WestFest

2

June 25-26, 2011

INSIDE

WestFest celebrates 10 years of family fun

By Neva Martin | Contributor It started out as a one-day street fair, for young and older alike.

Now in its 10th year, WestFest continues to beckon the West Side community with two days of food, fun and family-filled events that range from pickle-eating contests and a car show to local music and kids activities.

Held June 25-26 in the heart of Cheviot, WestFest is presented by the Cheviot Westwood Community Association, drawing residents to come out, introduce their offspring to Kidz Zone while the parents enjoy gambling games or meeting up with old friends.

The whole family can sample the wares of local businesses and street vendors. Hours: 1 p.m. to midnight Saturday; 1 p.m. to 10 pm. Sunday.

“Shutting down a major thoroughfare and having a party is a great way to bring positive attention to our area,” said Ray Kroner, president of CWCA. CWCA member Bonnie Perrino has chaired WestFest for all 10 years and has seen the crowds grow from 20,000 to 30,000 and counting.

“In fact, I say I like to host a party of 50,000 to 80,000 of my closest friends,” said Perrino, adding that the purpose of WestFest includes “earning money, having fun and giving back to the community.”

In “giving back,” CWCA, which comprises residents as well as members of the business community, is able to use a portion of the proceeds from the event to benefit local neighborhood projects and nonprofits, including the Thomas J. Rebold Foundation for the Youth Performing Arts, which provides funding for local youth fine arts programs.

Some 15 area bands will play on two stages over the two days, many

of them new this year.

“Saffire Express is the only original band who played our first year, said Perrino. “We wanted to make sure they’re here for our 10th anniversary.”

Willing helpers have been essential to the success of WestFest, said Perrino.

“We have hundreds of volunteers,” she said, adding that just one beer booth has 50 volunteers in one day. “We’ve always had five beer booths.”

Changes over the years include a beer garden and an enlarged Kidz Zone. But one traditional aspect of WestFest includes people who enjoy returning, said Perrino.

“It’s very fulfilling,” she added.

“You get to see residents meeting up with people they haven’t seen in years.”

The event is also a plus for local food businesses.

“You listen to all the restaurants say that someone stopped in and had this at WestFest,” earning them a customer, said Perrino. “It’s also showing what we have on the West Side.”

And the success of WestFest is its location, she added.

“Where else can you party, drink your beer and have great food and music,” said Perrino. “I think our community is very tight. The West Side is the best side and we stick together. Our organization and the community members work together very well.”

Kroner agreed.

“As president of (CWCA), I’m excited to see new faces volunteering at the WestFest,” said Kroner.

“A great foundation has been built; now it’s up to CWCA members to carry on this tradition.”

On Sunday WestFest will offer happy hour –$3 refills in your 2011 WestFest Mug.

3

Sponsors WestFest supporters

3

Outstanding young citizens Students honored

4

Merchant vendors Fun information

4

Food vendors Great taste

5

Thomas J. Rebold Foundation Profile on organization

5

Cheviot Westwood Community Association Profile on organization

6

Meet the performers Band bios

8

Kidz Zone Fun for the kiddies

8

Craft tent Meet local crafters

9

Car show Vroom-vroom

9

Pickle-eating contest Work up an appetite

10

‘Here’s to the Heroes’ Support their families

10

Cheviotrocks New community Web site

Shuttle Information 11 Saturday There will be transportation from: • Dillard’s (Western Hills) top parking lot to Cheviot (approximately on the hour and half hour.)

• Cheviot location drop off and pick up point (approximately quarter past and quarter till the hour.)

• Washington Avenue in front of Auto Zone.

Photos A look in pictures

CONTACT The WestFest publication is published by the Specialty Publications Department of The Community Press.

Questions and comments can be sent to Editor Melissa Stewart c/o The Community Press/Recorder 394 Wards Corner Road, Loveland, OH 45140.

Email mjstewart@communitypress.com.

Or call 513-248-7121.

For advertising call 687-4614.

Time of Shuttles: • Bus will start at Dillard's at 3 p.m. and will run continuously throughout the day.

• Last bus to leave Cheviot at 11:30 p.m., Saturday Night.

Sunday There will be transportation from: • Dillard’s (Western Hills) top parking lot to Cheviot (approximately on the hour and half hour.)

• Cheviot location drop off and pick up point (approximately quarter past & quarter till the hour.)

• Washington Avenue in front of Auto Zone.

Time of Shuttles: • Bus will start at Dillard's at 3 p.m. and will run continuously throughout the day.

• Last bus to leave Cheviot at 10:30 p.m., Sunday Night.

WestFest would like to thank their friends at Klug and Dillard’s for making this shuttle possible.

3

www.westfest.info

Area students honored as Outstanding Young Citizens

By Patricia A. Scheyer Contributor Twenty-six students from area schools in Westwood and Cheviot won Outstanding Young Citizen awards April 12 at the annual banquet given by the Cheviot Westwood Community Association at the Fellowship Hall of the Cheviot United Methodist Church on Westwood Northern Boulevard.

The award is given to eighth-graders by their teachers and administrators to recognize the students for their community service and spirit.

“My dad, Lou Kroner Jr., started the banquet in 1964 to showcase the students that could be our future leaders,” said Ray Kroner.

“Basically, one boy and one girl from each homeroom of each school are chosen by the teachers of each school in the area, and they are accompanied to the banquet by at least one teacher. It is a great way for the students to be praised for their accomplishments and well-

Outstanding Young Citizens The following students were honored as Outstanding Young Citizens:

St Catharine of Siena

Bridgetown Middle School

Cheviot Elementary

Will Neiheisel Myrna Borgert

Brett Tierney McKenzie Warman

St Martin of Tours Matthew Kron Catherine Grey Jillian Newman Corey Watzek

Katie Leppert Alex Walling

St Ignatius Loyola Westwood Elementary Armandao Ricardez Amara Sydnor

St Aloysius Gonzaga Becca Rhein T.J. Ruwan

rounded record.”

Matthew Kron, 14, had never heard of the award, but is very glad to have been chosen.

“I was very excited when I heard that I was one of four students from my class at Bridgetown Middle School,” said Kron.

“I belong to the National Junior Honor Society, and I play basketball, golf, baseball, and soccer. I keep my grades up, and I am always on the A or B honor roll. I enjoyed going

Margaret Kammerer Ben Merk

Our Lady of Lourdes Natalie Danenhauer Hunter Meltebrink to the banquet, and I am happy that my leadership qualities have been recognized.”

Kron feels that he has leadership potential, and when he and other students are recognized by the CWCA, they are better able to put their potential to work when they go to high school.

Kron will go to Oak Hills next year.

“I want to be a professional baseball player when I grow up,” Kron said.

Matthew Bumpus Danielle Diersing Jason Heidemann Rachel Leonhardt Christopher Lyons Rachael Petranek Samuel Redd Audrey Wanstath “I think all of us were chosen because we are helpful, trustworthy, and overall nice people. When I grow up, I think I can play ball and still be a good community person.

My parents were very proud that I was chosen, too.”

Dr. O’dell Owens was the featured speaker this year. Owens was the Hamilton County Coroner, and now is the President of Cincinnati State and Technical Community College in Cincinnati.

Sponsors love WestFest

By Patricia A. Scheyer | Contributor Westfest is a once a year festival on the West Side of Cincinnati held June 2526 this year. Five major sponsors have stepped up for this year’s festival to show their support for the community.

Cincinnatus Savings and Loan, at 3300 Harrison Ave., has been a major sponsor since the inception of WestFest, 10 years ago.

“We like the festival because it supports the community, and the community gave us our start,” said Terry Todd, executive vice president of Cincinnatus.

“The bulk of our account holders are in this community, and we feel that we should return the favor.”

Cincinnatus also donates a booth to a local community group who would like to raise money but can’t afford a booth.

“We have 28 employees, and many of them work at the festival,” said Todd.

“We want to show our customers that they are personal to us – not just a number.”

Cincinnatus Savings and Loan has been in business more than 125 years, mostly in Cheviot, although there are other locations is Northgate and Harrison.

Their mission statement encourages the company to serve customers in a professional and courteous manner, and respond to the customer’s individual needs by delivering quality, competitively priced financial products and services.

By being true to its statement, Cincinnatus makes the community a better place.

Budweiser has been a sponsor of WestFest since 2007, and the product of Budweiser is distributed through Heidelberg Distribution company.

“We buy the beer from Anheiser Busch, and then we warehouse it,” said Lee Oberlag, vice president of corporate communications. “Companies then buy it from us, and they set the price after they buy it from us. WestFest organizers will buy some Budweiser from us and sell it at the festival.”

Heidelberg has been distributing beer in Cincinnati for nearly 75 years, and they are proud to support the community by sponsoring WestFest.

“We are really service oriented,” said Oberlag. “Bud Light is the No. 1 selling beer in Cincinnati, and in the United States. But the whole thing depends on the community, and in the end it all comes back to the community.”

Kahn’s Meats was founded in 1939,

and Kahn’s and Cincinnati go back a long way.

“Kahn’s is a brand name people in Cincinnati are comfortable with and proud of,” said Diane Pegram, Retail Planner for the company in Mason. “This is our first year to sponsor WestFest, but it is a good fit, because Cincinnati loves Kahn’s, and they love their festivals, so it is a chance for us to give back to the community.”

At Westfest there will be a booth serving Kahn’s hot dogs, and people will notice signs proclaiming Kahn’s the official hot dog of the Cincinnati Reds also.

City Barbeque joined the sponsorship team this year, and they will also have a booth in addition to their restaurant, at 6475 Glenway, being open.

“We wanted to sponsor WestFest because first of all, we really like getting involved with the community,” said Ryan Caton, General Manager of the store, which has been open since April of 2010.

“Secondly, we have a chance to get our name out and let people have the opportunity to try our food. Our motto is ‘All Smoke, No Mirrors,’ because we don’t have to falsely enhance our food – what you see is what you get.”

Caton explained that everything is made fresh in his store, and meat is smoked for up to 18 hours before it is just right to serve. The side dishes are also made fresh, and people tend to like the baked beans and macaroni and cheese which harkens back to the home cooking they had as a child.

“We are a quick service restaurant, but not fast food,” said Caton,. “We are in between casual dining and fast food, and we are proud to be there at WestFest.”

Finally, Walgreens will sponsor WestFest for the second year, and will have a booth which highlights their Take Care Clinic, and, in addition, will sign people up for the Walk with Walgreens program.

“Most of the managers at our store and the pharmacists went to school together in this area,” said Paul Bushman, manager of the Walgreens store.

“We are involved with WestFest to let people know we are not just a drugstore, we are part of the community. In addition to our focus on health care, we will have split-the-pot tickets with the Reds Community Fund, and proceeds go directly to them. We are looking forward to the festival.”

www.communitypress.com

4

June 25-26, 2011

Merchant vendors come to WestFest every year

By Patricia A. Scheyer | Contributor

Merchant Vendors Booth Activity Cheviot Public Library Cincinnati Elks #5 Warriors for the Children FRT Distributions The Gutter Shutter Co. Baraka

Book Sales Jewelry & Crafts Free Child Finger Print Kits Wide Screen TV Sales Display-Sales Maintenance Free Gutter System Unique Ethnic Jewelry, Handmade Handicrafts, Custom Designed Clothes Games challenges - Win tickets toward prizes Raffle Baskets & Wheel Barrow of Cheer Corn Hole - Sucker Pull for Kids Registration Raffle for a Gift Card Info only with Candy/Gum handouts Personalized Cartoon Caricatures Car Raffle Caricatures Raffle of Cheer - Honor Flight

But our main thing is to get out in the community and let peoPatriot Amusements -Fogerty Pub ple know where we are and that More than 20 merchant venCheviot Eagles #2197 we are a wonderful place to dors come to set up every year US Bank visit.” at WestFest, and people love to Bridgetown Church of Christ Representing another genre visit the various booths and see Girl Scout Booth is the 2 Handed Mikey booth, what there is to offer.

Caricatures by Over the Line which features Mikey Shields, a Some are service-oriented, SmarTravel LLC caricaturist with 30 years expelike the Bridgetown Church of 2 Handed Mikey rience, who sketches anybody in Christ and Cincinnati Elks, and Cheviot Fireman's Association others are for-profit booths, such four minutes.

Cable Buster Icky Woods Foundation “I didn’t want to be an artist, as T Mobile, or Gutter Shutter.

Joseph & Jamie Wright Mobile Vendors But every booth is worth vis- I thought they were weird,” said Shields with a laugh. iting, especially when they are T Mobile Information about services with giveaways “When I was 18, I was drawing at a fun-filled festival.

Cheviot Police Association Split the Pot Walgreens is a major sponsor people coming through the Westwood Civic Association MugSlide - Split the pot salad bar where I worked. I disfor the second year, and their Brushworks Full Face Painting/Airbrush Tattoos booth will feature a nurse practi- covered I was drawing with Drama Workshop tioner from their Take Care Clin- both hands, thus my title, 2 Miche Bag Purses/Wallets ic who will inform people about Handed Mikey.

City Sash LLC Promotion of Windows “Back in 1976, I worked at the services that are offered at Primerica Kings Island, and they taught the Clinic.

Farmers Insurance Info/logo trinkets/raffle gift card me a little about profiles, but I “Many people don’t know Basement Restoration Technologies prefer full face, and now I do what is offered there, and Sensible Home Products, LLC Display home improvement products either.” we found out from Shields draws with last year that Walgreens Booth Health Awareness & Cincinnati markers, so there they were Reds/Community Split the Pot are no mistakes, pleasantly USMC Information & possible physical challenges and he said surprised Superior Wireless Internet service almost everyto find body likes the MENU what he level of City Barbeque Major Sponsor draws. care at Pulled Pork-$3, Pulled Chicken-$3 and He doesn’t their Rib Bones-$3 have a storeneighCoconut Joe's front, but uses borhood Shaved Ice-$3 his natural talWalCracked Corn Kettle Corn ent at many festigreens,” $3, $5 & $12 vals like WestFest. said Paul Family Fun Foods People can contact Bushman, Funnel Cakes-$5, Roasted Corn-$2.50, Mikey Shields at 513community manDeep Fried Oreos-$3 and Deep Fried TAP-MIKE, at ager for the West Side Twinkies-$3 2handedmikey.com, or at stores.

Gary's Cheesecakes & Fine Desserts twohandedmikey@aol.com.

“We are also signing people Cheesecake Plain and Toppings, Turtle Cake, Warriors for the Children is a up for the Walk with Walgreens Cheesecake on a Stick and Cream Puffs nonprofit organization which program, where they get a free Henke Winery Wines will have a booth at WestFest pedometer and can track their Humbert’s Meats Reuben progress online. Our main focus giving out child ID kits.

Rueben Egg Roll-$3, German Brat Burg“These are kits where parents is pushing health – kind of the er-$4, Steak Sandwich-$5, Bacon Burgercan put a lock of their child’s ‘live well, stay well, be well’ $4 and Jalapeno Burger-$4 hair, and their fingerprints,” approach.”

J. Gumbos said John “Wyngs” Smith, who The Cheviot Public Library Bumble Bee Stew, Drunken Chicken, is public relations and child liaiwill have a booth where they Gumbo, Bourbon Street Chicken, Peach son for the group. will be selling paperback books Cobbler, Virgin Pina Coladas and Virgin “We are a biker group, based for the Friends of the Library.

Daiquiris-$3 “We will have great bargains in Cincinnati, with other chapLouisiana Fish Bar ters in central and northern for people,” said Kathy Taylor, Popcorn Shrimp-$3, Hush Puppies-$1 branch manager for the Cheviot Ohio, and our mission is to help and Batter Dipped Fish with Fries-$3 abused children not be afraid of Public Library.

Maury's Tiny Cove the world that they live in.”

“Everything will be paperChicken Sausage Gumbo-$3, BBQ RibsThere are several other merbacks so that they will be easier $5, Buffalo Chicken Wrap-$3, Bread Pudchant sponsors for the WestFest to carry as people walk though ding-$3 and Pickles-$2 celebration, and they will all the festival. We will have kids’ Mr. Hanton's Wickedly Good Hanwiches have a presence during the twoand adults’ fiction, and easy THE ENQUIRER/ JOSEPH FUQUA II Chicken Sausages-$3.50, Italian Beefday festival. books for sale at great prices.

Austin Bryant, age 11, of Harrison eats a Funnel Cake during the 2010 WestFest. $6.50, Italian Sausage-$3.50, Philly Cheese Steak-$6.50 and "Cincinnati's Caviar" Goetta Burgers-$3.50 NYPD Pizza Pizza and Subs pass by.” years the festival has ran. a variety of years, some even

By Melissa Stewart | Editor Queen City Concessions, LLC Mike Naseef, owner of Founded in 1949 by Maurice the whole 10. Sandy’s Hilo Brats-$4.50, Metts-$4.50, Italian Sandy’s Hilo, said WestFest is has been a WestFest food (Maury) Bibent III, Maury’s Have a generous helping Sausage-$5 and Gourmet Cupcakes a fun time for his business is the oldest steakhouse on vendor for the last eight of good food and treats at Sandy's Hilo too. the West side of Cincinnati years.

WestFest this year. Really Double Cheeseburgers-$5, Seasoned “We enjoy the crowd and and one of the oldest, continNaseef also said that the take the time to savor a flaFries-$5 and Chicken Wings-$5 have a good time while uously operated restaurants thing he enjoys most about vor of the West side.

Strasse Haus, Zoomer there,” he explained. in the city.

WestFest besides the good There will be a variety of Cheddar Melt Brat, Brats, Ribbon Fries, Corn This summer marks the Maury’s serves fresh, food is the camaraderie. food to sample from cheeseDog, Almonds/Pecans, Fruit Smoothies, 50th anniversary for Sandy’s choice, hand cut steaks, fall “The working together cakes to BBQ. It’s a taste Mozzarella Sticks, Squeezed Lemonade, Hilo on the West side. Once a and trying to accomplish off the bone BBQ baby back bud’s paradise. It’s also a Nachos, Pretzels and Garlic Mushrooms restaurant, it is now a catersomething is what makes it great way for local eateries to ribs, fresh salmon cut in Sunny Side Grill so special,” he said. “Most of introduce themselves to new house and one of the best cod ing business and is popular Gyro, Chicken Gyro, Waffle Fries and at events like WestFest, the sandwiches in the Tristate the people involved in Westcustomers.

Cheese Harvest Home Fair, and local Fest are living in the commu- Thai Taste area. At WestFest they will “WestFest is special for church festivals and football feature chicken sausage nity so it’s a part of their Maury’s because it gives us Chicken on a Stick-$3, Chicken Fried games. lives. They work hard to an opportunity to reach new gumbo, BBQ ribs, a buffalo Rice-$3 and Crab Rangoon-$3 Their specialty is the dou- make it a success and it not chicken wrap, bread pudding people as well as reconnect Tummy Treats ble cheeseburger which will and pickles. Maury’s is also only helps them but their with folks who may not Soft Serve Ice Cream-$2.25, be featured at WestFest along entire community. the sponsor of the famed have dined with us in a Shakes/Malts-$3, Flurries-$3.50, Flavor with seasons fries and chickpickle-eating contest.

“It takes months to put while,” said Maury’s Tiny Burst-$2.50, Frozen Bananas-$2.25, en wings.

“Maury’s Tiny Cove has WestFest together and the Cove owner Matt Huesman.

Banana Splits-$4, Sundaes-$3 and Slush Naseef, also a WestFest been a West Side Icon for 62 reward is seeing people satis“Although the streets are Puppies$2.25 volunteer, said there are sev- fied and coming back the closed in front of our restau- years I cannot think of any United Dairy Farmers eral new vendors this year reason not to be present at a next year.” rant, we are still open and Ice Cream Cups and Ice Cream Bars-$2 each celebration of the West Side and he’s excited about what Be sure to bring your serving dinner both nights Weber’s Grill of Cincinnati!” said Huesthey will add to this special appetite for fun and good and we gained some new Hot Dogs, Chili Dogs, Cheese Coneys food when you visit WestFest guests last year by doing so.” man. “We have a lot of fun in event. In addition, there are and Red Smokies This is the CWCA the booth carrying on and several returning vendors this year and then get ready Maury’s has been a Westbooth where profits donated to Rebold heckling anyone who dares who’ve been with the festival for next year’s event.

Fest vendor for the entire 10 Foundation

“We will have great bargains for people.”

Savor the flavor of the West Side

5

www.westfest.info

CWCA benefits Cheviot, Westwood

By Patricia A. Scheyer | Contributor

THE ENQUIRER/ JOSEPH FUQUA II

Serinty Ridgeway, age 3, of Westwood smiles as she rides the carousel during the 2010 WestFest in Cheviot Saturday, June 26.

Rebold Foundation provides opportunity for youth in the arts

By Neva Martin | Contributor

“He was a great kid, very bright, very creative, The loss of a child can everybody’s friend,” said be a devastating blow for Moning, who is also on parents. Pete and Mary the TJR Foundation board.

Rebold took that blow and “He was involved in sevcreated a living memorial, eral of the plays here … in the form of a foundaPete and Mary came to me tion, to help other chilafter Tom died and wantdren. ed me to be part of the The Thomas J. Rebold experience of doing someFoundation for Youth Per- thing in his memory.” forming Arts, referred to From 1999 to 2005, the as the TJR Foundation, TJR Foundation collabowas originally founded in rated with the “Back to 1998, following the death Broadway” productions. of their son at age 28 after In 2005, it became affiliata 16-month battle with ed with the Cheviot WestHodgkin’s disease, said wood Community AssociMrs. Rebold. ation and has raised funds “(Tom’s) passion was at both Harvest Home Fair for theater and the perand WestFest. Proceeds forming arts,” said Mrs. come from WestFest’s beer Rebold. “So it was only fit- and gambling booths as ting when he died that we well as the Weber’s started the foundation to Grill/CWCA location. benefit grade school and “Since becoming affilihigh school students.” ated with CWCA in 2005, Tom attended St. James we have made grants White Oak School as well totaling $68,900,” said as St. Xavier High School, Mrs. Rebold, adding that and graduated from TJR has been able to give Miami University in 1992 more than $120,000 since with a degree in communi- its inception. cations. Randy Moning, an “Grant applications are eighth-grade teacher who sent to every grade school has directed more than 40 and high school in the traplays at St. James over the ditional Westwood, past 40 years, said Tom got Cheviot and Green Townhis start there. ship geographical area,”

she said. “Approximately 26 schools receive applications. The grants are used to help schools put on plays or musical performances.”

Grant applications are reviewed by TJR’s grant committee and Moning said between 10 and 15 schools respond. “We’re able to give $10,000 to $12,000 (during the year).

The big fundraiser has been WestFest.”

The arts are on the cutting block, with all the fiscal tightening in the educational sector alone, Moning added. “(TJR) is a way to help kids do things they wouldn’t be able to do.”

Bonnie Perrino, WestFest chairperson, agreed, adding that music and theater are vital in developing a youth’s creativity.

“We’ve had more kids participate, more students come out and go into music because of the foundation,” Perrino said.

“Nothing can draw a kid out more than music or learning to be on stage.”

Mrs. Rebold said it means so much to have this ongoing foundation to honor Tom. “We had such a won-

derful time watching our son grow up, and seeing him perform on stage, and seeing how much it meant to him,” she said, adding that she gets many letters of thanks, pictures, DVDs and personal notes from the young people. “We know our son would want this to be happening.”

the more people that are in the organization, the more varied perspectives are available in the areas The Cheviot Westwood in the communities that Community Association might need help. began in 1925 as the “This year we have also Cheviot Westwood Business contributed to the fund to Association, and included keep Ryan Pool open in only the businesses.

After the first WestFest Westwood,” said Mindy Sweeney, CWCA vice was held in 2002, the president. organization changed its “Ryan Pool is a Cincinname to reflect the inclunati public pool, but cersion of residents in their effort to improve the com- tain pools were going to have to close due to the munities.

The CWCA has become high cost of maintaining an integral part of the two them.

“We joined other busicommunities, and is the driving force behind West- nesses by giving $1,000 to help keep it open, because Fest, which is the largest we want the kids in Weststreet festival on the West wood to have a safe place Side.

The first year the festival to go to keep cool and have fun this summer.” was one day, but it drew The group has donated more than 20,000 people to Christmas decorations over sample food from local the years for Cheviot’s restaurants, to listen to nativity display. music and to visit with In addition, more than friends. The festival is now 55 baskets of food were two days at the end of distributed to needy famiJune, and is more popular lies during the holiday than ever. season.

“WestFest allows us to “We like to stay abreast have the funds to be able of local government to help the community,” said Ray Kroner, president issues, so we know what’s going on,” added Kroner. of the CWCA. “When you know what is “Every year we give going on, you can better $10,000 to $12,000 to schools in our area for the utilize the funds we get from WestFest, and are performing arts through able to give back to the the Thomas J. Rebold community.”

Foundation for the Performing Arts.”

Kroner said that in any community, there is strength in numbers, and

6

June 25-26, 2011

Meet the performers

Archer

Archer

Burning Iris

Colerain Power Company

The Core Fortress

in 1948, the school proudly carries on traditions of classical ballet technique through positive reinforcement and creative storytelling techniques.

Their “European Methods” place students first in a nurturing, artistic, family-friendly environment. Classes available for ages 4 through adult, beginner through pre-professional levels. Plenty of performing opportunities are available through The Kinderballet for ages 8 through adult. For information visit www.avoballet.org or call 481-0092.

Archer is as good an example as any to approach the theory of the commodity instead of the majority. A proven longevity, loyal audience following and that ever presence of tasteful rock. Archer has an ongoing promotional campaign of original material in which great time and effort are focused.

The band was originally formed in 1983.

In 1992, Archer released their debut album which was a success both in sales and on local air play in the Greater Cincinnati area.

Archer continues to evolve building upon the music they believe in. Archer is a band that has managed to survive as the rock scene changes. All the while keeping their loyal fan base and the will to color outside the lines of Rock.

Archer’s plan is simple, good, straight forward rock with projected future achievements. Archer is set for a lengthy stay in the music scene. So, check out a genuinely expressive rock group on the move! Visit www.myspace.com/archerrocks & www.facebook.com/Archer-Cincinnati

Colerain Power Company is the Tristate area’s premiere classic rock party band!

Playing classic hits by legendary bands such as The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Doors, Cream, Tom Petty, Jimi Hendrix, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Van Halen, Stevie Ray Vaughn and many more, Colerain Power Company will keep the party rockin’ all night long. These guys are the real deal.

Check out their Web page at www.myspace.com/colerainpowerco

Burning Iris

The Core

While it has been a few years since Burning Iris was on the local scene, they are back and better than ever! The five members of the band have a combined level of experience of over 100 years as professional musicians. The band members are: Steve Black, lead vocals; Kelly Gott, lead guitar and harmony vocals; Dean Westerkamm, drums; David Geiger, rhythm guitar/keyboards and harmony vocals; and Dave Pelfrey, bass guitar and harmony vocals.

Burning Iris has been growing in popularity over the last year, come see why.

Cincinnati Kinderballet The Cincinnati Kinderballet is the performing wing of the Anneliese von Oettingen School of Ballet, now in its 62nd year of sharing the Art of Ballet with the Tristate area. Founded by Anneliese von Oettingen

Colerain Power Company

The Core has enjoyed playing music together since 2003,with: Jerry Toms, drums/backup vocals; Carolyn Toms, vocals/percussions; Mark Duncan, bass, leads, backup vocals; Mike Brumback, leads/backup vocals, who was also a “Core” original, has come back to what he loves to do – playing the blues – and has added some great leads.

They got lucky in finding Mark Eitel, lead vocals, to add his awesome voice to The Core family. Their newest member, Lewis Edwards, keys/vocals, added the finishing touch to their music. They’ve played many types of music, but always come back to their true musical love... the blues.

Country Steps Cloggers The Country Steps Cloggers are a clogging group based in Westwood, practicing at the Westwood Town Hall.

The group’s main objective is to have fun dancing at local festivals, schools and nursing homes. Clogging is a great way to have fun and get some exercise.

The group, under the direction of Pam Bachmann, has members of all ages. While most of their dances are done to country music, they also include some rock, Irish and bluegrass music. Stop by on a Thursday evening at the Westwood Town Hall and join them.

Check out their Web page at: http://home.fuse.net/cscloggers/

Fortress Made up of original westsiders, Fortress is predominantly a 1960s, ’70s, and ’80s classic rock band with a touch of country thrown in to round things out.

With more than 175 songs in their repertoire and covering everyone from The Beatles, Eagles, Elvis, Cheap Trick, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Dire Straits, ZZ Top and also country stars like Brooks & Dunn, Toby Keith and Tim McGraw, plus many others, there will surely be some songs that you love and remember.

Smooth vocal tones and rhythym guitar

by Frank Skalski, thumping bass and vocals by Rick Dudley, keeping the beat on drums is Pat Doyle, lead guitar and vocals

by John Skalski.

7

www.westfest.info LunchBox LunchBox is a four-piece rock band out of Cincinnati. The members each have diverse musical backgrounds that has led to the creation of a unique sound that has been described as “party rock.” With influences that include funk and blues, LunchBox is very high energy and likes to get the crowd on their feet and having a good time.

LunchBox has built a loyal following by playing relentlessly around the Cincinnati/ Northern Kentucky area, and have recorded a seven song E.P. Lunchbox features guitarist and lead singer Mike Dorflein, guitarist Ben Dawson, bassist Craig Teepen, and drummer Zak McCarthy Check out their website at www.reverbnation.com/lunchboxofficial

Old Skool

The Band Old Skool is made up of seasoned musicians that have been in this business since they were in their teens. Old Skool was formed just over a year and a half ago and is fast becoming a crowd favorite venue after venue. When planning a song list they had decided to entertain everyone with “Old School” cover tunes that are “jump out of your seat” danceable party songs from the 1960s through today that everybody knows and sings to.

Old Skool is a fun band that has a song for everyone in the crowd no matter their age.

Members are Dennis Collins, keyboards, bass guitar, lead and backing vocals; Link-ette Show Team Wendell Fields, lead & rhythm guitar, lead The Link-ette Show Team consists of and backing vocals; Keith Hobbs, drums girls and women ages 4 to adult. They per- and backing vocals; Bryan Hoffman, bass form routines in tap, ballet, jazz, hip hop, guitar, acoustic guitar lead and backing baton and novelty routines. They perform in vocals; and Michael Hamberg, sound and parades, competitions, festivals and fairs in lighting. surrounding areas. They all take lessons from Judy Link School of Dance and Baton One Horse With a serious work ethic and a worldlocated in Cheviot. class debut album, One Horse is ready to Judy Link studio is offering a six week summer program. It starts the week of July be the go-to folk-rock band in their hometown of Cincinnati and beyond.

7. For information call 662-8049. The stuTheir six-year evolution comes to fruition dio has relocated and is now at 3826 on the bands debut album Post Time, proNorth Bend Road (next to Kroners Dry duced by world-renowned producer Erwin Cleaners).

Musper (Def Leppard, Scorpions, Van Halen). Post Time’s evocative Americana/Pop/Jam hybrid has earned them playlist adds at local and national NPR affiliates such as WNKU, WVXU and KVRM in Oregon, and they’ve also had songs included in Gary Burbank’s “Play it Forward” Charity Albums.

Find out more about One Horse at www.onehorseband.com..

P’s in a Pod P’s in a Pod is a high energy, Cincinnatibased band that performs traditional bluegrass music right alongside the music of Johnny Cash, The Beatles, and others.

P’s in a Pod was formed in September 2009 with Pat Giblin on vocals and acoustic guitar, Polly Giblin on five-string banjo and vocals, and Penny Dale on upright bass. Dan Lynch joined the band in October 2010 (even though his name didn’t start with a “P”) and with his mandolin brought an additional lead instrument to the group.

The Rodney Alan Combs band The Rodney Alan Combs band is one of the Midwest’s premier country acts with its finger on the pulse of the modern country scene, one foot planted in the gritty roots of outlaw and smooth bakersfield styles, and rock-and-roll flowing through the veins.

The Rodney Alan Combs band plays soon to be classics by The Zac Brown Band, Jason Aldean, Brad Paisley, and Jamey Johnston: by all-time greats like George Strait, Garth Brooks, Hank Williams Jr., Marty Stuart, Dwight Yoakam; by rockers

by The Black Crowes, ZZ Top, Drive-by Truckers, The Allman Bros. Band and Lynyrd Skynyrd; and the true fathers of rock and country like Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings and Elvis Presley.

Combs’ voice is a unique instrument unto itself that rings with conviction whether singing in the classic high-lonesome style or the scorching Rockabilly and Southern sounds that flow out of anywhere good rockin’ country music is made.

Combs is a frontman to be reckoned with, but he’s also one you’ll want to share a beer with.

Saturday, June 25

The Rodney Alan Combs band

Bud Light Stage 1-2 p.m. Country Step Cloggers 2:30-3:30 p.m. Jason Kirby 4-5 p.m. P’s In A Pod 5:30-7 p.m. Fortress 7:30-9 p.m. Lunchbox 9:30-11:30 p.m. Saffire Express

Corona Stage

Saffire Express

1:30-2:30 p.m. Cincinnati Kinderballet 3-4 p.m. The Core 4:30-5:30 p.m. Archer 5-7 p.m. Old Skool 7:30-9 p.m. Pinstripes 9:30-11:30 p.m. Colerain Power Company

Sunday, June 26 Bud Light Stage 2-3 p.m. Something Good 3:30-4:30 Car Show Award Presentations 5-6 p.m. Richie & The Students 6:30-8 p.m. Burning Iris 8:30-10 p.m. Rodney Alan Combs Band

Something Good

Corona Stage 2-3 p.m. Link-ette Show Team 3:30-4:30 p.m. Cliftones 5-6 p.m. Maury’s Pickle-Eating Contest 6:30-8 p.m. Voodoo Puppet 8:30-10 p.m. One Horse A veteran of the Cincinnati music scene for over a decade, Rodney has lit up the acoustic scene by himself or with younger brother Eric in Acoustic Roadshow. Drummer Joey Hollingsworth has been pounding out the rhythm since the late 1980s with bands Richter, Contagious and the more recent rockers Top Soil Monkeys. Danny “Greek” Sideris mined his talents in buttrocking Top Soil Monkey. He has also been in Cincy’s local rock scene with Last Call, Contagious and Good Grief. Bassist Tony Honerkamp has been laying down the most infectious of grooves since the early 1980s with Warhammer, Moth Eyed Soul and most recently The Diaz Brothers. Guitarist Seth Forster honed his chickenpickin’ country-fried grease-ladled guitar mojo in the South’s “Live Music Capital” Austin, Texas, with red dirt music’s finest bands, including Aaron Navarro, Sam

Silva, Trey Stapleton and several pop-rock and soul acts including Jennifer Ellen Cook, whom the Austin Chronicle labeled “one of Austin’s best-kept secrets.”

Saffire Express For more than a decade Saffire Express has been serving up their unique blend of current and vintage tunes ranging from Lady Gaga to Lady Marmalade , Gimme One Reason to Gimme Some Lovin’, with a dab of R&B, Country and MoTown on the side!

This tight six-piece band features outstanding vocals and a hot rhythm section, creating a fun, exciting atmosphere with its menu of tasty tunes dating from the 1960s through the present.

Saffire Express has appeared on the

See PERFORMERS on page 12

8

June 25-26, 2011

Kidz Zone – a rocking ride of fun ’n’ games

By Neva Martin | Contributor WestFest has something for all generations, so even the youngest can feel right in the zone – the Kidz Zone, that is.

“This is the fourth year Cheviot United Methodist Church is sponsoring the Kidz Zone,” said Jeff Becker, who serves as the church’s representative as well as board member for Cheviot Westwood Community Association, presenter of WestFest.

“We usually have around 30 people or so from our church involved in the weekend, either working a game booth or in the rides ticket booth.”

Located in the municipal parking lot at the corner of Harrison and Glenmore avenues, the Kidz Zone offers a range of activities for all ages and

budgets, he added.

“We have five game booths that are just 50 cents each to play: SkeeRoll, Pop-a-Shot, Fish Pond, Ring-a-Bat, Ball Toss,” said Becker. “The church works one booth and members of the UC Marching Band work the other four.”

The youth can also enjoy larger carnival games and rides operated

by Kissel Bros.

“We changed the name to the Kidz Zone in 2007,” said Bonnie Perrino, who chairs WestFest. “We’ve always had the rides.”

zens Banquet, which the CWCA hosts every year for area eighth-graders who have served the community, said Perrino.

“The Young Citizens Banquet doesn’t (highlight) the top scholars (but) what they’ve done for their community, how they’ve given back,” said Perrino. “ This year, we had Odell Owens (former Hamilton County coroner and now president of Cincinnati State Technical and Community College). He tells The bargain-minded it like it is. He’s a fantastic can enjoy buying a bracelet for $10 for unlim- role model.”

Perrino and Becker ited rides from 1 p.m. to agreed that CWCA has 5 p.m. both days of Westbeen able to provide activFest. After 5 p.m., ride ities for the kids to enjoy tickets are $1 each.

A new feature this year while giving back to the will be “Twister,” the mas- community.

“The Kidz Zone is a cot from the Cincinnati Cyclones, who will appear great area for families and kids of all ages to come Sunday from 1 p.m. to 3 and enjoy playing all p.m., said Becker. types of games and have “He’ll probably walk fun on the rides,” Becker around and get pictures added. with the kids,” he said.

“CWCA does its best to Money that is raised goes back to the communi- make everything in the Kidz Zone affordable for ty in a variety of ways, everyone to enjoy.” including the Young Citi-

Small Craft Tent shows off great creative talents

By Neva Martin | Contributor

nets,” said Nix. She also makes and decorates boxes Sometimes good things come in small for keepsake items, those pictures, report cards and other memorabilia that people tents.

As in the Craft Tent, featuring creativi- want to save for future generations.

She started in crafts with her mother ty WestFest visitors can enjoy, from jewin the 1970s with macramé , which uses elry to clothes design. knotting rather than weaving or knitting, A WestFest attraction over the past four years, the 12-by-12-foot tent is locat- creating key chains, plant holders and purses. ed at the corner of Harrison and Lovell “My mom was a crafter but I didn’t avenues, for a limited number of artists consider myself one until people started and crafters to showcase their creations, calling me that,” said Nix. said Rachel McKinney, who chairs the McKinney said the Craft Tent is sponCraft Tent committee. “(It has) space for eight crafters,” said sored again this year by Cheviot Savings Bank.

McKinney, adding that crafters often “Not only are they a sponsor at Westshare the spot with friends, paying a disFest, they also participate in many other counted price to participate rather than nonprofit community activities,” McKinhaving a large booth on the main drag.

“We try not to duplicate items so that ney added.

Annie Efkeman, marketing director, everyone has something different and said the recent acquisition of Franklin original,” she said.

Savings has made Cheviot Savings Bank Last year’s tent was quite successful, the city’s largest employer. with all the spots filled, she added. It “This is our main office so it’s imporincluded jewelry, watercolor paintings, tant to give back to Cheviot,” said Efkeclothing and hair bows. man.

“We expect to see a wide range of McKinney added that the Craft Tent crafts this year as well,” said McKinney. gives smaller business owners a chance Angela Nix of Colerain Township plans to participate. She enjoyed visiting at greater exposure.

“It’s good for them to keep a business the Craft Tent at an earlier WestFest and card handy,” said McKinney. “Some peofinds it a good opportunity to show her ple may not be prepared to purchase talents. items that day but will contact the ven“I do journals, keepsake boxes, posters and a lot of crafts out of recycled dor for a future purchase.”

And WestFest visitors can count on materials,” said Nix. the return of the Craft Tent every year, Materials include items such as old she added. floor or wall tiles.

“Hopefully (it’s) a step up next year to “You can turn the larger tiles into garden stones, others into coasters and mag- a larger booth.”

9

www.westfest.info

Rev it up for a good time

By Patricia A. Scheyer | Contributor One of the most attended events at WestFest is always the car show, which occurs on Sunday, June 26. Registration is at 9 a.m. at the Cheviot Sports Tavern, and the actual show starts at 1 p.m. at Glenmore and Harrison.

“We usually have about 100 cars, and we give trophies to 50 of them,” said show organizer Troy Borgmann, who owns T-B Sports Awards and Custom Apparel.

“I am in a car club, the Cincy Custom Street Machines, but the show is sponsored by the Cheviot Sports Tavern. About 20 of us from the car club will be judging the car show, and the best in show will go home with a six-foot trophy.”

Borgmann owns a 1954 Cadillac Fleetwood, a long black car with all original equipment and paint. He talked about a car that came to the show last year that was really interesting, a Volkswagen ‘Thing”, a bright green boxy car that Borgmann thought was rather unique.

“We usually get a lot of car enthusiasts, and a lot of older people who bring their grandchildren, and point out cars that they used to drive,” explained Borgmann. “The kids love it, too. It’s a multi-generational thing.”

Another vehicle that Borgmann liked last year was an

original bus that used to run the route through Cheviot and Westwood.

“The guy who owns it dresses up like a bus driver in the 1950s, when the bus ran, and he has restored the whole thing,” said Borgmann. “He has the doors open, and people can go up in it and see what buses were like in the ‘50s.”

The top 50 vehicles receive trophies at the end of the show, including the best in show, and the mayor’s choice, which is picked by Cheviot Mayor Sam Keller.

“I love seeing the older cars, and I even like some of the newer cars,” said Keller, who has been mayor for eight years.

“I don’t own one, but I take my family down to the car show, and my wife and each of my three daughters pick a car they like, and I pick mine, and if we have a majority vote, we pick

that one for mayor’s choice. If they all pick different ones than I pick, we go with what I pick. I have to say, I tend to pick ones from the 1920s through the 1970s, but one year I did pick the bus, because it was really cool.”

The other cars are judged on overall appearance and cleanliness, especially all around the motor, but also inside and outside the car. Just because the trunk might be closed, that area is also inspected for cleanliness.

Even though the majority of the cars go home with a trophy, everyone knows it is for a good cause, and most of the people who enter do so because they love cars.

The show benefits the Kid’s Café, an organization where needy children can get healthy snacks and nutritious meals.

Kid’s Café is a partnership of Freestore Foodbank and America’s Second Harvest.

Pickle-eating contest a hit at WestFest

By Patricia A. Scheyer | Contributor

year, downing 32 slices of pickle.”

Rita Graham is the Kitchen Manager at For anyone who has a Maury’s Tiny Cove, and taste for dill pickles, the she is one of the ones who WestFest pickle-eating makes sure contest at 5 the contestp.m. Sunday, ants don’t June 26, is the run out of place to be. pickles.

The first 30 “People contestants who take who register part have to ahead of the like dill pickcontest and les, first of pay their $10 all,” said will receive a Graham.

T-shirt, and be “They are ensured of a also competitive, and they place at the table where try their hardest. It is employees of Maury’s Tiny Cove keep the pickles worth it to try our pickles, because they are a taste coming.

For three long minutes, treat.” both male and female contestants shove slices of dill pickles into their mouths, each trying to be the one who will win first, second or third place.

“Maury bought the Tiny Cove in 1949, and their specialty has always been garlic dill pickles,” said Matt Huesman, who has owned the business 1 for 2 ⁄2 years.

“We have had the pickle contest for several years, and for the last three years Bobby Edwards has won. Two years ago, he ate a record 63 slices, but last year he won after eating 48.

“Last year we split the contest into men and women, and the prizes are split to $75 for each first place winner, $50 for second place, and $25 for third place. Heather Rycek won for the women last

Pickles! Pickles! Pickles await brave contestants.

To advertise in the 2012 WestFest program call 687-4614.

10

June 25-26, 2011

A toast to fallen heroes, their families This year WestFest will be host to the Budweisersponsored program ‘Here’s to the Heroes.’

Special Budweiser Stars and Stripes cans will be sold at the event and a portion of the proceeds raised will fund scholarships for family members of fallen soldiers.

“This program is wonderful because it creates more awareness of the needs of families who are left behind,” said CWCA volunteer Tamara Borgmann. “It’s also a great way to remember and honor their loved ones who served our country by giving the ultimate sacrifice.”

Budweiser is spending its summer raising up to $2 million to support the Folds of Honor Foundation (FOH) – an organization that provides postsecondary educational scholarships for families of U.S. military personnel killed or disabled while serving their country. The money raised is expected to fund 400 scholarships.

The 'Here's to the Heroes' program is kicking-off the 2011 summer season with a variety of national and local fundraising initiatives.

Characture artists will be available at WestFest for you to get a fun once-in-a-lifetime portrait!

Cheviot rocks!

There’s a Web site to prove it There’s no question that the city of Cheviot rocks!

Now, there’s a Web site to celebrate that fact.

Cheviotrocks.com highlights local shopping and promotes business and events in the Cheviot/Westwood area.

“The City of Cheviot and it’s West side neighbors have a lot to offer,” said Kevin Leidecker.

“There are some amazing festivals and events that take place over here.

Cheviot’s made up of some very interesting residents and it’s shops are owned by some very dedicated hard working people. They are family run businesses.”

Leidecker said they look to build an online site that helps promote Cheviot and give local events and The Cheviot Westwood Community Association (CWCA) business members a free medium to promote their cause

while at the same time helping to cross promote and tie everything together.

“With increased economic pressure lots of small businesses are forced to cut back on their promotion,” Leidecker explained. “Through CWCA’s Cheviotrocks.com and local area business membership in CWCA we can help to connect people to information without huge

cost or time commitments that take business owners away from their primary goal of running their shop.”

All local businesses get a free basic listing which includes name, phone number, address, hours of operation, and a photo or logo of the business.

Any CWCA business member will get free features plus these added options: Priority placement, three to five paragraphs about their business and multiple pictures.

“Right now we are exploring more features like message board / forum for Cheviot's residents and business owners to collaborate and discuss ideas,” Leidecker said.

“We have plans to really push more marketing and highlight for our food and bars.”

CWCA along with city of Cheviot became interested in putting together a web site to highlight the town.

“We wanted something that made Cheviot pop as a fun place to work, live, shop, and enjoy a night out,” he said. “When you combine all that together it just rocks!”

For information visit www.cheviotrocks.com.

WestFest is fun for all ages. The party seems to never end!

www.westfest.info

11

Party on!

12

June 25-26, 2011

Performers |Continued from 7 “WXIX Fox Morning Show,” headlined some of Cincinnati’s best summer festivals and concerts, as well as playing numerous corporate functions, clubs, and private parties each year.

The members of Saffire Express are: Dana Geroulis, lead vocals; Sam Geroulis, rhythm guitar, vocals, congas, and bongos; Bill Bayer, keyboards

and vocals; Pat Emmett, drums, vocals; Russ Murphy, bass guitar, vocals; and Denny Brooks, lead guitar.

Check out their website at www.saffireexpress.com.

Something Good The ladies of Something Good come to you with a special harmonious blend of modern, oldies, patriotic, and gospel music.

Hoping to bring enjoyment to all audiences they find that the mixture of music pleases the listening ear.

This group is well known in the southwestern Ohio area as they have been singing together for the past 17 years. The ladies sing on a regular basis for local organizations and churches. For the past 10 years the ladies have qualified and

sung the National Anthem for the local semi-pro baseball team, the Dayton Dragons and are a yearly national anthem performer for the Cincinnati Reds baseball team.

This group was also center stage for the Wright Brothers memorial dedication with astronauts, John Glenn and Neal Armstrong.

Visit www.soundsbysomethinggood.com.