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Articles by Jonathan Stout
Plan Your Holiday Event
Want to start a publication? Learn More Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Jenna Beers–Photography by Jenna + Provided Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle The holiday season is fast approaching! Is it your turn to schedule a holiday dinner, office party or fundraiser? Mason is home to exceptional event spaces with amenities that will help keep the focus on celebrating the season with your family, friends and colleagues.
Go the Distance for Childhood Cancer Research
CancerFree KIDS (CFK) was founded in 2002 by Cincinnati native Ellen Flannery after her infant daughter Shayna was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a rare form of eye cancer. Shayna was able to recover successfully, but Ellen was shocked to find how underdeveloped pediatric cancer research was and how limited the treatment options were. “Helping kids with cancer is a mission people are generally eager to get behind,” CancerFree KIDS Executive Director Jill Brinck remarks.
New in Nature
Want to start a publication? Learn More Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Amanda Stout + Provided Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle As we inch closer to the end of summer, it’s the perfect time to visit the wonderful local parks in our area with our families and furry pals. In addition to the amenities they already offer, three local parks have recently undergone exciting updates, providing visitors with opportunities for new experiences.
Paradise For Collectors
Want to start a publication? Learn More Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Niki Wise Photography Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle Hey Suburbia Records HeySuburbiaRecords.com | 108 W Main St. Until recently, suburban record collectors between Cincinnati and Dayton didn’t have nearby independent record stores to dig for music treasures. Enter Mason’s Hey Suburbia Records, which bridged the gap between cities for record collectors starting in 2021.
Building Community
Want to start a publication? Learn More Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Mark Lyons–Lyons Photography Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle Tiny Homes for Humanity, founded by President Earl Crossland and Board Chairman/Treasurer Larry Plum, aims to provide housing and a fresh start for unhoused veterans, individuals, and families. The organization plans to build a permanent supportive community, housing 14 veterans currently in temporary housing.
Aging in Place with Compassion and Grace
Aging impacts each of us in different ways. Seventy percent of people will need some sort of long-term care in their lifetimes, but the overwhelming majority would also prefer to remain at home as they age. Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio (COA) is here to bridge that gap and help those who wish to stay active in their homes and communities, even when the complications of aging make it challenging.
A Stage Set for Holiday Magic
Mason Dance Center: The Nutcracker-All Jazzed Up! Mason Dance Center’s (MDC) The Nutcracker-All Jazzed Up! returns to the Mason High School Theater on Dec. 19 and 20. Now in their 23rd year of performances, MDC has honed their unique retelling of the original story of The Nutcracker while switching music genres and dance styles. Nutcracker-All Jazzed Up mixes Tchaikovsky’s traditional music alongside fresh arrangements from sources such as Pentatonix, Glenn Miller and Duke Ellington.
Fostering a Sense of Belonging
Over the years, several Mason organizations have provided holiday assistance for students and their families. In 2024, many of these groups joined forces to work together under a single mission of supporting people in Mason experiencing food insecurity. Mason City Schools CommUNITY Holiday Help program was designed to provide students from preschool to twelfth grade with essential items categorized as something they want, something they need, something to wear and something to read.
A Foundation For A Lifelong Love of Learning
The School For Creative Tots began with a deep love for children, family and joyful learning. School Administrator, Emilie Parry, found a second home at the original Creative Tots location in Madeira during her high school and college years. After graduating from Miami University with a degree in Early Childhood Education and teaching third grade at Indian Hill, she was overjoyed to be offered the opportunity to open her own Creative Tots in Mason.
A History of Local Music
Lifelong Centerville resident Terry O'Brien began working as a professional musician in 1976. At the early age of 16, he co-wrote the theme song for his high school senior prom. After initial experiences with writing, his interest quickly shifted to recording. “I started playing with recording technology in my early 20s and began recording demos of original songs to sell to publishers, which did not work,” Terry laughs. In his 30s, his focus turned to the impact and techniques of production.
Get in the Spirit
Although this region gets a lot of attention for our many breweries, we’re also lucky to have several high-quality local distillers, each with unique methods and flavor profiles. We invite you to pull up a chair and enjoy a virtual tasting as we spotlight three nearby spirits companies. McBrayer Legacy Spirits Following a long family lineage of distilling, Bill McBrayer of Mason began resurrecting his family’s famous Pre-Prohibition bourbon brands in 2012.
More Than Just Academics
Women Walking West (W3), a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, strives to help foreign-born students lead successful lives in the United States. Their extensive mentorship program assists women struggling with linguistic, social, cultural and academic differences in American society. But it’s more than just academics. Mentees who complete the W3 program enter schools and workplaces with rejuvenated confidence and a sense of community.
Preparing for Your Retirement Goals
Saving for retirement can be stressful, no matter what stage of life you’re in. Dianna Knudsen of Mason’s Edward Jones has spent more than 10 years helping people invest wisely and plan for their retirement goals. “Part of my relationship process includes creating and monitoring short and long-term goals for my clients,” Dianna explains.
Learn How to Prevent Future Pest Problems
Want to start a publication? Learn More Featured Article Solutions Plus Pest Control offers tips for prepping against common pests. Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Provided Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle Solutions Plus Pest Control is a small family-owned business operating out of Mason. Beginning as Bed Bug Solutions in 2014, founders Mark and Jen Winter started their business after seeing a need for a bed bug extermination specialist in Greater Cincinnati.
Celebrating the Creative Process
The Arts Alliance, formerly the Mason Area Arts Council, was founded on the idea that the Warren County region needed an organized arts force. Nowadays they’re known for quality arts programming, including the Deerfield Handmade Markets, summer art camps, the Sounds of Deerfield performing art series and more. But it took a lot of research and work to get where they are today. Executive Director Meredith Raffel and a team of dedicated individuals set out to establish the organization in 2006.
Fall Into Running Season
Countryside YMCA Patriots 5K & Trail Run The Countryside YMCA Patriots 5K & Trail Run takes place at Countryside YMCA in Lebanon on November 2 at 9 a.m. and supports their Veterans Connect program. For every 10 registrations, the YMCA sponsors a veteran in Warren County to participate in a 12-week program focused on age-appropriate fitness, nutrition, mental health resources and connection—more information at CountrysideYMCA.org.
A Brew for Everyone
The Common Beer Company sits humbly among Comets Pizza, Vera Nova Dance and Theatre Boutique on East Main Street in downtown Mason. Its no-frills appearance is no accident. Founders Mark and Amy Lortz wanted to create an atmosphere that would bring together community members from all walks of life. “We want people to come in with friends and meet somebody new, or come in alone and walk away with a new friend,” Mark says.
A Passion for Seamless Design
When considering home renovations, many go directly to a contractor without considering the design options or structural changes that might be possible. C3 Architecture & Design in Mason exists to provide custom options and insight before the tear down process begins. Specializing in additions, renovations and remodels, C3 also offers the unique service of pre-purchase consultation.
Sounds of Summer
Featured Article Enjoy Live Music for the Whole Family This Summer in Mason and Deerfield Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Provided Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle Summer is the time when everyone feels like soaking up the sun and being social. Plus, families are on the lookout for new activities to occupy everyone during summer vacation.
Encouraging Development and Change
Featured Article Joshua’s Place offers meaningful outreach services to several local communities. Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Provided Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle Joshua's Place began as the local outreach for Rivers Crossing Community Church in South Lebanon, using the church's rented office space to start a food pantry.
Local Artists Share Their Inspiration
Want to start a publication? Learn More Featured Article Mason area makers give us an inside look into how they approach their art Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Remember When Portraits and Provided Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle Photographer Joe Chunko’s career didn’t begin in art school, but in the U.S. Navy where he served until 1966. From there he began a 40-year career in the packaging and printing industry.
Call in the Bug Nerds
Mason’s own Solutions Plus Pest Control, co-owned by Jen and Mark Winter, grew from an unexpected bond between customer and service provider. “Mark was in the pest control industry, working for a larger company in the area, and I was a customer service manager for a local hotel. That’s actually how we met,” co-founder Jen explains. Self-proclaimed “bug nerds,” Mark and Jen bonded over their shared interest. Eventually a romance blossomed and the two married.
Food for Thought
Want to start a publication? Learn More Featured Article Chef Mark Bodenstein brings healthy innovation to S.W. Clyborne Co. Provision & Spirits. Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by RVP Photography Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle Chef Mark Bodenstein Details: S.W. Clyborne Co. Provision & Spirits | Clybornes.com Corporate Development Chef, LGHG You have an extensive background of experience. How did you get involved with Clyborne’s and Looking Glass Hospitality Group?
Mental Health Matters
The last few months have been a rollercoaster, as our country has tried to persevere during the COVID-19 outbreak. As a result, many are experiencing feelings of depression and anxiety. As we have all taken precautions, such as social distancing, to preserve physical well-being, we must also work to maintain positive mental health. The Lindner Center of HOPE is a nationally recognized not-for-profit advanced mental health care center located in Mason.
Empowering Art and Creation
Want to start a publication? Learn More Featured Article Kenai Art Studio and AR Workshop offer the community specialized art and DIY project instruction. Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Cathy Lyons—Lyons Photography Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle Kenai Art Studio After years of teaching art at pop up events and organizing public events all over the Cincinnati area, Katia Zhestkova realized that there was a local need for art classes for kids and adults in the area.
Home Composting Made Easy
Want to start a publication? Learn More Featured Article Learn how to compost in your own backyard. Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Provided Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle Whether you have a garden or are simply looking to fortify your lawn, composting can be a great way to strengthen your crop. Composting creates nutrient rich, neutralized soil from unwanted food scraps, yard waste and other decomposing organic matter.
Giving Games
Featured Article Isaac Miller’s Claw Machine Project raises money for local nonprofits. Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Jenna Beers Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle The claw machine is a classic childhood attraction at arcades, restaurants and supermarkets. While most kids are focused on strategies for capturing the prizes inside, Mason Elementary School Student, Isaac Miller, saw the claw machine as an opportunity to benefit local nonprofits.
Empowered to Succeed
Author Terrance Bacchus grew up in a low-income neighborhood of Boston, without many positive role models of success. “I didn’t see many of my peers go to college and earn a degree,” Terrance explains. Determined to build a different life for himself, he proceeded to become a first generation college graduate from Bentley University. From there, he began working in the Consumer Food Sales department of General Mills, where he remained for 29 years.
Smooth as Glass
Featured Article The Glass Guru of Mason completes glass projects of all kinds for local homes. Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Provided Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle Mason’s Glass Guru is an excellent local resource for glass repair, replacement and custom projects. A full-service glass company, they install the highest quality, name-brand replacement glass products.
Empathetic Engineering
In 2003, an engineer named Bill Wood met a young woman with cerebral palsy who enjoyed reading, but had to use a pencil in her mouth to turn the pages of her books. Seeking to help, Bill designed a device for her that turned the pages with the push of a button. Meanwhile, factory owner Bill Deimling was creating assistive devices for a family friend with a disability.
Looking to the Future
Featured Article Mason’s Looking Glass Hospitality continues to grow with the local community and beyond. Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by RVP Photography, April Sova, Jenna Beers, Eric Thomas Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle Scott Schmidt founded Mason’s Looking Glass Hospitality (LGH) in 2016. His first restaurant was TAHONA Kitchen+Bar located at Summit Park in Blue Ash, a concept created with his wife Erin.
More Than a Canteen
Want to start a publication? Learn More Featured Article The American Legion Offers Camaraderie and Service to the Community Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Remember When Portraits Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle Many people might be aware of the American Legion, but in a sea of other government organizations and fraternal orders, not everyone is as familiar with what differentiates the Legion from other establishments.
Creative Writing
Lebanon-based artist Derrick Hickman knew he was an artist from an early age. His childhood was filled with a stock of art supplies and plenty of support from his family. “I was fortunate to have a family that encouraged the notion of becoming an artist,” Derrick explains. His inspired childhood led him to earn his Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA) in Illustration and Advertising from The Columbus College of Art and Design, and a BFA in Art Education from Ohio University.
A Step Up In Safety
It’s a new year, and many people are getting back to their workouts with renewed focus. When starting an exercise routine, make sure to take the right steps to avoid injury. SureStep Foot and Ankle Medical Center of Mason exists to serve you if injuries do occur and Dr. Robert M. Brarens has some key advice to help keep you safe. “Foot pain, like any pain, should not be ignored,” Dr. Brarens explains.
More Than Just Clothing
Featured Article Dress for Success offers career coaching and support for women throughout Greater Cincinnati. Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Provided by Dress for Success-Cincinnati Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle Dress for Success offers coaching and support to empower women in work and life. Its Cincinnati location, now based out of Norwood, provides women with a network, workplace attire and career development tools.
Return to Nature
Featured Article Give back to the local parks that provide comfort and refuge during the pandemic and beyond. Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Mark Lyons—Lyons Photography & Provided Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle The search for safe and fun outdoor activities amidst pandemic cabin fever has led many to the natural resources of public parks. After pausing their gym time, parks also provided people with safe alternatives for exercise.
Freshly Baked Inspiration
Want to start a publication? Learn More Featured Article Mason student Ahan Prasad turned his pandemic hobby into baking for the community. Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Cathy Lyons—Lyons Photography Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle Mason Middle School student Ahan Prasad occasionally baked cakes before the pandemic. However, as an active tennis player and third degree black belt, he gravitated toward physical activities.
Holiday Decor and More
Featured Article This holiday season shop local with Interiors Plus and This N That Consignments for all your festive decorating needs. Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Remember When Portraits Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle This year many of us have been spending a lot more time inside our homes.
Coffee for a Cause
If you miss the subtle signage when approaching Axis Christian Church on Route 42, you may miss Kala Coffeehouse, tucked away behind the church’s front entrance. This would be a shame, as Kala offers a friendly, comfortable atmosphere with an exciting menu featuring coffeehouse classics and signature specials. Founders Roger and Jackie Wilson were looking to stay active after their retirement from careers with the FBI and as a speech pathologist, respectively.
Art on Display
Featured Article Mason-founded CincyArtwork.com makes local artists’ work accessible in many formats. Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Provided Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle In the spring of 2020, the owner of Pop Revolution Gallery in Mason, Francis J. Michaels began offering printing and framing services to the digital market. This led to the creation of CincyArtwork.com, a unique platform that offers art buyers the choice of format, size and more.
A Hike To Remember
One day after returning from a particularly affecting hike, Kevin Schwieger was anxious to talk about his experience. Kevin, who is the Marketplace Pastor at Grace Chapel in Mason, as well as an avid adventurer and hiker, returned to church after his hike. The first person he encountered was Deborah Rosen, a member of his congregation, who had lost her ability to walk years earlier.
An Opportunity to Thrive
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Cincinnati has welcomed the public to build with them since 1986. Beginning as a volunteer-run operation, they merged with other regional Habitat organizations in the decades that followed. In 2013, Cincinnati Habitat and TriState Habitat merged to become Habitat for Humanity of Greater Cincinnati. They now serve Warren, Butler, Hamilton and Clermont counties in Ohio and several counties in Indiana and Kentucky.
Helping the Helpers
Tips to support soup kitchens, food programs and food pantries during the holiday season. Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Provided Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle As we enter the thankful season, it’s essential to recognize the organizations that offer charitable services not just during the holidays, but throughout the whole year.
Dining for a Cause
Enjoy culinary delights at local businesses that give back to the community. Article by Jonathan Stout Photography by Provided Originally published in Mason & Deerfield Lifestyle The Mason community is filled with popular restaurants, breweries, cafes and more. Many choose to give back in a variety of ways beyond their standard services. From fundraisers to donation drives and charity programs, these local establishments seek out ways to continuously help those in need.
Bringing Young People Comfort and Confidence
For some, clothing is a fun form of self-expression, but for many others, clothing is an expensive basic necessity. For young people especially, clothing can also serve as a source of comfort and confidence. Hope’s Closet of Butler County is there to help foster children for whom clothing is a scarce resource. They began providing support eight years ago to families impacted by children’s services.
The Importance of Road Preparedness
Rick Williams of RIX Automotive in Mason is a lifelong automotive enthusiast. “Going back to my teenage years, cars have always been a passion of mine,” Rick tells us. He’s been involved in the automotive industry since graduating from Universal Technical Institute’s Automotive Technology program in 2001. Rick opened RIX Automotive four and a half years ago after being motivated by poor customer service experiences he encountered in auto repair shops.
Improving Family Communication
Lindner Center of HOPE (Helping Our Patients Excel) is a nonprofit, comprehensive mental health center motivated by the philosophy that by working together, hope can be offered to people living with mental illness. “Reducing stigma may be the single most important thing we can do to improve life not only for ourselves and our loved ones but also for the country as a whole,” Jennifer Wilcox, PsyD, staff psychologist at Lindner Center of HOPE tells us.
Looking to the Future
Scott Schmidt founded Mason’s Looking Glass Hospitality (LGH) in 2016. His first restaurant was TAHONA Kitchen+Bar located at Summit Park in Blue Ash, a concept created with his wife Erin. He formalized his partnership with LGH Senior Vice President and operating partner, Will Wadsworth to create S.W. Clyborne Co. Provision & Spirits in 2018, bringing urban-style dining to Mason.
Your Orchestra
The Mason Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is a new community-minded orchestra of professional musicians who perform symphonic and popular classics. The orchestra began with a meeting of Mason minds with the goal to create an orchestra that could serve the communities of Mason, Deerfield and the surrounding areas.
It’s All For the Kids
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital is known countrywide as one of the leaders in child health services. Beyond a fantastic medical staff, many other ingredients contribute to its success. One such ingredient is Mason’s Kindervelt #19, an all-volunteer auxiliary that raises funds for Children’s Hospital. “We are so lucky to have the third best Children's Hospital in the nation right here in Cincinnati,” Kindervelt #19 President Jeanne Reisinger shares.
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