Swing for the Fences

For baseball fans in Cincinnati, there is no day more anticipated than Opening Day. The start of the Major League Baseball season is special across the country, but in Cincinnati, it is a citywide celebration, a day that brings together generations of fans to revel in a tradition that dates back more than a century.

More than just the beginning of a new baseball season, Opening Day in Cincinnati is an event filled with pageantry, history, and civic pride. It is so important to the people of the city that it is often referred to as an “unofficial” holiday, bringing business to a standstill as fans pour into the streets and the stadium to mark the occasion.

Cincinnati holds a unique place in baseball history, as it was home to the first professional baseball team, the Cincinnati Red Stockings, founded in 1869. Because of this legacy, the Reds have been given a special place in the MLB schedule—historically, they were often granted the privilege of hosting the first game of the season, primarily because for decades the Reds were the southernmost city on the baseball schedule. While this tradition has not always been maintained in modern times, the city still treats Opening Day as if it is the most important event of the year.

One of the most iconic elements of Cincinnati’s Opening Day celebration is the annual parade. The Findlay Market Opening Day Parade, first held in 1920, has become one of the city’s most cherished traditions. It features local businesses, marching bands, community groups, and former Reds players who make their way through the streets of downtown Cincinnati, leading up to Great American Ball Park. The parade serves as the perfect prelude to the game itself, drawing thousands of fans dressed in red and white, eager to celebrate the return of baseball.

Beyond the parade, the city comes alive with energy. Bars and restaurants near the stadium are packed from morning until late at night. Schools and workplaces see increased absenteeism as locals take the day off to join in the festivities. News stations broadcast special coverage, and local celebrities, politicians, and sports figures all participate in the excitement.

Try to get business done on Opening Day? Good luck. Schedule a meeting on Opening Day? You may be the only person there. Many businesses close early, if not for the entire day, to allow employees to attend the game or participate in the festivities. Some schools even acknowledge that attendance may be lower on this day, as students and teachers alike embrace the annual tradition.

For the fans, Opening Day represents more than just the first game of the season—it is a time to celebrate their city, their team, and the arrival of spring. It is a chance to reflect on the history of the Reds while looking ahead with optimism for the season to come. No matter the team’s record the previous year, Opening Day in Cincinnati is a fresh start, a day of hope, and a showcase of the deep bond between the city and its baseball team.

While every MLB team has an Opening Day, no city embraces it quite like Cincinnati. With its deep-rooted baseball history, beloved traditions like the Findlay Market Parade, and the near-universal participation of its residents, Opening Day is more than just the first game of the year—it is a cultural event. It is a day when the city unites in its love for baseball, making it a true holiday and one of the most special days on the Cincinnati calendar.

– Betsy Ross

Playing the Field

We’re all expecting plenty of fireworks and fun with the Reds lineup under new manager Terry Francona. But GABP will also be home to plenty fun for fans, beyond the game!

The Reds have unveiled their promotions, concerts and tributes for this season. Mark you calendars now so you don’t miss any of this season’s highlights.

Pete Rose Night – May 14

Mark your calendars for Pete Rose Night on Wednesday, May 14 for a special celebration of the “Hit King.” All fans in attendance will receive a #14 Pete Rose jersey, a replica of the road uniform worn by Pete when the Big Red Machine celebrated its World Series Championships in 1975 and 1976 in New York. With CINCINNATI across the chest to represent Pete’s hometown, the jersey is a fitting tribute for this special night.

MLB Speedway Classic at Bristol Motor Speedway
August 2

Rev your engines for the 2025 MLB Speedway Classic at Bristol Motor Speedway! One of NASCAR’s most famous tracks will host a special regular-season matchup between the Reds and the Atlanta Braves on Saturday, August 2, in Bristol, Tennessee. The Reds will hold “Reds Racing Night” on May 17 at Great American Ball Park, featuring a Mr. Red Race Car Bobblehead (presented by Kroger) and race-themed activities at the ballpark leading up to the big event.

Snoop Dogg Post-Game Concert presented by Ohio Lottery August 11

Legendary rapper and cultural icon Snoop Dogg will perform live on the field, on August 11, presented by Ohio Lottery. The concert is also sponsored by Network for Hope and is free to all fans with a game ticket, with a limited number of field passes are available.

Marty Brennaman Sculpture Dedication
September 6

A bronze sculpture of Hall of Fame broadcaster Marty Brennaman will be unveiled outside of Great American Ball Park on Saturday, September 6. Designed by local artist Tom Tsuchiya, the sculpture will depict Marty behind the mic, as he did for 46 years with the Reds.

Ohio Lottery Post-Game Concert Series

All fans with a ticket to the game can stay for the post-game concert that night.

•  Old Dominion: Thursday, July 10

•  Margaritaville® Night featuring The Landsharks: Saturday, July 26

•  Train: Wednesday, August 13

Theme Nights

The Reds will host several games this year with a special theme taking over the ballpark.

•  STAR WARS™ Night – May 3

•  Pete Rose Night – May 14

•  Reds Racing Night – May 17

•  Big Red Machine 50th Anniversary Night – June 28

•  Margaritaville® Night featuring The Landsharks: Saturday, July 26

2025  Promotional Items

This year’s schedule features exciting promotional items, including seven bobbleheads, an Elly De La Cruz basketball jersey, City Connect floppy hat, Big Red Machine cap and more.

For a full list of 2025 promotions, visit reds.com/Promotions.

The Big Red Machine: A 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Back-to-Back World Champions, presented by Dinsmore

The new exhibit at the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum presented by Dinsmore will revisit the glory days of the Big Red Machine’s 1975 and 1976 World Series championships at the Hall of Fame’s by celebrating the greatest team in Reds history.

The exhibit opens to the public on Thursday, March 27.

A Stacked Lineup

Like most rational people in Cincinnati, you are likely taking this Thursday off to celebrate Opening Day. While there are plenty of great spots to watch the parade – Washington Park! Fountain Square! – the best place to pre-game for the Reds v. Giants game is on the doorstep of Great American Ball Park at The Banks.

Looking for the best party?

AC Upper Deck
135 Joe Nuxhall Way
Opens at 10 a.m.
www.acupperdeck.com

Celebrate the start of baseball season at the AC Hotel's Upper Deck rooftop bar! Grab your friends and head up to enjoy the excitement of Opening Day, with unbeatable views, delicious food, refreshing drinks, and great company.

The Holy Grail Tavern & Grille
161 Joe Nuxhall Way
Opens at 9 a.m.
www.holygrailbanks.com

Enjoy a live broadcast of 700WLW from the epicenter of Opening Day until 3:40 p.m.

Rookie of the Beer: Opening Day Party!
Killer Queen, 180 E Freedom Way
Opens at 10 a.m.
www.killerqueenbar.com

Killer Queen is celebrating Opening Day in Major League fashion! Get game day ready with our pizza, pretzels, pizza bombs, and buffalo chicken bombs! Plus, we’ve got some steal-of-a-deal drink specials include $10 Elly De La Booze cocktail: raspberry vodka, lemonade, and a splash of grenadine and $3 red Jell-O shots A grand slam of rotating DJs will keep the energy up from noon to close. 

Jon Jon & Friends Opening Day Bash & Watch Party
Moerlein Lager House, 115 Joe Nuxhall Way
12 – 8 p.m.
www.moerleinlagerhouse.com

Baseball’s biggest day in Cincinnati is back, and you can celebrate with Jon Jon & Friends on the Schmidlapp Event Lawn and Stage, right next to Great American Ball Park. The live radio show with Jon Jon, includes celebrity guest Billy Hamilton, plus a Mixology Bar by Molly Wellmann

VIP party packages are available:

VIP PACKAGE #1 – Private 10×10' VIP tent for 10 guests $800 food & beverage credit  Exclusive access to pre-order food and drinks VIP access with baseball celebrities ($1000)

VIP PACKAGE #2 – Reserved VIP area next to the DJ for 15 guests.  Exclusive VIP access and baseball celebrity meet-and-greet private server for your group. After purchase, a Moerlein Lager House Private Dining Concierge will contact you to coordinate your food and beverage setup. ($1500, $1,200 food & beverage credit)

Swing Into The Stretch for Opening Day
The Stretch, 191 E Freedom Way
Opens at 10 a.m.
www.thestretchcincy.com

At the drop of a bat, Opening Day takes over the Stretch. Swing into and show some “Cincy Love.” Pregame with DJ Fuse and DJ Greek from noon to first pitch (4:10 p.m.), fuel up with their Big Red Machine cocktail, and celebrate after the game with DJ Slick Nick from 5 to 10 p.m.!

Don’t Be Jelly

Jellies: Go with the Flow

Newport Aquarium
1 Aquarium Way, Newport

Daily hours vary, visit
www.newportaquarium.com 

One thing that can take the sting out of an early spring cold snap is a visit to the Newport Aquarium to see the new Jellies: Go with the Flow exhibit. The highly anticipated exhibit is also timed perfectly for many local spring breaks.

Jellyfish have no brain, bones, or boundaries—they’re the ultimate drifters, effortlessly moving with ocean currents. They simply go with the flow, adapting to their environment and thriving in the ever-changing seas. The new exhibit, Jellies: Go with the Flow, immerses guests in the graceful, ethereal world of these ancient marine wonders. From glowing bioluminescence to stunning, trailing tentacles, visitors will discover how jellyfish move, survive and shape ocean ecosystems—all while embracing the beauty of nature.

The exhibit includes seven habitats filled with more than 1,500 gallons of salt water filtered precisely to each species’ needs by the aquarium’s expert water filtration team. Half a dozen species, nearly 100 jellyfish in total, will call Jellies: Go with the Flow home, including the South American sea nettle, the upside-down jellyfish and the moon jellyfish.

“Jellies: Go with the Flow isn’t just an exhibit—it’s an opportunity for families to pause, connect, and create lasting memories together,” said Rebecca Foster, executive director at Newport Aquarium. “As a mom, I know the magic of seeing a child’s eyes light up with wonder, and that’s exactly what this investment is about—bringing more awe-inspiring experiences that deepen our connection to each other and the wonders of marine life. Whether you’re captivated by a moon jelly’s gentle pulse or the glowing tendrils of a sea nettle, this exhibit is a chance to escape the everyday, embrace the moment, and—just like the jellies—go with the flow.”

The new 1,700 square foot permanent expansion to the aquarium represents a $1.5 million investment full of mesmerizing experiences. Featuring innovative tank designs and a ceiling element that pays homage to the beloved original jelly chandelier, this exhibit seamlessly blends history with a bold, modern twist, creating an atmosphere dripping in photogenic charm.

On the Right Course

Brad McDonough

Taylor Shrader

Kevin Wyman

Mike Taft

The Kroger Queen City Championship presented by P&G returns to Greater Cincinnati and TPC River’s Bend in September of 2025 under new management with sports and event marketing agency Outlyr. 

Operator of multiple professional tournaments across golf’s professional tours, Outlyr currently manages seven LPGA Tour events across the country.

Longtime FC Cincinnati corporate partnerships veteran Brad McDonough joins Outlyr and the tournament team as director of sales and corporate partnerships. Taylor Shrader, a member of the tournament team in 2024, joins Outlyr as tournament manager.

Michael Taft, executive vice president for Outlyr, will lead management oversight of the Kroger Queen City Championship presented by P&G as executive director, joined by Kevin Wyman as tournament director.

“At Outlyr, we are excited to work with Kroger, P&G and the team at TPC River’s Bend in continuing to elevate and grow the Kroger Queen City Championship presented by P&G,” said Taft. “This tournament, now entering its fourth year, brings a premier golf event to Cincinnati while uplifting everyone who celebrates women in sports, business and education. With our experience in managing multi-faceted LPGA tournaments and programs across the country, we will implement many of our best practices and look forward to working alongside Kroger and P&G in giving back to the local community.” 

Additional information about the 2025 Kroger Queen City Championship presented by P&G, including volunteer registration and ticket sales, will be announced in the coming months.

The 2025 Kroger Queen City Championship presented by P&G will take place Sept. 8-14 at TPC River’s Bend in Maineville, Ohio. A field of 144 of the world’s top female professional golfers are scheduled to compete for a share of the $2 million purse. Lydia Ko captured the 2024 championship by five shots to claim her third LPGA Tour title of the 2024 season and 22nd of her career.

The Jig Is Up

Cincinnati was a major destination for immigrants from Ireland in the mid-1840s, according to the publication “Cincinnati: City of Immigrants.” “The city offered opportunities for work on the riverfront, digging for the Miami and Erie Canal, and on railroad construction. By the end of the 19th century, immigrant families were proud to be Irish and were accepted by the majority of residents.”

The next (and following!) generation of Irish – and even the not-so-Irish – gather this Saturday, March 15, for the 57th annual Cincinnati St. Patrick’s Parade at The Banks, which begins at 12 p.m.

This year’s Honorary Grand Marshal is Anthony Muñoz, a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and president of the Anthony Muñoz Foundation.

Since 1967, the parade has been bringing the community together with marching bands, Irish dancers, festive floats and plenty of shamrock spirit. In 2001, the parade was moved to Saturday before Saint Patrick’s Day. 

What begin as religious procession with the St. Patrick, Division #1, Ancient Order of Hibernians blossomed into a full parade, with floats, pipers, step dancers, Irish families, marching bands, and more.

The party continues after the parade, with LepreCon at The Banks.

Dublin Down on Fun

Paint the town green! Find the largest gathering of leprechauns at The Banks on Saturday, March 15.

“LepreCON has been years in the making,” says Saijal Andreadis Ryan, marketing director with 4EG. “I love a good play on words! Just like Comic-Con and SantaCon, LepreCON is a fun twist on the word ‘leprechaun’ that fits perfectly with revelry associated with the event.”

The bars and restaurants at The Banks are teaming up to host a the biggest St. Patrick's Day block party in the city during the third annual LepreCON.

“Seeing the streets packed with a sea of green is my favorite part!” says Saijal Andreadis Ryan. “There's something special about the community coming together, dressed up and celebrating in the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day.”

The 57th annual St. Patrick's Day parade steps off at noon, then the party starts at eight participating bars and restaurants, running from 2 to 9 p.m., with food and drink specials

“Having spent time in Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day, it’s incredible to see the community come together for big events like these—both at The Banks and at the pub,” says owner Danny Scott, owner of Red Leprechaun Irish Pub.

A stage will be set on Freedom Way with indoor and outdoor beverage sales available at all participating locations.

“This year marks the third annual LepreCON, and it just keeps getting bigger,” says Andeadis Ryan. “Last year, we saw over 25,000 people fill The Banks for the celebration, and the excitement continues to grow each year.:

Guests can visit each location for St. Patrick's Day specials, music, giveaways, and more at

Fishbowl at The Banks:  Green beer with featured drinks Bowl Of Gold and green Jell-O shots.

Holy Grail: Green beer, with dancers and bagpipers.

Jefferson Social:

Killer Queen: $3 green beer, $3 green Jell-O shots, and $8 Shamrock Splash cocktails. Rotating DJs all day long!

The Park: $3 green beer and $5 green tea shots, with rotating DJs all day.

Red Leprechaun: Guinness and green beer, plus featured drinks Irish Eyes, Long Ireland Ice Tea, Irish Breakfast Shots and Baby Guinness Shots. Outside food booth will feature Irish banger on a bun, shepherds pie and pretzels with Irish beer cheese 

The Stretch: $3 green beer, $3 green Jell-O shots, and $8 Shamrock Splash cocktails. Rotating DJs all day long!

Tin Roof: $5 green beer, $4 Shamrock Jell-O shots, $7 Tullamore Dew, $7 Milagro cocktails, and $8 car bombs.

Guests are invited to go green by wearing green attire and leprechaun outfits!  

“Authentic food and drinks in a truly authentic atmosphere make Red Leprechaun a must-visit for LepreCon and St. Patrick’s Weekend, says Scott. “It makes me feel like I’m back in Ireland!”

Around the Bock

Goats? Check.

Beer? Check.

Running shoes? Of course.

As the city gets ready to celebrate the coming of Spring – no matter the current temperatures! – with Bockfest, hundreds of runners are joining the revelry.

The Bockfest 5K returns to The Banks on Saturday, March 8, Doug Olberding, CEO of PigWorks shares his thoughts on the run.

Bockfest, now in its 33rd year, is an annual celebration of Spring, Over-the-Rhine's brewing heritage, and Bock Beer. Festivities begin with the parade on Friday, March 7 at 6 p.m., at Arnold’s Bar and Grill, 210 East Eighth St. Tours, tastings, and revelry continue throughout the weekend, at this year’s four Bockfest Halls – Moerlein Lager House, Northern Row, Rhinegeist, and Rosedale.

Need to carb load for the run, the parade, or just in general? (It’s still winter, folks!) head to Moerlein Lager House, Moerlein Lager House, 115 Joe Nuxhall Way, on Friday at noon for the ceremonial tapping of the Bockfest Brewing Champion’s Bock Beer. Bockfest dignitaries and two-time Bockfest Brewing Champion Tim McKee will tap his award-winning Bock Beer to officially launch Bockfest weekend!

McKee, a Cincinnati homebrewing legend and president of the Cincinnati Malt Infusers, has been perfecting his craft for 18 years. This year’s winning Bock Beer was brewed on the Moerlein Lager House brewing system, continuing the tradition of launching an official Bock Beer in the same way it was done 33 years ago.

Bock beer is traditionally brewed for special occasions. It is complex, hardy, traditionally has a higher nutritional content than most beer, and typically has a higher alcohol content. It has a particular link to spring because German monks drank it as a substitute for food during Lenten fasts.

It’s Hall Good

New Riff Bourbon Dinner

Saturday, March 22 , 6–9 p.m.

Carnegie Hall at Newport
401 Monmouth Street Newport

Tickets: $100

Enjoy a curated bourbon tasting experience featuring a selection of New Riff bourbons, paired with thoughtfully crafted small bites and a seated dinner, with dessert, for an evening of refined flavors, great company, and expert insights into the rich history and craftsmanship of bourbon.

Make reservations

You can get to Carnegie Hall, and you don’t even have to practice, practice, practice.

Carnegie Hall at Newport has just reopened after a $2 million renovation to turn the historic performance venue into a modern event center.

Originally built in 1899 with funding from Andrew Carnegie, this architectural treasure with art deco touches has been revitalized and reimagined as a premier destination for weddings and social events, managed exclusively by Delightmore. The building had $2 million dollar renovation, turning the former historic performance venue into a modern event center, located in the heart of Newport, Kentucky.

“With its rich history, stunning architecture, and updated amenities, Carnegie Hall at Newport offers an unparalleled venue for weddings and social gatherings,” said Don Vonderhaar, partner of Delightmore, who also exclusively manages Pinecroft Mansion, The Transept and The View. “Delightmore is proud to manage Carnegie Hall at Newport, bringing our expertise to this iconic venue.”

“The reopening of Carnegie Hall at Newport is a game-changer for Northern Kentucky’s event landscape,” said Julie Kirkpatrick, president of meetNKY. “With its historic charm and modern upgrades, this venue fills a crucial need for more high-quality event space in our region. As Northern Kentucky continues to grow as a destination for weddings, corporate gatherings, and social events, having a beautifully restored venue like Carnegie Hall at Newport enhances our ability to attract and host memorable experiences.”

The hall has been meticulously restored to maintain its original charm while integrating modern amenities, including state-of-the-art acoustics and professional-grade lighting.

The venue will accommodate up to 250 cocktail style and 150 for a sit-down or buffet-style dinner, and includes spacious dressing rooms including a Bride Suite and a Grooms Suite, a full kitchen for catering accommodations. The renovated hall hasADA-compliant facilities, including wheelchair-accessible seating and restrooms.

Want to take a look around? Delightmore is hosting a bourbon tasting at Carnegie Hall, featuring a selection of New Riff bourbons, paired with thoughtfully crafted small bites. Enjoy an evening of refined flavors, great company, and expert insights into the rich history and craftsmanship of bourbon.

Something Wicked?

Wicked

Courtesy Universal Pictures

Emilia Perez

Courtesy Why Not Productions – Pathé Films

Dune Part 2

Courtesy Warner Brothers

Conclave

Courtesy Focus Features

The Brutalist

Courtesy A24

The 2025 Academy Awards are shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent years, with a mix of major Hollywood blockbusters and international indie darlings vying for the top honors.

Best Picture Race

Among the front-runners for Best Picture are Conclave, Dune: Part Two, The Brutalist, Emilia Pérez, and A Complete Unknown. These films span a range of genres, from sci-fi epics to biopics and historical dramas. Conclave, a Vatican-set thriller, has been gaining strong momentum, while Dune: Part Two looks to continue the Academy’s recent trend of honoring large-scale spectacles (Oppenheimer, Dune). Meanwhile, The Brutalist, a gripping drama which just won the Golden Globe, and Emilia Pérez, a genre-defying musical, add diversity to the competition​. Conclave just won best picture at the BAFTAS and comes into the Oscar race an early favorite.

Best Director Showdown

For the first time since 1997, all five Best Director nominees are first-time contenders. Brady Corbet (The Brutalist) leads the pack after his Golden Globe and BAFTA wins, which have historically been a strong predictor for the Oscars. Other nominees include Jacques Audiard (Emilia Pérez), Coralie Fargeat (The Substance), Sean Baker (Anora), and James Mangold (A Complete Unknown). While Corbet is favored, an upset from Fargeat or Baker remains possible​.

Movie Trivia from Ohio Goes to the Movies

Hosting an Oscar party? Ohio Goes to the Movies, has a few trivia questions to add a little more fun,!

1. Doris Day (Cincinnati) introduced the Oscar-winning song “Que sera, sera” in this 1956 thriller produced and directed by the legendary Alfred Hitchcock.

2. In 1940, Phillip Barry’s play “The Philadelphia Story” was adapted for George Cukor’s film version starring Katharine Hepburn, Cary Grant and James Stewart. The film earned six Oscar nominations, including two winners: James Stewart for Best Actor and what Ohio for Best Adapted Screenplay?

3. This year marks the 111th anniversary of the birth of screen legend Tyrone Power (Cincinnati). In 1939, Power starred in “The Rains Came,” based on a best-selling novel by Louis Bromfield (Mansfield). In what country is the story set?

4. Who was the first person to decline an Academy Award and why?

5. . Paul Newman (Shaker Heights) played a pool shark named Fast Eddie Felson in what 1986 sports film?

Answers below!

Ohio Goes to the Movies is signature event of the America 250-Ohio celebration. The unprecedented statewide celebration of Ohio film will run statewide in 2026, with movie events featuring Ohio and Ohioans from past and present. It’s currently looking for theaters in all 88 counties to program. More at ohiogoestothemovies.org.

Acting Categories

• Best Actor is shaping up to be a tight race, with Timothée Chalamet (A Complete Unknown) gaining late momentum for his portrayal of Bob Dylan. However, he faces strong competition from Ralph Fiennes (Conclave), Adrien Brody (The Brutalist) who just won the Golden Globe and BAFTA, Colman Domingo (Sing Sing), and Sebastian Stan (The Apprentice). Chalamet’s performance in a music biopic could give him an edge, similar to past winners in the genre​

• Best Actress is one of the most unpredictable categories, with Golden Globe (comedy) winner Demi Moore (The Substance), BAFTA winner Mikey Madison (Anora), Golden Globe winner (drama) Fernanda Torres (I’m Still Here), Cynthia Erivo (Wicked), and Karla Sofía Gascón (Emilia Pérez) all in contention. Moore’s career comeback narrative may give her an advantage, but Madison’s powerful and emotional performance could make this a tight race​

• Best Supporting Actor appears to have a clear frontrunner in BAFTA winner Kieran Culkin (A Real Pain), following his Golden Globe win. Other nominees include Yura Borisov (Anora), Edward Norton (A Complete Unknown), Guy Pearce (The Brutalist), and Jeremy Strong (The Apprentice)​

• Best Supporting Actress features Ariana Grande (Wicked), Felicity Jones (The Brutalist), Monica Barbaro (A Complete Unknown), Isabella Rossellini (Conclave), and BAFTA and Golden Globe winner Zoe Saldaña (Emilia Pérez). Grande’s nomination is a major moment for the pop star, but Felicity Jones and Zoe Saldaña could prove strong competitors​

Technical Categories & Other Highlights

• Dune: Part Two is expected to dominate in Best Visual Effects, where it competes against Wicked, Alien: Romulus, and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.

• Best Animated Feature sees Inside Out 2 competing against Flow, The Wild Robot, Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl, and Memoir of a Snail.

• The Best International Feature Film category is particularly strong this year, with I’m Still Here (Brazil) and Emilia Pérez (France) leading the charge​

What to Watch For

With a mix of prestige dramas, blockbuster spectacles, and surprise indie hits, the 2025 Oscars could see a wide range of winners. While The Brutalist and Conclave are early favorites, upsets from Emilia Pérez or Anora could shake up the night. Additionally, the acting races are highly competitive, with the possibility of major surprises.

The ceremony will take place on March 2 at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, and will be broadcast on ABC. Get your popcorn ready!

– Betsy Ross

---

Answers

1. “The Man Who Knew Too Much”

2.  Donald Ogden Stewart (Columbus)

3.  India

4. Dudley Nichols (Wapakoneta) was the first person to decline an Oscar for Best Screenplay in 1936 for his work on “The Informer.” Nichols was a founder of the Screen Writers’ Guild, and he refused the award to protest the Academy's refusal to acknowledge the guild and other unions. He did accept it in 1938 and went on to be nominated for three more screenwriting awards.

5. “The Color of Money,” based on the novel by Walter Tevis, who taught at Ohio University. Newman won the Best Actor Oscar.

It’s Electric!

TD/EV
9075 Fields Ertel Road

Open Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Learn more or make an appointment.

If you’ve made the switch to an electric or hybrid vehicle but have struggled to find a reliable place for maintenance and repairs, a hometown favorite is now ready to help.

Tire Discounters recently opened a new concept store, TD/EV (9075 Fields Ertel Road) dedicated to complete electric vehicle repair and maintenance.

“We noticed a lot of uncertainty in dealers and repair shops on how to work on high voltage systems. Most dealers are not prepared to properly repair or maintain electric vehicles and many consumers are unaware of the amount of routine maintenance that these vehicles require,” said Jamie Ward, president and CEO of Tire Discounters. “The end goal is to reapply this specialized knowledge to all Tire Discounters stores,” says Ward.

TD/EV offers groundbreaking services for electric vehicles and hybrids. The most notable being battery repair and balancing performed in their dedicated battery room. Tire Discounters hired a former Rivian engineer, Ken Kring, to lead this initiative and run the new concept store.

“We are able to remove and replace batteries as well as test, diagnose, and identify module and cell performance. On some applications we can even replace individual cells to prolong battery life. This can save an EV owner significant money and improve range,” said Ken Kring, director of EV technology.

Customers can stop by TD/EV for a battery health check report to determine their vehicles loss in range as well as restore, optimize, and balance the battery cells. “This is a service we created due to the needs of older EV’s and to help alleviate owners’ ‘Range Anxiety.' No one else provides this service,” says Kring.

TD/EV is leading the charge in electric vehicles and battery repair and maintenance, offering the first dealer alternative to help save customers months of waiting and the big tickets that come with the dealer. EV certified by The National Institute for Automotive Excellence (ASE), TD/EV technicians are equipped with the knowledge and skills to deliver complete, safe, and high- quality repairs. They’re also certified by major brands, including Tesla and Rivian, to perform Advanced Driver Assisted System (ADAS) services.

Deep Trouble

What is it they say about weather in Cincinnati?

Wait a week and it changes!

That roller coaster of temperatures and precipitation also provides the perfect environment for the annual springtime rite of passage: potholes. Those little (and sometimes not so little) divots are more than just an annoyance; they're a threat to both driver safety and vehicle health.

Potholes can cause everything from flat tires and bent rims to suspension damage and alignment issues, which can mean hefty repair bills. Tire Discounters, the country’s largest 100% family-owned and operated tire and service provider, wants to keep drivers out of the shop with simple ways to minimize damage before - and after - encountering potholes on the road.

Ensure Proper Tire Inflation Level

Underinflated tires may not have enough resistance to withstand the impact of hitting a pothole. Properly inflated tires can help absorb the impact of potholes and reduce the risk of damage to your vehicle.

Avoid Sharp Turns

Try to steer straight when going over potholes to minimize the risk of losing control of your vehicle.

Brake Gently, Then Not At All

If you can't avoid a pothole, gently apply the brakes before reaching it to reduce the impact. As you drive over the pothole, Tire Discounters experts say to release the brakes altogether to reduce damage to brakes and brake pads.

Avoid Puddles

Puddles on the road can sometimes conceal potholes, so try to avoid driving through them whenever possible.

Hold the Steering Wheel Firmly

When driving over a pothole make sure you have a firm grip on the steering wheel to avoid losing control of the vehicle.

After You've Hit the Pothole, What Next? 

Have tires checked for sidewall damage, which can be a result of a sharp turn over a pothole. Tire Discounters has free inspections that can help. And remember your fellow drivers: report potholes to help prevent further accidents and damage to additional vehicles. To report potholes in Cincinnati, visit 5916000.com or call 513-591-6000.

Tire Discounters, the country’s largest 100% family-owned and operated tire and service provider, unveils a new concept store, TD/EV, in its hometown. The new store, located at 9075 Fields Ertel Road, makes Tire Discounters 207th location and the first location dedicated to complete electric vehicle repair and maintenance. TD/EV is the first service repair facility of its kind within Tire Discounters footprint.

Daring of the Green

Irish eyes are already smiling on the Queen City as the countdown to the 57th Cincinnati St. Patrick’s Parade begins this weekend.

The first St. Patrick’s event kicks off this Sunday, Feb. 23 at 2 p.m. with a special mass at Holy Cross - Immaculata Church in Mt. Adams. The annual mass honors St. Patrick as well as local members of the Ancient Order of Hibernians & Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians who have passed away over the last year.

The mass will culminate with the “stealing of the statue” from the Church. The statue of St. Patrick will be taken from Immaculata and then carried along a short parade route through Mt. Adams streets, featuring parade participants in kilts with bagpipes & drums.

The “stealing of the statue” was started by the Crowley family of Crowley’s Pub in Mt. Adams. “Family is always the focus of the Irish culture and on this day family means the entire Irish-American community and those who support it,” explains parade Chairman Chris Schulte.

The 57th annual Cincinnati St. Patrick’s Parade will take place at The Banks on March 15, starting at 12 p.m.

Heart of the City

Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate love, in all its many magical and mystical forms! Maybe that means a romantic dinner à deux or enjoying a heart-shaped box of chocolates with your BFF.

But it’s also a great time to give our flowers (figuratively speaking) to some of our beloved Cincy treasures. This is by no means a complete list, because like any good relationship, there’s always more to love.

ArstWave – From that ceramics class you took at your neighborhood arts center to Cincinnati Opera’s grand productions in Music Hall, we love our arts!

ArtsWave – with its thousands of donors – is what makes it possible to enjoy the arts, both big and small. Coincidentally, now is a great time to show your love and donate to ArtsWave. Their annual campaign kicked off last week!

Bengals – Was it the season we wanted? No. Is it the team we love? Yes.

Nevermind stadium deals, contract negotiations, and questionable rookie behavior, we’re always going to “cheer to victory” for the stripes.

Cincinnati Skyline – The architectural one. From every angle, on both sides of the river, the historic buildings, towering bridges, and modern stadia combine for a gorgeous panorama. (And always impressive photos.)

Now if we could just get the SkyStar Wheel back…

Dogs – Dogs are the best. You really can’t ask for a better Valentine. This year, Cincinnati Animal CARE is playing matchmaker. Through Feb. 16 you can have a Blind Date with a Rescue Dog. If sparks fly, you could end up with a new love of your life!

Get the details on this unique Valentine’s experience, which very much leans more toward the fuzzy end of warm and fuzzy.

No disrespect to cats – Cats are cool, too. (See above.)

Esquire Theatre – From premieres of movies shot in Cincinnati to indie films and even classics, the Esquire is a movie lover’s paradise.

With a full bar (!) and Bargain Tuesdays, you can enjoy movies the way they were meant to be seen, which is not on your phone.

Fiona – Our baby girl just turned 8! She was born at a tumultuous time, with her survival not guaranteed, and a city – nay, a nation – pinned their hopes on this tiny, premature wonder. She did not let us down!

We love the princess of the Queen City, who has brightened some of our darkest days and continues to make life a little bit more bearable. Now a big sister to that lovable scamp, Fritz, Fiona teaches us the value of resilience, humor, and eating whatever your want.

Goetta – Every region has its specialty, and this is ours. Who knew a way to stretch the family’s meat supply would one day get the gourmet treatment.

This combination of pork, pin oats, and a blend of spices is regional breakfast staple You can even find vegetarian options, which proves both its flexibility and longevity.

Hard Rock Casino – Do you want to see a Netflix comedian or Frankie Valli, have an amazing crab Rangoon, try a Johnny Bench-inspired dish, and enjoy losing $20 to the bells and whistles of a “Wizard of Oz” machine? You’re in luck!

Head to Hard Rock and find all that, plus rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia, and awesome people watching.

Ice Cream – That new Skyline flavor from Graeter’s is making headlines, but we’re also happy with the classics. One of Oprah’s favorite thing is the black raspberry chip, so we have that in common.

But it’s not just Graeter’s. With Aglamesis and UDF, plus local creamy whips in the summer, you can enjoy ice cream – and toppings – every day of the year. (Every. Day. Even winter.)

John Roebling – He did it here first, folks.

The Suspension Bridge was his prototype for the albeit more famous Brooklyn Bridge. In designing the expanse over the Ohio River, Roebling gave us an all-timer of a city icon.

Kroger Wellness Festival – From free avocados to skincare samples and chef demos, the Kroger Wellness Festival is all about well-being, including physical, mental and emotional health.

Though the festivities got rained out last year, we’re looking forward to this year’s edition, with expert speakers, health brands, and activities to help us all be a little bit more healthy. And enjoy free lip balm.

Libraries – We love books! Which means we also love libraries!

Last year both the Main Branch of the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library and the Mercantile Library unveiled huge renovations, expanding their space for new generations of readers.

Did you know that the CHPL system is the third busiest in the country? Not only can you check out old-fashioned books, you can check out e-books, plus find music and movies. Don’t sleep on the Makerspace! Right now, you can download book-related Valentines.

The Mercantile – “a place for readers, writers, & thinkers since 1835” – has a gorgeous new space that retains all of its original cozy vibes. Drop in for a book discussion, work space, and even yoga.

Murals – It’s always stiff competition with Philly, but the murals throughout Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, most from ArtWorks, make our region the best for public art in the country.

Agree? Vote now!

New Riff – Are you a bourbon fan but always wished you could “buy local”? Enter New Riff.

This Newport-based distillery pays homage to the area’s illustrious whiskey history combined with modern innovations for a “new riff” that stands up to the world’s great whiskeys.

Along with their signature bourbon, they now offer rye, gin, and limited time blends. Plus you can take a tour to explore the bourbon distilling process. With a stop at the gift shop afterwards, of course!

Over-the-Rhine – From Central Parkway to the Northern Liberties, the bars, restaurants, and shop in OTR are at once historic and contemporary. Soak in the Italianate architecture that placed the neighborhood don the Register of Historic Places,

Parks – Cincinnati Parks constitutes of more than 5,000 acres, which accounts for about 10 percent of the City's total land area. Including Great Parks and Northern Kentucky in the mix, we’re lucky that most of us are only a few minutes drive – or walk! – to a park. All of that greenspace, and the access to it, makes it easy to get back to nature.

But the great debate is always where is the best view. Devou Park in Covington is in the running for the top spot, but check out Mount Echo in Price Hill, which offers views of both sides of the river!

Queen City – Who are we to argue with Henry Wadsworth Longfellow? This is OUR nickname.

Back off, Charlotte, and all other pretenders to the throne.

Reds – Are there sweeter words in the dreariness of winter than “Pitchers and catchers report.”? This, like every year before it, will be our year!

With Terry Francona at the helm, a strong pitching staff, and returning favorites (Elly! Steer! Stephenson! McLain!), I’ve got a good feeling about things. (But check back with me on March 29.)

Summerfair – Though Opening Day is our unofficial start of summer, things really heat up around this annual fine art and craft fair.

For almost 60 years Summerfair has brought some of the best artists from around the country to town, for a three-day celebration of art, music, and even food. Over the years, Summerfair has evolved to provide grants and awards for individual artists and small arts organizations.

Three-ways – It IS Valentine’s Day, after all.

Cheesy, spicy, carby – Whether you prefer Skyline, Gold Star, or your closet chili parlor, this is our regional comfort food dish extraordinaire.

Union Terminal – The largest half-dome structure in the western hemisphere? Check.

A drool-worthy – in more ways than one – Rookwood ice cream parlor? Check.

Big-ass dinosaurs? Check.

This art deco wonder is not just home to Cincinnati Museum Center, it’s also an architectural stunner worth a visit to stand in that magnificent rotunda.

Visit Cincy – Kudos to the team at Visit Cincy who, in tandem with Meet NKY, make sure everyone knows what a great place we are for business trips, romantic getaways, and family vacations.

When the redeveloped Convention Center opens next year, along with a new hotel, expect even bigger things downtown and in the region!

Water – Fittingly enough for a river city, Cincinnati’s water quality is consistently ranked among the best in the country. In 2024, Greater Cincinnati Water Works was ranked #1 by J.D. Power, plus local home brewers also vouch for the local H2O.

So there are no excuses to not get your eight glasses a day!

Xavier’s Blue Blog – We love a vaguely anthropomorphic mascot!

Who among us can’t relate to being goofy, wanting a hug, and always being there to support our taller, more handsome best friend.

YWCA – Founded in 1868, YWCA of Greater Cincinnati has a mission of “eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.” All of which is needed now more than ever.

Zoo – I know we singled out Fiona early, but really the whole place is amazing. Not only can you find adorable hippos and Zoo Babies, a merry and bright Festival of Lights, and animals from around the world, the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is internationally renowned for its work to protect and propagate endangered animals and plants.

 – Tricia Suit

Yours, Truly

If Love Story taught us one thing, it’s that “Love means never having to say you’re sorry.” Even if you’re not the best planner. So if you’re still looking for something to do this weekend with your Valentine, we’ve got a list you’ll ... well, love.

If your love is rare – and well done

Reservations remain for dinners at Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, Hard Rock Casino’s signature steakhouse, from Feb. 14 to 16. Dinner for two is $179 and includes appetizers, entrees, sides and dessert.

Turn on your heartlight

Ready for something a little less formal? Join your favorite bars at The Banks for a Stoplight Bar Crawl. Red means you’re taken, yellow means ... maybe … and green means single and ready to mingle. It’s Friday, Feb. 14 from 8 to 11 p.m.

Love don’t cost a thing

OK, so cash is a little thin. Here are some options that won’t break the bank.

Stroll the Cincinnati Art Museum and its vast collections, and take full advantage of its world-class works … and free admission. You can also buy tickets to the new exhibit from Shazia Sikander, which opens on Valentine’s Day.   A free public tour celebrating Black artists is available on Valentine’s Day from 1-2pm.

Show them you love them with all of your art – at Summerfair Cincinnati’s Emerging Artists event. It opens Feb. 13 at the Clifton Cultural Arts Center, supporting the next generation of Cincinnati artists.

Findlay Market continues the celebration Sunday, Feb. 16 with a Sweet and Savory Stroll from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pick up tasting tickets to try delicious samples from participating merchants. Need a last-minute gift? Check out the market’s gift guide for deliciously local ideas!

Sing of love

Get swept off your feet at Sweetheart Serenade: A Cabaret with the Ladies of ETC. Enjoy an evening of love songs at this cabaret celebrating the most romantic day of the year. ETC favorites Torie Wiggins (His Eye Is on the Sparrow, Violet), Sara Mackie (Fun Home, Fiona: The Musical), Aleah Vassell (Hands on a Hardbody), and more will be emceed by Andrew Maloney and accompanied by Steve Goers.

This event will be at Liberty Exhibition Hall, 3938 Spring Grove Ave, in Northside, on Friday, Feb. 14, with cocktails and light bites at 6 p.m. and music at 7 p.m.

 Lock in love

Show your Valentine you’re in it for the long haul by planning ahead! Pick up cruise tickets to America’s River Roots Festival, set for Oct. 8 to 12.

Love at first bite

Try a new spot with your loved one – Vintage on Race, in the old Macy’s downtown, featuring upscale cocktails and classic America fare with a twist in a warm, athletics club-like setting.

Or, take your soy-mate to enjoy some of Cincinnati’s finest sushi at Baru on Race St. If you’re an early bird, good news: you can score a deal - even on a Valentine’s Day Friday night – with happy hour from 4–6 p.m.

Either are the perfect way to start the night before heading to Fountain Square, where you can enjoy the last weekend of ice skating on the rink there.

– Kathrine Nero

Working Day and Night

It might still be cold outside, but summer fun is right around the corner!

It’s not too early to start thinking about summer jobs. Kings Island is holding Jobs Open House this Saturday, Feb. 15, from 9  a.m. to 1 p.m., Interested candidates can learn more about what it’s like to work at the park, what jobs are available, and how to apply.

The 364-acre amusement park in Mason, Ohio is hiring more than 5,000 workers for the 2025 season, with pay ranging from $14 – $23 per hour. Positions available include ride operators, food and beverage, lifeguards, merchandise, games, and security. Find moreinformation at visitkingsisland.com/jobs .

Did you know, you don’t have to live in the Cincinnati area to work at Kings Island? Louisville, Indianapolis, Columbus residents are eligible for affordable housing as seasonal associates. Find out more at www.visitkingsisland.com/life.

The Big Picture

Two premieres were held in Cincinnati last year – “Shirley” and “The Bikeriders.” 

“Shirley”

A powerful biographical drama, Shirley stars Regina King as Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress and the first to run for president of the United States in 1972. The film chronicles Chisholm’s groundbreaking political campaign, exploring the challenges, triumphs, and resilience of a woman who changed the face of American politics. King delivers a commanding performance, embodying Chisholm’s courage, determination, and wit. Cincinnati’s historic architecture and civic spaces doubled as Washington, D.C., and various campaign stops across the nation. Locations such as City Hall and Memorial Hall were transformed to reflect the 1970s, providing an authentic and visually striking setting for the film’s narrative. 

“The Bikeriders” (2023)

This gritty drama, directed by Jeff Nichols, delves into the world of a fictional Midwestern motorcycle gang during the 1960s. Starring Austin Butler, Tom Hardy, and Jodie Comer, the film captures the rebellion, camaraderie, and personal struggles of its members as they navigate loyalty and betrayal. Cincinnati served as a key filming location, with its mix of urban and rural landscapes recreating the era’s authenticity, showcasing its streets and outskirts as a perfect Midwestern backdrop.

Film Cincinnati, the not-for-profit organization that works to promote Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky as a destination for film, commercial, and television production, announced today that Cincinnati is once again on MovieMaker’s list of the best places to live and work as a moviemaker.

Cincinnati ranks 11th on the list of best places for a moviemaker, ranking ahead of Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Kansas City, among others.

MovieMaker compiles its annual list based on surveys, production spending, tax incentives, additional research, and personal visits, whenever possible.

“We are proud to be named to the MovieMaker best places to live and work as a moviemaker list again this year,” said Kristen Schlotman, President/CEO of Film Cincinnati. “The recognition is a testament to the talented cast and crew who live and work here, and who keep the film industry so strong in Greater Cincinnati.”

In 2024, Film Cincinnati bid and won the honor of hosting a global film industry conference, the Association of Film Commissions International Cineposium in September, 2025.

Also, in 2024, Cincinnati submitted a bid to host the Sundance Film Festival beginning in 2027 and remains one of three U.S. cities (Boulder, Salt Lake City/Park City) still vying with a decision to be made this spring.

“Hosting the Sundance Film Festival in Cincinnati would have a significant impact on the region’s economy and is another opportunity to highlight the work of nurturing independent filmmaking for nearly 40 years,” said Schlotman.

The 2024 Sundance Film Festival economic impact is available here.

On the production side, Film Cincinnati hosted a number of film productions and premieres. In 2024, Cincinnati hosted the production of several notable films: “Nutcrackers,” “Superman: Legacy,” “Alarum,” “The Mastermind” and “Furever Home.”

What’s Cooking?

Long before the Food Network convinced us to add a little EVOO to our dishes and Gordon Ramsay was cursing at would-be chefs, Julie Child was inspiring at-home cooks to try something new and enjoy the process of creating meals.

Now you can rediscover the magic of her work at Cincinnati Museum Center (CMC) with the new exhibit. Julia Child: A Recipe for Life, created and toured by Flying Fish. This intimate immersive exhibition encourages guests to fall in love all over again with the person who made America fall in love with cooking.

“Julia reveled in cooking’s joy, not in its perfection,” said Elizabeth Pierce, president & CEO of Cincinnati Museum Center. “Because Julia broke a few eggs, we see a generation of amateur chefs trying, sometimes failing, often succeeding, but always enjoying the community of cooking. We’re excited to share Julia’s joy and her recipe for life.”

Julia Child: A Recipe for Life explores the key ingredients that led to Julia’s personal evolution and America’s culinary revolution in a fresh and exciting exhibition filled with immersive opportunities. Julia’s insatiable curiosity and tenacious spirit drove her to endlessly try, test, prove and communicate how to make delicious food. Learning to cook empowered Julia, and she in turn empowered others, profoundly transforming American cuisine and food culture.

This exploration of Julia Child’s life takes a deep dive into key, inspiring moments of her life, as well as the family and friends who supported her career, providing a full view of Jane’s life beyond her fame as a television personality and author. You can enjoy interactive spaces where they can embrace your inner Julia, stepping inside the television studio and onto the set of The French Chef, complete with a vintage, operable video camera. You can also see photography by Paul Child, Julia’s husband, as well as her personal papers and favorite kitchen tools.  You can even climb into the bathtub to recreate Julia’s and Paul’s famous Valentine’s Day card in a photo op that wonderfully encapsulates Julia’s joyous spirit.

“The Foundation, which Julia created to carry on her contributions, marvels at how Julia’s example still inspire individuals to learn to cook and pursue their dreams as well as make our food more delicious and sustainable,” said Todd Schulkin, executive director of The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts. “As one of the most comprehensive portraits of Julia’s story and legacy, Julia Child: A Recipe for Life is not to be missed.”

Julia Child: A Recipe for Life is a touring exhibition produced and managed by Flying Fish, developed in collaboration with the Napa Valley Museum, under rights granted by The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts and The Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University and generously supported by Oceania Cruises.

Infinite Hope

Monday, Jan. 20

Doors open 8 a.m.
Continental breakfast 8-8:30 a.m.
Program 8:30 a.m.

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
50 East Freedom Way at The Banks

More information at freedomcenter.org.

As the nation commemorates the 30th anniversary of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, Dr. King’s life and legacy will be honored with a series of events at The Banks.

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center hosts a morning of music, reflection and call to action in celebration of King's life. The Center will also host the MLK Fifth Third Community Day on Monday, with free admission for all and special programming.

The 2025 King Legacy Celebration includes a continental breakfast, with speakers and musical performances.

Hosted by Courtis Fuller, the event includes a keynote address by Dr. Wendy Ellis.

Ellis is the inaugural director of the Institute for Racial, Ethnic and Socioeconomic Equity and the founding director of the Center for Community Resilience at George Washington University. In this role, she shapes infrastructure to support impactful research dedicated to eradicating racial, ethnic and socioeconomic inequity. In less than 20 years, she has inspired a global “resilience movement” by developing tools, frameworks and research methods to address systemic inequities that contribute to social and health disparities.

“We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.”

— Martin Luther King Jr.

The Freedom Center program also includes music from Dr. Lisa Moore, director of Music Ministry, A.M.E. Zion Church and Elementz, the city’s Cincinnati’s premier Hip Hop Cultural Art Center

The King Legacy Celebration is followed by the 50th anniversary of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Freedom March. The march begins outside the Freedom Center at 10:30 a.m. This year’s theme is “Jubilee for MLK’s Beloved Community” and draws from Dr. King's 1960 Freedom Jubilee speech in Pittsburgh, where he celebrated the spirit of renewal and the ongoing fight for equality. This year, the march includes a segment for children, “Land of Superheroes,” presented by the Bootsy Collins Foundation Greater Cincinnati, to celebrate the legacy of Dr. King through music and creative expression.

Among those joining in the march will be representatives from YWCA Greater Cincinnati, who invite supporters to wear persimmon and stand in solidarity.

The Freedom Center will be open, with free admission, on Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with activities and programs, including the Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. blood drive. All Freedom Center donors will receive an MLK T-shirt, Hoxworth joggers, PLUS a bonus eGift card. To schedule an appointment, call (513) 451-0910 or visit hoxworth.org/mlk. The event is led by Hoxworth Blood Center, University of Cincinnati, in partnership with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority

Other programs include an “Own Your Home! Free Homeownership Workshop,” story times, performances by rapper Noah Hawes and DJ De’Ariss Hope, and a children's activity station in the Harriet Tubman Theater.

A Warm Welcome

We all know Cincinnati is a great place to live, but it’s also an incredible place to visit!

In a new study by Tourism Economics, the impact report shows that visitors spend $4.4 billion dollars in Hamilton County and when Northern Kentucky tourism is included, the impact increases to $6.5 billion dollars, resulting in more than $17 million dollars a day. In Hamilton County alone, more than 46,000 people are employed in tourism, and visitor spending contributed $229 million dollars in local taxes. Visitors accounted for 25 percent of all local business revenue, up 8 percent from the previous year.

The report was one part of the Visit Cincy annual meeting, held Wednesday at the Sharonville Convention Center with nearly 500 business professionals, civic leaders and members of the regional hospitality industry in attendance, including Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval, Hamilton County Commissioner Denise Driehaus and Sharonville Mayor Kevin Hardman.

“The new economic impact study demonstrates how important the tourism industry is to our community with new dollars circulating, contributing to our tax base, attracting talent and business investment, and enriching our quality of life,” said Julie Calvert, president and CEO of Visit Cincy.

Visit Cincy’s strategic sales and marketing efforts achieved impressive results in 2024. Despite the closed Duke Energy Convention Center, Visit Cincy exceeded its sales goal by 11 percent, which represents $95 million in attendee spending with an economic impact of more than $176 million dollars. 

Last year, Visit Cincy developed a new strategic campaign, “Meetings Made Cincy,” designed to connect regional meeting professionals to the unique venues and hospitality services in the Cincy region. The regional approach for foundational short-term business was coupled with aggressive planning and promotion of what’s next in the region. Visit Cincy launched its “The Future Meets in Cincy” campaign to initiate the sales process for new and reinvented assets to reach a national and global audience. Additionally, Visit Cincy has fully restaffed its Washington, D.C. office, enhancing a national presence which is already yielding significant results.

At the Visit Cincy annual meeting, the following were elected as directors: 

• Brendon Cull, President & CEO, Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber

• Bobby Spann, Vice President of Air Service, CVG Airport

• Katie Westbrook, Senior Vice President of Development, 3CDC

• Stephanie Smith, Senior Vice President and Chief Inclusion and Diversity Officer, Fifth Third Bank

• Doug Moorman, Mayor of Madeira, Ohio

• Stephanie Summerow Dumas, Vice President, Hamilton County Commission

New officers were also introduced and they are:

• Chair Scott Robertson, Chairman at RCF Group,

• Vice Chair Bobbi Dillion, Senior Manager of Government Affairs, P&G

• Secretary/Treasurer Steve Mullinger, Regional President, Huntington Bank

Katie Westbrook, senior vice president of development for 3CDC, the organization responsible for development of the Convention District project, shared an update for the reopening of the project. The $240 million-dollar downtown Convention Center is being modernized with state-of-the-art amenities, meeting spaces, technology, dramatic rooftop terrace and the new Elm Street Plaza. The project, which is on schedule to be completed by the end of December 2025 includes vendors representing minority-owned companies (23 percent of the project), women-owned businesses (14 percent) and unions (63 percent). Additionally, the hotel brand for the 800-room hotel, located adjacent to the Duke Energy Convention Center, will be announced this spring. Download images from the convention center reinvention here.

The $24 million dollar expansion of the Sharonville Convention Center opened up the northern suburbs, hotels, and the facilities for larger shows, meetings, and events earlier this year. To that end, Visit Cincy established its first-ever dedicated room night goal for the northern Hamilton County hotels, and it was exceeded by 28 percent this year.

This year, the Visit Cincy Foundation for Hospitality Excellence was established to improve education, create job opportunities, and enhance cultural impact to ensure Cincinnati is a place where everyone feels a sense of belonging and respect. 

A new program called Inclusive Hospitality was introduced at the meeting as a commitment to embed a culture of inclusion in both internal programming and external outreach. Through the Inclusive Hospitality initiatives, Visit Cincy will expand its share of diverse meetings and tourism markets, and engage with community events in impactful ways, connecting the region’s visitors with diverse experiences and vendors. 

A new collaboration was announced with BlaCk OWned Outerwear on a Visit Cincy line of merchandise, including bomber jackets and shirts. The line is being used to represent Cincy at national trade shows and events.  

Last year, the Dan Lincoln Institute for Hospitality Leadership expanded into four schools, including a groundbreaking program with the residents of LADD, Inc. The IHL curriculum is designed to create pathways for diverse leadership in our industry, preparing students for careers in hospitality. 

Visit Cincy has a partnership with the Cincinnati Business Committee and Cincinnati Regional Business Committee to reorganize and develop a funding plan for a new Sports Commission relaunch and boost sports tourism in the area to attract top-level sporting events. Over the last year, the new organization has been incorporated with the state of Ohio and seated a new board which will be expanded later this month. Organizational leadership will be selected in the near future. 

“The sports events tourism industry is an important business segment for our region,” said Calvert. “Nationwide, the sports-events industry delivered $128 billion dollars in total economic impact, and more than 200 million people every year travel to youth and adult amateur sports, and collegiate championships.”

Over this next year, leaders of America’s creative economy will pay a visit to Cincinnati for their annual meetings and to learn about how Cincinnati leads with cultural vibrancy. The Americans for the Arts annual convention will visit in June and the American Association for State and Local History Museums convenes in Cincinnati in September. 

Cincinnati is also on the short list to host the iconic Sundance Film Festival beginning in 2027 and the decision will be announced this spring. The bid effort which began in April 2024 is being led by Film Cincinnati. 

In addition, America's River Roots festival, scheduled for October 8–12, will officially kick off America’s 250th birthday celebration. The festival will feature riverboat cruises, music, food, and educational programs that celebrate Ohio River culture and how it helped shape our region and the entire country.

Spirit of Cincinnati Awards

The Visit Cincy Spirit of Cincinnati Awards recognizes the influencers and advocates of the local hospitality region who have gone above and beyond to drive the Cincinnati region forward. 

A special recognition, the Pinnacle Legacy Award, was presented to pay tribute to Candace McGraw, CEO of Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, who is retiring this summer.

Candace McGraw, CEO, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport

Candace McGraw has been the Chief Executive Officer of the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport since 2011. During her tenure, she has led the transformation of CVG into one of North America's best regional airports and a global cargo superpower. CVG is now the sixth-largest cargo airport by volume in North America and the 12th largest in the world. She has overseen the arrival of new low-cost carriers, helped land deals with Amazon and DHL to build their mega hubs here, and worked with British Airways to establish a direct flight from Cincinnati to London. McGraw was appointed to serve on two U.S. Department of Transportation boards and currently serves as chair of the Airports Council International World Governing Board, the first woman ever to do so.

Jean-Robert de Cavel Champion Awards recognize those who have worked directly with the Visit Cincy team to bring important meetings to the Cincy region. The honorees are:

Alecia Kintner, President and CEO, ArtsWave & Visit Cincy Board Member

As a longtime member of the Americans for the Arts, Kintner’s leadership was pivotal to bring this June’s Americans for the Arts annual meeting to Cincinnati this June. This important organization, which focuses on advocacy for the arts in cities nationwide, will bring in more than a thousand room nights to downtown hotels.

Rebekah Beaulieu, President and CEO, Taft Museum of Art and Whitney Owens, Chief Learning Officer, Cincinnati Museum Center

Beaulieu and Owens played pivotal roles in bringing the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) to Cincinnati this September. This organization of history organizations across the United States requires local champions who ensure attendees experience something special. Both mobilized the public history and museum community in Cincinnati, building support for the conference. Their work not only supports our local heritage but also enhances Cincinnati's profile in national cultural and heritage discussions.

JobsOhio

The JobsOhio team played a pivotal role in bringing the Forbes Under 30 Summit to Cincinnati last September. Over four days, the summit brought together some of the world’s top young leaders. The summit also utilized unique local venues to enhance the experience: the first-ever Forbes Women in Sports Summit took place at TQL Stadium, while the main events were hosted at the Andrew J. Brady Music Center, each adding a distinct flavor to the gathering. 

Erich Kunzel Queen City Advocate Award recognizes those whose actions have attracted positive media coverage of the Cincy region. The honorees were:

ArtWorks

ArtWorks has truly transformed Cincinnati into a vibrant canvas of public art, not only elevating our region’s arts profile, but also attracting international attention for it. In 2024, Cincinnati earned the title of the number one city for street art by readers of USA Today. This art has caught the attention of travel writers as well and has been featured in Forbes Magazine for BLINK and the Irish TV show Ed Finn's America.

American Legacy Tours

American Legacy Tours tells the Cincy region’s stories to visitors from around the world through engaging and educational experiences. These tours have become a favorite of travel media, providing journalists with a foundational background and understanding of our rich culture and heritage for their coverage. As close partners with Visit Cincy and meetNKY’s media outreach, they have been featured in National Geographic Traveler, the Toronto Sun and Midwest Living.

Horace Sudduth Progressive Business Award honors people and organizations that demonstrate sustained commitment to diversity through leadership in areas like supplier diversity and workforce development. The honoree was

Metro

Metro exemplifies diversity, equity, and inclusion both within its workforce and in the community it serves. Over the past two years, Metro has significantly increased spending with disadvantaged and small businesses, earning accolades such as "System of the Year" by the Ohio Department of Transportation Division of Opportunity, Diversity, & Inclusion, and "Best Place to Work for Women of Color." Metro also sponsors local community events that align with its mission of fostering DEI throughout the region.

Partnership Award recognizes an individual or organization that partnered with the CVB to make significant contributions to the local meetings and tourism industry. This honoree was: 

Bogart’s

Bogart's, a venue synonymous with legendary concerts, demonstrated its versatility as an event venue by partnering with us to host 'Meetings Made Cincy: Live at Bogart's.' This innovative event showcased Cincinnati’s unique venues and services to regional meeting professionals in a setting that many could not have envisioned. The message to attendees: Cincy is open for meetings business. Their generous sponsorship and willingness to reimagine their iconic venue wowed attendees and united the industry. The event welcomed more than 200 people, including dozens of meeting planners and the media, highlighting the incredible experiences the Cincy region offers. 

The Wendell P. Dabney Award recognizes an individual or organization that has diversified the hospitality industry. The honoree was: 

Alandes Powell, Black Art Speaks

Alandes Powell has made a remarkable impact as the visionary and founder of Black Art Speaks, an arts collective designed to promote black culture, social justice, and expression through the uplifting of Black artists' voices through every form of art. From leading powerful BLINK projects to creating the Black Lives Matter mural and the thought-provoking film 'We Love Us,' Powell has amplified the voices of Cincinnati’s Black community in ways that inspire and resonate.

Pinnacle Award for Outstanding Service honors an individual on the front line of the hospitality industry who sets an example through excellent customer service and pride in the Cincy community. The honoree was:

Novella Nimmo-Black, Community Engagement Manager at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

Novella Nimmo-Black, Community Engagement Manager at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, goes beyond her daily responsibilities to bring the stories of the Underground Railroad to life for visitors and journalists on specialized tours, delving into the important message of the Center and its location. Novella learned of her own ancestors' enslavement and journey at the Freedom Center’s research facility, and tells others her story to make very real human connections to our history. With her passion and intensity, it's not uncommon for her audience to be moved to tears.