Relational. Experiential. Authentic.— it’s learning that brings education to life at Moeller. Rooted in research on how young men learn best, it goes beyond the classroom into hands-on experiences that spark growth and leadership. From project-based courses in the Burns Innovation Hub to mission trips, athletics, and 40+ co-curriculars, our students don’t just study—they practice, discover, and lead. The result? Confident leaders, creative problem solvers, and remarkable men ready for the future.
Schedule a visit to experience a day at Moeller. Scan here or visit Moeller.org.
Gratitude & Grace
As November settles upon us, gently ushering us over the threshold of the holiday season, I invite you to pause, take a deep breath and exhale immense gratitude for everything 2025 has brought thus far. Yes, everything. The good, the bad and the beautiful.
As we gather around tables with loved ones, sharing not just meals but stories and memories, we take stock of the year behind us and begin to imagine the one ahead. Life is not meant to be an endless stream of successes. Rather, it’s meant to grow us. And how do we grow best? With resistance. Resistance and struggle require us to dig deeper, look within and then choose, once again, to put our best foot forward.
Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, giving back and celebrating the people and organizations that make East Cincinnati such a special place. We’re endlessly thankful for our advertising partners, whose support allows us to bring inspiring stories to your doorstep each month, and for our readers, who make it all worthwhile.
In these pages, we continue our own tradition of gathering—bringing you stories, ideas and perspectives that we hope will enrich your days and spark new conversations.
Ted Karras and The Cincy Hat Project are a beautiful example of this spirit in action–of meeting challenges with courage and grace. What began as fun swag for his teammates has led to housing solutions for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Peek into the historical Rowe family home in Annesdale and discover la touche française that is endless fireplaces and sweeping ceilings.
Porcelain tile specialist Christopher Kubik allows us a behind the scenes look into a beautiful bath project that he completed in time for the holidays.
The next time the crisp fall air takes your breath away, may it also remind you to pause, inhale and observe the world around you with grateful eyes.
Wishing you and your family a season of gratitude and grace,
DEBORAH MEKENESE, PUBLISHER
@INDIANHILL.CITYLIFESTYLE
Proudly serving Indian Hill, Mariemont, Madeira, Montgomery, Terrace Park & the Kenwood/Blue Ash Business District
November 2025
PUBLISHER
Deborah Mekenese
Deborah.Mekenese@CityLifestyle.com
EDITOR
Tera Michelson | Tera.Michelson@CityLifestyle.com
PUBLICATION MANAGER
Michelle Numann
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bill Furbee, Jonathan Stout
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Devyn Glista Pictures, Gina Weathersby Photography, John F. Martin Photography, Kohta Rincon Photography, Jon Medina, RF Graphics
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
The power of
When
Megan Lyons, CFP® Financial Planner
At Foster & Motley, we believe in the power of balance — where career and family intersect, and planning aligns with purpose. Megan Lyons lives this every day. Having recently welcomed her third baby, Megan is well-versed in the financial and emotional complexities that come with major life transitions. She is known for helping clients navigate difficult decisions with clarity and empathy, empowering them to gain confidence and live their best lives. Whether she’s providing guidance to clients or managing the joyful chaos of life with three young children, Megan works to balance it all. Her days are a blend of spreadsheets and storybooks, proving that thoughtful planning isn’t just for portfolios — it’s the foundation of a thriving life.
Learn more about Megan and the rest of the team at fosterandmotley.com/ ourteam.
That’s
Photo by Brooke Lehenbauer Photography
1: Ann & Tim Hurley at Bloom to support Stepping Stones, an impact agency serving hundreds of individuals with disabilities. 2: Eric Schmidt, Analeis Larsen, Jason Mondy, Maura Conine, Richard Larsen, Ashley Toon & Lindsey Schmidt enjoy Bloom. 3: Tim Hemler, Kyla Hemler, Stacey Browning, Kristen DeMarco & David DeMarco at the Gatsby-themed Bloom event.
Luxury Living in the Heart of Oakley
Welcome to Foundry Park at Three Oaks, the exclusive community hosting HOMEARAMA® 2025. Nestled just steps from Oakley’s vibrant dining, boutique shopping, and nightlifeand minutes from Factory 52 - this is where luxury meets effortless urban living.
Expertly crafted by Classic Living Homes and presented by Oyler Hines, this fully furnished residence showcases sophisticated design throughout its 4,000+ sq. ft. of open, light-filled living space. Enjoy elevator access, premium amenities, refined finishes, and a lowmaintenance lifestyle that gives you more time to enjoy the best of city living.
Scott Oyler, Laura Wogen & Mike Hines,
business monthly
Retire Old Flags at Madeira Dropbox Created by Local Scout
Congratulations to Evan Cissell, an Eagle Scout and member of Boy Scout Troop 209 in Madeira. Cissell recently completed his Eagle Project, a mailbox located on the south side of the Madeira Municipal Building for locals to drop off old American flags to be officially retired and properly disposed of by the Troop. All are invited to use the convenient dropbox for worn or tattered flags. Find the patriotic box at 7141 Miami Avenue, Madeira.
Congratulations to Mandy Ocariz, Moeller High School English teacher, who was awarded the Auschwitz Legacy Fellowship. Ocariz is one of 44 U.S. teachers selected for this yearlong, fully funded educational program. Launched by the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Foundation (ABMF) to deepen Holocaust education in the U.S., the program includes intensive preparation, a trip to Poland to visit meaningful and historical sites and the opportunity to bring firsthand knowledge and empathy-driven lessons back to their communities. Moeller.org
Scan to read more
The Bookshelf Celebrates 50 Years in Madeira
Happy 50th Anniversary to The Bookshelf, a charming bookstore in Madeira. The Bookshelf was founded in 1975 by three local women. Today, the Bookshelf’s current partners are Chris Weber, Darlene Ertel and Bethany Streitmatter. They delight in strong ties to the community, author events, book fairs and knowing their customers by name. The cozy, 1,400 square-foot store offers an artfully curated book collection for all ages. 7754 Camargo Road, Madeira, CincyBookshelf.com
Photography by John F. Martin Photography
Photography Provided by The Bookshelf
ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON
TED KARRAS & THE CINCY HAT FOUNDATION BUILD HOMES & HOPE IN THE QUEEN CITY
HATS OFF TO CINCINNATI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KOHTA RINCON PHOTOGRAPHY
It all started with a trendy hat. When the Cincy Hat started showing up on the heads of teammates and friends of Bengals Center Ted Karras, everybody wanted to know where they could get one. Two years and two million dollars later, the Cincy Hat is a uniform
them. Colleen is a visionary, and I want to continue her legacy in changing how these adults are housed,” he says.
As the Cincy Hat Project grew, so did Ted and Matt’s vision for making a community impact. Having already built an impressive following, the
“THE CINCY HAT IS A UNIFORM FOR KINDNESS AND FUEL FOR COMMUNITY CHANGE.”
for kindness and fuel for community change. With funds from hat sales, The Cincy Hat Foundation is leading a grassroots movement to provide education and housing for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) right here in Cincinnati.
INDY ROOTS, CINCY CENTERED
Ted and Matt Renie, friends since they met in eighth grade, started The Cincy Hat Project when Ted spontaneously announced from the Bengals locker room that his hats were a fundraiser. During an interview with a local news station, Ted seized an opportunity to garner support for the Village of Merici, an Indianapolis nonprofit that provides housing for adults with IDD, that had been founded by Colleen Renie, Matt’s mom.
“The hats were an overnight sensation!” says Colleen. “It was way beyond my expectations.”
For both Ted and Matt, the cause runs deep. Matt’s older brother has IDD.
"Ted was always around our family and saw the issues we have with housing and support," says Colleen. "When we built the Village in 2014, he befriended all the residents. It’s personal for him."
“I have two cousins with nonverbal autism,” Ted shares. “I’ve known the villagers at Merici for more than a decade— I’ve worked with them and learned from
two friends launched The Cincy Hat Foundation in October 2024, with hopes to extend its mission.
“We started the Foundation knowing we needed to do something great for Cincinnati,” says Matt Renie, Executive Director of The Cincy Hat Foundation. “Our first act was to start a scholarship program for two young women with IDD at the University of Cincinnati.”
The Cincy Hat Foundation proudly funds the two full scholarships through the University of Cincinnati’s Transition & Access Pathways (TAP) Program, empowering IDD students to engage fully in campus life while building academic, social, career and independent living skills. Two limited-edition hats in Bearcat colorways support and honor the students.
Ted is personally committed to Cincinnati.
“Colleen and the Village of Merici just completed their second building, and they’ve done such a great job,” Ted says. “But so many people here in Cincinnati have supported us that it felt past time we built something, infrastructure-wise, in the city that’s been so ferociously behind this mission.”
FILLING THE CINCINNATI HOUSING GAP
The Cincy Hat Foundation is exploring how they can support the
growing IDD housing need in the Greater Cincinnati Area. The statistics are astonishing.
“One of the biggest statistics that stands out is the need,” shares Emily Kendall, co-founder and president of EmpowerMe Living, a developer, owner and manager of housing for adults with IDD. “There are over 12,000 adults with IDD that currently live with caregivers over 60+. Loss of caregiver is the main reason people end up in an undesirable housing placement, or worse, on the street,” she adds.
With such limited housing opportunities, Cincinnati’s IDD community is at great risk.
“There’s a big gap for folks who just need a safe, independent environment—a place to live and thrive in their community,” Matt explains.
The Cincy Hat Foundation is actively working on a few concepts for independent living opportunities for the IDD community in Cincinnati and hopes to unveil their first project in the coming months.
BUILDING HOUSING, BUILDING COMMUNITY
The Cincy Hat movement has grown far beyond anything they imagined.
“People from all 50 states, and even other countries, have reached out,” says Ted.
"This is all an amalgamation of 34,000 generous individuals that have bought hats," Matt agrees.
That passion fuels their work ethic, one hat at a time.
“When you buy a hat, it’s a donation,” explains Angeline Wellington, PR & Marketing for The Cincy Hat Foundation.
“We walk the walk,” Ted insists. “I’ve never taken a cent, and I never will. Every dollar goes straight to the mission. We’re a lean organization and we’ll stay that way. Our goal is simple: house as many people as possible and create a sustainable asset for this community that can snowball on itself in perpetuity.”
“Ted is all in on Cincinnati,” states Matt. “But we can’t do it without the support of the community. It's a community effort.”
Ted’s commitment to the cause shines through his words and actions.
“This isn’t about fame,” says Ted. “It’s about service and love.”
KARRAS
What started as a friend giving hats to friends has grown into neighbors building homes for neighbors. When asked what he’s thankful for this Thanksgiving, Ted doesn’t hesitate.
“My family,” he says. “And the opportunity to help in any way I can.”
Join Ted and The Cincy Hat Foundation in its mission to build housing and expand opportunities for adults with IDD in our city. To get involved, purchase a hat, make a donation or learn more, visit TheCincyHat.com.
Cincinnati Bengals player Ted Karras with Colleen Renie & Matt Renie. The old friends lead The Cincy Hat Foundation together.
A PROUD PROCESS
URBAN STEAD CHEESE CREATES ARTISAN CHEESES WITH A KEEN FOCUS ON COMMUNITY & SUSTAINABILITY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY GINA WEATHERSBY PHOTOGRAPHY & JON MEDINA
Photo by Gina Weathersby Photography.
ARTICLE BY JONATHAN STOUT
Scott Robbins and Andrea SiefringRobbins co-founded Urban Stead Cheese in 2018 following an inspiring wine trip. Although wine was the original focus of the excursion, it was a visit to a cheesemaker that proved to be the most motivational. They were already planning a business together, but now the idea of starting a cheese company seemed both feasible and exciting. After all, cheese production brought together Scott’s background in the restaurant and wine industries, and Andrea’s in accounting and financial reporting, pairing nicely with a shared passion for food.
“Cheese is the ultimate marriage of our love for food, fermentation, entertaining
and entrepreneurship alongside artisanal craft,” Andrea shares.
Scott and Andrea set out with the goal of making award-winning, old-worldstyle, artisanal cheese. They also wanted to craft their cheese in an urban environment rather than a typical farmstead setting, bringing them closer to their customer base. Their search led to a building that once housed a medical clinic in East Walnut Hills, which they’ve since converted into a cheesemaking facility featuring a tasting room, full bar and retail shop.
“Urban Stead Cheese is an urban creamery. It's one of the things that makes us unique–there’s less than a handful of true urban creameries in the U.S.," Andrea explains.
Photo by Gina Weathersby Photography.
“WE LOVE MAKING CHEESE, BUT WE REALLY LOVE SHARING OUR CHEESE WITH OUR COMMUNITY.”
They were careful throughout the renovation to maintain green standards, and were awarded the Silver LEED Certification for earning between 50 and 59 points across various sustainability categories like energy, water, materials and health. They’ve also discovered other unique ways to give back to the community.
“When we make cheese, we give our whey to a local farmer who then feeds it to their animals,” Andrea tells us. “They sell their meat to local restaurants, so it really comes full circle like it would in a farmstead setting.”
Both grandchildren of dairy farmers, Scott and Andrea are proud to continue their families’ heritage within this industry.
“We love making cheese, but we really love sharing our cheese with our
community. The connections we’ve made with our local neighborhood and our local artisan community are incredibly special,” says Andrea.
Urban Stead sources their milk from a third-generation dairy farmer 45 miles east of Cincinnati. Their cheese is typically made Monday through Thursday and all of the cheese is aged onsite. Their tasting room is open on Friday and Saturday.
“We get to start the day with 3,000 pounds of fresh milk and we end the day with formed wheels of cheese that are made from just four ingredients–milk, salt, cultures and enzymes,” Andrea explains. “It’s really a beautiful process and one that we’re proud to be doing.”
Since opening, Urban Stead’s cheeses have represented southwest Ohio well on
local, national and international stages. Street Ched, their aged clothbound cheddar, was recently awarded a Gold Medal for the second year in a row at the International Cheese and Dairy Awards (ICDA) held in Staffordshire, England. Their aged Gouda also won Gold at ICDA. Their aged Gouda was awarded third place at the American Cheese Society Judging and Competition and was presented with the Reserve Champion award at the Ohio State Fair Cheese Competition this year.
“Our team works so hard to create and take care of our cheeses and we’re thrilled to see them receiving this recognition,” Andrea comments.
"I had Amy and her crew do 4 of my bathrooms recently Her crew was fabulous and did great work. They were very conscientious and considerate of us They understood that we were living through the whole process. I love my bathrooms!!"
- Steph S
AT HOME
Renovated Annesdale Home Features Rich History, Old-World Charm & Nature Views
A special property in the Annesdale neighborhood is now on the market. The stately home at 7900 Annesdale Drive is more than real estate; with its rich heritage tracing back to the early days of Indian Hill, it’s a legacy of four generations of the Rowe family.
“It’s a hard house to leave,” says homeowner Greg Rowe, grandchild of Stanley Rowe and Dorothy Snowden Rowe.
In 1928, Stanley and Dorothy made their home on 170 acres in Indian Hill, named Annesdale after Dorothy’s childhood home in Memphis.
ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY RF GRAPHICS
“My grandparents shared a love and passion for nature and land conservancy,” Greg explains. “From 14 to 18 years old, I worked as a member of the summer labor crew. I knew pretty much every square inch of that land.”
Stanley, an avid ornithologist, helped establish the Cincinnati Nature Center. He and Dorothy collected rare plants for their garden which now makeup Rowe Arboretum.
“When my grandfather passed away, they turned Annesdale into the subdivision it is today,” Greg shares.
Greg and his spouse Emily Rowe inherited the lot adjoining the Arboretum and built their 1995 home at the top of the ridge that rises from Walton Creek.
“We definitely got the best lot,” Greg says. “The views are amazing.”
“The lot is three acres, but, with the site immediately adjacent to the Rowe Arboretum, it’s like having an additional 13 in your backyard to enjoy,” says Emily.
Designed by Emily, the home features personal touches that bring old-world charm: a real slate roof, a striking three-story foyer with 36-foot, beamed ceilings, enchanting built-ins, floors of French limestone and oak parquet, wrought iron details and seven fireplaces. The open floor plan integrates its living spaces and natural surroundings with porches, patios, balconies and brick terraces.
The centerpiece of the living room is a whimsical, hand-carved mantelpiece.
“Emily designed it to include every animal that is indigenous to the Indian Hill forest,” Greg marvels.
“I love France, so we built this very French house, and we raised our four children here,” Emily says. “We will miss taking walks in the Arboretum, going owling at night and Christmas with an 18-foot pine tree.”
“We are thankful. We take great memories from here,” adds Greg.
It’s time to share the warm legacy of this unique home with a new family.
Find the full listing for 7900 Annesdale Drive, Indian Hill, at Homes.com.
The one-of-a-kind, hand-carved mantelpiece in the living room is a seek-and-find of woodland creatures indigenous to Indian Hill.
Wrought iron railings line the stunning staircase in the foyer.
Enjoy gorgeous views of Walton Creek Ridge from this outdoor brick terrace with a fireplace.
ARTICLE BY BILL FURBEE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEVYN GLISTA PICTURES
NO PLACE LIKE HOME
Kubik House Tile Specialists Elevate Tristate Homes
In 2013, Christopher Kubik had a vision: to take his niche-specific experience in custom fabrication to the next level, and help homeowners in Greater Cincinnati elevate their living spaces with stunning yet fully functional tile installations.
That vision now has a name. Kubik House, created in 2019, has installed more than a hundred kitchens and bathrooms throughout the Greater Cincinnati region, utilizing top-tier finishes, custom service and expertise.
Each project is more than just a job.
“It is our legacy, and I intend for our work to last for generations,” says Kubik.
One recent project for custom home builder Hueber Homes included vein-matched, large-format panels to enhance the aesthetic value, wrap the space and create visual drama.
“We used Laticrete installation materials and waterproofing systems for this custom project,” Kubik points out. “The tile for this master bath shower project was a super format porcelain panel tile from Porcelanosa, called Aria White,” he explains.
Those porcelain panels measure 10 x 5 feet. As one might imagine, that’s typically not an easy job to tackle. Kubik House, however, made it appear that way.
Christopher Kubik of Kubik House preps the space for placement of the porcelain panels.
The Liechtys, happy homeowners.
“The panels are cumbersome to handle,” explains Hueber Homes Vice President Marc Hueber. “They’re heavy, and have a long lead time to get on site. Every move requires thought and planning, as well as specialized tools and skills,” he says.
What’s more, projects like this one allow zero opportunities for re-cutting—which means meticulous measurements are an absolute necessity.
“Christopher and his team deserve the credit,” says Hueber. “I just unloaded them off the truck with the skid steer and made sure they had space to operate.”
Hueber says that Kubik’s attention to detail and commitment to making it the best it could be resulted in a stunning installation and a very satisfied homeowner.
“Their quality is superb,” says homeowner Eli Liechty. “They are extremely thorough…the installation of the finish materials is beautiful. They installed seven tile showers for me, and all of them are fantastic. He's the only tile company in town I would use,” he says.
“Christopher and his team are easy people to work with,” Hueber adds. “We both wanted the same end result, a happy client and a beautiful and unique shower.” He adds, “I’m sure we will work together in the future—they are a good group and honest, hard-working people.”
Chalk it up to Kubik House’s goal to provide the Cincinnati area with “the highest quality installations of all wet area finishes, including porcelain panels, microcement and natural stone,” says Kubik. “Just because Cincinnati can be a little behind the times, it doesn't mean your bathroom needs to be.” KubikHouse.com
H O P E
Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN
The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?
The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.
Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.
“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”
Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:
SCAN TO NOMINATE
“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”
Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:
“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”
Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.
This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.
“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”
Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.
This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.
To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.
REALTY REPORT
A Sample of Recently Sold Properties in and around Indian Hill
Luke Luther Realtor Partner
R. Daley
Graeme
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DECODING Denim
ARTICLE BY KASEY JOHANSEN
KASEY JOHANSEN
Personal Stylist at KC CONSULTING & CEO/ Founder of WOMEN100
Dedicated to empowering women to discover their authentic style and embrace confidence. KCConsultingStyle.com
FASHION FORWARD | STYLE + BEAUTY
Decode the complexities of denim! Discover the best cuts and styles to feel confident, express your authentic style and find the right jean for every body.
1. VERONICA BEARD, Crosbie Wide-Leg Jeans with Patch Pockets, $298 / 2. PAIGE, Laurel Canyon High-Rise Jeans, $249 / 3. CITIZENS OF HUMANITY, Blaine High-Rise Straight Ankle Jeans, $258 / 4. 7 FOR ALL MANKIND, Slim Illusion High Waist Ali, $218 / 5. PAIGE, Gemma Skinny Jeans, $229.
