West Chester & Liberty JULY 2016
WestChesterandLibertyLifestyle.com
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Summer Around
Town
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Lifestyle Letter
Summer around town.
A
s I sit on my porch this July evening, I can hear the telltale signs that summer is in full swing. I hear the melodic chirping of the robins nesting in our rafters (it’s not so pleasurable at 5 a.m., but in the evening it’s quite beautiful). There are the excited voices of children playing games like kickball and capture the flag. In the distance I can catch the gentle hum of a lawn mower. If I’m really still, I can hear the low bellow of a bullfrog in the peaceful woods that adorn our towns. These long, summer nights and weekends are perfect for spending time outside and exploring our towns and neighboring communities. This issue of West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle is all about fun summer activities in and around town. Within our townships, we’ll point you toward a few perfect picnic spots and provide some fantastic picnic-friendly recipes that are fit for a foodie. We’re throwing the spotlight on a historic national site right here in town that many drive past on a daily basis—the National Voice of America Museum. Our Giving Back story spotlights a local student on the quest to become an Eagle Scout who is giving our community new little lending libraries. If you head out of town in any direction, you’ll find dozens of great local spots to visit. This month, we take a fun day trip outing to Yellow Springs, Ohio. Just a short drive south to the city, you can take in the excitement of Cincinnati’s new professional soccer team, FC Cincinnati. Whether you want to stay near or venture a little farther, there are plenty of adventures to have this summer. So lather on the sunscreen and find a nice shady spot to enjoy this issue of West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle.
JULY 2016 publisher
Michelle Moody | Michelle.Moody@LifestylePubs.com editor
Tera Michelson | Tera.Michelson@LifestylePubs.com account manager
Jillian Kelley | Jillian.Kelley@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers
Lisa Bacu, Tom W. Brewer, Tom May, Melinda Zemper contributing photographers
Andrew Albrecht, Corrine Bayraktaroglu, Michelle Lloyd, Roger Reynolds, Karen Wintrow
CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
CHIEF SALES OFFICER
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR AD COORDINATORS
| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd
| Sara Minor
ART DIRECTOR
| Nicole Sylvester
| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Megan Seymour
LAYOUT DESIGNER DESIGN SPECIALIST
| Nicolette Martin | Ashleigh Thomson
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT
Michelle Moody, Publisher Michelle.Moody@LifestylePubs.com
| Matthew Perry
WEB DEVELOPER
| Melanie Carlisle | Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park
Michelle Moody, Publisher Michelle.Moody@LifestylePubs.com Team Fastrax performs an unforgettable, patriotic skydive each year at the Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon Festival in Middletown. Find more great summer events and activities in our pages this month. by Community ™
ON THE COVER A patriotic picnic at
WestChesterandLibertyLifestyle.com
Beckett Park’s playground. Discover a new picnic spot—see our list of local favorites on page 22. PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELLE LLOYD 4
West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | July 2016
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P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of West Chester and Liberty’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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July 2016
Departments
26
8
Good Times
12
Around Town
14
Giving Back
24
Culinary Creations
26
Road Trip
28
Our Town
30
Lifestyle Calendar
34
Parting Thoughts
18 Root for the Home Team
Cincinnati scores with a hot, new soccer club—FC Cincinnati.
22 A-Tisket, A-Tasket
Pack a picnic basket for an open-air affair in one of our local parks.
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Good Times
West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle Ladies Night
West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle hosted our first Ladies Night on June 2. It was an evening of meeting new friends, wine, prizes and sweets from Cozy’s Cottage. Thank you to our sponsors: Dermatology & Surgery of Southern Ohio, Diet Center, Shaklee, Cozy’s Cottage and Blow Dry Bar & Salon.
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West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | July 2016
Summer is the Best Time to Lose Weight - Losing Just 10 Pounds Changes Your Life!
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LOSE 20 – 30 – 40 POUNDS OR MORE
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thursday nights, 6PM - 9PM july
7/7 The Menus | 7/14 The Chuck Taylors | 7/21 SMOOOTH 7/28 The Good Hooks
August
The Premier Yoga & Wellness Studio
8/4 The Mistics | 8/11 Bad Habit | 8/18 Amy and the Arrangement 8/25 Naked Karate Girls
in West Chester and Liberty
REWIND WEDNESDAYS
YOGA • WELLNESS • COMMUNITY Massage • Mental Health Services Aromatherapy • LIFEshops • Yoga parties
SHOWTIMES BEGINNING AT DUSK
july 7/6 Jumanji | 7/13 Back to the Future | 7/20 Hocus Pocus | 7/27 Matilda
August Find your Self
gracetreestudio.com
You’re invited to join us Wednesdays for an evening under
8/3 Honey, I Shrunk the Kids | 8/10 The Wizard of Oz | 8/17 Pain the stars. Bring your blankets and comfy outdoor chairs for 8/24 Willy Wonka andofthe Factory 8/31willHomeward Bound showings yourChocolate favorite classic family films. |There be treats and surprises that add to the family fun!
July 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle
9
Good Times
2016 Regional Business to Business Expo
The West Chester/Liberty Chamber Alliance hosted more than 1,400 professionals and 110 exhibitors to “Connect People & Possibilities” at its successful annual event. The guest speaker was Phillip Castellini, Chief Operating Officer of the Cincinnati Reds. Lunch featured foods by local caterers and restaurants. PHOTOGRAPHY BY WEST CHESTER CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY
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West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | July 2016
Lyons' Annual Cinco de Mayo Party
May 5 was the seventeenth Cinco de Mayo Party hosted by Judge Rob Lyons of Lyons & Lyons, and his family at their West Chester home. Guests included Supreme Court Justice Sharon Kennedy and Warren Davidson, congressional nominee. The fiesta included a photo booth to capture all of the fun.
What are you doing is summр?
Come join us for a summer camp lled with fun! Camps and classes in:
513-829-2345 • WestChesterAcademy.com West Chester Academy is a fun learning community for your child! Specializing in beginners of all ages, preschool and up!
Gymnastics • Music Dance • Visual Arts West Chester Academy 8107 Market Place Drive West Chester, Ohio 45069
513-829-2345 WestChesterAcademy.com July 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle
11
Around Town
AROUND TOWN
CONGRATS TO LAKOTA’S 2016 GRADS AND EDUCATORS OF EXCELLENCE Congratulations to the Class of 2016, graduates of Lakota East and Lakota West High Schools. 1,220 graduates celebrated commencement at Xavier University’s Cintas Center at the end of May. The end of the 2015-16 school year also brought recognition to three winners of this year’s Educators of Excellence awards. Given by the Community
FILL A BACKPACK FOR REACH OUT LAKOTA’S SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE It may be summer break, but Reach Out Lakota asks that we already start thinking about school—school supplies, that is. You are invited to support the community-based organization’s mission to ensure that all children in the Lakota School District start school with the tools they need to succeed. Donate supplies, funds and your time to help. Toss a few new school supplies in your shopping cart this month to give away: backpacks, folders, writing utensils, notebooks, paper, scissors, flash drives and more. In 2015, Reach Out Lakota provided more than 600 backpacks full of school supplies to local students. Donations are due by August 1. For details, contact Program Coordinator Andrea Subler at asubler@reachoutlakota.org. ReachOutLakota.org
GOLF AND DINE TO SUPPORT LOCAL TEENS – JULY 15
Foundation of West Chester/Liberty, the 2016 recipients are Todd Caulfield,
Help EDGE Teen Center in Liberty Township tee up for another
sixth grade teacher at Cherokee Elementary, Tracey Kornau, physical
great year of impacting local youth at the Annual Linkinnati Golfs for
education teacher and varsity girls’ volleyball coach at Lakota West High
EDGE Outing. On Friday, July 15 at The City of Mason Golf Center,
School and Jeff Rouff, principal at Hopewell Junior. Winners were chosen by
golfers will hit the links. For only $95 per player, golfers get lunch,
a selection committee made up of Foundation and Lakota staff, based on
18 holes, a cart, dinner and an after-party. Bring a guest to dinner
nomination letters from the community. Congratulations to Caulfield, Kornau
and the after-party for no additional cost. Registration begins at 12
and Rouff for this well-deserved honor. LakotaOnline.com
noon; shotgun start is at 1 p.m. Don’t know a tee from a teaspoon?
WEST CHESTER VFW POST 7696 HOLDS OPEN HOUSE VFW Post 7696 in West Chester held an Open House on May 26. Members, visitors and their families enjoyed coffee, red-white-and-blue cookies and brats and metts cooked on their new grill,
All proceeds go toward helping teens. Register online to play, eat or sponsor the event. EDGETeenCenter.com
YWCA ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR OUTSTANDING WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
gifted to the post by the
Do you know an outstanding woman in Butler County? The Hamilton
Ladies Auxiliary. A licensed
YWCA is now accepting nominations for its Outstanding Women of
physical therapist was also
Achievement Award. Qualifying nominees must live or work in Butler
on-site, offering therapeutic
County and are recognized for their significant contributions to the
massage. The Veterans of
Butler County community. Nominations are due by August 1. Winners
Foreign Wars is commit-
will be announced at the YWCA Hamilton Celebration of Women event
ted to the U.S. military, its
on September 29 at the Fairfield Convention Center. The evening of fun
veterans and their families.
and fundraising includes a sit-down dinner, music, art, wine, hors d’oeu-
Members of the local post
vres and a silent auction. Tickets are $50. Proceeds go toward supporting
are involved in many com-
YWCA programs, including the only domestic violence safe house in Butler
munity activities throughout
County and transitional living facilities for women. To make a nomination,
the year; they organize the
contact Reva Evans at revans@ywcahamilton.com. YWCA is accepting
West Chester Memorial Day
sponsors for the event. To support their mission to eliminate racism and
parade, present the flag at
empower women, contact Ben Powers at bpowers@ywcahamilton.com.
veterans’ funerals and at local
513.856.9800 YWCAHamilton.com
sporting events and volunteer at the Cincinnati V.A. Medical Center. Military veterans are
MISS OHIO JUNIOR PRE-TEEN QUEEN ENDS REIGN
invited to explore the benefits
At the end of July, Taylor Small of Liberty Township ends her reign as
of membership at their web-
2015 Miss Ohio Junior Pre-Teen Queen. Small was crowned Queen in
site or by calling 513.300.4159. VFWPost7696.homestead.com 12
For only $20, skip the golf and join the dinner and after-party only.
West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | July 2016
July, 2015, winning the title over 110 others her age in a National American
Miss (NAM) pageant. NAM pageants are geared to building leadership, confidence
$100
and volunteerism in young women. As Queen, Small made appearances around the state and volunteered in the community with several organizations: United Way, Cinderella’s Closet, Zero Prostate Cancer Walk, Kids’ Reality Books Advisory Board and MetroParks. In May, she was honored for her service to the state by Senator Bill Coley of Ohio’s 4th Senate District. Small is the daughter of Diana and Ricardo Small. She completed fifth grade at Lakota’s Heritage Elementary in May. NAMiss.com
HUNTINGTON ACT AND SAT TEST PREP PROGRAMS
Liberty Township resident Taylor Small, Miss Ohio Junior Pre-Teen Queen.
It’s never too early – or late – to start preparing for the ACT or SAT. With our individualized, proven test prep programs, Huntington is the best tutoring option to ensure your student’s best score.
LAKOTA’S SUMMER LUNCH PROGRAM IS ON WHEELS
PREMIER PROGRAM
The wheels on two converted school buses go round and round to deliver lunches to children from low-income families in the Lakota school district this summer. In this innovative program, Lakota Child Nutrition is partnering with Faith Alliance and the Butler County Educational Service Center to bring a mid-day meal to those children who qualify for free and reduced school meals. The program, which is fully funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is expected to serve 3,500 students during summer break. Volunteer to help serve at one of seven locations, Monday-Friday, around town this summer. See a complete list of locations and times online. LakotaOnline.com
FIVE MINUTE FACELIFT AVAILABLE AT MITCHELL’S SALON & DAY SPA Mitchell’s Salon & Day Spa introduces NuFace, a new handheld device that promises a five-minute facelift. Summer is tough on our faces. Dry and damaged skin will be ready for rejuvenation from sun, pool chemicals and dehydration by summer’s end. When used in combination with a daily skin care routine, NuFace is clinically proven to improve facial contour and skin tone and reduce wrinkles. Using non-invasive microcurrent and red-light therapy to enhance the anti-aging process, NuFace offers users benefits in as little as five minutes a day. NuFace is made in the USA, cleared by the FDA and professionally recommended. To try NuFace for free, with the guidance of a licensed esthetician, visit any of Mitchell’s four Cincinnati locations. MitchellsSalon.com
JUNE CORRECTION In June’s issue, For the Guys, we failed to credit the writer and photographer of the Locally Owned story about local business Welling & Co. on page 24, “Four Generations of Jewelry.” The article was written by Katie Gravely; photography was by Snappy George Photography. We regret the error.
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July 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle
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Giving Back
Never
Give Up EAGLE SCOUT CANDIDATE HONORS LOCAL BOY WITH LITTLE FREE LIBRARY PROJECT
ARTICLE TOM MAY
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West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | July 2016
T
he Eagle Scout is the highest rank that a Scout can achieve in the Boy Scouts of America. The award has been earned by more than two million young men since its inception in 1912. From politicians to physicians, astronauts to entertainers, the list of Eagle Scouts includes some of the most visionary leaders of the day: Neil Armstrong, Gerald Ford, Michael Bloomberg, Steven Spielberg and Nick Branson. Nick Branson? While you may not be aware of the name right now, the odds are great that you will someday. Branson is a Life Scout in Troup 940 that operates out of St. John’s Parish in West Chester. He will be a freshman this fall at Lakota East and hopes to participate in football and basketball. An excellent communicator with a distinctive vision for the future, Branson dreams of one day pursuing service in the Navy or National Guard. The Scouting program has already played a significant role in this young man’s life, involving the whole family. Branson’s stepfather, Tim Hutcheson serves as an assistant Scout Master, while his mom Marlene volunteers as a chaperone and runs the troop’s website and Facebook page. Whether helping him acclimate to new friends after a move, or to overcome a fear of heights by repelling over a waterfall, Scouting challenges Branson to make a difference—in his own life, and the lives of others. Branson is currently finishing his work to become an Eagle Scout. Requirements for the award include earning at least 21 merit badges, demonstrating the Scout spirit of leadership and service, and launching and completing an Eagle Scout Service Project. As he began to consider possible projects, he started talking with Jeanne Hayden, who attends St. John’s church. Hayden is actively involved in the Jeffrey Thomas Hayden Foundation, a non-profit organization honoring her
Branson is building two Little Free Library book exchanges similar to this one to be placed in the Walter J. Long Multi Sports Complex, 7894 Kyles Station Road, Liberty Township. Photo provided by Little Free Library.
grandson who passed away in 2004, before his thirteenth birthday. The young child fought courageously for eight months before succumbing to brain cancer. Because of Jeffrey Thomas’ love for reading, books play an important role in the Foundation’s ministry. Each year it sponsors a book drive to provide books for Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Through her travels, Hayden learned of an organization called the Little Free Library. The goal of the group is to promote literacy and the love of reading by building free book exchanges worldwide and to build a sense of community as they share skills, creativity and wisdom across generations. There are more than 36,000 Little Free Library book exchanges around the world. As Branson and Hayden continued to talk, he found himself relating to the legacy of Jeffrey Thomas, whose motto was, “Never give up.” Branson says, “I truly felt a connection to Mrs. Hayden and her grandson. I wanted to help her bring the Little Free Libraries to the West Chester, Liberty Township area.” Because there is so much hard work and planning that goes into a project of this magnitude, Branson soon began adopting Jeffrey’s motto as his own. Branson has strong dreams for the reading project. “My hope is that other people will see the library boxes and get excited about reading,” he says. “I hope my project can inspire others to place the Little Free Library boxes in their own parks and neighborhoods.” Working alongside the Lakota Sport Organization’s executive administrator, Bruce Rhodes, Branson is working on two boxes to place at the Walter J. Long Sports Complex. One box will have a baseball theme; the other will represent soccer. He hopes to have the libraries in place and ready for use by the beginning of the 2016-17 school year. “I chose the location based on Jeffrey’s love for playing sports and reading books,” Branson says. “In a way, the project will be honoring him and his memory.” Never give up—in projects or in life. One quickly becomes convinced that Eagle Scout candidate Nick Branson never will.
Photo provided by Little Free Library.
The Little Free Library organization started a global movement when it was founded in 2012. There are currently more than 36,000 Little Free Library book exchanges around the world, represented in all 50 states and more than 70 countries. Little Free Library is helping exchange an estimated 9.3 million books a year. With the official motto to “Take a Book, Return a Book,” Little Free Library aims to deepen its current impact by growing to 100,000 libraries worldwide by the end of 2017. For information on starting your own Little Free Library, please visit LittleFreeLibrary.org.
July 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle
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Welcome home to...
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(513) 894-4455 • CarriageHillLiving.com 5342 Carriage House Blvd, Liberty Township
Summertime Excitement Carriage Hill is filled with activity for 2016 including our newest expansion in Walnut Point, featuring 33 beautiful homesites.
Wonderful Clubhouse Amenities Our wonderful amenities are expanding to include the new lakeside Adult Clubhouse and Pool facility opening soon! This new clubhouse is conveniently located close to our maintenance-free neighborhood for empty nesters and young professionals The Wynn’s and The Enclave. Summer is an exciting time to engage your new home needs. Visit our select group of master builders.
NEW TEA IN TOWN FC Cincinnati Soccer Wins Fans & Games ARTICLE TOM W. BREWER PHOTOGRAPHY FC CINCINNATI
T
ens of thousands of sports fans recently packed a Cincinnati stadium. The crowd, dressed from head to
toe in orange jerseys and scarves, was there to cheer on the hometown squad against their rivals out of Pittsburgh. Before you shout, “Who Dey!” you should know the contest at hand wasn’t a violent AFC North battle between the Steelers and the Bengals, but a soccer match between the Pittsburgh Riverhounds and FC Cincinnati of the United Soccer League. Soccer is back in the Queen City in a big, big way. In this, their inaugural season, FC (Fùtbol Club) Cincinnati is already making its mark on the local sports scene. In just its fourth home game, the team set a USL attendance record, packing Nippert Stadium with over 23,000 soccer-crazed supporters. The buzz surrounding the team is palpable, and General Manager Jeff Berding attributes that excitement to the product on the pitch. “When you come to an FC Cincinnati match, you see constant action. There are very few breaks, very few stoppages. Each game is a high-energy environment and that makes for a lot of fun,” Berding says. The talented club, which includes local products and MLS draftees Luke Spencer (Winton Woods, Xavier) and Austin Berry (Summit Country Day, Louisville), certainly draws a crowd with their play. But the match-day experience is what builds a loyal fan base, and the club has implemented some unique programs to make sure everyone’s interests are met.
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West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | July 2016
AM Ticket sections aren’t divided so much by distance from Supporters go wild for FC Cincinnati from The Bailey, home to the most passionate fans.
the field as they are the experience of the individual. For the sign-makers, the face-painters and the chant-shouters, there’s The Bailey. Named after a castle armory, this is the FC Cincinnati supporter section. It’s a raucous carnival behind the home goal where the diehards go to light a fire under the team. No one in The Bailey leaves a match with their voice intact. FC Cincinnati offers college students a stadium section that’s all their own—The Legion. The Legion gives fans from UC, Xavier, NKU and Cincinnati State a chance to meet, mix and mingle in a unique environment. The stadium also includes general seating for adults and families with older children, and a section just for youth soccer teams. To provide financial assistance to local youth soccer programs, the club has instituted a Youth Soccer Giveback Program. Attendees can select a registered team when purchasing tickets online, and twenty percent of the ticket’s face value will be donated to the selected youth team. For Berding, programs like this are a way to grow the local fan base. “There are more people playing soccer across the world than all other sports combined. It’s extremely popular with millennials. There’s the potential to one day grow as big as the Reds and the Bengals,” says Berding. He should know; he spent 19 years as an executive with the Bengals. The club is finding creative ways to make matches affordable for every fan. Ticket prices are commensurate with the CONTINUED >
July 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle
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NEW TEAM IN TOWN (CON TI N U ED)
demographics and desired experience of attendees in a particular section. The strappedfor-cash college student will pay $5 for a ticket in The Legion, and youth teams pay $12 per seat. Seats in The Bailey cost $10, a small price to pay for a fanatic, and general admission tickets cost between $20 and $25. Premium seating is available for private parties. Parking is ample around Nippert Stadium, as fans can park in any number of the lots or garages in the immediate area. Aware that parking is a headache for all sports enthusiasts, FC Cincinnati uses social media to alleviate that pain. The team Twitter account (@fccincinnati) updates followers as to which parking areas are full and which concession stands have long lines to save fans time and stress. The team is also on Instagram (@fccincinnati), where they share photos of games, fans and behind-thescenes moments. You can have a peek at what you’ve been missing using #FCCincy. Berding and the entire FC Cincinnati organization haven’t let the fact that they’re the new kid on the USL block temper their expectations. They’ve set their sights high. “We’re just like every other professional sports franchise—we want to win a championship. Besides that, we want to have the best first year we can and begin to earn our way into the conversation of top American pro soccer cities,” he says. More than 23,000 orange-clad supporters agree that FC Cincinnati is well on its way.
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West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | July 2016
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1 package of mixed greens 4oz feta cheese 1 package of strawberries, washed and sliced 1 package of blueberries, washed Candied pecans Dressing: Whisk together 1/4 cup of The Spicy Olive’s Milanese Gremolata olive oil and 1/4 cup of The Spicy Olive’s Sicilian Lemon white balsamic. Other great combos are Blueberry balsamic with Lemon olive oil, Strawberry balsamic with Basil olive oil or even the July flavors of the month! Salad: To candy pecans, place 1 tablespoon The Spicy Olive’s Butter olive oil in a saute pan. Add 2 Tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon Karo syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1 teaspoon The Spicy Olive’s Vermont Maple balsamic. Stir until brown sugar is dissolved. Add 1 cup pecans and stir until pecans are coated and candy syrup has been absorbed by the pecans. Spread out on parchment paper and allow to cool and coating to harden. If it is a humid day, you may need to place in a 250 degree oven for 15 minutes to harden properly. Place greens in a salad bowl. Top with strawberries, blueberries and feta cheese.
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Do you have a will? Wills. Financial/ Estate Planning. Juvenile. Traffic/ DUI Criminal. Divorce. Business Law. Auto/ Injury July 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle
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Picnic Paradise Find Your Favorite Neighborhood Picnic Spot
ARTICLE TERA MICHELSON | PHOTOGRAPHY MICHELLE LLOYD
One of the simple pleasures of summer is a picnic. The great outdoors becomes our dining room. While you can pop open a picnic basket and eat practically anywhere, your choice of setting can make or break your al fresco affair. Here’s our go-to list of top picnic spots in West Chester and Liberty Townships. Explore these and other community parks to find your own slice of picnic paradise. Bring your own blanket! 22
West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | July 2016
Beckett Park
8682 & 8630 Beckett Road, West Chester Home of the historic Muhlhauser Barn, Beckett Park is a picturesque picnic locale. On both the east and west sides of Beckett Road, there are romantic spots to spread out a blanket: at the gazebo overlooking the pond, in the shade of a grove of trees or under the picnic shelter at the water’s edge. After your meal, take a walk on the Park’s paved and natural trails or watch kids play at the playground—maybe you can swing, too!
Keehner Park
7211 & 7411 Barret Road, West Chester Pack a light dinner and stake out your spot for a picnic at the Keehner Park Amphitheatre. On summer Saturdays, the West Chester Concert Series performances are held here from 7-9 p.m. Hike the beautiful wooded trails, toss rocks in Mill Creek or play a tennis match on one of the three public courts to work up an appetite. Alcohol is not permitted in the park, so fill the cooler with ice cold root beer instead.
Reserves Park
5119 Grandin Ridge Drive, Liberty Township Reserves Park is a hidden treasure, tucked into the Reserves of Liberty subdivision off State Route 747. Don’t miss the driveway—watch for park signs. Reserves Park hosts a fishing pond, springy surface accessible playground, new Frisbee golf course and a Parcourse Trail for fitness. This family park has a shelter with picnic tables and even charcoal grills. The entire gang will be entertained here before, during and after a picnic. Double your fun by walking on the path to the far east end of the park where Reserves Park connects to the Ft. Liberty Playland. Don’t forget to hydrate with all of that exercising in the summer heat!
Voice of America MetroPark 7850 VOA Park Drive, West Chester
There are plenty of picnic options at VOA, where the park is centered around the lake. Pack a backpack and scale the big hill for a stunning view. Snag a table at the gazebo overlooking the lake. You can even rent a rowboat for a floating feast. VOA is a kid-friendly picnic spot, with a safe playground and restrooms that are easily accessible. Bring your furry friend along to take advantage of Wiggly Field dog park. Wednesday evenings in the summer, you can catch a Hump Day Concert from 7-9 p.m. On those nights, you can even purchase your
A Tisket, A Tasket - What to Pack in Your Picnic Basket?
When packing your basket, keep it simple–the best picnic foods are easy to prepare and easy to eat. Find recipes for delicious picnic foods in the fresh, gourmet style of Cozy’s Cottage in Culinary Creations, page 24. Use this handy checklist to pack a basket, cooler or backpack with summer picnic essentials. Store a copy of the list inside your favorite basket so you are prepared for every use.
dinner at the Ronald Reagan Lodge patio—no packing necessary!
What To Pack:
William F. & Cora Dudley Woods Park
CUTTING KNIFE - Wrap the blade in a sheath or with a
5591 Hankins Road, Liberty Township
Dudley Woods Park is on a quiet, wooded lot. Hike in to picnic on a bench along the nature trail, eat at a table under the shelter or take the road less traveled and find a spot in a field of tall grass and wildflowers. This gem of a park is a nature preserve with a kingdom of wildlife. Watch the birds, follow the butterflies and scout out four-legged friends as you walk the peaceful path. You’ll need insect repellant at Dudley Woods. Even though they aren’t invited, bugs love picnics.
ICE PACKS - Keep your meats, cheeses and salads cold.
kitchen towel for safe travel. CORKSCREW OR BOTTLE OPENER – Be ready, in case
you need to pop a cork. SALT & PEPPER – Spice things up with travel-sized sea-
sonings and condiments. SERVING UTENSILS – Don’t forget serving spoons and
forks to divvy out the side dishes. OTHER IMPORTANT ITEMS TO REMEMBER:
• Blanket or tablecloth
• Paper towels
• Plates
• Trash bag
• Cutlery
• Sunscreen
• Napkins
• Insect repellant
• Drinks
• Water
• Hand sanitizer PACK FUN OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES: soccer ball, Frisbee,
bubbles, playing cards, sidewalk chalk or water balloons. DON’T FORGET DESSERT! A sweet surprise tops off a picnic
meal. Try chocolate-dipped fruit, rice cereal and marshmallow treats, mini cupcakes or chilled watermelon slices.
July 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle
23
Gourmet to Go
Culinary Creations
FILL YOUR PICNIC BASKET WITH FLAVOR
FROM THE KITCHEN OF COZY’S COTTAGE
N
o one knows the relaxing and rejuvenating power of a picnic like the folks at Cozy’s Cottage. With outdoor seating at a premium, and
herbs and veggies fresh from its on-site gardens, Cozy’s serves summer's seasonal best every lunch and dinner. If you must take your picnic on-the-road, take Cozy’s fresh, gourmet style with you. Chef Gary Henz shares his recipes to fill your summer picnic basket with flavor.
Raspberry Mango Sangria • 2 cups Mango, ripe
• ¼ cup Mint, packed leaves • 1 cup Raspberries • 2 cups Mango nectar • ½ cup Peach schnapps • 1 bottle Riesling • 12-ounce can Raspberry sparkling seltzer water Combine Riesling, schnapps, nectar and raspberries in a large pitcher. Add peeled and sliced mango. Tear mint leaves to release flavor, then add to the pitcher. Refrigerate for two hours. Top with seltzer and serve cold (ice optional). Transfer to your favorite thermos or portion into mason jars with lids. 24
West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | July 2016
Lemon Curd Tiramisu Mason Jars • 10 ounces Lemon curd • 3 Tbsp Lemon juice • 7/16 cup Sugar • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract, pure • 4 ounces White chocolate, finely chopped • 8 ounces Mascarpone cheese (room temperature) • ¾ cup Heavy cream • ½ cup Milk • 32 3-inch Soft lady fingers Heat milk until hot but not boiling. Whisk in white chocolate until melted. Set aside to cool. In a large bowl, beat ¼ cup sugar into room temperature mascarpone cheese. Whisk the white chocolate mixture into the mascarpone mixture. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until soft. Gently fold heavy cream mixture into mascarpone mixture. For lemon drizzle, in a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and 3 tablespoons sugar until dissolved. In four mason jars, fit two ladyfingers in bottom, brush with lemon drizzle and then repeat with another layer of two ladyfingers/drizzle. Spread 1 tablespoon of lemon curd over ladyfingers. Pour ⅓ cup white chocolate and mascarpone mixture on top of lemon curd. Repeat another layer of ladyfingers, mascarpone and lemon curd until the jar is full. Garnish with lemon zest. Chill for a minimum of four hours, then enjoy as a sweet end to your picnic.
Cozy’s Taste of Summer Sandwich • 12-inch Baguette • 1 Avocado • 2 ounces Goat cheese • 6 ounces Shredded deli turkey breast • 12 Spinach leaves, fresh • 8 Beet slices Cut baguette in to two 6-inch pieces, then slice down the center. Spread goat cheese and avocado generously on each inner portion of sliced baguette. Layer turkey, spinach and beets in between to complete the sandwich. Wrap with parchment paper and tie with your favorite ribbon or string to package for picnic. Serve cool.
Honey Sriracha Coleslaw • ¼ cup Honey
• ¼ cup Real mayonnaise • 1 Tbsp Rice vinegar • 1 Tbsp Hot chili sauce (like Sriracha) • ½ teaspoon Salt • ½ teaspoon Ground black pepper • 6 cups Shredded coleslaw vegetable mix In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mayo, rice vinegar and hot chili sauce. Add salt and pepper. In a large bowl, combine vegetable mix and contents of small bowl. Fold and stir until mix is completely coated. Cover and refrigerate for 45 minutes. Scoop into single servings in mason jars with lids for your picnic basket. Keep cool in a cooler.
July 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle
25
Road Trip
Destination: Yellow Springs SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE IN CHARMING OHIO VILLAGE
ARTICLE TERA MICHELSON
S
ummertime calls for a classic road trip—
Yellow Springs is an art town with art adorning gallery walls. Photo by Corrine Bayraktaroglu.
sunglasses on, windows rolled down
and radio volume cranked up. Enjoy a onehour ride through suburban landscapes that give way to rolling, rural back roads to make a stop in the village of Yellow Springs, Ohio. The summer sidewalks of Yellow Springs are busy, but not over-crowded. If you visit on the right day, you are likely to encoun-
SHOP THE SPRINGS
A walk down Xenia Avenue is a feast for
ter talented street musicians. Stroll from
the
shop to shop along the beautiful tree-lined
shop windows are filled with imported and
eyes:
brightly-colored,
Victorian-style
streets. Green space, flowering window
locally produced goods. Doors of every color
boxes and beautiful gardens are abundant
of the rainbow open to jewelry, toys, pottery,
here. Artful benches and outdoor seating
antiques and books. Find vintage, custom and
invite frequent rest stops.
international apparel in one of many specialty
People here look you in the eye and greet
boutiques. There’s even a mom-and-pop hard-
visitors with a smile. Residents are known
ware store in the center of town, Downing’s Do
for being creative, well-educated and open-
it Best Hardware. Yellow Springs is a shoppers’
minded. Yellow Springs has a strong com-
paradise to mine the perfect wedding, birthday
munity of diverse people. Locals are proud
or just-because gifts.
of their hometown and eager to engage in conversation and share their opinions. The walkable village center is lined with eclectic shops, art galleries and eateries. 26
West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | July 2016
ENJOY THE ARTS
Walking the streets of Yellow Springs is a gallery-like experience, with murals, mosaics,
Dozens of shops line the streets of Yellow Springs. Photo by Karen Wintrow.
Enjoy a bite from Current Cuisine or one of the other unique cafes in Yellow Springs. Photo by Karen Wintrow.
The Little Miami Scenic Trail, part of the nation's longest paved off-street trail system, runs through the heart of Yellow Springs. Photo by Roger Reynolds.
sculptures and other street art at every turn. Art in a variety of mediums is on display in multiple galleries. Fall in love with a work of art made from fabric, wood or glass. Stop by Yellow Springs Pottery, a retail cooperative, to see pieces by several ceramic artists all in one location. If film is more your style, you can count on a quality independent or foreign film on the screen at Little Art Theatre, a non-profit movie house. Live music is a staple at Peach’s Grill on weekends. Follow the sounds of music to open mic nights there on Tuesdays. 100 Corry Street Art Park. Photo by Corrine Bayraktaroglu.
GET SOME FRESH AIR
Yellow Springs is surrounded by an outdoor recreation playground. Dip your toes in the town’s namesake Yellow Spring in Glen Helen Nature Preserve, a plot of protected land for hiking, birding and outdoor education. For only a $2
located in the new Mills Park Hotel and fea-
in oversized scoops in every flavor imagin-
parking fee, you can wind through miles of trails
tures comfort foods and homemade baked
able. Try a waffle cone of Cow Patty—double
in the Glen past natural springs, waterfalls, cliffs
goods. For a romantic, fine dining experience
dark chocolate with cookie and toffee pieces
and rock formations. Get your heart pumping on
that’s still casual, blow into the intimate Winds
and chocolate chips. Kids and adults alike
the Little Miami Scenic Trail, a 78-mile path that
Café. Its cozy dining room calls for reserva-
will enjoy the farm animal petting zoo, minia-
runs through Yellow Springs. Sport enthusiasts
tions. Current Cuisine offers a menu of gour-
ture golf and seasonal farm activities on their
that bike, hike and rollerblade on the paved
met delights from its deli and international
full “Cowlendar of Events.”
route relish the peaceful views and wide, shaded
grocery. Fresh salads, soups and sandwiches
paths. When you finish exploring, kick back with
may be enjoyed onsite or on-the-go.
a cold microbrew at the popular Yellow Springs
If you decide to stay overnight, book one of the nearby historic bed-and-breakfasts, cabins or inns—most within walking dis-
Brewery, conveniently located just off the trail.
SAVE ROOM FOR DESSERT
DINE OUT
don’t miss Young’s Jersey Dairy, just five
Yellow Springs is a colorful oasis in south-
Follow your nose to a Yellow Springs
minutes north on US-68. Young’s is a fully
ern Ohio, well worth the short drive. Visit for
restaurant experience of your choice. Pull up a
functioning dairy farm that has expanded
a day or stick around for a long weekend;
seat for breakfast, brunch or lunch on the vast
into a complex of food and entertainment.
no matter how long you stay, Yellow Springs
porch at Ellie’s Restaurant & Bakery. Ellie’s is
Fresh, homemade ice cream is served here
leaves you wanting to come back for more.
tance of all of the action.
For an adventure for the whole family,
July 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle
27
Our Town
The National Voice of America Museum, 8070 Tylersville Road, West Chester, is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
Towers at sunset. Photo by Andrew Albrecht.
The National VOICE OF AMERICA
Museum
TAKE A STEP BACK IN TIME ARTICLE MELINDA ZEMPER
T
ake a break from the summer heat this month and enjoy a visit to the cool interior of the tiled, art deco National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting in West Chester. Built in 1942 as part of U.S. government efforts to fight Hitler’s propaganda machine, the historic station transmitted accurate news, entertainment and cultural information to U.S. allies and oppressed peoples in Europe. The broadcasts from VOA-Bethany were so effective that Hitler called staff here the “Cincinnati liars.” After WWII, the station transmitted VOA news to South America throughout the Cold War. Since VOA-Bethany was decommissioned in 1994, volunteers have been renovating the building and making it into a first-in-class museum that tells the story of how the reach of technology in media can change people’s minds and influence geopolitics. Tour the Media Heritage exhibits to learn the history of Voice of America and Cincinnati’s role in broadcasting history. See the Gray History of Wireless Museum exhibit of an extensive collection of radios ranging from early days to the present. Today, the West Chester Amateur Radio Association maintains an onsite, working shortwave radio station and welcomes visitors who want to learn about ham radio operations.
The museum is open on the third Saturday of each month from 1-4 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $1 for children under 12. VOAMuseum.org 28
West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | July 2016
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Lifestyle Calendar
July SUMMER SATURDAYS, JULY 2 AUGUST 27 WEST CHESTER CONCERT SERIES KEEHNER PARK, AMPHITHEATRE
SUMMER WEDNESDAYS, JULY 6-AUGUST 31 REWIND WEDNESDAYS: MOVIES UNDER MOONLIGHT LIBERTY CENTER, THE PARK Enjoy family-friendly movie classics every Wednesday this summer, July 6-August 31. Bring your favorite outdoor chair to unwind and watch a show under the moonlight. Activities and entertainment start at 7 p.m.; movies begin at dusk. July’s featured movies include: Jumanji, Back to the Future, Hocus Pocus and Matilda. Liberty-Center.com
Enjoy summer Saturday evenings at the West Chester Concert Se-
JULY 8 & 9
ries. Bring a blanket or chairs to relax and hear a diverse line-up of
OHIO CHALLENGE HOT AIR
performing artists. Coming to the Amphitheatre in July: West Chester
BALLOON FESTIVAL
Symphony, Right Turn Clyde, Cincinnati Brass Band, Keith Jones &
SMITH PARK
the Makeshifts and Shut Up & Drive. 7-9 p.m. Keehner Park, 7211 Bar-
The Ohio Challenge Hot Air Bal-
ret Road, West Chester. WestChesterOH.org
loon Festival is a sight to behold
JULY 2
at Middletown's Smith Park. With more than 35 colorful balloons,
RED, WHITE & LIBERTY
the family-friendly festival features
LIBERTY CENTER
a laser show, kids’ activities, fire-
Start a new July 4th tradition at the new premier shopping and
works, skydivers and more. Park
entertainment complex in Liberty Township, Liberty Center.
at Middletown Regional Airport
Gather in the Square from 12 noon-4 p.m. for a parade and var-
and take a free shuttle to Smith
ious activities to delight the whole family. For more details, see
Park. Hours are: Friday, 4-11 p.m.;
the schedule online. Liberty-Center.com
Saturday, 7-10:30 a.m. & 4-11 p.m.
JULY 4
OhioChallenge.com
RUN FOR LIBERTY 5K
JULY 9
LAKOTA EAST HIGH SCHOOL
ONE WAY FARM CHILDREN’S HOME DAY LILY FESTIVAL
Put on your running shoes for the Run for Liberty 5K, hosted by Lib-
ONE WAY FARM
erty Township. This family-friendly event is open to runners and walk-
The One Way Farm Children’s Home will be holding their 5th annual
ers. Gather at the starting line at Lakota East High School. Registra-
Day Lily Festival and fundraiser. Day Lilies will be sold for $3 per fan
tion begins at 7 a.m.; the race starts at 8 a.m. Cost is $20 in advance,
or $5 for three. Hot dogs from the grill, chips and refreshments will be
$25 on race day. Liberty-Township.com
available. One Way Farm is a non-profit organization that provides a warm and loving shelter for children in need. OneWayFarm.org CONTINUED >
JULY 4 31ST ANNUAL FOURTH OF JULY PARADE LAKOTA EAST HIGH SCHOOL TO LIBERTY PARK The American flags will be flying at Liberty Township’s 31st annual Fourth of July parade. Bring the entire family for this holiday favorite. The parade route begins at Lakota East High School and continues down Wyandot Lane to Yankee Road, ending at Liberty Park. Liberty-Township.com 30
West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | July 2016
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Lifestyle Calendar
(CON TI N U ED)
JULY 9 GEOCACHING FUN! GREAT MIAMI RIVER TRAIL, BICENTENNIAL COMMONS METROPARK Learn about geocaching in MetroParks at this free program that is open to all ages and levels of experience. Have fun exploring the park and finding hidden treasures along the Great Miami River Trail. Meet other geocachers and share tips for successful hunting. Registration is requested, but walk-ins are welcome. YourMetroParks.net
JULY 9 WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE? WEST CHESTER HOSPITAL, CAFETERIA Cancer Support Community knows that understanding hospice and palliative care can often be confusing and emotional. Come learn
JULY 23
about the differences between them, benefits of each, and resourc-
ANTIQUE & CLASSIC CAR PARADE
es that are available. Kerry Caito, LISW-S, will lead this education-
BUTLER COUNTY COURTHOUSE SQUARE
al presentation. Kerry has 11+ years of hospice experience and 20+
Start your engines! The Butler County Antique and Classic Car Club
years of social work experience. Please RSVP to this free program at
hosts the 62nd Annual Jerry E. Moore Memorial Antique and Clas-
513.791.4060. CancerSupportCincinnati.org
sic Car Parade this summer. See nearly 300 classic cars showcased
JULY 15 STEPPING FORWARD: SERVICE DAYS VOICE OF AMERICA METROPARK
in this car parade through Hamilton and Fairfield. The parade begins at 1 p.m., and ends with an awards presentation at 3:30 p.m. Antiquecars.org
Volunteer your time to help prepare Voice of America MetroPark for
JULY 24 - 30
the upcoming and popular Crazy Cardboard Regatta event. Raise the
BUTLER COUNTY FAIR
flags and fences, set up tents, clean the park and perform general
BUTLER COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS
event preparations. Registration is required. Find an online link to reg-
From pickles and pies to goats and swine, the Butler County Fair has
ister as a new or experienced volunteer at the MetroParks website.
something for everyone. Come to the fair to enjoy rides, games, ani-
YourMetroParks.net
mals and yummy food on a stick. ButlerCountyOHFair.org
JULY 16
JULY 30
CRAZY CARDBOARD BOAT REGATTA
PET ADOPTION EVENT
VOICE OF AMERICA METROPARK, THE LAKE
MANDY’S DOG-O-MAT
How long will cardboard float? That is the question of the day at the
Calling all pet lovers to unite for a day of fun to support local animal
Crazy Cardboard Boat Regatta. Competing captains and crews must
shelters. Mandy’s Dog-O-Mat hosts its annual pet adoption event
build their vessels in compliance with regatta rules and regulations.
from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Multiple shelters and rescue groups will bring their
Float a boat or take in the fun from shore. Register your cardboard
adoptable dogs and cats. Enjoy free food, vendors, a dunk tank and
creation online. All proceeds from the race go to the Water Recreation
bounce house. All proceeds go to support Butler County animal shel-
Fund. YourMetroParks.net
ters. MandysDogOMat.com
JULY 21
AUGUST 1
THE EVEREST AWARD 2016
COMMUNITY GOLF CLASSIC
CINCINNATI MARRIOTT NORTH AT UNION CENTRE
WETHERINGTON & FOUR BRIDGES GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
Awarded by The West Chester-Liberty Chamber Alliance, The Ever-
The 17th Annual Community Golf Classic is to be held at Wether-
est Award honors leaders and legends that have caused a significant,
ington and Four Bridges Golf & Country Clubs this August 1. The golf
positive impact on business, the community and quality of life along
fee includes lunch, beverages, a cart and dinner. The evening dinner
the I-75 Growth Corridor. The keynote speaker is Ken Anderson, former
and awards ceremony at Four Bridges includes prizes, a raffle and a
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback. This year’s emcee is Ken Broo, Sports
live auction to benefit the Foundation’s Community Grants Fund and
Anchor. RSVP by July 15 to 513.777.3600 TheChamberAlliance.com
operations. WCLFoundation.com
32
West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | July 2016
business directory ART & PHOTOGRAPHY
Masterworks Imaging (513) 494-6015 wedding-photographers-cincinnati.com Pop Revolution Gallery & Framing (513) 492-7474 PopRevolutionGallery.com
CHILD CAMPS, CARE & TUTORING
HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS Carriage Hill (513) 894-4455 CarriageHillLiving.com
HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS
BOVA contemporary furniture (513) 247-9100 BOVAFurniture.com
PROPERTY
CMC The Perfect Small Office (513) 942-4777 PerfectSmallOffice.com
REAL ESTATE
Scot Avery - Huff Realty (513) 325-1361 AveryTeam.com Tiffany Allen-Zeuch Sibcy Cline (513) 349-7311 TAZHomes.com
Huntington Learning Center (513) 860-4716 HuntingtonHelps.com
McSwain Carpets & Floors (513) 759-8400 McSwainCarpets.com
CHIROPRACTIC
HOME SERVICES
RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE
JEWELRY
SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES
West Chester Chiropractic Center (513) 777-7575 WestChesterChiro.com
DANCE
West Chester Academy (513) 829-2345 WestChesterAcademy.com
DERMATOLOGISTS
Dermatology & Surgery of Southern Ohio, Inc. (513) 858-6900 DermatologyandSurgery.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS Diet Center (513) 779-6500 DietCenterCincinnati.com Gracetree Yoga & Growth Studio (513) 759-4458 gracetreestudio.com Rita McCormack & Tara Root (513) 607-3941 ThinkHealthy.MyShaklee.com
Shiver Security Systems (513) 719-4000, Ext. 101 ShiverSecurityServices.com Welling & Co. (513) 779-8883 WellingsJewelers.com
LANDSCAPING The Turf Tailor (513) 295-2782 TheTurfTailor.net
LEGAL
Lyons & Lyons (513) 777-2222 LyonsandLyonsLaw.com
LUXURY AUTOMOTIVE BMW of Cincinnati North (513) 782-1122 BMWofCincinnatiNorth.com
Cozy’s Cottage (513) 644-9365 CozysCottage.com
Personal Senior Care Homes of West Chester (513) 870-9228 PersonalSeniorCareHomes.com
SHOPPING CENTERS Liberty Center (513) 644-0900 Liberty-Center.com
SPECIALTY SHOPS The Spicy Olive (513) 847-4397 TheSpicyOlive.com
MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES
Hilltop Obstetrics & Gynecology (513) 424-1440 HilltopOBGYN.com
July 2016 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle
33
Parting Thoughts
HIDDEN TREASURE GEOCACHING—A QUEST FOR FAMILY TIME WORDS LISA BACU
T
he morning air was a bit chilly, but I was ready to get up. The soil beneath the tent seemed to have turned into concrete overnight. Our day was planned out with fun activities, including a family favorite—geocaching. Geocaching is a grown-up version of treasure hunting and hide-and-seek all rolled into one. Usually, some kind of container has been hidden in a real-world, X-marksthe-spot type of place. Wannabe pirates can use their GPS to find treasure. The real fun is in the hunt and thrill of the find. The treasures themselves are often just a notebook and pencil where you can record the date and a message. Some caches are a bit bigger and include a small toy or trinket. Courtesy and the unwritten rule says to take a treasure, you must leave a treasure. The really cool thing about geocaching is that there are usually far more geocaches in a given area than you may think. Chances are pretty high that there is a geocache within a mile of you right now— maybe more than one (there are seven caches in Voice of America Park). All you need to find them is a GPS-enabled mobile device, a free membership to a geocaching website and a free app which can be downloaded to your phone directly from the website. Family vacations for us always include at least one geocache quest. The Quest must be completed. On this trip, our Quest unexpectedly expanded. We had already found one cache near where we were camped for the week. Inside that cache we found, drum roll please….a Lego Guy! This was no ordinary Lego Guy; this was one of five hidden Lego Guys—a premium prize. Another family left this awesome treasure with a note that indicated there were four other Lego Guys to be found. That was all my 10-year-old son needed to know. The kids were in hot pursuit of Lego Guy #2. We just had to drive down the road a few miles to a city park and check out the two caches there to see if they had also been visited by the Awesome Lego Guy Family. Watching my three children talking excitedly, walking down the trail in front of me, anticipating the find and enjoying the hunt, I think to myself that these are the memories they will carry into their families someday. This is the true treasure of geocaching. Just so you know, we did find another Awesome Lego Guy, but we did not find all five to complete the Quest. It’s possible another family found some of the Awesome Lego Guys. Our family had a lot of fun together on that Quest, anyway. Now, we are starting to hunt down the caches around West Chester and Liberty Township. My hubby and I have even gone geocaching on date nights to hunt down the really hard finds without frustrating the kids. Maybe we will see you on the hunt someday. Maybe you will complete the VOA Quest and visit all seven caches before we do... And to Awesome Lego Guy Family—thanks for the awesome Quest! 34
West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | July 2016
Lisa Bacu is a West Chester scientist, mom and educator. She is committed to passing on a passion for every kind of “-ology” to kids in the Greater Cincinnati area through her new business, Scientific Mayhem, launching this fall. Lisa recommends Geocaching.com to get you started on your geocaching quest this summer.
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Featured Listings – see your home here next month!
7248 Canvas Canopy Custom built, excellent condition ranch in Treillage! Gorgeous kitchen with upscale cabinetry, stainless appliances and granite. Finished walk-out lower level with two bedrooms and bath. Covered deck overlooking lake! Additional twocar detached garage. Elevator tastefully built in. Beautiful views surround entire property! Minutes from Liberty Centre and more!
8064 Chestershire Drive Location-Location-Location! Minutes from Reed Hartman/I-275/I-71! Finished walk-out lower level! Wooded rear lot. New hardwood floors in entry/dining/great room/kitchen/hearth room! Updated kitchen with granite, backsplash and stainless appliances. Sprinkler system. New carpet on first and second floor in 2016! Roof 2008! Furnaces 2013/2015. A/C 2015! Don’t miss out on this great home!
8193 Alpine Aster Court Immaculate condition in desirable Four Bridges! Neutral decor throughout. 9’ ceilings on first floor and basement. Gourmet kitchen with granite and stainless appliances. Fenced in yard. Vaulted family room with wall of windows. Iron spindles. Jack and Jill bedrooms. second bedroomwith private bath. Finished basement with full bath. Minutes from new Liberty Centre!
In 2015, Tiffany’s average days on market was 46 and list-to-sale price was 96.79%
Tiffany Allen-Zeuch Executive Sales Vice President PBD, SRS, Relocation Specialist
513-349-7311 tzeuch@sibcycline.com www.tazhomes.com CABR-Circle of Excellence: 2005, 2009-2015 Sibcy Cline Top & Premier Clubs: 2004-2015 OAR President’s Sales Club: 2005-2015 Five Star Agent (customer service award): 2012-2015 #1 Agent Sibcy Cline West Chester Connect with me on Social Media!
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