LOVELAND MAGAZINE

News and Events from the Loveland, Ohio Area

Without fear or favor
Since 2004

Author: Cassie Mattia

Loveland Students aim to inspire through Student of the Year Campaign

After Kyle Beasley’s grandfather, David M. Mabee (In Photo above), died in July of 2017 of multiple myeloma, he knew that the Student of the Year campaign was something that he wanted to support in memory of his grandfather.

Cassie Mattia is a resident of Historic Downtown Loveland.

by Cassie Mattia

Loveland, Ohio – The people of Loveland have always been known for being advocates for a great cause. Whether it’s helping a new local business succeed or supporting a local non-profit, the “Sweetheart of Ohio,” ALWAYS lives up to its reputation.

Two seniors out of Loveland High School, Kyle Beasley and Frannie Cornett have made it their mission this year to fight for the greater good through a campaign called “Student of the Year,” sponsored by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS).

“The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society typically nominates a student each year that is adequately able to involve their peers, community, and family in a campaign that builds them as human beings and supports an organization that is putting forth their efforts into a fantastic cause,” Beasley explained, “The Student of the year receives a $2,500 scholarship that, if running alone, is taken in full. Or, in my case, is split in two with their partner(s).”

After Beasley’s grandfather, David M. Mabee, died in July of 2017 of multiple myeloma, he knew that the Student of the Year campaign was something that he wanted to support in memory of his grandfather.

Frannie Cornett and Kyle Beasley have made it their mission this year to fight for the greater good through a campaign called “Student of the Year,” sponsored by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

“My grandfather was a person who always brightened a room with his smile. His charisma was unparalleled and he always enjoyed meeting new people and being with my sister and me,” Beasley said, “Whether it was on stage directing shows, attending church, or celebrating holidays with my family, David Mabee made every single day better for every person he was around.”

Beasley and his partner, Frannie Cornett, will tag team a 7-week fundraiser in which they will solicit sponsorships, receive donations and sell ads that will be a part of their grand finale program.

“Our plan is to reach out to local businesses and community members for donations to LLS,” Beasley explained, “We are also doing our best to set up corporate meetings in which we present our cause and try to lock down corporate partnerships with LLS for our Grand Finale Gala on March 2nd.”

Beasley and Cornett’s goal is to raise $50,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, an added bonus being that Beasley would also be awarded the privilege of naming a research grant in his grandfather’s name.

The Leukemia and Lymphoma society is an integral part of blood cancer research and without it, my grandfather wouldn’t have had the life he did the five years following diagnosis.

“The Leukemia and Lymphoma society is an integral part of blood cancer research and without it, my grandfather wouldn’t have had the life he did the five years following diagnosis,” Beasley said, “Out of the 25 FDA approved treatments in 2018, 20 of them were backed by LLS’s efforts. Saying that, it should go without saying that LLS is making a difference across the nation and revolutionizing how we approach blood cancers.”

Although Beasley admits Cornett and himself are little far off their goal of 50,000 dollars, they are not giving up as they have a plethora of fun and exciting fundraisers coming up.

“We are holding a spirit night at Chik-fil-A at Deerfield Crossing in Mason from 5 to 7:30 p.m. on January 29^th and we are also holding a ‘Minute to Win it” fundraiser at the Loveland boys varsity basketball game against Milford on February 7^th,” Beasley said, Minute to Win it is a minute long event held at halftime of a sporting event in which they run the stairs of the stands and attempt to collect as much money as they can.

Beasley, of course, wants to remind those interested in donating that if he and his fundraising team don’t have the chance to get to you during the Minute to Win it challenge they will have a table set up outside of the gym to collect donations.

Whether it was on stage directing shows, attending church, or celebrating holidays with my family, David Mabee made every single day better for every person he was around.

If you would like to be a part of Beasley and Cornett’s Student of the Year campaign you can of course attend the event at Chik-fil-A, in which you would let the cashier know that you’re supporting the Student of the Year campaign so that Beasley and Cornett’s cause receives a 15 percent kickback towards fighting cancer.

You can also make donations directly through the fundraising link at https://events.lls.org/soh.tristatesoy19/kbeasley, or you can write a check. All checks must be written out to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.*

Cash donations can put into an envelopment addressed to:
Kyle Beasley/Frannie Cornett and taken to Loveland High School, #1 Tiger Trail, Loveland, Ohio 45140

*The Leukemia Lymphoma Society:

4370 Glendale Milford Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45242.

Checks should be made payable to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or LLS and include the Student of the Year names that are being supported (Kyle Beasley/Frannie Cornett) in the memo line.

Join Loveland Magazine and root for Beasley and Cornett for Students of the Year in memory of Grandfather Mabee.

January 28, 2019
Competition Has Never Sounded Or Looked So Good!

The Loveland High School Cheerleaders were dressed for Christmas at a recent basketball game

Cassie Mattia is a resident of Historic Downtown Loveland

by Cassie Mattia

Loveland, Ohio – Hundreds of parents and spectators will be cheering their way into a packed gym for the 2019 Eastern Cincinnati Conference Cheer and Dance Competition on February 2^nd at Walnut Hills High school.

The ECC Cheer and Dance Competition will be held at the Walnut Hills High school gymnasium on February 2^nd; where the dance competition will begin at 11 a.m. and the cheer competition will begin at 1 PM Admission will be 6 dollars for adults and 4 dollars for students and seniors. For more information visit the Eastern Cincinnati Conference website at www.eccsports.com.

Student athletes from Loveland, Milford and Kings, to name a few, will take part in one of the most important cheer and dance competitions of the season sponsored by the ECC beginning at 11 AM. Each school in the ECC will be represented in the competition that is said to be the highlight of the cheer and dance team’s year.

“It is the one time a year that these cheer and dance teams can come together as a league and compete in their sport. They do so much for the school throughout the year; it’s their chance to be highlighted,” Assistant District Director of Student Athletics at Loveland High school, Eric Fry explained.

Each cheer team can bring 30 cheerleaders and each dance team can bring 16 dancers. Fry says in the past this competition has been so well attended that there has been a line to get in the door.

“The past several years the gym has been packed! The crowd is cheering for the athletes and there is a great atmosphere all the way around,” Fry said, “Walnut’s gym has a great set up for this competition and has worked well the last couple of years.”

Loveland High School Cheer Team dressed for Christmas at a recent basketball game

Last year, Milford won the event in cheer, Loveland came in 4^th in cheer and Kings won in dance. This year for the first time Loveland will be competing in the dance competition.

“I know that teams have been working hard for this competition. I know the Tigers will be there and represent well,” Fry said, “Kings has had a phenomenal dance program and Milford has been doing well in years past in cheer. This year is anybody’s championship to take!”

Loveland High School Cheer Team dressed for Christmas at a recent basketball game

Those who attend cheer and dance competitions as spectators are of course entertained by the athleticism and musicality of the student athletes, but many don’t truly understand how technical the competition itself actually is and how intensely the teams are scored. Tournament Manager, Heather Kaiser, says judges for the ECC Competition are selected based on experience and have to be licensed cheer and dance judges from the Universal Cheerleaders Association and Universal Dance Association organizations.

“This is a pretty competitive event so we use some of our very best judges. Judges are looking for an overall well executed performance routine,” Kaiser explained, “Difficulty comes into play as well. Cheer has to compete in two different categories, Game Day and Performance. Dance performs in two different categories as well, Pom, Jazz or Hip-Hop. For both the cheer and dance competitions two scores are then averaged to pick an overall winner,” Kaiser said.

Last year, Milford won the event in cheer. This photo is from January 4th during player introductions when the Loveland Men traveled to play Milford H.S.

Seems simple enough right? Wrong! On the ECC website I found score sheets for both the cheer and dance competitions and the judges really have to pay close attention to every single detail as the points given to the teams are broken down into subcategories. For example, on the Cheer overall score sheet judges are expected to score “Jumps” out of 15 points. They must look at proper technique, form, height, synchronization, type of jumps, connections, combos and variety. Judges also look deeper into

Loveland High School Cheer Team dressed for Christmas at a recent basketball game

“Dance,” which is out of 10 points. In this category judges look at technique, sharpness, placement, timing, spacing, use of levels, overall choreography and visual appeal. Lastly, on the overall score sheet for Cheer judges score the “Overall Impression,” which is 5 points. The judges base this score on routine creativity, flow, use of formations and transitions. This is just one of the score sheets involved in the Cheer competition! There is also a “Game Day and Crowd Leading” score sheet, which is 50 points, a “Game Day, Fight Song and Band Chant” score sheet, which is 50 points, and a

Loveland High School Cheer Team

“Tumbling” score sheet, which is 35 points. While the Dance competition is one individual score sheet the subcategories on the score sheet are just as intense! Judges look at “Execution” of movement, skills, synchronization, uniformity, spacing, communication and projection for a total of 50 possible points. The score sheet also includes “Choreography,” where judges look at creativity, musicality, routine staging, complexity of movement and difficulty of skills for a total of 40 possible points. Lastly, the judges will score the “Overall Effect,” which is based on the overall impression of the music, costume and choreography for a total of 10 possible points.

Loveland High School Cheer Team

“Teams can stand out if they really focus on the difficulty category,” Kaiser said, “For cheer; crowd leading routines are very appealing. Tumbling and dance also play a big part. For dance; choreography plays a huge part. If they include turns and lifts the judges find that really appealing as well,” Kaiser explained.

The Loveland High School Cheer Squad dressed in a Christmas theme at a December basketball game

As the competition draws nearer athletes are fine tuning their final routines and, according Kaiser, couldn’t be more excited to show their parents, friends, coaches and the judges the final product.

The athletes take extra pride in this event because it’s against the teams they see all year long.

“The athletes take extra pride in this event because it’s against the teams they see all year long. Conference Championship games are always a big deal in every sport plus they get so many fans to come to this particular event and the support is HUGE,” Kaiser said.

This will also be the first year the ECC will include cheer and dance to be counted towards the All Sports Trophy Title.

“The competition is fairly new, so the league wanted to get it right before it was included in the ECC All Sports standings,” Fry explained.

The ECC Cheer and Dance Competition will be held at the Walnut Hills High school gymnasium on February 2^nd; where the dance competition will begin at 11 a.m. and the cheer competition will begin at 1 p.m. Admission will be 6 dollars for adults and 4 dollars for students and seniors. For more information visit the Eastern Cincinnati Conference website at www.eccsports.com.

January 24, 2019
[Part 3] My journey to the “West Loveland Historic District”

Did you Know that the Loveland Museum Center is located in the West Loveland Historic District?

Did You Know?

Cassie Mattia is a resident of Historic Downtown

Loveland, Ohio – Our journey continues as we take a stroll down the sidewalks of the West Loveland Historic District (WLHD) and discover the facts that make living and working there so appealing.

It may not be a surprise to Loveland residents that this historic district has always had businesses that give off an artistic ambiance. In the WLHD, there are two businesses that not only give off that Loveland artistic feel, but have also found a way to set themselves apart from other art studios. DID YOU KNOW there is an art studio that provides art classes, parties, events, after school programs, camps and art exhibitions for children and adults? For the Love of Art Studio teaches people of all ages the fundamentals of art using only the best tools and supplies. The art studio hosts birthday parties, private business events and special themed parties for adults, teens and kids. For the Love of Art has a had an overwhelming response to its after-school programs and summer camps. In the after-school art program students from ages, 8 to 14 can work with pastels, oil paint, mix media, acrylic, paper-mache and textures. DID YOU KNOW the Love of Art helps young talent pursue fashion design in their summer camps? The art studio teaches students the basics of fashion illustration and helps them create their own collections using “figure design” and watercolor pencils. Students also get the opportunity to create their very own accessories, such as fiber jewelry and a purse.

A recent work by Loveland artist Deirdre Dyson.

Another place where art is both shared and celebrated is Studio 430 & Art Gallery (formally The Art House II) located in a historic home at 430 West Loveland Avenue. Deirdre Dyson, a world renown artist known for her landscape art, turned the home into a beautiful workspace and art gallery. DID YOU KNOW Dyson has created some of the most sought-after art collections right here in Loveland? Landscapes, A World of

Deirdre and Dick Dyson invested several hundred thousands of dollars in the WLHD to create an art studio and gallery in this historic home as well as a “live-work” 2nd floor.

Light and Color, and Fall Art Show are just a few of Dyson’s collections that have been featured in the media and have been up for prestigious art awards. The public is welcome to enjoy Dyson’s art collections displayed at Studio 430 as well as use the house as an open art studio. Dyson also holds painting classes where she teaches beginners and those with experience about color mixing and how to look at images through a more creative lens. DID YOU KNOW several of Dyson’s painting are inspired by architecture and landscape in Loveland? Dyson has created beautiful oil paintings of the Loveland Historical Museum, Loveland Presbyterian Church, Loveland Market Tents, Putti Fountain Loveland, Old Broadway Loveland, Rolkes Coal Loveland, April Showers on The Little Miami and Loveland Historic Home.

Deirdre and her husband Dick also live above the gallery, living the dream of creating a live/work environment. The Dysons invested thousands and thousands of dollars in the historic home with a large addition to the back, secluded balcony and gardens, and an elevator.

The city of Loveland has always been a community that is dedicated to helping others whether that’s through hosting benefits and charities or just simply getting the word out for a greater cause. DID YOU KNOW the WLHD has two facilities that are dedicated to helping the greater good located in an iconic historic church, The former site of the United Methodist congregation? One such business in the renovated church is RecruitMilitary, founded in 1998. RecruitMilitary is a veteran-owned firm. This recruiting agency has helped more than 1.3 million veterans find careers making them the number one military-to-civilian recruiting firm. DID YOU KNOW RecruitMilitary is the largest producer of military career fairs in the country? Thus far, RecruitMilitary has held more than 900 career fairs in over 60 different markets. From these career fairs, the recruiting agency typically does at least 300 interviews with military veteran job seekers, which in turn generates on average 120 job offers. In addition to the success of the career fairs, RecruitMilitary offers more than 200,000 job opportunities on their website’s job board and has recently teamed up with Google to enhance their job search engine so that candidates will be able to find jobs more relevant to their experience.

Both CancerFree KIDS and RecruitMilitary are in buildings that used to be the Loveland United Methodist Church.

Another organization that the WLHD holds near and dear to its heart is a non-profit for kids that’s also located in the beautiful old church. DID YOU KNOW CancerFree KIDS has been funding childhood cancer research since 2002? CancerFree KIDS was founded by Ellen and Sam Flannery after their five-month-old daughter was diagnosed with cancer in both her eyes. Today their daughter is enjoying a normal life in college due to cancer research. CancerFree KIDS host fundraisers and events all year long to fund the most innovative research in cancer. DID YOU KNOW, since 2002 CancerFree KIDS has funded 124 research projects for a total of 4.4 million dollars? Most recently, on June 19^th CancerFree KIDS gave $800,000 in research grants to projects at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus. DID YOU KNOW if you visit CancerFree KIDS website you can send a “Courage Lion” to a courageous person? If you go to the how you can help tab on the non-profit’s website you can buy a 12-inch stuffed lion that comes with a personalized gift card and send it out to someone you know. With every lion sent out, CancerFree KIDS sends a “Courage” lion to a child that has been recently diagnosed with cancer. Those wanting to help CancerFree Kids have a number of options they can choose from. Those wanting to help can hold a fundraiser, purchase a raise awareness magnet, donate to CancerFree KIDS or volunteer for any of the events held by the non-profit.

A Loveland Magazine file photo of the Loveland Veterans’ Memorial taken in 2006

History runs very deep in Loveland’s roots, which is why the landscape is decorated in historical memorials. DID YOU KNOW the WLHD has a Veterans’ Memorial? Located on the corner of West Loveland Avenue and Riverside Drive in Veterans’ Memorial Park, the memorial was designed to honor the men and women who have served our country. DID YOU KNOW the Veteran’s Memorial features brick pavers with the names of local veterans engraved in them? Every year before Memorial Day people can order brick pavers to be engraved and placed in the Veteran’s Memorial. The memorial is owned and maintained by taxpayers and overseen by a Veterans’ Memorial Committee.

To learn more about purchasing a paver, call 513-707-1439. (Download the memorial paver application form (PDF).)

Each year residents come to the WLHD on Memorial Day at the Loveland Veterans’ Memorial to pay respect to men and women who “gave their all” and to those left behind to mourn. (This is a Loveland Magazine file photo from the Memorial Day service in 2009)

The Veterans’ Memorial was designed by Loveland designer, David Camele and dedicated on Sunday, November 13, 1994.

DID YOU KNOW one of the oldest family-owned funeral homes in the nation is in the WLHD?

Loveland is home to many family legacies, many of those legacies being businesses that were built by generations of family members. DID YOU KNOW one of the oldest family-owned funeral homes in the nation is in the WLHD? Tufts Schildmeyer Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Centers legacy began in 1840 in Maineville. Seth G. Tufts passed the business on to his son Oscar B. Tufts who then moved the business to a livery stable in Loveland. Eventually, in 1920 Lawrence S. Tufts, Oscar’s son, bought the property on Riverside Drive and the rest is history! Today Robert and Marilyn Schildmeyer along with their sons and grandson run the funeral home officially making them the fourth, fifth and sixth generations to help run the family business. DID YOU KNOW Tufts Schildmeyer offers more funeral options than any other funeral home in Cincinnati? Tufts offers the Traditional Complete Funeral Service, Graveside Service, Personalized Services, Funeral Director Services, top of the line Memorial Products and several different Cremation Services with four different memorialization options for Cremation.

Riverview Monument is part of the Tufts Schildmeyer Family of Services and a full-service memorial provider of top quality Granite and Bronze Memorials with full art design Department. They provide civic Memorials such as veteran memorials. They also offer personalized custom printing and can use a laser to engrave any image you choose on a memorial stone.

The Gertz law firm is at the corner of West Loveland and Wall Street in the WLHD and still undergoing a major facelift.

DID YOU KNOW there is another business that dates back to the 1800’s that is now in the WLHD? Gertz Law began its legacy in Reading with Charles and Marie Gertz. Eventually, Charlie’s son Anthony continued the Gertz legacy and opened his general law practice at the Pike Street office in Reading in 1972. In 2013 Susan Gertz (Allspach) opened a second Gertz law office location in Loveland so that Clermont and Warren County clients could easily access Gertz services. DID YOU KNOW Gertz Law has three attorneys that practice 7 areas of law? The Gertz Law Firm handles divorce and family law, probate administration, wills, trusts, and estate planning, corporate and small business transactions, real estate and personal injury.

The firm has recently invested tens of thousands of dollars into their WLHD building with such things as extensive new landscaping and rebuilding the copper box gutters.

If you are interested in visiting or finding more information on any of these businesses please see the contact information below.

For the Love of Art Studio, 513-207-3165, For the Love of Art Studio in Loveland on Facebook

The 430 & Art Gallery, 513-683-0349, and on Facebook

RecruitMilitary, 513-683-5020, RecruitMilitary on Facebook

CancerFree KIDS, 513-575-5437, CancerFree Kids on Facebook

Veterans’ Memorial, 211 Riverside Drive, Loveland, Ohio

Tufts Schildmeyer Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Center, 513-683-2430, Tufts Schildmeyer Funeral Home on Facebook

Gertz Law, 513-583-1549, Gertz Law Firm on Facebook

[Part 1] My journey to the “West Loveland Historic District”

[Part 2] My journey to the “West Loveland Historic District”

January 9, 2019
Carolyn Bingaman has been a part of Loveland’s DNA since the age of 19

The first in a continuing search for Loveland’s kindest, sweetest people and what they’re made of. What is our DNA match?

Carolyn Bingaman at her desk at Accounting Plus

Cassie Mattia is a resident of Historic Downtown Loveland

Loveland, Ohio – Every city is known for something. Some cities are known for their restaurants, some are known for their national parks and trails and some are known for their shopping. The city of Loveland, of course, does not fall short when it comes to having some of the best restaurants, parks, trails, and shopping, but where Loveland really leaves its mark is through its people. So just what’s in Loveland’s DNA?

The area of Loveland was first settled in 1795 by Colonial Thomas Paxton and was later incorporated as a chartered city in 1961. History runs deep within Loveland’s roots giving the city a very long line of DNA. Many Loveland residents have not only lived in the “sweetheart” city for years but have also created a long line of DNA themselves within the city with their children now building a life in Loveland too. One could say that families build long lines of DNA in places across the United States all the time, so why is it unique that it happens in Loveland too? To that, I would say yes families do this all the time, but what is unique about families doing this in Loveland is that these same families dedicate their lives to making Loveland the absolute best place to live, work and go to school. That just doesn’t happen in every place.

Carolyn Bingaman has been a part of Loveland’s DNA since the age of 19 years old when she and her husband moved to Loveland. Fred “Allen”, an Air Force veteran, died in 2010. He and Carolyn were married for 53-years and Allen’s obituary said his motto was, “Try every day to be a blessing to someone”.

“We bought a house up in one of the only subdivisions in Loveland. We were going to move to Milford, but they didn’t have any openings in any subdivisions, so we came to Loveland. At first, I was thinking oh gosh Loveland…but then I fell in love. There has been a lot of changes since then. We have lived in the same house for 53 years,” Bingaman said.

Shortly after moving to Loveland, Bingaman began not only building a DNA strand of her own with her husband and 5 children but also began leaving her mark on the community through sports.

“Loveland had a great women’s and children’s softball teams. My husband and I played every Thursday night and I also had a women’s team that I coached,” Bingaman said, “We had so much fun! We played where the bus garage is now, at the Loveland Elementary School. There were bleachers there and lights and a concession stand,” Bingaman added.

To Loveland residents who know Carolyn, she could be described as very kind and modest about all the good she does for Loveland’s community, but what many don’t know is that she is also a strong advocate for women’s rights. What inspired Carolyn to fight for equal rights? Well, it all began on a Thursday night right before her women’s softball team was about to play a game.

“I was told by the men (Dave Hirsh and Roger Muething) in charge of the softball fields that I needed to be self-reliant and that I needed to stop asking them to get me bats and other supplies for the softball games. So, one night we had a game and we didn’t have a home plate. I knew there were some plates in the cupboard in the front building so I went up and borrowed a home plate with prongs on it. I went back and pounded it into the ground and started the game. Later, I saw people up by the building running around and yelling wondering where something was and one of the men came up and said, ‘Is that my home plate?’ I said ‘Yup!’ From then on, we always had our equipment and never had to go find our own,” Bingaman said.

Carolyn was very motivated starting at a young age. She knew most women during the ’60s and ’70s were expected to stay at home, take care of the children and make dinner for their husbands, but that just wasn’t what she saw for herself.

“I was not the best at math in school, but I did get A’s and B’s. When my husband and I came here I got a job with the Browns who at the time owned half of Loveland. Bob Lonagrover was their accountant,” Bingaman explained, “I began working at their supermarket. I worked the registers counting money and making deposits. Bob was instrumental in saying you must learn how to type, and Barkley Gest said why don’t you learn how to do something else so you can advance your skills. I took their advice and I just kept growing and growing my skills and eventually, I got the opportunity to work at Totes on Kemper Road. Totes was famous all over the country for their “stretch-on” footwear. I worked in the accounting department and ended up becoming the secretary to the vice-president of manufacturing,” Bingaman said.

Bingaman working her way up in a “man’s world” was something that inspired women all over Loveland. Unfortunately, after working for Tote’s for 9 and a half years, Carolyn made the decision to leave the company.

“I filed an EEOC suit in 1974 against Tote’s because they wouldn’t let me have a job I deserved. Paul Hackmen had lost his sight and had to retire. I did his job and mine for 4 or 5 months, but then they wouldn’t give it to me formally,” Bingaman explained, “Tote’s ended up hiring a man to take Paul’s place and wanted me to train him for the position I had been doing. I asked if they were going to give me the title. I didn’t even care about the money. I told them I would be quitting if they didn’t give me the job title because I worked hard for it and deserved it. There were a lot of women that worked there that did a lot of work and didn’t get credit for it,” Bingaman stated, “I ended up winning with the EOC and the right to sue, but I had to find another person for class action. My lawyer wanted to get another woman to speak out against Tote’s so that we could get more money, but I told him he would never get another lady to speak out against Tote’s because they would be gone in a second as I was,” Bingaman said.

I asked Carolyn if Totes didn’t give her the job title because she was a woman and she answered without hesitation, “Yes, that was why.” Carolyn now has a law in the books named after her.

After Carolyn gained the knowledge and confidence she needed to be successful in the business world she decided to open her own accounting firm called “Accounting Plus,” which has now been open for over 40 years. Carolyn believes that her biggest impact on Loveland has come through her business.

“People know if they have a question they know they can come here (Accounting Plus) and ask a question and I won’t charge them for just a question that I have an answer for. I have the same clients that I had 40 years ago. They wouldn’t dare leave me because I care so much for them that I would go get them,” Bingaman said.

Carolyn says that ever since she came to Loveland she has been in love with it. She loves the people more than anything and whether she knows it or not the people love her too. Pat Furterer, a longtime friend of Carolyn’s, couldn’t say enough about Carolyn and her impact on the Loveland community.

“Carolyn is a very unassuming, kind, gracious and generous donor to many organizations in Loveland. She has supported the Loveland Stage Company for years,” Pat Furterer said, “She supports the Loveland Historical Society as well. I feel she would make a great Valentine Lady representing the city!”

Loveland Magazine’s very own David Miller also had a few things to say on the impact Carolyn has had on him and the community.

“I used to work with Carolyn at Totes before and after I went to Vietnam. She, before, during and after treated me like she was my slightly, older sister taking care of me. She does an awful lot for Loveland and is very modest about it. She is very kind,” Miller said. “Not many, outside of my own family really cared that I was in Vietnam, but Carolyn did, and she worried about my safety. Hers was a deep personal concern for all who were serving during the war, and when I got home she wasn’t one to shy away from asking me about my experience. She wasn’t afraid to hear my answers.”

Carolyn is also responsible for the beautiful scenery Loveland residents and visitors enjoy during the spring and summer, “I love the flowers! I have planted flowers for I don’t know how many years in Loveland. Many women help,” Bingaman said.

Although Carolyn Bingaman is very humble there is not a question in anyone’s mind in the Loveland community that she is a huge part of, and matches Loveland’s DNA.

If you think you know someone in the community that has made a huge impact on Loveland and would be a great candidate for our Loveland’s DNA segment feel free to contact us.

Wildflower House — where women & girls bloom!

December 18, 2018
[Part 2] My journey to the “West Loveland Historic District”

Did You Know?

Cassie Mattia is a resident of Historic Downtown

Loveland, Ohio – My trip down to the West Loveland Historic District continues in Part 2 of Did You Know?

Have a sweet tooth? Well look no further, located on the West End of the Historic District is the oldest ice cream creamery in Loveland! DID YOU KNOW Loveland Dairy Whip has been open since 1955? Helen Brennan started the ice cream phenomenon featuring her infamous Buy One Sundae, Get One Sundae Free special. In 1965, Brennan sold the ice cream drive-in to Polly Reagan. Current owner Teresa (Flint) Morgan began her ice cream journey at 11 years old when her parents Marian and Jim Flint bought the Dairy Whip in 1972. DID YOU KNOW Loveland Dairy Whip was known for its “Fifth Wheel Hamburgers” throughout the ‘70s? Though the ice cream creamery no longer serves food, the hamburgers used to be extremely popular! DID YOU KNOW Loveland Dairy Whip uses a soft serve supplier that has been
around since 1923? Dairymen’s, out of Cleveland, Ohio, has served Loveland Dairy Whip with high-quality vanilla, chocolate and twist soft serve mixes for over 60 years! Concoctions such as the Chocolate Mountain, the Peanut Butter Krusher, the E.T. Parfay, and the Caramel Apple Delight are just a few of the fan favorites at Loveland Dairy Whip. The ice creamery also offers Sundaes, Banana Boats, and Dip Top Cones.

Tonya Schaeffer, aLicensed Professional Clinical Counselor is a co-owner of Hope Restored Counseling Services. Read about their 10-year anniversary.

“Hope for Today. Change for Tomorrow,” that’s the motto of Hope Restored Counseling Services located at 600 West Loveland Avenue. DID YOU KNOW Hope has been in business since 2008? Hope offers individual, couples, group, parent and family counseling for children, teens, and adults who are dealing with issues such as, depression, anger, anxiety, grief, substance abuse, and spectrum disorders. DID YOU KNOW Hope has a team of counselors that, combined, have over 60 years of experience? Professional Clinical Counselor Tonya Schaeffer, Maggie Gehler, Elizabeth Greller, Beata Bartler, Justin Haake and Social Worker Dana Hurd have developed counseling strategies that help clients manage their emotions more effectively and enhance both their communication skills and coping skills. Hope has experienced a growing rate of success since they opened their doors in Loveland because of their unique way of instilling in each client that, according to the Hope Counselor’s, “They have the capacity for hope, choice and change.”

Karen Breed has invested hundreds of thousands of private dollars in the West Loveland Historic District

The West Loveland Historic District has a creative side that offers both residents and out-of-towners an opportunity to create something that is truly unique and memorable. DID YOU KNOW Loveland’s old post office was transformed into a quilting studio? Karen Breed, an expert quilter, combined both her quilting business and workshop into a 6,000-square foot building. Even though building renovations took 6 months Breed was able to finally open The Quilter’s Studio of Loveland & QSL Workshop to both beginner and expert quilters in 2016. Breed was formerly in two separate buildings at the corner of Wall Street and West Loveland Avenue that she lovingly renovated. DID YOU KNOW the studio has 3,000 bolts of fabric? Breed prides herself in offering the best quality and biggest selection of current fabrics, threads, patterns, books, notions, and supplies for quilters. The Quilter’s Studio and Workshop has clubs quilters can join such as, Batik Club, Machine Quilting Club, Applique Club, Paper Piecing Club, Bag Club, and Rulerwork Club, as well as classes and workshop’s where quilters can learn all the ins and outs of quilting including how to use the Gammill Longarm Quilting Machines. DID YOU KNOW The Quilter’s Studio of Loveland & QSL Workshop was nominated for 3 awards by the Loveland Chamber of Commerce? The quilting business was nominated for Business of the Year, Entertainment Business of the Year, and won the Beautification Award.

Yes, it’s true; Historic Loveland has its very own luxury salon! DID YOU KNOW the Frizzy Melon Salon offers everything from a Balayage color treatment to a Glow Perfecting Plant Peel? Owner Emmie Pahl, a licensed massage therapist, has presented a unique concept to the salon world; an upscale atmosphere with a down-to-earth attitude! DID YOU KNOW Frizzy Melon has been in business for 8 years, but just recently relocated in 2017 to the Loveland Historic District? The luxury Loveland salon is a team based salon, meaning every single member of the Frizzy Melon Salon is there to ensure every customer gets the best experience every time they visit. The salon offers several services for both men and women such as The Olaplex Treatment, Special Occasion Styling, The Dual Exfoliation Facial, Full Face Waxing and 30 to 90-minute Massages.

One of the quilts for sale at The Quilter’s Studio of Loveland

If you live or work in the Loveland Historic District neighborhood you are probably aware that the neighborhood is quite a convenient place, considering you can get all your errands done in a matter of minutes. If you take a short walk up the block you can drop off your dry cleaning at Schutte’s, discuss your finances with Jeffery Atkinson, a financial advisor with Edward Jones, schedule a check-up at Loveland Family Medicine or deposit money into your checking account at Union Savings Bank. DID YOU KNOW Union Savings Bank was founded in 1904? USB has been serving the Loveland community for years with one mission in mind, “a savings association should serve the community by encouraging savings and promoting affordable home ownership through prudent lending of deposits.” Union Savings Bank is another business in the District that has recently been quietly pouring thousands of private dollars in upgrades to both the interior and exterior of their building and grounds.

If you are interested in visiting any of these amazing local businesses on the West End of Downtown Historic Loveland please see the contact information for each business below.

Read Part 1 of my journey to the West Loveland Historic District:

[Part 1] My journey to the “West Loveland Historic District”

Cassie Mattia – Nov 30, 2018

Residents and business owners in the West Loveland Historic District enjoy having the State and National “Scenic” Little Miami River and it’s many recreational…

Read Part 1 – 3 of my Journeys through Historic Downtown…

Part Three: Did You Know about all the new and old…

Cassie Mattia – Nov 14, 2018

Loveland Dairy Whip, 513-683-0992, theldw.com, Loveland Dairy Whip on Facebook

Wildflower House, 513-677-9800, franhendrick.com, Fran Hendrick, PCC-coach, counselor, teacher on Facebook

Hope Restored Counseling Services, 513-683-4673, hoperestoredcounseling.com

The Quilter’s Studio of Loveland & The QSL Workshop, 513-683-1666 (Workshop), 513-683-3666 (Studio), quiltersstudioofloveland.com, Quilter’s Studio of Loveland & QSL Workshop on Facebook

Frizzy Melon Salon, 513-697-0307, frizzymelonsalon.com, Frizzy Melon Salon on Facebook

Schutte Dry Cleaning, 513-683-2161

Edward Jones-Financial Advisor: Jeffrey L. Atkinson, 513-697-6111, Edwardjones.com

Loveland Family Medicine TriHealth Physician Partner, 513-683-3020, trihealth.com

Union Savings Bank, 513-683-1531, usavingsbank.com

December 11, 2018
[Part 1] My journey to the “West Loveland Historic District”

Residents and business owners in the West Loveland Historic District enjoy having the State and National “Scenic” Little Miami River and it’s many recreational opportunities and beauty, as its eastern border.

Did You Know?

Cassie Mattia lives in Historic Downtown Loveland

Loveland, Ohio – After exploring the history behind Historic Downtown Loveland’s businesses, a question arose; “What about the businesses and history across the river in the West Loveland Historic District?” I found that the question presented a good point, so I decided to take a walk down the sidewalks of the west side to see exactly what interesting secrets I could find about both the new and old businesses.

The West Loveland Historic District (WLHD) is often forgotten due to the big-name businesses being just steps away in Downtown Loveland, but what many people don’t realize is that the West side is just as historic. It is not only very diverse but also architecturally strong. DID YOU KNOW that there have been no public dollars used to renovate any of the businesses or homes there? The businesses have proven to establish themselves using their own resources rather than using extra city services. The WLHD businesses have not only contributed thousands of tax dollars to Loveland’s economy but have also created many employment opportunities. Millions of private dollars have been invested in the last decade improving, restoring, and preserving the historic homes, many converted to professional business spaces and “Live/Work” dwellings.

In Cincinnati, there are more than 100 advertising and marketing agencies. DID YOU KNOW two of the top advertising and marketing agencies are located right in the WLHD?

Snap Advertising was moved from Cincinnati to the WLHD in 2018 by Dave Fagin with one goal in mind; to help create stronger brands and brand builders. The advertising agency landed in a historically vacant building that had been remolded but sat vacant for many years. Fortunately, through all the remodeling of the building the historic architecture was kept intact. Snap poured even more money into the historic home. DID YOU KNOW Snap Advertising represents some of the nation’s top brands? Snap represents Zim’s Max Freeze, Invisible Ink Tattoo Removers, P&G Pampers Cruisers, The Hershey Company, and Humana Behavioral Health.

MMG Corporate Communication was founded in 1993 by Claudia McKee. Today, the marketing company serves some really prominent brands such as Ethicon, P&G, AtriCure, Yogi Bear’s, Heidelberg Distributing Company, ISTO Technology, Contech, AdvancePierre Foods, UC Health, EnteroMedics, Merz and SonoSite FujiFilm. MMG is known for helping brands reach their customers effectively through storytelling using marketing, apps, videography, editing, and animation. DID YOU KNOW that MMG has received over 100 national awards for their work? MMG has access to several marketing tools in-house that many marketing companies don’t have such as 2D and 3D animation, full video production services, mobile apps, web design, scripting, and content development. DID YOU KNOW MMG donates to over 50 non-profit charities every year? MMG has always been a huge advocate for community involvement, going as far as giving an employee every year 200 dollars to donate to a charity of their choosing. MMG also supports businesses locally like Paxton’s, The Works and Tano’s Bistro. DID YOU KNOW that Claudia McKee is married to Emmy award-winning, WCPO journalist, Tom McKee?

Xavier knew who to call as APEX has come through before with big orders. Apex owner Paul Elliott delivered 2000 Sweet Sixteen, Xavier University rally towels in 2012 from Loveland to the Georgia Dome with 48 hours notice. Elliott was fishing in Alabama when he got the order. Fishing, a passion of Elliott’s, was supposed to be a break between basketball and lacrosse officiating duties. Alabama wasn’t far enough for Paul to escape the “Madness” of March.

Although this next business isn’t necessarily your traditional advertising or marketing agency, it does its fair share of promoting. DID YOU KNOW Loveland has its very own specialty company that has over 50 years of experience creating promotional products? Apex Imprinted Sportswear has been operating since 1992 in the WLHD and now has over 600,000 promotional products. Apex assists their guests with theme creativity and layout design. DID YOU KNOW Apex offers custom embroidery on many different popular brands such as Nike, Northface, Eddie Bauer, and Port Authority? Apex only offers the best quality regarding brand and material, which is what really sets the shop apart from other shops of its kind. The promotional specialty store can imprint on t-shirts, polos, knits, sweatshirts, fleece, caps, activewear, outerwear, wovens, dress shirts, workwear, bags, accessories, and youth clothing. Many of the business attire with corporate branding you see in retail establishments around Loveland were bought from APEX. Thousands of Loveland’s young athletes wear sports apparel customized with team logos and the athletes’ names at APEX. Apex tees purchased by Toyota have been handed out to every Xavier University fan at “White-Out” games.

A fan wearing the Xavier White Out Tee Before the Defeat of Purdue on December 7, 2012. The 10,250 tee shirts were sold by Loveland businessman, Paul Elliott. Xavier came from a 19-point deficit to win the ESPN televised game. The shirts were credited by local sports commentators with the fan excitement, the extra 2-points X needed, for the Musketeers defeat over the Bulldogs, who later in the year played for the National Championship.

Paul Elliott has officiated Ohio High School Division I Football for decades. In recent years he has taken up blowing the whistle at Ohio High School Lacrosse and Basketball. He keeps on the go during the winter, sometimes officiating as many as seven youth basketball games a day.

It is a short walk from the WLHD across the State and Scenic Little Miami River to shops and restaurants.

David Elliott, Paul’s son who works at APEX, is the Head Swim Coach for the Wyoming Cowboys swim teams. He has won coach of the year several times in the CHL conference and in the District. Wyoming is more often than not one of the teams shaking up the State finals in Canton.While exploring the businesses within the WLHD I have come to the realization that if you live there you have access to nearly anything and everything you need! DID YOU KNOW Loveland residents have their choice of 3 different insurance agencies located within footsteps of one another? In 2005, Carey Bush and Bill Re opened BRS Insurance in hopes that they could use their years of insurance experience to deliver the best comprehensive buying experience for their guests. Just a few steps away, Ron Delsignore, a State Farm Insurance agent since 2002, has his very own insurance business. Ron focuses primarily on out of state relocations to Loveland. Ron personally holds himself responsible for his guest’s assets, financial dreams, and legacy. Last but not least is Wilber-Price Insurance Group managed by husband and wife Don and Mary Jo Shrout. DID YOU KNOW Don opened the Nationwide insurance agency that now stands today right in Loveland’s WLHD 23 years ago! Both Don and his wife Mary Jo grew up in Loveland and thoroughly enjoy establishing a trusting relationship with each guest they help. Don’s agency provides home, auto, business, boat, equine, golf cart, motorcycle, and life insurance.

Loveland Magazine’s production office is in the Historic West Loveland District.

While you’re walking along the sidewalks on the WLHD of Loveland you certainly can’t forget one of the most well-known businesses; Loveland Magazine. DID YOU KNOW before Loveland Magazine was published it had been four decades since Loveland had a newspaper of its own? Forty-six resident David Miller first published Loveland Magazine in 2004 and has seen a tremendous amount of success ever since. Miller had dreams of creating a publication where Loveland residents could have a voice, Loveland’s youth were recognized and readers received accurate, fully investigated information on even the most controversial subjects. DID YOU KNOW Loveland Magazine has published over 14,000 stories and 850 HD videos? In all its glory Loveland Magazine has received The Booth Spirit Media Award and has been inducted into the Ohio News Media Association as the first digital-only member, and The Ohio Prep Sportswriters Association.

The West Loveland Historic with its ample parking and friendly atmosphere is always a popular viewing spot for the many annual Loveland parades.

If you are interested in visiting any of these amazing local businesses on the West Loveland Historic District please see the contact information for each business below.

Snap Advertising, 513-721-7627, snapadv.com

MMG Corporate Communications, 513-677-8787,mmgonline.com, MMG Corporate Communication on Facebook

Apex Imprinted Sportswear and Promotional Specialties, 513-677-0700, apex-specialties.com

BRS Insurance, 513-683-0777, brsinsurance.com, BRS Insurance on Facebook

Ron Delsignore-State Farm Insurance Agent, 513-984-5433, ron4insurance.com

Wilber-Price Insurance Group, 513-239-8610,wilberprice.com, Wilber-Price Insurance Group Ltd. Nationwide Insurance on Facebook

Loveland Magazine, 513-305-6071,lovelandmagazine.com, Loveland Magazine on Facebook

November 30, 2018
Part Three: Did You Know about all the new and old in Historic Downtown Loveland?

Facts About Loveland’s Infamous Businesses You Never Knew Until Now!

Cassie Mattia is a resident of Historic Downtown Loveland

Loveland, Ohio – Our journey through Loveland’s Historic Downtown District has come to an end with our final segment of DID YOU KNOW? (Read Part 1 & 2).

The narrow path leading to Historic Downtown’s, 5 Barrel Brew house.

Loveland is known for promoting businesses that have a story, whether it’s about family or in support of the community. DID YOU KNOW Loveland has its very own brewery right off the Little Miami Bike Trail? Narrow Path Brewing Company, located in a 60 year old building at 106 Karl Brown Way is a 5 Barrel Brew house that’s mission is to craft excellent beer while supporting Loveland as a community and other non-profit organizations. Narrow Path has a team of top notch, experienced brew masters who currently have 9 beers on tap with 3 additional experimental taps that the team created themselves from scratch! Some examples of their beers on tap are The Tire Patch IPA, Coconut Porter, Trail Chaser, River Hopper and their experimental tap Orange Vanilla Cream Ale. DID YOU KNOW a large portion of Narrow Path’s earnings go towards organizations that are working hard to affect change in the lives of people both locally and globally? Narrow Path held its First Annual Home Brew Competition on November 3^rd that will benefited CancerFree Kids. Along with proceeds going towards one of their missions, “Cause,” they will also be achieving another one of their missions, “Community,” by brewing the winning beer in house.

The stairs to the The Crusader at The Works Pizza.

Who doesn’t love pizza? Loveland most certainly does being that its home to one of the most well-known pizza joints in Ohio. DID YOU KNOW The Works Pizza building was built in 1905 and was used as a water filling station for steam locomotives? A bit later in Loveland history The Works building was used as the firehouse and public works facility. Owners Scott and Jamie Gordon, who were both born and raised in Loveland, can remember visiting the facility in high school during Homecoming class float building activities. DID YOU KNOW The Works Pizza is home to an authentic 1921 Pullman Passenger car called “The Crusader?” The Works enables guests to book private parties on the passenger car that can now seat up to 36 people. The Works Pizza has a number of specials on their menu that guests from all over come to enjoy, such as The Breakfast Pizza, The Works Pizza, The Commish Pizza, The Pizza Fries, Calzones and The Works Burger.

Lyle’s Bikes, Brews & BBQ is another eatery right on the Loveland Bike Trail in Historic Downtown.

A restored Police call box has been added to the Firefighters Memorial along the bike trail.

As you venture down the Loveland Bike Trail you will find an assortment of restaurants that cover just about every type of food. In the past year there has been a new wave of bike trail restaurants that have opened their doors, one of them being Lyle’s Bikes, Brews & BBQ. DID YOU KNOW Lyle’s Bikes, Brews & BBQ was previously named Trailside Smokehouse? As of July 4th, Lyle and family renovated the property adding a few upgrades to the outdoor area, a brand new menu, featuring pulled pork and chicken fresh off the smoker, and of course a new line up of performers for their live music segments. Some of Lyle’s menu items include, The Pulled Pork Quesadilla, The Smokehouse Nachos, The Pulled Pork Chili, The Smoked Chicken Wrap and The Cuban Sandwich. DID YOU KNOW Lyle’s menu includes Dog Treats? Lyle’s BBQ is completely dog friendly! Lyle’s menu offers Fido’s Freezzys Dog Treats, which are frozen dog treats made with yogurt, peanut butter and banana.

The newly renovated Firefighter’s Memorial is also along the Loveland Bike Trail.

DID YOU KNOW Loveland’s Firefighter Memorial includes a section of an I-beam from the North Tower of the World Trade Center that was positioned so that the rust would stain the pillar it sits on?

One of the new additions to the Firefighters Memorial is a restored fire call box.

All around Downtown Loveland there is history. From buildings from the 1900’s to memorials representing Loveland’s most loved individuals, the town does not fall short of historic scenery. DID YOU KNOW Loveland’s coveted Firefighter’s Memorial has been completely renovated over the last few months? In 1997 the Firefighter’s Memorial was built to represent the Loveland-Symmes Fire Firefighter’s commitment to “Never Forget.” Recently contractors along with volunteers have added stamped concrete walkways, new lighting, irrigation and landscaping. DID YOU KNOW Loveland’s Firefighter Memorial includes a section of an I-beam from the North Tower of the World Trade Center? Decorating the memorial is also, a time capsule vault that contains past LSFD’s badges and uniforms, copies of local newspapers and department documents from 1997. On top of the concrete vault is a bell from the Riverboat Reuben Springer, which served as the alarm for Loveland’s firefighters to respond to an emergency until 1934.

After the devastating Memorial Day Fire in Loveland, downtown has placed a strong focus on rebuilding those businesses that were affected. DID YOU KNOW the building that was most affected by the Loveland Fire is nearly completely renovated and ready to be opened as Paxton’s sister restaurant, Ramsey’s Trailside? Ramsey’s, named after William Ramsey who purchased 189 acres of land in 1848 that later became Loveland, will feature indoor, outdoor and rooftop dining as well as a vegan friendly menu. The goal of the brand-new restaurant will be to not only “unite carnivores and vegans,” but also give them healthier menu options. DID YOU KNOW Ramsey’s will have a separate grill dedicated just for vegans? Ramsey’s Trailside has not yet released their menu, but it’s sure to be hit with the new age foodies!

Read more about Ramsey’s Trailside and watch this interview with the owners.

Relaxed atmosphere and friendly service welcomes you back time and time again! Located in the heart of the Historic Loveland District Just outside Cincinnati, Ohio.

November 14, 2018
Loveland Police and Fire celebrate much needed renovations

The Loveland Safety Service Center was a busy polling location yesterday during the mid-term election.

Cassie Mattia is a resident of Historic Downtown Loveland

Loveland, Ohio– For nearly 20 years, The Loveland Safety Center has been committed to providing the best emergency services to the community of Loveland. Now the local police and fire department are finally being rewarded with much needed renovations to the emergency hub located at 126 South Lebanon Road.

The Loveland Safety Center has been the home to both The Loveland Symmes Fire Department and The Loveland Police Department since 1998. The center has also provided a place for many other local operations such as, The Loveland Mayor’s Court, Loveland’s Emergency Operations Center, a polling location for Hamilton County Board of Elections, many training events and a natural disaster emergency shelter location. In 2004, the roof of the safety center collapsed taking down an entire section of the building. Surprisingly, since the roof collapse there hasn’t been any major repairs made making the employee living and working conditions not compliant with professional standards. Chief of Police, Dennis Sean Rahe, says the renovations are long overdue.

“The repairs to the center are vital to its continued operations. The roof of the Safety Center is a combination of pitched metal and flat membrane. The flat roof portion has not been significantly repaired or replaced in over twenty years and leaks on a regular basis,” Rahe explained, “The water that intrudes into the internal workings of the building continues to cause even more damage. The Center has seven roof mounted heating and ventilation systems that are also more than twenty years old. They require repair several times a year to keep in operation. In addition, the City included several security enhancements after an audit by the Department of Homeland Security.”

The Center has seven roof mounted heating and ventilation systems that are also more than twenty years old.

Chief Rahe joined the Loveland Police Department in 1998 after serving as a Hamilton County Sheriff Deputy for a year.

“After joining the department, I became active in in bike patrol and served as a field training officer. I was promoted to Sergeant in 2007 and Captain in 2010. I was appointed the Chief of Police in 2016. I received a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Cincinnati, attended the Federal Bureau of Investigations National Academy, and graduated from the Certified Law Enforcement Executive (CLEE) program,” Rahe said.

In 2018, the City of Loveland finally added funding to the budget for significant Safety Center renovations.

“In July 2018 The City of Loveland secured the architect services of McGill Smith Punshon to design the necessary repairs. Major repairs are needed on the heating and ventilation system, roof, and parking lot. The project also includes construction to bring Safety Center prisoner processing, evidence, armory, and employee living and working conditions into compliance with professional standards. Finally, lighting and security enhancements are planned for the campus,” Rahe said.

The Loveland City Council approved a bond for up to 1.35 million dollars to complete all the repairs to the Safety Center. In addition, The City of Loveland and The Loveland Symmes Fire Department applied for a FEMA grant for the Safety Center project.

According to Chief Rahe the benefits of the project are endless.

“The entire Loveland community will benefit from these repairs. Although the City team members use the facility the most, the Safety Center is used for a variety of public community events,” Rahe shared, “It is the primary method the community members use to interact with the Loveland Police and Loveland Symmes Fire Department administration offices. The three primary repairs to the heating and ventilation, roof, and concrete will ensure our community can park at the Center, have heat and air conditioning, and a roof that is not leaking on them. The security enhancements will ensure the safe and continued operations of the facility. Finally, the lighting efficiency enhancements will save the community money in operating costs,” Rahe said.

Not only will the upgrades to the Loveland Safety Center naturally make the building safer for the employees working inside, but it will also allow law enforcement and emergency responders to exceed the Loveland community’s needs and expectations.

“We are proactively looking forward to our community’s emergency service needs for the next twenty years. Law enforcement is being asked to provide more services than ever, to do some quickly, professionally, and cost effectively. LPD is continuously looking for ways to meet, and exceed, our growing community’s needs,” Rahe explained, “Twenty years ago the Loveland Police Department held prisoners at the Safety Center, processed their own evidence, and did not have any need for an armory. Today, LPD no longer keeps arrested persons at the Safety Center, we never process evidence (that is transported to a State of Ohio crime lab,) and we now train with a wide variety of tools, equipment, and evidence, each which have specific storage needs.”

Loveland Symmes Fire Chief, Otto Huber, also weighed in on the Safety Center renovations and how excited both the police and fire department are about the upgrades.

As we move forward to upgrading the building to meet the needs of both agencies today and into the future we are excited about continuing to share the facility with the Loveland Police.

“Twenty years ago, the Police and Fire Departments merged their operations under one roof. At that time, the Police Department was in City Hall and the Current Fire Station on Lebanon Road needed to be replaced,” Huber said, “A committee of police officers and firefighters met for several months to design the current Safety Center. Several meetings were held with the public on the location and design of the facility. At that time, the public and the Council chose the current location and design from three different options. For the Fire Department, it has been a great experience being alongside our counter parts in the Police Department. As we move forward to upgrading the building to meet the needs of both agencies today and into the future we are excited about continuing to share the facility with the Loveland Police.“

The Loveland Safety Center renovations are expected to be completed in the summer of 2019. If you would like to explore the world of the Loveland Police Department or the Fire Department you can visit Loveland Ohio Police Department or Loveland Symmes Fire Department on Facebook.

Advertisement Sangha is a place to experience skillfully designed, fun, and inspirational hatha yoga classes close to home.

November 7, 2018
Part Two: Did You Know about all the new and old in Historic Downtown Loveland?

PART 2 of 3 (Read Part 1)

Cassie Mattia lives in Historic Downtown Loveland

Loveland, Ohio – Our journey continues as we dive deeper into the history behind Loveland’s most beloved businesses with another segment of, DID YOU KNOW?

Women all over the world have not only become true inspirations in the business world, but have also been named the most successful in their given businesses. Historic Downtown Loveland along with Plaid Room Records has given a home to those very women that are changing our world. DID YOU KNOW right above the new location of Plaid Room Records is a creative workspace and venue called Tupelo House? Tupelo House places a strong focus on the empowerment of women entrepreneurs, business owners and freelancers, encouraging them to continue to add to the growth of our local economy. Tupelo offers a private desk membership to women-identified individuals as well as a drop-in membership to any gender who needs an inspiring place to work, meet and create. DID YOU KNOW Tupleo House also offers a number of workshops and events open to the community? For example, on Friday’s Tupleo holds a Meet And Greet, where the community can come together over cocktails and sweet treats provided by Loveland Sweets, a Shibori workshop, where one can perform an ancient Japanese dyeing technique, and an essential oils workshop, where scent designers from Portland-based violet ferns teach how to extract and mix essential oils for any aromatherapy need. Tupleo throughout the week also holds several other workshops, yoga sessions, listening parties and private events upon request.

Loveland Hardware General store carries everything from handmade compost crocks to Dr. Gary’s Best Breed Vegetarian pet food.

Though downtown Loveland is home to some of most unique vintage shops in Ohio, there is one in particular that has many out of town residents traveling to come check it out. The Loveland Hardware General Store has been around for countless years and is known very well for their locally made products. The General store carries everything from handmade compost crocks to Dr. Gary’s Best Breed Vegetarian pet food to Honey Sweetie Acres Goat Milk Soaps, Lotions, and Essential Oils to Don Popp’s Honey Farm Honey. DID YOU KNOW Loveland Hardware General Store offers guests a fresh cup of locally roasted coffee for only a dollar? The General Store pours cups of Carabello Coffee, a coffee bean from Nicaragua that gives a percentage of their profits to the Jardin Del Ninos Orphanage in Nicaragua, daily. In house, Loveland Hardware can not only grind the coffee beans fresh before they make your cup of coffee, they also have a coffee press as well as a pour over kettle

Loveland Hardware and General Store offers a cup of coffee for only $1.

and dripper for those who prefer their coffee made through a different technique. DID YOU KNOW The Loveland Hardware Store offers several different bagged blends of Carabello Coffee beans for guests to take home with them? Thus far the store is known to carry The Loveland Hardware Blend, Addicting Liquid, Peru La Palma, Decaf Guatemala, Nati Red II, Burundi Gishubi Hill, Tres Fincas and Tandem Expresso. Loveland Hardware will take any guests coffee bean orders, have them locally roasted and shipped straight to the store.

Loveland has really taken off in the past couple years and the downtown community has definitely seen the benefits with the opening of some fantastic businesses. Cincy Shirts recently opened their doors in downtown Loveland this year over the summer. In addition to the Loveland location, Cincy Shirts has a location in OTR and Hyde Park. Of course Cincy Shirts offers premiere Cincinnati vintage t-shirts, but they are not your average t-shirt shop. DID YOU KNOW Cincy Shirts is one of the largest local supporters of local charities? Cincy Shirts has raised 75,000 dollars for Devon Still’s Still Strong Foundation, 10,000 dollars for The Cure Starts Now, 80,000 for The Cincinnati Zoo’s Team Fiona Fund and regularly contributes to The Dragonfly Foundation, The ChiveOneThree Foundation and The Salvation Army. Cincy Shirts recently created a line of Cincy Strong T-shirts in light of the tragic mass shooting that occurred on September 6^th. Proceeds from the t-shirt collection benefits the families affected by the incident, the Cincinnati Police Department and the first responders.

Cycle groups launch weekly rides on the Loveland Bike Trail from Historic Downtown Loveland.

The Little Miami Bike Trail is not only an obvious hot spot for bikers, but also home to one of the oldest cyclery companies in Cincinnati, Montgomery Cyclery. This family cyclery has been both family owned and operated since 1965 and as of present has 6 locations, including Loveland’s Downtown shop. So what’s the secret behind keeping Montgomery Cyclery’s doors open for so long? They do more than just sell bikes! DID YOU KNOW Montgomery Cyclery offers classes and tech clinics, weekly group rides and a demo program? The bike shop provides guests with access to free in house clinics that cover a variety of bike related topics, the most recent clinic being, The Fix a Flat Clinic. In addition to providing clinics, Montgomery Cyclery runs a group ride program in which the staff organizes a bike ride that anyone can join. The rides range in distance, difficulty and of course time of day. According to the cyclery website, rides are currently being held on Sunday mornings, beginning at 9 a.m., and Sunday afternoons, beginning at 1 p.m. Last but certainly not least Montgomery Cyclery provides guests opportunities to participate in their Demo Program. This program is for riders to experience mountain biking before making the investment. Riders can either rent a demo bike any day for 50 dollars or they can attend a Montgomery Cyclery Demo Event to test ride a demo for free. The next Demo Event is set to be on November 3^rd from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Devou Park.

Along the bike trail in Downtown Loveland there are several places where you can go to enjoy a nice glass of wine or a much needed cocktail, but if you venture up a couple blocks on West Loveland Ave you will run into Cappy’s Wine and Spirits. Cappy’s is a high quality liquor agency that specializes in spirits, craft, import and domestic beers and wine. DID YOU KNOW not only is Cappy’s first in line to get some of the highest quality new beers they host Thursday Pint Nights featuring a different brewery each week? In October Cappy’s featured New Holland Brewing Company’s Filthy Pumpkin and Platform Beer Company’s Fostered Bananas with a free custom Holtman’s Donut to pair with the new beer selections! If beer isn’t you thing DID YOU KNOW Cappy’s also hosts Wine Tasting Wednesday’s? Recently Cappy’s held a Wine and Mac Night where guests could taste 6 wines while enjoying Mac ‘n Cheese from The Beerded Pig Food Truck.

The Historic Loveland Business District has definitely grown over the past few years in population and in new businesses, but one thing is for sure, Loveland does not forget about the ones who were there from the beginning. DID YOU KNOW Tano’s Bistro Loveland has moved locations right into the heart of Downtown Loveland? Tano’s opened its new 3 story location featuring rooftop dining just a few weeks ago. Along with the new location Tano’s Loveland also launched a new dine in menu that includes Brunch and Dinner items, such as the Crab Omelet and the BoLT Salad, and a takeout menu that features Weekly Take Home Chef Specials, such as The Great Pumpkin and Matcha Cream Puffs. DID YOU KNOW Tano’s mission is to make wholesome food naturally and responsibly using primarily local purveyors? Tano only uses family farmers that grow rich vegetables using sustainable farming practice, select seafood according to the Seafood Watch standards, raise meat that has lived the best quality of life with no added growth hormones and provide clean, heirloom, stoneground chemical free grains. Some of Tano’s local purveyors are Loveland’s very own Blooms & Berries and Ohio Valley Food Connection located in Newport, Kentucky.

Stay tuned for part 3 and 3 of my tour of Historic Downtown Loveland, Ohio. (Read Part 1)

Take Home Tano is about fresh, wholesome food for the frenzied family Our goal is to meet the needs of busy families.

November 3, 2018
Part one: Did You Know about all the new and old in Historic Downtown Loveland?

PART 1 of 3

Cassie Mattia lives in Historic Downtown Loveland

PART 1 of 3

Loveland, Ohio – Every historic town has its secrets and so does its local businesses. Learning the history about where you live not only makes it more appealing but also forces you to ask yourself what else don’t I know about the very town I live in?

Many Loveland residents are aware of the historic nature of the town itself, but DID YOU KNOW Loveland was known as a resort town because of its summer homes for the wealthy? Loveland was referred to as “Little Switzerland of the Miami Valley.” Loveland was also home to Ohio’s first paper mill built by John Smith in 1810. The Mill is now known as “Kugler Mill.” DID YOU KNOW Loveland was originally known as Paxton until Colonial Ramsey in 1863 reestablished the borders of the land, therefore, deciding upon the name Loveland due to the frequent stops residents made at James Loveland’s popular general store.

The Ramsey-Paxton Cemetery is a hidden gem locally, state-wide and nationally!

No one is afraid to show school spirit in Loveland, as Loveland City Schools is a hot commodity in the historic town of Loveland, but DID YOU KNOW Loveland City Schools was operated as two separate districts, Loveland East and Loveland West until 1926?

There’s nothing like going to that one particular local spot in town where everyone knows everyone and that’s exactly what you experience when you step into one of oldest buildings in Loveland, Paxton’s Grill. In the 1880’s Paxton’s Grill was home to the Grear’s Saloon until years later the building was transformed into a restaurant and named after Loveland’s first settler Colonial Thomas Paxton. Paxton’s opened its doors in 2000.

One of the best spots to purchase running gear according to many Loveland residents is Jackrabbit located right in the heart of downtown, but DID YOU KNOW that wasn’t always a retail store? The building where Jackrabbit stands now used to be a B&O Train Depot built in 1907! Bob Roncker’s Running spot was opened in 2008 and was rebranded into Jackrabbit in 2013. The building was once the studio of world renown artist, William Schickel.

Clothing Boutiques have seen an outstanding increase in popularity over the last few years due to the fascination with a more vintage style of clothing. DID YOU KNOW Loveland has finally landed its very own clothing boutique called Alley’s Boutique?

Before Alley’s Boutique owners Janel Thompson and Debby Walker ran a fashion store called Cincy Fashion Wheels located in the Bishop building right here in Loveland. Unfortunately, in May of 2017, their store was one of many businesses that were destroyed by a devastating fire in Loveland’s historic Bishop Building. With every tragedy brings new opportunities and with that opportunity, the now trio of owners, with the addition of Ann-Marie Toney, found a new location right off the Little Miami Bike Trail and changed the name to Alley’s Boutique. DID YOU KNOW Alley’s Boutique was the first business affected by the Bishop Building fire to reopen?

Safety has never looked so flashy! DID YOU KNOW anyone using the bike trail can now hit a button that will activate a large rectangular rapid flashing beacon on both sides of the bike trail crossing on Loveland Avenue that alerts traffic to stop for pedestrians using the crossing? The Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Friends of the Little Miami State Park secured an ODOT safety grant in the amount of 46,000 dollars to improve safety and traffic flow at the bike trail crossings in 2017.

If you live in Downtown Loveland it’s very easy to attain an active lifestyle with the Little Miami bike trail in your backyard and what goes hand in hand with an active lifestyle? A healthy diet! DID YOU KNOW that Loveland’s Fresh Press Juicery and Coffee uses only fresh local and organic ingredients to create their timeless menu items? Fresh Press is operated out of a 147-year-old building by owners Jacob and Katie in the heart of Downtown Loveland. DID YOU KNOW Fresh Press features Chef Jimmy Hooper who developed his extensive skill set in places such as, the Fairmont Hotel in Chicago, Cincinnati’s Tavern Restaurant Group and Ivy Hill’s Country Club? Chef Hooper not only used his culinary creativity to create menu items such as The Arugula and Sweet Potato Bowl, The Avocado Sweet Toast and The Frogman Smoothie, but he also designed the kitchen and built the inside and outside bar at Fresh Press.

Plaid Room Records will soon open in the old Pizazz location next to City Hall.

Vinyl records have been making a huge comeback since the vintage wave has taken the world by storm. In 2015, Loveland got it’s very own piece of history when Plaid Room Records opened its doors. DID YOU KNOW that Plaid Room Records saw such success in their store that they decided to open shop at a brand new location on West Loveland Ave right next to the beloved Loveland Sweets shop? The new shop will open in September and will provide Plaid Room Records with the much-needed space for their 20,000 plus collection of vinyl records. Plaid Room Record’s 2015 location was 900 square feet and now their new location will be over 2,200 square feet, which will allow Plaid Room to bring in more live music, serve beer, host more events and stock more records. DID YOU KNOW Plaid Room Records is home to Colemine Records started by owners Terry and Bob Cole? Colemine, known as raw and authentic soul music, was created in 2007 after Terry and a friend had finished an album called The City. They wanted to start selling the album at shows but didn’t want to do it the traditional way so Terry decided to create a logo for the album, which led to the making of the label Colemine. Fast forward to 2015 Colemine Records came to Loveland and found a home at Plaid Room Records.

The State and National Scenic Little Miami River flows through the heart of Downtown Loveland.

Stay tuned for part 2 and 3 of my tour of Historic Downtown Loveland, Ohio.

Local Sweets Shop Celebrates Life’s Simple Pleasures

“Because chocolate calls the shots.” Loveland, Ohio – Unicorn Bark, Penny Candy, Salted Caramel Chip Ice Cream, Peanut Butter Banana Bark, Berry Berry Bean Ice Cream…

October 21, 2018