May 2025 by Movers & Makers, Cincinnati

May 2025

FOCUS ON

Wellness

UC Health, Cincinnati Parks prescribe nature Notables in wellness practices

Polly Campbell reflects on motherhood

Stacy Sims of The Well

Movers &Makers

May 2025

MoversMakers.org

Publishers’ Letter 4

Arts & Culture 5

Ohio artists shine at CAC’s ‘State of Nature’ 5

Fleming headlines and directs 2025 May Festival 5

World premiere musical closes Cincy Shakes season 5

‘Tintoretto’s Genesis’ brings restored masterpieces to CAM 6

Song Initiative’s festival celebrates emerging faces of art song 6

The A&C List 8

Focus on: Wellness Practices 16

Stacy Sims’ The Well – artful solutions to wellness | By John Faherty 16

Nature Rx: UC Health and Cincinnati Parks partner on wellness in nature | by Leyla Shokoohe 18

Notables in wellness practices 20

Gifts & Grants 25

The Datebook 26

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

Nonprofit News 31

Names in the News 32

Snapshots

Kenzie’s Closet goes all-in on pink for prom-season gala 34

Prevention FIRST! honors behavioral health leadership 35

Cincinnati Children’s presents Legend-ary Kaleidscope 36

DNA Discovery program benefits from Bethesda Lyceum 37

Hope’s Closet ‘Blooms’ for foster children and parents 38

Norwood Together hands out community awards 39

Meals on Wheels’ Madness boosts senior services 40

Long-awaited Holloway House opens for Rosemary’s Babies 41

Cancer Advisors benefit from style and sophistication 42

Bike & Trail Expo attracts 6,000 enthusiasts 42

Cincinnati Preservation celebrates Fechheimer Mansion 43

Film community joins forces for Hollywood Highlife fundraiser 44

April M&M Mix & Mingle ‘Fueled’ by record crowd 45

Lammermeier Foundation honors Dick and Nancy Klus 46

NEXT Final Pitch event advances young innovators 48

Mardi Gras feted at Price Hill Will 49

The Last Word 50

Polly Campbell: The shrinking birthrate: It’s complicated

Thank You to Our 2025 Event Sponsors

Presenting Sponsors

Text-to-Give Sponsor

Brandon & Kelly Janszen

Cocktail

With

verdant life springing up all around us, it seems the perfect time to shine a light on wellness – physical, intellectual and emotional. Over the past few years, nonprofits have integrated wellness programs into their services as a way of nurturing the whole person. This typically involves incorporating the arts, nature, meditation and mind-centering exercises as tools to help people cope effectively with an increasingly complex and stressful human existence.

As an extension of her own wellness journey, the multifaceted Stacy Sims has for many years now been creating ways for people to nurture their own well-being. We asked John Faherty to catch up with Stacy to learn more about her personal path and how that has motivated her to share with and serve others. See Page 16.

Health and the Cincinnati Parks Foundation have partnered on a program infusing exposure to nature as a path to wellness. Learn more about NatureRx care in a piece by Leyla Shokoohe on Page 18.

And on Page 20, you can meet this month’s Notables: people leading the way on regional wellness within a diverse set of organizations and programs.

Way back in 2017, we spotlighted a then-new integrative medicine program offered through UC Health and the woman at its helm, Sian Cotton. Recently, UC © Copyright 2025 Movers & Makers Publishing We make every effort to verify information submitted for publication (print and online), but are not responsible for incorrect information or misidentified photos provided to us.

Polly Campbell muses on being the only mother in her family. She examines the choices of her own daughters – and an expanding

Co-publishers Thom and Elizabeth Mariner at The Cure Starts Now Once in a Lifetime Gala in April

group of young women – to forgo having children, and the causes and ramifications of it. See her Last Word on Page 50.

As many arts organizations wrap up their seasons, please remember that ArtsWave is also working toward a new fundraising goal in support of their work. We at M&M believe that arts and culture stand as the defining and distinctive characteristic of Cincinnati. Without the quality and breadth of opportunities we enjoy here, we would be just another midsize, Midwestern city. Please reach deeper into your pockets this year to invest in ArtsWave and their support of what makes living here so special (artswave.org).

Thanks for making M&M part of your own special lives.

Thom & Elizabeth Mariner co-publishers

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For their work on this issue, our gratitude to:

• Casey Weldon, digital editor

• Phil Fisher and Ray Cooklis, copy editors

• Shasta Taber, volunteer proofreader

• All the nonprofits that contributed news and photos.

Arts coverage supported by:

Elizabeth & Thom Mariner, co-publishers

Digital edition & daily posts MoversMakers.org

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Publishing schedule

JUNE MAY 2 MAY 28

JULY MAY 30 JUNE 25

AUGUST JUNE 27 JULY 23 SEPTEMBER AUG 1 AUG 27 OCTOBER AUG 29 SEPT 24

NOVEMBER SEPT 26 OCT 22

DEC 25/JAN 26 OCT 31 NOV 26

 moversmakers.org/publishing-schedule

Readers are advised to confirm event dates and other important details and check for last-minute changes with the organizations or advertisers involved.

Publication of this magazine and its website (MoversMakers.org) does not necessarily constitute an endorsement of any information contained within, including advertisements and links.

Movers & Makers Publishing is a nonprofit with fiscal sponsorship provided by Cincinnati Cares.

Mix & Mingle

Northern Row, near Findlay Market

Wednesday, May 14, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Casual opportunity to make new friends or business contacts. Mingle with nonprofit staff, supporters and fellow M&M readers. Light bites & drinks. Join M&M for our monthly

Arts & Culture

CAC

showcases

Ohio artists in ‘State of Nature’

There’s a vibrant visual arts community in Ohio, with three major metropolises, half a dozen more cities boasting strong arts traditions and proud artists in rural counties, too. The state’s businesses have chambers of commerce to tout their achievements, but what of its painters, sculptors, photographers or printmakers?

Enter two premier institutions in opposite corners of the state – Cincinnati’s Contemporary Arts Center and the Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland. They have teamed up to launch a series of exhibitions titled “Ohio Now” to celebrate the state’s artists. The first, “Ohio Now: State of Nature,” opens May 2 at downtown’s Rosenthal Center for Contemporary Art.

The show brings together artists from across Ohio who focus on sustainability, agriculture, food justice and natural ecologies. Through diverse materials and perspectives, these artists reflect on humanity’s relationship with the environment. The included works highlight the urgency of environmental issues while inviting

Fleming front and center at Cincinnati May Festival

The Cincinnati May Festival will look and sound different this year – and that’s the plan.

The venerable choral festival, oldest in the Western Hemisphere, last year adopted its new artistic model that names a different festival director each year to put a personal stamp on the programs. To follow composer Julia Wolfe, the first curator of the brave new world, the festival turned to one of the most famous singers in the business, soprano Renée Fleming.

dialogue and response.

Some works incorporate found elements like waterway pollutants, plant-based dyes and grass clippings, while others investigate topics ranging from climate change conspiracies to natural history and arthropods (the enormous phylum of creatures that includes all Earth’s insects). Many of the artists draw from personal experiences as farmers, grocery workers or environmental observers. Materials include painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography and installations. The exhibition runs here through Sept. 7, then moves north to Cleveland’s moCa in 2026.  contemporaryartscenter.org

Fleming, 66, is easing off her performing career, but the Pennsylvania native will be front and center for four of the festival’s six events May 16-24, including its final two performances. With baritone Rod Gilfry, she sings Kevin Puts’ “The Brightness of Light,” about the lives of painter Georgia O’Keeffe and photographer Alfred Stieglitz, on May 22. For the festival’s grand finale, “Voice of Nature: The Anthropocene,” she performs an eclectic revue of songs about nature set against footage from National Geographic.

Opening the festival is a perennial favorite, Verdi’s “Requiem,” followed May 18 by a program titled “Chasing the Dawn,” with works by a mix of composers from Lili Boulanger to Alfred Schnittke to Luther Vandross.

This is the first festival under the helm of Julianne Akins Smith, named executive director of the May Festival, Vocal Arts Ensemble and Cincinnati Boychoir in November. Smith came to Cincinnati from Virginia, where she led the Wintergreen Music Festival to growth in attendance and revenue and build a reputation of building partnerships in the community.

 mayfestival.com

World premiere of ‘Mrs. Dalloway’ musical closes CSC season

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company and “world premiere” have gone hand in hand lately. To close its 2024-25 campaign, the troupe mounts its third world premiere of the season – and it’s a musical.

“Mrs. Dalloway: A New Musical,” which opens May 23 and runs through June 15, is a centenary tribute to Virginia Woolf’s novel “Mrs. Dalloway,” published in May 1925. CSC commissioned the new setting, with book, music and lyrics by

Lindsey Augusta Mercer, in 2020. The company describes the musical as a “queer-forward exploration” of the novel. That’s hardly a stretch for the material: Woolf, though married and emotionally devoted to her husband, turned to a series of women for romantic fulfillment. Her title character here, Clarissa Dalloway, is 51 and reflecting on her life’s choices, too – marrying a reliable man instead of the man who sparked passion in her, and not pursuing a relationship

with a free-spirited woman. It all comes to a head when she decides to host a grand party and includes both the man and woman who got away on the guest list. Interwoven is the story of a World War I veteran with PTSD and how his choices resonate with the other characters.

CSC called Mercer’s score a golden-age Broadway-inspired with a folk-pop feel. There’s an orchestra of eight.  cincyshakes.com

 At the CAC, “Madonna of The Garden.” Photograph by Tina Gutierrez of Jordyn Flowe and Obadiah at Melrose Garden.

Renee Fleming directs the 2025 May Festival.

Julianne Akins Smith, May Festival executive director

Christiana Cole stars in “Mrs. Dalloway” at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company.

Art Museum’s ‘Tintoretto’s Genesis’ shows restored masterpieces

Renaissance painter Jacopo Tintoretto (1518–1594) made a series of paintings for the Scuola della Trinità in Venice, Italy, depicting scenes from the Book of Genesis. Now, after a year-long study and restoration project, three of these paintings – “The Creation of the Animals,” “The Temptation of Adam” and “Cain and Abel” – are being shown together for the first time in the United States at the Cincinnati Art Museum.

“Thanks to this initiative, the paintings’ colors have regained their proper tones, their forms are clear, and the illusion of space, volume and action that Tintoretto created so masterfully are again fully on display in the scenes,” said Peter Jonathan Bell, curator of European paintings, sculpture and drawings at CAM and coordinating curator and editor for this project.

Organized by CAM and New York’s Foundation for Italian Art & Culture with the participation of the Gallerie dell’Accademia di Venezia, “Tintoretto’s Genesis” is on view in the Vance Waddell and Mayerson galleries through Aug. 31 The exhibition also features several prints from CAM’s collection, showing the lasting influence and appeal of the large paintings Tintoretto made for civic spaces across Venice.

 cincinnatiartmuseum.org. No tickets are required.

Song Initiative’s annual festival serves up six programs

Cincinnati Song Initiative is dedicated to celebrating art song. It’s an important distinction from just preserving the art song, and that’s manifested in projects like Fellowship of the Song, which runs May 12-17.

The annual festival, presented with help from the CollegeConservatory of Music, brings a competitively auditioned group of young singers and pianists – five of each – to Cincinnati for a week of classes, lessons, workshops and concerts in the genre. Each concert explores a different facet of the year’s theme – this year, “finding home.” (The 10 fellows perform two programs; visiting artists take the stage of CCM’s Werner Recital Hall for the other four.)

The repertoire is impressively diverse: works commissioned by the performers; regional and world premieres of songs and song cycles; and famous songwriters of the last few centuries – ranging from Franz Schubert, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and Hugo Wolf to Francis Poulenc and Florence Price to John Denver and Willie Nelson. There’s a heavy English accent this year, too, with songs by Frank Bridge, Benjamin Britten, Roger Quilter and Ralph Vaughan Williams.

Program themes include the Asian American experience, a musician’s life on the road, climate change and, of course, love. Besides tickets to each performance, you can buy passes to all six concerts or the all-in-one festival pass, which includes streaming of all festival events, not just concerts.

 cincinnatisonginitiative.org/fellowship2025

Jacopo Tintoretto (Italian, 1519-1594), “The Creation of the Animals,” 1550-53, oil on canvas, Gallerie dell’Accademia, Venice (before conservation treatment)

Eisele Gallery hosts painters’ society Best of America Small Works exhibition

There’s a group for everything. Take, for example, the National Oil and Acrylic Painters’ Society. The international organization supports artists around the world, it says, by recognizing great art, enriching education, enhancing skills, challenging abilities and expanding marketing opportunities.

Among the ways NOAPS furthers the careers of developing artists is its annual Best of America Small Works exhibition. The hosting gallery for the juried exhibition changes every

year. This year, the show’s eighth, runs May 9-31 at Eisele Gallery, 6936 Madisonville Road, in the heart of Mariemont. Up for grabs is $30,000 in awards, including a $3,000 best in show award.

The exhibition will also include a plein air competition, “Cincy in the Spring,” May 7-8, with a sale on May 9. Opening reception is May 9, 6-9 p.m. Exhibit remains on display through May 31.

 noaps.org/2025-small-boa

Samuel Martin, founding artistic director of the Cincinnati Song Initiative

Shawn Sullivan, “Sk8r Chick,” oil on canvas

Sandra Kuck, “Guinevere,” oil on canvas

A D V E N T UR E

A F U NDRA IS ING PL AYDATE

SAT, JU N E 7 I 10A M - 4P M

Join us for a day-long Artful Adventure designed for the whole family! All proceeds from Artful Adventure support CAC's exhibitions and programs.

EMAIL DONATE@CINCYCAC.ORG FOR SPONSORHIP AND TICKET INFORMATION.

Cultural Exhibits/Tours

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

Historic tours in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky

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

Permanent collection of preserved and restored signs

Saturdays, noon & 2 p.m. & Sundays, 2 p.m. Guided museum tours

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

Hands-on educational experiences

ArtWorks Mural Tours | artworkscincinnati.org

By appointment only. Walking tours of Pendleton, Over-the-Rhine and downtown

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

Artifacts and history of Northern Kentucky

Thru Aug. 3. “Driftwood: The Life of Harlan Hubbard”

Thru 2025. “The Legacy of BehringerCrawford Museum: 75 Years of Art, Culture and Community”

Betts House | West End. 513-651-0734. facebook.com/thebettshouse

By appointment only. Oldest home in Cincinnati

Brewing Heritage Trail Tour Center | Over-the-Rhine. 513-604-9812. brewingheritagetrail.org

Exploring Queen City beverage history

Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame | Brady Music Center, The Banks. cincyblackmusicwalkoffame.org

Daily, 6 a.m.-11 p.m. Queen City contributions to Black music

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

Permanent collection. Historic artifacts and equipment

Cincinnati Food Tours | Over-the-Rhine. 513-602-5602. cincinnatifoodtours.com

Exploring Queen City food heritage

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

Thru May 18. “Julia Child: A Recipe for Life”

Thru Sept. 1. “Barbie: A Cultural Icon”

Cincinnati Nature Center | Milford. cincynature.org

Nature trails and ponds amidst old-growth forest

Cincinnati Observatory | Hyde Park. cincinnatiobservatory.org

Oldest U.S. professional observatory

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

Permanent collection of equipment, tools and artifacts

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

World-class fauna and flora

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

Indoor and outdoor tours of Queen City landmark

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

Permanent exhibit. Displays of Glendale’s history

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

Permanent collection. Historic artifacts and equipment

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

Historic family home of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” author and later a Green Book location

May 17, 10 a.m. Walking Tour: Abolitionists and African Americans in Walnut Hills

May 31, 10 a.m. Walking Tour: African American History along the Cincinnati Riverfront

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

Illustrates life in 19th-century Southwest Ohio

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

Media, artifacts, art and interactive exhibitions commemorating the Holocaust

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

May 10-Aug. 10. Gothica Botanica Butterfly Show

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

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

Loveland Castle & Museum | Loveland. lovelandcastle.com

Full-scale replica of medieval castle

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

Permanent exhibit. Historical displays of art, artifacts and more

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

By appointment only. Historic walking tours

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

Permanent collection exploring themes of individual freedom

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

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

On May 13, the Over-theRhine Museum offers a behind-the-scenes, hard-hat tour of the restoration of the Emery Theater, soon to be the home of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

Newport Aquarium | Newport. newportaquarium.com

Showcase of exotic aquatic creatures

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

May 13, 4 p.m. Emery Theater Restoration Tour

Railway Museum of Greater Cincinnati | Covington. cincirailmuseum.org

May 3, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Railroad yard collection

RAPTOR Inc. | Milford. raptorinc.org

May 25, 1-4 p.m. Open house: Birds of prey sanctuary

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

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

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

Historic home and museum

Titanic: An Immersive Voyage | Exhibition Hub Art Center, downtown. expo-titanic.com/cincinnati

Thru May 3. Artifacts, recreations, 3D views, video animations and cutting-edge technology

Tri-State Warbird Museum | Batavia. tri-statewarbirdmuseum.org

Permanent exhibitions of military and historic aviation

Valley View Nature Preserve | Milford. valleyviewcampus.org

Preserved 190-acre farm and open land

Vent Haven Museum | Ft. Mitchell. 859-341-0461. venthaven.org

By appointment only. World’s only ventriloquism museum

White Water Shaker Village | Harrison. whitewatervillage.org

Preserved historic village

Dance

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

May 1-4. “Director’s Vision: No Boundaries”

College-Conservatory of Music | Corbett Theater, University of Cincinnati. 513-556-4183. ccm.uc.edu

May 2-3. Spring Youth Ballet Concert

DE LA Dance Company | Kennedy Heights. 513-871-0914. deladancecompany.org

Thru May 11. “Giselle”

Miami Valley Ballet Theatre | Fairfield Community Arts Center, Fairfield. mvbtdance.org

May 10, 2 & 7 p.m. Contemporary Performance 2025

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

May 30-31. “Modern Mix ’25”

Fairs/Festivals/Markets

ArtsConnect | Springfield Twp. Community Arts Center. 513-522-2108. theartsconnect.us

May 17, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Artisan Fair, juried art vendors, live music, food and beer

CincItalia Festival |

Harvest Home Park, Cheviot. cincitalia.org

May 30-June 1. Italian food, family fun and live music

Cincy-Cinco Latino Festival | Fountain Square, downtown. hispanicchambercincinnati.com/cincy-cinco

May 3-4. Celebration of Hispanic culture, food and music

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

May 17, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Spring Market

Civic Garden Center | Avondale. 513-221-0981. civicgardencenter.org

May 3, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. GrowFest: All things urban agriculture

Covington Farmers Market |

600 block of Washington Street, Covington. greatneighborhoods.org

Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Products raised, grown and produced within 50 miles

Crafty Supermarket |

Music Hall Ballroom, Over-the-Rhine. craftysupermarket.com

May 10, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Showcase of handmade creations

Gorman Heritage Farm | Evendale. gormanfarm.org

May 10, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. May Farm Fest

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

May 11, 18 & 25, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Regional food and beverage market

Madeira Farmers Market |

Dawson Road at Miami Avenue, Madeira. madeirafarmersmarket.com

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

Northside Farmers Market | Heart of Northside. northsidefm.org

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

The Real Taco Fest |

Smale Riverfront Park, The Banks, downtown. realtacofest.com

May 10. All things tacos, plus the trimmings

Smoke on the River BBQ Fest | Newport Festival Park. thingstodocincinnati.com

May 9-11. Celebration of BBQ in various forms

Soulful Change, Omniafrica | Fountain Square, downtown. soulfulchange.org

May 24, 3 p.m. Celebrating African cultures and leaders

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

May 30-June 1. Region’s largest arts and crafts festival

Taste of Cincinnati | Fifth Street, downtown. tasteofcincinnati.com

May 24-26. Food and music festival

Film

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

OMNIMAX . “T. Rex” • “The Blue Angels” • “Space: The New Frontier”

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

Films from around the globe

Taft Theatre | Downtown. tafttheatre.org

May 3, 7 p.m. “Stop Making Sense”

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

May 5, 7:30 p.m. “Pink Floyd: The Wall”

May 12, 7:30 p.m. “Hung Up on a Dream”

Ziegler Park | Over-the-Rhine. zieglerpark.org

May 23 & 30, 7:30 p.m. Dive-In Movies

Literary/Lectures

Behringer-Crawford Museum | Virtual. 859-491-4003. bcmuseum.org

May 6 & 20, 6:30 p.m. NKY History Hour

Brady Music Center | The Banks, downtown. bradymusiccenter.com

May 6, 7:30 p.m. Neil deGrasse Tyson

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

May 17, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. See the Story: Damian Dibben “The Color Storm:

A Novel of Renaissance Venice”

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

May 20, 5:30 p.m. Preservation in the Park: Morgan Rigaud “History of Roller Skating in Cincinnati”

Giving Voice Foundation | Jewish Family Service, Blue Ash. givebutter.com/AIYWR

May 13, 10 a.m. Caring for the Caregiver Writing Experience

CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL

music in worship and concert

Sunday, May 4 | 5:00 pm Choral Evensong (Pre-service Organ Recital 4:30 pm) Sunday, May 11 | 3:00 pm Organ Recital (Abraham Wallace) Sunday, June 15 | 4:30 pm Concert (Coro Latinoamericano)

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

May 10, 2 p.m. Discussion: Lucy Foley

“The Midnight Feast”

May 22, 7 p.m. Discussion: Rachel Gillig

“The Knight and the Moth”

Mercantile Library | Downtown. 513-621-0717. mercantilelibrary.com

May 14, 6 p.m. Discussion: Kevin Wilson

“Run For The Hills”

May 28, 6 p.m. Discussion: Ruthie Ackerman “The Mother Code”

Sitwell’s Coffee House | Clifton. facebook.com/poetryatsitwells

May 6, 7-8:30 p.m. Sarah Catton and Bea Fields, plus open mic

Taft Theatre | Downtown. tafttheatre.org

May 21, 7 p.m. Father Mike Schmitz

Word of Mouth Cincinnati | MOTR Pub, Over-the-Rhine. cincywordofmouth.com motrpub.com/word-mouth-featured-openpoetry-readings

May 4, 6 p.m. Open poetry

Music

Blue Ash Montgomery Symphony Orchestra | Tom Stone Amphitheater, Blue Ash. 513-549-2197. bamso.org

May 26, 7 p.m. Memorial Day Celebration: “Under the Sea!”

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

May 6, 6:30 p.m. Devin Townsend

May 10, 7 p.m. Pink Droyd

May 15, 7 p.m. Napalm Death & Melvins

May 17, 7 p.m. Nolan Taylor

May 18, 7 p.m. Alex Warren

May 27, 7 p.m. JPEGMAFIA

May 28, 6:30 p.m. grentperez

Brady Music Center | The Banks, downtown. bradymusiccenter.com

May 10, 8 p.m. Ivan Cornejo

May 18, 7 p.m. Mayday Parade

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

Wednesday-Saturday evenings Live jazz

Butler Philharmonic | Middletown High School. 513-844-5151. butlerphil.org

May 10, 7:30 p.m. “Scheherazade!”

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

Most evenings. Live jazz

The Carnegie | Covington. 859-957-1940. thecarnegie.com

May 3, 7:30 p.m. Queen City Cabaret “Cincinnati Rocktails”

Chamber Music Cincinnati | Memorial Hall, Over-the-Rhine. 513-342-6870. cincychamber.org

May 1, 7:30 p.m. Jerusalem Quartet

Christ Church Cathedral | Downtown. 513-621-1817. cincinnaticathedral.com

May 4, 5 p.m. Choral Evensong

May 11, 3 p.m. Abraham Wallace, organ and CCC associate director of music

May 29, 7 p.m. Ascension Day

◆ 12:10 p.m. Music Live@Lunch (Christ Church Chapel):

May 6. Pork City Slim

May 13. Kyle Meadows, hammered dulcimer

May 20. The Queen City Sisters

May 27. Bacchanal Steel Band

Christ Church Glendale | Glendale. 513-771-1544. christchurchglendale.org

May 1, 12:05 p.m. Trinity Le, piano

May 23, 7 p.m. Jeremy Filsell, organ

Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library | Main Library, downtown. 513-369-6900. chpl.org

May 2, noon. Nancy Woodin, piano

Cincinnati Camerata | cincinnaticamerata.com

May 17, 3 p.m. “In the Middle” (St. John’s Unitarian Universalist Church, Clifton)

May 18, 3 p.m. “In the Middle” (Urban Artifact, Northside)

Cincinnati Choral Society | St. Barnabas Church, Montgomery. cincinnatichoralsociety.org

May 4, 3 p.m. “Music Down in My Soul”

Cincinnati Civic Orchestra | Norwood Masonic Center, Norwood. 513-861-9978. cincinnaticivicorchestra.org

May 4, 3 p.m. Spring Concert

Cincinnati Community Orchestra | Church of the Savior United Methodist, Montgomery. 513-317-0300. cincinnaticommunityorchestra.org

May 3, 7:30 p.m. “Permanent Vacation”

Cincinnati Men’s Chorus | Memorial Hall, Over-the-Rhine. 513-542-2626. cincinnatimenschorus.org

May 17-18, 2 p.m. “I Am America”

Cincinnati Parks | cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks

May 23, 6 p.m. Gettin’ to the Point Music Series: Dead Humor / The Dreaded Mids (Schott Amphitheater, Sawyer Point)

Cincinnati Song Initiative: Fellowship of the Song | Werner Recital Hall, CollegeConservatory of Music. cincinnatisonginitiative.org

May 12, 7:30 p.m. “mOthertongue: Lived Experience in Asian America” Jennifer Lien, soprano; Christina Lalog Seal, piano

May 13, 7:30 p.m. “On the Road: The Life of an Artist Cabaret” Ann Toomey, soprano; Madeline Slettedahl, piano (Liberty Exhibition Hall, Northside)

May 14, 7:30 p.m. “Fellows’ Opening Concert”

May 15, 7:30 p.m. “There Has Always Been Love” Magdalena Kuźma, soprano; Samuel Martin, piano

May 16, 2:30 p.m. “No One Saves the Earth From Us But Us” Quinn Patrick Ankrum, mezzo; Elizabeth Avery, piano

May 17, 7:30 p.m. “Fellows’ Closing Concert”

Cincinnati Symphony & Pops | Music Hall, Over-the-Rhine. 513-3813300. cincinnatisymphony.org

May 2-4. (Pops) “Mandy Gonzalez: La Vida Broadway” Mandy Gonzalez, vocalist

May 9-10. (CSO) “Grieg & Ellington” Damon Gupton, conductor. Michelle Cann, piano (also livestream)

Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestra | Music Hall, Over-the-Rhine. cincinnatisymphony.org/csyo

May 11, 2 p.m. (Concert Orchestra) “Sinfonia Espansiva”

May 11, 7 p.m. (Philharmonic) “Seascapes”

Michelle Cann offers up the Grieg Piano Concerto, one of the true masterpieces of the genre, May 9 & 10, with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra

Cincinnati Youth Choir | Corbett Auditorium, College-Conservatory of Music. 513-556-4183. cincinnatichoir.org

May 10, 2 & 5 p.m. “Spring Sing: Kaleidoscope”

Classical Revolution | The Loon, Northside. classicalrevolutioncincinnati.com

May 11, 7:30 p.m. Chamber music in casual bar setting

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

May 28, 7 p.m. Wednesdays in the Woods (Burnet Woods Bandstand)

May 4, 11:30 a.m. Live@ (U-Square, Calhoun St.)

May 10, 10 a.m. Saturdays in the Park (Inwood Park, Mt. Auburn)

Concert nova | concertnova.com

May 9, 7:30 p.m. “Ysaÿe in Cincinnati” w/ Ben Beilman, violin

Fitton Center |

Hamilton. 513-863-8873. fittoncenter.org

May 17, 7:30 p.m. Just Strange Brothers Blues Explosion

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

◆ Tuesdays, 11 a.m. Strauss Troy Market

May 6. Malijah Mitchell

May 13 & 20. Ed “Sax” Thomas

◆ Tuesdays, 5 p.m. Jazz at the Square

May 6. Jim Connerley Quartet

May 13. Colin Palmieri Quartet

May 20. Patsy Meyer

◆ Wednesdays, 5-8 p.m. Fountain Blues

May 7. John Ford

May 14. Cheryl Renee & Shorty Starr

May 21. Dave Burke & the Heartstrings

May 28. Noah Wotherspoon

◆ Thursdays, May-Aug. 6 p.m. Salsa on the Square

◆ Saturdays, May-Aug. 7 p.m.

Fifth & Vine Live

Great Parks | 513-521-7275. greatparks.org

May 30, 6 p.m. Burgers & Brews: Ed Sax (Lake Isabella Boathouse)

Hard Rock Casino | Downtown. hardrockcasinocincinnati.com

May 10, 8 p.m. Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

May 17, 6:45 p.m. JJ Grey and Mofro and The Marshall Tucker Band

Heritage Bank Center | Downtown. heritagebankcenter.com

May 31, 8 p.m. The Queens: Chaka Khan, Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight and Stephanie Mills

Irish Heritage Center | Columbia Tusculum. 513-533-0100. cincyirish.org

Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. Pub Music Night

The Jazz Spoon | Forest Park. thejazzspoon.com

Friday-Saturday evenings. Live jazz

Kentucky Symphony Orchestra | Greaves Hall, Northern Kentucky University.859-431-6216. kyso.org

May 10, 7:30 p.m. “Swingin’ the Classics”

Lakeside Music Concert Series | Lakeside Presbyterian Church, Lakeside Park. lakesidechurch.org

May 6, 7 p.m. Bowling Green State University Collegiate Chorale

May 10, 3 p.m. Northern Kentucky Community Chorus: “Grant Us Peace”

Linton Chamber Music | 513-381-6868. lintonmusic.org

May 11, 4 p.m. “Musical Café” Michelle Cann, piano; Stefani Matsuo, violin; Tommy Mesa, cello (First Unitarian Church, Avondale)

May 12, 7:30 p.m. “Musical Café” Michelle Cann, piano; Stefani Matsuo, violin; Tommy Mesa, cello (Congregation Beth Adam, Loveland)

Linton Peanut Butter & Jam Sessions | 513-381-6868. peanutbutterandjam.org Music with Madcap - Jack and the Beanstalk

May 2, 10:30 a.m. (Cincinnati Public Library, Main Branch, downtown)

May 3, 10:30 a.m. (Mt. Washington Presbyterian Church)

May 10, 11 a.m. (Living God Church, Avondale)

May 14, 11 a.m. (Northside Branch Library)

May 17, 10:30 a.m. (Westwood First Presbyterian Church)

May 24, 10:30 a.m. (Sycamore Presbyterian Church)

Longworth-Anderson Series | Memorial Hall, Over-the-Rhine. longworth-andersonseries.com

May 8, 8 p.m. Rhiannon Giddens and the Old-Time Revue

May 19-20, 8 p.m. The Magnetic Fields

Ludlow Garage | Clifton. ludlowgaragecincinnati.com

May 1, 7:30 p.m. Lissie

May 2, 7:30 p.m. Five for Fighting

May 3, 7:30 p.m. Spyro Gyra

May 7, 7:30 p.m. Matisyahu

May 9, 7:30 p.m. Live at the Fillmore

May 10, 7:30 p.m. Pieces of a Dream

May 15, 7:30 p.m. Furious Bongos

May 16, 7:30 p.m. FJ (Foreigner and Journey Tribute)

May 17, 7:30 p.m. Jeffrey Osborne

May 24, 7:30 p.m. Michael Lington & Paul Taylor

May 29-30, 7:30 p.m. Stanley Clarke

May 31, 7:30 p.m. Matteo Mancuso

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

May 2, 8 p.m. JUMP

May 3, 8 p.m. Revocation • Benny

The Butcher • Torcha

May 4, 7 p.m. Stephen Stanley

May 9, 7 p.m. Bendigo Fletcher

May 9, 7:30 p.m. Volcandra

May 10, 8 p.m. Hayden Coffman • Knife the Symphony

May 13, 7 p.m. Terror

May 14, 7 p.m. Legions of Doom

May 14, 8 p.m. Smoking Popes

May 16, 8 p.m. Kid Kentucky

May 17, 8 p.m. Hyryder

May 18, 7:30 p.m. TX2

May 22, 7:30 p.m. Keep Flying

May 23, 8 p.m. Alla Xul Elu

May 25, 7 p.m. Drug Church

May 28, 7:30 p.m. D.R.I.

May 30, 7:30 p.m. Sheer Terror

May Festival | Music Hall, Over-theRhine. 513-381-3300. mayfestival.com

May 16, 7:30 p.m. Verdi: Requiem. Ramón Tebar, conductor; Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and May Festival Chorus

May 18, 2 p.m. “Chasing the Dawn: A Choral Journey” May Festival Chorus, Chamber Choir and Youth Chorus and Cincinnati Boychoir

May 22, 7:30 p.m. Kevin Puts: “The Brightness of Light,” Vaughan Williams: “Serenade to Music,” Stravinsky: “Symphony of Psalms.” Juanjo Mena,

conductor; Renée Fleming, soprano; Rod Gilfry, baritone

May 24, 7:30 p.m. “Voice of Nature: The Anthropocene” Renée Fleming, soprano; May Festival Chorus

MegaCorp Pavilion at Ovation | Newport. promowestlive.com

May 9, 6:30 p.m. Warren Zeiders

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

May 4, 8 p.m. George Michael Reborn

May 13, 8 p.m. Bruce Cockburn

May 14, 8 p.m. Dave Mason

MYCincinnati | ARCO, Price Hill. 513-251-3800 x106. mycincinnati.org

May 15, 6 p.m. End-of-Year Concert

New Downbeat | ARCO, Price Hill. newdownbeat.com

May 25, 3 p.m. Annual Premieres Concert

Northern Kentucky Community Chorus | Lakeside Presbyterian Church, Lakeside Park. nkychorus.org

May 10, 3 p.m. “Grant Us Peace” April 4 to September 1, 2025

ARTS & CULTURE | The List

Northern Kentucky University | Greaves Concert Hall, Highland Heights. 859-572-5464. music.nku.edu

May 1, 7 p.m. Symphonic Winds

Queen City Cabaret | The Carnegie, Covington. queencitycabaretcincy.com

May 3, 7:30 p.m. “Cincinnati Rocktails”

The Redmoor | Mt. Lookout Square. theredmoor.com

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

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

May 21, 7:30 p.m. Billy Idol

May 25, 5:45 p.m. Breaking Benjamin

RiversEdge | Hamilton. riversedgelive.com

May 31, 6 p.m. Little Texas + 90 Proof Twang

Rockin’ the Roebling | Moerlein Lager House, The Banks. facebook.com

May 15, 6 p.m. Floyd and the Walkmen

May 22, 6 p.m. Noah Smith (Crooner Circus)

May 29, 6 p.m. Reilly and Sons • This Must Be the Party

St. Barnabas Episcopal Church Concert Series | Montgomery. st-barnabas.org

May 4, 3 p.m. Cincinnati Choral Society

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

Thursdays-Sundays. Live jazz

Sorg Opera House | Middletown. sorgoperahouse.org

May 16, 8 p.m. Tyler Christopher & The Roustabout Show Band

May 23, 7 p.m. The Cleverlys

Southgate House | Newport. 859-431-2201. southgatehouse.com

Nightly rock, alternative blues, etc.

Taft Theatre | Downtown. tafttheatre.org

May 13, 7:30 p.m. Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass

May 14, 8 p.m. Lettuce + GZA

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

May 3, 8 p.m. Cinco de Disco

May 10, 7 p.m. Fillmore On The River

TQL Stadium | West End. tqlstadium.com

May 16, 6 p.m. Zac Brown Band

May 17, 6 p.m. Lauren Daigle

Trinity Episcopal Church | Covington. 859-431-1786. trinitycovington.org

May 21, 12:15 p.m. Midday Musical Menu: James Loughery, piano

Turfway Park Events Center | Florence. turfway.com

Fridays, 9 p.m. Bourbon and Brew Bands

Viva Voices | Drees Homes Auditorium, Erlanger. vivavoices.net

May 4, 7 p.m. Children’s Choir & Youth Chorus Spring Concert

Warren County Historical Museum | Lebanon. wchsmuseum.org

May 8, 7 p.m. Mark Morton, bagpipes

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

May 1, 7:30 p.m. Mystery Lights

May 9, 8 p.m. Josh Radnor

May 13, 7 p.m. Arcadian Wild Theater

Beechmont Players | Anderson Center, Anderson Twp. 513-233-2468. beechmontplayers.org

May 2-10. “Working”

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

May 6-18. “A Beautiful Noise”

CenterStage Players |

8 North Center for the Arts, Ft. Thomas. centerstageplayersinc.com

May 16-24. “Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead”

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati | Taft Theatre, downtown. 513-569-8080. thechildrenstheatre.com

Thru May 4. “Disney’s Frozen Jr.”

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

Thru May 11. “The Wedding Singer”

May 28-June 22. “Million Dollar Quartet”

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

May 9-17. “Sweet Charity”

May 30-June 7. “Nunsense”

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

Spend a couple of hours at Jaja’s Harlem hair salon to top off Ensemble Theatre ’s season . “Jaja’s African Hair Braiding” runs May 31-June 22

Thru May 4. “The Tempest”

May 23-June 15. “Mrs. Dalloway: A New Musical”

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

May 30-June 14. 22nd annual festival of experimental theater

Drama Workshop | Cheviot. 513-598-8303. thedramaworkshop.org

May 2-18. “Bingo! The Winning Musical”

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

May 31-June 22. “Jaja’s African Hair Braiding”

Fairfield Footlighters | Fairfield Community Arts Center, Fairfield. 513-867-5348. fairfieldfootlighters.org

May 23-25. “Always A Bridesmaid”

Footlighters | Stained Glass Theatre, Newport. 859-291-7464. footlighters.org

May 1-18. “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”

The Funny Bone | Liberty Twp. liberty.funnybone.com

Weekly comedy shows

The Ghostlight Stage Company | theghostlightstageco.com

May 19, 7 p.m. Shining a Light Series: Shira Helena Gitlin: “Casting Beyond the Binary” (Playhouse in the Park)

May 22-25. “Late, A Cowboy Song” (Falcon Theatre, Newport)

Go Bananas Comedy Club | Montgomery. gobananascomedy.com

Weekly comedy shows

Greater Hamilton Civic Theatre | Parrish Auditorium, Hamilton. 513-737-PLAY. ghctplay.org

May 1-4. “Fiddler on the Roof”

Improv Cincinnati | Clifton Performance Theatre, Clifton. improvcincinnati.com

Thursday-Saturday evenings. Weekly comedy shows

Know Theatre | Over-the-Rhine. 513-300-5669. knowtheatre.com

See Cincy Fringe Festival

Lebanon Theatre Company | Lebanon. 513-932-8300. ltcplays.com

May 2-11. “The Miss Firecracker Contest”

Loveland Stage Company | Loveland. 513-443-4572. lovelandstagecompany.org

May 2-18. “The Toxic Avenger”

Lumos Players I Maineville. lumosplayers.com

May 14, 7:30 p.m. “Richard & Gregory” by Michael Messner • “A Rare Medium” by Eva Schegulla

Mariemont Players | Walnut Creek Playhouse, Mariemont. 513-684-1236. mariemontplayers.com

May 1-18. “Four Old Broads”

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

Thru May 3. “Blithe Spirit”

Middletown Lyric Theatre | Sorg Opera House, Middletown. 513-425-7140. middletownlyric.org

May 9-10. “Children’s Letters To God”

Northern Kentucky University | Corbett Theatre, Highland Heights. 859-572-5464. theatre.nku.edu

Thru May 4. “Jesus Christ Superstar”

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

Thru May 18. “Birthday Candles” (Rosenthal Shelterhouse Theatre)

Royal Theatre Company | Memorial Hall, Over-the-Rhine. royaltheatrecompany.com

May 30, 5:30 p.m. Dare To Dream Musical Spectacular (5:30 p.m. gala, 7 p.m. show)

Sorg Opera House | Middletown. sorgoperahouse.org

May 24, 4 p.m. “Hands Across Tromerica”

Sunset Players | Arts Center at Dunham, Price Hill. 513-588-4988. sunsetplayers.org

May 23-31. “Marvelous Wonderettes: Dream On”

Taft Theatre | Downtown. tafttheatre.org

May 1, 8 p.m. Trevor Wallace, comedian

May 15-18. Jim Gaffigan, comedian

Tri-County Players | Bell Tower Arts Pavilion, Evendale. 513-471-2030. facebook.com

Thru May 3. “Puffs”

Truist Arena | Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights. thetruistarena.com

May 17, 7 p.m. Greg Gutfeld, comedian

Village Players | Ft. Thomas. 859-392-0500. villageplayers.org

Thru May 3. “These Shining Lives”

Visual Art

21c Museum Hotel | Downtown. 513-578-6600. 21cmuseumhotels.com/cincinnati

Thru Sept. 30. “Revival: Digging into Yesterday, Planting Tomorrow” • (FotoFocus) Spotlight: Felipe Rivas San Martín

The Annex Gallery | Pendleton Arts Center, Pendleton. annexgallery.org

Thru July 19. Michael Coppage: “Joy/Us,” collages exploring racial identity

Art Academy of Cincinnati | Over-theRhine. 513-562-6262. artacademy.edu

Thru May 2. Group student thesis exhibitions

Art Design Consultants

– Ft. Thomas | adcfineart.com

May 16-June 6. Gilded Garden Exhibition. Reception: May 16, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Art Enclave | Mason. artenclave.com

Thru May 3. “No Boundaries”

Art on Vine | Washington Park, Over-the-Rhine. artonvinecincy.com

May 11, noon-6 p.m. Mother’s Day

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

May 1-June 30.“Up Close”

Reception: May 1, 5-8 p.m.

ArtWorks | Walnut Hills. 513-333-0388. artworkscincinnati.org

Thru June 5. Andrew Neyer & Andy J. Pizza: “Color Me”

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

Thru Aug. 15. Community Art Show

May 17, noon-5 p.m. 54th annual Duveneck Art Show

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

May 9-13. Hog Bristle Painters.

Reception: May 9, 6-8 p.m.

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

Thru August . “Northern Kentucky Sports Legends of the 1950s”

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

Thru Aug. 16. “Notations on Ritual”

Cincinnati Art Club | Mt. Adams. 513-241-4591. cincinnatiartclub.org

May 1, 6:30 p.m. An Evening with Ken Elliott

May 16-18. Spring Signature Member art exhibition and sale. Reception: May 16, 6-8:30 p.m.

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

Thru May 23. “Spectrum of ExpressionA Journey Through Art Genres”

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

Thru May 4. Shahzia Sikander: “Collective Behavior”

Thru Aug. 24. “Cycle Thru! The Art of the Bike”

Thru Aug. 31. “Tintoretto’s Genesis”

Thru Jan. 11. “Influence(d): Female Innovators in Contemporary Japanese Design”

Thru Feb. 22. Modern and Contemporary Craft

May 30, 5-10 p.m. Art After Dark

Clay Alliance | Martin Luther King and Woodburn, East Walnut Hills. clayalliance.org

May 3, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Spring Pottery Fair

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

Thru May 9. ChengLun Na: “The Poetry of Transformations” • Ximena Flores: “Resilient Roots”

May 16-June 13. “New Impressions” Tiger Lily Press Members Exhibit. Reception: May 16, 6-8 p.m.

ARTS & CULTURE | The List

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

Thru May 25. Vivian Browne: “My Kind of Protest”

Thru June 1. Anti-Robot Inundation Army

Thru Dec. 30. Kahlil Robert Irving: “Ground Water from screen Falls [(Collaged media) + Midwest] Street”

Thru Oct. 31, 2026. “Gravity’s Rainbow”

May 2-Aug. 17. “Ohio Now: State of Nature” Reception: May 2, 7-10 p.m.

Creative Asian Society | Elevar Gallery, Queensgate. casohio.org

May 1-June 27. “Views of Cincinnati & Ohio Valley”

Design LAB | Newport on the Levee. designlearnandbuild.org

May 10-17. “Push Play” public exhibit. Reception: May 17, 10 a.m.-noon

Eisele Gallery of Fine Art | Mariemont. 513-791-7717. eiselefineart.com

May 9-31. National Oil & Acrylic Painters’ Society “2025 Best of America: Small Works International Juried Exhibition”

Reception: May 9, 6-9 p.m.

Essex Studios | Walnut Hills. 513-476-2170. essexstudioscincinnati.com

May 2-3, 6-10 p.m. Art Walk, open studios

Evendale Cultural Arts Center | Evendale. 513-563-1350. evendaleohio.org

May 2-5. Evendale Fine Art Exhibit

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

Thru June 27. 52nd Hamilton Current

Gallery 506 | Elsmere. 513-919-5415. gallery-506.com

Thru May 8. “New and Renewed”

May 24-July 26. “A Common Language” Reception: May 24, 6-10 p.m.

Gallery Veronique | Harper’s Point. 513-530-5379. galleryveronique.com

Thru May 10. Rebecca Weller: “Bloom and Flutter”

Iris BookCafe and Gallery | Over-theRhine. 513-260-8434. irisbookcafeotr.com

Thru June 16. “I Like to be in America: Tony Mendoza’s photo(his)stories”

Artist talk: May 18, 5 p.m.

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

Thru June 7. “Change” juried exhibition

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

Thru May 16. “Drawn 2025” • “Sleep” • “Weather” • Katherine Cox (drawing)

May 30-June 27. “Annual Rites of Passage” • “Annual Magnitude 7” • “Watching” • Manifest Artist Residency Showcase: Chris Marin Reception: May 30, 6-9 p.m.

Middletown Arts Center | Middletown. 513-424-2417. middletownartscenter.com

Thru May 15. Darren Goodman: “Glass: Through the Lens of an Artist”

Northern Kentucky University | Highland Heights. 859-572-5148. nku.edu/gallery

Thru May 2. BFA Senior Exhibitions

Oxford Community Arts Center | Oxford. 513-524-8506. oxarts.org

Thru May 3. Regional High School Student Exhibit

Pendleton Art Center | Pendleton, Over-the-Rhine. 513-421-4339.

pendletonartcenter.com

May 30, 5-9 p.m. Open studios

Pendleton Art Center - Middletown | Middletown. 513-465-5038. pendletonartcenter.com

May 2, 5-9 p.m. Open studios

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum | Hamilton. 513-868-1234. pyramidhill.org

Thru July 27. “Botanical Fantastical,” by Kim Radochia, nature’s patterns and details

Queen City Clay | Norwood. queencityclay.com

Thru May 29. “Heatwork”

Ruth’s Parkside Café | Northside. 513-542-7884. ruthscafe.com

Rotating local artists

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

Thru July 31. “The Seventeen: Iron Flock” by Archie Rand. Lunch and Learn: May 20, 1 p.m.

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

Thru June 27. Tom Shelton: “The Children’s Woods”

StudioKroner | Downtown. studiokroner.com

Thru May 24. “All Else Pales: 2”

“All Else Pales: 2” related events:

May 3, 1 p.m. Artist talk #2: Devan Horton and Julia Bianco

May 3, 6 p.m. “Kids Act Out!”

May 4, 1 p.m. “Kids Act Out!”

May 10, 10 a.m. Climate Meditation and Creative Writing Workshop

May 10, 1 p.m. Presentation of Sustainability in Action

May 14, 6 p.m. An Evening of Poetry

May 17, 6 p.m. “A Living Earth” pageant: playwright Mary Kroner and citizen artists celebrate Earth’s life-sustaining systems

May 18, 1 p.m. Encore of previous

May 24, 1-4 p.m. Closing reception

Studio San Giuseppe Art Gallery | Mount St. Joseph University, Delhi. msj.edu

May 1-Sept. 5. MSJ Student Art Exhibition

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

May 30-June 1. National artists and crafters

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

Recent tree paintings by Tom Shelton are on exhibit at the Solway Gallery in the West End through June 27 “Spring Woods,” 2023, acrylic on canvas, 36” x 48” Get listed

Thru May 11. “Mystery & Benevolence: Masonic and Odd Fellows Folk Art” Thru June 15. J.M.W Turner: “Watercolor Horizons”

Visionaries & Voices | Northside. 513-861-4333. visionariesandvoices.com

Thru May 2. “Casting Shadows: The Groundhog Show”

Wave Pool Gallery | Camp Washington. wavepoolgallery.org

May 10, 6-9 p.m. Marcy Petit: “Under the Owl’s Eye”

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

Thru June 8. “On The Shoulders Of Ancestors: The Art Of Willis ‘Bing’ Davis” • James Pate: “Redacted” • “Homing Instinct: Letting Go of the Shore” - Dani McClain, author, and Lydia Dean Pilcher, filmmaker

Wyoming Art Show | Wyoming. 513-761-1749. wyomingartshow.org

May 18, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Celebrating art, culture and community 

Arts/Culture listings are free. Send event details and photos to: editor@moversmakers.org See Page 4 for print deadlines. Visit www.moversmakers.org for more listings.

The work of well-being

By John Faherty

At The Well, Stacy Sims brings art, mindfulness, poetry and movement

Thefirst time John Tew met Stacy Sims, he was present primarily as a concerned husband. It was 7 in the morning on a Saturday in 2015 in Washington Park, in the days when the park was still rough around the edges. Sometimes very rough. John and Susan Tew found Sims holding a meditation session with a group of men, most recently out of prison or experiencing homelessness.

But if you were only allowed one word to describe Sims, it would be determined. If you got two, they would be determined and fearless.

The meditation continued. The men centered themselves and found some time for peace in a world with little. The Tews were so impressed, they took Sims out to breakfast and would eventually join the advisory board of Sims’ organization, The Well.

The Well’s guiding mission is to “improve the mental and emotional well-being, connectedness, and effectiveness of all persons through arts integration, mindfulness, music, movement, and healing-centered practices.”

To figure out how Sims centered her life around wellness and being connected to your true self, you need to go back to her childhood. In fourth grade, she experienced an epileptic seizure and then another. The protocol then was to prescribe phenobarbital, a barbiturate. At that time, the thinking was that if some is good, more is better.

Sims did not have any more seizures, but she also felt disconnected from her feelings and emotions. She remembers events from the time, but not how she felt. Or if she felt.

In eighth grade, she went off the medications, just in time for hormones to rage. “It was like turning on a firehose,” Sims said. So, she was cautious with those feelings. Not sure if

she liked them, she kept those feelings at arm’s length.

Another key moment happened 35 years ago. In 1990, Sims started working in marketing and public relations with the Contemporary Arts Center. One week later, the infamous Robert Mapplethorpe exhibit opened, and Hamilton County prosecutors charged the CAC and its director, Dennis Barrie, with displaying obscene material. It was a fraught time, even after a jury cleared Barrie and the CAC.

But Sims was hooked. She saw the power of art and how it shaped people and the way they thought. She would eventually follow Barrie to Cleveland and establish herself in the arts world as a marketing and communications powerhouse. But 10 years after Mapplethorpe’s “Perfect Moment,” she was “a mess.”

Sims had transitioned from a social drinker to a daily drinker to a problem drinker. In her own words, she was no longer mindful and had lost touch with herself. At best, she was static. Or perhaps adrift. She was a mother to her one son, and she felt like she was in real trouble.

So, in her typical fashion, Sims attacked the problem. She stopped drinking and started going to Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. She also started taking Pilates.

AA meetings are not for the faint of heart. But Sims saw them as places filled with hope. Hope and stories.

“The last place I wanted to be was in a 12step meeting in a basement in Cleveland,” Sims said. “But it was amazing. We were telling each other and ourselves stories that were beautiful and hopeful.”

The meetings and the stories helped Sims turn back toward a connection with herself. Pilates taught her the importance of intentional

The last place I wanted to be was in a 12-step meeting in a basement in Cleveland, but it was amazing. We were telling each other and ourselves stories that were beautiful and hopeful.

– Stacy Sims

movement and breathing. She felt like she had somehow lost touch with her own body. Pilates helped her find it again.

Sims moved back to Cincinnati in 2001.

Newly sober and suddenly feeling the urge to write a book, she opened a Pilates studio in Pendleton, using credit cards to pay for things. Her instruction helped pay the bills, and in her spare time, she wrote a novel.

Unsurprisingly, Sims approached writing with intensity. “Swimming Naked” was published by Viking Press in 2004 and was well received by critics. She later wrote another book, and then plays, and later, children’s books.

The writing, storytelling and Pilates saved Sims. She was pleased with where she was, but also beginning to think her calling was no longer celebrating the arts but using the arts as a tool to help others. In 2005, she combined all her passions to create The Well. Her idea was to bring art, mindfulness, writing and movement to help provide healing for people.

The Well worked at first with ArtWorks, the Cincinnati nonprofit that hires young people to work alongside established artists to make

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public art. That first summer, Sims started The True Body Project with 13 teenage girls. The goal was to combine art and mindfulness practices to help these girls launch. The program remains today and, according to The Well’s website, “provides a depth of experience in trauma-informed, social-emotional, culturally literate work.”

The True Body Project is designed to help people recover from whatever ails them. The program is centered around the idea that stress and trauma can damage a person’s neurological system, which can negatively affect a person’s actions, emotions, and mental and physical health.

The True Body Project works to connect people with art, music, dance and play. This allows a person who has suffered trauma to reconnect with their body, their emotions, and their mind. To bring peace and opportunity.

In 2015, The Well began the City Silence program to support people who needed help with their mindfulness practice. This usually took the form of meditation. Sims was trying to let people know that being quiet and meditative could happen anywhere, even Washington Park. And that this practice was for anybody and everybody – not just for the super wealthy heading to mountain retreats with their yoga mats.

Perhaps the most successful thing The Well has done is Mindful Music Moments, a pro gram both simple and elegant. The Well works with established musi cal programs like the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and the Cleveland Orchestra to provide short clips for students to experi ence as part of school announce ments at the beginning of the day.

It started at a Cincinnati Public School, the World Academy of Languages. From that one school on the Hyde Park/Evanston border, the program is now in 320 schools across the country, reaching 135,000 students in a daily calm ing and focusing session. “It allows children four or five minutes a day, which adds up to 8-10 hours a year,” Sims said. “Time to breathe,

time to listen, time to imagine. A kind of unmanaged time that is so important.”

Students are asked about the music they have heard – their impressions, how it made them feel, etc. Active listening is a point of emphasis.

Holly Brians Ragusa, a Cincinnati poet and author, has worked closely with Sims and is stunned at the volume of work Sims gets done and how important that work is. “Make no mistake, Stacy Sims is a luminous lodestar bent on broadening the brightness of self and community,” Ragusa said. “I’d highlight two of what I consider are this multifaceted, creative thinker’s most dynamic qualities: one, the unequivocally high level of respect she gives and garners; and two, her positively uplifting aura guided by the potential she understands lies within each of us, body and mind. She guides us to easily and gently channel and transfer purpose and kindness in order to create a better

Nature Rx

By Leyla Shokoohe

UC Health and Cincinnati Parks team up to prescribe the outdoors

Whatif there were a pill-free way to reduce your stress and anxiety, relieve headaches and lessen insomnia? With Nature Rx, the road to better health outcomes for Cincinnati residents just might be a literal walk in the park.

A groundbreaking, nature-as-wellness initiative, Nature Rx is a partnership between the Osher Center for Integrative Health at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and the Cincinnati Parks Foundation that reframes time outdoors as a prescriptive health intervention.

“The Osher Center is primarily about transforming a system of mostly disease and sick care, which we have in this country, to one that also includes and prioritizes well care and prevention and self-care,” said Sian Cotton, psychologist and director of the Osher Center.

“We do that by combining the wonder ful benefits of modern medicine with tried and true integrative therapies and lifestyle medicine approaches, like food is medicine, nature is medicine, exercise and movement is medicine.”

An Evening of Wellness in Nature, Ault Park in 2023

The health benefits of communing with nature have earned the spotlight over the last decade or so. Research has shown that being in nature for just 20 minutes per day can reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, strengthen the immune system, improve mood, sharpen cognitive function, balance the nervous system, decrease stress and more. Studies have also found that just viewing nature through a computer screen can be beneficial.

One such study in the United Kingdom (Monitor of Engagement with the Natural Environment) found that people who had been in nature for at least two recreational hours reported significantly greater health and well-being. Now, 120 minutes can sound like a massive time commitment. But the benefits exist even when the nature visits are spread out over the course of the week.

That’s where programs like Nature Rx come in. This initiative is part of the central hub that is Park Rx America, which helps health care providers and individuals locate nearby parks from any U.S. ZIP code.

“It’s going to be an individualized thing, just as a normal prescription would be,” said Barbara Walker, an integrative health and performance psychologist and the director of the Nature Rx program. “Each patient would be looked at individually to figure out what

best meets their needs – where they feel comfortable, how they feel comfortable.”

The seeds for the Nature Rx partnership were planted back in 2019.

Former Cincinnati Parks Foundation board Chair Cathy Crain mentioned Parks Rx America to Cotton, who was intrigued by the idea. Crain then introduced Cotton to Jennifer Spieser, president and chief executive officer of the Cincinnati Parks Foundation. The two ended up meeting for three hours.

“They have the space and we have the science and health and medicine side that says, ‘This is really important,’ ” Cotton said. “To combine the science of nature as medicine with their gorgeous platform, it was just a no-brainer for all of us.”

The Osher Center is primarily about transforming a system of mostly disease and sick care … to one that also includes and prioritizes wellcare and prevention and self-care.

– Sian Cotton

The Cincinnati Parks Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Cincinnati Parks system. The foundation, which turns 30 this year, raises money in support of the parks, including efforts towards restoration and enhancements, conservation, accessibility and programming.

Community partnerships are also woven into the foundation’s fabric, and Nature Rx is not the foundation’s first foray into nature-as-medicine. In 2019, the Foundation teamed up with Cincinnati Children’s and Jennifer Angeli, a pediatric physical therapist at Children’s, to get the be.well program up and running.

“[Two of] our values in the Cincinnati Parks Foundation are inclusion and accessibility,” said Spieser. “Parks are for everyone. But when you look at a 200-year-old urban park system, it’s never going to be ADA compliant and fully accessible. There was [a] conversation [to] give programming dollars to Cincinnati Children’s and bring inclusive and accessible programs into Cincinnati Parks.”

The be.well program gives children with disabilities the opportunity to be active outdoors, make new friends and improve their health. The partnership allowed for six to eight accessible programs to be held in Cincinnati parks, from yoga to biking to running to tai chi and

Photos by l isa d ugan

more. In 2022, be.well created an adaptive hiking program, which ended up winning a Governor’s Award.

“There’s magic in there,” Spieser said. “You see not only the kids experiencing parks and having activities outside in this fresh air, but it’s really special to see the parents and guardians, like, take a minute and breathe and be with other parents in something fun that their kids can do that normally [is] not easy for them.”

Nature Rx capitalizes on the parks’ many resources and couples them with the life-improving assistance doctors and medicine provide for patients. At its very best, modern medicine promises to be a cure. This program acts as a restorative and a preventative, and, unlike medicine from a pharmacy, is free. But how can medical professionals know if a patient is filling their prescription? And if going into a Cincinnati Park is free, why is a prescription even necessary in the first place?

managed by Osher. We helped coordinate. There were almost 300 people that attended to do mindfulness walking, tai chi and yoga, and that was really well received.”

The program took off from there. Osher worked on getting an official designation in Epic, their electronic health services system, for

prescribed?” said Cotton. “What are the demographics of those people? Are they male, female; [what’s their] race? Where do they live? We are also looking at chronic conditions, so that we can at least start to get a baseline of X amount of people. And I anticipate maybe by the summer, we’ll have this data: X amount of people have been prescribed. We can start to get a snapshot of who’s being prescribed. We’re in Phase 1 research outcomes now.”

The Cincinnati Parks network has 130 parks and green spaces. By partnering with the Parks Foundation, Nature Rx can dramatically increase the opportunities available in nature for potential patients. The Parks already have robust programming of their own – like yoga in Burnet Woods in partnership with World Peace Yoga, or the free roller skating programs down at Sawyer Point.

“A bit of the objective behind that is, if you have a prescription, it’s a bit of an accountability tool,” Walker said. “A lot of people listen to their physicians. If their physician is the one who’s writing that prescription and really holding them accountable and writing it down, like a goal, and then [the patient] can report that back to somebody, the likelihood of the behavior increases.”

Before diving into anything, Spieser and the Osher team decided to hold an event to gauge potential public interest.

“We thought, ‘Let’s first start with a test and see what kind of reaction you get from the general public having an opportunity to do a big event at Ault Park,’ ” Spieser said. “It was

parks for wellness, which came through in the fall of 2024. The Parks Foundation’s women’s committee took up the cause, as did many volunteers who run various Cincinnati Park Advisory Councils (which are similar to a neighborhood community council, only specifically for neighborhood parks.) Free publicity opportunities arose, like free programming during BLINK. Thanks to donors and fundraising, the Nature Rx program starts its first official pilot year on May 1, to the tune of under $50,000.

“What we’re doing now is gathering baseline data, meaning, how many people are being

The foundation is creating a field guide for visitors, whether they have a prescription or not, highlighting programming offered at 11 selected parks. The actual wellness programming through Nature Rx will happen in about five parks. This is not an ownership thing,” Cotton said. “This is about, ‘We think we’ve got a great model.’ We feel very, very committed to serving our most under-resourced community members in particular, which is why we have focused on partnering with the Cincinnati Parks specifically.”

We’ve always thought of parks as places where we all can relax and enjoy ourselves. With programs such as Nature Rx, they also could be the cure for what ails us. Or the prevention of what might.



 med.uc.edu/institutes/integrative/home

 cincinnatiparksfoundation.org/programs

Cathy Crain and Jennifer Spieser

Derek Johnson, acupuncturist and tai chi instructor with the Osher Center, with Sian Cotton and Barbara Walker

The Notables

Movers & Makers reached out this month to organizations working within the wellness space, asking them to help us showcase their notables, part of M&M’s continuing effort to recognize individuals making a difference in Greater Cincinnati’s nonprofit ecosystem.

Emily Hunt of The Being Project teaches mindfulness to children and adults

Emily Hunt has been a champion for wellness in Cincinnati, particularly supporting schoolchildren for close to 10 years. Hunt co-owns Hue Yoga Studio, has taught and created countless kids yoga classes, and trained hundreds of adults on how to teach mindfulness to children. Over time her work has expanded into a nonprofit, The Being Project, teaching kids in grades K-12 across Cincinnati social-emotional learning skills based in mindfulness. Hunt helped write The Being Project Social Emotional Learning Curriculums and has helped facilitate classes for more than 500 students in six locations since 2023. These lessons provide mental health maintenance for students 30 minutes each week and alleviate the stress on teachers and social workers already feeling overwhelmed. When she is not working she loves to be outdoors with her dog Zeke, travel to explore and of course practice yoga. 

Shantel Thomas touches lives with trauma-based therapy

Shantel Thomas is a powerhouse of healing and hope. As founder and CEO of the Center for Healing the Hurt, she provides free, trauma-based therapy to children and teens in Cincinnati’s inner city. A licensed therapist and sought-after speaker, Thomas also leads A Sound Mind Counseling Service and is passionate about restoring total mind, body and spiritual wellness. She blends clinical expertise with genuine compassion, touching lives not only in therapy rooms but also in boardrooms, pulpits and classrooms worldwide. A former collegiate sprinter, Thomas once traveled the world as an NCAA Woman of the Year for Ohio. Her favorite way to unwind is gardening – she calls it her “quiet place to reconnect.” Thomas was inducted into the University of Toledo Hall of Fame in 2006. Her life is proof that healing is possible –and contagious. 

Padma Chebrolu’s art and teaching blends physical, emotional wellness

Padma Chebrolu is an Indian classical dancer, filmmaker and teaching and performing artist. As artistic director of the Cultural Centre of India, she offers an array of classes, performances and workshops, sharing heritage arts and practices, including dance, meditation, yoga through dance, mandala art, mindfulness and naturopathy-based nutrition and lifestyle. Her approach to wellness was featured in her awardwinning film “Passage of the River,” which highlights environmental and inner harmony. She recently received a 2025 Ohio Governor’s Award for the Arts. Chebrolu’s work blends physical and emotional wellness for active, youthful living, demonstrating a unique integration of arts and holistic health practices. Through her teachings and films, she connects people to nature, tradition and wellness. Chebrolu enjoys hanging out with friends and listening to global podcasts. She was a varsity cricket player during her school years in India. 

James D. Rosenberger’s stories and music elevate spirits of troubled people

Audible Therapies’ mission is to use the power of stories and song to lift people from despair, bringing them more in touch with their authentic sense of self. A storyteller, music maker and media artist, founder James D. Rosenberger has reached more than 9,000 residents annually in nursing homes, community centers and churches since 2006. In 2010, he became a Clinically Certified Therapeutic Musician, specially trained to provide music in one-onone locations like hospice and other settings. This work began with the Alois Alzheimer Center and continues with other communities today. His graphic novel, “The Marvel of Maneo and the Moon,” is newly published and released through Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Targeting 8- to 13-year-old boys, it is best described as “an intergalactic adventure to overcome loneliness.” In his free time, he enjoys playing pickleball and traveling with his wife, Deb Kelley. 

Linda Felder helps children struggling to develop healthy relationships

Linda Felder works with Beech Acres Parenting Center through The Character Effect program in schools, which enhances emotional IQ and improves the well-being of teachers, students and families. She helps clients develop the relationship skills they need to be able to better interact with others, which leads to improved wellness for all. Since the pandemic, Felder has observed firsthand the mental health crisis in children and parents, and specifically how more children struggle to develop relationships. With Felder’s help, they are learning how to create and sustain relationships while becoming more socially and emotionally aware. Many people she works with enjoy the strength of creativity in areas such as artistic expression. She encourages them to apply their strengths to assist with mindfulness, intentionality and self-management. When she’s not working, Felder enjoys spending time with her family and thrifting, where she’s found many treasures. 

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Bryce Kessler’s teachings brings mindful music and poetry

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Bryce Kessler came to The Well in 2021. Born into a family of educators, Kessler has personally experienced the lifelong impact of amazing music and arts education. He’s been playing piano and cello for 15 years and has a deep love and appreciation for orchestral music. In this role, he combines his passions for music, education and arts administration to deepen The Well’s national impact with Mindful Music Moments and Mindful Poetry Moments. He is a proud graduate of Baldwin Wallace University’s arts management and entrepreneurship program and Princeton High School. When Bryce (named after the canyon in Utah) is not working, you can find him at various community gigs with his cello or enjoying Malört at Binksi’s with his partner Alex. 

Emily Musonza turns gardens into therapeutic activity for patients

Emily Musonza, a certified therapeutic recreation specialist, was not trained in gardening. But when asked to integrate gardens into the patient experience at Lindner Center of Hope, she eagerly accepted the challenge. Therapeutic recreation uses leisure activities to improve physical, psychological and social well-being. Musonza’s dedication transformed the garden into a vital part of programming. Patients have experienced remarkable therapeutic benefits though activities from planting and harvesting to creating flower arrangements and making salsa. The garden fosters teamwork, accomplishment, trust and personal growth, while enhancing emotional regulation by boosting serotonin and dopamine. It reduces stress, promotes community and helps patients develop positive coping skills, offering a powerful tool for mental health and well-being. Musonza’s commitment to this initiative has profoundly helped both the garden and the patients it serves. 

Florence

Rothenberg

fights heart disease with healthy food and health information

Florence Rothenberg is a cardiologist who has taken a path less traveled to prevent cardiovascular disease. She bought an old church to create a community health center called the Heart of Northside, located at 4222 Hamilton Ave. Her goal is to prevent cardiovascular disease – the number one killer of American men and women – by improving healthy food access and health literacy. She is creating blood pressure outreach stations to identify and treat hypertension early, before it can cause heart disease and strokes among her neighbors. Rothenberg is raising funds to build indoor and outdoor gardens to grow healthy produce locally, and to turn an old commercial kitchen into a community teaching center, where neighbors can learn to create healthy meals with the food grown on-site. This model of the Mediterranean lifestyle can improve the community’s health. 

Jason Neumann’s Nature Center programs connect to the goodness of

native plants

Jason Neumann, public programs manager at Cincinnati Nature Center, has been inspiring conservation by creating opportunities for people to connect with nature on the 1,800-acre property since 1995. His programs focus on exploring the human relationship with native plants, especially plants as food. Neumann’s approach helps folks slow down, calm down and inhale all the goodness that plants exude, allowing us to absorb their healing benefits. He also mentors staff to take an integrated, purposeful approach in crafting and artmaking. From making pigments, dyes or charcoal to draw with, to weaving and basketry, Neumann helps ensure programs provide creative, immersive and healthy ways to experience nature. When not at the Cincinnati Nature Center, he can be found teaching the peace-based martial art of aikido to young people and encouraging unique flavor combinations for his daughter Maggie of Maggie’s Marvelous Mini Cheesecakes. Neumann’s favorite cheesecakes include pawpaw and roasted dandelion root. 

Rebecca Borello promotes dignity, well-being for patients and caregivers

Rebecca Borello, manager at Jewish Family Service’s Adult Day Services in Blue Ash, leads a year-old program that gives family caregivers a break through thoughtful care of their loved ones with dementia. Under her leadership, the program has blossomed, with participants enjoying its powerful, person-focused model of care, which promotes dignity and emotional well-being. The Center for Dementia Respite Innovation at the Alzheimer’s Association awarded JFS $145,000 for its innovative nature-based approach. Out of almost 300 applications, it was one of 21 awardees, and the only one in Ohio. Participants have been to a nature preserve to tap maple trees, met support golden retrievers and animals from the Cincinnati Zoo, held a nature photo exhibit, and even done goat yoga. A lifelong Cincinnati resident, Borello is an art therapist and loves creating as well as singing in a local choir. 

Romayne

students facing challenges

Jones’ film program gives voice to

Romayne Jones believes that wellness starts with joy, so she creates joy and a safe space for students to express themselves through film at DePaul Cristo Rey High School. Jones brought an extensive background in theater production and education when she joined the school in 2022. In just three years, she has built a film program and studio that draws students across grade levels. Jones believes film production gives students a voice to articulate and cope with life challenges, allows them to tap into their creativity and confidence, and gives them something to hold onto during tough times. Her students have created award-winning short films and “The Comeback,” a docuseries on their pandemic recovery. One student’s PSA was a top-three finalist in Fox19’s “Breaking the Silence: Teens Fighting Suicide” video contest. When not teaching, Jones is active in production and youth ministries at her church, and enjoys traveling and time with her family. 

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Jacob Boehne helps Best Point students find art materials all around them

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As the art instructor at Best Point’s lower and upper schools, Jacob Boehne is a creative force who helps students see the world – and themselves – in new ways. With a compassionate approach, Boehne empowers students to express emotion, build confidence and connect meaningfully with their environment. One recent project challenged students to collect discarded items from around their school and neighborhood, transforming litter into powerful works of art. This year, Boehne had students create dioramas using recycled materials and excess floor tiles, and abstract paintings from leftover project materials. These initiatives not only fostered environmental awareness and community pride but also highlighted the redemptive power of creativity. Boehne’s belief that “art is all around us” resonates with students seeking ways to express themselves. He enjoys rock climbing with his two children and occasionally attending a Cincinnati Cyclones game, finding inspiration in adventure and community. 

Alexandra Wilson advocates creativity for well-being of adults with disabilities

Alexandra Wilson is a passionate advocate for the power of creative expression in promoting wellness and inclusion. As a board-certified music therapist and Ken Anderson Alliance’s director of creative arts, Wilson oversees a team of professionals dedicated to helping adults with disabilities explore their creativity, build confidence and connect with others. Through KAA’s programs, individuals can participate daily in music instruction and performance bands, art classes and group projects, engage in cultural events, and explore our community. Wilson and KAA’s creative arts staff focus on fostering self-expression, emotional well-being, cognitive and motor skills, social connections and more, proving that art is not just about talent – it’s a pathway to wellness and community. Wilson and her husband live in Madisonville; they enjoy exploring local restaurants and live music, and she is known at KAA as the best baker in the building. 

Shannon Braun strengthens dementia care with activity and acceptance

Libby Hunter of Adventure Crew helps teens find wellness in the outdoors

Libby Hunter believes the outdoors is a powerful pathway to healing, connection and joy – especially for teens. As executive director of Adventure Crew, she’s guiding a transformative shift toward youth-driven wellness, rooted in the belief that young people are experts in their own lives. A key step was launching the Crew’s Youth Leadership Team, where teens explore peer well-being and shape programs. With support from an advisory team of health professionals, these youths will reimagine what nature-based wellness can look like. Hunter also partners with school health staff to connect more students to outdoor experiences that support mental and physical health. A recent graduate of UC’s Community Leaders Institute, she brings together research, lived experience and deep care to build inclusive, well-being-centered programs – one youth voice at a time. When not working, Hunter’s happiest outside; a lifetime highlight was mountain biking Whistler with her three sons. 

Allison Cone teaches outdoor skills in Great Parks adventure programs

Allison Cone is an adventure program coordinator for Great Parks, helping guests find exciting new recreation opportunities among the park system’s 18,000 acres in Hamilton County. Cone teaches skills including archery, land navigation, canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding, backcountry cooking, backpacking and more. These skills lead participants to find new ways to engage with nature and enhance their confidence in outdoor settings. Increased physical activity in natural settings reduces stress, improves mental health and promotes calmness, health benefits, lower stress and better moods. As more people realize the physical and mental wellness benefits of spending time in nature, visits to Great Parks continue to climb, with close to 7 million guests each year. When she’s not working, Cone enjoys playing broomball and her summer volunteer work with the American Youth Foundation’s National Leadership Conference. 

Shannon Braun discovered her passion for dementia care early when her grandmother moved into her childhood home. In 2020, she became the first director of Episcopal Retirement Services’ Center for Memory Support and Inclusion. Braun offers education, support and programs for those living with dementia and their care partners while promoting inclusivity across the community. She has established partnerships with the American Sign Museum, Taft Museum of Art, Contemporary Arts Center and the Cincinnati Art Museum, along with Cincinnati’s Ballet, Opera, Zoo, Civic Garden Center and more, where participants find acceptance, support and friendship along with purpose, joy and a creative outlet. To help overcome her shyness as a child, Braun attended an improv camp at Playhouse in the Park and has had a passion for the arts ever since. 

Charity Rust-Jordan’s ‘Art and Mindfulness’ helps Baker Hunt students find well-being

Charity Rust-Jordan is an integral part of the team at the Baker Hunt Art and Cultural Center, charged with developing deeper connections with students and a greater awareness of the organization in the Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati regions. In addition to her art practice, Rust-Jordan has developed a unique program called Art and Mindfulness, which helps students explore the many ways art and creativity can help calm the mind and foster a sense of well-being. It is important to Rust-Jordan that Baker Hunt connects with its students – and its business neighbors – through playful outreach projects like Where’s Sheppy (a partner program highlighting local businesses), art gallery tours at DBL Law Firm and more. Outside of work, she loves volunteering at local animal shelters, making art in her home studio and raising her family in Independence. 

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Chasity Metz inspires wellness activities for breast, gynecological cancer patients

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Chasity Metz, regional manager for Pink Ribbon Good’s Cincinnati region, plays a vital role in PRG’s mission. Metz, a breast cancer survivor herself, unites clients and their families in Cincinnati so that “No One Travels This Road Alone.” She leads fundraising efforts, gathers volunteers and hosts survivor events. In Cincinnati, she enhances wellness for breast and gynecological cancer survivors by leading events focusing on yoga and meditation, essential oils, sound therapy and art therapy through journaling and flowers. She encourages survivors to stay active through the Get Moving Group, which brings women together for walks in local parks and along the riverfront. She inspires women every day to keep fighting the fight against breast and gynecological cancer. Metz’s work is more than a job – it’s her passion. Outside of PRG, Metz loves to read and volunteer in the community with her family. 

Tori Hinojosa-Houck helps Girl Scouts grow confidence and leadership

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As Girl Scouts of Western Ohio’s outdoor program team leader, Tori Hinojosa-Houck provides enriching environmental education for nearly 5,400 girls annually at Day Camp, Overnight Camp and Troop Adventure Camp. Hinojosa-Houck also manages peer-to-peer mentorship programs where older scouts gain leadership skills as ambassadors to younger girls as junior instructors and counselors-in-training. Camps help girls build confidence and courage by challenging their limits in cooperative learning environments. Girls report they develop a strong sense of self while enjoying experiences they would not otherwise have access to, such as rope courses, zip-lining, archery, knife and ax throwing on the target range, in addition to traditional campfires and s’mores. Hinojosa-Houck’s love of nature also extends to her life outside Scouts. She is an avid reader and builds bioactive vivariums with plants, reptiles and other creatures residing in self-sustaining ecosystems at her home. 

Barbara Walker helps patients incorporate nature into treatment

Cynthia

Walters of Green

Umbrella works to bring outdoors to all children

Cynthia Walters is the Green Schoolyards manager for Green Umbrella and is notable for advocating for student health and wellness through outdoor learning spaces and education programs. She recently led development of the Local School Wellness Policy Toolkit, a roadmap for school districts nationwide to customize wellness plans for the needs of the school community. She launched the region’s first Green Schoolyards Summit, showcasing community collaboration to provide equitable access to environmental educational resources. Walters was instrumental in the passage of the Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights for the City of Cincinnati, which guarantees that every child in the city has accessible pathways to experience and interact with nature. Walters loves spending time with her family, traveling, and cheering for Ohio State. She always wears colorful pants, bright yellow or flecked with flowers. The back of her laptop is covered with stickers that say things like “I  Compost” and “Outdoors for All.” 

Dawnetra Blackwell brings joy of movement to Price

Hill kids and adults

Dawnetra Blackwell has emerged as a trusted leader of joyful wellness in Price Hill. Blackwell’s passion for jubilant movement shines through the hip-hop step classes she teaches for kids and adults. Last summer Blackwell joined the Price Hill Wellness Community Action Team, the resident-led organization that offers about 40 free wellness classes per week for residents of Lower East and West Price Hill. Blackwell has offered two new hip-hop classes, engaged a new cohort of eager students in Lower Price Hill and connected with new facility partners. Blackwell’s spirited instruction leaves each student with a smile and a reminder of how much fun exercise can be. Blackwell also runs the Cincinnati Vibrant Youth Project, a nonprofit that offers fitness programming for schools, summer camps and group homes, making youth fitness more accessible and joyful. In her free time, Blackwell loves spending time with her kids and connecting with new neighbors. 

Barbara Walker is director of the Nature as Medicine program at the Osher Center for Integrative Health at the University of Cincinnati. Through this program, UC Health providers refer patients to integrative health experts who offer personalized, guided nature prescriptions. For those dealing with conditions like chronic stress, mental health challenges or high blood pressure, these prescriptions offer practical ways to incorporate nature into their daily routines and can complement their treatment plans. An integral part of the program is Cincinnati Parks & Rec for Wellness, which provides health and wellness education, movement and mindfulness therapies, and opportunities for social connection and healing in parks throughout Cincinnati. Walker demonstrates a lifelong passion for peak performance principles, applying them in her professional and personal life. She mindfully trains for life – currently cycling, hiking, practicing yoga, organic gardening, spending time with family and friends, and being in nature as much as she can. 

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Our June issue will FOCUS ON: Housing & Homelessness

To find out how to submit a NOTABLE for consideration (nonprofits only), email: tmariner@moversmakers.org

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Gifts & Grants

CancerFree KIDS’ CEO Jill Brinck thanks Jersey Mike’s sub buyers for supporting her organization.

Jersey Mike’s Month of Giving raised a record $491,908 for CancerFree KIDS , marking another milestone in the decade-long partnership between the sandwich chain and the local nonprofit dedicated to funding pediatric cancer research. Throughout March, Jersey Mike’s Subs customers could round up their purchases to support CancerFree KIDS. The fundraising effort culminated on March 26, when all 31 Jersey Mike’s locations in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky donated 100% of the day’s sales to the nonprofit. This year’s campaign kicked off with a surprise $100,000 personal donation from Jersey Mike’s founder and CEO Peter Cancro. Since 2015, Jersey Mike’s has raised nearly $2 million for CancerFree KIDS, which provides early-stage funding for innovative pediatric cancer research.

 cancerfreekids.org

Music Teachers National Association has partnered with the Stecher and Horowitz Foundation to launch three new national prizes supporting early-career pianists and educators: the $25,000 Gateway Prize for Advancement in the Arts, the $10,000 Joyce B. Cowin Career Grant and the $10,000 Melvin Stecher and Norman Horowitz Career Grant. MTNA, a Cincinnati-based nonprofit, said the awards will be given annually and supported in perpetuity. The first recipients will be honored at the 2026 MTNA National Convention in Chicago.  mtna.org

Seven Greater Cincinnati arts organizations have been named recipients of the 2025 Small Arts Organization Awards, an annual program by Summerfair Cincinnati that provides up to $5,000 in funding to support programming, production or expansion. This year’s awardees are Cincinnati From Scratch, Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati, Loveland Stage Company, Queen City Performing Arts, Sunset Players, The Village Players of Fort Thomas and Visionaries & Voices The awards, totaling $35,000, aim to increase access to the arts for people of all ages, abilities, income levels and locations by supporting the work of small and midsized arts groups.

Summerfair Cincinnati supports artists and arts organizations year-round through grants, scholarships and its annual arts fair.

 summerfair.org

Cincinnati | Hamilton County Community Action Agency received a combined $15,000 gift from Union Savings Bank and Guardian Savings Bank to support the Secure Seniors program. This program supports people 60 and up with property tax assistance, access to nutritious food and emergency home assistance.

 cincy-caa.org

OneSource Center for Nonprofit Excellence received a $25,000 grant from the Jacob G. Schmidlapp Trust . The funding will support the expansion of OneSource’s Common Good Voucher Program, which helps partner agencies provide essential household and personal items to individuals in need. Based in Cincinnati, OneSource is a nonprofit that supports other nonprofits through consulting, leadership training and access to resources.

 onesourcecenter.org

Santa Maria Community Services received a $30,000 grant from the Stillson Foundation to support its Every Child Succeeds program in Price Hill. This funding will help expand the program, which provides at-risk pregnant mothers and new parents with home visitation services that optimize child development from prenatal stages to age 3.

 santamaria-cincy.org

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Cincinnati received a $20,000 donation from Kroger Health to support the 177 families currently staying at the facility while their children receive medical treatment. The funds will help provide daily meals, comfortable accommodations and supportive services that allow families to remain close during a medical crisis. The donation ensures the house can continue offering what RMHC described as a “home away from home” for

Summerfair Cincinnati awarded grants to seven small arts organizations. Representatives included: (Back) Drue Harris and Jennifer Fischer Davis, Village Players of Fort Thomas; Bryce Kessler and Joseph Bricker, Cincinnati From Scratch, (middle) Torie Wiggins and Amanda M. McDonald, Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati, (front) Doug Ignatius, Cincinnati Men’s Chorus, and Bob Kessler, Loveland Stage Company.

families facing extended hospital stays, easing their financial and emotional burdens.

 rmhcincinnati.org

Leadership Council for Nonprofits was awarded a $25,000 grant from the Ohio Valley Foundation to develop a streamlined association management system, enhancing its ability to serve nonprofit members and partners. Leadership Council, which represents 200 member agencies, offers leadership development, training, cost-saving opportunities and networking for nonprofits across the Tristate.

 leadershipcouncil.us

Behringer-Crawford Museum was awarded a $25,000 grant from the H.B., E.W. & F.R. Luther Charitable Foundation. Funding will support free educational experiences to students in underserved areas, expanding access to the museum’s programs. That includes things such as field trips, hands-on workshops and interactive programming aimed at inspiring curiosity and learning.

 bcmuseum.org

Central Clinic Behavioral Health received a $25,000 grant from the Charles Moerlein Foundation to support Adult Services programming, including staff training, group supplies and client resources, as well as non-billable clinical work for the Senior Connections program. CCBH’s Adult Services include counseling, case management, group therapy and prescription-drug management, and many members benefit from specialized programs such as Culturally Responsive Services, the Transgender Wellness Program and the LGBTQ+ Center.

 centralclinic.org

1N5 received a $40,000 grant from the Charles H. Dater Foundation to expand the Building Resiliency in Youth program. The nonprofit serves 315 schools in 16 counties across Greater Cincinnati by providing mental health education, suicide prevention and stigma reduction to students, educators and caregivers.

 1n5.org

26 The Datebook

MAY 1, THURSDAY

NKY Chamber, Business Impact Awards | 4-6 p.m. Devou Properties, Covington. Networking, cocktails, appetizers, photo booth and awards ceremony. Tickets: $60.

 nkychamber.com/impact

MAY 2, FRIDAY

Great Miami Riverway, Riverway Summit | 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Riverfront Park, Miamisburg. Keynote: Sarah MilliganToffler. Tours, breakfast, lunch, reception and networking opportunities. Tickets: $100.

 greatmiamiriverway.com

Taft Museum, Royal Palms at the Taft | 7-11 p.m. Array of gourmet delicacies, cocktails, music by Naked Karate Girls. Supports museum education programs. Co-Chairs: Kelsey Bahl and Sarah Jane Meek. Tickets: $200, $150 under age 40.

 taftmuseum.org/events

UC DAAP, Fashion Show | 7:30 p.m. MegaCorp Pavillion, Newport. VIP cocktail reception, fashion show paired with live DJ, sound and lighting.  daap.uc.edu/exhibitions-collections

Visionaries + Voices, Double Vision | 6:30-10:30 p.m. Memorial Hall, Overthe-Rhine. Host: Pam Kravetz. Live art auction, music by Ricky Nye, light bites, puppet show, live auction and silent auction. Tickets: $75.  eventbrite.com,

MAY 2-4, FRIDAY-SUNDAY

Pig Works, Flying Pig Marathon | Downtown. 5K, 10K and half-marathon options. One-mile “PigAbilities” event designed for participants to run, walk or roll on May 3 at 1 p.m.

 flyingpigmarathon.com

MAY 3, SATURDAY

Cincinnati Scholarship Foundation, Celebrate Dr. O’dell Moreno Owens Cincy Style | 6:30-10:30 p.m. Cincinnati Masonic Center, downtown. 5:30 p.m. VIP and sponsor cocktail hour. Dinner, drinks and music by Soul Pocket. Tickets: $150.  cincinnatischolarshipfoundation.org

With a Spotlight on the Movers and Makers behind Greater Cincinnati’s Fundraisers, Friend-Raisers and Community Events

Dress for Success, Warehouse Sale | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Portaluca Warehouse, Norwood. Fill a shopping bag of clothing. Customers receive free piece of clothing from boutique. Cost: $25.

 dfscincy.org

SPCA Cincinnati, Fur Ball | 5:30 p.m. Sharonville Convention Center. Derby Day attire. Signature cocktail, appetizers, plated dinner, entertainment, games, live and silent auctions, raffles, testimonials, rescue stories and adoptable pets. Tickets: $500.

 spcacincinnati.org/events

MAY 6, TUESDAY

Assistance League of Greater Cincinnati, Books & Brunch 2025 | 10:30 a.m. Kenwood Country Club. Featuring local authors Richard Cowdrey, Lynne Hugo and Dinese Young. Luncheon, silent auction and raffles. Tickets: $95.

 assistanceleaguecincinnati.org

MAY 7, WEDNESDAY

NKY Chamber, Business Council Celebration Dinner | 5:30-8:30 p.m. Turfway Park, Florence. Cocktail hour, dinner, awards and keynote by Eastern Kentucky University men’s basketball coach A.W. Hamilton. Tickets start at $65.

 business.nkychamber.com/events

Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, Partners in Action Luncheon | Noon-1 p.m. Cintas Center, Xavier University. Proceeds support ministries serving women and children around the world.

 sndohio.org

MAY 8, THURSDAY

Alzheimer’s Association, Spring Gala | 5:30-9:30 p.m. Music Hall Ballroom. Chair: Elizabeth BangelStehlin. Honoring Kelli Stein. Dinner, live entertainment, drinks, bourbon pull, games, raffles and silent auction. Tickets: $300.

 alz.org/cincinnati/events

Local authors Richard Cowdrey, Lynne Hugo and Dinese Young are front and center at Assistance League of Greater Cincinnati’s Books & Brunch, May 6 at Kenwood Country Club.

NewPath, Topgolf Outing | 1-4 p.m. Topgolf, West Chester. Golf, food, drinks and raffles. Tickets: $175.

 newpath.org/events/topgolf-outing

St. Vincent de Paul-Cincinnati, Celebration of Service | 6 p.m. Cintas Center, Xavier University. Honoring Sheldon & Norma Braun, Bob & Carol Gramann, and Fred & Nancy Habegger. Cocktails, dinner and program recognizing honorees. Presented by Protective Life. Tickets: $175.

 svdpcincinnati.org

MAY 9, FRIDAY

Fernside Center for Grieving Children, Fernside Classic Dinner | 6 p.m. Cooper Creek Event Center, Blue Ash. Dinner, program, live auction and silent auction. Tickets: $100.

 fernside.org

Cancer Support Community, ParTee for Hope | 10 a.m. Topgolf, West Chester. Golf, food, bar, contests, prizes and swag.

 mycancersupportcommunity.org

Alzheimer’s Association honors longtime volunteer Kelli Stein at its Spring Gala, May 8 in the Music Hall Ballroom

CISE, Party at the Pitch | 6-10 p.m. TQL Stadium Pitch View Club. Food, open bar, complimentary parking, yard games, raffles, silent auction, DJ, dancing and appearance by FCC mascot Gary the Lion. Tickets: $85.

 cisekids.org/party

Easterseals Redwood, Annual Express | 6-10:30 p.m. Turfway Park Racing & Gaming. Silent disco, entertainment, food stations, open bar, live auction, silent auction and raffles. Tickets: $150.

 secure.qgiv.com/event/express2025

MAY 10, SATURDAY

A Kid Again, Capes and Crowns | 8 a.m.-noon. Kings Island, Mason. Familyfriendly, accessible walk and family festival with bounce houses, petting zoo, strolling circus performers, VR gaming truck, arts and crafts and touch-a-truck. Tickets: $25; $10 children.

 akidagain.org

Power to Pursue Women’s Empowerment Summit welcomes Katie Couric for a conversation with Kyla Woods, plus a full day of panels and presentations by local women leaders. May 16 at Music Hall

Cincinnati Museum Center, Mother’s Day Breakfast | 8-9:30 a.m. Union Terminal. Breakfast and admission to “Barbie: A Cultural Icon.” Tickets: $60.  cincymuseum.org

Magnified Giving, Magnify Your Run/ Walk | Ladybug Landing Shelter, Winton Woods. 1-mile, 5k, 10k and virtual events available. Family- and dog-friendly.

 raceroster.com/search

MAY 12, MONDAY

Fernside Center for Grieving Children, Fernside Classic Golf Outing | 10 a.m. Shaker Run Golf Club, Lebanon. Golf, lunch, dinner and prizes. Registration: $250.

 fernside.org

MAY 14, WEDNESDAY

Design LAB, Dine with Design | 4 p.m. Newport on the Levee Gallery Building. Awards ceremony, tours, light bites, drinks and after-party.

 designlearnandbuild.org

OTR Chamber of Commerce, OTR Awards | 5-8 p.m. Woodward Theater, Over-the-Rhine. Networking, light refreshments and awards ceremony. Tickets: $60.

 otrchamber.com/otr-awards

MAY 15, THURSDAY

Cincinnati Preservation, Preservation Excellence Awards | 6-9 p.m. Carnegie Center of Columbia Tusculum. Light bites, drinks, program, raffle and awards. Tickets: $75.

 cincinnatipreservation.org/events

St. Elizabeth Foundation, Night to Remember | 6-9 p.m. Drees Pavilion. Honoring work of St. Elizabeth Hospice and the families they serve. Free.

 stelizabeth.com

MAY 16, FRIDAY

Power to Pursue, Women’s Empowerment Summit | 9 a.m.-

5 p.m. Music Hall. Keynote: Katie Couric in conversation with Kyla Woods. Full day of panels and presentations by local women leaders. Tickets start at $185.

 powertopursue.org/summit

MAY 17, SATURDAY

Brighton Center, Derby of Dreams | 6-10 p.m. Turfway Park, Florence. Emcee: Bridget England, 96Rock. Cocktail hour, dinner, auction and entertainment. Tickets: $150.

 e.givesmart.com/events/GIC

Cincinnati ToolBank, Building

On Our Community | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Camp Friedlander, Loveland. Hands-on volunteer event partnering with Scouts to construct durable camping shelters.

 cincinnatitoolbank.org/events

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Great Strides | 9 a.m. Sawyer Point Park, The Banks. Three-mile walk.

 fundraise.cff.org/Cincinnati2025

Kentucky Symphony Orchestra, Rare Bourbon Raffle | 9-10 p.m. drawing. Virtual. Three separate raffles help fund free park concerts and education outreach programs.

 kyso.org/bourbon-raffle

Ludlow Historic Society, Ludlow Lagoon Legacy Fest | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 830 Elm St., Ludlow. Walking tour ($15), visual presentations ($10) of early 20th-century amusement park. Children’s entertainment, food and drink.

 preserveludlow.org

Melanoma Know More, Susan Roebuck Memorial Golf Outing | 8 a.m. shotgun start. Aston Oaks Golf Club, North Bend. Golf, lunch,

contests, raffles and split the pot. Registration: $100.

 melanomaknowmore.com

MORTAR, 10th Anniversary Gala | 6-10 p.m. Hard Rock Casino. Live music, VIP cocktail hour, dinner and networking. Tickets: $75-$1,500.  eventbrite.com,

MAY 19-20, MONDAY-TUESDAY

Lafayette Bicentennial Celebration | Cincinnati Masonic Center, downtown. Happy hour, dinner, concert, lunch and reception. Keynote: Julien Icher, president and founder, Lafayette Trail Inc.  lafayette200.org

May 19-20 marks the Lafayette Bicentennial Celebration, honoring the anniversary of the great Frenchman’s visit, with events capped by a celebration at Cincinnati Masonic Center, downtown.

MAY 19, MONDAY

Aubrey Rose Foundation, Annual Golf Outing | 10 a.m. Aston Oaks Golf Club. Light breakfast, lunch, dinner, beverages, competition prizes, split the pot and silent auction. Golfers receive ARF-branded item. Registration: $125; $500 foursome.

 aubreyrose.org/events/golf-outing

Dan Beard Council, Golf Classic | 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Clovernook Country Club. Golf, lunch, dinner, cocktails, silent auction and raffle prizes. Tickets: $125.

 danbeard.org/golf

BRILLIANT.

MAY 19, MONDAY (CONT.)

Scheben Center, Annual Charity Golf Classic | 11 a.m. Triple Crown Country Club, Union, KY. Lunch, golf, dinner, prizes and raffles.

 schebencarecenter.org/news

MAY 20, TUESDAY

Cincinnatus Association, Annual Spencer Awards Dinner | 5:30 p.m. Hyatt Regency. Reception, dinner and program. Chair: Susan Noonan. Emcee: Courtis Fuller. Nonprofit honorees: ArtWorks, Cincinnati Children’s, Cincinnati Works, Found House. For-profit honoree: Union Savings Bank and Guardian Savings Bank. Tickets: $100.  cincinnatusassoc.org

MAY 21, WEDNESDAY

Cincinnati Opera Young Professionals, Divas & Diamonds | 6:30-8:30 p.m. John Hauck House, West End. Drinks, light bites, accessories and opera arias. Tickets: $30; VIP: $60.  cincinnatiopera.org/divas-diamonds

Jewish Federation of Cincinnati, Annual Meeting | 7 p.m. Mayerson JCC, Amberley. Awards ceremony and honoring Sherri Symson, Josh Blatt, Rabbi Lewis Kamrass and Rabbi Robert Barr. Free.

 jlive.app/events/11331

MAY 24, SATURDAY

Cincinnati Art Club, Y’Art Sale and Wieners | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 1021 Parkside Pl., Mt. Adams. Sale of art

The Freedom Center presents International Freedom Conductor Awards to Opal Lee, Lonnie G Bunch III, the late Toni Morrison and Isabel Wilkerson May 24 at the Aronoff Center.

supplies and collectible art benefitting building renovations.

 cincinnatiartclub.org

Envision, Abilities at Bat | 4-7 p.m. Great American Ballpark. Parade, pregame ceremony, first pitch, PSA, Jumbotron shoutouts, resource center and branded tumbler.

 envisionohio.org

Ghostlight Stage Company, fundraiser performance | 6:30-11 p.m. Falcon Theatre, Newport. Pre-show panel discussion, performance of “Late, A Cowboy Song” by Sarah Ruhl, mocktail mixer, interactive games, raffles and gay trivia. Pay what you can.

 theghostlightstageco.com

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, International Freedom Conductor Awards | 7:30 p.m. Aronoff Center, downtown. Live music performances and reflections from award honorees: Opal Lee, Lonnie G. Bunch III, Isabel Wilkerson and on behalf of the late Toni Morrison.

 freedomcenter.org

Serve City, Annual The Source Stomps Out Hunger Walk | 10 a.m.noon. Vora Technology Park, Hamilton. Hunger awareness walk. Free; donations welcome.

 facebook.com/events,

MAY 31, SATURDAY

American Sign Museum, Signs & Spouses | 6-10 p.m. American Sign Museum, Camp Washington. Emcee: Evan Millward. Vow renewals officiated by Jim Obergefell, drag performances, music by

DJ Boywife, food, cash bar, champagne toast and dancing. Tickets: $100.

 americansignmuseum.org

JUNE 1, SUNDAY

Cincinnati Jazz Hall of Fame, 11th Induction Ceremony | 3 p.m. Mayerson JCC, Amberley. Emcee: Courtis Fuller. Honoring Greg Chako, Dave Matthews, Patsy Meyer, Joe Rogers and Carmon DeLeone. Tickets: $25; $30 at door.  cincyjazzhof.org

JUNE 2, MONDAY

Big Brothers Big Sisters, Outback Steakhouse Golf Classic | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Kenwood Country Club. Golf, contests, silent auctions, food and drinks.

 bigsforkids.org/golfclassic.html

Stepping Stones, Annual Golf Classic | O’Bannon Creek Golf Club, Loveland. Golf, food and raffles. Tickets: $300; $1,200 foursome.  steppingstonesohio.org/golf-classic

JUNE 4, WEDNESDAY

ACG Cincinnati, Deal Maker Awards | 4:30-6:30 p.m. Music Hall Ballroom. Reception and awards ceremony.

 acgcincinnatidealmaker.org/event

Adopt A Class, Celebration Breakfast | 8-10 a.m. Cintas Center, Xavier University. Breakfast and program. Tickets: $50.

 aacmentors.org

Concours d’Elegance returns June 7-8 showcasing British motoring this year. Countryside drive and hangar party Saturday; auto show on Sunday in Eden Park .

Talbert House ’s annual Fatherhood Celebration honors Fathers of the Year George Vincent and Erik Spottz , June 5 at Memorial Hall.

JUNE 5, THURSDAY

Midwest Regional Sustainability Summit | 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Sharonville Convention Center. Keynote: Lyla June Johnston. Speakers, exhibitor expo, poster session, art show, live performances and networking reception. Tickets: $200.

 midwestsustainabilitysummit.org

Talbert House, Fatherhood Celebration | 4:30-6:30 p.m. Memorial Hall, Over-the-Rhine. Supports program that assists men in becoming responsible, committed and nurturing dads. Father of the Year and speaker: George Vincent, partner, Dinsmore & Shohl LLP. Graduate Father of the Year: Erik Spottz. Networking, appetizers, drinks and program. Tickets start at $75.

 talberthouse.org/events

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

JUNE 6, FRIDAY

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, Revel & Rollick | Drinks, dinner bythe-bite and exclusive performance of “Mrs. Dalloway: A New Musical.”

 cincyshakes.com/on-stage/revel

Cincinnati ToolBank, Par-Tee for the ToolBank | The Mill Course, Winton Woods. Golf, drinks, dinner and raffle.

 cincinnatitoolbank.org/events

Photo by g ary k essler

JUNE

6, FRIDAY

(CONT.)

Dan Beard Council, Sporting Clays Tournament | 12:30 p.m. Sycamore Pheasant Club. Clay shooting, lunch, silent auction and raffle. Tickets: $100.

 danbeard.org/sporting-clays

Ken Anderson Alliance, Ken & Friends | 6-9 p.m. Hard Rock Casino. Food, stories and auction.

 kenandersonalliance.org

JUNE 7, SATURDAY

Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance, Hangar Party | 5-9 p.m. Executive Jet Management, Lunken Airport. Display of luxury jets, vintage aircraft and rare collector cars. Dinner by-the-bite and drinks. Tickets: $165. Also, countryside tour at noon at Mariemont Square.

 ohioconcours.com/events

Contemporary Arts Center, Art Adventure | 10:30 a.m. Contemporary Arts Center, downtown. Special art activations and programs. Free.  contemporaryartscenter.org

Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, Southwest Ohio Take Steps | 10 a.m. Yeatman’s Cove, Sawyer Point Park. Honoring Luke and Lucy Zerkle, Kristin Sampsel and Emily Scott. Family-fun activites and ribbon ceremony.

 tinyurl.com/southwestohiotakesteps

Parental Hope, Swing for Hope Golf Outing | 7:30 a.m. Kenton County Golf Course, Independence. Breakfast and golf. Tickets: $100.

 parentalhope.org/swingforhope

JUNE 8, SUNDAY

Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance | 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Ault Park, Mt. Lookout. Automotive art show, brunch and craft beer garden. Benefiting juvenile arthritis research.

 ohioconcours.com/events

JUNE 13, FRIDAY

Adopt A Class, Golf Outing | 9 a.m. Mill Course, Winton Woods. Scramble format, lunch and awards ceremony. Registration: $250.  aacmentors.org/golf-outing

Holly Hill, Annual Golf Classic | 7:30 a.m. Kenton County - Pioneer Course, Independence. Golf, lunch, light

fare and awards. Registration: $175.

 birdease.com/hollyhillgolfclassic

JUNE 14, SATURDAY

Ohio River Foundation, Wild & Scenic Film Festival |

6-10 p.m. Memorial Hall, Over-the-Rhine. Celebrating 25th anniversary with environmental films, food and drink. Tickets: Starting at $30.

 ohioriverfdn.org/events

People Working Cooperatively, Repair Affair | Use home-repair skills to provide important home maintenance services to seniors and people with disabilities living on low or fixed incomes.

 pwchomerepairs.org/repair-affair

Young Professionals Choral Collective, True Colors Gala | 7:30 p.m. Performances by drag artist and reunion choir.

 ypccsing.org/upcoming-events

JUNE 20, FRIDAY

Cincinnati Zoo, Zoo La La | 7:30-11 p.m. Food samples, animal encounters, live entertainment, carousel rides, train rides and games. Tickets: $125; VIP: $195.

 cincinnatizoo.org/events/zoo-la-la

JUNE 21, SATURDAY

From Fatherless to Fearless, Better Together Conference | 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Summit Hotel, Madisonville. Day of empowerment, connection and celebration of mothers and daughters (age 1222). Breakfast, lunch, snacks, giveaways, speakers, breakout sessions and more. Free. Donation suggested.

 2025BetterTogether.eventbrite.com

St. Vincent de Paul, Dare to Care Dash 5k | 9 a.m. St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Milford. Proceeds support neighbors facing housing instability across six Southern Ohio counties. Scenic route, flyover by Vintage Warbirds, door prizes, and fun for all ages, running or walking.

 runsignup.com/daretocaredash

JUNE 23, MONDAY

WAVE Foundation, Putt for Penguins | 10:30 a.m. Wetherington Golf & Country Club, West Chester. Meet penguins, breakfast, golf, food, drinks,

dinner, live auction, silent auction and awards. Cost: $300; $1,200 team.

 e.givesmart.com/events/HaE

JUNE 24, TUESDAY

Giving USA, Cincinnati Briefing | 9 a.m. Virtual. Annual presentation of research findings on philanthropic giving trends for 2024. Presentation by independent researcher Melissa Brown. Sponsored by Grants Plus and the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

 Ticket link TBA

JUNE 29, SUNDAY

Holocaust & Humanity Center, Upstander 5K | 8:30 a.m. Union Terminal. Race Marshal: Kathrine Switzer, first woman to officially run Boston Marathon. 5K walk and run options, live music, family activities, breakfast and pickleball tournament. Registration: $35.

 runsignup.com/Races

JULY 11-12, FRIDAY-SATURDAY

St. Vincent de Paul-Cincinnati, Strike Out Hunger | Reds vs. Colorado Rockies, Great American Ball Park. Help ease summer hunger for families. Bring at least three nonperishable items to receive a free ticket voucher for a future game.  svdpcincinnati.org

JULY 14-16, MONDAY-WEDNESDAY

Black Tech Week | Aronoff Center, downtown. Keynote: Keke Palmer. Workshops, panel discussions, investor matching and after-hours activities. Early bird tickets through April 30.

 blacktechweek.com

Philanthropy consultant Melissa Brown shares her insights into giving trends at the 2025 Giving USA Cincinnati Briefing . This year’s presentation is virtual, the morning of June 24 Movers & Makers is media partner.

JULY 19, SATURDAY

AfriFest Cincy: Taste of Africa | Noon-9 p.m. Sawyer Point Park, downtown. Showcasing African arts, culture, music and cuisine. Free.  eventbrite.com,

JULY 26, SATURDAY

4C for Children, Block Party | 9 a.m.-noon. Cintas Center, Xavier University. LEGO building competition and snacks.  4cforchildren.org

JULY 28, MONDAY

Junior Achievement, Golf Classic | 8:30 a.m. Triple Crown Country Club, Union. Each golf player receives $500 shopping spree to JA Pro Shop.  japartners.org 

sure your fundraiser or community event is listed at moversmakers.org/datebook

Limited-edition bourbon boosts

NKY Entrepreneur Fund

New Riff Distilling and Blue North’s Northern Kentucky Entrepreneur Fund raised more than $11,000 for new entrepreneurs with a limited-edition bourbon called The Entrepreneurial Spark. The collaboration between New Riff founder Ken Lewis and local entrepreneurs serves to champion innovators of Northern Kentucky.

The NKY Entrepreneur Fund provides grants to small businesses and entrepreneurs. Through financial support from the R.C. Durr Foundation and Truist Foundation and partnerships with Main Street Ventures and the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, the fund has supported $530,000 in grants to 39 local companies.

The inaugural Entrepreneurial Spark is six years old and sells for $59.99, with 388 bottles produced. Half of all sales will go to the fund. Bottles are available at the New Riff gift shop and website.

 bluenorthky.com, sparkhaus.co

Per Scholas expands Greater Cincy presence with Covington campus

Per Scholas, a nonprofit offering tuition-free tech training, expanded its Greater Cincinnati presence with a new satellite campus in Covington to meet growing demand for skilled technology workers in Northern Kentucky.

The organization celebrated the milestone at the Kentucky Career Center, where leaders highlighted the program’s impact and future opportunities for local residents. Speakers included Covington Mayor Ron Washington, Susan Culp of Archer Daniels Midland, Brent Cooper of the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce,

Correy Eimer of the Northern Kentucky Area Development District and Michael Stovall, a Per Scholas Greater Cincinnati alum.

Per Scholas connects graduates directly with employer partners across the region, helping bridge the talent gap while boosting economic mobility for individuals historically underrepresented in tech. Since launching in 2013, Per Scholas Greater Cincinnati has trained more than 1,200 graduates at no cost to learners.

 perscholas.org/locations/greater-cincinnati

Boys & Girls Club opens Farmer Center in Roll Hill

A major investment in Cincinnati’s youth took root with the opening of the Richard T. Farmer Boys & Girls Club, a new 23,000-square-foot youth development center in the Villages of Roll Hill.

Located at 3701 President Drive, the $8 million facility is designed to serve more than 300 children and teens each year through after-school programs, summer camps and mentorship opportunities. It replaces a smaller school-based site and represents a transformative expansion in one of the city’s most underserved neighborhoods.

“This facility represents hope, opportunity and a future for the young people of Roll Hill,” Bill Bresser, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Cincinnati, said during an open-house event.

Bresser also announced the public launch of “A New Generation,” the largest capital campaign in Boys & Girls Clubs of America history. The $50 million campaign will support expanded services, staff wage increases and a new Workforce Development Center in Price Hill. So far, $44.4 million has been raised.

 bgcgc.org

www.helenadamsphotography.com

Ken Lewis, founder of New Riff Distilling; Dave Knox, executive director of Blue North; and Mollie Lewis, president of New Riff Distilling

Roger Burns, Per Scholas Cincinnati managing director, cuts the ribbon for its new satellite campus, assisted by Brent Cooper, president/CEO of Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, and Mayor Ron Washington of Covington.

Alex Noel was named executive director of the Baker Hunt Art & Cultural Center Noel has been Baker Hunt’s kitchen education director and outreach director and has worked for the center since 2020. The Baker Hunt team plans to create new classes, bring back some previous programming, extend an outreach program and provide more community art opportunities.

The Art Academy of Cincinnati appointed Jill Gibboney as director of marketing and communications. A seasoned marketing professional and community advocate, Gibboney brings a wealth of experience in digital, print, social, email, experiential and special event marketing. A native of Western Pennsylvania, Gibboney has spent over a decade working in the nonprofit, music and media industries, collaborating with major organizations such as the BBC and Warner Music Group. She is chair of the Cincinnati Accessibility Board of Advisors convened by the City of Cincinnati and is a board member of Visionaries + Voices, an organization supporting artists with disabilities.

Cincinnati poet Manuel Iris was awarded the 2025 Ambroggio Prize from the Academy of American Poets. His winning manuscript, “The Whole Earth is a Garden of Monsters / Toda la tierra es un jardín de monstruos,” will be published by the University of Arizona Press. Iris co-translated the book into English alongside the Irish-American poet Kevin McHugh, who also lives in Cincinnati. The Ambroggio Prize is a highly regarded national award that recognizes an American poet whose first language is Spanish. Iris served as poet laureate of Cincinnati and has been writer-in-residence at the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library and Thomas More University.

Jim Watkins, CEO of Triversity, is the new board chairman of Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber. Also joining the board are Katrina English, SVP and chief administrative officer, UC Health; Holly H. Mazzocca , president, wealth adviser and principal, Bartlett; Lisa Vannis, audit and assurance partner, Deloitte; and Andrew E. Worrell, general counsel and secretary, Fischer Homes.

Courtney Shannon, volunteer manager at Dress for Success Cincinnati, has joined the 2025 Cincinnati Association of Volunteer Administrators as professional development chair. This is a volunteer role separate from her job at DFSC.

Franciscan Ministries appointed Marci Peebles as interim executive director. Peebles brings two decades of experience in both ministry and nonprofit management and leadership, the last 13 years with Franciscan Ministries, most recently as director of operations. Franciscan Ministries remains committed to addressing the unmet needs of people who are underserved, vulnerable and overlooked.

United Way of Greater Cincinnati welcomed Jonathan Blank and Katie Johnson to the organization’s volunteer leadership board. Blank is vice president, procurement and supplier management at GE Aerospace. Johnson is a partner with Ernst & Young.

Matthew Moquin-Lee, artistic director since May 2024 of the Young Professionals Choral Collective, will step into the newly established role of managing artistic director. Moquin-Lee will not only lead the organization

artistically but also serve as the main point of contact for all non-choral activities and will oversee daily operations. Executive Director Cy Wood leaves the organization in June. Wood’s final concert with YPCC is the upcoming gala, “True Colors,” held June 14 in partnership with Cincinnati Pride.

Prevent Blindness named Matt MacDonald as chair-elect of its board of directors. Prevent Blindness is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to saving sight. MacDonald is president and global head of managed care at EyeMed Vision Care.

The Covington Business Council has named Jackie Roberto, co-founder of Madison Design, as board chair through December 2026. Selected for two-year terms are John Hurd , Duke Energy director of infrastructure engagement, and Steve Tracy, owner of AtWork Personnel.



Price Hill Will has announced the hiring of Greg Robinson II as its new executive director. A resident of East Price Hill, Robinson brings more than a decade of experience in racial and economic equity, community engagement and securing funding for large-scale initiatives. Prior to joining Price Hill Will, Robinson served as director of community strategies at Greater Cincinnati Foundation, where he led efforts to advance equitable development across the region. He recently earned a master of community planning from the University of Cincinnati. Robinson succeeds interim executive director Samantha Conover, who will return to her previous role as operations director and assist with the leadership transition.

Greg Robinson II

Steve Tracy

Matthew Moquin-Lee Matt MacDonald

Marci Peebles

Manuel Iris

Lisa Vannis

Katrina English

Katie Johnson Jonathan Blank John Hurd

Jim Watkins

Jill Gibboney

Jackie Roberto

Holly H. Mazzocca

Courtney Shannon Andrew E. Worrell

Alex Noel

Carey Sanders, Fifth Third Bank senior vice president, middle market banking leader, has been named the board chair of BE NKY Growth Partnership, the economic development company for Northern Kentucky. DBL Law partner James Dressman will serve as immediate past chair. Ben Brandstetter, president of Brandstetter Carroll, became vice chair. Philippe Garnier, Safran Landing Systems Kentucky CEO and general manager, joins the board. Kenton County appointed Merus President Dan Ruh to the board and Campbell County appointed Anna Wright , Prysmian North America vice president of marketing and external communications.

The Well added three board members: Olivia Cleri, production manager at Cincinnati Opera; Jesy Wenstrup Herron, VP of client relationships at RESLV; and Brianna Vollmann, associate attorney at Thompson Hine LLP. The Well, based in Camp Washington, aims to “improve the mental and emotional well-being, connectedness, and effectiveness of all persons through arts integration, mindfulness, music, movement, and healing-centered practices.” 

TechSolve opens new office in Blue Ash

TechSolve, a nonprofit dedicated to helping manufacturers improve efficiency, has opened its new office in Blue Ash.

The organization provides tailored solutions to manufacturers of all sizes across Southwest Ohio, helping them grow, increase profitability and create new job opportunities.

As a regional partner of the Ohio Manufacturing Extension Partnership, TechSolve supports companies in a seven-county area, with a network that spans over 1.8 million residents and includes more than 6,400 manufacturers. TechSolve’s mission is to foster a thriving industrial landscape and contribute to the region’s economic prosperity.

 techsolve.org

Talent Magnet Institute, Camp Joy create leadership program

Talent Magnet Institute and Camp Joy have partnered to launch L.E.A.D., a new leadership development program designed to help Greater Cincinnati professionals strengthen their leadership skills through hands-on learning and realworld application.

The program is built on the idea that leaders grow when challenged, supported and given space to reflect. By combining Talent Magnet Institute’s leadership training with Camp Joy’s interactive outdoor setting, the partners help participants gain practical experience focused on connection, adaptability and clarity.

 talentmagnet.com/campjoy

Haile Foundation returns to NKY roots

The Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile Jr. Foundation is returning to its roots with a move to downtown Covington, where its new headquarters will open in fall 2025 at the corner of Sixth and Madison streets.

The foundation’s new home — in the former People’s Liberty Bank building now named Ralph Haile Square — carries significance for the organization and the Haile family. Ralph Haile spent much of his professional life there, leading Peoples Liberty Bank and Trust Co. and helping shape Covington’s urban core.

The Haile Foundation supports initiatives across the Tristate, with a focus on arts and culture, education, civic life and human services. Its leaders say the new headquarters will serve not only as an operational base, but also as a reflection of the foundation’s longstanding mission.

 hailefoundation.org

Pro Bono Partnership launches legal video series for nonprofits

Pro Bono Partnership of Ohio is marking its 10th anniversary with the release of a new educational video series aimed at nonprofit board members and executives. The six-part series, “I’m On a Nonprofit Board – Now What?,” provides accessible legal guidance on key governance topics.

The videos cover legal duties, compliance with state and federal regulations, and best practices for nonprofit boards. Each segment runs seven to nine minutes and is available for free on PBPO’s website.

Supported by a grant from the L&L Nippert Charitable Foundation, the on-demand series was developed by PBPO’s team of attorneys to help nonprofit leaders navigate a rapidly evolving legal landscape.

Since its founding in 2015, PBPO has delivered more than $12.6 million in free legal services to over 400 nonprofit organizations in Cincinnati and Dayton, connecting them with volunteer attorneys from corporations and law firms.

 pbpohio.org/governance-series 

Steve Eroskey, president of the Blue Ash Business Association; Dan Catalano, president and CEO of TechSolve, Inc.; and Blue Ash Mayor Jill Cole

Philippe Garnier

Olivia Cleri Jesy Wenstrup Herron

James Dressman

Dan Ruh

Carey Sanders

Brianna Vollman

Ben Brandstetter Anna Wright

Snapshots

Pink is the color for Kenzie’s Closet prom-season gala

Kenzie’s Closet kicked off the 2025 prom season at its annual gala, Paint the City Pink, raising more than $115,000. The event, at The View in Mount Adams, featured a surprise fashion show starring students from DePaul Cristo Rey High School modeling prom dresses and accessories on an elevated runway.

The “pinkest party in town” included dishes and cocktails by Delightmore, a raffle with designer handbags, one-of-a-kind experiences, dancing and mission-based moments. The event was co-chaired by Abby Workman, Chip Workman, Amy Kattman and Jim Kattman and was presented by the Edelweiss Foundation.

Kenzie’s Closet provides local high school girls with fashionable, formal prom attire through a one-of-a-kind shopping day, inspiring them to discover self-confidence, celebrate their individuality and feel empowered.

 kenziescloset.org

Peter

Ashlee

Broderick



(Back) Lindsey Friedmann, Beth Friedmann and Katie Hayden Gamber; (front) McKenna Brooks and Megan Stacey

(Back) Megan Stacey, Lance Mall, Robert Lesan III and Kathy McDonald, (front) Sarah Wood Evans; board member

M. Frey, board member

Wooten, Heather Batdorf, Amy Campbell, Meghan

and Amanda Grote

Board Chair emeritus Amanda Bentley Fessler, Erin Fairfield, January Durbin and Amy Campbell, vice chair

Co-chairs Amy Kattman, Jim Kattman, Chip Workman and Abby Workman

Tom and Jane Dorger

Ashlee Wooten, Emily Rose and Amber Cornwell

Nikki Hayden, Ali Menke, Julie Otten, Heather Herr and Ingrid Correia Williams

Kyle Butz, Elizabeth Olson, Malorie Butz, Brian Butz, Kathie Butz and Anthony Butz

PreventionFIRST! honors leadership in behavioral health

PreventionFIRST! hosted its annual Awards Luncheon & Fundraiser at the Graduate Cincinnati. The nonprofit is committed to reducing the risk and preventing behavioral health disorders such as substance use disorders, problem gambling, depression and anxiety.

At the event, Thomas M. Fallon, retired commander of the Hamilton County Heroin Task Force, received the Rob Portman Leadership Award, created in honor of PF’s founder, former U.S. Sen. Rob Portman. Delhi Middle School received the Carolyn Ford-Griffith Youth of the Year Award for promoting mental wellness in youth. Step Up Anderson Township received the Mary F. Haag Coalition of the Year Award. Rebecca Baudry Young , director of Miami University’s Office of Student Wellness, was given the Rachel Hutzel Prevention Partner Award.

Courtis Fuller was emcee and Pastor KZ Smith of Corinthian Baptist Church led the invocation.

 prevention-first.org/home

Hamilton County Quick Response Team members Mike Dumont, Sarah Cogne and Sophanit Melaku with Thomas M. Fallon, who received the Rob Portman Leadership Award

& ANNA POLENOK

INCREDIBLE HONOREE

Ted Karras Center for Cincinnati Bengals & Founder of The Cincy Hat Foundation

SILVER & BRONZE SPONSORS

The UC IDD Education Center is grateful for the support of our sponsors, as well as, our local community partners, donors, and families. Scan the QR code for a full list of all our amazing sponsors.

Derek Longmeier and James Bonsall, PF board member

Tom Quehl and Stephanie Quehl, Denise Mayer and Rick Mayer, and Mary Wolf

PF board member Pat Roberson and Kelly Roberson

Ohio state Sen. Catherine D. Ingram flanked by Maria Sulcer and Carla Brant

Rev. Donald E. Jones, Danielle Jones and Catherine D. Ingram

Larry Herbst, PreventionFIRST! board member; Nicole Schiesler, president and CEO; and Tiffany Mattingly, board member

Denise Mayer accepts the Mary H. Haag Award for Step Up Anderson Township.

Pastor KZ Smith and Jenise Brown, program assistant, PreventionFIRST!

Legend-ary fundraiser aids game-changing research

Friends and supporters of Cincinnati Children’s gathered to raise funds for scientific research at the health system’s Kaleidoscope fundraiser. Sponsored by Fort Washington Investment Advisors Inc. and Western & Southern Financial Group, Kaleidoscope featured EGOT-winning performer John Legend.

Legend spent time at Cincinnati Children’s earlier in the day for a dedication ceremony for the newly named John Legend and Chrissy Teigen Family Lounge in the Cincinnati Children’s NICU. The hospital named the family respite area in honor of a gift from Legend and Teigen. During the visit, he spent time with patients and families in Seacrest Studios at the medical center before performing a private show at Music Hall.

 cincinnatichildrens.org

Kaleidoscope co-chair Joel Stone, Jon Niemeyer and Carolyn Karageorges, Children’s VP of finance

Tom Alloy, Moira Weir, Chancze Lepore and Josh Smitherman

Camille Healy and Lauren Thaman

Michele O’Rourke and Daniela Tabone

Kay Geiger, Travis Geiger, Cris Collinsworth, Jeff Ruby and Jack Geiger

Dr. Ryan Moore, Cincinnati Children’s chief emerging technologies officer; Stephen Pomeranz; Ellen Knue; Karen Cassidy (wearing Cincinnati Children’s virtual reality headset); Penny Pomeranz; and Children’s digital technologies developer Kelvin Mantey

Terry Horan, Christy Horan, Linda Hirschfeld and host committee member Mike Hirschfeld

John Legend joining patients in the Ryan Seacrest Studios at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center

Lori Jurgensen, host committee member Holly Collinsworth and Paige Grote Dana Ede, Lisa Stone, Amy Bixel and Pam McFarland

Albert Smitherman, Cincinnati Children’s board Chair Liza Smitherman, John Legend and Cincinnati Children’s CEO Steve Davis

Bethesda Lyceum funds DNA Discovery program

More than 400 supporters attended the 24th annual Bethesda Lyceum at the Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati. The event raised more than $230,000 in support of this year’s funding project – DNA Discovery with TriHealth: A Population Health & Genomics Program, a risk assessment and disease prevention and treatment program that promises to provide more precisely targeted and personalized care for patients. Guests heard from Suleika Jaouad, an Emmy-winning journalist, author, artist and advocate for those living with illness and navigating life’s many interruptions.

 trihealth.com/news/ trihealth-partners-with-helix

Tracey Stofa, Michael Rudnicki and Dan Carter with Dr. James Maher

Keynote speaker Suleika Jaouad

Keynote speaker Suleika Jaouad and Jill Miller, president and CEO of bi3

Matthew Barry and Debbie Bardonaro

Rachel Harp, Lindsey Snider, Catherine Robinson and Chandler Robinson

Tim Ardizzone, Allison Carissmi and Kathy Grigg

Rebecca Liang, Emma Gripshover and Mary Dyche

Hope’s Closet gala raises $105K to help foster children and parents

Hope's Closet hosted its annual gala, Hope in Bloom, at the Oscar Event Center in Fairfield. Guests enjoyed games, dinner and dancing, while outbidding each other for more than 80 silent-auction prizes.

Hope’s Closet works to provide quality clothes and other essentials, fun experiences and support for foster children and foster parents.

The event raised $105,000. Center Pointe Church was named Community Partner of the Year. Peyton Steiniger spoke about her experience as the sister of a foster child and Hannah Reisenberg spoke about how Hope's Closet has influenced her journey as a foster parent.

 hopesclosetohio.org

Closet board

TJ Edjan, Rodel

BBBS of Butler County honors retired CEO and former board member

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Butler County honored Carolyn Winslow, its former CEO, and Tom Laming, a long-serving board member, with its 2025 Hall of Fame Award.

Winslow recently resigned as CEO after 37 years with the organization. During her leadership, Winslow invited Laming to serve on the board of directors. He later served as board president and chaired many committees.

 bbbsbutler.org

Tyler Schoettmer, Carly Schoettmer, Tom Schwarber, foster parent support manager Liz Roda, Jaclyn Bergman, Ryan Bergman, Kris Schoettmer and Skip Schoettmer Board

Chair Bill Morrisson and Kit Morrison

Hope’s

member

Edjan, Nicole Makasiar, board member Camille Endaya and Jamie Endaya

Russ Bullock and gala committee volunteer Jenny Bullock

Cortez Farley with Hannah Reisenberg, a foster parent and new board member

Former and current board members Jaycee Santos, Laurie Moher, Judi Nelson, Laura Clark and Camille Endaya

Carolyn Winslow and Tom Laming

Norwood Together hands out community awards

Norwood Together hosted its fourth annual Gems of the Community award celebration at The Ventura Event Center. Awards are presented every year to 15 residents and friends of Norwood who have volunteered and made a significant contribution to their neighborhood, school or community.

Virginia Patterson received the Legacy Award. Patterson has been an active and dedicated member of the community for nearly a decade. She founded and organized the Juneteenth Celebration at Heritage Park the past several years.

The 2025 business winner was neighborhood bar Norwood Cappy’s. In addition to hosting events that bring together longtime Norwood residents, Xavier students and others, Cappy’s works to foster a sense of community through fundraisers and donation drives for nonprofits.

 Full list of honorees: norwoodtogether.org

Beech Acres honors retired Ohio legislator Bill Seitz

Beech Acres Parenting Center presented its Champion for Children Award to recently retired Ohio state legislator Bill Seitz, a dedicated advocate for children and families. The special recognition took place during a Beech Acres donor appreciation event. Seitz’s commitment to strengthening communities, improving educational opportunities and supporting families in need exemplifies Beech Acres’ values, the organization said.

Seitz, who retired from the state

legislature in December 2024, was a champion for family-centered policies during his time in the Ohio Senate and the Ohio House. He advocated for legislation that improved child welfare and safety, as well as policy promoting family stability. He cosponsored a bill to create a scholarship fund for all teenagers in foster care.

Seitz has also has been a donor to Beech Acres for more than 30 years.

 beechacres.org

2025 Gems of the Community

Norwood City Council member

Susan Hoover with Norwood Together board member

Kristen Bertke

Legacy Award winner Virginia Patterson

Norwood Together board member David Thompson with Gem of the Community award winner Betty Hatchett

Norwood Police Lt. Ryan Ramos, honoree Norwood Cappy’s co-owner Drew Schulte and Kira Hinkle

The Norwood Together team: Mak Krivka, Jessica Shepker, Mary C. Miller, Ron Mosby, Aiden Fitzgerald, Sarah Allen and Andrew Guthrie

Honoree Bill Seitz and Laura Mitchell, president and CEO of Beech Acres

Meals on Wheels goes mad for gala

Meals on Wheels of Southwest OH & Northern KY hosted its second annual Meals Madness Gala at Xavier University’s Cintas Center. The gala included a silent auction and a fundraising paddle raise led by DJ Hodge, iHeart Media division president and Meals on Wheels board member.

Together with sponsorships led by Mercy Health and the Mercy Health Foundation, the organization raised more than $200,000 to benefit the essential services Meals on Wheels provides to 10,000 seniors in the region.

Paul McPherson Brunner was recognized as Much More Than a Meal honoree. Girl Scouts of Western Ohio were recognized as Collaborative Partner of the Year. WLWT anchor Sheree Paolello was emcee.

 muchmorethanameal.org

Attendees bid at the gala auction.

and

MOW board member DJ Hodge

Paul McPherson Brunner, 2025 Much More Than a Meal honoree

Meals on Wheels CEO Mike Dunn

Emcee Sheree Paolello of WLWT

Cassie Barlow, Arrianne Byrum and Susan Osborn, all of Girls Scouts of Western Ohio

Victoria Karamanoukian, Henry Karamanoukian, Dick Rosenthal and Kitty Rosenthal

Mike Hogan, MOW chief advancement officer; Lyndset Barnett, board member; Mike Hirschfield; and Danielle McColaugh

Pete Buscani, Mike Gelfot and MOW board member Tony Fenno

Elizabeth Bangel-Stehlin

Brad Hoicowitz, gala committee members

Rick Wagner, MOW board chair Mary Wagner, Rob McAuliffe and Kristen McAuliffe

Photos by Jenn Prine Photogra Phy

Holloway House opens to help young families

The grand opening of the home of Rosemary’s Babies Co. drew hundreds to celebrate the longawaited unveiling of the Holloway House & Resource Center to support teen parents and young families.

Holloway House, on Reading Road, has seven bedrooms, a library and a state-of-the-art lab. Families will be able to stay for up to 24 months.

The nonprofit dedicated the facility in honor of Rosa Lee Webster-Figgs, grandmother of founder and CEO Rosemary Oglesby-Henry.

As part of the celebration, Rosemary’s Babies hosted tours throughout the day, shuttling guests from its former office – now transformed into Petals Playhouse, an activity center for children under age 6 – to its newly opened facility. The event raised $10,000 in pledges toward a programming campaign, which will continue until the organization secures the remaining funds to open its transitional housing this fall.

 rosemarysbabies.co

My’asia Newton, Salma Gallegos, A’kya Daniels, Jaliah Oglesby, Rosemary OglesbyHenry, Ty’Asia Newton and Janyla Greenlea

Kelli Glover and Rosemary Oglesby-Henry

Cutting the ribbon to open Holloway House were: Rodsha Belser, board chair; Elaine Bobbey; founder and CEO Rosemary Oglesby-Henry; Heather Pfaltzgraff; Antony West; Robert Oglesby; and Jeremiyah Hairston

Cancer Advisors benefit goes for style and sophistication

More than 200 attended Cincinnati Cancer Advisors’ Distinguished and Distilled event at the Manor House in Mason. Festivities included wine tastings, craft cocktails with chef-paired appetizers, marketplace shopping featuring exclusive vendors during cocktail hour, a bourbon “mall,” raffles, live music, three-course dinner and a live auction.

Presented by Blank Rome, Monteverdi Tuscany and Kroger, the evening raised more than $200,000 to provide free, expert oncology consultations to cancer patients and their families in Greater Cincinnati. Services include second opinions, care coordination, referrals, clinical trial navigation, financial navigation and precision oncology services.

 cincinnaticanceradvisors.org



Bike & Trail Expo draws

6,000 outdoor enthusiasts

The 2025 CORA Bike & Trail Expo brought together more than 6,000 outdoor enthusiasts at MadTree Brewing in Oakley. With more than 70 exhibitors – including Great Parks, United Wheels, Bike 513 and Roads Rivers & Trails – the expo served as a hub for outdoor recreation, education and community connection.

The new Adventure Vehicle section showcased exhibitors who outfit vehicles for travel. Attendees viewed the exhibits while sipping on the new MadTree Cincitucky Trail Lager.

CORA (Cincinnati Off-Road Alliance) is a nonprofit working to build a thriving outdoor community in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, ensuring that mountain bikers, hikers and trail runners have access to high-quality, multi-use natural surface trails. CORA maintains 13 trail systems, with more in development.

 coratrails.org/trails

Emcee Evan Millward

Dr. William Barrett

Exclusive vendors sold their wares during cocktail hour.

Mary Owensby, Todd Griffis and Jaki Howser

AJ Lewis and Melissa Lewis

Ashley Lilly and Lauren Hartman, the music duo Rucca

Vendors selling their wares during cocktail hour

Photo

Cincinnati Preservation celebrates historic Fechheimer Mansion

Cincinnati Preservation’s Cornerstone members gathered for an exclusive afternoon at the magnificent 1896 Fechheimer Mansion in East Walnut Hills. The event offered attendees a rare opportunity to experience one of the region’s treasured historic residences while connecting with fellow preservation advocates.

The Fechheimer Mansion, located on Upland Place, welcomed guests with its stunning original murals, exquisite period details and remarkable architectural integrity. Attendees enjoyed guided explorations of the home’s significant spaces while learning about its history and preservation journey. The programming fostered meaningful conversations among members about Cincinnati’s rich architectural legacy.

 cincinnatipreservation.org

Magnified Giving honors facilitators of Youth Philanthropy Program

Magnified Giving hosted its first Facilitator Appreciation Dinner to celebrate the dedicated educators on the front lines of its Youth Philanthropy Program. Penny Harris, art teacher at the Juvenile Detention Center, was honored with the Bill Keating Jr. Educator of Excellence Award.

The event was sponsored by The Mayerson Foundation and held at Evendale Recreation Center. Forty-four facilitators were treated to dinner, gifts and conversation.

 magnifiedgiving.org

Adam Sanregret, Fred Martens, Doug Manzier

Drew Gores, Cincinnati Preservation ED Beth Johnson, Mary Ellen Goeke and Tom Schiff

1896 Fechheimer Mansion in East Walnut Hills

Members of the Magnified Giving team: Becca Freyhof, Alison Kaufman, Phaedrea Preston, Roger Grein, Kelly Collison and Carey Kuznar

Program facilitators Dave Campbell of Moeller High School, Angela Guye and Karen Gardner, both of All Saints School

Program Committee member Phaedrea Preston being recognized by Magnified Giving program manager Becca Freyhof for her support in planning for the event

Hollywood Highlife event brings film community together

The Hollywood Highlife event – a collaborative fundraiser for the Cindependent Film Festival, Women in Film Cincinnati, OutReels Cincinnati and the Black Cincinnati Cinema Collective – showcased the vibrant enthusiasm of local cinephiles.

The evening at the Contemporary Arts Center brought together film lovers and industry professionals, raising funds to support the continued growth of these organizations and their efforts to uplift diverse voices in film, particularly through the annual indie film festival event in September.

Event attendees enjoyed networking, conversation and cinematic celebration, while supporting initiatives that champion inclusivity, representation and independent filmmaking in the region.

 cindependentfilmfest.org

Vernard Fields of Black Cincinnati Cinema Collective

Sarah Kaising

Rachel Canter of the festival planning team

David Wolff and Robb Dorward, both of OutReels Cincinnati, welcome guests to the event.

Jaime Meyers Schlenck

Fans sparkled in front of photo ops throughout the event.

Staff and volunteers from four local film groups collaborated on the Hollywood Highlife event.

The funds raised cemented the partnership between Cindependent, OutReels Cincinnati, Women in Film Cincinnati and Black Cincinnati Cinema Collective for the 2025 film festival.

Fueled Collective hosts record crowd for M&M April Mix & Mingle

Movers & Makers welcomed the largest crowd ever for its monthly Mix & Mingle happy hour in April. Fueled Collective in Rookwood Exchange, a coworking and private office space, was the host venue. Next gathering is May 14, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Northern Row Brewery and Distillery just north of Findlay Market.

St. Mary teacher honored by

Gold Star Chili, Children’s Theatre

Gold Star, in partnership with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, announced Tricia Richardson as the winner of its annual Gold Star Teacher Award. The award, which celebrates the hard work and dedication of local educators, was presented at a surprise all-school assembly at St. Mary School in Alexandria, Kentucky, where she teaches.

Richardson was chosen from 1,068 nominations submitted from nearly 600 public and private schools. Richardson received 19,834 votes from the record 83,000 votes cast. Richardson took home a package worth more than $7,000 in prizes and experiences, including a $2,000 personal grant for her classroom and a $1,000 donation to St. Mary. She also received school supplies, $500 in gift cards, and her choice of a TCT MainStage Production for 30 students and two chaperones or a TCT on Tour production to perform for the school.

 goldstarchili.com/goldstarteacher, thechildrenstheatre.com

Jamie Pollard of Gold Star, Roderick Justice of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati and honoree Tricia Richardson

SATURDAY 6:30PM CET

SUNDAY 8:30PM CET ARTS

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

Award Winner Regional - Interview/Discussion Program www.CETconnect.org

Paul Lammermeier Foundation raises $125K, honors Dick and Nancy Klus

The Paul Lammermeier Foundation hosted its 27th Annual Dinner, raising more than $125,000 to educate and house at-risk youth in Peru. The foundation introduced the inaugural Paul Lammermeier Award, honoring longtime supporters Dick Klus and Nancy Klus. Paul Lammermeier, the late founder of PLF, was a beloved educator at St. Xavier High School before dedicating his life to serving homeless children in Peru. Dick and Nancy Klus played a crucial role in fundraising and supporting visiting Peruvian students, even hosting them in their Cincinnati home. The dinner’s proceeds will support the foundation’s four homes in Peru, two for boys and young men and two for girls and young women.

 lammermeier.org

PLF board and staff members Beth Freeze, Tom McNally, Paul Bissmeyer, Bill Noe, Scott Stephens, Mike Rusconi, John Wintz, John Ravenna, Tom Green and Kim Noe

Cindy Piening, Dick Piening, Bob Carroll, Diane Sweeny and Lucy Carroll

Mike Kelsey

Leslie Odioso and Greg Vehr

Joe Moran, Allison Stautberg and Andrew Stautberg

Blake Jones, Megan Jones, Mike Luehrmann, Molly Miller and Terri Linz

Mary Riffe, Andy Riffe and Maria Cabell

Fr. Kevin Flaherty and Jhon Kennedy Tomaylla

John Wintz and honoree Dick Klus

LAS launches season with country music hall of famer Marty Stuart

Music enthusiasts gathered at Memorial Hall to kick off the eighth season of the LongworthAnderson Series with “An Evening with Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives,” featuring the Grammy-winning artist and his band. The series is sponsored by the nonprofit Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society.

A pre-show reception featured light bites and beverage tastings from Ollie’s Trolley, N.Y.P.D. Pizza and HighGrain Brewing Co. The evening set the tone for the LAS's upcoming performance season, bringing together national and local talent at the intimate Memorial Hall.

 longworth-andersonseries.com

Gene Kovacs, Rosemary Kovacs, Ray Dooley and Chris Dooley

Team Depot pitches in to improve veteran’s home

Maineville Marine veteran Chad Ohmer got some practical help at home for National Volunteer Month. The Home Depot Foundation teamed up with the Gary Sinise Foundation to give back to the veteran. Team Depot, Home Depot’s associate volunteer force, built new shelving, assembled toolboxes and more to improve the functionality of Ohmer’s woodworking shop. Volunteers built outdoor furniture and a grill set and made landscaping improvements throughout the property. They also donated a bench and placed it near the flagpole, which Ohmer plans to use as a memorial to honor the two service members who were killed in the attack that caused his injuries.

 homedepotfoundation.org, garysinisefoundation.org

Devin Goodman, Gale Goodman, Susan Pate and Frank Adams

Becky Price, Mallory Huffman and Angela Palmer

Moonshine Drive performed prior to the concert.

John Greely and Pam Greely Erica McBride and Nick Bolle

Team Depot volunteers who made upgrades to the home of local Marine veteran Chad Ohmer

Deanna Schwarz and Kurt Schwarz

NEXT Final Pitch Event advances young innovators

Startup training organization Square1 hosted its annual NEXT Final Pitch Event at Thomas More University. The yearly competition gave high school students the opportunity to share their innovations, learn from experts and network with professionals, while competing for prizes.

This year, 36 teams from 11 local high schools competed in six divisions for a full-tuition, four-year scholarship to Thomas More University, including a new Spanishspeaking division. Award winners included:

• Anna Amundson and Marin Connelly (Instaglow)

– Ursuline Academy students won the Thomas More University full-tuition scholarship for their solution to controversial line calls in tennis and other court sports.

• Josie Roberts, Gretchen Phelps and Milli Rhodes (Parking Pal) – Holy Cross students received a $25,000 scholarship for an app that eases parking searches in downtown areas.

• Keegan Wall, Logan Johns and Nic Blanchet (Lock In Lock-Box) – Recipients of a $22,000 scholarship, these Covington Catholic students designed a solution to counter porch package theft.

 square1next.org

Breakfast elevates issues of national education

School Board School’s Breakfast Benefit featured a conversation with U.S. Rep. Greg Landsman on the state of education and its local implications.

Now having completed its sixth cohort, the organization highlighted the impact of its more than 150-member network in driving change and raised funds to continue its expanding impact. This year’s breakfast raised nearly $30,000.

 schoolboardschool.org

Anna Amundson and Marin Connelly won fulltuition scholarships to Thomas More University.

Former SBS board member Leslie Maloney and board member Alex Kuhns

School Board School CEO Jeremy Jones and Hamilton County Clerk of Courts Pavan Parikh with Isabella Frueh

Former CPS board member Carolyn Jones and CPS assistant principal Isabelle Kalubi Harper

School Board School grads LaRonda Thomas, district parent champion; Kareem Moncree-Moffett, CPS School Board president; Amy Thompson, CEO of Cincinnati Youth Collaborative

Rhett Schneider, Square1 intern and University of Kentucky aerospace engineering student, controls a robot.

Square1 CEO Keith Schneider with Social Impact Award winners Lorna, Audra and Livi from Notre Dame Academy, the Wave Away team

Bethany Doverspike and CPS Superintendent Shauna Murphy

Price Hill Will celebrates Mardi Gras

Price Hill Will, a nonprofit community development organization committed to the neighborhood’s revitalization, hosted its eighth annual Mardi Gras Ball fundraiser. The festive celebration featured live jazz from Queen City Vintage Vibe, food and drinks, games, raffles, a silent auction and more. Annual Top of the Hill Awards recognized dedicated youth, resident and community partner leaders who make a positive difference in the community.

The organization raised more than $62,500 for programs in the arts and education, affordable housing, commercial corridor development and community engagement.

 pricehillwill.org

Rotary Foundation’s ‘PickleGras’ a fun way to support children with disabilities

The Rotary Foundation of Cincinnati hosted PickleGras, combining Mardi Gras flair with the excitement of pickleball while raising more than $50,000 for children with disabilities. PickleGras welcomed players, sponsors and spectators at Aces Pickleball Bar & Grill in Norwood to rally for adaptive and life-enhancing programs at Camp Allyn, Roselawn Condon School, the Cincinnati Parks Foundation and other local nonprofits. These initiatives provide specialized equipment, therapy and inclusive experiences for children with physical and cognitive challenges.

Guests competed in a pickleball tournament and participated in open play on the courts. PickleGras also featured a silent auction and New Orleans-inspired food. Presenting sponsors were BAIRD, The Smith & Colangelo Group and Decal Impressions. All funds raised support the Rotary Foundation’s mission to empower children who face physical, cultural, emotional or financial obstacles.

 cincinnatirotary.org

Guests of event sponsor Fifth Third Bank: Justin Marshall, Bryony Marshall, Hammad Siddiqi and Sam Siddiqi

Guests at the Mardi Gras-themed event enjoyed a variety of games.

Annie Gordon, lead teaching artist for Price Hill Will’s MYCincinnati program; Samantha Conover, PHW’s interim executive director; and Tifani Winkfield, venue and marketing director

Guests perusing the silent auction

Rotary Foundation Executive

Director Sara Pattison, trustee Hux Miller, Cory Pattison and Rotarian Steve King

Pickleball tournament participant

Sara Pattison, office manager Kristy Suszek and Angie Ferguson, event chair

The shrinking birthrate: It’s complicated

My husband and I are grandchild-less by choice. Oh, not our choice.

This Mother’s Day, I’ll be the only mother in the family. My mother is no longer with us, and our two daughters don’t have children and don’t plan on it. I’ve always heard that being a grandparent is the only thing that lives up to its hype, and I know my daughters and their partners would be excellent parents. We would be super-cool grandparents. It’s disappointing.

But they don’t want to, so they aren’t going to, and I’m OK with that. This is the ultimate paradox of parenthood. The whole project is to raise children, then let them go so they can live their own lives by their own principles. I can be simultaneously disappointed for myself and proud of them for knowing what they want.

I’m not alone. A lot of my Baby Boomer friends are grandchildless. The U.S. birth rate has plummeted

among almost all ethnicities, including immigrants. Hispanics are holding their own. That makes me sad for all of us who don’t get their late-life dreams and for the young people who won’t know the joy of having their own children. But it’s also a population-level problem.

The United States has fallen below the replacement rate that keeps numbers steady, which is 2.1 children per woman. In the U.S., it’s now 1.66, half of what it was in 1960. Half the countries of the world are also that low, or lower.

As someone who grew up with the ideals of Zero Population Growth, that at first seems like a good thing. But a population that’s an upside-down pyramid, with a small cohort of young people supporting a big cohort of older people, becomes stagnant. Where do the innovative ideas and energy come from? How will

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Social Security work? (Please don’t confuse this concern with people who care only about the white birthrate.) This crashing birthrate, the end of millennia of human existence, seems like an indication of a society that’s not working.

When it comes to these generational issues, the impulse of the other generations is to blame people’s individual choices: Gen Z doesn’t want to work, millennials could have houses if they gave up avocado toast and the birthrate is crazy cat ladies’ fault. My own mind has gone to blaming social media highlighting how hard parenthood is, griping about poopy diapers and preschool pickup. Or the other trend of bragging about being a perfect parent, which makes it seem fraught, confusing and performative.

But something this big has bigger reasons behind it. Society-level reasons.

Pretty obviously among them: Better contraception. Women having babies, but fewer of them. Rising infertility rates. And certainly financial insecurity. (That’s also the leading reason women have abortions.) My children have good jobs, but their costs for non-extravagant housing are many times the mortgage on our first house, and they still owe for their master’s degrees. Paying for their own children’s college? That seems

Polly Campbell

helping, a myth was created called “Having it All.” But really, it was “Doing it All.” Men in general did not scoot over or step up to take on childcare and household responsibilities. Nobody made sure there was reasonable maternity leave, affordable daycare and healthcare. The U.S. maternal death rate is the highest in the developed world, while we spend the most on healthcare. And it is twice as high for Black women. That might indicate a system that was not set up to support childbirth.

Maybe young women see the “doing it all” model, and they aren’t into it.

And, have you noticed? The future doesn’t look good. Climate change is profoundly altering the Earth forever. Fascism is on the rise. Misogyny and racism are back in style. I often think it’s a good thing I don’t have grandchildren whose future I would wake up and worry about.

It’s feminism’s fault! No, I think the fault lies in the reaction to feminism. Women have changed in the past 50 years and the world hasn’t. The obvious principle that women are human beings with the same talents, desires and rights as men has led women to go to school, get jobs and have careers, run companies, enter the military, become 40% of the doctors and

But nobody responded to this great contribution of once-wasted talent and work by saying, “Wow, thank you. But we’d like to perpetuate the human race, too. What can we do to help?” Instead of

So anyway, Happy Mother’s Day, everyone! I will be more than happy to look at photos of anyone’s grandchildren. I could babysit! And I still remember with great affection my girls’ childhood. But they don’t have to reproduce to bring delight to my life. One of the only things that surpasses its hype, because I don’t think it gets enough hype, is being friends with your adult children. And trusting them to live their lives. 

Polly Campbell covered restaurants and food for the Cincinnati Enquirer from 1996 until 2020. She lives in Pleasant Ridge with her husband, and since retiring does a lot of reading, cooking and gardening, if that’s what you call pulling weeds. She writes monthly on a variety of topics, and she welcomes your feedback and column suggestions at editor@moversmakers.org.

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