LIFE + CULTURE
HOME FOR A HERO
FOOD + BEVERAGE FALL FLAVORS WITH THE SPICY OLIVE
THANKSGIVING FARM-TO-TABLE
In a Thankful Kinda Mood
Every November, I look back with a heart full of gratitude for our Loveland readers, our partners and the amazing Loveland Lifestyle team. We are celebrating our seventh year, and still have so much to cover!
First, I want to thank the Loveland community... our town continues to grow, and we are right here with you to learn and share everything! Thank you for being such a beautiful, unique city where some thing new is always happening.
Second, I have to thank our partners. Whether you have been with us from the beginning or just signed on yesterday, we are so happy that you are part of this magazine. Your support and love for Loveland keep us going. Thank you!
Of course, I have to thank my team. I’m so proud and honored to work with each and every one of you.
Steph, thank you for being with me since the beginning! It’s to the point now where we literally email each other the same thought, almost at the same time. Your eye for detail is unmatched, and your articles always hit right at the heart of the matter.
Courtney, thank you for taking care of partners’ needs and for connecting new businesses with the magazine. You’ve helped this publication’s brand grow so much. When we sit down and brainstorm new ideas, you come to the table with something fun and creative ... and you get excited about it.
Kelsie, thank you for keeping out social media pages on track. We have a lot of information coming in all the time, and you not only find a way to incorporate all of it, but you don’t let things slip through the cracks. Your organization skills are goals! Not to mention you have increased followers through your creative posts and videos.
To our writers and photographers, I constantly brag about how talented our team is. Thank you for filling the pages of each issue with stories that move readers and photos that are stunning. I want readers to walk away having learned something new ... and because of you all, we have been able to achieve that every single time. I'm grateful for each and every one of you.
Thank you, loyal readers. Your kind words and feedback mean the world to us. We look forward to our next year, and all that is in store.
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
Kathy Doane, Courtney Kraemer, Bill Furbee, Pamela McWhorter, Nicole Browning, Lisa Fletcher, Alison Stanton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Matthew J. Capps, Stephanie Meinberg, Jill Lauterbach
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
November 2025 Visit our Instagram
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler Learn
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
1: Dr. Nick and Dr. Kenzie of Garden City Chiropractic participated in the Loveland Frogman Race! 2: LPD enjoying the Opening Weekend of @TheCocoaMuseLoveland with some sweet, sippable treats. 3: The 20th annual Paxton’s Grill Golf Outing raised more than $78,000 for @CancerFreeKIDS! 4: Winners from the Loveland Art Festival: Christy Jones, Kevin Houtchens, Karen Houtchens and Bonnie McNett. 5: Oktoberfest fun in Loveland at Hops and Berry with Mayor Bailey! 6: Impacting Tomorrow celebrating their ribbon cutting at their new building located on Wards Corner Road. 7: Our publisher, @EmilyMBarlow, attended the San Francisco @CityLifestyle Gold Conference!
Whether inside or outside, upstairs or down, our design/build approach always produces OUTSTANDING results. We are thrilled to announce an exciting new collaboration! We have joined forces with Curated Fine Furnishings & Design in downtown Loveland. Two powerhouse home design companies under one roof, offering a one-stop-approach to quality home design, remodeling and furnishings for clients. That future is here, now, in the heart of Loveland. Contact us for a consultation.
8: @CityofLovelandOH’s new fire station will be named in honor of longtime Fire Chief, Otto Huber. 9: Loveland Schools Foundation, proud to be part of the Loveland Homecoming Parade. 10: A dedication ceremony was held for the Steve Kenyon Outdoor Classroom at Loveland High School.
business monthly
From Junk to Joy
In the middle of a Loveland cleanout, history found its way home. Junk King’s Jack Brendamour discovered a long-lost American flag belonging to the late father of local photographer Richard Corsmeier. The family had thought it gone for nearly a decade. “Seeing the joy and tears when we returned the flag was incredible,” says Jack. “It reminded me why we do what we do ... to help families, honor our military, and strengthen our community.”
Scan to read more
A Fresh Take on Wellness
Mint Med is redefining health and confidence. Cofounders Erin Huff, MBA, and husband Dr. Roderick Huff, MD, have combined business expertise and medical care to deliver personalized results. Whether nationwide telehealth for medical weight management, concierge medicine for wellness, in-office aesthetic and cosmetic surgical procedures—the goal is transformation. “We want patients to feel supported, not just prescribed,” Erin shares. Ready to renew your energy, reshape your health, and rediscover confidence that lasts? Think Mint Med.
Scan to read more
Curiosity Under the Yurt
Sunlight filters through the skylight, plants climb a living wall, and birdsong drifts in from the blind—welcome to Children’s Meeting House Montessori School’s newest classroom. The 36-foot yurt isn’t just a structure, it’s a bridge between indoors and out, complete with a nature library and gathering space. “It allows students to continue their experience of nature in a seamless way,” says Outdoor Education Specialist Angie Pavão. Lessons, specials, and celebrations now unfold here year-round.
Scan to read more
Photography by Jack Brendamour
Dr. Huff, Photography by Mint Med
Photography by CMH Montessori
Art From the Heart
At Whistle Stop Clay Works, clay becomes more than art—it becomes comfort. Since 2018, owner Bonnie McNett and her team have brought pottery projects to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, giving NICU families a chance to create keepsakes. “Parents are able to sit, relax, and enjoy their ‘me time,’” Bonnie says. “The items they paint become cherished mementos of their baby’s journey.” Offered free of charge, the program sparks creativity, connection, and lasting memories.
A Plate with Purpose
After two years of dedication, the Ben Morrison Memorial Fund’s custom Ohio license plate is officially on the road. Featuring the words “Continue Your Story,” each plate is more than a bumper accessory, it’s a reminder that mental health matters. “If even one person sees it and chooses to keep going, it’s worth it,” says VP Stacey Lund. Proceeds benefit the Fund’s mission to spread awareness, offer hope, and support mental health initiatives across Ohio.
The Woods Are Talking
Cincinnati Nature Center is doubling the magic. While wandering through Light in the Forest this holiday season, visitors can now pause at the region’s first-ever Forest Ear-nocular—a 12-foot-long wooden megaphone that amplifies the forest’s whispers. “This project is about creating space for reflection and connection,” says Jeff Corney, Executive Director. Whether its rustling leaves, birdsong, or the soft flow of streams, this immersive listening spot transforms an evening walk into a mindful, one-of-a-kind experience.
Photography by Bonnie McNett
Photography by Ben Morrison Memorial Fund
Photography by Cincinnati Nature Center
Personal. Proactive. Empowering. A primary care practice focused on prevention, vitality and longevity. Unsurpassed patient experience. Dr. Michael Hendrixson, one of the region’s top primary care physicians, leads our medical staff.
Call or Text 513.790.2923 bridgestreethealth.com | 384 Bridge Street, Loveland, OH 45140
1. FLOURISH AND ROAM
Regeneratively raised, nutrient-dense Thanksgiving meats to choose from—ethical, flavorful. FlourishAndRoam.com
2. NEWTOWN FARM MARKET
Find pumpkins, produce, and pies, plus colorful mums and fresh turkey ordering. NewtownMarket.com
3. GORMAN HERITAGE FARM
This urban-located working farm offers pasture-raised turkeys, root vegetables, and greens. GormanFarm.org
4. BLOOMS AND BERRIES
Your go-to destination for homemade pies, rolls, gifts, and more for every holiday gathering. BloomsAndBerries.com
5. TURNER FARM
Choose from 50+ certified organic veggies and humanely raised beef, lamb, and heritage pork. TurnerFarm.org
Photo by Jill Lauterbach
Photo by @pathsidevibes
FOREVER, home
HONORING ONE SOLDIER’S SERVICE AND SACRIFICE WITH A ONE-OF-A-KIND CUSTOM BUILD
ARTICLE BY KATHY DOANE PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
It’s an unfortunate reality of life that the old maxim, “bad things happen to good people,” is often true. Still, more unusual is the fact that after those bad things happen, great things – even extraordinary things – sometimes show up for those good people. Take Retired Marine Corporal Chad Ohmer, his wife, Renae, and their two daughters, 13-year-old Emma and 6-year-old Amelia.
On April 25, 2025, the Ohmer family received the keys to a new, mortgage-free forever home. It was an amazing act of compassion and expression of gratitude for Chad’s service and sacrifice, thanks to the Gary Sinise Foundation and many others who fell in line to join the mission.
In 2012, Chad was serving his second deployment in Afghanistan when an incident occurred, severely injuring his left foot and right thigh, and damaging other parts of his body. Multiple surgeries and a long recovery followed at Walter Reed Hospital in Bethesda, Maryland. But pain and recurring infections were constant. In 2021, doctors amputated his left leg below the knee, and Chad was fitted for a prosthetic leg.
By that time, Chad and Renae were the parents of two girls, living on the West Side in a house that became increasingly problematic for Chad. Although his prosthetic leg or using crutches gave him some mobility, walking remained painful. He also had a wheelchair, but the house’s narrow hallways, doorways, and carpet made it difficult or impossible to navigate many spaces.
While recovering in Walter Reed Hospital, Chad and Renae formed strong friendships with several wounded warriors and their families whose lives had been transformed by the Gary Sinise Foundation. An organization launched by the same Gary Sinise who came onto everyone’s radar as Vietnam veteran Lt. Dan Taylor in the 1994 film classic, Forrest Gump.
Sinise started his foundation in 2011 to help wounded veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need by establishing a broad spectrum of services and programs to support their physical and mental health.
For the most severely injured who qualify, the foundation’s R.I.S.E. (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment) program builds mortgage-free homes. Not any cookie-cutter variety, mind you, but a customized house based on collaboration with the family, a local builder, an architect, and many others.
In 2021, Chad and Renae submitted their application, hoping they might be considered. It would be two years before they heard, but in August 2023, Sinise himself called to share the good news. His foundation was going to build them a house.
“There were plenty of tears from us both,” Renae remembers.
R.I.S.E. Director Pete Franzen made the first of seven visits to the Ohmers. “I visited their existing home to see for myself what challenges Chad had, and what was important to all of them.”
Perhaps the most critical part of the entire project was finding the right local builder. “The builder has to be a person of integrity who builds a quality product that they stand behind long-term,” Pete says.
As it turned out, choosing the right builder wasn’t difficult. “After the first visit with John and Ben Hill of John Hill Construction, I knew we’d found our quality builder,” Pete says.
“We had never done a project like this before for a veteran,” Ben says, referring to all the special accommodations the house needed. “It means everything to be able to help someone who has given so much.”
Which is why so many who were involved with creating the Ohmers’ new home gave of their time, expertise, and materials as well. JHC project manager Bill Bryant was there every step of the way, making sure things ran smoothly.
Chad and Renae worked with the Foundation and a local realtor to find the building site near Maineville, a 4-acre flat site that included woods. Gary Sinise Foundation paid for the land, too.
Pete, JHC folks, and others from Gary Sinise Foundation spent a lot of time with the Ohmers, making sure that everything Chad and his family needed (and many things they wanted) would be incorporated into the design.
Because the houses R.I.S.E. builds for wounded warriors have no basements, it was important to Chad that the house have a safe room where the family could shelter during a severe thunderstorm or tornado.
“We gave them a master closet that is everyday functional, but because it’s a solid concrete block room reinforced with rebar, it’s as safe a place you could hope to be,” Ben says.
Getting the kitchen right was extremely important to Chad’s independence. “I’m the cook,” he says, smiling. And that had been a problem in their previous home as it became more difficult for him to maneuver.
The Ohmer Family meeting Gary Sinise, photo by Gary Sinise Foundation
Now Chad can roll under the sink, the stovetop, be at eye level with the oven and microwave, and easily move things onto lower counters. Perhaps the coolest features are the cabinets that have pulldown shelves so contents can be easily reached.
The house took about nine months to build. Talk to anyone involved and emotions rise to the surface. No topic brings them more quickly than what may be the home’s most special feature: the Honor Wall. It’s part of every house that Gary Sinise Foundation builds.
On October 15, 2024, all the walls in the house had been framed, but not yet covered with drywall. Renae explains. “We invited
family, friends, and anyone who had worked on the house or supplied materials … they had the opportunity to hang mementos and write messages of thanks, love, and encouragement.”
Chad continues, “Two of the guys didn’t make it the day I was injured, and their dog tags are behind that wall.”
It’s a powerful gesture, just out of sight, but forever there as a reminder of service and sacrifice.
“We tell families to think of it as a great big hug from Gary and the American people,” Pete adds. And one we’re all so grateful to give.
JohnHillConstruction.com | GarySiniseFoundation.org
From JHC, Bill Bryant, John Hill and Ben Hill, posing with Morgan Ogle, Sarah Muri and Shelly Weidner from Ferguson Enterprises, also part of the project
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» 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
Cincinnati’s Premier Contemporary Quilting Studio
The Studio is home to over 5,000 bolts of fabric. We strive to provide a selection of current fabrics, threads, patterns, books, notions and supplies for quilters in the Tri-State area. Hire us to professionally quilt, or train on our machines and quilt it yourself! We hope to become your go-to shop for all
SPEEDPRO’S APPROACH TO BRANDING STARTS WITH GRAPHIC PROOF THAT BIG IS BEST
Pressing the Boundaries
of Printing
ARTICLE BY KATHY DOANE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW J. CAPPS
Left to right: Andrew Gonzales, Drew Lowry and Kelly Lowry
Bold. Bright. That describes 28-year-old Drew Lowry’s work world as operations manager of SpeedPro Cincinnati East, a large format printing company.
Whether “large format printing” is a familiar term or not, the graphic results certainly are. This form of promoting a business or event, creating an inviting and informative space, is everywhere. Banners, wall murals, eye-catching window images, vehicle wraps, the list is long. Often printed on flexible vinyl that can adhere to and wrap any surface, new technology and equipment mean Drew can print directly on other surfaces such as metal or glass.
Two of Drew’s favorite projects to date: eye-catching images that wrap three Clermont Transportation Connection buses, and a set of elevator doors that required a precision application to reveal a coffee shop scene when the doors close.
It’s not exactly the career path Drew anticipated, but nearly a year in, he’s definitely enjoying the decision. Even more special? It’s a family affair.
Drew’s parents, Julie and Kelly Lowry, have been fixtures of the Loveland business community for two decades. Kelly is an engineer and founder/owner/ president of Lowry Controls, which designs, builds, programs, and installs control systems for companies nationwide. Julie currently serves as part-time office manager for both Lowry Controls and SpeedPro, which operates out of the same building.
Drew began working for Lowry Controls during his summers at Loveland High School, then NKU, but all three Lowrys eventually recognized that engineering wasn’t the best fit for creative-minded Drew, who also had experience with graphic design and video production.
CONTINUED >
SpeedPro’s conference room covered in SpeedPro printed material
“It’s exciting to suggest new materials that clients don’t know about for a more creative way to brand their business.” - Drew
Julie and Kelly began looking for a small business to buy, one that might capitalize on Drew’s talents and experience. When a SpeedPro franchise went up for sale in Milford last year, Kelly bought it and moved the operation to Loveland.
Since then, with Drew running day-to-day operations and Kelly as owner/ mentor, the business has expanded. Exploded. “It’s really just been by word-ofmouth,” Julie says. To formalize getting the word out, Drew’s brother, Dean, is stepping in with marketing via social media.
The biggest investment in launching SpeedPro into a bigger and bolder future can be found in its large shop. Since opening for business in January, the Lowrys have replaced all of the equipment, the centerpiece of which is a large UV ink hybrid printer.
Production manager Andrew Gonzales demonstrates its precision and clarity by feeding a large piece of PVC (like foamboard, but sturdier) into the printer after selecting an image from an integrated computer screen. It’s one of Drew’s favorites, “Cognoscenti in a Room Hung with Pictures,” currently in London’s National Gallery. It just takes a few minutes for the large print to roll out.
“When clients contact us, they may just want a banner, but we can help them elevate their brand by showing them new materials and more creative ways to get attention,” Drew says.
He can’t help but smile when he thinks about the potential of those partnerships. And with family in the mix, that’s a future to be thankful for.
THE GREATER PROJECT
In September, SpeedPro provided banners and signs for Loveland-based Greater Project’s Sonder Brewing 5K Run/Walk, a fundraising event to support GP’s mission throughout the U.S. and beyond. Locally, GP partners with local schools to support children from low-income families and special needs kids, assisting with homework, food and other services to help them thrive. GP also serves orphaned, abandoned, and abused children living in extreme poverty in Kenya and India. A longtime friend of GP founder Lisa Fields’ family, Drew believes SpeedPro’s involvement and continuing support of Greater Project events are another way to be a good and valuable community partner.
Photo provided
ARTICLE BY NICOLE BROWNING PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE MEINBERG
and mustard, garlic, vinegar, OH MY!
With the holiday season poised to be in full swing, deciding what to put on your plate can be hard. Between hosting for families and making time for friends, our meals shouldn’t have to drop in quality just because of our busy schedules. Of course, we’ve got you covered. The Spicy Olive’s maple pork tenderloin with farro, apples, and arugula is the perfect dish to throw together for your family on a busy weeknight or to impress friends who’ve come for a visit. Touted as one of The Spicy Olive’s all-time faves, this dish is sure to fill your stomach with hearty, healthy goodness in between those rich holiday meals.
Featuring their maple balsamic vinegar as well as the always-crave-worthy champagne and roasted garlic mustard, this dish packs a delicious punch, highlighting all the best flavors of the late fall and winter months. The warm, rich notes of the maple balsamic vinegar lend wonderfully to the acidity and brightness of the mustard, combining to form a complex and well-balanced dish. Add the crispness of the farro and apple salad against the fattiness of the pork, and this recipe is comfort on a plate!
Elevating the Everyday, A Festive Fave From The Spicy Olive
Not to mention, this recipe basically only uses one skillet (minus cooking the farro). After pan-frying your pork in the garlic olive oil, the skillet is then deglazed with white wine. Mustard and vinegar are then added to create depth and dimension to the pan sauce (and oh, what a sauce).
The simplicity with which this dish comes together, and the complexity of the flavors, from rich garlicky goodness to the punch of the vinegar and mustard, lend themselves to an easy comfort meal you won’t want to miss. Stop into The Spicy Olive to get your essential ingredients today, and wow your guests (or your family) with this seasonal delight!
The Spicy Olive’s Maple Pork Tenderloin with Farro, Apples, and Arugula
INGREDIENTS
(SERVES 4)
• 3 tbsp. The Spicy Olive’s Vermont Maple Balsamic Vinegar
• 5 tbsp. The Spicy Olive’s Garlic Olive Oil
• 2 tsp. The Spicy Olive’s Champagne & Roasted Garlic Mustard
• 1 tsp. garlic, chopped
• ½ cup farro
• 1 tsp. kosher salt
• ½ tsp. black pepper
• 1 lb pork tenderloin
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 3 cups baby arugula or mixed greens
• 1 red apple, unpeeled and sliced thin
DIRECTIONS
1. Whisk together 2 tablespoons of the balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, 1 teaspoon of the mustard, and the chopped garlic. Cook farro according to package directions. When cool, mix farro with the prepared dressing. Set aside.
2. Heat remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium high heat. Gently pound the pork tenderloin between 2 pieces of wax paper to flatten slightly. Sprinkle tenderloin with salt and pepper. Add pork to skillet and cook until browned on all sides and just cooked through, about 2 minutes per side or when internal temperature reaches 145°F. Place pork on a cutting board to rest for 5 minutes. Slice into 12 pieces, then cover to keep warm.
3. Add wine to skillet and stir to remove brown bits from bottom of pan. Bring to a simmer, then reduce wine by half. Whisk in remaining 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar and 1 teaspoon of mustard. Let simmer for 1 minute.
4. Add arugula and apple slices to the dressed farro and mix well. Place a serving of the farro salad on each plate, and add 3 slices of sliced tenderloin. Drizzle the pork with the reduced sauce. Pairs well with one of The Spicy Olive’s selection of Pinot Noirs. Happy holidays and bon appétit!
TheSpicyOlive.com | 9873 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati 513.376.9061 | 7671 Cox Lane, West Chester | 513.847.4397
ARTICLE BY PAMELA MCWHORTER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW J. CAPPS
“I wouldn’t do anything for my customers that I wouldn’t do at my own house.”
Service Above All
Serving His Country and HVAC Customers, This Local Veteran Goes Above and Beyond
Feel a chill in the air? That means the season of high expectations is heating up. For high school seniors and their parents, November is about more than turkey, holiday shopping, and PSLs. It’s decision time. College application deadlines are coming fast. The next step in life is right around the corner. Where will you go? What will you study? Who will you be? The future is a gift waiting to be opened … and no one wants to come up empty.
Eight years ago, Preston Franklin, founder and owner of Preston’s Heating and Cooling, entered this season as a senior at Sycamore High School. He’d enjoyed his high school years, but he knew college wasn’t for him. So, Preston followed a path that fewer than 1% of all Americans are on. He became an active member of our nation’s military.
“I wasn’t really keen on going to school and being able to pay for it,” Preston explains. “But the National Guard pays for school.” And his path was clear.
Fittingly, the Sycamore Aviator signed up for the 123rd Air Control Squadron of the Ohio Air National Guard … and he actually stayed in district. The squadron’s base is practically across the street from
Summit Park, which used to be the home of the Blue Ash Airport. If it weren’t for the fighter jet parked out front, the base could easily have been mistaken for another warehouse, or a light industrial business housed in the area.
Preston chose the Guard so he could learn HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), a trade he could use for life beyond the military. After graduating high school, he went to Texas for two months of basic training, followed by seven months of HVAC training.
“I chose HVAC with zero to little knowledge of what it was,” Preston explains. “But I got lucky … thankfully, I really, thoroughly enjoy it.”
Once his initial training was complete, Preston returned to work full-time at the Blue Ash base, which was right down the street from his family’s house. But he didn’t stay close to home for long. In late 2020, the 123rd deployed to the Middle East. There, in the middle of the desert, Preston managed the HVAC systems that would keep critical communication equipment cool and personnel tents comfortable.
“It was the start of my professional career in managing shops and shop flow,” Preston smiles, remembering his deployment.
Just three years out of high school, Preston was now ready for the next phase of his life. When he returned home in 2021, Preston accomplished his next critical mission: marrying his high school sweetheart, Elayna, which he did that September.
After his full-time contract with the Ohio Air National Guard ended, he decided to start his own HVAC company, while staying in the reserves. Being “over there” in the Mideast had given Preston the valuable skills and extra cash he needed to kickstart his HVAC business here in the States. In fact, he used his deployment money to buy a work van. At first, business grew by word of mouth. Among his first customers were fellow church members from All Church in Sharonville.
“Someone just said ‘I need HVAC.’ and I was like ‘Oh, I do HVAC,’” Preston recalls. “After that, the jobs just started coming in.”
Today, business has expanded well beyond the initial circle of friends and acquaintances, as customers quickly learned they could count on fast, reliable service, quality work, and transparent pricing from Preston’s Heating and Cooling.
“I wouldn’t do anything for my customers that I wouldn’t do at my own house,” says Preston.
This past July, that house gained a new member when Preston and Elayna welcomed the arrival of their first child, Forrest. In between running his business and the nonstop responsibilities of being a new parent, Preston still serves one weekend a month at the 123rd’s base, where he is now a Technical Sergeant and the NCOIC, or non-commissioned officer in charge. In addition, he goes to two weeks of training every summer. Next October, he’ll deploy to Tennessee for six weeks of upgrade training.
You could say Preston’s “flight path” from his days as a high school senior has taken him above and beyond. At 26, he’s already a husband, father, and business owner. Firmly grounded in faith, family, and service — to his country and his customers — Preston has cleared his future for takeoff. And that’s something he’s so grateful for.
Preston’s Tips for a Cozy Home
There’s nothing like a furnace going out to ruin the pumpkin spice candle vibe. To help keep your home comfy and your heating bill snug during the winter months, Preston suggests the following:
1. Schedule a furnace tune-up. During a tune-up, Preston’s technician will clean and check key components, lubricate moving parts, check air flow and the filter, run efficiency testing and calibrate your thermostat. A yearly tune-up ensures your furnace is running safely and efficiently, helping extend its operating life and reduce surprise breakdowns.
2. Cover your AC unit. If your outdoor AC unit isn’t a heat pump, use a cover to protect it from the harsh winter elements.
3. Seal off drafts and maintain good insulation. Seal drafty windows and doors. Ensure your insulation is sufficient, too. That way when Old Man Winter knocks, he can’t get in.
4. Don’t wait to check this off your list. If you haven’t already, take steps now to get your heating system ready for winter. When the weather outside is frightful, a functional furnace is so delightful.
Photo provided
ARTICLE BY BILL FURBEE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
KEEPING MEMORIES in Mind
CARE FACILITY WORKING TO ENVISION A WORLD WITHOUT ALZHEIMER’S
In Ohio, 11.3 percent of adults 65 years of age or older have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. It’s the 7th leading cause of death in our state, and 63.7 percent of caregivers are battling chronic health conditions themselves; that’s according to data shared by Magnolia Springs Loveland, a prominent senior living facility.
To say that Magnolia Springs Loveland has served our community well is putting it lightly.
“We average about 50 move-ins to our community each year, across both Assisted Living and Memory Care,” reports Debby Farmer, Magnolia Springs Loveland Community Resource Director. “With that, we estimate that we’ve touched about 1,000 family members in some way, helping them through one of the most difficult times of their lives... whether with a move to Magnolia Springs or through our educational resources.”
Magnolia Springs Communities have been serving seniors for more than a decade, founded by a family who weren’t happy with senior living services available to them at the time.
“Education and resources provided by the Alzheimer’s Association help us to provide the most appropriate care, tailored to that individual.” - Debby
Today, Debby shares, there are seven different Magnolia Springs communities across Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. In November, its Loveland location will be celebrating its 8-year anniversary—which happens to coincide with Alzheimer’s Awareness Month.
“Our focus has always been to celebrate our residents and their families,” Debby smiles.
“We’re dedicated to providing specialized care specifically tailored to each resident’s unique needs throughout their aging experience,” she continues. “We provide support in our more traditional assisted living setting, but also our ‘Memory Way’ setting.”
“In Memory Way, we incorporate each resident’s life story in our Meaningful Moments approach to care. Our Memory Way neighborhood has 48 studio-style apartments. We’re a smaller environment by intent and design, to help promote as much independence as possible, but with nurses and caregivers 24 hours a day to support our residents’ ever-changing needs.”
Magnolia Springs supplements its work with a number of fundraising events throughout the year, from October’s Fall Fest, summer lemonade stands and raffles to “Dine to Donate” events hosted by local restaurants such as Mezedes and Shooters. That includes this month’s Annual Spaghetti Dinner on November 12, which raises funds for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Greater Cincinnati Chapter.
More to the point, Magnolia Springs services are constantly evolving to meet patient needs.
“We’re definitely trending toward technology-driven services for the incoming ‘Silver Tsunami,’” states Katie Huff, Executive Director of Magnolia Springs. “The baby boomer generation has worked incredibly hard, and will want to see a return on investment. On the flip side, more people will likely choose to ‘age in place’ in order to avoid high nursing home costs ... which will impact the average length of stay.”
The good news is that treatment options are showing positive results. Debby points out that better education and resources, coupled with advances in medication, are already helping organizations prepare for individuals with complicated scenarios, such as Lewy bodies in addition to Parkinson’s, individuals who have Down syndrome and exhibit signs of dementia, and other life-impacting factors such as PTSD.
“It’s all the more reason to continue fundraising efforts,” Debby says. “So the actual dollars get put back into our Greater Cincinnati chapter to have an impact in our own community. The goal is a world without Alzheimer’s.”
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.
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NOVEMBER 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
ALL MONTH
Garden City Chiropractic
Holiday Food Drive
Garden City Chiropractic
Give back, get festive! Garden City Chiropractic is kicking off the season of giving with their annual Holiday Food Drive to support Loveland LIFE Food Pantry. Help them top last year’s 150+ donations by dropping off nonperishables ... or let them shop for you with a monetary gift. Bring friends, spread kindness, and fill the pantry with holiday cheer! GoGardenCity.com
NOVEMBER 13TH
Diamonds & Denim
Ladies Night
Dale Robertson Jewelry | 5:30 PM
Sparkle and style collide at Dale Robertson Jewelry’s Diamonds & Denim Ladies Night! Enjoy swag bags for the first 25 guests, exciting prizes, and a chance to win a Louis Vuitton handbag. Preview the newest Christmas designs, and grab gifts for your holiday list. Bring your friends for an evening of glam, laughs, and sparkle! DaleRobertsonJewelry.com
NOVEMBER 15TH
Foraged Décor for your Door
Long Branch Farm & Trails | 4:00 PM
Deck your door with nature’s magic! The Cincinnati Nature Center invites you to forage, craft, and create your own seasonal door decor. Pinecones, greenery, and woodland treasures become your personal masterpiece ... perfect for welcoming guests or adding a cozy touch to your home. Get hands-on, get festive, and get inspired (complete with s’mores and cider)! CincyNature.ticketapp.org/ portal/product/371/events
NOVEMBER 15TH
Fall
in LOVE Land
Indie Hollow | 5:30 PM
A “country club casual” evening that’s all about giving back. Join the Loveland Legacy Foundation for night of dancing, dining and donating (can you say, Human Slot Machine?). All to benefit seven years of LLF’s commitment to providing support to those in need, right here in our community. A night of fun and fundraising (and raffles!) you can’t miss. LovelandLegacyFoundation. org/fall-in-loveland
NOVEMBER 19TH
Loveland Lifestyle
Magazine 7th Anniversary
Event & Fundraiser
DVD Brew | 6:00 PM
Raise a glass with Loveland Lifestyle as we celebrate seven amazing years! Join us at DVD Brew for a special guest-bartending night, where your donations support Impacting Tomorrow, a hub providing vital basic needs as well as volunteer opportunities. Contribute by bringing winter wear, dog food, diapers or period products for a free beer ticket. Come toast our Copper Anniversary! ImpactingTomorrow.com
NOVEMBER 30TH
RAPTOR
Inc. Final Open House
961 Barg Salt Run Rd, Milford | 1:00 PM Wings, talons, and Thanksgiving fun! RAPTOR Inc. invites you to their final open house of the season. Meet magnificent hawks, owls, and eagles up close while learning about conservation and rehabilitation. Celebrate the holiday with feathered flair as you explore, discover, and give thanks for Ohio’s incredible birds of prey. A wild way to wrap up November! RaptorInc.org/education/onsite-programs/monthly-open-houses
Want to be featured?
GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/ LOVELAND
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Tips on meal prepping for less stress
Let’s face it: hosting Thanksgiving dinner can be stressful. To make this year’s Thanksgiving meal easier and more enjoyable, consider the following timeline of tips.
2 WEEKS BEFORE
Create Your Thanksgiving Menu
• Print out the recipes you plan to use – this will easier than constantly tapping your phone to prevent the screen from going dark.
• Using your menu and printed out recipes as a guide, compose a complete shopping list.
• Double check your supply of herbs and spices to see what you have on hand.
• Shop for all non-perishable and frozen food items. Basically, if it doesn’t need to be stored in the fridge, or if it doesn’t have a short shelf life, it’s going in the cart.
• Plan three easy and tasty dinners for the days leading up to Thanksgiving and purchase those ingredients during your shopping trip. Or plan at least one night of takeout.
4-5 DAYS BEFORE
Clean & Organize, Buy Fresh
Groceries
• Clean your home completely. Then, as the big day approaches, you can touch up as needed.
• Finish your grocery shopping for fresh vegetables like potatoes, onions and carrots and other items not purchased earlier.
• Go through your fridge and toss any old, expired condiments, leftovers and mysterious food items that no one is eating.
2-3 DAYS BEFORE
Prep Meals & Set the Table
• Wash and chop all veggies and place the prepped produce into plastic baggies or airtight food storage containers. If some recipes call for “minced onion” and others require “chopped onion,” label the bags accordingly.
• Set the table, and include the empty serving dishes. This will help you figure out ahead of time where the larger dishes can go. Add Post-It notes to the empty dishes to remind you what will go in what. Use a clean sheet to cover everything and keep it all dust-free.
• Gather all needed serving spoons and other serving pieces.
• Pre-measure herbs and spices for your recipes and store them in labeled small plastic bags with the name of the dish they are for and what’s in the baggies. You can also do the same for any flour, sugar or other non-perishable ingredients you’ll use in your dishes.
1 DAY BEFORE
Tidy, Prepare Dishes & Drinks
• Do a quick clean and tidy around the home; for instance, run the vacuum.
• If you haven’t already done so, bake your pies, or, at the very least, prepare your pie dough.
• Make the mashed potatoes. Bonus tip: on Thanksgiving, put the potatoes into a slow cooker and heat them up using the “warm” setting.
• Prepare the gravy. If you have a second slow cooker, it too can be warmed up this way on Thanksgiving. This will also help free up pots, pans and burners on the stove!
• Set up a separate drink station where guests can help themselves or someone can serve them away from the kitchen. Stock it with glasses of different sizes, napkins, bottle and can openers and straws.
ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON
