The world premiere of the musical Indigo is presented for ages 12 and up at the Loft Theatre in downtown Dayton. Beverly navigates the chaos and emotions that autism and dementia bring to her family. She must confront her own mistakes to repair her family. Indigo is directed by Catie Davis. Show times and ticket information are available at HumanRaceTheatre.org
JUNE 9TH
STUBBS PARK | 5:30 PM
JUNE 17TH
NORTHPARK AMPHITHEATER |
12:00 PM
The third annual Juneteenth Jubilee will include a party at Northpark Amphitheater in Springboro. Live music, local vendors, and food trucks will be on hand to celebrate the occasion. There will be giveaways too! The festivities begin at noon on June 17. For a complete list of Juneteenth activities, go to SpringboroJuneteenth.com
JUNE 21ST
LINCOLN PARK | 5:30 PM
Fraze presents an Austrian Festival with traditional Austrian food, beverages, music and live entertainment. The Chardon Polka Band will perform their eclectic mix of polka tunes. This is a Fraze free festival. Lawn chairs are welcome. Pets and coolers are prohibited. The event takes place June 21 starting at 5:30 p.m. Fraze.com .
JUNE 24TH & 25TH
CARILLON HISTORICAL PARK |
9:30 AM
The Carillon Park Rail and Steam Society present a fun event for the entire family. See live engines and model train displays. Train merchandise will be available from rail vendors. Free miniature train rides will be part of the fun. The event runs June 24-25. For time and ticket information visit DaytonHistory.org .
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Centerville
Nothing describes summer better than a good cookout! And what is a cookout without a good, quality steak and the perfect grilling recipe?
1. Thaw and acclimate the steak. For searing to occur, the proteins in steak need to be heated to at least 310°F. Tossing cold meat onto a hot grill lowers the temperature and can prevent a crust from forming, so it’s important that any frozen steaks are thawed completely before cooking.
2. Salt your steak 30-45 minutes before grilling. This causes the salt to draw moisture from within the steak up to the surface, where it dissolves the salt and creates a brine that gets reabsorbed into the steak where it breaks down tough connective tissues.
3. Oil the grate on the grill, not the steak. Use tongs and a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to lube your grates.
4. Manage your heat well. Remember that your grill needs to be hot for your steak to get a good sear. But if it’s hot enough to cause your oil to smoke, it’s too hot.
5. Use the 60/40 rule. The best-tasting steaks are seared on both sides and cooked evenly in the middle. The simplest way to do that is to only flip your steak once. The 60/40 rule suggests that 60% of your cook time should be spent on one side, and 40% on the other.
6. Keep the lid closed. It may be tempting to peek, but trust the experts and keep it shut! Opening the lid makes your grill lose heat, which makes steaks cook unevenly.
7. Check for doneness. A meat thermometer will give you the most accurate temperature reading:
• Rare: 120°F
• Medium Rare: 130°F
• Medium: 140°F
• Medium Well: 150°F
• Well: 160°F
8. Let your steak rest. Pull your steaks from the grill once they’re cooked to 5-10 degrees below your target temperature and rest for 10-15 minutes.