April 2023

April 2023

FOCUS ON: Mentoring & Educational Support

Jordan Bankston of Forever Kings

April theater & choral picks

Informed. Inspired. Involved.

Movers &Makers

April 2023

Publishers’ Letter 4

Arts/Culture 6

MoversMakers.org

Four choral concerts explore the Black experience 6 Spring theater brings new stages, new productions, new promise | By David Lyman 8

The A/C List 10

‘Wild & Scenic’ films coming to Woodward 10

CAC to open two exhibitions examining heroes 14

The Datebook 17

Social calendar with a spotlight on the movers and makers behind Greater Cincinnati’s fundraisers, friend-raisers and community events.

FOCUS ON 18

Jordan Bankston of Forever Kings helps young men reimagine their futures | By Byron McCauley 22

Notables: Mentoring/Educational Support 24

Museum Center, C2C partner with Adopt A Class 27

Gifts/Grants 28

Nonprofit News 30

Names in the News 32

Snapshots 34

30th annual Heart Ball raises $1.2 million 34

Super Bowl event supports Lindner Center 35

Securing the Future draws packed house 36

Red and Black Blast surpasses $90K 38

Dinner exceeds $94K for Stepping Stones 39

HRC dinner supports LGBTQ+ community 40

Victorian at Riverside hosts Have a Heart gala 41

Crowd celebrates ‘Ecologies of Elsewhere’ at CAC 42

UC center sponsors first Ethics Bowl 44

Aeqai fundraiser sells 70 artworks 46

Onyx & Ruby Gala at UC celebrates Black excellence 47

Student’s anorexia story wins Rotary speech contest 48

Forever Kings celebrates creative projects 49

The

Last Word 50

Polly Campbell: Cultivating our friendships with trees

“My daughters were concerned about me living alone. They visited Twin Lakes and knew this was the place for me. I enjoy all of the conveniences Twin Lakes offers. I can go to the Campus Shop to buy stamps and greeting cards for my grandchildren, get my haircut in the salon or go to the fitness room to exercise. My daughters have peace of mind knowing someone is always here if I need anything.”

Dennis Schone, Twin Lakes Assisted Living resident

On the cover: Jordan Bankston, photo by by Wendell Gibbs Jr. of Eleven27 Media Group for Movers & Makers, ©2023

At Twin Lakes Assisted Living, you can maintain your independence while having the support you need.

Twin Lakes, a Life Enriching Communities campus, welcomes people of all faiths. Find our complete non-discrimination policy at www.LEC.org

school is simply not enough. Sometimes family is not enough. Sometimes it does take a village.

In our complicated, often chaotic lives, young people can slip through the cracks; they can fall behind. And our educational treadmill moves on relentlessly. That’s where nonprofits step in to assist and support those left behind. This month, we celebrate those efforts.

A young Jordan Bankston was one of those who could have easily been marginalized. But as he made a better future for himself, he realized that many young Black men need help imagining and attaining better futures of their own, to be shown the possibilities available to them. He decided to create an organization to do just that. Forever Kings was born. Byron McCauley shares Jordan’s story on page 22. We thank Wendell Gibbs Jr., a photographer who works with Forever Kings, for his contributions to this issue. Meet other Notables within the mentoring and educational enhancement ecosystem on page 24.

Spring is a busy time in the performing arts as organizations begin to wrap up their seasons. David Lyman recommends five theater productions taking place in April. See page 8. And four area choirs are all exploring elements of the Black experience this month, something unprecedented to our knowledge. Check out those performances on page 6.

And as the art seasons wind down, life outdoors reemerges. Polly Campbell discusses the benefits of tree hugging – both figurative and literal – in her column on page 50.

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Thom & Elizabeth Mariner, co-publishers Doug Bolton, interim editor and M&MP board chair

For their work on this issue, our gratitude to:

• Doug Bolton, interim editor

• Phil Fisher, copy editor

• Wendell Gibbs Jr., cover story photographer

• Tamara Behrens and Shasta Taber, proofreaders

• All the nonprofits who contributed news and photos.

In it, you will find a link to Thom Mariner’s Culture FIX column, posted every Wednesday morning at MoversMakers.org. He outlines the best local arts & culture events for the week ahead, based on more than four decades of experience working in the Cincinnati arts scene. Also in the newsletter – links to our latest posts of local nonprofit news, people on the move, gifts and grants and much more.

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Elizabeth & Thom Mariner, co-publishers

Digital edition & daily posts www.MoversMakers.org

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© Copyright 2023 Movers & Makers Publishing

We make every effort to verify information submitted for publication (print and online), but are not responsible for incorrect information or misidentified photos provided to us.

Readers are advised to confirm event dates and other important details and check for last-minute changes with the organizations or advertisers involved.

Publication of this magazine and its website (www.MoversMakers.org) does not necessarily constitute an endorsement of any information contained within, including advertisements and links. Movers & Makers Publishing is a nonprofit with fiscal sponsorship provided by Cincinnati Cares.

The publishers at Japp’s in OTR

By Thom Mariner

Four April choral concerts explore the Black experience

Christian Holy Week music dominates the first week in April (Palm Sunday through Easter), but there are several opportunities to explore both sacred and secular music the rest of the month. Events in recent years (such as the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and others) have pointed to the need for a broader understanding of what it means to be Black in America. Leaders of choral organizations across the nation have taken it upon themselves to address this issue, and this month we have a concentration of local concerts shedding different rays of light on the Black experience.

Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra

Classical Roots

April 14, 7:30 p.m.

Music Hall, Over-the-Rhine

This annual presentation melds Black gospel with the traditional symphony orchestra, mass choir and, this year, the bigger-than-life personality of Donald Lawrence. Lawrence is a 1980s CCM musical theater grad who made it very big in the gospel and R&B realms. Pops Conductor John Morris Russell leads the massed forces in a wide-ranging celebration of African American music. Jason Alexander Holmes, Cincinnati Boychoir music director, leads the Classical Roots Community Choir.

 www.cincinnatisymphony.org

Viva Voices

‘I Have a Dream’- A Choral Tribute

April 22, 6 p.m.

Allen Temple AME Church, Bond Hill

In 2021, conductor Tony Burdette established a multitiered Northern Kentucky choral music organization: children’s choir, youth chorus, adult chorale and select vocal chamber ensemble. For this concert, the two adult Viva Voices choirs join forces with the Central State University Chorus and gospel star Callie Day. The program features choral and solo repertoire of varying styles – classical, gospel, spirituals and pop – and will commemorate the 60th anniversary of Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech. Free, with donations encouraged.

 www.vivavoices.net

Fluidity

‘Bending the Arc’

April 23, 5 p.m.

Hebrew Union College, Clifton

Fluidity, a Creative Choral Community for a Cause, raises funds to benefit partner nonprofit organizations, in this case the Ohio Innocence Project. The intent here is “to bring awareness to inhumane, wrongful deaths and reclaim the humanity of seven black men.” The vehicle is composer Joel Thompson’s “Seven Last Words of the Unarmed,” which will be inlaid within the sacred music of Gabriel Faure’s tender, consoling Requiem, led by music director Matthew Moquin-Lee. Prior to the performance, a select group of recently exonerated community members will inform the audience of OIP’s impact on their lives and in our community.

 www.fluiditycccc.org

Vocal Arts Ensemble

Paul Moravec: ‘Sanctuary Road’

April 29, 7:30 p.m.

Aronoff Center, downtown

The Vocal Arts Ensemble has been the region’s premiere chorus for more than four decades. This 2017 oratorio by Pulitzer Prize winner Moravec draws on stories from William Still’s book “The Underground Railroad.” Still, an African American conductor on the Underground Railroad, facilitated the escape of some 800 fugitive slaves, recording in detail their accounts and eventually compiling them in his landmark 1872 book. For this performance, music director Craig Hella Johnson has commissioned a new chamber orchestration intended to better suit VAE’s reduced choral forces.

 www.vaecinci.com

Gospel singer Callie Day

“Underground Railroad” author William Still

Classical Roots Community Choir

Fluidity’s Matthew Moquin-Lee

Classical Roots headliner Donald Lawrence

Sivan Silver and Gil Garburg

SETTING A NEW STANDARD IN THE ART OF THE PIANO DUO

Sunday, May 7

3 PM

Anderson Hills United Methodist Church 7515 Forest Road, Cincinnati, 45255

• Have performed and collaborated with orchestras in 70 countries on five continents

• Appeared as soloists with the Orchestra of the Americas alongside Yo-Yo Ma and Claudio Bohorquez on their 2021 European tour

• Since 2014, have occupied one of the few extant professorships for piano duo at the Graz University of the Arts

“ [The duo demonstrates] lyrical sensitivity and ravishing technical mastery…only rarely does one experience such spontaneous shouts of ‘bravo’ at the end of a concert.”

—Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung

“ The Silver-Garburg Piano Duo compels with their superb sound and outstanding ensemble playing… Extremely classy.”

—Concerti

Tickets: MemorialHallOTR.org or 513-977-8838

Theater in bloom

By David Lyman

Spring brings new stages, new productions, new promise

Thetheater season’s biggest news has been the opening of the Playhouse in the Park’s new mainstage, Moe and Jack’s Place –The Rouse Theatre.

You’re too late for the March 16 grand opening. But you’re NOT too late for the opening production, “A Chorus Line.” It will be on the stage of the 537-seat theater until April 15. So if you want to be part of the Playhouse’s memorable step forward, you still have time.

But if “A Chorus Line” isn’t for you, there are many, many other shows on area stages that – on paper, at least – look like they may turn out to be top-notch productions. Here are five that look especially promising.

‘Gruesome Playground Injuries’ / ‘Measure for Measure’

April 1-23, Gallagher Student Center Studio Theatre, Xavier University

Yes, these are student productions. But year after year, Xavier manages to populate its dramas with fine actors. And in this case, they’re showing off that strength by running two shows in repertory over two weekends. One is Shakespeare’s sobering reflection on abuses of power, “Measure for Measure.” The other, Rajiv Joseph’s “Gruesome Playground Injuries,” is probably less well known to you. It’s a play as witty as it is probing. The two characters, Kayleen and Doug, meet for the first time in the nurse’s office in their elementary school. Over the course of the next 30 years, we see their various calamities bring them together again and again. So often, in fact, that a reviewer of an earlier production referred to them as “scar-crossed” lovers.

 www.xavier.edu/theatre-program

‘The Chinese Lady’

March 25-April 30, Rosenthal Shelterhouse Theatre, Playhouse in the Park

A year or so ago, the Playhouse’s Shelterhouse Theatre got a facelift and a new name. What we used to know as the Thompson Shelterhouse Theatre is now the Rosenthal Shelterhouse Theatre. Don’t worry. They haven’t completely overhauled the place. The theater feels much the same as it did before. But the seats are roomier. And many of the theater’s technical support systems have been upgraded. If you haven’t been to the “new” Shelterhouse, the opening of Lloyd Suh’s “The Chinese Lady” would be a good occasion to visit.

Korean-American Suh was born in Detroit and educated at Indiana University, but is inextricably tied to the 1950s Korea of his father’s childhood. So the idea of straddling cultures is a regular subject of his many plays. In this case, the story revolves around 14-year-old Alfong Moy, the first known Chinese woman in the U.S. Unfortunately, when she arrived in 1834, she wasn’t allowed to simply live her life and become absorbed into the culture around her. Instead, she became part of a touring show, traveling around the country as an onstage novelty, introducing audiences to Chinese silk, bound feet and chopsticks.

But her fame was fleeting. And within a decade or so, she slipped off the radar of the popular press. Suh’s script speculates on so much of what the history books have been unable to tell us. “Eventually,” according to Suh and the Playhouse’s press materials, “the lines between her performance and her own identity become blurry.”

“It’s a fascinating and illuminating play,” says Playhouse producing artistic director Blake Robison. “I think Lloyd Suh is an exciting new voice in the American theater. And he tells stories that many of us have never been exposed to.”

 www.cincyplay.com

‘Serials! 13 – Thunder Hedron’

March 27 and April 10, Know Theatre of Cincinnati

Know Theatre has plenty of shows with multiweek runs. But I have always had a special fondness for the Know’s “Serials” presentations. Launched in 2014, “Serials” is, for my money, the area’s most wonderfully unpredictable showcase of live theater. More so, even, than the Cincinnati Fringe Festival, which is also presented by the Know.

“Serials” has had a few format changes over the years. But there are always similarities from season to season. Inspired by episodic TV, the Know’s producing artistic director, Andrew Hungerford, invited playwrights, directors and actors to stage 15-minute playlets every other week.

This year, the first week’s presentation – Feb. 13 – began with five short plays. At the end of the evening, the audience voted and two shows were eliminated. Two weeks later, two new shows joined the mix, while the three that survived the week one vote returned with a second chapter of their stories.

Chaotic? You bet. And uneven in quality, too. Some plays were stinkers. But others were quite brilliant.

So if you’ve counted up the weeks, you’ll realize that you have already missed the first three episodes. But like any good TV serial, it’s possible to leap in at any point along the dramatic journey. And if you are reading this right when this issue comes out, you do have time to catch both the final two episodes, which take place March 27 and April 10.

Are you taking a chance if you go? Absolutely. But at just $15 a pop, you really can’t miss.

 www.knowtheatre.com

Lloyd Suh, author of “The Chinese Lady”

“The Chinese Lady” promotional image

“Gruesome Playground Injuries”

‘Who All Over There?’ – a world premiere dramedy

April 8-30, Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati

It’s such a cold and clinical word. But when it comes to Torie Wiggins, the most direct way to describe her is as a “multihyphenate.” When it comes to theater work, it seems that she can do it all. And do it well. She is one of this area’s most beloved and capable actors. No matter what sort of role you throw at her, she excels. As a director, she is thoughtful and incisive. She sings, too. And teaches acting, bringing the most out of people who were convinced they didn’t have a shred of ability. And, though we see it less often, she is also a writer.

She co-adapted the stage version of the late Kathy Y. Wilson’s “Your Negro Tour Guide.” And starred in it, too. This month, we will get to see more of Wiggins, the playwright, when Ensemble Theatre stages the world premiere of “Who All Over There?”

ETC describes it as “an updated remix of the critically acclaimed classic ‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner.’” But since that film was released 55 years ago, it’s probably worth rehashing the movie’s dramatic landscape.

In the movie, a young white woman brings her fiancé home to meet her parents. Only when the couple arrives do the parents learn that the fiancé is 14 years older than their daughter. And he is black. Societally, much has changed in the ensuing years. And Wiggins, mind you, isn’t giving the film a literal update. But she is exploring the still-complicated emotional and cultural issues that interracial relationships often bring to the surface. Is it a grim show? Definitely not. Indeed, it has a good deal of humor in it. But it does explore issues too seldom discussed. And, in doing so, it reveals how those race-based rifts we hoped might be erased by 2023 are still there, lurking not very far under the placid surface of our lives.

 www.ensemblecincinnati.org

‘Hadestown’

April 18-30, Broadway in Cincinnati, Aronoff Center

For diehard theater aficionados, this is easily one of the most anticipated productions of the year. Don’t be afraid when you hear that it blends a pair of mythological tales; Orpheus and Eurydice, as well as Hades and Persephone. This is a show that, despite its title, is an often-inspiring paean to love.

Everything is unlikely about this show, even the fact that it took 13 years for it to make it to Broadway. It originated as a small production in Barre, Vermont, in 2006, then wound its way through small New England towns until it made its way to Broadway, where it won eight Tony Awards, in 2019, including Best Musical and Best Original Score.

 cincinnati.broadway.com

Torie Wiggins, author of “Who All Over There?”

P hoto by M ikki s chaffner

The A/C List

Cultural Exhibits/Tours

American Legacy Tours | 859-951-8560. www.americanlegacytours.com

ƒ Above- and underground tours exploring Queen City history

American Sign Museum | Camp Washington. 513-541-6366. www.americansignmuseum.org

ƒ Permanent collection

Archaeological Research Institute | Lawrenceburg. 812-290-2966. www.exploreari.org

ƒ Hands-on educational experiences

Behringer-Crawford Museum | Devou Park, Covington. 859-491-4003. www.bcmuseum.org

ƒ Artifacts and history of Northern Kentucky

Brewing Heritage Trail Tour Center | Over-the-Rhine. 513-604-9812. www.brewingheritagetrail.org

ƒ Tours exploring Queen City beverage history

Cincinnati Fire Museum | Mid-City, downtown. 513-621-5553. www.cincyfiremuseum.com

ƒ Permanent collection

Cincinnati Food Tours | Findlay Market. 513-602-5602. www.cincinnatifoodtours.com

ƒ Tours exploring Queen City food history

Cincinnati Museum Center | Queensgate. 513-287-7000. www.cincymuseum.org

ƒ Current exhibits: “A Year on the Edge”

• “An Unfinished Revolution: Women and the Vote” • “Inspired by Nature: The Art and Activism of Charley Harper” • “Made in Cincinnati”

ƒ Thru July 5. “Bricktionary: The ultimate LEGO A-Z”

Cincinnati Type & Print Museum | Lower Price Hill. www.cincinnatitypeprintmuseum.org

ƒ Permanent collection: Graphic arts equipment, tools and artifacts

Cincinnati Zoo | Avondale. 513-281-4700. www.cincinnatizoo.org

ƒ World-renowned exhibits of fauna and flora

‘Wild & Scenic’ films coming to Woodward

Friday, April 21, Woodward Theater, Over-the-Rhine

Ohio River Foundation will again bring one of the largest environmental film festivals in North America to Cincinnati this spring. The Wild & Scenic Film Festival will feature a series of short films from talented environmental filmmakers from all over the world, lite bites, drinks and a raffle.

The festival was started in 2003 by the watershed advocacy group, the South Yuba River Citizens League. The festival tours internationally. The goal of the festival is to inspire environmental activism and a love for nature.

Tickets will be available on the ORF website.

 www.ohioriverfdn.org/events/ wild-scenic-film-festival

Friends of Music Hall | Music Hall, Over-the-Rhine. 513-621-2787. www.friendsofmusichall.org

ƒ April 5, 8 p.m. Music Hall Ghost Tours

ƒ April 6, 5 p.m. Bricks & Beer - Cincinnati Music Hall History and Hops

Greater Cincinnati Police Museum | Pendleton. 513-300-3664. www.police-museum.org

ƒ Permanent collection

Harriet Beecher Stowe House | Walnut Hills. 513-751-0651. www.stowehousecincy.org

ƒ Current exhibit . “Our Neighborhood Story: A Tour of this Walnut Hills Block” • “The Cause Dearer to Me Than Any Other in the World”: Isabella Beecher Hooker and Suffrage • “Votes for Women: A Portrait of Persistence”

ƒ April 22, 11 a.m. Hard Hat Tour

Heritage Village Museum | Sharonville. 513-563-9484.

www.heritagevillagecincinnati.org

ƒ Permanent exhibit . Life in 19th-century Southwest Ohio

“Chasing Ghosts” – In their quest to identify the pollinator of the ghost orchid, a team of explorers spent three summers standing waistdeep in alligator- and snake-laden water, and climbing to sometimes nausea-inducing heights. They came away with a startling new discovery – and an even deeper love for Florida’s wildest wetlands.

“PATHFINDER: Life Beyond Fear” follows six world-class slackliners on a highlining mission deep into the Norwegian mountains to attempt something that has never been seen before: Walking a thin line, elevated in the vastness between two colossal cliffs, illuminated only by the mystical northern lights.

Holocaust & Humanity Center | Cincinnati Museum Center, Queensgate. 513-487-3055.

www.holocaustandhumanity.org

ƒ Media, artifacts, art and interactive exhibitions remembering the Holocaust

Krohn Conservatory | Eden Park. 513-421-4086.

www.cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks

ƒ Botanical garden displaying plant life from around the globe

Lloyd Library and Museum | Mid-City, downtown. 513-721-3707.

www.lloydlibrary.org

ƒ Permanent exhibit: George Rieveschl Jr.: History of Pharmaceutical Chemistry

Milford Historical Society | Downtown Milford. 513-248-0324. www.milfordhistory.net

ƒ Permanent exhibit: Historical displays of art, artifacts and more

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center | The Banks, downtown. 513-333-7500. www.freedomcenter.org

ƒ Thru June 11. “Solidarity Now! The 1968 Poor People’s Campaign”

National VOA Museum of Broadcasting | West Chester. 513-777-0027.

www.voamuseum.org

ƒ Permanent exhibit: History of Voice of America anti-propoganda program

RAPTOR Inc. | Milford. www.raptorinc.org

ƒ April 30, 1-4 p.m. Open house: birds of prey sanctuary

Skirball Museum | Hebrew Union College, Clifton. 513-221-1875. https://csm.huc.edu

ƒ Permanent exhibit: “An Eternal People: The Jewish Experience”

Dance

Cincinnati Arts Association | Aronoff Center, downtown. 513-621-2787. www.cincinnatiarts.org

ƒ March 31-April 2. “Riverdance” 25th Anniversary (Procter & Gamble Hall)

ƒ March 31-April 1. Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, “Inside Out” (Jarson Kaplan Theater)

Cincinnati Ballet | Aronoff Center, downtown. 513-621-5219. www.cballet.org

ƒ April 13-16. Family Series: “Beauty and the Beast”

Emanuel Ax

College-Conservatory of Music | Corbett Auditorium, University of Cincinnati. 513-556-4183. https://ccm.uc.edu

ƒ April 13-16. “Fairies, Swans and Still Waters”

Cultural Centre of India | Campbell County Library, Cold Spring. www.culturalcenterofindia.com

ƒ April 29, 10 a.m. Bollywood Beat

DE LA Dance Company | Kennedy Heights. 513-871-0914. www.deladancecompany.org

ƒ April 28-May 14. “Coppelia”

Exhale Dance Tribe | Jarson Kaplan Theater, Aronoff Center, downtown. 513-621-2787. www.exhaledancetribe.org

ƒ April 22, 8 p.m. “Equal/Night”

Northern Kentucky University | Corbett Theatre, Highland Heights. 859-572-5464. https://sota.nku.edu

ƒ April 28-30. Dance ‘23

Taft Theatre | Downtown. www.tafttheatre.org

ƒ April 27, 7 p.m. World Ballet Series: “Cinderella”

Fairs/Festivals/Markets

Asian Food Fest | Court Street Plaza, Mid-City, downtown. www.asianfoodfest.org

ƒ April 29-30, food, beverages and cultural expressions

Northside Farmers Market | Northside. www.northsidefm.org

ƒ Wednesdays, 4-7 p.m. Regional food and beverage market

Film

The Barn / ARTFlix | Mariemont. 513-272-3700. www.artatthebarn.org

ƒ April 13, 7 p.m. “The Painter and The Thief”

Ohio River Foundation | Woodward Theater, Over-the-Rhine. www.ohioriverfdn.org

ƒ April 21. Wild & Scenic Film Festival

Woodward Theater | Over-the-Rhine. 513-345-7981. www.woodwardtheater.com

ƒ April 17, 7:30 p.m. “What The Hell Happened to Blood, Sweat and Tears?”

Literary/Lectures

American Sign Museum | Camp Washington. 513-541-6366. www.americansignmuseum.org

ƒ April 6, 7-8 p.m. “The History of Fire Marks”

The Barn | Mariemont. 513-272-3700. www.artatthebarn.org

ƒ April 2, 2 p.m. Gene Johnston Lecture Series

Barnes & Noble | Mason. stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/3408

ƒ April 4, 3 p.m. Discussion: Rajasree Variyar “The Daughters Of Madurai” (virtual)

ƒ April 10, 3 p.m. Discussion: Megan Miranda “The Only Survivors” (virtual)

Cincinnati Zoo | Avondale. 513-281-4700. www.cincinnatizoo.org

ƒ April 5, 7 p.m. Barrows Conservation Lecture: Maggie Dwire

ƒ April 19, 7 p.m. Barrows Conservation Lecture: Kate Davis

Fitton Center | Hamilton. 513-863-8873. www.fittoncenter.org

ƒ April 5, 11:30 a.m. Local Stars of Reality TV

Hebrew Union College | Clifton. 513-2211875. www.huc.edu/campus-life/cincinnati

ƒ April 10, 11 a.m. Ashleigh N. Ferguson

Schieszer: “Tzafun: The Behind the Scenes Work of Repairing the 1526 Prague Haggadah”

Joseph-Beth Booksellers | Rookwood Commons. 513-396-8960. www.josephbeth.com

ƒ April 3, 7 p.m. Discussion: Jeannette Walls “Hang the Moon”

ƒ April 5, 7 p.m. Discussion: Rebecca Ross “Divine Rivals”

ƒ April 10, 7 p.m. Discussion: Caroline Beidler “Downstairs Church: Finding Hope in the Grit of Addiction and Trauma Recovery” (virtual)

ƒ April 12, 7 p.m. Discussion: Annie Fenn

“The Brain Health Kitchen: Preventing Alzheimer’s Through Food”

ƒ April 13, 7 p.m. Discussion: John Young “Getting Huge”

ƒ April 15, 2 p.m. Discussion: J.R. Ward “Lassiter” (Northern Kentucky Convention Center)

ƒ April 17, 7 p.m. Discussion: Kari Gunter-Seymour “Alone in the House of My Heart”

ƒ April 26, 7 p.m. Discussion: Rick Pender “100 Things to Do in Cincinnati Before You Die (3rd Edition)”

Mercantile Library | Downtown. 513-621-0717. www.mercantilelibrary.com

ƒ April 13, 6 p.m. 1835 Lecture: Tiya Miles

Music

American Sign Museum | Camp Washington. 513-541-6366. www.americansignmuseum.org

ƒ April 13, 7 p.m. Signs and Songs: Mojo Rizin’

Bach Ensemble of St. Thomas | St. Thomas Episcopal, Terrace Park. 513-831-2052. www.bachensemble.org

ƒ April 2, 5 p.m. Bach Vespers for Palm Sunday

ƒ April 23, 5 p.m. Bach Vespers for Easter (Christ Church Cathedral)

ARTS/CULTURE | The List

Brady Music Center | The Banks, downtown. www.bradymusiccenter.com

ƒ April 15, 8 p.m. Nickel Creek, Gaby Moreno

ƒ April 17, 8 p.m. Lewis Capaldi

ƒ April 21, 7:30 p.m. Clutch, Amigo The Devil, Nate Bergman

ƒ April 26, 8 p.m. Tesla

ƒ April 28-29, 8 p.m. Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Amythyst Kiah

Bromwell’s Hearth Lounge | Downtown. www.bromwellshearthroom.com/music

ƒ Thursday-Saturday evening. Live jazz

Butler Philharmonic | 513-844-5151. www.butlerphil.org

ƒ April 23, 3 p.m. Broadway Meets Opera (SORG Opera House, Middletown)

ƒ April 29, 7:30 p.m. Gershwin in Ross (Ross High School)

Caffe Vivace | Walnut Hills. 513-601-9897. www.caffevivace.com

ƒ Most evenings, live jazz performances

Christ Church Cathedral | Downtown. 513-621-1817. www.cincinnaticathedral.com

ƒ April 2, 3 p.m. Coro Volante: Ivan Moody “Passion and Resurrection” Brett Scott, conductor

ƒ April 2, 5 p.m. Choral Evensong

ƒ April 4, 12:10 p.m. Music Live@Lunch: Heri et Hodie - Women’s vocal ensemble presenting Lenten music

ƒ April 11, 12:10 p.m. Music Live@Lunch: The Faux Frenchmen - Hot Club-driven jazz

ƒ April 18, 12:10 p.m. Music Live@Lunch: Kirsten Homdrom, piano

ƒ April 25, 12:10 p.m. Music Live@Lunch: Moyen Age - Medieval music

Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra | Walnut Hills Branch Library. 513-723-1182. www.ccocincinnati.org

ƒ April 11, 18 & 25, 6:30 p.m. Orchestra Up-Close

Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra | First Unitarian Church, Avondale. 513-280-8181. www.cincinnatijazz.org

ƒ April 16, 2 p.m. Jazz@First Series: Celebrating the George Shearing Quintet

Cincinnati Symphony & Pops | Music Hall, Over-the-Rhine. 513-381-3300. www.cincinnatisymphony.org

ƒ April 7-8. (CSO) “Shostakovich Symphony No. 5” Stephen Hough, piano

ƒ April 14, 7:30 p.m. (CSO) “Classical Roots” Classical Roots Community Mass Choir, William H. Caldwell, resident conductor

ƒ April 15-16. (CSO) “Pictures at an Exhibition” Ramón Tebar, conductor; Steven Banks, saxophone

ƒ April 21, 7:30 p.m. (Chamber Players) “Schumann’s Quartet & Schubert’s Octet”

ƒ April 21-22. (CSO) “Mahler

Symphony No. 7”

ƒ April 25. (Pops) Ben Folds

ƒ April 28-30. (Pops) “Ragtime in Concert”

Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestra | Music Hall, Over-the-Rhine. www.cincinnatisymphony.org/csyo

ƒ April 23, 2 p.m. Side-by-Side with the CSO

Cincinnati Youth Choir | Corbett Auditorium, College-Conservatory of Music, University of Cincinnati. 513-556-4183. www.cincinnatichoir.org

ƒ April 30, 2 & 5 p.m. “The Future is Ours”

Classical Revolution | The Loon, Northside. www.classicalrevolutioncincinnati.com

ƒ April 9, 7:30 p.m. Chamber music in casual bar setting: guitarist Donald Broerman, pianist James Loughery and more

College-Conservatory of Music | University of Cincinnati. 513-556-4183. https://ccm.uc.edu

ƒ April 4, 7:30 p.m. CCM Jazz Lab Band (Corbett Theater)

ƒ April 4, 7:30 p.m. CCM Classical Guitar Ensemble (Werner Recital Hall)

ƒ April 4, 7:30 p.m. Composition Department Recital (Cohen Studio Theater)

ƒ April 7, 7:30 p.m. CCM Percussion Ensemble (Corbett Theater)

ƒ April 9, 7 p.m. CCM Jazz Orchestra (Corbett Theater)

ƒ April 12, 7:30 p.m. Musica Nova:

“Atlas of Time” (Corbett Theater)

ƒ April 17, 7:30 p.m. CCM Brass Choir: “Swing, Swing, Swing” (Corbett Auditorium)

ƒ April 19, 7:30 p.m. CCM Wind Ensemble and CCM Chorale: “Voices and Winds

Unite” (Corbett Auditorium)

ƒ April 21, 7:30 p.m. CCM Wind Symphony:

“Urban Requiem” (Corbett Auditorium)

ƒ April 22, 7:30 p.m. CCM Chamber Choir: “Path of Miracles” (Cathedral Basilica)

ƒ April 22, 7:30 p.m. CCM Philharmonia: “Mahler and the Eternal” (Corbett Auditorium)

ƒ April 24, 7:30 p.m. UC Bearcat Bands (Corbett Auditorium)

ƒ April 26, 7:30 p.m. UC Symphony Orchestra (Corbett Auditorium)

Collegium Cincinnati | Christ Church Cathedral, downtown. www.collegiumcincinnati.org

ƒ April 16, 3 p.m. “Alleluia!,” choral and instrumental music by Bach, Vivaldi and Mozart. Matthew Phelps, music director

DownTowne Listening Room | www.downtownelisteningroom.com

ƒ April 23, 5 p.m. Jonathan Cody White (Private location in Florence)

ƒ April 29, 7 p.m. Rob Harris & Marcia Ramirez (Private location in Madeira)

Fitton Center | Hamilton. 513-863-8873. www.fittoncenter.org

ƒ April 15, 7:30 p.m. Nashville Writers’ Round

Fluidity | Scheuer Chapel, Hebrew Union College. www.fluiditycccc.org

ƒ April 23, 5 p.m. “Bending the Arc,” concert in support of Ohio Innocence Project. Matthew Moquin-Lee, conductor

Forest-Aires Women’s Chorus | 513-232-4736. www.theforestaires.com

ƒ April 28-29. Encore 2023! (Anderson Center Theater)

Ghost Baby | Over-the-Rhine. www.ghost-baby.com

ƒ Most evenings, live performances

Hard Rock Casino | Downtown. www.hardrockcasinocincinnati.com

ƒ April 21, 8 p.m. Gary Allan

Heritage Bank Center | Downtown. www.heritagebankcenter.com

ƒ April 7, 8 p.m. Soul II Soul Tour

Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church – Organ Concert Series | Hyde Park. 513-871-1345. www.hydeparkchurch.org

ƒ April 23, 4 p.m. Caroline Robinson, organist

Knox Church | Hyde Park. 513-321-2573. www.knox.org/music

ƒ April 7, 7:30 p.m. Bach: “St. John Passion” Earl Rivers, conductor

Linton Chamber Music | 513-381-6868. www.lintonmusic.org

ƒ April 2, 4 p.m. “New York, New York” New York Philharmonic String Quartet (First Unitarian Church, Avondale)

ƒ April 3, 7:30 p.m. Encore of previous (Congregation Beth Adam, Loveland)

ƒ April 23, 4 p.m. “Noteworthy Piano Quartets” Anna Polonsky, piano; Jaime Laredo, violin; Milena Pájaro-van de Stadt, viola; Sharon Robinson, cello (First Unitarian Church)

ƒ April 24, 7:30 p.m. Encore of previous (Congregation Beth Adam)

Ludlow Garage | Clifton. www.ludlowgaragecincinnati.com

ƒ April 1, 8:30 p.m. Jim Messina

ƒ April 2, 8:30 p.m. The Kruger Brothers

ƒ April 7, 8:30 p.m. Molly Hatchet

ƒ April 8, 8:30 p.m. Kirk Whalum

ƒ April 15, 8:30 p.m. GZA

ƒ April 16, 7:30 p.m. The Weight Band

ƒ April 21, 8:30 p.m. Larry Carlton

ƒ April 22, 8:30 p.m. Strangelove: The Depeche Mode Experience

ƒ April 29, 8:30 p.m. Four80East

Madison Theater | Covington. 859-491-2444. www.madisontheater.com

ƒ April 2, 8 p.m. Elise Trouw

ƒ April 8, 8 p.m. The Flight Station and The Getaway • Bubby Galloway

ƒ April 11, 6:30 p.m. Nu-Metal Madness 2

ƒ April 13, 8 p.m. Dirty Rotten Imbeciles

ƒ April 14, 7 p.m. Revision, Revised

ƒ April 15, 8 p.m. Cold • The Werks & SunSquabi

ƒ April 18, 8 p.m. Pink Talking Fish

ƒ April 20, 4:30 p.m. Suicide Silence

ƒ April 28, 8 p.m. Cal Scruby

May Festival | Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church, Hyde Park. 513-381-3300. www.mayfestival.com

ƒ April 2, 7:30 p.m. “Vaulted Voices”

MegaCorp Pavilion at Ovation | Newport. www.promowestlive.com

ƒ April 22, 7 p.m. Snarky Puppy

Memorial Hall | Over-the-Rhine. 513-977-8838. www.memorialhallotr.com

ƒ April 1, 8 p.m. Dailey & Vincent

ƒ April 2, 7 p.m. Steven Curtis Chapman

ƒ April 3, 7 p.m. Jazz at The Memo: Spencer Merk

ƒ April 6, 8 p.m. Tom Rush accompanied by Matt Nakoa

ƒ April 10, 7 p.m. Jazz at The Memo: A Time for Love: Songs of Longing, Loving, and Losing from the Great American Songbook

ƒ April 16, 3 p.m. The Petersens

ƒ April 17, 7 p.m. Jazz at The Memo: EWI Quartet

ƒ April 19, 8 p.m. Marc Broussard

ƒ April 21, 8 p.m. Robert Cray Band

Miami University Performing Arts Series

| Music Hall, Over-the-Rhine. 513-529-3200. www.miamioh.edu

ƒ April 17, 7:30 p.m. Miami Takes Music Hall

Muse Café | Westwood. www.musecafecincy.com

ƒ Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Phil DeGreg Trio

Northern Kentucky Community Chorus | Lakeside Presbyterian Church, Lakeside Park. www.nkychorus.org

ƒ April 29, 3 p.m. “Worthy Is The Lamb,” Stephanie Nash, conductor

Northern Kentucky University | Greaves Hall, Highland Heights. 859-572-5464. https://music.nku.edu

ƒ April 5, 7 p.m. Percussion Ensemble

ƒ April 11, 7 p.m. Commercial Music

Ensemble

ƒ April 12, 7 p.m. String Area Recital

ƒ April 13, 7 p.m. Keyboard Area Recital

ƒ April 17, 7 p.m. Burdette Voice Studio Recital (Choir Room)

ƒ April 17, 7 p.m. Steel Band

ƒ April 18, 7 p.m. Vocal Jazz & Jazz Ensemble

ƒ April 20, 7 p.m. Concert Band & Symphonic Winds

ƒ April 21, 5 p.m. Woodwind Studio Recital

ƒ April 27, 7 p.m. Orchestra & Choirs: Mozart’s “Requiem”

The Redmoor | Mt. Lookout Square. www.theredmoor.com

ƒ Most Fridays & Saturdays, 6 p.m. Rock and jazz music

St. Peter in Chains Cathedral | Downtown. 513-421-5354. www.stpeterinchainscathedral.org

ƒ April 5, 7:30 p.m. The Ancient Office of Tenebrae

Schwartz’s Point | Five Points, Over-theRhine. www.thepointclub.weebly.com

ƒ Most Thursdays, Every Friday & Saturday. Live Jazz

ƒ Sundays. Blues, Boogie Woogie, Jazz Mashups

Siena Series | St. Catharine of Siena Church, Westwood. www.stcathos.org/siena-series

ƒ April 23, 3 p.m. Cincinnati Boychoir: “Connection”

Sorg Opera House | Middletown. www.sorgoperahouse.org

ƒ April 1, 8 p.m. Tyler Christopher as Elvis Presley

Southgate House | Newport. 859-431-2201. www.southgatehouse.com

ƒ Nightly rock, alternative blues, etc.

TempleLive at River Front Live | East End. www.riverfrontlivecincy.com

ƒ April 7, 6:30 p.m. Morbid Angel

ƒ April 20, 7 p.m. Hot Tuna – Acoustic Duo

ƒ April 21, 7 p.m. Chapel Hart

Trinity Episcopal Church | Covington. 859-431-1786. www.trinitycovington.org

ƒ April 19, 12:15 p.m. Midday Musical Menu: Connie Golden, organ

Urban Artifact | Northside. www.artifactbeer.com

ƒ Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. Flight 88, weekly piano performances

Viva Voices | Allen Temple AME Church, Bond Hill. www.vivavoices.net

ƒ April 22, 6 p.m. “I Have A Dream”–A Choral Tribute. Tony Burdette, conductor

Vocal Arts Ensemble | Jarson-Kaplan Theater, Aronoff Center, downtown. 513-381-3300. www.vaecinci.com

ƒ April 29, 7:30 p.m. Paul Moravec: “Sanctuary Road,” Craig Hella Johnson, conductor

Warren County Historical Museum | Lebanon. www.wchsmuseum.org

ƒ April 14, 7 p.m. Viva La Strings: A Celtic Evening

Westwood First Presbyterian | Westwood. 513-661-6846. www.wfpc.org/music

ƒ April 23, 2:30 p.m. Westwood First Chancel Choir Soloists

Woodward Theater | Over-the-Rhine. 513-345-7981. www.woodwardtheater.com

ƒ April 3, 8 p.m. Combo Chimbita

ƒ April 6, 8 p.m. Goldpark / Stay outside

ƒ April 12, 8 p.m. Jukebox The Ghost

ƒ April 23, 7 p.m. Steve Poltz

ƒ April 30, 7 p.m. Terrible, Thanks For Asking

Xavier Music Series | Gallagher Center Theater, Xavier University. 513-745-3161. www.xavier.edu/musicseries

ƒ April 1, 8 p.m. Aaron Diehl Trio

ƒ April 28, 8 p.m. Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra feat. Maria Schneider

Opera

College-Conservatory of Music | Corbett Theater, University of Cincinnati. 513-556-4183. https://ccm.uc.edu

ƒ March 30-April 2. “Fellow Travelers”

Northern Kentucky University | Greaves Hall, Highland Heights. 859-572-5464. https://sota.nku.edu

ƒ March 31, 7 p.m. Joseph Haydn: “La Canterina”

ƒ April 2, 3 p.m. Encore of previous

Theater/Comedy

Broadway Across America | Procter & Gamble Hall, Aronoff Center, downtown. 513-721-3344.

www.cincinnati.broadway.com

ƒ March 28-April 2. “Jagged Little Pill”

ƒ April 18-30. “Hadestown”

CenterStage Players | Lockland High School. 513-558-4910. www.centerstageplayersinc.com

ƒ Thru April 2. “Momus & Aphrodite”

(513) 333-7500 | freedomcenter.org

Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Robert and Greta Houston, © Robert Houston

Organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service in collaboration with the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Supported by the CVS Health Foundation.

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati | Taft Theatre, downtown. 513-569-8080.

www.thechildrenstheatre.com

ƒ April 15-24. “Disney’s Moana JR.”

Cincinnati Landmark Productions | 513241-6550. cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com

ƒ Thru April 8. “Kiss Me Kate” (Covedale Theater)

ƒ April 19-May 14. “Clue: The Musical” (Incline Theater)

Cincinnati Playwrights Initiative | Fifth Third Bank Theater, Aronoff Center, downtown. 513-621-ARTS.

www.cincyplaywrights.org

ƒ April 4, 7:30 p.m. Roger Collins: “Symone with a Y”

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company | Over-the-Rhine. 513-381-2273.

www.cincyshakes.com

ƒ April 7-29. “As You Like It”

College-Conservatory of Music | Cohen Studio Theater, University of Cincinnati. 513-556-4183. https://ccm.uc.edu/

ƒ April 13-16. “Spring Awakening”

Ensemble Theatre | Over-the-Rhine. 513-421-3555.

www.ensemblecincinnati.org

ƒ April 8-30. “Who All Over There?”

Falcon Theatre | Newport. 513-479-6783. www.falcontheater.net

ƒ Thru April 1. “Every Brilliant Thing”

CAC to open two exhibitions examining heroes

Opening April 28, Contemporary Arts Center

What makes a hero, and how are they celebrated? Two new exhibitions at the Contemporary Arts Center touch on themes of legacy, history and memorialization.

“Robert O’Neal: Open to All” is the first retrospective of local arts leader Robert O’Neal. In his more than 50-year career, O’Neal created works that represent the joys, struggles and rich histories of Cincinnati’s Black neighborhoods. His practice merged art and activism, leaving a long-lasting impression on the community and earning him the unofficial title of Over-the-Rhine mayor.

“Luis Camnitzer: Monuments to Unknown Heroes” is a community project organized by conceptual artist and pedagogue Luis Camnitzer. The lobby installation presents a series of posters by more than 100 artists depicting proposals for monuments to under-recognized heroes.

The April 28 opening will begin with a private reception for CAC members at 6 p.m., followed by an artist talk at 7 p.m. The doors will open to the public at 8 p.m. with a cash bar, light refreshments and other entertainment.

 www.cincycac.org/ april-28-reception

Fitton Center | Hamilton. 513-863-8873. www.fittoncenter.org

ƒ April 7, 7:30 p.m. Lexington Children’s Theatre: “The Legend of John Henry”

Footlighters | Stained Glass Theatre, Newport. 859-291-7464. www.footlighters.org

ƒ April 20-May 7. “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder”

Greater Hamilton Civic Theatre | Parrish Auditorium, Hamilton. 513-737-PLAY. www.ghctplay.com

ƒ April 27-30. “Pride and Prejudice”

Hard Rock Casino | Downtown. www.hardrockcasinocincinnati.com

ƒ April 15, 8 p.m. Larry the Cable Guy Heritage Bank Center | Downtown. www.heritagebankcenter.com

ƒ April 29, 8 p.m. Katt Williams, comedian

INNOVAtheatre | Sorg Opera House, Middletown. www.innovatheatre.com

ƒ April 13-16. “Hairspray”

Kincaid Regional Theatre | Falmouth. 859-654-2636. www.krtshows.com

ƒ April 14-23. “Church Basement Ladies”

Know Theatre | Over-the-Rhine. 513-300-5669. www.knowtheatre.com

ƒ Thru April 10. “Serials! 13: Thunder Hedron”

ƒ April 21-May 14. “Bankers”

Lebanon Theatre Company | Lebanon. 513-932-8300. www.ltcplays.com

ƒ April 28-May 7. “The Book Club Play”

Miami University | Oxford. www.miamioh.edu/theatre

ƒ April 26-30. “The Play That Goes Wrong”

Miami University Regionals Theatre | Miami University Hamilton. www.miamioh.edu/regionals/rsvp

ƒ April 20-22. 2 Out Of 5 Ain’t Bad feat. Baloney Brigade (sketch and improvisational comedy)

Middletown Lyric Theatre | Finkelman Auditorium, Middletown. 513-425-7140. www.middletownlyric.org

ƒ April 21-28. “Everybody”

Mount St. Joseph University | Delhi. 513-244-4387. www.msj.edu/theatre

ƒ Thru April 2. “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”

Northern Kentucky University | Corbett Theatre, Highland Heights. 859-572-5464. https://theatre.nku.edu

ƒ Thru April 2. “The Princess Plays”

ƒ April 14-23. “A Grand Night for Singing” (Stauss Theatre)

Oxford Community Arts Center | Oxford. 513-524-8506. www.oxarts.org

ƒ April 21-30. “Ripcord”

Playhouse in the Park | Mt. Adams. 513-421-3888. www.cincyplay.com

ƒ Thru April 14. “A Chorus Line” (Rouse Theatre)

ƒ Thru April 30. “The Chinese Lady” (Rosenthal Shelterhouse Theatre)

ƒ April 22-May 14. August Wilson’s “Seven Guitars” (Rouse Theatre)

Queen City Productions | Arts Center at Dunham, Price Hill. queencityproductions.weebly.com

ƒ Thru April 2. “American Idiot”

School for Creative & Performing Arts | Over-the-Rhine. 513-363-8100.

https://scpa.cps-k12.org

ƒ April 14, 6 p.m. Alton Fitzgerald White

Taft Theatre | Downtown. www.tafttheatre.org

ƒ April 6, 8 p.m. Bruce Campbell

Tri-County Players | Bell Tower Arts Pavilion, Evendale. 513-471-2030. www.facebook.com

ƒ April 21-30. “Communicating Doors”

True Theatre | Memorial Hall, Over-theRhine. www.memorialhallotr.com

ƒ April 27, 7:30 p.m. “trueHOME”

Village Players | Ft. Thomas. 859-392-0500. www.villageplayers.org

ƒ April 28-May 6. “She Kills Monsters”

Xavier University | Gallagher Theater. 513-745-3939. www.xavier.edu/theatre-program

ƒ April 14-23. “Measure for Measure” • “Gruesome Playground Injuries”

Robert O’Neal, “Man Study,” 1990. Acrylic on canvas, 35.9” x 23.9” x 0.7.” Courtesy of the Robert O’Neal Multicultural Art Center.

Claudia DeMonte, “Monument to the Unknown Community Activist”

Visual Art

1628 Ltd. | Piatt Park, downtown. 513-320-2596. www.1628ltd.com

ƒ Thru May 19. Nicole Trimble: “Real People” • Emily Wiethorn: “Love You More”

21c Museum Hotel | Downtown. 513-578-6600. www.21cmuseumhotels.com/cincinnati

ƒ Thru August . “Refuge: Needing, Seeking, Creating Shelter”

Art Academy of Cincinnati | Over-the-Rhine. 513-562-6262. www.artacademy.edu

ƒ March 31-April 24. Stewart Goldman: “Cross Currents” Reception: March 31, 5-8 p.m.

ƒ April 3-7. “The _____ Collective.”

Reception: April 7, 5-8 p.m.

ƒ April 10-14. “Roots” Reception: April 14, 5-8 p.m.

ƒ April 17-21. “Creature Comfort”

Reception: April 21, 5-8 p.m.

ƒ April 24-28. “Before I Leave”

Reception: April 28, 5-8 p.m.

Art Beyond Boundaries | Over-the-Rhine. 513-421-8726. www.artbeyondboundaries.com

ƒ Thru April 22. “Voices Unlimited”

ARTclectic Gallery | Silverton. 513-822-5200. www.artclecticgallery.com

ƒ Thru April 30. “Spring is in the Air!”

ArtWorks | V² Gallery, Walnut Hills. 513333-0388. www.artworkscincinnati.org

ƒ Thru April 14. “Zeitgeist,” ceramics exploring how people translate the mood or spirit of the day

Baker Hunt Art & Cultural Center | Covington. 859-431-0020. www.bakerhunt.org

ƒ Thru Aug. 19. Community Art Show

The Barn | Mariemont. 513-272-3700. www.artatthebarn.org

ƒ April 1-30. “Woman’s Art Club of Cincinnati’s 130th Annual Juried Exhibition & Sale” Reception: April 8, 1-3 p.m.

Behringer-Crawford Museum | Devou Park, Covington. 859-491-4003. www.bcmuseum.org

ƒ Thru May 14. “Kentucky Craft Luminaries: Sharing the Stories”

ƒ Thru Aug. 20. “The Art of Fashion: Fay Applegarth Maddox”

Carl Solway Gallery | West End. 513-6210069. www.solwaygallery.com

ƒ Thru April 21. “Innovation and Passion: Kirk Mangus and Eva Kwong”

The Carnegie | Covington. 859-491-2030. www.thecarnegie.com

ƒ Thru Aug. 28. “Dynamics of Flow”

Caza Sikes | Oakley. 513-290-3127. www.cazasikes.com

ƒ Thru May 5. “Two Women, Two Stories, One Current”

Cincinnati Art Galleries | Downtown. 513-381-2128. www.cincyart.com

ƒ Thru April 29. “MOD23”

Cincinnati Art Museum | Eden Park. 513721-2787. www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org

ƒ Thru April 6. “Three Generations of Japanese Printmakers”

ƒ Thru May 7. “Georgia O’Keeffe, Photographer”

ƒ Thru Sept. 24. “Roberto Lugo: Hi-Def Archives”

ƒ April 28, 5-9 p.m. Art After Dark

Clifton Cultural Arts Center | Short Vine, Corryville. 513-497-2860. www.cliftonculturalarts.org

ƒ Thru April 17. Ariel Vivanco: “On Grounds of Coffee”

Contemporary Arts Center | Downtown. 513-345-8400.

www.contemporaryartscenter.org

ƒ Thru April 2. “Ready to Bolt: MFA Showcase”

ƒ Thru April 9. “Regional Connections”

ƒ Thru April 17. FotoFocus - Cameron Granger: “The Cartographer Tries to Map a Way to Heaven”

ƒ Thru Aug. 6. “Ecologies of Elsewhere”

ƒ Thru Sept. 25. FotoFocus - Baseera Khan: “Weight of History”

ƒ April 8, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Family Festival: Force of Nature

ƒ April 12, 6:30 p.m. Kitchen Table Talk

Live: Restoring Joy Postpartum

ƒ Opening April 28. Robert O’Neal: “Open to All” • Luis Camnitzer: “Monuments to Unknown Heroes” Reception: April 28, 8-11 p.m.

Eisele Gallery of Fine Art | Mariemont. 513-791-7717. www.eiselefineart.com

ƒ Thru April 1. “Recalibration”

Indian Hill Gallery | Indian Hill. 513-9846024. www.indianhillgallery.com

ƒ Thru April 1. Ceramic Sculptures by Lena Wolek “Bogatyr Tea Pot: Who Stole Our Heroes?”

Kennedy Heights Arts Center | Kennedy Heights. 513-631-4278. www.kennedyarts.org

ƒ Thru April 1. “Ebb and Flow,” juried exhibition of ceramic artworks by 35 local artists exploring cycle of life and death

ƒ Thru May 27. “When Liberation Comes”

Reception: Feb. 25, 6-8 p.m.

ƒ April 8-May 27. 15th Annual Student Art Show.

Reception: April 8, 6-8 p.m.

Krohn Conservatory | Eden Park. 513-421-4086. www.cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks

ƒ Thru June 18. “Ceramics in a Garden” Roy Cartwright, Lisa Merida-Paytes, Robert Pulley, outdoor sculpture. Mary Heider, curator

Lambert, Suzanne | Painted Bread Marketing, Covington. suzannemlambert@me.com

ƒ Thru April 30. “Alors” (by appointment only)

Manifest Gallery | East Walnut Hills. 513-861-3638. www.manifestgallery.org

ƒ Thru April 17. “OH, KY, & IN” open regional • “Cast/Molded” works made using casts, molds, forms, or stamps

ƒ April 21-May 19. “Drawn 2023” annual survey of drawing • “Multi-Figure” works including multiple figures • “Chimaera” hybrids and/or merged forms.

Reception: April 21, 6-9 p.m.

Miami University Art Museum | Oxford. 513-529-2232. www.miamioh.edu/cca/art-museum

ƒ Thru June 13. “Art and Devotion: An Art and Architecture History Capstone Exhibition” • “Current Forms: Ohio Figurative Ceramics”

Middletown Arts Center | Middletown. 513-424-2417. www.middletownartscenter.com

ƒ Thru April 26. Bonita Goldberg

ƒ Thru April 6. C.F. Payne

ƒ April 17-27. Miami University Regionals Student Exhibition. Reception: April 21, 6-8 p.m.

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center | The Banks, downtown. 513-333-7500. www.freedomcenter.org

ƒ March 30-June 11. “Solidarity Now! 1968 Poor People’s Campaign”

Northern Kentucky University | Highland Heights. 859-572-5148. www.nku.edu/gallery

ƒ April 13-28. BFA Senior Exhibitions. Reception: April 20, 5-7 p.m.

Pendleton Art Center | Pendleton. 513-421-4339. www.pendletonartcenter.com

ƒ April 28, 5-9 p.m., open studios

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum | Hamilton. 513-868-1234. www.pyramidhill.org

ƒ Thru Aug. 6. “Coral Beliefs”

Skirball Museum | Hebrew Union College, Clifton. https://csm.huc.edu

ƒ Thru July 2. Frank Stella: Had Gadya – Illustrations After El Lissitzky

ƒ April 20-July 30. “Beyond Borders: The Art of Siona Benjamin”

Studio Kroner | Downtown. www.studiokroner.com

ƒ March 30-April 29. Tracy Casagrande Clancy “Vestiges of Atomic Love” Reception: April 6, 6-9 p.m.

Studio San Giuseppe Art Gallery | Mount St. Joseph University, Delhi. www.msj.edu

ƒ April 14-May 13. 2023 Senior Thesis Degree Projects: Art/Fine Art; Graphic Design.

Reception: April 14, 6-8 p.m.

Taft Museum of Art | Lytle Park, downtown. 513-241-0343. www.taftmuseum.org

ƒ Thru May 14. “Memories & Inspiration: The Kerry and C. Betty Davis Collection of African American Art”

ƒ Thru June 4. “Universal Magnetic: New Works by Terence Hammonds”

ƒ Thru April 28. Artists Reaching Classroom Juried Student Exhibition: “Expression”

VADA Gallery | Clifton. 513.259.7446. www.vadagallery.wordpress.com

ƒ Thru April 20. “The Wonders formed on the Wheel,” features ceramic works by Ohio and Kentucky artists: Jan Brown Checco, Jason Trautz of Magpie and Molly, Angela Batt of Eclectic Pottery, Christen Camilla Collins and William Connor Atchison

Visionaries & Voices | Northside. 513-861-4333. www.visionariesandvoices.com

ƒ Thru April 7. “Clay Nowadays”

ƒ April 14-June 2. “The Bird Show”

Reception: April 14, 5-8 p.m.

Warren County Historical Museum | Lebanon. www.wchsmuseum.org

ƒ Thru April 14. The Paintings of Carol Abbott

ƒ April 21-June 3. Susan Mahan-Mixed Media

Wash Park Art | Over-the-Rhine. 513-291-3626. www.washparkart.com

ƒ April 13-May 20. “Earth”

Reception: April 22, 5-8 p.m.

Wave Pool Gallery and The Welcome Project | Camp Washington. www.wavepoolgallery.org

ƒ Thru April 8. NCECA Exhibition “Everyday’s A New Day”

ƒ Thru April 22. NCECA Exhibition “Counter Current”

Weston Art Gallery | Aronoff Center, downtown. 513-977-4165. www.cincinnatiarts.org/weston-art-gallery

ƒ Thru May 7. 2023 NCECA Annual: “I Contain Multitudes” 

The Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio honors six local leaders who have reached age 65 at the 2023 Glorifying the Lions ceremony April 6 with a luncheon for honorees, their families and select sponsors. A televised version will be on WLWT April 13, 15, 16 and 17

APRIL 1, SATURDAY

Junior League of Cincinnati, Spring Fashion Show | 6:45-10 p.m. National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. DETAILS: Appetizers, open bar, vendor pop ups, silent auction and fashion show showcasing women’s, men’s and children’s boutiques. Cocktail attire recommended. Tickets start at $125.

 www.jlcincinnati.org/fashionshow

APRIL 2, SUNDAY

Caracole, AIDS Walk + Run | 9 a.m. Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum. DETAILS: Benefits the agency in its mission to positively change lives in the fight against HIV/AIDS in our region. Participants can walk or run the 5K route (3.1 miles) while taking in beauty of Spring Grove. The 10K option returns as a double loop of the 5K course.

 secure.qgiv.com/event/aids-walk-2023

Musicians for Health, Champagne Jazz Brunch | noon-3 p.m. Kenwood Country Club. DETAILS: Food, drinks, fun, entertainment and silent auction.

 www.musiciansforhealth.org

APRIL 6, THURSDAY

Santa Maria Community Services, Block Party | 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 3208 Warsaw Ave., Cincinnati. DETAILS: Food, drinks, music, games, prizes, Fifth Third Bank Financial Empowerment Mobile (eBus) providing

information and counseling on services, educational tools and financial products.

 www.santamaria-cincy.org

Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio, 29th annual Glorifying the Lions Ceremony | Private luncheon, plus internet and TV broadcast.

DETAILS: Honors six community leaders who have reached age 65 and demonstrated a commitment to serving the community: Bishop Michael E. Dantley, Stephen L. Hightower, Angelita M. Jones, Dr. Camille A. Jones, Peg Moertl and Rabbi Gary P. Zola. Broadcast dates: April 13 at 7:30 p.m., April 15 at 7:30 p.m., April 16 at 4:30 a.m. and April 17 at 12:30 p.m on WLWT. Also on ULGSO's YouTube channel.

 www.ulgso.org

APRIL 14, FRIDAY

School For Creative and Performing Arts, Broadway & Beyond | 6-7:30 p.m. DETAILS: Alton Fitzgerald White, SCPA alumnus who performed Mufasa in Disney’s "Lion King" on Broadway. Proceeds benefit SCPA Vocal Arts Scholarship established by White. Tickets: $25.

 scpa.cps-k12.org/donate/ scpa-fund

Angelita M. Jones Rabbi Dr. Gary P. Zola

Peg Moertl

Stephen L. Hightower

Bishop Michael E. Dantley

Dr. Camille A. Jones

DATEBOOK

APRIL 14, FRIDAY (CONT.)

Women Helping Women, Rise Beyond Violence | 6-8 p.m. Rhinegeist, Over-the-Rhine. DETAILS: Announcement and celebration.

 www.womenhelpingwomen.org

APRIL 18, TUESDAY

Flywheel Social Enterprise Hub, Elevate Equity Accelerator Cohort Demo Day | MadTree Brewing, Oakley.

DETAILS: Cohort members reveal products or services designed to contribute to a more equitable community. Sponsors: EY and City of Cincinnati.

 www.flywheelcincinnati.org

APRIL 19, WEDNESDAY

Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra, Knife Fork Spoon | 6-9 p.m. Peterloon.

DETAILS: Cuisine, open wine, beer, signature drink bar and live music.

Tickets: $125.

 www.eventbrite.com, event

Samaritan Car Care Clinic, Grand Opening Open House | 2-5 p.m. 1428 Madison Ave., Covington. DETAILS: Dedication of new building, first “home” for this organization that helps people dependent on automotive transportation stay on the road.

 www. samaritancarcare.org

APRIL 20, THURSDAY

Cincinnati Cancer Advisors, Wine, Women & Shoes | 6-10 p.m. Manor House, Mason. DETAILS: Wine tasting, designer pop-up shops, “shoe guys,” “Key to the Getaway,” “Wall of Wine,” fashion show, silent/live auctions and more. Tickets start at $150. VIP and tables available.

 www.cincinnaticanceradvisors.org

Healthy Visions, Fundraiser Event | 6-8:30 p.m. ARTclectic Gallery, Silverton. DETAILS: Art, fun, entertainment, food and drinks. Honoring Cathy Snider, Chick-fil-A owner/operator. Tickets: $25.

 healthyvisions.org

Miami University Nursing Alumni

Dinner | 5:30-9 p.m. Spooky Nook Champion Mill, Hamilton. DETAILS: Celebrating nursing excellence, creating lifelong memories, fine dining, refreshments, wine pull, silent auction. Tickets: $75.

 www.Miamialum.org/NursingDinner2023

APRIL 21, FRIDAY

Mentoring Plus, Seeds of Hope Gala | 6-9:30 p.m. Newport Syndicate, Newport. DETAILS: Honoring NKU Board of Regents Andra’ Ward. M+ aims to make a difference in high-risk teens and their families. Tickets: $100; Table: $1000  www.mentoringplus.org/events

APRIL 22, SATURDAY

Cincinnati Arts Association, Dancing for the Stars 2023 | 6 p.m. Music Hall Ballroom. DETAILS: Wine and cheese, meet-and-greet reception, dance music by guest on-air

DJ “JD Hughes” from 103.5 WGRR-FM, dinner by-the-bite, cash bar, celebrity dance competition. Hosted by Chris O’Brien and Janeen Coyle of 103.5 WGRR-FM. Proceeds support annual Overture Awards presented to outstanding arts students. Tickets: $150.  www.cincinnatiarts.org/dfts2023

DePaul Cristo Rey High School, Rey of Light Scholarship Benefit | DPCR Student Center. DETAILS: Cocktail hour, dinner, silent and live auctions. Chairs: Michele and Mike Schuster.  www.depaulcristorey.org/giving/ our-events/rey-of-light

Forever Kings, "Building Strong Men" Golf Outing | Noon. Avon Fields Golf Course. DETAILS: Afternoon of golf, cocktail reception and dinner. Proceeds support 2023 Kings Retreat. Tickets: $75/individual; $300/foursome.

 www.foreverkingsinc.org

Purcell Marian High School, Grand Event | 6:15 p.m. 20th Century Theater, Oakley. DETAILS: Cocktail attire. Complimentary open bar, hors d'oeuvres, seated dinner, silent and live auction raffle and complimentary valet.

Tickets: $150 / $1,500 for table of 10.  one.bidpal.net/pmge23/welcome

UpSpring, Benefit Bash | 6-10 p.m. Bally Sports Club, Great American Ballpark. DETAILS: Dinner, open bar, live music, silent and live auctions and raffle. UpSpring is the only local nonprofit exclusively serving the educational needs of homeless children. Tickets: $100; $75: young professionals/educators.

 www.upspring.org/benefitbash

Flywheel Social Enterprise Hub has announced its latest Elevate Equity accelerator cohort. Companies selected are developing products or services that will contribute to a more equitable community. Each company will pitch their ideas at Demo Day on April 18 at MadTree Brewing in Oakley.

Who will be voted Cincinnati’s best celebrity dancer? Cincinnati Arts Association celebrates Dancing for the Stars at the Music Hall Ballroom April 22 to benefit CAA’s Overture Awards, the nation’s largest locally run high school arts scholarship competition, and arts education programs.

The UpSpring Benefit Bash, which will provide funds to serve the educational needs of homeless children, takes place on April 22 at Great American Ball Park Linsey Kraeling is event chair.

Elle Baker, Empower Group; Leah Lewis, Cocoon Technologies; Denisha Porter, All In Cincinnati; D. Sangeeta, Gotara. Not Pictured: Basette Smith - Empower Group.

Tom Parker Morgan Owens Litsa Spanos

Frank Marzullo

Erin Rolfes

Diana Nguyen David Kapor

Britton Spitler as Brock Leah Spears

APRIL 23, SUNDAY

American Lung Association, Fight for Air | 8 a.m. Great American Ballpark. DETAILS: Stair climbing event designed for every type of climber, from beginners to competitive climbers. Race to the top or take it at your own speed. For best climb experience, form team of friends and family, coworkers or neighbors. Registration, day of event: $40.  www.fightforairclimb.org/Cincinnati

APRIL 27, THURSDAY

CET, ME Event “Be a PBS Kid Again” | 5:30-9 p.m. Longworth Hall.

DETAILS: Co-chairs: Larry & Megan Shields. Childhood games, wine bottle ring toss and reimagined school cafeteria lunches. Honoring Cincinnati Public Schools teachers Rosemary Jane and Pamela Knox, as well as Learning Grove with Dr. O’dell M. Owens Community Hero Awards. Tickets: $100.  e.givesmart.com/events/upp

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Business Financial Education Series: Business Planning Essentials | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. DETAILS: Series sponsored by Freedom Center, First Financial Bank, and the African American Chamber of Commerce to provide free financial education to small business owners and address implicit bias. Second in four-part series covering credit, taxes, business planning and funding sources. Aims to bridge financial knowledge gap created by systemic racism and provide more equitable access to financial education. In-person and registration is required.  www.freedomcenter.org

Pro Bono Partners, Volunteer & Donor Appreciation | 5-7 p.m. Procter & Gamble Tower Lobby, downtown. DETAILS: Annual individual, corporate and law firm awards and celebration of attorney volunteers and donors for PBPO’s 300-plus nonprofit clients.

 www.pbpohio.org/events/ pbpo-volunteer-donor-appreciation-2/

APRIL 28, FRIDAY

Council on Child Abuse, Reach for the Stars | 7-10 p.m. Kenwood Country Club. DETAILS: Annual event benefitting COCA’s efforts to prevent and stop abuse and bullying. Recognizing those dedicated to raising awareness, protecting

children and preventing child abuse.

 www.cocachild.org/events

APRIL 28-30, FRIDAY-SUNDAY

Lighthouse Youth & Family Services, Beacon of Light Event | Madison Square, Madisonville. DETAILS: Pop-up art show, VIP cocktail party. Beacon of Light Humanitarian Award honorees: Dr. Victor Garcia and Barbara Turner. April 29 at Element Eatery includes dinner by-the-bite, open bar, live art demonstrations, entertainment and silent auction. Tickets: $150. April 28-30: pop-up art show and sale open to public. Artists donating 50% of sales to Lighthouse. Free parking.

 www.lys.org/beaconevent

APRIL 28-MAY 1, FRIDAY-MONDAY

Motherless Daughters Ministry, The Journey: Healing the Wounds of Mother Loss One Step at a Time | Jesuit Spiritual Center, Milford. DETAILS: Retreat focusing on mother loss and its effect on life. All meals, lodging and materials included in registration cost of $647.

 www.motherlessdaughtersministry.com/ calendar/the-journey-retreat-3

Women’s Alliance

Inc. is hosting its 15th Annual Hats Galore and More brunch, to benefit its educational programming and scholarship funding, April 29. The 2023 Jewel of the Community award will be presented to Susan Noonan

APRIL 29, SATURDAY

DCCH Center for Children and Families, Swing Into Spring Fundraiser | 7 p.m. St. Elizabeth Training and Education Center (SETEC), Erlanger. DETAILS: Dinner by-the-bite, silent and live auctions, and comedian Terry Foster. Tickets: $100.

 www.dcchcenter.org

The Cure Starts Now, Once in a Lifetime Gala | Duke Energy Convention Center. DETAILS: Three-course gourmet meal, open bar, silent auction, live auction and entertainment. Tickets: $100.

 events.thecurestartsnow.org/ once-in-a-lifetime-gala

The Dragonfly Foundation, Grand Gala | 5:30-11 p.m. Music Hall Ballroom. DETAILS: Formal, black tie optional. Dinner, musical performances, entertainment, open bar, silent auction and grand raffle. Tickets: $200.

 www.dragonfly.org/gala

DATEBOOK

APRIL 29, SATURDAY (CONT.)

SPCA Cincinnati, 21st Annual Fur Ball Gala: 007 CATsino Royale | 6:30 p.m. Sharonville Convention Center.

DETAILS: Event chair: Ellie Clements. Open bar, signature cocktail, appetizers, plated dinner, entertainment, live/silent auctions, raffles and adoptable pets. Raffles and auction also available online. Tickets start at $350.

 www.scpacincinnati.org/events

Women’s Alliance Inc., Annual Hats Galore and More Brunch | 10:30 a.m. Marriott Cincinnati North, West Chester.

DETAILS: Honoring Susan Noonan as 2023 Jewel of the Community. Twelve past Jewels will also be celebrated, plus naming of two new college scholarship winners. Tickets: $75.

 www.womensallianceinc.com

APRIL 30, SUNDAY

March of Dimes, March for Babies | 8:30 a.m. Sawyer Point. DETAILS: Program with the walk following (estimated start of 9 a.m). Walk route just under two miles long. Following the walk, stay and visit March for Babies Town. Chair: Sarah Pasquinucci – senior director/communications, Baby Care North America at P&G.

 www.marchforbabies.org

Mayerson JCC and Jewish Federation, Israel at 75 | 2-7 p.m. Summit Park. DETAILS: Highlighting the diverstiy of Israel through hands-on experiences, food, art, games and more. Performance by Israeli drumming group Mayumana.

 www.mayersonjcc.org/israel

MAY 1, MONDAY

Know Theatre, A Cabaret Bash | OTR Stillhouse. DETAILS: Celebrate 25 Years of Know Theatre and 20 Years of the Cincinnati Fringe Festival. Performances from artists of the Know & Fringe's past, present and future. Dinner by-the-bite, drinks, silent auction.  www.knowtheatre.com

Major R. McNeil Scholarship Fund, Annual Golf Outing | 8 a.m. TPC River’s Bend Golf Course, Mainville.

DETAILS: Benefitting Withrow High School graduating seniors who have been accepted to a college or advanced technical/vocational training program.

MAY 2, TUESDAY

Cincinnati Youth Collaborative, 11th United “FORE” Youth Golf Classic | 8 a.m. Vineyard Golf Course, Anderson Twp. DETAILS: Morning round and afternoon shotgun start. Lunch and dinner, plus Q&A with Anthony Muñoz, Dave Lapham and Byron Larkin.

 www.cycyouth.org/golfouting

MAY 3, WEDNESDAY

Cancer Family Care, Unsung Hero Awards | 6-9 p.m. Hilton Netherland Plaza. DETAILS: Program, dinner, award presentations. Dress code: business.

Tickets start at $45.

 one.bidpal.net/unsung23/ welcome

MAY 3-7, WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY

CET, Summer Action Auction | Virtual. DETAILS: New, online-only auction offering items and experiences associated with outdoor, summer and early fall activities. Supports CET’s PBS programming.  www.cetconnect.org/ summer-action-auction/

MAY 4, THURSDAY

Boys Hope Girls Hope, HopeFest | 6-8 p.m. Covington Yard. DETAILS: Derby-themed party. Outdoor games, raffles, bourbon and food trucks.

 www.bhghcincinnati.org

Partners in Action Luncheon, Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur | Noon-1 p.m., Cintas Center, Xavier University.

 www.sndohio.org

MAY 5, FRIDAY

Cancer Support Community, Par-Tee for Hope | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Topgolf, West Chester. DETAILS: High-tech, climate-controlled hitting bays. Includes three hours of gameplay, food and beverages, bar, access to golf clubs and pro, contests, prizes and swag.

 mycancersupportcommunity.org/ events/par-tee-for-hope

Boys Hope Girls Hope of Cincinnati’s Young Professionals Board will host their annual HopeFest fundraiser May 4 at the Covington Yard with a Derby theme and outdoor games, raffles, bourbon and food trucks.

YWCA will honor eight Career Women of Achievement at a luncheon at the Duke Energy Convention Center on May 10. The honorees are Kelly Beatty, chief performance officer, FIS; Catrena Bowman, executive director, Northern Kentucky Community Action Commission; Liz Carter, president/ CEO, Scripps Howard Fund; Julie Holt , VP & chief nursing officer, The Christ Hospital Health Network; Danya Karram, president and co-founder, Brilliant Advice; Alecia Townsend Kintner, president & CEO, ArtsWave; Charmaine McGuffey, Hamilton County sheriff; and Dr. Ndidi Unaka, medical director, quality improvement and analytics, HealthVine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital.

BHGH Young Professionals Board: rear, Jon Deters, Will Volck, Ryan Motz, Sam Burchenal, Clare Whitaker, Patrick Berning; front, Caitlyn Slaasted, Kelly Berning

Dr. Ndidi Unaka

Charmaine McGuffey

Alecia Kintner

Danya Karram

Julie Holt

Liz Carter Catrena Bowman

Kelly Beatty

New Cincinnati Police Chief

Teresa Theetge will speak at the Woman’s City Club’s Annual Seasongood Luncheon and Marian A. Spencer Education Awards at Hilton Garden Inn

Cincinnati Midtown on May 31

MAY 22, MONDAY

Bayley Senior Care Center, George Knittle Memorial Bayley Golf Classic | Noon. Western Hills Country Club. DETAILS: Golf, prizes, box lunch, drinks, cocktail reception, awards and raffle. Country club attire. Hosted by Bill Hemmer, Fox News anchor and Cincinnati native.

 www.bayleylife.org

MAY 24, WEDNESDAY

MAY 31, WEDNESDAY

Woman’s City Club, Annual Seasongood Luncheon | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Hilton Garden Inn Midtown. DETAILS: Speaker: Teresa Theetge, Cincinnati Police Chief. Marian A. Spencer Education Awards. Tickets: $55.

 www.womanscityclub.org/programs/ seasongood-luncheon 

MAY 5-7, FRIDAY-SUNDAY

Flying Pig Marathon | Weekend of shorter races, fitness expo and other related events leading to full marathon at 6:30 a.m., Sunday. Supports numerous local charities.

 www.flyingpigmarathon.com/ flying-pig-marathon-weekend

MAY 7, SUNDAY

Little Brothers - Friends of The Elderly, Italian Dinner |  www.littlebrotherscincinnati.org

MAY 10, WEDNESDAY

YWCA, Career Women of Achievement Luncheon | Noon-1:30 p.m. Duke Energy Convention Center. DETAILS: Honoring eight Greater Cincinnati-area women for leadership, vision and renowned professional success. (See page 20.) Tickets start at $100.

 www.ywcacincinnati.org/ whatwedo/empowerment/careerwomen

MAY 11, THURSDAY

Autism Connections, Art Across the Spectrum | 6-9 p.m. Peterloon Estate, 8605 Hopewell Rd, Indian Hill.

DETAILS: Small bites, drinks, live and silent auction to celebrate autistic artists' talents. Proceeds support community of individuals and families passionate about uplifting autism community through education, resources, connections and lifelong support. Tickets: $125 for individual; $500 for couple sponsorship.  e.givesmart.com/events/vqD

Hearing Speech + Deaf Center, Kretschmer Service Award Gala | 6 p.m. Great Hall, Tangeman University Center, University of

Cincinnati. DETAILS: Open bar reception, dinner and award program. Auction. Recognizes Phyllis Breen, Nancy Fluharty, Carol Leslie, Jo-Ann Prendeville and UC College of Allied Health Sciences. Sponsor opportunities. Tickets: $150.

 www.hearingspeechdeaf.org

MAY 12, FRIDAY

Midwest Regional Sustainability Summit |

8 a.m.-5 p.m. Duke Energy Convention Center. DETAILS: Keynote: Dr. Katharine Wilkinson, author and strategist; 60+ speakers, expo, art show, networking reception.

 midwestsustainabilitysummit.org

MAY 13, SATURDAY

Baker Hunt Art and Cultural Center, Annual Duveneck Art Show | Noon-5 p.m. George Rogers Clark Park, Covington. DETAILS: Purchase regional artists’ work, enjoy art, music, food trucks and a great view.

 www.bakerhunt.org/events

MAY 20, SATURDAY

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Great Strides | 9 a.m. Sawyer Point Park. DETAILS: Register to participate inperson or virtually for three-mile walk.

 https://fightcf.cff.org

Melanoma Know More, Susan Roebuck Memorial Golf Outing | 8 a.m. Aston Oaks Golf Club. DETAILS: Contests, raffles, split the pot, mulligans for sale. Cost: $100 each, $400 per foursome; includes greens fees and carts, lunch and beverage tickets.

 www.melanomaknowmore.com/ susan-roebuck-memorial-golf-outing

2023 American Jewish Committee, Judge Learned Hand Award | 5:30 p.m. Music Hall Ballroom. DETAILS: Honoring lawyer Kathy Brinkman for her decades of legal professional excellence. Keynote speaker: AJC CEO and former U.S. Congressman Ted Deutch. Committee members: Victoria Chester, Ken and Carol Kabel, Neil and Donna Mayerson, Sarah Topy, Dr. Donald and Beth Wayne, Pete and Ann Williams.

 513-621-4020 or cincinnati@ ajc.org

More Datebook @ MoversMakers.org

Make sure your fundraiser or community event is listed at moversmakers.org/datebook

Listings are free. Send event details and print-quality photos of honorees, speakers, event chairs or committee to: editor@moversmakers.org

Saturday, April 29

-

dinner by the bite, open bar, live art demonstrations, pop-up art show & sale, music, and a silent auction

Friday, April 28

- 6:00

Saturday, April 29 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Sunday, April 30 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Police Chief Teresa Theetge

Jordan Bankston of Forever Kings

Helping young men reimagine what their lives

Generations of families have found comfort in packing up the car, hitting the open road and going to grandma’s house. The tradition is such a part of Americana, songs and books have memorialized it.

For a 5-year-old Cincinnati kid named Jordan, trips to the place where his grandmother lived for a time went something like that, a drive southward, away from the city, on to country roads and ending in Kentucky.

Redefining the outcome

Jordan Bankston, 27, emerges from a back entrance of Horizons Science Academy in Bond Hill. Bespectacled, he looks professorial. He could be the good-guy uncle, a researcher, or –tall and big-shouldered – an edge rusher. His high-top fade hairstyle is as popular today as it was in the 1980s and early 1990s.

Meet the founder of Forever Kings, a nonprofit launched in 2019 to fill what Bankston saw as an important need. He wanted to provide young men of color the tools to “redefine, reshape, and reimagine outcomes for their lives.”

It is a lofty goal, but Bankston is up for it. After all, for years, friends and relatives have often praised his entrepreneurial mindset (he owns and operates a Fairfield frozen yogurt shop).

Certainly, he has put in the time. Definitely, the life he has lived has given him a world of insight.

Bankston is aware of all the data that show disparities between Black men and white men regarding incarceration rates, educational

attainment, health and economic prosperity. Bankston counters. The seeds of those disparities are planted early in a child’s life. An initiative like Forever Kings seeks to change the narrative and improve long-term outcomes.

“These young people are often exceptional young men who get lost. They may not be academically advanced, or never been a scholar, but there are many things they do well. I wish I had someone to tell me that when I was growing up,” Bankston said.

For young Jordan, those family road trips became more frequent and familiar for over 10 years. They would end at the same rural, smalltown destination where his grandmother lived: a federal prison.

“For the first half of my life, I visited people in jail. I thought that’s what everybody does,” Bankston said.

Until he became a teenager, young Jordan’s family frequently visited other incarcerated relatives, too, including his brother and father. Bankston’s brother served a 10-year prison sentence. His grandmother served a 17-year prison sentence. His father has been in and out of prison.

Destined to mentor youth

It’s normal for kids to celebrate important milestones with close kin: birthdays, bar mitzvahs, graduations and proms. That wasn’t the case for Bankston. He understood the challenges of growing up in a tough neighborhood, where trouble was easy to find. Yet, by the grace

can be

of God, he said, he was not ensnared.

“I think if I didn’t know my purpose at a young age (to touch young people), I could have spiraled and strayed. I always tell young men, ‘I’m blessed that what was around me didn’t get inside of me,’ ” he said.

Bankston seemed destined to help young people from an early age. He spent more than 10 years mentoring young people. He was a Cincinnati Recreation Commission lifeguard. He was a church youth pastor. When he speaks, he frequently credits his faith as a guide for success and sees the formation of Forever Kings as divine intervention.

“I can’t describe it any other way than to say there was an awakening,” Bankston said. “I felt for the first time that I was fulfilling my purpose. It was confirmation from God that I am doing what I was called to do.”

Sometimes lending an ear to a child who wants to talk can be life-changing, and Bankston is always looking for opportunities to listen and hear. He recalls the story of a 12-yearold who missed his ride home and inadvertently joined an afterschool meeting of Forever Kings in his school building.

Things were tough at home for the child. His single mom was raising him and a sick sibling.

“It was a freak accident that he was there, but I felt he received a connection that he probably never had,” Bankston said. “I tell our staff here that (listening to a child) may seem like the silliest thing in the world, but it can mean so much to the person sharing it with you.”

Today, Xander Wynn, that 12-year-old, is 19,

Photo by Wendell g ibbs Jr., eleven27 Media g rou P Jordon Bankston with a Forever Kings graduate

thriving and credits Bankston for saving him at a critical moment.

“Jordan has meant everything to me. It was by pure coincidence that we met and it was a gift from God, honestly. I was in a very dark place, struggling with anger and very lost,” Wynn said. “Jordan was the first person who took a chance on me and thought I could be something. He welcomed me into his life as if I was his son. We bumped heads many times but seven years later I couldn’t have dreamed of a better role model and father figure to lead me in life. I owe everything to him and God who have allowed me to become who I am today.”

Kelly Gunnels Valines, a local business owner who met Bankston at church, calls him her “little brother.” She said she marvels at his capacity and willingness to help others.

“He has an opportunity to plant seeds of hope, acceptance, love and legacy,” Valines said. “He is an educator in a system that was leaving our brown and Black children behind, and he did something about it. He is an unselfish man of God, and he pours out his heart, time and energy to those in need while seeing himself in the very struggles of others.”

Seeing and filling a need

Bankston’s benevolence and entrepreneurial mind emerged in the earliest days of the global pandemic, not long after he founded Forever Kings. People needed food and essentials. Bankston partnered with La Soupe and the Freestore Foodbank to deliver food to Cincinnati Recreation Centers and feed those in need.

Valines said Bankston sees a need and seeks to fill it as soon as possible. “He does not sit back and speak about the issues and then wait for someone else to take hold of the reins,” she said. “He moves with the vision God has given him to show up for our children and to give them hope and a place in this world where they can learn their value in the kingdom of God and in life.”

While Bankston seeks to provide a better future for young men, he is not oblivious to contemporary challenges in the city, where nearly 9 out of 10 homicide victims in 2022 were Black. While the City of Cincinnati recently declared gun violence a public health crisis, Bankston believes kids need a champion early in their lives who can change the trajectory of their lives. They need learning intervention to address any academic deficiencies. And they need to know what winning feels like, he said.

“I believe our young men are misunderstood, and we just don’t have enough people to work on their behalf,” Bankston said. 

About Forever Kings

Jordan Bankston founded Forever Kings in the summer of 2019 on the premise that young men of color in Greater Cincinnati needed a safe space to learn, grow and thrive with like-minded peers.

On the surface, the concept of Forever Kings may seem similar to other programs aimed at uplifting youth, such as the MORE initiative offered by Cincinnati Public Schools or YMCA’s Achievers program. However, Forever Kings primarily competes with sports programming directed at young men.

Headquartered in Roselawn, Forever Kings’ program is divided into three areas of focus:

• A nine-month personal development support program called Boyz II Kings.

• An academic support program that includes tutoring and ACT and SAT preparation called Every King Succeeds.

• An optional Christian discipleship program called Kings for Christ.

The cost of the program is $100 per year. Prospective participants pay a nonrefundable $50 application fee.

Four schools have school-based Boyz II Kings programs. Participants (Kings) meet after school once a week. The nine-month program serves these students in its headquarters, the King’s Palace. The space has large classrooms and meeting spaces. Its walls are painted deep purple, which is associated with royalty. “ ‘Forever Kings’ is meant to remind young men of the greatness inside them, that they are indeed Forever Kings,” Bankston said.

“Our program is focused on building their self-actualization, how do we get them to see who they really are,” Bankston said.

Programs are implemented by paid mentors (impact coordinators). These are all Black men who have worked in youth development for a minimum of five years. All curriculum is created in-house and tailored to the needs of members.

 Learn more about Forever Kings and how you can support its mission: www.foreverkingsinc.org

Photos of participants and staff at Forever Kings retreats.

Notables: Mentoring/Educational Support

Movers & Makers asked organizations who provide mentoring and educational support to children and youth to introduce their notables to our readers, part of a regular feature highlighting people making a difference in Greater Cincinnati’s nonprofit community.

BillBresser

Bill Bresser began as a tutor; now he’s Boys & Girls Clubs’ CEO

Bill Bresser is the CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Cincinnati. Twenty years ago, he started as a part-time volunteer tutor and has since served BGCGC in nearly every role. Bresser led BGCGC through the creation of the Graduate, Fit for Life, and Ready to Serve program, which has become a national model. In his five years as CEO, he led a campaign to found the Jeff Wyler Club and has increased the BGCGC operating budget by $1 million annually. During COVID, Bill completely restructured BGCGC services into fully operational virtual schools and spearheaded the implementation of a mental health program. Currently, Bresser is leading BGCGC’s strategic growth plan for the next decade, focusing on youth workforce development, ensuring even more teens across the region have opportunities and skills for success after high school. In his off time, Bresser enjoys baseball, writing, collecting vinyl records and spending time with his family. Bresser says his wife is his hero and they are the proud parents of a special needs son. 

Kathy Wade’s Learning Through Art has helped students and families

Kathy Wade, 2023 Governor’s Award recipient in Arts Administration, CEO and co-founder of Learning Through Art Inc. is celebrating 31 years of her organization. Since 2020, Wade has expanded the programming – which has impacted over 1.1 million through working with schools and partners in Greater Cincinnati and beyond – to offer the immersive literacy model that mitigates impacts of adverse childhood experiences and supports entire families. Wade led LTA through the pandemic by broadening the program’s curriculum and pivoting to Books Alive! For Kids Virtual Adventures. Episodes were immediately made available to all pre-K to third grade CPS students and classrooms via streaming and have now served over 100,000 children. Wade executive produces and sometimes appears as a featured performer in the productions, which earned LTA three regional Emmys in 2021 and 2022. She is now organizing the return of Kids Cultures, Critters, and Crafts Festival at the Cincinnati Zoo this summer. When Wade is not working she loves to read while listening to jazz, and finds peace through gardening. 

Kathy Burkhardt’s wide experience feeds her educational leadership

Dr. Kathy Burkhardt has worked for 27 years in public education in Northern Kentucky as a teacher, principal, curriculum specialist and school superintendent. She is an innovative thinker and an advocate for student success, cradle to career. She has extensive knowledge in developing and implementing programs that address the needs of the whole child, adolescent or adult learner. Burkhardt has provided leadership with numerous local, regional and state educational initiatives. She has collaborated with diverse partners to empower learners of all ages. Her expertise includes communication, family and community engagement, curriculum, instruction, strategic planning, leadership, technology integration, school governance policy and operations, data analysis, and professional learning. She serves as executive director of NaviGo College and Career Prep, a division of Learning Grove. While not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family. She is a proud graduate of Berea College in Berea, Kentucky. 

Alison Kaufman is passionate about connecting young people with the social and emotional benefits of service learning. This drives her as Magnified Giving’s director of programs. Her tenacity in establishing strong partnerships with schools and nonprofits will result in 5,000 youths in 130 Youth Philanthropy Programs developing as leaders and philanthropists throughout the area. Kaufman trains educators and staff who facilitate Magnified Giving programs in fifth to 12th grades, after-school clubs and youth programs. They integrate philanthropy education into everything from math or English to Key Club and National Honor Society. Young people learn the foundations of philanthropy, research and advocacy for social causes, and select a local nonprofit to receive a $1,000 Magnified Giving grant. When she’s not working, Kaufman loves cooking for family and friends. She says, “Sharing a good meal with good conversation, music and lots of laughter brings me great joy.” She has four children, including a set of triplets. 

Alison Kaufman teaches young people the joys and methods of giving

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Jennifer Blatz runs StriveTogether and runs in marathons

Jennifer Blatz is the president and CEO of StriveTogether, a national nonprofit working in 70 communities across the United States to enable more than 14 million young people to succeed in school and life. Blatz is a nationally recognized leader and expert in building place-based partnerships. For two decades, she has designed, developed and implemented strategies that drive largescale community improvement through partnership with local leaders and organizations. Blatz serves as a PolicyLink Ambassador for Health Equity, a LEAP Ambassador, a board member at Raising A Reader and a member of the Cincinnati Business Courier Leadership Trust. She was also invited to help launch the Weave Movement at the Aspen Institute. Blatz has been named a YWCA of Greater Cincinnati Rising Star and a Cincinnati Business Courier Forty Under 40. She is an avid runner and often enjoys participating in local marathons. 

Melissa Hall Sommer works to strengthen families

Melissa Hall Sommer has been a champion for education throughout her over 25-year tenure at Brighton Center. She has led in home visitation and early childhood education, ensuring our youngest learners enter kindergarten ready. After-school programming for youth ensures middle and high school youth have the support and skills to be successful. Sommer has worked diligently to ensure families have support, including housing and case management, so students can maintain school stability and parents have what they need to thrive. Brighton Center offers work-based learning opportunities for students and support to inschool and out-of-school youth through workforce development programs. Sommer and Brighton Center provide communitywide leadership to support children and their families. Sommer believes that for children to be strong, families need to be strong, and when families are strong, communities thrive. 

Carrie Bunger’s asks the questions that improve help for children

Dr. Carrie Bunger’s passion for helping children and families achieve more success is clear from the moment you meet her. Bunger oversees school-based programming for Beech Acres Parenting Center, which includes providing mental health and prevention services focused on leveraging strengths and delivering social emotional learning through Effective School Solutions. Her curiosity and bravery lead her to ask questions to deepen her understanding of a situation, in a tone that is non-threatening and nonjudgmental. Bunger’s experience as a teacher, assistant principal and school psychologist makes her an excellent leader and change maker for K-12 students. Dr. Bunger leans on experience, research and data to create systems and solutions for the greatest impact on families in Greater Cincinnati. Bunger also enjoys spending time with her young family, including her two daughters ages 6 and 1. They just welcomed a new puppy into their home. 

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Sonya Fultz raises students’ access to adults who widen their world

Sonya Fultz, a lifelong educator, joined Adopt A Class Foundation as CEO in 2020 and emerged from the pandemic keenly focused on the vision of a Greater Cincinnati where all students have access to caring adults who expose them to a breadth of life and career experiences so they can unleash their full potential. Since her arrival, Adopt A Class has grown corporate civic partnerships by 35% to now support 3,000 volunteers in mentoring 7,500 students through project-based explorations of career and life skills. The program partners with 37 schools serving students from underserved communities. Fultz looks forward to continuing to expand programming and partnerships to ensure today’s students are tomorrow’s Greater Cincinnati leaders. Outside of work, Fultz enjoys time with her husband, Walt, and visiting their three grown children. Fultz travels to Guatemala regularly, volunteering with sustainable community-led development projects in the rural Highlands. 

Latisha Owens learned young the importance of a mentor

Latisha Owens has been working with young people, from being a teacher’s assistant, to mental health specialist, to case manager, and now to owner of Guiding Light Mentoring, an organization providing mentoring, tutoring and leadership development skills. Being mentored herself through elementary school and part of high school, she recognized the benefits of a mentor. She understood approaches to take to help youth overcome their struggles; parent and school engagement, but also addressing their mental, physical and social health. In the early stage of Guiding Light Mentoring, Owens would mentor several students at a time. When not working, Owens’ favorite thing is to binge on an episode of “A Million Little Things.” 

Vir Seth uses game of squash to motivate student excellence

VirSeth

Vir Seth helped launch Cincinnati Squash Academy in 2014 to provide consistent opportunities and long-term support to underserved youth (ages 9-25) through life-skills mentoring, academic tutoring, squash training and postsecondary services. An immigrant from India and an elite squash player, Seth is energized by making a difference and empowering CSA’s highly motivated students. Seth was part of the team that helped guide CSA’s first four high school graduates into their post-secondary pathways, and there are now 36 more students from around Cincinnati following the same path. In 2019, Seth was selected to participate in the Squash & Education Alliance Leadership Fellows program, a year-long development opportunity for ten aspiring executive directors. Seth is also a certified US Squash Level 2 Coach. When not at CSA, he loves spending time with family, reading, playing chess, and being active. 

Jordan Mitchell brings a big heart

to work

for children without homes

Jordan Mitchell, UpSpring's newest program director, is an emerging young professional with a big heart for helping K-12 children experiencing homelessness, by providing both traditional and non-traditional educational enrichment.

Mitchell joined UpSpring a year and a half ago as a program manager. He facilitated UpSpring After School programs at several sites. He was also site director for UpSpring's Cincinnati Summer 360 program, where he led staff, interns, and junior camp counselors in a six-week program to help students retain academic skills and build social and emotional skills. As program director, Jordan oversees two program managers and four programs. He brings such a positive, caring and enthusiastic energy to all his work that he is celebrated by the children served, their parents and the staff. In his free time, Jordan enjoys traveling and watching sports and air crash investigation shows. 

Erica Ninneman boosts adults’ ability to return to education

Erica Ninneman, chief education officer at Community Matters, has been working for more than a decade to strengthen the opportunities available for adults in our region to re-engage with education. Under her leadership, enrollment across the organization’s adult education programming — English language instruction, high school equivalency preparation, and college and career readiness support — has grown to include nearly 600 students this year. Ninneman has also been committed to ensuring that enrolled students reflect the diversity of our community, which includes adult learners from 49 countries of origin and 57 unique communities throughout Greater Cincinnati. Ninneman truly believes that education is an essential part of building a thriving and more just community. Ninneman enjoys spending quality time with her family (especially her niece and nephew), completing puzzles, exploring local breweries and playing volleyball. 

Kevin Corey helps others overcome problems he faced growing up

Kevin Corey was appointed executive director of the Wesley Chapel Mission Center in 2020 and has worked to inspire greatness in the next generation. His religious faith and compassion to help and mentor is a calling. He has served in the nonprofit arena for over 10 years after retiring from law enforcement. He served for over 22 years with the Fort Wayne, Indiana, Police Department. Corey founded and led the Indiana School Resource Officers Association and served as its first president in 2011. In Cincinnati, he has served at his church and on the City of Fairfield Income Tax Review Committee. He was recently appointed to the city’s Civil Service Commission. Corey grew up in Fort Wayne, where he overcame the poverty and violence that plagued his neighborhood. That influenced his decision to inspire youths who experienced the same social deprivation. In his free time, Corey can be found on movie dates with his wife, Nicole. 

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Mentoring collaboration increases impact for 1,000 local fifth graders

The Cincinnati Museum Center hosted 1,000 Greater Cincinnati fifth graders in the Adopt A Class program to spend the day at the Cincinnati History Museum. Students toured the Made in Cincinnati exhibit to explore in novative companies and products made here over the last 200 years.

Crayons to Computers curated “Innovation Station” kits where students and mentors spent 45 min utes in the classroom in the exhibit becoming innovators. The kits were random materials from Crayons to Computers stock, and students built a product and then presented

its name, purpose and how it would be of interest to consumers.

According to Adopt A Class Executive Director Sonya Fultz, “This three-way collaboration was

Norwood View students use Innovation Station kits from Crayons to Computers to design a launcher.

Hays Porter students learn from Messer mentors about working on a team.

Donors help Mercy Health buy new mobile mammography vehicles

Mercy Health committed $450,000 to purchase new mobile mammography coaches. Mercy Health’s mobile mammography team has driven vehicles thousands of miles to meet the demand for screenings that have the potential to save lives.

The Wyler Family Foundation, Kroger Health, Ameritas and other donors provided additional funding for the new $950,000 vehicles. Donations will help purchase two new state-of-the-art coaches to expand screening. Each coach has the very latest 3D technology – called tomosynthesis – which improves the accuracy of the scans and reduces false positives.

In addition, Kroger Health has teamed with Mercy Health to bring mobile mammography screenings to Little Clinic locations throughout Cincinnati.

No-cost screenings are available to those who qualify.

 513-686-3300, mercy.com/ CincinnatiMobileMammo or www.thelittleclinic.com

Johnson Foundation grants $10K to Findlay Market

The Corporation for Findlay Market received a $10,000 grant

from the Johnson Foundation to eliminate the $6.99 delivery fee and $3.99 service fee on the Findlay Market Shopping App for those who utilize SNAP benefits. This waiver applies to all orders utilizing SNAP benefits as their payment method, removing barriers one delivery of food at a time. The amount of money granted has the ability to benefit over 900 individuals who shop via the Findlay Market Shopping App.

Warren County Foundation awards four programs $10K

The Warren County Foundation recently awarded four $10,000 Impact Grants for programs in 2023.

Beech Acres Parenting Center: “Beyond the Classroom” program to provide trauma-informed care for children’s behavioral, emotional and mental health and parental peer support in 10 Warren County Schools.

Countryside YMCA: “Veterans Connect” program to improve their overall well-being and quality of life for those who have sacrificed, served and defended our nation.

Hospice of Cincinnati: “Free Mission Based Services” to support end-of-life needs for 500 uninsured or underinsured Warren County residents.

Warren County Community Services: “Adult New Readers”

to teach parents to read Warren County Imagination Library books and enhance and expand the reading suggestions with their children

Dater awards $25,000 to Magnified Giving

Magnified Giving has been awarded a $25,000 grant by the Charles H. Dater Foundation, enabling Magnified Giving to empower hundreds of youth through its Youth Philanthropy Programs.

During the 2022-23 school year, Magnified Giving is engaging 5,000 students in 130 Youth Philanthropy Programs throughout Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, where they learn the foundations of philanthropy, research social causes, visit and serve local nonprofits, advocate and ultimately select a local nonprofit to receive a $1,000 Magnified Giving grant.

CareSource grant to help HCAN recruit, train

A grant of $180,000 from CareSource’s Community Reinvestment Activities Fund will allow Health Care Access Now to recruit and train community health workers in Ohio. HCAN will prioritize recruitment from African American, Latinx, Asian and Indigenous communities, providing full scholarships for 50

individuals.

Racial and ethnic minority groups in Ohio face significant health disparities and need additional support to achieve positive health outcomes. HCAN’s goal is to build a primary care integrated, community-centered system for the uninsured, underinsured and other vulnerable populations. Community health workers provide care coordination, identifying needs and eliminating barriers to good health.

CycleBar teams with AHA to raise funds through rides

CycleBar Cincinnati teamed up with American Heart Association to host charitable CycleGives rides in February. All proceeds went to the AHA. The cause is particularly important for instructor Ratona Harr who led the classes.

In 2021, she suffered a massive “widow-maker” heart attack, which has only a 12% survival rate. It came as a complete surprise for Harr because she always lived an active lifestyle, including owning a yoga studio and teaching classes at CycleBar since 2015. Harr credits cycling as a major factor in her recovery – both the cardio health she developed beforehand from years of cycling plus the support from the cycling community. Today she’s back teaching six classes per week and running her yoga studio.

Cyclebar trainer Ratona Harr

Mercy Health plans to purchase new mobile mammography coaches.

The Magnified Giving team: Allison Riley, operations manager; Lindsey Barta, associate director; Kelly Collison, executive director; Roger Grein, founder and president; Carey Kuznar, director of advancement; Alison Kaufman, director of programs; and Branden Waggoner, communication intern

American Homeland Title places another big Girl Scout cookie order

American Homeland Title purchased $2,880 worth of Girl Scout cookies to distribute to customers during closings. Since 2020, they have bought 333 cases, equivalent to 3,996 boxes, of cookies valued at nearly $16,000 from the Girl Scouts of Kentucky’s Wilderness Road.

In 2023, all of their buyers and borrowers that close in the Cincinnati, Dayton and Northern Kentucky areas will receive a box of Girl Scout cookies while supplies last. American Homeland Title helps drive awareness for the Girl Scout Cookie Financial Literacy Program and supports programming that gives Kentucky’s future female leaders the opportunity to develop important life skills.

Girl Scouts of Kentucky’s Wilderness serves over 8,000 girls and young women in 66 Kentucky counties and one Ohio county.

SantaCon raises $46K for pediatric brain cancer research

The Cure Starts Now raised almost $46,000 for pediatric brain cancer research at the 15th annual SantaCon event. More than 10,000 partygoing, bar-hopping Santas and more than 50 vendors partnered in the event.

The Cure Starts Now was started in honor of 6-year-old Elena Desserich, a Cincinnati girl who battled a rare, aggressive form of brain cancer known as DIPG. The organization now has over 40 locations in three countries.

“Cincinnati showed up, dressed up, and had fun while supporting pediatric brain cancer research,” said Elena’s mother, Brooke Desserich, executive director of The Cure Starts Now.

The organization also benefited from fundraising by 10-year-old Julia Wolf, whose twin brother, Grant, died of brain cancer. Julia raised more than $64,000 in 2023 after raising over $50,000 the previous two years.

People Working Cooperatively gets $50K from building foundation

People Working Cooperatively received a $50,000 grant from the Installed Building Products Foundation, a Columbus-based foundation that provides major grants for organizations involved in building or renovating homes or providing shelter for those in need. PWC is a nonprofit that provides professional, critical home repair, weatherization and accessibility modification services for low-income homeowners in communities throughout Greater Cincinnati to help them stay safe and healthy at home.

Munoz Foundation, Mount St. Joseph partner to provide scholarships

The Anthony Muñoz Foundation and Mount St. Joseph University have created opportunities for local students to access higher education through a specialized scholarship offering at the Mount, starting with incoming fall 2023 students.

The collaboration will directly impact students by providing scholarship opportunities to high school seniors who plan to continue their education at MSJ. In the inaugural year, the Mount will award four AMF Impact Program students $2,500 annually, totaling $10,000 over four years. 

Thank

Media Partner

A Picture’s Worth

Anne Maxfield, LLC

Church Mutual Insurance

Community Action Agency CincinnatiHamilton County

Grants Plus

Greater Cincinnati Nonprofit News

Carol Ann & Ralph V. Haile, Jr Foundation

Interact for Health

Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati

LARaterman & Associates

Mutual of America

RetireMed

Carolyn McNerney, product sales director of the Girl Scouts of Kentucky’s Wilderness Road, presents 720 boxes of cookies to American Homeland Title.

UC Health opens expanded surgical department

UC Health celebrated the opening of its new surgical department expansion. The expansion includes 13 new preoperative exam rooms, eight state-ofthe-art operating rooms and 12 top-tier post-anesthesia care unit pods. These improvements will add operating room capacity while improving the capabilities and readiness of UC Medical Center.

The expansion is a major milestone in the Clifton Campus Revitalization Project on the medical campus. A new emergency department space is also set to open later this year.

“This transformation in our surgical department underscores our commitment to evolving how we provide medical care and how our patients experience healthcare with us,” said Cory Shaw, UC Health president and CEO. “Today’s gathering recognizes this steadfast commitment now—and into the future.”

UC Medical Center is part of UC Health. Its Clifton Campus houses the region’s only adult Level I trauma center, nationally recognized Comprehensive Stroke Center, a Level 4 perinatal center, an adult burn center and a pioneering transplant program for heart, liver, pancreas and kidney transplantation.

 UCHealth.com

Art Museum recruiting docents

The Cincinnati Art Museum is accepting applications for its new docent class of 2024. The museum aims to recruit 20 new docents, volunteer educators who lead tours and programs for museum visitors. The museum plans to build on and diversify its current team of 67 active volunteer educators.

Applications are due May 15. A year-long training program for the new docents will take place from this September to August 2024. The training will include art history, familiarization with the museum’s collection and galleries, and best practices for interacting with visitors.

After completing training, active docents are expected to sign a contract committing to two years of service. To maintain active docent status, docents must lead 30 tours per year. A weekend option is also available, requiring only 15 tours per year. Both daytime and evening docent training programs are available.

In addition to recruiting docents, the Cincinnati Art Museum is seeking volunteers to support several areas of the institution. The museum is hosting a volunteer open house from 6-8 p.m. on March 23.

Volunteer and affiliate groups represented at the open house include: Docent Corps, Visitor Service Aides, REC Volunteers, Donald P. Sowell Committee, Duveneck Association and Women’s Committee.

Responsibilities and assignments range from ensuring positive visitor experiences, working with kids, increasing the museum’s involvement with diverse communities, sharing encyclopedic knowledge of art collections, and more. Volunteer commitments can begin at just once a month.

 www.cincyart.org/DocentCorps

Talbert House receives three-year accreditation

Talbert House has received a three-year accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Rehabilitation Facilities for mental health and addiction treatment for children and adults, integrated primary care services, housing and community care services such as prevention and crisis response. The agency has been accredited through CARF since 2004.

Talbert House is committed to delivering high quality services to clients. The agency is equally committed to maintaining a high level of quality standards for business practice.

Accreditation is evidence that an organization has demonstrated its commitment to encouraging feedback, continuously improving services, enhancing performance and managing risk. Clients and their families can be confident that services will be focused on their unique needs.

Gold Star teams with Freestore for National Chili Day fundraiser

Gold Star celebrated National Chili Day by partnering with the Freestore Foodbank for a 13-day fundraiser to help feed food-insecure kids in our region. In the past, Gold Star has raised $170,000 for Freestore.

Gold Star celebrated 13 individuals who are making a difference in our community – and who are adding to the flavor of our city by raising money for the Freestore Foodbank. Freestore Foodbank’s mission is to improve lives and create a hunger-free, healthy and thriving community.

Roger David, Gold Star president and CEO

Cincinnati Art Museum is seeking docents, volunteer educators who lead tours and programs for museum visitors.

Cory Shaw, UC Health president and CEO

OhioXcelerate holding entrepreneur mentoring event

OhioXcelerate is now accepting applications for its first-ever mentoring event June 21. This platform provides an opportunity for entrepreneurs to connect with top mentors in various aspects of business, including fundraising, sales, marketing and customer discovery.

The virtual event will feature introductions of mentors, followed by 10-minute pitches from three participants. Participants will then rotate between three breakout rooms, each focused on a different aspect of business and led by mentors with subject matter expertise. At the end of the event, mentors will fill out a scorecard and feedback form. The winning participants will receive a package of services and a cash prize to support their business endeavors.

“OhioXcelerate offers a one-of-a-kind statewide opportunity for entrepreneurs to receive invaluable advice and guidance from experienced professionals,” said Chris Berry, President/CEO of OhioX. “Our goal is to create a supportive and collaborative environment across all of Ohio where participants can grow their businesses and achieve their goals.”

Applications for both mentors and participants close on May 1. Entrepreneurs interested in participating in OhioXcelerate can submit a brief application and pitch their business idea or current business.

 www.ohioxcelerate.com

Three student business teams win Launch It competitions

Three teams of undergraduate students were named winners of the 2023 Launch It: Cincy Pitch Competition created by Main Street Ventures. Two teams from Miami University and a team from the University of Cincinnati will share $28,000 in prize money and will spend the summer in Cincinnati perfecting their business ideas.

Launch It: Cincy is a pitch competition exclusively for undergraduate student founders in the Greater Cincinnati region.

The 2023 Competition was held at Kao USA Inc., a premium beauty care business and title sponsor of the event. Five student teams pitched their companies to a panel of judges.

The three winners are:

• Coarse Culture , a self-care brand specializing in all-natural whipped shea butter products. (Miami University)

• Nosh, which connects travelers with food accessibility as if they walked into their own home. (Miami University)

• Style , a virtual closet and personal styling app that reduces the time and energy that goes into selecting an outfit by providing users with personalized outfit recommendations, recreation ideas and the ability to try on clothes virtually. (University of Cincinnati)

“We are honored to continue to partner with Main Street Ventures in their mission to help strengthen the Greater Cincinnati region through their support of entrepreneurs,” said Dani Ruffolo, of Kao USA Ventures Team.

LADD presents its methods to U.N. group in Vienna

The CEO of LADD, Susan Brownknight traveled to Vienna, Austria, to the United Nations to present on the organization’s innovative solutions in the disability field and to be honored for its ground-breaking work.

LADD was one of 71 awardees from around the world convening at the U.N. to present their innovative solutions to eliminating barriers to community-based living for people with disabilities. There were eight honorees from the United States. Other honorees included global leaders such as Google and Tencent Technology.

LADD is being honored by Zero Project, an international organization whose mission is to pursue the goals of Article 32 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The recognition comes for LADD’s work in developing Smart Living, a software/assessment system and staffing model in which people with intellectual disabilities can live safely and affordably within any community.

Founded in 1975, the Cincinnati nonprofit supports over 700 adults experiencing disabilities through housing, employment and meaningful community engagement programs.

Clermont Chamber honors volunteers in local communities

The Clermont Chamber of Commerce Foundation has selected recipients of the 30th Annual Salute to Leaders Awards. The awards honor volunteer citizens, groups, heroes and leaders. The honorees are:

• Batavia Township Award: Jeanna Weiderhold

• Goshen Township Award: American Regulators

• Miami Township Award: Karen and Brian Wikoff

• Ohio Township Award: New Richmond Garden Club on the Ohio

• Pierce Township Award: Michelle Balside

• Union Township Award: Bill Mues

• Washington Township Award: Dave Henson

• Wayne Township Award: John Pringle

• Williamsburg Township Award: Julia Hess

• City of Loveland Award: Patricia Furterer

• City of Milford Award: Edward Brady

• Community Project Award: Kim Bush, Rescue Me Animal Advocacy

• Education Award: Steffani Diesel Slone, Batavia Elementary PTO

• Health Award: Clermont Senior Services Volunteer Guardians: Linda Bourquin, Charissa Cook , Lisa DeFrank , Heather Horine, Randy Longbottom, Monica May, Pamela Rada , Ellen Tom, Bonnie Trombley, Fred Van Keuren, John Wloszek , Jane Crenshaw

• Over ’n Over Award: Lisa Davis, Clermont County Board of DD

• The Up ‘n Over Youth Leadership Award: Ivy Stephan, Clermont Northeastern High School

• The William H. Over Leadership Award: Kerry Bryne, TQL

• Business Partner of the Year Award: Steve Kelly, Miami Township Fire & EMS

• Non-Profit Partner of the Year Award: Lydia Burns, Allied Construction Industries 

Dani Ruffolo, of Kao USA Ventures Team

Susan Brownknight, CEO of LADD Chris Berry, President/CEO of OhioX

Ronnell (Ronnie) Spears has been named chief financial officer for Council on Aging. Spears is a Navy veteran who holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a master’s in business administration. Spears began his 29-year career in home care in 1992, serving as CFO and part owner of Caring Hearts Home Health Care, a family-owned business. In 2011, Caring Hearts became part of Home Care by Black Stone. Spears subsequently became part of the executive team at Black Stone, assisting the company in various capacities such as CIO, market leader and area executive director. Cincinnati Country Day School named Alpacino “Al” Beauchamp the school’s director of academic affairs. Beauchamp has led a community of more than 800 students and 70 faculty as a principal, taught at the middle school, high school and university levels, led a new small private school as head of school, and worked in the corporate world domestically and internationally. A former student at Summit Country Day and St. Xavier High School, Beauchamp holds a bachelor’s in education and a master’s in education from the University of Cincinnati and a master’s in business administration from Miami University-Oxford. He is completing his doctorate in educational leadership at Miami University-Oxford. In his current role as principal of Roberts Academy in Cincinnati, he has led the rigorous accreditation process with the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Beauchamp was born in Berkeley, Calif., and resides in North College Hill. He enjoys hiking, cycling and spending time with his daughter Automne.

Middletown City School District named assistant superintendent Deborah Houser as its new superintendent. Houser will become the first woman to lead MCSD full-time in the district’s 170-year history. The district also said Keri Hensley and Kee Edwards have been

promoted into MCSD’s leadership team. Hensley will become senior director of curriculum and Edwards will become senior director of human resources.

The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce promoted Holly Nibert to director of the Women’s Initiative program. Nibert’s promotion expands her leadership role with the Women’s Initiative, which she joined less than a year ago as an events specialist. Founded by the NKY Chamber in 2008, the Women’s Initiative, sponsored by PNC, is the leading organization for women of all career stages working toward business and professional success. The NKY Chamber’s fastest growing program area, the Women’s Initiative was created to inspire area businesswomen in Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati to connect, grow and achieve. Earning her bachelor’s of music education, grades K-12, at Morehead State University, Nibert previously worked as an event manager for Funky’s Catering and Events and as an event services coordinator for the Newport Aquarium. She is a resident of Burlington.

Jay Fossett, former Covington city manager and the current Dayton city administrator, has been elected chair of the Covington Business Council board of directors. Fossett, who grew up in Covington, is a graduate of Holmes High School, the University of Kentucky and Northern Kentucky University, where he received both a law degree and a master’s in executive leadership and organizational change. Fossett will serve as board chair for two years, and replaces Tom Tilmes, who recently retired from Republic Bank. The new civic and business leaders who have joined the CBC board are: Cara Brooks, Duke Energy, economic development manager; Julie Hopkins, Strauss Troy attorney; Kenneth Webb, senior vice president, Republic Bank; Will Weber, president and CEO, Southbank Partners. They join 16 other civic and business leaders on the CBC board.

Gateway Community & Technical College’s foundation board has approved the nomination of two new board members: Dr. Eddie Howard Jr. of Northern Kentucky University and Kenneth Webb of Republic Bank. Howard is vice president for student affairs and enrollment management at Northern Kentucky University. Webb is vice president and senior regional CRA community development officer of Republic Bank.

Nonprofit TruPartner Credit Union – named after the 2015 merger of Cincinnati Central and Communicating Arts credit unions – elected Robert Killins to its board of directors. Killins is the director of special initiatives at Greater Cincinnati Foundation, where he attracts and manages donors and supports GCF’s private foundation work. He joined GCF in 2010 after 24 years at Procter & Gamble. He will serve as the TPCU treasurer. Longserving board member Barbara Schmitz, board secretary, was also re-elected for another three-year term.

Companions on a Journey has expanded its leadership team with the recent hiring of Shayna Thomas, director of operations, and Sovanara My as director of bereavement. Also recently joining the organization was Ann Gundlach, marketing and social media coordinator, and Pamela Tyler, adult bereavement liaison. Talbert House named attorney Laurie Hoppenjans and Megan Jones as new directors. Hoppenjans is the court and corrections director for regional services. Jones will serve as a director in the agency’s housing service line. Angela Satterfield has been promoted to director for behavioral health residential services.

Angela Satterfield

Megan Jones

Laurie Hoppenjans

Pamela Tyler Ann Gundlach Sovanara My Shayna Thomas Robert Killins

Will Weber

Kenneth Webb Julie Hopkins

Cara Brooks

Jay Fossett Holly Nibert Kee Edwards Keri Hensley Deborah Houser Alpacino Beauchamp Ronnell Spears

Dr. Eddie J. Howard Jr.

American Legacy Theater named Julie Sonia Locker as its assistant artistic director. Prior to joining A.L.T. full-time, she has regularly performed, written, and directed with the Cincinnati Playhouse Off the Grid program, danced with Pones and improvised with OTRimprov and ComedySportz. She has performed with Know Theatre, The Carnegie and Cincinnati Fringe Festival. Locker’s commitment to social justice and changing the world through arts and empathy led her to become a teaching artist with the Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, the Hunter Heartbeat program at Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati, the Carnegie, Pones, Cincinnati Ballet, Leaves of Learning and A.L.T. Skylor Miller joined Delhi Township as the new administrator of the West Side community of approximately 30,000 residents. Most recently the planning and zoning administrator of Sycamore Township, Miller is a credentialed manager through the International City/County Management Association. He holds a bachelor’s in urban and regional planning from Miami University and a master’s of public administration from the University of Dayton.

DCCH Center for Children and Families has selected Denise Govan as its new executive director. Govan joins the DCCH family as the third executive director in the past 31 years. Sister Jean Marie Hoffman, S.N.D., held the post for 23 years, followed by Bob Wilson for eight years.

People Working Cooperatively named Matt Buddenberg as its new board chair. Tom Colvin, Cincinnati area president for Gallagher Benefit Services, hands the title to Buddenberg, who is a principal estimator at Messer Construction Co. Colvin will continue to serve as a board member. Immediate past board chair Rick Zoller has retired from the PWC board.

Cincinnati Ballet announced that Katherine Ochoa has been promoted to soloist and Llonnis Del Toro Cintra has been promoted to new dancer. Ochoa began training in 2009 at the National School of Ballet in Cuba. She later joined the Cuban National Ballet. This is Ochoa’s second season with Cincinnati Ballet. Del Toro Cintra was born in Havana and began his career at the Fernando Alonso National Ballet School. He was also part of the National Ballet of Cuba. The ballet also named Salomé Tregre to its second company. Tregre began training at Cincinnati Ballet Academy at the age of 3. She was the first African American to dance the role of Clara in Cincinnati Ballet’s 50-year history of The Nutcracker.

Santa Maria Community Services Inc. appointed new board members: Kaitlyn Carrender, Rasheda Cromwell, Dr. Sisan Cuervo and Hammad Siddiqi. Carrender is a senior office support specialist at Great American Insurance Group. Cromwell is vice president of community strategies for Greater Cincinnati Foundation. Dr. Cuervo is an assistant professor and certified bilingual speech-language pathologist. Siddiqi grew up in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and came to the United States as an international student at the University of Cincinnati in 1999. He currently serves PNC as its vice president of community development banking.

Visit Cincy, the Cincinnati region’s destination marketing organization, named Deana Taylor Brewer as vice president of human resources and employee engagement, and Linda Jeanmougin as vice president of finance and operations. Taylor Brewer joins Visit Cincy from 3CDC, where she was vice president of human resources since 2016. Jeanmougin joins Visit Cincy from the Cincinnati Better Business Bureau, where she was vice president of finance since 2018.

Crayons to Computers appointed Michael Q. Dozier to its board. Dozier is a director at Johnson & Johnson MedTech.

Northern Kentucky University selected Bonita Brown to be the school’s next interim president. Brown previously served the university as its vice president and chief strategy officer since 2019. She takes over as NKU’s seventh president after former president Dr. Ashish Vaidya’s departure last fall.

Cassandra Pennington, ADC’s gallery director, has been promoted to vice president. She will continue to work with ADC’s corporate and private collectors, interior designers and to show and sell art in the firm’s 13,000-square-foot mega gallery. She will remain manager of ADC’s national art shows as well as run the Art Collective, a new marketing initiative for emerging, midcareer and established artists. Annie Kautz will be ADC’s new gallery director. She will continue working with artists in the gallery for solo shows and exhibitions, design art presentations for clients, and assist in managing exhibitions at national shows.

Chrissy Wynn has been named the new peer mentor at Dress for Success Cincinnati in collaboration with Easterseals of Greater Cincinnati for the Benefits Bridge program. Chrissy’s experience includes working for Cincinnati Works.

The Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society has elected Kimberly Starbuck trustee emeritus in recognition of her decadelong, dedicated service on behalf of the preservation of Memorial Hall and her leadership as a CMHS officer and trustee from 2012 through 2022. 

Chrissy Wynn Annie Kautz Cassandra Pennington Bonita Brown Michael Q. Dozier Linda Jeanmougin Deana Taylor Brewer

Hammad Siqqui

Dr. Sisan Cuervo

Rasheda Cromwell Kaitlyn Carrender Salomé Tregre Llonnis del Toro Cintra

Katherine Ochoa Matt Buddenberg Denise Govan Julie Sonia Locker

Kim Starbuck

Skylor Miller

Snapshots The who, what, where & why of local nonprofit events

30th annual Heart Ball raises $1.2 million

More than 800 guests attended the 30th annual Greater Cincinnati Heart Ball at the Hyatt Regency, raising $1.2 million for the American Heart Association.

The event was chaired by Beverly A. Grant, a passionate supporter of the association and champion for health equity. Kay and Jack Geiger received the Heart of the City Award for non-medical professionals. Dr. Creighton B. Wright was honored with the Healthcare Leadership Impact Award, an inaugural recognition named for Dr. Wright and given to those in the medicine and healthcare fields who have worked with the American Heart Association to improve heart and brain health.

St. Elizabeth Healthcare was presenting sponsor. Other major sponsors included BFF Fund, CPR Kiosk, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and Recess in the Stadium.

Tonia Elrod and Dr. Louis Louis

Beverly A. Grant, Jack and Kay Geiger, and Alyson Poling

Dr. Brett Kissela, Deborah Hayes, Dr. Creighton B. Wright, Dr. D.P. Suresh and Alyson Poling

Tom and Evie Alessandrini, Stephanie and Dr. Jeffery Molkentin, and Mark McDonald

 Dr. D.P. Suresh, Leanne and Steve Berke, Dr. Sakthi and Bhuvaneswari Sadayappan

The Rohman Family

Chris and Angela Habel

Lisa and Gary Blank

Super Bowl event supports Lindner Center

Lindner Center of HOPE hosted its signature fundraiser, Touchdown for HOPE, on Super Bowl Sunday in the Bally’s Sports Club at the Great American Ball Park.

Employees, board members and community supporters arrived for the tailgate and watch party to find the room surrounded by big screen TVs, and a buffet featuring Cincinnati food favorites and other tasty treats.

Just before kick-off, honorary co-host Anthony Muñoz thanked the sponsors and fans for supporting the Center. Nearly $125,000 was raised for therapeutic enrichment services, including horticultural therapy, spiritual care and new exercise equipment.

Jasprit Villagrana and Luis Villagrana

Erika Crosby and Dr. Paul Crosby

Francie Hiltz, Dr. Tracey Skale, Dr. Paul Keck, Dede Munoz and Anthony Munoz

Dr. Paul Crosby, Lindner Center of HOPE president and CEO

Terry Ohnmeis, Rachael Drake and John Ryan

Scott Robertson, Anna Hughes, Chrissey Haslam and Aaron Haslam

Leadership Council draws packed house for Securing the Future

Leadership Council for Nonprofits’ annual Securing the Future conference drew 350 nonprofit leaders to the Cintas Center. Seattlebased keynote speaker Vu Le, author of the Nonprofit AF blog, had guests roaring with laughter and grinding their teeth at some of the hard realities and paradoxes of working in the social sector.

Leadership Council presented three awards: VUCA Leadership (Vision, Understanding, Clarity & Agility) to Jai’La Nored, Council on Aging, senior innovation designer; Visionary Board Leader to Jack Geiger, Cincinnati Youth Collaborative, former board chair; Inclusive Culture to ArtWorks.

The conference is the largest gathering of its kind each year in Greater Cincinnati, focusing on nonprofit resources and leadership development.

Matthew Gellin and Julie Locker of American Legacy Theatre

Inclusive Culture recipient Karla Batres Gilvin and Jane Keller, both with ArtWorks, flank conference sponsor Rick Flynn of Flynn & Co. CPAs.

Keynote speaker Vu Le

Ed Jung and Michelle Otten Guenther of Queen City Book Bank flank Erin Childs of Pro Bono Partnership of Ohio

Meredith Davis and Linda Kean, Jewish Family Services

Nikki Hollis, Cincinnati Youth Collaborative

Sweet Cheeks Diaper Bank CEO Megan Fischer, LC board and conference committee member

Jennifer Loeb, Ronald McDonald House CEO and LC board chair

Visionary Board Leader recipient Jack Geiger

WAVE Foundation’s Tricia Watts

Breakout presenters Rosie Santos and Leslie Stevenson of Mayerson Academy

VUCA award recipient Jai’La Nored with Beth Benson, Leadership Council executive director

Breakout presenters Kiana Trabue and John Scott of TABLE Initiative

YOUR CENTER FOR INSPIRATION

The SPCA Cincinnati is rooted in this local community. Not many organizations can say they’ve accomplished a century and a half’s worth of work, and we are very proud to continue this lifesaving legacy started so long ago,” said Mike Retzlaff, SPCA Cincinnati’s President and CEO. “The Fur Ball Gala is a top-tier production, providing our guests with a first-class experience. It has always been the ideal place to showcase our accomplishments as well as previews of where we are headed as an organization. There’s no bigger night in animal welfare in our region.”

I n honor of their 150th Anniversary, the SPCA Cincinnati has introduced its 150th Giving Circle ahead of the Fur Ball Gala. The Circle focuses on five key areas of programming that are funded solely by generosity: Chow Now Pantry, Shelter2Shelter, Veteran Initiative, Humane Education, and Medical Care. The SPCA Cincinnati is seeking 15 passionate people to form its 150th Giving Circle to allocate collective contributions in these key areas of its business to save more animals’ lives! Details on how to become a participant are available at spcacincinnati.org

The SPCA Cincinnati’s 21st Annual Fur Ball Gala, Presented by IAMS™, will be held Saturday, April 29, at 6:30 p.m. at the Sharonville Convention Center. The theme is 007 CATsino Royale, so get your evening gowns and tuxedos ready for a spectacular affair designed to benefit animals in our region and celebrate the SPCA Cincinnati’s 150 years of humane service to our community!

Guests will enjoy an open bar, a signature cocktail presented by Absolut, appetizers, a plated dinner, entertainment, live and silent auctions, the Whiskey Wall, the Wine Wall, a trip raffle, a 3-Day Drive in a Porsche (with a two-night stay at French Lick Resort) raffle, testimonials, rescue stories, and adoptable pets that gala guests can adopt the following morning at the SPCA Cincinnati in Sharonville. Visit spcacincinnati.org/events for tickets. No need to attend to donate, enter the raffle, or register for the online Silent Auction.

The SPCA Cincinnati thanks the Fur Ball Planning Committee and their 2023 Fur Ball Chair, Ellie Clements, for her commitment to the SPCA Cincinnati’s cause. The organization also thanks Diane Corman, Silent Auction Chair, for her passion and dedication over the years. Fur Ball is the SPCA Cincinnati’s largest fundraiser and helps care for the thousands of homeless and injured animals that enter their doors every year. In the past five years, the SPCA Cincinnati has sheltered more than 35,000 homeless animals. Thanks to all the Fur Ball 2023 Sponsors and Donors for making the Fur Ball possible!

Contact Maggie Rixson to reserve your date 513-326-6462 mrixson@cityofsharonville.com 11355 Chester Road Cincinnati, OH 45246 www.sharonvilleconventioncenter.com

UC’s Advancement & Transitions Services surpasses $90,000 at Red and Black Blast

More than 350 guests attended the sixth annual Red & Black Blast at the Tangeman University Center to benefit the University of Cincinnati’s Advancement & Transition Services. Guests enjoyed dinner, cocktails and a silent auction and heard inspiring life-changing stories from students, associates, staff and families from ATS programs.

Pam Green, CEO of Easterseals Redwood, was honored with the Champion for Inclusion Award. Stephen D. Kroeger, associate professor in special education at UC, received the Chuck Altenau Outstanding Service Award.

The Red & Black Blast was sponsored by RESLV, Terri and Bayley Hogan, Mastercard, Reading Rock, University of Cincinnati-CECH, AMK Care, Impact Autism, Keepers Turf, McPherson Family, Diana and David O’Brien, Procter & Gamble and others.

ATS programs provide education, employment and social opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

UC students, clockwise from far left: William Allendorf, Kelsey Coronel, Quinn Gorman, Kyle Eishen, Chaz Stump, Anne Stevenson, Rachel Ma and Joe Kniery

Dr. Stephen Kroeger, UC special education associate professor, with Christi Carnahan, director of ATS

Pam Green, CEO of Easterseals Redwood, with Christi Carnahan, director of ATS

Dean Larry Johnson

Neha Matta and Sarita Matta

The UC Bearcat and Brennan Eve

Provost Valerio Ferme

Scott and Kristen Oyler

Photos by Mikki s chaffner

Open Your Heart dinner exceeds $94K for Stepping Stones

Stepping Stones netted more than $94,000 at its 15th annual Open Your Heart fundraiser to benefit year-round programming for children, teens and adults with disabilities.

Some supporters gathered in person at Eddie Merlot’s for a cocktail hour and dinner, with a raffle and artwork created by Stepping Stones participants. Others enjoyed Eddie Merlot’s meals in their homes. At-home supporters were able to buy raffle tickets online, purchase pottery kits for participants and donate.

“We are so appreciative of everyone who came to support Stepping Stones at Open Your Heart,” said Patti Zesch, event chair.

Presenting sponsor was Convalescent Hospital Fund for Children. Cherub sponsors were SugarCreek, Richwood Investment Advisors LLC, Amy and George Joseph, and Dina and Chris Taylor.

Stepping Stones serves individuals with disabilities with programs to increase independence and promote inclusion.  www.SteppingStonesOhio.org.

$94,000+

Presented by Cherub Sponsors

Net Raised for Stepping Stones

With heartfelt thanks to our sponsors

Amy & George Joseph

Richwood Investment Advisors/ Deb Caley & Sam Scoggins

Sugarcreek/Julie & John Richardson

Dina & Chris Taylor

Sweetheart Sponsors

Benchmark Wealth Management

Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP

Ryan Generational Capital Advisors of Janney Montgomery Scott

Anne & Jim Shanahan

Stepping Stones Executive Team

Western & Southern Financial Group For

Event chair Patti Zesch and Open Your Heart founder Mary McGraw

Serving Bowls created by Stepping Stones’ Adult Day Program participants

Board member Julie Richardson, Jenny Heekin, Cathy Major and Lisa Elliot

Board member Jeff Bieber and Ashley Bieber, Melissa and Sean Gary

Stepping Stones board member David Eltringham, Susan Eltringham, Pamela Long and board member Al Koncius

Human Rights Campaign dinner supports LGBTQ+ community

The Greater Cincinnati Human Rights Campaign steering committee hosted its annual fundraising dinner at the Duke Energy Center. With the theme “Many Faces-One Focus,” the program emphasized how the LGBTQ+ community is very diverse, but has one focus, and that is full equality for the entire community.

The evening began with a silent auction and cocktails with music by Brooks T. Salloum. The program featured a first-time address by a member of congress, Rep. Greg Landsman, plus a welcome by Mayor Aftab Pureval and a keynote address by Tori Cooper, director of community engagement for the Transgender Justice Initiative.

Yellow Springs Fire Chief Colin Altman delivers a pitch for donors.

Duke Energy Center lit the Cincinnati sign in HRC’s colors.

Rick Chizmadia and Jordan Young present the HRC Visibility award to non-binary actor and Cincinnati native E.R. Fightmaster from “Grey’s Anatomy.”

Greater Cincinnati HRC steering committee members with Rep. Greg Landsman, former Councilman Chris Seelbach and current Councilman Reggie Harris. Karen Harmon, Andrew Bare, Jordan Young, Elizabeth Kennedy, Karen Morgan, Chase Rickey, Landsman, Seelbach, Troy Henson, Rick Chizmadia, Joshua Kayes, Rod Hinton and Harris

Co-chairs Rod Hinton, Chase Rickey, Elizabeth Kennedy and Joshua Kayes

Mayor Aftab Pureval opened the program with a welcome.

Victorian at Riverside hosts Have a Heart gala

The Victorian at Riverside Assisted Living and Memory Care Home held a Valentine-themed “Have a Heart for VAR” gala at a private club in Clifton’s Gaslight District. One hundred twenty guests could bid on domestic and global trips. One 007-inspired trip included three locations featured in “Casino Royale.”

Awards were given to philanthropic leaders Chuck and Julie Geisen Scheper, Cincinnati Foundation for the Aged, and Matthew Millett of Sophisticated Living Magazine. Miss Kentucky 2022, Hannah Edelen was emcee.

Presenting sponsor was Fedders Construction. Bronze sponsors were First Financial Bank and Paul Listerman of Wells Fargo Advisors. Other sponsors included Heritage Bank, Stewart Ironworks, Remedi Senior Care Pharmacy, Assured Partners, Mariner Wealth Advisors, Central Bank, Resource Graphics and Sabrina Smith.

Board President Ron Padgett told guests about VAR’s “Y’all Means All” initiative for senior citizens in the LGBTQ community, who have suffered discrimination in senior care.

The evening raised nearly $40,000 for Victorian at Riverside.

William Konop, VAR advancement director, Miss Kentucky Hannah Edelen and Cedric Vogel

Laurie Hagar, VAR director of finance, and Mike Hagar

Anita Taylor, VAR director of nursing, and Tony Dameron

Cathy Doyle, Alex VanDerzee, Patricia Layne and Ron Padgett, VAR board president and gala chair

Shannon Crutchfield, Cincinnati Foundation for the Aged trustee; VAR CEO Carrie VanDerzee; and Heather Jansen, Cincinnati Foundation for the Aged secretary

Doug Jones, Hannah Edelen, Miss Kentucky 2022, and Barbara Baxter

VAR board member Marisa McNee and Dave Meyer Emmy Award Winner Regional - Interview/Discussion Program

Crowd celebrates ‘Ecologies of Elsewhere’ at CAC

More than 200 artists and art supporters gathered at the Contemporary Arts Center to celebrate the new exhibition, “Ecologies of Elsewhere.” The group exhibition encourages visitors to consider how plants, seeds and botany generate sensuous systems of knowing and power, and examines the material, ritual and spiritual qualities of plant life.

“Ecologies of Elsewhere” is organized by the CAC and guest curated by Dr. Chandra Frank, assistant professor at the University of Cincinnati, and Dr. Portia Malatjie, of the University of Cape Town’s Michaelis School of Fine Art.

“

‘Ecologies of Elsewhere’ considers how plants bear witness to ecological interference and destruction, like colonialism, racial capitalism and persistent deprivation of food security, while also paying close attention to the spiritual and healing properties of plants,” Dr. Frank said.

The exhibition will be on view until Aug. 6. Admission is free for all. This exhibition contains mature content.

Rachel Spiegel, Mike Hama and Michelle Goldfarb

Mark Boire, Peter Quinnan, Linda Miller and James Miller

Jennifer Locke and Kersha Deibel

Exhibition co-curator Chandra Frank, artist Michael Coppage and co-curator Porta Malatjie

Guests at exhibit

Guests at exhibit

Barrett Evans and Kevin DiNarda

American Red Cross honors Rodney McMullen and Kroger

The Greater Cincinnati Tri-State Chapter of the American Red Cross honored Kroger Chair and CEO Rodney McMullen and the Kroger Family of Companies with the second annual Clara Barton Award for Humanitarian Service. The award goes to a dynamic leader or organization that demonstrates inspiring humanitarian concern for our community.

McMullen credited the 420,000 Kroger associates for their commitment to humanitarian service.

“They care about each other, care about their customers and care about their communities,” he said. “Together we all can make a difference and together we are helping to make the world a better place.” McMullen led Kroger in directing more than $1.6 billion in giving to national and local organizations that feed families and build stronger communities.

Donations: https://e.givesmart.com/events/tSq/page/ClaraBartonAward2023LIVE/

Kentucky Colonels create Cincinnati chapter

More than 20 Greater Cincinnati Kentucky Colonels met at McCormick & Schmick’s, downtown to establish a Cincinnati Chapter of the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels. The order, whose members are nominated and approved by Kentucky’s governor, dates to 1813 and is a social/philanthropic nonprofit organization.

The organization recently committed $1 million to emergency relief and rebuilding efforts across flood-ravaged eastern Kentucky. There are 900 Kentucky Colonels in the Greater Cincinnati area and the new Cincinnati chapter is reaching out for participation to raise funds for the HOKC Good Works Program and for www.dragonfly.org, a local children’s cancer support organization.

The next event is a Derby Watch, May 6th.

 To join, email hcampbell@kycolonels.org

Event raises awareness of heart valve disease

The first Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day event provided insight about heart valve diseases that afflict more than 11 million people in the United States. Experts from the event sponsor, The Christ Hospital Health Network, addressed nearly 125 community members at the Kenwood Country Club. The event highlighted available treatments and management of heart valve diseases.

The evening also featured an interview with Connie Dodd, mother of Jeremiah “J-Man” Dodd, one of the first patients to receive a J Valve device to replace a non-functioning aortic valve, and Dr. Dean Kereiakes, who performed the procedure at The Christ Hospital.

The event was made possible with support from Medtronic, Edwards Lifesciences and Boston Scientific, which exhibited new technologies to treat valvular heart disease.

 www.thechristhospital.com/services/heart

Justin Binik-Thomas, Colonel Tara Twitty of Dayton and Cincinnati Kentucky Colonels chapter leader Angela Koenig

Rodney McMullen, Kroger chair and CEO, accepts award from Dr. Bryan Strader, physician executive of TriHealth Physician Partners and board chair of the American Red Cross Greater Cincinnati Tri-State Chapter.

Patricia Mulvaney, Matthew Dodd, Connie Dodd, Dr. Santiago Garcia, David Dodd, Dr. Dean Kereiakes and Jeremiah “J-Man” Dodd

UC center sponsors first Ethics Bowl

A Walnut Hills High School team placed first in the inaugural Greater Cincinnati Regional High School Ethics Bowl. The event was held by the Cincinnati Ethics Center at the University of Cincinnati.

The event is part of the National High School Ethics Bowl, in which students analyze real-life ethical cases and face questions and comments from another team and a panel of judges. Eight teams from five area high schools participated. St. Ursula Academy Team 1 took second Place, Mount Healthy High School Team 2 was third and St. Xavier High School was fourth.

The Walnut Hills team advanced to the Northeast Regional competition against the winner of the Maryland regionals.

 www.cincyethics.org

Competition judge County Commissioner Denise Driehaus; Walnut Hills team members Sophia Crumm, Simone Frecker, Katelyn Cotton and Asher Morin; coach Allen Frecker; judges Daniel Mattox, UC grad student, and James Kelleris, professor, department of marketing

Fourth place winners: St. Xavier High School: Henry Beblo, Christopher Fischer, and Coach John Getgey. Not pictured: Liam King and Dylan Wachtel

Third place winners, Mount Healthy Team 2: Coach Tyler Barrett, Calvin Adams, Fortress Uzo, El-Ayanna Crawford and Reuben Miree. Not pictured Tylea Lyles

Second place winners, St. Ursula Team 1: Ellie Smith, Gabrielle Plummer, Isabella Duke-Ibanez, Anelisa Auxier, Abby Collins, Sylvia Sander and coach Joanne Elsbrock. Not pictured, Juju Vogelgesang

First place winners Walnut Hills Team 1: Sophia Crumm, Simone Frecker, Katelyn Cotton, Asher Morin and coach Allen Frecker

Photos by Ja Meel b enson looney visuals

Boys & Girls Clubs award Youth of the Year

Four teens who have overcome difficult challenges competed for a $20,000 college scholarship and the title 2023 Youth of the Year from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Cincinnati.

Ta’teyana (Tater) Cure, a sophomore at Gamble High School – representing the Larry & Rhonda Sheakley Club –was chosen. “The Club has helped me so much that I would like to help as many kids as I possibly can to have the same, if not a better experience than I did,” Tater said.

In her seven years at the club, she has become a leader for younger members. She is the president of the Keystone Club for teens and teaches American Sign Language.

Adrianna Ross, a Newport High School sophomore, was runner-up. Other finalists were Nathan Pollitt, a freshman at West Clermont High School, and Dashaun Kirk, a freshman at Holmes High School.

Dress for Success, Life Learning Center open NKY program

Life Learning Center and Dress for Success Cincinnati hosted the grand opening of the Dress for Success Cincinnati StyleHER Program at the Life Learning Center facility in Covington. The program helps under-employed and unemployed women in Northern Kentucky. Guests heard from Alecia Webb-Edgington, CEO and president of The Life Learning Center, and Lisa Nolan, executive director of Dress for Success Cincinnati.

Through Dress for Success’s StyleHER program, women receive a personal styling experience that inspires confidence and provides a complete interview outfit, or 10 mix-and-match items to start their new employment, all free of charge. This partnership was made possible with generous funding from the Jody Yetzer and Alexander Kayne Family.

Exhibit emphasizes impact of overdose deaths

Life Learning Center in Covington hosted “The Black Balloon Project” art exhibit, a photo collection highlighting the devastating impact of the overdose epidemic. Photos by Gabi Deaton were accompanied by a description of the person who died, focusing on the person they were beyond their substance use disorder.

Deaton is also a woman in recovery for more than 12 years. Stumbling into addiction

at the age of 13, Gabi spent the next seven years in a downward spiral, overdosing twice and being revived by Narcan both times.

“‘The Black Balloon Project’ sheds a harsh light on the reality of addiction within our community,” Deaton said. “Each person in these photos – they matter, their lives matter and their stories need to be told. However, sometimes the world doesn’t listen, until you scream. This is us screaming.”

Judges and finalists: (back) Eric Johnson, Mayor Aftab Pureval and Cameron Winters; (middle) James Johnson, Aliya Riddle, Jenn Moses and Gail Williams; (front) Nathan Pollitt, Adrianna Ross, Tater Cure and Dashaun Kirk

Dress for Success Cincinnati Style Studio located at Life Learning Center in Covington

Alecia WebbEdgington, Lisa Nolan and Brent Cooper

Photo from “The Black Balloon Project” by Gabi Deaton

Gabi Deaton

Aeqai fundraiser sells 70 artworks

Aeqai, the online visual arts journal, held its 15th annual fundraiser at The Annex Gallery in Over-the-Rhine. Seventy artists submitted 90 new artworks on 8-inch-square birch panels.

More than 70 of the 90 artworks sold, grossing $10,000 plus a few thousand dollars for a $5,000 challenge grant, said Aeqai treasurer and event chair Jens G. Rosenkrantz Jr. Artists split the sales 50/50. The gallery is located in the Pendleton Art Center.

Sculptors and former art teachers at Summit Country Day, Jan and Mark Wiesner

Bruce A. Olson, Aeqai editor Marlene Steele and Litsa Spanos

Beth Negussa and Erin Smith

Artist M. Katherine Hurley with Jens G. Rosenkrantz Jr., Aeqai treasurer and event chair

David R. Fleischer with artist Sheila Fleischer

Davis Michael

Board chair Cedric Michael Cox with Shirley Hudson

Barbara A. Cousins and Sara Vance Waddell

Artist Tracy Casagrande Clancy in front of her work at the silent auction.

Onyx & Ruby Gala at UC celebrates Black excellence

The ninth annual Onyx & Ruby Gala, presented by the UC Alumni Association’s African American Alumni Affiliate, was celebrated at the Graduate Cincinnati hotel. More than 270 alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends gathered to celebrate Black excellence and honor six exemplary members of the Black UC family for their achievements and impact. The event also serves as the primary fundraiser for the Shani Scholarship Fund, which supports underrepresented students in their pursuit of study abroad opportunities.

DePaul Cristo Rey honors work-study partners

“While DePaul Cristo Rey offers a wonderful transformation for each student, it offers the Cincinnati community a boon for our talent pool,” said Jill P. Meyer, CEO of the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber. She shared her love and support for the school’s mission as keynote speaker at the Corporate Partner Leadership Breakfast honoring DPCR’s Corporate Work Study Program partners.

Good Samaritan TriHealth Hospital and St. Elizabeth Healthcare were named Corporate Partners of the Year. Honored for five years of collaboration and dedication to student success were Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati State Technical & Community College, the Gorilla Glue Company and St. Francis Seraph Ministries.

DePaul Cristo Rey is a Catholic, college-preparatory high school with a mission to educate young people who have the potential, but limited financial means, to go to college.

Accepting the awards: Kelvin Hanger and Bridget Lewis of TriHealth Good Samaritan Hospital; Angelica Kennedy, Karen MagnessLewe and Tamie Larkin of Cincinnati State; Nerissa Morris and Kim Hull of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center; Annise Anderson of St. Francis Seraph Ministries; Lisa Blank and Lois Post of St. Elizabeth Healthcare; and Stacy Sherman of The Gorilla Glue Company

Keynote speaker Jill P. Meyer of the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber (center) with junior Miracle and senior Gundo, who also spoke during the program

Honorees Kerry Charles, Pillar of the Community Award; Reginald Wilkinson, Georgia E. Beasley Legacy Award; Raphael Hicks, Student Trailblazer Award; Ashley Townes, Emerging Leader Award; Cheryl Grant, Linda Bates Parker Legend Award; and Cecily Goode, Dr. Lawrence C. Hawkins Tower of Strength Award.

UC Foundation staff members Alina C. Nosal and Heather Ellison with Ruthie S. Keefe, trustee of the UC Foundation Board

Isaac Smitherman, UC student body president

Gala Committee members ended the event singing the UC alma mater. They included Ewaniki MooreHawkins, gala emcee; Laurence Jones III; Eku Williams; Bleuzette Marshall; Shaumia Turner; Brian Hardy and, off camera, Justin M. Gibson Sr.

2023 Shani Scholarship Recipients Alexander Ayoola and Danielle Pierre Hixon

Student’s anorexia story wins Rotary speech contest

Lynn Sandmann used to skip breakfast and embrace extreme diets and exhausting workouts. She couldn’t start her day without checking her weight. Thin wasn’t enough. She didn’t have a “thigh gap,” the space between her thighs that, although unnatural and unattainable by most women, has been touted as a 21stcentury mark of beauty.

Sandmann, a sophomore at McNicholas High School, impressed an audience of more than 120 business and community leaders, as her story won first place in the Rotary Club of Cincinnati’s 4-Way Test Speech competition.

Two years after being hospitalized for anorexia, Sandmann is healthy and spreading a hard-won truth: “Perfect bodies are impossible,” she said. “It is not worth the cost of your life.”

Other speakers were Carly Weidenbacher, also from McNicholas, who focused on suicide prevention through the Hope Squad program; Grem Sheas of DePaul Cristo Rey High School in Clifton, speaking about students being “othered” in school if they don’t conform to superficial norms, and Tamara Muñoz from Walnut Hills High School, exploring school shootings.

Fundraising advances for Burnet Woods Dog Park

Community members raised funds for Cincinnati Parks’ first fully accessible and universally designed dog park at an event at Burnet Woods Trailside Nature Center. The Burnet Woods Dog Park will be on Brookline Avenue near the Jefferson Avenue entrance in Clifton. Cincinnati Parks hopes to dedicate it before year’s end.

Park Board President Jim Goetz and Cincinnati Parks Director Jason Barron joined the event, hosted by dozens of volunteers, joined by over 50 donors and supporters.

Cincinnati Parks seeks to provide a safe, comfortable and natural setting. The universally designed dog park will be accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

Some Clifton residents have objected to the dog park taking green space from Burnet Woods and have expressed other environmental concerns. The Parks Board says the dog park will take up only 0.2% of Burnet Woods’ 89.3 acres.

The dog park is budgeted at $450,000. Park Board commissioners have committed $300,000 and individual contributions exceed $40,000. Donations are being accepted online through the Cincinnati Parks Foundation.

 www.cincinnatiparksfoundation.org/ community-initiatives/Clifton-dog-park

Standing ovation from the crowd

Judge Julie O’Neill with fellow judge Jim Breech

Rotary Club President Steve King with program chair Laure Quinlivan and judges Mikhayla Hughes-Shaw and George Foster

Student speakers Tamara Muñoz, Grem Sheas, Lynn Sandman and Carly Weidenbacher

Chris Pantoja, John Juech, Kate Schroder, Cincinnati Parks Director Jason Barron, Ben Pantoja, Cassandra Clement and Karen Noonan

Cincinnati Parks Director Jason Barron, John Whedon, Nestor Melnyk and Park Board President Jim Goetz

Cassandra Clement and Teresa Hoelle

Freedom Center celebrates legacy of Dr. King

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center hosted 270 guests for its annual King Legacy Celebration. The event featured performances from singer Destiny L, a quartet from the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra’s Art Nouveau and dancers from Revolution Dance Theatre. Students from the center’s Teen Docent Program read selections from Dr. King’s writings. Renowned activist and educator Brittany Packnett Cunningham headlined the event with a moderated discussion on the theme of love and justice. The annual fundraising event celebrates Dr. King’s enduring legacy to inspire a new generation to continue the journey toward equity.

‘Kreative Kings’ launches creative projects for Forever Kings

Forever Kings Inc. hosted the “Kreative Kings” event in February to mark the official release of their musical single – done in collaboration with Timeless Recording Studio – and their varsity jacket – done in collaboration with Black Owned Urban Wear.

Members of Forever Kings worked to create the single and the varsity jacket that were both shared during the event. The single, “Triple R,” can be found on all streaming platforms and jackets may be purchased on the Forever Kings website.

The event was attended by more than 200 people. This year’s sponsor was First Financial Bank and project partners were Means Cameron with Black Owned, Evan Johnson with Timeless Recording Studio and Spark philanthropy.

Forever Kings’ programs provide tools and resources that empower young men of color to redefine, reshape and reimagine the outcomes for their lives.

 www.foreverkingsinc.org

Lacey Roberts and Brittany Packnett Cunningham

Singer Destiny L

Tim Massa Senior VP and chief people Officer, Kroger

Means Cameron and Zachary Dangerfield

Jan Michelle Lemon Kearney

Dr. Kareem Moffett and Mary Wineburg

Caresse Drake

Revolution Dance Theatre

Cultivating our friendships with trees … and making new ones

Strolling through Amberley Green, a former golf course that’s now an informal park, I noticed a row of several varieties of oak trees. They attracted me with their solid trunks, their graceful branches, the dry leaves that still created motion and gentle noise on a November day. I walked over to one and felt the rough bark and looked up into the branches, right up into the sky.

I checked around me a little furtively. Then I hugged it. I hung on for a while, my arms reaching only a fraction of the whole way around it. It wasn’t comfortable like hugging a person, but I thought I could imagine the slow hydraulics inside, nutrients running up the xylem and down the phloem, like a heartbeat. I could imagine how far down the roots went, how solid but alive it was; how much activity was

probably going on around it, below the earth and up in the branches.

I don’t know how to say this without sounding like a New Age bumper sticker, but I felt I’d made a friend.

On the walk back to the car, I thought about other trees I have hugged. There were two in the backyard where I grew up. One was a tall maple that looked like a child’s drawing, with a straight trunk topped with a big ball of green that turned vivid orange in the fall. My siblings and the neighborhood kids climbed it to competitive heights and hung out in the branches, watching over other people in the yard below who didn’t even know we could see them. There was also a massive black walnut tree with deeply ridged bark where my father stuck jelly beans for Easter egg hunts.

He also collected the nuts, hulled and shelled them and then picked the meats out all winter. I think both trees were cut down after we moved to make way for a hideous apartment building.

There is a Jeffrey pine, near my family’s Sierra cabin, that is impossibly tall, whose top always catches wind even on still days. Warmed in the sun, its jigsaw bark smells of butterscotch, which makes hugging it an extrasensory experience. I thought about it constantly when a forest fire came close to the cabin.

When I lived in New York City, I worked for an organization that planted trees all over one neighborhood, even though sometimes people, unbelievably, complained. They leave messy leaves or they attract people to hang out by them. Sometimes people would just whack them off a couple feet from the ground, or run cars into them.

At my house now, there are tall poplars across the street where hawks like to hang out. They are part of a canopy that shades the street in the summer and will take your breath away in the fall. They are so big and old that whenever there’s a storm, we lose big branches, and several times have lost power for a week. Sometimes a whole tree has to get cut down.

The Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra and CET bring Camille Saint-Saëns’ magical and engaging work Carnival of the Animals into today’s world.

Saturday, April 1, at 7pm on CET

Sunday, April 2, at 1pm on CET

Sunday, April 9, at 9pm on CET Arts

There are so many perils for trees, especially in the city: from development, car collisions, pollution, drought, being planted in the wrong place, power lines, invasive insects, choking invasive plants and deer browsing the saplings. And trees just have to stand there and take it.

Polly Campbell

long-established ecosystem that has evolved to support very particular insects that live on very particular plants and are food for certain birds, and so on. Trees are crucial in that delicate balance.

There’s a local organization called Taking Root that plants and protects trees. They collaborate with groups on tree planting projects, with a big push on Make a Difference Day. They select certain neighborhoods that need trees to get them, along with advice on how to plant them so their shade helps save energy, and give mini-grants for tree planting projects. They’ve planted trees with CPS school kids, and they sponsor the Great Tree Summit. If you’re a tree-hugger and a hole-digger, they can use you. (www.takingroot.info)

I’m planning to plant an oak or two in my yard this year. I’ll make sure they’re oaks native to this region, because they support more kinds of other species than any other tree in our ecosystem. Once I really do it, I can go to Taking Root’s Registree, a running tally on their website. It shows how close they’re getting to a goal of 2 million new trees, one for every person in the region.

That’s a lot of new friends. 

Polly Campbell covered restaurants and food for the Cincinnati Enquirer from 1996 until 2020. She lives in Pleasant Ridge with her husband, and since retiring does a lot of reading, cooking and gardening, if that’s what you call pulling weeds.

She writes monthly on a variety of topics, and she welcomes your feedback and column suggestions at editor@moversmakers.org. CETconnect.org

So, considering all they give us, including capturing carbon from the atmosphere and turning it into oxygen, and reducing water runoff and erosion, they need some help from us. We need to protect the trees in our own yards and in public places. We need to keep planting more. More native species, I should specify, since only a native tree will become part of the

Sunday, April 30 2 - 7pm | Summit Park

Celebrate 75 years of Israel’s independence at Summit Park! Join us for a multicultural festival highlighting the diversity of Israel through hands-on experiences, food, art, games, and more! Enjoy a special performance by popular Israeli drumming group Mayumana to conclude the festivities.

Artist Sponsor: Dr. & Mrs. Stephen N. Joffe

BringyourFriends!

THE ARTSWAVE CAMPAIGN IS NOW!

Now is the time to support the arts.

ArtsWave is the way Cincinnati funds its arts. Each year, gifts from the community create thousands of performances, exhibitions and arts experiences that connect us all and make Cincy more vibrant.

Join tens of thousands this year to set the stage for the future of the region we all love.

Give today at artswave.org

162,000+

A DIFFERENCE

50,000

additional field trips for local kids, starting in 2023

MAKING