I’m thrilled to share some great news about our neighborhood! A new Italian restaurant, led by two veterans of Greater Cincinnati’s dining and hospitality scene, has just opened its doors in Covington.

Carmelo’s, located at 434 Madison Ave., is situated near the former IRS site, an area soon to be transformed with new apartments, townhomes, and retail spaces. This exciting concept is the brainchild of Billy Grise, former director of food and beverage at Thunderdome Restaurant Group, and Chef Mitch Arens, known for his innovative work with Beard & Bellies BBQ and Grub Local, as well as his role as founder and executive chef of Southernly, a private chef company.

Named in honor of Grise’s grandfather—an Italian American immigrant, devoted family man, and restaurant owner—Carmelo’s brings classic Italian American dishes to life in a warm, rustic yet modern setting. The ambiance echoes Nono Carmelo’s welcoming and joyful spirit, a tribute to the cherished grandfathers who have left their mark on generations, the team shares.

As a real estate agent and member of our community, I love seeing vibrant new places that bring neighbors together and add even more value to our area. If you’re exploring the neighborhood or looking for a new dining experience, Carmelo’s is worth a visit!

https://www.eatatcarmelos.com/

Supporting local businesses is just one way we keep our community thriving.

I’d love to hear your thoughts after you visit!

Melissa Maxwell-ERA

A CHARLIE BROWN THANKSGIVING – The Walt Disney Television via Getty Images Television Network will celebrate the start of the holiday season with the classic special, “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving,” MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20 (8:00-8:30 & 8:30-9:00 p.m., ET), on the Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images Television Network. In the 1973 special “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving,” Charlie Brown wants to do something special for the gang. However the dinner he arranges is a disaster when caterers Snoopy and Woodstock prepare toast and popcorn as the main dish. Humiliated, it will take all of Marcie’s persuasive powers to salvage the holiday for Charlie Brown. (Photo by ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images)

Thanksgiving is almost here, and whether this is your first time hosting or you’re a seasoned pro, the holiday can sometimes bring a few unexpected surprises. As your real estate agent, I know how important it is to keep your home the warm, welcoming space it was meant to be! Here are the top five hosting “fails” to avoid and simple tips to make your home feel cozy and ready for guests.

1. Overcrowding Your Space

• Tip: Keep the main entertaining area free of clutter and give guests room to gather comfortably. If you have a smaller space, consider setting up a “drink station” or extra seating in a secondary room, like a cozy den or enclosed patio, to avoid crowding.

   

2. Not Enough Room in the Fridge

• Tip: Refrigerator space can quickly fill up, especially with all the sides and desserts. Clear out non-essentials and consider placing coolers with ice in your garage or mudroom for drinks. That way, your kitchen fridge has room for all the Thanksgiving essentials.

   

3. Limited Kitchen Space for Cooking and Serving

• Tip: Kitchens can feel tight on big cooking days! Set up a “buffet” or serving station on your dining table or a side counter. If you have an island, reserve it as a prep station and encourage guests to help with small tasks, giving everyone space without creating congestion.

   

4. Lack of Guest Comforts

• Tip: Small touches can make a big difference. Add soft blankets to your living room, adjust the thermostat for the extra body heat, and make sure there’s a designated area for coats and bags. If you’re expecting out-of-town guests, add fresh towels and a few toiletries to your guest bathroom to make them feel right at home.

   

5. Post-Dinner Clean-Up Overload

• Tip: Clean as you go! Empty the dishwasher before the meal so you can load dishes right away, and keep extra trash bags handy. Having food storage containers on hand lets guests take leftovers home – less clean-up and a fun way for them to remember your delicious meal!

   

A well-organized home can be the key to a smooth, memorable holiday. Here’s to a Thanksgiving filled with joy, laughter, and lots of room for everyone. And if you know anyone who’d like to find a new space to make these holiday memories, I’d be happy to help!