June 2024

June 2024

FOCUS ON: Social Justice

Christie Kuhns

CEO of the Urban League Celebrating Juneteenth & Pride

Cincinnati Opera: Paul McCartney’s ‘Liverpool Oratorio’

Movers &Makers

June 2024

Publishers’ Letter 4

Arts & Culture 6

MoversMakers.org

Taft’s photographic ‘Moment in Time’ 6

Art Museum to highlight cultural impact of hip hop 6

Know Theatre shops local for new leader 6

Mercantile Library summer reading | By Hillary Copsey 7

Cincinnati Opera’s ‘Liverpool Oratorio’ takes the stage | By David Lyman 8

The A/C List 10

The Datebook 17

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

FOCUS ON: Social Justice 22

Urban League’s Christie Kuhns pushes for progress | By John Faherty 22

Notables in Social Justice 24

How, where to celebrate Juneteenth, Pride 26

Gifts & Grants 27

Nonprofit News 28

Names in the News 30

Snapshots 31

GCB Champions honors retiring Skale 31

Children’s Home of NKy builds bridges at breakfast 32

SVDP Cincinnati adds Charitable Pharmacy 33

Nuxhall Foundation hosts Leading Ladies and a parade 34

CAM’s Art in Bloom attendance sets record 35

Giving Voice tops fundraising standard 36

UpSpring benefit approaches $150K 37

Leadership Council conference looks to the future 38

Longworth-Anderson season already in full swing 40

Opera kicks off 2024 season with a penthouse view 41

Lighthouse Beacon of Light honorees 42

OneSoure celebrates ‘All-Star’ contributions 46

The Last Word 50

Polly Campbell: The conunudrum of choice 50

The Home of Fine Art, where you can find a curated selection of works by domestic and international artists. Come and explore our gallery today.

In June the focus is on social justice

While progress certainly has been made in more than 60 years after the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, the United States continues to be divided on issues of racial equality. And 55 years after Stonewall, while gay marriage is now the law of the land, a large percentage of Americans still pushes against the idea that gender could be anything but binary. Celebrations taking place this month honor the progress made, but also highlight the critical work ahead. Christie Kuhns is leading the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio into new territory, opening the Holloman Center for Justice last August and establishing a forum for dialogue and reflection. Learn more about Christie on Page 22 courtesy of writer John Faherty. And thanks to Wendell Gibbs for his artful photography.

We are also pleased to introduce you to 10 people nominated by their peers as Notables working for social justice. Meet them starting on Page 24.

Social justice events are the focus of back-to-back weeks this month. See Page 26 for details on how and where to participate. Show your support and have a great time!

Cincinnati Opera is taking another dip in the pop culture pond for this summer’s first-ever staged version of Paul McCartney’s “Liverpool Oratorio.” Will Sir Paul make an appearance? Only insiders know for sure and they are not saying. However, David Lyman did have a series of conversations with the creative team and shared the origin story on Page 8.

Looking for summer reading ideas? The Mercantile Library’s Hillary Copsey has shared her recommendations on Page 7.

Summer means outdoor events, especially al fresco fairs, festivals, markets and concerts. And we have the most comprehensive list in town. See page 10 for June events, or visit our website for July, August and beyond. Is golf more your game? Support a local nonprofit by participating in a summer golf outing. See listings beginning on Page 17.

And as always, thanks for reading M&M. Tell a friend!

Thom & Elizabeth Mariner Co-publishers

Help keep nonprofit news FREE to all in Cincinnati

Fiscal sponsor:

For their work on this issue, our gratitude to:

• Tess Brown and Casey Weldon, associate editors

• Phil Fisher and Ray Cooklis, copy editors

• Wendell Gibbs Jr., cover photography

• Shasta Taber, proofreader

• All the nonprofits that contributed news and photos.

Complimentary light bites, happy-hour drink prices. No agenda, no speeches. Just good company. Join M&M for

Wednesday, June 12, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Arts coverage supported by: Scan to RSVP. Space is limited. Mix & Mingle Cinema OTR 1517 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine

Elizabeth & Thom Mariner, co-publishers; Doug Bolton, board chair

Digital edition & daily posts MoversMakers.org

Publishing schedule

Social media @moversmakerscincinnati Movers & Makers Magazine @moversmakers

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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 (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.

Arts & Culture

Taft photography exhibit to highlight ‘Moment in Time’

A new exhibition coming to the Taft Museum of Art explores the breadth and depth of a camera’s ability to capture powerful moments.

On view June 8-Sept. 15, “Moment in Time: A Legacy of Photographs/Works from the Bank of America Collection” features more than 100 photographs dating from the 1840s through the 1960s.

The exhibit includes masterworks from William Henry Fox Talbot, Julia Margaret Cameron, Timothy O’Sullivan, Alfred Stieglitz, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Ansel Adams, Dorothea Lange, Walker Evans and other celebrated lensbased artists. Subjects range from perfecting photography’s technical capabilities to documenting the beauty of natural landscapes to exposing social realities in America.

Curator and historian Nancy Newhall put

together the collection, which is on loan through the Bank of America Art in our Communities program.

“Moment in Time” has been on view at the Museum of Photographic Arts in San Diego and the National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin.

When the exhibition opens in Cincinnati, the Taft will host a series of events on photography and specific works in the collection. That includes a Family Funday celebration on June 16, with artmaking and gallery experiences aimed at inspiring young creators. Curator Tamera Lenz Muente will lead tours on July 18 and Sept. 5.

The signature event is a talk on July 25 led by Brian Piper, curator of photographs at the New Orleans Museum of Art.

 taftmuseum.org/exhibitions/moment

Art Museum exhibit to highlight hip hop’s impact on art, culture

Cincinnati Art Museum will tap into “The Culture” this summer with an exhibit celebrating hip hop’s decades-long influence on society. “The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century” explores the transformation of contemporary art and material culture through the collision of hip hop, technology and the marketplace.

A particular focus area is the genre’s role as a platform for cultural expression for Black, Latinx and Afro-Latinx youth, especially during its origins in the mid-1970s.

The multimedia exhibition features work by numerous influential artists – JeanMichel Basquiat, Roberto Lugo, Carrie Mae Weems, William Cordova, Hassan Hajjaj and Hank Willis Thomas, and more – as well as designs by fashion brands such as Gucci, Cross Colours and Vivienne Westwood. There are more than 90 pieces in the collection, including a range of music ephemera.

Organizers of “The Culture” were the Baltimore Museum of Art and the Saint Louis Art Museum. Overall, the exhibit catalog features contributions from more than 50 artists, writers, scholars, curators and arts leaders.

On view from June 28 through Sept. 29.

 cincinnatiartmuseum.org

Hassan Hajjaj (Moroccan, b. 1961), “Cardi B Unity,” 2017/1483 (Gregorian/Hijri) from the series My Rockstars, Courtesy Yossi Milo Gallery, New York

Fringe Festival vet named as Know Theatre creative lead

Know Theatre of Cincinnati has selected Bridget Leak to serve as the fifth producing artistic director in the company’s 27-year history.

The company’s board described Leak as an established stage director with deep connections to the local acting community. The East Price Hill resident had stints with such organizations as Cleveland Play House, Manhattan Theatre Club in New York and Studio Theatre in Washington, D.C. She also has ties to Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati, University of Cincinnati’s CollegeConservatory of Music and Xavier University.

Leak, who earned a master’s degree in directing from the Actors Studio Drama School at Pace University, cofounded Queen City Flash with her husband, playwright Trey Tatum.

Leak’s selection concluded an eight-month national search to find a successor for Andrew Hungerford, who had served as The Know’s producing artistic director for the past 10 years. In October, he outlined his plans to leave following the company’s 26th season.

Leak has directed 12 productions with the Over-theRhine company over the years. Her productions have won six Fringe Festival awards.

 knowtheatre.com

Lewis Wickes Hine (American, 1874–1940), “Child Labor – Textile Mill,” 1908 negative, posthumous print 1967-68, gelatin silver print. Bank of America Collection

Bridget Leak

Summer reading with a Cincinnati twist The Mercantile Library

recommends books by local authors

 Funny Story, Emily Henry

You probably already know that Emily Henry, author of Beach Read, Book Lovers and People We Meet on Vacation , is the reigning queen of summer romance reads. You might not realize she also lives and writes in the Queen City. If you love banter and swoon, don’t miss her latest smart, thoughtful romance, Funny Story. As a bonus, the book is set in a favorite Midwest vacation spot: lakeside Michigan.

 If We Pretend, Chrissy Hopewell

If you miss Ted Lasso, or need to do your traveling by book this summer, try this soccer romance set in Scotland. Particularly perfect for fans of the fake-dating trope.

 Queen of The West trilogy, JR Zink

Maybe you’d rather travel through time with this completed historical fiction trilogy. Zink brings 19th century Cincinnati alive, showing readers everything from the completion of the Roebling Bridge to the rise of the Cincinnati Red Stockings, the nation’s first professional baseball team.

 At The Coffee Shop of Curiosities, Heather Webber

After the sudden death of her boyfriend, Maggie flees south where she finds a kindred spirit, another woman as haunted as she is. A little cozy, a little mysterious, this novel is the perfect companion for a rainy afternoon.

 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles, Tamara York

This book might be a few years old, but it still can guide you to new adventures in the region.

Finally, we want to make the case for poetry as excellent summer reading material. Small, portable books, easily read in fits and starts, often noticing the tiny, lovely details of life – poetry is the perfect way to slow down and savor the long, light-filled days! Pick up one of these collections:

 Besaydoo, Yalie Saweda Kamara

The current Cincinnati & Mercantile Library Poet Laureate, Kamara published her first fulllength poetry collection this year to acclaim, earning mentions in LitHub and the New York Book Review.

 Will There Also Be Singing?, Pauletta Hansel

Hansel was Cincinnati’s first poet laureate. Her latest collection, full of poems of witness and protest from Appalachian voices, feels especially timely.

 Tilt a World: Certainty Lacks Imagination, Holly Brians Ragusa

Ragusa takes a thoughtful, empathetic view of the inexorable spin of the world.

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 really, really hard to resist the temptation to spend all day, every day reading.

 www.mercantilelibrary.com

Off the shelf and onto the stage

Cincinnati Opera brings McCartney’s gritty

TheCD sat on Chris Milligan’s shelf for more than 30 years.

Milligan, Cincinnati Opera’s general director and CEO, hadn’t thought about it for ages. Then, one of the opera’s board members asked what he thought would be the company’s next “Another Brick in the Wall.” Remember that? The 2018 Pink Floyd-inspired opera that set attendance records?

Later, Milligan and opera artistic director Evans Mirageas tossed around several possible titles, works that would be artistically intriguing and would have an appeal that went far beyond the traditional opera audience.

“I pulled together a number of titles,” Milligan recalled. “One of them was that CD – Paul McCartney’s ‘Liverpool Oratorio.’ ”

Mirageas knew of the work. But he wasn’t particularly familiar with it.

“I was skeptical,” Mirageas admitted. “I love the Beatles. I grew up buying their 45s – they were 98 cents each. And I love McCartney and (John) Lennon. They’re like the Gershwins. But I wasn’t certain about the appeal of ‘Liverpool Oratorio.’ ”

Why hadn’t it already been turned into a stagework? If it had been a viable work, you would think other opera companies would have snatched it up. The music is Paul McCartney, after all – one of the

great tunesmiths of the 20th century. And with the McCartney name attached, it would be certain to have great audience appeal.

But somehow, in the 33 years since the piece premiered as part of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic’s 150th anniversary, it never happened.

Then, Mirageas listened to it. Afterward, he decided to order the score. And finally, “I realized ‘my gosh, this could actually work,’ ” Mirageas said.

Challenges of everyday life

The “Oratorio” is a semi-autobiographical piece. Written in eight lengthy movements, it begins in Liverpool in 1942, with the birth of a baby nicknamed Shanty. That is the same year McCartney was born in Liverpool.

But this is not a tale about the Beatles. Or about McCartney’s music career. Rather, it charts a childhood and misadventures in school, the death of a parent, the explorations of young love, the tribulations of work and of navigating marriage. In short, it’s about the stuff of life. Not a privileged life like the one McCartney would grow into. Instead, it’s about the mundane complications of everyday life.

“It’s such an accessible piece,” Milligan said. “It deals with big themes, but it explores it in very intimate, very specific ways. It seems to say that things can be grim and disorienting, that bad things happen. And that sometimes they heal. Sometimes they don’t. But we get through life by helping one another and holding one another up. That’s the power of this piece. I think that’s what makes it so relevant today. We need those same things.”

Truthfully, these are themes that were just as germane in any of the times since McCartney collaborated with the late composer Carl Davis to flesh out and orchestrate the work.

But that raises the question. Why didn’t anyone step up to do it? Why wasn’t it snatched up by an English opera company? I mean, this is a major work by a major English composer.

By David Lyman

‘Liverpool Oratorio’ to life

A work like this gives us the opportunity to introduce new people to opera and how exciting it can be. Why would we not do it?

– Chris Milligan

“I think there is a bit of snobbery involved,” Mirageas said. “It’s Paul McCartney, you know, so it must just be pop tunes.”

A singular sense of place

Mirageas was very selective as he cobbled together a creative team to bring the piece to the stage. After all, “Liverpool Oratorio” is not your run-of-the-mill work. It’s not about royalty or people from the privileged class. It’s not about people who lived 200 years ago.

Perhaps the most significant quality that sets it apart is that it is not set in London, the metropolis that tends to define the country to most people who do not live there.

“I’m a real proud Lancashire lass,” said stage director Caroline Clegg, referring to the region in northwest England where Liverpool is located. “Liverpool is a completely different place from London. Or from East Anglia or any other part of England. I think Paul captured that perfectly in the ‘Oratorio.’ It has an authenticity and grit to it that is singularly Liverpool. And a Liverpudlian sense of humor, too.”

Much of the work that Clegg creates is site-specific theater, where capturing a palpable sense of place is central to the artistic product.

Even though “Liverpool Oratorio” will take place in the formal confines of Music Hall’s Springer Auditorium, with nearly 2,500 seats, Clegg is determined to bring that same rough sense of authenticity to this production.

For example, for Clegg, it isn’t good

Cincinnati Opera CEO Chris Milligan

Stage Director Caroline Clegg

Set Designer Leslie Travers

Sir Paul McCartney, composer of “Liverpool Oratorio”

Photo: Mary Mc c artney

enough to have crowd scenes populated by people in period costumes.

“On the first day of rehearsal, each member of the chorus will get a card detailing a backstory,” Clegg said. “Their name, who they’re married to, where they work and all sorts of details about their daily lives. This has to feel like a community of people who know each other. It’s wartime, so they share a sense of danger and fear and jeopardy. That will make everything going on around them on the stage feel much more real.”

‘Personality’ of Liverpool

Set designer Leslie Travers is equally committed to creating a powerful sense of place on the stage. And like Clegg, he feels a profound connection to Liverpool.

“At the beginning of the pandemic, I set up my life in Northern Ireland,” said Travers. “I intended to be there for two weeks, but I ended up being there for three years.”

He did have to make occasional trips to London, though. And rather than subject himself to the confines of a plane, he started to take the night ferry to Liverpool and hop a train to London from there. Soon, he began stopping over in Liverpool for a day or two. Or longer.

“It’s a place I’ve always had a deep affection for,” Travers said, adding that, “I grew up loving the Beatles. That’s the place their music was born and everywhere you go, you find references to their music in the structure of the city.”

He soon found himself stopping regularly in the pub frequented by John Lennon. And visiting the school McCartney writes about in “Liverpool Oratorio.”

“I walked the city and listened to the music,” Travers said. “Often, I’d listen to ‘Liverpool Oratorio’ because so much of the Liverpool you see today is in Paul’s music. You can still see the ravages of (World War II) and the Blitz. Liverpool has become a personality in my life. So when it was first suggested to me that they were thinking about this piece I realized that what I had been doing all those many months was researching this work with an open heart and open mind.”

For Milligan, doing this work became a no-brainer.

“Some companies might think of themselves in a way that would preclude a project like this,” he said. “But our goal is to show the industry the virtue of this piece and to bring it to the stage. And then to invite others to do the same.”

Several performances are already sold out and the company is considering adding at least one more performance.

For Milligan, the marketing lessons learned when they staged “Another Brick in the Wall” continue to resonate.

“Fifty percent of our audience for that production was new to opera,” said Milligan. “A work like this gives us the opportunity to introduce new people to opera and how exciting it can be. Why would we not do it?” 

Cincinnati Opera 2024 Summer Festival

June 13 & 15, 7:30 p.m. Mozart: “Don Giovanni”

June 18 , 8 p.m. Studio Sessions: Jacqueline Echols McCarley (Wilks Studio)

June 27-28 , 7:30 p.m. & June 30, 3 p.m. Verdi: “La Traviata”

July 2 , 8 p.m. Studio Sessions: Elliot Madore (Wilks Studio)

July 11, 8 p.m. Studio Sessions: Jessica Rivera (Wilks Studio)

July 18, 20 & 25, 7:30 p.m. and July 21 & 27, 3 p.m. Paul McCartney: “Liverpool Oratorio”  cincinnatiopera.org

in Their

Years

“I

do yogalates, tai chi, swimming, all kinds of things. I walk the paths every day for three miles and feel very safe here in the area. There’s not enough time to even get bored, there’s so many things to do!” - Resident at Twin Lakes

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 | 1330 Monmouth Ave., Camp Washington. 513-541-6366. americansignmuseum.org

ƒ Permanent collection of historical signage

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 | Over-the-Rhine. 513-604-9812. brewingheritagetrail.org

ƒ Exploring Queen City brewing heritage

Cincinnati Fire Museum | 315 W. Court St., downtown. 513-621-5553. cincyfiremuseum.com

ƒ Permanent collection of artifacts, equipment and more

Cincinnati Food Tours | 107 W. Elder St., Over-the-Rhine. 513-602-5602. cincinnatifoodtours.com

ƒ Exploring Queen City culinary heritage

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

ƒ Thru July 28. Pompeii: The Exhibition

Cincinnati Nature Center | 4949 Tealtown Rd., Milford. cincynature.org

ƒ Trails, creeks and ponds within old-growth forest

Cincinnati Observatory | 3489 Observatory Place, Hyde Park. cincinnatiobservatory.org

ƒ Oldest professional observatory in the U.S.

Cincinnati Type & Print Museum | 2307 W. Eighth St., Lower Price Hill. cincinnatitypeprintmuseum.org

ƒ Permanent collection of equipment, tools and artifacts

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

ƒ Indoor and outdoor tours of defining Queen City landmark

Glendale Heritage Preservation | 44 Village Square, Glendale. 513-771-8722. glendaleheritage.org

ƒ Thursdays and Saturdays, 11 a.m.-

3 p.m. “For 50 Years, Preserving the Past for the Future”

Greater Cincinnati Police Museum | 308 Reading Rd., Pendleton. 513-300-3664. police-museum.org

ƒ Permanent collection of uniforms, equipment and artifacts

Harriet Beecher Stowe House | 2950 Gilbert Ave., Walnut Hills. 513-751-0651. stowehousecincy.org

ƒ Currently under renovation.

ƒ June 26, 5:30 p.m. Grab Your Slice (of History) Walking Tour

Heritage Village Museum | 11450 Lebanon Rd., Sharonville. 513563-9484. heritagevillagecincinnati.org

ƒ June 9, 1-5 p.m. “On Freedom’s Doorstep: A Celebration of Cincinnati Black History”

ƒ June 15, 7-10 p.m. Spirits by Starlight Ghost Tours

Holocaust & Humanity Center | Cincinnati Museum Center. 513-4873055. holocaustandhumanity.org

ƒ Media, artifacts, art and interactive exhibitions commemorating Holocaust victims

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

ƒ Thru Aug. 18. “Butterflies in Space”

Lloyd Library and Museum | 917 Plum St., downtown. 513-721-3707. lloydlibrary.org

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

Loveland Castle & Museum | 12075 Shore Dr., Loveland. lovelandcastle.com

ƒ Full-scale replica of medieval castle

Milford Historical Society | The Promont, 906 Main St., Milford. 513-248-0324. milfordhistory.net

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

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

ƒ Historic walking tours, by appointment only

National Museum of the United States Air Force | 1100 Spaatz St., Wright-Patterson AFB. nationalmuseum.af.mil

ƒ World’s largest military aviation museum

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center | 50 E. Freedom Way, The Banks, downtown. 513-333-7500. freedomcenter.org

ƒ June 19, 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Juneteenth Jubilee

National VOA Museum of Broadcasting | 8070 Tylersville Rd., West Chester. 513-777-0027. voamuseum.org

ƒ Radio’s golden age and Cincinnati’s role in America’s global voice

Newport Aquarium | 1 Aquarium Way, Newport. newportaquarium.com

ƒ Thousands of world’s most exotic aquatic creatures

Over-the-Rhine Museum | 513-813-7309. otrmuseum.org

ƒ Saturdays thru July 21, 10 a.m. North of Liberty Walking Tour

ƒ Sundays thru June 15, 10 a.m.

David Choate leads his Revolution Dance Theatre in two events this month: a free performance June 16 at Washington Park and a gala evening June 22 at Artsville.

Women’s History Walking Tour

ƒ Sundays thru June 22, 10 a.m. South of Liberty Walking Tour

Railway Museum of Greater Cincinnati | 315 W. Southern Ave., Covington. cincirailmuseum.org

ƒ June 1, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Exhibited railroad yard collection

RAPTOR Inc. | 961 Barg Salt Run Rd., Milford. raptorinc.org

ƒ June 30, 1-4 p.m. Open house for birds of prey sanctuary

Skirball Museum | Hebrew Union College, 3101 Clifton Ave., Clifton. 513-221-1875. csm.huc.edu

ƒ Thru July 28. “The Guiding Hand: The Barr Foundation Collection of Torah Pointers”

ƒ June 6, noon-2 p.m. Lunch and Learn: Abby Schwartz and Sheri Besso: craftsmanship of the yad

Tri-State Warbird Museum | 4021 Borman Dr., Batavia. tri-statewarbirdmuseum.org

ƒ Permanent exhibitions of military and historic aviation

Valley View Nature Preserve | 5330 S. Milford Rd., Milford. valleyviewcampus.org

ƒ Preserved 190-acre farm and open land

Vent Haven Museum | 33 West Maple Ave., Ft. Mitchell. 859-341-0461. venthaven.org

ƒ World’s only museum dedicated to ventriloquism

White Water Shaker Village | 11813 Oxford Rd., Harrison. whitewatervillage.org

ƒ June 8, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Flea market to support village

Photo: tina g utierrez

Dance

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

ƒ May 31-June 2. Modern Mix ‘24

Revolution Dance Theatre | revodance.com

ƒ June 16, 6 p.m. “Black, Brown & Ballet” summer concert (Washington Park, Over-the-Rhine)

ƒ June 22, 6 p.m. “Black, Brown & Ballet” summer festival and gala (Artsville, Madisonville)

Fairs/Festivals/Markets

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

ƒ June 2, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Deerfield Handmade Market: Local art, crafts and food fair

Camp Washington Farmer’s Market | Valley Park, 3220 Colerain Ave., Camp Washington. wavepoolgallery.org

ƒ Thursdays, 4-6 p.m. Regional market

Charm at the Farm Markets | 4953 Bunnell Hill Rd., Lebanon. charmatthefarm.com

ƒ June 7-9. Rustic gifts, furniture and home decor

Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance | Ault Park, 3600 Observatory Ave., Mt. Lookout.

ƒ June 9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Celebration of classic cars. Benefits Juvenile Arthritis research

Cincinnati Parks | Sawyer Point Park. cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks

ƒ June 1, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Stereo ‘24: A Celebration of DJs

Cincinnati Pride | Downtown and Sawyer Point. cincinnatipride.org

ƒ June 22, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Parade followed by festival celebrating gender and sexual diversity

CincItalia Festival | Harvest Home Park, 3961 North Bend Rd., Cheviot. cincitalia.org

ƒ June 1-2. Italian food, beverages, music and games

Cincy AI Week | Union Hall, 1311 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine. cincyaiweek.com

ƒ June 11-13. Exploring potential and challenges of artificial intelligence

Cincy VegFest | Burnet Woods Bandstand, Clifton. xn--hert-moa.com/cincy-vegfest

ƒ June 1, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Talks, music, food demos and activities extolling vegan living

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

ƒ June 15, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Arts and crafts market

Covington Farmers Market | Braxton Brewing, 27 W. Seventh St., Covington. greatneighborhoods.org

ƒ Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Regional produce market

Covington Taco and Margarita Festival | Mainstrasse Village, Covington. thingstodocincinnati.com

ƒ June 21-23. Folded food festival

East Walnut Hills Farmers’ Market | Clayton St. ewhfarmersmarket.com

ƒ Thursdays, 3-6 p.m. Produce market

Findlay Market | Over-the-Rhine. findlaymarket.org

ƒ June 1, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. German American Day

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

ƒ Tuesdays, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Strauss Troy Market on The Square

Harriet Beecher Stowe House | 2950 Gilbert Ave., Walnut Hills. 513-751-0651. stowehousecincy.org

ƒ June 9, 1-4 p.m. “Happy Birthday Harriet!” outdoor community celebration

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

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

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

ƒ June 13-16. Food and culture festival

Juneteenth Festival | Eden Park. juneteenthcincinnati.org

ƒ June 15, noon-9 p.m. Events celebrating end of slavery in U.S.

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

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

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center | 50 E. Freedom Way, The Banks. 513-333-7500. freedomcenter.org

ƒ June 19, 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Juneteenth Jubilee

Northside Farmers Market | Heart of Northside, 4222 Hamilton Ave., Northside. northsidefm.org

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

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

ƒ June 9, noon-5 p.m. Eclectic street festival with monthly themes

Cincinnati Anime Film Festival | manga-manga.square.site

ƒ June 3, 7:30 p.m. “Ghost in the Shell” and series announcement (Woodward Theater)

Cincinnati Museum Center | OMNIMAX/Union Terminal. 513-287-7000. cincymuseum.org/omnimax

ƒ “Volcanoes: The Fires of Creation” • “Deep Sky” (Closes June 6) • “Blue Whales: Return of the Giants” (Opens June 7)

Cincinnati World Cinema | Garfield Theatre, 719 Race St., downtown. 859-957-3456. cincyworldcinema.org

ƒ June 14-16 & 21-23. Sundance Film Festival Short Film Tour

Esquire Theatre | 320 Ludlow Ave., Clifton. 513-281-8750. esquiretheatre.com

ƒ Art and independent film

NightLight 513 | Covington Plaza. nightlight513.com

ƒ June 6, sundown. “21 Jump Street”

ƒ June 28, sundown. “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days”

Taft Museum of Art | 316 Pike St., Lytle Park, downtown. 513-241-0343. taftmuseum.org

ƒ June 7, 7 p.m. Taft at Twilight Movie Night

Woodward Theater | 1404 Main St., Over-the-Rhine. 513-345-7981. woodwardtheater.com

ƒ June 3, 7:30 p.m. “Ghost In The Shell”

ƒ June 10, 7:30 p.m. “Westermann”

ƒ June 17, 7:30 p.m. “I Used To Be Funny”

Ziegler Park | 1322 Sycamore St., Pendleton. zieglerpark.org

ƒ Wednesdays, 9 p.m. Summer Cinema

ƒ Wednesdays, Sept. 4-25, 8 p.m. Summer Cinema

Literary/Lectures

AIA Cincinnati | GBBN, 332 E. Eighth St., downtown. 513-421-4661. aiacincinnati.org

ƒ June 20, 5:30 p.m. Ilana Judah “The 5 Ws (+1 H) of climate resilience for design professionals”

Barnes & Noble | Virtual. 513-972-5146. stores.barnesandnoble.com

ƒ June 4, 3 p.m. Discussion: Rachel Khong “Real Americans”

ƒ June 5, 3 p.m. Discussion: Ivy Pochoda “Sing Her Down”

ƒ June 19, 3 p.m. Discussion: Craig

DiLouie “How To Make A Horror Movie And Survive” and Paul Tremblay “Horror Movie”

Decorative Arts Society of Cincinnati | Taft Museum of Art, Lytle Park, downtown. decorativeartsociety.org

ƒ June 2, 2 p.m. Allison Banzhaf: “Contemporary Glass Art from a Petrie Dish”

Harriet Beecher Stowe House | 2950 Gilbert Ave., Walnut Hills. 513-751-0651. stowehousecincy.org

ƒ June 22, 10:30 a.m. Semi-Colon Club: Poetry of Frances Ellen Watkins Harper (Walnut Hills Branch Library)

Joseph-Beth Booksellers | 2692 Madison Rd., Rookwood Commons, Norwood. 513-396-8960. josephbeth.com

ƒ June 6, 7 p.m. Discussion: Tiffany D. Jackson “Storm: Dawn of a Goddess”

ƒ June 25, 7 p.m. Discussion: Ashley Poston “A Novel Love Story”

ƒ June 26, 7 p.m. Discussion: Dr. Neal Barnard “The Power Foods Diet”

Urban Appalachian Community Coalition | Virtual. uacvoice.org

ƒ Final Wednesday, 5-6:30 p.m. Place Keepers Wide Open Mic

Word of Mouth Cincinnati | MOTR Pub, 1345 Main St., Over-the-Rhine. cincywordofmouth.com

ƒ Final Sunday, 6 p.m. Open poetry

Music

The Arts Alliance | Cottell Park, 5847

Irwin-Simpson Rd., Mason. 513-309-8585. the-arts-alliance.org

ƒ June 13, 7 p.m. The Eagles Project

ƒ June 20, 7 p.m. Comet Bluegrass All-Stars

ƒ June 27, 7 p.m. Abe’s Lincoln

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

ƒ June 20, 6:30 p.m. Rocky Peters

Ascent Music | College-Conservatory of Music, University of Cincinnati. ascentmusic.org

ƒ June 9-15. International Cello Festival

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

◆ Thursdays, 6 p.m. Music@BCM:

◆ June 6. The Turkeys

Cincinnati World Cinema’s presentation of Sundance Film Festival short films is a 110-minute compilation of seven nominees and winners from the 2024 festival. Two weekends beginning June 14

‚ June 13. Soul Pocket

‚ June 20. Tickled Pink Electric Trio

‚ June 27. Caysen Hammonds & Family

Bogart’s | 2621 Vine St., Short Vine, Corryville. bogarts.com

ƒ June 3, 8 p.m. Isaiah Rashad

ƒ June 8, 7 p.m. Michael Marcagi

ƒ June 13, 8:30 p.m. Midnight Memories

ƒ June 18, 7 p.m. Paul Cauthen

ƒ June 19, 7 p.m. 6lack

ƒ June 21, 7 p.m. The Used

Brady Music Center | 25 Race St., The Banks, downtown. bradymusiccenter.com

ƒ June 4, 7 p.m. Jacob Collier

ƒ June 5, 6:30 p.m. Pixies and Modest Mouse

ƒ June 7, 7:45 p.m. Maggie Rogers

ƒ June 8, 7 p.m. Orville Peck

ƒ June 22, 8 p.m. Bryson Tiller

ƒ June 26, 8 p.m. Donny Osmond

ƒ June 28, 7:30 p.m. The Kid Laroi

Bromwell’s Harth Room | Downtown. bromwellshearthroom.com/music

ƒ Wednesday-Saturday evenings. Jazz

Caffe Vivace | 975 E. McMillan St., Walnut Hills. 513-601-9897. caffevivace.com

ƒ Most evenings, live jazz

Cincinnati Parks | cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks

ƒ June 1, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Stereo ’24 DJ Festival (Sawyer Point)

◆ Music at the Esplanade (Smale Riverfront Park):

‚ June 1, 5 p.m. Acoustic Abuse

‚ June 8, 5 p.m. Temani

‚ June 15, 5 p.m. Anno’

‚ June 22, 5 p.m. Tracy Walker

‚ June 29, 5 p.m. Sawyer Roberson

Cincinnati Song Initiative | Virtual. cincinnatisonginitiative.org

ƒ June 30-July 31. “Let it Be New,” world premieres of 10 commissioned songs

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

ƒ June 6, 6 p.m. (CSO) Pride Brady Block Party (Icon Festival Stage at Smale Park)

ƒ June 23, 6 p.m. (CSO) West End Brady Block Party (Ezzard Charles Park)

Classical Revolution | Humble Monk Brewing, 1641 Blue Rock St., Northside. classicalrevolutioncincinnati.com

ƒ June 9, 7:30 p.m. Chamber music in casual bar setting

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

◆ Wednesdays in the Woods, 7-9 p.m.

‚ June 5. Comet Bluegrass All-Stars

‚ June 12. Positive Vibe Band

‚ June 19. Vudu Childe

‚ June 26. Dayton Salsa Project

Clifton Plaza | 333 Ludlow Ave., Clifton. cliftoncommunity.org

◆ Summer Music Series, 7-9 p.m.

‚ June 2. We Are The Walrus

‚ June 9. Tracy Walker

‚ June 16. Vincent Phelan

‚ June 23. Matt Tolentino

‚ June 30. Zumba Band

Fairfield Community Arts Center | 411 Wessel Dr., Fairfield. 513-867-5348. fairfield-city.org

ƒ June 29, 7:30 p.m. Mike Masse, acoustic classic rock

Factory 52 | 4590 Beech St., Norwood. factory52.com

◆ Wild Card Wednesday, 6-9 p.m.

‚ June 5. Danny Frazier

‚ June 12. Just Strange Brothers

‚ June 19. Lauren Eylise

‚ June 26. New Royals

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

◆ CCJO Jazz at the Square, 5-8 p.m.

‚ June 4. Chris Andrew Quartet

‚ June 11. Phil DeGreg/Rick Van Matre

‚ June 18. Michael Mavridoglou Quintet

‚ June 25. Jamey Abersold Quartet

Hard Rock Casino | 1000 Broadway St., downtown. hardrockcasinocincinnati.com

ƒ June 15, 7:30 p.m. Aaron Lewis

ƒ June 22, 7:30 p.m. Boyz II Men

Jazz Alive | American Sign Museum | 1330 Monmouth Ave., Camp Washington. 513-280-8181. facebook.com

◆ Jazz in the Camp, 6:30 p.m.

‚ June 5. Keigo Hirakawa Quartet

‚ June 12. Ron Jones Quartet

‚ June 19. We Create Jazz Ensemble

‚ June 26. Kelly MacKenzie-Thurley Quartet

Longworth-Anderson Series | Memorial Hall, 1225 Elm. St., Over-theRhine. longworth-andersonseries.com

ƒ June 1, 8 p.m. Pokey LaFarge

ƒ June 2, 8 p.m. Ravi Coltrane

Ludlow Garage | 342 Ludlow Ave., Clifton. ludlowgaragecincinnati.com

ƒ June 1, 7:30 p.m. Tommy James and the Shondells

ƒ June 5, 8 p.m. Kabaka Pyramid

ƒ June 6, 7:30 p.m. Noah Gundersen

ƒ June 7, 7:30 p.m. Kindred the Family Soul

ƒ June 8, 7:30 p.m. Adam Hawley

ƒ June 12, 7:30 p.m. Morgan James

ƒ June 14, 7:30 p.m. Moonshine Bandits

ƒ June 15, 7:30 p.m. Kota the Friend

ƒ June 20, 7:30 p.m. Robert Glasper

ƒ June 22, 7:30 p.m. Charlie Musselwhite & Elvin Bishop

ƒ June 25, 7:30 p.m. Yussef Dayes

ƒ June 27, 7:30 p.m. Eric Johanson

ƒ June 28, 7:30 p.m. Hollywood Nights

Madison Theater | 730 Madison Ave. Covington. 859-491-2444. madisontheater.com

ƒ June 1, 8 p.m. Fredo Bang

ƒ June 1, 9 p.m. Litz, Mind At Large

ƒ June 7, 8 p.m. Ally Venable

ƒ June 8, 8 p.m. Dizgo

ƒ June 15, 5 p.m. Covington Metal Fest III

ƒ June 21, 8 p.m. Ryan Snyder

ƒ June 22, 8 p.m. Mind Circus

ƒ June 23, 8 p.m. Moonbeau

ƒ June 27, 8 p.m. Matt Waters

MegaCorp Pavilion at Ovation | 101 W Fourth St., Newport. promowestlive.com

ƒ June 2, 4:30 p.m. Pigeons Playing Ping Pong

ƒ June 11, 7 p.m. Faye Webster

Memorial Hall | 1225 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine. 513-977-8838. memorialhallotr.com

ƒ June 8, 8 p.m. Haley Reinhart

ƒ June 19, 8 p.m. Jon McLaughlin

ƒ June 20, 8 p.m. Al Di Meola

ƒ June 25, 8 p.m. John Oates

Newport on the Levee | Newport. newportonthelevee.com

ƒ Thursdays, 7 p.m. Live on the Levee

The Redmoor | 3187 Linwood Ave., Mt. Lookout Square. theredmoor.com

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

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

ƒ June 7, 7 p.m. Hootie & The Blowfish

ƒ June 8, 7 p.m. Cole Swindell

ƒ June 15, 7 p.m. Dierks Bentley

ƒ June 18, 8 p.m. Little Feat

ƒ June 21, 7 p.m. New Kids On The Block

ƒ June 22, 8 p.m. Janet Jackson

ƒ June 25, 7:30 p.m. Niall Horan

ƒ June 28, 7 p.m. Santana and Counting Crows

RiversEdge | Marcum Park, 116 Dayton St., Hamilton. riversedgelive.com

ƒ June 13, 6 p.m. Eddie 9V • CFG & The Family

ƒ June 20, 6 p.m. Proxima Parada • Happy Landing

ƒ June 27, 6 p.m. The Frank White Experience • Jason Leech

Rockin’ the Roebling | Smale Riverfront Park, The Banks, downtown. facebook.com

ƒ June 6, 7 p.m. DV8

ƒ June 13, 7 p.m. Push Play

ƒ June 20, 7 p.m. Noah Wotherspoon

ƒ June 27, 7 p.m. Zach Attack

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

ƒ Thursday-Sunday. Live jazz

Seven Hills Baroque | First Lutheran Church, Over-the-Rhine. 7hillsbaroque.org

ƒ June 30, 2:30 p.m. Summer: Four Seasons

Seven Hills Symphony | Walnut Hills High School, 1501 Blair Ave., Evanston. 7hillssymphony.org

ƒ June 9, 3 p.m. “Heroines in Music”

Soli Music Society | Plum Street Temple, downtown. solimusicsociety.com

ƒ June 2, 4 p.m. Recovered Voices: Music for Strings

Sorg Opera House | 55 S. Main St., Middletown. sorgoperahouse.org

ƒ June 29, 8 p.m. Local Music Showcase feat. Armadeus, Desalitt and Atlas Stone

Southgate House | 111 E. Sixth St., Newport. 859-431-2201. southgatehouse.com

ƒ Nightly rock, alternative blues, etc.

Taft Museum of Art | 316 Pike St., Lytle Park, downtown. 513-241-0343. taftmuseum.org

ƒ June 9, 2:30 p.m. Summer Chamber Music

Taft Theatre | 317 E. Fifth St., downtown. tafttheatre.org

ƒ June 23, 8 p.m. Kurt Vile and the Violators

ƒ June 29, 8 p.m. Buddy Guy

TempleLive at River Front Live | 4343 Kellogg Ave., East End. riverfrontlivecincy.com

ƒ June 2, 7 p.m. Craig Morgan

ƒ June 13, 7 p.m. Michael Franti & Spearhead And Stephen Marley

ƒ June 14, 6:30 p.m. Tennessee Whiskey

ƒ June 16, 7 p.m. Kings of Thrash

ƒ June 21, 7:30 p.m. Reverend Horton Heat

ƒ June 29, 7 p.m. Yonder Mountain String Band

TQL Stadium | 1501 Central Parkway, West End. fccincinnati.com/Chesney

ƒ June 29, 6 p.m. Kenny Chesney

Urban Artifact | 1660 Blue Rock Rd., Northside. artifactbeer.com

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

Warren County Historical Museum | 121 S. Broadway, Lebanon. wchsmuseum.org

ƒ June 13, 7 p.m. Lincoln Napier

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

◆ Jazz at the Park, 6-9 p.m.

‚ June 3. Ron Jones

‚ June 10. Kris Keith Quartet

‚ June 17. Mike Wade Quintet

‚ June 24. Noisepolice

Woodward Theater | 1404 Main St., Over-the-Rhine. 513-345-7981. woodwardtheater.com

ƒ June 14, 8 p.m. Thee Sinseers & The Altons

ƒ June 28, 8 p.m. Never Come Down

ƒ June 29, 8 p.m. Arcadian Wild

ƒ June 30, 8 p.m. Kumbia Queers

Opera

Cincinnati Opera | Music Hall, 1241 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine. 513-241-2742. cincinnatiopera.org

ƒ June 3 & 5, 7:30 p.m. Opera Goes to Church (Lincoln Heights Missionary Baptist Church)

ƒ June 9, 7:30 p.m. Opera in the Park (Washington Park)

ƒ June 13 & 15. Mozart: “Don Giovanni”

ƒ June 18, 5 p.m. Creators Forum (Corbett Tower, Music Hall)

ƒ June 27, 29 & 30. Puccini: “La Traviata”

Theater/Comedy

Bogart’s | 2621 Vine St., Short Vine, Corryville. bogarts.com

ƒ June 22, 7 p.m. Jim Norton, comedian

The Carnegie | 1028 Scott Blvd., Covington. 859-491-2030. thecarnegie.com

ƒ June 22-July 7. “The Rocky Horror Show”

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

ƒ Thru June 15. Wide-ranging experimental theater

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

ƒ Thru June 23. “Jersey Boys”

Cincinnati Music Theatre | Aronoff Center, downtown. 513-621-2787. cincinnatimusictheatre.org

ƒ Thru June 7. “On With The Show!”

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company | 1195 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine. 513-381-2273. cincyshakes.com

ƒ Thru June 16. “The Play That Goes Wrong”

ComedySportz Cincinnati | Madcap Education Center & Clifton Comedy Theatre. cszcincinnati.com

ƒ Fridays, 8 p.m. & Sundays, 2 p.m. Short form comedy improv

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

ƒ June 28-July 7. “Marian, or The True Tale of Robin Hood”

Commonwealth Sanctuary | 522 Fifth Ave., Dayton, Ky. commonwealthsanctuary.com

ƒ Weekly comedy shows

The Dinner Detective | Embassy Suites Rivercenter, Covington. thedinnerdetective.com/cincinnati

ƒ Saturdays, 6 p.m. Murder Mystery Dinner Show

East Side Players | 9667 Ash Ct., Blue Ash. esptheater.org

ƒ June 6-15. “The SpongeBob Musical”

Ensemble Theatre | 1127 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine. 513-4213555. ensemblecincinnati.org

ƒ June 8-30. “Hands on a Hardbody”

The Funny Bone | 7518 Bales St. Liberty Township. liberty.funnybone.com

ƒ Weekly comedy shows

Go Bananas Comedy Club | 8410 Market Place Ln., Montgomery. gobananascomedy.com

ƒ Weekly comedy shows

Imperial Theatre | OTR StillHouse, Over-the-Rhine. imperialmohawk.org

ƒ June 5, 7 p.m. The Imperial Presents: “Smoke & Queers”

Improv Cincinnati | Clifton Performance Theatre, 404 Ludlow Ave., Clifton. improvcincinnati.com

ƒ Friday & Saturday evenings. Weekly comedy shows

Know Theatre | 1120 Jackson St., Over-the-Rhine. 513-300-5669. knowtheatre.com

ƒ See Cincinnati Fringe Festival

Lumos Players I 8639 Columbia Rd., Maineville. lumosplayers.com

ƒ June 12, 7:30 p.m. “The Rocking Horse” by James C. Ferguson • “Drinks With Your Therapist” by Michael Yarick (virtual)

Mason Community Players | Mason Community Playhouse, 5529 Mason Rd., Mason. 513-398-7804. masonplayers.org

ƒ June 21-29. “Neil Simon’s God’s Favorite”

Middletown Lyric Theatre | Finkelman Auditorium, 1530 Central Ave., Middletown. 513-425-7140. middletownlyric.org

ƒ June 21-29. “Boston Marriage”

Cincinnati Opera’s new production of Mozart’s ‘Don Giovanni’ features Elliot Madore in the title role, showcasing the talent of CCM’s voice faculty. June 13 and 15.

Playhouse in the Park | 962 Mt. Adams Circle, Mt. Adams. 513-421-3888. cincyplay.com

ƒ Thru June 2. “Vietgone” (Rosenthal Shelterhouse Theatre)

Royal Theatre Company | 308 W. Main St., Mason. royaltheatrecompany.com

ƒ June 28-30. “Matilda”

Sharonville Cultural Arts Center | 11165 Reading Rd., Sharonville. 513-5541014. sharonvilleculturalarts.org

ƒ June 14-16. “Puffs”

Taft Theatre | 317 E. Fifth St., downtown. tafttheatre.org

ƒ June 13, 8 p.m. Josh Gates Live! “An Evening of Legends, Mysteries, and Tales of Adventure”

Visual Art

21c Museum Hotel | 609 Walnut St., downtown. 513-578-6600. 21cmuseumhotels.com/cincinnati

ƒ Thru September. “The SuperNatural”

The Annex Gallery | 1310 Pendleton St., Pendleton. annexgallery.org

ƒ Thru July 26. Michael Wilson: “Common Ground,” photographic portraits

ƒ June 12-July 26. “Indelible Ink: Tiger Lily Press Members Exhibition” Reception: June 15, 4-6 p.m.

Art Beyond Boundaries | 1410 Main St., Over-the-Rhine. 513-4218726. artbeyondboundaries.com

ƒ June 22-July 15. “Let’s Make It Hot!” Reception: June 22, 5-7 p.m.

Art Design Consultants / Ft. Thomas | 16 N. Ft. Thomas Ave., Ft. Thomas. adcfineart.com

ƒ Thru June 7. Kitty Uetz & Judith Monroe: “In Fresh Air”

Art League of Loveland | 529 Main St., Loveland. artleagueofloveland.org

ƒ June 22, 4-9 p.m. Loveland Art Gallery Crawl

Art on Vine | Court Street Plaza. artonvinecincy.com

ƒ June 8, noon-6 p.m. Summer Time Fun

ARTclectic Gallery | 6249 Stewart Ave., Silverton. 513-822-5200. artclecticgallery.com

ƒ Thru June 30. “Up-close and Personal”

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

ƒ Thru July 31. “Farm to Feast”

ArtWorks | V² Gallery, 929 E. McMillan St., Walnut Hills. 513-333-0388. artworkscincinnati.org

ƒ Thru July 11. “Lavender Balm: Expressions of Queer Resistance”

ƒ June 23, 1-4 p.m. Cuban Cultural Mural Festival

Baker Hunt Art & Cultural Center | 620 Greenup St., Covington. 859-431-0020. bakerhunt.org

ƒ Thru Aug. 9. Community Art Show –Baker Hunt & DBL Law

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

ƒ Current exhibit. “Race to Fame: Hometown Kentucky Derby Legends”

The Carnegie | 1028 Scott Blvd., Covington. 859-491-2030. thecarnegie.com

ƒ Thru Aug. 17. “Suspended Between Forms,” inspired by curator Zito Madu’s new novel.

Cincinnati Art Galleries | 225 E. Sixth St., downtown. 513-381-2128. cincyart.com

ƒ Thru June 29. “Celebrating Past Presidents of the Cincinnati Art Club and Other Notable Queen City Artists”

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

ƒ Thru June 30. Modern and Contemporary Ceramics

ƒ Thru Aug. 18. Woo Chong Yung: “From Shanghai to Ohio”

ƒ June 14-Sept. 8. Auguste Rodin: “Response - FIELD family secrets”

ƒ June 28-Sept. 29. “The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century”

ƒ June 28, 5-9 p.m. Art After Dark

Clifton Cultural Arts Center | 3412 Clifton Ave., Clifton. 513-497-2860. cliftonculturalarts.org

ƒ Thru June 7. Brian Greer: “The Extraordinary Lives of We”

ƒ June 21-July 12. Uptown & Around: Community Art Show. Reception: June 21, 6-8 p.m.

Contemporary Arts Center | 44 E. Sixth St., downtown. 513-345-8400. contemporaryartscenter.org

ƒ Thru Sept. 8. Jayson Musson: “His History of Art”

ƒ Thru Aug. 4. “After (Work) Hours,” artwork of former and current CAC staff

Dearborn Highlands Arts Council | 331 Walnut St., Lawrenceburg. 812-539-4251. dearbornhighlandsarts.org

ƒ Thru June 30. Spring Into Art –fine arts, applied arts & photography by regional artists

Eva G. Farris Gallery | Thomas More University, Crestview Hills. 859-344-3300. thomasmore.edu

ƒ Thru June 29. “Searching High and Low,” artwork by alumna Ruth Wyman

Fairfield Community Arts Center | 411 Wessel Dr., Fairfield. 513-867-5348. fairfield-city.org

ƒ Thru June 28. 2024 Colored Pencil Exhibit

Fitton Center | 101 S. Monument St., Hamilton. 513-863-8873. fittoncenter.org

ƒ Thru July 12. 30th anniversary Fitton member show

Gallery 42 | 105 E. Main St. Mason. 513-492-7474. artenclave.com

ƒ Thru June 30. Melissa Sanders: “Discover the Art of Mel”

Indian Hill Gallery | 9475 Loveland Madeira Rd., Indian Hill. 513-984-6024. indianhillgallery.com

ƒ Thru Aug. 10. “Delicate Ecologies,” paintings by Kelley Booze, Katherine Colborn and Samantha Haring

Kennedy Heights Arts Center | 6546 Montgomery Rd., Kennedy Heights. 513-631-4278. kennedyarts.org

ƒ Thru June 29. “Hearts of Liberation: A Celebration of Radical Black Love as Collective Care” (Kennedy Gallery)

ƒ Thru July 18. “Growth from Creativity: KHAC’s 20th Anniversary Exhibition”

Reception: June 22, 1 p.m.

Lloyd Library and Museum | 917 Plum St., downtown. 513-721-3707. lloydlibrary.org

ƒ Thru Sept. 6. “Pick Your Poison”

Manifest Gallery | 2727 Woodburn Ave., East Walnut Hills. 513-861-3638. manifestgallery.org

ƒ Thru June 28. “Annual Rites of Passage” current/recent undergraduate students • “Annual Magnitude” small works

Miami University/Richard and Carole Cocks Art Museum | 801 S. Patterson Ave., Oxford. 513-529-2232. miamioh.edu/cca/art-museum

ƒ Thru June 8. “Minohsaya: Painted Robes of the Myaamia and Peoria” • “Landscape in Art: An Art & Architecture History Capstone Exhibition” • “The World In Which We Live: The Art of Environmental Awareness”

Middletown Arts Center | 130 N. Verity Pkwy., Middletown. 513-424-2417. middletownartscenter.com

ƒ Thru July 3. Annual student exhibition

PAR-Projects | 1662 Hoffner St., Northside. parprojects.com

ƒ Thru June 19. Mz. Icar: “Ile Omi: House of Water”

Pendleton Art Center | 1310 Pendleton St., Pendleton. 513-421-4339. pendletonartcenter.com

ƒ June 28, 5-9 p.m. Open studios

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum | 1763 Hamilton-Cleves Rd., Hamilton. 513-868-1234. pyramidhill.org

ƒ Thru July 28. “Mounds, Moon, and Stars”

Queen City Clay | 2760 Highland Ave., Norwood. queencityclay.com

ƒ June 7-July 19. Sam Hostert solo show

Sharonville Cultural Arts Center | 11165 Reading Rd., Sharonville. 513-5541014. sharonvilleculturalarts.org

ƒ June 7-29. Connie Berkemeier

Skirball Museum | Hebrew Union College, 3101 Clifton Ave., Clifton. csm.huc.edu

ƒ Thru June 30. Modern Israeli art, Mark Podwal prints and recent gifts

Solway Gallery | 424 Findlay St., West End. 513-621-0069. solwaygallery.com

ƒ June 13-Aug. 9, “Fun House” Reception: June 13, 5-8 p.m.

STREAM NOW

Studio Kroner | 130 W. Court St., downtown. studiokroner.com

ƒ June 27-July 27. Jolie Harris: “Intuitive Abstraction.” Reception: June 27, 6-9 p.m.

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

ƒ Thru June 2. Area’s largest arts and crafts festival

Taft Museum of Art | 316 Pike St., Lytle Park, downtown. 513-241-0343. taftmuseum.org

ƒ Thru June 16. “Trading Places: The

Photographic portraits by Cincinnati’s Michael Wilson are showcased at the Annex Gallery in Pendleton, including this one of artist Jay Bolotin, who passed away in May. Through July 26

Visionaries & Voices | 3841 Spring Grove Ave., Northside. 513-861-4333. visionariesandvoices.com

ƒ Thru June 28. Pride exhibition

Warren County Historical Museum | 105 S. Broadway, Lebanon. wchsmuseum.org

ƒ Thru June 22. “Sensational Samplers from a Simpler Time”

Wash Park Art | 1215 Elm St., Over-theRhine. 513-291-3626. washparkart.com

ƒ Thru June 29. “Another UkraineSelections from the Kharkiv School of Photography” • Bill Brunken: “Something More”

Wave Pool Gallery | 2940 Colerain Ave., Camp Washington. www.wavepoolgallery.org Thru June 22. “Kith And Kin: Things Well Known”

Weston Art Gallery | Aronoff Center, downtown. 513-977-4165. www.cincinnatiarts.org/weston-art-gallery Thru June 9. “A New World: Ohio Women To Watch 2023” June 14-Aug. 18. Sharareh Khosravani: “Windy Land” • Josie Love Roebuck: “Embracing One’s Wholeness” • Kelly Kroener: “A Place In Space” Reception: June 14, 6-8 p.m. 

The Datebook

JUNE 1, SATURDAY

The Stepping Stones golf classic is June 3 at the O’Bannon Creek Golf Club in Loveland. Event chair Steve

Mennen, pictured with Sebrina Mennen

Green Umbrella is hosting its inaugural Greater Cincinnati Regional Green Schoolyards Summit on June 5 at Aiken New Tech High School. Featured speakers include (clockwise from top left) Eve Bolton, Cincinnati Council member Meeka Owens, Oliver Kroner, Ryan Mooney-Bullock and Cynthia Walters

Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, Take Steps Charity Walk | 10 a.m. T.M. Berry International Friendship Park. Dedication ribbon ceremony and 2-mile walk route.

 takesteps.crohnscolitisfoundation.org

JDRF, One Walk | 8 a.m. Kings Island. 1-mile walk. Chair: Andy Burg, Messer Construction.

 walk.jdrf.org/kingsisland

Mill Creek Alliance, Canoes & Conversations | 9 a.m.-noon. 10050 Woodlawn Blvd., Woodlawn. Induction ceremony, lunch, program and speakers.

 themillcreekalliance.org

Smoke Justis, Q4A Cure | 11 a.m.10 p.m. Smoke Justis, Covington. Street picnic and ice bucket challenge. Proceeds benefit ALS Foundation. Meals: $25.

 smokejustis.com/q4a-cure-2024

JUNE 2, SUNDAY

Holocaust & Humanity Center, 2024 Cincinnati Upstander Awards | 6-10 p.m. Union Terminal. Threecourse meal, live music, art and awards ceremony headlined by actress Debra Messing. Tickets: $100.

 holocaustandhumanity.org

JUNE 3, MONDAY

Stepping Stones, Golf Classic | O’Bannon Creek Golf Club. Golf, food, drinks and raffles. Tickets: $250.

 steppingstonesohio.org/golf-classic

JUNE 5, WEDNESDAY

Green Umbrella, Greater Cincinnati Regional Green Schoolyards Summit | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Aiken High School. A day of learning, networking and celebrating collaboration for equitable access to outdoor learning and environmental educational resources. Student tickets: $15; general admission tickets: $40.  greenumbrella.org

JUNE 6, THURSDAY

Ohio River Way, 2024 Challenge | Jim & Jack’s on the River, Riverside. Local stop on 250-mile journey from Portsmouth, Ohio to Louisville, Ky. in 30-foot voyager canoes. Each evening, teams will eat at a local eatery and camp for the night.  ohioriverway.org/ ohio-river-way-challenge

Talbert House, Fatherhood Celebration | 4:30-6:30 p.m. Memorial Hall. Networking, raffle, auction, appetizers, drinks and treats by former Food Network Kids Baking Championship contestant Lucia Calonge. WLWT anchor/ reporter Courtis Fuller, keynote speaker and Community Father of the Year.  talberthouse.org

Warren County Foundation, Community Service Awards | 6 p.m. Manor House, Mason. Happy hour, dinner and program with awards to community leaders, businesses and service organizations. Tickets: $60.  warrencountyfoundation.org

JUNE 7, FRIDAY

Cincinnati ToolBank, Par-Tee Golf Outing | Mills Course. Foursome golf, drink tickets and southern BBQ buffet.  cincinnatitoolbank.org

Each year, the UC Alumni Association recognizes and celebrates the many contributions and overall excellence of UC alumni in countless fields of endeavor, throughout the world.

Know an outstanding Bearcat? Scan the code or visit the link below to nominate before July 17. www.alumni.uc.edu/nominate

For Complete Details:

Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance returns for its 46th year on June 8 at Ault Park , featuring exotic cars, motorcycles and private jets.

THURSDAY, JULY 18 • 9:15 P.M.

MUSIC HALL BALLROOM

An exclusive fundraising event honoring Sir Paul McCartney in support of Cincinnati Opera’s world stage premiere of Paul McCartney’s Liverpool Oratorio.

People Working Cooperatively ’s annual summer volunteer event, Repair Affair, returns on June 8 to provide home maintenance services to low-income seniors and people with disabilities across Greater Cincinnati.

JUNE 8, SATURDAY

Cancer Support Community, Backyard Bash: Blue Ash | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. CSC in Blue Ash. Free, family-friendly event including firetruck, attractions, games, crafts, entertainment, food, drinks and giveaways.  mycancersupportcommunity.org

46th Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance, Countryside Tour | Noon. Mariemont Square. Scenic tour of region and viewing of private car collection. Benefits juvenile arthritis research. $50 per car; student drivers: $15.  ohioconcours.com/events/ countryside-tour

46th Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance, Hangar Party | 5-9 p.m. Executive Jet Management, Lunken Airport. Red carpet greeting, gourmet dinner by-the-bite and silent auction. Peruse exotic cars, motorcycles and private jets. Benefits juvenile arthritis. Tickets: $150.  ohioconcours.com/events/ hangar-party

New Life Furniture, Fashion Show | Noon-2 p.m. New Life Furniture Thrift Store, Sharonville. Fashion show and live Q102 radio remote.  nlfurniture.org

People Working Cooperatively, Repair Affair | 11 a.m. People Working Cooperatively. Help neighbors using home repair skills. Lunch cookout.  pwchomerepairs.org/repair-affair

Transform, Tri-State Trans Pride Adult Prom | 6-11 p.m. Leapin’ Lizard Lounge, Covington. Food and dance. Tickets: $30-$50.

 givebutter.com/transprom

JUNE 9, SUNDAY

46th Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance, Car Show and Brunch | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Ault Park. Exotic cars and motorcycles highlighting milestones of famed Italian marques, Ford Mustang and Auburn/Cord/Duesenberg classics. Plus VIP brunch, craft beer garden and automotive art show. Benefits juvenile arthritis. Shuttle from Fifth Third Bank operations center in Madisonville. Tickets: $45; students: $15; 12 and under: free. VIP brunch: $60.

 ohioconcours.com/events/schedule

For the 21st year, The Yunker Group is hosting its local Giving USA briefing , with expert analysis by Melissa S. Brown on how trends in philanthropic giving may be shifting and why. June 25 at The Metropolitan Club in Covington.

Cancer Family Care, Pickleball

Tourney | Noon-4 p.m. Pickle Lodge, West Chester. Indoor pickleball, free wig program, massage and healing touch.

 pickleballbrackets.com

Queen City Charities, Wigs & Waffles | 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Rhinegeist Brewery. Open bar, brunch buffet, drag show and silent auction. Tickets: $90.

 queencitycharities.com

JUNE 12, WEDNESDAY

Pro Bono Partnership of Ohio, Summer Classic: Cornhole for a Cause | 5-7 p.m. OTR StillHouse. Light bites and drinks. Tickets: $60 or $120/ team; $35 non-players.

 pbpohio.org

JUNE 14, FRIDAY

Beechwood Home, Annual Sporting Clay Event | 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Sycamore Gun Club, Miamiville. Clay shoot, lunch, awards, gun raffle and bourbon basket. Tickets: $275; $200 age 30 and under; $225 armed services.

 beechwoodhome.com/events

JUNE 15, SATURDAY

Santa Maria Community Services, Safety Fest | 1-4 p.m. Lower Price Hill Recreation Area Playground. Safety resources, substance abuse prevention insights from PreventionFirst! and local vendors.

 santamaria-cincy.org

JUNE 18-23, TUESDAY-SUNDAY

Cincinnati Recycling & Reuse Hub, Pollinator Plant Sale Fundraiser | Green Living by Design, Hartwell. Fundraising week in celebration of Pollinator Plant Week with 10% of all plant sales supporting the Hub.

 facebook.com

JUNE 21, FRIDAY

Adopt A Class, Golf Outing | 11 a.m. Mill Course. Golf, lunch and awards ceremony. Cost: $600/foursome.

 aacmentors.org

Cincinnati Zoo, Zoo La La | 7:30-11 p.m. 21+ event. Food sampling from local restaurants and a variety of signature cocktails and libations, upclose animal encounters, live entertainment, games, carousel and train rides. Tickets: $125; early entry: $175.  cincinnatizoo.org/events

JUNE 22, SATURDAY

From Fatherless to Fearless, Better Together Conference | 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Cintas Center. Keynote: LeToya Luckett, formerly of Destiny’s Child. Continental breakfast, lunch and snacks. Tickets: $10-$40.

 2024bettertogether.eventbrite.com

Letteria Dalton Foundation, Centennial Luncheon | 11 a.m. Hyatt Regency. Scholarship fundraiser for high school seniors in Greater Cincinnati area. Tickets: $100.  givebutter.com/SigmaOmega100

JUNE 23, SUNDAY

People Working Cooperatively, Boards & Brews Cornhole Tournament | Samuel Adams Cincinnati Taproom, Over-the-Rhine. Cornhole competition, raffles, games, activities for kids and food from local vendors.

 pwchomerepairs.org/brew

Ultimate Race Expo | 1-4 p.m. MadTree Taproom, Oakley. Panel with running tips and interactive workshops.  ultimateraceexpo.com

JUNE 25, TUESDAY

2024 Giving USA Briefing | 7:30-10:30 a.m. Metropolitan Club, Covington. For 21st year, Melissa Brown reports on latest trends and insights from longest-running report on philanthropy. Networking and light breakfast fare. Hosted by The Yunker Group. Free.  givingusabriefing.eventbrite.com

JUNE 28, FRIDAY

Cincinnati Opera, Pride Night | 6:30 p.m. Wilks Studio, Music Hall. Following “La Traviata” performance, drinks, food, performance of “Opera is a Drag” and party. Tickets: $30.

 cincinnatiopera.org/pride

The community is invited to Cruise In for the Kids with Joey The Can-Do Kangaroo to support the Joe Nuxhall Miracle League Fields in Fairfield on June 30

Marshall and Heather Wiseman, residents since 2022

Cincinnati Opera will host “To Sir, With Love” on July 18 at Music Hall Ballroom. The VIP event includes pre-performance cocktail, opening night of Paul McCartney’s ‘Liverpool Oratorio’ and post-show party. Co-chairs are Jeannine Winkelman, Ronna Willis and Barbara Hahn

JUNE 30, SUNDAY

Holocaust & Humanity Center, Upstander 5K and Family Day & Volunteer Expo | 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Live music, family activities, breakfast, FC Cincinnati activations and pickup pickleball tournament. Registration: $35.

 holocaustandhumanity.org

The Nuxhall Foundation, Annual Cruise In For Kids Car Show | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Joe Nuxhall Miracle League Fields, Fairfield. Car, truck and bike show with awards, concessions, food trucks, raffle, door prizes, mini-golf and live music from Fifth Crow. Tickets: free; $20/vehicle in show.

 nuxhallmiracleleague.org

Vent Haven Museum, Dummy Run 5K Fun Run/Walk | 8:30 a.m. Vent Haven Museum, Ft. Mitchell. Race T-shirt, bib and tour of museum. Registration: $35.

 venthaven.org/run

JULY 11, THURSDAY

Taft Museum of Art, Mad Hatter’s (Boozy) Tea Party | 7-8:30 p.m. Taft Museum of Art. Bites, drinks, music and interactive theater experience. $45 Taft members; $55 non-members.

 taftmuseum.org/tickets

JULY 15, MONDAY

New Life Furniture Bank, Annual Golf Outing | 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Oasis Golf Club, Loveland. Golf, lunch and cocktail & awards reception.

 nlfurniture.org

JULY 18, THURSDAY

Cincinnati Opera, To Sir, With Love | 6-9 p.m. Music Hall Ballroom. VIP preperformance cocktail, opening night performance of Paul McCartney’s “Liverpool Oratorio” and post-show party. Black-tie optional. Tickets start at $500.

 cincinnatiopera.org/to-sir-with-love

Taft Museum of Art, Mad Hatter’s (Boozy) Tea Party | 7-8:30 p.m. Taft Museum of Art. Bites, drinks, music and interactive theater experience. $45/Taft members; $55/non-members.

 taftmuseum.org/tickets

JULY 27, SATURDAY

Cancer Support Community, Backyard Bash & Car Show: Eastgate | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Eastgate, location TBA. Free family-friendly event including car show, games, crafts, entertainment, food, drinks and giveaways.

 mycancersupportcommunity.org

The Nuxhall Foundation, The Nuxy Bash | 7 p.m. Joe Nuxhall Miracle League Fields, Fairfield. Celebrity softball game, concessions and fireworks show. Tickets: Free.

 nuxhallmiracleleague.org/events

AUG. 1, THURSDAY

Xavier Jesuit Academy, Community Makeover Day | Bond Hill. Volunteers will renovate the former St. Agnes Elementary School, led by Charley Frank, executive director of Reds Community Fund, and P&G’s Matthew Ewing.

 xavierja.org

AUG. 2, FRIDAY

Adventure Crew, Outdoors for All Expo | 4-9:30 p.m. Schmidt Recreation Complex, East End. Exhibits from local parks, outdoor outfitters, adventure experts and environmentally minded organizations. Hands-on demos, live music, raffles, beer and food trucks. Free and open to public.  ohioriverpaddlefest.org/expo-info

AUG. 3, SATURDAY

Adventure Crew, Ohio River Paddlefest | 7 a.m. Schmidt Recreation Complex, East End. 4.5and 9-mile race options available. Participants may use their own boats or rent with advance registration. Music, food and beer at post-paddle Finish Line Festival. Registration: $50-$75. Youth rates available.

 ohioriverpaddlefest.org

AUG. 8, THURSDAY

NKY Chamber, Annual Golf Outing & Clinic | 7:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Golf Courses of Kenton County. Golf, networking, breakfast, lunch, drinks and vendors. Tickets start at $35.

web.nkychamber.com

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Story by John O. Faherty

GIVING BACK, GIVING HOPE

Kuhns pushes for progress in eliminating poverty, violence

Afterasking Christie Bryant Kuhns three times why she has dedicated her life to social justice, it becomes clear that she does not have a good answer. Or an answer at all. She is not being evasive; it feels more like asking somebody why the sky is blue.

Kuhns is the president and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio, a job she has held since 2022. Her work is a natural progression for a woman born and raised in Cincinnati, who has spent her life working for equity and fairness.

This year marks the chapter’s 75th anniversary, a remarkable run of driving equity and financial empowerment for African Americans in Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and Dayton. In August, the Urban League opened the Holloman Center for Social Justice, a base of operations for its work to address regional social justice issues, including police reform.

Kuhns is aware of the Urban League’s history and knows she will be measured by how much she can move things forward. “A lot has happened in those years, there are a lot of shoulders that I am standing on,” she said. “I feel the weight. I feel the weight of ensuring we have 75 more years.”

Kuhns goes about her job with the pragmatism of somebody who has been working to make a difference for as long as she can remember. Her parents let it be known that community involvement was not an option. It was a duty. “My mom was a social worker,” Kuhns said. “It

was always important in my family to give back and to never look down on anybody. Ever.”

Kuhns remembers singing and dancing and then talking in front of the Cincinnati City Council as a teenager to support the Arts Consortium of Cincinnati. While a student at Walnut Hills High School, she successfully petitioned the school to create an AP Latin class for students who felt like Latin 4 was simply not enough. Asked if this is as nerdy as it sounds, she says yes. Defiantly.

Kuhns was a student at the University of Cincinnati in April 2001 when a Cincinnati police officer shot and killed Timothy Thomas, who was unarmed. The shooting sparked civil unrest and rioting. She was asked to serve on one of the committees tasked with making Cincinnati a more peaceful and equitable city. She was just a college kid, and it was not the most glamorous role, but it was a chance to help rebuild Cincinnati and make it better. During that time, Kuhns met lawyers who were able to make a real difference. So she went to the UC College of Law.

After graduation from law school, Kuhns went to a large downtown law firm and then went to work for American Family Insurance. However, public service called again and she won an election for the Ohio House of Representatives. Finally, she returned to the public service sector at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, where she worked

as vice president of operations and community relations, and chief of staff to the COO.

Over the years, Kuhns always volunteered in Avondale, eventually spending much of her time at the Urban League. It was not a surprise to many when she was asked to run the organization on an interim basis,and less than six months later the job was hers.

“I am Cincinnati born and raised,” Kuhns said. “I know my city, I love my city. I was ready.”

Appealing to the bottom line

While she loves the city, she does not go about her job with a pie-in-the-sky optimism. When she is talking to corporate leaders about jobs and money, she does not do so with the intent of creating fairness or equity. That will come another day. No, she appeals to their bottom line. She knows that every company needs qualified workers and consumers.

“I don’t talk about diversity, equity and inclusion. People need employees. They need people as workers and consumers,” Kuhns said. “No matter what your political persuasion is, if you run a company you need workers and consumers. And you cannot fill all the jobs without people of color.”

If this sounds transactional, it’s because it is. “The people that I serve cannot wait. They don’t have time to wait for people to change hearts and minds.”

Images by Wendell Gibbs Jr.

Christie Kuhns, CEO of the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio

The people that I serve cannot wait. They don’t have time to wait for people to change hearts and minds.

– Christie Kuhns

This approach is on mission for the Urban League, which has always had a practical focus. The organization is all about workforce development, job placement, financial empowerment and career planning.

“Christie knows how to work with businesses, governments, nonprofits, educational institutions, and, let’s be honest, she knows how to work with people,” said Brendon Cull, president and CEO of Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber. “She’s a regional leader, with stature and influence, and she’s the perfect person to lead the venerable Urban League of Greater Southwest Ohio. Christie uses all of her talents for good – to grow businesses, to help people build new skills, and to help people strengthen our civic fabric. But the best part about Christie? It’s the phone call where you know right from ‘hello’ that she’s going to be very direct. Thank goodness for those phone calls. It’s why she’s respected and effective.”

In addition to her ability to work with business leaders and political leaders, Kuhns may be at her best working with people who may need a little help. She learned a long time ago

that people are, as she likes to say, “imperfectly perfect.” This was an everyday lesson from her mother, who taught her that people can make mistakes and still be worthy of our love and admiration. It is the imperfectly perfect people that she wants to help the most.

The hardest step, she knows, is walking through the door the first time. “I am super sensitive to how we treat people who walk through these doors for the first time. Asking for help is not easy.”

This organic empathy, Kuhns said, is a byproduct of how her parents raised her and her two sisters. “Every accomplishment that I have is because of my mom and dad.”

Steps toward economic security

Kuhns believes a series of manageable steps can take people a long way.

She wants people who come to the Urban League to start working immediately on their credit scores. “A good credit score can level the playing field. The freedom that comes with good credit is so important.”

Chara Jackson is president and CEO of Cincinnati Preschool Promise and has known Kuhns since she was serving in the state House. And in May, they were both honored as YWCA Career Women of Achievement. Jackson said Kuhn’s commitment to helping others was obvious as soon as they met. And so was her know-how.

“I was impressed by her commitment to the community and her ability to navigate the political landscape in a way that was meaningful to those she served,” Jackson said. “She is the perfect leader to bring together ULGSO’s work of advocacy, education and empowerment. She is a trusted partner and leader that we have and

will continue to count on.”

Kuhns wants people to move past jobs and into careers. She wants to see an increase in home ownership in Urban League clients. She wants to see a decrease in violence in poor communities. And not just for the ordinary reasons.

“All of it is important. A good credit score makes a loan easier. A job that becomes a career has more opportunities for growth and salary increases,” Kuhns said. “Eradicating violence matters because violence helps keep property values low. This eliminates the opportunity for wealth to move from generation to generation.”

When everything is connected, everything matters. And that can be tiring. “All of it is important and that is difficult. But we are ready to work. The Urban League will work with anybody who can help.”

Progress, Kuhns knows, can be incremental, but she is not intimidated by the work required. “By focusing on the contributing factors of poverty, by working on one at a time, we will see progress. It’s inevitable.”

So Kuhns will continue to work with anybody so that everybody has a chance. When companies say they will hire the trained workers coming out of Urban League programs, Kuhns is not concerned with why they are helping. Frankly, it does not matter to her or the people being hired.

She knows that if people are given the chance, they will succeed and become agents of change. But that is not why they get hired. “Nobody cares. All that matters is can they do the work? Can they finance a car, and can they use my bank to finance it?”

Kuhns has learned this by asking people who find their way to the Urban League two simple questions. “What is your immediate concern, and how can the Urban League help you solve it?” 

The Notables

Movers & Makers asked organizations involved in social justice to introduce their notables to our readers, part of a regular feature highlighting people making a difference in Greater Cincinnati’s nonprofit community.

DPCR’s Siobhan Taylor works to unlock students’ potential

Siobhan Taylor believes transformational education can change not only students but also families and communities. In August 2020, she was named the second president of DePaul Cristo Rey High School, where students of color make up 97% of those enrolled. She started during COVID-19 and led the safe reopening of the school, restructured and restaffed key roles following pandemic-related attrition, and led and launched DPCR’s first strategic plan, “Igniting Dreams and Fueling Potential.” During her tenure, DPCR has seen significant growth in student and employee engagement, a supportive culture and fundraising – all critical to the school’s mission to serve students who have the potential but limited financial means to go to college. This year, the school celebrated 10 years in a row in which every senior has been accepted to college. When not working, Taylor enjoys creative writing and service in her local church community. 

Michael Moore aims to inspire people, develop leadership

Michael Moore is the founder of Black Achievers. Through this organization, he has created a network of over 8,000 members in Cincinnati and nearly 120,000 nationwide, all dedicated to fostering positive change in the Black community. Moore’s commitment to empowering Black professionals is seen in his creation of education programs that encompass leadership development, entrepreneurship, mentorship and community investment. His book, “Achieve Your Dreams: The 9 Principles of African American Success,” aims to inspire individuals to realize their full potential. Moore’s journey, from self-taught computer coder to successful entrepreneur and corporate leader, exemplifies the resilience and determination he advocates. In his personal time he enjoys bike riding, investing in the stock market and playing table tennis and basketball with his family. 

Eric Kearny a top collaborator on business growth, entrepreneurship

Eric H. Kearney is president and CEO of the Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky African American Chamber of Commerce, an advocate for small-business empowerment and growth. Kearney has championed underserved businesses and communities for years with a career spanning law, politics and entrepreneurship. A sought-after community collaborator, he is working closely with the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio, Minority Business Accelerator, Greater Cincinnati Microenterprise Initiative, MORTAR and Lightship Capital to double the number of Black employer firms to over 1,000 through the Lincoln & Gilbert initiative. He has spearheaded AACConomics. com, providing studies to examine the economic impact of Blackowned businesses in Southwest Ohio. The AACC recently received its largest grant – $100,000 from Verizon to provide exposure, access and training on technologies to under-resourced communities. Under his leadership, AACC membership has increased by 200%. Outside his work with the Chamber, Kearny is an outdoor enthusiast and an avid Formula 1 fan. 

Jarod Crossty leads with empathy, inspired by lived experience

As lead coach of Found Village, Jarod Crossty is by nature warm, inviting and utterly genuine. Everyone in his orbit feels seen. This type of energy lends itself to this kind of people-centered/empowerment work done at Found Village. He regularly opens up his home to young people, giving them a glimpse of a healthy thriving family. He encourages young people to set and reach their goals while holding them accountable and advocating for them in every life arena. Crossty’s approach to supporting the youth is drawn from a place of empathy and lived experience. He takes this work seriously saying, “We’re not putting on patches, we are dealing with people’s lives. We’re pouring into them, teaching them to use their resources and to show up for themselves.” When Crossty’s not working with youth across this city, he’s a family man and a gardener with a remarkably joyful disposition and a penchant for hot sauce. 

SiobhanTaylor

EricKearny

MichaelMoore

JarodCrossty

‘CRC’ wears many hats in quest

for community change

Carlton Robert Collins, or “CRC,” is an activist, author, entrepreneur, speaker and strategist who is dedicated to bringing about change for communities of color and for all Cincinnatians. His work spans education, activism, community development and minority business development. CRC co-owns educational consultancy EDUC8theWORLD and wrote “Resist Every Bias on Every Level.” He is also a partner in RISE Business Solutions and leads strategy in support of its clients. CRC helped in the drive to relocate the Cincinnati Police Department’s gun range. He cofounded The Heights Movement, which focuses on urban farming, STEAM education, youth employment and founded My Brother’s Keeper Lincoln Heights. His day job is program director of Leading Men Fellowship Cincinnati, where he places 18- to 24-year-old men of color into pre-K classrooms and advocates for literacy access across Hamilton County. 

Jessica Green focuses on digital literacy, access

Jordan Bankston champions the rights of boys, young men

Jordan A. Bankston epitomizes social justice through unwavering dedication, professionally and personally. As the founder, president and CEO of Forever Kings Inc., he champions the rights of boys and young men of color, striving to ensure they have equal access to opportunities for personal and professional growth. Bankston’s commitment to this cause is not merely a job but a lifelong mission, driven by a passion to eradicate systemic barriers. Through his advocacy and leadership, he aims to serve as a beacon of hope, empowering marginalized communities and fostering positive change. Bankston’s work reverberates beyond the confines of his organization, as he tries to inspire others to join the fight for a more just and equitable society. In every endeavor, he tries to embody the transformative power of activism and serve as a catalyst for social progress. 

Jessica Shely Green is an entrepreneur and nonprofit leader focused on narrowing the digital divide among minorities and diverseowned businesses in Greater Cincinnati. At the height of COVID-19, Green and her husband founded Revive Black, a nonprofit promoting digital literacy, education and digital skills. Since 2021, Revive Black programming has helped minority business owners establish an online presence. Revive Black’s new Digital Leap Accelerator, funded by United Way of Greater Cincinnati, features eight weeks of live, in-depth sessions to empower underrepresented populations with essential digital skills. When she’s not working, Green is spending quality time with family and traveling. Though she’s shared this publicly, most people wouldn’t know that she is a brain aneurysm survivor. 

Tristan Vaught advocates for equity, inclusion

Tristan N. Vaught is co-founder of Transform Cincy and board president of Community Shares of Greater Cincinnati. They operate a consulting firm providing equity, inclusion and belonging facilitation. Formerly director of education and training, Vaught is an activist, educator and founding director of the LGBTQ+ Center at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis. Previously, they held positions as the interim director and program coordinator of the LGBTQ Center at the University of Cincinnati. Vaught has degrees in psychology and women’s, gender and sexuality studies from University of Cincinnati. Vaught’s advocacy and education work focuses on intersecting identities and how they affect individuals’ lived experiences. They enjoy writing poetry and short stories, communing with nature and being a bourbon snob. 

Candice Crear helps girls, women move from ‘Fatherless to Fearless’

While many choose to wallow in self-pity when life doesn’t deal them a full deck of cards, Candice Crear chose to convert her pain into a greater purpose. As the founder and CEO of From Fatherless to Fearless, she is on a mission to eradicate the epidemic of fatherlessness, one daughter at a time. The award-winning author challenges them to confront their true story of power and strength despite anger and rejection. In collaboration with her team and volunteers, she gives women and girls the tangible tools they need to move forward in healing and wholeness. Since its inception, From Fatherless to Fearless has empowered and equipped more than 2,000 women and girls through programming, events and books. When she’s not transforming lives, Candice enjoys traveling and spending time with her son, Jace. 

YMCA’S Bruce Jeffery committed to youth empowerment

Bruce Wayne Jeffery is a visionary nonprofit executive and dedicated advocate for social justice and youth empowerment. With more than 15 years of experience, Jeffery has led initiatives to address systemic inequalities and promote educational equity. Serving as the chief youth development officer at the YMCA of Greater Cincinnati, Jeffery aims to foster positive youth outcomes and create inclusive spaces for all community members. Prior roles include vice president of community action and executive director of Cradle to Career Cincinnati, where he spearheaded efforts to close opportunity gaps for underserved youth. Jeffery’s unwavering commitment to social justice drives his work, as he continues to advocate for a more just and equitable society. 

JessicaGreen

TristanVaught

CandiceCrear

BruceJeffery

How, where to celebrate Juneteenth and Pride in 2024

Movers & Makers is recognizing June as social justice month because of the vibrant outdoor expressions taking place in support of diversity, equality and inclusion across the region. Here are the major events taking place; explore the links below to discover more.

Juneteenth Cincinnati

Juneteenth (officially June 19) is one of our most recent designated holidays, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States and serving as a time for reflection, remembrance and celebrating freedom and resilience.

Wade in the Water

Sunday, June 9, 2-4 p.m., Smale Park

Participatory dance along the Ohio River to acknowledge the significance of water to the more than 400-year odyssey into and beyond enslavement.

Juneteenth Festival

Saturday, June 15, noon-9 p.m., Eden Park

Performances on two stages intended to reflect the shared heritage across the African diaspora: blues, jazz, R&B, Latin jazz, African dancing, plus a Voices of Freedom poetry slam. Also, activities for kids, including crafts, books, games and horseback rides. Some 50 vendors supply food, drink and more.

Cincinnati Juneteenth Parade

Sunday, June 16, 10 a.m.

From traditional African beats to contemporary music genres, the third annual parade is designed to showcase the diversity and vibrancy of African American culture.

This year’s theme is “Roots and Rhythm.” Parade route: East on Court Street from Linn Street to Plum Street.

Juneteenth Father’s Day Concert

Sunday, June 16, 2-6 p.m., Seasongood Pavilion, Eden Park

Headlined by R&B favorites Lakeside, performances will feature music and praise dancing.

 juneteenthcincinnati.org

 facebook.com/ CincinnatiJuneteenth

Inaugural Juneteenth Jubilee

Wednesday, June 19, 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m., National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, The Banks

Free daylong festival to celebrate true independence with live music, programming, community vendors and food trucks along Freedom Way. Featured speaker is Cincinnati Bengals offensive tackle Orlando Brown, Jr. (pictured right). Celebration will culminate in a march to the Ohio River, over which thousands of enslaved people crossed into freedom on the Underground Railroad.

 freedomcenter.org

Cincinnati

Pride

The Pride movement in Cincinnati began in the 1970s and gained significant momentum since the turn of the century in terms of earning equality and acceptance for those outside traditional binary norms for gender and sexuality.

Cincinnati Pride Parade

Saturday, June 22, 11 a.m.

Continuous now since 2000, the event has grown into one of the region’s largest and most vibrant parades. While it features more corporate support and participation than ever, the parade has retained that sense of reverence that keeps things saucy. Parade route: East on Seventh Street from Plum Street, then south on Vine Street and ends at

Sawyer Point.

Cincinnati Pride Festival

Saturday, June 22, noon-9 p.m., Sawyer Point & Yeatman’s Cove

Daylong festival celebrating gender and sexual diversity and acceptance, with food, drink, vendors and wide-ranging entertainment.  cincinnatipride.org

Gifts & Grants

Estate of UC mega-donor provides $13.5M to fund ALS research

The estate of Hugh Hoffman gave $13.5 million to the University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute to revolutionize research and patient care related to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS. Hoffman, who died in March 2023, donated to several ALS-related organizations and causes during his lifetime, including the UC institute’s ALS Multidisciplinary Clinic. His father, Herbert, died from the disease. Hoffman’s gift – the second largest in the institute’s history – will support additional clinical support services for ALS patients, including wraparound care from a group of nurse practitioners, therapists, nutritionists and social workers. The funds also will go toward the creation of a pair of endowed chair positions.

A UC alum, Hoffman was a mega-donor to the school, supporting causes ranging from academic scholarships to support for Bearcat athletics. His estate previously bequeathed $56 million to UC, the largest donation to scholarships in school history.

 uchealth.com/en/neuroscience-institute

First Financial gift aims to support CAA support service programs

The Cincinnati-Hamilton County Community Action Agency received a gift of more than $622,000 from First Financial Bank to enhance a variety of services it offers to Greater Cincinnati.

First Financial Bank is a regional financial institution that has showcased a willingness to give back to the community through monetary donations and volunteering. The bank and its associates gave more than $2.6 million and volunteered nearly 6,000 hours last year. With its latest $622,488.42 gift, First Financial Bank will support a number of CAA programs focused on leading individuals and families on a path to self-sufficiency.

 cincy-caa.org

SW Ohio venture funds win millions in funding to invest in local tech

Three Greater Cincinnati investment funds received a combined $30 million from the state of Ohio to support tech-based companies in underserved communities and populations across the region.

The Ohio Department of Development awarded $10 million each to Cintrifuse Capital, Cincinnati Cornerstone Capital, LLC and H Venture Partners – all based in Hamilton County – through the Ohio Venture Fund, which supports growth-stage technology companies.

The money will go toward investing in companies focused on some of the state’s most in-need industries, including health care, manufacturing, digital services and food technologies.

 development.ohio.gov

Greater Cincinnati organizations receive $600K in NEA arts grants

The National Endowment for the Arts has awarded nearly $600,000 to organizations across the region to help them create new projects or expand programs to enhance local arts opportunities.

Those grants are part of NEA’s second major grant announcement of fiscal year 2024. In total, the federal agency awarded more than $110 million to arts organizations across the United States.

Funding went to 11 organizations in Greater Cincinnati, Dayton and Oxford. They range from large museums and small theaters to dance companies and visual arts initiatives. Greater Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber, for example, received $50,000 to help with the expansion of BLINK this October.

Others to receive funds include ArtsWave ($150,000), ArtWorks ($100,000) Cincinnati Art Museum ($50,000), Cincinnati Opera ($20,000), Cincinnati Youth Choir ($20,000), Kennedy Heights Arts Center ($20,000), Know Theatre of Cincinnati ($10,000), Mutual Dance Theatre and Arts Centers ($30,000), Arts and Culture Alliance of the Miami Valley ($131,800) and Shakespeare Theatre Association (Oxford) ($15,000).

 arts.gov/grants

Ohio awards $500K for new Hamilton County connecting trail

Great Parks plans to use a $500,000 grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to build a 3.6-mile shared-use trail that links Glenwood Gardens to Winton Woods.

Although the Great Parks sites are next to one another, there’s no direct connection so guests can’t get between the two without first leaving a park. To address that, the new trail will extend from the West Fork Mill Creek Greenway Trail through Glenwood Gardens, joining with the Harbor Loop Trail in Winton Woods. It will also link other trails, neighborhoods, parks, shopping, schools and community resources from Springfield Township and Greenhills to Woodlawn and Wyoming.

Great Parks called increasing Hamilton County’s trail system as a major priority for residents.

 greatparks.org/about/projects/ glenwood-to-winton-trail

Holocaust & Humanity Center to use federal funding for outreach

The Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center has received a substantial federal grant to expand and enhance its partnerships with school districts across Greater Cincinnati.

HHC leadership said the $237,500 in Congressionally Directed Spending funds will go toward expanding efforts at dozens of schools in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. The money will be spent on things such as more student field trips and providing additional support to educators and school administrators.

 holocaustandhumanity.org 

UC’s Dr. Robert Neel discusses impact of Hoffman grant on ALS research.

New trail will link Glenwood Gardens to Winton Woods.

J.B. Kropp, CEO of Cintrifuse

Nonprofit News

Oasis Trail project takes major step forward

A major step in the Oasis Trail project occurred in mid-May when Great Parks announced an agreement with Metro, the city of Cincinnati and Indiana & Ohio Railway to acquire a key corridor.

As part of the $13 million project, Great Parks will construct a 4.75-mile paved, shareduse pathway between Cincinnati’s Sawyer Point riverfront park and Lunken Airport. The trail will extend the existing Ohio River Trail west from its current terminus at Wilmer Avenue.

Once the Oasis Trail opens, Great Parks will operate 12 miles of contiguous trail from downtown to Terrace Park, including significant segments of the Cincinnati Riding or Walking Network, or CROWN, a proposed 34-mile urban trail loop around the city.

The Oasis Trail will serve as an important segment in the Ohio River Trail, which would grow to 23 miles from Smale Park to New Richmond, Ohio. There are unconnected segments in Northern Kentucky and Dearborn County, Ind. as well. The project would also complete the last gap in the local stretch of the Ohio to Erie Trail, a Cincinnati-to-Cleveland path that runs 326 miles.

Project partners, such as Tri-State Trails and the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber, believe the Oasis Trail can have a considerable economic impact on the region by making it more attractive and accessible.

That transportation element is also key, according to Darryl Haley, CEO and general manager of Metro. He said the trail will “provide citizens with enhanced multi-modal options for how they connect in our region.”

 tristatetrails.org

Observatory names local physics professor new astronomer

Cincinnati Observatory has named a physicist with deep connections to the local star-gazing scene as its new astronomer.

Wes Ryle joins the Cincinnati Observatory from Thomas More University in Crestview Hills, where since 2008 he has served as director of the school’s observatory and a professor of physics.

A Kenton County resident, Ryle is no stranger to the Cincinnati Observatory. He has served as a regular presenter and volunteer for public outreach and occasional special events since 2014.

Commonly referred to as “The Birthplace of American Astronomy,” the Cincinnati Observatory houses one of the oldest working telescopes in the world and was the first public observatory in the western hemisphere.

Ryle said he plans to tap into the enthusiasm surrounding the telescopes and space in general to help inspire broader science literacy.

The astronomer position became available when Dean Regas decided to leave last year. Ryle plans to begin his new position on a fulltime basis in mid-June.

“That idea of having someone look at the moon for the first time, Jupiter for the first time, Saturn for the first time, and hearing those gasps,” Ryle said. “It’s great to be a part of that.”

 cincinnatiobservatory.org

CPS renames school in honor of late Dr. O’dell Owens

Cincinnati Public Schools has renamed a school building in honor of the late Dr. O’dell Owens, a longtime public health official and a vocal advocate for education.

Now the former Lighthouse School in Madisonville is known as the Dr. O’dell Owens Center for Learning. The school provides education and other services to students with disabilities.

Owens is perhaps best known for his time in health care. However, even during his successful medical career, Owens never lost focus on one of his other major passions: education.

A graduate of Woodward High School, Owens often credited his time as a student in the Cincinnati Public Schools system with providing him the skills and confidence to obtain a degree from the Yale School of Medicine. Owens went on to partner with CPS on several initiatives, including serving as chair of its community advisory board for seven years.

Owens was a founding board member and chair for the Cincinnati Preschool Promise and also served as the founding president of GRAD Cincinnati. He became the fifth president of Cincinnati State Technical and Community College in 2010 and held the role for five years.

cps-k12.org/owens

Women’s Fund program selected as Project XLR8 investee

Appointed Civic Leadership Academy, a program of the Women’s Fund of the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, has been selected by Social Venture Partners Cincinnati as its next Project XLR8 investee.

ACLA prepares and empowers women to serve on civic boards and commissions.

As SVP’s Project XLR8 investee, ACLA will receive up to $20,000 in funding annually for the next three years. Dedicated volunteer teams from SVP will help ACLA expand its recruitment efforts and build strategic alliances across the region to bring the program to women in

The proposed 4.75-mile Oasis Trail would become a key connector between downtown Cincinnati, Hamilton County’s east side and other parts of Ohio.

Wes Ryle is the new astronomer at the Cincinnati Observatory

The former Lighthouse School in Madisonville is now known as the Dr. O’dell Owens Center for Learning.

diverse communities.

The project was one of 12 nonprofits that participated in SVP’s Project XLR8 program, which focuses on driving social innovation and equity in Greater Cincinnati.

Christopher Chen, SVP’s board chair, noted that Project XLR8 continues to grow and attract high-quality, innovative nonprofits every year.

The next application process for Project XLR8 begins in summer 2024.

 gcfdn.org

Last-minute donations help Red Bike reopen

Red Bike has reopened following a surge of public and private donations that provided enough funding to keep the bike-share system operational for at least the next year. That includes a last-minute $10,000 gift from Fifth Third Bank to help get the $500,000-plus campaign across the finish line.

The nonprofit announced in mid-December that it would close because of financial challenges. For a time, it appeared as though the system would never reopen after failing to find a new signature sponsor. However, a coordinated campaign secured more than $500,000 from public, private and foundation donations in just a few weeks.

The campaign parties – dubbed “the Coalition of the

Willing” – wrapped up the fundraising effort with a celebratory Pint Night Derby, inspired by the Scouts’ classic Pinewood Derby, at Rhinegeist Brewery in Over-the-Rhine.

Red Bike had to lay off its 11-person crew during the past few months. Executive Director Doug McClintock spent the past few weeks working to assemble a team – nine people, a mix of full- and part-time positions – to prepare for the relaunch.

As of May 13, all of the more than 70 Red Bike stations across Greater Cincinnati are open.

“It was certainly the darkest before the dawn,” McClintock said, “but it is truly amazing how our community has pulled together to support a critical public transit option.”

 cincyredbike.org 

(far left) Noel Prows and Jacoby Ferguson clean the Red Bike station on Liberty Hill in preparation for reopening.

Red Bike Executive Director

Doug McClintock and Cincinnati City Council Member Mark Jeffreys during a fundraising celebration at Rhinegeist Brewery.

Photos: elizabeth Mariner



Film Cincinnati welcomed three new members to its board of directors: Kelley Haggert , Kerry Roe and Bawe Shinholster. Haggert, senior vice president of integrated marketing and communications at FC Cincinnati, is a veteran communications leader. Roe is the longtime president of Clark Schaefer Hackett, a Cincinnati-based accounting firm. Shinholster has more than three decades in the hospitality industry, most recently as director of experience and hospitality at Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment.

Cancer Family Care recently added two new board members, Teresa Conyers of The Christ Hospital Health Network and Laura Caty of the law firm Bricker Graydon. The nonprofit also welcomed back returning board member Lisa Fangman of Western & Southern Financial Group after a short hiatus.

The Jewish Federation of Cincinnati added Lisa Hacker as its next director of philanthropic planning, overseeing planned giving and endowments and the Create Your Jewish Legacy initiative. She returns to Cincinnati after 12 years with the Jewish Federation of Cleveland. Also, Marci Blachman received a promotion to oversee donor advised funds after nine years as the federation’s agency and directed giving professional.

Heather Craft Dorman will begin a threeyear term on the board of directors for St. Joseph Home in July. Craft Dorman, a partner at Mellot & Mellot, has served on St. Joseph’s finance committee since 2020.

Central Clinic Behavioral Health promoted Bob Weghorst to director of adult services. Weghorst has been with the nonprofit since 2014, serving in roles including case manager, therapist and case management supervisor for adult services.



The E.W. Scripps Company appointed Meredith Delaney as president and CEO of its philanthropic arm, the Scripps Howard Fund. She succeeds Liz Carter, who announced her retirement in January. Delaney joined the fund in 2017 as director of development and most recently served as director of philanthropic strategies.

Magnified Giving promoted two key leaders and expanded its team to increase capacity for fundraising and youth education in philanthropy. The organization promoted Carey Kuznar to vice president of advancement and Alison Kaufman to vice president of programs. Magnified Giving also hired Becca Freyhof for the new program advancement manager role.

Talbert House named Jeremy Brown as its new vice president of mental health. Brown has more than 23 years of experience in the field, serving as a manager at Talbert House for nearly a decade. Brown previously held the title of assistant CEO at the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.

United Way of Greater Cincinnati ’s board of directors appointed Brian Hodgett as its new chair. Hodgett, who’s been on the board since 2020, is vice president of state government relations and Ohio community relations at Procter & Gamble. The UWGC board also appointed six new members: Leigh Fox , altafiber; Emily Frolick , KPMG LLP; Kala Gibson, Fifth Third Bank; Matthew Randazzo, Greater Cincinnati Foundation; Cady Short-Thompson, Northern Kentucky University; and Warren Weber, PNC Bank.

HealthSource of Ohio selected Dr. Jody Prather as its next president and CEO. Prather previously served as chief strategy and marketing officer for Baptist Health, a ninehospital system based in Louisville. Prather succeeded Kim Patton, who announced in May 2023 her intention to retire from HealthSource.

Norwood Together, a nonprofit community development corporation, has four new executive board members: Sarah T. Allan, Myron Hughes, Eric Haines and Melanie Mize.

Cincinnati Animal CARE honored the memory of one of its fosters, Breanna Goslin, with a “pack walk” on her birthday. Goslin passed away unexpectedly in November 2023 at the age of 21. Described as an “avid supporter,” Goslin helped 56 dogs during her time with Cincinnati Animal CARE. 

Breanna Goslin

Melanie Mize

Eric Haines

Myron Hughes Sarah T. Allan

Cady Short-Thompson

Matthew Randazzo Kala Gibson

Emily Frolick

Leigh Fox

Brian Hodgett

Jeremy Brown Becca Freyhof

Alison Kaufman Carey Kuznar

Meredith Delaney

Bob Weghorst

Heather Craft Dorman

Marci Blachman

Lisa Hacker

Lisa Fangman

Laura Caty

Teresa Conyers

Kerry Roe Kelly Haggert Bawe Shinholster

Warren Weber Dr. Jody Prather

Snapshots Who,

Champions of Hope gala focuses on mental health programs

Greater Cincinnati Behavioral Health Services held its 18th annual Champions of Hope gala at The Madison Event Center in Covington. Hosted by Local 12 reporter and ARC Cincinnati host Jen Dalton, the evening also celebrated retiring GCBHS Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tracey Skale, who has been with the organization for more than 30 years.

Skale, a nationally recognized psychiatrist who specializes in severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, is also an expert in psychopharmacology and neuroscience. Many of the patients and families she’s helped during her career attended in her honor.

The event raised more than $175,000 for GCBHS mental health and substance use disorder programs, many of which assist the most vulnerable in the community.

 gcbhs.com

(Skale’s

and Dr.

Dr.

Torri Cook, AmeriHealth Caritas housing coordinator

Guest speaker Jeff Oak shared his family’s experiences with GCBHS after their son was diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Dr. Paul Keck

husband),

Tracey Skale, Jillian Skale

Sundeev Gill

Champions of Hope committee member Cathy Recker and board member Nick Hahn

GCBHS board chair Fred Heyse, Sherrie Heyse, COO Jeff Kirschner and Cathy Kirschner

GCBHS President and CEO Jeff O’Neil and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tracey Skale, this year’s Champions of Hope honoree

Children’s Home Behavioral Health holds breakfast event

Children’s Home of Northern Kentucky/CHNK Behavioral Health held its inaugural Building Bridges to Better Futures breakfast at the MegaCorp Pavilion in Newport. Nearly 300 community members, including school and business leaders, elected officials and supporters, attended the event, co-chaired by Emily Powell, Brett Stover, Jeff Thomas and Aimee Wulfeck.

Emceed by LINK nky President and CEO Lacy Starling, the program included stories about Covington-based CHNK’s impact on individuals and the community, as well as an update on its five-year initiative to improve access to mental health services for young people across the region. Kentucky state Sen. Chris McDaniel and state Reps. Stephanie Dietz, Kim Banta and Kim Moser received the Bridge Builder Award, with Dietz in attendance.

 chnk.org

Eric Schneider, Mary Edwards, Donna Comley, Jaime Baynum, Brian Wiehoff, Olivia Fries and Leah Fries

Rick Wurth, CEO of CHNK

Shelley Helton, Nicole Stolz and Terena Perry

Candace Janidlo, Tricia Suit, Eric Appleby and Mike Boberg

Ashley Afya and Jordan Dawson Acoff

Brian Gardner, Judy Gardner, Charles Young Jr., CHNK Community Board President Emily Powell, Angel Powell and Mark Powell

CHNK Board President Jeffrey Sackenheim with Kentucky state Rep. Stephanie Dietz

Jena Fritsch, Nancy Francis, Andy Geshorn, CHNK board member Charlene Erler and Gebhard Erler

Charitable Pharmacy opens in Milford

St. Vincent de Paul-Cincinnati celebrated the grand opening of the Carl and Linda DeBlasio Family Charitable Pharmacy in Milford., St. Vincent de Paul’s third such pharmacy in Greater Cincinnati. Since opening in 2006, these pharmacies have dispensed more than 828,000 free prescriptions, worth more than $120 million.

The Prescribing Hope Campaign raised more than $5 million for the expansion.

More than 200 guests attended the opening. Milford Mayor Lisa Evans welcomed the pharmacy. Other speakers included Jason Combs, chair of the Prescribing Hope Campaign, and state Rep. Jean Schmidt. Staff hosted tours of the pharmacy to the public.

 svdpcincinnati.org

Dr. Hannah Dry, Elvira Gomez and Dr. Madison Luck, pharmacy manager at the Milford Charitable Pharmacy

Julian Collins and Caitlin Bentley of event sponsor Interact for Health

Sarah Arington-Leach; Ohio Rep. Jean Schmidt; Maalinii Vijayan, assistant health commissioner, Clermont County; Milford Mayor Lisa Evans; Brad McMonigle, CEO, St. Vincent de Paul-Cincinnati; Rusty Curington, Jason Combs, Prescribing Hope Campaign committee chair; Christine Bochenek, Haile Foundation; Mary Beth Martin, Farmer Family Foundation; Annemarie Henkel, Farmer Family Foundation; and Donna Broderick

Linda DeBlasio and Carl DeBlasio

Leading Ladies help Nuxhall’s Miracle Series

The Nuxhall Foundation and the Joe Nuxhall Miracle League Fields hosted their third annual Leading Ladies Night Out at Topgolf in West Chester. Nearly 200 women and supporters gathered to help move the organization’s mission forward.

Amanda Brennaman, wife of former Cincinnati Reds broadcaster Marty Brennaman, and Aleah Hordges of Local 12 served as celebrity hosts. The money raised will support the Miracle Series traveling baseball program for athletes with special needs at the Joe Nuxhall Miracle League Fields and the addition of inclusive playground equipment. The event raised roughly $25,000 to support the legacy projects of Reds pitcher and announcer Joe Nuxhall.

 nuxhallmiracleleague.org

Event greeter and Nuxhall

Teddy Kremer, the legendary Cincinnati batboy, talks with Amanda Brennaman (left). Kremer, the 2022 Nuxhall Humanitarian Award winner, was the event’s celebrity greeter.

Nuxhall Foundation board member Chad Caddell and Nuxhall Miracle League all-star Duane Sparks, who is scheduled to play a game in 2025 at Sean Casey’s Miracle League of the South Hills in Pittsburgh

Nuxhall Miracle League marks Opening Day with parade

The Joe Nuxhall Miracle League Fields’ annual Opening Day Parade celebrated a new youth and adult league season for athletes with physical and developmental disabilities. Nearly 125 youth athletes and more than 150 adult athletes will play baseball or softball this season.

Walt Lunsford, executive director of The Hatton Foundation, was grand marshal.

The parade featured a drumline from Conner High School, music from The Pack Rats, mascots Joey the Can-Do Kangaroo and Gapper of the Cincinnati Reds, miniature ponies, players in 1869 Red Stockings uniforms, and hundreds of all-stars with special needs along with their families. Fairfield residents lined the streets along the parade route.

The Nuxhall Foundation also announced a new children’s book, “Joey & The Joy Factory!” by board member Chad Caddell, illustrated by Darryl Collins.

 nuxhallmiracleleague.org

Youth league all-star Gracie Edwards gives a hug to Miracle League mascot Joey.

Nuxhall Foundation board member Chad Caddell, author of “Joey & The Joy Factory!,” with 700 WLW’s Lance McAlister

Cincinnati Reds reliever Brent Suter, a longtime supporter of the Joe Nuxhall Miracle League Fields, his wife Erin and their two sons

Amanda Brennaman and Local 12’s Aleah Hordges



Miracle League all-star Jody Mann watches the results of her swing.

Marty Brennaman

Supporters pose with Rosie Red.

Walt Lunsford, executive director of The Hatton Foundation, was parade grand marshal.

Hunter Phelps rolls in the parade with a homemade sign.

Nuxhall Miracle League youth league all-star Annie Schwartz walks along the parade route.

Museum’s Art in Bloom draws record crowd

More than 9,400 visitors came to the Cincinnati Art Museum’s 2024 Art in Bloom, making it the best-attended edition of the biennial event, which began in 2001.

With world-renowned, Amsterdam-based floral photographer and author Natasja Sadi as the guest artist, the three-day Art in Bloom showcased works created by nearly 60 professional and hobby floral artists from across North America, selected by a jury from hundreds of applicants.

This year’s chair was Ann M. Keeling, with Jutta Lafley, Rachael Magowan, Mimi Petrie, Robin Sheakley and Barbara Weyand as committee members.

 cincinnatiartmuseum.org

Liz Keating with her piece, which won the first-place people’s choice vote Eric Kearney, Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney, Natasja Sadi, Rance Duke and Marilyn Duke

Arrangement made by Brenda Baird

Arrangement made by Sarah Shay

Arrangement made by Holly Grim (third place)

Arrangement made by Jay Takach

Kayla Neff, Molly Milano-Rifkind, Natasja Sadi and chair Ann M. Keeling

Emily Block, Kara Goode and Ricka Cutter; arrangement by Maiko Katade

Emily Block, Kara Goode and Ricka Cutter

Verna West, East to Vest skirt performer and Chardonnay West

East to Vest skirt performers

Arrangement made by Cary Brodie

Giving Voice Foundation tops fundraising record

The Giving Voice Foundation raised a record $127,460 at its ninth annual Mimosas for Memories event to support its free programs for older adults with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

More than 300 people attended the brunch at The Cincinnati Club, which featured bottomless mimosas, brunch by-the-bite, gourmet desserts, local vendor pop-ups LahVdah and Frond, a professional photo booth and a silent auction.

GVF’s offerings include music and movement programs such as Creative Connections, Music in Motion and Dancing to Remember. It also offers writing, journaling and peer support for caregivers.

 givingvoicefdn.org

Krista Powers, Michael Schroth and Sue Schroth

GVF board members Aaron Stapleton, Krista Powers, Dr. Christian Gausvik and Cody Gausvik

Giving Voice Collaborative members: (back) Angela Onyekanne, Shannon Braun, Olivia Smith, Heather Rutz, Dawn Freudenberg and Dr. Christian Gausvik; (front) Joshua Kruer, Kate Race, Breanna Williams, Deana Barone, Angela Homoelle, Maria Deneau and Krista Powers

Deb Howie, Angela Onyekanne, Breanna Williams and Joshua Kruer

Zach Pohlman, Kat Welzel and Holly Roberts

Nick Puncer and Stephen Ferguson Irene Hamrick and Bill Van Ee Local 12 anchor Aleah Hordges

Cincinnati Mayor

Aftab Pureval, Cody Gausvik and Dr. Christian Gausvik

WLWT anchor Megan Mitchell, Dr. Christian Gausvik and Debbie Hayes

UpSpring benefit raises $149K

The 2024 UpSpring Benefit Bash raised a record-breaking $149,000 to help children experiencing homelessness in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. The Benefit Bash, held at Great American Ball Park, featured live and silent auctions, a raffle, dinner, drinks and more.

Sponsors, attendees, volunteers, supporters, board of trustees, the event committee, auctioneer Tony Giglio, keynote speaker Sophia Hermann, DJ Miss Ebony J, photographer Bonnie Phillips and event chair Linsey Kraeling supported the event. WLWT’s Ashley Kirklen served as emcee.  upspring.org

UpSpring board member Cash Hayden celebrates a winning bid with wife Kelly Hayden.

and

Eldridge

www.CETconnect.org

SATURDAY 6:30PM CET SUNDAY 8:30PM CET ARTS

Join Barbara Kellar as she showcases artists and cultural leaders from the Greater Cincinnati community.

Emcee Ashley Kirklen with Anna McQuade

Rachel Ingram, Holly Ingram and Paula Hensley

UpSpring Summer 360 teachers Sophia Hermann and Catherine Ehlman

Helene Sontag, board chair Andrea Neuwirth, Lydia White and Dean Backscheider

Event committee chair Linsey Kraeling and Brandon Kraeling

Qaisar Ali with UpSpring board members Scott Solomon and Greg Harris

UpSpring staff members Azia Carnes, Katie Jensen, Melissa Adamchik, Lucy Guenther

Meghan

Leadership Council conference helps nonprofits maximize impact

Leadership Council for Nonprofits welcomed keynote speaker Kishshana Palmer to its 24th annual Securing the Future conference at Cintas Center. The conference also featured breakout sessions on nonprofit workforce topics, artificial intelligence and inclusion.

Top sponsors included the University of Cincinnati Office of Research, Flynn & Co CPAs, Grants Plus and Greater Cincinnati Foundation, with Movers & Makers as media partner and 12 community-level sponsors. The conference aims to help maximize the impact of nonprofit organizations, develop their leaders and strengthen the community.

 leadershipcouncil.us/home

CF Leads’ Meghan Cummings (third from left) facilitates a roundtable session on nonprofit events.

Leadership Council Executive Director Beth Benson

Beech Acres’ Brice Mickey leads a breakout session.

Aida Ramusovic-Witham participates in a panel on artificial intelligence, or AI.

Cincinnati Youth Collaborative’s Amy Thompson and Cincinnati Works’ Nikki Hollis

Mike Hales of Ronald McDonald House Cincinnati with sponsor Flynn & Co.’s Rick Flynn and Kelly Flynn Shough

Keynote speaker Kishshana Palmer

Haile Foundation’s Christine Bochenek and nonprofit consultant Anne Maxfield

Ja’lah Willingham of Little Brothers-Friends of the Elderly and Lynn Smith of Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

Leadership Council board chair and 4C for Children CEO Vanessa Freytag

Children’s honors former leader Portman with new promenade

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital has dedicated a new outdoor space on its Avondale campus in honor of Jane Portman, a former longtime member of its board of trustees and the first woman to serve as board chair. In her nearly 20 years as a trustee, her leadership helped the pediatric health system rise to being ranked No. 1 in the nation.

The Jane Portman Promenade includes a landscaped walkway that links an outdoor amphitheater with a dining area for the soon-to-open Kaleidoscope Café. The north end of the promenade offers a scenic view of the new William Joel McCray Community Park, which was developed across Erkenbrecher Avenue by Children’s in collaboration with Avondale residents.

The new promenade stretches for 100 yards adjacent to the Critical Care Building, which opened in 2021 and serves the most medically complex patients. Portman helped oversee construction of the building as board chair from 2017 to 2020.

 cincinnatichildrens.org

Liza Smitherman, board chair at Cincinnati Children’s

Will Portman, Jane Portman, former U.S. Sen. Rob Portman and Sally Portman

Dr. Evaline Alessandrini, COO of Cincinnati Children’s, and Jane Portman at the new promenade’s plaque

Longworth-Anderson Series kicks off seventh concert season

The Longworth-Anderson Series began the year with three concerts presenting diverse artists at Memorial Hall. First off was saxophonist Branford Marsalis and his band, with a preconcert reception featuring live music from Christopher Andrews Quartet, light bites from Ollie’s Trolley and N.Y.P.D. Pizza and craft beer tastings from HighGrain Brewing Co.

Next up was singer-songwriter Josh Ritter with a pre-show featuring Sean Geil. The third event was by Grammy Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning singer and instrumentalist Rhiannon Giddens with special guest Charly Lowry, including pre-concert music from Freedom Nicole Moore & the Electric Moon.

 longworth-andersonseries.com

Experts at Children’s gather to advance hydrocephalus treatments

A research workshop to advance noninvasive treatments for hydrocephalus (fluid build-up in the brain) brought scientists, clinicians, patients and representatives of funding agencies to Cincinnati. The two-day event at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital was hosted by the Hydrocephalus Association in collaboration with Children's.

The current standard of treatment involves brain surgery, particularly using shunts to drain excess cerebrospinal fluid. But this approach has one of the highest failure rates among medical devices, leading to about 10,000 pediatric hospital admissions for shunt malfunctions annually. This lifethreatening condition affects more than a

million Americans, including an estimated 800,000 older individuals with normal pressure hydrocephalus.

Experts believe non-invasive treatments could ease the burden of multiple brain surgeries, enhance patient outcomes and improve quality of life.

 hydroassoc.org

More than 75 experts gathered in Cincinnati to advance hydrocephalus research and therapies.

Susan Beckmann and Kate Baumann

Victoria Morgan and Muff Carothers

Debbie Boerschight, Richard Hafner, Brenda Tarbell and Jim Tarbell

Branford Marsalis performs on soprano sax at Memorial Hall during his band’s Longworth-Anderson Series concert.

Diana Hoffman and Hutson Kovanda

Opera fans celebrate Summer Festival kickoff

Cincinnati Opera kicked off its 2024 Summer Festival with a celebration in the Penthaus of Overthe-Rhine’s Strietmann Center, hosted by owners Peg Wyant and Jack Wyant. Guests were treated to excerpts from Mozart’s “Don Giovanni” performed by soprano Erin Keesy, baritone Mike Young and pianist Billie Miller. Drinks and light bites were provided by Jeff Thomas Catering and by eat well celebrations and feasts.

Cincinnati Opera’s 2024 season takes place June 13-July 27 and features “Don Giovanni,” Verdi’s “La Traviata,” Studio Sessions and the world stage premiere of Paul McCartney’s “Liverpool Oratorio.”

 cincinnatiopera.org

Aviatra’s WOB Crawl highlights women

entrepreneurs

Aviatra Accelerators, a Cincinnati nonprofit dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs and small businesses, hosted its semiannual WOB Crawl (Women-Owned Business Crawl). The event showcased 40 businesses in Covington’s downtown and Mainstrasse neighborhoods, offering attendees the chance to shop and dine at local women-owned businesses.

More than 150 people enjoyed discounts at each location, experiencing an array of offerings: retail, products, services, health and wellness, bars, restaurants and nonprofits. The WOB Crawl not only highlighted the range of woman-owned businesses but also fostered a sense of community and support among participants themselves. Aviatra’s next WOB Crawl is Nov. 23 in Over-the-Rhine.

 WOBCrawl.com

Tricia Suit and Eric Appleby

Susan Strick, Alvin Jones and Yemisi Jones

Sheila Cole and Christopher Milligan

Lyla Forlani, Lynn Larson and Don Larson

Heather Vecellio and Reena Patil

Peg Wyant and Jerry Kathman

Sandi Stonebraker, owner of Stoney’s Etc!

Alexis Frye and Ella Frye

Charlotte Rayne, owner of Covington Yoga

Maryann Pietromonaco, Colleen Cauhorn and Cassandra Borchers

Aviatra President and CEO Jill Morenz, community manager Kourtney Terry and marketing strategist Jasmine Hughes

Jonathan Egel, Michael Powell and Brian Tiffany

Glamor brightens Lighthouse award event

It was a night of old Hollywood glamor when Lighthouse Youth & Family Services and guests honored winners of the Beacon of Light Humanitarian Award. The annual award recognizes leadership, community service and positive impact on children, youth and families. This year’s honorees include Greater Cincinnati Foundation, Yvette Simpson and Dr. Jeannette Taylor. Peter Barrett and Michelle Barrett served as event co-chairs.

The event, held at the 20th Century Theater in Oakley, was presented by TruePoint Wealth Counsel. Local media personality Evan Millward served as emcee.

 lys.org

Compassion through Action event helps fund EquaSion

Three hundred people from across Greater Cincinnati came together for EquaSion's sold-out Compassion through Action fundraising dinner at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.

The efforts raised $144,000 for the organization and its mission to engage people of all faiths and backgrounds to discover their shared humanity and spirituality, and to work together for an equitable and just community. Money raised will go toward EquaSion's flagship event, The Cincinnati Festival of Faiths, Aug. 25 at Cintas Center, and other programming.

EquaSion honored four couples who have helped foster inclusion and understanding: former Ohio state Sen. Eric Kearney and Cincinnati Vice Mayor Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney; Jack Geiger and Kay Geiger; John Isidor and Sandy Kaltman; and Dr. Masood Ahmad and Shakila T. Ahmad.

 equasion.org

Eric Kearney, Cincinnati Vice Mayor

Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney, Jack Geiger, Kay Geiger, John Isidor, Sandy Kaltman, Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval, Dr. Masood Ahmad and Shakila T. Ahmad

Byron McCauley and Randy Tucker

Carole Rigaud

Emcee Evan Millward

Stephen Petersen and Chris Bolling

Lighthouse President and CEO Paul Haffner, Dr. Jeannette Taylor, Yvette Simpson, Greater Cincinnati Foundation Chief Impact Officer Rasheda Cromwell, and event co-chairs Michelle Barrett and Peter Barrett



Cecelia Tio, Samantha Berten, Ashley Faulkner and Joseph Smith

CISE party raised funds for inner-city students

Catholic Inner-city Schools Education’s 14th annual CISE Party drew 243 attendees at the TQL Stadium Pitch View Club. Guests were treated to an evening of mingling, dancing and festivities. FC Cincinnati’s mascot, Gary the Lion, joined the party, which raised funds to support children through CISE.

 cisekids.org

Dog lovers ‘paws’ to support dog rescue organization

Campbell County-based Frankies Furry Friends raised $9,000 at its recent Italian Dinner and Silent Auction, held at O’Bannon Creek Golf Club in Loveland. More than 100 people attended and a few adoptable dogs

dropped by to lend a paw to the cause.

Frankies is a nonprofit small-breed dog rescue run by volunteers who donate their time to help ensure each dog finds a loving forever home. The dogs that come to Frankies are

surrendered by owners or found as strays or at puppy mills. The pups stay in foster homes until they’re ready for adoption.

 frankiesfurryfriends.rescuegroups.org

CISE board chair David Williams, John Tarvardian, Diane Tarvardian, Dan Miley and Sarah Williams

CISE board member Harry Santen and Ann Santen

CISE principals Jack Corey, Jen Long and Kim Childs with Veronica Diaz

Kevin Kellem, Gabriella Elizabeth Wolf, Derrick Kihembo and Kyle Chandler CISE graduates Tammara Jones and Trya Jones

CISE Executive Director and President Phil McHugh with Gary the Lion

CISE board member Cynthia Kenney and son Christian Walker

Raffle winner Mary Kay Murphy with Gary the Lion

Volunteers and guests pose for a photo after dining on custom-made pasta dishes.

Alpaugh Center honors local financial educators, business leaders

More than 300 people gathered at Great American Ball Park’s Bally Sports Club for the 2024 Alpaugh Family Economics Center’s Annual Awards.

The gathering recognizes local educators and business leaders for their commitment to financial education and economic research. University of Cincinnati President Neville Pinto spoke at the event, which featured profiles of honorees and a panel discussion on the business of baseball with Phil Castellini, Cincinnati Reds president; Nick Krall, president of baseball operations; and Karen Forgus, senior vice president of baseball operations. Reds Hall of Famer George Foster also attended.

Among the honorees: Deer Park Community City Schools; Colette Smith from the Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center; Messer Construction Co.; and longtime center board member Bill Neyer. The Research Impact Award went to Western & Southern Financial Group for its economic and community impact.

 economicscenter.org

Luncheon celebrates

Valley Interfaith’s successes

More than 150 local leaders and community supporters gathered for a luncheon at the Venture in Norwood to hear stories of the Valley Interfaith Community Resource Center and its impact. Local business owner and author Ray Attiyah was the event’s featured speaker.

The luncheon celebrated the successes of VICRC’s long history in the community. State Rep. Sedrick Denson was recognized for his work on behalf of the community and those in need.

John Keuffer, CEO of VICRC, unveiled a three-year plan to increase the organization’s capabilities, including modification of a building recently donated by a longtime supporter. The modifications should allow VICRC to serve 35% to 50% more people.

 vicrc.org

Kelly Attiyah and Ray Attiyah

Chris Harding, Hamilton County Commissioner Denise Driehaus and Kevin Tighe

Richard Wiggers, Alfonso Cornejo, Peter Alpaugh and Sue Lang

Nathan Bachrach, Reds Hall of Famer

George Foster and Marcie Bachrach

Bob Castellini and Susie Castellini

Phil Castellini

David Nevers of Western & Southern, Reds Hall of Famer George Foster, Brian Brockhoff and Mike Rudnicki of Fort Washington Investment Advisors

Karen Forgus

Hannah Kessel, Cody Kessel, Andrea Akin, Chris Quigley and J.T. Mackey

Genesis at Work fetes supporters with appreciation dinner

The Genesis at Work Foundation held its annual appreciation dinner with a wine pairing at the Rug Gallery. The foundation’s mission is to find meaningful work for children with special needs, enriching lives and businesses.

The event celebrated the foundation’s donors, employers, strategic partners and job seekers. It also highlighted the success story of Emily Duffy’s employment at Pella Windows and Doors. Jim Gehm and Shawn Jackson from Pella spoke about the impact Duffy and customized employment have had on their company.

The dinner featured cooking from Cincinnati celebrity chef Michael Forgus. The event’s sponsor was Brad Olsen, president of Crest Craft Recognition Awards.

 genesisatwork.org

Actress Jennifer O’Neil speaks at Pregnancy Center Plus banquet

Actress and CoverGirl model Jennifer O’Neil shared her life story with more than 600 attendees at Pregnancy Center Plus’ Banquet for Life. O’Neil, star of the 1971 film “Summer of ’42,” shared her testimony during the event at the Hyatt Regency.

Since 1982, PCPlus’s annual banquet has raised awareness and funds for programs that allow women to receive free medical and pregnancy support services.

 pcplus.org

Courtney Garrett, Gerry Otto and Jennifer O’Neill

Gary Hartman, Beau Presnell, Barbie Presnell, Bryan Holland and John Bernloehr

Emma Glickberg and Emily Duffy

Volunteer of the Year Rod Cober and Bryan Holland

Melinda Mason, Baylie Mason and Erin Arlinghaus

Shawn Jackson, Emily Duffy, Amy Powers and Jim Gehm

Brad Olsen, Jim Frey and Bryan Holland

OneSource celebrates ‘All-Star’ contributions

OneSource Center for Nonprofit Excellence held its first-ever AllStar Celebration in observance of Volunteer Appreciation Month. Many volunteers, from consultants to board members and donors, attended the event hosted by Wegman Company. Locally sourced light bites were catered by The Perfect Brew.

In 2023, 13,470 hours were contributed by OneSource’s volunteer consultants. OneSource said this time and talent resulted in more than $860,000 in savings for nonprofits, 461 leader and staff training experiences and 431 regional nonprofits served.

 onesourcecenter.org

(Back) OneSource Center CEO

UC Cancer Center event kicks off Ride Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati Cancer Center held its 2024 Ride Cincinnati kickoff event at the Kresge Auditorium on UC’s campus.

The event featured a roundtable discussion with John Thornton, former Cincinnati Bengal and co-head of Roc Nation Sports, Football Division; Cory Shaw, president and CEO of UC Health; and Neville Pinto, president of UC. Dr. William L. Barrett, co-director of the Cancer Center, facilitated the conversation.

Guest speakers gave a brief history of Ride Cincinnati, its impact on local cancer research and how to get involved. Ride Cincinnati representatives presented a $1.3 million donation check from the 2023 event.

 ridecincinnati.org

Laura Menge and Lauren Huizenga

Christie Brown; (front) MichelleRenee Norflee, Carole Daniels and Doris Thomas

David Girmann, Amy Alig, Nick Beatty and OneSource volunteer consultant Raman Arora

University of Cincinnati President Neville Pinto, Tom Lennox, Dr. William Barrett, Allison Gordon, John Thornton and Dr. Syed Ahmad

Miles McDowell, Dr. Syed Ahmad, Allison Gordon and Dr. William Barrett

Dr. Jordan Kharofa

Dr. William Barrett

Dr. Tom Lennox

ArtWorks and Art Academy honor Red Door Project

The Red Door Project, a staple of Cincinnati’s art scene for the past decade, celebrated its 10th anniversary and its transition into an ArtWorks program at the Art Academy of Cincinnati’s SITE1212 in Over-the-Rhine. Dozens of artists and nearly 100 visitors attended.

Founded in 2014 by Barbara Hauser, this initiative has provided a platform for artists, fostering creativity and community engagement. In reflecting on the project’s journey, Hauser emphasized the importance of making art accessible.

 artworkscincinnati.org

Movers & Makers co-publishers Elizabeth Mariner and Thom Mariner attended

event and won an artwork up for

Travel agency wins SCORE small business award

The Travel Byrds, a woman-owned travel agency, was named 2023 SCORE Greater Cincinnati Client of the Year and received a $3,000 prize from Kemba Credit Union during a reception at The Children’s Theater of Cincinnati. Byrd Bergeron founded the business in 2019. It is expected to generate about $9 million in sales in 2024.

Other finalists were: Beauty Artistry Academy, The Delish Dish and Kip Hatcher, a mental health counselor in Fort Mitchell. All received free mentorship from SCORE volunteers.

Kemba, Cincinnati Small Business Foundation, Knox Foundation and U.S. Bank sponsored the award and celebration.

 score.org

Event emcee Evan Millward and SCORE Greater Cincinnati co-chair Greg Bedel

John Lieberman, David Sarker, mental health private counselor Kip Hatcher and Paul Edgett

Tom Daily, Beauty Artistry Academy owner Chris Daily and Colleen Athans

SCORE volunteer Carlin Stamm, SCORE Greater Cincinnati co-chair Kelly Dehan, Client of the Year runner-up Mavis Linnemann-Clark – owner of The Delish Dish – and Joseph Hajek from the Cincinnati Small Business Foundation

Kemba Credit Union President and CEO Dan Sutton presents a check for $3,000 to SCORE 2023 Client of the Year, Byrd Bergeron, owner of The Travel Byrds.

Colleen Houston, CEO and artistic director of ArtWorks, Red Door founder and ArtWorks board member Barbara Hauser, and Art Academy of Cincinnati president and CEO Joe Girandola

Artist Erika NJ Allen explored the works up for auction.

the

auction.

Mortar co-founder and CEO Allen Woods and Jill Dunne, senior director of marketing and communications for ArtWorks, connected during the event.

Photos by Phil a r Mstrong

Singers present musical travelog at Matinée Musicale season finale

Acclaimed international artists – tenor Pene Pati and his wife, soprano Amina Edris – were featured in Matinée Musicale Cincinnati’s season-ending recital at Memorial Hall. Robert Mollicone provided piano accompaniment.

The audience was treated to a program ranging from traditional cultural songs to renowned opera arias, paying tribute to the places the couple has lived: Egypt, Samoa, New Zealand, the United States, England and France.

At the post-recital reception, patrons enjoyed meeting the artists for pictures, autographs and conversation.

 matineemusicalecincinnati.org

Green Umbrella Sustainability Summit attented by hundreds

Hundreds of environmentally minded individuals from across the region converged recently for the 11th annual Midwest Regional Sustainability Summit, the largest sustainability conference in this part of the United States. The event featured programming around resilience and sustainability topics – 98 speakers, presentations, breakout sessions, an exhibitor expo and a networking reception. An art show, poster session and performances from Elementz and Pones complemented the programming.

Keynote speaker was Jacqui Patterson, founder and executive director of the Chisholm Legacy Project, a resource hub for Black climate justice leadership. Green Umbrella, the event’s host, also honored civic leaders and community partners for their commitment to sustainability efforts.

With more than 650 people in attendance, this was the biggest MRS Summit yet.

 greenumbrella.org



Accompanist

Robert Mollicone with Amina Edris and Pene Pati

Matinée Musicale scholarship winners in attendance:

2024 high school recipient Ella Clark, college recipient Léa Nayak and first winner Reed Gnepper from 2018

Matinee Musicale students of the Talia Zoll Studio with Edris and Pati

Pene Pati with visiting students from the Msical Arts Center

Green Umbrella staff pose with award winners. Charlie Gonzalez of Green Umbrella; Tim Sisson of Western Wildlife Corridor, Leadership Award; Ryan Mooney-Bullock, CEO of Green Umbrella; Cincinnati City Council Member Meeka Owens, Leadership Award; Chris Webster, Alison Webster and Lindsey McCoy of Plaine Products, Innovation Award; Ralph Linne, Hamilton County Facilities Department, Impact Award. Not pictured: Michelle Merrett of Hamilton Urban Garden Systems, Leadership Award.

Keynote speaker Jacqui Patterson, founder and executive director of the Chisholm Legacy Project

Aiken New Tech High School students and educators lead a panel discussion. Kendra Alexander, Diana Matias-Pano (student), Peregrina Sanchez-Jose (student), Asifiwe Shema (student), Aminata Sarr (student) and Aaron Parker (educator)

Council on Child Abuse holds its most successful fundraiser

The Council on Child Abuse raised more than $77,000 at its annual Reach for the Stars gala, the group’s most successful fundraiser. Hosted at Kenwood Country Club and emceed by WLWT’s Sheree Paolello, the event supports COCA’s mission of preventing child abuse and bullying through educational and public awareness programs.

More than 110 guests enjoyed dinner, drinks, auctions and a raffle.

COCA honored Deniz Ozbudak and Horizon Science Academy for their commitment to creating safe spaces for students. Celestial Sponsor was William R. Dally Foundation, with AuguStar Financial, EnterTRAINment Junction and Integrity Express Logistics as Galaxy Sponsors.

 cocachild.org

55 runners and walkers

help Magnified Giving

A sunny morning brought out 55 participants for Magnified Giving’s first Magnify Your 5K Run/Walk. Families, community members and Magnified Giving staff and supporters connected before the race, and the organization’s founder, Roger Grein, gave a brief welcome. The leisurely 1-mile path was filled with dogs and their owners. The 5K was a mix of walkers and runners.

The event raised over $2,000 to support Magnified Giving’s youth philanthropy programs empowering young people to help their communities. The event was organized by board member Ryan Nicley, his wife Mary and their children Jack and Addi.

 magnifiedgiving.org

Elijah Quillin, Chris Quillin and Brady Quillin

Participants take off at the start line: Steve Gay, Zach Dehaemers and Kathryn McCullough

The Nicley family: Mary, Jack, Addi and Ryan

Mariah Whitney

Melissa Smith, Jen Raterman and Anita Doyle

Alisha Chase and Mary Nicley



Horizon Science honorees Raven Walker, Deniz Ozbudak and Sandra Gutierrez

Co-chair Sandy Kirkham, emcee Sheree Paolello and co-chair Sandy Rabe

Vice President Edita Dolan-Mayo and her daughter, Mila Mayo

The Council on Child Abuse board: (back) Kit Brunner, co-chair Sandy Rabe, Samantha Mosby, President Maura Kelly and Executive Director Harold Howard; (front) Frank Engoglia, past President Julie Johnson, Susan Burdick, co-chair Sandy Kirkham, Karen Losher, Vice President Edita Dolan-Mayo, Nicole Chimento Dracon and Aleicia Ennis

Roger Grein and Ryan Nicley

Too many choices can be hard, but bad ones, or none, are worse

When,in 2003, I first read about the restaurant in New York that served nothing but rice pudding, I was excited in a way that’s hard to understand 20 years later. I felt cheated that I didn’t live in New York, where I could go somewhere both so silly and amazing, and choose between “Fluent in French toast” rice pudding or “I got the panna cotta” rice pudding.

A few years later, I was in New York and I happened across it: Rice to Riches. I promptly went in and chose an 8-ounce cup of rice pudding, which cost $4.50. I don’t really remember the flavor or whether it was good.

It was a preview of things to come, cupcakes and macaron bakeries, charcuterie boards and Walgreens-receipt-long selections of craft beer. Also, Facebook friends and endless scrolling and

online dating and email advertising. The world started offering so many choices, everywhere, all the time.

Choices are exciting, but choosing is hard and the result is often unsatisfying. The array of colors of cashmere sweaters makes me want to buy one, but one color separated from the rainbow isn’t as beautiful. I am excited by the lists of the kind of arty, serious movies I like on the Criterion Channel, but often wonder if the ones I didn’t pick would have been better than the one I did. I browse table lamps and am handed enough beautiful possibilities that I start thinking about throwing out the lamps I have so I can buy new ones. Sometimes, when overwhelmed by this modern, oversized menu of life, I remember an ad I saw when I was a child that I still remember

puzzling over. It showed a little girl choosing ice cream, with the copy asking something like “How would you like it if you could only get butter pecan?” Of course, I pondered how terrible that would be, but also realized something was off about the ad, something propagandistic. I’m pretty sure it was created for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. An ad for capitalism, basically, which I didn’t realize needed advertising. How wrong that ad was – at this point, I think I’d like to be offered just one flavor and no choice.

Also how right – but not for the reasons it meant.

Because a significantly large segment of the population often has only one flavor to choose from, so to speak. When you are poor, you always have fewer choices. There are people in Cincinnati whose stress does not come from deciding which foods to buy, but from having no grocery store in their neighborhood and no car. People whose choices are between bad child care or no child care or no job, between keeping aging parents at home or leaving them in understaffed and underfunded nursing homes.

Some people have to choose between medications and groceries, between paying the heating bill or school fees. Not which college to go to, but whether to go at all. Often, being poor puts them in tight corners where they’re left with no good choices at all, like owing money to a predatory check-cashing company.

There are lots of trend stories about the paradoxical stress of too much choice. People with money see themselves reflected in the general chatter all the time. But a trend story about “Americans face less choice” is just as true. And maybe people like me are so busy picking out wallpaper or deciding where to go on vacation that we don’t think about lives not like ours.

Think about how often COVID is summed up as that time we were bored and had to make sourdough bread and adopt pets and get on Zoom. Instead of how COVID was a health disaster that tore up people’s lives. That killed a million people, many of them dying alone. I don’t think we talk about those million people a lot.

The dystopian future the free-enterprise advocates were so scared of is true. Not because the Communists took over and instituted a centrally planned economy, but because the growing forces of inequality in our economic and political system mean that choices have been taken from some people and showered on others.

One choice each of us could make is how to be part of changing that. The organizations featured in this issue are doing the work. Read about them, their goals and missions and the problems they’re addressing. Any of them would be a good place to start.

Oh, I saw Rice to Riches in the news again, shortly after I ate there. In 2005, the owner was arrested for running an illegal gambling empire. Somehow, the restaurant made more sense as a money-laundering front. But it’s still open, getting by in a highrent neighborhood of Manhattan with something your grandmother used to make. In fact, a second location is opening, on the Lower East Side. Rice pudding is now $10 a cup. 

Polly Campbell writes monthly on a variety of topics, and she welcomes your feedback and column suggestions at editor@moversmakers.org.

Polly Campbell

Rodin | Response

June 14–September 8, 2024 |

Rodin | Response: FIELD Family Secrets is organized by the Cincinnati Art Museum in collaboration with Supermrin and the School of Art, University of Cincinnati, and with the participation of the Iris Cantor Collection.

Sponsored by

Auguste Rodin (French, 1840–1917), Jean d'Aire, nude (detail), 1885–86, cast 1981, bronze, h. 80 in. (203.2 cm), Courtesy of Iris & B. Gerald Cantor Foundation, Photo Addison Doty