Loveland, OH April 2024

The Right Way to Invest

LIFE + CULTURE

CHANGING SENIORS’ LIVES—ONE SNIP AT A TIME

HEALTH + WELLNESS

A NEW PLACE TO FIND HEALTH AND HELP CLOSE TO HOME

HOME SERVICES

GETTING DOWN TO THE ROOTS WITH LEFKE TREE

All In

Welcome to the Investment issue. I know what you are thinking … where are the articles about how to invest your dollars and cents? Well, we took a slightly different approach to the theme this time. We went all in on investing in others and the community.

We’ve met so many incredible business owners this past year who are offering support and education to the community (ahem, I’m talking about you, Lefke Tree Experts and Day Heights Auto Service) that we thought this was the perfect issue to share the good work these businesses are doing.

And I can’t gush enough about our cover story. Ashley Warner started The Geriatric Hair Care Organization because she knows how important it is for a person to look and feel their best. Some local seniors don’t have access to the hair care they need. So, she went all in and invested her time and talent—creating a nonprofit to serve them. She’s literally changing lives one snip at a time.

Thank you for investing your time in reading about others who invest in you. We hope you go all in and read every page of this issue.

April 2024

PUBLISHER

Emily Barlow | emily.barlow@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Stephanie Meinberg stephanie.meinberg@citylifestyle.com

SALES SUPPORT DIRECTOR

Courtney Kraemer courtney.kraemer@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Courtney Kraemer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Carly Tamborski, Courtney Kraemer, Lisa Fletcher, Nicole Browning, Stephanie Meinberg, Bill Furbee, Amanda Stout

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Matthew J. Capps, Don Ventre, Stephanie Meinberg, Nicole House, Michael Holder

Corporate

Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

Thompson

Jennifer Robinson

Klein

So technically it’s not “in” the house but it’s still definitely the best! The best seat with the best view. Warmer weather is here and what better way to enjoy the sun than on your deck? And there’s no better time than now to contact us and schedule. We book up fast — so if you’re dreaming of ice-cold drinks and late night snacks on your back deck, give us a call now.

city scene

1: @_LoveOurLand_ Book Release @BikeTrailBooks with the Loveland Valentine Ladies! 2: @LovelandCitySchools’ high school students from the Healthcare Club exploring the Beacon Orthopedics Bio Skills Lab. 3: What a sweet event for ladies night out! Weeknight cookie decorating class at @AmaezingSweetShoppe. 4: Creative kiddos! @LovelandCitySchools’ Valentine Poetry Contest winners at the Valentine’s Day Breakfast. 5: Celebrating @CityofLovelandOh’s Hearts Afire weekend with a steaming cup of cocoa @HometownCafeLoveland. 6: @LovelandCitySchools’ high school team—#2 in the country at the National HS Cheerleading Championship in FL. 7: Creative juices flowed at the Paint Like Pollock event at Loveland Artist Studios on Main.

There’s a reason you sat down in our chair.

Maybe you want a healthy, white smile, a better night’s sleep or beautiful, smooth skin—whatever the reason, it’s important to you. We take that very seriously. That’s why we’ve invested in a modern practice, offering you advanced solutions and services, and our staff is truly invested in your care and comfort. We do it all—from routine cleanings and advanced procedures like implants, veneers and Invisalign to erasing wrinkles and fine lines. Or if snoring is disrupting a good night’s sleep, we offer low-maintenance sleep solutions.

(FDA Approved Oral Appliances)

Interested in facial aesthetics including Botox, derma fillers and whitening? Give us a call.

Contact us today. We can’t wait to meet you.

Cookies, Cakes and Pies, Oh My!

In need of something sweet? Holston’s Baking Co. has opened the doors on its second location in downtown Milford! Veteran-owned and with 20+ years of experience, Holston’s is a sweets shop that specializes in cookies, confections, pies, cheesecakes and cakes—and best of all, makes all of their creations from scratch. Boasting easy-to-order pre-designed cakes and a case filled with baked goods, there’s something for everyone at Holston’s, making it your sweet indulgence destination.

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business monthly

Rosé All Day

Bob and Colleen Coppola are bringing a unique, fun new concept to Loveland— the Rosé Boutique and Wine Bar. An exquisite blend of style and sophistication, this new boutique offers wine flights, tastes and glasses of more than 16 types of wine from a self-serve machine. Now you can shop for jewelry, clothing, food offerings and all things giftable while enjoying a glass of rosé and a charcuterie board. A new concept not to be missed!

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Leveling Up

Railway Barber Shop—a traditional yet edgy men’s barbershop in the heart of Loveland—is leveling up! The shop now boasts a “Barbercade” with six video arcade games and one pinball machine, with plans to expand over the next few months. “We plan to host pinball and arcade competitions,” says owner Brian Maxson. “All games are coin-operated, requiring good ol’-fashioned quarters to play.” The arcade is open to the public—stop by to put your quarter up!

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LOCAL experiences

1. ENGAGE IN LOVELAND

Join Loveland U Citizens’ Leadership Academy for a behind-the-scenes look at our community. LovelandOH.gov/365/ Loveland-U

2. VOLUNTEER/DONATE

Discover volunteer opportunities or donate to local nonprofits through this interactive website. CincinnatiCares.org

3. JOIN THE CHAMBER

Volunteer at events, sign up for committees, or become a board member. LMRChamberAlliance.org

4. BACK TO SCHOOL

Get involved in LCS’s Community Engagement initiative at a Town Hall Meeting. LovelandSchools.org

5. SHOP LOCAL

Explore our town’s unique boutiques for one-of-a-kind finds. lovinlifeloveland.com/ activities/shopping/

SPEAKING

TREES for the

AND GOING OUT ON A LIMB FOR HOMEOWNERS

From early spring buds to crisp fall colors, trees tell the story of the seasons unfolding. Keeping those trees in tip-top shape is an important— albeit sometimes overlooked—homeowner task. Luckily, Lefke Tree Experts is here to take the guesswork out of how to care for our trees to ensure their beauty is maintained year after year.

In 2011, Nick Lefke started a lawn and landscaping business as a way to pay for his college education. It’s since grown into a full-scale tree service company employing 15–20 people each season—including a certified arborist, who specializes in tree care and cultivation.

“A certified arborist offers suggestions that may help improve the overall health of a tree,” Nick says. “They’re also able to identify when a tree is dead and needs to be removed for safety and liability reasons.”

Lefke Tree Experts provides year-round service for all tree needs, such as removal, pruning, trimming, stump grinding, clearing and more. In the last few years, Lefke has completed 1,000+ jobs in Loveland alone, including responding to emergency calls about trees damaged by storms.

“We’re always striving to help homeowners improve the look of their property through tree removal, maintenance, education and care,” Nick says. “Trees are an investment that can add a lot of value—as long as they’re well maintained.”

But Nick says the goal of his company is to educate clients so they aren’t wasting money on services they don’t need—investing in his community by paying forward the expertise he’s gained over the years, including a blog to help homeowners learn more and recognize when it’s time to call in a professional.

According to Nick, common mistakes homeowners make include:

TOPPING: The drastic removal of main limbs can kill a tree or leave it severely damaged, destroying the tree’s natural form so it doesn’t have the strength to withstand the weight from new growth— which can also become a liability.

PRUNING: Mature trees don’t need to be pruned as often as young trees. However, older trees with dead limbs may need to be cleaned up for safety purposes—but don’t waste money pruning trees that should be removed.

The goal of his company is to educate clients ... paying forward the expertise he’s gained over the years.

PLANTING: Planting a tree in the same location where one was recently removed can be a mistake. Know the soil condition before planting, and be aware of planting trees too close to other trees, structures and utilities.

MULCHING: Mulch should protect a tree’s roots and trunk from heavy equipment like lawnmowers, but improper techniques such as volcano mulching—which stimulates new root growth—can hurt. This new growth is a secondary network that can kill the primary root and cause major damage.

So, when was the last time you really looked at your trees? With trees in bloom, Nick says now’s a great time to pay attention to potential hazards or signs of damage or disease.

SPRING/SUMMER MAINTENANCE TIPS

1. Inspect your trees for winter damage due to wind, snow and ice.

2. Prune young trees in early spring to promote new, healthy growth.

3. As tree canopies begin to fill out, pay attention to areas that seem bare or different from last year—if you find broken limbs or other damage, reach out to the experts.

4. Take annual pics from the same spot to document year-over-year changes—this is especially useful if a storm impacts your property.

BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR

1. Oak Wilt—An aggressive disease caused by fungal pathogens spread by beetles attracted to fresh cuts or wounds in trees, it can spread from tree to tree via the roots. If you have oaks or chestnuts, avoid pruning between April and October.

2. Infestations—Spotted Lanternfly, Asian Longhorn Beetle, Box Tree Moth, and Emerald Ash Borer are all Ohio pests that can pose health threats to certain tree species. If you suspect a problem, let Lefke’s arborist take a look.

LefkeTree.com | 10900 Loveland Madeira Rd | 513.325.1783

Out With The Old And In With The New

We’re a 38-year-old, family-owned stone shop specializing in granite, marble, porcelain, quartz, and quartzite. We’d love to work with you on your next project, whether that’s for your kitchen, vanity, bar top, or even outdoor grill or fireplace. We know remodeling projects can be stressful, so we make the entire process hassle free.

Beautiful Stone. Quick Turnaround. Excellent Service. Reasonable Pricing.

SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION NOW TO MAKE YOUR SPACE EXTRAORDINARY!

513.891.7858

thepligroup.com

1003 Tech Drive, Milford

A NDY MEYER

Partner & Senior Wealth Advisor ameyer@vfplanning.com

MICHAEL FRANKS

Senior Wealth Advisor

mfranks@vfplanning.com

Unbiased Approach. Comprehensive Process. Ongoing Consistency Fee Transparent.

7844 Remington Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45242 P | 513-239-2933 W | vfplanning.com

Favorite Quote: “There are so many great things in life; why dwell on negativity?" — Zendaya

Favorite Food: My mom's lemon salmon. Sport Highlight: Traveling and competing in Nashville with my team.

Recognitions & Activities: Captain, TIGER award, 1st Team All-ECC, NHS, Loveland Show Choir Dance Captain, active volunteer, Loveland Resonance, Loveland YoungLife Something unique: I can do 2 Dutch braids on myself in 3 minutes w/o a mirror.

College Plans: Major in public relations at University of Cincinnati.

HERE COMES

THE SUN

A Pre-Summer Trip to Embody Is a Direct Investment in YOU!

It’s been a long, cold, lonely winter, and with summer right around the corner, it’s time to start investing in you. The best way to pamper yourself? A trip to Embody SKIN Care & Medical Spa definitely fits the bill. Whether it’s finding the right products to keep your skin healthy and glowing through the bright summer months, or a treatment that’s tailored to fit your needs (after your free consultation with a spa professional!), Embody’s got what you need.

“A trip to Embody is an investment in mind and body, so when you look in the mirror, you feel good about

yourself. The relaxation that comes from a treatment at Embody—from investing in yourself—is invaluable,” explains Heather Buckles, owner and advanced esthetician at Embody SKIN Care & Medical Spa.

So what can Embody do to help you get ready for the upcoming change of seasons? There’s a plethora of options available—from simple treatments like a facial to revive your skin to permanent cosmetics to make your days that much easier, the professionals at Embody are ready to help you jumpstart your summer skincare!

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1. GET CHEMICAL PEELS, WAXING OR PERMANENT MAKEUP NOW.

If you want flawless summer skin, now’s the time for peels (Skinceuticals Advanced Corrective and Skinceuticals TCA Peel), laser treatments (Clear + Brilliant Treatment), and permanent makeup. “During the summer months, sun exposure could undo the work that’s done during these types of treatments.” More great summer-prep? Fullbody waxing, including a Brazilian option. “We use the best wax,” Heather promises. “It’s called mermaid wax—a fan favorite because it’s comfortable, doesn’t hurt, and doesn’t cause breakouts or irritations after the fact.” Invest in your skin now so you have that gorgeous glow all summer long!

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2. FOR THE COUTURE  CHANGE FROM SPRING INTO SUMMER …

Looking for that little push to get your body sundress-fab and swimsuit-ready? Consider some help on your weight loss journey from Embody’s offered weight loss injections. And once you’ve hit that goal weight, truSculpt iD—a non-surgical body-sculpting treatment—is there to help tighten up your skin and get you feeling the best in your body.

3. DON’T FORGET: HYDRATE AND PROTECT YOUR SKIN ALL SEASON.

Heather recommends hydrafacials through the summer months. “They’re great treatments because they address discoloration and brown spots, while treating excess oil or acne—but still gentle enough that they won’t cause any irritation.” As for your summer skincare must-have products, Heather recommends Skinceuticals Phyto A+ Brightening Treatment (a lightweight moisturizer great for all skin types), Skinceuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense SPF 30 (to protect against UV-induced pigmentation, and even and lighten tone), and Discoloration Defense (a daily dark spot corrector that targets skin discoloration for brighter, more even-looking skin). All products and treatments that are sure to keep your skin healthy and leave you feeling fresh-faced all season!

BBQ, biscuits +GIVING BACK

There’s history here. Part of our inaugural issue in 2019, the cover feature of our beloved food issue in 2022, and again now. You could say we’ve been as vested in Nicole and Josh House’s journey as they’ve been in ours. But knowing what they’ve done for the community—what they continue to aspire to and invest in—that’s no surprise. They give. It’s who they are.

If you don’t know their Pickles & Bones Barbecue (first of all, where have you been?), born as a food truck in 2015, it transitioned to a carry-out-only spot in 2017, hosting All Hail the Biscuit breakfast pop-ups in ’19 and ’20. Those were so popular that in 2021, Nicole and Josh opened a stand-alone, sit-down AHTB brunch shop off OH-28 in Milford—running two overlapping businesses amid family, school and community commitments. Which turned out to be … a lot.

“We were getting burned out,” Nicole admits. “Neither one of us wanted to walk in the doors at one point. We needed a break.” The solution? Fuse both concepts into one menu—and one location. “People had been asking us to do P&B as a sit-down since the start. So we decided to expand things here, and try and blow it up.”

It worked. After a short closure at the AHTB location (plus paint, training and re-org), the new Pickles & Bones opened late last year to quiet, wood-smoky fanfare.

HOW ONE MILFORD BIZ HAS BEEN INVESTING IN THEIR COMMUNITY SINCE DAY ONE

“SCHOOLS AND FOOD INSECURITY are the big two for us,” NICOLE SMILES.

“Hence the fundraisers for SCHOOL GROUPS AND CLUBS— because the food stuff resonates.”

“Consolidating into one staff, one spot, we’re a much tighter-knit group—it was a good move,” says Nicole. “We’re happier cooking again, and it’s showing in the food.” An understatement for sure. The new combined menu features AHTB faves during breakfast hours, with weekly features, all-new sandwiches and snacks added to the classic P&B smoked meat options— which Nicole has cause to boast about.

“The meat is better with our new smoker.” No humble brag there—the custom-built 1,000-gallon smoker arrived last summer, the catalyst for reinventing their small business, and reinvesting in themselves. “The quality of what we’re doing is way better. I think the barbecue is the best it’s ever been.”

But that’s just half the story. This family biz is known for opening its doors to the community. “I believe you get back what you put out into the world,” Nicole offers with a quiet smile. “A lot of these things are spur of the moment, not planned, responding to a need—those are the really awesome ones because they come from the heart.”

Last December 25th, Nicole and Josh decided to offer Christmas lunch. For free. No questions, just show up. “We had no idea what to expect,” she laughs. “We did 246 people in 38 minutes—and it was the best Christmas we’ve had in a long, long time. I could see that it mattered … it really mattered.”

During COVID, they offered lunches to students in the Milford school district—again, all free, for nearly nine months. Free meals, too, for Veterans Day, 9/11, Police Week, first responders, tornado relief—the list is long, and the generosity unmatched, not the least of which includes countless “dine-out” nights benefiting school PTOs, clubs and teams.

Josh himself recently responded on P&B’s social, inviting fans to ask him anything—one commenter called out how much they give back. His answer? “We’ve always believed that if we expect the community to support us, we need to support the community in return. We’ve always tried to make it a priority … it’s been part of our mission since day one.” Well, Josh and Nicole, mission accomplished.

PicklesAndBones.com

877 OH-28, Milford 513.317.2214

BUILDING A HEALTHY FUTURE

Mercy Health Kings Mills Hospital: A New Investment into Our Community’s Health

More than just another wintery Saturday, this past January 13th marked an exciting milestone for our greater community with the opening of the brand-new Mercy Health Kings Mills Hospital and medical office building. The entire complex was abuzz for the community open house event, featuring

“The heart of it is that when we are in a community, we are a true partner of that community.”

FC Cincinnati players signing autographs, and local groups, clinical service providers and physicians chatting with community members and sharing information. Visitors were invited to take a selfguided tour throughout the airy, light-filled hospital, with staff stationed at various points to provide additional details as they walked by. Talk about a warm winter welcome—nearly 1,000 community members attended the four-hour event. Then on January 20th, Mercy Health officially opened its doors at 7 a.m. to begin 24/7 care for the first time.

Now, Mercy Health’s 60-bed, state-of-the-art hospital and attached medical office building offer high-quality healthcare services for Mason, Deerfield, Loveland, Maineville, Lebanon and their surrounding communities—areas that have grown exponentially in recent years, but lacked an acute care facility close to home. It’s the main reason Mercy Health chose to invest in this community.

“This was an opportunity for us to serve a need and provide a convenient, community hospital in a growing area. In addition to the hospital, we’ve also seeded the area with primary care doctors, plus we have a medical office building that includes several specialties to which residents now have access,” explains Jason Asic, Mercy Health Kings Mills Hospital President.

The hospital offers cardiac and surgical services, emergency care, imaging and critical care—including a cardiac catheterization lab, ICU unit and inpatient beds. Right next door is the medical office building where patients have access to key specialties such as ENT, audiology, general surgery, pulmonology, orthopedics, cardiology and lab services.

“People now have a convenient option where they can receive this level of care right in their community, which will lead to quicker medical interventions and easier access,” says Jason. “Patients staying in the hospital can be closer to home.”

A Mercy Health associate since the early 2000s, starting as a lab technologist and then advancing through administrative roles, Jason was also part of the Mercy Health West Hospital opening. “I was able to see how a brand-new hospital behaves and grows— and the different situations one can encounter—then use that knowledge for this hospital,” he shares.

Jason was brought on in the fall of 2020 to begin helping with the Kings Mills Hospital project, and in partnership with Danis Construction and GBBN Architecture, they expertly navigated a remote design process and supply chain shortages. They broke ground in 2021 and within two years, were able to move into the hospital to prepare for patient care.

“Concepts that were important to us when designing the hospital were flexibility, growth and technology—you need all three of those things working in concert,” Jason explains. “Technology is such an integral part of anything we do in healthcare, so you have to make sure the infrastructure is there with flexibility for needs changing over time.”

They also focused on features that would immediately make a difference for visitors, such as a warm, welcoming ambiance with lots of natural light and easy wayfinding. “When someone comes in the front doors of our campus, navigating around is very clear and intuitive.”

Just as important? Hiring staff who would not only fill in-demand skilled positions, but also help augment and enhance the culture. “I want to make sure we’re meeting the community needs, and that our associates and physicians can do what they do every day to help patients,” Jason shares. “We’re building a culture where patients want to come here to receive care, physicians want to practice here, and staff want to be here.”

Beyond the health and wellness benefits the Kings Mills Hospital brings to residents, the economic and workforce contributions are many. The construction process brought more than 200 workers

“People now have a convenient option where they can receive this level of care right in their community.”

into the area, while the hospital currently has 200 associates—with a projection to grow to approximately 275 staff between the hospital and medical offices over the next two years.

According to a report by the American Hospital Association, health systems and hospitals have become “economic pillars that create jobs and purchase goods and services from others in their community.”

“The heart of it is that when we are in a community, we are a true partner of that community—from a health, well-being and economic standpoint, as well as outreach and involvement with local institutions and municipal services like fire, EMS, police and area schools,” Jason explains.“We try to be a good partner to show we are here to interact, and help them improve the overall health of the community.”

FULLSPEE D AHEAD

“From the moment a customer walks through our doors, they become part of our extended family.”

Great news for anyone on the lookout for quality regional car care: Day Heights Auto Service, now celebrating its 42nd year, has expanded its operations to better serve families in the Loveland area.

Last July, family-owned Day Heights Auto Service opened its doors on Loveland Madeira Rd (next door to Grand Sands). A long-time local fave, the company will also continue operations at its flagship location in Milford, on OH-131 east of Wolfpen Pleasant Rd. Each service station provides comprehensive repair, diagnostic testing, and maintenance services. “We also specialize in tire and brake services, to ensure our customers’ vehicles are safe and roadready,” says Jamie Kellerman, president.

The expansion and investment into the Loveland area, he says, “has been a longtime dream of mine.” Jamie’s father established Day Heights Auto Service back in 1982.

“One of the most profound memories I have of my father’s early years at work is witnessing his tireless dedication to our customers and the community,” Jamie

smiles, today. “It wasn’t just one isolated incident—it was a pattern of countless occasions where he went above and beyond to ensure every vehicle that came through our doors was not only repaired, but made safer for everyone on the road.”

A respect for all that his father built isn’t lost on Jamie. Extending services to a broader audience allows him to have a positive impact in new neighborhoods, and contribute to more communities.

“Carrying our family business into a new era is a deeply personal journey,” Jamie shares, one that both honors his father’s vision and acknowledges Jamie’s own aspirations for growth. “It's about honoring our roots—by staying true to our principles of trust, integrity and quality service.”

Jamie says his father’s dedication laid the foundation for their present success. “And I’m committed to building upon that legacy.”

Jamie proudly points out that his commitment to exceptional customer service isn't just a time-tested business strategy—it’s the very essence of who they are,

“It’s about honoring our roots—by staying true to our principles of trust, integrity and quality service.”

and what Day Heights Auto Service stands for. “From the moment a customer walks through our doors, they become part of our extended family,” he says. “And we treat them with the same care and respect that we would our own loved ones.”

And it shows outside the shops’ doors as well. From grassroots functions to fullblown efforts to replace local school scoreboards, investing in the community is key to the Day Heights Auto Service mission— the organization is also a regular fixture at parades and chamber events every year, thanks in part to the support of sister company, Day Heights Towing Service.

Jamie explains that the towing service has expanded right alongside its auto services. “With a current fleet of 9 trucks and plans for further expansion, DH Towing plays an integral role in supporting our operations and serving our customers,” Jamie adds. “Their dedication to professionalism, reliability and customer satisfaction mirrors our own values, making them another essential pillar of our company.”

It all comes down to care. “We believe in taking the time to truly understand each customer’s unique needs and concerns—providing tailored solutions that go above and beyond their expectations,” he says. “This personalized touch sets us apart, earning us a loyal customer base who appreciates the care and attention we put into every service we provide.”

And decades of experience have only deepened Jamie’s commitment to delivering exceptional service with a personal touch, ensuring each customer receives the attention they deserve.

“By blending tradition with innovation, we’re not just carrying our family business into a new era … we’re shaping its future and ensuring it continues to thrive for generations to come.”

READY FOR SUMMER?

No surprise, Jamie wanted to share a few things drivers should keep in mind this season.

CHECK THE COOLING SYSTEM: Essential for preventing overheating, especially during the hot summer months—Jamie suggests inspecting the radiator for leaks or corrosion, checking hoses for cracks or bulges, and ensuring the coolant level is adequate and the mixture is correct.

INSPECT AIR CONDITIONING: A properly functioning air conditioning system is crucial for staying comfortable during summer drives.

INSPECT TIRES: “Tires are your vehicle’s only contact with the road,” Jamie says, “making them critical for safety and performance. Check tire pressure regularly, including the spare tire, to ensure they are properly inflated for maximum fuel efficiency and traction.”

TEST THE BATTERY: High temperatures can accelerate battery corrosion and shorten its lifespan, Jamie points out. “Have your battery tested by a professional to check its voltage output and overall condition.”

REPLACE WIPER BLADES: Summer storms can reduce visibility and create hazardous driving conditions. “Inspect your wiper blades for signs of wear, such as streaking or skipping, and replace them if necessary,” Jamie says. “Regularly replacing your wiper blades helps maintain optimal visibility and safety on the road.”

DayHeightsAutoService.com

10732 Loveland Madeira Rd, Loveland | 513.744.1685

1236 Ohio 131, Milford | 513.248.1662

It All

One Woman’s Mission: Making a Difference for Seniors and Personal Care Investing

A fresh cut, a shampoo. A bit of style or freshset curl. Maybe even a quick manicure or mini-makeover—all everyday salon services that are usually just an easy booking away. But not for everyone, especially the elderly.

In fact, hair care may be among the most overlooked necessities for seniors—not only does it boost confidence and dignity, but it keeps aging skin, scalps and hair both clean and healthy. Not to mention helping provide the deeply personal—and needed—connection of touch and care. Unfortunately, more often than not, a lack of mobility or accessibility prevents seniors from visiting their favorite salon or barbershop. But one woman is working to change that, one stop at a time.

“Geriatric hair care is so important because it’s designed to cater to a specific demographic and their needs—and it’s been overlooked for a long time,” explains Ashley Warner, cosmetologist and founder of The Geriatric Hair Care Organization, a nonprofit providing free, much-needed salon care to skilled nursing facilities and hospitals.

From the start, Ashley knew how much proper hair maintenance contributes to a person’s quality of life. So, she’s spent the last five years focusing on geriatric care, meeting countless seniors, visiting countless nursing home salons—often finding situations or stylists that were unable to offer bedside washes or haircuts.

“I’ve also seen few in-house salons operating with the efficient scheduling needed to ensure all residents were seen … it’s tough,” Ashley admits. “Washes, cuts, detangling—those are basic hygienic needs. And when those needs are met, you see an increase in the longevity of residents because they feel better. Because they know they look better.” Her motto says it all: Hair care is healthcare.

So she made it a standard. Through research, trial and error, Ashley developed a way to provide full professional services in nursing home salons, as well as extend those services to the bedsides of immobilized residents. But it hasn’t been an easy road.

This is my passion ... I just want everyone to feel like they matter. “

“I’ve been in very vulnerable situations with residents all over Cincinnati, and I often felt nearly helpless to help them,” Ashley shares about the path of her organization. “I battled with my own morals between earning a living and caring for my own child versus providing services—for free—that are so desperately needed … but that need was so high, I decided to do what I can.”

And what she does is tremendous. Through the GHCO, Ashley travels to area nursing homes where residents receive her services at no cost , eliminating the financial burden for those with little to no funds or without sufficient family financial support. That includes utilizing volunteer cosmetology school students (from Paul Mitchell the School Cincinnati), special tools for those who can’t recline for washes, wheelchair-accessible spaces and workstations, and often manicures and makeup as well.

“Everyone deserves an equal opportunity to salon self-care,” Ashley says. But it’s more than that for her—and it

shows, not just with her investment of time, but her care and commitment to the residents themselves.

She knows most of them by name. Knows their histories. Their challenges, their personalities, their preferences. For many, it could be the only time they leave their room that day—to share a conversation, experience human touch, be heard, be seen on such a personal, one-on-one level. To see Ashley’s smile and joy mirrored on so many residents’ faces—it’s clear she’s making an impact.

But her bigger purpose? Speaking for those who can’t advocate for or attain their needs.

“This is my passion, and I feel like I’m witnessing a miracle in a way,” Ashley explains. “By being their voice, I’m changing lives. I just want everyone to feel like they matter. I’ve cried many, many times in the last months because I know these people are finally being recognized.”

But she’s not stopping there. By next year, Ashley hopes to have an open-to-the-public salon for seniors, and intends to extend the welcome to anyone of any age with either physical and/or mental restrictions.

“Everyone should feel good about going to the salon, but sometimes the hustle and bustle of public shops are too over-stimulating or not wheelchair accessible,” Ashley says. “I love the relaxed environment of my salons—I’ve worked with clients who definitely need that atmosphere. My plan is to hire and train specialists for long-term care salons. I also want to get my ‘in-room salon cart’ operating in hospitals, more retirement communities, and other facilities that don’t already have a salon on-site.”

So saying, Ashley needs more funding so she can expand the GHCO—an investment that leads directly toward care for others.

“I’m a one-woman operation,” she smiles. “But there are tons of facilities in Ohio that need a Geriatric Hair Care Specialist, which is why sponsorship and grants are so important for the organization right now. When the funding can support another stylist, we can reach up to 8 healthcare centers per stylist— that’s hundreds of residents!” And hundreds of lives, changed. GeriatricHaircare.org

APRIL 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 1ST – 30TH

LIFEsavers Campaign

Loveland LIFE Food Pantry

Donating to locals in need—for the Loveland LIFE Food Pantry, it’s vital during more than just the holiday season. So begins their monthlong annual LIFEsavers campaign to both educate the community on what they do and who they help, but also to gather financial and food donations. Donate now, the need is great—and you can help make a difference. LifeFoodPantry.org

APRIL 12TH

Crab Cakes and Murder

RSVP Event Center | 6:00 PM

A hilarious and hair-raising “whodunnit” affair, this murder mystery dinner directly benefits NEST Community Learning Center—Loveland’s unique nonprofit providing education, nutrition, safety and care for local at-risk kids. This thrilling event includes a dinner buffet, desserts and drinks, and of course, your chance to dress the part and uncover the villain (mwah-ha-ha). Help support these kids—tickets on sale now. NestCLC.org/2024-murder-mystery

APRIL 13TH

Spring Fling Sip and Shop

The Landing Event Center | 11:00 AM

Spring shopping, ladies? You better believe it. With cocktails. And small bites. And a full-blown fashion show. This 3rd annual fling, featuring nearly two dozen local vendors and a cash bar, is co-hosted by Tigers Inc. and Lemons and Limes Boutique—a free event that helps LHS interns gain hands-on, real-world business experience. Music, food and fashion? See you there! Facebook.com/ShopLemonsAndLimes/events

APRIL 17TH – 19TH

Custom Bridal Ring Event

Dale Robertson Jewelry

Wedding season is here—which means ring shopping is in full swing! Brides, grooms, couples or proposers, take advantage of this brilliant 3-day event, featuring 7,000+ engagement and wedding ring styles, plus a huge selection of mined and lab-grown diamonds. Find the ring or set of your dreams—plus, get a free vacation getaway with the purchase of $3,500 or more. DaleRobertsonJewelry.com

APRIL 20TH

Symmes Youth Fishing Derby

Symmes Park

The fish will be jumpin’ and the stories will be flowin’, don’t miss out on some kid-centric fun. This annual catch-and-release derby is for kids 12 and under—bait will be provided, but participants need to bring their own poles. The event starts at 9a for kiddos 8 and under, and 10a for those aged 9–12. Pre-registration required. SymmesTownship.org

APRIL 27TH

Electronics Recycling Event

415 Wards Corner Rd | 1:00 PM

It’s time for spring cleanup—and you know you’ve got some worn-down, unusable electronics just taking up space (we’re talking to you, ancient keyboard, and you, hairdryer on its last legs). The Loveland Sustainability Council—in partnership with G.I. Haul—invites you to donate anything with a cord! Free with some exclusions and cash requirements (like TVs and monitors). Come recycle responsibly! LovelandSustainabilityCouncil.org/