What Your Your Trip Trip to to What
The The
Store Planet
May Mean Mean to to May
the real story on real estate
local picks for home & interiors how summer camps build
emotional intelligence april 2009
rare red stocking’s baseball card
what’s inside
| april 2009
rare red stocking’s baseball card
connect
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an elderly california woman sparks interest in a piece of reds history
staff picks
do you know of a person, business, group, or event that our readers should know about? we’re always looking for great stories. let us know by email at eastsider@eastsidermagazine.com.
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home accents from local merchants
the real story on real estate
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what’s actually going on in the hyde park, mt. lookout, and oakley housing markets
what your trip to the store may mean to the planet beyond just paper or plastic
camp’s secret weapon
p. 16
the buzz about emotional intelligence and your child
calendar of local events
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april’s web-exclusive stories
caa, eta, faf... omg, what these initials mean to the local arts scene interview with singer and songwriter ray lamontagne cincinnati flower show & flying pig marathon
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we are currently seeking local residents that: u own vespas / scooters u have attended or participated in The World’s Longest Yardsale u take grilling out and tailgating to a whole new level u are in a garage or jam band u brew their own beer u have gone back to school as an adult ____________________________________ check out www.eastsidermagazine.com for web-exclusive content: articles, reviews, pictures, videos, and a comprehensive calendar of local events. Sign-up for our free weekly e-Newsletter to get even more articles, events, contests, and specials.
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rare red stocking’s baseball card
an elderly california woman sparks interest in a piece of reds history
Bernice Gallego is not a name most Reds fans are familiar with. But the 72-year-old woman from Fresno, California is forever linked with a piece of Cincinnati history. While clearing out some of her antiques, she stumbled across an 1869 Red Stocking B. B. Club of Cincinnati baseball card. She subsequently put the 140-year-old card up for auction on eBay… for $10. After a flood of inquiries, Bernice soon realized that the card was worth far more than her asking price. A few months ago she sold the card at auction for just over $75,000. Having heard the national hype, I went to the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum to get the scoop on Bernice’s card and what the museum has from the oldest professional team in baseball history. “This is our version of the infamous Fresno card,” says Chris Eckes, standing
next to a case filled with 19th century memorabilia. Eckes is Chief Curator for the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum. “This card has actually been on loan to us since we opened. So we were a little taken aback by all the fan fair surrounding the Fresno card. But it is a good story.” Both cards are of the 1869 Red Stockings, but there is a difference between them. Bernice Gallego’s version was produced by Peck & Snyder, a New Yorkbased sporting goods company. Capitalizing on the growing popularity of baseball and the Red Stockings in particular, they used the classic image as promotion. When you flip the card over, there is an advertisement for the company. “Other companies saw what Peck & Snyder were doing and thought it was a great idea,” Eckes continues. “One such
company was George B. Ellard’s Red Stocking Headquarters. It was a sporting goods store that was just up the street on Main. So our card has an authentic Cincinnati connection, which makes it that much more special.” While baseball cards are not the predominant item on display, the museum houses an ever-changing collection of them. They are incorporated as part of other exhibits. At one time, there was a dedicated baseball card exhibit that showcased at least two cards of every beloved Reds player they could locate. And they do have to locate the items. There is not a warehouse of goods waiting to be utilized. “First off, as a museum, we don’t buy anything. So everything that comes our way is loaned or donated. A small percentage of items are owned by the Reds organization,
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or donated directly to the museum. But we are heavily dependent on loans and the collecting community in Cincinnati has been tremendous to us. There are some amazing collections out there, and the collectors have been very generous. If you do have something that you think would be neat to have on display, you would first call me. We would then determine if it’s something we don’t already have and if it’s something that we should or could display.” After the item is approved, you would enter into a very basic loan contract with the museum. Originally, there were annual contracts for each item, but they soon found out that they didn’t need “all the paperwork and
headaches.” Now there is an open-ended loan period by mutual agreement – unless the lender requests a firm date – which typically lasts until a particular exhibit ends, or the lender requests the item back. And as long as the item is on display, it is insured by the museum. A Fairly New Idea. Over the years, most sports clubs did not squirrel away items or make a concerted effort to collect memorabilia. Space was always at a premium, so holding on to any thing that may turn out to be a collector’s item was not an option.
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Eckes explains that “it was just a matter of practicality. Take jerseys for example. If you go back far enough, jerseys were recycled. When they started showing wear at the major league level, they’d rip the numbers off the back and send them down to the minors. There is actually a great science now where people can track back and trace old repurposed jerseys.” The hope of Eckes and his colleagues is that the longer the museum is here, the more it will be in the minds of fans and the teams to hold on to items and lend or donate them. While they do work with the club, the
Hall of Fame and Museum is its own entity, separate from the Reds organization. So it is only in recent years that efforts have been made to collect items and make them more available. The front office and even the players and coaches in the clubhouse are now active in pulling things that are significant to Reds history or baseball history in general. While the concept of a team hall of fame is not new, a museum to display a team’s history is an idea that has only taken hold in the last few years. Only a handful of clubs have a dedicated structure for this purpose. Teams that are building new ballparks, like the Cardinals and Yankees, are also
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incorporating museums into their plans. “We collaborate with those that do have museums and those that are looking to create them. They get to learn from our mistakes and our successes,” Eckes points out. “And it’s not just baseball teams. The Patriots sent down a contingent to go through what we’ve done when they were building their facility. The Cowboys did the same thing. So it’s very encouraging to see that so many teams want to do something with their heritage.” On Deck. There is a vast collection that will remain on display on a permanent basis. These are the more popular items like a Pete Rose jersey from his record-breaking ’85 season and the Schotzie World Series
“ring” – an exact replica of the team’s 1990 championship ring (sans diamonds) that was made as a championship belt for Marge Schott’s Saint Bernard. Other older items, like the 1869 Red Stockings card, and memorabilia from players like Ted Kluzuski and Wally Post are also slotted to be around for quite some time. Many large displays will also remain, though some of the items within them will be rotated in and out. And each season there are entirely new exhibits that the staff begins planning years in advance.
Fans will be able to enjoy two new exhibits this year. Crosley Field Remembered shares the history of the home of the Reds from 1912 to 1970. The Negro Leagues and Cincinnati is part of the Reds’ season-long celebration of the Civil Rights Game on June 20 against the Chicago White Sox. u __________________________________ By Jason Jones. Share your thoughts and comments with the author and other readers at www.EastsiderMagazine.com. You can also view a slideshow of images fom the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum.
Reds Hall of Fame & Museum In-Season (March to September) - Non-Game Days: Sunday to Saturday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm - Game Days: Sunday to Saturday, 10:00 am until two hours after the end of the game for all afternoon games. Sunday to Saturday, 10:00 am to 8:00 pm for all evening games. Offseason (October 5 to February 28) - Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm - Closed on Mondays and major holidays. Admission - Adult Pass: $10, Includes unlimited visitation through December 31, 2009 - Senior Pass (55+): $8, Includes unlimited visitation through December 31, 2009 - Student Pass: $8, Includes unlimited visitation through December 31, 2009 - Children 4 and younger, active military members, and veterans are admitted free of charge.
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staff picks
home accents from local merchants Exquisitely Crewel What do you get when combining the artwork of Jose A.S. Londono and hand creweled wool embroidery? A dreamy Natura pillow that is simply sublime. Three sizes available. $98 - $198 @ HighStreet, (513) 723-1901.
Wise Choice This charming ceramic owl creamer can stand guard over your morning coffee, and during its free time can moonlight as a handsome vase. $16 @ Sassy Boutique, (513) 871-2500.
Got Paper? A copious assortment of color and pattern is sure to quench even the most creative appetites. Use it to wrap a gift, make sleeves for your chandelier or sconce, or create something that is uniquely your own. $4 - $18 @ Margot Madison, (513) 871-2069.
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Trayed Up Trade in the plain, mundane wood trays and graduate to this hand painted beauty. The vintage look hints of the Old World. $175 @ Quince & Quinn, (513) 321-3343.
Branching Out Who knew a maple branch could be so glam? A tealight nestled among these metallic leaves will certainly cause a stir. Available in English Oak or Maple: Silver, Brass or Bronze. $28 @ MiCA, (513) 533-1974.
It’s Show TIme! Display a single metal carnival letter, or corral a few letters to form a word. Either way, it will add instant wattage to your home’s interior. 24” H, available in any letter. $198 @ Nest, (513) 871-8852.
Alphabet Soup This tasteful take on the ABC’s offers a place for keys and random odds and ends to mingle, serving up a platter of organization and beauty that’s really appetizing. $30 @ Quince & Quinn, (513) 321-3343.
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the real story on real estate
what’s actually going on in the hyde park, mt. lookout, and oakley housing markets
“In general, I’d say that the housing market in Hyde Park, Mt. Lookout, and Oakley is down 10 to 15 percent,” says David Dawson of Sibcy Cline from a conference room looking out onto Hyde Park Square. “But if you compare that to the hit other housing markets have taken, or the hit your 401K has probably taken, then it doesn’t look like such a bad number.” With the gift of hindsight comes the knowledge that the downturn began in March 2006; putting us right at the beginning of the fourth year of an iffy housing market. Cities like Miami saw huge runs up the rollercoaster and are now seeing huge drop-offs. Cincinnati, while showing good appreciation and growth over the last half decade, was much more steady in its climb. And though we are not insulated, the fallout has been minor compared to the horror stories you may see in the national media. It is important to consider the national
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picture. But the old adage holds true: all real estate is local. The housing markets in Dayton or Northern Kentucky or even across town are facing completely different realities than our cluster of villages. Lee Robinson of Robinson Realtors explains that “Hyde Park, Mt. Lookout, and Oakley have actually been one of the bright spots within the Cincinnati region during the downturn. These are vibrant, active, and sought after areas. So we haven’t seen those value drops that others have.” Dawson sees house values in Hyde Park, Mt. Lookout, and Oakley at roughly the same level they were three or four years ago. If you purchased your home in 2003 or before, it should be worth more today than when you bought it. If you got into a property a few years later, then the value should be relatively the same as the purchase price. But if you purchased during the overlap between rising prices and eroding value,
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then you are seeing a noticeable decline in your equity, Bridging the Equity Gap. It is generally understood that it is a buyer’s market. First time home buyers are in a great position because they do not have to sell a property in order to get into another one. However, the weak market does provide a unique opportunity for those that are looking to both buy and sell. “Let’s say you are taking a ten percent hit,” says Robinson. “Most people are buying up at fifty to one hundred percent of their current home’s value. So, if you lose ten percent on selling your $200,000 house, but gain ten percent on purchasing a $300,000 house, then you come out ahead on the deal.” Dawson shares a similar story. “I just had a closing last week with clients who bought their house five years ago in East Hyde Park and are moving to a larger home
in Mt. Lookout. Their property is on the market right now, and they are basically not going to make any money on it. But they had a great house to live in for five years. When we met to go over pricing, he said ‘Look, I know we aren’t making anything on the current house, but we couldn’t have gotten this other property a year ago.’ I’ve probably had half a dozen clients do that in the past year.” Stimulating the Market. The overall housing market seems to be leveling off. While the bottom may be on the horizon, many are still skeptical. Neither Dawson or Robinson are predicting a banner year in 2009. A huge boost though is coming in the form of the government stimulus package. Since the elections in November, there has been massive speculation about the size and effectiveness of the plan. Would the government give a five, ten, or fifteen thousand dollar tax credit? Would every American citizen be guaranteed a 4 percent mortgage? Many were holding off to see how it would affect them. Now that the details are set in stone, lenders, realtors, buyers, and sellers can move forward. “Now we’ve got the inducement of the $8,000 tax credit. That is good for first time homebuyers – which is defined as someone who has not owned another piece of real estate for at least 3 years – with an annual income less than $75,000 for an individual or $150,000 for a couple. That will stimulate first time homebuyer and the bottom part of the market, which will move throughout the entire market in a domino effect,” Robinson says. Another problem plaguing the market is the assumption that money is not available
to borrowers. Again, in some areas around the country and the region, even people with good credit scores may not be able to get a car loan or a mortgage. But that does not appear to be the case here. While it was far easier to qualify for loans in years past, qualified buyers in our area are not being turned away like they are elsewhere. This, coupled with interest rates that are hovering at historic lows, is motivating buyers and sellers to stay active. Keeping a High Standard. Hyde Park, Mt. Lookout, and Oakley are not feeling the effects of multiple foreclosures and short sells, which can take a toll on streets, neighborhoods or entire communities. They are taking place in the villages, but not to a significant degree. There is also a good balance of people
amenities usually associated with the suburbs. Large stores and other chain retailers and restaurants have sprung up in the surrounding areas. This gives local residents convenience without clutter. And while the abundance of nearby private and parochial schools are a definite draw, many point out the strength of the Cincinnati Public Schools – like Kilgour, Walnut Hills, and Clark Montessori – that children in the area attend. Sellers in the area have a lot in their arsenal to attract buyers and keep values high. Tips for the Current Market. The number one key on the seller’s list has to be looking at what has sold. Not what is available for sale, but what has sold in the last several months. Make sure to look beyond the surface numbers (bedrooms, bathrooms, and price) to find out the details, such as if and when major updates where done, like to a kitchen or bathroom. This will allow you to price your house realistically and competitively. For those looking to purchase, it is still a buyers market. But do not get overconfident about price or availability. Waiting for interest rates to drop a fraction of a percentage may only save you a few dollars a month on your mortgage and you may miss out on the right house in the process. Plus, the onset of the spring market means more buyers are vying for the smaller available stock of houses. Buyers and sellers should both be aware that even in this market, houses are being sold, and good houses that are priced right will not be around forever. u __________________________________ By Katherine Barger. Share your thoughts and comments with the author and other readers at www.EastsiderMagazine.com.
“I know we aren’t making anything on the current house, but we couldn’t have gotten this other property a year ago.” moving into and out of the area. This keeps supply and demand at equilibrium. There are those that move to Mason or Anderson for the big house with the big yard. But there are others that are unwilling to move outside the villages they have come to love. “It’s just a different lifestyle around here. I’m a big fan of the city. And this area is great,” Dawson boasts. “You can walk to the park, or the store, or to school. It’s a lifestyle choice. People are impressed that they can get here from downtown within 10 minutes. And they are in awe of the beauty of the area, the architecture, the large trees. This is a real asset in pulling people in and getting them interested in buying.” The historic and quaint feel of the villages is now being bolstered by the
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What your Trip to the Store may Mean to The Planet There is a lot of talk bantered around about how to be more responsible when it comes to the environment. Now the conversation must also take into account how this will all impact the economics of the new millennium. There are smart energy grids, wind turbines, solar power, clean coal (whatever that means) – all promising to lower pollution and our energy bill. But these are things that you and I have very little, if any, control over. What we can control are much smaller everyday choices that make a huge impact. Paper or Plastic? If you are anything like me, every week you pull into your parking spot at the
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grocery store only to realize that you’ve left your stylish, eco-friendly totes in the kitchen. Despite your best efforts, you are once again faced with the choice... paper or plastic. Many may think paper is the clear choice when trying to minimize your carbon footprint. But the issue gets clouded when you take a closer look. Production is the first factor to take into consideration. Approximately 14 million trees are harvested every year to manufacture paper bags. Some see this as attributing to deforestation and erosion; others feel that this is utilizing a renewable resource. In the production of plastic bags, 12 million barrels of oil used in the production of plastic bags. But that is a slightly misleading statistic. The oil used is a derivative from a waste product of the refining process. So it is actually an efficient use of oil materials that are on hand.
Overall, manufacturing plastic bags uses less energy and causes fewer emissions than producing paper bags. It also produces less of a burden on the environment during transport because it is more compact - weighing less and taking up less space. This makes it much more efficient to ship from the manufacturer to the end user. At this point you may be thinking that plastic seems like the way to go. But now we delve into the reuse and recycle factor. “Plastic bags are difficult to recycle,” explains Brad Dunn, a recycling manager for Rumpke. He goes on to say that “most companies that accept these bags for reprocessing require them to be in an almost like-new condition. This typically results in them not being included in co-mingled recycling collections like Single Stream curbside or drop box programs.” If you live in Hyde Park, Mt. Lookout, or Oakley, then you know most of the grocers in our area make plastic bag recycling an option. But Dunn points out that if you compare the number of plastic bags leaving the store, to the number that get put back into the receptacles, most plastic grocery bags are not being recycled. In 2005, the Environmental Protection Agency estimated that just over five percent of all plastics bags were recycled. Since plastic bags are not biodegradable, even if they end up in a landfill, they still pose a negative affect on the environment. And those that end up as pollution can wreak havoc on local ecosystems. This has prompted cities
like San Francisco and countries like Ireland to ban the use of plastic bags all together. If these plastic bags do actually make it back to the recycling plant, they can typically be repurposed only once. The quality and integrity of the bag is so low by the second time around that it is unusable. Compare this to paper bags, which offer a much better recycling outlook. Not
“An EPA survey indicated that 56% of all paper bags produced Were recycled.” only are paper products easier to recycle because they are allowed in curbside pickup, but they can be repurposed many times over. Dunn points out “In 2007, an EPA survey indicated that 56% of all paper bags produced were recycled. These go into the manufacturing of cardboard or boxboard liner, which are items that can also be recycled again, and again until the fiber shortens to the point that it passes through the screens
at the mill. Each time the pulp is recycled it reduces the initial environmental impact because it takes less energy and creates less pollution to make the new item from recycled content.” There is no simple way to answer the question of “paper or plastic.” If we assume that people aren’t going to utilize recycling, then plastic bags win out. They require less energy and create fewer emissions during production and transport. But as recycling continues to become more prevalent, paper bags are the way to go. Your best bet is still to not forget those canvas bags on your next trip to the grocery store. To Chop or Not to Chop? You are back from the store. Your tote bag is put up, your paper bags have been placed into the recycling bin, or your plastic bags have been set aside to take back to the grocery store for recycling. Dinner is cooked and eaten... now it’s time for cleanup. Before you put those food scraps down the disposal, there are a few things you should consider. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Americans throw away over 25% of the food we prepare. This results in nearly 100 billion pounds of food waste each year. Most people think that food ending up in a landfill is no big deal. It is food after all – natural, organic – so it will biodegrade. But food waste that ends up in landfills often decomposes under anaerobic conditions. Without oxygen, this decomposition pro-
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duces methane. Far more destructive than carbon dioxide, methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas. Many think that putting table scraps into the sink and running them through the garbage disposal is the “green” thing to do. After all, this reduces the amount of waste that goes to landfills. And, as waste and water treatment plants have become more sophisticated and adopted new technologies, their ability to handle food scraps has improved. But most plants still have trouble disposing of sewage sludge. Adding more food scraps
increases the amount of sludge that must be properly and safely dealt with. There is research showing that sludge can have a positive effect when used as fertilizer on farms and crops. But the fear of chemicals, metals, and toxic substances making their way into the ground, not to mention the odor, make this an undesirable alternative. There is anotehr option, but it comes in the form of two words every would-be do-gooder hates to hear… compost pile. Composting has a reputation for being a hassle. While it is more involved than simply creating a
automatic indoor composter
pile of grass clippings and banana peels in the back yard, there isn’t much required to successfully compost. With compost bins, barrel tumblers, and even automatic indoor composters that look and act like trash compactors, it’s never been easier to turn natural waste into fertilizer and keep it out of landfills. Keep Cincinnati Beautiful. Wheter you are doing your part in the store and at home or not, there are always more opportunities to help clean up and better our community. “We are a nonprofit organization here in Cincinnati, and our mission is to help the city to not just look better, but also be cleaner and greener,” says Josman Rodriguez of Keep Cincinnati Beautiful. KCB has developed education programs for adults and children. Teaching people about the environment at an early age means that there isn’t as much to clean up later. But there is still work to do, so they also organize and lead clean up events all over the city. These events are made possible by lots of volunteers. Volunteers which are gathered from from the area where the cleanup is taking place. “When the locals are involved,
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What to Put in the Little Green Bin? Rumpke provides a list of items that can and cannot be put into your curbside recycling bin. Make sure that items are clean or rinsed out and free of any food or debris. While you should remove lids, there is no need to take off labels. If you have a large, electronic, or hazardous item, or an item that is not accepted by Rumpke and are unsure if and where it can be recycled, contact the Hamilton County Department of Environmental Services at (513) 946-7734 or visit www.hcdoes.org. ACCEPTABLE ITEMS: - Plastic bottles #1 and #2, no lids - Glass jars and bottles of any color - Aluminum, steel and bi-metal cans - Empty aerosol cans with lids and tips removed - Brown grocery bags - Computer paper, and other mixed office paper - Corrugated cardboard, broken down to 3’x3’ - Envelopes, with or without windows - Junk mail - Magazines and Newspapers with inserts - Paperboard, such as cereal boxes - Telephone books
they get to see what is actually taking place in their community. The area is much more likely to stay clean this way because those that live there are involved and feel a sense of pride about keeping the area kept up.” But they do encourage people from any part of town to help out however and whenever they can. In addition to the education and cleanup programs, Keep Cincinnati Beautiful is very involved with the city government and companies like Rumpke in recycling initiatives. Their efforts have helped the city increase the amount of waste that is being recycled from 9% in 2006 to 12% in 2008. When you consider that the city is putting nearly 300,000 tons of waste into landfills each year, every percentage point gained is
UNACCEPTABLE ITEMS: - Plastics #3-7 - Plastics #1 and #2 that are not bottles, such as Cool Whip containers, butter tubs, or food trays - Plastic bags - Motor oil jugs or other chemical containers - Styrofoam - Lids/caps - Window or drinking glass - Light bulbs - Pizza boxes - Coat hangers or steel scrap - Paint cans
a major feat. You can get involved with Keep Cincinnati Beautiful through their volunteering and education opportunities, or their Adopt-A-Spot program. Their biggest event of the year is the Great American Cleanup. Nearly 1,600 participants took part in last year’s program. This year, the event will take place on April 20.
You can learn more about Keep Cincinnati Beautiful and how to get involved in their efforts by calling (513)352-4387 or visiting www. keepcincinnatibeautiful.org. u __________________________________ By Jason Jones. Share your thoughts and comments with the author and other readers at www.EastsiderMagazine.com.
Audience Participation. In 2008, residents of Hyde Park, Mt. Lookout, and Oakley participated in the following Hamilton County Department of Environmental Services collection programs: 64 residents - Compost Bin Sale 125 residents - Computer Recycling 215 residents - Yardwaste Drop-Off Sites 510 residents - Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off
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camp’s secret weapon
the buzz about emotional intelligence and your child
Why consider summer camp for your child? Perhaps you hope to raise another Michelle Kwan or Tiger Woods. Maybe you are desperate for an alternative to a summer of day care, chauffeuring, and video games. There is another even more compelling reason to consider a high-quality summer camp. Children at summer camps are learning vital life skills that will help them grow – and will make their lives healthier and happier all along the way. It’s the new buzz word in educational theory that’s been at work in quality summer camps for years: Emotional Intelligence. Emotional Intelligence: Nature or Nurture? Children who attend camp often demonstrate sophisticated skills in areas scientists are suddenly watching closely. Observers are finding that a set of abilities, collectively called Emotional Intelligence, has much to do with how children grow and succeed. These skills – self-awareness,
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self-control, empathy, the ability to wait (delayed gratification), the ability to listen, cooperate, share, and work well with others – are actually better predictors of adult success and happiness than traditional IQ scores. In Emotional Intelligence, clinical psychologist and author Daniel Goleman makes two important assertions, assertions that parents may not find surprising. His first assertion is based on new research that shows children whose Emotional Intelligence skills are well-developed tend to be more successful at school, have deeper and healthier relationships, grow up to have more fulfilling work lives, and become valuable and contributing members of their communities. Goleman’s second assertion is these Emotional Intelligence skills can be taught. Children can learn and practice these wonderfully valuable qualities under the
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guidance of thoughtful and aware adults – parents, teachers, and youth leaders of all sorts. The importance of this assertion is hard to overemphasize. Parents have long tried to teach courtesy and politeness to their children, but were never sure their teaching could overcome innate tendencies. Parents may have assumed certain tendencies, like the patience children display naturally, their ability to share, whether they are gentle friends or playground bullies are present from birth. A group of researchers, led by Howard Gardner, a psychologist at the Harvard School of Education, have proved otherwise. They have shown that thoughtful teaching, conversation, modeling, and practice can develop and nurture these skills, especially when that teaching is consistent throughout a child’s day and year. Real Challenges Build Resiliency. There are ways to help kids grow up to be the happy and productive people parents hope they will be. And summer camp is a vital part of the puzzle. The best-kept secret in American education is that great camps have been teaching Emotional Intelligence since they began. Besides their long years of practice in this arena, camps have another edge. Because camps are free of the demands of curriculum and academic testing, camp professionals can focus on those intangibles that are part of the Emotional Intelligence cluster. When children are away from home with new friends and the new challenges of camp, they can learn more about themselves, their own strengths, and abilities. Perhaps the canoe doesn’t head where it should at first, or a cabin-mate is unwilling to be friendly. Away from the familiarity of home and school, campers can test their own perseverance, and, with caring and thoughtful help, build new life skills for themselves. Meeting these
challenges brings true self-esteem, the kind that is earned, not empty words. Talking about self-esteem or trying to bolster it in kids does not work without real challenge in safe and supportive communities. Social skills, too, grow exponentially at camp. A campfire marshmallow roast is an exercise in sharing of sticks and the front row around the campfire. When campers take turns carrying the lunch to the top of the mountain, they learn firsthand how wonderful working together can be. A good counselor will gently remind his/her young hikers of this lesson, not later, but during the climb, when the message is fresh. Teachable Moments at Camp. Summer camps work hard to train staff
in modeling and teaching Emotional Intelligence skills. Camp directors hire staff with strengths in these areas over candidates who are merely athletes or coaches. Camp counselors can be wonderful role models for children. They are often closer in age than teachers, and the informal atmosphere of camp encourages relaxed conversations at picnics or getting ready for bed. Then, too, there are usually more counselors with the children than in a regular classroom, allowing more interaction than one lone hard-working teacher can possibly supply. Every one of these interactions is a potential teaching moment for essential life skills. When children find adult friends at camp who model perseverance, listening,
teamwork, and appreciation of differences, they set new and high standards for their own behavior. When they feel appreciated and valued by these friends, they are surer of their ability to live happily away from home. Successful camp summers can help smooth the transition to college in later years. Camp is a key opportunity for growth, both for children who thrive at school and for those who struggle. Talented students develop their abilities to cooperate and share in a community where they don’t worry about grades and academic competition. Children whose school lives are difficult find real rewards in new opportunities to shine. Having a chance to practice being a leader may be a rare experience for them indeed!
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At summer camp, children learn from trained and thoughtful counselors. They talk about Emotional Intelligence every day and hone their skills in a safe and nurturing community. Children at camp know firsthand the value of cooperation and teamwork, and they practice listening, sharing, and waiting their turn every day. After Camp and Beyond. When campers return home from camp, parents have an excellent opportunity to help them keep building their summer skills throughout the year. For examle, chores are often a great teaching opportunity at home. Parents who model working together as a family to get jobs done are reinforcing vital lessons from camp.
Empathy means recognizing others’ needs, literally “feeling with” another person. Television reports are full of stories of children who have not been taught to empathize, children who become bullies or delinquents or worse. Parents can use these same TV reports as teaching moments about caring and sympathy. Parents can also make sure teachers and caregivers understand the importance of teaching Emotional Intelligence skills. Do teachers, for example, set up such strong competition in their classrooms that kids don’t feel encouraged to care about their friends? Do coaches reward only the most aggressive players and talk of winning at all costs?
Ballet Theatre Midwest: Children’s Dance Music & Art Workshop / Summer Intensive Program The Carnegie Center of Columbia Tusculum 3738 Eastern Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45226 (513) 520-2334 www.ballettheatremidwest.com Ballet Theatre Midwest – Children’s Dance, Music and Art Workshop (Ages 4 to 8) presents weekly themes with Friday performances that feature arts and crafts, music and dance. Jazz/Musical Theatre Workshop and Ballet Summer Intensive Performance Workshop (Ages 8 to 25) offers outstanding technical and artistic training with public performances. Please visit website for details.
6201 Kellogg Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45238 (513) 232-6701 www.coneyislandpark.com Coney Island presents Camp Coney, a series of day camps that offers a unique approach to summer ‘edu-tainment’!
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Camp Coney is made up of six Friday Fun Camps and two 5-day sessions: Stage Camp and Stage Camp Junior! See website for dates, age restrictions and camp themes.
CCM Preparatory Summer Camps CCM Village, University of Cincinnati Cincinnati, OH 45221 (513) 556-2595 www.ccm.uc.edu/prep Beginning June 15, CCM Prep offers ages 4 to high school a variety of arts based experiences. Students participate in music, ballet, and theatre arts camps and classes on the CCM campus with public performances. Price ranges from $75. Adult opportunities available.
Clifton Performance Theatre
Camp Coney
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Parents who build a year-round program to teach Emotional Intelligence skills to their kids will find the lessons reinforce each other in wonderful ways. And summer camps, where these lessons have been taught for years, are a key part of the reinforcement. With the spotlight finally where it belongs, on Emotional Intelligence, the best-kept secret in American education, the quality summer camp, will not be a secret much longer! To learn more about camp and child development, please visit the American Camp Association’s family Web site: www. CampParents.org. u __________________________________ Posie Taylor serves as a board member-atlarge of the American Camp Association.
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Clifton Cultural Arts Center 3711 Clifton Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45220 (513) 861-7569 www.cliftonperformancetheatre.com From Casting to Curtain Call – an exciting week of acting,
singing, and dance as we prepare a fantastic performance, including designing costumes and building sets. No experience necessary, no auditions. We provide non-competitive, fun environment. After a week of working together, campers will perform a classic Broadway show for family and friends.
Imago Nature Summer Camp 700 Enright Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45205 (513) 921-5124 www.imagoearth.org Imago camps run from June 8 to July 24 with 6 weeks of different nature-inspired themes. With a 3 to 5 year-old group, a 6 to 10 year-old group, and one week of 10 to 14 year-olds, every camp is full of age appropriate games, hikes, and crafts.
Mad Science @ Crossroads Community Church 3500 Madison Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45209 (513) 793-6784 www.madscience.org/cincinnati Mad Science, Cincinnati Magazine’s “Best Children’s Educational Entertainer” for 2008, offers interactive, hands-on and inquiry based 4-day camps for ages 5 to 12. Multiple themes for half-day (morning/afternoon) and full day sessions the weeks of June 15 & 22, July 13 & 20, and August 3. Mad Science will help your child “exercise” their brain during the lazy days of summer!
Springer School & Center’s Adventures in Summer Learning 2121 Madison Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45208 (513) 871-6080 www.springer-ld.org “Adventures in Summer Learning” is designed for students of at least average potential who are not making expected progress. The morning program helps children become confident in the basic skills through small group instruction. The afternoon program consists of specialized courses in math, writing, social skills, and creative expression.
Trivictory Summer Day Camp, Xavier University O’Connor Sports Center 5800 Victory Parkway Cincinnati, OH 45207 (513) 745-3044 www.trivictory.com This is Trivictory’s 23rd year at XU and is designed for children (boys and girls) ages 5 to 8 and 9 to 12. The camp offers theme weeks, trips off campus, and daily swim lessons at the indoor pool. Education/college age staff is certified in CPR/First Aid and develop the daily activity. June 8 – August 14. Contact Jim Ray with questions.
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calendar
| visit www.eastsidermagazine.com for our full list of events
Mauritius Through April 5 Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati (513) 421-3555 www.cincyetc.com When a young woman unknowingly inherits the rarest of stamps from her mother, a suspenseful caper ensues.
www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org An Art Museum staff member will discuss an aspect of Art Museum’s artistic operations.
Cyclones Hockey April 1, 3–4, 7:30 pm US Bank Arena (513) 421-PUCK
Weekday Special Exhibition Tour April 2, 1:00 pm Cincinnati Art Museum (513) 721-ARTS www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org Enjoy a tour of a current special exhibition, led by a trained museum docent.
Saint Ursula Academy: Once Upon a Mattress
Mauritius Peaceful Spring Show Through April 12 Krohn Conservatory (513) 421.5707 www.Cincinnatiparks.com The gardens of Peaceful Spring at Krohn Conservatory will be filled with a myriad of early spring flowers and beautiful water features.
Preschool Story Time April 1, 10:30 am Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore (513) 731-2665 www.bluemanateebooks.com Get ready for finger puppet fun, as well as other pleasant surprises with Miss Gail!
Art Du Jour April 1, 12:00 noon Cincinnati Art Museum (513) 721-ARTS.
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www.cycloneshockey.com The Cyclones take on the Johnstown Chiefs.
Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy April 1-12 Aronoff Center (513) 621-2787 www.cincinnatiarts.org This adventure takes audiences soaring into a magical forest through the air and on stage.
The Comedy of Errors April 1-26 Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (513) 381-BARD www.cincyshakes.com Set against the backdrop of campy sci-fi movies from the ‘50s, The Comedy of Errors is a comical series of uncanny catastrophes.
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Family First Saturday April 4, 1:00 - 4:00 pm Cincinnati Art Museum (513) 721-ARTS. www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org These fun-filled events celebrate a different creative theme each month through performances, demonstrating artists, scavenger hunts, tours, and hands-on art activities.
April 2-5 Aronoff Center (513) 621-2787 www.cincinnatiarts.org In this hilarious tweaking of the fairy tale, ‘The Princess and the Pea’, Queen Aggravain has ruled that none may marry until her son, Prince Dauntless, does.
German Story Time
Tony Woods
April 4, 1:30 pm Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore (513) 731-2665 www.bluemanateebooks.com Illustrator Will Hillenbrand signs One Fine Trade.
April 2-5 Go Bananas Comedy Club (513) 984-9288 www.gobananascomedy.com Tony Woods’ playful and cool demeanor, creates a show that is unmistakably entertaining at every level.
Aries Spears Funny Bone on the Levee April 2–5 (859) 957-2000 www.funnyboneonthelevee.com As a principal cast member on FOX’s hit sketch comedy show MAD TV, Spears brings a fresh, hip style to his show.
Jewelry Trunk Show April 3-4, 12:00 - 5:00 pm Cincinnati Art Museum (513) 721-ARTS. www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org A special jewelry event, featuring top Israeli designers Ayala Bar and Dori Csengeri.
April 4, 10:30 am Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore (513) 731-2665 www.bluemanateebooks.com Come hear stories read in German by Cristina, a native speaker who will teach the basics of the language.
Illustrator Book Signing
Fountain Day April 4, 6:00 - 9:00 pm Fountain Square www.myfountainsquare.com The second annual Fountain Day will be celebrated with music, speeches, and fireworks.
Theory of Mind April 4, 10:30 am & 1:00 pm Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park (513) 421-3888 www.cincyplay.com For ages 12 and up. Falling in love is complicated for Bill, a 16-year-old with extraordinary abilities.
Family ARTventures April 5, 3:00 pm Cincinnati Art Museum (513) 721-ARTS. www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org These 45-minute tours include hands-on elements for you and your children to touch and see up close.
Doc Severinsen & Friends
Read a picture book and create an art project based on the book. Ages 2-4.
Reds vs. Mets April 6, 8 – 9, 1:10 pm Great American Ballpark www.reds.com The Reds take on the New York Mets.
April 5, 3:00 pm Music Hall (513) 381-3300 www.cincinnatisymphony.org The latest adventure of famed trumpeter and television legend, Doc Severinsen, takes us on a dream tour of sunny Mexico.
Preschool Story Time
Parties of Note
Artist File: Camille Pissarro
April 5, 2:00 – 4:00 pm (513) 381-3300 www.cincinnatisymphony.org We Are What We Wear: A Century in Fashion. If you are looking for something fun to do while also benefiting a good cause—your Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra—Parties of Note are for you.
Living Our Green Life: Sustainable Transportation
Zoo Blooms April 5–22 Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (513) 281-4700 www.cincinnatizoo.org The zoo will transform into a magnificent explosion of color when Zoo Blooms kicks off.
Opening Day Festivities April 6, 11:00 am – 9:00 pm Fountain Square www.myfountainsquare.com On Fountain Square, we celebrate with a whole weekend of activities, starting on Saturday night with the official turning-on of the Tyler Davidson Fountain for the season.
Make a Mess April 6, 10:30 am Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore (513) 731-2665 www.bluemanateebooks.com
April 8, 10:30 am Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore (513) 731-2665 www.bluemanateebooks.com Get ready for finger puppet fun, as well as other pleasant surprises with Miss Gail! April 8, 7:00 pm Cincinnati Art Museum (513) 721-ARTS. www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org Informal and inspiring, just drop in to learn the story of different artist each month.
Tom Foss
Brunch, Art, Music
April 9–12 Funny Bone on the Levee (859) 957-2000 www.funnyboneonthelevee.com Foss was part of Comic’s On Duty in 2005.
April 11, 2:00 – 3:00 pm Cincinnati Art Museum (513) 721-ARTS. www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org Come enjoy classically trained Eastern European Jewish folk musicians from the Cincinnati Klezmer Project and art from the Surrealism and Beyond exhibition.
Pink Floyd Tribute Band April 10, 8:00 pm The 20th Century Theatre (513) 731-8000 www.the20thcenturytheatre.com Signs of Life, a Pink Floyd Tribute Band, perform.
Culture Kids April 10, 2:00 – 3:30 pm Cincinnati Art Museum (513) 721-ARTS. www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org Preschoolers and their parents enjoy story time, tours, snack, and hands-on art activities.
Easter Celebration April 11 Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (513) 281-4700 www.cincinnatizoo.org An egg-citing event for children young and old that includes treat stations throughout the park, children’s activities, animal egg hunts, and more.
April 8, 6:00 – 8:00 pm Krohn Conservatory (513) 352-4080 www.cincinnatiparks.com Krohn Conservatory staff will drop some “Green” knowledge on you. Reservations suggested.
Tunes & Blooms April 9, 6:00 – 8:30 pm Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (513) 281-4700 www.cincinnatizoo.org The Newbees and Screaming Mimes perform.
Reds vs. Pirates
Easter Egg Hunt
April 10-12 Great American Ballpark www.reds.com The Reds take on the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Baby & Toddler Music
Nature Story Time
April 11, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Fountain Square www.myfountainsquare.com On the Saturday before Easter, join us in the annual traditional Egg Hunt.
April 9, 11:15 am Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore (513) 731-2665 www.bluemanateebooks.com Ages 18 months to 3 years. We’ll move, sing songs, and mostly enjoy time together.
April 11, 10:30 am Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore (513) 731-2665 www.bluemanateebooks.com Join an Imago Earth Center naturalist for an exciting hour about Native Americans!
Wildflower Walk April 11, 11:00 am – 12:30 pm California Woods (513) 231-8678 www.cincinnatiparks.com Hike along a nationally designated Scenic Trail as we search for wildflowers.
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Vigil April 11–25 Know Theatre Of Cincinnati (513) 300-KNOW www.knowtheatre.com A widow prepares for her first date since her husband’s death, while his soul discusses his wife’s favorite flowers with her new wooer.
Tip-Toe Through the Tulips Luncheon April 16 Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (513) 281-4700 www.cincinnatizoo.org Celebrate Zoo Blooms and dine amongst the tulips.
Matt Braunger
Drawing Into Abstraction
April 16 – 19 Go Bananas Comedy Club (513) 984-9288 www.gobananascomedy.com Braunger’s television credits include Mad TV and Pushing Daisies.
April 18, 1:00 - 4:00 pm Cincinnati Art Museum (513) 721-ARTS. www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org This Adult Studio Workshop challenges your left and right brain.
Ray LaMontagne April 18, 8:00 pm Taft Theatre (513) 721-8883 www.livenation.com The singer-songwriter, and recent Saturday Night Live musical guest, performs.
Family ARTventures April 12, 3:00 pm Cincinnati Art Museum (513) 721-ARTS. www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org These 45-minute tours include hands-on elements for you and your children to touch and see up close.
International Butterfly Show April 18 - June 21 Krohn Conservatory (513) 352-3380 www.cincinnatiparks.com This year’s show features the butterflies and culture of India.
Make a Mess April 13, 3:30 pm Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore (513) 731-2665 www.bluemanateebooks.com A semi-structured open studio led by blue manatee’s artist-inresidence.
Wildflower Walk and Talk
Umphrey’s McGee April 14, 7:30 pm Taft Theatre (513) 721-8883 www.livenation.com The progressive rock / jam band from South Bend, Indiana performs.
Opera Rap: Ainadamar April 14, 7:00 pm Taft Museum of Art (513) 241-0343 www.taftmuseum.org Join Desirée Mays, of the Santa Fe Opera,, for a lively discussion of this contemporary Spanish opera.
Barrows Lecture Series April 15, 7:00 pm Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (513) 281-4700 www.cincinnatizoo.org Award-winning photographer Gerry Ellis will discuss “Wanderings on a Wild Planet.”
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Ray LaMontagne Tunes & Blooms
Greg Warren
April 16, 6:00 – 8:30 pm Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (513) 281-4700 www.cincinnatizoo.org Faux Frenchmen and Psychodots perform.
Funny Bone on the Levee April 16 – 19 (859) 957-2000 www.funnyboneonthelevee.com Greg Warren, most recently seen on “The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson,” has been building a strong fan base around the country with his act inspired by stories from his Midwestern upbringing.
SCPA: Moon Over Buffalo April 16-19 Aronoff Center (513) 621-2787 www.cincinnatiarts.org George and Charlotte Hay are has-been actors who are on the brink of a disastrous split-up caused by George’s dalliance with a young ingenue. Just as they receive word that they might just have one last shot at stardom, everything that could go wrong does go wrong, resulting in non-stop hilarity.
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Digital Quilt Premiere April 17, 4:00 – 4:30 pm Fountain Square www.myfountainsquare.com The Cincinnati Recreation Commission will gather kids who helped produce the “Digital Quilt Project” to watch the finished video for the first time on the Fountain Square video board.
April 18, 10:30am – 12:00pm Burnet Woods (513) 751-3679 www.cincinnatiparks.com Let’s celebrate spring as we walk the wooded hillsides in search of our woodland wildflowers. Early folklore and interesting stories will be shared.
Earth Day Party April 19, 1:00 pm Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore (513) 731-2665 www.bluemanateebooks.com Celebrate Earth Day.
Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons April 19, 7:30 pm Aronoff Center (513) 621-2787 www.cincinnatiarts.org Don’t miss this performance by the original Jersey boy. Frankie Valli is a true American pop icon.
Parties of Note
Tunes & Blooms
French Story Time
Reds vs. Astros
April 19, 4:00 – 6:00 pm (513) 381-3300 www.cincinnatisymphony.org A Victorian High Tea. If you are looking for something fun to do while also benefiting a good cause—your Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra—Parties of Note are for you.
April 23, 6:00 – 8:30 pm Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (513) 281-4700 www.cincinnatizoo.org Jake Speed & the Freddies and The Turkeys perform.
April 25, 10:30am Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore (513) 731-2665 www.bluemanateebooks.com Read stories, sing songs and learn simple French vocabulary with Maria. For all ages.
April 27-29 Great American Ballpark www.reds.com The Reds take on the Houston Astros.
April 23 - 25 Funny Bone on the Levee (859) 957-2000 www.funnyboneonthelevee.com Breuer has already established himself as a powerful comedian through his incredible stand-up performances, 4 years on SNL, and his numerous movie roles.
Mike Epps
April 29 - May 17 Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati (513)421-3555 www.cincyetc.com From the writers of the smash hit Ace comes this charming new musical that takes us on the winding road of parenting.
Michael Winslow
April 25, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm California Woods (513) 231-8678 www.cincinnatiparks.com Take part in “Living Our Green Life” by volunteering in your local Cincinnati Parks to assist with removal of invasive plants and litter, and other dirty but healthy jobs.
Cello, Plus, Plus April 19, 2:30 pm Taft Museum of Art (513) 241-0343 www.taftmuseum.org Alan Rafferty, cello; Jonathan Gunn, clarinet; Chimini Ikeda, piano.
Rocco DeLuca April 20, 8:00 pm The 20th Century Theatre (513) 731-8000 www.the20thcenturytheatre.com Rocco DeLuca and The Burden perform.
Party for the Planet April 22 Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (513) 281-4700 www.cincinnatizoo.org Earth Day activities will be going on throughout the day including live music, special give-a-ways, eco-friendly crafts and activities, conservation talks, and more.
Jim Breuer
April 23 – 26 Go Bananas Comedy Club (513) 984-9288 www.gobananascomedy.com Actor and comedian Michael Winslow is known worldwide for his wacky role as officer Larvelle Jones in the “Police Academy” film series. April 24, 7:00 to 11:00 pm Taft Museum of Art (513) 241-0343 www.taftmuseum.org It’s almost a wrap on Fashion in Film, but before it’s over, join your friends at this party for a celebration of cinema!
Ballet Tech Cincinnati: Myth
April 22, 10:30 am Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore (513) 731-2665 www.bluemanateebooks.com Get ready for finger puppet fun, as well as other pleasant surprises with Miss Gail!
April 24-25 Aronoff Center (513) 621-2787 www.cincinnatiarts.org This Leaping For Literacy production explores the myths of many cultures including Greek, Roman, Norse, Indian, Chinese, African, Native American and others.
April 23, 11:15 am Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore (513) 731-2665 www.bluemanateebooks.com Perfect for kids under the age of three. We’ll move, sing songs, and mostly enjoy time together.
Green Up Day in Cincinnati Parks
Tunes & Blooms April 30, 6:00 – 8:30 pm Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (513) 281-4700 www.cincinnatizoo.org Rumpke Mountain Boys and The Comet Bluegrass Allstars perform.
Fashion in Film Wrap Party
Preschool Story Time
Baby/Toddler Music
April 25, 8:00 pm Taft Theatre (513) 721-8883 www.livenation.com The comedian and actor performs.
Don’t Make Me Pull This Show Over
Jim Breuer
Reds vs. Braves April 24-26 Great American Ballpark www.reds.com The Reds take on the Atlanta Braves.
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