Issuu

M AY 2 02 1

The

Women's Issue

T N A E M S I E F I L D E V I L E B TO At Mason Assisted Living & Memory Care, we help residents create a story that’s as unique as they are, finding happiness and the ability to Age fearlessly, live colorfully.® See for yourself by scheduling a tour.

LIFESTYLE LETTER

MAY 2021 PUBLISHER

Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@lifestylepubs.com

Let's Celebrate SPRING IS IN FULL SWING. The sun is shining. Trees and flowers are blooming. And Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle is turning three! We are so grateful to have the opportunity to be a positive platform to share our communities’ stories. Thank you to our loyal readers, our exceptional editorial team and to our impressive advertising partners for supporting the magazine.

AD DESIGNER

Miranda Read L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dana Rudolph CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jonathan Stout, Kaelyn Rodrigues, Robin Horst, Amanda Stout CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

April Sova—Remember When Portraits

We are also excited to be sharing our annual Women’s Issue with you. This month’s articles spotlight incredible women in our community who are making a difference now and building a better future for all. Learn more about Nicole Pfirman (Mason City Schools Mental Wellness Supervisor), Laalitya Acharya (Scientist and Mason High School Senior), Christine Neitzke (Founder of The Dragonfly Foundation), and Rilee Malloy (Fundraiser and Mason High School Senior). When I started Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle, there was one decision that was easy for me—joining the Mason Deerfield (MADE) Chamber. As a business owner, what stands out the most about the MADE Chamber are the people. All of the members and the leadership team come together to lift up our local businesses and strengthen our community. We sat down with Sherry Taylor, the Chamber’s CEO, to talk about her experience as a

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

local leader and why this organization is “MADE for Community Success.”

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

Finally, we checked in with local experts on two topics that are on our minds during

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

the pandemic: mental health and travel. Dr. Danielle Johnson, Chief Medical Officer

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

of Lindner Center of HOPE shares her background and guidance related to women’s

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

mental health. And as more and more Americans get vaccinated, we are thrilled to see

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

travel opening back up. Local business owner and travel expert, Lisa Taub, shares her tips on planning your next vacation. So here’s to three years! We invite you to celebrate with us and cheer on all the amazing women in your life and in our May issue.

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ON THE COVER Nicole Pfirman, Christine Neitzke and Laalitya Acharya use their expertise to make the world a better place.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY APRIL SOVA — REMEMBER WHEN PORTRAITS 4

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | May 2021

Mark Andrea, Publisher Mark.Andrea@LifestylePubs.com

CityLifestyle.com/MasonandDeerfield

Proverbs 3:5-6 Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Mason and Deerfield area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2021 FEATURES 16 MADE For Community Success Sherry Taylor offers lessons learned as leader of the Mason Deerfield Chamber of Commerce.

20 Working for a Better World Three local women use their expertise to make a positive impact for their communities.

26 Travel is Back Lisa Taub helps clients find their true direction for inspired travel near and far.

30 For Women Only Lindner Center of HOPE offers a femalefocused approach to mental health.

34 Best Friends Fundraiser Mason senior raises money for

20 34

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to honor her late best friend.

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Hometown Hero

20 Local’s Choice 26 Travel Destination 30 Healthy Lifestyle 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Giving Back

GOOD TIMES

Building Blocks for Kids Annual Benefit On Friday March 5, 2021 Building Blocks for Kids (BB4K) held their 19th Annual Benefit. The evening was a hybrid event with about 60 people joining in person at Manor House Event Center, and over 150 attendees live streaming from their homes. With auctions, raffles, live entertainment and lots of fun, more than $42,000 was raised for local children. BB4K.org

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | May 2021

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GOOD TIMES

Royalmont Academy 25th Annual Gala Royalmont Academy held their 25th Annual Gala, Anchored in Faith, on March 13, 2021 at the Manor House Event Center. Attendees enjoyed dinner, auctions, raffles and more. Funds raised at the gala benefit educational programs, technology/facilities, spiritual formation, staff resources, and overall academic excellence for their students and school community. Enrolling now for preschool – grade 12. Royalmont.org

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | May 2021

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AROUND TOWN For more information or questions about the Mason Municipal Aquatic Center, please contact the City of Mason at 513.229.8555 or parksandrec@masonoh.org. ImagineMason.org

DRAGONFLY GRAND GALA COMING IN JUNE The

Dragonfly

Grand

Foundation Gala:

will

Summer

hold

its

Nights,

Presented By Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, on Saturday, June 5th at The Renaissance Hotel in downtown Cincinnati. It

FOUR MASON WRESTLERS COMPETE AT STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

will be held from 5:30 – 11:00 p.m. Capacity is

The 2020-21 Mason High School (MHS) wres-

limited to ensure social distancing, and all CDC

tling season concluded at the OHSAA State

guidelines will be followed to protect guests

Championships at Hilliard Darby High School. Owen

while supporting the brave Dragonfly families. To

Amburgy, Dominic DiTullio, Noah Lippeatt and Skyler

learn about sponsorship opportunities or secure

Horn all well-represented MHS. Dominic Ditullio made

your sponsorship contact Community Relations

it to the podium finishing 6th overall at State. Dominic

Manager Mary Tignor at m.tignor@dragonfly.org.

concluded his senior season with 150+ career wins

For more information visit, Dragonfly.org.

and was a 4x State Qualifier. Owen Amburgy ended his

MASON MUNICIPAL AQUATIC CENTER LEISURE POOL TO OPEN IN MAY

Mason wrestling career with a 4th place finish at State. During his time as a Comet, he accumulated 150 wins and was a 3x State Qualifier. GoMasonComets.com

The City of Mason announced that the Mason Municipal Aquatic Center leisure pool is opening this month, May 2021. This Aquatic Center will be the newest opportunity to support wellness in Mason and help the city achieve the goal of teaching residents of all ages how to be safe in the water. The Aquatic Center is set to be fully open May 29 - August 15 from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. The daily rate is $10 per person and season passes run from $175 for resident families to $95 for individual adult residents (ages 12-60). Individual kids (ages 4-11) and seniors (ages 60+) resident passes are $60. The Aquatic Center offers many amenities such as an inclusive splash pad, zero depth entry, double flume slide, lazy river, shaded areas and lounge chairs, a lighted pool deck and locker rooms. There is also a concession stand, outdoor dining tables and event rental space.

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AROUND TOWN Park in Mason. The event was created to celebrate JJ's bright light, and raise funds to continue spreading joy and supporting children in the community. The LOVE Like JJ 5K will have in-person and virtual options. Everyone who registers by May 22nd will receive a special LOVE Like JJ 5K 2021 t-shirt and children will also receive a commemo-

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THREE MHS STUDENTS RECOGNIZED BY SCHOLASTIC ART AND WRITING AWARDS Three students from Mason High School (MHS) have been recognized by the 2021 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards as national medalists. Estelle Apewokin earned a Gold Medal and an American Voices Medal for her written piece, “Kiddie Pool". Ellie Sabatino earned a Silver Medal for her photography piece Ghost of You, and Tiya Yempati earned two Silver Medals for her acrylic paint pieces April and Summer With No Air Conditioning. The 1,917 works of art and writing receiving national medals this year were selected from an estimated 230,000 entries. MasonOhioSchools.com

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HOMETOWN HERO Sherry Taylor

ARTICLE JONATHAN STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

MADE For Community Success SHERRY TAYLOR OFFERS LESSONS LEARNED AS LEADER OF THE MASON DEERFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.

IN 2014, SHERRY TAYLOR RELOCATED TO THE CINCINNATI REGION FROM ILLINOIS, WHERE SHE HAD SERVED AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOR THE CARBONDALE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. After her move, she discovered that what was then known as the “Northeast Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce” was seeking new leadership. She was eager to get back into chamber work and soon became the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Mason Deerfield Chamber of Commerce. “I saw the potential to rebuild the organization through the incredible people I met right out of the gates who were serving on the Board. That gave me much hope and energy for the opportunities ahead,” Sherry recalls. Sherry had a great deal of work to do when she began working for the Chamber. “I would summarize it as that we had no relationship with government entities, we had a sharply declining membership and we had financial difficulties,” Sherry elaborates. With dedicated focus, she began a complete overhaul of the Chamber which included a sweeping rebrand, new website and increased connection to the community. “A Chamber is successful when it convenes leaders and influencers to champion stronger communities,” Sherry explains, “Our members are a shining example of that.”

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | May 2021

Mason Deerfield Chamber 316 West Main Street, Mason 513.336.0125, MadeChamber.org

Sherry Taylor

In addition to rebranding the organization as the

LISTEN MORE, SPEAK LESS. AIM TO BE THE

Mason Deerfield Chamber, or MADE Chamber for short,

ONE IN THE ROOM WHO SAYS THE LEAST, BUT

Sherry helped implement a women’s leadership pro-

STILL SAYS THE MOST.

gram and revitalized connections events. This includes

I have always appreciated and valued the quiet ones in

the recent efforts to bring back Community Unity Days

the room. The ones who listen and wait to speak until all

in partnership with local businesses. She also helped to

others have spoken. They tend to have a nugget of wis-

create the MADE CDC, a nonprofit focused on making

dom that grounds everyone in the room.

the region a better place. “I believe one of my gifts is having the ability to coordinate multi-disciplinary groups to focus on a common

NEVER MAKE ASSUMPTIONS, THEY ARE THE TERMITES OF RELATIONSHIPS.

goal,” Sherry mentions in reference to bringing the

Good communication can solve almost any problem in

Chamber, local government and businesses together

our work. When assumptions are made, good communi-

while serving in her position.

cation is taking a back seat to progress. It’s important to

Sherry helped successfully steer the Chamber through

ask and clarify in order to be able to move forward.

tumultuous events, including recently the COVID-19 pandemic. We spoke with Sherry about her lessons learned

INSPIRATION CAN COME FROM THE

while leading MADE Chamber.

MOST UNEXPECTED PLACES, EVEN WHEN THERE IS FRICTION.

BE BRAVE ENOUGH TO STRUGGLE WITH

My inspiration comes from the members who always

SOMETHING NEW. YOU OWE IT TO YOURSELF TO BE

do more. The business leaders who know it’s always

THE BEST SELF-LEARNER YOU CAN BE.

about going above and beyond to support others. The

Defining and managing the new office environment that works for us and our members has been a challenge.

virtuous cycle that comes from leaning in and showing up makes things better for everyone.

We have continually evolved, going from an organization that had some employees in the office up to 95% of the

WHILE IT MAY SEEM LIKE IT IN THE MOMENT,

time, to an organization that was 100% remote. Now we

IT’S NEVER A GOOD IDEA TO EAT THE ENTIRE BAG

are an organization that is providing workplace flexibility

OF HARIBO GUMMY BEARS.

that meets employees where they are on this journey,

I have a lot of friends who bring me gummy bears for

coupled with meeting the needs of our members and our

celebrations, but also in times of stress. They all know

organization. We are challenging ourselves to continue to

that eating the whole bag is the only way I go, but I

learn, evolve and get comfortable being uncomfortable.

probably shouldn’t.

A Chamber is successful when it convenes leaders and influencers to c h a m p i o n s t r o n g e r c o m m u n i t i e s .” CityLifestyle.com/MasonandDeerfield

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LOCAL’S CHOICE

WO R K I N G FO R A

B E T TER WO R L D

THREE LOCAL WOMEN USE THEIR EXPERTISE TO MAKE A POSITIVE IMPACT FOR KIDS, FAMILIES AND THEIR COMMUNITIES. ARTICLE AMANDA STOUT | PHOTOGRAPHY APRIL SOVA—REMEMBER WHEN PORTRAITS

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | May 2021

NICOLE PFIRMAN HAS BEEN PART OF THE MASON CITY

team that addresses mental health and

SCHOOLS COMMUNITY FOR 17 YEARS. After many years

social emotional needs. In addition to her

providing therapy for special education students, she began to

team of five, she supervises 21 school

notice similar patterns of behavior were happening in general

counselors, and oversees their partnership

education. As a result, they began to roll out mental health and

with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, which

behavior support at the Mason Early Childhood Center, and

includes 10 on-site mental health therapists

efforts continued to grow from there.

and one nurse practitioner.

Two years ago, Nicole wrote a proposal for a mental wellness

“As an occupational therapist, my focus

team which the district chose to invest in. As Mental Wellness

has been on engaging clients in meaningful

Supervisor, she now leads an interdisciplinary and collaborative

occupations to increase their overall health and well-being. Therapy is often used to treat students with specific disabilities, but building a balance of play, leisure and work for all students and staff increases the mental health of everyone involved,” explains Nicole.

Occupational Therapist MasonOhioSchools.com

N I CO L E P F I R M A N , M . ED., OT R /L

Mason City Schools Mental Wellness Supervisor

To support the holistic mental wellness of students and the community, they aren’t only focused on what happens during the school day. Through outside agency partnerships with Children’s Hospital, Joshua’s Place, Grant Us Hope and others, they are able to create a fluid system of support where students can come in and out as their needs change. It also connects families with community support that they would not otherwise have access to. “Our counselors do an amazing job of connecting families with service providers and helping them make a plan to get their needs met,” shares Nicole. “We know that when students have their basic needs met, they will be able to perform at a higher level academically.” They also have many specific programs already running like full-time therapy dogs for each campus, training for staff in the suicide

prevention

program

Question,

Persuade, Refer (QPR) and partnerships with 1N5 and Mindpeace of Cincinnati to provide mental wellness treatment and trainings for staff. Future plans include developing a district-wide social-emotional learning program, and working with partners to expand in-school support services for students beyond mental health treatment. “We wouldn’t be able to impact the mental health of our students with our internal team alone, or without our partners and community who are walking beside us in this work,” says Nicole.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MasonandDeerfield

LOCAL’S CHOICE (CONTINUED)

L A A L I T YA ACH A RYA Laalitya Acharya has always been curious about the world around her and how it works. She can chart her interest in science and technology to a very specific memory: “As a child I loved Coca-Cola, but my parents wouldn’t let me have it,” she shares. “So, I experimented with recreating the recipe myself.” Now a Mason High School Senior, she is the recent recipient of the Coca-Cola Scholars $20,000 scholarship, bringing her science journey full circle. Out of nearly 100,000 applicants, the top 150 scholars are chosen based on academics, community service and a desire to push for a better world. One way Laalitya is making an impact is through the founding of The Nereid Project. Nereid is a method to detect microbial contamination in water. It is a cohesive device that uses a custom-designed microscopic imaging system to take images of water, AI processing to analyze the images and a transmission system to communicate with local water plants. The device can be directly implemented into water systems to identify any contamination that may be present. “I became interested in the global water crisis on a trip to India. Even though we took precautions, I still became ill from contaminated water,” shares Laalitya. “I wanted to find a way to help bridge the water gap and solve the contaminated water issue.” Currently, she is working with local authorities to have Nereid implemented in order to study real world results. In addition to her work on the global water crisis and her research, Laalitya finds time to advocate for STEM through camp counseling at iSpace, creating STEM programs for Mason Intermediate with the Science National Honor Society and mentoring the Mason High School Science Fair Team. “Mason doesn’t have a robust research program

Student Scientist and Researcher Founder of TheNereidProject.org

for kids so I wanted to be part of helping them see the amazing possibilities in science and various technologies,” she explains. The capstone of Laalitya’s senior year, and a goal since she started as a student researcher 10 years ago, is being named a Regeneron Science Talent Search Finalist. She is the first student from Mason to be a finalist, and she’s proud to show what is possible from a non-traditional research program. Her advice for young scientists: “STEM and scientific research can be done anywhere, by anyone. If you see a problem in the world, you have the tools to dream up a solution.”

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | May 2021

When Christine Neitzke’s youngest son,

“The Dragonfly Foundation started as a truly

On the horizon, they will continue to work

Matt, was diagnosed with Hodgkin lym-

grassroots effort, here in Mason. In the begin-

on renovating The Landing, their commu-

phoma at age 10, the whole family felt the

ning I thought we would have a golf tournament

nity center and safe home away from home

impacts of the pediatric cancer journey

and make donations, but it’s grown into so

for Dragonfly families to land while going

first hand. They were able to get through

much more than that. Nobody was truly helping

through treatment. The historic Avondale

it because of supportive family, friends

families going through pediatric cancer treat-

building, purchased from Mayfield Clinic

and community, but as they spent time at

ment on a day to day basis,” shares Christine.

two years ago, is just five blocks away from

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, they quickly

In 10 years, Dragonfly grew from one

Cincinnati Children’s, making it easier for

learned that was not the case for everyone.

donor and a budget of $40,000 to $2.7 mil-

families to drop by between appointments and enjoy time away from the hospital.

“When we looked around the hospital, all

lion. Christine, her husband and her friend

of the families were going through the same

started as volunteers and they’ve grown

While they primarily serve families

thing as we were, wondering if their child was

to nine employees, serving nearly 6,100

who are receiving treatment at Cincinnati

going to live or die. But not every family had

Dragonflies with programs and services

Children’s, they have expanded to Chicago,

the support that we had,” explains Christine.

totaling more than $10 million.

with one employee who raises funds to

Christine and a close friend started look-

The pandemic reduced their fundraising

support five hospitals.

ing for ways to help families by meeting with

by about 30%. Still, they are hopeful about

“We have lots of people who want to run

doctors and social workers to find out what

their future and grateful for the federal

chapters for us,” says Christine. “We are look-

items were most needed. They ended up with

funding that helped them stay afloat when

ing for ways to expand and I have no doubt

a five-page list including everything from gas

families needed care packages, PPE and

that one day we will be a national nonprofit.”

and meal cards to laptops and pillowcases.

cleaning supplies more than ever.

Cincinnati Children’s is also expanding to 102 beds, so Dragonfly will soon have more families to support coming from the tri-state area and all over the country. For newly diagnosed families, Christine shares this encouragement, “Remain positive, have hope and be a strong mentor for your child and the siblings also going through it. You may not be ready when you are first diagnosed, but once you are, contact your social worker and Dragonfly will be there for you.”

CHRISTINE N EI T ZK E

Dragonfly Foundation Founder, Executive Director Influencer, Philanthropist DragonFly.org

CityLifestyle.com/MasonandDeerfield

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Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | May 2021

GET EDUCATED

BE REALISTIC

HIT THE ROAD

Know the COVID-19 test require-

Things are not back to normal so

Consider a great American road

ments and quarantine mandates

adjust your expectations. Hotels have

trip. Flying with masks (and anxiety)

for your destination—every place is

fewer housekeeping services, restau-

is not for everyone. Pack up the car,

different. You don’t want to spend

rants have reduced capacity and you

pick some grand hotels and map out

your trip in a hotel room instead of

may have to adapt to unforeseen

a drive. Splurge on a bigger rental

on a beach. Check before you go

changes. Pack your sunscreen and

car, bring golf clubs, tennis rackets

to see what restaurants, sights and

your sense of humor. Keep smiling.

and drive off in style.

activities are open.

READ THE FINE PRINT Know your cancellation policies

GET INSURANCE unstable

If you’ve put travel plans on hold

for flights and hotels. Make sure you

travel climate has given trip insurance

for a year, you may try to squeeze too

know how many days in advance

a new allure. If you’ve never consid-

much into your first post-pandemic

you can cancel without losing your

ered it, think again. It may be more

trip. Lisa cautions to do the opposite,

deposit.

Don’t

assume

Today’s

unusual

and

DO LESS

anything.

important than ever before and can

“Slow is better. Give yourself time to

Many properties have modified their

offer you a peace of mind no matter

relax, explore the culture and savor

rules in the age of COVID-19. Check

what happens or changes.

the change of scenery.”

and double check.

CityLifestyle.com/MasonandDeerfield

GET INSPIRED EAT + DRINK SHOP LOCAL City Lifestyle YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

NOW TOURING

Premier Assisted Living and Memory Care

Our New Community is Now Open, Stop By and Say Hi! Visit BrightStar Senior Living® of Mason today or request a virtual tour and see for yourself how we bring Joy, Dignity, Individuality, Beauty, and Connection into your daily life!

Call or Visit Us Today!

513 770 1778 BrightStar Senior Living® of Mason 6491 Reading Road, Mason, OH 45040 BrightStarSeniorLiving.com/Mason

CityLifestyle.com/MasonandDeerfield

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

THE WOMEN’S MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM AT LINDNER CENTER OF HOPE OFFERS A FEMALE-FOCUSED APPROACH TO REPRODUCTIVE LIFE CYCLE ISSUES.

ARTICLE ROBIN HORST

DANIELLE JOHNSON, M.D., IS A PSYCHIATRIST

AND

CHIEF

MEDICAL

OFFICER AT THE LINDNER CENTER OF HOPE. She is also one of the architects of its Women’s Mental Health Program. This group of all women psychiatrists, nurse practitioners and a therapist treat women with mental health symptoms related to the reproductive life cycle: menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause and menopause and infertility. “Many women are simply more comfortable discussing issues concerning reproduction and their mental health with another woman,” Dr. Johnson says. Her own personal journey led her into this female-focused specialty. “During my psychiatry residency at the University of Cincinnati, after giving birth to my son, I had the ‘baby blues’ which up to 80% of women experience. I was concerned about developing postpartum depression and I couldn’t find a physician who specializes in that area. I realized that if I, someone with medical knowledge felt lost, then other women do too,” says Dr. Johnson. We talked with Dr. Johnson about four key areas to strive for better mental health.

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | May 2021

F O R W O M E N O N LY

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

M A N Y W O M E N A R E S I M P LY M O R E C O M F O R TA B L E DISCUSSING ISSUES CONCERNING REPRODUCTION AND T H E I R M E N TA L H E A LT H W I T H A N O T H E R W O M A N .

PRIORITIZE SLEEP

juggling the demands of working from home during

Do not underestimate the importance of sleep.

the pandemic. Recognize that you can’t give your

Women are 40% more likely than men to have sleep

best to others when you aren’t taking care of your-

problems. Hormonal changes, stress, anxiety and

self. Set boundaries; it’s ok to say no – don’t over-

depression can all intrude on adequate sleep. Sleep

extend yourself with commitments and obligations.

quality and quantity can be a cause and conse-

Establish a good support system, ask for help and

quence of mental health problems. To improve sleep,

accept that they might not do things the way you

keep a consistent sleep and wake schedule, limit

do. Letting others pitch in doesn’t mean you’re fail-

alcohol and caffeine, get into bed earlier and reduce

ing. Feeling supported can go a long way towards

pre-bed screen time. Keep bedroom temperature

good mental health.

cool and try meditation to unwind. Getting good, restorative sleep is one of the best things you can do to promote better mental health and wellness.

EDUCATE YOURSELF Learn more about the symptoms of depression and anxiety–you may not realize you have an under-

TUNE IN TO YOU

lying issue that can be treated. It’s common to think

Pay attention to how you’re feeling. Are daily

what you’re experiencing is a natural reaction to

stressors suddenly causing you to lash out or lose

being overtired, overworked or overstressed. While

patience? Do you feel overwhelmed? Think about

these factors may contribute to your symptoms,

the coping behaviors you’re using to manage your

pushing through is not usually the best way to feel

stress. Are you drinking more, using substances,

better. Don’t be afraid to seek professional help.

overeating or avoiding people? Try to refocus on

If you think you need treatment, your primary care

positive coping skills that enhance mental health

provider is a great place to start.

like exercise, meditation, deep breathing and journaling. If you still feel ‘off’, reach out to your primary care provider or seek help with a licensed therapist. Remember, you don’t have to be in a crisis to

For more information on depression and anxiety,

see a therapist. Sometimes therapy helps you gain

visit: WomensHealth.gov/Mental-Health,

better clarity or simply maintain stability.

Nimh.Nih.gov, MHANational.org.

DON’T BE SUPERWOMAN

To learn more about the Women’s Mental

You don’t have to do everything for everyone. Many women in primary caregiver roles are also

Health Program, call 513.536.4673 (HOPE) or visit LindnerCenterofHope.org.

CityLifestyle.com/MasonandDeerfield

MAY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

DUE TO FREQUENT CHANGES CAUSED BY COVID-19, PLEASE CHECK EVENT ORGANIZER WEBSITES OR CALL FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION.

in your own neighborhood on May 7

will be held at the Mason Golf Center

or May 8. Create a positive impact

on May 12 at 11:30 a.m. This critical

for the future of those battling child-

fundraising

hood cancer. Registration is free.

Kiwanis fulfill their mission of improv-

CancerFreeKids.org

ing the world one child and one

1, 8, 15, 22, 29

DEERFIELD FARMERS’ MARKET

KINDNESS MATTERS BRUNCH

May is the first month of the sum-

Join the Live Like Maya and Shine

mer Deerfield Farmers’ Market. It

Like Sable Foundations for the

takes place each Saturday from 9

Kindness Matters Brunch benefiting

Everybody's

a.m.-12 p.m. at the Kingswood Park

Cincinnati Children's Hospital at

Community Pavilion. Customers are

Manor House Event Center from

nar at their office located at 808

encouraged to pre-order and pre-pay

10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. on May 8th. Enjoy

Reading Rd. on May 15th at 12:30

to minimize in-person interactions, and

games, dancing and activities for

p.m. A light lunch will be served and

to follow social distancing guidelines.

the entire family. Silent auction,

only eight seats are available due

Please visit the Deerfield Farmers’

raffle tickets and other goodies will

to COVID-19 safety compliance. Dr.

Market Facebook page to check ven-

be available. Purchase tickets at

John DiPaola and Sara Gausel

dors and for pre-ordering information.

EventBrite.com. For more informa-

Lamar, Patient Advocate will be pre-

DeerfieldFarmersMarket.com

tion visit LiveLikeMaya.org.

senting. Call 513-390-0778 to regis-

Kingswood Park

event

helps

Mason

community at a time. Cost is $145 per

Manor House Event Center

individual. MasonKiwanis.org

15 EVERYBODY'S HEALTH SEMINAR Everybody's Health

Health

Regenerative

holding

Medicine semi-

ter. EverybodysHealth.us

MOTHER'S DAY LADIES NIGHT

LINDNER CENTER OF HOPE FREE WEBCAST SERIES

Interiors Plus

Bring a friend and stop by Interiors Plus

PAINT YOUR OWN POTTERY Kingswood Park

in Mason from 5 - 8 p.m. on May 6 to find

The second of four free webcasts

Join Deerfield Parks and Recreation

the perfect gift for mom. They will have

from Lindner Center of HOPE will

and Star Glazers for outdoor pot-

wine to sip while you shop, light

be offered May 11 from 5:30 - 6:30

tery painting at the Kingswood Park

snacks and special savings. Interiors

p.m., as part of their Exploring Mental

Community Pavilion on May 23 from

Plus has beautiful home decor, jew-

Health series. Presented by Nelson

3 - 5:00 p.m. A variety of pottery will

elry, clothing, accessories and more.

Rodriguez, MD, FAPA, Lindner Center of

be available and completed projects

InteriorsPlusMasonOhio.com

HOPE Staff Psychiatrist, the session will

will be returned to the Deerfield

focus on Treatment Possibilities for

Township offices two weeks later

Treatment Resistant Mental Illness.

for pickup. Register your group

For more information and registration

ahead of time, as space is limited.

visit, LindnerCenterofHOPE.org.

DeerfieldRec.com

7, 8 CANCER FREE KIDS BUTTERFLY WALK Cottell Park

The 2021 Cancer Free Kids Butterfly

12 KIWANIS CLUB OF MASON GOLF CLASSIC

Would you like to get in touch with

Mason Golf Center

The 38th Annual Golf Classic pre-

MasonandDeerfield using the Get

one-mile

sented by the Kiwanis Club of Mason

In Touch link and let us know what

walk throughout Cottell Park or walk

Ohio, with title sponsor Kings Island,

you think.

Walk

Experience,

presented

Anthem, gives families and supporters the opportunity to do The Butterfly safe,

Virtual

Walking

socially

Storyboard, a

distant

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | May 2021

us? We would love to hear from you!

WARM WEATHER IS HERE AND WE HAVE A COOL TREAT FOR YOU! KICK START YOUR HEALTHY EATING LIFESTYLE AT FRUTTA BOWLS!

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CityLifestyle.com/MasonandDeerfield

GIVING BACK MASON SENIOR RAISES MONEY FOR LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY TO HONOR HER LATE BEST FRIEND.

ARTICLE KAELYN RODRIGUES PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BEST FRIENDS FUNDRAISER FOR SEVEN WEEKS, RILEE MALLOY HAD ONE MISSION: TO RAISE $50,000 IN HONOR OF HER BEST FRIEND, MAYA COLLINS, WHO PASSED AWAY IN 2017 AFTER COMPLICATIONS WITH LEUKEMIA TREATMENTS. Rilee, a senior at Mason High School, began her campaign for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) Student of the Year (SOY) fundraiser on February 17, 2021. SOY is an annual charity event during which high school students all across the country raise funds from their communities to aid LLS in their mission to cure blood cancer and support families impacted by the disease. After being nominated as a candidate for SOY, Rilee was quick to accept and get to work. She brought together friends, family, and members of the community impacted by Maya’s story, such as

Rilee’s experience as a SOY candidate was unlike anything she

Maya’s first bone marrow donor, to form Team Maya

has done before. She shares, “It was fulfilling to see real change

the Magnificent. Reaching their goal for LLS would

being made throughout the course of my campaign.”

allow a research grant to be opened in Maya’s name.

When the fundraiser ended on April 9, Rilee and her team

Maya, who was diagnosed with acute myeloid

exceeded their goal of $50,000 for LLS, raising $128,732 and break-

leukemia in 2011, was treated at St. Jude Children’s

ing the Cincinnati SOY record. This allows two research grants to

Research Hospital after her second relapse. Rilee

be opened: one in Maya’s honor, and one in honor of her friend,

recalls a really bad day Maya had while being

Sophia Kappen, whom Maya met while battling cancer at Cincinnati

treated: “She said, ‘Last night I collapsed on the

Children’s Hospital. Rilee says that although her personal motivation

bathroom floor and just wanted to give up, but then

to support the organization stems from watching Maya fight blood

I thought about you, and my friends and family, and

cancer, LLS also benefits those impacted by other illnesses.

I knew I had to keep fighting,’” Rilee says.

“Not only does LLS help those with blood cancer, but the work

That memory motivates Rilee not only to work

they are doing has also helped those with other types of cancer

towards ending pediatric cancer, but also to

and nonmalignant diseases,” Rilee says. “This research doesn’t

treat others with Maya’s signature goodwill. She

just help patients like Maya. It can help anyone.”

pledged to complete a random act of kindness every day in Maya’s honor. “It’s a reminder for me that if Maya could fight cancer for me, I can get through life’s little challenges and live every day for her,” explains Rilee.

Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle | May 2021

For more information visit: LiveLikeMaya.org and LLS.org

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RESPECT & HONOR THE BRAVE It’s a sellers market. Call me to get listing! Featured Listings – see your home here next month!

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5731 Masters Row Upscale, 1st floor master in desirable Rivers Bend/TPC community. Cul-de-sac location. Jack & Jill bath on 2nd floor. Sunroom. Finished walk out basement with stone bar, wine room, fireplace and private outdoor living space and back yard setting by Neals Remodeling. Cannot reproduce this home and amenities at this price.

Pristine, hard to find, remodeled ranch condo in desirable Pine Run! Remodeled kitchen with gas range, large island, granite. Remodeled bathrooms including heated floors in master bath. Custom closet shelving in bedrooms. Engineered hardwood floors throughout. Windows, H2O Heater, Blinds 2017. HVAC 2018. Built-in storage in garage.

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Tiffany Allen-Zeuch EXECUTIVE SALES VICE PRESIDENT PBD, SRS, RELOCATION SPECIALIST

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