A Fresh Start
March arrives with a spirit of renewal, inviting us to reimagine the spaces where we live and thrive. In this issue, we share stories that reveal how our community turns challenges into opportunities, creating spaces that nurture and inspire.
Local organizations are working tirelessly to ensure that every resident feels secure. One nonprofit has been lighting the way for survivors by offering safe shelter, legal advocacy and compre hensive support services. SAFE on Main’s unwavering commitment creates a community where individuals can rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
One local family found a trusted hometown remodeling team to help transform their flooded basement into a warm, modern gathering space. The seamless renovation not only revitalized their indoor space but also sparked further improvements outdoors—a true testament to the power of thoughtful design in making a house a home.
To keep our homes comfortable sanctuaries without unwelcome surprises, a local pest control service offers more than just bug removal. By focusing on quality service from pest prevention to thorough cleanouts, they help ensure that our living spaces remain safe, orderly and inviting.
Every month, we hear from readers who keep our magazine longer than just the month labeled on the cover. They say they hold onto it for months as coffee table art, reference material for local businesses or a conversation starter. We are proud to create a resource that is valued in our community and strive every month to deliver the value you expect. Thanks for letting us be a part of your home.
May these stories inspire you to cherish the sanctuary of home, where every corner holds the promise of new beginnings and lasting comfort.
MARK ANDREA, PUBLISHER
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Karen Andrea
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lisa Fletcher, Jonathan Stout, Nan Paraskevopoulos
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Mark Tepe
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
inside the issue
Creative
Ken and Melissa Berg knew they made the right choice after the first meeting with Mason's Creative Contracting. Their gathering spaces have been transformed with a
Mark Tepe
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Sammy Sherman at the start of William Mason High School’s Production of The Great Gatsby 2: Daisy (Molly Cronin) is comforted by Jay Gatsby (Donovon Coppridge). 3: Mason High School’s Ultimate Frisbee team clinched their second consecutive Ohio HS Mixed State Championship. 4: Caliber Collision opened its doors for a ribbon-cutting reception on October 2. 5: JP Morgan Chase at Kings Mills held their Grand Opening and ribbon cutting on November 20. 6: Rotary Club of Mason and Deerfield dedicated their Downtown Mason Rotary Mural on December 4. 7: MADE Chamber held a new member reception at Sonder Brewing on January 22.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
LANCE MOODY OF MECHANICAL BUG PHOTOGRAPHY
MASON ULTIMATE
business monthly
MADE Chamber Leadership Summit
MADE Chamber is hosting their 2025 Leadership Summit on March 6 at Great Wolf Lodge. This half-day event features engaging speakers, roundtable discussions and the theme “Dames of the Decade,” celebrating extraordinary leaders as a tie in to the Chamber’s 10-year rebrand. Enjoy a hot breakfast buffet, networking opportunities and actionable insights to inspire personal and professional growth. Don’t miss this chance to connect, collaborate and be empowered. Register and learn more at MADEChamber.org
Dr. Michael Groat Named President and CEO of Lindner Center
S. Craig Lindner, Chairman of the Board and Founder of Lindner Center of Hope in Mason has named Michael Groat, PhD, President and Chief Executive Officer. “The Board and I are confident that Dr. Groat will continue to lead the Center with excellence and with a strong focus on growth and the future. We look forward to entering this exciting new chapter with Dr. Groat at the helm,” says Lindner. LindnerCenterOfHope.org
Countryside YMCA Summer Camp Registration Opens In March
Countryside YMCA is excited to offer weekly summer camps from late May to mid-August. These camps cater to a variety of interests including swimming, crafting, sports, gymnastics and leadership. Campers will have opportunities to make new friends, learn exciting skills and create lasting memories. These camps are very popular among the community and registration opens March 3 at 11 a.m. For more information and details about camp offerings visit CountrysideYMCA.org
Photography by MADE Chamber
Photography by Lindner Center of Hope
Photography by Ricky Reinzan
LIGHTING THE WAY
to new beginnings
SAFE on Main empowers survivors, builds hope and creates community.
ARTICLE BY LISA FLETCHER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
SAFE on Main has been a lifeline for survivors of domestic violence in Warren County for nearly four decades. From providing safe shelter and legal advocacy to offering therapy and education, this organization is all about helping individuals reclaim their lives. But it’s more than just services—it’s about creating a community where everyone feels safe, valued and supported.
Originally founded as the Warren County Abuse Shelter, the organization has evolved over the decades, expanding its mission and rebranding in 2022 as SAFE on Main—an acronym for “Stopping Abuse For Everyone”—with its headquarters on Main Street in Lebanon.
At the heart of SAFE on Main’s work lies a commitment to providing comprehensive services that address survivors' immediate and long-term needs. From offering a 24/7 crisis hotline and emergency shelter to legal advocacy, therapy and prevention education, SAFE on Main has become a beacon of hope for individuals and families in crisis.
BUILDING A SAFER FUTURE THROUGH SUPPORT AND EDUCATION
“Our mission is to build a community free from domestic and sexual abuse through education, empowerment and engagement,” explains Darrico Murray, executive director of SAFE on Main. With a dedicated team of 25 employees and support from 37 volunteers, the organization provides critical resources to an average of 125 shelter residents annually—nearly half of whom are children.
Darrico highlights the organization’s dual approach of direct services and prevention. “We ensure survivors receive safe shelter, trauma-informed care and connections to essential resources,” he explains. “In addition, we offer prevention education programs, empowering nearly 6,000 students annually with tools to recognize and foster healthy relationships, helping to reduce the prevalence of abuse over time.”
Krista Rannells, director of programs and services, highlights the significance of SAFE on Main’s inclusive approach which supports a diverse group of women and some men seeking safety and greater freedom. “The greatest impact is witnessing a survivor regain the confidence to make decisions for themselves and find hope for the future,” Krista explains. “By offering a safe space to share their stories and begin healing, we help survivors reclaim their lives.”
CONTINUED >
SAFE on Main training course.
Darrico Murray, executive director of SAFE on Main at their administrative offices.
“By offering a safe space to share their stories and begin healing, we help survivors reclaim their lives.”
SAFE on Main also addresses the complex challenges survivors face when transitioning out of the shelter. Their New Beginnings initiative provides critical support during this vulnerable time, helping survivors secure housing and resources to rebuild their independence.
A SURVIVOR’S JOURNEY TO HEALING
For one survivor, SAFE on Main was a lifeline during their darkest days. The hardest part of leaving their situation wasn’t just walking away but facing the uncertainty of starting over. With the support of SAFE on Main, they found the courage to rebuild their life. “SAFE on Main was the best thing that happened to me,” they shared. “They taught me it was okay to start over, to love myself and to let my guard down.”
Today, their message to others facing abuse is one of empowerment: “It’s not your fault. You deserve respect and honesty. Abuse is never okay—seek help.”
COMMUNITY SUPPORT MAKES A DIFFERENCE
Providing essential, free service to people in need is a top priority for Darrico and his team. The impact SAFE on Main has made for countless survivors over the years is made possible through the support of private donors, community partnerships and fundraisers like the “40 for 40 Campaign.” This initiative aims to rally 1,000 people to donate $40 each, raising $40,000 to support survivors transitioning from shelter to community living.
“Financial abuse is often a significant barrier for survivors,” Krista notes. “Gift cards for food, clothing and gas are always needed to help individuals regain their independence.”
SAFE on Main invites community members to get involved through donations, volunteering and participating in fundraising events. “Together, we can create a violence-free community where everyone feels safe and empowered to thrive,” says Darrico.
To learn more or to donate to the “40 for 40 Campaign,” visit 40for40.givesmart.com or SafeOnMain.org.
Other
for us A SPACE
Creative Contracting creates beautiful gathering spaces for a Mason family.
ARTICLE BY NAN PARASKEVOPOULOS
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
MARK TEPE
Mason residents, Ken and Melissa Berg, had considered updating their basement for years. Their lower level was technically finished with drywall and carpet. There was a couch, a television and a separate bedroom. Then in early 2020, when the world was shutting down, the basement flooded.
Ken and Melissa both work in healthcare, so while everyone else was hunkering down, they were working overtime. Despite their busy schedules, they had to rip up the carpet, scrap the couch and make sure there wasn’t mold under the drywall. The first company they talked to gave them a quote but then immediately upped the price. That’s when they reached out to Creative Contracting.
Also based in Mason, Creative Contracting is a residential remodeling company. They have 11 carpenters, an in-house architect, construction managers, a selection coordinator, design and project development staff and other team members who work as a system to support each other in helping families achieve their goals. They are a one-stop shop for remodeling, landscaping and design. From the first meeting Ken and Melissa had with Creative Contracting, they knew they made the right choice.
“We don’t know much about home improvement,” says Melissa. “We needed someone who could tell us what needed to be done. And we needed someone we could trust to be in our home when we weren’t here.”
The first step in the process with Creative Contracting is sitting down with their staff to talk about what the space should feel like. Then customers are matched to a selections coordinator who works with clients to choose particular pieces to put in the home. Clients take a day and go shopping with the selections coordinator to figure out the exact woods, paints, textiles and metals that will go in their space. This ensures that all of the pieces that are chosen will work together aesthetically.
Selections coordinator Lauren Meyer shares, “I pride myself in making sure that I’m coming in at or under budget. That’s something that I take seriously.”
For Ken and Melissa, this process worked. They use their basement more than ever. It went from a space that felt cold and uninviting to a cozy, modern place where everyone wants to be. Now instead of just a couch and a TV, they have an entertainment area complete with a pool table and a bar. Their older kids now come back home and bring friends with them.
Even better - the construction was seamless. The planning and preparation are the longest part of the process. That way, when they get to the actual construction, there aren’t any surprises.
Melissa says, “We barely noticed that there were people in our house.”
The experience with Creative Contracting was so good that Ken and Melissa don’t look at other companies when considering new home projects. After their basement renovation project, they hired Creative Contracting to remodel their powder room and their outdoor area. Before the outdoor project, they had a big plot of grass that didn’t get much use. Now they have a pool, a hot tub, a pavilion, a fire pit and a big TV with a built-in stereo system. Creative Contracting even helped them pick out the furniture for the outdoor spaces.
“We are in love with it,” shares Ken. “We knew we wanted a pool but weren’t sure about the other details. They helped guide us through the design and had all the subcontractors lined up. We use it every day.”
“We used to have to leave to do things in the summer,” adds Melissa. “But now it’s fun to just stay home. We love hosting events for friends and family at our house!”
Creative Contracting is a reputable, local business that lives up to its promises. It is important to them to work with integrity, helping customers achieve their goals while coming in at or under budget and making sure that their customer’s lives aren’t too disrupted by the construction. They understand that they’re not just creating their client’s dream homes– they’re designing spaces where their clients can dream. To learn more, visit YourTrustedRemodeler.com .
LEARN HOW TO PREVENT Future Pest Problems
Solutions Plus Pest Control offers tips for prepping against common pests.
ARTICLE BY JONATHAN STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
The team at Solutions Plus Pest Control is trained and experienced in getting rid of bed bugs and pests for good. They’re able to simultaneously reorganize and clean your home, while also providing bed bug and pest treatment. Do you have a pest problem or need extreme cleanup? Book your appointment at SolutionsPlusPestControl.com or call 513.273.0346.
Solutions Plus Pest Control is a small family-owned business operating out of Mason. Beginning as Bed Bug Solutions in 2014, founders Mark and Jen Winter started their business after seeing a need for a bed bug extermination specialist in Greater Cincinnati. After a few years, they decided to branch out and add residential and commercial general pest control to their services.
“We had a few commercial customers with large portfolios of apartment buildings that we were managing their bed bug situations for,” Mark Winter explains. “They were so pleased with the outcome of our management of the bed bug infestations that they had been dealing with for years, that they asked us to take on all of their pest control needs.”
It only made sense to expand their business by creating Solutions Plus Pest Control to offer general pest control services to all of their residential and commercial customers.
“We truly take great pride in what we do, and taking care of our customers is our main priority,” Mark explains.
Their offerings extend beyond bed bug and pest removal, as they also provide house and apartment cleanouts for landlords and hoarding cleanups, deep cleaning and organizing services for homeowners. Commercial services are also provided to many local companies including hotels, apartment buildings, healthcare facilities, office buildings, nonprofit organizations, retail stores and more.
“The satisfaction that we get from giving our customers peace of mind so they can live in their home without the fear of living with bugs or critters makes us happy,” Jen says.
In the past decade, they’ve established themselves as reliable members of the community, and their customers often express their gratitude.
“Solutions Plus Pest Control is the best!” customer and Mason resident, Patti C. tells us. “I first called them to ask if they could treat for stink bugs. They treated our home and we did not see another stink bug.”
“When you hire Solutions Plus Pest Control or Bed Bug Solutions, we will treat your home and family like it was our own,” Jen adds with a smile.
Solutions Plus Pest Control
EDUCATION BEFORE SPRAYING
Pest control does not always mean that chemicals have to be sprayed. Solutions Plus helps educate customers on steps to take to help prevent future pest problems. Seasonal insects will start emerging as the weather warms up. It’s important to properly prep inside and outside of your house to keep it insect free.
TERMITES AND CARPENTER ANTS
Wood-destroying insects can cause damage to the structure of your home. If you store firewood, make sure your wood piles are not stacked next to or near your house. Find a neutral location at least 20 feet from any structure on your property.
OUTSIDE YOUR HOME
Seal small cracks or openings around the outside of your home and make sure that your gutters and downspouts are clear of any debris. Trees and landscaping should not touch your house, as branches serve as a highway for insects and critters to reach your home.
INSIDE YOUR HOME
Wash dirty dishes daily and don’t leave standing water in your sink. Wipe down counters and appliances regularly. If you have pets, try not to leave their food and water dishes full if they aren’t actively feeding. Cover food and water or empty them to prevent creating a buffet for insects and rodents.
RODENTS AND CRITTERS
Check that trash can lids are secure and leaf piles or debris are removed from areas close to your house. Avoid storing valuables in cardboard boxes, as they can attract critters once they’ve entered the home. Switch to plastic storage totes with sealable lids.
BED BUGS
The easiest way to prevent bed bugs from entering your home is to change or launder clothes after returning from a healthcare facility, school, theater, public transportation, etc. Store items like coats, purses, backpacks, shoes and suitcases in a closet or storage area away from your bed or favorite chair in your living room.
Introducing our collaboration with
Fullscript is a smar t , easy way to access supplements and meet your health lscript not only offers professional-grade supplements, but they also have clean products, a world-class customer suppor t team, auto-ship, refill reminders, as and convenient shipping.
You’ll also receive a 10% discount on ever y purchase!
Take advantage of great pricing and free shipping over $50. You will have access to all the top-of-the-line brands such as Thorne®, Ortho Molecular®, and Pure Encapsulations® You may purchase individual products, or choose from one of our thoughtfully prepared plans.
Scan the QR code to set up an account today!
2. Enter your email address and create a password to activate your clien account 3 Once logged in, you can browse through the catalog for products you 4 After you ’ re done adding your products to the car t, click the shopping the top right corner of the account and follow the steps to check out need to provide your shipping address and credit card information to your order You always receive FREE shipping after $50!
See how we are growing!
Since 2015, Women Walking West has been empowering foreign-born women in the tri-state area to achieve their educational dreams. Based in Mason, Ohio, we are a non-profit organization dedicated to providing mentorship, financial assistance, and professional development programs for ambitious female learners.
With a track record of supporting over 250 women from 59 countries, our impact continues to grow. Join us in shaping brighter futures—your support helps more women access the education they deserve. Together, we can make dreams a reality! Get involved today!
MARCH 4TH
Taste of Mason: A Comet CommUNITY Mirrors & Windows Experience
Mason High School | 5:00 PM
Taste of Mason returns on March 4 at 5 p.m. at Mason High School. At the Taste of Mason you can sample a new dish, catch up with friends and be mesmerized by incredible talent! Enjoy exciting offerings from many ethnic and independent Mason restaurants and a variety of multicultural performance acts. To learn more about this annual cultural event visit MasonOhioSchools.com.
MARCH 6TH
Friends of the Mason Public Library Book Sale
Mason Public Library | 10:00 AM
The Volunteer Friends of the Mason Public Library are hosting a book sale inside the Parkhill Meeting Room at the library on March 6 beginning at 10 a.m. Browse an array of books, movies, music and more! Cash and checks are accepted as forms of payment. For more information visit MasonPL.org.
MARCH 14TH
No Boundaries: A Group Exhibition
Art Enclave | 6:00 PM
Join Art Enclave (7500 Industrial Row Rd, Mason) for the opening of their new exhibit “No Boundaries” featuring the works of more than a dozen artists. Explore a diverse showcase of artistic expression ranging from stunning paintings and sculptures to captivating glass art. Don’t miss the chance to meet the artists and immerse yourself in their inspiring creations. The exhibit runs through May 3. ArtEnclave.com
MARCH 15TH
Run for the Green 5K Trail Run/Walk
Landen-Deerfield Park | 9:00 AM
Deerfield Township is hosting the first event in the 2025 Dirt Days Trail Series on March 15 with the Run for the Green Trail Run at Landen-Deerfield Park. The course features approximately 3.5 miles of mostly densely wooded, winding dirt and mud trails within the park. Cost is $22.50 per person. Sign up now at RunSignUp.com
MARCH 19TH
Lindner Center of Hope Free Community Event Series: Financial Psychology
Countryside YMCA | 6:00 PM
The Lindner Center will continue their Free Community Education Series on March 19 welcoming Anna Guerdjikova, PhD, LISW, CCRC, Director of Administrative Services, Harold C. Schott Foundation Eating Disorders Program. Attendees can expect a discussion covering the psychology of finances and practical considerations empowering wellness-focused financial decisions. The event is free, however tickets must be reserved at LindnerCenterOfHope.org.
MARCH 20TH
Besties Night: Scents and Sips of Spring
Rowe Woods | 6:30 PM
The Cincinnati Nature Center is celebrating and exploring the scents of spring with a “besties night” on March 20 at 6:30 p.m. Participants will craft a refreshing room spray, a fragrant smudge stick and a soothing solid perfume using natural ingredients while enjoying a seasonal cocktail. Registration is required. For more information about costs and registration visit CincyNature.org.
4472 Brighton Ln
Custom-built ranch home with over 4,400 sqft of living space. Custom features throughout. The finished walkout lower features a spacious rec room, complete with an electric fireplace and wet bar area. Gourmet kitchen. All bedrooms have an adjoining bathroom. The luxurious primary suite featuring a two-sided fireplace walk-in closet. Covered patio, perfect for outdoor gatherings, or relax on the balcony-style deck that overlooking the backyard.
“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!”
Relocation, estate sale, down sizing, up sizing? Call Tiffany for all your real estate needs.
~ Amy Boes (Liberty Township)
