TRAIL BLAZERS Locals give the inside scoop on their favorites in Butler County.

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BLAZERS

Dutchess Nation Road Horse Rental, Oxford

MMeet Dutchess, an 18-year-old Spotted Draft Horse. Not only stunning, but also a trained horse for trail rides at Nation Road Horse Rental in Oxford. Along with offering four different trail rides for guests, Dutchess helps pull wagons and equipment on this family-owned farm. She has been with Nation Road since 2018, where owner Judy Sheard renamed her, wanting to give her a regal title. “Dutchess is a sweet mare with loving eyes. To watch her run is like poetry in motion,” Judy says. While some of the horses on the farm are rescues and others are not, they’re each chosen based on their disposition and character. Nation Road currently has 21 horses on their farm, ranging in size to accommodate both youth and adult riders. After a day on the trails, riders can explore Oxford at local favorites like Bagel & Deli or Spring Street Treats.

Hear from the locals who call Butler County home as they share their favorite places to enjoy, explore, and feel inspired by.

Brian, Tracy, & Cassidy Teetzen, & Jordan Coix The Cracked Pot Coffee & Crepes, Middletown

W . When the Teetzen family moved to Middletown about three years ago, they began their lifelong aspiration of opening their own crepe and coffee shop. The Cracked Pot opened in 2022, offering a variety of both savory and sweet crepes, as well as handcrafted lattes. Styled after a traditional breakfast hash, The Last Breakfast is one of their top-sellers, but everyone has their personal favorite. Cassidy also works with local artists and the Middletown Pendleton Art Studios to sell locally made sculptures, jewelry, and art at the restaurant. Coming into a new community, Tracy says Middletown has been welcoming and supportive from the start.

Shehzad & Ambreen Saeed Residents, Liberty Township

AAs residents of Liberty Township for more than six years, Shehzad and Ambreen Saeed say they love living here for many reasons; good shopping, outdoor parks, great food, and most importantly, a sense of community. When the couple considered moving to Ohio in 2010, the Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati (located in West Chester) played a major part in their decision to live in Butler County. “It truly is an anchor institution for the Muslim community here in the area,” Shehzad says. “We appreciate the community’s openminded approach, welcoming spirit, educational programs, and the dedication of leaders and volunteers.” Some of their favorite activities include a meal from Cozy’s Cafe and Pub, shopping at Jungle Jim’s International Market, walking around VOA MetroPark, or spending an evening at Liberty Center. “We’ve caught a lot of movies at Liberty Center’s CMX CinéBistro as a family.”

OOwning a record shop was never in the plan, but Eric DePrato always knew he wanted to be an entrepreneur. It was his two sons, Jack (21) and Mitch (17), that proposed the idea of opening a vinyl shop for music lovers and musicians like them. The family of three thank music for comforting and bonding them after the sons’ mother’s passing. In a short time, Three Feather Records (TFR) has been a growing success where customers can shop a variety of both new and vintage records, audio equipment, guitars, T-shirts, and local art. The shop also hosts live shows; it was important to the DePratos to be able to help highlight local bands and musicians. “Everyone has to start somewhere, and it’s just awesome to watch such talented people do their thing,” Eric says. The DePratos hope for TFR to become a local hangout in Fairfield while enjoying other favorite spots like The Toy Department, Namaste Curry House, and Jungle Jim’s International Market.

Eric, Jack, & Mitch DePrato

Three Feather Records, Fairfield

Carla Chalkley, Steve Ibrahim, & Patty Sabino Since 2008, Aladdin’s Eatery in West Chester has taken pride in serving quality nutritious and delicious Lebanese-American food. First-generation Americans, Carla S

Aladdin’s Eatery Chalkley and Steve Ibrahim, became business partners with Patty Sabino to open up the family-owned restaurant, which also began a wonderful friendship. The three say everyone at their restaurant, including their customers, are truly one big family. “It’s in our [Lebanese] culture to treat everyone like family when they come into our home,” Steve says. Aladdin’s dishes are not only fresh, but also perfect for those with dietary restrictions because everything is made-to-order and completely customizable. The Flavor Savor Special is a great option for first-timers who want to try a bit of everything, or a staff favorite is the Aladdin’s Chicken Pitza — “Add cheddar, banana peppers, and fried onions to it!” Carla recommends. The three friends all live in the area and appreciate the fresh food from other local spots like Northstar Café and Jag’s Steak & Seafood. “Butler County people are just kind,” Patty says. “Our community is so welcoming, friendly, and diverse.”

Allyson Moore Chubby Bunny Bakery, Hamilton

AAllyson Moore was not always the Baker Bunny. Although she always loved to bake, she never thought she would do it for a living until she was suffering from multiple health issues and discovered she has a long list of allergies. Allyson began her journey to find new ways to make meals that she enjoyed, which eventually led to opening Chubby Bunny Bakery in Hamilton. All of her goods are vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free. “The most rewarding part is when parents bring in their children who have never been able to go into a bakery and pick out a treat that’s safe for them to eat,” says Allyson. “The kids are so excited to do something that most of us take for granted.” Guests love to grab a few treats and then do some shopping at the bakery’s neighboring shops including Unsung Salvage Design and Main Street Vinyl.