Happy New Year!
The start of a new year brings the promise of fresh beginnings. It’s a time to focus on health, set goals and embrace the habits that help us thrive. In this issue of Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle we explore the many facets of wellness, from caring for our bodies to finding peace of mind in everyday moments.
Mental health is an essential part of overall wellness, and the Lindner Center of Hope is a shining example of providing care and support. Their annual Touchdown for Hope event on the Big Game Day next month not only raises funds but also raises awareness about the importance of addressing mental health as part of health care. It’s a reminder that hope and community go hand in hand.
Yost Pharmacy is redefining care through compounding, by crafting custom medications to meet unique needs. From removing allergens to combining treatments into one dose, their innovative approach ensures patients and even pets can receive effective, personalized solutions.
Countryside YMCA is a hub of wellness and connection for Warren County residents. Beyond its impressive facilities, the YMCA offers free programs like LIVESTRONG® for cancer survivors and Veterans Connect, providing fitness and mental health resources that change lives. Their mission is a reminder that wellness extends far beyond physical health.
As we step into 2025, we hope these stories inspire you to focus on your health and well-being. Here’s to a year of growth, renewal and meaningful moments for you and your family.
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Karen Andrea
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Marie Kriedman, Nan Paraskevopoulos, Jonathan Stout
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Jenna Beers–Photography by Jenna
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Proverbs 3:5-6
inside the issue
Departments
Touchdown for Hope
Yearly
Crafting Customized Care
A
Community Starts Here
Countryside YMCA provides outreach and connection to Warren County.
Yost Pharmacy is a third-generation family business and Mason institution that is focused on the future of wellness. Learn how compounding makes medications more accessible and effective for each patient.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Revelance proudly opened its doors to the community with a grand opening celebration in November. 2: Over 250 local business leaders, community members and special guests attended the unveiling of their premier facility in Mason. 3: The celebration began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring Revelance team Patrick Malloy, Joe Clark and Kristina Forester. 4: Guests were invited to explore state-of-the-art amenities, including Sonder beer in the taproom. 5: A cutting-edge golf simulator is one of Revelance’s signature features. 6: Private offices, coworking spaces and the executive lounge were open to guests to tour. 7: Throughout the evening attendees enjoyed delicious food prepared in Revelance’s commercial kitchen.
JENNA BEERS–PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA
EAGLE TIER MEDIA, JON MALEK
EAGLE TIER MEDIA, JON MALEK
EAGLE TIER MEDIA, JON MALEK
EAGLE TIER MEDIA, JON MALEK
JENNA BEERS–PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA
JENNA BEERS–PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA
Women Walking West held its 5th Annual RISE Gala at the Manor House in November. 9: The event was attended by 460 community members, donors, mentors and mentees. 10: Lindsey Tootle played violin for the gala attendees. 11: Woman Walking West mentee, Caren Paidamoyo, shared her story with the crowd. 12: Keynote speaker Dr. Bi Awosika, Assistant Dean of the UC College of Medicine, moved the attendees with her words. 13: Dr. George Sehi, founder and Chair of the Board gave his annual report of endowments and supporters. 14: Essay prize winners Katherine Whitten, Shadi Omranian, Gagnessiry Niang and Mia Diaz with Dr. Fatemeh Hajihosseini (W3 staff).
8:
Photography by Rick Crockett and Kenidi Morris
Explore legendary food cities like never before with our Food Tours, featuring behind-the-scenes tours and tastings along the way.
As one of the nation’s leading mental health centers, we understand your 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.
Children • Adolescents • Adults
hosted their Christmas Tree Auction and Holiday Ball in November at Manor House. 16: Preview of decorated trees for viewing and auction presented by the generous sponsorship of Altafiber. 17: Proceeds from the Christmas Tree Auction help to fund community grants and service awards. 18: Guests enjoyed a VIP cocktail party sponsored by Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle magazine. 19: The jazz lounge and bourbon bar offered opportunities for mingling while enjoying live music. 20: The casino activities and cocktail bar provided ample entertainment for guests. 21: For more information on upcoming local Rotary Club events visit MasonDeerfieldRotaryClub.com
15: Rotary Club of Mason Deerfield
Photography by JT Photo & Film
22: The 65th Annual Mason Kiwanis Pancake Day was held in November at Mason Middle School. 23: It was a great day of commUNITY fellowship, fun and food. All proceeds benefit children in need. 24: The Mason boys cross country team secured the Ohio High School Athletic Association Division I state championship. 25: The Mason boys golf team won their fourth Greater Miami Conference title on September 4 and 5. 26: The Mason girls tennis team scored their program's 10th straight GMC championship this season. 27: ROYAL Theatre Company, home of The Children’s Theatre of Mason, performed Annie Jr., Nov. 8-10. 28: ROYAL Theatre Company offers children ages 6-18 the opportunity to perform onstage.
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SAM SLATER
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PHOTOS COURTESY THE MASON SPORTS RADIO PROGRAM
PHOTOS COURTESY THE MASON SPORTS RADIO PROGRAM
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business monthly
MADE Chamber New Member Reception Networking Opportunity
Join MADE Chamber's New Member Reception this January for a premier networking event! Open to all members, it’s specially designed for those who have joined in the past year. Explore member benefits, build connections with fellow professionals and discover opportunities within our vibrant business community. Don’t miss this chance to deepen engagement and grow your network. Learn more and register at MADEChamber.org
Duke Energy, Warren County Foundation, Deerfield Township Help Small Businesses
Recently, representatives from the Warren County Foundation, Duke Energy and Deerfield Township developed a new initiative for emerging entrepreneurs and small business owners. Applications were evaluated by a panel of judges, including representatives from the Warren County Foundation, Deerfield Township, MADE Chamber and Warren County Small Business Development Center. Grants of $1,000 to $2,000 were awarded to A Fortunate Dog Spa, Four Paws Pet Care and Kennel, Generations Wealth, LLC, Oh My Markets LLC, The Pup Palace, Whipty-Do! and Worklife Studios ChooseDeerfield.com
Charm at the Farm Vintage Market Donates to the Centurion Project
Charm at the Farm Vintage Market announced that it has raised and donated $14,665 to its 2024 nonprofit partner, The Centurion Project. One dollar of every Charm at the Farm ticket purchased throughout 2024 was donated to The Centurion Project, a nonprofit that provides mental health support to active-duty military, veterans and their families grappling with trauma. To learn more and save the dates for Charm at the Farm’s 2025 markets visit CharmAtTheFarm.com
Photography by Mason Deerfield Chamber
Photography by Charm At The Farm
TOUCHDOWN FOR HOPE
Yearly event benefits mental health and addiction services at Mason’s Lindner Center of Hope
ARTICLE BY MARIE KRIEDMAN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Author H. Jackson Brown Jr., once said, “Never deprive someone of hope; it may be all they have.” Those powerful words are a testament to finding a path beyond despair.
“Families have expressed how their loved ones are ‘not just living but thriving’ - a true testament to the life-changing care provided here.”
Lindner Center of Hope is a nationally known nonprofit that has built its foundation around the premise of “healthy communities start with hope” and has provided mental health and addiction services to more than 50,000 patients and families since 2008.
Mary Alexander is the senior director of development and has been with the center for 13 years.
“I was drawn to the Lindner Center of Hope because of its commitment to providing the highest quality mental health care in the region and its comprehensive approach to healing,” she explains.
In its effort to offer mental health services and improve the health of the community, the center has become a “safe landing” for patients.
“Families have expressed how their loved ones are ‘not just living but thriving’ - a true testament to the life-changing care provided here,” Mary shares.
A popular annual fundraiser for the center is Touchdown for Hope. This year's event will be held from 5:30-10:30 p.m. on the Big Game Day, Feb. 9, at Great American Ballpark, 100 Joe Nuxhall Way.
"It's a classy and fun NFL championship game party with big screen televisions, plush seating, signature Cincinnati food favorites and upscale tailgate-style treats," explains Mary.
Touchdown for Hope was started by a member of the board and a few others. “We wanted to offer a communal event to support mental health in a fun and relaxed manner to counter stigma and raise awareness that mental health is a part of health care,” Dr. Michael Groat, interim CEO and chief clinical officer emphasizes.
Dr. Groat continues, “This is a family and community event that reflects the commitment of Cincinnati to be at the forefront of health care. This signifies that we are making a statement on behalf of people who have been impacted by mental health issues.”
The event will raise funds for the Transforming Hope Campaign, a $30 million fundraising effort focusing on treatment facility upgrades, wellness facility enhancements and clinician recruitment and retention.
The goal of focusing on these three elements includes increasing the number of patients served, enhancing treatment quality, upgrading existing treatment programs and introducing new wellness services. The center has already raised $27 million.
“We have been incredibly blessed with generous support from the board of directors and friends of the center,” Dr. Groat explains. “In so many ways, their lives have intersected with people who have struggled with some form of mental illness. They see the power of this type of treatment, and they want to support it. They recognize the need for quality mental health care will only continue to grow.”
Mary adds, “We are dedicated to supporting families by addressing the unique needs of both patients and their loved ones, fostering a compassionate foundation that strengthens connections and promotes healing.”
The commitment of the staff, along with their kindness and welcoming spirit, is part of what drew Dr. Groat to work at the center and support its efforts. He sees it as an opportunity to serve as a beacon of hope and he is proud to have the center be part of the Mason community.
“We would warmly welcome all people, in Mason and beyond, to join us at this community event,” says Dr. Groat.
For more information about Touchdown for Hope, visit LindnerCenterofHope.org, call Mary Alexander at 513.536.0317 or email mary.alexander@lindnercenter.org.
With the help from our sponsors, attendees, and those who bid on auctions and trees at our Holiday Ball and the alta ber Christmas Tree Auction and Display at the Mason Community Center, we raised funds that will support important Rotary initiatives including community grants, service awards and literacy programs.
Together, we are creating positive change and building a stronger, more connected community. Thank you for your support!
Weekly meal prep is delivered to your door in Mason and surrounding areas.
Meals are Whole 30 approved.
No prep work involved, just reheat.
Other dietary accommodations can be made.
We offer homemade soups and salads in addition to meals.
All our meat is from a local partner who buys local, hormone and antibiotic free.
Presenting Sponsor
Platinum Sponsors
crafting customized care
A local pharmacy works to create unique solutions tailored to individual needs.
ARTICLE BY NAN PARASKEVOPOULOS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA BEERS–PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA
David Yost, RPh is the co-owner of Yost Pharmacy. He grew up in his family’s business sweeping rugs, taking out the trash and filling the pop machines. David decided early on that he wanted to become a pharmacist. But it wasn’t until his time at the University of Cincinnati College of Pharmacy that he became passionate about the work—specifically, the compounding of medications.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Hormone replacement therapy can be crucial in addressing hormonal imbalances experienced during various life stages, such as menopause and even lower testosterone in older men. Compounding allows Yost Pharmacy to create hormone formulations tailored to each individual's specific needs, ensuring optimal dosages and delivery methods that best suit their lifestyle and health concerns.
Magnesium
Magnesium is essential for overall health, playing a critical role in protein synthesis, insulin sensitivity, nerve and muscle function and maintaining a steady heartbeat. Magnesium supports the immune system and promotes strong bones. Many diets fall short, leaving us deficient. Magnesium also treats migraines, muscle cramps, irregular heartbeats, insomnia and stress.
After graduation, David managed a chain pharmacy in North Carolina. While this experience allowed him to develop the skills he needed to lead, he eventually returned to Mason. This is where, in 2013, he and his sister Sarah McClain bought the family business. This allowed them to expand and focus on compounding.
Pharmacy compounding is the practice of creating customized medications tailored to meet the specific needs of individual patients. Unlike mass-produced medications, compounded medications are often made using raw ingredients and can be formulated in unique
dosages, delivery forms or without certain allergens like preservatives and dyes.
Compounding allows pharmacists to create solutions for patients whose needs cannot be met by conventional medications. This is especially important for children, adults with special conditions and even animals. A compounded medication might involve combining multiple drugs into one dose or altering the formulation to make it more palatable, such as adding flavorings. Compounding also plays a crucial role during drug shortages, enabling pharmacists to provide necessary medications when standard products are unavailable.
CONTINUED >
Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)
Originally for opiate dependence, Low Dose Naltrexone is compounded into lower doses for autoimmune diseases (like multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis), chronic pain syndromes (such as fibromyalgia) and certain cancers. LDN temporarily blocks opioid receptors, which leads to increased endorphin production and may alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
Probiotics
Quality probiotics, such as Ortho-Biotic by Ortho Molecular, are vital for a healthy gut microbiome, which is challenged by toxins in our food and water. A balanced microbiome supports the immune system, aids in digestion, produces anti-inflammatory compounds and has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and obesity.
“At its core, compounding is about making medications more accessible and effective for each patient, ensuring they get the treatment they need,” says David.
David’s journey into compounding and the supplement business was a gradual process. It started during his time as a pharmacy technician. As he advanced in his career and gained more experience, he started receiving calls from doctors looking for customized solutions for their patients when traditional products weren’t effective.
“Some of the most transformative experiences came when I attended conferences where functional medicine physicians shared their approach
to treating diseases at their root causes. Instead of addressing symptoms, they focused on holistic care through a combination of lifestyle changes, compounds and supplements,” David explains.
One person David helped treat was a young girl with special needs who was nonverbal. She had been prescribed medication to help manage her blood sugar levels, which initially worked well.
“However, she wasn’t acting like herself. Her caregivers suspected she was experiencing an upset stomach, though she couldn’t communicate her discomfort,” he shares.
David recommended compounding the medication into a topical cream that could be applied to her wrist. This method allowed her to absorb the medication through her skin, providing the same effects on her blood sugar levels without the side effects the oral form caused. Her doctor agreed to give this approach a try, and the results were incredible. The young girl’s caregivers reported that she started to feel much better and her energy returned.
David says, “There’s a unique satisfaction that comes from working with patients and health care providers to develop personalized solutions that truly improve quality of life. It’s a reminder of why I got into this business in the first place— helping people in meaningful ways.”
For more information, visit Yost Pharmacy at 120 West Main Street in Mason or go to Yost-Pharmacy.com.
David Yost, RPh and co-owner of Yost Pharmacy.
ARTICLE BY JONATHAN STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICKY REINZAN
Countryside YMCA provides outreach and connection to the Warren County community.
Community
Starts Here
Countryside YMCA is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the Warren County community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Although made up of three locations in Lebanon, Landen and Otterbein, Lebanon is most well known due to its size. Built on 126 acres of land, the 230,000-squarefoot Lebanon Countryside YMCA facility held the title of the biggest YMCA in America for many years. This impressive facility has over 120 group fitness classes, aquatics and swim lessons, gymnastics, creative arts, youth and family activities and more.
The YMCA is much more than a building, song, gym or swim. Their mission is to put Christian principles into practice and build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. They do this by identifying the needs of the community and then finding ways to meet them.
“Thanks to the generosity of our members, volunteers and donors, we can provide lifesaving swimming lessons, a safe, nurturing space for kids to learn and grow during out-of-school time and outreach to families and individuals who are feeling isolated,” Countryside YMCA Director of Marketing Allie Andriacco tells us.
Two of the outreach programs that are offered for free to anyone living in Warren County are the LIVESTRONG® and the Veterans Connect programs.
In 2008 the YMCA partnered with the LIVESTRONG Foundation to help cancer survivors begin the journey toward recovery with a free program that comes with a courtesy membership. This 12-week program meets twice a week for 90 minutes, focusing on strength, cardio endurance, balance and flexibility. Specialists guide participants through traditional exercise methods designed to ease patients back into fitness and help them maintain a healthy weight.
Classes focus on building muscle mass and strength, increasing flexibility and endurance and improving confidence and self-esteem. Other informational resources, such as nutrition and goal setting are also provided. But most importantly, the LIVESTRONG program encourages a warm spirit of community—a safe, comfortable place for cancer survivors to build companionship with others affected by cancer.
“This program offers adults experiencing cancer a safe, supportive environment to participate in physical and social activities focused on strengthening the whole person,” Allie tells us.
"LIVESTRONG gave me accountability and helped me be consistent in my exercise efforts,” a LIVESTRONG participant explains.
LIVESTRONG Program
Veterans Connect Program
“OUR
STAYING POWER CAN BE ATTRIBUTED TO OUR STAFF. THE POWER OF THE YMCA HAS ALWAYS BEEN ITS PEOPLE WHO WELCOME, ENCOURAGE AND BUILD TRUE CONNECTIONS WITH MEMBERS.”
When Countryside realized there was no local program for Veterans that included fitness opportunities, nutrition information, mental health support and camaraderie, they decided to create a free comprehensive program designed to meet these needs. Their Veterans Connect program was created to positively impact local veterans in Warren County both mentally and physically.
Participants meet twice a week and focus on age-appropriate fitness, nutrition, mental health and community involvement. In addition to these meetings, Veterans may also participate in special 5K races, trail runs and other unique social events. Any Veteran over the age of 18 is welcome and does not have to be a member of the YMCA to participate.
“We recognize that not everyone can perform at the same fitness level, and the fitness portion of Veterans Connect can be tailored for each participant,” Allie shares.
Countryside YMCA’s outreach doesn’t end with these programs. Other community programs offered are Traveling Through Grief, Early Learners and Blessed Respite Care.
Traveling Through Grief is an eight-week study that guides participants through the grieving process with others who are experiencing the loss of a loved one. Early Learners provides early learning programs to preschool-aged children whose families wouldn’t normally be able to afford traditional preschool. Children develop the skills they need to be successful in kindergarten through fun learning experiences.
The purpose of Blessed Respite is to give the parents or caretakers of children with special needs and foster children time to get away for some rest and fun while their child/children have fun doing various activities.
Having served the community for over 40 years, Countryside YMCA Lebanon exemplifies remarkable resilience.
“Our staying power can be attributed to our staff,” Allie enthuses. “If you’ve ever taken a group fitness class, sports league or sent your kids to our summer camp, you know how amazing our staff is. The power of the YMCA has always been its people who welcome, encourage and build true connections with members.”
Through the years, Countryside YMCA has become synonymous with Warren County, as they both work together to serve the community.
“Being near Deerfield is unique because we don’t serve just one main school district or community,” Allie explains. “So we have a bigger opportunity to welcome transplants and foster new connections between members. We need community, and commUNITY starts here.”
From simple jobs to committee work, there are lots of opportunities to donate your time and talents to the YMCA. Email volunteers.ymca@ymcastaff.org to start volunteering today! CountrysideYMCA.org
Ready. S et. G et Healthy.
JANUARY 7TH
Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body
Join the Alzheimer’s Association on January 7 at Kingswood Park to learn about how science can provide insights into how to optimize our physical and cognitive health as we age. The one-hour program covers research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity and social engagement, plus hands-on tools to help you incorporate recommendations into a plan for healthy aging. DeerfieldOh.MyRec.com
Little Deer of Deerfield Storytime is a charming activity for parents and toddlers. This group is designed for children up to 4 years of age. Participants meet in the Kingswood Park Activity Center twice a month at 10 a.m. to read a story, do a craft and enjoy themed activities.
events
CONTINUED
JANUARY 13TH
Brews with the Sup't
Sonder Brewing | 5:30 PM
Join Mason Superintendent Dr. Jonathan Cooper for a drink (nonalcoholic beverages are fine too!) and some Comet CommUNITY conversation at Sonder Brewing on January 13 from 5:30-7 p.m. Brews with the Sup't are open opportunities for the community to connect with the superintendent and other district leaders while supporting a local business. Learn more at MasonOhioSchools.com
JANUARY 17TH - 19TH AND 24TH - 26TH
Greater Cincinnati Remodeling Expo
Sharonville Convention Center | 12:00 PM
The annual Greater Cincinnati Remodeling Expo takes place over the weekends of January 17-19 and January 24-26 at the Sharonville Convention Center. This event brings together knowledgeable remodeling and building experts, sharing advice about the latest trends in design. Adult tickets cost $5 and admission is free for children under 18. Find more information and expo times at HomeShowCenter.com
JANUARY 18TH
Deerfield Farmers’ Market
Kingswood Park - Activity Center | 10:00 AM
The Deerfield Farmers’ Market is held every third Saturday from 10-11 a.m. at the Kingswood Park Pavilion. As a proud growers-only market, vendors only sell what they grow or make. Items for sale include pasture-raised beef, pork and chicken, free-range eggs, seasonal produce, baked goods and more. Find out more at DeerfieldFarmersMarket.com
JANUARY 18TH
Winter Tree Identification Walk
Kingswood Park - Activity Center | 1:00 PM
The naturalists of Warren County Park District will lead a winter tree identification walk at Kingswood Park on January 18 from 1-2:30 p.m. Participants will learn the basics of winter tree identification and build the skills to identify trees on their property. ODNR tree guides and tree-marking supplies will be provided for you to take home. Discover more at DeerfieldOh.MyRec.com
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St Albans Way
Located in desirable Welbourne Manor. Hardwood floors throughout the first floor. The family room features a fireplace with built-ins. Remodeled kitchen boasting highend finishes and a top-of-the-line Wolf gas range. First-floor study with custom built-ins. Three-seasons room and deck overlook a private, fenced backyard. Primary suite features a remodeled luxury bath. Finished, walkout lower level offers even more living space, complete with a full bath.
Located in Rivercrest community. Home features hardwood floors throughout the first floor. Gourmet kitchen with a gas range and extended breakfast room. Second floor laundry, and Jack-and-Jill bedrooms, fourth bedroom with private bath. The primary suite offering a large walk-in shower. Finished lower level with 9-foot ceilings, egress window, bath rough-in and ample unfinished areas for storage or future projects. New tankless water heater 2024.
“Tiffany was very knowledgeable and understood our needs and what we wanted from her as a Realtor®! She was well prepared to get our house on the market and she used all her avenues to showcase our house. It was everywhere in the community and media! She is very passionate about her job and worked hard until our property was sold. She constantly kept us abreast of everything going on. We would recommend her to all our friends as she is the number 1 sales person in our area and it shows!”
~ Amy Boes (Liberty Township)
