Mason & Deerfield, OH December 2024 by City Lifestyle

DECEMBER

A Season of Giving

The holiday season brings a special kind of magic that unites people in meaningful ways. This time of year reminds us of the joy of sharing traditions, creating new memories and lending a hand to those who need it most. We’re surrounded by individuals and organizations who help make the season brighter for everyone.

In this issue, we’re inspired by those who embody the spirit of giving. A Kid Again, a remark able local nonprofit, is dedicated to giving children with life-threatening medical conditions and their families the ongoing joy of memorable experiences together. Through year-round adventures, they offer families a break from the challenges of daily life by filling hearts with hope and restoring the spirit of childhood.

This December, we’re also asking you to help us make a difference. Through The Kingdom Building Foundation, City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, we can help spread warmth and compassion by nominating deserving community members for a Christmas blessing. Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into a beautiful movement, impacting over 150 families across the country last year alone. Learn more about the nominating process on page 36.

We’re all about embracing the magic of holiday traditions new and old. Whether it’s planning a cozy weekend getaway to Santa Claus, Indiana, where live reindeer and festive lights create a charming holiday escape, or exploring unique local events right here in the Greater Cincinnati area, there are plenty of ways to add extra sparkle to your celebrations. And for those chilly nights at home, our friends at Mason Public Library share their favorite heartwarming holiday reads to enjoy by the fire or to gift to the book lovers in your life.

As the year comes to a close, I want to thank our wonderful community for welcoming us into your homes each month. Throughout the holiday season, be sure to shop and support local businesses like our amazing advertising partners. We look forward to 2025 and sharing more inspiring stories from Mason and Deerfield Township. From all of us at Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle, we wish you a warm and joyful holiday season and a Happy New Year!

December 2024

PUBLISHER

Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Karen Andrea

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jonathan Stout, Marie Kriedman, Sarah Skate, Amanda Stout

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Mark Lyons - Lyons Photography, Little Rascals Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

MARK ANDREA, PUBLISHER @MASONANDDEERFIELDLIFESTYLE

Proverbs 3:5-6

inside the issue

Holiday Magic In Santa Claus, Indiana

Nostalgic

Librarians

Try

city scene

1: On October 20, the Mason Symphony Orchestra (MSO) performed a family-friendly concert featuring Madcap Puppets! 2: Lucy Ginther, MSO music director. 3: The concert program featured Halloween classics, along with works from the classical canon. 4: Chance Kilgour, MadCap Puppets puppeteer delights the audience. 5: Renee Stoltzfuss, MadCap Puppets director, performing original puppet choreography. 6: Antonio Violins gave young people the opportunity to enjoy a hands-on experience with instruments. 7: Concertgoers had the chance to learn how to conduct an orchestra from Dr. Lucy Ginther.

Photography by Mark Lyons - Lyons Photography

8: BB4K hosted their 1st Annual Golf 4 the Kids ProAm Invitational Tournament on October 11. 9: Braedon inspires participants with a heartfelt rendition of the National Anthem to start the tournament. 10: Andy Horn (right), Pro-Am golfer and head PGA golf professional at Mason's Grizzly Golf with his team. 11: Sam Arnold (second from right), PGA golf professional at the Vineyard with tournament participants. 12: During World Inclusion Day at Makino Park donors were recognized for supporting adaptive ball fields. 13: Former Mason Challenger Board President Susan Murdock, City of Mason Mayor Diana Nelson and Council Member Joy Bennett. 14: Mason Challenger athletes show off their skills on the adaptive field during a baseball game.

CITY OF MASON

MASON CHALLENGER LEAGUE

BB4K

15: The Mason Historical Society Cemetery Walk took place at Rose Hill Cemetery on October 8. 16: Participants were asked to help solve a crime from the early 1900s. 17: The Mason Community Players lent their acting skills to the cemetery walk. 18: Over 200 people turned out to make the event a success. 19: East Main Music Fest took place on Oct. 5 in Downtown Mason. 20: Musicians performed outside of local businesses and the community was encouraged to explore. 21: Volunteers worked hard to make the event a success for the community.

JOY BENNETT

HELEN FOX

22: The MADE Chamber hosted the Gems of Excellence Awards Night in October at Manor House. 23: Jen Winter, co-owner of Solutions Plus Pest Control, won the 2024 Esprit de Corps Award. 24: MADE Chamber staff Lisa Thamann, Carrie Monley, Amanda Oltman, Sherry Taylor and Chris Burke. 25: Dawn Gould with Kings Local Schools won the 2024 People’s Choice Award. 26: Mason Schools Foundation hosted a donor recognition event prior to the MHS football game on Oct. 25. 27: Dr. Jonathan Cooper, Joan & Ken Campbell, Ken & Nancy Natorp and 2023 Campbell Founders award recipient Kevin Descombes (behind at right). 28: Newly inducted legacy donors included the Voorhis, Carson and Knudsen families.

NANCY RILEY

LITTLE RASCALS PHOTOGRAPHY

business monthly

Enjoy Holiday Cheer at MADE Chamber's Annual JingleFest

Celebrate the season at MADE Chamber's JingleFest on December 6, starting at 4:30 p.m. at the Chamber office! Enjoy drinks, treats from local vendors and a festive evening with fellow members. Wear your holiday sweater for the photo booth and bring a toy donation to spread cheer to children in need. Stay after to enjoy the City of Mason Tree Lighting in Downtown Mason. For details, visit MADEChamber.org

Deerfield Towne Center Celebrates Several New Stores

Deerfield Towne Center is home to a unique collection of specialty retail, upscale grocery and restaurants. Recently, the shopping center celebrated a multimillion-dollar investment by Morris Furniture, as well as the grand opening of Nordstrom Rack which offers new trends, styles and staples delivered weekly. At the end of October TOUS les JOURS, a French-Asian-inspired, fast-growing bakery café chain opened its latest location at the Towne Center. ChooseDeerfield.com

Mercy Health Kings Mills Opens Orthopedics and Sports Rehabilitation Center

Mercy Health Orthopedics and Sports Rehabilitation Center is thrilled to announce its grand opening at 5214 Kings Mills Rd. The center is committed to employing advanced treatments including sports rehabilitation, advanced spine care, post-surgical rehabilitation, a highly trained physical therapist staff and one-on-one care with therapists. Mercy Health Orthopedics and Sports Rehabilitation Center is poised to provide compassionate care and exceptional outcomes, offering comprehensive services tailored to meet each patient's unique needs. Mercy.com.

Photography by Mason Deerfield Chamber

Photography by Deerfield Twp. Economic Development Department

Photography by Mercy Health Kings Mills

GIVING BACK THE JOY OF CHILDHOOD

A Kid Again provides hope for families with empathy and camaraderie.

ARTICLE BY JONATHAN STOUT

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

A Kid Again, whose local chapter is located in Montgomery, provides consistent, year-round, free adventures for children with life-threatening medical conditions and their families. These adventures include a Valentine's Bash, Kings Island days, Cincinnati Reds games, BB Riverboat rides, Newport Aquarium visits, Cincinnati Zoo excursions and more. At these adventures, parking, admissions, meals, gifts for the children and priceless experiences are all provided.

A Kid Again also offers a sense of community to families. “At the adventures, our enrolled children no longer feel like ‘the sick kid’,” A Kid Again Development Manager Amanda Witt tells us. “Siblings and caregivers don't have to worry about how others will react to how their child looks, their medical devices or their unique conditions. There is a sense of empathy, understanding and camaraderie.”

A Kid Again also provides support for the mental health of these families. “It is crucial for children to experience the joy of childhood,” Amanda explains. “It's crucial for siblings and caregivers to get those experiences as well. By providing the family a reprieve from their day-to-day struggles, we can take some of that mental load off...even if only for a few hours.”

A Kid Again was founded in 1995 in Columbus by Jeffery Damon. Jeffery had previously been part of a nonprofit providing singular wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions, but he felt like something was missing. Once the wish was fulfilled, the child didn't have anything to look forward to. That is where the idea originated for the ongoing adventures that A Kid Again offers. Though they started from humble, grassroots beginnings, they now serve close to 20,000 families across the United States, 1,400 of those are right here in the Southwest Ohio area.

"Sometimes words aren't enough to convey how much these outings mean to a family,” a local family shares. “We struggle emotionally and financially. Outings are difficult and sometimes the logistics are just too much to coordinate to make them happen, so we just don't. Today, we were at Kings Island making memories and treasuring the special times that we don't often get to have."

As their enrollment numbers continue to climb, they are focusing more on fundraising. “We now have a development manager role on the Southwest Ohio team and we are concentrating on helping sustain our incredible growth,” Amanda explains.

The A Kid Again Holiday Adventure will be held on December 7 from 2-5 p.m. at Matthew 25 Ministries, hosting nearly 2,000 guests. The families get to experience a walk-thru winter wonderland with various activities, including arts & crafts, face painting, photo opportunities with Santa, the Grinch, superheroes, princesses and more! Other event features include arcade games, bounce houses, treats and the beloved Candy Tree Forest. At the end of the event, each family receives a sack of presents with a hand-selected gift for each child in their family.

The community can get involved by helping fund gift purchases, volunteering or donating at My.AKidAgain.org/HolidaySWO.

“IT IS CRUCIAL FOR CHILDREN TO EXPERIENCE THE JOY OF CHILDHOOD. BY PROVIDING THE FAMILY A REPRIEVE FROM THEIR DAY-TO-DAY STRUGGLES, WE CAN TAKE SOME OF THAT MENTAL LOAD

Weekly meal prep is delivered to your door in Mason and surrounding areas.

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No prep work involved, just reheat.

Other dietary accommodations can be made.

We offer homemade soups and salads in addition to meals.

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NOSTALGIC HOLIDAY TRADITIONS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TO ENJOY ARE JUST A CAR RIDE AWAY.

Holiday Magic In Santa Claus, Indiana

ARTICLE BY SARAH SKATE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SPENCER COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU

The holiday season in a town called Santa Claus is pretty spectacular!

Live reindeer, miles of light displays and delicious gourmet treats are just a few of the magical Christmas offerings for Santa Claus, Indiana visitors. About three hours southwest of our area, the town has loads of unique shopping, vibrant restaurants and family-friendly activities.

“The holiday season in a town called Santa Claus is pretty spectacular!” shares Melissa Arnold, executive director of the Spencer County Visitors Bureau. Wintertime festivities begin the first weekend in December with the Santa Claus Christmas Celebration, followed the next weekend by the Santa Claus Christmas Parade as well as an arts and crafts show.

“There is a lot you can see and do at no charge,” Melissa continues, such as seeing the reindeer and writing a letter to Santa. “Santa and his elves respond to every letter. We also do a wonderful chestnut roasting on Saturdays, just like the song, and learn about that long-standing American tradition.”

Among the paid activities are a special Christmas dinner with Santa at his lodge and the Santa Claus Land of Lights, a 1.2-mile driving journey that tells the story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer in giant, brilliant LED light displays with storyboards. “It’s a really neat event to get you in the spirit for the holidays,” Melissa adds.

Additional entertainment includes cookie decorating, musical concerts, Breakfast with Santa, food trucks and the Festival of Lights, a nine-mile residential Christmas lights tour through a gated community that is open to the public on select Saturdays in December. Dress warmly reminds Melissa, “It is magical when we get a blanket of snow.”

Visitors can also immerse themselves in a museum dedicated to the town’s history. According to local

legend, the town’s name dates back to the 1800s when it was called Santa Fe. When the residents applied for an official post office, they were denied because there was another Santa Fe, Indiana. Many other names were suggested but nothing seemed to fit. On Christmas Eve the townspeople gathered for church in a log cabin. Suddenly a gust of wind blew open the church doors and the children shrieked excitedly, “Santa Claus is here!” The townspeople took this as a sign and agreed that Santa Fe would become known as Santa Claus.

Another bright spot in the area’s history is that Abraham Lincoln spent his formative years in Spencer County. The story of young Abe’s early life in Indiana is revisited at the popular Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial.

Among the numerous shopping options are Santa’s Candy Castle for homemade confections and gourmet hot chocolate, the giant Santa Claus Christmas Store for ornaments and decorations and the can’t-miss Santa’s Toy Store.

Since Santa Claus may be more than a day trip for families, there are several options to make it a cozy weekend. For tourists choosing to spend the night, accommodations include Santa's Lodge, Santa's Lakeside Cottages and Lincoln Pines Lakefront Resort.

One of Santa Claus’ most famous attractions, Holiday World amusement park, is closed during the winter months. Still, visitors can take advantage of another fun wintertime option—Paoli Peaks ski resort. About an hour from Santa Claus, the resort offers skiing, snowboarding and tubing experiences. Whether you’re hoping for a real-life Hallmark movie or a family getaway, Santa Claus, Indiana is ready to become your new holiday tradition.

SantaClausInd.org

It’s a really neat event to get you in the spirit for the holidays. “ ”

heartwarming holiday books

Librarians from Mason Public Library reveal their favorite books for the season.

ARTICLE BY MARIE KRIEDMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Curling up with a good book is a favorite pastime for book lovers eager to get lost in a new story, but winter adds an extra special touch of coziness. It’s the perfect time to grab a soft blanket, set a favorite drink and bowl of popcorn nearby, and settle in contentedly with the pages of a good book while watching gently falling snow. To help you get in the spirit of the season or shop for the reading enthusiasts on your list, we caught up with a few of the helpful librarians from Mason Public Library who share their favorite holiday book recommendations. All of these titles are available at Mason Public Library. For more information, visit MasonPL.org

Kitschmasland!

By: Travis Smith

Now in its second edition, this book offers a whimsical glimpse into popular Christmas décor items from the 1950s through the 1970s. This retro revelation includes plenty of decorations and vintage examples of campy kitsch that the author refers to as “Kitschmas!” With more than 400 images and 160 pages, readers can find colorful images of vintage magazine covers that represent mid-century holiday décor and design elements. This nostalgic blast from the past is nominated by librarian Becky Gibson, who notes a personal interest and family history in this festive design throwback.

"I like this book because I collect Christmas decor from the 1950s. I have inherited all my mother’s Christmas decorations as well as some of my grandma's decorations too.”

Happy Narwhalidays

By: Ben Clanton

Happy Narwhalidays is a New York Times bestselling book that is part of a graphic novel series. This fifth book of the series features three new stories with Narwhal and Jelly, who aim to spread some holiday cheer. Readers can learn about Narwhal’s favorite holiday and Jelly’s skepticism about the existence of the Merry Mermicorn (part mermaid, part unicorn). Youth services librarian Cheryl Vasan recommends this fun tale, which includes colorful illustrations by the author, Ben Clanton, for new and upcoming bookworms. The book series is recommended for children ages five to nine years old.

“I picked this because it is one of our most popular children’s holiday books from our collection. It checks out year-round!”

By: Rose Levy Beranbaum

Described as the ultimate cookie book, librarian Mary Amoroso nominates The Cookie Bible as a must-read for any baker. This essential baking book includes all the best cookie recipes for the holidays and any day of the year. Inspired bakers can find more than 150 recipes that include classic cookies, such as Rose’s Dream Chocolate Chip and Double Ginger Molasses and holiday staples like Gingerbread Folks (with a special sturdy variation for gingerbread houses). This book also includes many innovative options for yet-to-be-discovered favorites like Black Tahini Crisps or Brownie Doughnuts. The author is known as the diva of desserts and her 13 books have been translated into many other languages.

The Cookie Bible The Christmas Spirit (and many more!)

By: Debbie Macomber

Debbie Macomber is the author of more than 20 holiday books, including The Christmas Spirit, Starry Night, Trading Christmas and Dashing Through the Snow. Librarian Lori Wernicke includes this book series that is described as hopeful and heartwarming, with romance that focuses on building relationships. This adult fiction writer also offers cookbooks, adult coloring books and children’s books. The author has released a Christmas-themed book or novella nearly every year since 1986, leaving readers with a rich diversity of stories and characters from which to find their next favorite book.

“Debbie Macomber's Christmas novels are light, easy to read and upbeat. I love that they are short enough to enjoy in an afternoon.”

UNIQUE HOLIDAY FUN

ARTICLE BY AMANDA STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

TRY OUT A NEW TRADITION THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH OUR CURATED LIST OF FAMILYFRIENDLY ACTIVITIES.

We all have our favorite local traditions during the holiday season. Whether taking a stroll through the Cincinnati Zoo’s Festival of Lights, getting lost in the story and music of the Cincinnati Ballet’s Nutcracker or ice skating with the family at Kings Island’s Winterfest, many of us have made memories at these nearby staples. This year we encourage you to try at least one new activity that may become your family’s new favorite. We curated a few of the many local options that just may add extra sparkle to your holiday traditions.

THE CHRISTMAS RANCH

HOLIDAYS ON THE FARM

Step back from the holiday hustle into your new Great Parks holiday tradition of winter wonder. Holidays on the Farm at Winton Woods Parky’s Farm offers lighted wagon rides, meetand-greets with Santa, festive food trucks, hot cocoa, s’mores and much more for a magical escape with the whole family. Visit FridaySunday from 5-9 p.m. through December 8 and nightly, December 13-23 & 31. For more information and tickets visit GreatParks.org.

The Christmas Ranch is a whimsical place featuring one million dancing lights synchronized to holiday music. The Ranch also offers seven Christmas shops, Santa’s Bakery and Cafe, pictures with Santa and train and wagon rides. A Toyland play area and multilevel train display were added recently. Hours are Sunday-Thursday from 5-9 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from 5-10 p.m. through 12/23. TheChristmasRanch.com

HANUKKAH AT FOUNTAIN SQUARE

YULETIDE VILLAGE

Renaissance Park beckons you to take in holiday lights, festive shows and delicious food & drinks while you wander through their Yuletide Market. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy holiday carolers and performances and shop for unique, magical gifts like artisan jewelry and leather goods, all while sipping hot cocoa or Christmas ale. Visit through December 21: Fridays 5-9 p.m. and Saturdays 3-9 p.m. Kids ages 12 and under are free! YuletideVillage.com

Meyerson JCC of Cincinnati welcomes the community to Hanukkah on Fountain Square. This year, because of the late timing of Hanukkah and the busy end-of-year holidays, they are holding the festivities in January. Celebrate Hanukkah and the New Year with the Cincinnati Jewish community while enjoying ice skating, hot chocolate and more! The event will take place on January 8 from 7-9 p.m. on Fountain Square. For more information, visit MayersonJCC.org.

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Making Spirits

JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”

As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.

Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.

One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.

Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.

These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just

about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”

We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.

To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.

The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org

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A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

DECEMBER 1ST, 6TH - 8TH, 13TH - 23RD, 31ST

Holidays on the Farm

Winton Woods Parky’s Farm | 5:00 PM

Holidays on the Farm takes place at Winton Woods Parky’s Farm Friday-Sunday from 5-9 p.m. through December 8 and nightly, December 13-23 & 31. Guests will experience glimmering lights, carolers, farm animals, Santa’s reindeer, food trucks, fire pits and more! Grab a hot cocoa and shop for gifts at Vendor Village, stroll through the twinkling tunnel and be dazzled by dancing horses! GreatParks.org

DECEMBER 3RD

Giving Tuesday-Countryside YMCA

Countryside YMCA | 12:00 PM

Countryside YMCA offers programs that help build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Thanks to the generosity of members, volunteers and donors, they’re able to provide swim lessons, veteran camaraderie, empowerment for cancer survivors and grief counseling. On Giving Tuesday, Dec. 3, Countryside YMCA will accept donations to support these important efforts. Find your reason to give at CountrysideYMCA.org

DECEMBER 5TH - 29TH

Light in the Forest

Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods | 5:30 PM

Step into a world where twinkling lights, nature’s beauty and holiday magic combine to create an unforgettable winter wonderland! This magical one-mile walking tour features enchanting ponds, fields and woodlands illuminated with stunning seasonal delights. Enjoy allnew light installations, interactive displays, children’s activities, live music, a cozy bonfire, food trucks and more. Advanced tickets are required. CincyNature.org/program/Light-in-the-Forest

DECEMBER 7TH

LOVE Ball 2024

Crossroads Church Mason | 8:00 PM

LOVE like JJ is hosting their annual LOVE Ball on Dec. 7 at Crossroads Church Mason from 8-10 p.m. Guests will enjoy dancing, games, treats, a raffle, photo opportunities and a service project. More info can be found at LoveLikeJJ.org

DECEMBER 7TH

The 35th Annual Lebanon Horse-Drawn Carriage Parade & Festival

Broadway St, Downtown Lebanon | 1:00 PM

The 35th Annual Lebanon Horse-Drawn Carriage Parade and Festival takes place December 7 on Broadway Street in Downtown Lebanon. There will be two horse-drawn carriage parades: a daylight parade at 1 p.m. and a traditional candlelight parade at 7 p.m. Reserved box seating and parking are available. Register for the event at LebanonChamber.org

DECEMBER 8TH

Adult Quilling Class: Quilling Holiday Ornaments

Cottell Park - Bungalow | 3:00 PM

Quilling is the art of rolling and shaping strips of paper. Join artist Terri Riddle to learn the art of quilling through themed projects. This month participants will quill holiday ornaments. All materials are provided and guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and refreshments. Reservations are $30 and can be made at DeerfieldOh.MyRec.com

DECEMBER 8TH

Christmas in Mason Festival Concert

Manor House | 5:00 PM

The Mason Symphony Orchestra will hold their annual Christmas in Mason Festival Concert at Manor House on December 8 at 5 p.m. Bass-baritone Javier Ortiz will perform with the orchestra along with Holiday Ringers, Mason Chorale and the Studio for Dance. Reserve tickets at MasonSymphonyOrchestra.org

DECEMBER 18TH

Practical and Faithful Ways to Have a More Peaceful Holiday Season

Countryside YMCA – Lebanon or Virtual | 6:00 PM

Join Lindner Center of HOPE's Tom Parker, LISW, Director of External Relations and Valerie Martin, MDiv, Spiritual Care Coordinator at Countryside YMCA on December 18 for a discussion on practical and faithful ways to have a more peaceful holiday season. Participants will address why the holidays can be difficult and learn coping tools to handle grief, manage complicated emotions and more. LindnerCenterofHOPE.org

DECEMBER 20TH & 21ST

Mason Dance Center’s Nutcracker - All Jazzed Up!

Mason High School Theater | 6:30 PM

This year is the 22nd annual performance of Mason Dance Center’s Nutcracker-All Jazzed Up! Showtimes are Dec. 20 at 6:30 p.m. and Dec. 21 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the MHS Theater. Guests will enjoy colorful set designs, festive costuming and a faithful retelling of a timeless tale. Ticket proceeds have supported the MHS After Prom since 2002. MasonDance.com.

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