West Chester & Liberty, OH April 2020

APRIL 2020

WestChesterandLibertyLifestyle.com

THE

Eco ISSUE

DIY COMPOSTING

ECO-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS

ENVIRONMENTAL BUILDINGS

WEST CHESTER HOSPITAL • Is ranked among the top 5% of hospitals in the U.S. for clinical excellence.

• Provides access to physician subspecialists in neurology, neurosurgery, cancer, cardiology, emergency medicine, trauma care and more.

• Is a member of UC Health, the region’s only adult academic health system.

• Provides hope to patients by offering innovative and discovery-driven solutions to the most complex medical conditions.

Discover more at uchealth.com/westchesterhospital

spring into savings $500 OFF MICRO-LASER FAC I A L R E S U R FAC I N G

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Design - Outdoor Living - Maintenance

“The perfect fit for your grounds maintenance needs�

www.theturftailor.net

513-295-2782

Awareness

theturftailor@gmail.com

Curb appeal starts at your front door.

C I N C I N N A T I

R P

DOOR & WINDOW TRANSFORMATIONS

Schedule an appointment to visit our showroom today!

513-459-4867 | 1224 CASTLE DRIVE IN MASON www.upgrademydoor.com

AFFORDABLE | PROFESSIONAL SERVICE | TOP-QUALITY PRODUCTS | THE BEST SELECTION

LIFESTYLE LETTER

APRIL 2020 PUBLISHER

Michelle Moody | Michelle.Moody@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Laura Leavitt | Laura.Leavitt@LifestylePubs.com

Eco-Friendly April LAST MONTH WAS ALL ABOUT OUR HOMES, THE PHYSICAL BUILDINGS

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Tera Michelson AD DESIGNER

Miranda Williams

AND INTERIORS WHERE WE LIVE. This month we turn our focus to our bigger

LAYOUT DESIGNER

home—planet Earth. With Earth Day taking place this month, our April issue is

Dana Rudolph

about all things eco-friendly.

Inside, we share some of our favorite planet-friendly products. We also take you on a tour of the innovative design that went into creating a fully sustainable school in Glendale.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Katie Bray, Alexandra Frost, Tera Michelson CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Gina Breyfogle, Len Kaltman—West Chester Corporate Photography, Ali Wolfe Photography

Have you ever thought about composting but weren’t quite sure where to start?

This month, local experts teach you how. If you’d like to get closer to the earth, we also have a few recipe ideas perfect for a “Meatless Monday.” These are just a few of the sustainability stories you’ll read this month.

Thank you for all you do to keep West Chester & Liberty clean and healthy.

We wouldn’t be this wonderful community without each and every one of you doing your part.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Happy Earth Day!

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Michelle Moody, Publisher Michelle.Moody@LifestylePubs.com

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ON THE COVER Celebrating the beauty of our Earth.

WestChesterandLibertyLifestyle.com

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELLE MOODY 6

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

Proverbs 3:5-6 West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the West Chester & Liberty areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE APRIL 2020

FEATURES 22 Meatless Mondays Meat-Free Alternatives for Mealtime

26 Composting 101 Transform Food & Lawn Scraps into Super Soil

32 Building an Environmental Legacy Bethany School’s LEED-Certified Building Showcases the Eco-Friendly Future

42 High Flying Adventure Inclusive Ropes Course at

26 32

Camp Campbell Gard Celebrates First Anniversary

42 DEPARTMENTS

22

6

Lifestyle Letter

10

Good Times

16

Around Town

18

Financial Buzz

20 Local’s Choice 22 Culinary Creations 26 DIY 30 Giving Back 32 Trend Setter 36 Food & Wine 40 Lifestyle Calendar 42 Parting Thoughts

Caring for you and your smile

THA N K YOU!

Voted 2019 Readers’ Choice Winner for Best Dentist

C E L E B R AT I N G 2 5 Y E A R S O F S E R V I C E I N W E S T C H E S T E R

‹‹ Dr. Nicholas Grabarz & Dr. Chelsea Grabarz

Become a part of our family!

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READERS’

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April 2020 | West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle

9

GOOD TIMES

Innovation Pointe Opening at MidPointe Library MidPointe Library's new Makerspace has officially opened to the public! At their grand opening at the West Chester branch, visitors were able to see how the many machines worked that allow visitors to 3D-print, laser engrave, make buttons and much more.

This learning center allows locals to learn practical skills and express their creativity through invention. PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED. MidPointeLibrary.org/Page/InnovationPointe

Find great recipes for Easter and spring at

TheSpicyOlive.com

Fresh Olive Oils and Balsamic Vinegars

Flavors of the Month:

Easter and Hostess Gifts for all taste and budgets

10% OFF ALL MONTH Online orders use code FLAVORS

Garlic Olive Oil Raspberry Balsamic

Shop on-line for easy in-store pick-up!

THANK YOU for voting us 3 years in a row!

The Wine Cellar @ The Spicy Olive Casual Wine Tastings and Small Bites Fridays 4-7pm and Saturdays 3-6pm. Wine Experience the 4th Thursday each month.

The Wine Cellar carries a variety of boutique wines, craft beers, and gift baskets. Sommeliers, Melanie Cedargren and Chris Hensey.

7671 Cox Lane • West Chester, Ohio 45069 • 513.847.4397 • TheSpicyOlive.com 10

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

PROTECT yOuR nEw bEginnings wiTh LifE insuRanCE When a new chapter begins, get peace of mind by planning for the future.

Because there’s no time like the present to financially protect their tomorrows.

Let’s talk about finding life insurance that fits you.

Michael Corna, Agent 7237 Cincinnati Dayton Rd Ste 204 West Chester, OH 45069 Bus: (513) 777-5543 mcorna@amfam.com Certified Agency in Customer Excellence

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YOU’VE FOUND YOUR

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April 2020 | West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle

11

GOOD TIMES

Give Teens the EDGE Fundraiser This year's "Give Teens the EDGE" fundraiser for EDGE Teen Center at the Four Points by Sheraton—Cincinnati North was a huge success. Drinks, live music and even some 'teen trivia' made the evening fun and memorable. Chef Tyler Simpson and teens from the Butler Tech Culinary Arts program served a sumptuous feast. PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEN KALTMAN—WEST CHESTER CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY. EdgeTeenCenter.com

A LUXURY PET HOTEL OF A DIFFERENT BREED

BOOK YOUR MEMORIAL DAY STAY NOW

8825 Cincinnati Dayton Rd | West Chester, OH 45069 For Info: (513) 847-8191 | Fetchington.com

12

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

At locally owned Skally’s we’re committed to higher quality delicious food using no preservatives or chemicals. We make all our products – including salad dressings, BBQ sauce, and desserts. Try the best gluten-free pizza in Cincinnati. We are excited for you to taste and experience the difference!

Cocktails, Great Food & Fun! CATERING WITH DELIVERY SERVICE IS NOW AVAILABLE! Please contact us for additional information

e n o y r e v E r o f g in Someth In the Streets of West Chester at 9558 Civic Center Blvd, Suite D // 513-342-5004 // SkallysRestaurant.com

F I N D T H E B U I C K S U V T H AT’S R I G H T FO R YO U

SURPRISING UTILIT Y VEHICLES

ENCORE

ENVISION

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Conveniently located near Bridgewater Falls across from Menards April 2020 | West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle

13

GOOD TIMES

Galentine's Girls Night Out with Moms on Mission Local organization Moms on Mission recently hosted a fun pampering night for groups of girlfriends to enjoy. The event benefited local foster children and their families through Warm Welcomes Foster Care Outreach. Attendees relaxed while getting massages, doing their nails, making earrings and more. They raised $21,000 for warm welcomes in the process! PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED. Facebook.com/Moms410

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West Chester, OH 45069 513-777-7557 513-777-7557

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

West Chester, OH 45069 513-777-5555 513-777-5555

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Welcome Home to

Lifestyle Living at Carriage Hill!

Cypress Village at Carriage Hill is maintenance-free living at its finest!

We take care of lawn care and snow removal allowing you more time to enjoy the unparalleled amenities in our master-planned community.

CHOOSE FROM 3 UNIQUE NEIGHBORHOODS IN CYPRESS VILLAGE

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The Wynn’s

Courtyard Homes starting in the $550s

The Enclave

Patio Homes starting in the $390s

The Retreat

Ranch Homes starting in the mid $300s

Natural Beauty • Old World Design • Refined Quality 513-894-4455 • CarriageHillLiving.com Liberty Township, Ohio

AROUND TOWN

LAKOTA GOES GREEN WITH STUDENT-LED PROJECT

temporary exhibits include sculptor Steinunn Thórarinsdóttir’s (Steinunn Þórarinsdóttir) exhi-

Lakota East’s National Honor Society opted

bition “BORDERS” and “Love is Love: Selections

for a different type of service project this year,

from the Michelle and Sara Vance Waddell

hoping to leave a lasting legacy on the school

Collection.” The sculptor’s exhibition features

and the community. They wanted to make an

eleven pairs of cast iron and cast aluminum

environmental impact, so the group began rais-

life-sized figurative works outdoors. The “Love

ing money to fund a solar array.

is Love” collection, drawn from the collection of

They’ve had dine-to-donate nights, car washes

Cincinnati art collector Sara Vance Waddell, will

and even held a dance to raise the $15,000-

include mixed media items related to love. Visit

$20,000 estimated for their portion of the project.

the park to learn more. PyramidHill.org

School officials and advisors have been impressed by the passion and enthusiasm behind the project.

The community is invited to attend the #LakotaGoesGreen Earth Day Celebration on April

Reach Out Lakota received a grant donation

18 to see Lakota students sharing ideas like the

of a dozen computers that were donated by the

solar array. The event, held in partnership with the

Charitable Computing Ministry (CCM) of St.

West Chester Farmers’ Market, will be held from

Susanna Parish Mason. The donation is part of a

2-4 p.m. at West Chester Square. Congratulations,

continuing association between the two charities

Lakota East NHS! LakotaOnline.com

for more than two years to bring computing to the needy served by Reach Out Lakota. All of the

WEST CHESTER HOSPITAL EARNS SURGEON ACCREDITATION

donated computers were wiped of all data then loaded with free Linux operating and application

The Commission on Cancer (CoC), a quality

software, which helps them run well long-term.

program of the American College of Surgeons

Reach Out Lakota’s successes extend beyond

(ACS), has granted three-year accreditation to

this partnership though. Their 2019 Annual

the cancer program at UC Health’s West Chester

Report showcased their incredible impact, from

Hospital. Because it is a CoC-accredited cancer

serving 8,205 individuals during 1,754 visits, to

center, West Chester Hospital takes a comprehen-

distributing 152,550 pounds of food. They also

sive, multidisciplinary approach to treating cancer

experienced growth, with the addition of 109 new

as a complex group of diseases that requires con-

families who received ROL services. Thank you

sultation among surgeons, medical and radiation

to all in the community who support this worth-

oncologists, diagnostic radiologists, pathologists

while organization. ReachOutLakota.org

and other cancer specialists.

This multidisciplinary partnership results in

FIVE YEAR ANNIVERSARY

improved patient care. When patients receive

Dr. Kristin Titko and the team at the Center

care at a CoC facility, they also have access to

for Foot Care are excited to be celebrating

information on clinical trials and new treatments,

five years in practice as a local business in

genetic counseling and patient-centered ser-

Liberty Township. They have been honored to

vices including psycho-social support, a patient

help those in our local and surrounding areas

navigation process and a survivorship care plan

to get "back on their feet" with the most up-to-

that documents the care each patient receives

date treatment technologies such as platelet,

and seeks to improve cancer survivors’ quality

regenerative cell and laser therapies. They also

of life. Congratulations, West Chester Hospital!

offer medical and cosmetic options for toenails.

UCHealth.com/WestChesterHospital/

Join them in celebrating: stop in to wish them a happy anniversary during the month of April

NEW EXHIBITS AT PYRAMID HILL SCULPTURE PARK Two

new

exhibits

joined

and be entered into a drawing for a special treat from Lulu's Sweet Bites, another locally-owned Pyramid

Hill

Sculpture Park on March 8 in honor of International Women’s Day. These long-term but 16

REACH OUT LAKOTA: A GRANT AND A GREAT 2019

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

business. Congratulations, Center for Foot Care!

CincinnatiFootCare.com

LAKOTA REGISTRATION CLOSES THIS MONTH It may still feel like this autumn's start of school is

• Medical Care

a long way off, but Lakota Local Schools is already

• Laser Therapy

gearing up for the next successful year. Online

513.777.5131

• Surgery

registration for grades K-12 is open for 2020-2021,

Animal Hospital of West Chester

• Dental Care

but this is the last month to do so. Kindergarten

• Boarding

9335 Cincinnati-Columbus Rd. (Rt. 42) West Chester, OH 45069

registration ends on April 14. LakotaOnline.com

• Grooming

AnimalHospitalofWC.com

MIAMI VOA FALL CLASS REGISTRATION FOR SENIORS Miami University at Voice of America offers a range of classes through its Institute for Learning in Retirement. Registration for the Fall classes is open now and runs through April for the fall session from October 5 through November 6 this year. Courses vary each session, but include a variety of practical courses such as gardening or cooking, as well as academic subjects like film studies and history. A term costs $115 and includes as many courses as you wish to take, pending available seats. MiamiOH.edu

CHAMBER NOW ACCEPTING LEADERSHIP 21 APPLICATIONS Interested in becoming more involved in our community? Leadership 21 is a West ChesterLiberty Chamber Alliance program designed to improve the quantity, quality and effectiveness of our local leadership. Area leaders are selected to participate in this program where they will study various aspects of our region.

Monthly sessions allow participants to gain a grasp of the interdependence of each sector, as well as the mutual understanding and cooperation needed among them for our community to grow and thrive. TheChamberAlliance.com April 2020 | West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle

17

FINANCIAL BUZZ

go i n g paperless SHELLY O’NEILL FROM EMERY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION DISCUSSES DIGITIZING FINANCES ARTICLE ALEXANDRA FROST | PHOTOGRAPHY ALI WOLFE PHOTOGRAPHY AND PROVIDED

OUR MAILBOXES ARE EMPTIER AND OUR EMAIL

IDENTITY THIEVES LOVE YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS

INBOXES ARE FULL. In the new decade, almost everyone

One of the fastest-growing “businesses” is identity theft, and

has converted at least something in their lives to a virtual

you may be helping thieves along by providing such ease of

version. As consumers navigate the waters of transitioning

access to your information, life and whereabouts. O’Neill revealed

to paperless documents, often the last switch they make is

some staggering rates: “identity theft has increased an extraordi-

in their finances. Virtual credit card statements, letters from

nary 175% over the past decade.” However, she also says going

the bank and account updates may have bank clients won-

paperless can secure your information by reducing the number of

dering if paperless finances are a smart idea.

hands that touch a physical statement.

Chief Operations Officer Shelly O’Neill of Emery Federal Credit Union has some tips on maintaining privacy and secu-

SAVE DOCUMENTS THE RECOMMENDED TIME,

rity in our digital age. Her recommendations include rethinking

EVEN IF THEY ARE VIRTUAL

your social media presence to prevent identity theft, keeping

So you’ve switched everything to electronic paperwork. Should

paper documents for the correct amount of time before shred-

you shred all of your old documents? Not exactly, O’Neill says.

ding them and carefully considering what documents you still

In the short term, keep on hand household bills and expired

need to have in “hard copy.” EmeryFCU.org

insurance policies. Keep tax returns, bank statements, expense and income records and paid-off loan documents for six to seven years. Preserve long-term documents like social security, retirement and medical papers.

YOU STILL NEED SOME PHYSICAL COPIES... FOREVER Some papers should never be discarded or converted to electronic copies (at least not as your only copy). Preserve the following indefinitely, O’Neill recommends: + Birth/death certificates + Social security cards + Pension plan documents + ID cards/passports + Marriage/Business licenses + Insurance policy + Wills/powers of attorney + Vehicle titles and loan documents + House deeds and mortgage documents

18

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

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19

LOCAL’S CHOICE

GREEN YOUR LIFE RECYCLED PRODUCTS OFFER NEW PATHS TO SUSTAINABILITY

MAKING LITTLE CHANGES IN OUR LIVES CAN MAKE A BIG IMPACT ON HOW MANY RESOURCES WE CONSUME. Whether a product is made of recycled material, saving trash from a landfill or is very durable to reduce single-use disposable items, some of the best options are listed here to make your everyday life more eco-friendly.

ARTICLE LAURA LEAVITT | PHOTOGRAPHY LEN KALTMAN— WEST CHESTER CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY AND PROVIDED

20

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

ROTHY’S SHOES

RECYCLED PURSE

REUSABLE STRAWS

Women on the go are always looking

Mother Erth creates gorgeous, upcy-

Single-use plastic straws only get

for a trusty pair of shoes that is com-

cled purses out of thrown-away plas-

minutes or hours of use before they

fortable, stylish and easy to clean. All of

tics before those items can pollute the

become trash that is hard to break down.

those are rolled into the innovative shoe

earth or oceans. The bags are made by

Reusable straws are a stylish solution

styles from Rothy’s. Their original line is

artisan moms in the Philippines, boost-

to the problem of single-use plastic

made out of recycled plastic bottles, but

ing their earning potential while cre-

straws, reducing the plastic waste that

their process makes the material soft and

ating a gorgeous statement piece that

we throw away. This set comes with a

breathable. Rothy’s can be cleaned in

is sturdy, beautiful and eco-friendly.

straw cleaner to make sure they stay

the washing machine, helping them last

MotherErth.com

hygienic after many uses. Purchase at SymmetryBoutiqueAndGallery.com

a long time even if you wear them for all your adventures. Rothys.com

REUSABLE GROCERY BAG

BEE’S WRAP

REUSABLE SWEDISH DISH TOWEL

Carrying reusable bags to the gro-

Many of us use some form of plastic

cery store helps cut down on the

or metal wrap to seal bowls, wrap sand-

These reusable replacements for your

amount of plastic waste, and none

wiches and cover half-used bread or fruit.

standard paper towel are all the rage.

are as stylish and secure as these

We’ve felt a sense of the waste when this

They can be washed and reused rather

adorable zip-up grocery bags. Made of

nearly-unused material goes in the trash

than thrown away, and they double as

thin, strong material, they can tuck into

after the food is eaten. Bee’s Wrap works

dishcloths. The towels also come in

a pocket or purse, and be pulled out

to solve this problem: a sturdy piece of

adorable designs and are quick to dry,

to carry your purchases. Purchase at

cloth covered in naturally-antibacterial

SymmetryBoutiqueAndGallery.com

making them a must-have for wiping up

beeswax, it replaces plastic wrap and foil

messes and cleaning dishes alike. Best

as a cover for bowls and other items. When

of all, they are made of natural cellulose

you cover a bowl with it and hold down the

and cotton and can be composted in

edges, the beeswax naturally clings to the

your backyard composter! Available at

container without leaving a residue upon

SymmetryBoutiqueAndGallery.com

removal. It works for up to a year, which means it can replace dozens of pieces of disposable wrap. BeesWrap.com April 2020 | West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle

21

CULINARY CREATIONS

meatless mondays MEAT-FREE ALTERNATIVES FOR MEALTIME

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY MICHELLE MOODY

IN 2009, PAUL, STELLA AND MARY MCCARTNEY LAUNCHED MEAT FREE MONDAY, A CAMPAIGN ENCOURAGING THE NATION TO HELP SLOW CLIMATE CHANGE BY REDUCING MEAT CONSUMPTION. The initiative aims to raise awareness of the environmental impact of animal agriculture and industrial fishing to encourage people to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by having at least one meat-free day every week.

Whether your goal is to make a positive environmental impact, eat healthier or just learn new ways to use the vegetables you’re growing, going meatfree one day a week may be a change to consider making. Enjoy these two meat-free recipes from locally-owned The Spicy Olive. For more recipes and to learn more, visit MeatFreeMondays.com and TheSpicyOlive.com.

garbanzo bean and kale pasta INGREDIENTS + 1/2 pound farfalle or orecchiette pasta + 2 teaspoons The Spicy Olive's lemon extra virgin olive oil + 2 teaspoons The Spicy Olive's ultra-premium extra virgin olive oil + 1-2 tablespoons garlic + 1 can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained + 5 cups kale, ribbed and shredded + 1/2 cup parmesan cheese DIRECTIONS Cook pasta according to package directions then drain and toss in the lemon olive oil.

In a skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil on medium.

Add minced garlic (1-2 tablespoons depending on your personal preference) and cook for 30 seconds.

Add rinsed and drained garbanzo beans and cook for three minutes. Add five cups ribbed and shredded fresh kale and cook until it’s wilted.

Add pasta and 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, season with sea salt and pepper if needed. Drizzle with lemon olive oil to finish. Serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a delicious meal.

22

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

CONTINUED >

Thank you for voting Drees as the 2019 Readers’ Choice for Best Builder!

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April 2020 | West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle

23

CULINARY CREATIONS (CONTINUED)

roasted butternut squash farro salad INGREDIENTS + 1/3 cup The Spicy Olive's blood orange olive oil + 1 butternut squash peeled, seeded and cubed + 1 cup farro + 1/3 cup dried cranberries + 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled + 1/3 cup The Spicy Olive's cinnamon pear balsamic vinegar + 2 cups arugula, washed + Salt and pepper to taste DIRECTIONS Peel, seed and cube butternut squash and coat with 3 tablespoons of the blood orange olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste and roast in a 425-degree oven until tender, approximately 35-45 minutes. You’ll be able to pierce the squash easily with a fork when it’s done.

Simmer farro in a pot of salted water according to package instructions until it reaches desired consistency (around 20 minutes). Drain the farro and coat with 1-2 tablespoons of the blood orange olive oil.

Place arugula leaves in the bottom of a shallow salad dish and coat with the remaining blood orange olive oil. Mix farro into the arugula in the salad dish. Top with roasted butternut squash. Sprinkle with dried cranberries and feta cheese crumbles. Drizzle with the cinnamon pear balsamic vinegar. Toss and serve.

24

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

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DIY

COMPOSTING 101 ARTICLE TERA MICHELSON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

TAKE A SIMPLE STEP TOWARD GOING GREEN THIS SPRING BY TRANSFORMING YOUR FOOD SCRAPS AND YARD WASTE INTO NUTRIENT-RICH COMPOST. Eggshells and carrot shavings combined with leaves and weeds make what gardeners call “black gold,” the secret ingredient to successful veggie gardens and lush lawns. A small space in your yard, a minimal time commitment and a dose of patience will yield a batch of compost for next season’s flowers, veggies and grass.

“Composting is not complicated. There’s nothing more simple and natural,” says Damon Mundey of local landscaping company The Turf Tailor. “It’s so worth the little bit of time you put in.”

When compost is added to dirt, it loosens compact soil, helps it retain moisture and adds nutrients that nurture growth. Composting is not only the ultimate in recycling, it also reduces the need for chemicals to treat soil, lawns and gardens throughout the year.

26

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

TRANSFORM FOOD & LAWN SCRAPS INTO SUPER SOIL

“When used as a top mulch dressing, compost will even repel weeds,” says Damon. “There are so many benefits to using compost.”

Some people fear a compost area will bring vermin, bad smells or an ugly mess to their yard.

Damon recommends that you cover your pile to seal in the smells, keep light moisture in and small pests and heavy moisture out.

“Turf Tailor can incorporate compost bins into landscape design, so they don’t look like an eyesore,” Damon shares. “There is an unlimited amount of options: hidden behind a retaining wall, pergola or a line of privacy trees is very popular.”

“We can match your landscaping style,” he adds.

“I’ve seen bins made out of wood scraps, rain barrels, five-gallon buckets, even whiskey or wine barrels. It’s a simple process.”

Add composting to your spring checklist for a satisfying boost to all things green.

Turf Tailor, 513.295.2782, TheTurfTailor.net

CONTINUED >

April 2020 | West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle

27

DIY (CONTINUED)

5 EASY STEPS TO DIY COMPOST

1.

2.

LOCATION IS KEY Place a bin of your choice in a dry, shady spot that can be reached by a garden hose or with a bucket of water.

GO GREEN…AND BROWN Mix small pieces of nitrogen-rich green and carbon-rich brown waste: veggie and fruit peels, coffee grounds, grass clippings, dry leaves, dead plants and more. Eggshells and even torn paper towel rolls make good compost, but do not add anything cooked to your pile.

3.

4.

5.

JUST ADD WATER Help the pile to decompose quickly by lightly watering it each time you add scraps.

AIR IT OUT Aerate your mix by giving it a stir with a shovel or rake once each week.

WAIT FOR IT Cover the pile for three months or more. When it stops giving off heat and has a dark brown and crumbly appearance, the nutrient-rich super soil is ready to go to work.

COMPOST THINGS LIKE:

28

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

Custom fabricators of granite, quartz and marble countertops & cabinetry.

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29

GIVING BACK

EASTERSEALS OFFERS INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES A PATH FORWARD IN GREATER CINCINNATI

paving the way

to employment IN 1907, EDGAR ALLEN OF ELYRIA, OHIO LOST HIS SON IN A TRAGIC STREETCAR INCIDENT. Because a lack of local medical resources contributed to the death, Edgar rerouted his career and opened a hospital in his hometown. He quickly realized there was a

those people live at or below the poverty line, which is

stigma surrounding children with physical disabilities, as they were

less than $13,000 a year for an individual or $26,000 a

kept hidden from public view. This inspired Edgar to launch the National

year for a family of four.

Society for Crippled Children in 1919, later renamed Easterseals during

“People living with a developmental disability are

a highly successful campaign where donors placed artistic seals on

often paid one-third less than a typical employee,

envelopes during Easter to raise program funds.

which makes it harder for them to find sustainable

Today, Easterseals is America’s largest nonprofit healthcare

employment,” Michael states.

organization. With a network of 75 locations in the U.S., each year

Many Easterseals affiliates focus on the needs unique

they serve over 1.4 million people with physical and mental disabil-

to their community. ESGC primarily tailors to those

ities and special needs.

needing employment like veterans, the disabled, those

According to Easterseals Serving Greater Cincinnati (ESGC) Marketing Manager, Michael Beauchat, the local affiliate annually assists approximately 7,000 people in need. About 85 percent of

who lack necessary resources and skills, and especially teens entering adulthood after high school.

According to Michael, ESGC’s Career Connection program assists those ages 16 to 24 with disadvan-

tages including leaving high school before graduation, homelessness, transportation issues, language or literacy barriers and more. This program provides training, tutoring and work experiences.

Another ESGC local program is Work and Grow, providing participants with different levels of mental acuity paid employment and social activities that promote health.

ARTICLE KATIE BRAY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

30

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

“In some cases, we’re partnered with a local organization,” says Michael. “For example, in Butler County, Easterseals provides job supports for Project SEARCH, which is a collaboration with Butler Tech, UC Health [West Chester Hospital], Miami University, Atrium Medical Center and Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities.

“This program provides education, job support, interview training, and transportation to interviews for students with developmental disabilities who are preparing to transition from high school to work,” he adds.

One unique aspect of Easterseals is the level of individual care it gives.

“When someone is referred to us, our case managers work directly with the person, accessing all the available benefits to that person to ultimately help them receive employment and the care that they need,” Michael explains.

Easterseals is not just for teens. One of Easterseals’ adult-based service programs is Cincinnati’s Building Value store in the Northside neighborhood. Crews of people who are facing economic disadvantages are taught construction skills to salvage reusable materials from local homes undergoing renovations. These donated materials are then sold to the community at a storefront for up to 75 percent off retail value and the profits go back into the program.

“We’re helping people become more independent through employment,” says Michael. “For people with disabilities, it’s the pride in earning a paycheck and being a part of something bigger.

It’s helping them become more in charge of their own destiny.”

Easterseals of Greater Cincinnati, 2901 Gilbert Ave, Cincinnati, 513.281.2316, EastersealsGC.org

April 2020 | West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle

31

TREND SETTER

building an environmental legacy BETHANY SCHOOL’S LEED-CERTIFIED BUILDING SHOWCASES THE ECO-FRIENDLY FUTURE

CHOOSING TO BREAK GROUND ON A NEW CONSTRUCTION PROJECT IS ALWAYS A MAJOR UNDERTAKING. However, the leaders of the Bethany School, an order of Episcopal nuns called the Sisters of the Transfiguration, took a fresh approach when they began constructing new buildings on campus.

As a result, their new 3rd-8th grade building is considered the second-most energy-efficient school building in the United States, second only to a school that doesn’t require an air-conditioning system. It’s considered net-zero, meaning that it produces as much energy as it uses.

“The sisters did not sway on any of the netzero energy costs,” says Sharon Shumard, director of advancement for Bethany School.

“They are the ones that pushed for the 108 geothermal wells that will heat and cool the whole campus eventually.”

The building meets the LEED Platinum certification, the most rigorous standard for energy-efficiency and sustainability in architecture. A major component is a geothermal heat exchange system that creates year-round, sustainable heating and cooling.

ARTICLE LAURA LEAVITT PHOTOGRAPHY GINA BREYFOGLE 32

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

They also have 250 solar panels to provide electricity needs for the campus. The system is tied into the Duke Energy grid, creating a potential source of revenue during days when school isn’t in session.

“Now that we are completely on-grid, we got a check from the energy company for $20,000 because we make more energy than we use,” says Sharon.

Beyond energy production, LEED specifies how the building can impact its natural environment. For instance, the building project needed to make use of recycled materials, as well as find a use for any trees that were taken down as a result. Since the school wanted an innovative play area for the students, these two goals were rolled into one.

“All the wood in the playscape were trees that we used to have here on campus; we knew the kids would see these trees come down, so we held all the wood, drying it for two years on campus,” explains Sharon. “Our landscaper, Landworx, came and built this great place out of those beautiful trees. The design of the playscape is a focus on unstructured play.”

The playscape is an innovative pathway between buildings on the Bethany School campus, full of climbable tree segments and places to sit and talk with friends. Gravel and stone were used to create a natural stormwater drainage system that ensures that 30% more water is taken up by the ground rather than just diverting it into a municipal stormwater system.

Inside the building, the different corridors and ‘pods’ for the grade levels have nature themes and plenty of windows so that the children can look outside. With the Bethany mascot being the Bluehawk, a group of students called the Eco-Hawks run environmental awareness efforts on campus, such as bulletin boards promoting recycling.

The campus is still under construction, with a new K-2 building coming soon. It will feature an additional outdoor classroom so that children can spend more time outside in nature.

The end goal of creating this special, eco-friendly building has always been to benefit the school and its students; Sharon says they are already seeing dividends on that front.

“The kids understand that this building was built for them and was an investment in them,” Sharon says.

“They are really grateful for what they have. The teachers also love it because they have better room and more room, making classroom management better.”

Bethany School, 513.771.7462, 555 Albion Ave, Glendale, BethanySchool.org CONTINUED >

April 2020 | West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle

33

TREND SETTER (CONTINUED)

understanding sustainable design features Geothermal heat exchange systems use deep ‘wells’ buried in the ground, where the temperature is 50-60 degrees F all year. The system uses the naturally cool temperature of the earth to heat and cool the buildings.

The building is designed to be oriented ‘toward’ the sun at the right times of day to get great window sunlight as well as to generate solar energy.

The building also retains the heat and cooling that are used on it, because it has excellent insulation, including heavy insulation and spray foam insulation used during construction.

The construction materials and products were selected so that at least 20% of all materials were recycled and at least 20% were locally harvested and manufactured. This choice keeps materials out of landfills and reduces carbon emissions from shipping materials worldwide.

34

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

BOOKS ON TAP

AT D O G B E R RY B R E W I N G 9964 Crescent Park Dr., West Chester, Ohio 45069

Discuss books over brews at this book club for adults. Engage with fellow readers in a fun and casual environment outside the library.

MARCH 24 • 7:00 PM Exhalation by Ted Chiang

AGES

21+

APRIL 28 • 7:00 PM

Mother Night by Kurt Vonnegut

MAY 26 • 7:00 PM

Born a Crime by Trevor Noah April 2020 | West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle

35

FOOD & WINE

body + soul

NOURISH your

UNDERSTAND WHAT’S IN YOUR FOOD FOR MINDFUL EATING

ARTICLE HAYLEY HYER

36

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

T H I N K O U T S I D E T H E S C A L E . T R Y TA K I N G N O T E OF HOW YOUR FOOD MAKES YOU FEEL AFTER Y O U E AT I T. I T ’ S E A S I E R T O M A K E H E A LT H Y CHOICES WHEN YOU CAN FEEL THE DIFFERENCE!

nutrition MINDFUL EATING MEANS KNOWING WHAT IS IN YOUR FOOD, HOW IT IS AFFECTING YOUR BODY AND TAKING THE TIME TO FULLY APPRECIATE THE NUTRIENTS AND FLAVORS YOU ARE TAKING IN. Whether or not you are trying to lose, gain or maintain weight, reading labels and understanding nutrition facts will help you make better choices for your body and ultimately feel better in your day-to-day.

PROTEINS Protein makes you feel full longer. If you eat a meal with little protein, you’ll feel hungry again pretty quickly, and it can be discouraging. But you don’t have to eat a huge steak to get enough protein. You can find it in cheese, nuts, seeds, spinach, eggs, avocados, broccoli, hummus, lentils—the list goes on and on! Mindful eating means taking note of how hungry you feel and eating enough protein to satisfy that hunger in a way that will last.

C A R B O H Y D R AT E S Carbohydrates are not your enemy. But, it is important to pay attention to how you feel when you eat them. If you eat a lot of carbs in one sitting, it can cause your blood sugar to spike, and when it drops back down, you can feel lethargic and maybe even irritable.

By spreading your carbohydrate intake throughout your day and always pairing it with a protein, you can help your body regulate your blood sugar more effectively and feel more alert all day long.

F AT S Fats also help slow carbohydrates down so they don’t instantly turn into sugar in your bloodstream. Fats are important for energy, and it’s especially important to eat the right kinds of fats for your brain. For better concentration and memory, try to incorporate foods like salmon, avocados, nuts, seeds and olive oil.

CONTINUED >

April 2020 | West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle

37

FOOD & WINE (CONTINUED) While nutritionists can recommend average nutrient intake percentages for a population, those might not be entirely accurate for your body and what you need. If you don’t enjoy calculating and counting

read

labels

every single gram you eat, you can just start with the recommended guidelines and make adjustments based on how you feel each day. If you are groggy and sluggish mid-day, look at how many carbohydrates you had in your lunch and see if you want to change anything about your lunch tomorrow. Here’s how to read nutrition labels so you can better keep track and know what you are eating.

Serving sizes can be confusing if you don’t know what an ounce of that food looks like. Look at “Servings Per

The number of calories per

Container” and divide that

serving doesn’t mean that’s

container into however many

how many calories you should

portions it says. Now you know

eat at a time. It’s just telling you

that the nutrition facts on the

how many are in that particular

label will be accurate for every portion you separated out.

food. If you are eating a package of nuts as a snack, and you are not eating anything else with it, you may need a couple of packages to eat as many calories as you want for that snack. It’s not wrong to eat multiple servings! Focus on what your body needs.

You need a variety of vitamins in your day, so check the percentages and make sure you are getting lots of different nutrients. Vitamin C is great, but it is possible to have too much Vitamin C and neglect Vitamin A. Calcium and iron are important for strength and to avoid injuries, so make sure you get enough of those each day as well. An easy trick is to try eating a vegetable of every color each day.

38

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

Carbohydrates are broken down by dietary fiber and sugar. To feel fuller longer and to have a clear mind and avoid getting foggy, choose carbohydrates, such as wild rice, that have more dietary fiber and less sugar.

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APRIL

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR DUE TO MANY JUST-IN-TIME CANCELLATIONS OF PUBLIC GATHERINGS AFTER WE GO TO PRINT, PLEASE RECOGNIZE THAT THESE EVENTS MAY CHANGE; PLEASE CHECK THE ORGANIZATION'S WEBSITE FOR CURRENT DETAILS.

3

SCAC FIRST FRIDAY GALLERY OPENING Westheimer Gallery

Join other local art lovers for the

4

16

EASTER EGG HUNT

PAWS FOR A CAUSE

Liberty Township’s annual Easter Egg

From 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on

Hunt will take place on April 4 in Liberty

April 16, volunteer at Matthew 25:

Park at 10 a.m. The yearly event always

Ministries with your beloved dog.

promises egg-cellent fun for local

Simply bring your lovable canine

youngsters. Liberty-Township.com

companion with you to volunteer

Liberty Park

during our evening shift. No pup? No

5

problem! Volunteering will be open to

EASTER IN CANDYLAND

18

Sabin Hall

the public as well. M25M.org

Nate Flanagan gallery opening at the

A Candyland-themed Easter egg hunt

Westheimer Gallery of Sharonville

and festival will be held on April 5 at

Cultural Arts Center. From 6 to 8

noon at Sabin Hall in Liberty Center.

p.m. on April 3, enjoy nibbles and

Take pictures with Peter Rabbit, create

wine and view the latest exhibition.

a goodie bag and visit the crafters and

On Saturday, April 18 from 9 a.m.-

SharonvilleCulturalArts.org

vendors as you follow the Candyland

2:30 p.m. at Liberty Center’s Sabin

Trail. WestChesterOH.org

Hall, come to Companion’s on

4, 18 SPRING FARMER'S MARKET The Square @ Union Centre

As the Spring crops arrive, the Farmer’s Market moves outdoors! Visit

SPRING INTO HEALING GRIEF RETREAT Sabin Hall

a Journey’s Spring Into Healing

7

Grief Retreat.

GETTING STARTED WITH SUBURBAN GARDENING

well

The event is free

to attend and includes a lineup of speakers and facilitators, as as

lunch.

Registration

is

required on the website or by

MidPointe Library West Chester

calling the office at 513.870.9108.

the Spring Farmer’s Market on April 4

Learn more about gardening in your

CompanionsOnaJourney.org

and 18 from 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to see

backyard just in time for the start of

the available goods at The Square @

Spring with MidPointe Library’s talk at

Union Centre. WestChesterOH.org

7 p.m. on April 7 at the West Chester branch. MidPointeLibrary.org

4 MTCES EXTRAVAGANZA Oscar Event Center

11 WCFD EGG HUNT

18 LOCAL GALLERY OPENING Pop Revolution

Pop Revolution in Mason will host a photography exhibition opening on April 18 from 7 to 9 p.m. The exhibit

Keehner Park

by Whitney Dixon is called Hidden

at Oscar Event Center, locals will

The West Chester Fire Department

in Plain Sight: The Micro World. Stop

celebrate for the kids of Mother

Organization invites children ages

by to see the new art at the gallery.

Teresa Catholic Elementary School.

0-8 to participate in a candy-filled

PopRevolutionGallery.com

Join in the fun for dinner, drinks,

egg hunt in Keehner Park on April

auctions, raffles, music and danc-

11. The hunt starts at 1 p.m. sharp!

ing to benefit the school’s children.

WestChesterOH.org

From 6 p.m. to midnight on April 4

MTCES.org

40

Matthew 25: Ministries

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

23

25

28

PROJECT: GREENER LIVING EVENT

LUNCH AT THE LINKS WITH KINDERVELT

BOOKS ON TAP

Heritage Club

MidPointe Library’s off-campus book

MidPointe Library on April 24 at

On April 25 at 11 a.m., members of

club is reading Mother Night by Kurt

5:30 p.m., take a practical step

the Kindervelt #19, an auxiliary of

Vonnegut and meeting to discuss

toward greener living by making

the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital

it over a pint at DogBerry Brewing.

your own wool dryer ball, a reusable

Medical Center, will gather. This time,

Stop by at 7 p.m. on April 28 to

alternative to dryer sheets. Sign-up

the group will meet up for lunch, a

discuss the book and drink a beer.

is required; stop by or register on

silent auction, wine pull and more

MidPointeLibrary.org

the

while supporting the excellent cause

MidPointe Library, Liberty Center

At the Liberty Center branch of

website

under

“Programs.”

DogBerry Brewing

MAY 9

MidPointeLibrary.org

of children’s health. Kindervelt.org

24

25, 26

THINK REGIONAL SOUTHWEST OHIO LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

CAMP CAMPBELL GARD OPEN HOUSE

The local fundraiser Free Throws for

Camp Campbell Gard

sessions at 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m.

Learning Center

Visit YMCA Camp Campbell Gard

and 3:30 p.m. Support a good cause

Register now for the Think Regional

for a guided tour and discover what

and cheer on your favorite free-throw

Southwest Ohio Leadership Summit.

the summer camp can offer your

shooters! FreeThrowsforKids.org

Leaders will gather on April 24

family. They will answer questions

beginning at 8 a.m. at the Miami VOA

to help you choose your child’s

Learning Center to discuss issues

summer adventure on April 25 and

We are always accepting submissions

and new actions to take to expand

26, from 1 to 4 p.m. on each day.

for events you'd like to see included

diversity, equity and inclusion in

GMVYMCA.org

in our Calendar section. Submissions

Miami University Voice of America

FREE THROWS FOR KIDS Lakota West High School

Kids will take place on April 4, with

multiple areas of the Southwest Ohio

are accepted via the Contact Us tab at

community. ThinkRegional.com

WestChesterandLibertyLifestyle.com.

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H I L LTO P O B G YN .CO M April 2020 | West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle

41

PARTING THOUGHTS

H I G H - F LY I N G ADVENTURE INCLUSIVE ROPES COURSE AT CAMP CAMPBELL GARD CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY

DO YOU LOVE OUTDOOR ADVENTURES? One of our county’s most exciting attractions lies just a few miles to our north at Camp Campbell Gard (CCG) in Hamilton.

Last April, CCG opened a new, state-of-the-art high ropes course. It features a zip line, zip swing, rock wall and three levels of high-ropes obstacles.

The course is the tallest of its kind in the region, reaching up to 49 feet high. Obstacles range in difficulty and height to accommodate those of all abilities and adventure levels.

Pete Fasano, executive director at CCG, says, “It’s incredible. Standing at the top in the crow’s nest, you feel completely secure and self-empow-

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY MICHELLE MOODY

ered. You feel confident in yourself and proud of yourself. It’s just a really great feeling.”

One of the biggest benefits of the new course is the increased accessibility for all people. It’s now easier to access than the previous system, and it accommodates more people at a time across the various levels.

The universal access system makes parts of the structure open to campers with developmental disabilities.

“We had no real opportunity for our kids who use wheelchairs on the previous course,” says Pete. “This system will not only allow them to zipline, but there’s a component that will allow them to traverse the course. It’s an opportunity that is very cutting edge.”

WHO CAN TRY THE COURSE?* + Campers attending sessions throughout the summer (Camp registration is now open .) + Anyone over 12-years-old attending CCG’s family camp on Labor Day weekend + Attendees at the annual Women’s Wellness Weekend on October 10-11 + Also available as a team-building activity for corporate, school and church groups throughout the year

Camp Campbell Gard High-Ropes Course, 4803 Augspurger Rd, Hamilton, 513.867.0600 42

West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | April 2020

*See CCGYMCA.org for all eligibility guidelines and to learn more.

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