Coming Attractions
Two films made in Northerm KentucKy, “McVeigh“ and “Dandelion,“ are receiving great buzz and early acclaim on the film festival circuit.
Thomas Doherty and KiKi Layne in “Dandelion.” Courtesy IFC Films
On the (w)heels of widespread acclaim for The Bikeriders, two new films shot in the region are getting great buzz on the festival circuit.
McVeigh and Dandelion, both recently produced and shot in the Northern Kentucky area, are receiving early acclaim this season on the film festival circuit. McVeigh had its world premiere last month at the Tribeca Film Festival, while Dandelion has premiered at a number of festivals, including Cleveland International Film Festival, Chicago Critics Film Festival, and Nashville Film Festival.
McVeigh was written by Alex Gioulakis and Mike Ott, who also directs, and stars Alfie Allen as Timothy McVeigh, the Army veteran who carries out the plan to bomb the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, an act that claimed 168 lives and injured nearly 700 more.
“Alfie Allen impresses in this chilling account of the radicalization of the Oklahoma bomber,” Deadline’s Damon Wise wrote. “McVeigh does have something new to say about radicalization, that it’s not about religion or race or mental illness but a way to fill an empty vessel.”
Dandelion tells the story of a Cincinnati singer-songwriter searching for a career boost at a motorcycle rally, only to find love and her true voice. Written and directed by Nicole Riegel, the movie stars Kiki Layne from the Oscar-winning If Beale Street Could Talk and Thomas Doherty from the movie Descendants 2 and the TV show Gossip Girl.
In “The New York Times” review, Nicolas Rapold wrote, “(Dandelion) is filmed in an artful way that tunes into…sensations and feelings—not just at moments of outright drama, but also the many notes in between. In the end, Dandelion feels like one artist’s emotional prequel, leaving us wishing for even more.”
“Having independent films like McVeigh and Dandelion shoot in Greater Cincinnati shows that we have the talent, crew and locations that can serve any production, no matter the budget,” said Kristen Schlotman, president and CEO of Film Cincinnati. “We’re excited to watch these two movies find their audiences, not just in this country but internationally as well.”
Now in its 37th year, Film Cincinnati is the not-for-profit organization that works to promote Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky as a destination for film, commercial, and television production. Productions shooting in the area contributed nearly $80 million in economic impact in 2017 and 2018.
On the Mark
With the newly launched Brand Cincy, Cincinnati Experience has created a hub to promote the region with one voice as a global brand.
Stats from Brand Cincy
There are a number of updated regional statistics for companies and organizations to use, including
The Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services expects employment in the Cincinnati region to increase by 6% by the year 2030, with the healthcare field poised to lead the demand to fill the new positions. Brand Cincy's messaging is designed to tell the region's story to help area employers attract the talent needed for future work demands.
The Cincinnati region boasts 1.12 million people employed in the labor force according to Brand Cincy, bolstered by seven Fortune 500 companies in the area. With 22 colleges and universities in the region, 35% of the population holds a bachelor's degree, with 14% holding a graduate or a professional degree.
To view the Brand Cincy Hub, visit the website.
Want to show off the best of Cincinnati?
If just got a little easier!
Cincinnati Experience (CX), an organization that drives the creation and implementation of reputation-building programs that contribute to positive perceptions of the Cincinnati region among critical audiences as one of the country’s leading magnets for business, investment, talent and visitors, just launched the Brand Cincy hub.
The Brand Cincy hub is a collaborative effort of CX, the Cincinnati Chamber, REDI, Visit Cincy, meetNKY, ArtsWave, and others to create a repository of brand strategy, messaging, and visuals to align the rest of the region’s corporations, organizations, and institutions. In the Hub, you will find statistics, accolades, recruitment materials, messaging guidelines, social media platforms, national media stories written about Cincy, and much more to help align our messaging when communicating about what the Cincinnati region has to offer.
“Place branding provides strategic guidance, assists in linking to people and makes them feel closer connected to a place,’ said Anastasia Mileham, executive director of Cincinnati Experience. “For this to happen, branding needs to be the responsibility of many organizations and people, especially when Cincinnati is on a national stage hosting nationally-televised sporting events and major events like BLINK Cincinnati that draw millions to the riverfront and downtown as well as major national associations who host their meetings in the region.”
At a meeting on Wednesday, Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval along with business and civic leaders met to review and discuss the new hub and how it can be used for marketing the Cincy region with one voice aimed at tourists and talent.
At the July 10 meeting, CX announced upcoming conventions coming to Cincinnati including
CODAsummit, the premiere event for art and technology leaders, Oct. 16–18, 2024 during BLINK Cincinnati
Americans for the Arts National Conference, June 11–14, 2025 with ArtsWave serving as the local host
American Association for State and Local History annual conference, September 2025, with the Taft Museum of Art and Cincinnati Museum Center serving as the local hosts
Esports Travel Summit, June 2026, with meetNKY, Cincinnati Fear, NKU and UC serving as the local hosts
“We know that today’s workforce is looking for more than just a great job,” said Cincinnati Mayor Pureval. “Brand Cincy’s new messaging highlights the employment opportunities we have in the region, but also the arts, culture, sports and recreation offerings we have here that will entice employees and their families to choose Cincinnati as their new home.”
Research conducted by Development Counsellors International (DCI) shows that 59% of working talent point to first-hand experience (likely visiting a destination) as to how they form impressions of a community: today’s traveler is tomorrow’s talent.
Brand Cincy’s messaging also is directed at the travel, tourism and convention business for the region, with five arts and technology conferences coming up in the next 24 months. (See sidebar.)
egot game
Roderick Justice of The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati was recently recognized by the Tony Awards for Excellence in Theatre Education.
Cincinnati had a local tie to Sunday’s Tony Awards.
The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati (TCT) Artistic Director Roderick Justice received an honorable mention for Excellence in Theatre Education from the Tonys and Carnegie Mellon University.
TCT, the only professional theater in the region that devotes its entire MainStage season to children, is a beacon of arts education and entertainment. This recognition further solidifies TCT's position as a leader in the field.
“I would like to say a huge congratulations to the Excellence in Theatre Education Award winner, CJay Philip, who is doing amazing work in Baltimore,” Justice says. “It was a wonderful surprise to become an honorable mention for this award, along with the 17 other arts educators who received the honor and who are doing tremendous work around the country.”
The winner and honorable mentions for the Excellence in Theatre Education Award are selected through a rigorous process. A panel of judges, including the American Theatre Wing, The Broadway League, Carnegie Mellon University, and other leaders from the theater industry, carefully review the candidates submitted by members of the public. These are teachers who play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of theater artists. They identify talented students, nurture them, inspire them, and set them off on a lifelong journey as theater supporters and professionals.
Philip, a Baltimore-based actor, educator, choreographer, and Broadway veteran, has created arts opportunities for everyone from kindergartners to senior citizens. The founder and artistic director of the multidisciplinary ensemble Dance & Bmore received the 2024 Excellence in Theatre Education Award on June 16 at the Tony Awards in New York City, which was telecast on CBS.
Children's Theatre of Cincinnati
Celebrating 105 years this season, TCT is the oldest children's theatre in the country, Its mission is to educate, entertain, and engage audiences of all ages through professional theatrical productions and arts education programming. Its vision is to awaken a lifelong love of theater in children and the young at heart. Today, the Children's Theatre brings art to life for audiences through three key programs: For more information, visit www.thechildrenstheatre.com.This year, Roderick celebrates 19 seasons with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati. Since assuming the role of artistic eirector in 2015, he's launched over 20 world-premiere original works and adaptations of theatre for young audiences (TYA). Roderick’s work is a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for storytelling, childhood development through arts, and the transformative power of live theatre in fostering empathy and making our world a better place.
“This recognition is a celebration of all the arts educators who have taught me and who continue to teach and inspire me to share the power of the arts,” says Justice. “From my elementary school choir teacher who turned music notes into heartbeats, to the education eirector at TCT who has taken our Academy to new heights; from my high school teachers who ignited a passion for arts, to my college professors and my mentor who showed me how to make a career within that passion; from the students I teach, to the students I’ve taught who now work alongside me, specifically my associate artistic director… I must say ‘thank you’ for making arts education a priority. Thank you for believing the magic it encompasses to transform all of us.”
Bringing Their A Game
A Walnut Hills High grad is one of 24 national winners in the First Tee Scholarship Program.
A local teen is now the winner of a national college golf scholarship!
First Tee Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky named Walnut Hills High School Graduate and First Tee GCNKY participant, Henry Mentzel to the First Tee College Scholarship Program.
“Henry is not only an outstanding golfer, but he has demonstrated his care for both the First Tee and broader community, having worked in the past with children and golfers of all abilities,” said Patty Ragio, CEO of First Tee GCNKY. “This summer he continues his First Tee journey as an alum as one of our rising college program interns. We could not be prouder of Henry and all the talent he has shared with us and his community.”
Entering its fifth year, the program recently celebrated its first graduating class, and now boasts 94 current or former members.
Like his peers before him, Mentzel has shown dedication to school, extracurriculars, volunteerism and especially our First Tee Chapter, having been a participant for nearly 10 years in the youth development organization.
Mentzel is one of 24 Scholars, pulled from a pool of 150 highly qualified applicants.
“His outstanding academic record at Walnut Hills has enabled his admission to the University of Kentucky in the fall. Moreover, Henry is already a recipient of our Chapter’s Rita S. Metcalf Memorial Scholarship,” said Raggio.
Members of the First Tee College Scholarship program not only receive financial support, but they are also matched with an adult mentor and provided annual professional development opportunities.
First Tee is a youth development organization that helps kids and teens build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. First Tee GCNKY serves over 25,000 kids and teens each year on golf courses, in schools and at community centers across seven counties and nine locations across Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky. (Hamilton, Butler,Warren, Clermont, Boone, Kenton, Campbell).
For more information, visit First Tee’s website.
“Spring is an exciting time of year when we welcome a new group of First Tee Scholars,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “The scholarship program has grown significantly since it launched in 2020 thanks to our generous donors and sponsors. We look forward to supporting our Scholars on their path to success.”
Participants across First Tee’s network submitted applications to be a part of the latest Scholar class. Following an online application process, finalists were selected by a committee for one-on-one interviews. In addition to academic performance, applicants were considered based on financial need, chapter involvement,community service and other criteria.
Members of the First Tee College Scholarship program not only receive financial support, but they are also matched with an adult mentor and provided annual professional development opportunities.
On Burrowed Time
With a sold-out field of golfers, the second annual Joe Burrow Foundation Golf Invitational raised $1.1 million. See more from the event!
Photos: Shae Combs
Missed the golf outing? You can still do good!
Donate to the Joe Burrow Foundation by purchasing select Burrow-themed apparel from Ohio-based Where I’m From.
Through June 10, 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the Foundation.
Order now!
A sold-out field of golfers and celebrities joined the second annual Joe Burrow Foundation Golf Invitational, raising $1.1 million for the organization at The Golf Club at Stonelick Hills on May 31.
Hosted by the Burrow family, the golf invitational was presented by Encore Technologies, Jeff Ruby's Catering and Gravity Diagnostics. The Joe Burrow Foundation's goal is to help children with mental illness and those experiencing food insecurity by provide resources and support to the underprivileged and underserved.
Celebrities who participated in the golf tournament included Cincinnati Bengals Head Coach Zac Taylor, and members of his coaching staff, plus current players Orlando Brown, Ted Karras, Cordell Volson, Nate Gilliam, Jake Browning, Trenton Irwin, Vonn Bell and first round draft pick Amarius Mims.
Also joining for the golf tournament were ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit, UC Bearcat coach Wes Miller, NFL Hall of Famer Anthony Muñoz, Bengals broadcasters Dan Hoard and Dave Lapham, former Bengal Max Montoya, FOX News anchor Bill Hemmer and TNT's Allie LaForce.
The event committee was led by Amy Floyd, executive director of the Joe Burrow Foundation, and included Chrissie Blatt, Karen Frank, Julie Richardson, Frances Gartner, Jay Schumacher, Gail and Madi Mullinger.
Light It Up
Organizers of BLINK®, illuminated by ArtsWave, want you to "Let It Shine!" for the kickoff parade this October. Find out how to apply!
Join the BLINK Parade!
Groups are asked to “Let It Shine!” by applying with:
Light-based costumes
Human-powered floats and kinetic sculptures
Lighted puppets and props
Performance (dance, theatrical, music)
Visit blinkcincinnati.com for further details regarding parade participation, opportunities for community workshops, and more. The parade route will be announced closer to the event.
Full application available at blinkcincinnati.com.
Applications are open through Aug. 4, 2024.
Do you love a parade? Then we’ve got good news for you!
Organizers of BLINK®, illuminated by ArtsWave, are planning kickoff parade for this year’s event.
Applications for now open for groups – community organizations, cultural groups, and local artists – to submit participation ideas for the parade.
The “Let It Shine!” BLINK 2024 Parade continues the tradition of welcoming in the nation’s largest light and art event with a procession of mesmerizing artistry, joy and community spirit.
Scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024 at sundown, the “Let It Shine!” BLINK 2024 Parade will feature a procession of artists, youth and cultural groups, artist institutions, community organizations, and more adorned in illuminated sculptures, larger-than-life puppets, dazzling performers, and glowing costumes.
Free for all and showcasing thousands of community participants, the parade has become a cherished tradition and an official marker of the multi-day public art celebration.
“BLINK represents a call to unleash our city’s creativity, innovation and imagination,” says Justin Brookhart, executive director of BLINK. “We want everyone to see themselves reflected in BLINK, providing a platform for diverse organizations to showcase their unique contributions. The parade, with its focus on art and light, allows different types of groups to create stunning displays and performances. We are excited to welcome the best of the Cincinnati region to celebrate and contribute to this radiant tapestry of our collective imagination.”
“Let It Shine!” signifies a call to embrace our inner light, express and share our light openly and authentically, to come together as a community, and together, overcome challenges with resilience and pride.
“This year's theme, ‘Let it Shine,’ speaks to the struggle and resilience needed to overcome incredible challenges,” says Marie Krulewitch-Browne, parade organizer and founder of ish. “Throughout history, the arts have been a powerful tool in navigating differences and expressing our deepest emotions. Now, more than ever, arts and cultural rituals are essential for our healing. We invite all community groups to join us in this parade, to let their light shine, and to contribute to a collective celebration of our strength and creativity.”
All in Good Fun
The 18th Annual CancerFree KIDS Butterfly Walk returned to the Cincinnati Zoo this past weekend.
CancerFree KIDS has a mission to eradicate cancer as a life-threatening disease in children by funding promising research that might otherwise go unfunded.
Find out more www.cancerfreekids.org.
The 18th Annual CancerFree KIDS Butterfly Walk, presented by Interlink Cloud Advisors, returned to the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden on Saturday, May 18 with more than 850 participants joining to celebrate survivors and remember those for whom a cure did not come soon enough.
Each year at the CancerFree KIDS' Butterfly Walk, families, friends and co-workers form teams to raise money in support of kids and the mission to find gentler and more effective treatments for children with cancer by funding research that would otherwise go unfunded.
At the Table
Local culinary greats gathered to create a feast at the Tisdel Showroom to benefit La Soupe. We've got pix from the incredible evening!
A fundraiser featuring some of the city’s greatest culinary minds, foodies, benefactors and wine lovers also showcased a hidden gem: the Tisdel Showroom, The official Sub-Zero, Wolf and Cove showroom in the Kenwood Collection while drawing attention to fighting food insecurity in the Cincinnati area.
Photos: Tasha Pinelo
Surrounded by high-end appliances in a vast, decorator-inspired showroom, Tisdel and its partners curated a memorable evening, called “An Evening of Culinary Discovery” to benefit LaSoupe, the local nonprofit which rescues perishables from farms, grocers and wholesalers and transforms into healthy meals.
In addition to raising funds for LaSoupe, the evening also brought together restaurant partners, wines from Hart and Cru, flowers by Marti Heard and Curated by Amy Tobin & Co.
“All of us at Tisdel Distributing were so happy to share our beautiful showroom as we showcased the depth and breadth of culinary talent in our community, said Courtney Black, President, Tisdel Distributing. “The food and wine tasted even sweeter knowing that we all came together to help fight food insecurity by supporting La Soupe.
More than a hundred patrons were treated to a one-of-a-kind experience that began the moment they walked in the door. Handcrafted cocktails as beautiful as the showroom itself welcomed patrons, who found their table assignments behind pastel-painted doors.
After a cocktail hour to explore the showroom, diners were then seated for a seven-course dinner. Chefs from Parisian Pantry, Sebastian Bakehouse, Colette, LaSoupe, Wildweed, Coppin’s at Hotel Covington and The Rhined prepared offerings that were expertly paired with a selection of wines from Kevin Hart of Hart and Cru, who visited every table to explain his thought process and tell some of the stories behind the wines.
The event was the first of its scope for Tisdel, which raised more than $8,200 for LaSoupe. Tisdel plans to make the fundraiser an annual event, while continuing its ongoing relationship supporting LaSoupe and its mission to fight food insecurity in the community with more events throughout the year. “Stay tuned,” said Black. “There's much more to come!”
Tisdel Showroom is located in The Kenwood Collection, 5901 E Galbraith Rd Level R2, www.sub-zero-and-wolf-showroom-cincinnati-by-tisdel.
Out of Snorts
For the second year in a row, Jason Salyer was the men’s division winner at the Cincinnati Flying Pig Weekend. See more from an epig weekend!
For the entire Flying Pig weekend, 39,245 participants were registered.
That includes
Full marathon: 4,994
Paycor Half Marathon: 11,887
City Dash 4-Person Relay: 1,302
Toyota 10K: 4,819
Queen City Running Co. 5K: 7,899
Cincinnati Children’s 26th Mile: 2,182
PigAbilities presented by Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries: 1,278
First Watch Flying Piglet: 796
Flying Fur Dog Walk/Run presented by Bounce: 589
Fifty West Mile: 3,499
For more information visit flyingpigmarathon.com.
For the second year in a row, Jason Salyer of Tipp City is the men’s division winner at the Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon, which celebrated its 26th running on Sunday, May 5. In the women’s division, 26-year-old Olivia Anger of Bellbrook, Ohio, won in a time of 2:43:23, the second fastest time recorded for a women’s division winner behind Tatyana Pozdnyakova’s 2:34:35 in 2002.
The 33-year-old Salyer won in a time of 2:26:01, more than a minute faster than his winning time last year of 2:27:10. Much of the race was a back and forth between Salyer and the second-place finisher, 23-year-old Adam Beucler of Hudson, Ohio, who finished in a time of 2:26:53. Third was two-time Flying Pig Marathon winner Jack Randall of Cincinnati. The 29-year-old finished in 2:27:34.
“Adam and I had five or six lead changes,” Salyer said. “I’d never raced Adam before, I’d heard of him and knew he was a talent. Every time I took the lead from him, I never felt that lead was safe, and when he took the lead from me, I told myself I had to stay in contact.”
In the women’s division, Anger won her first Flying Pig Marathon, but she’s no stranger to Pig events. The PhD student at the University of Cincinnati won last year’s Flying Pig Toyota 10K in 35:53.
“It’s amazing seeing the city of Cincinnati come together to support all the runners,” she said. “In Cincinnati, you know when it’s Flying Pig weekend because for the whole weekend, people make a fun festival out of it. The community really invests in making this such a wonderful event. I couldn’t have done it without the city of Cincinnati cheering me on. It was amazing.”
Second in the women’s marathon division was 31-year-old Brooke Wildermuth of Cincinnati in 2:51:41. She also won a Flying Pig event last year, the Queen City Running 5K, in a time of 16:47. Third was 29-year-old Daniela De Aguiar of Columbus in 2:59:32.
In the Paycor Half Marathon, 23-year-old Jonathan Harley of Cincinnati was first with a time of 1:10:44. Second in the division was 32-year-old Eric Gruenbacher of Loveland in 1:12:08. Gruenbacher also came in second in last year’s Paycor Half Marathon. Third in the male division was 28-year-old Jersson Pachar of Cincinnati in 1:14:08.
In the female division, 29-year-old Jules Madzia of Cincinnati came in first in a time of 1:19:52. Second was 20-year-old Claire Curtsinger of California, KY in 1:20:42 and third was 33-year-old Megan Francus of Cincinnati in 1:21:41.
“It’s an incredible course,” Madzia said. “The crowds the whole way, but especially through Eden Park, are amazing. For me, no matter how bad I feel, when they are cheering, you kind of forget how you feel.”
In Saturday’s events, 31-year-old Zac Holtkamp of Alexandria, who came in second in the 50 West Mile Friday evening, won the Toyota 10K men’s open division in 32:15, with 27-year-old Max Hoffman of Columbus second in a time of 32:49. Third was 20-year-old Carson Rewiski of Onsted, Michigan, in 33:30.
In the women’s open division, 33-year-old Emily Zimmerman of Dayton, Ohio, finished first in a time of 37:38, while 26-year-old Madeline Trevisan of Cincinnati was second in 38:28 and third was 35-year-old-Megan Kahn of Loveland in 39:58.
In the Queen City Running 5K, 19-year-old Chip Smith of Westerville, Ohio, was the top male finisher in 15:48, with 42-year-old David Riddle of Cincinnati second in 15:53 and 22-year-old Christian Leach of Monroe, Ohio, third in 16:17. On the women’s side, 28-year-old Bukola Pereira of Glendale, Ohio, won in 18:40, with 31-year-old Mary Craig of Newport second in 18:43 and 34-year-old Bridget Zimmerman of Newport third in 19:17.
In the Bounce Flying Fur dog event, top placers were Jimmy Chisholm in 6:38, Samuel Hall in 7:08, and Pacer-the-Dog in 7:09. Also held on Saturday were the Cincinnati Children’s 26th Mile, Flying Piglet and PigAbilities presented by Ohio Valley Goodwill.
Flying Pig weekend kicked off with the 50 West Mile, part of the TQL Beer Series of events. In the elite men’s division, top three placers were 23-year-old Jonathan Harley of Cincinnati, winning in a photo finish over former Flying Pig Marathon winner Holtkamp and 29-year-old Alex Gold of Cincinnati, another former Flying Pig Marathon winner, all with a time of 4:21.
In the women’s elite division, 30-year-old Katarine Smiljanec of Covington won in a time of 5:01 over 34-year-old Katie Ruhlman of Dayton, Ohio in 5:09 and 31-year-old Flannery Musk of Louisville in 5:11.
The next Flying Pig Marathon weekend of events is set for May 2–5, 2025, with registration open now.
Head of the Class
The Anthony Muñoz Foundation honored 18 Tristate students at their annual Straight ‘A’ Scholarships luncheon. Meet the amazing winners!
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
Jobs for Cincinnati’s Graduates held its 42nd Annual Career Development Conference, helping to ensure academic and career success for local youth.
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
A new bar and restaurant, The Park, is set to open this summer at The Banks, with a menu from the team at Good Plates.
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
Check out the celebration at The Contemporary Arts Center for the opening reception of Jayson Musson: His History of Art.
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
Being voted the Best Marathon in America is nothing to snort at! The Flying Pig takes the top spot in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice.
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
Taking off for Spring Break? Make sure your car is ready for anything that happens with the weather, or the road, with advice from Tire Discounters.
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
Cincinnati Youth Collaborative celebrated 20 years of Saturday Hoops with an all-star lineup of players.
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
The Joe Burrow Foundation teamed with the Guinness Gives Back initiative at La Soupe to help fight food insecurity in the Cincinnati area.
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
Create a personal sanctuary and feel like more at peace. Get tips and help at the Cincinnati Home + Garden Show.
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.”
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
Through the Good Jobs Challenge, Cincinnati Youth Collaborative focuses on a recruiting and preparing the workforce for advanced manufacturing.
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
Rickell Howard Smith, CEO of YWCA Greater Cincinnati, joined NFL Moms at the Super Bowl for the She-Rise Retreat for survivors of domestic violence.
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.
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.