Best of the North Summer 2014 by Cincy Magazine

N ty IO r IT i b e e E D L nc L r ia s I A s te A l l on EC he er cti E SPst C mb nne SID e ha o IN W C C Jack Dominic, Executive Director of the National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting

TUNE IN VOA Museum Transmits the Regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Impact on Broadcasting

Listing of Summer Events

SUMMER 2014

W e s t C h e s t e r h o s p i ta l : W o r l d C l a s s M e d i C i n e , lo C a l ly d e l i v e r e d

When it Comes to your health Care,

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As a recipient of the 2013 Patient Safety Excellence Award™ from Healthgrades®, West Chester Hospital is ranked in the top 5% of hospitals in the nation for patient safety, an achievement that truly reflects the hospital’s commitment to quality and excellence.

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For two consecutive years (2012 – 2013), West Chester Hospital has received the Healthgrades® Outstanding Patient Experience Award, placing it in a select group of hospitals in the nation that demonstrate outstanding performance in the delivery of positive experiences for patients.

Education for the next generation of medical professionals.

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CONTENTS

SUMMER 2014 VOA Museum

Looking Ahead and Looking Back

6 INSIDE THE NORTH Adopt-A-Book BY ALLISON REUTHER

8 FAIRFIELD COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER

The southern Ohio staple connects the community with programs and activities for everyone in the family. BY BELINDA CAI

10 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

June, July and August events in the North.

11 THE WILDFLOWER CAFÉ

The Wildflower Café in Mason dishes up fresh, local fare in a century-old farmhouse. BY DANNY RESTIVO

12 DINING LISTINGS

More great restaurants in the area.

14 TUNE IN

The National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting has big plans to remember our broadcasting history. BY MIKE BOYER

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16 SWALLOW BICYCLE WORKS

The boutique bike shop in Loveland will take you for a ride. BY JULIE BETHLENFALVY

17 BECKETT SPRINGS

The behavioral and addiction hospital helps patients feel at home. BY BELINDA CAI

35 WARREN COUNTY CAREER CENTER

The school is preparing students for the evolving manufacturing industry. BY DANNY RESTIVO

36 ST. RAPHAEL

Mercy Health’s social services agency is committed to helping those in need. BY DANNY RESTIVO

38 SCENE

The Taste of Northern Cincinnati.

Special Insert West Chester Liberty Chamber Alliance 2014-2015 Connections.

WC 1-16, b e g i n s a f ter page 18

WEST CHESTER ■ LIBERTY TOWNSHIPS

CONNECTIONS 2014-2015 COMMUNITY & BUSINESS GUIDE

BOOM TOWNS:

West Chester and Liberty Townships Keep their Economies Booming

- MetroParks of Butler County - Complete Community Marketplace Guide

Supplement to:

here’s t hat old saying, “Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” It tends to elicit a negative connotation, but sometimes repeating the past is a good thing. The North has a history of innovation and the National VOA Museum of Broadcasting in West Chester keeps that heritage alive. We’re excited to again partner with the West Chester Liberty Chamber Alliance and to include its 2014-2015 community and business guide, Connections, in which new investments and development prove that history is repeating itself. And that’s something we can be proud of.

—Julie Bethlenfalvy

PUBLISHED BY magazine Locally and family-owned Cincy Co. LLC

Cincinnati Club Building, 30 Garfield Place, Suite 440, Cincinnati, OH 45202 EDITOR & PUBLISHER: Eric Harmon MANAGING EDITOR: Julie Bethlenfalvy ASSOCIATE EDITORS: Corinne Minard, Danny Restivo BUSINESS EDITOR: Mike Boyer COPY EDITOR: Belinda Cai ART DIRECTOR: Guy Kelly ADVERTISING MANAGER: Kristine McDonough PRODUCTION COORDINATOR: Keith Ohmer EVENTS COORDINATOR: Jenna Toon EVENTS ASSISTANT: Abbey Cummins CIRCULATION/MARKETING COORDINATOR:

Lindsey Gooch

SALES MANAGER: Brad Hoicowitz ADVERTISING SALES: Dave Ball, Matt Pedroza,

Denise Poage, Roni Roach, Amy Robertson INTERNS: Laura Federle, Nicole Hamme, Allison Reuther, Taylor Spaw

Contact Cincy: information@cincymagazine.com or call (513) 421-2533. Go to cincymagazine.com to get your complimentary subscription to Cincy and Best of the North.

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INSIDE TH E N O RTH

Right to Read LOVELAND TWINS’ NONPROFIT GIVES BOOKS TO THOSE IN NEED By Allison Reuther

annah and Alex Laman are just your average 11-year-old twins. They attend school during the day and their afternoons are filled with activities like soccer and basketball. However, in their free time they head a nonprofit organization that provides books to underserved children. Books are a staple in the Laman household. Their Loveland home overflows with titles from every genre, so it’s no surprise that Hannah and Alex grew up reading. They were shocked to learn that the rest of the world wasn’t the same way. “We were sort of sad because we love reading and it’s weird to see kids that … didn’t have a book,” says Alex.

In October of 2011, the twins heard about a school that didn’t have books, consequently hindering its students’ reading abilities. Two months later, they began AdoptA-Book. The premise of t he organizat ion Twins Alex and Hannah Laman founded Adoptis to collect new or A-Book when they were only 8 years old. gently used books and then give them to an organization in to reach 40,000 by the end of the month. need. Initially, the twins dealt with one The twins hope to reach the goal of 1 milschool, but word got out and the requests lion books in the next ten years, and they came pouring in. intend to keep the organization up and “One school didn’t even have a library, running as long as they can, especially as well they did, but they had to close it down,” the volume of donations increases. says Alex. “Yeah, if it continues to grow we can do To date, Adopt-A-Book has collected and it,” says Alex. n donated more than 37,000 books and hopes

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B E S T O F T H E N O RT H : : S U M M E R 2 01 4

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ENTERTA I N M ENT

Artistic Engagement By Belinda Cai

he Fa ir f ield Com mu n it y A r ts Center has been a southern Ohio staple since its opening in 2005. Also home of the Parks and Recreation Department, the FCAC has everything art-related under one roof. “The Fairfield Community Arts Center offers community connections. Whether your passion is art, pottery, dance, fitness, recreation, leisure, theater, or life-long learning, the FCAC provides opportunities to explore those experiences and connect with others who share your interests,” says Heidi Schiller, Arts and Programs manager at the FCAC. Some of the hands-on classes offered for all ages include arts and crafts, cooking, dance, fitness, music, nature, photography, technology, theater, and social dance. There is also a wide-range of activities and programs for active seniors through

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The Art Gallery at the Fairfield Community Arts Center will host fine art and photography exhibits from June to September. the 55-Plus program. For kids, the full-day summer camps for children ages 6-15 are designed with various activities including trips to zoos, museums, Reds games and more. A Summer Fitness Pass allows

guests to enjoy diverse classes like Zumba, spinning, kickboxing, Pilates and yoga. “In addition to the programs and classes, the performing arts offers a diverse season of world music, entertainment for children

Puppet Theatre will stop by with Twain’s Twisted Tails, perfect to entertain younger audiences. In August, the FCAC’s Kids in the Spotlight Summer Musical Theatre camp presents a shortened version of The Sound of Music. From June to September, the Art Galler y w ill host fine art and photography exhibits, first from Hilltop Artists, a local artists group, and then Paul Miles’ photogThe FCAC hosts a variety of activities, events and raphy of Birds of Prey. Finally, programs for all ages throughout the year. from May to September, the and families and a popular Friday-night FCAC plays backdrop to the popular Thurscabaret series has two sell-out shows this day night weekly concert series, Groovin’ season alone,” says Schiller. The 237-seat on the Green, which takes place in Village theater has top-of-the-line sound and Green Park. lighting as well as film screening abilities. Despite all it already has to offer, the At the end of May, the 2013-2014 theater FCAC continues to grow each year, acseason comes to a close with Same Time, cording to Schiller. Next Year, presented by Fairfield Footlight“The Parks and Recreation Department ers community theatre. In July, Madcap not only annually reviews all offerings

to keep them relevant and fresh, but also seeks out new recreation, fitness and leisure trends to create new classes and programs,” she explains. “The Parks and Recreation Department currently is partnering with the Eppley Institute for Parks and Public Lands at Indiana University to research and write a ten-year Parks and Recreation Master Plan. This plan will outline the department’s goals and needs for the next decade and can be used to chart the course of the Fairfield Community Arts Center.” The goal of the FCAC is to offer a variety of programs and cultural events to Fairfield citizens, Fairfield businesses and the Greater Cincinnati region. “With a historically strong connection to ArtsWave and other Cincinnati arts groups such as Playhouse in the Park, Cincinnati Ballet, Cincinnati Opera and the Taft Museum, the Fairfield Community Arts Center is a community arts destination, not only for the North, but also for anyone that calls the Greater Cincinnati area home,” says Schiller. n

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Call 754.3100 today for an appointment for yourself or someone you love. 5467 Cedar Village Drive Mason, OH 45040 Tel: 513.754.3100 www.cedarvillage.org S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 : : B E S T O F T H E N O RT H

C A LEN DA R O F EVENTS

JUNE

The Revivalists & SOHIO Jun 12 Indie rockers The Revivalists and SOHIO join forces to keep your heads bobbing to the beat. RiversEDGE Amphitheater, 116 Dayton St, Hamilton. 513-844-8050 or hamilton-city.org.

9th Annual Jungle Jim’s International Beer Fest Jun 13-14 It’s back and with more than 350 beers from 100 different breweries including imported beers, craft beers, hard ciders and beer fresh from a firkin (beer is fermented inside the barrel). The Oscar Event Center at Jungle Jim’s International Market, 5440 Dixie Hwy, Fairfield. 513-674-6000 or junglejims.com/beerfest.

Loveland Summer Concert Series on the Fountain Green Jun 19 Enjoy a variety of music on the third Thursday of each month through August at the Fountain Green in downtown Loveland. lovelandchamber.org or 513-683-1544.

Dive-In Movie and Luau Jun 20 It’s a pool party for the whole family with a night of games, food, events and a movie. Montgomery Community Pool, 8075 Hopewell Rd, Montgomery. montgomeryohio.org.

JULY Red, White & Blue Ash Jul 4 People from all over the Tristate head to Blue Ash’s Fourth of July celebration each year. Presented by Toyota and Warm 98, the event features free entertainment and Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks. Bands this year include Midnight Special and Cheap Trick. The fireworks begin at 10 p.m. Summit Park, 4335 Glendale-Milford Rd, Blue Ash. 513-7458500 or blueashevents.com. 10

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Bastille Day Celebration Jul 19 Vive la France! Support sister city activities between Montgomery, Ohio, and NeiullyPlaisance, France. Thousands of people flock to Montgomery for French festivities including bands, food vendors, a wide selection of brews and wines, a kids’ play area, and much more. Downtown Montgomery, Cooper and Montgomery roads. 513-891-2424 or montgomeryohio.org.

National VOA Museum of Broadcasting Open for Tours Jul 19 The VOA Museum features The Gray History of Wireless Museum, one of the largest collections of antique radio equipment in the country, and Media Heritage, a dedication to the media-related history of radio and television in the Greater Cincinnati area, the Midwest and the nation. The museum is open the third Saturday of each month from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 8070 Tylersville Rd, West Chester. 513777-0027 or voamuseum.org.

AUGUST U.S.A. Triathlon Youth National Championship Aug 2-3 Cheer on youth and junior athletes ages 13-19 from all over the country while they compete in swimming, running and cycling. VOA Park, 7850 VOA Park Dr, West Chester. usatriathlon.org.

Free Shakespeare in the Park: A Midsummer Night’s Dream Aug 16 Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets for a free, full-length performance of William Shakespeare’s tale of love, trickery and comedy. Cottell Park, 5847 Irwin-Simpson Rd, Mason. For more information or to find additional performances near you, call 513-381-2273 or visit cincyshakes.com. Don’t see an event? Visit cincymagazine.com to submit your event for our A&E calendar.

DINING

Down-home Dining THE WILDFLOWER CAFÉ’S HOMEMADE, FRESH FARE MAKES YOU FEEL RIGHT AT HOME By Danny Restivo

ince he was 15, Todd Hudson wanted to make homemade meals in his own restaurant. His dream came to fruition in 2008 after buying a century-old farmhouse and refurbishing it into the cozy and quaint Wildflower Café. The historic vibe and fresh cuisine quickly drew a dinner crowd to the two-story home turned café. “A few months after we opened, we had a line out the door,” says Hudson. Six years later, the Wildflower Café remains the North’s destination for local, grass-fed livestock, farm-fresh produce and Cincinnati craft beer. Hudson’s commitment to natural ingredients puts fresh seafood on Wildflower’s tables within 24 hours of landing on a ship’s deck. “A lot of places say their fish is fresh, but it’s really not,” says Hudson. “At our restaurant, I can tell you how it was caught, what boat caught it and the name of the captain.” Wildflower’s menu also mixes traditional American cuisine with Southern staples. The chicken and waff les comes with seared Amish poultry, a homemade waffle, shaved Brussels sprouts, maple glaze syrup and a side of southern-style collard greens. For rib lovers, check out the organic, dry rub ribs that are flavored with 20 different seasonings—including brown sugar—and smoked right behind the Wildflower. It’s a sweet and salty treat perfect for any summer day. 207 E. Main St., Mason, 513-492-7514. wildflowergourmetcafe.com. TuesdaySaturday, lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and dinner from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. n

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DINING

Whether you want local classics or foreign fare, the North offers a wide selection of superior restaurants. $ = Entrées less than $10 $$ = Entrées $11-$19 $$$ = Entrées $20-$25 $$$$ = Entrées more than $25

Northeast Amma’s Kitchen, Indian; 7633 Reading Road, Roselawn, (513) 821-2021. Vegetarian Indian cuisine. $$ Anand, Indian; 10890 Reading Road, Sharonville, (513) 554-4040. Specializes in Northern Indian cuisine, with favorites like chicken tikka masala and saag paneer. $$ Ando, Japanese; 5889 Pfeiffer Road, Blue Ash, (513) 791-8687. Huge selection of sushi, sashimi, noodle teriyaki and tempura dishes. $$ Anthony’s, American; 7641 Voice of America Centre Drive, West Chester, (513) 779-3455. Cigar bar and grill features an assortment of beer and whisky. Try the meatball sliders. $$

Aroma, Japanese; 7875 Montgomery Road, Kenwood, (513) 791-0950. Standard sushi and entrées such as coconut chicken. $$$ Blue Goose, American; 11060 Reading Road, Sharonville, (513) 769-5700. Burgers, wraps and comfort food served in family friendly sports bar. $$ Brown Dog Café, American; 5893 Pfeiffer Road, Blue Ash, (513) 7941610. Enjoy sophisticated, eclectic cuisine in a modern setting. Extensive wine setting. $$$ Café Bella, Mediterranean; 5948 Snider Road, Mason, (513) 770-4141. Soups, salads, entrées, desserts inspired by Mediterranean life. $$$ Carlo & Johnny, Steakhouse; 9769 Montgomery Road, Montgomery, (513) 936-8600. Old Hollywood glamour accompanies Jeff Ruby’s prime steaks; also sushi, seafood, ribs. $$$$ Daveed’s Next, American; 8944 Columbia Road, Loveland, (513) 6832665. Eclectic venue offers a new menu daily served family style. $$$

DeSha’s American Tavern, American; 11320 Montgomery Road, Symmes Township, (513) 247-9933. Enjoy classic burgers, salads, fried chicken, pasta and Kentucky hot browns. $$ Eddie Merlot’s, Seafood, Steakhouse; 10808 Montgomery Road, Montgomery, (513) 489-1212. Exceptional prime-aged steak, an extensive selection of fine wine. $ $$$ Embers, Steakhouse; 8170 Montgomery Road, Madeira, (513) 984-8090. Sushi and continental favorites such as New York strip, baby back ribs, seared sea scallops and lobster tail. $$$$ Ferrari’s Little Italy & Bakery, Italian; 7677 Goff Terrace, Madeira, (513) 272-2220. A variety of authentic Italian dishes, plus bakery that serves pastries, bread and deli items. $$$ Fox & Hound Pub & Grille, American; 5113 Bowen Drive, Mason, (513) 2297921. With plenty of beer specials, a patio and pool room, this spot is a great place to wind down. $

Germano’s, Italian; 9415 Montgomery Road, Montgomery, (513) 794-1155. Authentic Italian cuisine features pasta, seafood, chicken and veal dishes. $$$ Golden Lamb Inn, American; 27 S. Broadway, Lebanon, (513) 932-5065. Eatery at Ohio’s oldest hotel has roast turkey, pork chops, salmon and lamb dishes plus a Sunday brunch that draws many regulars. $$$ Greek Isles, Greek; 7037 Yankee Road, Liberty Township, (513) 755-0600. This family-owned restaurant also serves gyros and mousaka, and also offers pizzas with Greek toppings. $ $ La Petite France, French; 3177 GlendaleMilford Road, Evendale, (513) 7338383. French seafood, chicken, rack of lamb, duck breast and filet mignon, in bistro and private dining rooms. $ $$$ MJ’s on Main, American; 18 Main St., Milford, (513) 831-9888. Eclectic array of appetizers and entrees. plus specialty tacos. $$

Top Food Rating Among Steakhouses by Zagat Best Fresh Catch -Cincy Magazine Best Overall Restaurant, Best Steak, Best Food, Best Service and Best Vibrant Bar Scene -Open Table Diners

OUR FOOD ROCKS

1 2 B E S T

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Tony’s Steaks & Seafood 12110 Montgomery Rd. Cincinnati, Ohio 45249 Phone (513) 677-1993 www.tonysofcincinnati.com

FOR A FULL LIST OF DINING OPTIONS, GO TO CINCYMAGAZINE.COM Montgomery Inn, Barbecue; 9440 Montgomery Road, Montgomery, (513) 791-3482. Cincinnati’s favorite ribs, along with chicken, fish, steak and sandwiches, at the restaurant’s original location. $$$ Parker’s Blue Ash Grill, Steakhouse; 4200 Cooper Road, Blue Ash, (513) 891-8300. Pasta, salad, prime steak and chicken. $$$ P.F. Chang’s, Chinese; 9435 Civic Center Blvd., West Chester, (513) 7795555. Chinese classics are served in an upscale atmosphere. Multiple locations. Great happy hour. $$$ Pitrelli’s, Italian; 404 Second Ave., Mason, (513) 770-0122. Authentic dishes topped with homemade sauce have kept customers coming back to this family owned spot for years. $$ Relish Modern Tapas; 5947 Deerfield Blvd., Mason, (513) 204-6925. Meat, chicken, seafood and vegetarian. $$$ Soho Japanese Bistro, Japanese; 7655 Voice of America Drive, West Chester, (513) 759-6870. Features a sushi bar, teppanyaki grill and private tatami room. $$ SuRa, Korean; 7876 MasonMontgomery Road, Mason, (513) 204-3456. Grilled or stir-fried meats and vegetables, specialty stews and noodles. $$

Tandoor Cuisine of India, Indian; 8702 Market Place Lane, Montgomery, (513) 793-7484. Savory clay oven dishes of meat, poultry and breads. Exotic curries. $$ Tano Bistro and Catering, Continental; 204 W. Loveland Ave., Loveland. (513) 683-8266. Fresh ingredients adorn menu of meat, seafood and vegetarian dinners. Private dining area and catering. $$$ Tony’s, Steakhouse; 12110 Montgomery Road, Loveland, (513) 677-1993. Savor steaks, seafood and Mediterranean entrées. Live jazz. $$$$ Twin Dragon Buffet & Grill, Chinese; 7763 Tylersville Road, West Chester, (513) 759-9777. Buffet-style familyfriendly offerings with grill to order. $ Vincenzo’s, Italian; 11525 Chester Road, Sharonville, (513) 771-0022. Upscale neighborhood restaurant. $$$ The Wildflower Cafe, Modern American, Organic; 207 E. Main St., Mason, (513) 492-7514. Seasonal farm-to-table fare. $$$ The Works, Italian, American; 20 Grear Millitzer Lane, Loveland, (513) 6978408. Variety of brick-oven pizzas and other casual menu items. $$$ Zab Thai Kitchen, Thai; 10667 Loveland-Madeira Road, Loveland, (513) 774-7800. Curries, noodle, rice, stir fry and soup dishes. $$

Northwest Casa Bianca, American; 4940 Mulhauser Road, West Chester, (513) 860-0829. Heartland cooking. $$$ Cock and Bull, Pub Food; 275 E. Sharon Road, Glendale, (513) 771-4253. Live music during the week. Try the fish ‘n chips. New location in Hyde Park. $ $ Dave and Buster’s, American; 11775 Commons Drive, Springdale, (513) 671-5501. Enjoy combo deals for food, games and drinks. $$ Gabby’s Cafe, American, Italian, Pizza; 515 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming, (513) 821-6040. . $$ Grand Finale, American; 3 E. Sharon Ave., Glendale, (513) 771-5925. Gourmet pizzas, pastas, burgers and more. $$$ Friendly Stop Cafe, American; 985 Congress Ave., Glendale, (513) 771-7427. Casual joint with array of pub food highlighted by homemade meatloaf and Whisky’s Bar-B-Q. $ Half Day Café, American; 1 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming, (513) 821-2323. Serving traditional breakfast and lunch, with specialty items like the chicken and brie quesadilla or orange stuffed French toast. $ Jag’s, Steakhouse, Seafood; 5980 West Chester Road, West Chester, (513) 860-5353. Intimate restaurant offers Kobe beef, sushi, Ahi tuna, lobster tails and an array of steaks. $$$$

Pappadeaux, Seafood; 11975 North West Blvd., Springdale, (513) 6714473. Oysters, shrimp, alligator, lobster, crab and etouffee. $$$ Rail House at Iron Horse, American; 40 Village Square, Glendale, (513) 7723333. The downstairs serves upscale fare while a tavern operates upstairs at the 1800s historic spot. $$$ Stone Creek Dining Company, American; 6200 Muhlhauser Road, West Chester, (513) 942-2100. Sandwiches and pasta share menu space with swordfish and New York strip steaks. Also 9386 Montgomery Road, Montgomery. $$$ Troy’s Cafe, American; 4877 Smith Road, West Chester, (513) 860-3206. Comfort is the goal with dishes like meatloaf and salmon, plus gourmet burgers and Sunday brunch. Offers daily specials on its authentic Mexican dishes. $$ Vinoklet Winery, Steakhouse; 11069 Colerain Ave., Colerain Township, (513) 385-9309. Grill your own steak or other entree at this working winery and restaurant. $$$ Wise Owl Wine Bar, Tapas; 6206 Muhlhauser Road, West Chester, (513) 860-9493. Wine and cocktails paired with small, tasty plates. $$

S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 : : B E S T O F T H E N O RT H

Keeping Cincinnati’s Broadcasting Heritage Alive The National VOA Museum of Broadcasting in West Chester has ambitious plans By Mike Boyer

ack Dominic found himself having a good laugh on a recent morning, a little more than a month on the job as the executive director of the National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting in West Chester. The former executive vice president of WCET, Cincinnati Public Television, Dominic was compiling an agenda for a museum board meeting when he ran out of staples. “Normally what would you do?” asks Dominic, still laughing. “Go to the supply cabinet and get more. Well, guess what? We don’t have a supply cabinet! So on my way back from lunch today, I’m going to buy staples.” Dominic, the museum’s first and only employee, says the VOA’s former Bethany Relay Station on Tylersville Road, is still a work in progress. But he has no doubt the art deco building has an important story to tell. “The bones of this place could be a really cool museum. We just need to get it up to shape,” says Dominic. “The story of the VOA and the significance of Cincin-

When You Go The National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting 8070 Tylersville Road, West Chester 513-777-0027 voamuseum.org Open: Third Saturday of each month, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Also by appointment. Admission: $5 for adults, $1 for children under 12. 14

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nati in its development and t he development of the broadcasting industry in general is extraordinary. These stories and examples can help us understand the importance of free and open communication.” Communication today is the stuff of smartphones and social media, but he says it’s important to understand how early shortwave radio technology, much of which was developed in Cincinnati, was used to spread America’s message from World War II through the Cold War. It is also important to know how Cincinnati helped shape the history of U.S. broadcasting. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the opening of the VOA Bethany Station. In the midst of World War II, President Franklin D. Roosevelt was determined to counter Axis propaganda by broadcasting U.S. news and information overseas. The U.S. government ended up turning to Cincinnati entrepreneur and radio pioneer Powel Crosley, Jr. In the 1920s, his Crosley Broadcasting Corp. created WLW, billed as “the nation’s station,” it was the first radio station to broadcast at 50,000 watts and the only station to broadcast at 500,000 watts for a time in the 1930s. Crosley’s engineers created a shortwave radio transmission system from scratch in West Chester, just down the road from WLW’s transmission tower. Remarkably,

Some of the broadcasting artifacts on display

it took only about a year from the time the first shovel of dirt was turned until the switch was turned on, Dominic says. The building, with its four-story tower resembling an airport control tower, contained six massive 200-kilowatt transmitters that generated the short cycle radio broadcasts. The radio waves bounced off the ionosphere and across the oceans via acres of antennas on the once 640-acre property. The facility continued as part of the VOA network until 1994, when it was decommissioned and the property was given to West Chester Township with the proviso it be maintained as a historic site. A small group of volunteers has been

Jack Dominic in the “Great Concourse” working for several years to convert the building into a museum. More than a year ago, West Chester approved a five-year lease to the nonprofit museum and about $1.8 million has been spent on restoring the exterior of the building, installing a new roof, windows and doors. The building also includes the Media Heritage Museum, a collection of Cincinnati radio, television, film and media history begun by Mark Magistrelli and Mike Martini. “People are surprised by the number of entertainers who got their start here,” Dominic says. “Outside of New York or Chicago, this is where you came if you wanted to break into radio.” In 2001, the Media Heritage Museum received the Frederic W. Ziv Archive, a collection of more than 11,000 recordings, photographs and other memorabilia belonging to Ziv, who was the largest syndicator of radio and television programs in the 1940s and 1950s. The VOA also houses the Gray History of

Wireless Museum, a collection of antique radio equipment assembled by Middletown native Jack Gray, a wireless radio pioneer and former VOA engineer. The Gray collection, Dominic says, has some items “the Smithsonian would kill for.” The museum is also home to the West Chester A mateur Radio Association (WC8VOA). “What do they have in common?” asks Ken Rieser, VOA Museum board chairman. “They all have a connection to Cincinnati’s long history in the U.S. broadcast industry. Our job is to tie it all together into a single experience.” One of Dominic’s main jobs will be to raise the estimated $12 million to $15 million needed to create the fully-functioning interactive museum envisioned by a planning study undertaken several years ago by a consulting team led by Jack Rouse Associates. Dominic says the museum hopes to begin a major fundraising effort late this fall

aimed at corporations and private donors with an interest in broadcasting. Plans call for restoring the interior the way it looked back in 1944, including removing a glass-enclosed control room and acoustic ceiling added in the 1960s. This would reveal a mezzanine overlooking the “Great Concourse,” a room with 25-foot ceilings behind the building’s lobby that housed the transmitters. Dominic says the museum would also like to put an addition on the back of the building with modern amenities to house interactive exhibits and displays. In the meantime, Dominic would like to restore the building lobby and create a community meeting room to show off the building’s potential. Dominic says it may take three years or so to finish the fundraising and complete all the renovations, but he doesn’t doubt it can be done. “I wouldn’t have taken this job if I didn’t think so,” he says. n S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 : : B E S T O F T H E N O RT H

SH O PPI N G

Built to Ride by Julie Bethlenfalvy

usband and wife team Tom and Sarah Swallow live and breathe bicycling. They often ride to work seven miles along trails to their shop, Swallow Bicycle Works. “The bike trails are our [Interstate] 275,” says Tom. The Swallows—who have both always liked working with bikes and met at the former Cycle Sport in the same Loveland strip mall in 2008—opened the Swallow Bicycle Works in 2012. “People wanted Tom to work on their bikes,” says Sarah. “He’s the servicer, fitter [and] selector. He’ll solve all of your bike problems.” Besides a happy greeting from Sid, the Swallow’s 8-year-old miniature schnauzer who follows Sarah everywhere, the couple will take you from start to finish in the bike selection process because each bike is custom fit to the rider. “We take a very hands-on approach to customer interaction. We care,” says Tom. “We try to give everyone the same experience we would want to have.” At Swallow Bicycle Works, Tom and Sarah tailor bikes to a rider’s comfort, performance and fun, and then they ask the rider what they want to accomplish. The Swallows start with a factory-built bike and customize it to the rider by picking other pieces for comfort and aesthetic. Bikes from the shop, on average, cost between $500 to $3,000. “Ninety percent of people are just as happy with those as they would be with $5,000 to $10,000 bikes,” says Tom. “We like to make bikes to inspire people to ride and feel good. If it’s not fun, then I might as well play golf.” The bikes you’ll find at Swallow Bicycle Works, such as Salsa, Focus, Orbea, Surly and Kona, aren’t bikes you’ll find at regular chain stores. Depending on what your goals are, the Swallows will help you determine the bike material you need, 16

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Above: Swallow Bicycle Works’ owners Tom and Sarah Swallow with Sid the miniature schnauzer Left: Long Haul Trucker Deluxe by Surly, one of the boutique brands sold at the Loveland shop

whether it’s steel, carbon fiber, aluminum or titanium. “For a racer: carbon fiber or titanium,” says Sarah. “We like steel bikes. They’re the longest lasting. In addition to being affordable, they don’t crack, don’t break and have a comfortable ride quality. You can ride all day on a steel bike.” Cycling requires a lot of equipment, and underneath the shop’s exposed ductwork, there are racks of bikes and equipment for every type of cyclist, from beginners to advanced.

Along with bike gloves and bike shorts, Tom and Sarah also sell a lot of fun stuff such as bottle openers, flasks in cages (for after the ride, of course) and vintagestyle T-shirts for each of the three rides they’ve hosted. More than just a bike shop, Sarah organizes and plots the routes for all the challenging rides, including Highland’s Passage, a scenic 108-mile ride through Daniel Boone National Forest, on May 11. There’s also a 36-mile ride as well. “They’re by no means easy, but [they’re] doable at your own pace. Have fun and do it our way, which is the fun way,” says Sarah. n

Hospital of

HOPE

Beckett Springs’ mission is to provide high-quality mental health and addiction treatment services.

BECKETT SPRINGS IN WEST CHESTER USES EVIDENCEBASED TREATMENTS AND A HOME-LIKE SETTING TO TREAT PATIENTS IN GREATER CINCINNATI AND BEYOND By Belinda Cai

eckett Springs in West Chester is an inpatient and intensive outpatient behavioral hospital for people struggling with mental illness and for those battling addiction. But it goes far beyond just that: it’s a community-oriented refuge and home for many individuals. Beckett Springs, which is based out of Springstone, Inc. in Louisville, was built from the ground up specifically designed to treat addictions and mental health issues, according to CEO David Polunas. The inviting and open 10-acre setting is therapeutic for its patients. “It’s different than a typical behavioral

hospital in that we are engaging the whole person and utilizing the whole team and providing robust care for the folks,” says Chris Barnett, director of business development at Beckett Springs. “We have yoga, music, art, recreation and all of those things. Diet is very important. When you come into our facility, you will see it’s a home-like setting. It’s not institutional.” As one of the only behavioral facilities in the area, the newly constructed Beckett Springs provides plenty of help with its 48-inpatient beds. It has admitted 1,000 patients as of April 2014 since its conception in July 2013. “We are glad to be a member of the West Chester and Butler County community and feel like we are making a difference,” says Polunas, who has previously run behavioral hospitals and finds his work in the mental health industry to be very gratifying. According to Cincinnati’s Drop Inn Center in Over-the-Rhine, which provides shelter and programs for the homeless, of

the 2,191 homeless individuals who used the center’s emergency shelter in 2012, 58 percent of them had a mental illness. The issue of mental illness—from anxiety disorders to addictions to schizophrenia—is widespread and not limited to urban areas; it affects those from all over, including suburban areas such as West Chester. “We looked at this community and saw the changes that were happening here. From a marketing business development standpoint, it was determined that this area was under-bedded for behavioral health,” explains Barnett. “When we put that equation together, it was determined that there was a real need [for us] in this area.” While many of the patients do come from West Chester and suburban areas, they also come from many other locations. Barnett says that Beckett Springs serves individuals from Northern Kentucky to Dayton and has had patients from Indiana. The facility has even gotten referrals from as far away as Florida. S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 : : B E S T O F T H E N O RT H

H E A LTH C A R E The hospital’s mission is to provide high-quality mental health and addiction treatment services to these individuals and their families by using innovative and evidence-based treatment protocols. The goal is not temporary assistance, but rather long-term recovery for its patients. “There are folks in our community who are grappling with substance abuse and with mental health issues. We want to provide a solution for those challenges and help them turn the corner and get on the path toward health and wholeness,” says Barnett. “We do that through caring for them as a whole person—mind, body and spirit. We surround them with staff and engage their families.” In the mornings, staff will place a menu of meal options along with a schedule of the activities available for that day in the patients’ rooms. It is a holistic, engaging approach to mental health. Furthermore, Beckett Springs uses state-of-the-art treatment protocols that have been proven to be effective. The menta l wel lness prog ram for mental illness uses four steps: psychiatric stabilization and assessment, treatment planning and recommendation, therapeutic interventions, and discharge and continuing care planning. These steps guide patients from diagnosis to discharge. Mental illness treatment at Beckett Springs is comprehensive, focusing on the biological, psychological and social perspectives of disorders, and it utilizes motivational enhancement therapy (MET), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and reality therapy (RT) in its treatments. For those with addiction issues, the treatment approach is the same as the mental wellness program, except that the first step includes detoxification in addition to psychiatric stabilization and assessment. Adults are treated through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in conjunction with COGNIT, an internet based e-learning and continuous recovery management tracking system, which has education and relapse prevention support tools. “We do detox. The availability of detox is limited in our area. If someone is coming off of opiates, it is very dangerous. We have an acute setting where we can help them move through that. We can help them stabilize,” says Barnett. “Then people get

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Above: The lobby at Beckett Springs Below: Patients can relax and heal in the hospital’s serene courtyard.

on board with [COGNIT] and learn how to use it. Once they are out of the program, they can continue to use that as a resource to help them.” Polunas describes the adjunctive therapies—music, art, recreation and the use of pets—to be helpful outlets for patients. “They are designed to demonstrate to patients that there are other activities [in which] they can participate and find relief outside of their addiction and mental health problems.” For example, he says that with art therapy, patients can comfortably communicate their issues through creativity in a nonverbal setting. “We use evidence-based treatments

including individual and family therapy, group therapy, medication management and t he large number of adjunctive therapies,” says Polunas. At Beckett Springs, family involvement is essential to a patient’s successful recovery. Family members can participate in weekly education, counseling and self-help group support meetings. And to ensure patients receive continuing support once they’ve completed the program, there is an alumni support group. “We practice a high level of customer ser vice to our patients, families and referral sources.” n

WEST CHESTER â&#x2013; LIBERTY TOWNSHIPS

CONNECTIONS 2014-2015 COMMUNITY & BUSINESS GUIDE

BOOM TOWNS:

West Chester and Liberty Townships Keep their Economies Booming

- MetroParks of Butler County - Complete Community Marketplace Guide

Supplement to:

Table of Contents Connecting PEOPLE & POSSIBILITIES in West Chester, Liberty & the I-75 Growth Corridor

Welcome to the 2014-2015 Connections Magazine. The West Chester ■ Liberty Chamber Alliance serves West Chester and Liberty Townships, the I-75 Growth Corridor and the region. Our location between Cincinnati and Dayton places us strategically in southwest Ohio’s business epicenter. Quickly becoming a regional destination, West Chester and Liberty Townships are located less than two hours from Columbus, Lexington, Louisville and Indianapolis. Connections is your one source for information on: what’s hot in economic development; the most extensive and competitive health care sector in the country; award winning schools and continuous learning institutions; our many parks and family recreation areas; what’s new in shopping and restaurants; and our attractive retirement living. West Chester and Liberty have a combined population of more than 100,000 people, showcase 3,000 plus businesses and have quickly become the location of choice for both families and companies. This hub of growth and activity plays a key role in our expanding region which is made up of more than 3 million people, making it the 15th largest Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) in the United States and the largest MSA in Ohio. The West Chester ■ Liberty Chamber Alliance’s growth and development runs parallel to the communities we serve. In fact, our award-winning Chamber continues to connect people with possibilities through our collaborative effort with Cincy Magazine. We are proud to again partner with Cincy for our 10th year. Connections is your first important step in helping you make key business connections along the I-75 Growth Corridor. The second important step is to join our Chamber, if you haven’t already. Please join us in supporting all that our growing and vibrant communities have to offer. West Chester and Liberty Townships are open for business and ready to serve your needs. Sincerely, Joseph A. Hinson, IOM President & CEO jahinson@thechamberalliance.com TheChamberAlliance.com

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2 Welcome 3 Chamber Profile 4 Events 6 Economic Development 10 Health 12 Parks & Recreation 14 Thank you 15 Finance/Estate Planning

MARKETPLACE GUIDE 16 Services/Directory 17 Marketplace Guide 28 Membership Index

Locally & Family Owned Publisher & President Eric Harmon Custom Editor Julie Bethlenfalvy Associate Editor Danny Restivo Alison Miuccio Business Editor Mike Boyer Publication Designer Keith Ohmer Copy Editor Belinda Cai Circulation /Marketing Coordinator Lindsey Gooch Production Designer Keith Ohmer Advertising Manager Kristine McDonough Events Coordinator Jenna Toon Account Executives Dave Ball Brad Hoicowitz Roni Roach Amy Roberston 30 Garfield Place, Suite 440 Cincinnati, OH 45202 cincymagazine.com Information@cincymagazine.com (513) 421-2533 Free subscription inquiries: (800) 210-7239 West Chester ▪ Liberty Chamber Alliance 8922 Beckett Road West Chester, OH 45069 Phone: (513) 777-3600 Info@TheChamberAlliance.com TheChamberAlliance.com T h e C h a m b e rA l l i a n c e . c o m

CHAMBER PROFILE

HIGHLIGHTED PROGRAMS The West Chester ■ Liberty Chamber Alliance strives to be a vital resource for members from West Chester and Liberty Townships, and the I-75 Growth Corridor from Northern Kentucky to Dayton. Representing the interests of more than 700 member businesses, our mission is to establish West Chester and Liberty Townships as the region’s business epicenter. We serve our membership and our community through Chambernomics, educational forums, government advocacy, networking events and so much more. Each month, The Chamber Alliance hosts many different events giving our members and nonmembers choices on when and where to network. Some examples: Monthly Member Luncheon. Held the second Tuesday of each month at different locations in West Chester & Liberty Townships, the Luncheons are a great place to network and hear a great speaker. Members and non-members invited. Leadership 21. This program is designed to improve the quantity, quality and effectiveness of leadership along the I-75 Growth Corridor and within the communities of West Chester and Liberty

Townships. Through an application process area leaders are selected to participate in a program of community education and leadership training. Leadership 21 calls upon business owners and managers, government and school leaders and citizen volunteers to study in-depth, various aspects of our region.

Leadership 21 WEST CHESTER LIBERTY CHAMBER ALLIANCE ■

The 14th class of Leadership 21 begins in September 2014 and runs through May 2015 with graduation in September 2015. The nine monthly, fullday sessions allow participants to explore issues such as education, history, government, criminal justice, communications and economic development, just to name a few. An entire day is spent on each topic and includes visits to key locations, such as the county jail, local police department, schools, food pantries, hospitals and other businesses to give a clear picture of the com-

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munity in which they live and do business. Women 4 Women. A group where women come together for networking and discussions that address today’s pertinent topics on the first Friday of each month. Members and non-members invited. Sixty-Second Connect. This members-only networking event at the Chamber occurs on the fourth Tuesday of each month ending at 1 p.m. Business After Hours. Held at different member locations on a different Wednesday each month, network with other professionals from 4-6 p.m. in a relaxed setting. ■ For a complete listing of all of our events, programs, numerous workshops and seminars each month, please visit TheChamberAlliance. com or click on the QR code to download our mobile app to your iPhone, iPad or Android.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Pinterest.

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Save The Date Chamber Signature Events 2014 The Everest Award August 15, 6 p.m.

nual Golf Classic at Four Bridges Country Club in Liberty Township. This event draws 144 golfers.

Join The Chamber Alliance in honoring Leaders & Legends on the I-75 Growth Corridor at the 3rd Annual event. The honorees are Dick Alderson of Alderson Properties, Wilbur Cohen of Cohen USA Recycling and Jim Day of Esther Price Candies. The Everest Award will be held at the Cincinnati Marriott North at Union Center in West Chester.

Women of Excellence Awards Dinner & Gala November 21, 6 p.m.

Golf Classic September 15, 10:30 a.m. Play golf, win prizes and enjoy food and beverages at The Chamber Alliance’s an-

At this special event, The Chamber Alliance pays tribute to 10 very special women in the Tristate who enhance business, education and culture through their careers or volunteer work. This year’s speaker will be Jo Ann Davidson, the first and only female Speaker of the House for Ohio. The event takes place at the Cincinnati Marriott North at Union Center in West Chester.

2013 Women of Excellence

FAMILY FEUDS ENCOURAGED.

The Tri-State’s newest and most exciting entertainment center! The WEB features Laser Web Laser Tag, Inside Track Go-Karts, Jurassic Par Blacklight Golf, and Hang Ten Mini-Bowling, as well as an extensive arcade and prize center. And try Winner’s Cafe for some awesome eats!

513-860-2882 | www.FunAtTheWeb.com 7172 Cincinnati-Dayton Rd. West Chester, OH 45069 2012 Golf Classic

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EVENTS 2015 Annual Celebration March 6, 6 p.m. Celebrate The Chamber Alliance’s accomplishments and honor those who have made significant contributions to business and our community in 2014. The event takes place at the Cincinnati Marriott North at Union Center in West Chester.

For more information about any of the West Chester ■ Liberty Chamber Alliance events and programs, please visit thechamberalliance. com or download our Chamber App.

Regional Business Expo May 12, 1-5pm This is the largest business-to-business expo on the I-75 Growth Corridor with more than 125 booths. Just before the Expo, the Luncheon at 11 a.m. will feature “A Taste of West Chester/Liberty” and an engaging keynote speaker. Expected attendance at the Expo is more than 1,200 and will take place at Skatetown USA in West Chester. ■

2014 Annual Celebration

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Living Options

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ECONOMIC ATTRACTION West Chester and Liberty Townships’ position along the I-75 Growth Corridor continues to attract development By Danny Restivo

nterstate 75 slices through the West Chester and Liberty townships and provides the surrounding areas with budding opportunities for growth.

The economic development portion of Comprehensive Vision Plan 2013, Liberty Township’s long-term growth plan, has created a blueprint for promising expansion. “This campaign encourages more development in the

commercial corridors,” says Caroline McKinney, Liberty Township’s director of economic development. Vision Plan 2013 is an update to the township’s 2006 comprehensive plan. The 2006 plan called for the completion of the Liberty Way interchange, which opened along I-75 in 2009. The exit opened up 600 acres for commercial development in Liberty and portions of West Chester.

Liberty Center in Liberty Township will be a regional draw and is expected to open in 2015.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Steiner + Associates joined with Bucksbaum Retail Properties to develop Liberty Center, which will encompass 1.1 million square feet including a new AC Hotel by Marriott and will have Dillard’s and CinéBistro as the anchors. “It’s a great project and a wonderful amenity for our residents and it will attract visitors,” says McKinney. “It will be a regional draw.” West Chester Township is getting a

new destination location as well. Bass Pro Shops is relocating to the Streets of West Chester with groundbreaking scheduled in 2015. “It’s diagonal down the road from IKEA and will bring people to the area,” says Mike Juengling, economic development director for West Chester Township. The Streets of West Chester is also poised for development of Phase II with an additional 22 acres.

Additional projects in West Chester’s hopper include three new hotels—Hilton Garden Inn, Homewood Suites, Holiday Inn—and a brand new Class A office building, Union Centre Office Park II. The $5 million, 48,000-squarefoot building is expected to be completed October 2014 and will be located near the intersection of West Chester Road and Union Centre Boulevard. “Our occupancy for Class A office space is right around 98 percent,” says Juengling. “A new Class A space is going to be really helpful.” West Chester’s prime location and friendly business environment attracts companies from across the world to move along the I-75 Growth Corridor. OCTAL, a plastics manufacturer from Oman, is opening a 130,700-squarefoot space in Duke Realty Corporation’s World Park off International Boulevard. Looking to locate here by the fall, OCTAL expects to create 52 jobs. The economic potential also has Liberty Township eyeing future projects that take the growing population into account. Liberty’s future objectives include another interchange at I-75 near Millikin Road, which could open the area to further development. West Chester is more built out than Liberty Township, but what West Chester lacks in new office space, it gains in other areas. “Infrastructure is a major plus which brings companies here. We have great schools, great roads and great amenities. That’s why people want to locate here,” says Juengling. “A lot of the growth that we’re seeing is coming from existing businesses. We want to nurture those relationships with those businesses so they can grow here in the township.” ■

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BOOM TOWNS In West Chester and Liberty Townships, new investments and continuing developments make the area a prime place to live and work By Danny Restivo

t’s been six years since the economic downturn forced many area companies to reevaluate budgets and trim staff.

The approach avoids exposing healthy tissue to radiation and significantly reduces the risks for long-term complications, a huge benefit when treating children.

This is now a fleeting memory throughout the West Chester-Liberty area as businesses and investors have dropped large sums of money into the region’s future.

Currently, there are only 11 proton therapy centers operating in the United States. The Liberty campus will house two treatment facilities, with potential to add a third in the future. Construction of the new facility began at the end of 2013 and is expected to take up to three years.

With access to highways and plenty of viable land, Butler County has received a fresh set of investments and developments in health care, education and housing that will positively shape the area’s economic future.

Headway on the Health-care Highway The economic boon from a nine-figure investment ripples far throughout any region.

In addition to the proton therapy center, Cincinnati Children’s will add a fourth floor to its existing three-story structure. The expansion will include 30 new inpatient beds receiving proton and other therapies, as well as a full-service cafeteria, a blood bank and an expanded pharmacy. Completion of the $44 million project is expected in the summer of 2015.

Bolstering Butler Tech The average income for a bioscience specialist in Ohio, as of 2011, is more than $75,000. It’s a sector that offers great prospects for a region eyeing more growth opportunities. Butler Tech, one of Ohio’s largest career and technical schools, has announced a long-term goal of expanding its campus by 50,000 square feet throughout a twophase project. The first phase is scheduled to open in August 2015, of which 32,000 square feet will be allocated to bioscience and health programs for students in 11th and 12th grades. Considering where the most recent investments have occurred, the new science center will put students on an upstanding trajectory for future employment. “The position here on Interstate 75 puts us in the middle of a number of different hospitals and health-related fields,” says Bill Miller, Butler Tech superintendent. The other 18,000 square feet will house adult education programs and new offices for the West Chest ■ Liberty Chamber Alliance. With secondary education,

It’s especially beneficial when the investor is a nationwide leader in pediatric care. In September 2013, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital announced plans to build a $118 million proton therapy center at its Liberty Township Campus. “We have a lot of room at Liberty to expand our operations,” says Terry Loftus, senior director of public relations at Cincinnati Children’s. “There is certainly a growing population in that area that we need to accommodate.” The 80,000-square-foot facility will use an innovative form of radiation that delivers a highly focused beam to a cancerous tumor with remarkable precision.

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A rendering of Cincinnati Children’s proton therapy center

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

A rendering of Butler Tech’s new facility adult education and business networking under one roof, Miller expects to create a well-trained workforce prepped for a sweeping job market. “Having all three of those components come together, we would be preparing students to directly move in to the job market to become highly valued employees,” says Miller. Joe Hinson, president and CEO of the West Chester ■ Liberty Chamber Allliance, says the new training facility has an excellent chance of becoming a game changer for the region. “This type of training facility enhances our current

business climate because of its perceived economic impact to our area and the I-75 Growth Corridor,” says Hinson. “Not only can it provide support for the current workforce development needs and talent recruitment, it could attract additional businesses and employee talent from various bioscience disciplines all over the world.

Suburban Excursion The infusion of high paying jobs has created a market for residential homes. Carriage Hill, a premier housing development located off state Route 747 in Liberty Township, features a variety of upscale homes. Ranging from $450,000 to $2.2 million, the development houses 250 homesites on a 400-acre residential community with pristine beauty.

eas that residents can enjoy,” says Randy Terry, Carriage Hill’s developer. “The unique character of Carriage Hill begins with the natural beauty of the land and is enhanced with the lakes, streams and parks.” From July 12-27, Carriage Hill will open the doors to 10 luxurious homes during Homearama 2014. Produced by the Home Builders Association of Greater Cincinnati, Homearama attracts thousands of attendees interested in seeing the latest in luxury living. It’s the second year Carriage Hill has been awarded the event by the Cincinnati HBA and Terry is excited about the prospects. “As a developer, it’s a great opportunity to share and provide the experience of the Carriage Hill community and the Greater Liberty-West Chester area,” says Terry. ■

“The community has about 90 acres of open space for various activities, including two club houses and natural open ar-

Check out the Arts, Culture & Entertainment Calendar of Events on

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WELL-BEING and the

W O R K P L AC E UC Health West Chester Hospital and Mercy Health-Fairfield executives give insight on how to keep employees happy, healthy and fit. By Julie Bethlenfalvy

ealth care is evolving from reactionary care to proactive care, which is changing the way employers handle the health needs of their employees. “Employers are very concerned about the rising costs of health care,” says Tom Urban, market leader and president of Mercy Health-Fairfield. “We can help them reduce the cost of health care by keeping [employees] healthier and out of the hospital.” A starting point, Urban suggests, is to

give employees an annual health assessment. It includes multiple tests, such as blood pressure and cholesterol tests, that can provide a baseline as to where employees should focus, including nutrition, exercise or stress management. “Based on the results, there are a myriad of resources based on what they need: one-on-one wellness coaching, dieticians,” adds Urban. “A healthier employee feels better about themselves.” Mercy Health-Fairfield talks the talk and walks the walk. The hospital, which

employs 1,400 in Fairfield alone, has free-fruit Fridays, provides healthy selections in its vending machines and has an expanded salad bar in the cafeteria. Employees also have a free membership to the on-campus HealthPlex exercise facility. “Some sort of workout facility, like our HealthPlex, is a good thing to have. It’s not a health club; it’s a place where people can go to get in shape and not feel self-conscious,” adds Urban. In addition to having a health assesswww.bc-unitedway.org

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AND INSPIRED HOPE FOR A

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HEALTH ment, employee education is also important. UC Health West Chester Hospital provides community health outreach services, such as health screenings, CPR training and seminars. The UC Health Mobile Diagnostics Van can also come to your workplace and it offers more than just mammograms: it has ultrasound equipment that can help diagnose a number of issues. “Most of what we do is based on community education, and with specific employers we try and meet their needs,” says Ron Rohlfing, vice president of hospital operations of West Chester Hospital. “As health care continues to evolve, we’ll see more of that. Employers have a stake in that to make employees more productive.” Identifying your employees’ key health issues is a good place to start, suggests Rohlfing. “Wear a pedometer, have certain lab

work done, [and] encourage people to have a yearly visit with their doctor. Here at UC Health, we’ve started a program in the last couple of years to set up a plan for wellness. Most large companies are doing this now,” he says. Both Rohlfing and Urban say diabetes is a problem in this community, with roughly 12 percent having some form of the disease. Urban suggests providing a plan that incentivizes your employees to manage diabetes. “All that comes with a cost if not managed,” he says.

[stress], it still translates into the workplace. To say it isn’t going to affect the workplace isn’t practical. As an employer, Rohlfing suggests having access to an employee assistance program, and for individuals, you should have someone to confide in. Ways to handle the pressure can include taking deep breaths, counseling or just spending 60 seconds to reconnect.

“I think employers who can help their CINCY Magazine employees will have an advantage,” says Directory AdRohlfing. Beyond physical health, mental well2014 Urban adds: “It’s exciting to be creat-

ness is also important. With the increasing workloads not in proportion to the size of most staffs, more employers are recognizing the importance of mental Quartertopage health. “It’s critically important have mechanisms in the workplace to deal with stress,” says Rohlfing. “Employers need to recognize whether it’s external

ing a system that’s better for us and our patients.” ■

Joint with Chamber Alliance of West Chester For more information about health care and w wellness, contact 3.625” x 4.875” h Beckett Springs Hospital and the Atrium Medical Center.

Connect at a MetroPark! Connect at a MetroPark! · Paddle · Row · Walk · Bike · Fish · Play

Undergraduate Courses Professional MBA Program Graduate Courses for Educators Corporate Training & Meeting Facilities 7847 VOA Park Drive Corner of VOA Park Drive & Cox Road West Chester, Ohio 45069 (513) 895-8862 • MiamiOH.edu/VOALC VOALC@MiamiOH.edu

www.YourMetroParks.net 513.867.5835 T h e C h a m b e rA l l i a n c e . c o m

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MetroPark Developments By Belinda Cai

etroParks of Butler County strives to provide an excellent park system that increases the community’s quality of life through conservation, education and recreation. With its ten parks and numerous recreational activities, there has always been plenty to do at MetroParks. Now, with all of the new developments, there will be even more in store for the future. “MetroParks is thrilled to have the opportunity to reach more park customers [than ever before] in creative ways by partnerships and collaborations,” says Kelly Barkley, senior manager of community relations for MetroParks. “MetroParks has placed significance during 2014 regarding reaching into communities across Butler County and determining how best to reach the largest number of park customers.” At Voice of America MetroPark, a popular local hotspot, preparation is still underway for the anticipated opening of the Voice of America Park Athletic Complex in fall 2014. “Voice of America Park Athletic Field Complex is designed as a sports tournament facility with a multistate draw,” says Barkley. “It is positioned to successfully attract tournament activities from multiple states, especially Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. Once complete, the entire Athletic Complex has the potential to generate

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PARKS & RECREATION

$26 million in annual economic impact for Butler County.” Barkley breaks its development down into three phases. She explains that Phase I development has already occurred with the construction of the 22 multipurpose turf athletic fields at VOA. They were planted in fall 2012 and have

been maturing since. “Phase I will be playable in the fall 2014,” says Barkley. “Fields can be reserved as of April 1, 2014.” Phase II would be the addition of a field house for the fields and sponsorships are being entertained to accomplish this phase. Phase III includes the addition of synthetic turf for the tournament fields. ” “Phase III has recently received a kick-start just last week with the $1 million included in the Ohio State capital [funds],” Barkley states. “Current costs to install the fields will determine the number to be installed.” VOA also has an amphitheatre area under way. It will be used for outdoor performances during the summer. Finally, VOA has its 5th Annual Crazy Cardboard Regatta coming up on July 19. Attendees can race unique boats that they build from cardboard across the lake. It’s free to watch the race and there will be prizes, vendors and food. Barkley goes on to explain that additional changes have sprung from all directions. For example, MetroParks is beginning its second season managing a community garden in the City of Middletown next to the Robert “Sunny” Hill Jr. Community Center. And to the west, during 2013, the Millrace Preserve Area was added to Four Mile Creek MetroPark just outside of Oxford to maintain the land for future generations. Expanding a bit south and slightly west in late 2013, MetroParks obtained an additional parcel of property at 1976 Timberman Road, which is part of the Timberman Ridge Area of Forest Run MetroPark. According to Barkley, this parcel is significant in that it provides safe public access to Timberman Ridge Property and includes a beautiful

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home that will serve as the Forest Run MetroPark Welcome Center. Master Enhancement Planning Sessions were also held during 2013 to serve park customers for Rentschler Forest MetroPark and Chrisholm MetroPark, incorporating community members’ ideas about what they would like to see happen at the parks. Barkley notes that in addition to all of the rapid developments seen at the parks, there is another special change; the “Friends Of MetroParks” was incorporated as a nonprofit in the State of Ohio in June of 2013. Private citizens in the group came together to support MetroParks last year. They assisted with sponsoring programs and activities that promote the use of all of the parks; assisting in raising funds, securing donations and working with grants; increasing public awareness of MetroParks of Butler County facilities; and identifying and assisting in implementing improvements to all of the parks. They also supported volunteerism in the parks. “This passionate, dedicated group of citizens deserve [a] “kudos” for stepping forward and sacrificing their time to make a lasting impact to support MetroParks’ mission,” says Barkley. Their contributions have helped to push along the new developments and to keep park customers entertained, from camping trips to concerts. Barkley reminds guests, “As always, MetroParks has a full range of programs and activities for park customers to enjoy.” ■

These programs can be found on yourmetroparks.net under “Calendar of Events.”

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THANK YOU

The West Chester ■ Liberty Chamber Alliance would like to say THANKS to our 2014 Sustaining Sponsors: DIAMOND: Butler Tech; Mercy Health-Fairfield Hospital; UC Health - West Chester Hospital PLATINUM: HORAN GOLD: West Chester Township SUPER SILVER: Atrium Medical Center; Clark Schaefer Hackett; Cox Media Group Ohio; Graydon Head; Kemba Credit Union; Lakota Local Schools; Thompson Hine LLP SILVER: AstraZeneca; Children’s Hospital-Liberty Campus; Fifth Third Bank; First Financial Bank; Liberty Township; Taco Bell/Uno Chicago Grill SUPER BRONZE: Carriage Hill; Four Bridges Country Club; McGill Smith Punshon; Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine; Park National Bank; RiskSource Clark-Theders;

UnitedHealthcare

BRONZE: Alternative Computer Technology, Inc.; Beckett Springs Hospital; Chaco Credit Union; Cintas Document Management; Dayton Dragons; Duke Realty; Emery Federal Credit Union; Flagel Huber Flagel; Libertytown, LLC; Northridge Realty; North Side Bank & Trust Company; Planes Companies; PNC BANK; Schumacher Dugan Construction, Inc.; SCORE; Sebaly Shillito + Dyer; US Bank

The Chamber Alliance on the go:

Scan this QR Code to visit the West Chester ■ Liberty Chamber Alliance’s mobile site.

Find your new favorite restaurant and sign up for your complimentary subscription to Cincy Magazine at

cincymagazine.com

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FINANCIAL & ESTATE PLANNING

Planning for Your Financial Future By Julie Bethlenfalvy “You don’t have to be someone with lots of money to have an estate plan or will,” says Gracanin. “There’s a misconception that it’s only for people with high net worth. Everyone should have a will and name an executor to administer his or her estate, which includes collecting assets, paying debts and transferring property to beneficiaries, whether you’re a business owner or not.” According to Rick Shively, a local selfemployed financial planner, most people wouldn’t be able to give a specific number they would need to retire but typically know what they want to do. “Financial decisions ultimately are to make your life goals come true,” says Shively. “Most people are interested in making sure they have a comfortable retirement, some want to travel or be able to help their children get through college. For businesses, it’s many of the same things.”

ost people don’t have a crystal ball to gaze into the future to see what they’ll need for retirement or what actions they’ll need to take if something happens to them or their business. But that’s where a financial advisor and an estate planner can help. With the rise of economic development in Butler County, more people will be looking to secure their financial futures.

“Financial planning, to some extent, and estate planning goes together. We’ll work with someone’s financial advisor so all parts fit together,” says Bianca Gracanin, associate of estate planning and administration at Graydon Head, which is a member of the West Chester ■ Liberty Chamber Allliance.

Once a business’ or individual’s financial goals are determined, figuring out the best way to protect those assets and dreams can be complicated, considering all the parties that need to be involved, particularly for businesses. “Businesses should have specific professional support: legal, accountants and financial planners,” says Shively. “A lawyer is going to help develop a set of documents for ‘what happens if?’ ” These documents may include a partnership agreement, buy/sell agreement, succession documents, a first right of refusal for sales, and an operating plan. One of the most important business considerations in estate and financial planning is having a succession plan in place. “What happens when a business owner or partner dies? What happens to that person’s interest on the business?” Gracanin asks. “If it’s in writing, then the business can continue to operate more smoothly.”

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In West Chester, shares Shively, a couple who owned a farm passed away and the property was passed to the next generation. But in Ohio there was a lot of inheritance tax. “The federal and state governments came in and said you owe us this big chunk of money. There wasn’t enough cash in the farm to be able to satisfy that,” says Shively. “They had to sell off part of the farm to pay the inheritance. That was a legacy and part of the legacy was given to the government.” For individuals, having an executor is the most important tool in your estate planning toolbox. “If you have an executor named, it makes things go much smoother so that everybody knows that those are your wishes,” says Gracanin. Businesses and individuals can also use other tools to secure their financial future. For example, individuals can obtain life insurance, 401K plans, IRAs, and a will. A company can provide a profit sharing plan, a durable general power of attorney (someone to manage your financial affairs if you were unable to pay your bills). “For everybody, it’s better than leaving it to the law. Having a will that names an executor avoids disagreement among interested parties about who should administer your estate,” Gracanin says. “The same thing applies to avoiding administrative delays, conflict among those who are interested in the estate, and to keep the business running smoothly.” Shively also suggests finding someone you can sit down and talk to. “You have to be comfortable: each party should know the expectations,” adds Shively. “And as needs change, so should your plan. Change will happen.” ■

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MERCY HEALTH – FAIRFIELD HOSPITAL

2014

One of the best at making you better. For the fourth time, Truven Health Analytics has ranked Fairfield Hospital among the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals, setting the standard for high-quality compassionate care and superior results. Combined, Mercy Health hospitals have been ranked an unprecedented 21 times, more than any other health system in the region. For more information, call 513-981-2222 or visit e-mercy.com.

RANKED “100 TOP HOSPITALS” FOR THE 4TH TIME

Fairfield Hospital

ED UC ATI O N

Manufacturing the Future WARREN COUNTY CAREER CENTER INTRODUCES AN ADVANCED MANUFACTURING LABORATORY TO PREPARE STUDENTS FOR THE WORKFORCE By Danny Restivo

he manufacturing sector is an evolving industry that requires companies to maintain a competitive workforce skilled in the latest technology. “That’s where the jobs are, that’s what the industry needs and that’s who they’re going to hire,” says Dave Guinn, an advanced manufacturing technology coordinator at Warren County Career Center. After consulting with several area manufacturers and trade companies, the school has revamped its program to meet industry standards for the 2014-2015 school year. With the help of federal grants, the career center has invested roughly $400,000 in an advanced manufacturing lab for its high school and adult students. The lab will include computer-operated hydraulic systems, gears, lathes, robotics equipment and other hi-tech equipment. “Some people look at manufacturing as just a dirty factory job, but it’s more like a laboratory setting,” says Guinn. With the insight from local companies like ADVICS Manufacturing Ohio, Inc., Furco Tech Corporation and several other leading area manufacturers, the career center has created a program that gets a high percentage of students hired after graduation. “They’re career-ready when they leave here, but they also have the skills and knowledge to further their education,” says Maggie Hess, superintendent at Warren County Career Center. With job placement rates at 90 percent, graduates can expect to earn $18 to $22 an hour following their certification. The need for skilled manufacturers won’t diminish anytime soon either. According to a 2011 study by the Manufacturing Institute, there are about 600,000 manufacturing positions unfilled throughout the United

The Warren County Career Center has invested roughly $400,000 in an advanced manufacturing lab for its students. States. As older tradesman exit the workforce, the need for skilled technicians will remain. “Folks are going to retire and there are going to be some really great opportunities to earn a livable wage,” says Hess. “They’re also going to have opportunities to further their careers because all those programs connect with community colleges.” Along with skilled manufacturing, the lab will also offer technology that supports students studying to be technicians in heating, ventilation and air conditioning, or AWS-certified in welding. “Right now, we can’t meet the employer’s demands,” says Guinn, who’s been at the career center for nine years. He previously taught fire science be-

fore making the transition to advanced manufacturing. It’s a field with which he’s well-acquainted. For 30 years, Guinn was a maintenance technician at General Motors in Dayton where learning the latest in machinery and technology was par for the course. He expects his students to carry the same mentality into the workforce. “Everything new that came around, we had to learn,” says Guinn. “Whatever industry you’re in, you have to be wellschooled in technology as it’s constantly changing.” For more information about advanced manufacturing classes, contact the Warren County Career Center at 513-932-5677, or visit mywccc.org. n S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 : : B E S T O F T H E N O RT H

H E A LTH C A R E

St. Raphael’s Call to Service By Danny Restivo

he Affordable Care Act has expanded health insurance to 44 million Americans. It’s a positive for the underserved population but gaps in health care remain. “We’re committed to finding and assisting where the greatest need is,” says Tami Adams, medical outreach nurse manager for St. Raphael. “We’re trying to figure out where the gaps are and make sure people aren’t falling through.” At St. Raphael, a social services agency of Mercy Health, health-care inclusion hasn’t silenced a call for volunteers. Whether patients haven’t signed up for insurance yet, are unable to afford a procedure or have fallen through the cracks, St. Raphael remains committed to helping the underserved population in Butler County. The Hamilton-based facility is rallying medical professionals to volunteer their time and narrow the disparity in care among Butler County’s at-risk population.

T he out reac h service is looking for hea lt h-c a re pract it ioners to serve the community in a variety of capacities, including pharmacy services, physician’s assistance, family medicine, nursing, clerical work and more. “If someone feels the need to explore, we have St. Raphael, a social services agency of Mercy Health, a n a r ray of op- is looking for health-care practitioners. portunities that we can connect them with,” says Adams. percent of the federal poverty level. For 71 years, St. Raphael has assisted St. Raphael had 15 medical volunteers in medically underserved residents. The 2013 and looks to double that number in 2014. center now helps individuals and families The medical outreach agency offered 829 with an annual income at or below 200 medical appointments for individuals who

arren

County Career Center

Earn industry certifications required by employers Earn college credit toward a degree in your field Prepare for a career that is in demand NOW

“Your choice for a future of opportunities”

Explore your options at mywccc.org

WCCC offers high quality workforce programs for high school and adult students in a wide variety of fields, including health care, information technology, construction, welding, agricultural, public safety, transportation, industrial, engineering, computers, education, cosmetology, culinary, arts/communication. 3525 N. Rt. 48 • Lebanon, Ohio 45036 • High School: 513-932-5677 • Adult Education: 513-932-8145 36

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At St. Raphael’s food pantry, case managers help their eligible clients obtain food and household necessities. were low income and uninsured last year. Even with expanded coverage, St. Raphael still treats patients waiting for their

insurance to kick-in or those who are unable to finance insurance. If patients have signed up, processing health-care

paperwork can take up to four months, which is especially troublesome for people in dire need of medication. Fortunately, St. Raphael, with support from the Butler County United Way, has a program that helps fill prescriptions. After intake and eligibility is met, the prescription drug program enables qualified clients to receive prescriptions without forgoing monthly rent, grocery visits or utility bills. St. Raphael works with St. Vincent DePaul, which helps provide financial assistance for individuals purchasing medication at local pharmacies. In addition to the pharmaceutical assistance, St. Raphael’s food pantry will continue to feed hungry families and individuals. Assisted by a case manager, clients can walk through the food pantry and obtain groceries, personal hygiene items and basic household necessities. More than 2,000 families benefit from this program each year. “We’re a lot of things to a lot of people,” says Adams. “We try not to just focus on one aspect of the people we help.” n

Make this a Summer well spent! Fairfield Parks & Recreation

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES Blues & BBQ

Huffman Park, Series starts May 10

Featuring great local musicians along with the smells and tastes of Pit to Plate BBQ.

Groovin’ on the Green

Chat with other Best of the North fans, post pictures, find out about giveaways & events and keep in touch with others who love the beauty, the adventure and the fun of Northern Cincinnati.

Village Green, Series starts May 22

Presented by

Bring your blanket or lawn chairs every Thursday evening and enjoy this summer long series. Full schedule at www.Fairfield-City.org/Green.

Swingin’ on the Green

Village Green, Series starts June 16 Presented by

Featuring area bands, Swingin’ on the Green focuses on the sounds of Jazz and Swing.

Complete schedules available at You can find us on Facebook under Best of the North

Fairfield-City.org/Parks | 867-5348

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SCEN E

Taste of Northern Cincinnati

t the 5th annual Taste of Northern Cincinnati, more than 1,000 guests dined on delicious eats from 30 local favorites that served up generous portions of their best dishes. Attendees voted for their favorite victuals in five categories: best appetizer, best soup/salad, best entrée, best dessert and people’s choice. Hosted by the Sharonville Chamber of Commerce, the event was enjoyed by foodies, families and friends on Feb. 16 at the Sharonville Convention Center. 1 At Your Service Catering & Event Planning accepts their award for Best Appetizer for their Italian Kabobs, Tricolor Cheese Tortellini with Roasted Vegetables, and AYS Signature Maple Brown Sugar Candied Bacon. Left to right: At Your Service team members and West Chester residents Tammy Mc Cauley, Wanda Olinger, Jennifer MacLean, and Wendy Clouser (in gold shirt), chair of the Taste of Northern Cincinnati.

2 Ovations Food Service won Best Soup/ Salad for the Button Mushroom Port Wine Soup. Left to right: Cathy Englund, general manager; Brad Muchnicki, chef; and Wendy Clouser. 3 The Best Entrée was the Hickory Smoked Pork Shoulder with Mango Cilantro Relish paired with a Moo-Oink Meatball by Velvet Smoke BBQ. Left to right: Matt Schneider, Abbie Schneider, Queron Anderson, and Andi Schneider. 4 Dave and Julie Zenni of Libby’s Gourmet Desserts accept the Best Dessert award for a variety of desserts. 5 Delicious desserts from the Radisson Hotel on Chester Road. 6 Ovations Food Service cooking the meat for the Pork Belly Taco. 7 Guests enjoying their tastings.

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