June 2023

June 2023

FOCUS ON: Women & children’s services

Autonomy & Empowerment

Kristin Shrimplin of Women Helping Women

‘The

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June 2023

&Makers

MoversMakers.org

Publishers’ Letter 4

Arts/Culture 6

Cincinnati Opera’s “The Knock” | By David Lyman 6

CAM: self-taught art from the Rosenthal Collection 8

Fringe Festival 2023 – a primer 8

Taft Museum exhibits women photographers 8

A/C List: June arts and culture events 9

Mercantile’s select summer reading | By Hillary Copsey 10

The Datebook 16

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

Nonprofit News 24

Names in the News 26

FOCUS ON 28

WHW’s Kristin Shrimplin | By Leyla Shokoohe 28

Notables: Women & Family Services 30

Gifts/Grants 34

Snapshots 35

CAA’s 15th Dancing for the Stars 35

Cure Starts Now attracts 850 36

Aviatra Accelerators crawl through Covington 36

Benefit Bash brings in $115K for UpSpring 37

Dragonfly breaks record with 12th gala 38

Giving Voice’s Mimosas for Memories sells out 39

Rey of Light shines bright to tune of $775K 40

Easterseals Redwood’s campaign launch 41

CityLink premieres “Moving Pictures” documentary 42

Family Nurturing Center’s Prom pulls in $130K 43

Elder centennial draws 900 44

GCB Champions awards difference makers 45

Healthy Visions honors Cathy Snider 49

The Last Word 50

Polly Campbell: Cincinnati takes, and rewards, commitment

On the cover: Kristin Shrimplin, photo by Helen Adams for Movers & Makers ©2023

Ithas been more than a century since women (white women, at least) were given the right to vote, and still the female half of the population struggles for equality and autonomy, here and around the world.

One local nonprofit has been working for nearly half that time to uplift women who suffer from domestic violence. Women Helping Women started in 1973 as a simple help line for University of Cincinnati students to call, and has grown to 85 employees and a budget over $5 million. Kristin Shrimplin has led the organization since 2015 and she shared perspectives with Leyla Shokoohe about her work and her life. (Page 28)

We asked area nonprofits serving women and families to submit who they see as Notables from their organizations. Meet them on Page 30.

Coincidentally, the opera receiving its staged premiere by Cincinnati Opera this summer was written about and by women, including the music. “The Knock” deals with the lives of military wives and the impact of that dreaded knock at the door. David Lyman spoke with the creators about the work and adapting what was originally a film for the stage. (Page 6)

In her Last Word, Polly Campbell shares the story of how she landed in Cincinnati and came to discover it’s more about how you live than where.

Have you been to one of our monthly happy hours yet? Join us June 14, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Kinley Hotel, Seventh and Race streets, and get to know other readers, perhaps some Notables, and nonprofit leaders. RSVP by

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Readers often ask how they can help us. In case you might be willing, here are a few easy suggestions: Invite a friend to subscribe – in print or online (It’s free!). Help us find effective distribution locations near you. Or make a donation via our website. Thank you in advance and thanks for reading!

Thom & Elizabeth Mariner, co-publishers

Fiscal sponsor:

For their work on this issue, our gratitude to:

• Tess Brown and Byron McCauley, associate editors

• Phil Fisher, copy editor

• Helen Adams, cover story photographer

• Ray Cooklis, writer and editor

• 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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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.

Elizabeth & Thom Mariner, copublishers; Doug Bolton, board chair

Elizabeth Mariner at a five-course dining fundraiser hosted by Corporation for Findlay Market where $50,000 was raised for a new commercial-grade bakery oven for Findlay Kitchen.

Community Matters

The Metropolitan Club is a powerful force for good in the region, uniting diverse leaders to make a difference in the community. For over three decades, the club has given back to the community by sharing more than $1.8 million with local nonprofits. The club welcomes nonprofit members with no initiation fees, the ability to have monthly dues waived based on food and beverage spending and other unique benefits.

Metropolitan Club President Doug Bolton

New Captain Ibrahim Konate

Cincinnati Opera’s ‘The Knock’

Bringing

a third dimension to the lives of military wives

Deborah Brevoort never imagined that she would write an opera like “The Knock.”

The hourlong production, which premieres June 23 as part of the Cincinnati Opera’s summer festival, revolves around a single harrowing military ritual – the official notification of the death of a service member.

It all began in 2010, when Brevoort was commissioned by the Virginia Stage Company to research and write a play about military spouses. The resulting play, called “The Comfort Team,” premiered in 2012.

“I’m thankful I was asked to do it,” she said. “But the military was a world that I knew nothing about. Typically, theater people and military people don‘t mix a lot. So when I spent the better part of three years embedded with military families, it was sort of like traveling to another world.”

Very quickly, though, she found there were points of connection between her life and those of the people she was getting to know.

“My career has made me sort of an itinerant theater worker,” she said. “And all of the people I met [in the military] were constantly on the move, too. There is a sense of sacrifice that drives their work. The same in theater, though in very different ways.

And then there’s the fact that neither of us make a lot of money. I actually think military and theater folks have a lot in common.

“I have to say that of all the operas I’ve written – I’ve written 10 – this is my personal favorite,” Brevoort said. “Maybe it’s because of the personal relationships I formed with the military wives. I just think that their stories are so amazing. And if I don’t tell them, who else will?”

By David Lyman

After spending so much time with military families and having them share the most intimate details of their lives, Brevoort was loath to abandon them. She felt there must be some

other way to share their stories.

That’s when the Glimmerglass Festival, in Cooperstown, N.Y., entered the picture. Like so many other opera companies around the nation – Cincinnati Opera included – they were searching for ways to share the stories of people whose lives were seldom, if ever, seen on the opera stage.

To Francesca Zambello, Glimmerglass’ former artistic and general director, Brevoort’s research was a goldmine of dramatic material. Before long, she recruited composer Aleksandra Vrebalov and brought the Cincinnati Opera onboard to co-commission “The Knock.”

“This was a perfect project for us,” said Cincinnati Opera artistic director Evans Mirageas. “This is exactly the type of work that our Mellon funding was intended for.”

The opera had a three-year grant from the Mellon Foundation, which was intended to underwrite the development and production of operas that engaged audiences whose stories had not been told before on the American opera stage.

“First, there was ‘Blind Injustice,’ which dealt with the wrongfully convicted,” said Mirageas. “Then, last summer, we did ‘Fierce,’ which was about the societal pressures facing teenage girls. And now there is this opera, which will allow us to engage with

Images from the Glimmerglass Festival’s film version of “The Knock.” The opera, co-commissioned by Glimmerglass and the Cincinnati Opera, will have its stage premiere in Cincinnati this summer. “The Knock” was supposed to premiere on the stage of the Glimmerglass Opera in 2020, but because of the pandemic, the company created a film version instead. In June, it will finally receive its stage premiere as part of Cincinnati Opera’s summer festival.

Aleksandra Vrebalov, composer of “The Knock.”

 Deborah Brevoort, librettist of “The Knock.”

onna

ceto

Mary-Hollis Hundley, who will also be seen in Cincinnati

Photos courtesy g liMMerglass Festival

veterans and active military families in a way we never have before.”

So far, so good. Glimmerglass was scheduled to premiere the work during its 2020 summer season. But – and you can probably hear this coming – COVID-19 effectively shut down the performing arts. Including what was to be the world premiere of “The Knock.”

“Just when we were getting ready to put this on the stage, we had to stop,” said composer Vrebalov. “And then someone made the decision that the opera will be done as a film and not as a stage production. I wasn’t sure about that. It’s a completely different art form. And, you have to remember, we had already changed from it being a two-act opera into a much shorter one-act. And with the pandemic going on, it just felt like there was too much change happening too quickly.”

Brevoort remembers the same set of emotions.

“I had such a clear idea of what I wanted the opera to be,” she said. “But now, we were having to change everything. I had no idea how you could possibly do this as a movie. I was going to have to create a whole new libretto. I think I was nervous because it was all happening so fast, so quickly. It felt like there wasn’t time to think.”

The film premiered on Veterans Day in 2021. (You can watch it at https://bit.ly/3pqQxXP.)

Unlike so many operas on film, this isn’t just

an onstage production with a couple of cameras pointed at it. It was re-conceived as a film and staged as a film. As a result, it has all the impact of a film. A first-class one.

“I can only think of a couple of other occasions where an opera was actually created for film,” said Mirageas. “The most famous, of course, is ‘Amahl and the Night Visitors.’ And we are still watching that nearly 75 years after it was first broadcast. In this case, it probably helped that the videographer, Ryan McKinny, also happens to be a worldfamous baritone.”

But the staged production, the one that will be performed in Music Hall’s Wilks Studio, is sure to be markedly different from what we see in the film. For starters, Brevoort and Vrebalov were able to restore several minutes’ worth of material that had to be trimmed for the film. Then there is the fact that this will be a live performance as opposed to a pre-recorded one.

“The film is beautifully shot,” Mirageas said. “But film is two-dimensional. And that has limitations. There is nothing that has the emotional impact of sharing a threedimensional space with singers and instrumentalists. As much as I love film, and as realistic it can be, there is nothing that is as powerful as having the story unfold directly in front of you.”

For her part, Vrebalov believes that the connections we make when we view art – any kind

of art – have the potential to extend far beyond the 60 minutes we share in a theater.

“I believe that a story like this one can make the world a better place,” she said. “Not directly in terms of politics or anything like that. But the one moment of connection a story like this can give us is sometimes more important than everything else. It may not change the world. But it can offer us a refuge where the finest parts of us as humans can breathe freely, even if only for one hour.” 

CINCINNATI OPERA SUMMER SEASON

Music Hall

“Lucia di Lammermoor” by Gaetano Donizetti

• June 22 & 24, 7:30 p.m.

“The Knock” by Aleksandra Vrebalov and Deborah Brevoort

• June 23 & 27, July 5 & 7, 7:30 p.m.

• July 2, 3 p.m.

“The Barber of Seville” by Gioachino Rossini

• July 6 & 8, 7:30 p.m.

Studio Sessions

• July 12 & 19, 8 p.m.

“Madame Butterfly” by Giacomo Puccini

• July 22, 27 & 29, 7:30 p.m.

Alison Moritz, who will direct the stage premiere of “The Knock.”

Art Museum exhibit explores contributions of self-taught artists

June 9-Oct. 23, Cincinnati Art Museum, Eden Park

The term “self-taught,” much like “amateur,” is typically used as a pejorative in the arts. But a coming exhibition at the Cincinnati Art Museum challenges that perception as shortsighted and often just plain wrong.

“Creating Connections: Self-Taught Artists in the Rosenthal Collection” features nearly 40 works by a diverse group of artists, mostly from the 20th century, who developed styles, techniques and materials on their own to create their personal artistic visions. The works are drawn from the collection of Richard “Dick” Rosenthal, who with his late wife, Lois, began building this collection more than 30 years ago.

Rosenthal was recently honored by the CAM with the 2023 Cincinnati Art Award in recognition of his family’s contributions to the arts.

Among the artists included is the noted French painter/sculptor Jean Dubuffet, who himself was mostly self-taught, and who later championed the work of others who had no formal training. “Expanding art history to selftaught artists celebrates our shared humanity and opens our eyes to a world of compelling, brave and ingenious work,” said exhibition curator Julie Aronson.

An exhibition by local artists who work through the Visionaries + Voices studios in Cincinnati also will run at CAM June 9-Oct. 8 in conjunction with “Creating Connections.”

Fringe Festival at center of June’s Cincy arts activity

June 2-17, Over-the-Rhine

What do you do when the fringe becomes the mainstream? Nice problem to have if you're the Cincinnati Fringe Festival. In its 20th year, Fringe has become known as the region's largest, longest-running annual performing arts festival. Founded in 2004 and produced by the Over-the-Rhine-based Know Theatre, the festival is designed to showcase innovative, experimental and non-traditional works of theater, music, dance and other forms of performance art.

The 2023 festival presents hundreds of live performances featuring work from 15 local artists and 14 from elsewhere in the country, plus artists from Japan and Australia. The highlights:

• 31 Primary Lineup performances

• 40-plus productions (including three Fringe Development projects and several special events) at six Over-the-Rhine venues

• Free family-friendly, all-ages performances on weekend afternoons

• Free nightly after-hours events

• Grand reopening of the Know Underground Bar

• Various workshops, panel discussions and social events for artists and attendees

Single tickets: $18; All-Access Pass good for entry for one person to any and all events: $300; six-ticket Voyeur Pass for any combination of shows or individuals: $90. Fringe artists receive 50% of all box-office revenue.

 www.cincyfringe.com

It features a variety of living artists with disabilities in the Cincinnati area, and was selected to complement the Rosenthal Collection show.  Both exhibitions are free to the public.

 www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org

Taft exhibits women photographers

June 3-Sept. 10, Taft Museum of Art, downtown

Billed as “one hundred radically inventive photographic images,” the Taft's new exhibition “Modern Women/Modern Vision” documents how women have explored and advanced the art of photography since its inception.

Though sometimes overlooked, women photographers have, according to the museum, “played a vital role in framing the modern experience through the camera lens.” The exhibit backs that up with a range of photos, including some breathtaking and thoughtprovoking images from the Bank of America Collection. The exhibition “is carefully curated to evoke

strong emotions and highlight the incredible trailblazing technical and artistic contributions of women in photography,” said Mark Ryan, president of Bank of America Cincinnati.

The exhibition displays the work of influential women photographers – famous artists such as Margaret Bourke-White, Dorothea Lang and Diane Arbus; early 20th century photographers such as Berenice Abbott and Gertrude Käsebier; post-World War II innovators such as Cindy Sherman and Barbara Kruger; and contemporary photographers such as Carrie Mae Weems and Rineke Dijkstra.

General admission: $12, seniors: $10. Sundays: free.

 www.taftmuseum.org

“Toil, Strength, and Devotion,” by Mary K. Borkowski, 1973, hand stitching with silk thread on velvet. Collection of Richard Rosenthal

Poster for the 2023 Fringe Festival

“Revenge of the Goldfish,” Sandy Skoglund, 1981. Bank of America Collection. Courtesy of the artist

The A/C List

Cultural Exhibits/Tours

American Legacy Tours | Over-the-Rhine. 859-951-8560. americanlegacytours.com

ƒ Historic tours in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky

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

ƒ Permanent collection

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

ƒ Hands-on educational experiences

ArtWorks Mural Tours | artworkscincinnati.org

ƒ Walking tours of Pendleton, Over-the-Rhine and Downtown

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

ƒ Artifacts and history of Northern Kentucky

Brewing Heritage Trail Tour Center | Brewery District. 513-604-9812. brewingheritagetrail.org

ƒ Tours exploring Queen City beverage heritage

Cincinnati Fire Museum | Downtown. 513-621-5553. cincyfiremuseum.com

ƒ Permanent collection

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

ƒ Tours exploring Queen City food heritage

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

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

Cincinnati Nature Center | Milford. cincynature.org

ƒ Old-growth forest, hiking trails and ponds to explore

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

ƒ Permanent collection of equipment, tools and artifacts

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

ƒ World-renowned flora and fauna

Concours d’Elegance | Ault Park. ohioconcours.com

ƒ June 11, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Classic car show and fundraiser

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

ƒ Thursdays, 1 p.m., Saturdays, 10 a.m. Outdoor tours of Music Hall

ƒ June 2, 8 p.m. Music Hall Ghost Tour

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

ƒ Permanent collection

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

ƒ Historic home of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” author

ƒ June 3, 10 a.m. Walking Tour: Abolitionists and African Americans in Walnut Hills

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

ƒ June 10, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Marching Through Time

ƒ June 17, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. History Alive Day

Holocaust & Humanity Center | Cincinnati Museum Center. 513-487-3055. holocaustandhumanity.org

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

Krohn Conservatory | Eden Park. 513421-4086. cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks

ƒ Thru June 18. “Butterflies of the Meadow”

Lloyd Library and Museum | Downtown. 513-721-3707. lloydlibrary.org

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

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

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

‘Bold Moves’ to wrap Ballet season

June 9-18, Procter & Gamble Hall, Aronoff Center, Downtown

Cincinnati Ballet again wraps up its season with a two-program, nine-performance “Bold Moves Festival” featuring six works by prominent choreographers such as Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, William Forsythe and Garrett Smith.

With alternating performances over two weekends, the ballet's “immersive dance experience” features such works as Lopez Ochoa's “Written and Forgotten” and Forsythe's “In the middle, somewhat elevated,” plus a to-be-announced work

programmed by new Artistic Director Jodie Gates.

Returning from the ballet's 2017-18 season is Smith's “Façades,” which features a dreamscape of 18th-century costuming set to the music of Handel, Vivaldi and Glass. Resident choreographer Jennifer Archibald's "SIT," which was well-received in Cincinnati in 2014, will also be reprised.

Each of the two diverse programs presents “its own perspective on dance and its relationship to humanity,” according to the ballet.

Tickets start at $29.

“Bold Moves” publicity image

Summer reading, Cincinnati-style

By Hillary Copsey

We asked The Mercantile Library to recommend books from local authors – or those with local ties – to read this summer. Although available online, keep your dollars local by purchasing from one of Cincinnati’s independent bookstores, or reserve a copy at your favorite library.

 “Happy Place,” Emily Henry

No one is better at writing a great summer read – smart characters, fast plotting, happy ending – than Emily Henry. And we’re not just saying that because she’s based right here in the Queen City. The New York Times, NPR, book influencers on social media – everyone agrees that Henry is writing peak banter and swoon. Her latest is the perfect book to take with you to your summer happy place.

 “Romantic Comedy,” Curtis Sittenfeld



“Georgie, All Along,” Kate Clayborn

If you’ve read all of Henry’s romances and are looking for something similar, try the newest novel from Cincinnati native Curtis Sittenfeld or this charming story about finding love – and yourself – from Kate Clayborn. As a bonus, you can hear Clayborn talk about her book and the relevance of romance at The Mercantile Library on June 28.

 “First Date,” Mark E. Scott

This is the sequel to “Drunk Log,” Scott’s first novel, a Queen City odyssey that followed Jack on an epic bar crawl on the way to end his life by jumping off a bridge into the Ohio River. Mercantile readers loved the darkly funny, introspective story and are excited to know what happens next for Jack.

 “Getting Huge,” John Young

If you’ve ever wondered if you’re in the right place, doing the right thing with your life, this new novel from Wyoming resident John Young is for you. Disillusioned by his affluent and cranky congregation, the Rev. John Crackstone seeks fame and fortune –by growing a giant pumpkin. The resulting tale is equal parts silly and thoughtful.

 “It Was Always About the Work: A Photojournalist's Memoir,” Melvin Grier with Molly Kavanaugh

We don’t know much about this book coming this summer from the University of Cincinnati Press. But we know and admire the work of photojournalist Melvin Grier – and you probably do, too. Grier spent 30 years at The Cincinnati Post documenting Greater Cincinnati. His memoir’s publication coincides with an exhibition of his work running June 16 through Aug. 20 at the Weston Art Gallery.

 “Met The End,” Holly Brians Ragusa

 “Inverse: Informed Thoughts of An Unfit Poet,” Holly Brians Ragusa

You might have already read “Met The End,” Holly Brians Ragusa’s deeply researched and introspective memoir about the death of her father, John Powell, at the hands of serial killer Donald Harvey. But if not, you should. It’s a heartbreaking and hopeful book that considers what happens to the real people and families living through true crime stories. Then, for more of Ragusa’s lyrical writing, pick up her debut poetry collection.

 “Queen of The West,” JR Zink

Take a vacation back in time to 19th-century Cincinnati with this historical novel that follows the lives of Annie, a pioneering feminist, and Max, an immigrant seeking his fortune in Over-the-Rhine. The final book in the trilogy, “Queen’s Moment in The Sun,” publishes this fall, so now’s the perfect time to start the series.

 “Miracle of Mom: The Extraordinary Life of Ana M. Young,” Catherine Anne Young

No one has inspired 28-year-old Catherine Young as much as her mother, Ana Margarita Young, and now she’s offering her mother’s story to inspire the world. Born in Guatemala City, Guatemala, Ana was educated, married and lived in the United States. She was only 63 years old when she lost a decades-long battle with cancer. This is the kind of book that will make you smile and hold your own family closer.

Hillary Copsey is the book adviser at The Mercantile Library, where she leads and organizes book discussions, creates personalized book recommendations for members, and tries hard to resist the temptation to spend every day reading in the stacks.

 www.mercantilelibrary.com

Mt. Adams Civic Association | Mt. Adams. 513-235-3957. mtadamscincy.org

ƒ Historic walking tours

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

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

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

ƒ Exhibits of Voice of America broadcast

RAPTOR Inc. | Milford. raptorinc.org

ƒ June 25, 1-4 p.m. Open house: birds of prey sanctuary

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

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

Dance

Cincinnati Ballet | Proctor & Gamble Hall, Aronoff Center. 513-621-5219. cballet.org

ƒ June 9-18. “Bold Moves Festival,” two programs of contemporary dance

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

ƒ June 4, 4 p.m. Summer Showcase

Mutual Dance Theatre | Jarson Kaplan Theater, Aronoff Center. 513-494-6526. mutualdance.org

ƒ June 2-3, 7:30 p.m. Modern Mix: “Petrichor” and “Climb”

Fairs/Festivals/Markets

The Arts Alliance | Kingswood Park, Mason. 513-309-8585. the-arts-alliance.org

ƒ June 4, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Deerfield Handmade Markets

Camp Washington Farmer’s Market | Valley Park, Camp Washington. wavepoolgallery.org

ƒ Thursdays, 4-6 p.m. Regional market

Charm at the Farm Markets | Lebanon. charmatthefarm.com

ƒ June 9-11. Vintage market

CincItalia Festival | Harvest Home Park, Cheviot. cincitalia.org

ƒ June 2-4. Celebrating Italian food, beverage and culture

City Flea | Washington Park, Over-the-Rhine. thecityflea.com

ƒ June 17, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Eclectic arts and crafts fair

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

ƒ June 10, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Family Festival: Block Party

Covington Farmers Market | Braxton Brewing Company, Covington. greatneighborhoods.org

ƒ Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Regional food and beverage market

Hyde Park Farmers’ Market | Hyde Park Square. hydeparkfarmersmarket.com

ƒ Sundays, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Regional food and beverage market

Italian Festival | Newport’s Festival Park. thingstodocincinnati.com

ƒ June 8-11. Celebration of Italian food, music and heritage

Juneteenth Celebration | Various. juneteenthcincinnati.org

ƒ June 11, TBA. Wade in the Water (Purple People Bridge)

ƒ June 17, noon-9 p.m. Juneteenth Festival and chess tournament (Eden Park)

ƒ June 18, 2-6 p.m. June Fest: A Father’s Day Concert (Seasongood Pavilion, Eden Park)

Learning Through Art | Cincinnati Zoo, Avondale. 513-281-4700. learningthroughart.com/events

ƒ June 21. Kids, Cultures, Critters and Crafts Festival

Madeira Farmers Market | Dawson Road at Miami Avenue, Madeira. madeirafarmersmarket.com

ƒ Thursdays, 4-7 p.m. Local growers and purveyors

Northside Farmers Market | Heart of Northside. northsidefm.org

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

Rockin’ Taco Fest | Covington Plaza. thingstodocincinnati.com

ƒ June 23-25. All things taco, plus beverages and music

Second Sunday on Main | Main Street, Over-the-Rhine. facebook.com

ƒ June 11, noon-5 p.m. Eclectic street festival

Summerfair Cincinnati | Coney Island. 513-531-0050. summerfair.org

ƒ June 2-4. Area’s largest arts and crafts festival, exhibitors from around the country

Taps Tastes & Tunes Festival | National Voice of America Museum, West Chester. thingstodocincinnati.com

ƒ June 30-July 2. Beer and music fesitval

Film

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

ƒ June 8, 7 p.m. “Marcel Duchamp: Art of the Possible”

ARTS/CULTURE | The List

Cincinnati Opera | Summit Park, Blue Ash. 513-241-2742. cincinnatiopera.org

ƒ June 2, 7:30 p.m. “Fierce,” film of last year’s world premiere

Cincinnati World Cinema | Garfield Theatre, downtown. 859-957-3456. cincyworldcinema.org

ƒ June 15-17 & 22-24. Sundance Film Festival Short Film Tour

NightLight 513 | Covington Plaza. nightlight513.com

ƒ June 1, 7:30 p.m. “Step Brothers”

ƒ June 15, 7:30 p.m. “10 Things I Hate About You”

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

ƒ June 5, 7:30 p.m. “Little Richard: I Am Everything”

Literary Events/Lectures

Barnes & Noble | Deerfield Towne Center, Mason. 513-972-5146. stores.barnesandnoble.com

ƒ June 6, 3 p.m. Discussion: Patti Callahan

Henry: “The Secret Book of Flora Lea” (virtual)

ƒ June 6, 5 p.m. Discussion: Pari Thomson: “Greenwild!” (virtual)

ƒ June 13, 6 p.m. Discussion: Ali

Hazelwood: “Love, Theoretically” (virtual)

ƒ June 15, 5 p.m. Discussion: Hayley

Scrivenor: “Dirt Creek” (virtual)

Cincinnati Preservation Association | The Porch, Washington Park, Over-theRhine. cincinnatipreservation.org

ƒ June 6, 5 p.m. Preservation in the Park: Dr. Eric Jackson, history of African Americans in OTR

Contemporary Arts Center | Downtown 513-345-2941. contemporaryartscenter.org

ƒ June 2, 6-8 p.m. Social Therapy: Are We Healing?

ƒ June 10 & 24, 1-3 p.m. Social Therapy: Growing Together

ƒ June 30, 7-8:30 p.m. Open Mic Night

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

ƒ June 24, 10:30 a.m. Semi Colon Club: “The Light of Knowledge: How James Bradley and the Lane Rebels forever changed American higher education”

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

ƒ June 3, 2 p.m. Discussion: Scott Burson & Sam Smathers: “From Bulldog to Bengal: The Joe Burrow Story Through the Eyes of His Hometown”

ƒ June 7, 7 p.m. Discussion: Joani Lacy:

“Lifted Veils”

ƒ June 9, 7 p.m. Discussion: Patrick Radden Keefe: “Rogues: True Stories of Grifters, Killers, Rebels and Crooks”

ƒ June 14, 7 p.m. Discussion: Kim Harrison: “Demons of Good and Evil”

ƒ June 16, 7 p.m. Discussion: Emily Jane: “On Earth as It Is on Television”

Music

The Arts Alliance | Cottell Park, Mason. 513-309-8585. the-arts-alliance.org

ƒ June 15, 7 p.m. Comet Bluegrass All-Stars

ƒ June 22, 6 p.m. The Eagles Project

ƒ June 29, 7 p.m. Three Piece Revival

ArtsConnect | 9158 Winton Rd., Building A, Springfield Twp. theartsconnect.us

ƒ June 16, 7 p.m. 2nd Wind

Ascent Music | UC College-Conservatory of Music. ascentmusic.org

ƒ June 20, 7:30 p.m. Brian Thornton (Patricia Corbett Theater)

ƒ June 23, 7:30 p.m. Cello Virtuosity (Patricia Corbett Theater)

ƒ June 25, 7:30 p.m. Cho-Liang Lin (Corbett Auditorium)

ƒ June 30, 7:30 p.m. Paris: City of Lights (Werner Recital Hall)

Bogart’s | Short Vine, Corryville. bogarts.com

ƒ June 1, 7 p.m. Neal Francis

ƒ June 16, 6:30 p.m. Flatland Cavalry

ƒ June 18, 6:30 p.m. lovelytheband

Brady Music Center | The Banks. bradymusiccenter.com

ƒ June 3, 7 p.m. Louis Tomlinson

ƒ June 14, 6:30 p.m. Pixies, Franz Ferdinand, Bully

ƒ June 20, 7 p.m. Young The Giant, Milky Chance, Talk

ƒ June 21, 6:30 p.m. Pierce The Veil, The Used, Don Broco, girlfriends

ƒ June 23, 8 p.m. Noah Kahan, Joy Oladokun

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

ƒ Thursday-Saturday evening. Live jazz

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

ƒ Most evenings, live jazz performances

Cincinnati Parks | cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks

ƒ Wednesdays & Fridays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Acoustic Lunch Series (Piatt Park) Music at the Esplanade (Castellini Esplanade, Smale Riverfront Park):

ƒ June 3, 5 p.m. Sawyer Roberson

ƒ June 10, 5 p.m. The Dreaded Mids

ƒ June 17, 5 p.m. Mary River

ƒ June 24, 5 p.m. Temani

Sawyer Point Summer Concert Series:

ƒ June 3, 4 p.m. Vernon Mcintyre’s Appalachian Grass

ƒ June 3, 6 p.m. Jake Speed and the Freddies

ƒ June 3, 8:30 p.m. Henhouse Prowlers Ault Park Summer Music Festival:

ƒ June 15, 6 p.m. Naked Karate Girls

Cincinnati Song Initiative | cincinnatisonginitiative.org

ƒ June 25-July 30. “Let it Be New,” festival of new art songs (virtual)

Cincinnati Symphony & Pops | 513-381-3300. cincinnatisymphony.org

ƒ June 18, 7:30 p.m. (CSO) “West End Brady Block Party” (Ezzard Charles Park)

ƒ June 29, 7:30 p.m. (CSO) “Pride Month Brady Block Party” (ICON Festival Stage)

Clifton Cultural Arts Center | Burnet Woods Bandstand. 513-497-2860. cliftonculturalarts.org

Wednesdays, 7 p.m. “Wednesdays in the Woods”

ƒ June 7. Daglio

ƒ June 14. Positive Vibe Band

ƒ June 21. Tracy Walker

ƒ June 28. The YOLO Band

DownTowne Listening Room | Venue TBA in Florence. downtownelisteningroom.com

ƒ June 24, 7:30 p.m. The Rough & Tumble w/ Scott Stiefferman

Fountain Square | Downtown. 513-621-4400. myfountainsquare.com

ƒ Tuesdays, 5 p.m. Jazz at the Square:

ƒ June 6. Jamey Aebersold Quartet. Tribute to the Jazz Masters

ƒ June 13. Mandy Gaines (music of Ella Fitzgerald)

ƒ June 20. Retro Nouveau (music of John Coltrane, Wayne Shorter)

ƒ June 27. Taylor Nelson (music of Pat Metheny)

Jazz Alive | American Sign Museum, Camp Washington. 513-280-8181. facebook.com/jazz.alive.31

ƒ Wednesdays 6:30 p.m. Jazz in the Camp

ƒ June 7. Mandy Gaines Group

ƒ June 14. WOW

ƒ June 21. We Create Jazz Ensemble

ƒ June 28. Now Hear This

Ludlow Garage | Clifton. ludlowgaragecincinnati.com

ƒ June 1, 8:30 p.m. Austin Meade

ƒ June 2, 8:30 p.m. The Ultimate Doors

ƒ June 3, 8:30 p.m. Adam Hawley, Marcus Anderson, Julian Vaughn

ƒ June 4, 8:30 p.m. The Lettermen

ƒ June 7, 8:30 p.m. The Travelin’ McCourys

ƒ June 8, 8:30 p.m. Incognito

ƒ June 9, 8:30 p.m. Bilal

ƒ June 10, 8:30 p.m. Bronson Arroyo w/ Hot Red Chili Peppers–Tribute to Pearl Jam

ƒ June 14, 7:30 p.m. The Rumble feat. Chief Joseph Boudreaux Jr.

ƒ June 16, 8:30 p.m. Bruce Cockburn

ƒ June 17, 8:30 p.m. Jimmie Vaughan

ƒ June 22, 8:30 p.m. Ally Venable

ƒ June 23, 8:30 p.m. Melvin Seals and JGB

ƒ June 24, 8:30 p.m. Kindred The Family Soul

ƒ June 25, 7:30 p.m. Jesus Jones

ƒ June 30, 8:30 p.m. Ambrosia

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

ƒ June 2, 8 p.m. Unrivaled

ƒ June 9, 8 p.m. Coleman Lane

ƒ June 10, 8 p.m. Chest Fever

ƒ June 16, 8 p.m. Michael Williams

ƒ June 17, 8 p.m. Nascar Aloe, The Recreational

ƒ June 23, 8 p.m. Village Elder

ƒ June 24, 8 p.m. Beatallica

ƒ June 24, 11 p.m. Hot Brown Smackdown

ƒ June 26, 8 p.m. Phix

MegaCorp Pavilion | Ovation, Newport. promowestlive.com

ƒ June 6, 6 p.m. All Time Low

ƒ June 16, 6:30 p.m. Lyle Lovett

ƒ June 17, 8 p.m. Alternative Symphony

“An Orchestral Rendition of Dr. Dre: 2001”

ƒ June 21, 6 p.m. Illenium

ƒ June 23, 6 p.m. AJR

ƒ June 24, 6 p.m. My Morning Jacket

ƒ June 27, 7 p.m. Two Friends

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

ƒ June 13, 8 p.m. Pat Metheny

ƒ June 14, 8 p.m. Judy Collins: “Wildflowers” with string quartet

ƒ June 16, 8 p.m. Rebirth Brass Band

MUSE, Cincinnati’s Women’s Choir | Memorial Hall. 513-221-1118. musechoir.org

ƒ June 9, 7 p.m. 40th Anniversary Spring Concert

ƒ June 11, 4 p.m. Encore of previous

Price Hill Will Concerts in the Square | ARCO, Price Hill. 513-251-3800. pricehillwill.org

ƒ June 24. Price Hill Music Festival

Queen City Opera | 513-503-8323. queencityopera.org

ƒ June 18, 4 p.m. Coffee Symphony: Bach Coffee Cantata and Beethoven Pastoral Symphony (Finneytown Performing Arts Center)

Riverbend Music Center | Coney Island. 513-232-6220. riverbend.org

ƒ June 3, 7:30 p.m. Barenaked Ladies

ƒ June 9, 7 p.m. Hank Williams Jr.

ƒ June 13, 7:30 p.m. Dead & Company: Mickey Hart, Bill Kreutzmann, John Mayer and Bob Weir, with Oteil Burbridge and Jeff Chimenti

ƒ June 16, 7:30 p.m. Matchbox Twenty w/ The Wallflowers

ƒ June 18, 7:30 p.m. Counting Crows

ƒ June 19, 7:30 p.m. Charlie Puth

ƒ June 21, 7:30 p.m. James Taylor

ƒ June 22, 8 p.m. Peter Frampton

ƒ June 28, 8 p.m. Earth, Wind & Fire

RiversEdge | Marcum Park, Hamilton. riversedgelive.com

ƒ June 1, 7 p.m. Zach Top & 90 Proof

Twang

ƒ June 8, 7 p.m. Eddie 9v & Veronica Lewis

ƒ June 15, 7 p.m. GYASI & Led Zeppelin 2

ƒ June 29, 7 p.m. Buffalo Nichols & The Harlem Gospel Travelers

Rockin’ the Roebling | Smale Riverfront Park. facebook.com/rockintheroebling

ƒ June 1, 6 p.m. Marsha Brady

ƒ June 8, 7 p.m. Electric Indigo

ƒ June 8, 8 p.m. Sylmar

ƒ June 15, 6 p.m. Brother Smith

ƒ June 22, 6 p.m. The Menus

ƒ June 29, 6 p.m. DV8

Schwartz’s Point | Five Points, Overthe-Rhine. thepointclub.weebly.com

ƒ Most Thursdays-Sundays. Live Jazz

Taft Theatre | Downtown. tafttheatre.org

ƒ June 24, 8 p.m. Debbie Gibson

ƒ June 26, 8 p.m. Toad The Wet Sprocket

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

ƒ June 2, 7 p.m. Hairball

ƒ June 3, 8 p.m. Chucho Ponce Los Daddys De Chinantla

ƒ June 24, 7:30 p.m. The SteelDrivers

Urban Artifact | Northside. artifactbeer.com

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

Washington Park | Over-the-Rhine. washingtonpark.org/events

ƒ Mondays, 6-9 p.m. Jazz at the Park:

ƒ June 5. Ron Jones Trio

ƒ June 12. El Ritmo De Manana

ƒ June 19. Mike Wade Quintet

ƒ June 26. Matt Tolentino

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

ƒ June 2, 8 p.m. Damien Jurado w/ Chris Pureka

ƒ June 10, 8:30 p.m. Brick + Mortar

ƒ June 16, 8 p.m. John Doe Folk Trio w/ Wussy Duo

ƒ June 20, 7:30 p.m. W.I.T.C.H. w/ Death Valley Girls and Abraxas

CSI streams new art songs to listeners

4 p.m. June 25-5 p.m. July 30, streaming only

Cincinnati Song Initiative wants to turn listeners on to art songs, a timeless, intimate form of songs set to poetry with accompaniment. The area’s only professional organization fully dedicated to art-song performance, CSI wrapped up its seventh season of live concerts in May, but has an intriguing onlineonly streaming encore available in June and July.

With “Let it Be New,” now in its third year, CSI presents world premieres of 10 songs it commissioned from the composers who took part in the 2022-23 National Association of Teachers of Singing composer mentorship program. The program will be available to stream free between June 25 and July 30 on the CSI website, and last year’s program is available now.

This year’s composers include Stephen Bachicha, Spicer Carr, Hans Bridger Heruth, Jordan Knapp, Mikeila McQueston, Nailah Nombeko, Kian Ravaei, Emily Sullivan, SiHyun Uhm and Tyler Weakland. Soloists include Saane Aziza Halaholo, Madeline Jentsch, Lauren McAllister, Nicholas Kelliher, Manfred Anaya and Erik Nordstrom, with pianists David Mamedov and CSI Artistic Director Samuel Martin as accompanists.

 www.cincinnatisonginitiative.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.

Woodward Theater(cont.)

ƒ June 24, 8 p.m. Victoria, Victoria feat. Charlie Hunter w/ Hydrophonics

ƒ June 30, 8 p.m. Jungle Brothers w/ Sons Of Silverton

Opera

Cincinnati Opera | Music Hall, Over-the-Rhine. 513-241-2742. cincinnatiopera.org

ƒ June 2, 7:30 p.m. “Fierce” film screening/performance (Summit Park, Blue Ash)

ƒ June 11, 7:30 p.m. Opera in the Park (Washington Park)

ƒ June 22 & 24, 7:30 p.m. Donizetti: “Lucia di Lammermoor”

ƒ June 23-July 7. Aleksandra Vrebalov and Deborah Brevoort: “The Knock” Opera Rap Community Conversations:

ƒ June 7, 8 p.m. “Taking Flight” (Krohn Conservatory)

ƒ June 15, 6 p.m. “The Real Butterfly” (Cincinnati Art Museum)

Theater/Comedy

American Legacy Theatre | ARCO, Price Hill. 513-443-5429. americanlegacytheatre.org

ƒ June 2-11. “The Glass Menagerie”

ArtsConnect | The Grove Event Center, Springfield Twp. theartsconnect.us

ƒ June 9, noon-2 p.m. Puppets For Lunch

Bogart’s | Short Vine, Corryville. bogarts.com

ƒ June 11, 8 p.m. Girls Gotta Eat, comedian

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

ƒ Thru June 4. “Moulin Rouge”

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

ƒ June 30-Aug. 19. “Kinky Boots”

CenterStage Players | Dee Dunn Pavilion, College Hill. 513558-4910. centerstageplayersinc.com

ƒ June 24. “Much Ado About Nothing”

Cincy Fringe Festival | Over-the-Rhine. cincyfringe.com

ƒ June 2-17. Experimental theater and multimedia

Cincinnati Landmark Productions | Incline Theater, Price Hill. 513-241-6550. cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com

ƒ Thru June 25. “Footloose”

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

ƒ Thru June 3. “Trouble in Mind”

Commonwealth Artists Student Theater | Highlands High School, Fort Thomas. 859-474-2811. caststages.org

ƒ June 30-July 9. “The Ferryman”

East Side Players | Blue Ash Amphitheater. esptheater.org

ƒ June 8-17. “Disney’s The Little Mermaid”

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

ƒ Thru June 18. “Maytag Virgin”

Hard Rock Casino | Downtown. hardrockcasinocincinnati.com

ƒ June 17, 8 p.m. Whitney Cummings, comedian

Memorial Hall | Over-the-Rhine. memorialhallotr.com

ƒ June 7, 7 p.m. Monét X Change

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

ƒ Thru June 25. “Origin Story” (Rosenthal Shelterhouse Theatre)

ƒ June 3-25. “Shane” (Rouse Theatre)

Queen City Vaudevillians | Falcon Theatre, Newport. queencityvaudevillians.com

ƒ June 10, 7 p.m. Season 3 Opening

Royal Theatre Company | Mason High School. royaltheatrecompany.com

ƒ June 9-11. “Beauty and the Beast”

Sharonville Cultural Arts Center | Sharonville. 513-554-1014. sharonvilleculturalarts.org

ƒ June 10-11. “Tony & Tina’s Wedding”

The Story Collective | Fallen Timbers Room, Great Wolf Lodge. thestorycollective.org

ƒ June 3, 7 p.m. “Orphan of Oz”

Taft Theatre | Downtown. tafttheatre.org

ƒ June 1, 7 p.m. Shane Gillis, comedian

ƒ June 2, 7 p.m. SOLD OUT Shane Gillis, comedian

ƒ June 2, 9:30 p.m. Shane Gillis, comedian

ƒ June 9, 8 p.m. Hari Kondabolu, comedian

ƒ June 11, 7 p.m. George Lopez, comedian

ƒ June 15, 6 p.m. Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour

ƒ June 17, 8 p.m. Kevin James

Visual Art

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

ƒ Thru June 16. “Summer Love: Heart Strings”

Art Design Consultants | West End. adcfineart.com

ƒ Thru June 16. “State of the Art”

Art on Vine | Court Street Plaza, downtown. artonvinecincy.com

ƒ June 3, noon-6 p.m.

ARTclectic Gallery | SIlverton. 513-822-5200. artclecticgallery.com

ƒ Thru June 30. “Portraits of Living Things”

Arts Alliance | Building B, Sinclair College, Mason. 513-309-8585. the-arts-alliance.org

ƒ Thru July 31. “Everyday Heroes”

ArtWorks | V² Gallery, Walnut Hills. 513-333-0388. artworkscincinnati.org

ƒ Thru June 30. Cierra Fogle: “Genuine Static”

ƒ June 11, 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. ArtAmplified urban festival

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

ƒ Thru Aug. 19. Community Art Show

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

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

Carl Solway Gallery | West End. 513-621-0069. solwaygallery.com

ƒ Thru July 14. ARCHIVES: Carl Solway Gallery 1962-2023

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

ƒ Thru Aug. 19. “Dynamics of Flow”

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

ƒ Thru June 17. Deborah MorrisseyMcGoff: “Sanctuary: A Lifelong Journey through Landscape”

Cincinnati Art Museum | Eden Park. 513-721-2787. cincinnatiartmuseum.org

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

ƒ June 9-Oct. 8. “Creating Connections: Self-Taught Artists in the Rosenthal Collection”

ƒ June 23-Oct. 15. “Picasso Landscapes: Out of Bounds”

ƒ June 30, 5-9 p.m. Art After Dark

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

ƒ Thru June 2. Tina Gutierrez: “Rare Creatures”

ƒ June 23-July 14. “Uptown and Around: Community Art Show”

Reception: June 23, 6-8 p.m.

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

ƒ Thru July 7. “51st Hamilton Current”

Indian Hill Gallery | Indian Hill. 513-984-6024. indianhillgallery.com

ƒ June 2-Aug. 12. “Like A Bird On A Wire: A Selection of Contemporary Landscapes.” Curated by Rob Anderson

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

ƒ June 10-Aug. 12. “Color Breathing: The Work of Lyric Morris-Latchaw and Casey Dressell” Reception: June 10, 6-8 p.m.

ƒ June 2-July 29. “All That Jazz: Cincinnati Jazz Hall of Fame Exhibit” Reception: June 2, 5-7 p.m.

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

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

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

ƒ June 2-30. “19th Rites of Passage” • “19th Magnitude” small works • “Future Form” works about the geography of time. Reception: June 2, 6-9 p.m.

Mary Ran Gallery | East Hyde Park. 513-871-5604. maryrangallery.com

ƒ Thru June 3. Hans Päpke: paintings and sculptures

The Mohawk Gallery | Over-the-Rhine. 513-381-5116. robinimaging.com

ƒ Thru Aug. 12. “Heavy Metal”

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

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

Ombré Gallery | Over-the-Rhine. ombregallery.com

ƒ Thru June 10. Niki Ulehla: “Land, Sea, Air”

PAR-Projects | Northside. parprojects.com

ƒ Thru June 17. Elena Masrour: “Bingo, I’m the King, Now”

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

ƒ June 30, 5-9 p.m., open studios

Pop Revolution Gallery | Mason. 513-492-7474. poprevolutiongallery.com

ƒ Thru June 10. Barbara Pask: “I Painted Our Town”

Queen City Clay | Norwood. queencityclay.com

ƒ Thru June 2. “In Bloom”

Save Our Souls Art | Art Academy of Cincinnati. sosartcincinnati.com

ƒ June 23-July 16. SOS Art 2023

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

ƒ Thru July 2. Frank Stella: Had GadyaIllustrations After El Lissitzky

ƒ Thru July 30. “Beyond Borders: The Art of Siona Benjamin”

Studio Kroner | Downtown. studiokroner.com

ƒ Thru June 17. “Yes But Is It Art?,” a consideration of AI-generated art

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

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

ƒ June 3-Sept. 10. “Modern Women/ Modern Vision: Photography from the Bank of America Collection”

University of Cincinnati Clermont College | Park National Bank Art Gallery, Batavia. 513-558-2787. ucclermont.edu

ƒ Thru June 27. Mallory Feltz: “Putting it all Together: Stories We Tell Ourselves”

Visionaries & Voices | Northside. 513861-4333. visionariesandvoices.com

ƒ Thru June 2. “The Bird Show”

ƒ June 16-July 28. Artist in Residence.

Reception: June 16, 5-8 p.m.

Wave Pool Gallery | Camp Washington. wavepoolgallery.org

ƒ Thru June 17. “One Year, One Outfit”

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

ƒ Thru June 4. “Canstruction 2023” • Weston Works Art Challenge

ƒ June 16-Aug. 20. Mychaelyn Michalec: “Not to Stifle, but to Clarify” • Anissa Lewis: “Open Lots (We All Rise)” • Melvin Grier: “It Was Always About the Work”

Reception: June 16, 6-8 p.m. 

The Datebook With a Spotlight on the Movers and Makers behind Greater Cincinnati’s Fundraisers,

Friend-Raisers and Community Events

JUNE 1, THURSDAY

OneSource Center, Support for Young Nonprofits | 9-10:30 a.m. 936 Dalton Ave., Cincinnati. DETAILS: Threesession, in-person workshops with tips, tactics and tools to gain traction in fund development. Attendance requested at all three sessions. Hands-on guidance from expert facilitators. Registration limited to eight participants. Registration: $150.

 onesourcecenter.org

JUNE 2, FRIDAY

Salvation Army, National Donut Day Celebration | Noon-1 p.m. Fountain Square. DETAILS: Donut stacking contest while delivering free donuts to first responders, veterans and the community. Mascot appearances, games, giveaways and music.

 salvationarmyusa.org/usn

JUNE 3, SATURDAY

Cincinnati Ballet, Club B in Wonderland | 6 p.m. VIP, 8 p.m. general admission. Valentine Center for Dance, Walnut Hills. DETAILS: Performances by company dancers, celebrity emcee, DJs, gourmet foods, open bars and dance party.

 cballet.org/events/club-b

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, REVEL Gala | 5 p.m. Otto M. Budig Theater, Over-the-Rhine. DETAILS: Reception with cocktails and dinner by-the-bite, awards celebration, option to add on closing night performance of “Trouble in Mind.” Tickets start at $250.  cincyshakes.com

Women’s Fund, Appointed Civic Leadership Academy | 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Greater Cincinnati Foundation. DETAILS: Topics related to local government and board governance. Engage with officials and explore structure and function of civic boards. Space limited.  gcfdn.org/events

Young Professionals Choral Collective, Spies & Lies Gala | 6-11 p.m. 20th Century Theater, Oakley.

DETAILS: Emcees: Evan Milward and Lady Phaedra. VIP dinner, cabaret performance, choir concert, live band,

dance party, silent auction, raffles and other fundraising activities. Presale: $55, regular price: $60, week of show: $75

 ypccsing.org

JUNE 5, MONDAY

Stepping Stones, The Golf Classic | O’Bannon Creek Golf Club, Loveland.

DETAILS: Morning or afternoon flight followed by food, drinks, hole challenges, raffle prizes and more.

 steppingstonesohio.org

JUNE 6, TUESDAY

Health Care Access Now, Community Health Worker Day | 1701 Mercy Health Pl., Bond Hill. DETAILS: Day of self-care, food and fun.

 healthcareaccessnow.org

Miami University, Dedication of Disc Golf Course | 4:30 p.m. Miami University Regionals - Hamilton Campus. DETAILS: Brief ceremony, refreshments, music and games for the family. Disc Golf Mini Clinic will follow dedication at 5:15 p.m. First 50 attendees receive a free Miami-branded disc (putter).

 miamialum.org/AlumniWeekend

JUNE 7, WEDNESDAY

ACG Cincinnati, Deal Maker Awards | 4:30 p.m. Music Hall Ballroom. DETAILS: Honoring Bob Coughlin, founder of Paycor, with Lifetime Achievement Award. Gourmet food, open bar, networking, dessert reception, cocktails. Tickets start at $165.

 acgcincinnatidealmaker.org

Miami University, Grand Re-Opening of the Hiking Trails | 4:30 p.m. Miami University Regionals - Middletown Campus. DETAILS: Brief ceremony, refreshments, music, self-guided trail walk and games for the family. First 50 to complete the walk receive a special gift.

 miamialum.org/AlumniWeekend

JUNE 8, THURSDAY

Impact 100, Spread the Word | 5:30-7:30 p.m. Arhaus Furniture, Kenwood Towne Center. DETAILS: Network with current and future members, hear decorating trends and tips for outdoor spaces. Also light bites, drinks and door prizes.

 impact100.org

Juneteenth celebrations set for Eden Park, other venues

Lydia Morgan of Kennedy Heights is concerned about contemporary social justice issues as she prepares to celebrate Juneteenth Cincinnati 2023. Morgan and her husband, Noel, began presenting the Juneteenth celebration in Cincinnati in 1988, inviting guests from their party lists and their friends’ party lists.

They would celebrate and remember June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Texas were read the Emancipation Proclamation and learned that they were no longer enslaved. Two years earlier, the proclamation was recognized throughout the United States. Today, the Juneteenth Cincinnati Inc. celebration is turning 36, and it has grown from that homemade guest list to a staple event in June with multiple activities and events in the Queen City.

Juneteenth, featuring food vendors, family activities and speakers, began in Daniel Drake Park in Kennedy Heights and moved to Eden Park in the early 1990s, partnering with the Cincinnati Park Board.

Recognizing Juneteenth this year is as important as ever, Morgan said, seeing a link between the celebration to contemporary social justice challenges across the country.

“Georgia made it illegal to give water to a person standing in line to vote. Who would have thought something as basic as being denied water would be used to keep you from voting?” she said. “In the past, it was the hatefulness of squirting people with fire hoses to keep them from voting.”

Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021. Morgan calls the holiday an American celebration because Juneteenth represents American history, she said. “People today are not responsible for what they did back then. They are responsible for now. You only have control over what you do now.”

Activities are scheduled throughout June, highlighted by day-long events June 17-18 in Eden Park. Cincinnati will hold a Juneteenth Parade on June 19, starting on Linn Street.

 www.juneteenthcincinnati.org

Entertainer Praise Ekeng performs during a previous Juneteenth Festival in Eden Park’s Seasongood Pavilion.

DATEBOOK

JUNE 8, THURSDAY (CONT.)

Talbert House, Fatherhood Celebration | 4:30-6:30 p.m. Memorial Hall. DETAILS: Father of the Year and keynote speaker: Zac Taylor, head coach, Cincinnati Bengals. Father of the Year: Larry Thomas, Fatherhood Project Class 38. Networking, appetizers, drinks and brief program.

talberthouse.org/news/events-2

Warren County Foundation, Community Service Awards and 25th Anniversary Celebration | 7 p.m. Manor House, Mason. DETAILS: Happy hour, dinner, program and fireworks display. Awards to community leaders, businesses and service organizations. Tickets: $60.

warrencountyfoundation.org

JUNE 9-10, FRIDAY-SATURDAY

RAPTOR Inc., Birds Gone Wild | Friday, 6-9 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Eisele Gallery, Mariemont. DETAILS: Original artworks inspired by nature and created by the Masterworks for Nature. Twelve artists will sketch and paint live, feathered ambassadors of RAPTOR Inc.

raptorinc.org

JUNE 9, FRIDAY

Cincinnati ToolBank, Par-Tee Golf Outing | The Mill Course, Winton Woods. DETAILS: All foursomes include 18-hole greens and cart fees, two drink tickets per player and Southern BBQ buffet.

cincinnatitoolbank.org/events

Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Investing in Equity: Building an Inclusive Business Community | 7:30 a.m.-noon. St. Elizabeth Training and Education Center, Erlanger. DETAILS: Annual meeting focused on diversity, equity and inclusion within business and healthcare communities. Keynote: Lillian Dukes, SVP of technical operations, Atlas Air. Chamber members: $65; future members: $80; young professional members: $50.  web.nkychamber.com/events

Women Helping Women, Journey to Joy: Celebrating 50 Years | Music Hall Ballroom. DETAILS: Speakers, cocktails, dinner, dancing, silent auction. Emcee is Kyla Woods. Black tie or formal attire strongly encouraged. VIP: $250; general: $150; tables: $1,250.  womenhelpingwomen.org

JUNE 10, SATURDAY

Bookery Cincy, Read With Me: A Children’s Book Festival | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Carnegie Center, Columbia-Tusculum. DETAILS: Storytime, crafts and writing workshops with local authors. Morning session for ages 6 and under; afternoon session for ages 6-12, although all ages welcome.

 bookerycincy.com

CABVI, Fun Fest | Noon-4 p.m. Washington Park. DETAILS: Games, prizes, live DJ set, carnival food, cornhole tournament. Free admission.

 cincyblind.org/funfest

Contemporary Arts Center, Social Therapy: Growing Together | 1-3 p.m. DETAILS: Spoken word artist, motivational speaker and community organizer Desirae “The Silent Poet” Hosley. Adults and young adults bridge social gaps through writing and storytelling. Six sessions over three months, on Saturdays. Free, but registration encouraged.

 Cincycac.org/social-therapy

Heärt (World Peace Earth), Cincy VegFest | Noon-6 p.m. Burnet Woods Bandstand. DETAILS: Plant-sourced vegan food, talks, classes, workshops and music. Admission free, with vegan chili cook-off tickets available for $9. Proceeds benefit Chilis on Wheels.

 heärt.com/cincy-vegfest

Holocaust & Humanity Center, Upstander 5K | 8:30 a.m. Union Terminal. DETAILS: Scenic route underneath historic Union Terminal and throughout the West End. Live music, family activities, breakfast and pickleball tournament.

 holocaustandhumanity.org/events

People Working Cooperatively, Repair Affair | DETAILS: Provide important home maintenance services to low-income seniors and people with disabilities. Groups can also choose any date in June. 513-482-5165 or mclaughlinb@pwchomerepairs.org

 pwchomerepairs.org/repair-affair

Twenty Cultured Pearls Foundation, Jazz Brunch and Silent Auction | 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Manor House, Mason. DETAILS: Brunch, live entertainment. Tickets: $80.

 one.bidpal.net/jazzbrunch2023

Lillian Dukes will serve as keynote speaker for the NKY Chamber of Commerce Investing in Equity : Building an Inclusive Business Community event on June 9 at the St. Elizabeth Training and Education Center.

The Salvation Army will celebrate National Donut Day with a Donut Stacking Contest on June 2 on Fountain Square.

Cincy Veg Fest, to support nonprofit organization Chilis on Wheels, is June 10 at Burnet Woods Bandstand in Clifton. Naimah Sams of Like Mom’s Only Vegan is one of the speakers lined up for the day.

Kyla Woods will guest emcee Journey to Joy: Celebrating 50 Years, a gala to benefit Women Helping Women, on June 9 at Music Hall.

Desirae Hosley will host Social Therapy: Growing Together on June 10 & 24 at Contemporary Arts Center

Cincinnati Pride celebrates a half century of activism

Downtown and Sawyer Point/Yeatman’s Cove, Saturday, June 24, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Founded in 1973, just four years after the pivotal Stonewall riots of 1969, Cincinnati Pride hails its 50th anniversary this month.

As usual, things kick off with a parade downtown. Starting at approximately 11 a.m. on Seventh Street at Plum, the parade moves east to Vine Street, then turns and travels south past Fountain Square to The Banks, then finally east to the festival location of Sawyer Point and Yeatman’s Cove. More than 200 companies and organizations

are participating in this year’s parade.

The Cincinnati Pride Festival is intended to be a familyfriendly, fun event and is free for everyone. Nearly 200 vendors will offer food, drinks, services or entertainment.

Several dozen community events are scheduled in support of Pride during the month of June. View the list on the Pride website, below.

Pride Parade: 11 a.m. Seventh and Plum to south on Vine Street

Cincinnati Pride Festival: Noon-9 p.m. Sawyer Point and Yeatman’s Cove.

 www.cincinnatipride.org

foursome registration: $2,000.  cancerfreekids.org

Wesley Chapel Mission Center, I Am Inspired to Live Youth Summit 2023 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Lincoln Recreation Center, West End. DETAILS: Keynote speaker and presenters to motivate and inspire youth participants to deter gun violence and suicidal thoughts.

 wcmcotr.org or 513-721-6204

JUNE 16, FRIDAY

Cincinnati Zoo, Zoo La La | 6:30-11 p.m. DETAILS: 21+ event. Early entry experiences, live entertainment, dinner by-the-bite, drinks and Zoo After-Dark. Tickets: $125; early entry: $175.  cincinnatizoo.org/events

Mental Health America, An Introduction to SOGI in Behavioral Healthcare | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Online. DETAILS: Introduction to gender identity and sexual orientation and knowledge of challenges for sexual minorities. Gain skills for providing culturally responsive services to LGBTQ+ individuals in mental health and substance use disorder treatment settings.  mhankyswoh.org

JUNE 17, SATURDAY

Juneteenth Cincinnati, Juneteenth Festival | Noon-9 p.m. Eden Park. DETAILS: Music, children’s activities, historical re-enactors, health screening, shopping, art, food.

 juneteenthcincinnati.org

JUNE 18, SUNDAY

annual information session on giving trends led by Melissa Brown.

 theyunkergroup.com

JUNE 23, FRIDAY

ACG, Deal Maker Awards | 4:30-7 p.m. Music Hall Ballroom. DETAILS: Red carpet welcome, food, open bar, business networking. Members: $165; non-members: $205. Additional options available.

 acgcincinnatidealmaker.org

Cincinnati Art Museum, A Happening | 6-10 p.m. DETAILS: 21+ event. See new exhibition “Picasso Landscapes: Out of Bounds,” immersive experience by AGAR, live music from Bluewater Kings Band, food and cocktails. Co-chairs: Natalie Leonard, Rachael Magowan and Vaughn Smith. Tickets: $85, VIP: $150.

 cincinnatiartmuseum.org/ events-programs

JUNE 24, SATURDAY

Contemporary Arts Center, Social Therapy: Growing Together | 1-3 p.m. CAC, downtown.

DETAILS: See June 10 listing.  cincycac.org/social-therapy

Cincinnati Pride, Parade and Festival | 11 a.m.-9 p.m. DETAILS: Parade through downtown to Sawyer Point and Yeatman’s Cove.  cincinnatipride.org

JUNE 11, SUNDAY

Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Ault Park. DETAILS: This year honoring Porsche and VW Beetle. Will Sherman Automotive Art Show featuring more than 200 cars and motorcycles, craft beer garden, brunch, award ceremony. Tickets: $35.

ohioconcours.com

Holocaust & Humanity Center, Upstander Awards | 6 p.m.

Union Terminal. DETAILS: Gala-style event with live music, art experiences and awards ceremony celebrating Cincinnati’s best and brightest upstanders. Emcee: Katie Couric.  holocaustandhumanity.org/events

Juneteenth Cincinnati, Wade In The Water | 3 p.m. Purple People Bridge.

DETAILS: Participatory dance along

Ohio River to acknowledge significance of water to 400-plus-year trek into and beyond enslavement.

 juneteenthcincinnati.org

Serenity Recovery Network, Annual Golf Outing | Noon-8 p.m. Pebble Creek Golf Course, Colerain Twp.

DETAILS: Golf, dinner, food, drinks, networking, entertainment, silent auction, raffles, split the pot. Registration: $125.

 serenityrecoverynetwork.org

JUNE 12, MONDAY

CancerFree KIDS, Paxton’s Golf Outing – Corporate Day | Shotgun start at 10 a.m. Oasis Golf Course, Loveland. DETAILS: Tickets include breakfast, luncheon and awards program following golf, split the pot drawing, silent auction and more.

Individual golfer registration: $500;

Juneteenth Cincinnati, Father’s Day Concert | 2-6 p.m. Seasongood Pavilion, Eden Park. DETAILS: Variety of inspirational, spiritual music and praise dancing.

 juneteenthcincinnati.org

JUNE 19, MONDAY

Juneteenth Cincinnati, Juneteenth Parade | Downtown Cincinnati.

DETAILS: Bands, clowns, dignitaries, step teams, drill teams.

 juneteenthcincinnati.org

JUNE 20, TUESDAY

Giving USA, Cincinnati Briefing | 7:30-11:45 a.m. Reakirt Auditorium, Cincinnati Museum Center. DETAILS: Continental breakfast, networking and

DAD Initiative, Cincinnati Polo Party | Noon-4 p.m. Chatsworth Polo Field, Loveland. DETAILS: Polo match, Elementz Hip Hop Cultural Art Center’s Hip Hop youth orchestra, DJ, food trucks, and VIP catering from executive chef Catrina Mills.  dadinitiative.com

JULY 26, WEDNESDAY

Magnified Giving, Service-Learning Teacher Workshop | 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Evendale Recreation Center. DETAILS: Julie Rogers Bascom, director of learning and leadership at National Youth Leadership Council, will provide training on implementing service-learning. Lunch. Free event.

 magnifiedgiving.org/updates/ teacher-workshop

FC Cincinnati participating in a previous Pride Parade

JULY 27, THURSDAY

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Business Financial Education Series: Taxes: Understanding & Filing Business Taxes | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. First Financial Bank, 601 Madison Ave., Covington. DETAILS: Series sponsored by Freedom Center, First Financial Bank and African American Chamber of Commerce to provide free financial education to small business owners and address implicit bias. Third in four-part series. In-person, and registration is required.  freedomcenter.org

JULY 29, SATURDAY

Community Shares, For the Love of the Community Gala | 6-9 p.m. Cincinnati Zoo. DETAILS: Small animal visit, heavy appetizers, bar, silent auctions, raffle baskets, split-thepot, luxury raffle. Tickets: $100.

 givebutter.com/14bY9W

AUG. 4, FRIDAY

Adventure Crew, Outdoors for All Expo | 4-9:30 p.m. Schmidt Recreation Complex, East End. DETAILS: More than 50 exhibitors, including parks, outdoor outfitters, adventure experts and environmentally minded organizations. Hands-on demos, live music from Jake Speed and the Freddies and others, raffles, MadTree beer and food trucks and activities for all ages. Free and open to the public.  ohioriverpaddlefest.org/expo-info

AUG. 5, SATURDAY

Adventure Crew, Ohio River Paddlefest | 7 a.m. Schmidt Recreation Complex, East End. DETAILS: Commodore: Mike Fremont. Participants may use their own boats or rent with advance registration.

 ohioriverpaddlefest.org

AUG. 6, SUNDAY

Welcome House, Summer Sunday | Devou Golf & Event Center, Covington. DETAILS: Silent auction.

 welcomehouseky.org/news-events/ events/summer-sunday

AUG. 19, SATURDAY

Easterseals Redwood, Honor Ride | Miami Whitewater. DETAILS: Create a team or ride on your own.

 p2p.onecause.com/eastersealshonorride

Little Brothers – Friends of The Elderly, Annual Tom Wess Memorial Golf Outing | Glenview Golf Course, Glendale. DETAILS: TBA

 littlebrotherscincinnati.org

AUG. 23, WEDNESDAY

Pro Seniors, Seniors Who Rock | 8-9:30 a.m. Longworth Hall Event Center, Pete Rose Way. DETAILS: Awards presentation honoring inspirational Ohio seniors who continue to enrich the community.

 proseniors.org

AUG. 26, SATURDAY

Forever Kings, Building Strong Men Gala | 6 p.m. Sharonville Convention Center. DETAILS: Cocktail reception, formal program with dinner, live entertainment and special award. Tickets: $100; Table: $1,000.

 foreverkingsinc.org

Gorman Heritage Farm, Annual Row by Row Fundraising Dinner | 6-9:30 p.m. Gorman Heritage Farm. DETAILS: Farm-to-table dinner, open bar, live music, live and silent auctions. VIP happy hour. Tickets start at $100.

 gormanfarm.org/portfolio-items/row-by-row

SEPT. 3, SUNDAY

Best Point Education and Behavioral Health, Rockin’ at Riverfest | 5-11 p.m. Anderson Pavilion, Smale Riverfront Park. DETAILS: Co-chairs: Britney Ruby-Miller and Caleb Miller, Tim Schroeder and Lisa Schroeder, Dr. Gail Kist-Kline and Keith Kline.

 jbanchy@bestpoint.org

SEPT. 6-10, WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY

Kroger, Queen City Championship | Kenwood Country Club. DETAILS: During tournament, enjoy casual on-course hospitality with friends, or experience all-inclusive clubhouse hospitality to host an important client. Tickets start at $80 weekly or $25 daily.

 queencitylpga.com

SEPT. 8, FRIDAY

Cancer Support Community, Paintings for a Purpose: Nancy Rosen | 6-9 p.m. David A. Millett Inc. Design Showroom, Evanston. DETAILS: Show and sale of artwork of Nancy Rosen, artist who creates work for Netflix series “Grace & Frankie.” Rosen will be present. Hosted by April Davidow and Peggy Greenberg, event includes bites, drinks, entertainment and special experiences for those purchasing artwork.

 mycancersupportcommunity.org/events/ paintings-for-a-purpose-nancy-rosen

Cincinnati Art Museum is hosting A Happening on June 23 inside the museum and outdoors in its courtyard. Nathalie Leonard , Rachel Magowan, and Vaughn Smith are event co-chairs.

Aleicia Ennis is event chair for Zoo La La benefitting the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden on June 16

ACG will honor Bob Coughlin at its Deal Maker Awards program on June 23 at Music Hall

CINCINNATI’S BEST

Are Getting Even Better!

2023 will be a monumental year of progress for the Sharonville Convention Center and the Northern Lights District. With our upcoming $21 million expansion set to begin this year, the City of Sharonville continues to grow our amenities. The new Todd Portune Hall will accommodate up to 2,000 people for our large galas while our Northern Lights Ballroom will continue to accommodate events up to 700. With the new Delta by Marriott Hotel, our connected Hyatt Place hotel and the award winning Third Eye Brewery all just steps away, your guests will truly enjoy a one-of-a kind experience.

Get Inspired. To learn more contact us at 513.771.7744 or at sccinfo@cityofsharonville.com sharonvilleconventioncenter.com

SEPT. 8, FRIDAY (CONT.)

Cincinnati Music & Wellness Coalition, Eleventh Annual Music and Medicine Conference | 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Mayerson JCC. DETAILS: Musicians, researchers, physicians and other healthcare/senior care professionals present current research on benefits of music.

 musicandwellness.net

SEPT. 9, SATURDAY

Brighton Center, Wine Over Water | 5:30-9 p.m. Purple People Bridge.

DETAILS: Food, wine, drinks, live entertainment.

 brightoncenter.com/wineoverwater

Stepping Stones, Viva La Bloom | Little Miami Event Center, Milford.

DETAILS: “Vegas” themed games, entertainment, food and silent auction.

cincybloom.org

SEPT. 12, TUESDAY

Goering Center, Annual Family & Private Business Awards | Hard Rock Casino. DETAILS: Recognizing businesses that have demonstrated exceptional achievements.

 business.uc.edu/centers-partnerships/ goering/family-and-private-businessawards.html

SEPT. 13, WEDNESDAY

Dress for Success Cincinnati, Fashion Show | 10:30 a.m. Hard Rock Casino. DETAILS: Celebration of DFSC clients, contemporary fashions and presentation of the Mary Ivers Award. Co-chairs: Meredith Blum and Lauren Gucciardo. Tickets on sale June 15.  dfscincy.org/blog-and-events/ fashion-show

SEPT. 16-17, SATURDAY-SUNDAY

Ride Cincinnati, The Ride | DETAILS: Weekend of cycling, entertainment and volunteerism. Kickoff party with music, food and beverages. Riders complete routes ranging from 10 to 64 miles. Special rider celebration.

ridecincinnati.org

SEPT. 18, MONDAY

Talbert House, Annual Luncheon | Noon-1:30 p.m. Hard Rock Casino.

DETAILS: Celebrating achievements of past year and honoring those who have

made an impact on our community and organization’s mission.

 talberthouse.org/news/events-2

SEPT. 22, FRIDAY

Cincinnati Zoo, Zoofari | 6 p.m.midnight. DETAILS: Dinner by-the-bite samples from local restaurants, cocktails, entertainment, dancing, experience the zoo after dark with special animal encounters. Tickets: $250.  cincinnatizoo.org/events/zoofari

SEPT. 23, SATURDAY

Caracole, annual gala | The Hotel Covington.

DETAILS: Chair: Pam Kravetz  caracole.org

SEPT. 29, SATURDAY

CancerFree KIDS, Celebration of Champions Dinner and Concert | 5:30 p.m., MegaCorp Pavilion, Newport. DETAILS: Cocktail hour, dinner, auction to support childhood cancer research. Outdoor after-party includes concert featuring The Rockers for Research Band.  cancerfreekids.org

SEPT. 30, SUNDAY

Forever Kings, Building Strong Men Gala | 6-10 p.m. Sharonville Convention Center. DETAILS: TBA  foreverkingsinc.org

SEPT. 30, SUNDAY

Northern Kentucky Children’s Advocacy Center, Advocates

Annual Grand Gala: Onyx & Ice |  nkycac.org

Pig Works, FCC3 Race | 6 p.m. The Banks. DETAILS: Participants receive race shirt, finisher medal, refreshments, TQL Watch Party, drink ticket. Registration starts at $30.  flyingpigmarathon.com

OCT. 5, THURSDAY

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Light The Night | 5:30 p.m. Yeatman’s Cove. DETAILS: Honored

Hero: 6-year-old acute myeloid leukemia patient Jackson.  lightthenight.org/ohio

OCT. 5, THURSDAY

Santa Maria Community Services, Passport to Success | 6-9 p.m. Miami Township Event Center, North Bend.

DETAILS: Emcee: Courtis Fuller of WLWTTV. Guest speaker: Dominique Badji of FC Cincinnati.  santamaria-cincy.org

OCT. 6, FRIDAY

Cincinnati Parks Foundation, Hats Off Luncheon | Smale Riverfront Park.

DETAILS: Co-chairs: Michael Betz and Rhiannon Hoeweler. Champagne reception and gourmet luncheon.  cincinnatiparksfoundation.org/ programs/hats-off-luncheon

OCT. 12, THURSDAY

NewPath, Heart & Hope Gala | 5:30-8 p.m. The Phoenix, downtown. DETAILS: Cocktail hour, dinner, program and award ceremony. Attire: professional, business casual. Tickets: $150.  newpath.org/events/gala/

OCT. 13, FRIDAY

The Ion Center, Toast for Hope | 6:30-10:30 p.m. North by Hotel Covington. DETAILS: TBA  ioncenter.org/events

OCT. 20, FRIDAY

Stepping Stones, Sporting Clays Tournament | Sycamore Pheasant Club. DETAILS: Clay shoot followed by food, drinks, live music, awards and live auction.

 cincysportingclays.org 

The Cincinnati Polo Party, benefitting

The DAD Initiative, will be held on June 24 at Chatsworth Polo Field in Loveland.

Annual Giving USA briefing to share recent trends in philanthropy

Each summer, the Giving USA Foundation releases a report outlining trends and patterns across the spectrum of philanthropic giving. The nation’s longest-running, most comprehensive report on philanthropy is a 350-plus page report that provides in-depth analysis on total charitable giving, giving by sources and giving to major recipient categories. In addition, each chapter provides strategic insights into the latest giving trends and facts.

Locally, The Yunker Group, a strategic advisory and executive search firm, sponsors a public event to help attendees – philanthropic officers and board members of nonprofits – understand what is behind the new data.

Melissa S. Brown returns to this Cincinnati program for the 20th consecutive year. As former editor of Giving USA and respected consulting researcher, her annual commentary provides practical perspectives on the research conducted by the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy on behalf of Giving USA.  theyunkergroup.com

Giving USA 2023 Cincinnati Briefing

Tuesday, June 20, Reakirt Auditorium, Cincinnati Museum Center

• 7:30-8:45 a.m. Registration, continental breakfast and networking

• 8:45 a.m. Welcome and introduction

• 9-10:15 a.m. Session 1 – “Reading the Tea Leaves”

• 10:30 a.m. Session 2 – “Stay for a Second Cup” Parking is free.

Join

M&M

Kinley Hotel, Wednesday, June 14, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Complimentary light bites, special drink prices.

 Melissa S. Brown

Cincinnati Art Museum honors Richard Rosenthal for his impact

The Cincinnati Art Museum recently honored Richard “Dick” Rosenthal with the 2023 Cincinnati Art Award in recognition of his family’s contributions to the arts in Cincinnati and beyond. He received the award at the museum’s annual Director’s Circle Dinner.

Established in 2009 and first presented to Jim Dine in 2010, the Cincinnati Art Award recognizes local patrons who have made a significant impact on our culture, at both national and international levels, through their involvement in the creation, collection and promotion of visual art.

The contributions to the museum of Dick Rosenthal and his family reflect a commitment to sharing works of art, making art widely accessible and fostering creativity. This year marks the 20th anniversary of a generous gift from the Rosenthal Family Foundation that permanently provided free, daily general admission to all visitors.

In 2011 the Rosenthal Education Center (REC) opened its doors and has since offered daily hands-on art-making experiences for guests of all ages. Recently, Dick and Kitty Rosenthal served as honorary chairs of the A New View campaign, which surpassed $65 million in fundraising for the museum.

Historic marker commemorates Horace Sudduth, Black hotel owner

Horace Sudduth, a Black Cincinnati businessman born in 1888, provided lodging and food for Black travelers during segregation at

the Manse Hotel & Annex he owned in Walnut Hills. City officials and community members honored the work and legacy of Sudduth in May, dedicating a new permanent Ohio historic marker at the corner of Chapel and Monfort streets in Walnut Hills. Sudduth, who died in 1957, was said to be the wealthiest Black man of his generation in Cincinnati. Patrons of the Manse Hotel included Thurgood Marshall, who would become the first Black Supreme Court justice, and pioneering Major League Baseball legend Jackie Robinson.

ArtsWave accepting applications for arts leadership training

Boardway Bound, ArtsWave’s nonprofit arts board leadership and development program, is seeking applicants to add leadership capacity to the boards of Cincinnati’s arts organizations.

As the name implies, Boardway Bound seeks to match nearly 500 people from local companies on arts boards, ushering in a new generation of leadership, adding capacity to arts institutions and creating boards that reflect the diverse communities each organization serves. Applications are due June 30.

 www.artswave.org/discover/volunteer/ boardway-bound

Owl named Unicorn is first raptor joining Nature Center as ambassador

Through a partnership with Glen Helen Raptor Center, the Cincinnati Nature Center has added raptors to its animal ambassador program.

The first bird, a gray morph Eastern screech owl named Unicorn (Uni for short), recently was introduced in the Rowe Visitor Center Auditorium. Due to an injury, Uni cannot be released in the wild but will educate members and guests on the importance of these vital species. Uni and a second raptor will be introduced to the public in early summer after they’ve acclimated to their new home.

Miami University Regionals expand arts, culture degree programs

Miami University Regionals will launch a newly expanded bachelor’s degree program in community arts and cultures this fall. The degree builds on the current bachelor of arts degree in community arts to provide paths for both artmakers and students interested in the application of art within a public setting. Graduates will be prepared for careers in arts and community organizations that are part of a thriving arts business sector in the region.

The Greater Cincinnati metro area ranks as one of the top 20 most arts-vibrant cities in the country, according to a report released by Southern Methodist University in 2022. As the arts emerge as a catalyst for social and civic engagement, demand for jobs in this growing field is increasing, said Cal Cullen, a Miami alumnus and executive director of Wave Pool, a Cincinnati-based contemporary art fulfillment center.

“The mission of many art projects today is to effect change and to be relevant to people,” Cullen said.

Cincinnati Art Museum honored Richard “Dick” Rosenthal with the 2023 Cincinnati Art Award in recognition of his family’s contributions to the arts.

Unicorn, an Eastern screech owl, will greet visitors at the Cincinnati Nature Center.

Horace Sudduth provided lodging and food for Black travelers during segregation.

Xavier’s new medical school aims to open in 2027

Xavier University’s board of trustees has voted to establish the nation’s first Jesuit College of Osteopathic Medicine on the university’s campus, addressing the need to train more primary care doctors while bolstering Xavier’s status as a mission-driven, health sciences institution.

The 75-member inaugural class will begin in 2027 and graduate in 2031. Plans call for class sizes to increase to 150 students.

The medical college’s focus on osteopathy –a holistic, patient-centered approach to medicine that primarily focuses on preventive health care – aligns with Xavier’s identity and its Jesuit Catholic mission, said Xavier University

Architect’s rendering of the new Xavier University College of Osteopathic Medicine. It is set to open in 2027 to meet the need for more family physicians in Ohio.

President Colleen Hanycz. One of the core commitments of a Jesuit education is cura personalis, an emphasis on “care for the entire person” with an all-encompassing focus on mind, body and spirit.

Adults with disabilities explore Museum Center employment

Cincinnati Museum Center and Easterseals Redwood have partnered to provide a path to employment for people with disabilities.

The partnership will identify and recruit employees for CMC while building a more inclusive culture within the venue and the community. Participants can discover new interests, learn technical skills, strengthen communication

The trusted partner for non-profit

skills, explore assistive technology and discover employment opportunities – all while providing services and filling critical jobs at CMC.

Program participants will have the opportunity to volunteer in different positions throughout CMC and, if there is a match, can eventually apply for employment.

People Working Cooperatively seeks volunteers for Repair Affair

People Working Cooperatively needs volunteers this month for its annual Repair Affair event – Saturday, June 10. PWC provides critical home repair, weatherization and accessibility modification services for low-income homeowners throughout Greater Cincinnati.

Repair Affair is a one day intensive program providing low-income seniors, people with disabilities and veterans with home repairs and maintenance. During last year’s Repair Affair, more than 450 volunteers donated 1,850 hours to complete projects at 50 households across Greater Cincinnati.

Although the main participation date is June 10, which includes a post-event celebration, volunteer groups can sign up to participate any day in June.

 pwchomerepairs.org/repair-affair or mclaughlinb@pwchomerepairs.org

APY = Annual Percentage Yield. Rates accurate as of 5.11.2023. 1To participate in this offer: 1) Open a new Business Advantage Money Market (BAMMA) account. No minimum deposit required to open the account; must be funded within 30 days of opening. 2) Reach a balance of $25,000 in your new BAMMA within 30 days of account opening. The $25,000 balance requires new money only, defined as funds not currently on deposit with General Electric Credit Union (GECU). To earn the promotional introductory Annual Percentage Yield (APY) for 180-days, you must maintain a minimum balance of $25,000 within the BAMMA account. Days your balance falls below $25,000, you’ll receive the non-promotional APY. It may take up to 2 business days from the time the offer requirements are met to adjust the dividend rate on your account to the promotional rate. Your dividend payments may reflect a blended APY that is below 5.25% if you were earning a lower rate for a portion of the statement period. 3.01% APY for balances of $0.01 to $24,999.99, and 5.25% for balances of $25,000 or more. Daily balance method used to calculate the dividend on your account. You’ll receive the accrued dividends if you close your account before dividends are posted. Rates earned are based on balances, calculated daily, and compounded to the account monthly. Fees may reduce earnings. This introductory offer is available for a limited time; offer and rates subject to change at any time, without prior notice. Contact us for current rates or details.2Savings Rate: National average taken May 4, 2023 from:https:// www.bankrate.com/banking/savings/average-savings-interest-rates/. Membership eligibility throughout the tristate. Visit gecreditunion.org/membership for details.

Lindner Center of HOPE has named Brett Dowdy, chief of psychological services, to clinical director of outpatient services and staff psychologist Laurie Little to chief patient experience officer.

Dowdy stepped down as chief patient experience officer, a role he helped define and develop, to take on leading and directing outpatient services for the center’s professional associates.

Little has been involved in the development and implementation of the patient experience initiative. In her new role, she will continue culture change efforts at Lindner Center while leading a deeper dive into the center’s values of empathy and excellence.

TriHealth, a leading Cincinnati-based integrated health system, has selected Jerri Irby as chief human resources officer. Irby most recently served as chair for the human resources workforce practice at Mayo Clinic, based in Rochester, Minn. Irby has served in senior HR roles across multiple industries including financial services, insurance and manufacturing. She serves on several national boards focused on the arts, culture, and diversity, equity and inclusion, and is a member of The Links, more than 10,000 Black women dedicated to community service and philanthropy. Maple Knoll Village promoted Jazmine Bell to director of nursing over Bodmann Pavilion. Bell has worked with Maple Knoll for 14 combined years. Some of her daily responsibilities include supervising and assisting nursing staff, communicating with family members, developing plans for quality patient care, and ensuring Bodmann is in compliance with the Ohio Department of Health.

University of Cincinnati; Candice Tolbert of Assist Financial; Angelica Bonds of The Risk Management Association; Jon Michael Adinolfi of Hillman Solutions; and Adrienne Wiley of The Healing Center.

cross-functional teams, and will support organizational processes and structures, employee training and internal communications.

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The Hon. Janaya Trotter Bratton has been named president of the Cincinnati Bar Association, the first Black woman to serve this role in its 151 years. A Hamilton County Municipal Court judge, Trotter Bratton is also the 10th woman to serve as CBA president. A Cincinnati native, Trotter Bratton is a graduate of the Ohio State University and received her J.D. from Salmon P. Chase College of Law. She began her career with the City of Cincinnati as a prosecutor then ran her own law practice, Trotter Law, from 2011 to 2016. In 2016, Trotter Bratton joined the noted civil rights law firm of Gerhardstein & Branch, where she stayed until 2019, when she won her current seat on the Hamilton County Municipal Court.

David Harris has returned to the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati as chief development officer. He most recently served as the executive director of the Jewish Cemeteries of Greater Cincinnati, and was formerly the manager of the Create Your Jewish Legacy initiative through the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati.

• Amy Weber, chief impact officer, overseeing the organization’s impact strategy, including more than $26 million in investments in nonprofit partners and United Way’s initiative. Weber has been with United Way for more than 10 years, and helped develop the organization’s new investment model, which funds community-driven efforts and partners working together to create solutions to entrenched, decades-old challenges.

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Forever Kings has added seven new members to its board of directors: Shannel Heath of Chase Bank; Ross Turpeau III of Cincinnati Works; Melissa D. Newman of

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United Way of Greater Cincinnati recently made three additions to its leadership team, all reporting directly to President and CEO Moira Weir:

• Elbert Goode II, chief marketing officer, overseeing brand, creative and communications. Goode brings more than two decades of strategic and creative marketing expertise for iconic brands and startups.

• Alaina Pratt, chief experience officer, bringing deep experience in connecting operations and strategy. Pratt has more than 15 years of experience leading

After a national search, Greater Cincinnati Foundation has named a new president and CEO to succeed Ellen Katz, who signaled her departure last September. A native Midwesterner, Matthew Randazzo, whose first day will be July 17, currently serves as president and CEO of The Dallas Foundation, a $570 million community foundation. Previously, he worked to advance educational equity as CEO of both the National Math and Science Initiative and Choose to Succeed. “GCF has a national reputation for game-changing impact,” said Randazzo. “It’s an exciting opportunity and tremendous honor to further its mission in the place I am excited to soon call home.”

Randazzo was named to the 10th class of the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s Children and Family Fellowship – a select group of leaders from the public, nonprofit and philanthropic sectors dedicated to leading measurable improvements for children and families.

Jerri Irby

Matthew Randazzo

Amy Weber

Alaina Pratt Elbert Goode II David Harris Judge Janaya Trotter Bratton Adrienne Wiley Jon Michael Adinolfi Angelica Bonds

Candice Tolbert Melissa Newman Ross Turpeau Shannel Heath Jazmine Bell

Laurie Little Brett Dowdy

UC’s College-Conservatory of Music announced a series of recognitions among its alumni as well as a new faculty member in 2023.

Chaz Wolcott has been added to the college’s roster of distinguished performing and media arts faculty members. An accomplished director, choreographer, actor and educator, Wolcott’s appointment as assistant professor-educator of musical theater begins in August.

Alumna Teresa Perrotta is one of five singers to win the 2023 Metropolitan Opera Eric and Dominique Laffont Competition.

DMA flute student Vincenzo Volpe was recently appointed to the United States Old Guard Army Fife and Drum Corps at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Arlington, Virginia.

CCM’s 2023 alumni and distinguished service awards are presented to five accomplished alumni and one dedicated patron:

• CCM Champion Award: David Allen (BM Piano, ’61)

• Distinguished Service Award: Patti Myers

• Distinguished Alumni Award: Ricardo Morales (BM Clarinet, ’89-’91)

• Young Alumni Awards: Michael Littig (BFA Drama, ’05), Noah Ricketts (BFA Musical Theatre, ’14), Sarah Ellen Stephens (BFA Drama, ’08)

The Carnegie has appointed Matt Distel as executive director. He will oversee gallery, education and theater departments. In Distel’s more than nine years as exhibitions director, The Carnegie Galleries expanded their mission while deepening local relationships.

ArtWorks is growing its executive leadership team by adding Jill E. Dunne as senior director of marketing and communications. She brings more than 20 years of experience including nearly eight years of nonprofit arts leadership. Dunne will lead the strategy, planning and execution of marketing and communications to advance the organization’s mission to create community-based public art that provides career opportunities for artists of all ages. 

Michael Littig

Ricardo Morales Patti Myers

Dave Allen

Vincenzo Volpe

Teresa Perrotta Chaz Wolcott

Matt Distel

Jill Dunne

AUTONOMY & EMPOWERMENT

Kristin Shrimplin and Women Helping Women offer survivors hope for a better future

By Leyla Shokoohe

Kristin Shrimplin is someone you want in your corner. The executive director and CEO of Women Helping Women, Shrimplin came aboard in 2015. Her passion for the organization’s dedication to preventing genderbased violence and empowering all survivors is palpable.

“I had a fire in my belly because I knew that the mission was so beautiful, and the staff were so incredible,” said Shrimplin, who previously spent 12 years with the YWCA of Cincinnati.

History of Women Helping Women

Founded in 1973 by three University of Cincinnati students, Women Helping Women is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. The founding came from an increasing dissatisfaction with the lack of assistance available at the time to women in Cincinnati who were suffering from sexual abuse, rape and intimate partner violence.

The organization began as a single telephone line that women could call for help, stationed in a room with a cot so the founders could take shifts. A rape crisis program was initiated in 1975. They then partnered with the YWCA for a public speak-out for battered women, eventually helping to get the Battered Women Project off the ground. Next they worked with General Hospital, now UC Medical Center, for immediate rape response.

“They started up these collaborations – they started the hotline, a collaboration with the

hospital, with the prosecutors, with law enforcement, and then they started going to court and responding to court,” Shrimplin said.

It wasn’t easy.

“It took a while but it was at times very frustrating but at other times really exciting and fun,” said Dr. Jill Bley, one of the original founders. “When you have a lot of women supporting you, you build up a lot of very close friendships.”

Fast forward to 2023, when the framework laid down by the WHW founders has proven invaluable.

“[We’re here] because of these women, because of Dr. Jill Bley and others, because of what they started,” Shrimplin said. “They were consistent and kept growing, and didn’t give up on that. They incorporated as a nonprofit. Today, we serve four counties, and we do a 24/7 response hotline. Last year, we took just under 15,000 calls. We now respond to 25 hospitals in this four-county region, and we do that 24/7 through three tiers of shifts of people.”

WHW also implemented a 24/7 on-scene response program called the Domestic Violence Enhanced Response Team, or DVERT. Advocates respond to 24 jurisdictions in Hamilton County, getting to the scene after a 911 call and showing up to help survivors immediately.

“It’s a groundbreaking program because often – and this is social justice – so much of the burden of violence is on the shoulders of survivors,” said Shrimplin. “So with the DVERT

program … we go out and we’re right there. It could be 3 a.m., it could be right now. And we’re focused on survivors, and often we’re asking them for the first time, ‘What do you want to see happen now?’ ”

Centering survivors

That return of autonomy to survivors is perhaps one of the most powerful ways in which Women Helping Women exemplifies the values of social justice.

“They’re the experts of their lives,” Shrimplin said. “So we’re giving them that back, and we are not making decisions for them, ever. This is about autonomy; this is about empowerment. It’s about all of those pieces, and then our role is to facilitate that.”

To that end, WHW works with 16 courts in four counties, providing court accompaniment and legal advocacy. That can look like helping secure protection orders, or going to grand jury hearings, or accompanying survivors through prosecution.

“We want to hold that space,” Shrimplin said.

Kristin Shrimplin

Photo by helen a Da Ms For M overs & Makers

“And we want to follow that line all the way through – from the hotline, to going to the hospitals to going on-scene to going to court. Because again, these are all systems. And systems are so large and often systems are not equitable and they’re not set up in a way to center survivors. So we have to center a survivor and go back to, ‘What would you like to see happen?’ ”

Formative years

Shrimplin grew up in a small Ohio village, with one stoplight, on either side of which was a jail and a library. That juxtaposition would prove to be a powerful metaphor that ended up guiding her future. Because she herself experienced sexual assault when she first went to college at Kenyon University. She was, in her own words, completely lost, and contemplated dropping out. Her experience is one of the reasons Women Helping Women implemented a campus response program. It also laid a foundation for Shrimplin before she knew where her career would take her and before she had the words to describe what she wanted to do with that career.

“That’s where I learned my voice as a survivor wasn’t being heard,” Shrimplin said. “I had an incredible professor, who, when I told him I was going to drop out, said, ‘Just go on a walk with me.’ And he said, ‘Tell me what you want to study,’ and because I had that experience, and because I was thinking back to that one stoplight: To the right are all those books with a lot to learn, but I know there’s the jail – where I’m feeling lost and angry. And I said, ‘I want to study the voice of the voiceless. How do people who have that taken away –how do they get that back?’ ”

The answer, for Shrimplin, was to create her own major: Art and Authority. She studied how the art of a subdominant culture, in the face of oppressors, could be used to build community, safety and to receive resources.

“I didn’t have a name for it, but that was social justice,” said Shrimplin. “I didn’t know, in real time, that I was fighting for the

voice that got taken away from me in that room, or taken away from me in high school, in a small town.”

Shrimplin thrived in her conviction to amplify the voiceless, graduating with honors. She went on to receive her master’s degree, run a domestic violence shelter in Medina County, and eventually work at the YWCA.

Working on prevention

“I love working with community,” Shrimplin said. “But I wanted to work on prevention. From there I got recruited to work at Women Helping Women – in June it’ll be eight years. When I came to Women Helping Women, I knew there was this opportunity to continue being part of the movement (against) gender-based violence.”

She helped the organization grow from 17 employees to 85, and from a budget of $975,000 – with no cash reserves – to an annual budget of $5.5 million.

“We just keep building on because part of our focus goes back to that social justice mindset and that abundance mindset – because survivors deserve abundance,” Shrimplin said. “We’re not going to stop at access, the basic human rights – no, you get abundance.”

Holistic approach

That holistic approach to advocacy is in part what helped Women Helping Women connect with bi3 – an initiative created by Bethesda Inc. that works to drive innovation in healthcare and improve community health outcomes. In 2021, the regional Community Health Needs Assessment was released. None of the results were necessarily a surprise to organizations like bi3.

“There was definitely this acknowledgement that how people think about health is not necessar ily [just] from a clinical standpoint,” said Kiana Tabue, bi3’s vice president of strategic partnerships.

“We really came to this realization that when we talk about health, we have to talk about it from a broader standpoint.”

In 2022, bi3 selected Women

Helping Women’s Rise Beyond Violence campaign for health equity funding.

“Understanding the type of organization that Women Helping Women is, and really Kristin’s leadership, how Kristin shows up as a leader, how she shows up for community, how she partners with community, she definitely had our attention from that standpoint,” Tabue said. “We really started to think about, ‘How do we build the

resilience of community, and for families?’ ”

The Rise Beyond Violence campaign’s vision is to serve 50,000 survivors in five years, provide 25,000 youth with prevention services, and raise a total of $5.6 million to enable those services.

“We want to be anywhere in the community that survivors are going to be, and students and young people,” Shrimplin said. 

Women Helping Women celebrates 50 years with Journey to Joy

Friday, June 9, 7 p.m., Music Hall Ballroom

Fiftieth anniversary event features guest speakers, cocktails, dinner and dancing, and silent auction. Black tie or formal attire. VIP cocktail hour from 6-7 p.m.

Tickets: $150, VIP: $250; table of 8: $1,250

 womenhelpingwomen.org

you donate your gently-used furniture you can directly impact the lives of those transitioning out of homelessness in greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Over half of the people we serve are children, and 70% of our recipients are single mothers.

Notables: Women & Family Services

Movers & Makers asked organizations working in service of women and families to introduce their notables to our readers, part of a regular feature highlighting people making a difference in Greater Cincinnati’s nonprofit community.

Rainie Moody’s belief in clients inspires belief in themselves

Rainie Moody is a notable change agent for breaking the cycle of poverty two generations at a time. As managing director of HER Cincinnati’s Scholar House program, Moody develops innovative programming that creates a pathway to success for single parents pursuing a college degree. Moody’s team walks every step of the way with single moms to make sure that they walk across the graduation stage and into a better future. Moody uses her signature character strengths of love, humor and gratitude to foster hope and encourage self-confidence in women, believing in them so fiercely they can’t help but to believe in themselves. One of Moody’s favorite things outside of work is time alone during early morning hours spent self-reflecting, exercising and meditating. Moody is working on a podcast with her two closest friends, hoping to share information she’s acquired that may assist others with their own journeys. 

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Leslie Touassi brings women information on health issues

Leslie Touassi is vice president of community impact at the Junior League of Cincinnati, an organization dedicated to advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration and training. For the past two years she has led multiple committees, including advocacy and education, volunteer events and a partnership with Family Nurturing Center, a local nonprofit focused on ending the cycle of child abuse by promoting individual wellbeing and healthy family relationships. This year she planned two women’s health forums for members, including “Understanding Women’s Healthcare Today,” related to the Dobbs v. Jackson abortion ruling, and a women’s heart health forum in partnership with Christ Hospital, the American Heart Association and the Center for Closing the Health Gap. In Touassi’s professional career, she is a student services coordinator at Mount Healthy City Schools and an adjunct instructor at the University of Cincinnati. She recently published her first book, “Fostering Love.” 

Holly Hankinson advocates on policies important to women and families

Holly Hankinson has a heart for advocacy, particularly for women and families. She started as a volunteer with the Greater Cincinnati Foundation Women’s Fund in 2015 and loved the work so much that she joined in 2017 as the first staff member with a sole focus on advocacy and public policy. Hankinson designed and managed advocacy strategies around issues important to women, including pay equity, the city of Cincinnati’s salary-history ban, and the launch of the Appointed initiative, which empowers women to seek leadership roles on government boards and commissions. Hankinson says, “It’s never been more important for public leadership to reflect the community it serves than right now.” Hankinson builds relationships with elected officials across the region. In her spare time, Hankinson is an avid runner and loves to entertain family and friends at home. She’s also very competitive at family game night. She will never let her kids win (just like she was raised!). 

Diana Porter sings and organizes, bringing music to work for justice

Diana Porter has always been involved in music and in singing her beliefs. She was a high school teacher and union officer and the lead singer in a political folk-rock group, Band Together, when, in 1983, MUSE: Cincinnati’s Women’s Choir was formed and put out the call for feminist singers. It was natural that she would find herself a founding member who, through the years, has continued to serve in leadership on the music and social justice committees as well as the board. MUSE’s mission for both musical excellence and social change means not only performing large, often themed, concerts, but also propels the choir to sing to support many causes –women’s rights, yes, but equally important racism, LGBTQ rights, environmental issues, worker/union struggles, peace and justice. Porter continues to identify these issues and find ways to get MUSE involved. Forty years later, she is still singing and organizing. 

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At Strategies to End Homelessness, Jennifer McEvilley lifts work quality

As managing director of Strategies to End Homelessness, Jennifer McEvilley is responsible for the work of the Compliance, Planning and Evaluation program, and the Homeless Management Information Services system, ensuring that the essential work of the organization is completed at the highest level. Strategies to End Homelessness serves as the lead agency for the Hamilton County/Cincinnati Continuum of Care and is a Unified Funding Agency, as designated by HUD. McEvilley communicates and works effectively with persons in and outside of the agency, with clients or persons in elected or government-appointed roles. McEvilley is an expert on HUD funding, Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS and Emergency Solutions Grant funds. She has helped to bring more than $27 million dollars to the community to serve individuals and families experiencing homelessness, and, more importantly, preventing homelessness and sparing families the trauma of homelessness. 

Donna Shockley comes through for women in residential treatment

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For over 16 years, Donna Shockley has been giving service every day to the clients of First Step Home. Shockley has worn several hats throughout her tenure, including group facilitator, community outreach coordinator and manager of treatment service providers. Currently, as manager of residential housing, Shockley is responsible for orientation, engagement, and operations of daily functions. Her extensive experience helps all the women and children who reside at First Step Home. She loves and believes in what she does. Shockley is an integral part of clients being able to complete their residential treatment and to heal and become whole again. Outside of her work at FSH, Shockley happily serves as staff pastor of evangelism and outreach at the New St. Paul Church. She also enjoys spending time with her family and decorating. 

Rickell Howard Smith’s background builds to taking on YMCA’s mission

Rickell Howard Smith, a Cincinnati native, was named president and CEO of YWCA Greater Cincinnati in February 2023. Smith started her career as a civil rights lawyer before rising to several prominent leadership roles serving women and children and advocating for gender and racial equity in local systems. Prior to joining the YWCA, Smith served as senior director at Greater Cincinnati Foundation and as the founding executive director of the Center for Social Justice at Urban League of Greater Southwest Ohio. Rickell is poised to deliver the YWCA’s mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. She is a graduate of Howard University and Temple University’s Beasley School of Law. 

Dana

Saxton’s life propels passion to bring furniture to those in need

Dana Saxton, executive director of New Life Furniture Bank , is passionate about making sure that every family overcoming homelessness, domestic abuse, extreme poverty or other devastating circumstances has essential home furnishings when starting over. Since taking the position in 2016, Saxton has multiplied the agency’s impact from furnishing 500 homes a year to more than 2,000 in Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and Dayton. Saxton is motivated by her own experience of being raised in poverty by a single mother and is committed to making sure that no child sleeps on the floor. NLFB distributed over 27,000 pieces of furniture last year and provided 1,866 beds to families in need. Saxton loves to travel with her family and friends, hike, walk and read historical fiction. She is a graduate of Mount Saint Joseph University and maintains close friendships with her “Mountie buddies” in the area. 

Mary Ellen Mitchell’s insights improve work for those in crisis

Mary Ellen Mitchell is the co-director of Lydia’s House in Norwood. She’s a thoughtful advocate for women and children in crisis, with a razor-sharp intellect for creating new possibilities for family stabilization. A one-woman continuous improvement plan, Mitchell is able to perceive flaws in a system and come up with alternatives in the time it takes most people to realize a process isn’t working. Her professional life is not siloed, but she manages instead to blend her family and the relationships she holds in the community. Like a skillful braider, Mitchell incorporates her husband and three children into the life of the nonprofit, and she invites new volunteer faces in through her involvement at Bellarmine Chapel at Xavier University. When she’s not working, Mary Ellen enjoys collage making while listening to classic country music. Her go-to karaoke pick is “Coal Miner’s Daughter.” 

Laurie Lambert harnesses words to fight gender-based violence

Laurie Lambert has been a facilitator at Women Writing for (a) Change since 2013, the same year she organized the first V-Day event at WWf(a)C. The two-day event, part of a global creative movement to increase awareness of gender-based violence, features more than 20 writers sharing original work, with proceeds benefiting writing programs for survivors of gender-based violence. Lambert continues to coordinate this event, now in its 11th year. Lambert has also facilitated an all-gender writing class at WWf(a)C since 2015. A poet herself, Lambert is the author of “What I Carry” and “What We Are Made Of” (both from Finishing Line Press). Her poems have been included in several journals and anthologies. 

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George Sehi gives back by helping women working for American dream

George Sehi founded Women Walking West. Born in Iran, he came to the U.S. in 1975 with $500 in his pocket and the dream of the best possible education. In 1978, an earthquake in Tabas, where Sehi was raised, killed more than 50 family members and friends, including his father. A college official’s generosity made it possible for Sehi to finish his studies. Sehi made a commitment to give back to those facing similar challenges. He completed a doctorate and rose to be founding executive dean of his community college. After retiring in 2012, he established Women Walking West. With more than 100 volunteers, the organization has helped more than 145 women from 43 countries with mentorship and financial help. W3 thrives on the contributions of volunteers and community partners to its mission of removing educational, social, cultural, financial and language barriers so women can achieve their educational dreams. 

Julie McGregor works tirelessly for women, families and more

Julie McGregor is a notable figure in the women and family services sector in Cincinnati with 16 years of experience at Santa Maria Community Services. As Every Child Succeeds program director and chief program officer, McGregor has driven the organization’s transition to a family-centered approach to delivering service. Her commitment is reflected in her roles at Santa Maria and on the School of Social Work alumni board and in her work with the UC Health Mobile Crisis Team. McGregor shows her dedication to her Price Hill community, organizing community events, advocating for minorities and promoting empathy through education and awareness. Her selfless, empathetic and hardworking nature makes her an exemplary leader. McGregor loves reading, spending time with family and friends, traveling, exploring new places and food both in Cincinnati and elsewhere, and she is typically up for trying anything fun and exciting. She is originally from Buffalo, N.Y. 

Megan Fischer piles up the help with 10 million diapers and more

Megan Fischer is the queen of absorbency. Just a few short years ago, Fischer read an article about diaper need, and caregivers not being able to afford enough diapers to keep their babies safe and clean. Enraged, Megan started Sweet Cheeks Diaper Bank – out of her basement. Now housed in a 10,000-square-foot warehouse with sister programs, Tidal Babe Period Bank and Fly and Dry Basic Needs Bank, Sweet Cheeks is about to distribute its 10 millionth diaper. Fischer is a person of vision and action, who always finds a way, and will keep you laughing while she does it. When Fischer is not managing her arid empire, you might find her surrounded by her strange crew of critters, cross-stitching morbid scenes, or cheering on her beloved Bengals. 

Lisa Nolan offers women independence with professional clothes and support

Lisa Nolan serves as executive director of Dress for Success Cincinnati. Nolan leads the organization in its mission of empowering women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and development tools to help them thrive in work and in life. Prior to joining DFSC in 2017, Nolan was an associate at the Cincinnati law firm of Wood Herron & Evans LLP, specializing in intellectual property litigation. She is a graduate of Leadership Cincinnati Class 44 and Cincinnati Academy of Leadership for Lawyers Class 21. Nolan was recognized by the Cincinnati Business Courier as a 40 Under 40 leader in 2021 and as a 2023 Woman of Distinction by the Girl Scouts of Western Ohio. In Lisa’s free time, she likes to practice yoga. Something most people don’t know about her is that she was an engineering major in college. 

Elaine Bobbey’s leadership, expertise keep Rosemary’s Babies moving ahead

Elaine Bobbey is a board member of Rosemary’s Babies, chair of the Holloway House & Resource Center Committee, and a phenomenal volunteer who joined the board in 2019 after retiring as president of Evenflo Feeding. Bobbey’s leadership, business expertise and determination to improve the lives of teen parent families have proven evident as Rosemary’s Babies worked to acquire and renovate a new facility over the last two years. Bobbey ensured the organization moved forward when the CEO was dealing with major emergencies. She stepped up to steer the renovation committee to guarantee opening the new facility this fall. She participated in Greater Cincinnati Foundation’s Groundwork Series on racial equity to get a better understanding of the population served and the social injustices related to Black people and minorities. One thing most people don’t know about her is that she is a great dancer and loves music. 

Sharon Zamberlan returns to revive fundraiser for Assistance League

Twenty-five years ago, Sharon Zamberlan initiated the Cincinnati chapter of Assistance League. She served as the chapter’s first president and has overseen many events and committees since 1998. She has been a hands-on leader for New Beginnings, an Assistance League program that provides new, essential household items to domestic abuse survivors leaving area shelters. Zamberlan is returning to the executive board to help revive Assistance League’s Books and Brunch event for spring 2024. Zamberlan was the first chairperson of this important fundraiser and her vision continues. She is a wife, mother and grandmother who loves to travel and enjoy long stays in Naples, Fla. Serving the unmet needs of women and children in Cincinnati continues to be a passion for her. 

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Nick Caprino provides youths with legal protection they need

Nick Caprino is among the region’s leading legal advocates for vulnerable children. He is an attorney at Children’s Law Center, a unique nonprofit firm providing free, highquality representation, community education and policy reform, so youths can grow into adulthood in safe, healthy ways. Caprino safeguards the rights of child victims of sexual and violent crimes – in criminal-court cases against perpetrators and as survivors seeking protection orders. He stands up for students with disabilities, youths facing unfair school discipline, incarcerated children, and others. In Ohio and Kentucky, Caprino gives youth a meaningful voice in justice processes and ensures the legal system does not create trauma for young people. In 2022, Nick conducted multiple public education presentations about legal strategies for vulnerable youth, reaching over 170 community leaders. Caprino enjoys being outdoors with his wife and two young children. He loves running and participates in Cincinnati’s Flying Pig half-marathon annually. 

Nina Creech takes responsibility for wide range of PWC programs

Nina Creech has been at the heart of People Working Cooperatively for 30 years. She currently serves as the organization’s senior vice president and director of the Whole Home Innovation Center, which provides health-focused housing services and education to families. Creech is responsible for PWC’s accessibility and aging-in-place initiatives, as well as its lead poisoning prevention programs, asthma trigger reduction pilot programs and the agency’s volunteer program, all of which serve low-income children and their families. Creech also manages PWC’s client services team, and oversees the organization’s new workforce development initiative, building a pathway for employees to develop technical skills and leadership ability that strengthens the agency’s capacity and improves quality of services. Creech is a fierce advocate for families living in poverty and works tirelessly to meet their housing needs. Creech was born in Italy and proudly celebrates her Italian heritage through her favorite pastimes, cooking and traveling. 

Danielle Amrine leads Welcome House finding solutions for homelessness

Danielle Amrine , known as Daney, is the CEO of Welcome House Inc. in Covington. Amrine has been with Welcome House for almost five years, and her staff has watched her blaze a trail to not only end homelessness in Northern Kentucky, but throughout the state. Amrine loves to take her staff to lunch and then hit up an escape room, she loves doing things with her two beautiful girls, especially related to sports, and something that most don’t know about her is that she’s an avid bird watcher. 

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Gifts/Grants

Farmer Family Foundation supports organoid research at Children’s

A new $5 million challenge grant from the Farmer Family Foundation to the Cincinnati Children’s Center for Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine (CuSTOM) is enabling the center to advance the study of organoids.

Organoids are miniature organs grown from a patient’s own cells. They are a platform for understanding disease, developing new personalized treatments and, ultimately, generating tissue for transplantation. The funding continues support that began in 2016 with the Farmer family’s initial $1 million gift for tissue engineering. This was followed by their first $5 million challenge grant in 2018 to establish and name the CuSTOM Accelerator Lab.

Scientists at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center are working to make intestinal organoid tissue ready to begin human clinical trials.

HUD gives Council on Aging $1.25M to help seniors stay in their homes

The Council on Aging received a $1.25 million grant through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Older Adults Home Modification Program to provide home repairs and modifications that will enable low-income older adults in the county to remain in their homes. The HUD program aims to reduce older adults’ risk of falling, improve general safety, increase accessibility and improve functional abilities in the home.

“Our goal is to help older adults remain in their homes for as long as possible,” said Council on Aging CEO Suzanne Burke. “Making safety improvements or modifications to an older adult’s home is an important part of supporting their continued independence.”

Duke Energy Foundation awards $200,000 in grants

The Duke Energy Foundation has awarded 10 grants totaling $200,000 to organizations in Southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky focused on climate resiliency and protecting natural resources.

This funding is a long-standing investment for the Duke Energy Foundation. In the past five years, the Foundation has awarded 70 grants totaling more than $1 million to support over 45 regional nonprofits to propel environmental resiliency projects.

“We appreciate our community partners on Earth Day, and every day, for their commitment to protect and enhance our region’s natural resources,” said Amy Spiller, president, Duke Energy Ohio and Kentucky. “By investing our time and financial resources to support these organizations, we can make a positive impact together.”

Home Depot Foundation donates $500K for facility to house veterans

As part of its commitment to end veteran homelessness, the Home Depot Foundation has granted $500,000 to Joseph House to help build a facility to offer residential and outpatient services to veterans battling addiction. The gift was announced as part of Joseph House’s capital campaign for Joseph House New Horizons – a three-story facility to be located at 3304 Colerain Ave. in Camp Washington.

The facility will provide 58 transitional housing units for veterans exiting homelessness, some of which will include singleoccupancy rooms.

Subaru raises more than $27,000 for Queen City Book Bank

Queen City Book Bank (QCBB), previously Literacy Network of Greater Cincinnati, has been named Subaru’s “Share the Love” event recipient for the sixth year.

This year’s event raised $27,375, bringing the six-year total to $157,441 in support of reading programs for area families. This year’s Subaru “Share the Love” event ran from Nov. 17, 2022, until Jan. 3, 2023. During this time, each car buyer was given the opportunity to select a charity to donate $250 from their new car purchase.

Subaru customers could choose from their hometown charity, the Queen City Book Bank in Cincinnati, or four national charities: the ASPCA, Make-A-Wish, Meals on Wheels and the National Park Foundation. Over the last 15 years, through this event, Subaru of America and participating retailers have donated more than $256 million.

Karen Wellington Foundation makes 2,000th gift for breast cancer aid

The Karen Wellington Foundation for Living with Breast Cancer has made its 2,000th gift. The gift came April 1, on what would have been Karen Wellington’s 56th birthday. The foundation is a Cincinnati-based national nonprofit focused on the mental health journey of women and families living with breast cancer. It sends women on special vacations, relaxing spa days, concerts and other fun-only activities.

The milestone is significant considering the organization that was founded in 2007 gave its 1,000th gift in December 2020. Now, just a little over two years later, KWF has presented its 2,000th gift to 29-year-old Bobbie Hallmark of Hamilton. 

The Busam Subaru sales team presents the Queen City Book Bank with $27,375 raised by the Subaru “Share the Love” event to support literacy programs. Pictured: Liz Priestle, Michelle Otten Guenther, Ray Hill , James Henderson, Jacob Kleine, Kyle Dirks, Tyler Yarnill and Brian Maupin.

Duke Energy employees volunteer with organizations that received grants to focus on climate resiliency and protecting natural resources.

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

Arts Association hosts 15th annual Dancing for the Stars

ADM project manager Britton Spitler, performing as Brock Leah Spears, and independent dance instructor Amanda Barraza earned a nearly perfect score of 29, taking first place at the Cincinnati Arts Association’s 15th annual Dancing for the Stars at the Music Hall Ballroom. Art Design Consultants Inc. President Litsa Spanos took home the Fundraising Champion Award as the celebrity who raised the most money for the event through ticket sales and donations totaling nearly $12,000.

Entrepreneur, author, consultant, speaker and brand ambassador Morgan Owens and dance instructor Josh Tilford took second place; Litsa Spanos and dance instructor Andrea Stefano placed third.

As CAA’s largest annual fundraiser, the event raised more than $70,000 in support of the organization’s acclaimed arts education programs, including the Overture Awards –the nation’s largest locally run high school arts scholarship competition.

Melissa Vaughn with celebrity dancer Tom Parker

Celebrity Diana Nguyen with Jeremy Mainous

Celebrity dancer Erin Rolfes with Rostislav Toporski

Bonita Brockert with celebrity dancer David Kapor

Third-place pair Litsa Spanos and Andrea Stefano

Second-place pair, celebrity Morgan Owens and Josh Tilford

Lane Glick with celebrity dancer Frank Marzullo

Dance champions Amanda Barraza and celebrity dancer Brock Leah Spears

Gala raises more than $730K for children’s cancer research

The Cure Starts Now hosted its 15th annual Once in a Lifetime gala at the Duke Energy Convention Center. More than 850 attendees showed up to support and raise $733,363 for pediatric brain cancer research and patient support. The organization honored cancer warriors and its supporters throughout the evening:

• 10-year-old Addison Varns: Hero Award for showing courage throughout her 49-month battle with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.

• Shanna Martin-Gornall: Lauren Hill Full Court Press Award for spearheading the Cones for the Cure campaign for more than 12 years with the staff of Graeter’s to raise more than $225,000 each year.

• Jay and Suzy Schuermann: Changemaker Award for supporting the organization since losing their son Jack in 2006.

• Mike Halloran: Changemaker Award for co-founding and running Cincinnati SantaCon for more than 15 years, raising more than $200,000 in total to support The Cure Starts Now.

Randi Rico of Channel 5 and Brian Thomas of 55 WKRC served as emcees for the pirate-themed evening, which was sponsored by Graeter’s.

www.thecurestartsnow.org

‘Crawlers’ hit Covington streets with Aviatra Accelerators

Aviatra Accelerators, which supports women entrepreneurs, organized its first-ever WOB Crawl (Woman-Owned Business Crawl). More than 30 woman-owned businesses in Covington’s downtown and MainStrasse neighborhoods were showcased, offering special deals for attendees. The nearly 150 “crawlers” discovered new businesses, visited their favorites and supported the owners. In addition to shops, bars and restaurants, featured businesses included service providers and one light manufacturing location. Aviatra plans to make this an annual event and may expand it to other neighborhoods in Greater Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio.

 www.WOBCrawl.com

Morgan Whitlow, owner of Rich’s Proper Food & Drink

Caden Adams and Kayla Braden, co-owners of Peachy and Vintage

Kristina Czarnik, owner of Arden and Gold

Kelti Ziese, owner of Coda Co.

Crawlers Tracy Pitts and Tricia Pitts on Pike Street

Crawlers Laura Randall-Tepe, Darla Gabbard, Pattie Byron, Lorrie Hill and Kathy Comisar at Grainwell

Brooklynn Scott, retail associate at Grainwell

Rachel Hiraldo, owner of Vivify Counseling & Wellness

Aviatra team Kourtney Terry, Jill Morenz and Jasmine Hughes

The Cure Starts Now cofounders Brooke and Keith Desserich with awardees Jay and Suzy Schuermann

Awardee Addison Varns (center) with her mother Heidi, big sister Aubrey, Brooke Desserich and father A.J.

Brooke and Keith Desserich with awardee Mike Halloran of SantaCon

Grace Desserich with awardee Shanna MartinGornall of Graeter’s

Crawlers Candace Gasper and Lina Ehlinger at House of Beauty Photos by jenniFer lynn Pictures

UpSpring’s Benefit Bash builds support for local children

UpSpring raised more than $115,000 at their Benefit Bash to support local children experiencing homelessness. The event, at Great American Ball Park, featured live and silent auctions, a raffle, dinner, drinks and more.

The event was supported by sponsors, attendees, volunteers, supporters, trustees, the event committee, auctioneer Tony Giglio, emcee Ashley Kirklen, keynote speaker Karl Thomsen and event chair Linsey Kraeling.

 www.upspring.org

Event chair Linsey Kraeling and Kathy Wyenandt MikeObert and Jess Obert

UpSpring board member Becky Riegelsberger with Kristy McNally and Mike McNally

UpSpring staff members Taylor Dailey, Azia Carnes, Melissa Adamchik, Katie Jensen, Sierra Mansfield and Jordan Mitchell

Andrea Shephard, UpSpring board member LaDasha Reeder, Judge Janaya Trotter Bratton and Tiffany Wilson

Dragonfly Foundation gala breaks $389,000 in money raised

The Dragonfly Foundation raised more than $389,000 for pediatric cancer patients and their families recently at its annual Grand Gala at Music Hall. It was the largest amount raised in the gala’s 12-year history.

At the event, which hosted donors and supporters, the foundation recognized the Cancer and Blood Disease Institute social workers and child life specialists from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center.

Nearly 500 supporters attended the dinner, which included a silent auction and entertainment by Endless Summer Band. The event was presented by The Markley Family Foundation.

 www.dragonfly.org

Samaritan Car Care Clinic opens doors to new repair shop

The Samaritan Car Care Clinic held a ribbon-cutting ceremony in April to dedicate the region’s first non-profit vehicle repair shop. The Samaritan Car Care Clinic works on a referral basis with multiple social service agencies to address transportation barriers low-income families face on their path to self-sufficiency. Guest speakers included representatives from the nonprofit’s three original major financial supporters: the Butler Foundation, the R.C. Durr Foundation and the Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile Jr. Foundation. The new facility furthers the clinic’s work through a new social enterprise model that provides long-term sustainability. Corporex donated the land for the project, and The Catalytic Fund financed the building’s construction.

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center child life specialists: (Back) Ashleigh Hoying, Jess Altenberger, Jillian Roles, Abby Ann Williams, Katie Haas, Cheryl Dahling and Pennie Grubbs; (front) Emily Tenkman and Holly Campbell

Kami Runzo and Eileen Clark

Dragonfly founder and Executive Director Christine Neitzke

WLWT news anchor and event emcee Kelly Rippin

Strolling champagne skirt created by East to Vest Productions

Endless Summer Band on stage with Dragonfly Marley

Participating in the ribbon-cutting in front of the new facility: Scott Meyer, Martin Butler, Bruce Kintner, Alecia Webb-Edgington, Amanda Mills, Shari Caldarelli, Karen Zengel, Jim Dennis and Lara Gastright

A Dragonfly family: Teresa and Billy Johns with children Will and Dragonfly patient Marley

Board member Jack Brendamour and Julie Brendamour

Mimosas for Memories has record year

The Giving Voice Foundation held its eighth annual Mimosas for Memories fundraising event, raising a record $90,125 to support local older adults living with Alzheimer’s and dementia and their caregivers. More than 300 people attended the sold-out event at the University Club of Cincinnati.

The event included bottomless mimosas, entertainment from a professional guitarist and a Cincinnati Opera singer, brunch by-the-bite, gourmet desserts, local vendor pop-ups, a professional photo booth and a silent auction.

Presenting sponsor was The Christ Hospital Health Network.

Jon Lam, Victoria Delladonna, Melissa Lewis, Danielle Cade and Abby Allen

Suzanne Bryan, Cheryl Jeffers and Jenny Sanchez

Kendall Herald, Michelle Jones, Lou Velasquez and Victoria Delladonna

Giving Voice Foundation board of directors: Aaron Stapleton, Krista Powers, Cody Gausvik, Dr. Christian Gausvik and Kristin Cooley

Tara and Mark Mechley with Michael and Elizabeth Kremer

Carlee Atkins, Stephanie Jackson and Derwin Jackson

Pierre and Vivian Leavell

Doug and Sandy Waniz with Dan Hanus and Jerri Hanus

Spring into Action a success for local food pantry

Inter Parish Ministry Food Pantry raised more than $120,000 at Spring into Action, its first celebration event since 2019. More than 250 guests attended the sold-out evening, which featured a dinner and live and silent auctions. Proceeds will support IPM’s mission to feed families in need throughout the community.

 www.ipmfoodpantry.org

Rey of Light brings in more than $775K

DePaul Cristo Rey’s Rey of Light Scholarship Benefit drew a sold-out crowd, with the entire event raising more than $775,000 for students.

Rey of Light was held at the school in Clifton and was chaired by Michele and Mike Schuster. The evening included a cocktail hour, dinner, raffles, and silent and live auctions. The Fund-A-Need paddle raise that evening secured over $320,000 for tuition assistance.

In its 11-year history, Rey of Light has raised over $6 million for student financial aid. Every DePaul Cristo Rey student receives significant financial aid to attend the school.

 www.depaulcristorey.org

Mitch Mustain and Kristy Mustain with Michelle Ridder and Eric Ridder from GE Aerospace

DPCR staff Edna Gibbs and Brittany Ranz

Chris Neyer and Brett Stover

Rey of Light event chairs Mike Schuster and Michele Schuster flank DPCR President Siobhan Taylor (center)

Tricia Mullins with Chelsie Hornsby

Board member Jane Portman and former Sen. Rob Portman

Michael Weigel and Debra Weigel with CEO Alida Hart

CEO Alida Hart with Board President Steve Elliott

Martha Rassi with Dan Motz and Debbie Motz

Jody Yetzer and Samantha Kayne with CEO Alida Hart

Steve and Kris Mullin, IPM President and CEO Alida Hart, Tom Heintz and Mary Jo Heintz

Becky Hildebrandt with Kim and Jim Hartman

Through DPCR’s Corporate Work Study Program, senior Jullius has worked at Messer Construction and is pictured with Messer’s Niki Krebs and Hope Locke.

Easterseals Redwood launches revamped Walnut Hills Campus

More than 130 business leaders, charitable investors and local dignitaries attended Easterseals Redwood’s Beams of Hope Ceremony.

Speeches, celebrations and the signing of a commemorative steel beam launched the transformation of the Easterseals Redwood Walnut Hills Campus through its “Power of Work. Power of Purpose” campaign.

Kicked off with support by MacKenzie Scott, the $26 million campaign is the most ambitious philanthropic effort in the organization’s history, allowing Easterseals Redwood to expand and renovate its Walnut Hills campus, create an endowment and expand programming and services for the people it serves.

Easterseals Redwood serves the needs of the growing number of people with disabilities, people facing economic disadvantages and veterans in Greater Cincinnati.

 www.eastersealsredwood.org

Signed ceremonial steel beam

Mary Beth Martin, executive director of the Farmer Family Foundation; Stephon Martin, Building Value Deconstruction crew leader; Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval; Pam Green, president & CEO, Easterseals Redwood; Ohio Gov. Mike Dewine; Kroger CEO Rodney McMullen; Hamilton County Commission President Alicia Reece

Danielle Gentry-Barth, VP agency advancement and veteran services for Easterseals Redwood; Jody Salters; Jim Salters, board chair for Easterseals Redwood

Emmy Award Winner Regional - Interview/Discussion Program SATURDAY 6:30PM CET SUNDAY 8:30PM CET ARTS Join Barbara Kellar as she showcases artists and cultural leaders from the Greater Cincinnati community.

The City that Sings: Cincinnati’s May Festival Stream at CETconnect.org and on YouTube

CityLink presents new documentary

CityLink Center recently premiered its new “Moving Pictures” documentary, which celebrates stories of life change in the city through a new approach to poverty.

The night consisted of a red carpet at Memorial Hall with hors d’oeuvres, followed by introductions from CityLink board member Ben Beshear with Dani Watkins and Johnmark Oudersluys of CityLink.

“Moving Pictures 2023” features three clients from varying backgrounds:

• Frank , a musician and aspiring chef, started culinary training after coming out of incarceration.

• Sapphire , a single mother, went through auto tech training and continues to break barriers in the maledominated auto industry.

• Andrea , a Center for Employment Opportunities client, now works at CEO and oversees formerly incarcerated individuals on their work crew.

After the documentary screening, the three featured clients were recognized with flowers and a standing ovation.  www.citylinkcenter.org

Last Mile supporters gather for Miles of Gratitude

Last Mile Food Rescue hosted its first Miles of Gratitude event in April. More than 150 volunteers, food donors, agency partners and friends of Last Mile attended at MadTree Brewing. Julie Shifman, co-founder and CEO of Last Mile, announced that Eileen Budo, Last Mile’s chief operating officer since its inception in 2019, would take over as chief executive officer with Shifman becoming vice president of external relations. Last Mile also announced the milestone of 5 million pounds of food rescued and diverted from the landfill, getting it to those who need it most, thanks to over 800 volunteers. Citibank sponsored the event, and the program featured awards to honor volunteers, food donors and nonprofit partners.

www.lastmilefood.org

Alexia Wellington and Kent Wellington

Chuck and Maria Mingo Beth and Kurt Platte

Steve and Michelle Smith

Featured client Frank (center) with documentary filmmakers Liz and Sean Geil

Featured client Andrea and her son

Clare Zlatic Blankemeyer and Tony Blankemeyer

Ashley Boothby-Planter and Laura Berkemeier from agency partner Life Learning Center

Patty Wilken, winner of Last Mile Hulk Award for most pounds of food rescued

Carl and Suzette Roof, winners of the Last Mile Batman & Robin Award

CEO Eileen Budo and co-founder Julie Shifman

Family Nurturing Center hosts Prom for a Purpose

A sold-out crowd of 400 guests recently helped raise awareness and vital funding to support Family Nurturing Center’s mission to end the cycle of child abuse. Prom for a Purpose, held at North by Hotel Covington, raised nearly $130,000 for prevention, education, counseling, parenting, visitation and wellness services to more than 10,000 people a year at no cost to participants.

Prom for a Purpose, presented by Tom Gill Chevrolet, featured emcee Craig McKee of Channel 9 WCPO News and DJ Leyla Semsek of Party Pleasers Services.

At the end of the evening, guests honored the 2023 Prom Court for their collective fundraising total of $17,678. The two top fundraisers, board members John Gray and Beth Welter, were named 2023 Prom Royals.

 www.familynurture.org

The Chatfield Edge holds first event as a nonprofit

The Chatfield Edge celebrated its first event as a nonprofit focused on postsecondary education attainment. Its Celebrate Our Scholars brunch recognized 13 area students who received funds from the Chatfield Scholars program. These scholarships further the nonprofit’s mission of assisting first-generation and nontraditional students by assisting with tuition costs and providing close-the-gap money for expenses financial aid might not cover, like transportation, childcare, incidental fees or living expenses. The brunch also marked the kick-off for the nonprofit’s spring fundraising campaign, which so far has raised $48,000 toward a goal of $100,000.

 www.chatfieldedge.org

Christopher Owens and John Hawkins

Tom Prewitt, Whitney Glover and Roule Allouch

2023 Prom Court: Jake Coffey, John Gray, Brittany Bischoff, Courtney Clouse, Paul Gelter, Julie Holt, Beth Welter, Andy Bernert and Petina Strickley

Tim Bischoff and board Chair Brittany Bischoff

Event co-chairs Jake Coffey and Will Farrell

Board members Paul Gelter and Julie Holt

Board member Keith Spiller and Amy Spiller

Volunteer UC student Justin Pappachan with Chatfield Edge interim Executive Director David Hesson

Sister Phyllis Kemper, student Halima Mohamed, student Pam Hurley and Sister Patricia Homan

Donor Paula McIntosh with chair Rosemary Schlachter

Prom Royals John Gray and Beth Welter

Elder High School celebrates 100 years

Elder High School wrapped up its yearlong centennial celebration by hosting a 100th anniversary gala at Hard Rock Casino. More than 900 alumni and friends of the school gathered for a cocktail party, dinner, and entertainment from the Ethan & Joey Band.

The gala was supported by Legacy Sponsor Home City Ice and others.

 www.elderhs.org/100

Welcome House throws

‘housewarming’ party for clients

Welcome House Outreach hosted irs annual Household Shower for Welcome House in April at Summit Hills Country Club. The event featured guest speaker Jenn Jordan of Q102. As in a bridal shower or a housewarming party, guests were encouraged to bring a new household item to support the individuals and families that Welcome House serves as they transition to permanent housing.

 www.welcomehouseky.org

John and Mary Lammers with Linda Knierim Reilly and Kevin Reilly

Dan Keck, Mike Finley, Phil Kwiatkowski, Jeff Niemer, Toby Heile, Ted Bross and Joe Schoenfeld

Becky and Brian Bill

Krista Katona Pille, Shannon Darnell, Ashley Altenau, Amy Altenau and Robyn Tierney

Greg Stautberg, Chris Thompson (standing) and Ed Thompson

Mike and Amy Lind, Lora and Chris Lind and Jeannette and Joe Lind Jr.

Welcome House Outreach President Karen Cady and emcee Jenn Jordan with donations from event attendees

Contemporary Arts Center explores legacy and community

More than 500 artists and art supporters gathered at the Contemporary Arts Center to celebrate the opening of two new exhibitions: “Robert O’Neal: Open to All” and “Luis Camnitzer: Monuments to Unknown Heroes.” Both exhibitions examine the ideas of legacies, heroes and community.

The evening included a private cocktail hour with live music from Jazz Renaissance, a series of presentations, and a sneak preview of the galleries. The public portion offered gallery access, entertainment from DJ Vader Mix and live performances from musicians and poets in the “Open to All” gallery. Featured performers include the Taft Museum of Art Duncanson artist-in-residence, cellist Anita Graef; saxophonists Bruce Menefield and Alpha Frierson; and area poets including Desirae Hosley, Elissa Yancey, Annie Ruth and Flo Floetic Malone.

At the public reception, guests were invited to respond to prompts about community and public monuments by writing on a “graffiti wall” in the Kaplan Hall Lobby. These prompts brought to life themes of the “Unknown Heroes” installation.

 www.contemporaryartscenter.org

Artists paint book benches for library

The Kenton County Public Library, in conjunction with the City of Covington, hosted an event to showcase the region’s latest public art installation. Book Benches, benches in the shape of an open book, will be located throughout Covington this summer. Six artists painted their interpretation of well-known books:

• Phoenix Brumm-Jost and Lora Jost , “The Very Hungry Caterpillar”

• Campbell County High School honor art students, “A Snowy Day”

• Claire Long , “Charlotte’s Web”

• Terri Schatzman, “The Poisonwood Bible”

• Gabrielle Siekman, “Where the Crawdads Sing”

• Becca Stadtlander, “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland”

 www.kentonlibrary.org/bookbenches

Guest curator Dr. Stephanie Kang, CAC Executive Director Christina Vassallo, Toilynn O’Neal Turner and Mayor Aftab Pureval

A guest views the exhibition

Vicky Mary with Diane Fishbein

Guests fill the CAC Kaplan Hall Lobby

Dr. Maria Espinola and Jonathan Espinola

Anita Graef and Treig Turner

Kenton County Public Library Foundation board members Crystal McAllister, Karla Webb, Tammy Adkins, Susan Kinsella and Dr. Vicki Berling with library Executive Director Dave Schroeder

Artist Gabrielle Siekman with the bench she painted

Colleen Houston with Pam Kravetz

Reach for the Stars raises $50,000 to prevent child abuse, bullying

Talbert House’s Council on Child Abuse program recently hosted its annual Reach for the Stars fundraiser, raising over $50,000. The event, hosted at the Kenwood Country Club and emceed by WLWT’s Sheree Paolello, benefits COCA’s goal to provide programs aimed at preventing and stopping child abuse and bullying where children live, learn and play.

More than 100 guests enjoyed dinner, drinks and a performance of label•less, a musical production written and directed by Lea and Drew Lachey, co-founders of Lachey Arts. COCA honored Lincoln Heights Elementary for its continued dedication to creating safe spaces for students.

The event was supported by diamond sponsor the William R. Dally Foundation and platinum sponsors EnterTRAINment Junction and Ohio National Financial Services.

SCORE salutes small businesses

SCORE Greater Cincinnati hosted its small business recognition event recently at The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati.

A Slice of HR, the 2022 Client of the Year, received $3,000 from Kemba Credit Union. Finalists, who used free mentorship through SCORE to launch or grow their businesses, were Dawson Heating and Air Conditioning, DL Money Matters and InflateURFun.

Event sponsors included Kemba, Cincinnati Better Business Bureau, Cincinnati Small Business Foundation, Knox Foundation and U.S. Bank.

SCORE is a nonprofit organization with about 100 experienced local volunteers who offer free mentoring in all aspects of business development and operations.

Denise McLinden of Lincoln Heights Elementary with Dan McLinden

Edita Dolan-Mayo, Ailleen Cobbs and Alethea Marshall

Lexi Stojack, Emily Egner, Hannah Adams, Laurie Wyant and Lea Lachey of Lachey Arts

Board member Sandy and Director Bill Kirkham of the Dally Foundation

SCORE Greater Cincinnati co-chair Kelly Dehan talks with Brittany Brown and Anthony Brown.

SCORE mentor Barbara Fried and A Slice of HR owner Colleen Pfaller

A Slice of HR staff: Colleen Pfaller, Audrey Strietz, Meagan Senkowski, Emily Haus, Kt Meshesha, Merissa Coffman, Katie Germany-Stuart and Miranda Ballman

Joe Hinson, president and CEO of the West ChesterLiberty Chamber Alliance, served as emcee for the SCORE Client of the Year reception.

Dally Foundation board member Sandy Kirkham, WLWT news anchor Sheree Paolello and board member Sandy Rabe

Champions of Hope gala supports behavioral health services

Greater Cincinnati Behavioral Health Services held its 17th annual Champions of Hope gala at The Madison Event Center in Covington. The event honors community members who make a difference in the lives of people who struggle with mental illness and/ or addiction. Hosted by WLWT’s Jatara McGee, the event raised nearly $180,000 for mental health and substance use disorder services for the community’s most vulnerable.

Retired PLM marketing executive Jerry Basch was recognized as this year’s Champion of Hope Honoree for his commitment to GCBHS and other community organizations.

Cincinnati lawyer David Kapor was presented with the Angels Among Us award, which recognizes people who show kindness, care and advocacy for GCBHS clients without receiving formal recognition.

3CDC was presented with the Community Partner Award.

www.gcbhs.com

Pro Bono Partnership of Ohio celebrates local legal impact

Pro Bono Partnership of Ohio hosted its annual Volunteer and Donor Appreciation celebration recently, recognizing its more than 900 attorney volunteers, donors and more than 320 nonprofit clients.

Hosted at Procter & Gamble, guest speakers included Mayor Aftab Pureval and Susan Street Whaley, PBPO board president and Procter & Gamble’s chief legal officer and secretary. PBPO also recognized organizations and individual award winners.

PBPO provides free business legal services and education to nonprofits through its network of attorney volunteers, which frees up time, space and funding for nonprofit leaders to focus on community members most in need. Since its founding in 2015, PBPO has provided an estimated value of legal services and education at more than $9.1 million.

 www.pbpohio.org

Dr. Douglas Lehrer (left) and the Stock family, clients of GCBHS’ FIRST program which assists people who are diagnosed with schizophrenia

Jeff O’Neil with 3CDC Senior Operations Project Manager Marissa Reed

Awardee David Kapor

Honoree Jerry Basch with GCBHS President and CEO Jeff O’Neil

WLWT anchor and reporter Jatara McGee as emcee

Attorneys from 2022 Law Firm of the Year Montgomery Jonson LLP: Brian Smith, Lindsay Upton, G. Todd Hoffpauir, George Jonson, Cooper Bowen, Lisa Zaring and Linda Woeber

Natasha Newberry accepting 2022 Corporate Legal Department of the Year on behalf of LexisNexis

& Shohl 

Erin Childs, PBPO executive director, Mayor Aftab Pureval and Susan Street Whaley, PBPO board president

Law Firm Attorney of the Year Megan S. Glowacki of Thompson Hine and Corporate Attorney of the Year Gene Droder of GE Aerospace

Excellence in Nonprofit Service Award winners Arthur McMahon III and Anthony Ramicone from Taft Stettinius & Hollister, and Tonkia Bridges, “Coach Tee,” N.E.R.D.S.

Woman’s City Club hosts speaker Marcia Coyle

Over 400 people gathered at Memorial Hall for the Woman’s City Club’s 29th annual National Speaker Forum. This year’s featured speaker was Marcia Coyle, a lawyer and journalist who has been covering the U.S. Supreme Court for more than 25 years and is a regular commentator on the PBS NewsHour.

Event sponsors include the Jeannette Rankin Foundation, D. E. Foxx & Associates, Guardian Savings Bank and Manley Burke. Support was also provided by media sponsor CET, individual donors, and 37 co-sponsoring organizations. WCC past President Beth Sullebarger chaired the event.

The National Speaker Forum, initiated in 1994 by Mary Wells, is WCC’s biggest fundraiser of the year, and features inspiring women journalists, authors and activists. This year’s forum netted over $11,000 to support the club.

 www.womanscityclub.org

National Speakers Forum planning committee: (Back row) Janet Buening, Jeff Dey, Susan Noonan, Jane Anderson, Sarah Gideonse, Barbara Myers, Marge Davis, Jeanne Nightingale, Edna Keown, Aurelia Candie Simmons and Carole Donnelly; (front row) committee chair Beth

Tellus Zine teens launch new issue

Teens from across the city gathered with their families to celebrate the launch of issue 004 of Tellus Zine, “Taking Root.” Tellus Zine is a teen-led arts publication that highlights creative teens in Cincinnati. The zine contains creative writing, visual art and, for the first time in this issue, a song. The editorial board is a small group of teens that work together during the school year to develop the theme, design the zine, complete artistic workshops, market the open call, and finally plan and host the launch party event. The launch party consisted of a series of teen performances, artmaking, a photo booth and live screen printing. Each guest received a copy of “Taking Root.” This program is made possible with support by Charles H. Dater Foundation, ArtsWave and Kennedy Heights Arts Center.

 www.kennedyarts.org

Woman’s City Club past President Jeanne Nightingale and current President Jeff Dey

Sullebarger, Marcia Coyle and Alice Schneider

Hamilton County Common Pleas Judge Jennifer Branch

Curtis Graves, Matt O’Bryan and Keliah Moore

Tellus Zine editorial board members Gabriel Brooks and Desi Distal Tellus Zine editorial board members Celine Tan, Gabrielle Walker and Nathan Walker

Tellus Zine editorial board member and poet Ollie Wallace performing an original piece

Susan Noonan, Marcia Coyle and Hamilton County Sheriff Charmaine McGuffey

Janel Chriss, Carole Cutter-Hawkins, Marcia Coyle and Gwendolyn Ivory Robinson

Healthy Visions fundraiser honors volunteer Cathy Snider

Healthy Visions hosted a fundraiser at the ARTclectic Gallery, allowing guests to mingle and enjoy local art while supporting Healthy Visions’ work.

Cathy Snider, owner-operator of a local Chick-fil-A, was honored at the event for her support of Healthy Visions programs and mission. In addition to providing inspiration to classrooms of students with her story, she provided meal support to students who attended Healthy Visions programs.

Healthy Visions is a 38-year-old nonprofit that serves youth throughout Greater Cincinnati. Facilitators present weekly, monthly and one-day programs based in social-emotional learning – mental health coping skills, healthy relationships and effective communication – serving over 7,000 young people annually in over 40 schools and community agencies.

 www.healthyvisions.org

Block party celebrates future home of The Children’s Theatre

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati took to the streets to offer sneak peeks into the Emery Theater before renovations begin to make the building TCT’s new home. An estimated crowd of more than 1,000 enjoyed food, fun and an exclusive look at the interior of the Emery in its current state, as well as presentations on TCT’s plans for the theater in coming years. Attendees also enjoyed character meet and greets, face painting and balloon animals.

 www.thechildrenstheatre.com/the-emery

Chris and Judy Dalambakis with Carole Adlard

Tammy West-Gilmore and Trish Archie

LaTonia Jackson and Adam Simmons of Healthy Visions

Russell Proctor III and Millie Proctor

Jasna Dao, Jamie Speigel and Debrah Englert

Dr. Clinton Garda, board member, and Jen Garda with sons Milo and Knox

Healthy Visions teacher’s assistant and administrative team member Ellen White, Drá White and Executive Director Carole Adlard with guests Kevin Whitson and Margarita Whitson

Healthy Visions community engagement coordinator Jonelle Zachary, honoree Cathy Snider, Travis Williamson and program director Drá White

The Children’s Theatre block party

Photo by ian Woo DM ansee

Artistic Director Roderick Justice in the Emery Theater

Emcee Bob Herzog and Mayor Aftab Pureval

Photos by Mikki sha FFner

As in a marriage, loving Cincinnati takes commitment – and rewards it

HaveI ever told you how I got to Cincinnati? It’s not the usual school- or job- or family-related reason. Sometimes people find it surprising.

But let me start with how I met my husband. People also find that rather surprising. We met on a computer date. Happens all the time now, but this was 1978. I often wonder if we are some kind of first.

At Indiana University, there was a well-known student on campus, sort of a hippie with an entrepreneurial spirit. One of his projects was to use the mainframe computer to create a dating service for students. You paid $5 to fill out a questionnaire, answering questions like, “Do you smoke marijuana?” or, “Do you have sex on a first date?” The answers were transferred to punch cards and fed into his program, which must have been pretty rudimentary. You’d get a

dot-matrix printout of your best ten matches and their phone numbers.

I just want to say, neither of us was desperate and dateless. I had left Bloomington, where I grew up, and started college elsewhere. But I was back, trying to figure out what to do with my life, a question that had been vexing me since high school. It seemed like a larkish way to meet boys, so my roommate and I signed up.

I met the first nine guys on my list, mostly for coffee, and wasn’t especially impressed with any of them. But I figured I’d finish it out, so I called the last name, #10, Neil. Turned out he was from Bloomington, too, but went to the other high school. We went on a very 1978 date: a Weather Report concert.

It took a while for me to come around to Neil. He was awfully quiet. But by the time I’d graduated

a few months later, I had discovered all his not-immediately-obvious sterling qualities and we were totally enamored with each other.

But I had finally figured out what I thought I should do next with my life. On spring break of 1978 I went to New York City with a friend, and that solved one question for me: I had to live there. Then I got the idea of working in book publishing. So after graduation, I went there and got a job, working on Madison Avenue. I was never more excited or proud of myself.

However, and I will condense: About four years later, Neil and I decided to get back together. The question was where? He was still in Bloomington, and I wasn’t about to move back to my hometown. He had no interest in New York, and I realized when I got in a yelling fight with a man in the TKTS line, maybe it wasn’t that great for me anymore.

We made a list of cities. About 10 names, more or less. Then, a process of elimination. I struck off all the East Coast cities. I wanted someplace I felt more at home. Minneapolis? Too cold. New Orleans? We loved it, but humidity and crime…. Louisville? Too Southern, and terrible highway on-ramps. Cincinnati? We knew nothing about it. Neil had a friend or two here, a second cousin. We visited, and then we chose it. We just moved here. Not for school or a job or family, just for a place of our own, I guess. An adventure, but one we could handle.

A little later, we got married. It’s been a good marriage. Maybe those punch cards were smarter than you’d think. But aside from how right we were for each other, we have consciously made it good. No marriage just turns out without some active commitment to doing what makes it work.

I wasn’t as sure about living in Cincinnati. It took a while for me to come around. In 1983, you could barely get a cappuccino or decent baguette. There was only one professional theater company. We were

Polly Campbell

neither Catholic nor Republican. There are no lakes to swim in. Every time I visited siblings or friends in more clearly desirable parts of the country, I came back wondering why I lived here. But, though we’d come with the thought we could leave if we wanted, we became committed at some point. And then we worked on the relationship.

Nothing about Cincinnati had the big stamp of approval on it: no Broadway or Metropolitan Museum of Art. I had to discover for myself what I liked here. Things felt accessible, and personal interest and involvement were rewarded. You didn’t have your pick of fabulous restaurants, but you could become a regular at your favorite. There’s a couple of Rembrandts at the Taft you could go visit anytime and get to know intimately.

We easily found people who shared our values through our neighborhood, jobs and sending children to excellent public schools. In New York, I would never have gotten the job I worked at for years here, never could have afforded the bigger house we have now. Also, commiting to this city has meant being in on its transformation. It is so much more than the city we moved to those 40 years ago.

It’s partly who you’re married to, partly how you’re married. And where you live is less important to your life than how you live there.

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.