The power of
When
Charitable Giving Tax Benefits
Did you know more than 30% of yearly charitable giving occurs this time of year? As you consider supporting causes close to your heart this holiday season, don’t miss potential tax benefits.
One option includes appreciated securities. If you’ve held securities for more than a year, you can donate them directly to a charity to get a tax deduction for the fair market value; this avoids capital gains tax on the appreciation.
Alternatively, consider donating securities (or cash) to a Donor Advised Fund (DAF). The DAF sells securities at a no-tax cost, and grants are made to charities based on your requests. This strategy simplifies the logistics of your giving.
For those over age 70½, give Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) directly from your IRA to charities; this uses pre-tax dollars and doesn’t increase your adjusted gross income (AGI).
Want to know more? Visit our website.
Thankful
Seasons are an incredible gift. No matter what phase of life we are in, it is simply impossible to be fully present in every situation, at any given moment. Yet, seasons allow us to do just that.
In this season of giving thanks, we are able to step back from the hustle and hone in on something deeper; the true spirit of Thanksgiving encourages the conscious expression of gratitude.
During the holidays, we often find ourselves reflect ing on the many blessings in our lives, spending time with those we love and giving back in a meaningful way. While ambition, competition and goals can be very healthy, forgetting to place importance on being present, all while enjoying the journey and appreciating those around us that have supported and encouraged us along the way, help us focus on what truly matters.
True contentment isn’t found in titles or possessions, rather it’s a mindset, a wellspring from which everything else can flow. For me, a huge part of finding contentment in this season of my life has come from being able to give back, through this publication and in various other ways, to the very community I grew up in.
Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, gratefulness and altruistic members of our community. We are so thankful for the residents and businesses who support so many wonderful organizations and help make our city the vibrant community that it is. We are especially thankful for our advertising partners who help bring this magazine to your doorsteps each month. They are part of our vision and purpose of bringing inspiring stories and the good news of the community directly to you. This holiday season, as we prepare to gather with our loved ones, and in the true spirit of thanksgiving, let’s set time aside to consider what truly makes life meaningful and stop to reflect on those blessings.
Blessings to you and your family,
DEBORAH MEKENESE, PUBLISHER @INDIANHILL.CITYLIFESTYLE
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Deborah Mekenese
Deborah.Mekenese@CityLifestyle.com
EDITOR
Tera Michelson | Tera.Michelson@CityLifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Bill Furbee
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Janie Jones, Kathryn Hayden Photography, Ricky Reinzan, RF Graphic Designs, Ed Taylor
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Branden Cooper
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: The James Free Jewelers' Annual Ferrari Cruise-In with the Ferrari Club of America-Ohio Chapter benefited The Arthritis Foundation. 2: Welcome to the neighborhood, Shine Barbershop! Madeira Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Veteran-owned business. 3: Best wishes and a warm welcome to Hand & Stone Massage Cincinnati, now open at 8154 Montgomery Road. 4: The Braves' Girls Tennis Team celebrated with school spirit at the Homecoming Parade. 5: Indian Hill Foundation Executive Director Meredith Ducey and IH Alumni Buffie and Eppa Rixey celebrate Homecoming festivities. 6: Anne Perin Ellington, Sarah Rixey Pharr, Eliza Roberts Moffat and Whitney Roberts Evans were enthusiastic Alumni Hosts during Homecoming. 7: Indian Hill Class of 1984 had their own reunion tour with alumni from NY, VA and CT.
JON FLOOD AT BROWN DOG FILMS
JON FLOOD AT BROWN DOG FILMS
business monthly
Flight Solutions Now Offering Ownership Shares in Private Aircraft
Weary of the hassles of commercial flights? Discover Flight Solutions, a luxury private travel company, now offering a limited number of ownership shares in three locally-based aircraft. The ultimate in convenience for both business and pleasure travel, Flight Solutions simplifies the process and reduces travel time, managing custom travel from door to door. Learn the details about Flight Solutions’ services and ownership in private aircraft to change the way you travel. 513.200.0698, FlightSolution.com
AFTA - Cincinnati Gives Event Tickets to US Military + Families
Celebrate and support active and retired veterans of all branches of the Armed Forces, Guard and Reserves and their families through the Armed Forces Tickets Association - Cincinnati (AFTA), a nonprofit organization that provides free tickets to sporting events, concerts, performing arts, educational and family activities. AFTA encourages family bonds and great memories. Donate tickets and time or make a contribution online. Vets may also register to request tickets online. AFTA-Cincinnati.org
Daley Design + Build Gives Back with Monthly Giving Program
In this season of giving, we are inspired by local custom design and construction company, Daley Design + Build— they embrace the spirit of thanksgiving year round with a monthly giving campaign, “DD+B Gives Back.” Each month, an employee selects a favorite charity and the generous company makes a donation on their behalf. Follow them on Instagram to learn details of the many ways they are building bridges to impact our community. DaleyDB.com, @daleydesignbuild
passion for Cooking
CRAFTS APPROACHABLE + AFFORDABLE DISHES AT THE BIRCH IN TERRACE PARK
AARON OWEN
CHEF
ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RF GRAPHIC DESIGNS
Chef Aaron Owen of The Birch in Terrace Park could have been a lawyer if life had gone a different way. As a bright, precocious fifteen-year-old, he was even offered a full ride to Harvard. His trajectory shifted, however, when he took a job in a kitchen to make his grandmother proud.
“I’d always have my nose on the table, watching her make food,” he recalls. “I remember she told me, ‘We need less lawyers in this world and more chefs, Aaron.’”
His Nonna inspired Chef Aaron to a career he clearly loves, his passion, skill and creativity leading him from his start on a farm in The Ozarks in Missouri, through some of the most celebrated kitchens in Nashville and Cincinnati and finally landing at The Birch in 2023 when he was handpicked by owners Aaron and Brett Tritsch.
“There’s nowhere to hide in this kitchen,” Chef Aaron says with a nod to The Birch’s cozy kitchen. “There’s literally nowhere I can’t stand and see everything everyone is doing. I love it.”
Chef Aaron is known by name here. His cooking is delightfully informed by his childhood, knowing farm-to-table as a lifestyle before he learned it as a concept.
“I’ve always been a workaholic because I grew up on a farm,” he says.
At The Birch, he and his team work hard to craft approachable and affordable dishes that are as tasty as they are beautiful. And they have fun doing it.
“I have a tendency to dance and sing,” he shares. “One of my very first chefs taught me that every dish is a dance,” he explains. “You have a song for every dish. You play it in your head and you do the same dance moves every time and get really fast at it. We have a whole playlist for the kitchen. It’s very eclectic— everything from Metallica to Chappell Roan,” he laughs.
“We all take food so seriously, but we are here for long hours every day,” he says. “I really just like to have fun. It’s a very familial kitchen.”
‘We need less lawyers in this world and more chefs, Aaron.’”
“You have a song for every dish. You play it in your head and you do the same dance moves every time and get really fast at it.”
Chef Aaron has a lot to be thankful for this season.
“I’m so thankful for Terrace Park and Indian Hill—this whole neighborhood and area has rejuvenated my passion for cooking,” he says. “I had it in my mind that you had to be downtown in the center of everything to have a successful chef career. I come out here and get nothing but love,” he says with a grin.
The Birch reopened in July after a fire shut them down last November. Chef Aaron is back in the kitchen, preparing the fresh, locally-sourced dishes for which the neighborhood eatery is known.
“I really appreciate everyone here, and I am especially thankful for our guests!”
Find Chef Aaron dancing in the kitchen or picking up an iced tea at the bar. He’ll be there, eager to feed you and your family.
The Birch | 702 Indian Hill Road, Terrace Park | 513.831.5678 | TheBirchTP.com
Enriching Students & Community
Philanthropic Partner Indian Hill Foundation Helps Students & Educators Succeed
ARTICLE BY BILL FURBEE
In classrooms around the country, community matters.
Every day, volunteers and local leaders step up to help students realize their full potential with activities and guidance to complement classroom activity— often, leaning on their own real-world experiences to help students better understand the landscape they’re about to be part of. The Indian Hill Foundation is proud to oversee that momentous duty.
Founded in 2001, the not-for-profit Indian Hill Foundation serves as a philanthropic partner to its home school district, driven by “dedicated leadership focused on the future for both educators and students,” according to Executive Director Meredith Ducey.
The Indian Hill Foundation–which is a separate entity from the school and relies entirely on the generous support of the community–exists to enrich student lives.
“The Indian Hill Foundation plays a role in enriching our schools' curriculum by funding grants that bring innovative ideas into the classroom,” Ducey explains. “Our unique position allows us to support creative concepts that are above and beyond the district’s annual budget or reach.”
Additionally, the organization acts as a bridge between donor interests and district funding opportunities, ensuring that contributions will have the greatest possible impact for educators and students.
The Foundation’s board is made up of 19 volunteers, including three representatives from the district. Those members meet every month to ensure that objectives and goals are on track; they also devote time, monetary support and other meaningful resources outside of these meetings, all in an effort to advance the Foundation’s mission.
That mission is based on a strategic plan, centered on three key pillars: community engagement, alignment with district goals and enhanced philanthropy.
“By fostering strong connections among our nearly 12,000 alumni, families and local stakeholders,” Ducey says, “the Foundation aims to create a
“By fostering strong connections among our nearly 12,000 alumni, families and local stakeholders, the Foundation aims to create a supportive network that enriches educational and innovative experiences.”
supportive network that enriches educational and innovative experiences.”
Ducey adds that aligning Foundation initiatives with the District's IH Promise Strategic Plan ensures that resources are effectively utilized to meet the needs of students and educators.
“Through these efforts,” she adds, “the Foundation seeks to strengthen its philanthropic impact, driving sustainable growth and lasting benefits for the entire district.”
The Foundation engages year-round with parents, alumni, students and community partners to envision ways to enrich student lives and the world at large.
Examples of the Foundation’s impact include the creation and sustaining of the Dorothy Koch iLab at the elementary school, instrumental in the district achieving STEM certification from the State of Ohio; Braves on a Mission, a recipient of Foundation funding through Big Pitch, constructed and delivered beds for children in our community and packed 25,000 meals for children in Africa; the Alumni
organization, fostering connections and celebrations among graduates with annual class reunions and hosting alumni events; and Experienceships, a vision brought to life by Foundation Board leadership, which has seen significant growth in participation and has paved the way for the development of the new Entrepreneur Center.
It’s an easy point of connection for others to get involved and impact the community.
“Philanthropy encompasses much more than just monetary contributions,” Ducey says. “Acts of service or gifts of time are critical to driving the Foundation’s mission. More than a hundred dedicated volunteers engage with students inside and outside the classroom—enabling career events, ‘Experienceships,’ senior project judging, the Big Pitch and alumni engagement.
“Together,” Ducey says, "our donors, district partnership and alumni play a crucial role in our success. Together, they empower us to create lasting change and enhance the educational experience for students and educators.”
Indian Hill Foundation | 6855 Drake Road, Indian Hill | 513.272.5932
IndianHillSchools.org/IndianHillFoundation_ home.aspx
The Foundation engages yearround with parents, alumni, students and community partners to envision ways to enrich student lives and the world at large.
Class of 1974 reunion during 2024 Homecoming.
EPIC ISLAND
ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATHRYN HAYDEN PHOTOGRAPHY @KATHRYNHAYDENPHOTOGRAPHY
A Q&A With Interior Designer Jackie Barnes
The epic island in this gorgeous kitchen renovation is the heart of the family home, where friends and family float in and set anchor to share life together. The ongoing project is the design wisdom of Jackie Barnes, founder and owner of Jackie Barnes Design in Mariemont.
Before she was a designer, Jackie was a psychologist. Motivated and inspired by human behavior, she is driven to surprise and delight her clients with spaces that are created just for them.
“Understanding our client’s expectations helps us exceed them,” Jackie says. “We are obsessed with designing spaces that don’t just look amazing but feel right.”
Pull up a chair and gather around: here’s our Q&A with Jackie Barnes.
Q: WHAT WAS YOUR DESIGN PROCESS FOR THIS PROJECT?
My design process kicks off with a deep dive into the client’s world. I’m not just interested in what they need—I want to know who they are, how they live and what makes them tick. Their personal story is the heartbeat of the entire design. To me, every space should feel like a reflection of the people within it—whether it’s a cozy nook for a book lover or a kitchen that turns into the go-to spot for Friday night
gatherings. I don’t just design spaces; my goal is to design personalized experiences.
Q: HOW DID YOU LAND ON THE IDEA OF THE UNIQUE ISLAND AS ITS CENTERPIECE?
This island wasn't just my idea—it was born out of the client’s vision. They’re big entertainers, hosting everything from bourbon tastings to family reunions, and they wanted a kitchen that could handle it all. The result was this expansive, welcoming island—our largest yet—perfect for hosting and gathering all the people who matter most to them.
Q: WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE FEATURES OF THIS FRESH SPACE?
Honestly, my favorite features are the ones that scream, “This is SO them!” We custom-designed iron and glass shelving to give their bourbon collection the spotlight it deserves, without taking away from the gorgeous backsplash. I also love the barstools, which tie the room together and give guests a comfy spot to sit back and sip a drink while enjoying the vibe. It’s those little, thoughtful touches that elevate the space from beautiful to personal.
Q: WHAT ARE YOUR TOP PRIORITIES WHEN DESIGNING A MULTI-USE SPACE LIKE THIS ONE?
For multi-use spaces, it’s all about striking that balance between form and function. You’ve got to create zones—little areas that flow together but still feel distinct. In this basement, we designed a gaming area, TV zone and, of course, the kitchen. The family has young kids and loves to entertain, so flexibility was key. Seating moves around, TVs swivel and everything feels open yet purposeful. We also mixed materials and furniture sizes to make sure everyone—from the toddlers to the grownups—feels at home in the space.
Q: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE TRANSFORMATION OF THIS SPACE FROM START TO FINISH?
This transformation was BIG. We gutted the entire kitchen—ripped out flooring, moved a support beam (actually, we split it into two!), all to make room for that epic island. The kitchen is the crown jewel, but we’re not done yet. We’re diving into the living area, gaming zone and staircase next. It’s a full-on revamp, and I can’t wait to see it all come together.
Find Jackie in her charming storefront, preparing for the next big project. It could be yours!
Jackie Barnes Design | 4204 Plainville Road, Cincinnati | JackieBarnesDesign.com
FALL INTO RUNNING SEASON
Start a New Tradition With These Family-Friendly Fall Races
ARTICLE BY JONATHAN STOUT
Photo by Ricky Reinzan
The Countryside YMCA Patriots 5K & Trail Run takes place at Countryside YMCA in Lebanon on November 2 at 9 a.m. and supports their Veterans Connect program. For every 10 registrations, the YMCA sponsors a veteran in Warren County to participate in a 12-week program focused on age-appropriate fitness, nutrition, mental health resources and connection—more information at CountrysideYMCA.org .
Girls on the Run (GOTR) Greater Cincinnati celebrates their 20-year milestone on Saturday, November 16 at 9 a.m. Participants will embark on a joyful morning of empowerment as 900 GOTR girls run, walk or roll in the 5K event at Yeatman’s Cove Park. Show your support by running or walking alongside them! Register now at GOTRCincinnati.org
The 11th annual Christmas in Springboro 5K Run/Walk in Downtown Historic Springboro kicks off on November 23 at 9 a.m. Proceeds benefit Operation Santa and The Pantry serving Franklin, Springboro and Carlisle. It’s a race guaranteed to jumpstart the Christmas spirit in us all! Sign up at SpringboroFestivals.org.
Photo by Ed Taylor
Photo by Ricky Reinzan
1. COUNTRYSIDE YMCA PATRIOTS 5K & TRAIL RUN
2. GIRLS ON THE RUN 5K CINCINNATI
3. CHRISTMAS IN SPRINGBORO 5K RUN/WALK
5. WESTERN & SOUTHERN THANKSGIVING DAY 10K AND CHICK-FIL-A 5K RUN/WALK
On November 28, Western & Southern Thanksgiving Day 10K and Chick-fil-A 5K Run/ Walk participants will meet at TQL Stadium at 9 a.m. for one of the region’s longest-running family traditions. Runner donations benefit Mason Challenger League Adaptive Ball Fields, Cancer Free Kids, the Alzheimer's Association and many more. Get the details at ThanksgivingDayRace.com
4. MASON TURKEY TROT PRESENTED BY THE TRACK & FIELD BOOSTERS
This year's Mason Turkey Trot takes place on November 28 at Corwin Nixon Park from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Enjoy a 5K run or walk and support the Mason Cross Country and Track programs and the Mason Schools Foundation before sitting down for holiday festivities! Register now at MasonTurkeyTrot.com
6. WEST CHESTER TURKEY TROT
The West Chester Turkey Trot is scheduled for November 28 at VOA Park beginning at 8:30 a.m. The 5K run/walk benefits Make a Kid Merry, helping all kids experience holiday cheer. Participants will be rewarded with complimentary donuts from Holtman’s at the finish line! Find more information at OhioRuns.com
REALTY REPORT
Sponsored by Daley Design + Build
A Sample of Recently Sold Properties in Indian Hill
BUILDING BETTER HOMES
NOVEMBER 2024
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER 1ST - 3RD
Christkindlmarkt 2024
Germania Society of Cincinnati, 3529 West Kemper Road, Cincinnati | 5:00 PM
Shop Christkindlmarkt 2024, the Germania Society of Cincinnati’s holiday market based on traditional German Christmas markets. Featuring unique gifts, local artisans, music, pastries, hot mulled wine and beer, the market is open Friday, 5-10 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday 12-5 p.m. Keep an eye out for St. Nicholaus! Find details online. GermaniaSociety.com/ christkindlmarkt/
NOVEMBER 2ND
The City Flea
Factory 52, 4590 Beech Street, Cincinnati | 10:00 AM
The City Flea hosts its Fall Vintage Market on November 2, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Factory 52. This curated urban flea market is brimming with small business entrepreneurs unique to our city. Keep your dollars local when you shop this one-ofa-kind market featuring something for everyone, from arts and crafts to treats and clothing. TheCityFlea.com/markets
NOVEMBER 8TH - 10TH
2024 Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market
Sharonville Convention Center, 11355 Chester Road, Sharonville | 9:00 AM
The 2024 Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market is an annual holiday tradition at a new venue this year, Sharonville Convention Center. Shop Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. with VIP Shopper Morning hours from 9 a.m.-Noon; Saturday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. with Early Bird Admission from 9-11 a.m.; and Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets available online or at the door. CincinnatiHolidayMarket.com
NOVEMBER 15TH - 16TH & 22ND - 23RD
It’s a Wonderful Life— A Live Radio Play
Madeira-Silverwood Church, 8000 Miami Avenue, Madeira | 2:00 PM
The Lamplight Theater Company announces its debut production, “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play.” Reimagined as an immersive experience, guests will be transported to the golden age of radio. You are invited to dress in 1930-40’s attire to enjoy this unique show, two of which include a cozy Italian dinner. Find details online. LamplightTheater.org
NOVEMBER 16TH
Books by the Banks Festival
Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library, 800 Vine Street, Cincinnati | 10:00 AM
The popular Books by the Banks Festival is back and better than ever in 2024, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on November 16. Meet 100+ national, regional and local authors. Enjoy speakers, fun for kids, programming for teens and a writing contest. Learn about being a sponsor and sign up to volunteer online. BooksByTheBanks.org
NOVEMBER 17TH
The Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra Quartet
Little Red Schoolhouse, 8100 Given Road, Indian Hill | 4:30 PM
The Indian Hill Historical Society hosts this intimate concert by a quartet from the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra at the Little Red Schoolhouse. Enjoy this season of gathering with great music and good company. IndianHill.org/programs/
Want to be featured?
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giving dip -
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD I PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
fig & honey brie
The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
garlic herb feta dip
This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions: Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
Nothing screams fall quite like the flavor of pumpkin. This lightly sweet dip takes just a few minutes to make and is perfect for any fall get-together.
creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip
