for all our great customers and this great community we call Home!
Full of Thankfulness
As we enter the season of gratitude, I am reminded of our incredible community. The people and businesses I interact with daily make this role so rewarding. From local initiatives to longstanding family-owned establishments, I am constantly inspired by the generosity and spirit of those around Mason and Deerfield Township.
This issue reflects the heart of our community through stories of gratitude and gathering. You’ll hear from local residents as they share what they’re most thankful for during this holiday season. Their reflections remind us all of the unique traditions and connections that make our community feel like home.
For those looking to spruce up their homes for the holidays, Sacksteder’s showcases new seasonal decor and previews their upcoming warehouse sale. And if you’re planning to entertain, we’ve included delicious comfort food recipes from culinary influencer Lauren Lane. Her simple, crowd-pleasing dishes are perfect for bringing loved ones together during the holidays, whether it’s for a family gathering or Friendsgiving celebration.
Feeling stuffed after those recipes? We have a full slate of ways to stay active and give back with our guide to family-friendly fall races. These events not only offer a fun way to enjoy the season and start a new tradition, but they also benefit local nonprofit organizations.
Our mission at Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle is “Connecting Our Community One Page at a Time” and none of this would be possible without the dedication and support of so many. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our editorial team, whose passion and creativity shine through every issue. To our advertising partners, thank you for believing in our vision and helping bring these stories to life.
If you’re a freelance writer, photographer or a local business who would like to support our mission through your talents or advertising, contact me at mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com.
Wishing you all a season filled with gratitude and cherished moments!
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Karen Andrea
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jonathan Stout, Amanda Stout, Tera Michelson, Lauren Lane
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Anjali Fong Photography, Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard Learn
Fall Into Running Season
Start
Holiday Home
Designer
Crowd Pleasing Comfort Foods
Fall
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Building Blocks for Kids (BB4K) has been transforming lives since 2003. Your support helps children overcome physical, emotional, and developmental challenges.
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NOVEMBER 2024
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Featuring an eclectic array of artisans, the Deerfield Handmade Market-Fall was held at Cottell Park. 2: Mason Market on the Mile took place on Friday nights throughout the summer. 3: Vendors sold their handmade crafts, locally grown agricultural products, artisanal goods and prepared foods. 4: Mason Market visitors were able to enjoy live music by musicians such as Stephanie Coffee. 5: All Spice Merchants sold a variety of their signature spices at the market. 6: Stillwater Valley Orchard and Apiary showcased goods from their small family farm and business. 7: Sand Dollar Sweets and Treats offered sweets and treats baked in their home kitchen.
Building Blocks for Kids hosted their annual Bubble Blast 4K at
9: While the event was undoubtedly fun, it was also a powerful reminder of BB4K's mission. 10: For 20 years this amazing organization has been supporting kids and families in our community. 11: BB4K provides resources and hope to families of children with physical, emotional and developmental challenges. 12: Captain America, Captain Jack Sparrow and several princesses added a touch of magic. 13: Rosie Red brought some Reds spirit to the Bubble Blast. 14: This year BB4K was excited to introduce their new mascot, BB!
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Acting Up presented Disney's Camp Rock: The Musical at Mason High School from September 20-22. 16: Acting Up’s cast includes over 60 talented young performers from across the Cincinnati area. 17: Acting Up is a nonprofit, all-volunteer, young performers community theater based in Mason. 18: It was founded to provide young people with experiences in the theater arts. 19: Disney’s Camp Rock: The Musical is a combination of Disney’s Camp Rock movies. 20: As a member of ACT Cincinnati, Acting Up has won hundreds of Orchid awards. 21: For more information or to get involved in upcoming productions visit ActingUp.com
Holiday Open House
We’re hosting a Christmas Open House the first three weekends in November at both locations. Enjoy light refreshments while you shop.
Holiday Market in Sharonville
22: The Mason Heritage Festival and Parade took place on September 21 in Downtown Mason. 23: Dancers from Mason Dance Center performed and celebrated in the Mason Heritage Parade. 24: Mason City Council Member Barbara Spaeth and her daughter Victoria Spurlock enjoyed the parade together. 25: Mason Rotary Club was excited to spread the word about their Christmas Tree Auction and Holiday Ball. 26: Sonder & Friends Oktoberfest 5K Run/Walk and Kids Root Beer Run was held in September. 27: The Cincinnati Donauschwaben Dancers helped attendees embrace the Oktoberfest fun. 28: Proceeds benefit Greater Project’s mission to provide holistic care for orphaned and vulnerable children.
business monthly
MADE Member Appreciation Pie Pickup
As Thanksgiving nears, the MADE Chamber is excited to share gratitude with its members through the annual Member Appreciation Pie Pickup. Registered members will receive a complimentary pie thanks to the generous support of CommUNITY Connections sponsors. This gesture is a thank you to members for their continued commitment to the Chamber. To learn more about joining and connecting with the MADE community, visit their website and enjoy the sweetness of being part of something special. MADEChamber.org
Deerfield Township New Business Boom
There have been many recent business developments in Deerfield Township! Wingstop opened its newest location at 9370 Mason Montgomery Road. Wawa, a privately held and family-owned chain, held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new location at 5308 Fields Ertel Road. This multimillion-dollar investment addresses the need for redevelopment of an underperforming commercial property. Additionally, Deerfield Towne Center welcomed a second Greater Cincinnati Nordstrom Rack location and the relocation of Morris Furniture. ChooseDeerfield.com
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 limited 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 by 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
Weekly meal prep is delivered to your door in Mason and surrounding areas.
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FALL INTO
RUNNING SEASON
Start a new tradition with these family-friendly fall races, each benefiting local nonprofit organizations.
ARTICLE BY JONATHAN STOUT | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
COUNTRYSIDE YMCA PATRIOTS 5K & TRAIL RUN
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. Find more information at CountrysideYMCA.org.
GIRLS ON THE RUN 5K CINCINNATI
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.
IN SPRINGBORO 5K RUN/WALK
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
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.
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
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
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Holiday Home
Designer tips to make your home shine for the season.
It’s time to deck the halls! Are you stuck in a holiday rut? If your style has lost its sparkle, it may be time to refresh.
Local interior designer and owner of Sacksteder’s Interiors, Karen Sacksteder, accepts the annual challenge of sophisticated and affordable holiday makeovers. With thirty-six years in design, she has a well-trained eye and a contagious penchant for making things beautiful. Here are her tips for how to make your home shine for the season.
LESS CAN MEAN MORE
Rehome anything that doesn’t bring meaning to your season, but keep anything that sparks a happy holiday memory. Let your style morph to match your lifestyle.
“There are different cycles in our lives that call for different styles,” Karen explains. “Pull out what you have, use what you love and add to it a little each year.”
Instead of placing decor in the same spots each year, reimagine how to use what you love.
“One of the services we provide is to come into homes and help make a new plan,” she says.
RIBBONS RULE
Shed your tired tinsel and trim your tree with wire-edged ribbons in styles that delight you. Tuck and twist them in and out of the tree’s branches for a cascading look.
“Just adding a ribbon can change the whole look of your tree,” Karen enthuses. “We sell ribbon by the bolt—we have an entire room of ribbons to choose from. It’s a simple and affordable way to update colors and fill in space on your tree.”
CONTINUED >
SPREAD OUT THE FUN
Extend your holiday decorations beyond the tree and decorate your whole home.
“One of our most popular pieces is a small pine arrangement with ribbon that is very versatile and easy to use,” shares Karen. “We call it a ‘lay-around.’ You can hang it on a door, lay one on a side table or tuck three of them into a bookcase for a quick and festive makeover.”
“In our store we show you how to use the decorations, accent the furniture that you have and create a feeling in your home that you love and deserve,” she adds.
Sacksteder's stays stocked year round with furnishings and home decor, a step ahead of each change of season.
For more holiday inspiration, meet Karen Sacksteder and her team at Sacksteder’s Interiors’ Christmas Open Houses, the first three weekends of November. The Montgomery store is nearby and the spacious original shop in New Trenton is less than 45 minutes away–a shopping destination with room after room of ideas, beautifully trimmed trees and handmade silk arrangements in a variety of colors, sizes and price points. SackstedersInteriors.com
“In our store we show you how to create a feeling in your home that you love and deserve.”
As one of the nation’s leading mental health centers, we understand your journey is deeply personal. Bringing together unparalleled expertise, profound insights, and a people-first approach, we provide life-changing care and support, infusing every interaction with the underlying belief that lasting well-being is possible. We see beyond diagnoses — we see you.
STUGGLING IN THE
crowd pleasing comfort foods
FALL ENTERTAINING HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER THAN WITH THESE DELICIOUSLY SIMPLE RECIPES.
ARTICLE BY LAUREN LANE & AMANDA STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES PHOTOGRAPHY
Whether you plan to host family for holiday festivities or come together for a Friendsgiving, you’ll need plenty of options to feed a crowd. Lauren Lane knows how to make everyone feel cared for and cozy. As a distinguished culinary influencer recently showcased on a Netflix cooking competition, Lauren has cemented her status as a prominent figure in the world of food and entertainment. We hope her recipes inspire you to slow down and gather around the table to feed the dreams of those you love. For tips on these comfort foods and more fall inspiration, visit Lauren-Lane.com
ingredients
• 1 small white onion, peeled and diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock)
• 2 medium carrots, chopped in rounds
• 2 ribs celery, sliced in half moons
• 1 large (about 1 pound) sweet potato, peeled and chopped in large chunks
• 1 tablespoon Herbes de Provence
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon Better than Bouillon, chicken flavor
• 1 cup uncooked wild rice
• 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced
• 2 large handfuls of kale, roughly chopped with thick stems removed
• Salt and pepper, to taste
directions
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil over medium-high heat in a large stock pot. Add onion and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add in the chicken stock, carrots, celery, sweet potato, Herbes de Provence, bay leaf and Better than Bouillon. Stir to combine.
3. Add rice and bring to a simmer. Then reduce heat to medium-low, cover and simmer for 30 to 40 minutes until the rice is tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Add kale and mushrooms and stir gently until combined. Cook for 3-5 minutes.
5. Taste and add more salt and pepper as needed.
FALL VEGETABLE, KALE & RICE SOUP
dressing ingredients
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
salad ingredients
• 1 small head of butter lettuce, torn into pieces
• 1 small head radicchio, core removed and torn into pieces
• 1/2 lb. Brussels sprouts, trimmed and very thinly sliced
• 1 shallot, thinly sliced
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and finely crumbled
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
• 2-3 ounces of goat cheese (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
directions
1. Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt and black pepper and whisk to combine. Taste, add more salt and pepper as desired.
2. Add Brussels sprouts to a bowl and toss with a small amount of the dressing.
3. Arrange lettuces, Brussels sprouts, apples and shallots on a platter.
4. Top with bacon, nuts and goat cheese if using.
5. Drizzle with additional salad dressing, to taste.
ingredients
• 1 refrigerated pizza dough (store-bought or homemade pizza dough)
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (heaping)
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan (use good quality Parmesan)
• Honey and a few springs of thyme for serving
directions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line sheet pan with parchment paper.
2. Divide dough into 4 pieces.
3. Roll each piece of dough into a long rope shape. You'll want it to be about 1 inch thick all the way around.
4. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut the dough into 1-inch pieces.
5. Melt butter and add salt. Brush the tops of the bites with the butter mixture.
6. Dip the top of each piece of dough into Parmesan.
7. Bake for 15 minutes. They will be very lightly golden. Do not overbake or they will become hard.
8. Serve sprinkled with thyme leaves and honey. Garnish with sprigs of thyme.
Locals share their love for community and what they are thankful for during the holidays.
Sharing Gratitude and Thanks for the Season
We are so thankful to be a small part of the Mason and Deerfield community–sharing the good news about its people, businesses, nonprofits and vibrant events. We hope the reflections from a few of your neighbors inspire gratitude for your traditions and the special community you call home.
ARTICLE BY AMANDA STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Dynette Clark
When I look around, I can’t help but feel blessed. The people in my life – family and friends alike – make everything brighter and more meaningful. Our family traditions have changed over the years, especially now with grandchildren. Whether old or new, it’s not really about what we do but about being together and making memories. When I think about our community, my heart swells with pride as there are so many wonderful organizations and businesses right here within a few square miles. As the Founder of Building Blocks for Kids (BB4K), I want to thank everyone who’s supported us. We all get caught up in the holiday rush, but remember to share a little love with your community. Whether it’s time or money, a purchase from a local business or a donation to your favorite charities, your support can make a real difference in many lives.
Founder & Executive Director Building Blocks for Kids BB4K.org
Mayor Diana Nelson
It has been an exceptional year for the City of Mason. Thanks to strong partnerships, many of our leading corporations have continued to expand. We are thrilled to have successfully retained the Cincinnati Open, cementing our city's reputation as a premier destination. Mason also dedicated land for the Regional Center for the Arts, a testament to our growing commitment to the arts. I am thankful for all of these achievements, for Mason's vibrant community, its strong sense of family and the opportunity to contribute to the town I love so much. I’m also proud to lend my support to two incredible organizations that embody what makes Mason a special place: Shine Like Sable Foundation and Mason Arts Council. The best part of the holiday season is the joy of coming together as a family. This year I'm looking forward to creating cherished memories of baking traditional Italian cookies with my grandson and three daughters.
CPA, City of Mason Mayor & City Council Member ImagineMason.org
Chris Heim
I’m thankful for our great family, health and wonderful friends. We’re looking forward to the changing seasons and spending time with the family during the holidays. We especially enjoy all the holiday get-togethers and parties! Friendsgiving and our Ugly Sweater Party are always great highlights. We like to support the Mason Food Pantry and give back to those in need locally. Mason and Deerfield have world-class attractions and industry-leading corporations, while also having a great 'small town' vibe. Downtown Mason is home to many locally-owned award-winning businesses that we are very fortunate to have. We are blessed to live in such a great community and we love it here!
Retired, MADE CDC Events Volunteer/Lead Activator MADECDC.org
HOW TO: seasonal home scents
PFUL TIPS A N D R E CIPES FROM S
Fall essential oil combinations provide a warm and cozy scent while also protecting from sickness prevalent in the colder season. Follow these oil combinations to create your own seasonal scent.
immune boost
DIRECTIONS :
Combine the following essential oils with a base oil (coconut oil).
INGREDIENTS:
• Cinnamon: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Clove: Antibacterial; Antiseptic
• Lemon: Uplifts; Kills Bacteria Reduces Inflammation
• Oregano: Antimicrobial; Antioxidant
• Eucalyptus: Decongestant; Provides Healing
HOW TO USE:
Apply to wrists or feet. Do not use it on your face.
home defender
DIRECTIONS:
Combine the following essential oils.
INGREDIENTS:
• Orange: Reduces Stress; Antimicrobial
• Eucalyptus: Decongestant; Provides Healing
• Cinnamon: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Black Pepper: Supports the Nervous System
• Clove: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Rosemary: Reduces Stress; Helps with Respiratory Fatigue
HOW TO USE:
Fill the diffuser with water and apply the desired amount of drops.
ARTICLE BY CELENA CISCO
NOVEMBER 8TH, 9TH, & 10TH
ROYAL Theatre Company Presents: Annie Jr.
Mason High School | 7:00 PM
The ROYAL Theatre Company presents Annie Jr. from November 8-10 at Mason High School. The musical, based on the popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, features everyone’s favorite little redhead in her very first adventure. For tickets and showtimes visit RoyalTheatreCompany.com.
NOVEMBER 9TH
Annual Mason Kiwanis Pancake Day
Mason Middle School | 7:00 AM
The 64th annual Mason Kiwanis Pancake Day will take place at Mason Middle School on November 9 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. This fundraiser supports dozens of local programs for children in and around the Mason area. One hundred percent of the money raised goes to these important community programs. Tickets are available at MasonKiwanis.org
NOVEMBER 14TH
Women Walking West RISE Gala
Manor House | 6:00 PM
The 5th Annual RISE Gala hosted by Women Walking West (W3) will be held at Manor House on November 14 from 6 to 9 p.m. This event acknowledges the strides made by the female mentees W3 supports. The RISE Gala unites members of the community who share in the mission of helping foreign-born women achieve educational goals. WomenWalkingWest.org
NOVEMBER 15TH
MCP Presents: The Mousetrap
Mason Community Playhouse | 8:00 PM
The Mason Community Players (MCP) will present their production of Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap from November 15-23 at Mason Community Playhouse. Directed by Susan Berger, The Mousetrap follows a group of seven strangers who find themselves snowed in at a remote country guesthouse during an investigation. Come help solve this world-famous mystery! More information can be found at MasonPlayers.org
NOVEMBER 22ND
Supporting a Child with School Needs Symposium
Lindner Center of HOPE Gymnasium | 8:00 AM
Lindner Center of HOPE will host the Supporting a Child with School Needs Symposium on November 22. Check-in begins at 8:00 a.m. followed by “Considering the Needs of the Whole Child” led by Amanda Van Mil, M.Ed. and “Neuropsychological Testing” with Jennifer L. Farley, Psy.D. The event closes with a panel discussion about translating knowledge into strategy. LindnerCenterOfHOPE.org
NOVEMBER 23RD
Rotary Club of Mason’s Christmas Tree Auction and Holiday Ball
Manor House | 7:00 PM
The Rotary Club of Mason’s Christmas Tree Auction and Holiday Ball takes place at Manor House on November 23. This black-tie event features decorated trees for viewing and auction, a VIP cocktail party and a plated dinner followed by dancing with a live band. Other experiences include a jazz lounge and bourbon bar, casino activities and cocktail bar, high-end raffles and more. HolidayTreesAndBall-MasonDeerfield.com
FEATURED: 5240 POETS WAY
Spacious patio home in desirable Heritage Pointe in Deerfield Twp. 4 seasons room and deck overlook green space and pond. Finished lower level with large family room, bedroom & full bath. 1st floor study. Kitchen with granite counters and 42” cabinets. Community features pool & tennis. Great locationminutes to VOA, Liberty Center, Deerfield Town Center, Monroe Outlets, and more.
Don’t miss your opportunity to live in desirable Rivercrest! Finished lower level. 2nd floor bonus room. Jack & Jill Bedrooms. Bedroom 4 with private bath. Gourmet kitchen overlooks great room. Wooded-tree lined back yard. Close to the bike trail where you can bike to the Monkey Bar, Cartridge, and more.
ALLEN-ZEUCH
“Tiffany was very knowledgeable and understood our needs and what we wanted from her as a Realtor! She was well prepared to get our house on the market and she used all her avenues to showcase our house. It was everywhere in the community and media! She is very passionate about her job and worked hard until our property was sold. She constantly kept us abreast of everything going on. We would recommend her to all our friends as she is the number 1 sales person in our area and it shows!”
~ Amy Boes (Liberty Township)