Northsider Vol. 1 Issue 8 May 2014 by The Northsider Monthly Newspaper

may 2014

volume 1 | issue 8

northsider.northside.net

COMMUNITY NEWS

FEATURE CATAPULT MUSIC FESTIVAL LAUNCHES IN NORTHSIDE

CAIN To Participate In 2014 Hunger Walk

a free publication

SPOTLIGHT

FITNESS: Tips for running in Northside

EDUCATION

WordPlay introduces Enter Stage Write Program

IN THIS ISSUE

COVER ART | NORTHSIDER FEATURED ARTIST

VOLUME 1 ISSUE 8 | CONTENT

CONTRIBUTORS

WRITERS:

COMMUNITY NEWS

-WALK WITH CAIN IN HUNGER WALK -NORTHSIDE TIDBITS -PLANNNING COMMUNITY EDUCATION -COMMUNITY GARDEN GROUNDBREAKING -COMMUNITY OWNED GROCERY -SNAPSHOT 45223 -VILLAGE GREEN’S NEW SUMMER PROGRAM -CENTRAL PARKWAY BIKEWAY PROJECT

7 10 12 13 15 16 17 18

SPOTLIGHT

-FITNESS: RUNNING IN NORTHSIDE -PHILANTHROPY: PAY IT FORWARD -HISTORY: WESLEYAN CEMETERY PT II

FEATURE

CATAPULT MUSIC FESTIVAL

Ollie Kroner, Sara Mulhauser, Tricia Suit, Sue Wilke, Fred Neurohr, Ana Bird, Barry Schwartz, Casey Whitten-Amadon, Mary Dudley, Karen Andrew, Martha Dourson, Nick Mitchell, Alisa Balestra, Kelly Walsh, Larry Wells, Jennifer Ortiz, Steve Sunderland, Tommy Reuff, Elissa Yancey

artwork: Jon Flannery, Sue Wilke, Jon Hughes/photopresse, Kelly Walsh, Fred Neurohr, Andrew Doench, Future Life Now, Happen Inc., Stephen Metz

volunteer advisory committee: Jeni Jenkins, James Kinsman, James Heller-Jackson, Barry Scwartz, Karen Andrew, Mark Christol

layout, Design and editorial management Jeni Jenkins of Uncaged Bird Design Studio

SPOTLIGHT

Jon Flannery

CALL TO ARTISTS | MONTHLY COVER ART Monthly Cover Art submissions: The Northsider is seeking monthly cover art submissions from local artists. Artists will be paid $40 for published covers. All 2 dimensional pieces will be considered. One stipulation of publication is that the piece or a print be donated to The Northsider Annual Art Auction Fundraiser. A portion of the proceeds from the auction will be reinvested in a fund to support art projects in Northside. The remainder will help support the paper. If you are interested in having your artwork considered:

email: northsidermonthly@gmail.com Subject line: Cover Art Submission

Kevin Cain, Nick Mitchell

Proofreaders

COLUMNS

Steph Bernard, Fred Neurohr, Mati Senerchia

-HEALTH & WELLNESS: STRESS -PARENTING

EDUCATION

paper rollers Happen Inc. Volunteers

on Flannery is a graphic designer and printmaker OPINION living in Northside with his cat, Clyde. He operates WE, TOO, ARE HUMAN: THE CANCER Cryptogram, a design & screen print studio based out PATIENT of East Walnut Hills (formerly Northside). In 2009, he graduated from the Art Academy of Cincinnati with a degree ARTS in Printmaking. You catch him almost daily at Sidewinder, and YOUTH: HAPPEN’S FILM CRITICS keep up with his work at cryptogramink.com. ABOUT THE COVER: This is one of Jon’s explorations in cut/ torn paper collage.

Social Media Coordinators

-BUILDING COMMUNITY: COPP

YOUTH: WORDPLAY’S ENTER STAGE WRITE PROGRAM

NORTHSIDE SCENE

delivery team James Moore, Stephen Davis, SaraLynne Thoresen, ThoraLynne McKinney, Mati Senerchia, Noeli Senerchia, Jacob Walker, Jared Walker, Isaac Hunter, Evan Hunter, Owen Hunter, Kirah Hickman, Margaret Roe, Tina Myers.

northsidermonthly@gmail.com FOR AD RATE INFO, SUBMISSION DEADLINES AND TO SUBMIT EVENTS/ANNOUNCEMENTS AND VIEW THE ONLINE VERSION, VISIT US:

northsider.northside.net

EVENTS CALENDAR-MAY Mission statement:

As an independent monthly communication, The Northsider’s mission is to engage and inform about life and culture in the Northside Neighborhood. As such, The Northsider is committed to providing timely, quality and informative community news and opinions while embracing the diversity of the neighborhood.

organizational structure: Northsider, LLC. is a Nonprofit Limited Liability Company overseen by the Northside Community Council. The Northside Community Council is a volunteer, community-based organization that provides an opportunity for all individuals and groups in the community to participate in Northside’s present and to chart Northside’s future. As such, it is committed to bringing people of diverse backgrounds and opinions together in an atmosphere that fosters cooperation and communication. The NCC meets the third Monday of the month, (except January and February, fourth Monday due to holidays) at 7:00 PM at McKie Recreational Center, 1655 Chase Avenue.

The Northsider Monthly newspaper is published on the first Friday of the month and is distributed to businesses and residents in the 45223 zip code. 2 vol. 1 | Issue 8 MAY 14’

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COMMUNITY NEWS

NORTHSIDE TIDBITS help the Northside House Tour: Nominate a House 15th Northside House Tour Returns on Sunday, September 28th 2014 Have you been inside a house in the neighborhood that you think would be a good tour home? The Committee is looking for prospective homes for the 15th Northside House Tour. Nominate homes for the tour by sending an email to cagutjahr@fuse.net. Please provide the address of the house, name(s) and contact information for the home owner(s), and a sentence or two about why you are nominating the home. You can see all the houses chosen for the Northside House Tour on Sunday, September 28th, from 12-5 p.m. Tickets for the tour will be available online at: www.northside.net/housetour and at businesses in Northside beginning in September.

The Northside House Tour is sponsored by the Northside Community Council (NCC). The tour promotes Northside as a place to live and showcases the restoration and renovation work and new housing development taking place in the neighborhood. Proceeds from the tour benefit activities of NCC.

northsiders win poetry contest This past Poetry month was eventful for two Northsiders who won the 3rd Annual Cincinnati wide Poetry in The Garden Contest. Cathy Hale and Rae Hoffman’s winning poems can be found by visiting www.cincinnatilibrary.org/news/2014/poetrycontestwinners.html Every Tuesday the downtown library holds a poetry reading and open mic at 7pm. In Northside poetry readings occur at Chase Public, a collaborative art space and the Listing Loon, craft beer and wine bar on Hamilton.

The Northsider likes to give acknowledgement to creative honors and successes. If you have one, please send us a message at Northsidermonthly@gmail.com

11th Annual Northside Art in the Park Returns SATURDAY MAY 10TH, RAIN OR SHINE, 11AM – 4PM JACOB HOFFNER PARK 4101 HAMILTON AVENUE IN NORTHSIDE You will find unique affordable gifts crafted by local artists just in time for your next party, wedding or birthday! While you are shopping at over 50 artists’ booths, you and your children will be entertained by family activities and live music. Red Sesame and Roll With it Café Food Trucks will be there for lunch and parking lots are available for a nominal fee throughout Northside. Northside Art in the Park is going to be better than ever this year because we have new branding, new media outlets, new artists, new promotions, family activities, food trucks and music! Northside Art in the Park will lead the Northside Second Saturday events which are later that night and the sale is one week prior to the Weston Art Gallery’s “North by Northside” artist studio tour fundraiser. Northside Art in the Park is sponsored by the Northside Business Association and The Artist Group. The Northside Art in the Park began in 2003 and is a complement to the Northside Holiday Art Sale held in December.

For More Info: www.northsidearts.org | facebook.com/northsideartinthepark life & culture 45223

Northside Community Council Updates West Fork Creek Planning In collaboration with Niehoff Studio, UC, Project Groundwork, and the Metropolitain Sewer District, Northsiders have been involved in design sessions focused on the future of the West Fork Creek Corridor. An informational session will be held at Chase School, May 5, at 7PM. Great American Cleanup Northside usually draws over 100 volunteers for the annual Great American Cleanup. Join us May 17, 9AM-12PM as we give the neighborhood a good clean - followed by pizza at McKie. The Gantry Groundbreaking Northside’s largest development, The Gantry, is scheduled to break ground May 28. The project will add over 130 apartments and 8,000 square feet of commercial space to the neighborhood. All are invited to join for the 10AM ceremony. Police in Northside It would be hard to miss the police activity in the neighborhood over the last few weeks, including a few major victories against drug and property crime. District 5 announced at the last NCC meeting the launch of a special initiative focusing on Children’s Park. If you see an officer, please thank them for their good work in Northside lately. Next Meeting Community Council will meet 7PM, May 19 at McKie Rec Center. vol. 1 | Issue 8 MAY 14’ 3

COMMUNITY NEWS

Planning the Future of Northside Community Education

he first in a series of community wide conversations on Northside schools will be held on June 10th at Chase Elementary School, 4151 Turrill Street. Sponsored by the Northside Community Council’s Education Committee and Cincinnati Public Schools, these conversations have been in the planning stages for several months. We are calling on all community members, including parents, neighbors, clergy, business owners, school employees, law enforcement, and nonprofit leaders, to join us in this community effort. Participants will have

6:30-8:00 pm at Chase Elementary so everyone can “tell their story” about schools and community. Please choose a time and come share your input. This is a unique opportunity for Northsiders to talk about the future of our schools, and how our community can work together to strengthen our community by strengthening our schools.

BY SUE Wilke Sue is a retired P&G and non-profit executive currently on the boards of the Northside Community Council and CAIN. A former school board member, she has a strong interest in improving education for all children.

the space to good use. Bruce Demske, President of the Northside Business Association, kicked off the ceremonies by thanking the multitude of people involved in bringing this project to fruition, and by welcoming Mayor John Cranley who, along with his wife and son, praised all the good things happening in our neighborhood. Among other notable attendees were Rodger Horton from Chase Elementary, and his many, many friends: students from Chase Elementary, who planted flowers at the site. Andries Van der Bent and his students from Hughes High School were also in attendance, along with many

other friends and Happen/ToyLab fans – probably none bigger than Tommy’s mother, who came up from the Louisville area to surprise him. As members of the community stood shoulder-to-shoulder this beautiful spring morning, we listened as Tommy talked about the uses and activities to take place this year that the site, including growing fruit and vegetables with the intent to distribute them to area residents. He closed by leading us all in the Happen cheer, which was inspired by what his mom use to tell him: “You can make it Happen … just make it through college.”

And just as Tommy Rueff made Happen, Inc., our neighborhood’s linchpin and center for community involvement, Happen Outside hopes to “make it happen” again in Northside’s South Block to expand and grow Cincinnati’s most diverse and close-knit neighborhood.

BY Fred Neurohr Fred is a research professional and a member of the Northside Community Council; he and his family have lived in Northside since 2006. Originally from the New York boroughs of Brooklyn & Queens, he roots exclusively for failing sports franchises from his hometown.

The Northside Farmers’ Market Gets Ready For Summer

re you ready for summer after the long cold winter Cincinnati saw this year? If so, join the Northside Farmers’ Market in welcoming the warm weather on Wednesday May 14th, 4pm-7pm, the first day of our outdoor market in Jacob Hoffner Park, 4101 Hamilton Ave. in Northside. Our local farmers have been hard at work growing fresh greens, radishes, asparagus, and other seasonal produce, and making baked goods, soaps, and crafts. NFM offers a great shopping experience. In addition to a wide 4 vol. 1 | Issue 8 MAY 14’

their unique story of the relationship between the community and its youth and schools, using facilitated small breakout sessions. The second session “Creating a Shared Vision” will focus on creating a shared vision of how the whole community can work together to support and nurture its children. The third session “Sharing Our Resources” will focus on bringing community resources together to help achieve our shared vision for our schools. To accommodate as many community members as possible, we have scheduled two 90 minute sessions on June 10th from 4:00-5:30pm or

Groundbreaking at the Happen Outside Community Garden

he scene was set Thursday morning, April 24th: the rain had held off, and we had ourselves a beautiful, breezy spring morning for a very important community event. Happen Outside – an outdoor garden space at 1617 Hoffner Street, formerly occupied by the First United Church of Christ – broke ground with members of the community gathered. This largest currently-undeveloped space in Northside was purchased with grant money from the City of Cincinnati – and with help from the Northside Business Association – Tommy Rueff and his dedicated volunteers invited the community to share in his vision to put

an opportunity to share their unique story of the relationship between the community, youth and our schools, and to create a shared vision for how the whole community can work together to support and nurture the children of Northside who currently attend one of our three schools: Chase Elementary, Parker Woods Montessori and St. Boniface. This effort will involve three conversations, the first in June with two more scheduled for fall 2014 after school restarts. The first session called “Telling Your Story” will give all participants an opportunity to share

variety of produce, plants, baked goods, and crafts, we include live music, kid’s activities, cooking and nutrition workshops, Farm To Table chef demonstrations, puppet shows, and fun activities for everyone on our market days. Join us on May 14th and meet and greet our vendors, pick up some fresh foods, listen to some good music, and have some fun outside! NFM strives to make healthy local foods accessible to everyone throughout our community. VISA, MasterCard, SNAP Ohio Direction Card, and WIC transactions will be

accepted at the Market Manager’s booth. In addition, NFM will participate in “Produce Perks,” a matching funds incentive program which allows low-income individuals to receive up to $10 each market visit for use on vegetable and fruit purchases. The program begins on May 7st, and on May 21st, the Northside Farmers’ Market will host a ribbon cutting ceremony for “Produce Perks.” The Adult Jazz Combo of the University of Cincinnati will provide entertainment, and customers can learn more about the “Produce Perks” program as

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the market celebrates the fruits and vegetables available in May. Wednesdays, 4-7pm, May 14 – Oct 15: Jacob Hoffner Park, 4101 Hamilton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45223 For more info: www.northsidefm.org

BY ANA BIRD Ana Bird works at Northside Farmers Market as Market Manager, and at Imago, as program coordinator in environmental education, and authors Cincinnati food blog Our Local Kitchen. She also teaches youth ballet classes at UC and Baker Hunt Cultural Center.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Northside Employee-owned Grocery Store is moving forward

he potential employee-owned grocery store in Northside is moving right along. A contractor came up with estimates for the work necessary to make the old Sava-Lot store workable as a grocery store again. The goal is to break ground by this fall, assuming the funds can be raised. The range is pretty wide, depending on which options of reconstruction are chosen and unseen construction difficulties. The landlord Patrick Gates is willing to wait on the progress of the grocery store. The trade-gap analysis has been completed. It was very positive for the potential location of a grocery store in Northside, even if the service area is limited to one mile. There is a big gap between the Krogers in North College Hill and Spring Grove Village where another full-service grocery can survive. Kristen Barker of the Cincinnati Union Co-op Initiative developed a relationship with a wholesaler, AWG, that could supply product at a reasonable cost. The people present at a volunteer meeting brainstormed ideas for the kind of services that could be provided in the store. A subcommittee was created to come up with the best ideas and to reach out to the communities for ideas and to increase diversity. Possible connections were discussed with

SNAPSHOT 45223|MONTHLY PHOTO ENTRIES

other community resources (e.g. McKie, Chase, pool, Health Clinic, Northside Farmers Market, Picnic and Pantry.) To appeal to two main types of consumers in Northside, the proposed grocery store would focus on both affordable and organic/local fare. Members of the committee will be looking at other small grocery stores in the area, using a template that looks at the product mix, and how the stores themselves are physically arranged. Kristen has recruited two full-time volunteers to keep things moving for the next couple months, including Casey Whitten-Amadon to manage the project. The grocery project is conducting a consumer purchase analysis for the next month for research purposes, to determine what Northsiders are purchasing. Additionally, the committee held a public naming meeting on Tuesday April 29th at Happen’s ToyLab. The next committee meeting is Tuesday, May 6, at Happen, Inc. 4201 Hamilton Ave. If you have any questions, or want to get more involved with the project please contact: Casey Whitten-Amadon cwhittena@yahoo.com

Chase Elementary School receives NCC Education Committee donation of socks and underwear as part of the school’s recent clothing drive. Shown in photo left to right are Teacher Rodger Horton, Principal Lynsa Davie and Resource Coordinator Ashanti Dawson. Photo: Sue Wilke

BY Barry Schwartz & Casey Whitten-Amadon

civic garden center to host ‘summer sprouts program’ at village green VILLAGE GREEN 1415 KNOWLTON ST. IN NORTHSIDE MONDAYS 3-5PM, MAY 19-AUGUST 25 Enjoy the summer sunshine while learning to grow food in one of our Youth Gardens. Programs are free and open to the first 25 participants. Each week we will explore a different nature theme and share a snack donated by Green BEAN Delivery! The Summer Sprouts program is a FREE summer program we are providing for youth ages 5-12. Beginning May 19 at 3pm we will open up our Village Green Community Garden gates for children to learn about growing food and nature while practicing their reading, writing and math skills. This program is intended for youth who live locally and their families are welcome to join in the fun! We are also looking for 4 middle or high school students to work as mentors. Please call Mary Dudley, Youth Education Coordinator at 513.221.0981 or email mdudley@civicgardencenter.orgfor additional details.

For more info: www.civicgardencenter.org

This photo captures the work of community volunteers cleaning up the neighborhood during the second “Trash Social” of 2014 held on March 28th. The Quality of Life Committee, one of Northside Community Council’s Safety and Livability sub-committees, will continue holding these efforts this spring and summer in Northside. Photo: Jon Hughes/photopresse

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vol. 1 | Issue 8 MAY 14’ 5

COMMUNITY NEWS

Northside Community Council Endorses Central Parkway Bikeway Project

orthside Community Council President Ollie Kroner submitted Council support to Mayor Cranley for the Central Parkway Bikeway Project – a project approved by the previous city administration but faced modification or elimination by the mayor in April. The proposed Central Parkway Bikeway Project would allow for a bicycle track along both sides of the Central Parkway from its intersection on Elm Street to Ludlow Avenue in Clifton. Chris Wetterich of the Business Courier wrote earlier in April that Mayor Cranley does not have the authority to halt or stop the project, citing Councilman Chris Seelbach – “The mayor cannot order the administration not to bid a contract that has been approved by council.” Seelbach went on to say that city officials conducted “extensive public outreach on the project before bring-

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ing the grant to council.” Mayor Cranley previously came under attack for his position on the Cincinnati Streetcar Project. Some Council members have viewed Mayor Cranley’s decision over the Bikeway project as confirmation of the mayor’s position to “run the city as an executive mayor,” Seelbach said. Despite “questions” about the project from Mayor Cranley and Council members Kevin Flynn and David Mann, Wetterich of the Courier wrote of the Central Parkway bicycle track that it would be Cincinnati’s “first protected bike lane on a major thoroughfare and a potentially transformative step toward making the streets of the urban core more bike-friendly and enabling workers to commute by bike.” Kroner echoed Wetterich in his support of the project, noting it would “help connect our communities and business districts.”

Concern over business traffic has been cited as one of the main objections to the project, despite evidence of success in cities such as New York. Nern Ostendorf, Executive Director of Cincinnati nonprofit Queen City Bike and active volunteer with MoBo in Northside, played a large role in the community outreach Seelbach cited in his comments to Wetterich of the Courier. In a private e-mail, Ostendorf said of Queen City Bike and Cincinnati DOTE that both “reached out to neighborhoods, businesses, and feedback from the cycling community since the project was first announced in 2013.” Last year, I contacted Ostendorf after a bike accident on the Central Parkway landed me in University Hospital’s Emergency Room. Cycling home from work in April of 2013, a motorist made a left hand turn into me at the intersection of Central Parkway and Marshall Avenue. I sustained minor injuries from the accident, but I did not cycle again for six months after the accident – mostly from fear of being struck by another motorist. Northsiders can get downtown by bike using Spring Grove/ Dalton, but this route is isolated, and bike lanes are car-width. According to Ostendorf, many people are interested in riding a bike – to commute to work, for pleasure, to save on gas, etc. – but don’t because “it is currently too dangerous or stressful” to do so. Ostendorf said this population in particular would benefit from the bikeway project.

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UPDATE: Following a last-minute, compromise vote at city hall on Wednesday, April 30, Mayor Cranley and members of City Council appoved the Central Bikeway Project. Additionally, council also voted to approve Cranley’s Bike Share project, which will provide bike rentals in Downtown, Over-the-Rhine and Uptown near the University of Cincinnati. People will be able to rent bicycles and return them to stations operated by Cincy Bike Share. There will be about 300 bicycles available at 35 stations. The goal is to open in August.The City will give $1.1 million to Cincy Bike Shares and $200,000 to four bike trails along Wasson Way, the Oasis Corridor, Mill Creek, and the Ohio River West Trail. For more information about the Central Parkway Bikeway Project, contact Ostendorf at Queen City Bike at nern@queencitybike.org.

BY Alisa Balestra Alisa is a Northside resident and the Director of Community and Strategic Partnerships at Public Allies Cincinnati, a leadership and professional development nonprofit. You can find Balestra running the streets of Northside, hiking in Parker Woods, biking in the Spring Grove Cemetery, or enjoying delicious vegan eats around the neighborhood.

SPOTLIGHT: FITNESS

Running in Northside

ou may have seen us . . . flushed cheeks, noses rhythmically puffing out steam, hair disheveled, looking down neurotically to check our watches. You may even have thought to yourself, “that’s crazy, especially in this weather.” But runners usually don’t let things like weather hinder goals. We know spring is coming. We have a lot of races to get ready for. And Northside is an ideal location to train. First off, Northside offers options. Not only are there several great routes in Northside proper, there are plenty of nearby routes that are less than a mile away to jog to. We’re close to the Spring Grove Cemetery, Mt. Airy Forest, Clifton, the Central Parkway, North Avondale, and College Hill (if you really want to brutalize yourself up Hamilton Ave.) Second, there are a ton of different types of courses in and around Northside. Just starting back into running? There are a lot of flat, easy routes to ease your way back into the scene. Want something challenging? There are plenty of hills you can throw into your routes. Want something in the middle? Northside has that, too! Flat Courses (and somewhat flat courses) One of my favorite flat courses

is the Greenway Trail (along Spring Grove across from the Spring Grove Cemetery). If you make a loop out of the trail, you can log about 3 miles. There are usually plenty of people around, and I always see tons of wildlife. Blue herons, turtles, butterflies, geese, and lizards can usually be spotted when spending time on this trail. Additionally, there are beautiful plants and art pieces to see. The best part? No traffic! And if you like to rollerblade as a way to cross train, this is the place. My other most liked route in Northside is one that I have dubbed “the Spring Lawn route.” Depending on where you start, this is about a 4-5 mile out-and-back run. This route takes you up Spring Lawn Avenue where you have a nice little hill challenge midway through your run. The best part is that when you reach the top, you get to turn around and go down the hill! For this route, start by going east on Chase or Pullan. Turn left onto Dane and at the end of Dane cross over onto Crawford and head north. Turn left onto Spring Lawn, and turn around when you hit Hamilton. Hills, Hills, and, more Hills You can easily avoid hills if you want in Northside, but if you are up for the challenge, there are plenty of hill challenges to tackle.

(Left) Stairs on Innes near Glen Parker. (Center) Parker Woods Montessori staircase on Beech Hill. (Above) One of the steepest hills in Northside, Frederick Ave. Photos: Kelly Walsh

I think the steepest hill in Northside has to be Frederick Avenue (off of Hamilton, near the Comet). Trust me, this hill is not for the faint of heart! But if you really want to hear your quads scream, throw this hill into a run, or even better, use it for hill repeats. My favorite (and by favorite, I really mean loathed) hill-filled run in Northside is a 5-ish mile loop that takes you into Clifton. As you know, there are two direct ways to get to Clifton from Northside: across the bridge and up Ludlow or down Spring Grove and right up Clifton Avenue. So here is what you’re looking at: (1) A nearly 1-mile slow and steady climb up Ludlow with a few relief points. Turn left onto Clifton and make your way down to Spring Grove, or (2) A psychologically damaging six tenths (approximately) of a mile climb up Clifton Avenue. Make a right turn onto Ludlow and head back down to Northside. Though this hill is the shorter of the two on the loop, it plays tricks with your mind. You think you are at the top or somewhat close and your lungs are on fire, but the road turns, and all you see is the hill ahead of you get steeper. Regardless of which way you go on this loop, you feel pretty accomplished when finished. Just keep your

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knees in mind on the downhill! Stairways Going up steps is another way to get your quads fired up, and there are two outdoor staircases that I can think of in Northside. The first is on Innes near Glen Parker. If you’re into medieval self-torture you can head up Frederick after climbing the ~30 steps. The second and larger staircase is at Parker Woods Montessori on Beech Hill. There are a few options here, but you have a good 50 steps, if not more, to make your way up. Trails I’m not a big trail runner, but there are plenty of those in Northside, too. I’ve made my way up Buttercup Valley preserve on the concrete path and through the trails leading out to Crawford. There is also Parker Woods, right next to Buttercup Valley, as well as Badgley Run near Virginia and Martha. Check out the Northside Greenspace website for locations and mapped out trails: www.northsidegreenspace.org. Whatever routes you end up doing be safe, stay visible, and happy running!

BY Kelly walsh vol. 1 | Issue 8 MAY 14’ 7

SPOTLIGHT: PHILANTHROPY

Pay It Forward Northside Philanthropist Supports the Arts Via Scooter Raffle Event

(Above) The custompainted scooter currently sits in Elementz front window. (Right) Fred’s children, Abby and Joeysit on the scooter at Happen Inc. Photos: Fred Neurohr.

ast December, Elementz volunteer board member Fred Neurohr attended Happen Inc.’s New Year’s Eve fundraiser. Neurohr, a Northsider and Secretary on Northside Community Council, started 2014 on the right foot by winning the raffle’s grand prize, a Genuine Buddy 125 scooter, which had been donated by Metro Scooter and the Mighty Ohio Scooter Club. “The scooter itself features a custom paint job,” explains Neurohr. “Kids at Happen created art specifically for the scooter, and artists recreated their work directly onto the scooter itself.”

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The scooter is truly one of a kind, for more reasons than one, and his kids were really looking forward to going for rides around the neighborhood. After a family meeting Neurohr and his wife decided keeping the scooter for themselves would be impractical, and a new scooter raffle was conceived. “My children hate this decision,” admits Neurohr, “because they don’t get to ride this unique creation.” This time, the fundraiser will support one of Neurohr’s personal passions, Elementz. Elementz proudly describes itself as an urban oasis of hope and a catalyst of change for Cincinnati’s inner-city youth. Founded as a way to get kids off the streets in 2001, Elementz has since transformed into a thriving arts center that encourages urban youths to follow their dreams and aspirations. They host classes and programs that include music production, turntablism, and more. On Sunday, June 1, the custom painted Buddy scooter will be re raffled as part of Elementz’s Hip Art event, where thousands of raffle ticket holders are expected to attend. The event will take place from 6PM to 8PM at Washington Park, and the funds raised will be split “50/50”

between Elementz’s Studio Kre8v (pronounced “creative”) and “Art in the Market” programs. Elementz’s Studio Kre8v class boasts some of Cincinnati’s most talented youths. The program specializes in hiphop dance, but also focuses on building social skills, too. “Members of Studio Kre8v want to compete in an international dance competition in Las Vegas,” claims Neurohr. Thanks to him, these young dancers might get their wish. Meanwhile, the “Art in the Market” program is a cooperative effort involving University of Cincinnati’s prominent D.A.A.P. program, where teenagers take art classes specializing in graphic design, graffiti, and more. “Art in the Market” takes place every Wednesday from 4pm to 6pm. Elementz has already begun selling raffle tickets, both paper and online. Publicity for the event will be fortified by the “The Spirit of Tafari,” Elementz’s debut documentary which will premier at Cincinnati’s historic Esquire Theatre on Wednesday, May

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7. Under the direction of Elementz Creative Director Abdullah Powell, “The Spirit of Tafari” tells the story of a young man who wandered into Elementz three years ago, a decision that changed the direction of his life. HighTafari McDade, looking to put his rough childhood behind him, used music to find his own identity. The film bears witness to the positive influences of those who gave him a helping hand, including holocaust survivor Werner Coppel. Werner came to Elementz for several weeks last summer to learn filmmaking, and developed a friendship with Tafari during the course of the making of the documentary. For more information about Elementz and their Hip Art event, visit their official website at www.elementz.org.

BY nick mitchell Nick is a touring musician and the co-founder of Grasshopper Juice Records. He and his wife moved to Northside two years ago in appreciation of its alternative culture.

ast month’s article focused on the gem that Wesleyan Cemetery really is for our community – not only a beautiful space but rich in history. The more people realized the historical significance of Wesleyan Cemetery, the more local residents wanted to preserve that history, but their efforts were almost thwarted. The Veterans Administration (VA) had, for over a century, strived to mark the graves of those veterans in unmarked graves. In 2009, the VA enacted a change in policy for marker applications, and when it actively began enforcing it in 2012, nearly shut down its marker program. By redefining “applicant,” only direct descendants, rather than historians, cemeteries, museums, veterans associations, and concerned researchers, could apply for a marker. For those veterans who died many years ago, who are the direct descendants and how do you find them? In Wesleyan Cemetery’s case, there were six African American Civil War Veterans who were buried without markers. Because the VA’s policy of “direct descendants” was not widely known, many organizations, including the City of Cincinnati, tried to apply for these , but to no avail. There were no next of kin to be found. What made it even more frustrating was that the VA would supply the markers for free. Even the installation (not covered by the VA) was donated by the 1st District Free and Accepted Masons and Prince Hall Lodge Masons. All that was needed were the descendants!

Wesleyan Cemetery, Part II

SPOTLIGHT: HISTORY

soldiers: Taylor Bowen and Hanry Clay. A subsequent article written by Cindy Schroder of the Cincinnati Enquirer in July, 2013, detailing the situation, moved Jack Loos of Schott Monument to generously donate the other 4 markers. Finally, those that served would be honored! A final note about one of the men the VA denied a marker…John Yates. He enlisted at age 13 as a private to Camp Nelson Kentucky, where many escaped slaves enlisted. John used his father’s name of Yates and his mother’s name of Maupin for enlistment papers. It is believed he was an escaped slave from the Madison County, Kentucky area as the Genealogy Department has traced most YatesMaupins migrating to Cincinnati from two plantations in this area. From the ravages of Photo: Jon Hughes/photopresse slavery to the ravages of war, John Yates is just Many organizations encountered one example of the dedisimilar problems with the new VA polcation of so many soldiers who gave icy. US Senators even got in the act, their lives for this country. contacting the VA and advising them So the next time you pass Westhat this requirement was hardly a leyan Cemetery, think of John, of proper way to honor those who gave Taylor, of Hanry, and the hundred their lives for this country. Some of of others like them. We live freely these soldiers had been dead for today because of them. over 100 years! How likely was it to find next of kin in that situation? After six months of research, with BY MARTHA DOURSON the help of the Geneological DeMartha Dourson is the previous community partment at the Cincinnati/Hamilton council president, and ironically, was able Public Library and Dr. John Bryant of to purchase her house on Kirby at a sheriff’s the National Underground Railroad sale due to a previous Wesleyan Trustee ‘s Freedom Center, two direct descenmortgage troubles. dants were found for two of the six life & culture 45223

vol. 1 | Issue 8 MAY 14’ 9

FEATURE: MUSIC FESTIVAL

Catapult Music Festival Launches Hip Hop Out of the Golden Era and Into the Future Northside Music Event to Feature Post-Rap and Hip Hop-Influenced Future Electronic Artists in Effecting a Paradigm Shift

(Left) Catapult Music Festival 2014. Designed and submitted by Andrew Doench. (Above) Catapult’s cohosts Abiyah and Juan Cosby strike a pose in front of Object, Northside’s newest retro furniture store. Wall painting by Spencer Van Der Zee. Photo: Andrew Doench.

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comey.com 10 vol. 1 | Issue 8 MAY 14’

ocal progressive hip hop/cross genre veteran Abiyah and Grasshopper Juice Records helmsman/electronic artist Nick Mitchell (who performs under the moniker Juan Cosby) recently announced their inaugural Catapult Music Festival, a free one d ay postrap and electronica influenced music event to be held in Cincinnati’s eclectic Northside neighborhood on Saturday, May 3, 2014. Catapult will be held concurrently from 9pm until 2am at Northside Tavern (front room and back room) and Chameleon, both on Hamilton Avenue, in the Northside Entertainment District. The event will also feature a DJ happy hour at The Listing Loon from 5pm to 8pm that day. “We created Catapult out of a desire to move minds out of the ‘taking it back to that hip hop’ mode

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of thought into what hip hop is currently experiencing, both musically and sonically, as it matures,” explains Abiyah. “Much like how postpunk artists were influenced by the sounds and statements of punk and forged new approaches in a postpunk era, so it is now occurring with what was considered underground hip hop. Beats are increasingly electronic in nature, with many artists replacing traditional DJs with SP404 samplers, while many underground hip hop legends are veering off into new genre territory. Part of our mission with the Catapult Music Festival is to shift hip hop into a new paradigm where crossgenre songs are not only welcome but encouraged.” Headlining the festival will be forwardthinking New York City continued next page

FEATURE: MUSIC FESTIVAL continued

based musical artists louis logic and Tonedeff. They will be supported at Northside Tavern by a slew of Cincinnati’s likeminded adventurous musicians, including Abiyah, Counterfeit Money Machine, Eugenius, Juan Cosby, Sudan Moon, Talk Mouth, Mr. Pointy, livmartez, Anonymous The Author, and BRad From The Breeze. “Both Tonedeff and louis logic have been firmly rooted in the national underground hip hop scene for the last 10 to 15 years,” endorses Abiyah. “They are a true representation of what Hip Hop is capable of, if set free from the confines of stereotypes and cliches. Meanwhile, Chameleon will boast a lineup of several future-electronic/ soul/experimental musicians, including Blackey Portland, Lysurgix, Supa, Aytiko, and Elysium, as well as additional members of Cincinnati’s electronic music and fine arts collective known as Cinthesizer. Cinthesizer is a collective of Cincinnati-based instrumental beat producers and visual artists. From projection mapping to live electronic jazz improvisation, Cinthesizer explores a wide range of artistic mediums while sticking to their niche beat sounds. Constantly creating content, this beat cartel has made big waves since its debut in August of 2013, and is fueled by a weekly Tuesday residency at Chameleon. Abiyah and Juan Cosby promise that this event has yet to hit its full potential, as the duo plans to broaden their venue and artistbase extensively for next year’s Catapult Music Festival. “As the Northside Entertainment District continues to grow and develop in subsequent years, so will the festival,” promises Abiyah. “We intend to grow and expand as much as the postrap world and the artist who live in it will allow us.”

BY nick mitchell Nick is a touring musician and the co-founder of Grasshopper Juice Records. He and his wife moved to Northside two years ago in appreciation of its alternative culture.

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vol. 1 | Issue 8 MAY 14’ 11

SPOTLIGHT: COMMUNITY BUILDING

Northside Citizens on Patrol: Neighbors Helping Neighbors

the Lingo parking lot and Pope Alley. Other members examined the graffiti-defaced garages in the alley and took photos to send to the graffiti abatement police officer. When the patrollers reached the Children’s Park, they saw a huge gathering of teens, children, and families. Although the majority of people seemed to be engaged in harmless activity, COPP members observed and later reported some questionable activity. As the Citizens on Patrol moved up Fergus, they picked up more trash and spoke with the teens and children. They continued around the neighborhood on a two-hour walk. After the patrol, a report was COPP members Barry, Sue, and Karen walk on Langland filed with the Cincinnati Street distributing Crime Prevention information cards. Police department. Photo: Jon Hughes/photopresse But there’s more to it t was April 1st and a warm spring than just cleaning up and evening greeted the blue-shirtconversing. Many members want to ed Northside Citizens on Patrol help their neighbors not only out of (COPP) members as they went out concern but also due to a need to on foot touring the neighborhood. help others after personally experiYou might ask why would people encing crime. spend such a pleasant evening out “I got mugged a few years picking up trash, observing activity, ago,” said Barry. “I made the deciand speaking with strangers? sion then to participate in COPP as “We’re building community,” much as possible instead of fleeing said Laura. “We’re getting to know the neighborhood.” our neighbors – just talking to He had just moved to Northside people and finding out what their six months prior to the mugging. concerns are.” “The Citizen Patrol program is She added that “most people designed to provide a means for appreciate seeing COPP members citizens to organize into patroller walking around in the neighborgroups for the purpose of reducing hood and feel like they’re vested crime in the Northside community,” in the community and care about said District 5 Police Officer Melissa Northside.” Cummins. “Citizens on Patrol are the On this evening, several of the additional eyes and ears the police COPP patrollers picked up trash in can count on to make Northside a

12 vol. 1 | Issue 8 MAY 14’

Kelly Gregg stops to thank Citizens on Patrol members, Barry and Karen. Photo: Jon Hughes/photopresse

safe place to live and work.” District 5 Captain Paul W. Neudigate added that “the Citizens on Patrol are an absolutely invaluable asset to the district. We have reduced resources and personnel. We rely on COPP even more now. I encourage everybody to become a COPP. It provides you an insight into the workings of the police department and it’s absolutely safe - we would never ask anyone to put themselves at risk.” Neudigate said that it’s great to have vested volunteers to assist the police. “The community has to take ownership, take on quality of life issues, and moderate the behavior in their own community. COPP does a great job taking quality of life issues off of our plate so we can concentrate on the crime prevention.” Other activities performed by the Northside COPP include reporting problems such as high weeds at an abandoned house or a broken street sign to the city’s online customer service request webpage, passing out Crime Prevention Tips cards at residences, assisting with community events such as the Happen Easter Egg Hunt, and cleaning off graffiti

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from public property. Members also personally benefit from volunteering to walk the neighborhood. “It’s exercise,” said Cindy. “And we get to see things, such as the architecture, which you don’t see when you’re driving.” In addition to experiencing people waving and shouting, “Thank you,” COPP members get to wear blue uniform components, attend training, and enjoy the annual awards banquet. Training has included F.A.T.S – FireArms Training Simulator at the Police Academy. If you’d like more information, including when the next training is scheduled, please contact the Citizens on Patrol by emailing northsidecopp@ gmail.com.

BY KAREN ANDREW Karen, a former staff writer and calendar editor at The Cincinnati Enquirer, likes to write, walk, garden, and volunteer. Her memberships include the Northside Writing Group, Citizens on Patrol, Greenspace, and Northside Community Council.

COLUMN: HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Stressed? Could it be a good thing?

here’s lots of talk and concern about stress. Sometimes we act as if stress were an affliction of this generation (that is, of your generation). Cognitively, we know that’s not true. Stress has always been around. We have been hard wired for stress. And it’s served us well. We learned to be stressed every time we smell a saber-toothed tiger or heard a snake. Stress saved our lives. We learned when to run, to fight and to freeze. But more than simply saving our lives, stress has been a major motivator and catalyst for innovation. We invented stuff to get us some relief from the stress of the unacceptable current situation. A little stress is a good thing, whether it’s emotional stress or physical stress. For example, the right kind of compressive stress can contribute to increased bone density. Stress becomes problematic only when it is too intense or when it is experienced over long periods of time. Our bodies were designed

to enter into the fight-fightfreeze mode automatically when danger presents itself, and to leave that mode when danger passed, usually in a few minutes or hours (as in the case of severe weather). Unfortunately, as our social systems became more complex, we learned how to remain under stress for extended periods of time. Initially, we only worried about having enough food for today; but now we worry about having food 20 and 30 years from now. The result is that the stress hormones circulate in our system to the extent that it impacts our health, our sleep patterns and social relationships. So, what are we to do? The good news is there are many things we can do to reduce the levels of stress hormones coursing through our systems. Physical activities such as Tai Chi, rigorous exercise, meditation, and the like can lower stress hormone levels. But stress can also be decreased by examining it. That is, ask yourself, “Is the source of stress internal (comes from me) or external (pressure from others)?” “Is the threat actual or potential?” “Imminent or distant?” “How does the stress present itself to me: In pictures or in words?” What happens when you make the picture small and dim or turn the

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volume down and move it across the room? What does it feel like to imagine stepping six months into the future when this issue is completely behind you? As you “step out of” the stress to examine it, the stress level automatically decreases. Taking three to five minutes to perform one or more of these activities three to four times a day can lower stress hormone levels, and over time will keep them low. People who are stressed are seldom as resourceful as they can be. That in itself creates more stress, which decreases resourcefulness. It becomes a self-perpetuating down-

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Larry R. Wells, M.Div, MSW is a partner in Future Life Now and Master Practitioner in Neuro-Linguistic Programming. He has also trained extensively in the Sounder Sleep System® approach to insomnia and stress. www.futurelifenow.com 513-541-5720

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vol. 1 | Issue 8 MAY 14’ 13

COLUMN: PARENTING

The Benefits of Parent/Child Enrichment Classes

t is important for kids to get involved in activities outside of home and preschool because it allows them the opportunity to meet and engage with new children and adults. Interacting with a variety of children can expand their social circles and enhance their social skills, and interacting with other adults can also help to provide new role models in social and communication skills for them. Seeing how different adults interact with each other and with them, as well as seeing how adults react to different situations, can help children learn more about appropriate behaviors and responses they might use. When a family participates in a special activity together, it can strengthen the bonds between them through sharing the experience together. It can support communication skills and interaction as it provides another topic for conversation together, and can promote increased time together outside of the activity depending on what is involved (for example: choosing to read a book together about something learned in a class, or going to an art museum to see and discuss art similar to that done in an art class). Participating in the activity together shows the child that the parent cares about them and what they are doing enough to do it with them, and supports and bolsters the

child’s confidence and emotional development. It can also provide indirect teaching opportunities by allowing the child to see how their parent engages and interacts in new situations or with new people. As a parent, you have the chance to potentially learn about new things your child is interested in, or new things that they can do, and also possibly take away ideas for additional exploration or activities to expand on further. And having a scheduled class or activity to do together can help enforce the concept of ‘together time’ as it is on the schedule (and probably outside of the home), whereas wanting to do something together in the home can sometimes easily be interrupted by any number of distractions (chores, dishes, homework, cell phones, email, etc...). If you are seeking out a new and fun activity, good for you! My advice would be to not be deterred or intimidated by an activity that you are less familiar with. Just because you have never played an instrument and do not feel you are very good at music, for example, does not mean that you can’t have fun exploring and playing music together with your child! As a parent, you might end up liking engaging in music, or art, or whatever the new activity is - and it is great for your child to see you exploring something new too! Not

only can they see how you approach something new, but they can also see that it is never too late to try new things. There are so many possibilities - learn about other cultures, explore the world and environments around you, engage in volunteer opportunities together, take a class to learn new things... and have fun doing it all! Our classes at the Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center focus on the development of the whole child. We believe in a multi-sensory approach to enhance the early development of the child’s brain. Since 85% of brain development occurs within the first three years of life, it is imperative to stimulate infants’ and toddlers’ minds through a variety of creative means. Classes are designed to encourage cognitive, language and motor skills by addressing the visual, auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic needs of the developing child. As an added bonus, all of our classes occur in a fun-filled play oriented environment that encourages parent/child interaction. For more info, visit the Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center’s website at www.theplaceforfamilies.com.

BY Jennifer Ortiz, MT-BC Board-Certified Music Therapist Teacher, Signing Safari and CFEC

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yogaahstudio@gmail.com 4138 Hamilton Ave. Cincinnati OH 45223 14 vol. 1 | Issue 8 MAY 14’

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WE, TOO, ARE HUMAN: THE CANCER PATIENT

“

( One who is afraid should not go into the woods. But we are all in the woods. Everyone is in a different way and a different place.) There’s only one thing certain. That is one’s own inadequacy. One must start from that.” -G. Janouch (2012). Conversations with Kafka. New Directions.

“

The quest for certainty is a quest for a peace which is assured, an object which is unqualified by risk and the shadow of fear which action casts.” -J. Dewey (1929). The quest for certainty. Capricorn.

n amazing transition in thinking and action occurs when a doctor informs a person that they may have cancer. Suddenly, giant fears appear, represented in questions, important confusions about both the kind and depth of the illness and the chances for removal, and the future life chances. Recently, a family member heard that they may have cancer. I wanted to help in the decisions and I kept an outline of my thoughts and feelings. I observed my own behavior as I went through predictable stages of uncertainty, phases that have not gone away but have changed as we selected physicians, hospitals, treatments, and went through recovery from surgery. The more we walked into each question,

the more we realized that a kind of uncertainty would accompany each decision. Why is this the case? Cancer is widespread in America. (“This year, more than 1.6 million Americans — 0.5 percent of the population — will receive a diagnosis of cancer.” E. Emanuel (3/23/13). “A plan to fix cancer care.” N.Y. Times.) Television commercials sing the praises of hospital networks that offer “care” and imply better “treatment.” The Internet, always a ready source of information, offers reports too general on various doctors, and medical procedures. Family and friends offer advice on their own personal experience or what they have heard from their friends, often information that is confusing and contradictory. Personal physicians who are not cancer specialists offer referrals without any assurance that physician is the “right” Schaeper’s Pharmacy… the one. National and local news magazines “rate” doctors Serving the Families of Northside and hospitals with rankings of For Over 28 Years! “best” without indicating the basis for their decisions. All Your Headquarters for Flu Shots & the while, the cancer patient Medicare Part D Plan Selection and their support system are reduced to facing a life and Assistance! death decision that has more confusion, more doubt, and Call or Stop By Today! more fear. What seemed obviously missing was a system that helped the patient and their support system find the “best” and least risky choices.

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Couldn’t the health profession in the 21st century, in these kinds of dangerous diseases, find a better way than word of mouth? Two processes would change this ongoing reality: First, the medical profession needs to rank doctors in terms of success with certain procedures. Any patient seeking help needs to know if the doctor is qualified by experience with the form of cancer, and with a high level of success. We faced experienced surgeons who could only tell us that their procedures would likely be successful but we could not find medical research and physician statements that confirmed their skills or success. The reality that such a thorough grading system does not exist suggests that the medical profession does not want to have a level of transparency that holds the physician or the treatment opinion accountable. The public, especially the cancer patient, needs to be educated to the risks of both procedures and physicians if sound decisions are to be made and some amount of uncertainty reduced. Each doctor, hospital, and/or health insurance company could provide a checklist of critical factors to be used in the decision making, each factor connected to a risk. We really needed such information early and throughout the process. None exists. Secondly, in the absence of such a review of competence in methods of practice and physicians, the patient and their support system need an opportunity to express their fears in a safe way and with the expectation of kindness and compassionate listening. Fear can heighten the feelings of helplessness. Physician interactions with the cancer patient can deepen this fear. The fears may be about asking about the way the diagnosis was made, and/or the treatment options, and/or the likelihood of recovery, and/or the long term prospects for full the return of the cancer. Fears haunt each question and are not ever fully removed as the treatment advances. Recognizing

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OPINION: MEDICAL JUSTICE that the cancer patient is a person that is engulfed in different experiences of fear, so much fear that what doctors and nurses say may be totally and/or partially missed, calls out for a more compassionate relationship with all aspects of the treatment process. We enormously benefited from a two hour discussion with one surgeon who took seriously our concerns about his unusual treatment option. We came somewhat prepared to understand the dangers; his willingness to be clear about the uncertainty of this option was a giant step in helping to make a decision. Another surgeon carefully showed us a CAT scan and explained the mysteries in understandable English. A third surgeon and his staff were unprepared for an in depth discussion and only frustrated our capacity to choose. Considering what was at stake, we needed an advocate that would help us decode the doctor’s statements. No one was made available. The cancer patient has a capacity for learning, choosing, and living with uncertainty. This ability will only increase when physicians and nurses emphasize compassionate and real communication. And, when the health system joins the caring discussion with a realistic assessment of procedures, surgeon competence and experience, and risk factors. Slick commercials, fancy and expensive operating techniques without evidence, and too short meetings combine to dehumanize the cancer patient and their support system. The cancer patient must remind the health care system: “We, too, are human.”

BY Steve Sunderland sundersc@ucmail.uc.edu Steve is a founder of the Peace Village and a professor of peace and educational studies at the University of Cincinnati. He has been a Northsider for over 10 years. vol. 1 | Issue 8 MAY 14’ 15

ART: YOUTH

Happen Northside: Happen’s Kid Film Critics

Reviews of “Tales of the Night ” “ I like this one. A girl turned into a crow and was saved by her love.” -Gwen “It has some violence, but it is really good. I would give it five out five stars.” -Oscar “I think it really shows how life is the most important thing in the world.” -Maxwell “I liked the movie. My favorite story was about the land of the dead. The music was good. There was a couple boring parts, but overall the movie was still good. I give the movie three out of five stars.” -Henry

he world is a place full of wonder and mystery and who’s more gloriously aware of that potential than a child with an active and engaged imagination. I’m not talking about contemporary kids raised in this technological age who have been swiping iDevices and activating/ accessing fragmented information without truly integrating the random accessed pieces into their lives and experiences. No, I’m focusing here on children like the protagonists in director Michel Ocelot’s Tales of

the Night, an animated tale set in a world where six global fables play out against intricately detailed backdrops where silhouetted characters come to life, thanks a wise mentor and his two young charges. Happen’s Kids Critics let you know whether Ocelot makes the oldest technology – human imagination – new again. - TT Stern-Enzi, Cincinnati Film Critic Each month, Happen’s Kid Film Critics received their own official Happen film critic packet and a press badge.

ART IN ACTION|NORTHSIDE RESIDENTS CAUGHT ART HANDED

In April, students from Gamble Montessori worked on painting murals on the planters in the Reading Garden at the Main Library, as part of a community service project. (Left) Gamble Montessori student Ezra Cline, of Northside, paints a mural on a planter. (Right) Teacher Justin Broyles, of Northside, lends a helping hand during the mural-painting project Photos were submitted by Lisa Mauch, Public Library of Cincinnati. 16 vol. 1 | Issue 8 MAY 14’

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TT Stern-Enzi, Cincinnati film critic, provided insight about the film and guided the children as they wrote this month’s film reviews. Read the reviews, and be sure to watch Tales of the Night. Art activities for parents & children 4201 Hamilton Ave (& Chase) HOURS: 3:30 - 7:30PM (Tue.-Thu.) & 10am - 5PM (Sat.) www.happeninc.org (513)751-2345

BY TOMMY RUEFF Happen, Inc.’s founder and Executive Director

education: YOUTH

Enter Stage Write

Bringing Students’ Writing to Life

ords, music, writing and performance come together for one night only when WordPlay presents Enter Stage Write, a new collaboration with The Requiem Project featuring teens from Aiken High School on May 10 at Hoffner Lodge. The evening celebration of stories, called “What I Am,” culminates nine weeks of workshops in both writing and performing. The project has included professionals from across the region who have acted as teachers and guides for the students. “The goal was simple: help these young people, many of whom we have been working with for nearly two years as part of our WordUp program, showcase their talents and their stories,” says Libby Hunter, WordPlay executive director. Students in the WordUP program have met weekly since fall 2012 to focus on building community and self-confidence as they receive help with schoolwork. Throughout the course of the 2012-2013 school year, two students earned a spot on the honor roll for the first time ever; all students in the program passed onto the next grade level. Adding Enter Stage Write this spring proved a powerful way to expose a growing community of students, and community artists, to new worlds of opportunities. What grew out of an idea to create a stage for students who had experienced homelessness has evolved into a powerful performance piece that puts the trials and tribulations of Cincinnati high school life into perspective. Master writing teachers included former Northsider and Thomas More College writer-in-residence Pauletta Hansel, former CCM Drama professor Michael Burnham, Dr. Kathy Zlabeck of UC’s Creative Writing program, spoken word artist Desirae Hosley and Aiken alum, UC student

Students and volunteers work together on “What I Am” at Hoffner Lodge Photo: Stephen Metz

and poet Lauren Lovette. Requiem Project co-founders Tara Lindsey Gordon and Tina Manchise not only added support for the writing sessions of the project, they managed the transition of the students’ work to the stage, with support from performance volunteers Brian Griffin, Mark Flanigan and musician and composer Daniel Martin Moore. “The students worked so hard to make this real,” Manchise says. “Most of them have never been in a play, much less shared their personal stories publicly. We couldn’t be more proud of their work.” Hunter adds that numerous additional dedicated volunteers have worked one-on-one with students weekly to prepare them for May 10. “Our volunteers do so much every day to create a safe and nurturing environment for these amazing young people,” she says. “We can’t wait to share their work with the public.”

“What I Am,” a performance of Enter Stage Write, will be performed Saturday, May 10, at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6 pm) at Hoffner Lodge, 4120 Hamilton Avenue. Tickets are FREE, but you must RSVP to info@wordplaycincy.org by Friday, May 9, to assure adequate seating is available. WordPlay thanks our generous sponsors Maggie and Karl Gieseke and Family, The Manuel D. and Rhoda Mayerson Family Foundation, Charitable Words Scholars, Dojo Gelato and WCPO for making this program possible. For more info: Visit: wordplaycincy.org Call 513-260-8129 or email info@ wordplaycincy.org

BY Elissa Yancey Yancey is a WordPlay co-founder, board chair and director of WordPlay programming with Aiken High School.

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vol. 1 | Issue 8 MAY 14’ 17

NORTHSIDE SCENE

events calendar – may

FIND OUT WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND NORTHSIDE THIS MONTH. Every Tuesday – Cinthesizer Live Podcast @ Every Wednesday – Hump Day Karaoke @ LAST Thursday – Folk & Fiction @ The ONGOING EVENTS: First Monday – Northside Business

Association Monthly Meeting @ Happen, Inc. (6PM) The Northside Business Association is a resource for all Northside Businesses and works to continually improve the neighborhood. 4201 Hamilton Avenue. For more information, call 513-541-4745 or email: bdemske@ella.net.

Third Monday (Fourth Monday January

and February) – Northside Community Council Monthly Meeting @ McKie Rec Center (7PM) Get involved with issues that directly affect our community! The NCC is a volunteer, community-based organization that provides an opportunity for all individuals in the community to participate in Northside’s present and to chart Northside’s future. McKie Center, 1655 Chase Avenue.

Every other Monday – The Qtet @

Northside Tavern (9PM) The Qtet plays every other Monday. Influences range from Miles Davis to Van Halen. Front room. Cost: Free. 4163 Hamilton Ave.

Every other Monday – Northside Jazz Ensemble @ Northside Tavern (9PM) From Funk, Reggae and Soul to Rock, Free Jazz, Blues and straight-ahead Jazz and back again, this tight four-piece puts familiar tunes in a brand new bag. Front room. Cost: Free. 4163 Hamilton Ave. Every Monday – Trivia w/ Josh Justice @

Chameleon, 4114 Hamilton Ave. (8pm) Free. www.thechameleonclub.com

Every Monday – Adult Pictionary w/ Steven

Walls (Vampire Weekend at Bernie’s) @ Chameleon, 4114 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Free. Game Show/Comedy www.thechameleonclub.com

Every Monday – Bomb’s Away Comedy

Open Mic @ Mayday (8PM) Cost: Free. 4227 Spring Grove Ave.

Every Tuesday – Teen Crafts @ Northside

Branch of the Cincinnati Public Library (3PM) 4219 Hamilton Ave. For information, call 513-369-4449 or email Sarah. Schellenger@cincinnatilibrary.org.

Every Tuesday – Zumba @ McKie Center (6PM) 1655 Chase Avenue. ”If you are perfect don’t come”- you’ll ruin our demographic. 18 vol. 1 | Issue 8 MAY 14’

Chameleon, 4114 Hamilton Ave. (7pm) Free. Electronic. www.thechameleonclub.com

Chameleon, 4114 Hamilton Ave. (8pm) Free. Karaoke. www.thechameleonclub.com

Every Tuesday – Twerk-It Tuesday w/ Juan Cosby @ Chameleon, 4114 Hamilton Ave. (10pm) Free. Live Music Videos. www.thechameleonclub.com

Every Wednesday – Sexy Time Live Band Karaoke @ Northside Tavern (9PM) Live band karaoke. Back room. Cost: Free. 4163 Hamilton Ave. www.sexytimekaraoke.com

Every Tuesday – Trivia Tuesday @ Mayday (8PM) Trivia every Tuesday, with prizes and specials. Cost: Free. 4227 Spring Grove Ave.

Third Wednesday – Learning Lab Gathering

Every Tuesday – CoOp Night @ Mobo

Bicycle CoOp (6PM) 1415 Knowlton Avenue. For information mobobicyclecoop.org or mobobicyclecoop@gmail.com

Second Tuesday– Square Dance @ Northside Tavern, 4163 Hamilton Ave. (8-10pm) All dances taught. Live music by the Northside Volunteers. Beer on tap. Suggested donation $5-10 to caller. It’s hip, it’s what’s happening. Each month features a different local / regional caller and live old-time music and dance. Historic tavern, resonate wooden floor for dancers, small stage for all-volunteer band. May 13 – Frank Jenkins, Berea KY June 17 – T Claw, Boulder CO July 8 – Russ Childers & Friends

First wednesday– The Chris Comer Trio @ The Listing Loon 4124 Hamilton Ave. (8PM) A piano based jazz trio. Cost: Free. More info: www.ChrisComerTrio.com Every Wednesday – Open Shop @ Mobo Bicycle CoOp (6PM) 1415 Knowlton Avenue. For information mobobicyclecoop. org or mobobicyclecoop@gmail.com Every Wednesday – Kreative Kids @

Northside Branch of the Cincinnati Public Library (3PM) For information call 513369-4449 or email Sarah.Schellenger@ cincinnatilibrary.org.

Every Wednesday – Northside Farmers Market @ North Presbyterian Church auditorium (4-7PM) The NFM is a twelvemonth market that brings tri-state farmers to the city of Cincinnati to sell their produce, meat, eggs, crafts and fruit. Mid-Oct to Mid April months the NFM lives in the North Presbyterian Church Auditorium. NFM prides itself on bringing fresh and locally produced food to the vibrant community of Northside.

hosted by Starfire @ McKie Center (6PM) 1655 Chase Avenue. Citizens are gathering every month to meet-up over community building and inclusion. The gatherings are a springboard for people’s ideas around community related projects, as well as opportunities to learn from local citizens. Hosted by Starfire, free, and open to all. Each gathering begins with a potluck. For information Sarah@starfirecouncil.org

Thursdays (through May 31) –– Silent Sittings and Guided Meditations @ Clifton Cultural Arts Center, 43711 Clifton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220 (7:30-8:15pm ) Silent Sitting is about relaxing the mind in a relaxing atmosphere. Participants do not have to know anything at all about meditation. These are drop-in classes. Feel free to come to any or all of them. More info: Zarleen@ThisLovelife.com | Web: This-LovelyLife.com Every Thursday – Preschool Story Time @ Northside Branch of the Cincinnati Public Library (1PM) For information call 513369-4449 or email Sarah.Schellenger@ cincinnatilibrary.org. Every Thursday – Slow and Steady Bike Ride @ Leaves from Hoffner Park 4104 Hamilton Avenue (7:30PM) Cost: Free. Join this welcoming and easy bike ride. Every Thursday – Karaoke with Bree @ Boswell’s, 1686 Blue Rock. (8pm) Free. Great food, great drinks, great karaoke! www.facebook.com/hotwheelsentertainment

Listing Loon 4124 Hamilton Ave. (6-11PM) Reading and musical performances. Cost: Free. More info: facebook.com/folkandfiction

final friday – cartRAGE (chip-tunes) @ The Chameleon Club, 4114 Hamilton Ave. (9PM) Free. Electronic / Chiptunes. www. thechameleonclub.com Every SATURDAY – Zumba @ McKie

Center (12PM) 1655 Chase Avenue. ”If you are perfect don’t come”- you’ll ruin our demographic.

Every Saturday-International Folk Dancing

@ Twin Towers’ Hader Room (8-10:30 PM). Line and circle dances from Eastern Europe/Middle East. No partners necessary, no experience necessary. Teaching available 8-9 PM. For information, call 541-6306 or e-mail kspencer1@zoomtown.com. Cost: $5. 5343 Hamilton Ave.

Every Second Saturday – Northside Second Saturdays (6-10PM) Come see art, shop, imbibe and eat in one of Cincinnati’s most creative and diverse neighborhoods. Featuring new art openings, later hours, bar drink specials, interactive events and promotions that vary monthly with participating businesses. Every Second Saturday – Hook & Ladder (Vinyl Night) w/ Margaret Darling (The Seedy Seeds, Devout Wax) @ Chameleon 4114 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Free. Vinyl / Variety. www.thechameleonclub.com Every Second Saturday – Basement Reggae w/ Abiyah & Grover @ The Comet, 4579 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Free. Reggae. www. cometbar.com first sundays– Bulletville @ Northside Tavern, 4163 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Live music. Front room. Free. www.northsidetav.com

Every first & third Thursday – Comma

third sundays– DJ Harv @ Northside Tavern, 4163 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Front room. Free. www.northsidetav.com

Every SECOND THURSDAY – Let Me Put My

Last sundays– The Tillers @ Northside Tavern, 4163 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Live music. Front room. Free. www.northsidetav.com

Comma Chameleon (Comedy Night) @ Chameleon, 4114 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Free. www.thechameleonclub.com Poems In You & Throwback Thursday w/ AP (Night Bees / Counterfeit Money Machine) @ Chameleon, 4114 Hamilton Ave. (8pm) Free. Poetry / Live 90’s Music Videos. www. thechameleonclub.com

life & culture 45223

NORTHSIDE SCENE Every Sunday– Comet Bluegrass Allstars @ The Comet. (7:30PM & 9PM) The Comet house band plays two sets every Sunday. Cost: Free. 4579 Hamilton Ave.

Weekdays – Homework Help @ Northside

Branch of the Cincinnati Public Library (3PM) For information call 513-369-4449 or email Sarah.Schellenger@cincinnatilibrary.org.

Weekdays –– OPEN STUDIO @ Happen,

Inc. 4201 Hamilton Avenue. 3:30 - 7:30PM (Tue.-Thu.) & 10am - 5PM (Sat.)

UPCOMING EVENTS: Friday, May 2 – Alex Kostka w/ Folded

Arms & Little Trees @ Chameleon, 4114 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Free. Rock. www. thechameleonclub.com

Friday, May 2 – Big Rock Club & Saturn

Batteries @ Northside Tavern, 4163 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Free. Indie. www.northsidetav.com

Saturday, May 3 – Catapult Music & Art

@ Mayday, 4227 Spring Grove Ave. www. maydaynorthside.com

Friday, May 9 – Black Signal, Skeleton Hands,

& Alexis @ Northside Tavern, 4163 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Free. Indie. www.northsidetav.com

Saturday, May 10– 2nd Saturday Musician Spotlight – George Laub of Neato Torpedo (Chris Schadler contributing) @ Northside Tavern, 4163 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Free. Front Room. www.northsidetav.com Saturday, May 10 – Tonefarmer, Even Tiles, Near Earth Objects @ Northside Tavern, 4163 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Free. Back Room. www.northsidetav.com friday, May 16 – Los Honchos @ Mayday, 4227 Spring Grove Ave.(10pm) Grit, soul, funk. www.maydaynorthside.com Saturday, May 17– Samantha Vacation @ Chameleon, 4114 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Free. DJs. www.thechameleonclub.com Saturday, May 17– Marburg Collective

Festival @ Northside Tavern (4163 Hamilton Ave.) & Chameleon (4114 Hamilton Ave.) (9pm) Free. Hiphop/Electronic. www. thechameleonclub.com

(Deerhoof Tribute) @ Northside Tavern, 4163 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Free. Rock. www. northsidetav.com

Saturday, May 3 – 5th Annual Mayday Fest

Wednesday, May 21 – Kid DEAD w/ Evolve, Night Bees, & Juan Cosby @ Northside Tavern, 4163 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Free. Hiphop. www.grasshopperjuice.com

‘Kentucky Derby’ @ Mayday, 4227 Spring Grove Ave. (5pm) Featuring Pig Roast and Picnic, Shot and Slap Booth, tap Takeover by Anderson Valley Brewing Company, Live music by Queen City Silver Stars. DJ and Dance Party by LookUp! Dance Party. www. maydaynorthside.com

Thursday May 22– Shiny Old Soul @ Northside Tavern, 4163 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Free. Front Room. www.northsidetav.com

Thursday, May 8 – Spun Out 45’s Night @ Mayday, 4227 Spring Grove Ave.(9pm) Free. www.maydaynorthside.com

Friday, May 23 – Selector F Yes (Brooklyn, NY) @ Chameleon, 4114 Hamilton Ave. (6pm) Free. DJs. www.thechameleonclub.com

Friday, May 9 – Homemade Drugs’ Last Show, featuring Sega Genocide and Weird Science

Friday, May 23 – From Fragile Seeds w/ Misnomer @ Chameleon, 4114 Hamilton Ave.

(9pm) Free. www.thechameleonclub.com

Friday, May 23 – A Bunch Of Dead People, Revenge Pinata, Comprador, & Golden Arm @ Northside Tavern, 4163 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Free. Rock. www.grasshopperjuice.com Friday, May 23 – Vacation & Sleeves @ The Comet, 4579 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Free. Punk. www.cometbar.com saturday, May 24 – DANCE NIGHT Selectas Choice @ Mayday, 4227 Spring Grove Ave. www.maydaynorthside.com Saturday, May 31– Pride Day Cross-Dressing Party w/ Juan Cosby @ Chameleon, 4114 Hamilton Ave. (9pm) Free. Dance. www. thechameleonclub.com monthly fundraiser to support the northsider newspaper

Chameleon is hosting a monthly Northsider benefit THIRD Fridays (except June) May 16, June 13, July 18, & Aug 15 10% of bar sales go to The Northsider. MAY 16-The Northsider Showcase @ Chameleon. 4114 Hamilton Ave. 21+ only. Free.

1 Bdrm Apartment available in Two Family House 1 bedroom on the first floor of a house with a brand new kitchen and bathroom. Washer and dryer are in the basement. Easy walk to the hip and hot business district. Very convenient and close to Interstates, Downtown, and minutes to Clifton. Tenant responsible to pay all utilities including water. Terms are 12 month lease, security deposit is $ 650.00, may not apply to last months rent. Contact: Jeff Hartman 513-673-3756

Do you have a northside event, class, program, or workshop you would like listed in the Northsider? Then submit that info online: northsider.northside.net email: northsidermonthly@gmail.com

4114 Hamilton Avenue Northside | 513-541-2073

Live Music, Spirits, Suds, and Fun! life & culture 45223

vol. 1 | Issue 8 MAY 14’ 19

Northside’s newest Cafe! LOCATED IN THE

American Can Building 4101 Spring Grove Ave

HOURS

MONDAY–THURSDAY lunch : 11.30–5 dinner: 5–10* FRIDAY lunch : 11.30–5 dinner: 5–11*

* kitchen closes one hour before closing

SATURDAY dinner: 5–11*

Third wednesday’s community potluck, 6-8pm mckie rec Center

For more info: Sarah @ starfirecouncil.org

The northsider, may 2014

volume 1 | issue 8

northsider.northside.net

a free community publication