ARTS + CULTURE
JAMMING WITH ASTROVAN
FOOD + BEVERAGE NEW PLACES TO CHOW DOWN
FITNESS
HIT THE STREET WITH FLEET FEET THIS SUMMER JUNE 2026
Guys Who Rock
Get Excited!
There’s some exciting energy surrounding this issue. Every single person we interviewed had something they couldn’t wait to share, and their reasons were varied and all across the board.
Some guys were excited about a passion project in the works, others a new service or event, some championed growth and development in their company, and of course many were excited about family.
It all started with ASTROVAN. This local band has been getting some great press — their single, Three Point Night, caught the attention of FC Cincinnati and is the official victory anthem played after every home game win. We were so happy they reached out.
We have not one but four new places to grab a bite in and around Loveland. From pizza and sandwiches to tacos and salads, there’s something for every taste and craving. Check out Summer’s Eat Wave … and be prepared to hear your stomach rumble. Summer also means the Loveland 5K Summer Race Series is back. This weekly race is a nod to Bob Roncker, prior owner of Running Spot Loveland, the same building Fleet Feet now calls home. Bob originally started the weekly race, and Frank and Stacey DeJulius, owners of Fleet Feet, were thrilled to continue the tradition. Strap on those sneakers and prepare to hit the trail every Wednesday in summer.
Oh, and make sure to read A Dad’s Eye View. I loved reading how Drs. Williams and Gibberman of 2020 Eyecare balance an ever-growing practice with their growing families and, of course, making sure everyone has the best vision possible.
We are so excited to bring this issue to your mailboxes. As always, enjoy!
EMILY BARLOW, PUBLISHER
June 2026
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, Mary Kate Lenard, Lisa Fletcher, Nicole Browning, Kathy Doane, Carly Tamborski, Bill Furbee, Ali Waychoff, Eve Bushman
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Stephanie Meinberg, Matthew J. Capps, Paul Wellington, Jacob Trusty, Brittany Dawn Short
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
They say home is where the heart is. We couldn’t agree more. That’s why we love what we do. Ensuring that our clients’ vision—whether it’s installing a new deck, adding a patio cover or replacing siding—becomes reality is paramount. It never gets old, gazing at a finished project with a client and hearing them say, “Wow, this looks amazing!”
Contact us today. It’s time to fall in love with your home again.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: @LMRChamberAlliance hopped on board with @MiamiTwpOh for the Adult Egg Scramble at Miami Meadows Park. 2: Cheers to the spritz cocktail class at The Landing Event Center, a mix of fun! 3: Ribbon-cutting at the new Symmes Township Branch Library! Make sure to check it out. 4: @TigersIncorporated students organized a successful giveback night in Downtown Loveland. 5: Celebrating Happily Ever Yoga & Pilates official ribbon-cutting and grand opening in Harper’s Point! 6: Toru, Chef and CEO of BentOn Loveland, hosted a pop-up featuring the bento on Loveland Lifestyle’s cover. 7: @GalleryVeronique hosted an opening reception for the exclusive “Discover the Art of Dr. Seuss Collection.”
PAUL WELLINGTON
Perennial Professional Services, LLC
Locally owned and operated for over 35 years!
There’s no need to look any further than your own backyard for a reputable remodeler to furnish all of your home improvements. Perennial’s Computer-Aided Design Program, featuring our American-made cabinetry, enables our design professionals to provide our clients with a detailed plan for each project. Finally, our inhouse craftsmen bring superior workmanship to your residence, completing a unique and seamless transformation of that important place you call HOME!! Contact us for a consultation today!
8: The BMW Store showcased legendary icons alongside their 2026 lineup at the Cincinnati Auto Expo. 9: Rich history mixed with decadent wine tasting at the Loveland Museum Center. 10: In honor of Flag Day, the team at John Hill Construction posed with their flag. 11: Learning about the power of AI during @LMRChamberAlliance’s LinkedUp Loveland event on April 22nd. 12: Sycamore Presbyterian Church held its 7th Outreach Day—providing bags for students needing weekend food support. 13: Loveland Schools celebrated National Administrative Professionals Day by recognizing their amazing secretaries. 14: Wine, cheese, fudge, and flowers—it was a bouquet of perfection @BloomsAndBerries Ladies’ Night.
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EMILY BARLOW
EMILY BARLOW
A Brunch Worth Celebrating
On April 11, Ursuline Academy buzzed with energy as The Chatfield Edge hosted its record-breaking “Celebrating Our Scholars” brunch — over 160 guests united around a powerful mission. The organization provides first-generation and non-traditional students with free one-on-one guidance, mentorship, and a bridge to life beyond high school. To date, 145 scholars have received support, totaling $400,000 in financing assistance for careers in healthcare, skilled trades, and beyond. Mentor, donate, or both at ChatfieldEdge.org
Photography by Twin Spire Photography
Scent to the Symphony
When the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra needed to bring Beethoven’s Prometheus to life through all five senses, they called Alison Peters of The Lavender Sachet. Alison crafted two fragrances for the March 26 performance: Vetiver, Cedar & Oakmoss (earthy and grounding) and Smoked Oud (a deep, resinous warmth with hints of leather and spice). “It’s been an honor to bring this collaboration to life and an inspiring opportunity to translate music into scent,” Alison says. TheLavenderSachet.com
Gains All Around
BEAT Personal Training just earned CityBeat’s Best Personal Training in Cincinnati for 2025, and they’re quick to credit their members. “Every vote represents a member who believes enough in what we’re building to stand behind it publicly,” Steve Ball shares. “That’s not something we take lightly.” The momentum continues: BEAT’s Blue Ash location is doubling its square footage, adding free weights, a functional training zone, a refreshed cardio deck, and 24-hour open-access entry.
Photography by Matthew J. Capps
When your air conditioner quits in the middle of a summer heatwave, you need more than a quick fix—you need a team you can trust to show up fast and get the job done right.
At Time Savers Heating and Cooling, we specialize in emergency HVAC service you can count on—because we know comfort can’t wait. Our local team is ready to respond when your system goes down, with expert technicians who are friendly, professional, and fast.
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LOCAL experiences 5
Summer Concert Series Around Town
1. MIAMI TOWNSHIP
Second Saturdays at Community Park: Elvis tribute, Star Wars night with the Sycamore Community Band, and 80s mixtape vibes with 1.21 Gigawatts. MiamiTWPoh.gov
2. ROCKIN’ THE ROEBLING
Get your weekly concert vibe on (and support local charities) just outside the Cincinnati Lager House, Thursdays at 6 p.m. CincyLagerHouse.com/rockin-the-roebling
3. CITY OF MASON
Stroll the Mason Mile and then enjoy live music on the downtown Plaza, every Friday at 6 p.m. ImagineMason.org/things-to-do/ music-in-mason-2026
4. CITY OF LOVELAND
Concert in the Park returns to the City Hall Lawn on June 28 and July 26, blending live music with relaxed summer evenings. LovinLifeLoveland.com/events
5. BLUE ASH
Great vibes, free concerts, two times the fun Tuesdays (7 p.m. at Nature Park) and the Park Pour Fridays (8 p.m. at Towne Square). BlueAshParksAndRec.com/parks
Whatever age or stage, dads know their kids will have fun during their checkup.
YES, VISITING THE DENTIST CAN BE A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE AT ANY AGE, BECAUSE WE OFFER:
» State-of-the-art, modern dentistry — offered in a playful, comfortable environment.
» Sensory room for children who are younger, anxious or have sensitivities to noises, colors and textures.
» Various sedation options and levels based on your child’s individual needs.
» Parents are welcome to stay with their child during the visit.
COMPLIMENTARY FIRST EXAMS FOR CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF TWO.
(513) 806-2060 » pediatricdentistloveland.com » 10570 Loveland Madeira Road in Loveland
DR. LAUREN CAPOZZA
SECOND ACT, FULL VOLUME
FROM PLAYDATES TO PACKED SHOWS, ASTROVAN PROVES IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO TURN IT UP
ARTICLE BY LISA FLETCHER
Photo by ShotbyKira
On any given day in Loveland, you’ll find these men in familiar places — school pickup lines, local coffee shops, or along the Little Miami Scenic Trail with their kids in tow. But give them a stage, a setlist, and a crowd, and these same dads become something else entirely: ASTROVAN, a four-piece “outlaw indie” band with a fast-growing following and roots firmly planted right here in Loveland.
The band — Mikal Crist (vocals/guitar), Steve Ashmore (bass), Jacob Shidler (drums), and Eric Schroeder (guitar) — didn’t come together through the usual late-night gigs. Instead, their story begins with their daughters.
“The connection to the audience is so integral. To be able to connect on the human level and hopefully inspire and grow a community, I think is the ultimate goal.” - Steve
Photo by Jamie Crist
Mikal and Steve were already connected through their daughters, but it wasn’t until a last-minute need for a band that Mikal learned Steve played bass. Around the same time, he reconnected with Jacob, a high school acquaintance who played drums, and soon after, Eric joined, rounding out the lineup. What started as a one-time collaboration quickly took on a life of its own.
“We thought we’d play one show and that would be it,” Mikal remembers. “But after that first rehearsal, we knew this was something special.”
That “something” has become ASTROVAN, a band rooted not just in
music, but in friendship, family, and what they call their “second rodeo.” Their sound blends heartland rock with indie grit and emotional honesty.
Think sing-alongs, a little rebel spirit, and songs that get you dancing.
“It’s about being dads and husbands chasing a dream in our 40s,” Jacob explains. “We’re proud of that ... and we want our daughters to see it’s never too late to go after something you love.”
That authenticity has resonated far beyond Loveland.
Their breakout single, Three Point Night, is now the official victory anthem for FC Cincinnati, played after every home
win at TQL Stadium. The song gained traction after Jacob shared it with a client at MadTree Brewing, then sent it to FC Cincinnati’s DJ Prymtime, who quickly added it to his rotation. He loved it ... and the rest is history.
The first time they heard it played in the stadium? Unforgettable.
“I picked up my daughter, and we were jumping up and down with tears in our eyes,” Mikal smiles. “It was everything — music, family, friendship — all coming together in one moment.”
ASTROVAN remains deeply connected to the community that first embraced them. Earlier this year, they headlined the
Photo by Brooklynn Hunley
“We’re deeply proud of being dads and husbands, chasing down a dream of music in our 40s. Inspiring our daughters to chase their dreams at any age!” - Jacob
Loveland Stage Company Concert Series, turning the performance into something that felt less like a typical show and more like a shared hometown moment.
“The crowd was singing along to songs they’d never heard before,” Jacob says. “It was unbelievable.”
That kind of response is exactly why the band remains here.
“Even if we’re playing bigger venues someday, we’ll always come back,” Mikal says. “Loveland is where we became a band.”
ASTROVAN has recently launched Spill It Records, a recording studio housed in a restored barn in Maineville, complete with a creek running beneath it. The space blends state-of-the-art equipment with a raw, natural, acoustic environment — creating a setting that’s both inspiring and technically impressive.
The studio reflects the band’s broader mission: to create space for authenticity, not just for themselves, but for other artists as well.
Right now, that creative energy is focused on their highly anticipated debut album. Centered around the theme of a “second rodeo,” the project explores life
as dads, husbands, and friends, and is full of grit, joy, and second chances.
“It’s about rediscovering what you love,” Mikal reflects. “And going after it.”
And while fans will have to wait just a bit longer for the full album, they won’t have to wait long to see ASTROVAN live.
The band is set to perform at the Loveland Summer Concert In the Park series on Sunday, July 26 from 6–8 p.m. on the front lawn of City Hall, with more local shows and festival appearances in the works.
For a group that started as a few dads reconnecting with music, ASTROVAN has already come a long way — racking up more than 75,000 streams across 14 countries and building a loyal following they affectionately call the “ASTROFAM.”
For ASTROVAN, the music is only part of the story. The rest is built on family, friendship, and the community that brought them together.
“Without Loveland,” Eric explains, “there is no ASTROVAN.”
CincyMusic.com/bands/astrovan @AstrovanMusic
Photo by ShotbyKira
Photo by Jamie Crist
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Running With Purpose
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED The Loveland 5K Summer Race Series Is All About Community and Charity
ARTICLE BY CARLY TAMBORSKI
Thanks to Fleet Feet Loveland, something pretty special occurs every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. along the scenic bike trail in historic downtown, from Memorial Day all the way through Labor Day. What looks like a usual snapsnot of the bike trail at first glance — runners stretching, walkers chatting, stroller-parents jogging — is actually part of the Loveland 5K Summer Race Series , a weekly celebration of fitness, connection, and community giving that has become a beloved summer tradition for more than 17 years.
Local running legend Bob Roncker, whose Running Spot held the notable Loveland space for years, originally established the weekly race and raised money for local charities, which the subsequent store owner did not continue. Then came Frank and Stacey DeJulius.
“My wife and I own Fleet Feet and acquired the Loveland store back in 2023,” says Frank of the running retail and training establishment. “The Summer Series had been going on thanks to the original owner of that store, Bob Roncker, for years and years, and we wanted to honor it.”
“But to inject more energy, we invited community partners and charity partners to raise money,” he continues. “Nonprofits like ‘DoitforJack’ or ‘Girls on the Run’ for example. Now, people can come out and make donations, or learn about different charities before each weekly race.”
Fleet Feet intentionally prioritizes local organizations, often selecting groups that serve families and neighborhoods in the Loveland area. While donations are encouraged, they are never required to participate.
But Frank and Stacey didn’t stop there. Fleet Feet also invites different well-known running brands every week to set up and showcase something new prior to the run.
“We invite vendor partners we work closely with … it’s a great way to engage them with the community of Loveland,” Frank explains. “It’s up to each vendor partner what they would like to feature, especially things like a hot new shoe release. A lot of times, vendors like Asics bring demo shoes people can try on, and even run in the demo shoe for
the night. Then they can buy the new shoe on-site at the Loveland store.”
Other brands who typically participate include Nike, HOKA, New Balance, and more.
But the real heart of the series lies in its commitment to giving back, blending support for local nonprofits as well as local businesses.
“Most people hang out at the finish line and cheer on all the finishers. Then the group will migrate to one our neighbors like Better Blend or Paxton’s,” Frank smiles. “I feel like the energy varies with who the partners and the charities are each week … either way, we’re usually doing an activity after the race that supports our community partners and businesses. We do different things every week, always something fun for the neighborhood. We’ve even had taco trucks.”
Want to get your running steps in, sample some new kicks, experience local, and support hometown charities? It’s all yours every Wednesday night at Fleet Feet Loveland. See the full summer schedule of featured brands and charity partners online — then lace up and get going.
FleetFeet.com/s/cincy/racing/summer-race-series 127 W. Loveland Ave, Loveland | 513.831.2378
Summer’s Eat Wave
A New Season for the Food Scene: Meet Loveland’s Newest Restaurants
ARTICLE BY MARY KATE LENARD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE MEINBERG
From bright mornings on the bike trail to evenings under twinkling patio lights, summertime in Loveland is a season that begs us to get out and explore.
And this year, that familiar summer rhythm comes with a new chapter for our local food scene.
Santo Taco
Santo Taco is a novel personal concept that opened in April at Loveland Crossing from co-owners Rafael Linan and Sammy Castaneda, both born in Mexico. “Our goal is simple: bring the real thing to Loveland, with quality ingredients and a true taquería approach,” says Rafael. Inspired by lucha libre culture, the concept is rooted in heritage. Standouts include rich birria tacos with consommé, carne asada, and “Taco of the Month” specials that explore regional flavors. Rafael and Sammy are excited to share their culture in an authentic, delicious way. Trust us ... ¡Qué rico!
Favorite Things Deli
@FAVORITETHINGSDELI
This tasty gem has been years in the making for owner Leah Moss and her son, Josh (the Deli’s manager and chief flavor-maker). After opening their meal prep and catering kitchen, All the Ingredients, they saw momentum paired with our community’s desire for a true deli. Opening in June in historic downtown, the shop features gourmet grab-and-go, build-your-own options as well as speciality sandwiches using only premium, handcrafted ingredients. “I insisted that we have a Muffaletta,” Leah smiles. With roots deep in Loveland (and a sneak peek at a possible Reuben and an all-veg delight), this deli will have everyone clamoring to claim the next bite.
SANTOTACOLOVELAND.COM
A wave of can’t-miss eateries are opening their doors to us, adding fresh flavors and core faves to Loveland. With menus introducing slow-braised tacos, made-to-order subs, elevated deli classics, and even a taste of Italy, there’s something for every moment and every palate.
These soon-to-be staples are reflecting what Loveland does best … blending convenience with quality and local connection. Many of these businesses are rooted in our community, owned and operated by families who live here,
Joe’s Pizza Napoli
A beloved Milford staple, Joe’s Napoli Pizza is expanding to Lebanon (che bello!), bringing its family-owned charm to a brand-new community. The second spot will be owned and operated by Joe Wainscott, a Navy veteran and local business professional, alongside his wife, Jessica. This wood-fired hot spot serves Neapolitan-style pizza made with fresh, premium ingredients and from-scratch dough prepared daily (no freezers or microwaves in these kitchens!). Inspired by four generations of nurturing family heritage, Joe’s Pizza values the company around the table as much as its authentic Italian flavors.
Jersey Mike’s
Mike’s way is now our way … Jersey Mike’s is bringing its signature subs to Loveland Madeira Road, thanks to local franchise owners William Rover and Jason Osborne. After tracking a steady stream of Loveland customers visiting their Fields Ertel location, they saw an opportunity to bring a family favorite closer to home. Set to open this summer, the new location is anchored in the community and committed to supporting organizations like Loveland High School athletics and CancerFree KIDS, making this expansion a natural next step in serving the neighborhood.
partner locally — like working with SpeedPro Cincinnati East on custom window signage that brings their storefronts to life — and understand exactly what our neighbors are craving.
So whether you’re working up an appetite on the river or the trail, grabbing a bite before the pool, or hoping to add another satisfying spot to your date night rotation, consider this your go-to guide for great new flavors close to home.
Our community’s table is getting a little bigger, so pull up a chair and dig in.
BOOKED AND BUSY
Introducing an All-New Chapter for One Beloved Local Library Branch
ARTICLE BY NICOLE BROWNING
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL WELLINGTON
When you think of a library, do you picture a room full of tempting tomes and ladder-lined bookshelves stacked to the brim? Or overstuffed armchairs in front of roaring fireplaces, the perfect place to curl up with a good book? How about a bustling community hub, with plenty of natural light, dozens of bookshelves filled with the latest, hottest reads or the most in-demand DVDs, and plenty of meeting rooms or study pods
Photo by Steve France
“Our grand opening was big … over 3,200 visits on that day alone. Over 3,700 check-outs. And 650 people in just one hour that morning. People love this branch.”
for a more private atmosphere … if this last vision is your dream library, you’re in luck, because the new Symmes Township Branch of Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Libraries fulfills all this and more.
In October of 2024, the Symmes Township Library, located on Enyart Road, closed its doors to the public, relocated to a temporary space, and got ready for a bigger and better upgrade — turning a new page, literally. As part of its Facility Master Plan, a grand 10-year upgrade project put in place by the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library, the Symmes Township’s library was getting … something of a facelift.
“We’ve had that Symmes Township branch since it opened in 1991, so this was a teardown and rebuild,” explains Paula Brehm-Heeger, the director of CHPL.
“That site on Enyart is the largest library-owned plot of land we have, and the original building was positioned on it in a way that had some drawbacks.
It served us well, of course, but when we went to expand it, we wanted to make the traffic flow better. We weren’t going to utilize the whole site, so we moved the building forward.”
As soon as you make that turn onto Enyart Road, it’s impossible to miss the new library and its lovely modern brick exterior. Floor-to-ceiling windows occupy one corner, looking into a reimagined play area, and the front entrance features automatic sliding doors, making it fully accessible. There’s more, including plenty of sidewalks from the parking lot to the main doors.
“Before, this branch didn’t have sidewalks from the overflow parking lots, and as a library that attracts lots of kids and seniors, getting here was difficult. When it came to having a welcoming and acceptable space, we really tried to design it with those things in mind,” Paula states of the parking lot and traffic flow around the new building.
So what else is new at the Symmes Library? Well, a lot, it turns out. Not only is there a large, glorious community room that can accommodate 100 people (plus multiple smaller meeting rooms available to the public), the space is also packed with quiet study pods, a maker’s space with button-making, large-format scanners, a vinyl printer, and a quiet area complete with – you guessed it – a fireplace.
“We have this quiet reading area with a fireplace … it’s electric, but it’s really cool!” Paula smiles. “People are bringing their laptops, sitting, staying. It’s a space where I can see people coming with their work so they can be separate … but together.”
But Symmes isn’t just all about the cool new features, they’re rich with what their community is clamoring for – books. “We have a number of seniors who are engaged and care deeply about the branch, and want access to a library that carries a lot of books,” Paula explains. “In some of the engagement sessions, they said ‘I was here when you opened the original library, and we love that you have books!’ … they check them out like crazy.”
The proof is in the pudding – the last year it was open, Symmes Township Library had 370,000 items checked out, which was almost 70,000 more than the next busiest branch, Anderson Township. This new branch now boasts stacks of bookshelves loaded for perusal, and many displays showing off what’s hot and in demand.
The other major group consistently visiting this library are families with children, and now there are plenty of cool features for the kiddos as well. From interactive tablets with educational games to a whole new playset with multiple levels and a slide, this branch is designed to keep your young ones entertained.
“Families with kids are a big driving factor at Symmes. We host some of the biggest story times in our system here, and when we talked to the community
“People love to read, and they love to come out and support this library. The fact that we had so many people come
celebrate the opening with us was really a demonstration of how much they want to be engaged and active with the library here.”
about expanding this location, that was right at the top of their list,” Paula explains. “We have a lot of families that visit, so we made sure we had a space that allowed for that programming. The new play area has a designated playscape, and it’s connected to the meeting room, too … that way families can stick around the branch after storytime and have a way to interact beyond just the program.”
Find a quiet nook to devour the latest bestseller or revisit a classic, join a local book club with like-minded readers, bring your kids in on a gloomy day to blow off some steam in the play room … it’s all under one roof at Symmes Township’s gorgeous new library.
a dad’s eye view
When optometrists Drs. Alex Gibberman and Dave Williams opened 2020 Eyecare in October 2020, they were young husbands, not yet fathers. A lot has changed since then. Alex is now dad to 3-year-old Ryan, and Dave has three kids of his own, 4-year-old Lucas, 3-year-old Graham, and 9-month-old Georgia.
What they didn’t envision when they first began to talk about going into business was how having children would shape the way they connected with young families.
“Those first true eye exams are usually done by a pediatrician at early regular checkups,” Alex says. “We generally begin to see kids around 3 years old.”
“I think we’ve always been good with kids, but having our own now has made our comfort levels — and theirs — even greater,” Dave offers.
“There’s a natural flow when it comes to talking with kids and meeting them where they are,” Alex adds. “Our own kids have helped us understand that even better.”
Perfect example? Some young patients are very nervous, while others can be overly excited. Both Alex and Dave have learned to quickly adapt. “I can tell right away how goofy, how fun, or how serious I need to be to get them to focus on what we’re trying to accomplish,” Alex explains.
ARTICLE BY KATHY DOANE PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW J. CAPPS
The equipment can also be a bit scary for some young patients, but the guys have found a way around that, too. “A lot of times they are curious, so we let them turn the dials and knobs, or go up and down in the chair a couple of times,” Alex says, with a dad’s wry smile.
“It can be very helpful in gaining their trust out of the gate,” Dave adds. “I’m also more tuned in to the parents in the room now, and how they understand what I say is going on with their kids. I try to talk though all the available options, to meet the family where they are. For instance, do they really need a follow-up visit in 6 weeks or can they wait 4 months?”
Of course, the universal challenge facing parents is the effect screen time has on young eyes. “There’s definitely an increase in nearsightedness because of screen time,” Alex says. “High-contrast screens contribute to faster eyeball growth, which leads to nearsightedness.”
Fatherhood Helps Two Eye Docs With Their Youngest Patients
Screen time also has greatly reduced the time kids spend outdoors. There’s an abundance of studies that show kids who spend more time outside have less nearsightedness. Why? Outdoor activities make less high-contrast demands on eyes, and exposure to the sun is a main source of Vitamin D, critical to good eye health.
“We can’t take away phones and computers, they are a reality of our lives,” Dave says. Luckily, there are now treatment options that not only correct, but can slow the progression of nearsightedness, including drops, glasses, and contacts lenses for younger children.
No surprise, Alex and Dave keep a close eye on the vision of their own kids. Dave has even found a way to incorporate screens into his home eye exams. “Mine have discovered their screens can play cartoons, which is when Dad can shine a light on their eyes to check on alignment and reflections.”
For Alex and his son, it’s already a trip to the office. “Ryan’s obsessed with letters and numbers, so getting him to sit in a chair and read the eye chart is a game for him,” Alex says, smiling again.
The Dad-meets-Doc lesson: Seeing the best results often starts with a bit of fun.
2020EyecareOH.com | 9553 Fields Ertel Rd, Loveland 513.428.2020
Left to right, Dr. Dave Williams with Georgia, Lucas, and Graham, and Ryan next to Dr. Alex Gibberman
Nice? Is Whiskey On Ice
In speaking to Whiskey lovers (most happen to be men, but do accept me in their brethren as a fellow enthusiast, writer, and educator), I’ve learned a great many opinions on how to drink Whiskey. Specifically, preferences on adding water and ice vary greatly.
A brand ambassador that I had the privilege of listening to recently said the obvious: both dilution and temperature change when you add ice, so if you are going to add something, a little water is best. I personally prefer to use a water dropper, so I can add one drop at a time until I get to the desired taste.
HERE ARE THE DIFFERENCES:
THE BEST WAY TO ENJOY YOUR WHISKEY: ON THE ROCKS, ROCK, NEAT, OR WITH WATER
Rocks: Provides the highest rate of dilution as a lot of ice melts quickly. If you are drinking a barrel proof Whiskey, it kind of defeats the purpose as the distiller didn’t add water as they do in every other type of finished Whiskey.
On the Rock: The single rock, cube, or sphere is the slowest to melt and thought to be the most aesthetic. It’s nice if you want to stretch out your tasting. I often order on the rock if I want my drink to last longer.
Neat: This is the way single malt Scotch is served at a tasting event, in a branded Glencairn or Neat glass so that proper nosing for aromas can be achieved - and a dram of Scotch, smaller than an ounce, fits in them perfectly.
Water: As I mentioned above, quoting the brand ambassador, a little water is better for a fine Whiskey over any kind of ice. Often, if ordered with water, the water is served in a separate vessel on the side so you can add in as much as you want.
Quoting another expert on the subject, Richard Paterson of The Dalmore famously and enthusiastically demonstrates in his Scotch classes how to drink single malt Scotch Whiskey: Paterson fills a lowball glass to the rim with ice, adds Scotch and then ceremoniously throws it over his shoulder onto the carpet of the classroom – because that much ice makes the drink worthless. One more quote, never “add green tea or milk to Whiskey. You can add a little water, but not a lot of ice.”
Ultimately, the reason we add ice can be for aesthetics, to stretch out the time spent on one glass, for cooling, and for dilution. However, the number one reason enthusiasts add water is … drumroll please … because adding a little water actually opens up a Whiskey to show more aromas and flavors.
GO- TO LAWN CARE PROS OFFER A GROWING LIST OF OPTIONS, BOTH INDOORS AND OUT
ARTICLE BY BILL FURBEE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACOB TRUSTY AND PROVIDED
YEAR-ROUND
PEST RELIEF
Summer’s in full swing, which means plenty of time outdoors for Greater Cincinnati families — it also means the inconvenience of outdoor pests is hard to ignore. Thankfully, one local company is stepping up its services portfolio to provide the solution so many are after.
It’s a holistic approach to strategy. “We’re not just applying treatments — we’re evaluating how pests interact with the entire property,” says Jacob Trusty of A&A Lawn Care & Landscaping. “From landscaping to moisture conditions to structural entry points, we take a full-picture approach that leads to more consistent, long-term results.”
A&A Lawn Care & Landscaping has been in business since 2006, and in that time has serviced more than 15,000 family homes and commercial businesses in the entire tristate area (“as far south as Williamstown, KY, and as far north as Springboro,” Jacob proudly reports). Owner Andrew Wesselman grew up in a retail garden center and spent early years helping his parents oversee a greenhouse; Jacob likes to say he’s been working with turfgrass “since I was 5.” Suffice it to say, the team knows their craft.
In fact, the company is already well-known throughout the Greater Cincinnati region — and in our community, especially. Just last year, A&A Lawn Care & Landscaping opened a Sharonville headquarters for its lawn care services, in order to better serve nearby communities. “The closer we are to our customers, the quicker we’re able to respond to their needs,” Jacob says. “It’s important to us that whatever service we offer, we want to be able to do it with the same quality, responsiveness, and effectiveness as we would be able to offer in our own backyard. Every area we service is special to us.”
Jacob points out that pest control has always been a core part of their services; recently, however, the company introduced a more focused approach with its Perimeter Pest Protection program. That offering, he says, is designed specifically to target pests like spiders and ants before they ever make their way inside the home. “Our overall philosophy is proactive,” Jacob adds. “Controlling the exterior environment to prevent interior problems.”
PERIMETER PEST PROTECTION
“This is the foundation of our pest control offering,” Jacob says. “We remove webs, inspect the exterior, and apply targeted treatments around the home’s foundation and entry points to prevent spiders, ants, and other common pests from getting inside. If you control the exterior properly, you eliminate most pest issues before they ever reach the home.”
MOSQUITO CONTROL
Designed to make outdoor spaces usable again, this service targets high-activity areas throughout the yard. “We want homeowners to enjoy their yard,” Jacob explains. “This service takes the outdoors from something you tolerate, to something you actually use.”
“OUR PROGRAMS ARE DESIGNED TO GIVE HOMEOWNERS PEACE OF MIND, KNOWING THEIR HOME IS PROTECTED SEASON AFTER SEASON.”
FLEA & TICK YARD TREATMENTS
Protecting pets and families is paramount here, and it’s accomplished by treating the lawn and landscape where these pests live and spread. “A lot of pest issues start in the yard,” Jacob says. “Addressing that environment is key to protecting everything else.”
The best part? Each one of these services can be offered individually, Jacob says, but many of A&A Lawn Care & Landscaping’s customers choose to bundle services together, for more enhanced protection. “We often customize programs based on the property, creating a comprehensive exterior plan that fits the homeowner’s needs,” he explains.
While A&A Lawn Care & Landscaping has provided pest control solutions for years, Jacob adds, they developed the Perimeter Pest Protection program in response to what homeowners were actually experiencing. “We heard about consistent issues with spiders, ants, and other nuisance pests entering the home,” he shares. “We saw an opportunity to refine our approach and build a program specifically designed to stop that at the source.”
“Most people assume pest control begins once pests are already inside. In reality, the most effective approach starts outside. By addressing entry points, removing webs, and creating a protective barrier around the home, we can dramatically reduce pest activity before it ever becomes noticeable indoors.”
Jacob explains it’s also important to understand that pest control can be an ongoing process. “The best results come from consistency and prevention,” he says. “Our programs are designed to give homeowners peace of mind, knowing their home is protected season after season.”
AAlawns.com | 11783 Enterprise Dr, Sharonville 513.547.0266
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
THE QUIET STANDARD:
MIKE JOHNSON
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
MIKE JOHNSON
JUNE 2026
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JUNE 13TH
Elvis Tribute Concert
Community Park | 7:00 PM
Cue the blue suede shoes — Elvis is in the building (well, almost). Award-winning tribute artist Tyler Christopher brings the King’s iconic sound and swagger to life with a high-energy, era-spanning performance. From early hits to Vegas-era classics, expect powerhouse vocals, nostalgic charm, and plenty of hip-shaking fun in this unforgettable night of rock ’n’ roll celebration. www.miamitwpoh.gov/free.html
JUNE 17TH
U-Pick Flowers + Perfume Pop-ups with The Lavender Sachet
The Marmalade Lily | 6:00 PM
Fresh blooms and custom scents? Yes, please! Kick off this weekly summer series by cutting your own flowers straight from the Marmalade Lily garden, then stay to blend a signature fragrance with notes like lavender, grapefruit, or sandalwood. You’ll leave with two personalized perfumes, your own bouquet, and maybe a new favorite midweek ritual to savor all season long. TheMarmaladeLily. com/upickflowers/ | TheLavenderSachet.com/workshops
JUNE 20TH
Road to Health: Health & Wellness Expo
Nisbet Park | 9:00 AM
Consider this your one-stop shop for feeling good. This lively expo brings together everything from fitness classes and health screenings to giveaways and on-site mammograms — all in one place. With resources for physical, mental, and financial well-being, it’s a feel-good morning designed to help you recharge, reset, and maybe even discover a new healthy habit or two. Facebook.com/LMRChamberAlliance.org
JUNE 24TH - 28TH
DoitforJack Fentanyl Awareness Weekend
Downtown Loveland
A weekend of remembrance and awareness brings the community together to confront the dangers of fentanyl and honor Jack Quehl’s life. Events include the Walk for Jack 5K with Fleet Feet, a welcome gathering at Bishop’s Quarter, Yoga for Jack at Rodi, and Kayaks & Conversations at Loveland Paddle Sports, all supporting the mission to educate and save lives. DoitforJack.org/event/join-us-for-fentanyl-awareness-week
JUNE 27TH
Loveland Art Gallery Crawl
Downtown Loveland | 4:00 PM
Art lovers, this one’s for you: the 6th annual crawl is back and bigger than ever. Stroll downtown, pop into galleries, and meet nearly 100 artists showcasing pottery, paintings, fibers, photography, and more. Enjoy appetizers, raffles, and a festive atmosphere. Plus hop aboard the free “Art Buggy” shuttle to cruise between creative stops with ease. ArtLeagueOfLoveland.org/annual-art-gallery-crawl
JUNE 27TH
Cincinnati Nature Center’s Garden Tour: Noteworthy Natives
Across 5 Local Suburbs | 9:00 AM
Get inspired to grow local. This beloved annual tour showcases stunning private gardens where native plants shine in real-life landscapes across several communities. Travel at your own pace, gather ideas for your yard, and see how beauty and conservation go hand in hand. Proceeds support ongoing efforts to inspire environmental stewardship throughout the region. CincyNature.org/garden-tour-noteworthy-natives
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