LOVELAND MAGAZINE

News and Events from the Loveland, Ohio Area

Without fear or favor
Since 2004

Author: Cassie Mattia

  • Loveland Magazine’s February Pet of the Month is Announced!

    Loveland Magazine’s February Pet of the Month is Announced!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Self-described “Dog Mom” Cassie Mattia lives in Historic Downtown Loveland with Nala, Dean, and her boyfriend Adam. Cassie is the Co-Owner and Associate Editor of Loveland Magazine.

    Loveland, Ohio – We are pleased to present Loveland Magazine’s Pet of the Month for February! The community of Loveland provided us with some lovely Pet of the Month photos and we are beyond thrilled to celebrate these local pets with YOU the readers!

    Introducing Star, a beautiful 4-year-old Holsteiner Cross rescued horse, adopted by Dawn Mason! Star was rescued by Fighting Chance Rescue (FCR) in January 2020.

    “Star was on the brink of death, extremely malnourished and unable to stand on her own. Transporting her was a group effort involving the Reily Twp F.D., Kim and Joe Kinder of FCR, and many volunteers,” Mason explained, “Star arrived at FCR strapped to a stretcher and had to immediately be placed in a sling. FCR then made a plea on Facebook asking for help with her.”

    Mason had recently lost her 33-year-old horse when hearing about Star needing help. 

    “I was somewhat depressed and looking for some purpose. Upon seeing Star’s photo, I wanted to help her,” Mason said, “They were just getting her in the sling when I arrived. She looked so tiny and frail. They started her on i.v. fluids then put blankets and heat lamps on her and we waited for the vet. As soon as she got those fluids and started to warm up, she started fighting us. As weak as she was, she had no trust in people and wanted to get away.”

    Star required 24-hour observation while in her sling so a community of volunteers took turns watching over her. Mason said she was able to spend several nights with Star during this time.

    “Kim from FCR didn’t give Star very good odds of survival. Horses at such a point of malnourishment and muscle wasting often have unseen organ damage they can never recover from. But there was something different about Star, her attitude and fight, I knew she was going to make it,” Mason said.

    To everyone’s surprise, a few weeks later Star was able to stand on her own, go outside, and move around. 

    “Tanya Tieman, the owner of Equisports, provided Bemer therapy treatments for Star and some of the other horses at FCR. During the 1st week of March 2020, Tanya offered to let Star come to Equisports and stay for rehab and some training,” Mason said, “I was able to visit Star a couple of times, but then came the ‘covid lockdown.’ I periodically received updates from Kim, but wasn’t able to see Star.” 

    In June of 2020, Mason got an unexpected text message from Kim asking if she was interested in adopting Star. Mason jumped on the opportunity and decided to bring Star home just a few weeks later. A few months later after bringing Star home, Mason took her to compete in her first horse show where Star grabbed a 2nd place finish. Shortly after Star competed she then got the chance to be a part of the South Lebanon Christmas in the Village horse parade. 

    “What makes Star truly special is her attitude. She thinks the world revolves around her and that everything should be done ‘Star’s way.’ Kim often refers to her as a diva,” Mason said, “But that attitude made her a survivor. She’s also a wonderful ambassador for rescue. And this is just the beginning…she’s a rising star!”

    Meet Star

    “A Star is Born” 

    Congratulations to Star’s adopted mother, Dawn, and Star for being selected to represent Loveland Magazine’s Pet of the Month for February! Dawn and Star will be rewarded with a Nothing Bundt Cakes Bundtlet Tower, a gift card to The Works Pizza, a gift certificate to Tara’s Pet Boutique and Doggy Daycare, and an 8X10 framable photo keepsake! Star will not only be featured in our publication but will also be included in our weekly newsletter for the month of February and our social media pages.

    We would like to thank everyone who sent in photos of their pets as it was an absolute joy to see how many beautiful animals there are in our community! For those who sent in photos but weren’t selected this time around, don’t worry, as your entries will be entered back into the competition for the following month’s selection! For those that missed the deadline for February’s Pet of the Month, we will be taking entries from February 5th-25th for March’s Pet of the Month. Don’t be afraid to dress up your sweethearts in their finest Loveland Valentine’s Day gear!

    Check out the video below created by David Miller that features Star as well as some of our favorite Pet of the Month entries!

     

    To enter into Loveland’s Pet of the Month contest you must email me, Cassie Mattia, at cmattia12@gmail.com 2-5 of your favorite photos of your pet along with a short bio about your pet. Share with us and the community why your pet is so special to you along with any other unique facts that set your little buddy apart from other pets! When sending in your pet photos and bios please include your pet’s name, age, and breed as well as your contact info with a short description of each photo you provide us with. If you want to share where your pet’s favorite spots are in Loveland that would be great as well! Remember we DO NOT discriminate against any pets; all pets are welcome to enter into the contest!

    Join us in celebrating Star for the month of February!

    We can’t wait to see whose pet will be featured in March for Loveland Magazine’s Pet of the Month Sweetheart Edition!

    Here at Loveland Magazine, we would like to send a personal shout-out to The Works Pizza, Tara’s Pet Boutique and Doggy Daycare, and Nothing Bundt Cakes Mason (nearby in Deerfield Township) for providing wonderful gifts to our winners!

    Want to see previous Pets of the Month? Click here!

  • Cassie the Food Guru Stops by Hometown Cafe!

    Cassie the Food Guru Stops by Hometown Cafe!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – The Loveland Bike Trail over the past couple of years has welcomed many new local businesses, some offering quality beverages, some offering a unique dine-in experience, and some offering fresh homemade cuisine. One business in particular that sits right off the bike trail tucked right next to Narrow Path Brewing Company has managed to combine quality beverages, a unique dine-in experience, and fresh homemade food all under one roof. Introducing Hometown Cafe, a little slice of paradise in the heart of Historic Downtown Loveland!

    Hometown Cafe made its debut into the Loveland community after Owner Jimmy Hooper bought the business, formerly known as “Fresh Press,” from his brother-in-law. Hooper already had an extensive culinary background as well as a catering business called “Loveland Catering” so he felt that having a brick and mortar would mesh well with his passion for creating aesthetically pleasing healthy food. Hooper, who grew up in Symmes Township, knew after having kids that he wanted to raise his family with his wife in the same city he fell in love with so he thought what better way to serve the community he loves than having fresh nutritious food readily available every day!

    Hometown Cafe offers a simple yet delicious selection of food, beverages, and goods from local vendors across the city. From Deeper Roots coffee, lattes, and hot chocolate, to real fruit, and veggie smoothies, and fresh-pressed juice, to made-to-order breakfast sandwiches, homemade soups, salads, and wraps, Hometown Cafe has it all! Did I mention Hometown also has a bakery filled with muffins, croissants, bagels, and danishes, to name a few and a “local market” where small local businesses can sell their homemade delicacies such as honey, granola, jam, and energy bites?

    I have been a part of the Loveland community and Loveland Magazine now for nearly 5 years so I have had the honor of seeing new businesses establish themselves, local events thrive, and the community coming together to give back. This is one of the biggest reasons, other than I LOVE food and food culture, as to why I wanted Hometown Cafe to be my next Cassie the Food Guru adventure! Hometown Cafe has not only impacted the community by providing quality nutritious food and beverages, but by also giving back time and time again. Whether they are getting involved in Loveland’s events or introducing local artists, vendors, and food trucks to the community, Hometown Cafe loves helping the community!

    So without further ado, I bring to you, a Loveland Magazine TV interview production, Cassie the Food Guru Stops by Hometown Cafe!

    Hometown Cafe Fun Facts:

    • Located at 111 Railroad Ave, Loveland, Ohio, 45140
    • Open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day
      • Breakfast is served from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. during the week and on the weekends breakfast is served until 3 p.m.
    • Lunch is always in the cooler. The cooler includes homemade soups, salads, wraps, and “kids boxes.”
    • Cold-Pressed Juice is made “in-house with a hydraulic press that exerts 10 tons of pressure on the fresh produce to extract the juice. Since the juice is exposed to minimal heat and air, it retains more vitamins, minerals, and enzymes from the whole fruit/vegetable than traditional centrifugal juicing methods.”
    • Local artists’ artwork is on display for sale inside the cafe.
    • You may book Hometown Cafe for your next event!
      • Friday, Saturday, or Sunday evenings is $250.
      • Monday through Thursday evenings is $200.
        • Rental is available from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
        • Seats up to 25 on the 1st floor and 32 on the patio.
      • The upstairs meeting room is $25 per hour.
        • Available for rent 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.
        • The rental fee is waived if you spend the same amount in the cafe during your event!
    • Catering is available through Jimmy’s “Loveland Catering.”
      • $500 on the weekends.
      • $400 on the weekdays.
      • If you spend twice the event rental fee in catering and the rental fee is waived!
    • You can rent Hometown Cafe’s kitchen for $35 per hour or if you take advantage of the kitchen membership it is $20 per hour.
    • Hometown Cafe offers merchandise through “My State Threads Apparel.”
      • If you would like to set a page up for your business Hometown will give you a unique URL and $10 from every piece of merchandise sold will go towards your business.
    • Items we recommend you try when you stop by Hometown Cafe:
      • The Cozy Bowl
      • The One With No Meat
      • The Toast
      • The B.E.A.S.T
      • Frogman Smoothie
      • Tropical Majik Smoothie
      • Kale Force Cold-Pressed Juice
      • Charcoal Lemonade Cold-Pressed Juice
      • The Ginger Shot
      • A specialty latte or hot chocolate
      • Sweet Potato Chips
      • Energy Bites
      • An Everything Bagel
      • Any of the local market items made by local small businesses!

    Be sure to stay informed on all the fun and delicious things Hometown Cafe has going on by visiting their website, Facebook, or Instagram!

    For more interviews and stories on local food culture, stay tuned to Cassie the Food Guru!

  • Celebrate Love at the 2022 Valentine’s Day Breakfast!

    Celebrate Love at the 2022 Valentine’s Day Breakfast!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – What better way to celebrate love than by attending the annual Valentine’s Day breakfast! This honorary event will pay homage to the “Sweetheart of Ohio” and the community’s most loved individuals!

    On Friday, February 11th from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. the Little Miami River Chamber Alliance (LMRCA) will be hosting the 2022 Valentine’s Day breakfast at the Oasis Conference Center. While enjoying a beautiful hot breakfast the LMRCA will be presenting to you the 2022 Valentine Lady, the Valentine Card Designer, the Poetry Contest Winners, and the Valentino Coloring Contest Winner. In addition to all the heartfelt fun, there will also be special entertainment! The cost for the event is $30. Platinum Chamber Members will be able to enjoy the Valentine’s Day breakfast for free. Sign up for the 2022 Valentine’s Day breakfast here.

    Jeannie Shumaker, the 2022 Valentine Lady, and Valentine’s Day Card designer Nancy Sullivan.

    Be sure to purchase your 2022 Valentine’s Day Cards designed by Nancy Sullivan from the LMRCA Office (113 Karl Brown Way 2nd floor), your favorite Valentine Lady, or any of the following local businesses:

    Valentine’s Day Cards are $1.50 each or you can purchase 4 for $5.

    Get Your Valentine’s Day Cards Stamped by the Valentine Ladies at the Loveland Post Office!

    Once you grab your Valentine’s Day Cards stop by the Loveland Post office anytime between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. beginning on January 31st to get your cards officially stamped by the Loveland Valentine Ladies! Stamping will be available until February 12th.

    If you have any additional questions about the 2022 Valentine’s Day breakfast contact the LMRCA at 513-686-1544.

    Valentine’s Day Card designer Nancy Sullivan

    For more local event updates stay tuned to the Loveland Salad With ME, Cassie Mattia!

  • Join Your Fellow Community Members at the 2022 State of the Region Update!

    Join Your Fellow Community Members at the 2022 State of the Region Update!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – It’s that time of year again to hear what’s in store for your community in 2022 and we want you there to get your feedback!

    Join the Little Miami River Chamber Alliance on Thursday, February 3rd at the Hamilton County Cooperative (HCC) from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM to learn more about what your community has planned for 2022! Topics will range from economic development to how your community officials plan on keeping you informed this year.

    This informative and exciting event will include lunch and guest speakers David Kennedy, Loveland’s City Manager, Jeff Wright, Miami Township Administrator, and Kim Lapensee, Symmes Township Administrator. Chamber members can attend the event for $30 while non-members can attend for $35. If you would like to attend the 2022 State of the Region Update sign up here!

    If you have any questions concerning the 2022 State of the Region Update please contact Meredith Taylor or visit the LMRCA website!

    We encourage everyone that can attend the 2022 State of the Region Update to come by and listen to what your local officials have to say about your community’s future! Let’s unite our communities and support one another along the way!

    For more local event updates stay tuned to the Loveland Salad With ME, Cassie Mattia!

  • Loveland Firefighters Will be Giving Back and Celebrating the Love Birds of the Community at the Valentine’s “Mask”erade Ball!

    Loveland Firefighters Will be Giving Back and Celebrating the Love Birds of the Community at the Valentine’s “Mask”erade Ball!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – “We are asking our local businesses to support the Valentine’s ‘Mask’erade Ball through sponsorships to cover the cost of the event,” LSFD (Loveland Symmes Fire Department) Chief Otto Huber said, “We want to send as many interested firefighters to medic school as possible. It will be a great time to take your sweetheart out for a romantic evening and support a great charity!”

    When the LCFA (Loveland Symmes Community Firefighter’s Association) found out about Loveland planning its first Hearts Afire Weekend, they knew they wanted to be involved. So in true Loveland style, they decided to plan a heart-felt event where they could not only be involved with the Hearts Afire festivities but they could also give back to a great cause at the same time.

    After the LSFD’s Chief Financial Officer, Candice Cook, passed in 2018, they wanted to be sure to keep her memory alive because for 25 years she was such an important part of the department. Cook’s family and the LCFA started the Candice M. Cook Scholarship Foundation in hopes that the fund would help and encourage firefighters to attend paramedic school.

    For firefighters attending paramedic school, it not only means they advance within their careers but also gives them an opportunity to explore higher education. Because paramedic schooling can be both time-consuming and expensive (over $10,000) the LCFA and Cook’s family wanted the sole mission of their scholarship foundation to be providing funds for the cost of tuition and books for paramedic high education. 

    The Loveland Firefighters attempted to celebrate Cook and the scholarship foundation with a music festival in September of 2020 but unfortunately, the event had to be canceled due to the COVID-19 spike. Now the Loveland Firefighters are ready more than ever to get the Cook Foundation up and running, which is why they decided to launch their first-ever Valentine’s “Mask”erade Ball!

    “Valentine’s Day in Loveland is a big deal,” Huber said, “Our city’s theme is ‘Sweetheart of Ohio.’ Every year, people from all over the world send their Valentine’s Day cards to the Loveland Post Office, where the red-clad Loveland Valentine Ladies see to it that each Cupid-themed communication receives the city’s official Valentine’s Day stamp.”

    The Valentine’s “Mask”erade Ball sponsored by the Candice M. Cook Foundation will be held at the Landing Event Center in downtown Loveland on Saturday, February 12th from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. The Ball will include a beautiful dinner, an open bar, free valet parking, “casino” activities, and local entertainment featuring The Nasty Nati Brass Band. Dancing is of course encouraged and Loveland’s very own Mayor, Kathy Bailey, will be renewing wedding vows for those that are interested in “re-tying the knot!” Tickets are $65 per person or $120 per couple for the Valentine’s “Mask”erade Ball. If you cannot attend but would love to donate to the Candice M. Cook Foundation, click here.

    The Valentine’s Day fun won’t end at the Landing Event Center! Beginning at 10 p.m. The Nasty Nati Brass Band will lead an impromptu 2nd line parade to the after-party, which will take place on Bishop’s Quarter’s rooftop. Those that attend will be able to enjoy New Orleans-inspired drinks and food in addition to fireworks!

    We are so happy to help get the word out about this unbelievably giving event! Be sure to purchase tickets for the Valentine’s “Maskerade” Ball if you can attend and if not you can still donate to the Candice M. Cook Scholarship Foundation by clicking the button above! We hope to see you at the Ball!

    For more local event updates stay tuned to the Loveland Salad With ME, Cassie Mattia!

  • What’s in Loveland’s DNA Featuring Darnell Parker!

    What’s in Loveland’s DNA Featuring Darnell Parker!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – “This community needs a win, and I have to deliver it to them,” Loveland High School’s Women’s Basketball Coach Darnell Parker said with his legendary smile. Parker has certainly become a big part of the Loveland community spreading positivity among his student-athletes and the cancer community. There’s no question that Coach Parker is a part of “What’s in Loveland’s DNA!”

    Parker, who was born and raised in Findlay, Ohio, grew up knowing that he “would have to work twice as hard as everyone else” to accomplish what he wanted to accomplish in life.

    “My dad always told me that growing up and that always stuck with me. Seeing my mom and dad work so hard so that I would never go without ingrained in me a work ethic like no other,” Parker said when speaking about what he had gained from his parents growing up.

    Parker, a born and bred athlete, started participating in sports at a very young age and almost instantly fell in love with the game of basketball.

    “My dad was a fantastic athlete even getting an opportunity to be drafted by the Atlanta Falcons,” Parker said when asked about where his love for sports came from. Parker’s dad competed in football and baseball at Purcell Marian and then eventually moved on to play football at Defiance College, unfortunately succumbing to a leg injury that stopped him from moving forward in the professional sports world.

    Parker pursued his collegiate basketball career at Bluffton College where he also obtained his degree in Business Management Administration. Post-college Parker took his coaching talents to West Clermont where he coached 6th-grade boys basketball for 9 years before making his move to Loveland.

    Once Parker made the move to Loveland he eventually landed the LHS Women’s Basketball Head Coach position, and that’s when he began making history!

    “I really couldn’t have chosen a better community to live in and coach in,” Parker said after reminiscing on his successful coaching career at LHS. Parker is definitely going down in history as one of the most successful LHS Women’s Basketball coaches of all time, grabbing the Eastern Cincinnati Conference Coach of the Year twice, leading the Tigers to 2 of the best seasons in school history, and coaching some very successful women collegiate athletes who have all broken school records at one point or another!

    Unfortunately in October of 2020 shortly after Parker lost his father to COVID-19 complications, Parker received the news that he was diagnosed with both Liver and Colin Cancer.

    “Telling my kids and my players that I had cancer was the hardest thing I ever had to do,” Parker said, “We cried it out and hugged it out and my girls really dedicated that season to me. They rallied around me.”

    Fast forward now to 2022, Parker is now in chemotherapy and says he’s feeling good and that through all of this he has made the choice to make his journey one where he can encourage and help others going through cancer. “I thought to myself well I can either go into a shell and take it on myself or stay positive and share the experience with everyone and give those that need it support.”

    Parker who has 2 daughters and just got married last year, says his future is looking bright and that he can’t wait to get back out on the LHS basketball court, which he says he will be transitioning into next week but will only be coaching home games.

    After knowing Coach Parker myself for nearly 3 years I thought the start of 2022 would be the perfect opportunity to feature Coach in our “What’s in Loveland’s DNA” segment because no one can really deny the effect he has had on the Loveland and LHS community. I am pleased to present to you Coach Darnell Parker in a Loveland Magazine TV production of “What’s in Loveland’s DNA!” Click below to watch the full-length interview!

    Here are some still photos from my interview with Coach Parker by David Miller:

    Want to read more about Coach Darnell Parker? Check out Loveland Magazine’s past stories!

    Loveland High School Basketball Programs Look to Change School History!
    LHS’s Head Women’s Basketball Coach Reaches 100 Wins!
    L.H.S’s Coach Parker Gives Sneak Preview of 2020-2021 Season!
    A Tribute to Coach Darnell Parker and his Loving Tigers
    LHS’s Coach Parker is Stronger Than Ever…and so are his Tigers!
    “Eat Out to Help Out” Loveland’s Coach Darnell Parker!
    Community Rally’s Around LHS’s Coach Parker at Opening Night of “Rolling Mondays!”
    “Rolling Mondays” Part 2 was a Success too!
    Hug Coach Parker before his cancer surgery
    [Video] Hugs for Coach Parker Night at Loveland High School

    For more heartfelt stories stay tuned to “What’s in Loveland’s DNA” With ME, Cassie Mattia!

  • February is Nearly Here; Will we be Seeing you at Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend?

    February is Nearly Here; Will we be Seeing you at Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend?

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – Love is in the air in the city of Loveland as February is almost here! Loveland is getting prepared for Valentine’s Day the “Sweetheart of Ohio” way and of course what is a better way to celebrate than attending Loveland’s 1st Hearts Afire Weekend!

    The Hearts Afire Weekend will take place February 11th-13th with the majority of the “lovely” activities occurring on Saturday, February 12th. Most of the businesses in Downtown Loveland and on the outskirts of the city will be participating in the Valentine’s Day Weekend festivities!

    “Many say that Loveland feels like a Hallmark movie in February because of our name,” said Loveland’s Mayor, Kathy Bailey. “Since our town is nicknamed the ‘Sweetheart of Ohio,’ we officially want to hold an event to celebrate and invite everyone to visit us!”

    Beautiful Gingerbread Ice Sculpture, photo taken by “Rock on Ice”
    “Frozen” character Ice Sculpture, photo taken by “Rock on Ice”
    Gorgeous Snowflake Ice Sculpture, photo taken by “Rock on Ice”

    The Hearts Afire Weekend is set to have a plethora of heart-filled activities including carriage rides, pristine ice sculptures, outdoor Valentine’s Day decorations, live entertainment, and fire performers. Here are the latest details on what you can expect from Hearts Afire Weekend:

    Friday, February 11th

    • Loveland General Store & Eads Fence – Valentine Photo Contest: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
      • “Take your most creative valentine photo and check in on Facebook with your photo! The most liked photo will win a 1-night stay at Loveland Farm Airbnb & Event Venue!”
    • Oasis Golf & Conference Center – Annual Valentine Breakfast: 8:30-10:30 a.m.
      • “The Little Miami River Chamber Alliance will honor the 2022 Valentine Lady and announce winners of the annual poetry and art contests.”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Hometown Café – Kids Valentine Craft Party: 5-7 p.m.
      • “Create and celebrate Valentine’s Day with a cute craft. This is perfect for kids ages 6-12, and siblings are $5 off. The ticket includes all your supplies, step-by-step instructions, and a snack from Hometown Café.”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Downtown Loveland – Galentine Night: 5-8 p.m.
      • “Visit downtown’s shops for chocolate treats, a gift basket giveaway, and shopping specials. The Old School Pix vintage truck will be parked outside Trailside Provisions and decorated for Valentine’s Day pictures!”
      • “The following shops will be participating in this event: Alley Boutique, Blume, Busy Bee Boutique, Haven Grey, Lemons & Limes, Loveland Sweet Shoppe, Trailside Provisions, and Welling & Co. Jewelers.“
    • Art House II – Art Open House Sale + Raffle: 5-9 p.m.
      • “Art House II is hosting an Open House through the weekend, featuring a sale and raffle. Galleries of original Loveland art will be 15% off. Every visitor will be entered in a raffle to win a Giclee Print on stretched canvas depicting the Tano block on W. Loveland Ave. before the fire. The drawing will be Sunday at 4 p.m. (do not need to be present to win).”
    • Art House II – Thru the Eyes of Your Beloved: 6 p.m. or 7:30 p.m.
      • “This workshop is an artistic celebration of couples, love, and fun. Start with an optional sip of wine; then sit across from each other at your own easel. Everyone has their own acrylic paints, sets of brushes, and an 11×14 stretched canvas. Paint your beloved as you see them. Neither sees the other’s painting until the end of the work time (35-45 minutes). This is NOT a class, although an Art House II resident will be near if needed. Painters can go for reality or can capture the “spirit” of their beloved. Anything goes! Paintings can be taken with you, picked up later, or picked up the next day so that painters can move on to other activities around the city.) Art House II can accommodate up to four couples per session. Come with friends for even more fun! Allow an hour for a glass of wine, basic use of materials, painting, unveiling of the masterworks, and clean up. Click here to download flier. Inclusive cost is $40 per couple.”
      • “Please call (513) 313-2450 to reserve your spot.”
    • Cappy’s Wine and Spirits – Cappy’s Charity Date Auction: 6-10 p.m.
      • “Cappy’s will kick off the night with live music on the patio. Eligible dates (store employees, beer/wine reps, and some familiar faces) will walk the red carpet, while those in attendance place their highest bids at the Band’s set break for a night out in Loveland!”
      • “The minimum bid will be $50. All proceeds will go towards Furgotten Dog Rescue. Bid on a date on Sat., Feb. 12th or Sun., Feb. 13th.”
      • “The date will feature a champagne toast at Cappy’s, chocolate-covered strawberries from Cocoa Bites, a mini-shopping spree at Lemons & Limes, and a small plate from Rodi.”
      • “Fireworks will be set of on Saturday night.”
    • “The Building,” a flexible mult-use space along the Loveland Bike Trail – Couples Painting Class: 6:30-8:30 p.m.
      • “Bring your sweetheart to create a lasting memory together! Two canvases match together to form one cute picture together.”
      • “The design will be Dolphin Love.”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Hometown Café – Pick Your Project/DIY Craft Night: 7:30-9:30 p.m.
      • “Pick from several different sign-making options, or learn how to etch your own set of glasses.“
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets

    Saturday, February 12th

    • Loveland General Store & Eads Fence – Valentine Photo Contest: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
      • “Take your most creative valentine photo and check in on Facebook with your photo! The most liked photo will win a 1-night stay at Loveland Farm Airbnb & Event Venue!”
    • Hometown Café – Story Time with the Valentine Ladies: 10 a.m.
      • “Loveland’s Valentine Ladies will read a special children’s story.”
    • Downtown Loveland – Food Trucks: Starting at 10 a.m.
      • Mile 42 Coffee – Dolph’s Dogs – 3-6 p.m.
      • Parking lot of Loveland Regional Animal Hospital (300 W. Loveland Ave.) – The Chili Hut – 4-8 p.m.
      • Parking lot of Loveland Regional Animal Hospital (300 W. Loveland Ave.) – SEA Cuisine – 4-10 p.m.
    • Loveland Branch Library – Valentine Scavenger Hunt: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
    • Fraternal Order of Eagles – Cupid’s Kisses: 11 a.m.
      • “The Eagles will open to the public for drink specials including fireball shots.”
    • Loveland Branch Library – Make Your Own Valentine: 11 a.m. – Noon
    • Loveland Art Studios on Main – Artists’ Love Stories: The Power of Creative Partnerships: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 
      • “Select studio residents will hold an Open House to celebrate ‘Artists’ Love Stories: The Power of Creative Partnerships.’ Community painting participation will be offered. Guests can help create large-scale pieces in artists’ styles, such as the iconic couple Jackson Pollock and Lee Kranz. We’ll have large trash bags to protect your clothing and disposable gloves available for free! We’ll also offer canvases and supplies for creating individual masterpieces for a fee as long as supplies last.”
    • Eads’ Fencing Outdoor Area – “Puppy Love” Pet Adoptions: 12-5 p.m.
      • “Meet a new furry friend from Furgotten Dog Rescue. Furgotten Dog Rescue’s mission is to rescue, educate, and advocate for the ‘unlovable’ shelter dogs that are left behind because of their breed, age, appearance, and special needs.”
    • Loveland Branch Library – Valentine Button Making: 1-2 p.m.
    • “The Building,” a flexible mult-use space along the Loveland Bike Trail – Mommy & Me/Daddy & Me Painting Class: 1-3 p.m.
      • “Paint a sweet llama portrait together with a parent! Perfect for kids ages 6-10. This class will be taught by Elizabeth Mason of Painting with the Psalms. There will be two llama designs to choose from.“
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Whistle Stop Clay Works – Heart Painting: 1-4 p.m.
      • “February 12th is the International Day of Clay! Celebrate with free hearts to paint. (Pick-up will be two weeks later.)“
    • Loveland Station Apartments “Community Room” – Love and Attraction Spell Workshop: 1-4:30 p.m.
      • “Francine Haydon will host 2 45-minute “Love and Attraction Spell” workshops at 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.”
      • “Workshops will cost $20 per person.”
      • “From 2-4 p.m. Francine will host 10-minute mini ‘Love and Life’ intuitive Tarot Card Readings.”
      • “Tarot Card Readings will cost $20 per person.”
      • “Will accept Cash, Venmo, or Credit Card.”
      • “Sign up for the workshops here!“
    • Lobby of Loveland Stage Company – Kitty Kissing Booth: 1-5 p.m.
    • Loveland Station Apartments “Community Room” – Tarot Card Readings: 2-4 p.m.
      • “Is love in your future? What do the cards say? Sit down with professional tarot and palm reader Francine Haydon for a 10-minute mini “Love and Life” intuitive card reading. Walk-in — first come, first served. Cost is $20 per person, payable at the door by cash, credit, or Venmo. Readings will be held in the Community Room of Loveland Station Apartments (110 S. Second St.).”
      • “Francine Haydon is a professional tarot and palm reader; energy worker; Free Soul counselor and instructor; and ordained minister who has been practicing and teaching metaphysical and spiritual subjects for more than 20 years.  She works out of her home in Union Township and Enchanted Moments in Milford.”
    • Loveland Branch Library – Makerspace & Take: Valentine Wine Bags: 2:30-4 p.m.
    • Art House II – Art Open House Sale + Raffle: 3-9 p.m.
      • “Art House II is hosting an Open House through the weekend, featuring a sale and raffle. Galleries of original Loveland art will be 15% off. Every visitor will be entered in a raffle to win a Giclee Print on stretched canvas depicting the Tano block on W. Loveland Ave. before the fire. The drawing will be Sunday at 4 p.m. (do not need to be present to win).”
    • Fountain Greene (In front of Fleet Feet/JackRabbit) – L.O.V.E. Dance Party: 4 p.m.
    • Downtown Loveland – King & Queen of Hearts: 4-6 p.m.
      • “Loveland’s King and Queen of Hearts will be spreading love to each and every person throughout the Downtown area!”
    • Hometown Café – Warm Up Your Heart Hot Chocolate Bar:: 4-8 p.m.
      • “Hometown will have a hot chocolate bar and loaded sweet potato chips (pulled pork bbq and other toppings) on the patio!”
      • “The cafe will be open serving up coffee, espresso, and snacks!”
    • Art House II – Thru the Eyes of Your Beloved: 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m., or 7 p.m.
      • “This workshop is an artistic celebration of couples, love, and fun. Start with an optional sip of wine; then sit across from each other at your own easel. Everyone has their own acrylic paints, sets of brushes, and an 11×14 stretched canvas. Paint your beloved as you see them. Neither sees the other’s painting until the end of the work time (35-45 minutes). This is NOT a class, although an Art House II resident will be near if needed. Painters can go for reality or can capture the “spirit” of their beloved. Anything goes! Paintings can be taken with you, picked up later, or picked up the next day so that painters can move on to other activities around the city.) Art House II can accommodate up to four couples per session. Come with friends for even more fun! Allow an hour for a glass of wine, basic use of materials, painting, unveiling of the masterworks, and clean up. Click here to download flier. Inclusive cost is $40 per couple.”
      • “Please call (513) 313-2450 to reserve your spot.”
    • Loveland City Hall – Heartland Market: 4-9 p.m.
      • “Stop by City Hall to pick out the perfect Valentine’s Day gift at the local ‘Vendor Market!”
      • “Vendor details will be coming soon!”
    • The Works Pizza – “Single in the City” Speed Dating: 7-9 p.m.
      • “The Works historical train care will host Speed Dating for those that are 21 and over!”
      • “Sessions will be at 7, 7:30, 8 and 8:30 p.m.”
      • “Online registration will be required in advance via Sign Up Genius. Sign up here!”
    • Whistle Stop Clay Works – Oda Mae Brown Community Bonfire: 5-8 p.m.
      • “Visit for a community bonfire. (Will not occur if raining)“
    • Whistle Stop Clay Works – Ghost Photo Op: 5-8 p.m.
      • “Reenact the iconic scene from the movie Ghost with Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore.”
    • Lemons and Limes Boutique – Psychic Readings: 5-10 p.m.
      • “Stop by Lemons and Limes to see what your future holds!”
    • Mile 42 Coffee – Cupid’s Couple Challenge: 5:30-6:30 p.m.
      • “How well do you know your significant other? In Loveland’s spin on The Newlywed Game, couples will answer questions to reveal how well they know each other.”
    • Downtown Loveland – Ice Sculpture Walking Tour: 6 p.m.
      • “Enjoy a self-guided walking tour exploring unique ice sculptures! There will be more than 20 sculptures on display throughout the downtown area. Take a ‘sculpture selfie’ and share on social media using the official event hashtag #LovelandHeartsAfire.” 
      • “Stay tuned for a full listing of sculpture locations, participating businesses, and a digital map.“
    • Loveland City Hall Lawn & Loveland Symmes Fire Station 63 – Ice Carving Demonstration: 6-9 p.m.
      • “See professional ice sculptors carve art right before your eyes! The night will feature two demonstrations. The first will consist of four blocks of ice, stacked to make one large sculpture standing approximately 6 ft. tall. The second demonstration ­will be a fire and ice tower with real flames illuminating from the ice!”
    • Fountain Greene (In front of JackRabbit/Fleet Feet) – “Eskimo Kisses Village”: 6 p.m.
      • “Play a round of skeeball on ice! There will be photo opportunities in this area too.”
      • “The Shamrocker will be featured as music entertainment!“
    • Loveland City Hall Lawn and around Downtown Loveland – Fire Performers: 6-9 p.m.
      • “These fire twirlers will warm up the night. You won’t want to miss their tricks!”
    • “The Building,” a flexible mult-use space along the Loveland Bike Trail – Couples Painting Class: 6-8 p.m.
      • “Bring your sweetheart to create a lasting memory together! No prior art experience necessary. Two 16″x 20″ canvases create one cute picture together.” 
      • “The design will be Winter Birch Trees.”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • “Mask”erade Ball & After Party – Ball: The Landing Event Center
      After Party: Bishop’s Quarter      : 6:30-11 p.m.
      • “Dinner, open bar, valet parking, live music by the Nasty Nati Brass Band! This event benefits the Candice M. Cook Scholarship Foundation for Excellence in Paramedic & Firefighter Education. The band will lead the 2nd Line Parade to Bishop’s Quarter.”
      • “Read all about the ‘Mask’erade Ball here!”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • The 1859 Historic Loveland Chapel – Vow Renewals – Traditional: 7-9 p.m.
      • “Enjoy an interactive vow renewal group ceremony with your loved one!“
      • “Ceremonies will take place every 30 minutes on the chapel stairs beginning at 7 p.m..“
    • Cappy’s Wine and Spirits – Vow Renewals – Viva Las Elvis: 10 p.m.
      • “Enjoy an interactive vow renewal group ceremony at the “Little White Cappy Chapel” performed by Elvis A.K.A. Mayor Kathy Bailey!”
    • Fireworks: 10:30 p.m.

    Sunday, February 13th

    • Loveland Bike Trail – Chasing Cupid 5K: 9 a.m.
      • “Fleet Feet (formerly JackRabbit) will host the first Chasing Cupid 5K! This will be a fun run/walk taking place along the trail.”
      • “Meet at Fleet Feet; then the group will begin the course. There is no registration fee or advanced registration required.”
    •  Loveland Art Studios on Main – Artists’ Love Stories The Power of Creative Partnerships: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
      • “The finished pieces of art work will be exhibited and raffles will take place! Proceeds will support the new Art League of Loveland. Membership opportunities will be available.”
    • Art House II – Art Open House + Raffle: 12:30-5 p.m.
      • “Art House II is hosting an Open House through the weekend, featuring a sale and raffle. Galleries of original Loveland art will be 15% off. Every visitor will be entered in a raffle to win a Giclee Print on stretched canvas depicting the Tano block on W. Loveland Ave. before the fire. The drawing will be Sunday at 4 p.m. (do not need to be present to win).”

    The following local business will be hosting specials and activities ALL WEEKEND long for Loveland’s Hearts Afire:

    • Alley Boutique – Will be having chocolate samples and a “Full Heart” Sale.
    • Busy Bee Boutique: Heartstrings Game – Customers will pull a heartstring to reveal great discounts and prizes!
    • Brown’s Crossing: Diaper Drop – Collecting diapers for charity. Any size, any brand.
    • Brittney Frietch RE/MAX Preferred Group: What do you love about Loveland? Visit an interactive outdoor display, where you can leave your message.
    • Cappy’s Wine and Spirits: $1 off every pint (Friday and Saturday). Cappy’s is donating $1 per every pint and glass of wine sold on Friday and Saturday to the Furgotten Dog Rescue.
    • Haven Grey: Giveaway with purchase.
    • Hometown Café: Selling cookie decorating kits by Lovebug Cookies. Customers may pre-order kits in advance.
    • Loveland Station Apartments: Check out residents’ sweet balcony decorations!
    • Loveland Sweet Shoppe: Stop by and enter the raffle for your chance to win romantic prizes including a wine and chocolate tasting, dinner for two at Tano Bistro, and private dance lessons!
    • Mile 42 Coffee: Valentine drinks all weekend!
    • Plaid Room Records: Anniversary sale.
    • Railway Barber Shop: Weekend specials.
    • Ramsey’s Trailside: Enjoy valentine specials and a package deal featuring 2 entrees, dessert & wine!
    • Loveland TAHONA Kitchen+Bar: Love on the rocks (or frozen)…enjoy the featured cocktail, a Strawberry Margarita, for the weekend.
    • Trailside Provisions: Craft a sweet vale­ntine card for residents at Loveland Healthcare. Also enjoy samples, including bloody mary’s, through the weekend!

    We are so excited about this historical moment for the city of Loveland! We hope to see all of you love birds at Hearts Afire Weekend!

    For the latest 411 on Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend stay tuned to the Loveland Salad With ME, Cassie Mattia!

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  • OHSAA Adds Women’s Wrestling and Men’s Volleyball to Ohio’s High School’s Sports!

    OHSAA Adds Women’s Wrestling and Men’s Volleyball to Ohio’s High School’s Sports!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – Times are a-changing in the sports world! History was made in Columbus last Thursday when the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) Board of Directors voted to add Women’s Wrestling and Men’s Volleyball officially as “emerging sports” in the 2022-2023 school year. 

    “The OHSAA recognizing men’s volleyball is a huge win for the sport and for everyone that has worked so hard to get the boys game recognized on the big stage in Ohio,” former Loveland High School JV “A” Team Head Coach Matthew Ellis said, “There are a lot of people who have coached boys club and boys high school that deserve a ton of praise for getting the ball rolling on this. Volleyball is a game for everyone and this is a big step in showing that.”

    Loveland Athletic Director Brian Conatser told Loveland Magazine on Friday, “That’s great. Obviously, we’ve had a very successful men’s volleyball program here at Loveland. We’re excited. What a great opportunity. I know that Head Coach Terri Swensen is super excited.”

    Men’s volleyball is not currently an Eastern Cincinnati Conference sport according to Conatser. He said that the Conference will have to vote on it. “I’ll be the first one to bring it up,” added Conatser laughing.

    The OHSAA Wrestling Coaches Association has held a Women’s wrestling tournament since 2020 and the OHSAA Men’s Volleyball Association has held its tournament since 1998 according to the OHSAA press release that was sent out on Thursday.

    Terri Swensen current Men’s Volleyball Head Coach (Loveland Magazine 2018 File Photo)

    “The OHSAA has been talking with the boy’s volleyball and girls wrestling leaders for several years and we are now in the position to bring these two sports into the OHSAA,” said OHSAA Executive Director Doug Ute, “This move will help those sports continue to grow and allow those student-athletes to compete for an OHSAA state championship. It gives more kids opportunities and that is the mission of the OHSAA. We will look to keep a very similar format for the girls wrestling and boys volleyball tournaments as what the coaches associations have been doing,” Ute added, “The girls wrestling state tournament is held in mid-February and the boy’s volleyball state tournament is held in the spring. We have not yet developed tournament regulations, but we’ll start working on that so that those two sports hit the ground running next fall for the start of the 2022-23 school year.”

    Conatser said that Loveland has not had any female wrestlers in the past and that the sport is currently configured where females compete in whatever weight classification, Varsity or JV, they fit into with the current traditional high school’s program. Conatser said, “It’s actually co-ed now in Ohio. At Loveland, we’ve had some interested females in the past but none competed. I’m sure now that it is an OHSAA sport we will probably, and hopefully, we will see some females that will want to come out and participate.”

    Conatser said it will take some time to figure out how Loveland will handle coaching positions, etc. He said he assumed that females competing against males will continue until a transition to female-specific teams is organized. Currently, OHSAA has separate State tournaments for Women’s and Men’s wrestling competitions.

    OHSAA sports, with the new additions, officially has grown to 28, distributed evenly between men and women.

    OHSAA also announced on Thursday that they have plans to discuss providing an Esports tournament because gaming has grown exponentially in schools across the country over the last few years. OHSAA is actively looking to partner with a group that specializes in Esports.

    Here at Loveland Magazine, we are overjoyed to hear the news about the addition of Women’s Wrestling and Men’s Volleyball to the OHSAA organization! Congratulations to all those who officially get to now compete within their high schools in these 2 new emerging OHSAA sports! We can’t wait to see our Loveland Tiger Women’s Wrestling and Men’s Volleyball teams compete in 2022-2023!

    For the latest updates on local sports news stay tuned to the Loveland Salad With ME, Cassie Mattia!

  • Besl, Baden & Christy Jones Make Their Debut as an all Women Real Estate Powerhouse

    Besl, Baden & Christy Jones Make Their Debut as an all Women Real Estate Powerhouse

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – The community of Loveland has always been known for supporting one another’s businesses and at times teaming up together to serve the greater good! Mary Clare Baden, Sue Besl Price, and Christy Jones have done just that! Introducing Besl, Baden, & Christy Jones; an all-female real estate powerhouse!

    We are pleased to present to you the official Loveland Magazine TV video announcing Mary, Sue, and Christy’s collaboration as a dynamic trio in their new real estate empire, Besl, Baden, & Christy Jones! In this special announcement, these ladies will talk to you all about their extensive real estate backgrounds, why Loveland is so special to them, what their mission is as a new real estate business, and how they plan on helping the Greater Loveland community find the best homes for their particular needs. Now is your chance to get to know these unbelievable community-oriented businesswomen! Click below to hear all about Besl, Baden, & Christy Jones!

    (Photos by Cassie Mattia © 2022)

    Sue Besl Price, Mary Clare Baden, and Christy Jones

    A Message From the Besl, Baden, & Christy Jones Team

    “As the three principal REALTORS on the team, Mary Clare Baden, Sue Besl Price, and Christy Jones, we all bring with us integrity and unique talents in providing an exceptional holistic real estate experience to our friends, family, and clients.

    As the driving force behind the team, Mary Clare’s finance knowledge, market statistical analysis and negotiation skills, and contract-to-close efficiencies are all specialties that elevate the team above any other. As an accounting major from the University of Cincinnati, she keeps the team and our clients abreast of the market conditions while working with our clients to negotiate the best terms and take them from contract to closing.

    Sue brings to the team extensive expertise in marketing, design, and staging along with her considerable knowledge of Real Estate practices, laws, and contracts. Having served on both the Cincinnati Area Board of Realtors and Ohio Realtors Board of Directors, and both Board’s Contracts and Forms, and Professional Standards committees. As a Principal Broker Sue keeps up-to-date on nationwide and statewide industry changes to best serve our clients.

    With 22 years of experience, Christy is the “True Resource” and connector on the team. She has formed a network of professional contractors and vendors over the years and proudly connects all of our clients with these resources. She is a connector in the community as well working to help us give back to those in the areas in which we serve. Christy is our luxury connection in repeatedly serving those buyers and sellers in the high-end property market.

    We are also pleased that Jo Helmink will continue to support the team.

    We have been honored to have helped hundreds of clients find their dream homes throughout the years. Together we now combine our strengths and talents in looking forward to many more years of providing exceptional connections, integrity, and service for our future clients! We appreciate and are grateful for your continued support – Thank You!“

    Click to check out their new website!

    For the latest on new businesses opening in Loveland stay tuned to the Loveland Salad With ME, Cassie Mattia!

  • Are you a Student With a Passion for Journalism? Apply to our Internship Program!

    Are you a Student With a Passion for Journalism? Apply to our Internship Program!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – Are you a student that has a passion for the world of Journalism? Do you often ask yourself how will I get the experience I need to get into a great college Journalism program? Well, look no further! Loveland Magazine is looking for both motivated and creative students that have the work ethic it takes to thrive in Journalism!

    It is tough as a student to get career-based experience before filling out college applications so here at Loveland Magazine, we want to give students the necessary tools to stand out to the colleges their applying for! In our internship program, students will be able to get hands-on experience in all things Journalism including editing, developing a story, videography, conducting on-camera interviews, photography, advertising/marketing, social media content, media law, and much much more. The intern will also get the opportunity to shadow special events, assignments, and on-camera interviews! We want the next generation to thrive and succeed in their career paths and we feel this is the best way for us to impact the future of Journalism!

    We have reached out to many of the local high schools to spread the word about our internship program, but if you know of a student, an organization, or school that would benefit from this internship please feel free to reach out and we can supply you with our internship flyers!

    Although we may not fill all of the intern positions we would of course like to gain at least 2 new interns for 2022! Here are the following internships available:

    • Social Media Specialist
    • Sports News Intern
    • School News Intern
    • Editorial Intern

    If you’re a student, a parent of a student, or simply just know of someone who would be a great candidate for one of our internships, click here to email us! If you are an organization or a school that is interested in hanging up our internship flyers in your building click the email link above!

    Get real Journalism experience taught by professionally trained Journalists through Loveland Magazine’s internship program today! Let’s help our youth thrive!