West Chester & Liberty, OH May 2024

CELEBRATING WOMEN

Welcome to Your New Home

Serenity Drive homes feature light and airy open living — with spacious rooms, two-car garages, and a variety of floor plans and design selections.

Planning your forever home on Serenity Drive is easier than ever. Work with our construction manager to personalize your finishes in our VIP Design Center. Homes are under construction now and will be ready for move in this Summer.

We can’t wait to welcome you to a community featuring boundless amenities and a vibrant lifestyle, maintenance-free living and the security of five-star care.

Incredible Women

This issue holds a special place in our hearts as we celebrate the incredible women who light up our community. From passionate entrepreneurs to nurturing mothers, from fearless advocates to selfless volunteers, each woman brings her own magic to our world.

With Mother’s Day this month, we want to share our heartfelt appreciation for all the moms. It’s not just the biological mothers, but the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, teachers, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives—making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable. To all the phenomenal women in our midst, we want to express our deepest gratitude. Your presence enriches our lives in ways words can't fully capture. You are the beating heart of our community, and we're endlessly grateful for everything you do.

So, grab your favorite beverage (flip to page 32 for the recipe for our recommended cocktail), cozy up in your favorite spot and dive into the stories of strength, passion and sisterhood that await you in our Women's Issue.

MICHELLE MOODY, PUBLISHER MICHELLE.MOODY@CITYLIFESTYLE.COM

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Michelle Moody | Michelle.Moody@CityLifestyle.com

EDITOR

Tera Michelson | Tera.Michelson@CityLifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lape

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Hawkins, A.J. Lape, Jennifer McGhee

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jonas Photography, Jennifer Lynn Pictures, Janie Jones, Len Kaltman

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Laura Paige

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Veterans at the announcement of the USS Cincinnati Cold War Memorial Peace Pavilion being built in West Chester. SubCincy.org 2: The Chamber’s Leadership 21 class visits WCPD. Applications for the fall class are now open. TheChamberAlliance.com 3: Melissa Stidham + Kimberly Gebert win big at the Power of the Purse event. NorthernCincinnati.Foundation 4: Runners + walkers of all ages got decked out in green for the Shamrock Shuffle 5K Race. EDGETeenCenter.com 5: More than 2,100 registrants made up 29 charity teams at the EDGE Teen Center’s Shamrock Shuffle.

business monthly

Chamber Offers Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC) Certification Office Hours

The West Chester–Liberty Chamber Alliance, in partnership with the Ohio Department of Development–MBAC and Greater Cincinnati | Northern Kentucky African American Chamber of Commerce, now offers monthly MBAC Certification Office Hours. Take steps to sustainable success with this free assistance to certify a woman-, minority- or veteran-owned business. Make an appointment with an expert 9:30 a.m.–3 p.m., first and third Thursdays of each month. Walk-ins are welcome. MBACCincy.com, 513.777.3600

West Chester’s Senior Transportation Service Seeks Volunteer Drivers

Help your elderly neighbors get to and from the grocery, medical appointments, social engagements and more as a volunteer driver for West Chester’s Senior Van Transportation Service. The program is recruiting drivers for one shift per week, Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. West Chester Township does the scheduling and provides training, a vehicle, fuel and support. Interested in joining the team? Contact Outreach Coordinator Monica Dexter for application details. WestChesterOH.org/SeniorVan, mdexter@WestChesterOH.org, 513.759.7208

Golden Day Boutique Is a Local Favorite for Fashion Finds

We asked our social media followers to share a local woman-owned business they love, and Golden Day Boutique was tagged more than 70 times! Caron Armstrong opened the clothing store at 9035 Cincinnati-Dayton Road in Olde West Chester in 2018 and has built something truly special. She wants her customers to feel “as beautiful as God made them” by offering clothes that fit every woman at affordable prices. Facebook.com/groups/769019783143684

Photography provided by West Chester Township

Honoring Mothers

LIFE LESSONS FROM OUR MOMS

Our mothers are often our first teachers. From how to fold a fitted sheet to navigating relationships, the insightful women in our lives pass their wisdom to their loved ones, from generation to generation. You might be surprised, Mom, but we’ve been listening! In a salute to mothers and mom-like mentors, local ladies share life lessons they’ve learned from their magnificent mamas.

Caroline McKinney Mom Debra Garmhausen

My mom is a teacher, and she has a special knack for getting through to the more challenging students. She treats kids with respect and kindness, never allowing another person’s experience with a student to define her own. My mom, “Mrs. G,” is known for believing in kids and finding their potential. She leads by example and teaches me the importance of finding genuine connections with people.

This life lesson has become a part of me. I approach people and situations with an open mind and look for the positive. Being genuine and authentic is important to me, and I live by the golden rule of treating others the way I want to be treated. You just never know how one act of kindness can change someone’s day or impact their life.

ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARA JONAS PHOTOGRAPHY

Caroline McKinney, Liberty Township Administrator, displays a photo of her mom Debra Garmhausen, who lives in West Chester but was in Florida on picture day.

Katy Kanelopoulos Mom Cindy Hackney

My mom has taught me the value of good female friendships. She has always encouraged me to maintain friendships and to welcome more women into my circle. She would say boyfriends come and go, and husbands will pass away, but your girlfriends will still be there. You will never be lonely with good friends who will help you through the ups and downs of life. My mom (sometimes several days a week) meets with friends for lunch. In fact, she left lunch with friends early to take the picture for this article.

I tremendously appreciate my friends. I have known some of them since preschool! When a friend witnesses you grow and continues to support and love you through all stages of life, that is a gift. I recently went on a girl's trip with high school friends to Austin, Texas, and I am going to a New Kids on the Block concert this June with friends from grade school. Each woman friend in my life inspires me uniquely, and I am thankful to my mom for leading by example and valuing her friendships so highly.

Katy Kanelopoulos, West Chester Township Economic Development Manager, with her mom Cindy Hackney, West Chester resident for 23 years.

Dr. Jennifer Dehnbostel

Mom Katy Harrison

Bonus Mom Mary Ruhl

Both of my moms taught me to have a "can do" attitude. "Can't" was a bad word. They raised me to have the confidence to attempt something new and possibly fail rather than to not try at all. Learning from mistakes was celebrated, not ridiculed.

My confidence helps me raise a family and run a successful small business surrounded by 23 intelligent and ambitious young professionals.

Ailee Dobrozsi Mom Andrea Dobrozsi

My mom has taught me the importance of trying new things and pushing myself.

This lesson shows up in the way I live my life, particularly in school and sports. I'm a student-athlete—I play volleyball and run track. Last year was the first year I ran track, and I didn't know a thing about it. I showed up in worn-out gym shoes with no insoles, but embraced the new opportunity with no training at all and just ran (fast) like I knew I could. Turns out, I did pretty well and went on to break school records at my high school this year!

My mom always encourages me to push harder to achieve goals I don't think are possible. She lifts me up when I need it most and is a very supportive and great mother!

Ailee Dobrozsi, age 14, and her mom, Andrea Dobrozsi, co-owner of Clean Eatz in West Chester.

Dr. Jennifer Dehnbostel, also known as “Dr. D,” owns Animal Hospital of West Chester.

Lucia Lyons Stubenrauch Mom Chris Xeil Lyons

My mom taught me a lot of things:

A love of animals, especially horses and dogs.

A love of trying new things, especially foods and activities.

A love of adventure and traveling, especially to the beach.

But the main thing my mom taught me was, “Be nice!” Be nice to everyone you meet, smile, look them in the eye and shake their hand when meeting them for the first time.

Thank you to Running on Blooms for hosting our mothers and daughters photo session.

RunningOnBlooms.com, Liberty Center, 7570 Gibson Street, Liberty Township

Lucia Lyons Stubenrauch

Lucia, age 10, holds a photo of her mother, Chris Xeil Lyons, who passed away in December.

ARTICLE BY A.J. LAPE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARA JONAS PHOTOGRAPHY

Nurturing Futures Empowering Women,

ALEX NOLTE LEADS THE GODDARD SCHOOL TO SUCCESS

Alex Nolte, owner of The Goddard School of West Chester/Hamilton started her career in aerospace engineering.

Having two daughters changed the trajectory of Alex Nolte’s life.

“The first 1,000 days of a child’s life is crucial to their development,” Nolte shares, “and I want to help them achieve their max potential.”

Nolte acknowledges the pivotal moment that led her to transition from a ten-year career in aerospace to early childhood education. Determined to set up her children for success, she purchased The Goddard School in West Chester and made it her own.

“I observed coworkers struggling to find quality education for their children,” she explains. “When I couldn’t find it, I decided to create it.”

The transition from aerospace engineer to business owner, however, presented roadblocks Nolte hadn’t foreseen.

She reflects, “I’ve encountered pushback with respect to funding, my age and people believing in me. But I have a pretty strong personality and always work hard to achieve my goals.”

For women aspiring to start and manage their own businesses, especially in traditionally male-dominated sectors, Nolte offers valuable advice.

“The first advice I would give is to believe in yourself,” she shares. “Work hard and visualize both immediate and long-term goals, creating a path to achieve them. It’s important to have a mission that aligns with your beliefs because that helps you to push through during tough times.”

Her determination to persevere resulted in the West Chester Goddard School being honored with the 2023 Brand Ambassador Award, distinguishing it as one of only four franchises selected from 600 Goddard Schools nationwide.

Goddard students learn keyboarding and computing skills.

Goddard students learning chess, a complex game that exercises both sides of the brain.

Ms. Tina reads with the Giraffe class.

To earn your rewards, we just ask you to meet 3 simple criteria each monthly qualification cycle:

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The Goddard School emphasizes a passion for education, a value Nolte personally infuses into the school’s ethos. With her background in engineering, she prioritizes introducing STEM resources for teachers to utilize with the children.

“Setting a strong foundation for future success in and out of the classroom is crucial,” she says.

The school prioritizes the quality of its teachers, ensuring all lead teachers have degrees in early childhood education.

“We love to promote from within,” Nolte adds, “and provide training as well as financial assistance for assistants that want to become teachers.”

For the staff of 25, Directors Katie Guldner, Teresa Bergen and Angela Jones oversee lesson plans and curriculum development, ensuring each child receives individualized, age-appropriate attention and support. With 160 students ranging from infants to age 10, the school offers daytime and after-school programs.

The Goddard School extends beyond the traditional curriculum, introducing children to Spanish and sign language starting in infancy, and later, yoga and chess.

“Chess exercises both sides of the brain,” Nolte explains excitedly. “In a game, the left analytical side of the brain looks for the next logical move, while the right creative side seeks out patterns and new possibilities. The game boosts both intelligence and creativity. The children learn chess by reading stories about each of the pieces, making it easier for them to remember.”

Exciting developments are on the horizon for The Goddard School as it introduces The Wonder of Learning™ Curriculum. This research-driven, inquiry-based approach to learning complements the play-based experiences Goddard is known for, nurturing a child’s natural curiosity and helping them learn about themselves

A Pre-K student writes her name in modeling clay.

Ms. Alex with a student in Goddard’s indoor gym.

The devoted Goddard School of West Chester/Hamilton Leadership Team: Alex Nolte, Teresa Bergen, Angela Jones + Katie Guldner.

Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Music (STEAM) lessons are a priority at Goddard.

and the world around them. Nolte is enthusiastic about the program’s invitation for parents to extend learning at home.

The Goddard School plays a vital role during the summer, offering a diverse range of activities. From May 28 to August 15, their summer camps offer arts and crafts, sports, robotics, coding, literature, science and more. Campers benefit from structured activities aligned with educational guidelines to facilitate a smooth transition back to school in August.

From fundraising for Cincinnati Children’s Hospital to volunteering for underserved communities, Nolte emphasizes the importance of fostering empathy and compassion in the children under Goddard’s care.

“I have always believed that giving back enriches your life and helps you grow as a person,” she says.

From aerospace to education, Nolte’s unique journey underscores the significance of pursuing one’s passion and making a difference. Her dedication to providing quality early childhood education has not only transformed her own life but has also enriched the lives of countless children and families within the community. As The Goddard School continues to thrive under her leadership, Nolte remains committed to nurturing future generations and empowering women in business.

THE GODDARD SCHOOL OF WEST CHESTER/HAMILTON

7739 Princeton-Glendale Road, West Chester

GoddardSchool.com/schools/oh/west-chester/west-chester-hamilton 513.860.1500

Present this ad to NBC in Mason or Liberty Twp to recieve $5 off $40 or more

HAILTO T HE CHIEF

Dr. Elizabeth Muennich, president and CEO of Dermatology and Skin Care in West Chester, is the new president of the Ohio State Medical Association (OSMA). Muennich joins the OSMA in addressing issues that impact healthcare at the state and federal levels.

“Some of the big issues we are tackling are trying to relieve the administrative burden of prior authorization for physicians and patients and scope of practice issues,” she says.

Muennich is invested in empowering physicians and medical students across Ohio.

“We have a very active foundation that tries to help ease medical students’ financial burdens, and encourage people to apply and attend medical school,” she adds.

Muennich, who is known for her dedication to patients and quality of care, is honored to be elected to this prestigious role . OSMA.org, DermatologyandSkinCare.com

Dr. Elizabeth Muennich Elected President of the Ohio State Medical Association

ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEN KALTMAN

fruitful flavors

THESE RECIPES STARRING FRUIT ARE PERFECT FOR YOUR SPRING + SUMMER GATHERINGS

Spring is in full swing, and summer is right around the corner. With the warm weather comes the return of fresh fruit. Add a boost of fruity flavors to your next happy hour, brunch or girls’ night with these fruit-infused recipes.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES PHOTOGRAPHY, @UNCOMMONJANE

ingredients

• 1 pound strawberries, washed + sliced

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Kosher salt

• 1 loaf Italian or French bread, cut into 12 slices

• 1 cup goat or mascarpone cheese, room temperature

• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, basil or mint leaves

• Balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze

• Salt + ground pepper to taste

instructions

1. Combine strawberries and sugar in a small bowl and set aside.

2. Brush both sides of bread with olive oil and a sprinkle of kosher salt.

3. Position oven rack a few inches below broiler and preheat on low. Align bread slices on a baking sheet. Broil top sides until golden brown, about one minute, then flip bread slices and broil opposite sides another minute until golden brown.

4. Spread cheese on toasted bread. Stir a pinch of black pepper, salt and herbs into the strawberry mixture. Spoon the strawberry mixture over the cheese-topped bruschetta. Garnish with additional herbs. Drizzle lightly with balsamic vinegar.

*Substitute peaches for strawberries when they’re in season.

Recipe provided + prepared by Lauren Lane, @lauren_lane_culinarian.

STRAWBERRY BRUSCHETTA

CONTINUED >

Table styled by LeAnn Parker @silvertoothhome.

ingredients

Thyme Simple Syrup

• 1 cup cane sugar

• 1 cup water

• 3+ fresh thyme sprigs

Grapefruit Thyme Beverage

• 3 cups sparkling water or Prosecco

• 1 cup fresh grapefruit juice

• 1/3 cup thyme simple syrup

• Ice

• Sugar for decorative rim

instructions

1. To make the simple syrup, combine water and sugar in a pot. Bring to a boil and then simmer for a few minutes until sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from the heat, add fresh thyme and steep. Allow to completely cool, then remove thyme sprigs.

2. Rim glass with sugar by dipping the rim in water or simple syrup, then gently rolling it in a saucer of sugar.

3. Wait for the rim to dry, then fill the glass with ice.

4. Add 3 tablespoons of thyme syrup to each glass and fill with 1/2 cup grapefruit juice and approximately 1 cup sparkling water for a fun mocktail. Replace the sparkling water with Prosecco for an added kick. Add thyme for decoration if desired.

GRAPEFRUIT THYME MOCKTAIL

• Full service medical and surgical hospital

• Today’s advanced technology and equipment

• Three full-time veterinarians

• Spacious exam rooms

• Separate entrance and floor for Boarding & Grooming

WELLNESS

Animal Hospital of West Chester 9335 Cincinnati-Columbus Rd. (Rt. 42) West Chester, OH 45069

AnimalHospitalofWC.com 513.777.5131

MEDICAL SURGICAL

BOARDING GROOMING

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER MCGHEE

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

PROPEL YOUR BUSINESS

SIX EXPERT TIPS TO SET UP YOUR SIDE HUSTLE FOR SUCCESS

Women are starting businesses at a higher rate than men. However, women generally receive less capital than men for a new business. Entrepreneurs who don’t have family or friends who are entrepreneurs likely don't receive the support they need.

Jill Morenz, president and CEO of the nonprofit Aviatra Accelerators, assists women with getting access to capital to start and grow their businesses. Morenz and her team help female entrepreneurs take a business further faster–and more confidently. Their mantra speaks volumes: You can do this, and you don’t have to do it alone.

With 20 years of entrepreneurial experience and expertise in community building, fundraising and communications, Morenz offers six action tips for female entrepreneurs.

Jill Morenz, President of Aviatra Accelerators.

Aviatra's Lesli Rice teaches a class to new entrepreneurs.

Take a business further faster–and more confidently. Their mantra speaks volumes: You can do this, and you don’t have to do it alone.

Six Tips for Success

1. DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP.

There are plenty of places to get help; you just have to know where to look and who to ask. Aviatra offers free (yes, free) one-on-one coaching. Sessions include brainstorming solutions to challenges, discussing ideas, making connections and providing resources.

2. CONSIDER A SIDE HUSTLE.

“There are so many ways starting small, and starting on the side, helps you,” says Morenz. “The biggest is that you’re not putting so much pressure for revenue on your business.”

As your side hustle grows, you can afford to pivot or make adjustments as needed. Side Hustle without the Hustle is a free Aviatra workshop for both men and women to help set up a business in just seven days.

3. THINK LIKE A SCIENTIST.

Scientists try to prove their hypothesis by experimenting, and they change their hypothesis if and when needed.

“When a business owner has their whole identity wrapped in their business looking a certain way, that’s detrimental to the business because they can’t make necessary changes,” Morenz says. “That’s why I say to think like a scientist. You can make a little distance between you and the business.”

Aviatra team: Kourtney Terry, Jill Morenz + Jasmine Hughes. Photo by Jennifer Lynn Pictures.

4. BE A FOCUSED LEARNER.

Don’t limit your learning. Study how to be a business owner. Become an expert on your customers. Morenz gives the example of choosing one social media platform. If you aren’t an expert on the platform your customers use, learn the platform and become an expert.

5. BOOTSTRAP… IN THE BEGINNING.

Use existing resources to help your business grow and make money. Then, divide your revenue into three buckets: money to put back into your business, money to set aside for taxes and income to take home.

“You should be making money soon rather than years down the road,” Morenz says. “If not, let’s talk about that: why not?”

6. GET “CAPITAL READY.”

When you are ready to take your business to the next level, it’s time to create a business plan and look for resources. Aviatra is launching a new program called Capital Ready Women which prepares women to access capital through investors or loans. It includes a fundability assessment and introductions to potential funders.

Entrepreneurs need three types of connections: experts, customers and other entrepreneurs. Surround yourself with support and valuable connections to propel your business.

ABOUT AVIATRA ACCELERATORS

Aviatra Accelerators empowers female entrepreneurs with education, coaching, mentoring, networking and access to capital. Aviatra’s programs meet the needs of women entrepreneurs at all stages of the business cycle. Aviatra Accelerators has helped over 3,000 female entrepreneurs in our region create 15,000 jobs and receive millions in funding. Its alumni have generated a cumulative total of more than $1 billion in earned revenues. AviatraAccelerators.org, 859.655.8343

Marketing seminar led by Aviatra Accelerators.

Aviatra offers one-to-one coaching sessions for women entrepreneurs.

architects of joy

Volunteer Women Make Magic in Salvation Army’s Women’s Auxiliary

ARTICLE BY A.J. LAPE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEN KALTMAN

Several thousand smiles will be possible this year thanks to the quiet work and dedication of the Salvation Army’s Women’s Auxiliary. Established sixty-eight years ago to support underprivileged children during the holidays, this dedicated group has become an architect of joy, crafting handmade treasures for distribution in the Greater Cincinnati area each December and meeting other needs year-round.

Last year, 140 volunteer women created and distributed 715 dolls and 1,100 bears during the holidays through the Salvation Army’s Toy Shop, according to Sylvia Osterday of Cincinnati, president of the Auxiliary.

“Each dressed doll includes extra outfits, a knitted scarf, hat and quilt,” Osterday says. “Some sewers also provide crib-sized quilts and blankets for families with infants.”

The Salvation Army’s Toy Shop partners with the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. Toys for Tots supplies items such as board games, fingernail polish, sporting equipment, cars, trains and art supplies. The Women’s Auxiliary coordinates with the Marines to showcase both handmade and donated gifts simultaneously in the Toy Shop.

Osterday sheds light on the behind-the-scenes effort.

“The faithful seamstresses pick up the dolls and bears [in the spring] and personalize them, by crafting clothing, blankets or quilts for each,” she explains.

The creative process involves a significant time commitment with each doll or bear taking one to three hours to complete. Volunteer Colleen Madewell of Fairfield, however, finds joy in contributing.

“I enjoy knitting and crocheting blankets for dolls and infants while watching TV,” Madewell says. “I get great satisfaction from helping others. It is my way of giving back to the community.”

“I enjoy knitting and crocheting blankets for dolls and infants while watching TV. I get great satisfaction from helping others. It is my way of giving back to the community.”

This powerhouse of goodwill operates entirely on a volunteer basis, drawing sewers not only from the Auxiliary but also from women from other areas in church guilds and club groups. Osterday emphasizes the camaraderie among volunteers.

“There is a great friendship among us,” says Osterday. “We welcome new members with a willingness to put in time and talent to continue putting smiles on the children’s faces.”

Osterday is quick to add that volunteers don’t need sewing experience.

“I don’t even sew,” she admits, “but I can organize and do all the labor.”

Labor includes duties like packing bags, sorting toys, pre-packaging gift boxes and accepting and handing out presents for use in the Toy Shop.

Beyond handmade toys, the Auxiliary contributes 5,000 age-appropriate books annually through the Audrey Dick Book Program, active since 2001. This program runs during the holidays and summertime, too, when a bookmobile travels to impoverished areas and delivers free books for learning and entertainment during kids’ summer breaks from school.

The Women’s Auxiliary’s community service extends throughout winter, as they also make scarves for those experiencing homelessness.

“The Salvation Army hangs knitted hats and scarves on the fence behind headquarters at East Central Parkway so that the homeless population can pick them up to keep them warm during the winter season,” shares Osterday.

Operating largely by donations from the community and area businesses, Osterday shares, “Monetary donations of any amount are welcome,” as the auxiliary spends approximately $40,000 annually on materials.

Businesses or individuals looking to contribute or gain volunteer hours can find more information online. EasternUSA.SalvationArmy.org/ greater-cincinnati/auxiliaries/

H a p p y M o t h e r ' s D a y !

C e l e b r a t e M O M w i t h N O C O O K I N G ! O r d e r f r o m o u r ( o n l i n e ) w e e k l y m e a l p l a n & S A V E $ 1 0 O F F y o u r o r d e r s a l l m o n t h ! O r d e r h e r e : U s e p r o m o c o d e : M O M 1 0

W e s t C h e s t e r

Planting Spring Flowers

Helpful tips for planting spring flowers

Sun-Loving Plants:

Spring is here! We compiled a list of flowers that - depending on your planting zone - can be planted in the season.

Plumbago

Has beautiful dark blue or white flowers on a large shrub of 3 to 5 feet. This tends to freeze down in winter and comes back from roots in the spring.

Hibiscus

The tropical variety will not survive the winters so move those pots inside. The plant can get up to 5 feet tall and there are many different colors and varieties. The perennial varieties will freeze to the ground but come back in the spring. The variety Moy Grande is known as the dinner plate hibiscus. The Texas star hibiscus has beautiful flowers in red or white.

Bougainvillea

These colorful plants can be planted in baskets and pots, not in water-logged or low areas where water might collect. They will grow best when given enough space to spread out, and should be planted in an area that will allow them a minimum of 5-6 hours of sunlight every day. Colors include orange, pink, purple, white, red, tangerine and fuschia to name a few.

Purslane

This is great in baskets for trailing leaves with lots of colors. The bees love it!

Butterfly Weed

This 3 to 4-foot bush is a must for monarch lovers. Monarchs feed on the leaves before making their cocoons. It has beautiful orange and yellow flowers.

ARTICLE BY LORI HAWKINS

Shade-Loving Plants:

Lantana

This is a great hot weather plant that comes in many colors and varieties. Trailing varieties only get about 1 foot tall but can get 3 to 4 feet wide. There are bush varieties that get 4 feet tall and dwarf bushes only get about 2 feet tall. It comes in yellows, purples, reds, oranges, pinks, fuschia, and many others.

Greggs Blue Mist

This fuzzy light blue flower is a butterfly favorite.

Pentas

This is another bee and butterfly favorite that grows about 10 to 12 inches tall. There is a graffiti variety in different colors that works in beds or pots.

Vinca/Periwinkle

This plant comes in upright or trailing varieties. There are many colors to choose from: lavender, white with a red center, peach, white and red, pink to strawberry.

Sages

There are many varieties of sage. The Texas sage is a shrub that has beautiful lavender flowers - a favorite for bees. They usually bloom around the time it rains. Henry Duelberg variety is a smaller bush 18 to 20 inches tall with blue stalks of blooms. Russian Sage is a tall silver lacey foliage with light blue flower spikes and grows to 4 feet tall. Deer tend to stay away from most of the sages.

Turk’s Cap

This plant makes a large bush of red or pink flowers. It has low water needs once established and can tolerate drought conditions and hot temperatures. Prune back plant in winter if it gets too leggy.

Impatiens

These need more water than most other plants and come in many colors. They are valued for their vibrant colors, abundant blooms, and tolerance for shade.

Caladiums

With lush multicolored leaves, many larger than the palm of your hand, caladiums have become one of the most popular foliage plants for shady or semi-shady gardens—with many recent introductions being sun tolerant.

MAY 5TH

Rotary of West Chester/Liberty Pickleball Tournament

The Pickle Lodge, 7373 Kingsgate Way, West Chester | 1:00 PM

Rotary Club of West Chester Liberty hosts its first annual Pickleball Fundraiser from 1-5 p.m. at The Pickleball Lodge in West Chester. Men and women of all skill levels are welcome to compete in three matches for top prizes. All are invited to join the fun as a player, observer or sponsor. Register online. WestChesterLibertyRotary.org

MAY 6TH & 8TH

Bootcamp + Barre Exercise Classes for Women

TriHealth Fitness Pavilion, 6200 Pfeiffer Road, Montgomery | 10:00 AM

Get pumped at these two classes led by two West Chester moms each Monday and Wednesday at 10 a.m. Mondays are for Bootcamp and Wednesdays are Barre. Bring your children along if you choose for these intense workouts for women at all skill levels—modifications offered. Tell them Lifestyle sent you and enjoy your first class for free. MamasWithKiddos.com

MAY 7TH

Power of the Purse Spring Event

PromoSpark, 300 Osborne Drive, Fairfield | 6:00 PM

All women of West Chester and Liberty Township are invited to join the Power of the Purse giving circle at its 2024 Spring Event at PromoSpark in Fairfield. Enjoy dinner, a designer purse raffle and an introduction of the 2024 grant applicants. Register online. NorthernCincinnati.Foundation

MAY 16TH

A Party for Pause

Hamilton’s Urban Backyard, 501 Main Street, Hamilton | 5:00 PM

All are invited to a spring fundraiser benefitting Pause for Parents, Play for Kids, an organization committed to providing rest, support, connection and fun for families who have children with differing needs, ages 0-24. Admission cost includes beer, food and live music from the Naked Karate Girls, 5-10 p.m. at Hamilton’s Urban Backyard. Purchase tickets online for $75 each. PauseForParents.org/fundraisers

MAY 19TH

Community Education Day

Manor House Event Center, 7440 S. Mason Montgomery Road, Mason | 11:00 AM

The Lindner Center of HOPE hosts a Community Education Day to acknowledge May as Mental Health Month, 11am to 4pm. Brandon Saho is the keynote speaker. Send off Michael G. Leadbetter, MD, as he embarks on a year-long friendship bus tour of the US in memory of his wife, Debbie, his life partner for 49 years. LindnerCenterofHOPE.org

MAY 20TH

2024 Butler County United Way's Golf United Classic

Shaker Run Golf Club, 1320 Golf Club Ct., Lebanon | 10:00 AM

Join Butler County United Way to Unite in Golf to make a difference in our community. The Golf United Classic is Monday, May 20, at Shaker Run Golf Club in Lebanon. Registration includes cost to play, cart fees, lunch, dinner and much more. Register online. BC-UnitedWay.org/uploads

MAY 22ND

Cocktails, Careers and Conversations

events

CONTINUED

Benchmark Gensuite, 5181 Natorp Blvd., Suite 610, Mason | 4:00 PM

Local ladies are invited to gather with other female executives and business owners from around the Greater Cincinnati region for the quarterly Cocktails, Careers and Conversations event, 4-6 p.m. Enjoy open networking, cocktails and a short presentation from a local female leader. No RSVP is required for this event. Facebook.com/FemalePowerhouses

MAY 23RD & 30TH

The Takeover

The Square @ Union Centre, 9285 Centre Pointe Drive, West Chester | 6:00 PM

Dance your way through summer at the free, live concerts at the clock tower each summer Thursday, 6-9 p.m. Enjoy food truck eats, craft beer and live music. Hear the tunes of Trailer Park Floosies on May 23 and the Naked Karate Girls on May 30. See the website for the full schedule of local bands. WestChesterOH.org

MAY 27TH

Memorial Day Parade + Ceremony

Olde West Chester | 10:00 AM

Organized each year by local veterans’ groups VFW Post 7696 and American Legion Post 681, the West Chester parade winds its way down Cincinnati-Dayton Road through Olde West Chester, ending at West Chester Cemetery for a remembrance ceremony. WestChesterOH.org

Lindner Center of HOPE Understands Mental Health

PENDING: 6695 Cherry Laurel Dr

Spacious, like new in desirable Willow Brooke! Kings Schools. Finished lower level with full bath. Deck, patio, & built in fire pit overlook backyard. Gourmet kitchen. Hardwood floors throughout the 1st floor. 3-car-tandem garage. 1st floor study with built-ins. Primary suite with luxury bath and huge walk-in closet. Bedroom 2 has its own attached, private bathroom. Located on cul-de-sac street. Contact me today for more details

Stunning ranch patio home in Villas of Hunters Green. Hardwood floors: foyer, kitchen, great room, and dining area. Finished walkout lower level boasting a third bedroom and full bath. Ample space for comfort and convenience. Screened patio overlooking a serene pond. Updated kitchen features white cabinetry, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, and a convenient butler’s pantry. 2-car garage and a front porch with pond views.

“Highly

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~ Lori Barganier