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Love Locally Owned

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Our Commitment To You Is For Life

At Montage Mason, we are committed to lifetime care - which means you can have peace of mind knowing that your needs will be met no matter what the future may bring. We are proud to be part of the Community First Solutions not-for-proﬁt network providing top-rated Assisted Living and Memory Care to Mason and Deerﬁeld Township.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Love Local

February 2024 PUBLISHER

Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com

While we teeter between the chill of winter in January and the anticipation of spring, the month of February is often when we take a moment to celebrate our love for the people in our lives: the loved ones in our home, our neighborhood and our community. “Love local” also extends to local businesses, those in our community and nearby. So grab a coffee at Kala Coffeehouse and head home for a game night around the fire with the family. Or snag a bottle of wine from Clyborne’s and some dessert from Nothing Bundt Cakes and indulge with a movie night at home. This issue is full of local favorites from nonprofits such as LOVE like JJ to Downtown Mason businesses like Pop Revolution. We were even able to get the inside scoop on some of our local leaders’ favorite spots, events and activities around Mason and Deerfield Township. We’re looking forward to highlighting your winners of the 2023 Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle Readers’ Choice Awards in several ways. Be sure to follow us on social media and look out for our March issue as we’ll be sharing highlights from the awards event and the full list of winners and nominees. More than 6,100 ballots were cast, setting a record for our last year of these awards. Sending a big thank you to all the voters! With that, we encourage you to show your love for your favorite local businesses, not only this month, but all year round!

E D I TO R

Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com C O PY E D I TO R

Karen Andrea CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Amanda Stout, Jonathan Stout, Nan Paraskevopoulos C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Cathy Lyons–Lyons Photography, Melissa Anderson Photography, Mark Lyons–Lyons Photography

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart

MARK ANDREA, PUBLISHER @MASONANDDEERFIELDLIFESTYLE

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Mason & Deerfield area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INTRODUCING A NEW LEVEL OF LUXURY FOR OUR AREA Cincinnati’s Luxury Real Estate Market.

From a pool of 90,000 eXp realtors across the world, l am proud to be recognized among an elite network of 1,100 eXp luxury agents.

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inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 4 | LOV E LO CA L

18 24

Featured

24 32 6

Volunteering for Love

LOVE like JJ uses service projects to make a positive impact for local children.

Coming Into Frame

Francis Michaels’ art and frame shop Pop Revolution preserves memories with an artistic eye.

Delighted by Mason & Deerfield

Residents and public officials Diana Nelson, Lelle Hedding and Scott and Holly Gibson share local loves.

On the Cover

Departments

Downtown Mason’s Pop Revolution opened in 2008. Learn more about why it's not just a place to encase art; it is a dynamic space where frames become an integral part of the artistic narrative.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Giving Back LIFE + CULTURE

Artist’s Palette ARTS + CULTURE

Local’s Choice LOCAL SERVICES

Photography: Cathy Lyons– Lyons Photography

Travel Journal TRAVEL

Events

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FEBRUARY 2024

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

POSITIVE CHANGE PHOTOGRAPHY

4 POSITIVE CHANGE PHOTOGRAPHY

NANY RILEY PHOTOGRAPHY

ANGIE SMITH

1: On Saturday, December 2, LOVE like JJ hosted their annual LOVE Ball. 2: LOVE Ball guests enjoyed treats, dancing, games, a performance from Elsa and amazing raffles. 3: Guests completed a service project, filling 100 stockings for students at Little Miami and Middletown school districts. 4: MADE Chamber’s annual JingleFest event featured vendors like Mark & Amy Lortz from The Common Beer Co. 5: JingleFest vendors from Kings Island. 6: JingleFest attendees Skyler Olesevsky (Texas Roadhouse) and Beth Bebee (Craig Capital Wealth Management Raymond James). 7: Clint Anderson (right) of Foursquare Insurance participated in the event’s “fun holiday sweater” dress code. CONTINUED >

C I T Y SC E N E

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city scene CONTINUED

AMANDA OLTMAN AMANDA OLTMAN

ANGIE SMITH

11 12

ANGIE SMITH

SIDNEY HAYES

8: MADE HUB for Manufacturing ribbon cutting on July 13. 9: Representatives of Rooted Grounds Coffee Co. at the MADE HUB for Manufacturing ribbon cutting. 10: MADE Chamber ribbon cutting at Benchmark Gensuite on September 21. 11: Concierge Medicine of Cincinnati, Chamber ribbon cutting on October 18. 12: MADE Chamber ribbon cutting at Angel Alley Boardwalk Dedication on November 16. 13: SGN Indoor Golf’s Chamber ribbon cutting on January 24. 14: MADE Chamber Flying Ace Car Wash ribbon cutting on January 5.

CONTINUED >

C I T Y SC E N E

Sloan Sells Homes

The ITZ-TIME Team

The LAZO Group

city scene CONTINUED

15: Titania, played by Molly Cronin, in Mason High School’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. 16: Faerie, played by Lily Droege, sings to Titania in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. 17: Demetrius, played by Eli Clayson, and Lysander, played by Webb Beatty, watch a fight. 18: Oberon, played by Nick Hughes, makes up with Titania as the other faeries look on. 19: The ROYAL Theatre Company presented Disney’s The Lion King Jr. November 10-12 at Mason High School. 20: This captivating musical takes audiences on an enchanting journey to the African Pride Lands. 21: Disney’s The Lion King Jr. delivers a rendition of Simba's coming-of-age story. Photography by Lance Moody of Mechanical Bug Photo

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C I T Y SC E N E

FEBRUARY 2024

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Unique MADE Chamber Campaign Signs Up More Than 80 Members More than 60 volunteers recently embarked on a unique membership campaign aimed at sharing the MADE Chamber story. Led by Jimmy Cusano and the Your Chamber Connection team, the unprecedented event was fun and engaging as six teams raced against time, signing up new members and elevating awareness of the Chamber's crucial community role. More than 80 new and upgraded members joined the MADE Chamber during the event. Find out more about membership at MADEChamber.org.

Photography by MADE Chamber of Commerce

Charm at the Farm Raises $15K for Madi’s House Charm at the Farm Vintage Market concluded its seventh year by giving back to a local cause. One dollar of every Charm at the Farm market ticket purchased throughout 2023 went towards a donation for Madi’s House, a mental health hangout for recovering young adults. Madi’s House offers free, fun recreational activities, emotional support and special events for the community. On November 19 the owners of Charm at the Farm, Amy Doyle and Jayme Kuenkel, presented $15,775 to Madi’s House. CharmAtTheFarm.com.

Photography by Charm at the Farm

Infinite Chance: LovED Gala Preview The LovED Gala, presented by Benchmark Gensuite, is set to dazzle attendees on February 10 at the Manor House Event Center Carriage House. The evening promises a blend of entertainment and philanthropy. Funds raised will support Infinite Chance, creating educational opportunities for children in Guatemala. The gala’s activities include silent and live auctions, an open bar, a plated meal and captivating entertainment. Tickets can be purchased by texting “lovedgala” to 243-725. One.BidPal.net/LovedGala; InfiniteChance.org CONTINUED >

Photography by Infinite Chance

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business monthly CONTINUED

Wessel Periodontics Office Completes a Full Remodel Wessel Periodontics recently completed a full remodel of their dental treatment rooms with state-of-the-art A-dec Dental Equipment. The new ergonomic dental chairs, touchless LED lights, handheld digital X-rays and modern dental delivery systems will allow them to continue to provide their patients with the highest quality dental and periodontal care. They will also be able to ensure optimal patient comfort and safety along with the highest infection control standards. WesselPerio.com

Scan to read more Photography by Wessel Periodontics

Happy 90th Anniversary, Kemba Credit Union! In 1934, employees of the Kroger manufacturing plant met in the cafeteria and organized the Kemba Cincinnati Credit Union, Inc. to serve factory and packinghouse workers. Today, 90 years later, Kemba’s team of nearly 300 serves more than 125,000 members and continues to build on their core values of stability, excellence, reliability, versatility, innovation, collaboration and education. Congratulations to Kemba for providing quality service to its members and the community for 90 years! Kemba.com

Scan to read more Photography by Kemba Credit Union

Mercy Health Opens New Kings Mills Hospital and Medical Offices Mercy Health recently opened its new hospital and attached medical offices in Kings Mills, bringing state-of-the-art healthcare services to the Mason area. The hospital is equipped with advanced medical technology and services, including cardiac and surgical services, emergency care, imaging and more. The medical office building offers ENT, audiology, pulmonology, orthopedics, cardiology, general surgery and lab services. With its convenient location and commitment to excellence, Mercy Health—Kings Mills Hospital is set to become a trusted healthcare provider in the area. Mercy.com Photography by Mercy Health

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Volunteering for Love LOVE LIKE JJ USES SERVICE PROJECTS TO MAKE A POSITIVE IMPACT FOR LOCAL CHILDREN.

To the people of Mason, LOVE like JJ is a familiar name that has become synonymous with service and care for kids in the community. However, some may be unaware of the organization's beginnings and mission. LOVE like JJ began after the unexpected passing of Jonathan “JJ” Day in his sleep on January 9, 2021. JJ was known for being a kind and joyous child who spread love to each person he encountered. The Day family started the LOVE like JJ foundation to make a positive difference in the lives of children within the local community. We sat down with JJ’s mother and LOVE like JJ founder, Kristen Day, to talk about the organization’s history and service.

Kristen Day WHEN YOU DECIDED TO START LOVE LIKE JJ, WHAT WAS THE PROCESS TO GET IT ESTABLISHED?

That is a tough question. LOVE like JJ was started very shortly after JJ passed away. We knew that we wanted to do something to continue the love JJ had shown for others. We were lucky to have a tremendous outpouring of support right away. However, we were, and still are, going through the most excruciating thing a parent can endure. The process of setting up a nonprofit is not an easy one. It takes time and is a lot to handle while also managing the stages of grief.

YOUR MISSION STATEMENT MENTIONS "BUILDING HEALTHY ENVIRONMENTS THAT LOCAL CHILDREN AND YOUTH NEED TO THRIVE.” COULD YOU TALK ABOUT HOW YOU MANIFEST THESE ENVIRONMENTS?

ARTICLE BY JONATHAN STOUT | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

G IV IN G BAC K | L I FE + C ULT U RE

We believe the best investment we can make is in our children. I work alongside our board to create service projects, including snack bags for kids over the summer, organizing costume drives for Halloween and food boxes for families over winter break. We feel that getting children involved is an investment not only in the children these projects serve but also in the children who are volunteering.

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

We moved here 12 years ago and instantly loved everything it had to offer. From the incredible schools to the fun family activities, and of course, the wonderful community of people who consistently show up to take care of each other.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST REWARDING PART OF YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH LOVE LIKE JJ?

Knowing the impact we are having on people is what’s most rewarding. We don't always get to see the result firsthand, but we’ll often receive a positive story from a family we’ve helped.

ARE THERE ANY WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT THAT YOU COULD GIVE FAMILIES DEALING WITH TRAGIC LOSS?

Don't lose hope. Though everything is so foggy - the pain so raw, the heartbreak absolutely unbearable - you will get through it. You learn how to move forward, carrying that loss with you. Give yourself the love you deserve and take each day moment by moment, one foot in front of the other. You will get through this.

YOU HAVE MANY ANNUAL FUNDRAISING EVENTS. CAN YOU TELL OUR READERS ABOUT YOUR FAVORITES?

Our two biggest events of the year, the LOVE like JJ 5K and the LOVE Ball, are my favorites. Although they take months of planning and are a lot of hard work, they are also very fun. You get to see all of the families and friends just having a great time!

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE LOVE LIKE JJ ACCOMPLISH IN THE FUTURE?

We want to grow our outreach and supporter base. We know the need is great and continues to grow. We’d like to help as many families as we can.

“We feel that getting children involved is an investment not only in the children these projects serve but also in the children who are volunteering.” CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/MASON A N DD E E R F I E L D

“Don’t lose hope. You learn how to move forward, carrying that loss with you. Give yourself the love you deserve and take each day moment by moment, one foot in front of the other. You will get through this.”

ARE THERE ANY EVENTS FOR 2024 THAT YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE?

We try to offer ways to be involved with LOVE like JJ every month and stay consistent with our activities so our supporters know what to expect. Keep an eye out for a special February service project for Random Acts of Kindness week, the 5K in June, a costume drive in October, the LOVE Ball in December and more.

HOW CAN OUR READERS GET INVOLVED? DO YOU HAVE ANY UPCOMING VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES?

We are always looking to have more people involved with LOVE like JJ. Readers can find us on all social platforms and our website LoveLikeJJ.org. We have a volunteer form that can be found on our website with a link to our email list.

G IV IN G BAC K | L I FE + C ULT U RE

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/MASON A N DD E E R F I E L D

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/MASON A N DD E E R F I E L D

FRANCIS MICHAELS’ ART AND FRAME SHOP POP REVOLUTION PRESERVES MEMORIES WITH AN ARTISTIC EYE.

Coming

Into Frame ARTICLE BY NAN PARASKEVOPOULOS PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATHY LYONS–LYONS PHOTOGRAPHY

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

Francis Michaels' journey in the world of art began as a boy in Upstate New York. He was fascinated by the interesting scenery and old, worn-down buildings. The textures of the peeling surfaces, the varying colors of the fading paint and the gradients of rust against the background of the landscape caught Francis’ eye. They called him to capture the way he saw things in film. It was a passion. “I was always saving up to buy my own cameras,” says Francis. After moving to Ohio, Francis earned a degree in photography. With a keen eye for detail, his education helped him develop a deep understanding of color and balance, as well as digital craftsmanship. He embarked on a mission to create a space that would celebrate not only the art itself but also the ingenuity of presenting memories in the most respectful and captivating way. In 2008, Francis opened the doors to Downtown Mason’s Pop Revolution with business partner Ben Neal. Francis had been selling his original photography and regularly collaborated with Ben to frame his personal work. About nine months after meeting they decided to start their own business. CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/MASON A N DD E E R F I E L D

Pop Revolution specializes in custom framing, photo printing and preservation. The name itself reflects Ben’s artistic vision and the art world at the time, thus the art that would be displayed at the gallery. Pop Revolution is not just a place to encase art; it is a dynamic space where frames become an integral part of the artistic narrative. Francis’ business partner Ben has been working with frames for more than 25 years, having been trained by some of the best craftspeople in the Cincinnati area. “He understands what needs to be done to preserve photos and important items correctly,” shares Francis. Pop Revolution uses top-of-the-line printers, designed for art reproduction. Francis can work with painters and other visual artists to photograph their art to create prints on either paper or canvas that they can sell. Francis also works with customers who want to reproduce portraits, landscapes or any everyday image they have.

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

Francis explains, “I use my expertise with customers who are not professional photographers to help them get the best possible product based on the materials they provide. I spend a lot of time with people who can take a great picture but need a little help on the back end.” Pop Revolution has several kinds of specialty paper ranging from the everyday Kodak photo paper to archival papers. These papers may be heavier and tend to be acid-free to help facilitate the longevity of the print the client decides to frame. Additionally, Francis can print on canvas and then “stretch it,” meaning to pull the canvas across a wood frame to make it ready for display. Anyone with their own canvas that has already been printed or painted on can also bring it to Pop Revolution for them to stretch. Some of the most requested non-art items that people have preserved are sports memorabilia, jerseys, coins and even swords. One memorable item that Francis and Ben preserved was a soldier’s uniform from World War II. Francis and Ben had the uniform material sewn down onto the backing so it was permanently affixed inside the frame, which also protected it from wrinkling and held its shape. “All the material we use - the mat boards, paper and glass - are archival quality. There is no acid in the materials. A normal sheet of paper has acid in it, which makes things yellow over time. We use UV glass which helps protect what we are framing from UV rays. Most framed items are not put outside, but in your home where there is light coming in no matter where you are, it helps protect items from fading,” says Francis. For items like memorabilia and coins, Francis and Ben might use acid-free silicone to hold the items in place inside the frame.

CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/MASON A N DD E E R F I E L D

What sets Pop Revolution apart from traditional framing stores is Francis' ability to use innovative framing techniques. When appropriate, he explores unconventional materials, styles and formats to create frames that are as much a piece of art as the works they encase. Francis collaborates with customers to ensure that the framing enhances and complements the essence of each piece, creating a harmonious union between the frame and the artwork. Francis says, “One of my favorite projects was for a woman whose husband was a

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | A RTS + CULTURE

professional pianist. She brought in whole piano keys - not just the black and white part you see but the whole key that goes into the piano. We didn’t use any glass, to allow the keys to stick out for a more dynamic effect. We were able to set those on top of copies of his favorite sheet music.” The story of Francis Michaels and Pop Revolution is one of passion and innovation. Francis and his business partner Ben are committed to the highest quality of care for the memories their customers hope to preserve for years to come. PopRevolutionGallery.com

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Delighted by Mason & Deerfield Residents and public officials Diana Nelson, Lelle Hedding and Scott and Holly Gibson share local loves. ARTICLE BY AMANDA STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELISSA ANDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY, MARK & CATHY LYONS & PROVIDED

D I A N A

K .

N E L S O N ,

C P A

City of Mason Mayor and Council Member ImagineMason.org

The Mason Symphony Orchestra: Recently reelected to Mason City Council, Diana is now serving as mayor. As the Arts & Culture committee chair, she is excited by the emotion and energy MSO performances bring to the community. “I was captivated by the holiday MSO performance in December. Mason is so fortunate to have such a high-quality orchestra.” Events that Give Back: Diana made Mason her home in 1999 and was inspired by the strong desire to give back and do what is right by family, friends and neighbors. “The Manor House is one of the best community partners in Mason. Aside from hosting beautiful events for businesses and individuals, they are strong supporters of giving back to the community.” Fitness & Community: For a stress-free workout, Diana loves Health Designs. Currently celebrating their 10th anniversary in Mason, they pride themselves on building strength, confidence and a sense of community. “Lee Hutson (owner) will have you laughing and time will go by so quickly. He will push you to be your best.” Downtown Park: Mason City Council voted unanimously to start the planning process for Gould Park in Downtown Mason in 2023. Diana looks forward to its development, “We have a blank slate and will build a beautiful place for kids to play and create memories that will last a lifetime.”

Mason Symphony Orchestra. Photo by Mark Lyons.

LOCA L’S CH OICE | LOCAL SERVICES

The Arts Alliance: Lelle was recently reelected and sworn into a second term as the Deerfield Township Board of Trustees President. She’s proud of many amenities available to township residents, including the collaborative partnership with The Arts Alliance. In addition to Handmade Markets, they offer creative opportunities for all ages. “There is truly something for all members of your family throughout the year from this passionate arts organization.”

L E L L E

H E D D I N G

Deerfield Township Board of Trustees President ChooseDeerfield.com

Outdoor Activity/Park: Kingswood Park, a 100-acre green space and the township’s signature park, boasts a farmers’ market, beautiful pollinator gardens, a local prairie ecosystem, two newly added playgrounds for children and an adult ninja course. “We’ve managed to incorporate the right balance of creating without disturbing.” Sweet Entrepreneur: A local success story, The AMAEzing Sweet Shoppe and Bakery started in the home kitchen of Ashley Mae. This decadent bake shop is appreciated for yummy gluten-free cookies, delicious holiday-themed cheesecakes and much more. “This is my go-to place to splurge on calories!” Sounds of Deerfield: Lelle’s favorite local event is the Cincinnati POPS Orchestra at Deerfield Township’s Cottell Park, returning for the third year in 2024. “Hands down the entire region would agree the world-famous Cincinnati POPS concert is THE summer event to attend!” Fitness Enthusiast: To get her hot yoga fix, Lelle loves Body Alive. “I have been a member since they opened their township studio in 2018. Although I go to their hot yoga classes, their pilates, barre and Lagree classes are popular too.” CONTINUED >

AMAEzing Sweet Shoppe and Bakery FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/MASON A N DD E E R F I E L D

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A n de rso n P ho to gra

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H O L L Y & S C O T T G I B S O N Shine Like Sable Founders & Mason City Council Member ShineLikeSable.org

Family-Friendly Arts Scene: For 25 years, Scott and Holly have made Mason their home and raised their six children here. “We love the ROYAL Theatre Company and the people involved with it. They have been so good to our family over the past five years.” Community Service: Scott was recently elected to the Mason City Council and Holly serves on the Mason Parks Board and Kiwanis. They also founded the nonprofit, Shine Like Sable as a way to redirect their grief after losing their 10-year-old daughter Sable unexpectedly. “We do our best to honor and remember Sable, while helping and serving others - just like she would have done.” Food & Drink Favorites: Two Cities Pizza, Kala Coffeehouse, Sonder Brewing, Whippy Dip and Chicken Salad Chick are beloved by the Gibsons and have also held events for Shine Like Sable. “They are our personal favorites, and have a heart for giving back. We feel so honored to partner with them.” Local Shopping: Scott and Holly shop locally whenever possible at Moss & Ivy, Baysore’s Flowers and Mims Off Main. “We love living in a community that has so many amazing small businesses.” Western & Southern Open Tennis Tournament: They have been married for 28 years and make the annual tennis tournament a date day. “We feel so blessed to have such a special event right here in our backyard.”

Moss & Ivy. Photo by Cathy Lyons.

LOCA L’S CH OICE | LOCAL SERVICES

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/MASON A N DD E E R F I E L D

LET US BRING DINNER TO YOU “Heirloom Chef has been such a blessing to our family. We have used Heirloom Chef for about two and a half years. As a professional athlete, I am highly aware of the food I eat and how it effects my body. And as a dad of two girls, who are always on the go, the ability to consistently cook healthy meals is difficult. Heirloom Chef provides easy-to-cook, healthy ingredient-conscience meals that help my body feel good and feed my family well. Everyone in the Hagglund family looks forward to Heirloom Chef Nights!”

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/MASON A N DD E E R F I E L D

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS

Four Seasons Bora Bora

Finding a life partner just might be easier than finding someone you can travel with. When the stars align, both partners have an affinity for generally the same kind of vacation, or are willing to compromise. Here are a few ideas for fabulously romantic getaways. Bon Voyage!

Reservations For Two Dreamy destinations for couples looking to get away.

The Willows

Four Seasons Bora Bora FourSeasons.com/BoraBora

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

At the Four Seasons Bora Bora, overwater bungalows line a glassy lagoon, inviting early-morning swims off your own private dock with a bright breakfast table set on your patio overlooking Mount Otemanu. Meander down the paths of the resort to the Te Mahana Spa. With breathtaking lagoon and Pacific Ocean views from twin infinity pools, the treatment begins with a foot massage and then continues with rebalancing rituals starring indigenous ingredients.

The Willows TheWillowsPalmSprings.com

The Pendry

Palm Springs, California

Originally a millionaire’s private luxury hideaway, the Italianate style mansions were built side-by-side. Rooms include oversized tiled showers, priceless antique pieces and a turndown service to make you feel like the royalty you are. Situated at the base of rugged Mt. San Jacinto with views of the Coachella Valley, The Willows is a perfect base for exploring the Palm Springs or hiking the Andreas or Big Morongo Canyons or nearby Joshua Tree. Open September through May.

The Pendry Pendry.com

Park City, Utah Pendry Park City is a contemporary mountain enclave bringing the mastery of Utah’s awe-inspiring landscape to new heights. The resort is nestled in the center of Canyons Village, with slopeside modernist design, luxury service and thoughtful amenities, ideal for a couple’s escape. Rejuvenate the body with Spa Pendry for a couples massage and enjoy the herbal steam room, relaxation spaces, complimentary refreshments, fitness center and access to the hotel rooftop pool and whirlpool, with stunning views of the mountains.

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

Traveling can be as stressful as it is sublime. Exhausting as it is inspiring. Traveling as a couple requires additional planning and communication with a healthy dose of patience. Much like marriage! But, waking up in a faraway place, exploring unknown terrain together and leaving your routine and all its trappings behind can be therapeutic. You both can take on new roles and release tired habits.

Write new vows over lunch or take a random nap because you can.

Share planning and talk about your goals for the trip. Do you want to completely unplug or will one of you need excellent wifi to call into a few meetings?

If you’re parents, consider setting boundaries for texting and phone calls so you can put the phone away and immerse in one another. Let the kids know you will be checking your phone at a certain time each day (and stick to that). Let the grandparents or caregivers handle the day to day drama.

Take turns charting a course for the day. On day one, you check museum opening times, get the timed tickets and find a nearby spot for a healthy lunch. On day two, you sit back and let your partner call the Uber and source out the perfect shopping district, walking distance to a park. Enjoy the ride, either way.

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/MASON A N DD E E R F I E L D

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FEBRUARY 2024

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

F EB RUA RY 7 T H

New Resident Coffee Mason Community Center | 10:30 AM New residents of Mason or the Mason City School District are invited to coffee on the first Wednesday of each quarter to meet other new residents and learn more about the area. Refreshments are provided by Meet Me on Main Cafe and tours of the Community Center are included. Participants will receive a one-day family pass to the Community Center. ImagineMason.org F EB RUA RY 1 0 T H

Winter Blues Experience Manor House | 5:00 PM The Manor House will host the 5th annual Cincinnati Winter Blues Experience on Feb. 10 featuring 11 acts, including Noah Wotherspoon & Scotty Bratcher w/ Just Strange Brothers Horns, The Tempted Souls Band, Jamie Carr Band and more. Each ballroom seats 450+ patrons and includes full bars, food concessions and large dance floors. Tickets can be purchased at WinterBluesExperience.com. F EB RUA RY 1 1 T H

Adult Quilling Class: Valentine Project 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 a Valentine’s Day-themed project. All materials are provided and guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and refreshments. Reservations cost $30 and can be made at DeerfieldOh.MyRec.com. F EB RUA RY 1 7 T H

Creative Tweens Kingswood Park - Activity Center | 10:00 AM Join instructor/artist Terri Riddle as she welcomes kids in Grades 5-7 to join her with the Creative Tweens Program at Kingswood Park. Artists will use a variety of creative mediums including acrylic paint, paper, wood and mixed media. Kids will have the opportunity to learn different art techniques and terminology. Reservations cost $30 and can be made at DeerfieldOh.MyRec.com. F EB RUA RY 2 3 RD

Countryside YMCA Gala and Auction Manor House | 5:30 PM The 2024 Countryside YMCA Gala and Auction takes place at Manor House on February 23. Guests can expect an evening of food, fun and music. Proceeds benefit the Countryside YMCA Annual Campaign, providing outreach programs in Warren County. For more information on the event, auction item donation, becoming a sponsor or volunteer, contact Anita Pelletier at 513-932-1424 ext. 123. CountrysideYMCA.org F EB RUA RY 2 4 T H

Maple Fest Cincinnati Nature Center - Rowe Woods | 5:30 PM Cincinnati Nature Center welcomes the community to Maple Fest on February 24. Attendees can sample maple beer, collect sap in the sugarbush and enjoy games for all ages. Other activities include a warm maple syrup tasting, sugarbush stroll and food trucks. Both cash and credit cards will be accepted. Preregistration is required. Find more information and tickets at CincyNature.org.

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