Mason & Deerfield, OH June 2024

Leading by Example

An inspirational man has the incredible power and privilege of shaping and mentoring young people in their lives to grow and mature in a multitude of ways. Whether they are a father, a coach, an uncle or a boss, being a role model and leading by example can make a lasting impact on those watching.

We can all probably think of a man or several men in our lives who had a big impact on us at one time or another. Perhaps it was someone pushing us to be a better version of ourselves because they saw the best in us or someone we looked up to for guidance. Maybe it was someone we didn’t personally know, but they inspired us with their greatness. We recognize and appreciate the impact these role models have on our lives.

In this issue, we are excited to share stories from a few of the men who are leading by example and shaping the future of our community through education, athletics, mentorship and business. Be sure to read through the magazine to learn more about Rob Matula, Terry Killens, Darrin Simmons, Rob Lyons and Charlie Andrews.

For all of the golf fans out there, don’t miss the special sneak peek of the Building Blocks for Kids Pro-Am Invitational Tournament and how you can help local children by hitting the links!

Before turning the page, I’d like to send a shout out to all the fathers and men who continue to show up and support their families and community. Thank you, Dad, for always being there for me with your love and support!

MARK ANDREA, PUBLISHER

June 2024

PUBLISHER

Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Karen Andrea

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jonathan Stout, Amanda Stout, Tera Michelson

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jenna Beers–Photography by Jenna, Mark Lyons–Lyons Photography, Anjali Fong 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

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JUNE 2024

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: On April 21 the Mason Community Band performed their Spring Concert at Mason Middle School. 2: The Mason Community Band performed famous songs of the Swing Era. 3: Guest vocal performer Laney McCormick joined the group to croon tunes of a bygone era. 4: MHS Theatre’s Mamma Mia! featured Marylin Snedaker, Emily Kosina, Noel Mettey and Emily Huisman as the four muses. 5: Donna, played by Deylaney Cowles with the ensemble at the end of “Money, Money, Money.” 6: The male ensemble sings and dances “Lay All Your Love on Me” in Mamma Mia! 7: Layla Wright dances in Mamma Mia! at Mason High School.

LANCE MOODY OF MECHANICAL BUG PHOTOGRAPHY

SKYLER CARTER

SKYLER CARTER

LANCE MOODY OF MECHANICAL BUG PHOTOGRAPHY

LANCE MOODY OF MECHANICAL BUG PHOTOGRAPHY LANCE MOODY OF

8: The Empowering Women through Education Panel discussion was held in March at the Wyoming Civic Center. 9: The panel was a collaboration between Women Walking West (W3) and the Joint Women's Collaborative of Wyoming. 10: The relocation celebration for Enlighten Embody Empower Yourself on March 14. 11: Chief of Operations and Development at W3, Fatemeh Hajihosseini and Michelle Colpean, member of JWC of Wyoming and professor at UC. 12: Panelists shared personal stories about their journeys to achieve their educational goals. 13: The grand opening of Stock Yards Bank and Trust took place on April 22. 14: A ribbon cutting celebrating the renovation and expansion of Traditions of Deerfield on March 21.

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Mason Market on the Mile

Join your friends and neighbors at Mason Market on the Mile, a celebration of Mason’s agricultural roots and community spirit. The event will feature a blend of local growers, producers and cottage vendors offering a range of locally sourced products and artisanal goods. This volunteer-driven market is a testament to the community's passion and dedication, inspired by valuable feedback from the Make the Mile campaign. Don't miss this vibrant marketplace honoring the community’s farming legacy beginning June 14 from 4-7 p.m.!

MADEChamber.org

Mason Symphony Orchestra Scholarship Winner

Mason Symphony Orchestra (MSO) would like to introduce the MSO Student Scholarship Competition winner, Joshua Chertock. Joshua is a piano student of Tom White and Dr. Jackson Leung. Apart from music, he is an Eagle Scout whose project was a concert benefiting Habitat for Humanity. Joshua is active in theater and stays fit by lifting weights. After graduating from Bishop Fenwick High School, Joshua will attend CCM at UC, double majoring in piano and aerospace engineering. MasonSymphonyOrchestra.org

Sounds of Deerfield Returns This Summer

Deerfield Township and The Arts Alliance have partnered to bring a fantastic performing arts series to Cottell Park on Thursdays this summer. This free family-friendly event will include some of the best local talent. Beginning on June 13, performers include The Eagles Project, Comet Bluegrass All Stars and more. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets, chairs, food and beverages. DeerfieldOh.MyRec.com

Photography by Whitney Smith

Photography by Maaike Chertock

Photography by Meredith Raffel

and Vineyard General Manager , SamArnold .

GOLF FOR A GREAT CAUSE

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming BB4K Golf 4 The Kids Pro-Am Invitational Tournament.

ARTICLE BY JONATHAN STOUT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA

BEERS–

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA

Building Blocks for Kids (BB4K) will hold its inaugural Golf 4 The Kids Pro-Am Invitational Tournament on October 11 at the Vineyard Golf Course. It could be the perfect way to end your week and start your weekend with friends, golf, games and more. All for a deserving cause!

The Vineyard Golf Course is known for being one of the best-conditioned daily fee courses in Cincinnati and one of the most challenging. Attendees will rub elbows with the area's top golfers while supporting Building Blocks for Kids. Golfers can sign up in teams of three or purchase single tickets. They’ll be paired with professional golfers and have the opportunity to learn tips for their golf game and so much more!

PGAmember

Left to right: Kristi Tatro and Jenny Ensley (BB4K), Andy Horn (PGA Golf Pro), Marianne Morris (LPGA Golf Pro), Dynette Clark (BB4K), Chris Blake (Event Chair).

Marianne Morris, LPGA Golf Pro and Andy Horn, PGA Golf Pro will be on hand at the BB4K Golf 4 The Kids Pro-Am Invitational Tournament.

“It’s a good feeling to support a great organization while playing the game I love,” PGA member and Vineyard General Manager Sam Arnold tells us. “The Vineyard staff is excited to host and include some of our best local PGA golf professionals.”

Each ticket also comes with a swag bag, which includes a nice tee gift and other goodies. The fun starts at 9 a.m. with coffee, smoothie samples from Robeks and light bites.

Golfers will have the opportunity to experience fun games like the unique Junk King Chip-In Split-the-Pot game. Golfers chip in with a foam golf ball from approximately 25 feet into a dumpster placed at a hole. There will be a hole-in-one opportunity sponsored by James Free Jewelers with a prize of a Swiss timepiece valued at $15k as well as other games along the course, some free and some for an additional price. All proceeds go towards the fundraiser.

The festivities don’t end with golf though! After an energizing golf game, participants can enjoy lunch, networking, prizes, raffles and a silent auction.

“Cincinnati is known for having a lot of charity golf events, but what makes ours unique is that it’s a Pro-Am invitational,” event chair Chris Blake explains. “People don’t realize there are many PGA professionals with quite a few accomplishments who live locally. Making this event an invitational allows us to partner with professional golfers from northern Kentucky, southeast Indiana and southwest Ohio.”

BB4K was founded in January 2003 to provide support, resources, scholarships and hope to families with children with physical, emotional and/or developmental challenges.

Since then, BB4K has assisted over 1000 individual children and provided more than $2 million in scholarships to families within a 120-mile radius of Greater Cincinnati.

“This event will help BB4K provide the resources and support that our kids and families need throughout the remainder of 2024 and into 2025,” Executive Director Dynette Clark tells us.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit BB4K.org/BB4KProAm To learn more about Building Blocks for Kids visit BB4K.org.

Andy Horn: Pro-Am Golfer and Head PGA Golf Professional at Mason’s Grizzly Golf & Social Lodge

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN GOLFING?

I started around 6 years old. My father and brothers played so we had a game every weekend! My mother even started playing so she could be around the family on weekends.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT BEING PART OF THE MASON COMMUNITY?

The city of Mason always feels like a small family. Everyone takes pride in the city and it’s a great feeling.

HOW DID YOU BECOME PARTNERED WITH THE BB4K GOLF 4 THE KIDS PRO-AM?

Years ago, I played in Pro-Ams with Chris Blake, the tournament chairman. He approached me about starting another Pro-Am in Cincinnati and asked if I could play and help promote it. Anytime a PGA professional can help raise money for such a special charity, it's a good thing.

“THIS EVENT WILL HELP BB4K PROVIDE THE RESOURCES AND SUPPORT THAT OUR KIDS AND FAMILIES NEED THROUGHOUT THE REMAINDER OF 2024 AND INTO 2025.” —EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DYNETTE CLARK

WHAT CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT WHAT IT WILL BE LIKE FOR GOLFERS PLAYING IN THE TOURNAMENT?

This event will be very special as it will raise money for a great charity. The participants will play with local PGA professionals who will help make the day enjoyable for everyone. We will help attendees with their golf game and give them tips for playing better in the future.

WHAT DO YOU ESPECIALLY LIKE ABOUT YOUR COURSE AT GRIZZLY GOLF?

The Grizzly course has such a long tradition of championship golf. As a child, I would come and watch the greatest golfers in the world play here. I wanted to play here and loved that Jack Nicklaus designed the course. It’s also a very fair course that an average player can enjoy.

WHAT WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT DO YOU HAVE FOR BEGINNER GOLFERS? WHY SHOULD PEOPLE GIVE GOLFING A TRY?

PGA golf professionals are always working to grow the game of golf. Young players are the future of golf so we work to make it fun for all. Golf is a lifetime sport. The more you practice, the better you get. You’ll meet new friends every day and you can play all around the world or right in your backyard.

the guys behind the games

THREE MEN MAKING OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS TO SPORTS REFLECT ON THE MASON COMMUNITY THEY CALL HOME.

ARTICLE BY AMANDA STOUT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA BEERS–PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA

Rob Matula

Retired Head Coach Mason Girls Basketball and MHS Biology Teacher

When Coach Rob Matula accepted his first job with Mason City Schools (MCS) as a freshman biology teacher in 1988, he didn’t know where Mason, Ohio was.

Thirty-six years later, he recently retired as a successful girl’s head basketball coach and high school educator who loves his students and players just as much as his adopted hometown.

Rob comes from an education family. His father was a math teacher and his mother was a middle school secretary

in Bucyrus, Ohio. Growing up, he was always around their world and enjoyed seeing them at school. Although working in education can be challenging, and his parents tried to direct him elsewhere, he saw the benefits firsthand.

“It’s a business that allowed them to grow a family because mom and dad were there, when we were leaving for school and when we got home. We had them in the evenings, on the weekends, for vacations and summers and those things were the most essential,” shares Rob.

After graduating from Bowling Green State University and being hired by MCS, he worked for 10 years at Mason. He departed for stints at Talawanda and Sycamore where he was also varsity boys basketball coach. But he was a Mason Comet at heart and returned 19 years ago for an opportunity to run the girl’s basketball program and be surrounded by friends and family.

“I’m an emotional person and when you develop friendships and relationships in a place it’s always on your mind and in your heart,” explains Rob. “So obviously my first 10 years were at Mason and I developed some unbelievable friends and colleagues. Looking back, it was one of the best moves in my life to come back. Beyond the successes we had basketball-wise, I got to reconnect with families and friends and be here for my kids’ high school years.”

Rob was recognized with many honors during his coaching career, including league Coach of the Year awards, Southwest Coach of the Year and Greater Cincinnati Coach of the Year. During his notable tenure, he produced multiple allleague and all-state players and 457 overall wins. In his final season, he coached the Comets to a 24-3 record, an outright Greater Miami Conference title and a district championship, while also being named the 2023-24 OHSAA Division One Coach of the Year. Even with all of those accomplishments, it’s the relationships he built and the hard work his students and players put in that he’s most proud of.

“Coaches and teachers cannot be afraid to show their emotions and be emotionally invested in what they’re doing. When you show your emotions, it allows you to be real and your students and players will respond to that,” imparts Rob. “No matter how many kids you have in your classroom or on your team, you have to make the effort to include everyone. Let them know you care about them, outside of the lines of performance and competition. If they trust you and you establish those types of relationships, you’ll get their best effort.”

Now that he is officially retired, Rob hopes to stop and smell the flowers (he loves to garden in his spare time) with his wife Andi, his kids Megan and Drew and his parents. You’ll likely still see him at Mason games, “I really can’t wait to go to sporting events and be able to sit and watch and cheer them on.”

“That’s what I love about working with the guys in the NFL. People are genuinely happy for you when you get this gig and they reach out to offer their congratulations,” Terry smiles. “This was my first year of eligibility, so you also have veteran guys who have experienced this before reaching out to give you great advice.”  NFL officials aren’t eligible to officiate at the Super Bowl until their fifth year. They also have to have three consecutive playoff appearances on field and be rated at the top of their tier system, which is graded throughout the season. But it wasn’t just these criteria that helped Terry make history this year, it was his self-professed “obsession with officiating” and a ton of hard work.

In the early 2000s, Terry and his wife decided to move back to the Cincinnati area where they both grew up. They chose Mason because of the great reputation of the school district. After retiring from the NFL on his own terms, Terry was a stay-at-home dad (he has five kids) and began officiating Pee Wee football games. He took an Ohio High School Athletic Association officiating class and was hooked on discovering the game he loved in a new way.

Terry Killens

NFL Official and City of Mason Campus Safety Specialist

You may have heard about long-time Mason resident Terry Killens during the news coverage of Super Bowl LVIII. That’s because he made history as the first former NFL player to both play in (as a Tennessee Titan linebacker) and officiate a Super Bowl game.

At first, the historic moment was a surprise even to him. It wasn’t until he heard his own voice during a 6 p.m. broadcast of Sportscenter on ESPN that he realized it was national news. Despite the initial overwhelm, Terry had so much support from family, friends and other NFL officials, that he was prepared to take in the whole experience.

From there he went on to officiate and make connections at every level in football (high school JV and varsity, then NCAA Division 3 and Division 1), frequently traveling and sometimes even sleeping in airports. Over time, he worked his way up to the NFL Development Program and was hired as an NFL official in 2019.

“I feel like lightning has struck twice. Not many people can say ‘I played in the National Football League.’ When I was younger, I didn’t embrace every moment as much. I got another opportunity to do it again and I’m taking full advantage. I’m embracing every moment,” Terry expresses.

To create balance with his time officiating, he applied to a city job posting for a campus safety specialist and was hired in 2017. He works for the City of Mason Police Department as part of the campus safety division. They work in the Mason Municipal Court and with School Resource Officers (SROs) in Mason City Schools. Terry is primarily located in the Mason Community Center where he mentors and develops relationships with students who come there after school.

“The best part is developing relationships with the students, administration and the community. I live in Mason so I’m invested in it. I like to see good relationships and positive energy developed

amongst all of us which has always been a goal of mine,” Terry shares. “I love to see the development of our young people. When they start off they can be a little immature and rambunctious. Still, it’s a great feeling for me to watch these kids become young men and women who eventually will go on to college and hopefully, find their niche in life and society.”

same set of friends. Usually when you’re the family of a coach, you’re packing up and moving around to different places for different teams. Fortunately, I’ve been able to stay here for a long time,” shares Darrin.

It’s a testament to his part in rewriting the Bengals’ record book, but even more so to the relationships and trust he’s built with his fellow coaches and the players. Those bonds led him to be asked to join Marvin’s coaching staff after working with him at the Baltimore Ravens, to stay through Marvin’s 16 years, to continue when Zach Taylor came on as head coach and to ride the waves of three different quarterbacks.

“I think it works best when you can build a relationship of trust where they know that when they turn their back, you will go do your job and be effective. Among the coaches, but the same thing goes with the players, my job as a coach is to maximize the ability and talent of our players in a way that helps our team win,” explains Darrin. “But I have to get the players to trust that I have their best interest in mind and I’m trying to help them have longevity in their career. I think a huge part of what I do is fostering those relationships with the players.”

Darrin Simmons

Cincinnati

Bengals Assistant Head Coach and Special Teams Coordinator

When Darrin Simmons moved to Mason in 2003 to work as special teams coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals alongside Marvin Lewis, he was the youngest position coach in the NFL. He didn’t know what to expect or how long he would be here, but this season will be his 22nd with the Bengals. It’s so uncommon that he is not only the longest-tenured coach on the Bengals’ staff, he’s the longest-serving special teams coordinator in all of the NFL. In 2020, he was also named the Bengals’ assistant head coach.

“It’s been a very unique experience for my family. All three of our kids have spent their entire school careers in Mason City Schools. We’ve been super fortunate that they’ve been able to grow up with the

Darrin grew up in a tight-knit family on a wheat farm in the small town of Elkhart, Kansas in the same farmhouse where his father grew up. He still goes back during breaks and summers to help farm and spend time with family and friends.

“I’m just a simple country kid at heart who happened to get caught up in this whole NFL thing and I’ve tried to ride with it as long as I can,” he laughs.

Darrin and his brother were both athletes and their parents were at every game. He played quarterback in high school, was a backup quarterback in college and was a starting punter at the University of Kansas.

“I always had an interest in the schemes of special teams. I knew I understood a lot about the technique and what it takes for them to be successful. And I knew I would have an advantage over a lot of other coaches because I played that position, but I also played quarterback,” he says. “I think the untapped area was special teams and it’s become even more of a focus since I’ve been in the NFL.”

Darrin and his wife Rhonda always wanted what they had growing up for their kids, but were never sure if that was in the cards given his job. No matter what happens in the future, they feel lucky to have established a new hometown in Mason.

“I’m the most proud of my family and I’m very proud of being able to stay in one place and to have the opportunity to see the growth and development of this football organization. This is home for us and I’m sure it will continue to be regardless of what happens with me in my profession. It’s really because of all the bonds and relationships we’ve built with the families and friends we have in Mason,” shares Darrin.

? Lindner Center of HOPE understands how the symptoms of mental illness can make you feel. We can help no matter your age or struggle Our transformative continuum of

FINDING THE PERFECT BEAT

BADGES DRUM SHOP BRINGS A RARE, SPECIALTY DRUM SERVICE TO DOWNTOWN MASON.

ARTICLE BY JONATHAN STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK LYONS–LYONS PHOTOGRAPHY

Tucked away in downtown Mason is something quite rare. A white whale of sorts for percussionists, Badges Drum Shop offers an expertly curated collection of drums and drum accessories from vintage and antique to contemporary.

Shop owner, Charlie Andrews, has played drums since he was 10 years old. Though he wasn’t automatically passionate about the instrument, he took to it quickly which led him to junior high jazz band and a lifelong love of drums and jazz.

“Playing drums has been a source of joy and healing for me, exposing me to remarkable musicians and experiences that I treasure,” Charlie tells us.

For this reason, he views Badges Drums Shop as much more than just a store. “It’s a

way to serve the community of people who play the instrument I love,” Charlie explains.

Badges Drum Shop is filled from floor to ceiling with everything a drummer could need—from cymbals and drum heads to shells and hardware. Whether they’re searching to accessorize their kit or add new or vintage cymbals, drummers will be able to find what they need here. And that’s not by accident. Charlie has been researching drum gear ever since he began playing.

“PLAYING DRUMS HAS BEEN A SOURCE OF JOY AND HEALING FOR ME, EXPOSING ME TO REMARKABLE MUSICIANS AND EXPERIENCES THAT I TREASURE."

—CHARLIE ANDREWS

“I was always reading, researching and watching videos,” Charlie tells us.

A college internship at Pearl Drums exposed him to the product development and marketing side of the industry, so after a mentor recommended he use his expertise to start his own business, he realized that there was a hole in the Cincinnati market for a specialized drum shop. Because of this, he was fortunate enough to secure dealerships with some of the top drum brands: Gretsch, DW, Ludwig, Zildjian, Bosphorus, Sabian, Paiste and others.

Although he didn’t automatically target Mason as the site for his storefront, the

location made more and more sense after careful consideration.

“I wanted a friendly area accessible to as many drummers in the region as possible and Mason is exactly that. Mason is about a third of the way between Cincinnati and Dayton and centrally located between two major interstates, so it’s easy to get to yet has that small-town vibe that people love,” Charlie explains.

The new inventory was mixed with a wonderful collection of vintage drums provided to sell on consignment shortly before opening. This allowed Charlie to open with both new and vintage drums, putting him on the

map as a serious drum shop. Beyond merely offering unique inventory, Charlie’s primary focus is to provide the right tools to match a drummer’s needs.

“I try to think of my business as more of a service than a store, not so much aiming to ‘sell’ drums as match drummers with the right tools, showing respect for drummers’ needs, goals and budgets to help them achieve more success or satisfaction as a drummer,” Charlie clarifies.

Since opening, a variety of drummers have dropped in. “I work hard to make sure I have top-quality options at every price point so that I can serve students and budget-minded drummers as readily as I can collectors and drummers looking for top-of-the-line gear,” says Charlie.

In addition to offering a wide selection of drum gear, Badges also provides professional drum lessons for players of all levels. They also occasionally host drum clinics and masterclasses that allow drummers to learn from artists at the top of their profession. These have included Todd Sucherman (Styx), Daru Jones (Jack White), Paul Francis (Tony Bennett/Lady Gaga), Mike Mangini (Dream Theatre) and more.

Out-of-town customers can also view and purchase select items via the Badges Drum Shop website. Visit today to get a taste of their unprecedented selection!

BadgesDrumShop.com

ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANJALI FONG PHOTOGRAPHY

A SPECIAL BOND

A FATHER AND DAUGHTER PAIR SHARE THEIR EXPERIENCE AS COLLEAGUES IN THEIR LOCAL LAW FIRM.

Fathers and daughters often have a special bond, but it takes a unique pair to merge career paths daily. Being colleagues is a bonus for this remarkable duo that extends beyond the familial thread of security, trust and love. Sharing professional success only enriches their relationship and workplace. Meet Rob Lyons and Kara Lyons of Lyons & Lyons, Attorneys at Law.

“The best thing about working with my dad is having a built-in mentor whose office connects right to mine.” —Kara Lyons

Working together since 2015 at Lyons & Lyons, Rob and Kara Lyons each bring skills that strengthen the work of their law firm for the community. A deep respect for each other allows his wisdom and her eye for the future to guide the business.

“The best thing about working with my dad is having a built-in mentor whose office connects right to mine,” Kara says. “I can go to him with any question or problem and know I’m getting the best advice. We have such a mutual respect for each other’s opinions that it allows our daily operations to run seamlessly.”

Rob has a long history of working with family. “I started a law firm in West Chester in 1983,” he explains. “In 1991, my father, also an attorney, came out of retirement and joined my law practice. We then practiced together for 12 years until he retired again in 2003. I thoroughly enjoyed the time we worked together.”

Fast forward to 2015 when Kara joined the firm with energy and fresh ideas. “Kara excelled in law school and had many job opportunities upon graduation, but ultimately she decided to join my firm,” says Rob. “I was ecstatic and hoped we would have the rewarding work relationship that my father and I had.”

“My dad was extremely receptive and open to allowing me to modernize our office and procedures without any pushback,” Kara says. “From day one, he trusted me inherently, which is the best stamp of approval I could ask for.”

Rob adds, “Since Kara started practicing with me, the law practice and I have become revitalized. It has been an absolute joy.”

LyonsandLyonsLaw.com

Kara Lyons, Attorney + Managing Partner with her father Rob Lyons, Founder of Lyons & Lyons.

STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY

MASON & DEERFIELD LIFESTYLE™

SCAN TO CONNECT

ARTICLE BY NICCI LAVINE

The bluegrass state of Kentucky with the Appalachian Mountains is indisputably known as the Mecca of bourbon and the location of America’s only Bourbon Trail.

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail, established in 1999, is dotted with a total of 37 distilleries scattered throughout the regions of Louisville, Western Kentucky, Bardstown, Lexington and North Kentucky.

For bourbon aficionados and road trip lovers alike, the trail promises scenic country drives, historic architecture, and an abundance of restaurants and tasting rooms with some distilleries spanning more than 100 miles apart.

The most popular bourbon distillery locations one might expect to see along the trail are: Angles Envy, Maker’s Mark, Michter’s, Wild Turkey, Heaven Hill, Lux Row, Old Forester, Four Roses, Evan Williams, Bulleit, and Jim Beam.

Within each distillery and on its grounds, bourbon lovers can expect to find a variety of bourbon price points, flavor profiles, distilling and aging techniques, and historical points of interest. Each location offers a variety of tour options: some focusing on the chemistry of bourbon distillation, the art of tasting, the barrel charring process, or the rich (and checkered) history of bourbon’s origins.

A TOUR OF AMERICA'S ONLY BOURBON TRAIL

TOASTING

One constant seems to remain—most Kentucky distilleries cannot broach the topic of their favorite drink without also offering a glimpse of its history. The name “bourbon” hails from the original Bourbon County, which was a region carved from a portion of the Fayette County of Virginia in 1785. The county, which belonged to the then-brand-new state of Kentucky, was named in honor of the French House of Bourbon to show gratitude to King Louis XVI for his vital assistance during the American Revolutionary War.

Prior to its exodus from the region, loads of white oak barrels cut from the forests of Arkansas were first branded with the Bourbon County label. The county logo branded on the barrels soon gave way to its shorthand references: Bourbon. The rest is, quite literally, history.

THE

The oldest operational distillery in Kentucky is Maker’s Mark, which began distilling in 1805 and has since been recognized as a National Historic Landmark. In 1964, a Congressional Resolution declared bourbon to be an indigenous product of the United States. This distinction renders bourbon as the official American Spirit. To be recognized as a bourbon, a spirit must meet specific and strict requirements set forth by law. In fact, bourbon distillation marks one of America’s very first examples of a consumer protection law with the establishment of the “Bottled-in-Bond” Act in 1897 (The Bottled-in-Bond designation have bourbon standards which supersede those of single-malt Scotch).

All bourbon starts as what distillers refer to as White Lightning—an uncolored, unaged, and unflavored whiskey. During the distillation process, the liquid must not supersede a proof of 160, and must not supersede a proof of 125 at the time it’s poured into barrels to begin the aging process. All bourbon must be aged in new, charred, white oak barrels for a minimum of two years before it is finally bottled at 80 proof or higher. No other dyes or flavors may be introduced into the distilling or aging process if a bourbon is to retain its namesake.

Even though 95% of bourbon is distilled in Kentucky, bourbon does not need to be distilled in the state to be considered authentic. Most bourbon was historically made in Kentucky due to its geography. The rich source of limestone in Kentucky earth acts as a natural aquifer, purifying the water and removing the more peaty flavors one would find in spirits distilled with earthier water quality, such as Scotch. The varied temperatures, humidity levels, and weather patterns in the Kentucky region cause the white oak barrels to contrast and swell. This unique aging process gives bourbon its signature amber hue as well as its sweet and dynamic flavor.

While the tour itinerary is flexible enough to have many starting points, the official “start” of the trail can be found at the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center located at the Frazier Museum on Historic Whiskey Row in downtown Louisville. The destinations along the trail can be planned a number of ways: by distillery, by region, or by organized tour itinerary. Some distillery locations are packed as tightly as an 8-mile radius, with the average tour lasting about 90 minutes.

For those who want to travel off the beaten path, several famous distilleries in the area do not appear on the official Kentucky Bourbon Trail list. One of the more famous of these is the Buffalo Trace Distillery, responsible for distilling bourbon of that name as well as the more rare and sought-after bottles of Blanton’s and E.H. Taylor. The Buffalo Trace distillery is located on a national landmark and offers free tastings, as well as Ghost tours for those who are interested in a different kind of spirit.

For a complete list of distilleries, tour schedules, tour booking details, and frequently asked questions, visit KYBourbonTrail.com

Job change? Whether retiring or changing jobs, you’ll want to know your retirement account options.

There are four potential options for your 401(k) when leaving an employer:

• Leave it in your former employer’s 401(k) plan, if allowed by the plan.

• Move it to your new employer’s 401(k) plan, if you’ve changed employers and your new employer plan allows for it.

• Roll the account over to an individual retirement account (IRA).

• Cash it out, which is subject to potential tax consequences.

We can talk through your financial goals and find the option that works best for you.

Dianna M Knudsen, CFP®

JUNE 2ND

Deerfield Handmade Market - Summer

Kingswood Park - Community Pavilion | 11:00 AM

Join The Arts Alliance for the Deerfield Handmade Market Summer at Kingswood Park on June 2 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. More than 75 local and regional artists will showcase a selection of ceramics, jewelry, painting, mixed media, candles, body/bath, glass and more! Enjoy live music and food under the pavilion at the park. Find out more information at The-Arts-Alliance.org

JUNE 8TH

LOVE like JJ 5K 2024

Corwin Nixon Park | 8:30 AM

On June 8, LOVE like JJ will host their annual 5K. This event will have both in-person and virtual options. The in-person 5K will feature music, drinks, snacks and opportunities to support the LOVE like JJ sponsors. Kids who register will enjoy fun activities and receive one free Italian ice from the Chill Out Truck. More info can be found at LoveLikeJJ.org

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JUNE 10TH

Mason Historical Society Ice Cream Social

Alverta Green Museum | 5:30 PM

The Mason Historical Society will host its annual Ice Cream Social and baked goods auction at the Alverta Green Museum on June 10. The Ice Cream Social will be held from 5:30-6:30 p.m. followed by the baked goods auction from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Gene Steiner will once again be the incredibly entertaining auctioneer. This event is free and open to the public. MasonHistoricalSociety.org

JUNE 19TH

Mysteries of the Titanic

Mason Public Library | 6:00 PM

The Mason Public Library will welcome Titanic historian Tom Dowling for his presentation, "Mysteries of the Titanic" on June 19 from 6-7:30 p.m. This participatory program follows the Titanic's fateful voyage, from its departure to its tragic collision. Open to any interested adults, this fascinating program will include a Q&A session as well as an interactive display. MasonPL.LibCal.com

JUNE 21ST

Movies in the Park:

Migration

Cottell Park- Grass Loop | 8:00 PM

Enjoy a free outdoor showing of Migration at Cottell Park on June 21. Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets as well as snacks. Fun, Migration -themed games and crafts will be offered before the movie at 8 p.m. Find out more information at DeerfieldOh.MyRec.com

JUNE 28TH, 29TH, 30TH

ROYAL Theatre Company's Production of Matilda

Mason High School | 7:00 PM

The ROYAL Theatre Company will present Matilda June 28-30 at Mason High School. The musical, based on the novel by Roald Dahl, tells the story of the neglected Matilda Wormwood who develops psychokinetic powers to battle her oppressive schoolmaster. Showtimes and tickets can be found at RoyalTheatreCompany.com.

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