Rick Boyle
Owner, Creative Contracting Inc.
Twenty-seven years ago, Rick Boyle set out to create a company that was different. Growing up with an interest in math and using his hands, the longtime Mason resident and business owner saw his goal come to life. After working at another local remodeling firm, Rick was inspired to build a small business of his own that was customer-centric and focused on quality craftsmanship at a fair price. With that mission in mind, Creative Contracting Inc. (CCI) was born.
Rick designed CCI with residential remodeling top of mind. His in-house design team works with clients to define needs and develop creative solutions from kitchen remodels to home additions.
“Remodeling can be challenging,” Rick says. “Our goal is to provide a turnkey process that is enjoyable for everyone. It’s very rewarding to watch a client’s vision come to life by transforming an idea into reality.”
But the impact on his client’s homes isn’t all that CCI is making. The business actively supports the Mason Deerfield Chamber, Mason City Schools, St. Susanna Parish, Boy Scout Troop 500 and Kindervelt #19.
And putting people first will always remain Rick’s priority—personally and professionally.
“We place great importance on communication and planning,” he says. “CCI recognizes the negative stigma surrounding the construction industry. We’ve built a company that is focused on establishing client trust and restoring pride to our profession—our clients see value in the process.”
David Yost
Co-Owner and President, Yost Pharmacy
Life as a pharmacist isn’t about counting pills or labeling bottles for Co-Owner and President of Yost Pharmacy, David Yost.
“People often view pharmacies with a traditional, narrow lens,” David says. “My favorite part of what I do is using tools like custom compounding, nutritional supplements and lifestyle changes for customers to create unique solutions for common problems.”
The multi-faceted independent pharmacy and retail store prides itself on service and has a long history in Mason. Founded by David’s grandfather, Val Yost, in 1945, Yost Pharmacy grew over the next 41 years. The business was passed down to David and his sister and fellow pharmacist, Sarah McClain.
“The core of our business is filling almost 3,000 prescriptions each week,” David says. “But it’s what we do next that defines us.”
Counseling patients, sorting medications by time and day in pill organizers, delivering medications to homes free-of-charge, and offering custom prescription compounding are just some of the ways Yost Pharmacy differentiates itself from big-box stores. In addition to what is done behind the counter, the pharmacy offers a large selection of medical equipment, vitamins and supplements.
While increasing the health and wellness of the community is a top priority for David, staying nimble in a time of crisis has taken his service commitment to the next level. When COVID-19 arrived in Mason, the pharmacy quickly pivoted to free touch-less delivery, and expanded mailing prescriptions directly to patients. They also unveiled curbside service and began compounding hand sanitizer for local law enforcement and patients.
“I knew I wanted to be a part of this business long-term after watching my dad, Richard, in action,” David says. “I saw the way people responded to his kindness and I knew spreading that throughout our community was a legacy I needed to continue.”
Dr. Phillip Lance
Owner, Miami Valley Smiles
Love and fun—two words that aren’t automatically associated with a visit to the dentist. But for Phillip Lance, D.D.S. and his team at Miami Valley Smiles, it sums up their dental practice perfectly.
“We know that when we focus on connecting with people and making friends out of our patients, we start changing lives for the better,” says Dr. Lance.
As a dentist for 11 years, Dr. Lance’s desire has always been to help people. He opened Miami Valley Smiles to make a meaningful impact—something he felt couldn’t be done at a large dental corporation.
“My two main roles are leading my team with a worthy and noble vision, and helping our patients get what they want in a way that fits their lives,” he says.
Whether it’s performing a root canal, removing wisdom teeth or treating sleep apnea (goodbye CPAP!), Miami Valley Smiles knows how to make its patients do just that.
“We have TVs on the ceiling and the best dental shot around,” Dr. Lance says. In addition to his practice, Dr. Lance started Smiles for Service. The pay-it-forward nonprofit allows individuals who can’t afford dentistry to volunteer in their community and earn credits for free dentistry.
“The people of Mason are absolutely wonderful—they want to do the right thing for the right reason,” Dr. Lance says. “These relationships have inspired us to do what is needed for our community—and our patients are inspired, too.”
“We know when we focus on connecting with people and making friends out of our patients, that is when we start changing lives for the better.”