A cover story: Movers & Makers celebrates a 25-year history

from December 2020 / January 2021

The year that changed the arts

Express Cincinnati 1995-2007

In November 1995, Mike and Nancy O’Connor, veteran local journalists, began publishing Express Cincinnati in response to a decrease in coverage of the “social scene” by daily and weekly newspapers. Express was a tabloid-sized, free publication on newsprint, supported exclusively by advertising. The focus was on helping nonprofits promote their fundraising events and to thank their supporters by publishing photos afterwards. Many of those events continue to this day. Over time, the publication grew in size and circulation and established itself as the voice of Greater Cincinnati nonprofit community.

Express Cincinnati 2008-2015

In August 2008, Thom and Elizabeth Mariner purchased Express. While they had no background in publishing, they did possess experience in the arts, and in marketing and design. They added coverage of arts performances and exhibits in 2009, and established a separate arts calendar to complement the Fundraisers Datebook. In addition to content provided by nonprofit partners, talented local writers were engaged to create feature articles. The Mariners also increased the number of print issues per year, and expanded circulation and distribution.

Movers & Makers 2016-2020

Responding to research among readers, advertisers and nonprofit leaders, the Mariners rebranded the publication beginning in 2016, transforming into Movers & Makers, and upgrading to a glossy magazine format. A new website and weekly email newsletter allow for posting of news and events between monthly print editions.

Feature stories focus increasingly on individuals and their contributions to the community. These covers, created mostly in partnership with photographer Tina Gutierrez, reflect that focus. Our ongoing goal is to showcase the diversity and depth of the nonprofit community, and to help others discover their own inspiration to contribute or serve.