egnancy isn’t easy—but it doesn’t have to be painful.
opractic care during pregnancy helps reduce back and discomfort, ease tension, and support a smoother ery by balancing the pelvis and reducing nervous em interference. Gentle adjustments promote optimal tal positioning and prepare your body for birth, naturally. or baby? Cranial sacral therapy helps release tension birth, supporting better sleep, digestion, and nervous em regulation—setting the stage for a calm, thriving little one.
In a thriving community, growth doesn’t just happen. It’s nurtured. This month, we’re celebrating the ways local organizations and businesses help shape the future, offering support and opportunity to both our youth and pets.
At the Humane Association of Warren County, compassion takes center stage. For more than 50 years, this organization has provided care for animals in need while strengthening the bond between people and pets. Thanks to the generosity of volunteers, foster families and donors, their impact continues to be felt far beyond the shelter walls.
That same spirit of support is alive in our local schools. With guidance from community partners and trade professionals, students from Mason and Kings gain hands-on experience and discover what’s possible when curiosity meets opportunity. Learn more about the Skilled Trades Workshop and how to get your student in the program for next spring.
At The School for Creative Tots, children are encouraged to explore, imagine and grow through joyful, play-based learning. Their approach has helped lay the foundation for a lifelong love of discovery, creativity and connection for 19 years.
At the heart of these stories is a shared belief in nurturing potential and a community willing to help others thrive. Here’s to our kids, our pets and the people who make this such a special place to live and grow.
MARK ANDREA, PUBLISHER @MASONANDDEERFIELDLIFESTYLE
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Karen Andrea
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lisa Fletcher, Nan Paraskevopoulos, Jonathan Stout
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Jenna Beers–Photography by Jenna
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
The
Local
1: The Warren County Foundation Community Service Awards banquet was held at Manor House in June. 2: Dr. Michael Groat accepted the Outstanding Large Business Award for the Lindner Center of Hope. 3: The George R. Henkle Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Jonathan Sams, Attorney, Sams Fischer, LLC. 4: Craig Shufelt, director of Salem Township Public Library, took home the Emerging Leader Award. 5: Mason boys tennis player, Greg Bernadsky, won the OHSAA Division I Tennis Singles Championship and the team won the Ohio Tennis Coaches Association's state title. 6: The Mason girls 4x400 relay team celebrated their OHSAA Division I State Championship win. 7: Rotary Club of Mason Deerfield held its 2025 Charity Golf Outing at Four Bridges Golf Club.
8: Love like JJ hosted their annual 5K with over 400 enthusiastic participants. 9: The 5K helps to support an initiative to place facility dogs in local schools. 10: Acting Up presented Beetlejuice Jr., June 6-8 at the MHS School Theater. 11: The 30-foot sandworm carved by Board Member, Curtis Perea, left the audience in awe. 12: A cast of Beetlejuice clones impressed audiences with tap dance skills and hilarious matching wigs! 13: Beauty Queen, Miss Argentina, welcomes new arrivals to the Netherworld with flair, theatrics and dance. 14: Acting Up is a nonprofit, all-volunteer, young performers community theater based in Mason.
Beth brings over 20 years of residential and commercial design experience. She has a great ability to connect with people and understand their needs. With her great eye for color, style, textures and products, she will bring your home or business to life.
As one of the nation’s leading mental health centers, we understand each person’s journey is deeply personal. Bringing together unparalleled expertise, profound insights, and a people-first approach, we provide life-changing care and support, infusing every interaction with the underlying belief that lasting well-being is possible. We see beyond diagnoses — we see you.
by Jenna Beers–Photography by Jenna
Join the Mason Deerfield Chamber for the 9th Annual Taste of MADE at the UC Health West Chester Hospital Fall Classic Golf Outing on Sept. 26 from 7:45 a.m.-3 p.m. Local restaurants will provide complimentary food and beverages to the 120+ golfers at the Grizzly Golf and Social Lodge in Mason. Not a restaurant? Don’t worry, businesses can purchase a table to showcase their offerings. Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to network, enjoy great food and support a worthy cause. MADEChamber.org
Kings Local School District hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Kings High School in May at the Kings baseball fields. “As we turn this soil, we're entering a new era of educational excellence that will nurture generations of Kings students to come," says Kings Superintendent Greg Sears. The new school will serve 1,700 students and is projected to be completed during the 2027-2028 school year. For more information, visit KingsFacilities.org.
Countryside YMCA is offering a Judo program at its Landen location for ages 5 and up. Designed with families in mind, this class is a great way for kids—and even parents—to build confidence, coordination and focus together. Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 to 6 p.m. Learn more and register now at CountrysideYMCA.org
Weekly meal prep is delivered to your door in Mason and surrounding areas.
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ARTICLE BY NAN PARASKEVOPOULOS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA BEERS–PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA
The Humane Association of Warren County has supported pets and families for half a century.
For over 50 years, the Humane Association of Warren County (HAWC) has been a pillar of hope, compassion and second chances for animals and the people who love them throughout our community. Conveniently located in Lebanon, just a short drive from Mason and Deerfield Township, HAWC proudly serves as Warren County’s only animal shelter and adoption center. You may be surprised to learn that HAWC operates entirely as a private, nonprofit organization, relying on the generosity of individuals, families and businesses, rather than government funding, to fulfill its life-saving mission.
“We’re proud to be here for the animals, but we’re just as proud to be here for the people,” says Executive Director of HAWC, Eli Hurley. “We believe pets are family and our work is all about keeping families together, supporting pet owners and building a more humane community for everyone.”
While connecting pets with loving homes remains at the heart of HAWC's mission, their work extends far beyond adoption. The organization offers a wide array of programs and services designed to support families, promote responsible pet ownership and reduce barriers for those facing financial hardship. Many of these services are free or offered at a significantly reduced cost, ensuring that every pet and every person has access to the care they deserve.
“Animal shelter work is vital because we serve as a safety net for the most vulnerable, including homeless, abused, neglected or abandoned animals,” explains Eli. “We provide them with safety, medical care and a second chance through adoption and rehabilitation. Our work also supports public health, responsible pet ownership and humane education in the community. By helping to reduce overpopulation through spay and neuter programs and reuniting lost pets with their families, we build a more compassionate and responsible society.”
The impact of HAWC’s work wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of volunteers, foster families, donors and adopters from across Warren County. CONTINUED
Volunteer Jim Bolte has volunteered with HAWC for more than 15 years. “I’ve been amazed by the care and dedication shown each day by the staff. It's incredibly rewarding for me to be embraced as a part of their community and to contribute, in small ways, to their work to help the animals in their care. The pleasure that these pets bring their adopted families is the payback for our efforts,” shares Jim.
Supporting HAWC is easy, and whether you have time, resources or simply a big heart, there’s a way for everyone to get involved.
WAYS TO SUPPORT HAWC:
Adopt: Giving a homeless pet a forever home means not only that the animal gets to leave the shelter, but also that your family gets a furry new member to love.
Foster: Provide short-term care for animals in need of extra TLC. Fostering pets opens up space in the shelter for more animals in need.
Volunteer: Opportunities are available for individuals, families and groups—no experience required!
Donate: Financial gifts, pet food, toys and cleaning supplies are always appreciated. Check HAWC’s website for a wish list.
Attend Events: Join fun, family-friendly activities that raise funds and awareness.
Spread the Word: Follow HAWC on social media and help share adoptable pets and important updates.
“Even small actions make a huge difference,” Eli emphasizes. “I’m proud of our shelter, but I always remind visitors that the only reason we’re able to do what we do is because of our incredibly generous community. Every shelter worker wants to do more; they just need the time, staff and resources to make it happen.”
SAVE THE DATE: UPCOMING EVENTS
No Ball At All - September 13, 2025
An online silent auction using Facebook Live videos, with all donated money going toward the care
and shelter of animals. This event is virtual to save on the expenses of a traditional gala and ensure that more money goes directly to services.
In partnership with True Love Tattoo Parlor of Dayton, six artists set up onsite, donating flash art tattoos. All proceeds go to the care and support of the animals at the shelter. Adoption specials are available at this event!
For more than half a century, the Humane Association of Warren County has been a beacon of compassion and care, working tirelessly to ensure that every animal has the chance to be loved and that families have the resources they need to keep their pets healthy and happy.
“Our mission is simple yet powerful: to create a more humane community for pets and people alike,” Eli enthuses. “And with the continued support of our neighbors, we’re confident we can make that vision a reality.”
Learn more, get involved or donate today at HomelessPets.org
Local teens from Mason and Kings High Schools discover their future in the trades.
Last spring, high school students from Mason and Kings traded desks for drills and textbooks for tool belts. They got hands-on lessons in framing, wiring, plumbing, painting and roofing—building two full-scale sheds from the ground up. Over 10 immersive weeks, they didn’t just acquire new skills; they discovered possibilities for their futures.
The Skilled Trades Workshop, a new initiative launched at Mason High School and open to both Mason and Kings students, is designed to do more than teach; it’s meant to create a spark. “This is about giving students the chance to try something new,” says Mason High School Experiential Learning Program Coordinator Joe Schroeder. “You don’t know if you’d love being a carpenter if you’ve never picked up a hammer.”
With the support of local partners including M/I Homes of Cincinnati, Creative Contracting of Mason, MADE CDC and the Conduit Apprenticeship Program (CAP), students spent 2.5 hours each week in a working lab at the MADE HUB for Manufacturing in Mason. They learned practical trade skills from real professionals, including blueprint reading, job site safety, siding, roofing, door installation and electrical wiring.
Guided by tradespeople and contractors, the students collaborated in teams to build two 12x9 sheds, gaining not only hands-on experience but also confidence, career
ARTICLE BY LISA FLETCHER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
direction and a strong sense of purpose. The sheds were raffled off to support future workshops.
“The trades professionals enjoyed being part of the program,” Joe shares. “Many said it was rewarding to give back and help the next generation explore their field. And the students? Their feedback was overwhelmingly positive.”
Rising senior Alexander Giesman recently told Channel 9 WCPO, “This starting knowledge is just the push I need to dive in deeper. I’m pretty impressed with what every single one of us has accomplished.”
Thanks to the program, two students are now pursuing electrical apprenticeships, another is exploring a career in plumbing, and a few have taken on part-time jobs in general contracting.
“The first full semester went fantastically,” says Joe. “Even students who don’t end up in the trades walk away with real skills they’ll use forever and maybe a new appreciation for the people who build our homes, repair our pipes and wire our cities.”
Programs like this one fall under Mason High School’s larger Experiential Learning Program (XLP) which helps students connect what they’re learning in school to real-world opportunities. “Whether it’s a job shadow with a coroner, a hospital internship or this skilled trades workshop, we want students to experience careers before they make big decisions about college or work,” Joe explains.
Kings High School Internship Instructor Carrie Snyder has also witnessed that transformation. “The impact on students has been overwhelmingly positive,” she says. “For students who know this is their path, it allows them to hone their skills. Those who want to learn more have the opportunity to experience
whether this career path is right for them. Our students are walking onto job sites ready to contribute on day one.”
For students who thrive outside of traditional academics, programs like the Skilled Trades Workshop are game changers. “CAP is changing lives by opening doors to high-paying, purpose-filled careers, especially for students who might not fit the traditional classroom mold,” emphasizes Jerry Beerman, co-founder of the Conduit Apprenticeship Program, which provides the curriculum for the course.
That mission of opening doors was also what motivated Rick Boyle, a founding member of CAP, co-founder of the workshop and owner of Creative Contracting. “In a relatively short time frame, I’ve seen a significant shift in the mindset of students, teachers and administrators,” he says. “I believe there’s no onesize-fits-all recipe for success. Each student’s definition of career happiness will vary and so will their path to achieve it.”
The program began as a pilot in Spring 2025 with 20 students completing all elements. The next cohort, expected to grow to 32 students, kicks off in Spring 2026. Thanks to continued sponsorship from M/I Homes and strong partnerships, the upcoming session will also include welding instruction.
Kings High School has also played a meaningful role in the project. “We’ve partnered with Kings for years on company tours and internships,” explains Joe. “When we launched this, we invited them to fill a few student slots. It’s a natural way to expand impact and create something that benefits the whole community.”
Carrie, who placed two Kings students in the workshop through her internship class, says their experience was energizing. “During class, the boys frequently talked about how much they were learning and how much fun they were having. One student even worked on job sites with Creative Contracting and applied those skills immediately.”
The community stands to benefit in big ways. “These kinds of experiences connect students to local businesses, help bridge the talent gap and open their eyes to the value of building a future right here in Mason or Deerfield,” Joe adds.
“Whether it’s in healthcare, engineering or the trades, we want them to try things, meet people and do the work. That’s how they grow.”
The buzz from the inaugural workshop is still echoing through the hallways at Mason and Kings. Students are already asking about next year’s session, which will be posted on the school’s XLP digital opportunity board this fall.
“This is what school should be,” Joe explains. “Great classroom instruction, paired with hands-on experiences that help kids find what excites them, what challenges them and what they might want to do next. Whether it’s in healthcare, engineering or the trades, we want them to try things, meet people and do the work. That’s how they grow.”
For more information, visit MasonOhioSchools.com, Conduit-Apprentice.com and MADECDC.org/made-hub-mfg.
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The School For Creative Tots began with a deep love for children, family and joyful learning. School Administrator, Emilie Parry, found a second home at the original Creative Tots location in Madeira during her high school and college years. After graduating from Miami University with a degree in Early Childhood Education and teaching third grade at Indian Hill, she was overjoyed to be offered the opportunity to open her own Creative Tots in Mason.
“It was a dream come true—to create a nurturing, imaginative, love-filled space where children could blossom and grow, and where one day, my children would be cherished just the same,” Emilie shares.
Mason has proven to be a great location for the private preschool, as they've been able to grow and thrive with the support of the community.
“The support we've received from Mason over the past 19 years has been overwhelming in the best way. Mason isn’t just our location—it’s our home,” says Emilie.
The School For Creative Tots believes that early childhood should be filled with joy, wonder and connection.
CONTINUED >
The School For Creative Tots nurtures the imaginations of local preschool students.
ARTICLE BY JONATHAN STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
“We don’t view preschool as merely preparation for what comes next. We see it as the most precious foundation for a lifelong love of learning,” Emilie emphasizes.
Students at the School for Creative Tots experience days filled with play, movement and exploration.
“We see every child as an artist, a thinker, a scientist and a storyteller. Their imaginations are celebrated, their curiosity is sparked and their hearts are nurtured through hands-on experiences and authentic relationships,” Emilie enthuses.
The curriculum at Creative Tots is built on four foundational pillars: Creativity, Connection, Curiosity and Confidence. These values help to shape a school experience that aims to nurture the whole child.
“We intentionally design each day with a thoughtful balance of structure and freedom, offering children rich opportunities to engage in hands-on discovery, purposeful play and joyful exploration of early academics and immersive experiences in the arts that ignite their creativity and self-expression through daily art projects,” explains Emilie.
To help inspire creativity at home, Emilie suggests providing early learners with time, encouragement and an open door to imagination. Caregivers can set out art supplies, build with recycled treasures, create stories and have dance parties together. What’s important is to let kids take the lead to help plant the seeds of lifelong confidence and resilience.
Each year at Creative Tots culminates in a cherished tradition: the Annual Art Show, when the school transforms into a stunning children’s art museum.
“There’s nothing like it. The pride on their faces as they lead their families through the exhibit is pure magic,” Emilie tells us.
That sense of magic and appreciation is also shared among the students’ parents.
“What truly sets this school apart is the way the students light up when walking through the door,” a Creative Tots parent shares. “Creative Tots didn’t just open the door to learning—they welcomed my children with joy, excitement and a whole lot of heart.”
The School for Creative Tots is booking tours for the upcoming school year! Learn more at CreativeTotsMason.com.
• Celebrating 19 years in Mason
• 1,500+ alumni and growing
• 100% of lead teachers trained in education
• Average teacher tenure: 7+ years
• Small class sizes
• Daily music, yoga, STEM and Spanish
• Allergy-safe campus
• 15 magical years of the Annual Art Show
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARIA TERRY
THROW A PAWSOME BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR YOUR FURRY FRIEND
Create delightful DIY party favors for your dog guests by filling small bags or boxes with goodies. Include a tennis ball for playtime fun and a selection of treats for them to enjoy. You can also add a small toy or chew for variety. These favors ensure that every pup goes home happy and tired from all the play and treats.
Keep the human guests happy with a creative Treat Station for Owners. Use brand new, clean dog food bowls as serving dishes for snacks like chips, pretzels, and candies. Arrange the bowls on a table with a festive tablecloth and some dog-themed decorations. Label each bowl with fun names like “Puppy Chow” for trail mix or “Doggie Biscuits” for cookies.
A birthday party isn’t complete without a cake, even for dogs! To make a dog-friendly birthday cake, start with ingredients like peanut butter, bananas, and carrots. Mix 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of rolled oats, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of cinnamon in one bowl. In another bowl, blend 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup of peanut butter, 1 mashed banana, and 1/2 cup of grated carrots. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then pour the batter into a greased cake pan. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. Let it cool, then frost with a mixture of Greek yogurt and peanut butter. Decorate with dog treats and serve to your excited pup!
AUGUST 5TH - 18TH
Open Tennis Tournament
Lindner Family Tennis Center | 9:00 AM
The Cincinnati Open annually welcomes over 200,000 tennis fans from all 50 states and more than 40 countries. Gates open on August 5 at 9 a.m. at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in Mason. This year the tournament will be transformed, featuring more players, courts, entertainment, food options and fun. Enjoy more tennis with the expanded 14-day tournament. CincinnatiOpen.com
AUGUST 9TH
Deerfield Farmers’ Market
Kingswood Park Pavilion | 9:00 AM
The Deerfield Farmers’ Market is held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at the Kingswood Park pavilion. As a proud growers-only market, vendors only sell what they grow or make. Items for sale include grass-fed beef, pork, lamb and chicken, free-range eggs, seasonal produce, locally roasted coffee, baked goods and more. DeerfieldFarmersMarket.com
AUGUST 10TH
Cincinnati Wedding Show & Expo
Manor House | 11:00 AM
The Cincinnati Wedding Show & Expo takes place at the Manor House on August 11. Starting at 11 a.m., couples can meet with experienced wedding professionals to plan their perfect day. Wedding cake and catering samples will be available, plus a fashion show featuring bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses, men’s formalwear and more. Purchase tickets and get more information at OhioWeddingShows.com
AUGUST 15TH
Mason Market on the Mile
Downtown Mason Mile | 5:00 PM
Mason Market on the Mile celebrates local growers, makers and community spirit. Located between Batsche Law Firm and Quatman’s Café on the Mason Mile, the market features fresh produce, prepared foods, artisan goods and handcrafted items from regional farmers and vendors. Learn more at MakeTheMile.com.
AUGUST 22ND
Creative Tots Back to School Carnival
6408 Thornberry Court | 5:00 PM
Get ready for fun at the School for Creative Tots Back to School Carnival open to all currently enrolled and prospective families for the 2025-2026 school year. Enjoy a petting zoo, face painting, carnival games and a food truck. Join the festivities as they kick off their 19th school year with laughter, connection and community cheer! CreativeTotsMason.com
AUGUST 23RD
2025 BB4K Bubble Blast 4K
Corwin Nixon Park | 10:00 AM
The 2025 Building Blocks for Kids (BB4K) Bubble Blast 4K takes place at Corwin Nixon Park on August 23. Participants can enjoy food, music, dancing, games, bubble pits and more. Proceeds go toward supporting a BB4K kid. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and the Bubble Blast starts at 10 a.m. Register for the 4K at BB4K.org.
BEGINS @ 8:30 A.M. 4K TAKES PLACE @ 10:00 A.M.
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