Let the world melt away as our expert team focuses on achieving that beautiful smile, smooth skin or a more restful night’s sleep. We’ve seen patients’ lives transformed after working with us, it’s why we do what we do.
We do it all—from routine cleanings to advanced procedures like implants, veneers and Invisalign. We also offer options to erase wrinkles and fine lines. Or if snoring is disrupting a good night’s sleep, we have low-maintenance sleep solutions.
(FDA Approved Oral Appliances) Interested in facial aesthetics including Botox,dermal fillers and whitening? Give us a call.
us today. We can’t wait to meet you.
Time Well Spent
Investing the time. That is a common theme that comes to mind as I reflect on our April issue. Everyone we covered in this issue invests their time and energy for a greater good.
Whether it’s investing time to improve our environment (inside and out!), as is the case with our stories featuring Children’s Meeting House Montessori, Crazy Acres Market Farm, WOW Windowboxes, and Time Savers Heating & Cooling ... to investing time focused on family (check out our feature articles on Integrity Wealth Management, Loveland Pediatric Dentistry and The BMW Store—road trip anyone?). It’s a common thread woven throughout these pages.
Time is one of the most precious gifts we have, and it’s comforting to know that so many people are spending it wisely, investing in the things that matter. We want to thank you for investing your time reading this issue, as we definitely enjoyed the time spent putting it all together.
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Emily Barlow | emily.barlow@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Stephanie Meinberg
stephanie.meinberg@citylifestyle.com
SALES SUPPORT DIRECTOR
Courtney Kraemer | courtney.kraemer@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Kelsie Ruoff | lovelandlifestyle@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Courtney Kraemer, Kathy Doane, Carly Tamborski, Lisa Fletcher, Bill Furbee, Chris Sherritt, Nicole Browning, Madeline Christmas, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Matthew J. Capps, BMW USA, Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Proverbs 3:5-6
This Year, Enjoy Being Outdoors a Whole Lot More
A Sundance all-season pergola is one of the best, most cost-effective ways to achieve the covered deck or patio you’ve been dreaming of. But don’t just take our word for it.
“Sundance gave us the options we were looking for—I wanted all the light, and my husband wanted to sit outside in the shade. We priced out a few other places, and this system hit the mark on everything.” - Robin
“We wanted to use our patio all-year-round, and the louvered roof allows us to do that. It gives us light, shade and keeps our furniture dry when it rains. We even added heaters and a fan.” - Wayne
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Another amazing #RydeForAReason and day of giving back—$1K raised at this year’s #PoliceUnityTour at @Ryde365Loveland. 2: It’s all fun and games—Family Trivia Night at Magnolia Springs Loveland Senior Living. 3: So fire—Time Savers Heating & Cooling’s unique ice sculpture at @RailwayBarbershopLoveland during Hearts Afire Weekend. 4: Excited to welcome the newest can’t-resist restaurant to our community— the official ribbon cutting @EOKitchen_DowntownLoveland. 5: @LovelandCitySchools’ 7th and 8th grade orchestras delivered a fantastic performance at their winter concert. 6: What a shopping celebration! Congrats on FIVE amazing years of fashion, fun and fabulousness, @MainstreamBoutiqueCincinnati! 7: Vantage Financial Partners’ Holiday Party celebrated five years of Andy Meyer @LittleMiamiBrew.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
Whether you love to walk, run or just need comfortable shoes, we can help! Visit Fleet Feet to find the shoes and gear to support you best. Join our community for fun runs, training groups, events and more. We can’t wait to run with you.
you. They’re primarily walk-ins, so come down and get a taste!
Photography by Steph Meinberg
Growing Anew
The Loveland Learning Garden has fostered appreciation for nature through education for years, and now new board president Katie Taylor steps up to continue growing this amazing program. “I’m most excited about nurturing the relationships that have made LLG what it is today while finding ways to make it even more accessible and impactful,” says Katie. With guidance, new ideas, and a spirit for collaboration, she hopes to continue the garden’s impact. Congrats, Katie! LovelandLearningGarden.org
Photography by Jessa Rae Photography & The Plante House
Threads Up!
Do you love personalized gifts? Here’s a boutique just for you! 7 Threads Embroidery—a brand-new store located in the Square on Karl Brown Way—offers hand-embroidered goods for you or anyone special in your life. “We have a variety of products in-store that can be personalized, as well as embroidery on customer-provided items,” says owner and founder Liz Pennington. Connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, or check out her website for more information (and gift ideas)!
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We Fix it Right the First Time, Saving You Money
LOCAL experiences 5
Rooted in Community: Your Chance to Invest in Nature
1. VALLEY VIEW FOUNDATION
A 190-acre Milford farm offering trails, adventures, produce and volunteering. ValleyViewPreserve.org
2. TREE & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE
Organize clean-ups, plantings, tree giveaways and Arbor Day activities. LovelandOH.gov
3. FLMSP
Help this all-volunteer nonprofit maintain the 50-mile-long Little Miami Trail. LittleMiamiStatePark.org
4. THE GRAIL
Volunteer! April 12 is Grailville’s Habitat Restoration day for removing invasive plants. Grail-US.org
5. SYMMES TOWNSHIP
Join this kid-friendly Eco Celebration— April 12, 9a–noon at Symmes Township Park. SymmesTownship.org
FAMILY M ATTERS
When Steve and Janet Zorko stepped up to help their elderly mothers manage their finances in 2002, they never dreamed it would be the inspiration for a second successful career for them both. Steve, an aerospace industry executive and engineer, and Janet, with a background in marketing and personnel management, always had a strong interest in investing. “Over time, we picked up a lot of knowledge about financial planning,” Steve says.
Simultaneous to caring for their moms, Steve and Janet were looking to buy a small business or franchise, but nothing they considered clicked until they realized they already had a viable business idea.
“After both our moms passed, there was such a sense of gratification that we had been able to put their minds at ease,” Steve remembers. That’s when they realized they had found their next calling—and Integrity Wealth Management was born.
Creating
Financial Peace of Mind Is Their Business— and Their Passion
ARTICLE BY KATHY DOANE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW J. CAPPS
Laura, Steve and Janet
In 2003, IWM became a Registered Investment Advisor under the State of Ohio, both got their licenses as Investment Advisor Representatives, and IWM began to accept clients. “We never marketed our business,” Steve says. “Our initial clients were family, friends or word-of-mouth.” Steve then became a Certified Financial Planner, and the business continued to grow.
Last year, they also added a new employee— 33-year-old daughter, Laura, who brings more than 10 years of experience as a Certified Public Accountant and Certified Fraud Examiner for PricewaterhouseCoopers, Munich Re and Fifth Third Bank.
Today, Integrity Wealth Management manages $95 million in assets for 90 households. “Our client base includes physicians, business and medical professionals, business owners and retirees,” Steve reflects. “From people just getting out of college to those in or nearing retirement.”
That also means their financial goals cover every phase of life, whether paying off student loans or leaving a financial legacy. “We’ve lived it all,” the now 63-year-old Steve says, including the best and worst of financial and economic cycles.
But Steve believes there are additional factors that give IWM a positive edge. “We take a lot of time to get to know our clients and the goals they want to accomplish. A big part of it is understanding their attitude toward life, money and investments.”
All of the assets that IWM manages are custodied with Fidelity Investments. “There’s a lot of expertise within that company. Once we understand a client’s goals, we can build a portfolio using the wide range of investments available to us from a variety of financial institutions.”
Steve, Janet and Laura also don’t have typical office hours—frequently meeting with clients or communicating with them in the evening or on weekends. Another plus: Integrity Wealth Management’s operating expenses are low, a benefit passed on directly to their clients.
Laura realized early on that she wanted to join her parents in the business after getting some real-world experience elsewhere. IWM’s goal? In another 10 years, Laura will succeed Steve and Janet when they retire.
“Out of loyalty to our clients and family, I didn’t want to eventually sell it and turn everyone over to strangers,” Steve says.
“The more time I can spend working with my mom and dad, the more prepared I will be to succeed them,” says Laura, whose financial education began at age 12 when she started investing half of her babysitting money. Suffice it to say, she’s been hooked ever since.
And when it comes to tips from these experts, Steve and the IWM family offer some valuable advice:
1. Start teaching kids early (even while they’re still in their single-digit years) by having them save a portion of an allowance or money earned. It’s never too early to develop financial discipline.
2. When you start working full-time, establish a budget for multiple priorities: Paying off student debt, covering expenses of a first home and car, and setting aside money for retirement.
3. Speaking of retiring, start investing early— retirement is not an exam you can cram for, and time is your friend in this scenario.
4. A diversified portfolio, quality investments and best practices like dividend reinvesting will enhance returns and reduce risk.
5. Work with an investment advisor or Certified Financial Planner to help you come up with a plan to meet all your goals.
iwmcfp.net | 118 Cedar Woods Dr, Loveland 513.633.8370
DR. LAUREN THINKS OUTSIDE THE CHAIR WHEN IT COMES TO KIDS DENTAL CARE
ARTICLE BY CARLY TAMBORSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW J. CAPPS
it’s working, d i fferently
Visiting the dentist can be a scary enough experience on its own, but it can be even more challenging for neurodivergent children who may have more sensory needs—something to keep in mind especially during April, which is Autism Awareness Month. In fact, Dr. Lauren Capozza at Loveland Pediatric Dentistry has focused her practice around just that—catering to (and caring for!) neurodivergent children and children with sensory needs.
Whether your kiddo has a diagnosis, will have one in the future, or maybe just has more sensory issues (particularly at dental appointments), Dr. Lauren and her team focus on helping young patients cope with dental procedures—all to stellar reviews.
“Heightened responses to different stimuli such as noises, lights, the feeling of things, touch … those are all ways kids can be neurodivergent—including in
their communication of that,” Dr. Lauren explains. “Sometimes it can be hard to assess a child’s concern, so a key aspect is getting to know them and their family over time, trying different things, finding different areas we can focus on … the first visit may not provide all the answers, but we ask a lot of questions in the least threatening environment as possible.”
Dr. Lauren credits her staff of 8 for taking very detailed notes on all the methods they introduce in an appointment, how they were received, and suggestions for the next visit.
“We want to build on any small progress made—it teaches us more about that child,” she says. “I like to have seasoned people who are already dental experts, so we can focus on these other neuro aspects.”
But how does she do it? Dr. Lauren’s approach sets her practice (and check-ups!) apart.
SPECIAL HEADPHONES
“We have noise-reducing headphones kids can wear … not necessarily needed for cleaning appointments, but usually when we’re using dental equipment or treatments with louder suction. And if a child has trouble with noise, we have a quieter area for them.”
SENSORY ROOM
“Our sensory room for exams and cleanings doesn’t have a dental chair or a dental light—it just looks like a sitting room,” she explains. “Patients can sit on the couch or bean bags. We have sensory soothing toys they can hold, and dimmable lights we can reduce or turn off all the way if they like.” Dr. Lauren thinks of the sensory room as a stepping stone—by the time kids reach adulthood, hopefully they’ll be comfortable in a typical dental chair.
WEIGHTED BLANKETS
“We use these a lot during treatments, because they provide a positive impact on the nervous system and the child’s mental state,” Dr. Lauren says. “We’ve had neurotypical children who are calmed by it as well—it helps them get snuggly and calm in the chair.”
TINTED SUNGLASSES
“Sunglasses can be really helpful, because artificial indoor lights can be very bright,” she continues. “Sunglasses can reduce the anxiety of having bright lights in their eyes.”
BEANBAG DENTAL CHAIR
“Most dental chairs are adult-sized, so kids’ legs and such aren’t in the right spaces,” Dr. Lauren explains about the fit. “Having that extra space can make kids feel uncomfortable—some will wiggle when they start to get anxious, and we find it really helps them sit more still.”
The future of driving isn’t just exciting—it’s electric. Investing in an electric vehicle (EV) not only reduces emissions, it allows you to step into a world of cutting-edge innovation, effortless efficiency, and an exhilarating driving experience. And when it comes to luxury EVs, BMW is leading the charge. With a lineup that blends power, performance and premium comfort, BMW proves that going electric doesn’t mean giving up what makes driving fun . One of the key reasons BMW’s EVs are so popular is that they don’t sacrifice the brand’s signature aesthetics or driving experience. “BMW has done a great job in the luxury EV space, offering models based off of traditional BMW vehicles—they don’t look any different than their gasoline/hybrid stablemates,” explains Louis Velazquez, Marketing Director at The BMW Store near Kenwood. “BMW calls it ‘the power of choice.’”
BMW currently offers four EV models, each catering to different drivers and lifestyles:
• i4 – based off the compact 4 Series Gran Coupe
• i5 – based off the iconic 5 Series sedan
• i7 – based off the executive 7 Series sedan
• iX SUV – an entirely unique model to BMW electric
According to Louis, BMW’s most popular EV, the i4, starts at $57,900—making it an attainable entry point into the world of luxury electric vehicles.
Put simply, choosing a BMW EV is about making a long-term investment in efficiency and convenience. “Most EV adopters are finding the ownership experience to be quite easy since you can charge your vehicle at home with an in-home charger,” he explains. No more gas station stops—just plug in at home and wake up to a full charge. For commuters and city drivers, it’s a game-changer.
Beyond convenience, BMW EVs represent a smart financial investment. “Overall, the costs of owning an EV are less than a gasoline-powered car. Mechanically, EVs are simpler, so you’re replacing fewer parts. But there’s still a certain amount of maintenance required for EVs, just like any car. It’s still a machine,” Louis says.
And of course, there’s the environmental factor. BMW’s EVs are completely emissions-free, making them an investment in a cleaner future. Plus as charging infrastructure expands nationwide, EVs will only become a smarter, more attractive, more accessible choice.
Thinking about making the switch? It’s all about planning. “Understanding your EV is of utmost importance,” Louis advises.
“While most BMW EVs have a full range of around 300 miles, it’s important to give yourself a little bit of a cushion when traveling, and understand and plot your route ahead of time.”
As EV technology continues to evolve, BMW remains dedicated to producing vehicles that are not only sustainable, but also provide the ultimate driving experience. That’s their signature and their standard. Ready to test-drive the future of automation? Your EV is waiting.
EV OWNERSHIP & TRAVEL TIPS: MAXIMIZING YOUR INVESTMENT
Owning an electric vehicle is a smart investment, but to get the most out of it, proper planning is essential.
Know Your Range: Most BMW EVs offer a range of 300 miles, but factors like speed, temperature and extra passengers can impact efficiency. Always allow for variables like these when planning longer trips.
Use Smart Navigation: BMW’s advanced navigation system easily helps you locate charging stations and optimize routes, helping reduce range anxiety.
Charge Strategically: Charging at home overnight is the most convenient option. When traveling, plan stops at high-speed charging stations to minimize downtime.
Be Aware of Seasonal Differences: Energy consumption increases in extreme temperatures—hot or cold— so monitor battery performance in summer and winter.
Stay Informed: EV technology is evolving rapidly. Keeping up with advancements ensures you make the most of your investment in sustainable, high-performance driving.
THE LODERN VANIT Y
KOHLER® vanities balance modern and traditional influences to create pieces that resonate within the space. The Lodern vanity balances softer contemporary lines with traditional elements, making it perfectly suited for almost any taste and style.
more about Lodern Vanity at KOHLER.com or at your local Wiseway Supply Lighting & Plumbing Showroom.
store.wisewaysupply.com
Photo by Corrie Schaffeld/Business Courier
WINDOWS of OPPORTUNITY
From Music Hall to suburban side streets, countless Greater Cincinnati spots deliver charming curb appeal, thanks to the stunning windowboxes and flowers and decorative plants contained within. But did you know? Many of those enhancements have been installed and maintained by the aptly named WOW Windowboxes company.
“We service about 1,500 to 2,000 clients each season,” reports owner Bret Schneider, whose company has been designing and installing windowboxes for more than 15 years.
“Since 2009, we’ve been on a mission to brighten homes and businesses with our signature style and exceptional service,” Bret smiles. “Even small touches can make a big impact.”
It all began in a garage. Bret’s mother, Sue, dreamed of having attractive windowboxes for her own home, but found the market lacking. After taking matters into her own hands, neighbors soon came calling—and things grew from there.
WOW Windowboxes Provides Charming Curb Appeal to Brighten the City
ARTICLE BY BILL FURBEE
“We started humbly in that garage with a rusty Dodge Durango, hauling supplies—a symbol of our resourcefulness and dedication to making things work with what we had,” Bret shares. “That same spirit of creativity and determination continues to drive us.”
Today, WOW Windowboxes operates out of a warehouse and office space in Saint Bernard, with 30 talented team members and a fleet of 12 wrapped box trucks serving the Greater Cincinnati area.
“Our focus has always been on improving our services and exceeding client expectations at every turn,” Bret says. “From automatic irrigation systems to seasonal maintenance, our full-service approach eliminates hassle.”
So saying, many of the company’s clients are among the top realtors in the city. Others include members of the Cincinnati Bengals, HOMEARAMA® participants, and individual families looking to brighten up their block.
“While we’re known for our stunning windowboxes, we also design and plant planters and other containers to suit any space,” Bret explains. “Our services include design, installation and maintenance. We provide irrigation systems to simplify watering, and custom planting designs to match our clients’ styles and preferences.”
Regardless of season or setting, WOW Windowboxes ensures every container is breathtaking.
“We’ve had so many amazing opportunities to showcase our work, all of which align perfectly with WOW’s mission to create beauty and bring joy to the spaces we touch,” Bret says. “We’re thrilled to contribute to making spaces throughout Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky even more memorable and beautiful.”
Bret and his designers always have a solution ready to impress, even in challenging settings. “Sometimes it’s not about windowboxes—it might be planters around a pool, windowboxes on deck railings, or planters for decks and rooftops.”
And while windowboxes add an attractive flair to any setting, some think that also means high-maintenance or expensive. Think again—budget-friendly and scalable solutions like single pots and two-foot windowboxes can accommodate nearly any space.
“We’re extremely creative in helping clients bring color and fun into their outdoor spaces, proving that outdoor beauty can be both accessible and versatile,” assures Bret. Flower power at its finest.
“Each client, no matter the size or scope, receives our unparalleled attention to detail and dedication to delivering a WOW-worthy experience.”
DR. LAUREN CAPOZZA
Investing in Year-Round Comfort
DUCTLESS SYSTEMS REACHING PEAK
POPULARITY—AND MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY
ARTICLE BY BILL FURBEE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
For more than 20 years, Time Savers Heating & Cooling has been helping residential and commercial customers in Greater Cincinnati stay comfortable no matter the season. While fundamentals of the business have remained the same, occasionally new products come along that revolutionize the way they help neighbors.
That’s the case now with ductless systems.
“Ductless is the fastest-growing segment of our industry,” says founder Doug Hyrne. He continues, saying that while these systems were initially designed for single-room use (like in a sunroom, for example), these units are now able to work in other spaces—and more important, alongside conventional systems.
Doug estimates his company has now completed over a hundred ductless installations. Not only that, he’s seen firsthand how its application has grown over the years.
“Ductless really solves a lot of the issues in problem rooms or difficult areas, or spaces that you can’t run ductwork to,” he explains. “We’ve put them in basements that didn’t have any heating or cooling, installed them in commercial applications, even in garages, too.”
Doug points out that older homes without ductwork might consider utilizing a ductless multi-zone system, which would allow homeowners to enjoy different temperatures across individual rooms, all running off of a single outdoor unit.
Two more reasons to consider ductless systems? Their efficiency and low volume—key benefits that are contributing to their growing success.
“Ductless systems are more efficient than most conventional units, but they’re also quiet,” he says. “They’re kind of low-profile, so they’re not big and bulky. And they’re wonderfully energy-efficient.”
Time Savers is proud to operate as a Carrier factory-authorized dealer (regarded as the leading reputable brand in the HVAC industry) and is a winner of the Carrier President’s Award two years running.
And Doug is more than just a valuable local asset in the HVAC world—he’s also a trustworthy Loveland neighbor of close to 15 years. His ongoing commitment to supporting the community he’s a part of is readily apparent.
Time Savers Heating & Cooling sponsors organizations like Loveland Youth Football, Loveland Youth Baseball, and Loveland Wrestling. “We’ve also sponsored events with NEST, and we work with the Loveland Sustainability Council,” he smiles proudly. The company has a sponsorship displayed in the Loveland High School gym, sponsors a number of local chamber events throughout the year, and supports Loveland Music Boosters as well.
But no matter what the season calls for—whether sports help or home comfort—Doug’s Time Savers team can be counted on for neighborly help that comes through in the clinch. Ductless systems are just another great example of their ability to lean on both trending technology and trusted know-how.
Intrigued to learn more? Now’s a great time to reach out, Doug offers. Not only are consultations always provided free of charge, but he’s also planning a sale on ductless systems to celebrate the company’s 20th anniversary.
Spring is always an opportune time to learn more about how ductless systems are able to help anyone reconsider what home comfort means—for both the warm season ahead and the colder months beyond.
It comes down to staying cool throughout the summer. “If you have a problem room, maybe a master or upstairs bedroom that seems hot all summer long, ductless systems could help with that,” Doug finishes. “And energy-efficient warmth in the winter has never been easier.”
“With ductless, you get to take advantage of having that seasonal room, sunroom or four-season room … all year-round.”
LEARNING TO LOVE THE PLANET
ARTICLE BY CHRIS SHERRITT
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
INVESTMENT IN CMH’S NATUREBASED EDUCATION PAYS GREEN FOR A LIFETIME
Nature and sustainability are so important to the foundation of Children’s Meeting House Montessori School, that it’s central to their objective: “To be the school of choice for sustainably delivering high-quality Montessori education through applied learning utilizing natural settings.”
Located near historic Loveland, situated on 7+ acres of thick woods and lush meadows (surrounded by hundreds more), the focus comes naturally. CMH offers preschool through middle school programs, and is the only Montessori school with a full staff of nature enthusiasts—including an on-site naturalist.
But just how does CMH instill a lifelong sense of environmental stewardship? Kids dig in and get their hands dirty!
Each classroom has a compost bin that is managed daily by a student, then added to the larger, school-wide system. Through this process, students learn what makes something organic—and the importance of composting to keep organic materials out of landfills, plus its impact on community health. The composting product (humus), in turn, goes back into individual classroom garden beds to enrich the soil.
NATURE PRACTICES
AGRICULTURE RECYCLING/REUSE
Students utilize a variety of methods to produce fresh vegetables and leafy greens for themselves and their classmates. They learn the complete process of growing vegetation from seed—teaching them the value of whole foods, the lifecycle of plants, and their contribution to greater ecosystems. They celebrate their successes with “salad parties,” where they actually get to taste the fruits of their labor!
Every classroom has a Rumpke recycling bin that students are responsible for managing day-to-day. They also use recycled materials for creative works and projects, like this bottle cap mural. Old glue sticks, markers, pens, Styrofoam and other materials are saved and sorted into drop-off collections for the Cincinnati Recycling and Reuse Hub. Also, community members are encouraged to contribute to the school’s collection, emphasizing the students’ greater impact.
Focusing on natural balances, stewardship, and the 7 Principles of “Leave No Trace,” students gain an appreciation for the outdoors by being in them—often. They tend and protect CMH and its neighboring properties, learn about native flora and fauna, and how to protect them from invasives with hands-on work like ivy and honeysuckle pulls. There are weekly hikes, creek walks, sledding adventures, and more.
Photo by Matthew J. Capps
As one of the nation’s leading mental health centers, we understand each person’s journey is deeply personal. Bringing together unparalleled expertise, profound insights, and a people-first approach, we provide life-changing care and support, infusing every interaction with the underlying belief that lasting well-being is possible. We see beyond diagnoses — we see you.
Children • Adolescents • Adults
GOOD, CLEAN FARMING
Your Guide on How to Shop Small, Support Local and Find Farm Fresh
When it comes to investing, where better to spend than in your local community? Sure, we think about “shopping small” as frequenting our local boutiques and restaurants, but what about where it all starts— where our food actually comes from? Crazy Acres Market Farm, located in Goshen, is here to provide you with all of your produce needs … something that maybe doesn’t immediately come to mind when shopping small. Not only are they local, but Crazy Acres is also family-owned, and uses sustainable, organic farming practices to bring the freshest, cleanest produce to your plate.
But what really makes food “clean?” It all begins with the seed. “I start all of the plants myself,” says
owner Lisa Cannon. “I grow everything in organic soil, and all the beds I grow in are permanent beds— each year, I add mushroom compost to the soil.”
Instead of using pesticides, Lisa turns to bug nets and predatory insects that eat other bugs rather than eating plants. Instead of chemical fertilizers, Lisa uses alternatives like fish emulsion, which are all-natural and full of good vitamins and minerals for her plants. Even things as simple as the way plants are watered help her keep her crops healthy and thriving. “We use drip tape, so the plants don’t get watered over the top, because that promotes disease. We try to mitigate everything by just creating better growing conditions and circulating the air more efficiently,” she explains.
ARTICLE BY NICOLE BROWNING | PHOTOGRAPHY
Lisa
So, convinced shopping local and investing in a farm right in your own backyard is the move? Find Lisa’s produce or starters for your own garden at both Loveland’s and Montgomery’s farmers markets, Madison’s
at Findlay Market, or Harvest Market in Old Milford.
Want to know what produce to buy during each season? Take it from this local expert— Lisa shares her go-to recommendations on what’s best to buy when (and if it’s got an asterisk, it’s available from Crazy Acres at the aforementioned markets!).
“Not much grows here locally even in heated greenhouses,” Lisa admits. “Many of the things available are storage crops that were harvested in fall and stored for sale in winter. This is a good time to purchase hydroponic lettuces, greens, cherry tomatoes and herbs from local growers who grow indoors.”
APRIL 4TH
Bookish Block Printing with Emily Cooper
Bike Trail Books | 6:00 PM
Get ready to carve, ink and print in honor of National Poetry Month! Join linoleum block print artist Emily Cooper for an adults-only, hands-on workshop where you’ll carve your own wood block and print it onto poetry book pages from either Maya Angelou or Emily Dickinson. Register now to grab your spot and make your mark! BikeTrailBooks.co/events
APRIL 12TH
Symmes Eco Celebration
Symmes Township Park | 9:00 AM
Hook a fish, take a hike, get outside and celebrate our planet at the Symmes Eco Celebration! Join other fellow nature lovers for a half day packed with fun—think fishing derby, nature walks, exhibits, demos, a wild scavenger hunt and more. Don’t miss this Earth Day adventure—it’s eco-tastic entertaiment for the whole family! SymmesTownship.org
APRIL 12TH
Magnolia Springs Easter Egg Hunt
Magnolia Springs Loveland Senior Living | 2:00 PM
This annual Easter affair will be an egg-stravaganza like no other, sponsored by Affordable Assisting Angels, LLC. With 7,000+ eggs to uncover, candy, prizes and snacks, it promises to be a hare-raising good time for the whole family! Snap a pic with the Easter Bunny and cuddle up to adorable baby goats. Best of all? It’s FREE and open to the public! SinceriSeniorLiving.com/magnolia-springs-loveland
APRIL 22ND
Earth Day Hike and Solar Flare Margaritas
Cincinnati Nature Center | 7:00 PM
Hiking and margaritas? Yes, please! Celebrate Earth Day with an adults-only moderately-paced scenic evening hike, followed by a wellearned “Solar Flare” margarita at the stunning Groesbeck Estate. This one will sell out, so pre-register now! $15 members, $27 non-members. Non-alcoholic, program-themed drinks available—because everyone deserves a toast to our beautiful planet! CincyNature.org
APRIL 26TH
LSC Electronics Recycling Drive
G.I. Haul: 5400 Dupont Circle, Milford | 1:00 PM
Keep the Earth Day spirit alive by clearing out your clutter—anything with a cord is fair game! This annual recycling drive has a new location but the same mission: keeping e-waste out of landfills. Most items are free to drop off, with a few exceptions (full details online). Do good for the planet and free up some space! LovelandSustainabilityCouncil.org
APRIL 27TH
RAPTOR Inc. Open House(s)
961 Barg Salt Run Rd, Milford | 1:00 PM
Soar into adventure at this avian Open House, a family-friendly experience happening on the last Sunday of each month from April through November! Meet incredible birds of prey up close, explore hands-on educational stations, and learn from expert educators—all for free! Don’t miss this wild opportunity to connect with nature and support RAPTOR Inc.’s vital conservation efforts. RaptorInc.org
GREENS:
GREENS INVEST IN YOUR DANDELION
Dandelion greens are a nutritious and easy addition to any meal, perfect for salads or cooked dishes. They are rich in vitamins A, C, K, chlorophyll, and fiber, making them a great choice for digestion and overall health. Their light flavor and texture enhance salads and sandwiches.
BROCCOLI:
Broccoli is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Known for being high in vitamins A, C, and K, it also contains important minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium. In addition, it’s a rich source of beta-carotene, flavonoids, and fiber. Whether raw or cooked, broccoli is an excellent choice for immune system support, making it one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available.
KALE:
Kale is loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamins C, B6, E, K, and manganese. It contains twice as much selenium as spinach and is an excellent source of calcium. Kale’s unique properties help bind to cholesterol and lower oxalate levels, which promotes calcium absorption and makes it suitable for those prone to kidney stones. Additionally, it provides eye health benefits, thanks to lutein, and its disease-fighting properties make it a great addition to salads, smoothies, and more.
ARTICHOKES:
Artichokes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, which aids in digestion. They are a great source of plant protein, potassium, and antioxidants like polyphenols. Artichokes also provide essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, folate, magnesium, and B vitamins.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Boost your health by adding a generous serving of fresh greens to your daily diet. While both cooked and raw vegetables offer health benefits, consuming them raw often provides the most nutrients. Raw greens are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, helping to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of disease.
ASPARAGUS:
Asparagus is versatile and can be enjoyed grilled, sautéed, baked, or even raw. Packed with vitamins C, E, B, K, folate, and copper, it’s a great source of fiber. It also helps lower cholesterol and provides a variety of antioxidants that aid in healing. Asparagus is a perfect side dish that complements both light and robustly flavored meals.
