Unwrap the Holidays
With the holiday season in full swing, it’s my great pleasure to introduce our Holidays + Giving issue, celebrating all that makes this time of year so magical. This issue is filled with heartwarming stories and festive inspiration to help your family embrace the season's joy, tradition and togetherness.
Inside, you'll find thoughtful articles to guide your celebrations—whether you're seeking the perfect holiday recipes, an idea for a winter weekend getaway or fun new ways to spend time with loved ones. We also highlight local nonprofits and community members whose incredible work uplifts families in need during this season of giving. Their stories of compassion and generosity are a testament to the strength and spirit of our community.
I used to dread the annual holiday “chore” of wrapping gifts. Early in our marriage, I think my husband intentionally wrapped gifts like an eight-year-old so he could get out of gift-wrapping duty indefinitely, which left it all up to me each year. But about a decade ago I started watching the movie “Elf” while wrapping, which in my opinion is the most entertaining Christmas movie. I started looking forward to my annual “Elf” wrapping afternoon, and soon it even became a game to see if I could finish all the presents before the movie ended. Now I look forward to gift wrapping while Buddy the Elf keeps me laughing the whole time. This month’s cover story shares ideas for how to take your gift wrapping to the next level. I suggest putting in a holiday movie you love when you give these ideas a try.
We hope this holiday issue inspires you to reflect on what matters most—family, friendship, community and giving back.
From our family to yours, we wish you a joyous and peaceful holiday season.
Happy Holidays!
MICHELLE MOODY, PUBLISHER MICHELLE.MOODY@CITYLIFESTYLE.COM
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Michelle Moody | Michelle.Moody@CityLifestyle.com
EDITOR
Tera Michelson | Tera.Michelson@CityLifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR A.J. Lape
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Stephanie Amlung, Mike Burcham, A.J. Lape, Sarah Skate, Amanda Stout, Carly Tamborski
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brianna Richardson Photography, Rick Crockett—Butler Tech Multimedia Designer, Cathy Lyons—Lyons Photography, Meg Mahon, Stephanie Meinberg, Rose Sprague
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
city scene
1: @CincyNature conducted a groundbreaking for the new field station at Long Branch Farm and Trails. 2: Brenda + Ken Yablonsky were honored with the “Yablonsky Legacy Award” at the Edge Teen Center fundraiser. 3: Beaux Mondes Salon + Spa celebrated new ownership + remodeling with a ribbon cutting. BeauxMondeSalon.com 4: Butler Tech broke ground on its $15 million, 28,000-square-foot Aviation Education Hangar, located at the Middletown Regional Airport. 5: The Northern Cincinnati Foundation celebrated its 25th Anniversary with grants to Companions on a Journey + Reach Out Lakota plus two Philanthropist Awards.
MEG MAHON
ROSE SPRAGUE
RICK CROCKETT—BUTLER TECH MULTIMEDIA DESIGNER
business monthly
ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Celebrate the Season at Holiday Whopla in Downtown Middletown
Mark your calendar for the many ways to celebrate the season at Middletown’s 4th Annual Holiday Whopla. The festivities have already begun and continue into January. Highlights include horse-drawn carriage rides, ice skating, rentable warm igloos, downtown shopping and pictures with Santa, Mrs. Claus and a variety of other holiday characters. There’s a celebration to suit everyone in the family at this ongoing holiday party. Find the full schedule of events online. HolidayWhopla.org
Stretch Mobility Coach Expands into New Location
Stretch Mobility Coach has moved to a new, larger location. Just a mile from their original spot, you can now find the Stretch Mobility Coach’s expert team at their new address at 8102 Beckett Center Drive in West Chester just off Princeton-Glendale Road. With a mission to help patients start living without limits, their team of professionals offers stretch mobility coaching, red light therapy, muscle reconditioning and more.
Hands-On Cooking Classes for Individuals, Couples, Kids, and Private Events
Discover Your Inner Chef
The Learning Kitchen is Greater Cincinnati's premier cooking class destination. Our take on cooking is simple: it should be easy, fun, and delicious.
Both of our state-of-the-art kitchens are thoughtfully designed for our educational cooking classes. Whether you're a seasoned home cook, an aspiring gourmet chef, or someone just starting out, we offer classes that will boost your confidence and help you create incredible dishes.
celebrate the season
THE MORE THE MERRIER AT WEST CHESTER’S NEW HOLIDAY FAMILY FUN DAY—DECEMBER 7
Mark Saturday, December 7 in your calendar—the volunteer elves of C3 Caring Community Collaborative (C3) have been preparing a day of holiday fun to celebrate the season. The nonprofit organization committed to bringing our community together invites you to take a break from the holiday rush and join your neighbors at The Square @ Union Centre for the local party of the season.
In cooperation with West Chester Township and MidPointe Library System, C3 is making West Chester merry and bright with a jolly lineup of activities for all ages.
“The C3 team is excited to provide this fun opportunity to our community,” says Lynda O’Connor, C3 president and founder. “It will be a great way to kick off the holiday season.”
ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
SANTA’S SENIOR SHOEBOXES
The holiday fun day is designed to muster extra support for C3’s Santa’s Senior Shoebox project, their collection of small gifts packed in clear plastic shoeboxes to be distributed to local senior citizens during the holidays.
Fill a small shoebox-sized plastic box with puzzles, magnifying glasses, slippers and other small gifts and bring it with you. The community is invited to drop off their filled boxes throughout the event on December 7 at a Planes Moving & Storage collection truck near MidPointe Library. For every box you donate, you’ll get one raffle ticket; one lucky winner will receive a piece of jewelry from Welling & Co. Jewelers.
There’s no need to wrap your donations; C3 takes care of that.
“C3 volunteers work with UC Health West Chester Hospital to organize the boxes,” says C3 volunteer Abbie Cook. “We add student-made cards, wrap and bows and make deliveries to senior centers right here in our community to spread some cheer.”
SANTA TROT
The day of holiday fun begins with the first annual Santa Trot, a 1.5mile fun run—or walk—launching from The Square @ Union Centre. The first 50 registrants get a free Santa suit! Put on your running shoes and Santa beard and work off some of those holiday treats. Kids and pets are invited to get into the action with the Little Elf Run, a shortened race for little ones, and the Reindeer Run, a costumed pet parade complete with judges and prizes.
Cook points out that this is actually the return of an event that took place in West Chester years ago.
“We needed to bring it back—just the visual image of a bunch of Santas running around makes me happy!” she explains.
C3 picked up the idea and took it a few steps further for family fun.
“We’re really making an effort to make the day very welcoming for families because that’s what the holidays are all about—the more the merrier!” Cook says.
Register onsite on race day or online in advance: RunSignUp.com/ Race/OH/WestChester/SantaTrot
SANTA’S LANE
Another new addition to the event schedule is Santa’s Lane, a pop-up holiday shop with 40 artisans. Pick up a cup of hot cocoa and shop local at the booths of handmade goods for sale. From hand-knitted sweaters to homemade soaps and jewelry, there are sure to be unique gifts and stocking stuffers galore. Vendors will be open from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
SANTA’S WORKSHOP
Head into MidPointe Library West Chester to warm up, make crafts and visit with the main man himself.
“We’ll be hosting Santa!” proclaims Cari Hillman, community engagement director for MidPointe Library System. “He will be here live and in the flesh and available for pictures that families can take on their own. Library staff will also be hosting craft stations throughout the youth area,” she adds.
Donate to C3’s Santa’s Senior Shoeboxes project, holiday gifts for local seniors. C3 will be collecting boxes at a truck near MidPointe Library.
Stop at MidPointe Library West Chester Branch to make crafts + get photos with the Santa at Santa's Workshop.
Ho, ho, ho! The first 50 registrants for the first annual Santa Trot will get a free Santa suit.
Hillman is grateful that MidPointe gets to be part of the fun day in West Chester.
“This is such an amazing collaboration,” she says of the combined community effort. “We enjoy being a hub in the heart of the community.”
A VERY MERRY TAKEOVER
The culmination of the day’s events is a familiar concert experience sponsored by West Chester Township—A Very Merry Takeover at The Square @ Union Centre. An extension of the popular summer series, this holiday version moves to an earlier time slot this year, noon-3 p.m.
The Naked Karate Girls, a fan-favorite band, return to the clocktower stage. Choirs from local schools will perform during the pre-show and band breaks. Lunch, treats, adult beverages and kid-friendly hot drinks will be available for purchase at a variety of nearby food and beverage trucks.
“The Township is excited to work with C3 to grow A Very Merry Takeover and support a great cause,” shares Barbara Wilson, director of public information and engagement for West Chester Township. “The Naked Karate Girls will put on a festive holiday show and there will be plenty of fun activities for kids. Every event West Chester helps support or organizes is about building a sense of community and bringing our neighbors together.”
This year is just the beginning of what community leaders hope becomes a tradition for locals.
“We hope to make this an annual event to help us continue the work C3 does right here in support of youth, needs of seniors, veteran issues, mental health, hunger and supporting the West Chester Police Department,” C3 President and Founder O’Connor shares.
Register for the Santa Trot, see a suggested list of gifts for Santa’s Senior Shoeboxes and join a countdown to December 7, the most wonderful party of the season, online. See you at The Square! C3Ohio.org, MidPointeLibrary.org, WestChesterOH.org
Oh, What Fun!
C3 has made a list (and checked it twice). Join them for West Chester’s holiday family fun day, Saturday, December 7.
10 A.M.-3 P.M.
SANTA’S SENIOR SHOEBOX DROP OFF Collection Truck near MidPointe Library West Chester Branch
10 A.M.
SANTA TROT REGISTRATION MidPointe Library West Chester Branch
10:30 A.M.
REINDEER RUN PET PARADE
10:30 A.M.-3 P.M.
SANTA’S LANE Centre Pointe Drive
10:55 A.M.
PEARL HARBOR REMEMBRANCE
11 A.M. SANTA TROT 11:20 A.M.
LAKOTA RIDGE + LAKOTA PLAINS CHOIRS
11:30 A.M.-2:30 P.M.
SANTA PHOTOS + CHILDREN’S CRAFTS MidPointe Library West Chester Branch
11:45 A.M. LITTLE ELF RUN
12 P.M.-3 P.M.
NAKED KARATE GIRLS CONCERT
Food Trucks, Beer + Spirit Booths
1:30 P.M.
LAKOTA WEST CHORALE AND BEL CANTO CHOIRS
Naked Karate Girls Intermission
* All activities take place at The Square @ Union Centre unless noted otherwise.
The Naked Karate Girls will provide live music at A Very Merry Takeover concert, 12-3 p.m. on December 7.
KIDS ‘N COPS PROGRAM STRENGTHENS
COMMUNITY BONDS DURING THE HOLIDAYS
Christmas Cheer
ARTICLE BY A.J. LAPE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY WEST CHESTER TOWNSHIP
The holiday season can be a time of joy and togetherness, but for some families and children, it can also bring challenges. To spread cheer and ensure every child feels special, West Chester’s Kids ’N Cops program—part of a national initiative by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP)—works to make a difference. Each year, officers from the West Chester Police Department team up with children from local schools for a special shopping event, helping them feel cherished during the Christmas season while strengthening community bonds.
SRO Jeff Newman, a 34-year veteran and the current school resource officer at Lakota West High School, explains how the Kids ’N Cops program works.
“The event is held at our local Meijer on Tylersville Road,” he says. “Families and children are chosen by school counselors and principals from Lakota Local Schools based on need. I contact each family personally to let them know about it.”
Kids ’N Cops, believed to have started at WCPD by the recently passed Sergeant John Hunkler more than 25 years ago, has grown significantly with the help of local officers and organizations
SRO Jeff Newman leads the Kids ’N Cops program in West Chester.
such as the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #186. Initially funded by the FOP, the event expanded when Meijer Corporation adopted it as a nationwide community outreach initiative at all their local stores.
On the evening of the event, officers volunteer to pair up one-on-one with 25 to 30 children, filling the aisles with laughter and warm conversation as each officer helps their child pick out gifts and essentials with their individual budget.
“We make it easy for the kids,” Newman says. “Before the event, I ask parents to help their children create a wish list to ensure shopping is focused, but it’s not unusual for officers and kids to get caught up chatting and having fun.”
Newman shares that most buy toys and electronics, but some kids buy clothes or shoes. Parents, who wait for them inside the store, then take the gifts to their cars. Some officers have gone the extra mile and even bought gifts for the entire family.
Meijer Corporation covers the cost of the gifts, while the West Chester Citizen Police Academy volunteers collect food donations from local restaurants to serve dinner for the families and officers after shopping. These relationships built between officers and families often extend far beyond the holiday season. Newman recalls many former Kids ’N Cops participants approaching him years later at Lakota West High School, remembering the special bond formed during the event.
Though the event is primarily supported by Meijer and local volunteers, community members interested in getting involved are encouraged to attend the West Chester Citizen's Police Academy. For reasons of safety and privacy, only those who have completed the academy are invited to volunteer and assist with events. WestChesterOH.org
ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIANNA RICHARDSON PHOTOGRAPHY
Wrap it Up
PRO TIPS TO MAKE YOUR HOLIDAY PACKAGES SHINE
Some argue that the best gifts come in small packages, while others claim that the most memorable presents come under gigantic bows. When it comes to holiday gift-giving, presentation matters. We turn to professional gift wrapper Amber Blakley, founder of Westfield Wrapper, for her tips to make your holiday packages shine this giving season.
STOCK A WRAPPING STATION
Prepare a designated space for wrapping and stock it with quality tools.
“The essential tools are sharp scissors, double-sided tape and wire-edged ribbons,” says Blakley. “The thickness of the paper is important,” she adds. “You don't want it to be too thin or too bulky—find something in the middle.”
ADORN PACKAGES
Attach surprising decorations to the outside of packages. For the holidays, Blakley recommends adding sprigs of greenery, flowers or stems of berries.
“Where I go above and beyond is with the embellishment,” she says. “I’ve used dried orange slices, lace or pockets cut from jeans—those are all custom touches I like to do.”
SAVE THE SCRAPS
Keep a box of wrapping scraps to craft decorations for packages.
“You can do so many things with paper scraps— fans, bows, pinwheels or gift tags,” says Blakley. “I also make what I call ‘Rip Wraps,’ pieces of paper sewn together into custom gift bags. They come in any shape or size.”
Fold paper scraps into pinwheels to adorn packages.
Westfield Wrapper’s Rip Wraps—wrapping paper sewn into tearable gift bags—come in custom shapes + sizes.
•
•
•
•
“As long as you wrap with love, that’s what really matters.”
KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE
Kids, spouses, neighbors—each relationship requires a unique gifting look and approach. Blakley’s best ideas come from learning about the gift receiver—knowing their favorite colors and styles gives insight into creating a delightful package.
“I have the recipient in mind,” she explains. “I'm not just churning out the same thing over and over again. I want to make sure that it's something special. If I'm wrapping for small kids, I use less and more visible tape to help them open quickly,” she says.
Blakley circles back to the spirit of giving for perspective.
“As long as you wrap with love, that’s what really matters,” she says with a smile.
ABOUT THE PRO
Amber Blakley: Westfield Wrapper
Amber Blakley, owner of Westfield Wrapper, is a professional gift wrapper for hire with a year-round menu of custom services. She wraps personal and corporate gifts and arranges gift-wrapping stations and decorative displays for businesses. She also offers wrapping parties and team-building workshops.
Blakley thoughtfully considers each giver and receiver, matching the occasion, theme and color scheme to personalize each gift.
“I am a helper at heart,” Blakley shares. “I enjoy doing anything I can to lift a burden from somebody that either doesn't have time to wrap, or can't do it, but still thinks it's important.”
Blakley’s small business blossomed during Covid, helping people connect and celebrate loved ones. Based in northern Indianapolis, she has family ties to Cincinnati and enjoys working throughout the Tri-State area. Blakley’s skills gained national recognition when she competed on QVC’s Ultimate Gift Wrapping Challenge in 2023. Find her and more of Westfield Wrapper’s pretty packages online.
Westfield.Wrapper@gmail.com Instagram @Westfield.Wrapper
by
winter menu
DELIGHT FAMILY + FRIENDS WITH SAVORY SALAD + FESTIVE FOCACCIA
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE AMLUNG, AMANDA STOUT + CARLY TAMBORSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATHY LYONS–LYONS PHOTOGRAPHY + STEPHANIE MEINBERG
Your great-aunt’s candied yams. The infamous Jell-O fruit salad. Grandma’s fruitcake. Long-standing traditions aside, holiday meals often feature special dishes for the sake of nostalgia and not necessarily taste. Thankfully, we’ve got friends in the flavor business—Melanie Cedargren of The Spicy Olive and Stephanie Amlung of A Charmingly Sweet Life. They hook us up with recipes for a seasonal salad and bread combo that’s fit to elevate any holiday feast.
Photo
Stephanie Meinberg
MELANIE CEDARGREN: THE SPICY OLIVE
Melanie Cedargren founded her own local specialty stores after visiting Italy and realizing olive oils back in the States were lacking in flavor, freshness and natural health benefits. Now, home cooks and aficionados alike can shop her tasting emporiums for fine oils and vinegars, recipes and more. Jazz up that ho-hum side dish with this fresh, tasty take on a seasonal salad that’s merry and bright.
ingredients
• 1 package mixed greens
• 1 package fresh arugula
• 1/3 cup dried tart cherries
• 1/3 cup crumbled feta (or gorgonzola or goat cheese)
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
• 1 tablespoon The Spicy Olive’s Champagne and Roasted Garlic Mustard
• ¼ cup The Spicy Olive’s Montmorency Cherry Rosé White Balsamic Vinegar
• ¼ cup The Spicy Olive’s Persian Lime Olive Oil
instructions
1. Mix salad greens and arugula in a large bowl.
2. Top with dried cherries, crumbled cheese, apple slices and nuts.
3. In a small bowl, whisk the mustard into the Cherry Rosé White Balsamic Vinegar.
4. Drizzle in the Persian Lime Olive Oil while whisking to incorporate.
5. Pour dressing over salad; toss well to evenly coat.
6. Enjoy!
TheSpicyOlive.com
7671 Cox Lane, West Chester 513.847.4397
THE SPICY OLIVE’S MONTMORENCY CHERRY SALAD
Photo by Stephanie Meinberg
A CHARMINGLY SWEET LIFE’S DECORATING TIPS
STEPHANIE AMLUNG: A CHARMINGLY SWEET LIFE
Stephanie Amlung creates delicious and beautifully presented baked goods to make each day charmingly sweet through her Mason home bakery business, A Charmingly Sweet Life. Her decorative focaccia bread recipe is one of her favorites to share at holiday gatherings.
A Charmingly Sweet Life’s Decorating Tips
• Be creative and have fun designing your bread.
• Good vegetable choices to make flower designs include sliced purple onions; red, yellow and orange peppers; sliced carrot rounds and grape tomatoes. Arrange red peppers to resemble holiday poinsettias.
• Green onions sliced longways, chives and asparagus make great flower stems.
ACharminglySweetLife.com Instagram: @Charmingly-Sweet-Life
Absolute perfection top quality products and installation Matt was very straight-forward with us in terms of timing and he even made suggestions that saved us some money. I could not be happier with the way our kitchen turned out - Alice
Photo by Cathy Lyons–Lyons Photography
ingredients
• 16 ounces warm water (110ºF), divided into 2 bowls
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 7 grams of active dry yeast
• 2 ounces olive oil, for dough
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
• 24 ounces bread flour
• 4 ounces olive oil, for pan, hands + drizzling (Try The Spicy Olive’s Wild Rosemary or Tuscan Herb Olive Oil)
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• Vegetables, herbs + meats for decorative design
instructions
1. Mix 1 cup of warm water with yeast and sugar. Set aside for about 5 minutes or until the yeast bubbles.
2. Place mix in a stand mixer with the dough hook attached.
3. Add in about 1 cup of flour; mix on low until combined.
4. Add in the rest of the water, olive oil, salt and half of the remaining flour. Mix on low until combined.
5. Mix on low, slowly adding flour until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
6. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes or until it bounces back when lightly pressed.
7. Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
8. Coat an entire 12” x 17” sheet pan with enough olive oil to make a thin layer.
9. Put some olive oil on your hands to prevent sticking and pull the loose dough out of the bowl. Lay it in the pan and stretch it. If it shrinks back, wait for about 15 minutes to let the gluten relax before you stretch again.
10. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to develop the best flavor.
11. When you’re ready to bake your bread, take it out of the fridge and let it warm up for about 30 minutes. Dimple the surface with oiled fingers to create some areas where the olive oil can collect. Drizzle a good amount of olive oil onto the top of the bread until each dimple has a little oil in it. Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top.
12. After your focaccia has rested for 30 minutes, decorate the top any way you like with veggies, herbs and meats. Brush your veggies and herbs with more olive oil to prevent burning.
13. Bake in a preheated 450ºF oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden.
14. Enjoy!
Photo by Cathy Lyons–Lyons Photography
NOSTALGIC HOLIDAY TRADITIONS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TO ENJOY ARE JUST A CAR RIDE AWAY
Holiday Magic In Santa Claus, Indiana
ARTICLE BY SARAH SKATE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SPENCER COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU
Shop the giant Santa Claus Christmas Store for ornaments.
“The holiday season in a town called Santa Claus is pretty spectacular!”
Live reindeer, miles of light displays and delicious gourmet treats are just a few of the magical Christmas offerings for Santa Claus, Indiana visitors. About three hours southwest, the town has loads of unique shopping, vibrant restaurants and family-friendly activities.
“The holiday season in a town called Santa Claus is pretty spectacular!” shares Melissa Arnold, executive director of the Spencer County Visitors Bureau. Wintertime festivities begin the first weekend in December with the Santa Claus Christmas Celebration, followed the next weekend by the Santa Claus Christmas Parade as well as an arts and crafts show.
“There is a lot you can see and do at no charge,” Arnold continues, such as seeing the reindeer and writing a letter to Santa. “Santa and his elves respond to every letter. We also do a wonderful chestnut roasting on Saturdays, just like the song, and learn about that long-standing American tradition.”
Among the paid activities are a special Christmas dinner with Santa at his lodge and the Santa Claus Land of Lights, a 1.2-mile driving journey that tells the story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer in giant, brilliant LED light displays with storyboards. “It’s a really neat event to get you in the spirit for the holidays,” Arnold adds.
Additional entertainment includes cookie decorating, musical concerts, Breakfast with Santa, food trucks and the Festival of Lights, a nine-mile residential Christmas lights tour through a gated community that is open to the public on select Saturdays in December. Dress warmly reminds Arnold, “It is magical when we get a blanket of snow.”
Visitors can also immerse themselves in a museum dedicated to the town’s history.
According to local legend, the town’s name dates back to the 1800s, when it was called Santa Fe. When the residents applied for an official post office, they were denied because there was another Santa Fe, Indiana. Many other names were suggested but nothing seemed to fit. On Christmas Eve the townspeople gathered for church in a log cabin. Suddenly a gust of wind blew open the church doors and the children shrieked excitedly, “Santa Claus is here!” The townspeople took this as a sign and agreed that Santa Fe would become known as Santa Claus.
Another bright spot in the area’s history is that Abraham Lincoln spent his formative years in Spencer County. The story of young Abe’s early life in Indiana is revisited at the popular Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial.
Among the numerous shopping options are Santa’s Candy Castle for homemade confections and gourmet hot chocolate, the giant Santa Claus Christmas Store for ornaments and decorations and the can’t-miss Santa’s Toy Store.
Since Santa Claus may be more than a day trip for families, there are several options to make it a cozy weekend. For tourists choosing to spend the night, accommodations include Santa's Lodge, Santa's Lakeside Cottages and Lincoln Pines Lakefront Resort.
One of Santa Claus’ most famous attractions, Holiday World amusement park, is closed during the winter months. Still, visitors can take advantage of another fun wintertime option— Paoli Peaks ski resort. About an hour from Santa Claus, the resort offers skiing, snowboarding and tubing experiences. Whether you’re hoping for a real-life Hallmark movie or a family getaway, Santa Claus, Indiana is ready to become your new holiday tradition. SantaClausInd.org
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Santa's Candy Castle.
Santa Claus, Indiana is ready to become your new holiday tradition.
Snap a selfie with a historic statue of Father Christmas at the Santa Claus Museum.
Santa and his elves respond to every letter sent from the Santa Claus Post Office.
Butter Olive Oil Hollandaise Sauce
It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year to Give to The Salvation Army
Red Kettle Season
ARTICLE BY MIKE BURCHAM
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
The act of giving is what makes the holiday season such a magical time. There may not be a better example of giving than The Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign.
“I like to say that we were the original crowdfunders,” says Julie Budden, divisional director of development for Salvation Army’s Southwest Ohio Northeast Kentucky Division.
The Red Kettle Campaign started in 1891 in San Francisco, when a Salvation Army officer put out a lobster pot to collect donations to help feed 1,000 people on Christmas Day. The ringing of the bell was added in 1900 in New York as a volunteer was trying to get the attention of bankers on Wall Street to donate. The tradition has continued since and grown to help more than 31 million during the holidays.
One of the unique benefits of giving to the Red Kettle Campaign is that the donations stay in your zip code.
“Funds raised stay local to a community to serve those needs,” Budden says. “In the last few years and already this year, we are seeing an increase in requests for things like rental assistance, which helps with prevention of homelessness, utilities, as well as basic essentials like food, clothing or emergency needs.
“At Christmas time, families who may need to make challenging choices on a tight budget can turn to us for support,” she adds. “We believe no child should be forgotten at Christmas and with the help of generous contributions, we can meet the immediate and longer term needs of families all year long. The Salvation Army’s love extends far beyond the moment of service.”
Salvation Army’s Red Kettles can be found at local Kroger and Walmart stores as well as other retail locations throughout the region. Donate beyond the Red Kettle by giving online or via text message. The Salvation Army, which has been
Salvation Army Christmas volunteers have fun working to make the season special for people in need.
“The Red Kettle Campaign started in 1891 in San Francisco, when a Salvation Army officer put out a lobster pot to collect donations to help feed
1,000
people on Christmas Day.”
operating since 1865, is also supported by corporate donations, grants and in-kind donations.
Giving the gift of your time is another way to help Salvation Army.
“We have volunteer opportunities available and going to our website can help you identify your closest location for year-round opportunities as well as bell ringing,” Budden says. “Bell ringing shifts are usually two hours, and it can be somewhere close to your neighborhood. Many families bring their children and make this an annual tradition.”
One of the great ambassadors of the Red Kettle Campaign was longtime Cincinnati radio host Jim Scott who passed away last summer. His wife and son have urged the community to volunteer with The Salvation Army this holiday season in his honor.
“One of the things Jim loved most about Cincinnati was that everybody is always willing to help lift the community,” Budden says.
The Red Kettle campaign began at Thanksgiving and continues until Christmas Eve.
“I cherish the holiday tradition of hearing the sound of the bells every year because you know Christmas is on the way and someone’s Christmas will be better because of you and your contribution, big or small,” Budden says. “The Salvation Army kettles and bells are a reminder to give to others and it feels good, like the true spirit of Christmas, loving your neighbor.”
This Red Kettle season, follow the jingle of the bell to give in-person, text KETTLE to 31333 to contribute, volunteer your time or donate gifts online. SalArmy.org/SWONEKY
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
NOVEMBER 22ND - DECEMBER 31ST
Holidays on the Farm
Parky’s Farm, Winton Woods, 10073 Daly Road, Cincinnati | 5:00 PM
Holidays on the Farm takes place at Parky’s Farm, 5-9 p.m., Friday-Sunday, November 22-December 8 and nightly, December 13-23 + 31. Experience glimmering lights, pony rides, carolers, farm animals, Santa’s reindeer, a cheer garden, food trucks, open fire pits and so much more! Grab a hot cocoa, shop for gifts at Vendor Village and stroll through the twinkling tunnel.
DECEMBER 1ST - JANUARY 5TH
Pyramid Hill Lights
Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum, 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton | 6:00 PM
DECEMBER 4TH
Jingle Mingle
The Foundry at Liberty Center, 7100 Foundry Row, Liberty Township | 4:00 PM
Pyramid Hill announces the return of its signature holiday event, Pyramid Hill Lights, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. This magical drive-through experience spans 75 acres of breathtaking lights and festive displays. Explore a new route and see projections by Cincinnati artist Doug Borntrager. Open Tuesdays-Sundays. Times vary—find details online. Enjoy the new prepay option for faster entry. PyramidHill.org
The community is invited to join Chamber members for a spirited networking event, The West Chester gle Mingle. Meet new professionals and greet old friends at the Foundry at Liberty Center, 4-7 p.m. Enjoy small bites, drinks, entertain ment and fun activities to celebrate the season. Reservations are not required for this free event. Ages 21+.
DECEMBER 5TH - 29TH
Light in the Forest
Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford | 5:30 PM
Step into a world where twinkling lights, nature’s beauty and holiday magic come together to create an unforgettable winter wonderland! This magical 1-mile walking tour features enchanting ponds, fields and woodlands illuminated with stunning seasonal delights. Enjoy all-new light installations, interactive displays, children’s activities, live music, a cozy bonfire, food trucks and much more. Advanced tickets are required. CincyNature.org/program/light-in-the-forest
DECEMBER 7TH
History Center Open House
West Chester-Union Township Historical Society History Center, 6670 Station Road, West Chester | 1:00 PM
Enjoy this annual Open House, an opportunity to explore items from West Chester’s past in their 1900, two-room school and walk through their Prairie Garden of native flowers and grasses. Enjoy free admission to this event, 1-4 p.m. WestChesterHistoricalSociety.org
DECEMBER 7TH + 8TH
December Warehouse Shopping Event
Bliss Home Market Cincinnati, 9415 Meridian Way, West Chester | 8:00 AM
‘Tis the season to spruce up your living spaces for holiday celebrations with your friends and family. Bliss Home Market is open for one weekend only during December—don’t miss this opportunity to style your home with quality, brand-name furniture and home décor at affordable prices. Open 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday and 12-4 p.m. on Sunday. Cincy.BlissHomeMarket.com
Desirable Falling Waters. Excellent condition offering a backyard oasis complete with a deck, fenced yard, and inground pool. The newly finished walk-out basement with egress windows. Gourmet kitchen with luxury vinyl plank flooring, double ovens and stainless steel appliances. Great room features a vaulted ceiling, gas fireplace, and wall of windows. Primary suite with two walk-in closets and a luxury bathroom. Updates: new roof 2019, HVAC 2018, water heater 2020.
Heritage Pointe community in Deerfield Twp. Open floor plan. Kitchen features 42-inch cabinets, granite counters, and newer stainless steel appliances, including a gas range. Four-season sunroom with views of the community pond. The primary suite includes a luxurious bathroom. Finished lower level features a third bedroom, full bath, and recreation area. Situated on a cul-de-sac street, this home also features a composite deck for outdoor relaxation. Low-maintenance living.
“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)
