Head of the Class

As an NFL Hall of Fame lineman, Anthony Muñoz’s impact on the football field was tremendous. But his impact on the lives of youth in the Cincinnati community has been even greater.

On Tuesday, April 30, The Anthony Muñoz Foundation (AMF) held their annual Straight ‘A’ Luncheon at The Lempicka by Jeff Ruby, where they recognized 18 inspiring Tristate seniors. Each of the students honored overcome adversity to excel in the “Straight A’s” defined by Foundation – Academic excellence, Athletic achievement, Actively serving in the community while possessing a strong Ambition, having a winning Attitude and an ability to overcome Adversity.

“I think a lot of what we do at the Foundation stems from my upbringing and the things I’ve gone through. Being raised by a single mom – we didn’t have a whole lot, but we worked hard and were lucky enough to have people in our community who believed in us,”Muñoz said. “Being able to honor young men and women that are choosing positive paths and achieving despite the adversity in their way; that's what we want to do.”

Through donations from Mike’s Carwash, the Foundation awarded $45,000 in scholarships though the Straight ‘A’ Program. The Mike’s Carwash and Bengals’ “2 Day Who Dey” promotion raised over $59,990 for the Foundation, which will go toward the Foundation’s Impact Programs.

In all, nine female and nine male recipients were each awarded a $2,000 scholarship to help further their education. From the 18 recipients chosen by the selection committee, Muñoz selected the Straight ‘A’ Scholarship Male and Female Students of the Year to receive an additional scholarship award.

Maleighna Mondal of East Central High School, Emma Pinson of Little Miami High School, and Juan Torres of Hughes STEM High School were awarded the 2024 Straight ‘A’ Scholarship Overall Female and Male Students of the Year. Mondal, Pinson, and Torres received an additional $3,000 scholarship, for a total of $5,000, to use toward their college education.

The 2024 Selection Committee was Brian Dahm, Joe Dahm, Rico Grant, John Jones, Alison Montoya, and Anya Sanchez.

“We were thrilled to be able to partner with the Bengals and the Anthony Muñoz Foundation to raise money to youth”, said Dahm, president of Mike’s Carwash. “We’re grateful to our customers for supporting the Anthony Muñoz Foundation through out Two Day Who Dey promotion. Since teaming up with Anthony’s Foundation, Mike’s has raised more than $435,000 through our Bengals partnership.”

Male Finalists

Freddie Caldwell
Covington Catholic High School

Nate Gerhardstein
La Salle High School

Isaac Halker
Fayetteville-Perry High School

Luke Halsey
Edgewood High School

Jaymen Reynolds
La Salle High School

Juan Torres
Hughes STEM High School

Salomon Vargas
 Southern Hills Career & Technical Center

Jamison Watts
 National Trail High School

Marquez Whitehead
Spencer Center for Gifted and Exceptional

Female Finalists

Rose Bothast-Revalee
Talawanda High School

Aubreyana Chase
Aiken High School

Cate Coulter
New Richmond Christian School

Kate Doll
 Seton High School

Angel Jones
 Oyler School

Maleighna Mondal
 East Central High School

Emma Pinson
Little Miami High School

Melissa Teke
Cincinnati Country Day

Beatrice Tierney,
St. Ursula Academy

Moving Ahead

2023-2024 Jobs for Cincinnati Graduates Competition Winners.OBS FOR

Prepared Speaking   

1st Place: Soloman Dawit, Western Hills University High School
Izayah Camp, Western Hills University High School
2nd Place: Madison Allen, Winton Woods High School
3rd Place: Daniel Thomas, Hughes STEM High School 

Cover Design

1st Place: Khadidiatou Gadiaga, Western Hills University High School
2nd Place: Damari Sanders, Withrow University High School
3rd Place: Marcus Eppes, Withrow University High School

Video Presentation

1st Place: Kiare Million; Winton Woods High School
2nd Place: Hammed Cisse, Western Hills University High School
Fallou Sow, Western Hills University High School
3rd Place: Chloe Tate; Woodward Career Technical High School

Students For Service 

1st Place: Western Hills High School
Kisha Morrison
Sa’Miya Lee               
2nd Place:  Oyler High School
Jaziarh Harris
Khalana Davis

3rd Place: Withrow University High School
Christopher Toran
Javon Davis

Financial Literacy   

1st Place: Leo Carrillo, Winton Woods
Samantha Murry-Shakir, North College Hill High School
2nd Place: Ankita Rai, Aiken New Tech High School
Kevin Reece, Western Hills University High School
3rd Place: Angel Jones, Oyler High School

Career Preparation

1st Place: Tyara Ashley, Western Hills High School
2nd Place: Daniel Hernandez, Oyler High School
3rd Place: Khadidiatou Gadiaga, Western Hills High School

Business Plan

1st Place: Shroder High School
Ambrose Brunner
Desean Richard

2nd Place: Woodward High School
Sirron Baker
David Hudson III
Santino Williams
Dwight Lawrence

Employability Skills

1st Place: Blake Scriber, Withrow University High School
2nd Place: Asante Sacko, Shroder High School
3rd Place: Eric Kennedy, Taft Information Technology High School

Decision Making

1st Place: Hamet Thiam, North College Hills High School
2nd Place: Shawn Trapp, Shroder High School
3rd Place: Darria Mayes, Hughes STEM High School

Knowledge Bowl

1st Place: North College Hill High School
Braylon Dennis
Jaelynn Clemmons
Ana Link
Israel Dunn
2nd Place:  Withrow University High School
Arianna Key      
Brionna Benton
Asa Midell
Adrian Wolfe
3rd Place:  Hughes STEM High School
Cameren Curry
Dino Mitchell
Reico Johnson
Maksim Quiles                

At this year’s annual Annual Career Development Conference for the Jobs for Cincinnati Graduates (JCG) program, students competed in the areas of prepared speaking, video presentation, cover, with Spirit Award and Partner of the Year winners announced.

Because dropping out of school can have far-reaching implications for students, Cincinnati Youth Collaborative (CYC) is deeply committed to empowering young people and preventing dropouts through the JCG program.

Held on April 17, the 42nd Annual Career Development Conference celebrated the success of the the latest round of JCG students.           

JCG competitors from Aiken New Tech, Hughes STEM, North College Hill, Oyler, Taft Information Technology, Western Hills University, Winton Woods, Withrow University, and Woodward Career Technical High Schools competed in the areas of prepared speaking, video presentation, cover design, student’s for service, career preparation, business plan, employability skills, decision making, and knowledge bowl. 

Competitions were judged by CYC board members, YP Board, and business and community partners.  At the conference, students participated in Beauty / Brains / Brawn team-building workshops. The first and secont place winners moved on to compete in State JOG competitions.

Established to honor JCG’s two founding companies, Macy’s and Procter & Gamble, Spirit Award winners were also announced at the conference.

This year’s winners were Macy’s: Samantha Murry-Shakir, North College Hill High School and P&G: Nency Patel, Western University High School.   

The Macy’s and P&G Spirit Awards recognize two JCG students who best exemplify what the JCG program is all about. Student are nominated by JCG Specialists, then judged by a panel of current and past CYC Board Member. Nominations include how the nominee exemplies “Spirit Award Qualities” and the five goals of the career sssociation: leadership development, career preparation, civic awareness, social awareness, and community service/service learning.

This year’s “Partner of the Year” award was presented to Justus Stroud of City Gospel Mission’s Jobs Plus. JCG has a long-standing partnership with Jobs Plus, regularly teaching life skills, including self-esteem, character building, career planning, responsibility, and networking. Jobs Plus also provides great resources for students, providing professional attire, helping with job placements, and serving as positive mentors. 

According to a 2021 study from the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, students who drop out of high school are three times more likely to be unemployed than degree holders.

Because dropping out of school can have far-reaching implications for students, CYC is deeply committed to empowering young people and preventing dropouts through the JCG and many other programs. See more about CYC does in the community at www.cycyouth.org.

Out of the Park

What better place for The Park than at The Banks!

This summer, veteran Cincinnati-area hospitality leaders Will Hodges and Chase Daoud are collaborating on their second concept together, opening a new bar/restaurant called The Park.

Hodges has been involved in the entertainment scene at The Banks for 12 years, and he and Daoud opened the popular bar and restaurant, The Well Covington, in January 2023.

The Park, set to open in June, will bring the outside in, creating an indoor bar with an outdoor feel. Patrons will enjoy year-round patio seating, and inside, will dine beneath a tree-like sculpture that serves as the centerpiece of the modern interior.

The Park will serve up cocktails and classic drink offerings, paired with a menu by Good Plates, a creative American eatery that expertly blends flavors, crafting imaginative cuisine for a unique taste experience.

Jamie and Chef Andrew Schlanser of Good Plates Eatery.

Good Plates is known for serving a style of classic American comfort food, with flavors for everyone. The restaurant, by Chef Andrew Schlanser, is a spot where you can get a meatball sub and fries or a Brussels sprouts and mushroom quinoa bowl.

Along with creating great food, Good Plates gives back to the community. For the last four years, the restaurant has offered thousands of free holiday meals and hosted coat drives, and is always looking for new ways to engage with (and feed) the community. 

The Park opens to the public in June 2024.

Starry Night

The Contemporary Arts Center hosted an opening celebration for the exhibition Jayson Musson: His History of Art on Friday.

The party offered a chance to see see the work in the gallery, mingle with local artists, and enjoy an artist talk with Musson and Christina Vassallo, the CAC’s director.

Photos: Shae Huth

His History of Art features a three-channel video series written, starred, and co-directed by artist Jayson Musson, who describes it as “a sitcom orbiting art history and all the fun to be had dancing on the minefield of the past.” Taking inspiration from the structure and tone of educational programs such as PBS children’s shows and nun-turned-art critic Sister Wendy Beckett, Musson conducts a satirical survey on art history, its relationship to the general public, and the ways in which popular art historical images impact cultural consciousness.

Musson created His History of Art as part of his 2022 artist residency at The Fabric Workshop and Museum (FWM), an institution in Philadelphia devoted to artistic collaboration. Inspired by sitcoms and educational and variety television shows, including Pee Wee’s Playhouse and The Muppets, Musson collaborated with FWM staff, film producers, writers, and editors to create a three-episode series that reconsiders key aspects of art history. The artist breaks down elitist walls surrounding art history and encourages the questioning of long-established beliefs around artistic genius.

Find our more at www.contemporaryartscenter.org.

Pigger Than Ever

It’s always been our favorite, but now it’s America’s favorite!

The Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon has been voted the Best Marathon in America by the 2024 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice travel award, among 20 marathons selected by a USA TODAY panel as the best in the country. 

“For the past 25 years, we have watched the Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon grow into a top #10 U.S. running festival,” said Mayor Aftab Pureval, City of Cincinnati. “Now America has spoken with their votes in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice awards by naming the Flying Pig Marathon as the #1 Marathon in America. We are proud of our hometown marathon and welcome all of the participants to Cincinnati this May.” 

The list of the Top 10 finalists is

1.    Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon

2.    New York City Marathon

3.    Marine Corps Marathon

4.    Big Sur International Marathon

5.    Coast Guard Marathon

6.    CNO Financial Indianapolis Monumental Marathon

7.    Shiprock Marathon

8.    Bank of America Chicago Marathon

9.    Honolulu Marathon

10.  Hatfield McCoy Marathon

“We are extremely honored and very excited to win the public’s vote as the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice marathon,” said Iris Simpson Bush, CEO of Pig Works, the parent organization of the Flying Pig Marathon. “We work all year round to make sure our participants are all treated like VIPs (Very Important Pigs) and have the best experience possible. We thank USA TODAY and everyone who voted for us for this prestigious honor.” 

The 26th running of the Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon weekend is May 3-5, 2024. Follow the Pig on Facebook at Flying Pig Marathon and on Instagram @runflyingpig. Visit www.flyingpigmarathon.com for event information and registration!

The 10Best Readers’ Choice Award contest launches new categories every other Monday at noon, revealing each category’s 20 nominees. After four weeks of voting, the contest closes on the 28th day at noon. On the Friday after voting ends, winners are revealed. Rules allow the public the right to vote online for one nominee per category, per day.

Nominees for all categories are chosen by a panel of relevant experts which include a combination of editors from USA TODAY; editors from 10Best.com; relevant expert contributors; and sources for both these media and other Gannett properties.  

Rules of the Road

Spring is here! But that doesn’t mean travel woes are behind us.

The experts from Tire Discounters, the country’s largest 100% family-owned and operated tire and service provider, have tips for safe spring driving.

Be prepared for unpredictable weather. Spring is known for its unpredictable weather – rain, hail, strong winds, and even sudden snowstorms. Tire Discounters suggests drivers adjust speed and driving style accordingly.

Check your car's maintenance. Before heading out on a long spring trip, drivers should make sure vehicles are properly maintained, including checking tire pressure, fluid levels, wipers and headlights. This is also the time of year drivers roll down their windows and may hear squeaky brakes. Tire Discounters checks brakes for free - and can help get vehicles road ready with a comprehensive analysis for any other potential issues.

Oh deer! Be aware of increased animal activity. As the weather warms up, animals become more active. Be mindful of deer and other wildlife that may cross the road unexpectedly. Slow down and be on the lookout especially at dusk and dawn when animals are most active.

Replace wiper blades. Wiper blades should be replaced at least once a year. In areas with harsh winters, it’s recommended they should be replced twice a year - once in the spring and again in the fall. Whenever drivers notice skipping, streaking, or squeaking on the windshield, it’s time to replace windshield wipers.

Adjust your tire pressure and check tread. As temperatures rise, tire pressure can increase. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Also check the tread to see if any damage happened over the winter. Tire Discounters always provides free tire inspections to check pressure and tread before you hit the road. 

Tire Discounters is the nation’s largest, 100% family-owned and operated independent tire provider and is growing rapidly. The Cincinnati-based company leads the way in providing unique and innovative customer benefits designed to make tires last longer and maximize the overall performance of a vehicle. Tire Discounters’ ASE-certified technicians provide routine automotive repair and factory scheduled maintenance. Tire Discounters currently employs more than 2,500 people in more than 200 locations in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina and Virginia. 

The Tire Discounters family of businesses includes Chip's Auto Glass and Carriage House Car Wash. The company’s headquarters are in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. https://www.tirediscounters.com. 

Bounce Back

Each Saturday morning for the past 20 years, Saturday Hoops has brought the community together to transform the lives of local youth.

But this past Saturday was special.

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of this program, Cincinnati Youth Collaborative brought together kids from all three Saturday Hoops locations to compete in a Knockout Tournament at  Cincinnati State Arena. More than 400 people participated in the event, including players, volunteers, local celebrities, and mascots.

Along with basketball, Saturday Hoops also offers a variety of creative, instructional, and physical activities meant to engage local youth, model cooperation, and have fun. Saturday Hoops is held at the Lincoln Recreation Center, Dudley S Taft Boys & Girls Club, Winton Hills Recreation Center and Ziegler Park.

The Knockout tournament held a celebrity round, plus brackets for 7 and under (Dribble Knockout), 8–12 year-olds, 13–17 year-olds, and those 18 and up.

The weekend-long celebration of Saturday Hoops, which included a gala on Friday evening, raised more than $100,000 to support Saturday Hoops’ mission to transform the lives of youth in the community.

CYC empowers young people to overcome obstacles and excel by providing a range of services designed to keep young people in school, prepared for college and career, and on the pathway to success. Bringing together over 1,200 volunteers and over 100 corporate partners, CYC strives for dropout prevention by offering mentoring, college readiness and success, and career preparation.

Soup Bowl Sunday

On Sunday, Guinness and NFL icon Joe Burrow hosted their second Guinness Gives Back Service Event in Cincinnati just ahead of St. Patrick’s Day! 

Onsite, Burrow and the iconic Irish brewer got up to some good tackling food insecurity in Cincinnati, in partnership with La Soupe and the Joe Burrow Foundation. 

Get in on the VIP event and check out the video below!

Planting Roots

Is this the year you plant that garden or re-do your kitchen or maybe just clean out the garage?

No matter where you fall on the home project continuum, the Cincinnati Home + Garden (which re-opens today, btw) will meet you where you are.

“I’ve seen an increased interest in pools and pergolas, for exterior projects,” says Kelly Scott, the show’s manager. “Interior trends we’ve seen a lot of interest in paint colors and wallpaper options, since those smaller projects are less daunting but have a big impact.”

From plumbers to flooring and tile, the bath of your dreams can become a reality when you talk to an on-site expert.

Kitchen renovations are a huge undertaking – take your firsts steps at the Cincinnati Home + Garden Show.

Feature Gardens are a great way to learn more about landscaping, including the use of native plants, hardscapes, and design.

Whether it’s for a “she shed,” yard barn, or garage, find custom storage options from builders.

Elevate your home with the charm of fresh flowers from Daisy Jane’s and small plants, succulents, and ferns by Egbert’s Landscaping, available for sale at the show.

Need advice? Ask a Designer presented by Sacksteder's Interiors can help you sort out the latest trends and answer all your home décor questions.

If a room refresh or small repair is beyond your abilities, don’t worry. From contractors to plumbers, the show has people who can do the work for your.

“You’re able to meet these companies face to face,” says Scott. “That personal interaction will help guide you through any projects you have in mind.”

A walk through the show can inspire lots of ideas, but maybe you just need a little bit of Spring before you commit to a project. The show has a few “instant gratification” options.

“You can take home from flowers from Daisy Jane’s Flower Truck and plants from Egbert’s Landscaping, or items from the marketplace, including food, pottery, and jewelry,” Scott says.

Work Wonders

Last week, the most recent graduates of the Good Jobs Challenge Bootcamp from Monti, Inc. were honored at a lunchtime celebration.

The GJC initiative, which connects graduating high school students and adults to career pathways and opportunities in Advanced Manufacturing, is part of a collaboration between Advanced Manufacturing Industry Partnership, AMEND, Cincinnati Works, Cincinnati Youth Collaborative, The Ohio Manufacturers' Association, and U.S. Economic Development Administration.

This workforce development plan involves recruiting more than 70 high school seniors from the region, who will then receive career technical training, pre-screening, onboarding and an ongoing support and one-on-one job coaching so they can find and succeed in an advanced manufacturing career. The program also supports the upskilling of advanced manufacturing employees to grow their knowledge and skills that will strengthen the local advanced manufacturing workforce. All program graduates will receive an industry-recognized credential and guaranteed interviews with local manufacturers.

CYC and its network of public and technical school connections are responsible for class recruitment. This includes a classroom series with speakers representing advanced manufacturing companies, offering in-person tours of modern manufacturing facilities, and group presentations highlighting earning potential, career advancement opportunities and benefits available to employees in the field. Cincinnati Works will implement a job readiness and jumpstart curriculum to provide a strong base in the basic knowledge needed to be successful, as well as one-on-one coaching to develop plans and work to address barriers. Participants will begin onsite work with AMIP manufacturing employment partners upon completion of technical and job readiness training.

“Our regions’ manufacturers are investing in new technology, utilizing automation and robotics to serve their customers, and still their number one issue is the workforce and how to get the skilled talent they need.  The Good Jobs Challenge will provide our manufacturers the immediate opportunity to build our workforce pipeline with newly skilled employees,” said Amy Meyer, chair of the AMIP Board. “AMIP in conjunction with our Cincinnati Works and Cincinnati Youth Collaborative in partnership with the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association offers program participants a unique opportunity to learn new skills and explore career opportunities with local manufacturers to reach their full potential and secure good-paying jobs to achieve economic mobility and security.”

Supermoms

The Super Bowl is a time to watch football, enjoy some snacks, and talk about commercials. But this year, a number of NFL Moms used the occasion to host 75 domestic violence survivors during Super Bowl this weekend in Las Vegas. 

The joined Rickell Howard Smith, YWCA Greater Cincinnati CEO, and SMOOOTH Inc. at the She-Rise Retreat.

“YWCA Greater Cincinnati is leading the way to end gender-based violence,” said Smith. “We were honored to receive an invitation to support the She-Rise Retreat hosted by NFL Moms on Super Bowl Weekend in Las Vegas. The YWCA works every day to empower women and end gender-based violence in our region – and across the country.”

Smith had help hosting the She-Rise Retreat during Super Bowl LVIII from NFL Moms Sabrina Greenlee, mother of Tennessee Titans' Wide Receiver DeAndre Hopkins; Denise Simmons, mother to New York Giants linebacker Isaiah Simmons; Julia Parker, mother to New York Giants Defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, and Camilla "Lady" Stewart, mother to Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver “Tee” Higgins 

Help is available 24/7

Call 800-799-7233 or text START to 88788

Donate to domestic violence shelters, especially those with wrap around services at www.ywcacincinnati.org/give.

See something – say something.

Football and Domestic Violence: 

• There is a link with football and violence. NFL game days are reported to have higher rates of violence than others.

• Games with a home team upset have a 10% increase in the number of police reports of at-home male-on-female intimate partner violence.

• Super Bowl Sunday is a time when there is an uptick in hotline calls and shelter requests.

• Every minute, 20 people are victims of intimate partner violence. 

• Every day, 3 women die from it.

• In their lifetimes, one out of every four women will experience physical violence by an intimate partner. 

• National Network to End Domestic Violence has worked with the NFL to shape its revised policy on domestic violence.

• Human Trafficking: Sporting events and large events that draw many people – particularly men – increase the demand for sex-for-sale.

The She-Rise Retreat represents a haven where survivors can rediscover gentleness, care, and the healing power of self-love. This one-day outdoor festival is a celebration of hope and a chance for domestic violence survivors to embark on a new path of thinking, seeing, and living. It's a testament to letting go of past moments that diminished one's spirit, shedding the self-defeating lies that claim your best years are behind you.

The YWCA is leading the way in designing groundbreaking space for survivors using trauma-informed architecture and design.

YWCA Greater Cincinnati operates the only domestic violence shelter in the third largest city in the state of Ohio.

Families have an approximate stay of 35 days in the shelter before they are able to move to safe transitional housing. The stay in the YWCA shelter is, on average, 23% shorter than other shelters.

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Header image credit: NFL Moms Camilla “Lady” Stewart, mother of Bengal Tee Higgins, Sabrina Greenlee, Denise Simmons, YWCA Greater Cincinnati CEO Rickell Howard Smith and Julia Parker. Photos from k.smith photography.

Wildest Dreams

Taylor Swift had a pretty good week.

She became the only person – ever – to win a Grammy for Album of the Year four times.

Taylor Swift had a pretty good year.

She became a billionaire, played sold-out shows around the world, and was named Time’s Person of the year. Oh, and her new boyfriend is playing in the Super Bowl.

Capping off all of those accolades, though, has to be the Spirit of Cincinnati Award. While she didn’t technically win, the astonishing power of her Eras Tour and awe-inspiring fervor of her fans were the catalyst for the Swiftinnati Taygate at The Banks, which was presented with the Erich Kunzel Queen City Advocate Award. recognizes those whose actions have attracted positive media coverage of the Cincy region.

Erich Kunzel Queen City Advocate Award recognizes those whose actions have attracted positive media coverage of the Cincy region. The award is one of the Visit Cincy Spirit of Cincinnati Awards, which annually recognize the influencers and advocates of the local hospitality region who have gone above and beyond to drive the Cincinnati region forward.

"Swiftinnati" offered a safe space for fans to gather and also offered a media room for visiting journalists to have a place to rest and learn more about the region. Cincinnati was featured in more than 300 stories leading up to and after the concert, including a front-page story in the Wall Street Journal. In total Cincinnati saw more than 446,000 media impressions and an ad equivalency of more than $7 million dollars.  

On the Run

26th Flying Pig Marathon
May 4–5, 2024

For more information about training or to register for a race visit flyingpigmarathon.com.

No one just decides to run 26 miles. It takes planning, effort, and support to tackle a marathon.

As the Flying Pig Marathon heads into its 26th year, runners had their first opportunity to join an official training run last Saturday at Factory 52 in Norwood.

First time this year, runners were able to end their group training runs under the beloved Finish Swine!

And the Nominees Are

Warner Bros.

Seacia Pavao: Focus Features

Paramount Pictures / Apple+.

Netflix

Claire Folger © 2023 Orion Releasing LLC.

Universal Pictures

feature-Mark-Ruffalo-Reveals-He-Wore-a-Mark+Ruffalo+Moviestore+Collection%3ACover+Images.jpg

Moviestore Collection: Cover Images

The road to the Academy Awards runs through Cincinnati. This year’s Oscar nominees have plenty of connections to Cincinnati, according to Kristen Schlotman, executive director of Film Cincinnati

“Barbie:” Actor Ryan Gosling shot “Ides of March” in Cincinnati in 2013 with George Clooney while Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach shot “White Noise” in Ohio two years ago.

“The Holdovers:” Director Alexander Payne was in Cincinnati in 2019 for a Netflix untitled feature, along with producers Chris Stinson and Amy Green who shot the Zak Effron movie, “Extremely Wicked,” about Ted Bundy in NKY. Producer Mark Johnson produced “Rain Man” in Cincinnati. Nominated Best Actor, Paul Giamatti also starred in “Ides of March” in Cincinnati.

“Killers of the Flower Moon:” starring Robert De Niro, who was in Cincinnati last year filming “Wise Guys/Alto Knights,” which will premiere this fall.

“Maestro:” actress Maya Hawk shot “Wildcats” in Louisville last year with many Cincinnati crew and producer Steven Spielberg who is originally from Cincinnati.

Jeffrey Wright, nominated for Best Actor, starred in “The Public,” with Emilio Estevez, filmed in Cincinnati in 2017.

“Oppenheimer” actor Casey Affleck filmed “Old Man and a Gun” with Robert Redford in Cincinnati debuting in 2018.

“Past Lives” producers Christine Vachon and Pam Koffler along with David Hinojosa have made many movies in Cincinnati, including “Carol,” “Goat,” “Mercy” and “Dark Waters.”

“Poor Things” director Yorgos Lanthimos and producer Ed Guiney shot “Killing of a Sacred Deer” in Cincinnati in 2016. The movie also stars Mark Ruffalo, who was nominated for Best Supporting Actor and starred in “Dark Waters” which shot in Cincinnati in 2018.

With all of that star power, it’s little wonder that Cincinnati was recently named one of the Best Places to Live and Work in the U.S. film industry by MovieMaker Magazine. Cincinnati remained #11 on the list of one of the most prestigious industry accolades offered for film commissions. Film Cincinnati, which is dedicated to attracting, promoting, and cultivating film, television, and commercial production throughout Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, supported 26 projects in 2023.

Among Film Cincinnati’s projects in 2023 were “Alto Knights” (formerly titled “Wise Guy”), directed by Barry Levinson, and starring Robert DeNiro, which will be released in the fall of 2024, and “Nutcrackers” starring Ben Stiller with filming in locations throughout Greater Cincinnati over the last two months.

A new study on Film Cincinnati’s economic impact shows the local film industry brought in $258 million dollars to Greater Cincinnati between 2019 and 2022. The report by the UC Economic Center also shows the film industry created 1,873 jobs during that same time.

Film Cincinnati was a chief lobbyist this year in support of an increase in the Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credit. In support of the film industry, state lawmakers voted to pass the tax credit increase, from $40 million to $75 million, starting in July 2024.

Run the World

Brooks

The YWCA Greater Cincinnati announced today that Juwana Glover has been named the Chief Program Officer to fill the role held by Debbie Brooks, an accomplished leader in the social services field. Brooks is retiring after 25 years of service to the YWCA Greater Cincinnati.

“On behalf of the YWCA Greater Cincinnati, I want to recognize the dedicated career of Debbie Brooks who has tirelessly served as an advocate for families in our community over her entire career,” said Rickell Howard Smith, President of CEO of the YWCA Greater Cincinnati. “We wish her well in a very deserving retirement and thank her for her many contributions over two decades of service.”

Glover

Glover is a transformational leader who is passionate about program development, community advocacy, performance improvement and equitable practices. She has been a leader in the social services field for nearly two decades, including seven years working with domestic violence survivors. Glover is an alumna of the University of Cincinnati, Mount St. Joseph University and Cincinnati State where she earned multiple degrees in Social Work while maintaining her LSW. She serves on the board of directors for New Life Furniture and is Racial Equity Chair for Strategies to End Homelessness.

“Juwana has spent her entire career positively impacting YWCA’s mission to eliminate racism and empower women through her work with domestic violence survivors, families experiencing homelessness, and advancing racial equity on multiple fronts,” said Smith. “We welcome Juwana to the YWCA Greater Cincinnati as Chief Program Officer to lead the important work of our organization.”

Take the Plunge

How does 20 minutes in a sauna sound right about now?

How about a dip in 50° water?

Would you do both?

We tried it!

There’s a term for that and it’s called contrast therapy.

Contrast Studios
9725 Montgomery Rd
Montgomery, OH, 45242
Contrast Studios

Find out more at (513) 832-0300 or Info@contraststudio.com.

Contrast Studios, which recently opened, offers both. It’s the first of it’s kind in the Midwest. (Lucky us!)

We stopped by to learn about the benefits. Check out the video below and see if it’s worth the hype.

we tried it

Hit It Off

Looking for a fast but effective workout? This one is a HIT!

High-intensity training sessions incorporate rounds of short high-intensity cardiovascular bursts followed by brief periods of rest.

Ready to get started? Check out this video from the Kroger Wellness Festival with Tierra Turnage!

Turnage founded Tii Fit Wellness in 2018.

Having worked in corporate America for 10, she wanted to promote wellness within the workplace.

Her experience allows her to help organizations develop and execute wellness initiatives within the workplace. Tii Fit Wellness assist organizations with creating practical, sustainable, and budget friendly wellness initiatives that focus on the well-being of their employees.

Get in on the action

Have you ever wanted to... be a part of a feature film, get a behind the scenes peek of a movie set, or hold a slate and yell "action!" (ok, maybe not this part).

Well, here's your chance!

Film Cincinnati just announced a Casting Call for a new Greater Cincinnati film project. All the info you need is below!

WHAT:

Film Cincinnati, in partnership with New Media and director Shal Ngo, announce casting is now open for a feature film, “Control Freak,” scheduled to start production this winter in Greater Cincinnati

WHEN:

Filming dates are tentatively scheduled for mid-February and run about a month

WHERE:

Principal shooting is set for Covington and surrounding areas

A downtown Cincinnati street is transformed during one (of the many!) Film Cincinnati projects.

WHO:

The producers are looking for actors to fill three principal roles, as well as 79 background actors. Principal roles include “The Sanshi,” a costumed demon; Aunt Thuy, female Vietnamese in her ‘50s and “Sang,” male Vietnamese in mid-60s.

The production also will cast 79 background actors and two stand-ins for the principals.

HOW:

Principal actors should email casting director Abigail Esmena at abi@auditionroom513.com with name, role interested in and height. Background actors should apply here.

Having a Ball

Cyclones: New Year's Eve + Indoor Fireworks
Heritage Bank Arena
Dec. 31, 6 p.m.
cycloneshockey.com/game/2023/12/31/new-years-eve-indoor-fireworks

End your 2023 in a family-friendly setting with the Cyclones and a 6:00pm start time. Stick around for the show of the year when we shoot off fireworks...INSIDE!

New Year’s Ellington at 125
Cincinnati Pops
Music Hall, 1241 Elm St.
Dec. 31, 8 p.m.
cincinnatisymphony.org/pops-season/nye-ellington.

JMR and The Pops ring in 2024 with the sophisticated jazz stylings of Edward “Duke” Ellington to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the legendary pianist and composers’ birth. Jazz vocalist Denzal Sinclaire will bring Ellington's lyrics to life with his velvety baritone, and dancers from Revolution Dance Theatre join in to lend their artistry to Ellington's arrangement of The Nutcracker Suite. Dust of yo ur finest or come as you are, and get ready to swing into the new year in style with the classic and elegant sounds of “Duke.”

Foxy Shazam: New Year's Eve 2023
with special guest Tweens
The Andrew J Brady Music Center, 8 p.m.
Dec. 31, 8 p.m.
bradymusiccenter.com/concerts/foxy-shazam-new-years-eve

Foxy Shazam is coming home! The Cincinnati rockers return to The Andrew J Brady Music Center with special guest Tweens to bring in the New Year with their hometown fans. Featuring a balloon drop and champagne toast at midnight, this concert will be the foxiest New Year’s Eve celebration The Queen City has ever seen.

They’re the chills that ran down your spine in that basement club where you lost your wallet, got kicked in the head and had the best night of your life. They’re the taste of the lemonade you were drinking when the traffic jam hit but that song you love came on your radio. They’re the drool bouncing off your sneakers when your jaw drops because you’ve NEVER heard a band like this before. Foxy Shazam are a memory you haven’t even made yet.

New Year’s Eve Party Benefitting Dragonfly Foundation
Moerlein Lager House
115 Joe Nuxhall Way
Dec. 31, 9 p.m.
Find out more!

Ring in the New Year with Molly Wellmann wit an unforgettable night at Moerlein Lager House, benefiting The Dragonfly Foundation.

The evening includes a heavy appetizer buffet, open bar, DJ, champagne toast, and specialty cocktails by guest bartender Molly Wellmann.

Proceeds benefit the Dragonfly Foundation helping pediatric cancer patients and their families.

(20)24 Bit NYE at Rhinegeist
Rhinegeist Brewery, 1910 Elm St.
Dec. 31, 9 p.m.
Find out more!

Rhinegeist take you inside the game and transforming the Taproom into a neon-drenched, pixelated playscape full of beer, games, and dancing! Get a bit nostalgic in the “living room," satisfy your pinball fix in the retro arcade, or dance the night away on a gamified digital dancefloor. Unlock a variety of beer, wine and cocktails to keep your thirst bar fully replenished. Balloon drop and champagne toast bonus level at midnight. Life is a game and you’re the main character!

New Year's Eve with James Kennedy
Hard Rock Casino, 1000 Broadway
Dec. 31, 10:30 p.m.
www.hardrockcasinocincinnati.com/events/nye2024

Join the hottest party in the city at Hard Rock Cincinnati this New Years Eve! James Kennedy will perform a FREE New Years Eve party on the Hard Rock Cafe stage. Hard Rock Cafe will open at 10:30 p.m. featuring DJ Xanati with James Kennedy ringing in the new year starting at 11:30 p.m.

Tin Roof
160 Freedom Way
Dec. 31, 8 p.m.
Find our more!

Ring in the New Year at the Roof! Featuring live performace by Top Shelf. With the “fast pass” you can skip the line and have guaranteed entry before 10 p.m. VIP tables available. 

2023 Wrap-up Video

Swiftinnati…Taste of Cincinnati…Flying Pig Marathon…And so much more.

Take a look back at a truly incredible year in Cincinnati!