Tumbling Dice

Get ready to (rock ‘n’) roll! After months of renovations, including new games, new murals, and the installation of decades-worth of music memorabilia, Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati officially opens to the public on Friday, Oct. 29.

On Oct. 29 at 11 a.m., Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati will re-open as the iconic brand with their famous Guitar Smash led by celebrities and members of the Seminole Tribe of Florida as well as Hard Rock Casino executives. 

Following the Guitar Smash, baseball legend Pete Rose will place the first bet at Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati and autograph the official Hard Rock Casino guitar specially made for the casino’s memorabilia collection.

The first live performance at the Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati will be by Earth, Wind & Fire, the GRAMMY® Award-winning R&B band that spans decades of top hits from “Shining Star," "Sing a Song," “September” and "After the Love Has Gone."

“We know our Grand Opening will be a big hit with the Hit King Pete Rose and Earth, Wind & Fire here to celebrate with our guests,” said George Goldhoff, president of Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati. “The Hard Rock Casino brand is globally recognized as a leader in gaming and entertainment. We know our guests will be delighted with our new restaurant, retail, and gaming experiences.”

Over the last few months, Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati has introduced new restaurant and retail experiences to guests. On Oct. 25, Council Oak Steaks & Seafood opened. In July, the Hard Rock Cafe Cincinnati opened, and in April, the Rock Shop® opened.

Squad Goals

Even if you don’t know a “false nine” from a “big four,” you know the World Cup is a very big deal. This week, the 2026 Cincy Local Organizing Committee is hosting the FIFA and US Soccer Delegation for a site visit of Paul Brown Stadium, soccer training facilities and Fan Fest locations.

Cincinnati is one of 17 U.S. cities vying to host FIFA World Cup in 2026 with 10-11 American cities to be chosen in early 2022. In 2026, the field of teams will expand from 32 to 48 making it the largest sporting event in the world.

On Friday, Oct. 22, the 2026 Cincy LOC will hold a free Street Festival on Freedom Way at The Banks to encourage the community to welcome FIFA to Cincinnati.

The first 500 who register at 2026Cincy.com will receive two free tickets to the FCC match on Nov. 7, be eligible to win two free tickets to USA vs. Mexico on Nov. 12 and get a free Soccer City commemorative T-shirt.

The community is encouraged to wear their favorite soccer jersey or red, white and blue gear.

The schedule of events:

2 p.m. – Free LaRosa’s pizza on Walnut at Freedom Way, first beer free (21+) at the Moerlein Lager House, live music by the Cincinnati Music Accelerator and the DORA District at The Banks is open

2:45 p.m. – FC Cincinnati supporters gather at Walnut and Freedom to march the 32 country flags of the last World Cup played in 2018 to Paul Brown Stadium. All welcome to join the march

3–3:30 p.m. – FIFA Press Conference at Paul Brown Stadium, Gate D, at Elm Street

3–5 p.m. – 2026 Cincy Street Party continues

Into the Woods

Hear some of the most talented voices the Cincinnati region has to offer at the Winton Woods Amphitheater on Oct. 16.

Kick things off with rich, authentic performances from Elementz, Cincinnati’s premier Hip Hop cultural art center.

Then catch the smooth, confident vocals of rising star Lauren Eylise, who was highlighted as a standout on NPR’s 2020 Tiny Desk Contest.

Each month, Enjoy the Arts @ Parks, presented by Macy's, showcases the diversity and excellence of Greater Cincinnati’s arts at parks across the region.

When you make a first-time $75+ donation to ArtsWave, or increase your donation by 10%+ if you’re already a donor, you’ll get a Great Parks of Hamilton County Motor Vehicle Permit as our thank you gift. You can use that permit throughout the year as you “enjoy the arts @ parks” with us.

Teenage Dream

If You Go

William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet
Now Oct. 8 – Nov. 13

Otto M. Budig Theater
1195 Elm Street Cincinnati, OH 45202

For tickets and information visit cincyshakes.com/event/romeo-and-juliet/.

With 580 days since the last audience attended a performance, Cincinnati Shakespeare is thrilled to be re-opening the Mainstage of The Otto M. Budig Theater with Romeo and Juliet.

The production is directed by longtime Company-member Darnell Pierre Benjamin and features a cast of 16 Resident Ensemble Members. 

William Shakespeare's timeless tale of two star-crossed lovers and the feuding families who tear them apart, returns in all of its everlasting grandeur. Revel in lavish masked balls, rousing street brawls, tragic young love, and some of the most exquisite poetry ever penned, all in a traditional Elizabethan setting. Fall in love again for the first time.

The star-crossed lovers in Romeo and Juliet are Courtney Lucien and Crystian Wiltshire.  Both actors frequently appear at CSC, with Lucien last appearing in Pride and Prejudice, and Crystian Wiltshire appearing last in The Merry Wives of Windsor and All the Way. Wiltshire has also recently joined Cincinnati Shakespeare as its new Associate Artistic Director.

This production’s design is generously sponsored by Marcene and Jim Kinney.  Romeo and Juliet is part of Shakespeare in American Communities, a program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest.

At this time, all ticketholders must be masked as well as show proof of a full COVID vaccination status OR provide a negative COVID test to enter The Otto M. Budig Theater. More details on the exact procedure will be shared with with theatregoers prior to the performance. 

By Design

If You Go

Luba Lukova: Designing Justice 
Freedom Center’s Skirball Gallery
Opens Oct. 8, continues through March 22, 2022.
Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for children and free for Freedom Center Members.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit freedomcenter.org/designingjustice.

“The power of art is the power to transform. Luba Lukova’s artwork encourages viewers to look inward as they stand before her images, revealing as much about individuals as it does society,” says Woodrow Keown, Jr., president & COO of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.

In their continuing fight for social justice, The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is turning to art with Luba Lukova: Designing Justice, a portfolio of social commentary prints and posters.

Luba Lukova: Designing Justice addresses essential themes of humanity and injustices worldwide through images embedded with thought-provoking messages. Lukova’s artwork helps viewers develop empathy for social and cultural issues through the use of metaphors and bold, succinct symbols that communicates universal truths about desire, fear, creation, hope and man’s endless capacity for love and hate. Among the themes addressed are peace, censorship, immigration, ecology, hunger and corruption. By the time guests leave the exhibition they will have been reminded that social issues across the globe demand to be addressed – and changed – through the commitment of well-intentioned individuals. In all, Lukova’s images help provide inspiration for each of us to be a force for good in the world.

“Designing Justice is a powerful addition to our museum experience and adds another critical step in guests’ personal journey as they reflect on the world around them and who they are in it,” says Keown, Jr.

The exhibition is curated by New York-based artist Luba Lukova, regarded as one of the most original image-makers working today. In her art, less is more – more effect, more message, more expression. She works in saturated colors, sharp lines and clear compositions to create elegantly streamlined images that is both aesthetically beautifully and intellectually powerful. Her art is on display in permanent collections of the Museum of Modern Art in New York; Denver Art Museum; Bibliothèque nationale de France in Paris; Hong Kong Heritage Museum; Centre de la Gravure et de l'Image imprimée in La Louviere, Belgium; and the Library of Congress and the World Bank in Washington, D.C. Her solo exhibitions has been displayed in Paris, Japan, Taiwan, New York, Boston and Atlanta. Lukova has been nominated for a Grammy for best recording package design for her cover of Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington at the Cote D’Azur and has been awarded Grand Prix Savignac/World’s Most Memorable Poster at the International Poster Salon in Paris; the Gold Pencil from The One Club in New York; Honor Laureate at the International Poster Exhibition in Fort Collins, CO; and a grant from the Reisman Foundation.

Fast Pitch

If You Go

U.S. Women’s National Team vs. Paraguay
Thursday, Sept. 21, 7:30 p.m.
TQL Stadium, 1501 Central Pkwy
Ticket information.

On TV: FS1, TUDN

Following a decisive victory over Paraguay in Cleveland, the U.S. Women’s National Team is looking for continued success in Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on Sept. 21.

Meg Ryan, chief marketing officer, FC Cincinnati

“When we built and opened TQL Stadium, we did so with events like this in mind,” says Meg Ryan, chief marketing officer with FC Cincinnati. “The passion and dedication of our city, our fans and our team has put us at the forefront of the American soccer landscape, and we’re honored that both the U.S. Men’s and Women’s National teams have chosen to play at TQL Stadium.”

At the game in Cleveland, legendary forward Carli Lloyd led the team, tying a team record with five goals in a single match, as the USA defeated Paraguay 9-0 in the USA’s first match after the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. This was Lloyd’s fourth to last game for the U.S. Women’s National Team ahead of her retirement.

The USWNT’s home unbeaten streak now stands at 59 games, which includes 54 wins and five draws. During that stretch, the U.S. has outscored its opponents 213-27, including an 83-3 margin during its last 20 matches at home

“We anticipate seeing a lot of Red, White and Blue, in addition to the typical Orange and Blue at our FC Cincinnati home matches,” says Ryan. “We are expecting a crowd of over 22,000 for the U.S. Women’s National Team match, and it is sure to be a great environment.”

In their first season at TQL Stadium, FC Cincinnati has enjoyed strong fan support, despite a losing record.

“We have seen the passion that our fans have for FC Cincinnati, and we are excited to see that passion on display again for the U.S. Women’s National Team in their match on Tuesday night,” says Ryan.  “We are committed to growing the game of soccer in our city and bringing the best female soccer players in the world to Cincinnati and this match is a great catalyst for that.”

Of course, fans aren’t coming just to see the four-time World Cup winning women’s team. They have a special, homegrown, reason to go to the game.

“Rose Lavelle is a Cincinnati legend and quickly becoming a U.S. Soccer legend,” says Ryan. “We are excited for her to come back to her hometown and play in this world-class stadium.”

Stars and Stripes Forever

If You Go

DAV Centennial Celebration
Tuesday, Sept. 28, 7 p.m.
Music Hall, 1241 Elm St.

Tickets are $28 and are now on sale at www.dav.org/pops.

DAV (Disabled American Veterans) will mark their Centennial Celebration with the Cincinnati Pops.

Led by Pops Conductor John Morris Russell, the performance will feature a dozen musical tributes telling the story and milestones of military history from World War I through modern service. The West Point Glee Club and “American Idol” star Melinda Doolittle will also perform with the orchestra.

This event will celebrate this special milestone in DAV’s history and honor the millions of brave men and women they have helped to live with respect and dignity after being injured while serving our country.

Founded in Cincinnati in the aftermath of World War I, DAV has assisted veterans of all generations and their families in the ensuing century.

“When Judge Robert Marx and a handful of other World War I veterans founded DAV in 1920, they couldn’t have known the scope of its impact over the next century,” said Marc Burgess, CEO of DAV. “They couldn’t have imagined that the organization would go on to assist more than 1 million veterans and their families each year.

"We are deeply grateful for our friends at the Harold C. Schott Foundation, Diane J. and Robert A. McDonald Family Foundation, Chisholm, Chisholm, and Kilpatrick LTD, Crosby Marketing Communications, and Ford Motor Co. whose generous support helped to make this special event possible. We are also deeply appreciative of the Cincinnati Pops, West Point Glee Club and Melinda Doolittle for their performances in honor of DAV and the heroes we serve.”

Under Wraps

All Aboard!

The Cincinnati Bell Connector is free to ride every day. The streetcar’s operating hours are

• Monday–Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.

• Saturday: 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.

• Sunday: 9:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.

 Learn more about the Cincinnati Bell Connector and see photos of the new wrap at cincinnatibellconnector.com.

The City of Cincinnati, ArtsWave and Cincinnati Bell Inc. are celebrating the five-year anniversary of the Cincinnati Bell Connector with a special “Music Hall” themed streetcar that made its public debut today, Thursday, Sept. 9.

“We have one of the most vibrant arts scenes in the country thanks to our generous donors and loyal patrons,” sayss Alecia Kintner, president and CEO of ArtsWave. “This fall will bring with it arts for everyone to enjoy and, at the same time, employment for the thousands of actors, performers, musicians, artists and staff associated with our arts organizations in Cincinnati. We welcome everyone’s return as we come together in person again to enjoy the arts and support our artists.”   

Leigh Fox, President and CEO of Cincinnati Bell, said the arts theme is a natural choice for the streetcar's new look.   

“The arts play an essential role in making Greater Cincinnati the incredible place it is to live, work and play,” said Fox, a former chair of the ArtsWave fundraising campaign.

Cincinnati Bell bought naming rights to the city’s streetcar system at the time it began passenger service on Sept. 9, 2016. 

“After the challenges of the pandemic, live arts are returning and we are celebrating our connections to everything Cincinnati,” added Travis Jeric, Streetcar Director. "This is the first Connector to don a new arts-oriented look. The appearance of our other four Connectors will also be individually reimagined over the next year. We look forward to sharing more about the different designs in the months ahead.” 

The fall season includes arts programs throughout the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region. View a complete listing at ArtsWave Guide, the region’s arts calendar.  

Big Shot

If You Go

Billy Joel at Great American Ball Park

Friday, Sept. 10, doors open at 6 p.m., show time at 8 p.m.

Buy Tickets

The only acceptable way for a Mets’ fan to be on the field at Great American Ball Park is if he’s playing piano. Legendary musician Billy Joel will perform live at Great American Ball Park. This performance will be Joel’s stadium show in Cincninati

Joel is one of the biggest concert draws in the world and continues this achievement with an impressive run of sold-out consecutive stadium shows and concert arenas. Having sold 150 million records over the past quarter century, scoring 33 consecutive Top 40 hits, Joel ranks as one of most popular recording artists and respected entertainers in history. The singer/songwriter/composer is the sixth best-selling recording artist of all time and the third best-selling solo artist. In 2016, the Library of Congress selected “Piano Man” for preservation in the National Recording Registry for its “cultural, historic, and artistic significance.”

In November 2014, Joel received both The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song which honors living musical artists' lifetime achievement in promoting the genre of song as a vehicle of cultural understanding; entertaining and informing audiences; and inspiring new generations, and the once-in-a-century ASCAP Centennial Award, which is presented to American music icons in recognition of their incomparable accomplishments in their respective music genres and beyond.

In December 2013, Joel received The Kennedy Center Honors, one of the United States' top cultural awards. He is also the recipient of six GRAMMY® Awards, including the prestigious Grammy Legend Award. Joel has been inducted into the Songwriter's Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and has received numerous industry awards including a TONY AWARD for “Movin’ Out,” a Broadway musical based on Joel's music. For his accomplishments as a musician and as a humanitarian, Joel was honored as the 2002 MusiCares Person Of The Year by the MusiCares Foundation and the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences. Billy Joel: New York State of Mind, the documentary film, explores Joel's unprecedented franchise at Madison Square Garden and the film won five New York Emmys at the 61st Annual NY Emmy Awards in April 2018.

Joel has also performed alongside other music greats at two of Madison Square Garden's most extraordinary benefit concerts - “12-12-12, The Concert For Sandy Relief,” which raised awareness and money for those affected by Hurricane Sandy and “The Concert for New York City,” which was held to help aid 9/11 victims and heroes.

Roaring Back

Though the Bengals end preseason play on Sunday, Aug. 29, it will nevertheless be a day of new beginnings.

As fans head to Paul Brown Stadium this season, looking forward to that first beer and first win, they will also see some changes at for gameday.

Before the game, fans can start their celebration at the new Jungle Zone on the lawn of The Andrew J Brady ICON Music Center across from Paul Brown Stadium. The Jungle Zone opens at 2 p.m. and features music, food, drinks and games for all ages. Fans can meet members of the Stripes Squad and watch the Ben-Gals perform before heading over to the game.

One important thing fans also need to know is that as of Aug. 29, Paul Brown Stadium is cashless. All purchases in the stadium must be made using a credit card, debit card or mobile payment. This includes all purchases, from the concession stands to retail locations. Roaming vendors will have mobile credit card devices to process cashless payments.

If you do bring cash, PBS has cash-to-card kiosks that can transfer cash to a card (with no fees) which can be used anywhere, not just at the stadium.

The most welcome development at PBS on Sunday will no doubt be the return of Joe Burrow. Bengals head coach Zac Taylor expects Burrow to take the field for what the coach describes as a “very limited number of snaps.”

“It will be good to get him out there in front of the home crowd in a very similar environment to week one in terms of being at home, time of day,” Taylor said. “It will be good to get guys next to each other in the huddle with the coaches on the field and the fans cheering them on.”

Burrow’s return is timed perfectly with the Bengals’ new pregame ritual, the Ruler of The Jungle ceremony. Though kickoff is at 4 p.m., fans are asked to be in their seats by 3:45 p.m. to participate in what is set to become a new tradition.

From a jungle-themed throne, the Ruler of The Jungle will lead the crowd in the “Who Dey” chant right before kickoff to create a more energetic gameday environment.

The inaugural Ruler of The Jungle will be James “JB” Brown. A fan since 1968, Brown was well known by early Bengal player, even gaining the attention Paul Brown himself. Brown rewarded his loyalty by welcoming him inside the locker room. JB has been to nearly every Bengals home game and has led the team onto the field for many years.

Set to Music

If You Go

ArtsWave: Enjoy the Arts @ Parks
Saturday, August 28, 1–5:30 p.m.
Miami Whitewater Forest
9001 Mount Hope Road
FREE

More information at artswave.org/parks.

Enjoy every last moment of summer with ArtsWave’s Enjoy the Arts @ Parks next concert.

Satin Smooth Project kicks off the day with their blend of smooth jazz, funk and soul. They'll take you down memory lane until you're dancin’ by the lake to some of your favorite songs of the last 40 years.

Taifa will keep you moving as they bring a soulful edge to songs you know and love. Just Vince and the Fellas take a break from their usual gig at the Redmoor to treat you to timeless classics of pop, R&B, soul, dance and more to wrap up the afternoon.

Enjoy the Arts @ Parks Series, presented by Macy’s, is a new, eight-month series programmed during ArtsWave’s 2021 Campaign to fund the arts. Each event features performances from a diverse set of arts organizations and independent artists. ArtsWave created the series through partnerships with Great Parks of Hamilton County, the City of Covington (Devou Parks) and Boone County Parks (Boone Woods). The Miami Whitewater Forest concert marks the fourth of the six that will be performed at various Great Parks of Hamilton County locations across the region.

New donors to ArtsWave and those increasing their last gift by 10%+ can receive a free year-long Great Parks of Hamilton County Motor Vehicle Permit, which allows free parking at all Great Parks throughout 2021, as well as other benefits.

Concerts are free and details on performances, dates and times can be found at artswave.org/parks. Donations to the arts can be made at artswave.org/give.

Family Time

Midwest Black Family Reunion

• Senior Pavilion with live DJ, activities (such as bingo), fitness demonstrations, resources and more

• Youth & Young Adult Pavilion with live DJ, activities, giveaways, and contests

• Children’s Pavilion with games, activities, crafts, face painting, giveaways, and resources

• Sports Pavilion with basketball tournament, giveaways, resources

• Inspirational Pavilion with live entertainment, spiritual resources, performances

• Health Pavilion with resources, giveaways, demonstrations, health screenings and more.

Find out more at www.myblackfamilyreunion.org.

The Midwest Regional Black Family Reunion continues to grow and is now one of Cincinnati's largest family-focused events drawing over 20,000 patrons.

“We are excited to be returning for our 33rd year and look forward to being able to serve our community in person this year,” says Tracey Artis, executive director of BFR.

The three-day celebration began on Fountain Square on Friday, Aug. 20 and continues at Sawyer Point Park on through Sunday, Aug. 22. This family-friendly event features food, entertainment, community resources, giveaways and more.

On Sunday, BFR also hosts their Urban Gospel Concert with Darwin Hobbs and James Fortune. Darwin Hobbs is one of the most respected and sought after recording artists and Worship Pastors in Gospel music. His inimitable, supple tenor has provided a rich backdrop to hundreds of recordings by artists including Michael W. Smith, Jars of Clay, Amy Grant, Natalie Grant, Michael Card, Bebe & Cece Winans, Donnie McClurkin, Michael McDonald, Donna Summer, Chris Tomlin, and countless others.

James Fortune is a Houston-bred, singer, songwriter and producer. Called to music ministry as a child, the idea of a record label, worldwide travel, an abundance of accolades and two Grammy-nominations were the least of his thoughts and aspirations. Since his music ministry's 2004 debut with You Survived, James Fortune has gone on to record and release The Transformation (2007), Encore (2010), Identity and Grace Gift (both released in 2012). James Fortune's 2017 release, Dear Future Me, intertwined trust with the act of forgiving self, and realizing that your future will flourish with God's grace. The album debuted at #1 on the Billboard Gospel chart with its lead single “Favor of God” receiving a 2019 ASCAP Urban Rhythm & Soul Award.

Throughout the day, guests can expect family fun, activities, throughout the par. There will also be vaccination stations, voter registration, and a school supply giveaway within the park.

“The Black Family Reunion exists to uplift and celebrate Black families and we intend to do just that. With everything that has occurred over the last year and a half, it’s important for us to remain steadfast and strong, just like our theme states,” says Artis.

Picture of Health

No matter your plans for Fall, The Wellness Experience by Kroger, is ready to help you live your best life.

The two-day, free health and wellness festival August 20 and 21, presented by Molson Coors Beverage Company and L.A. Libations, celebrates physical, mental and emotional health for the whole human. Inclusion Companies LLC, in partnership with The Kroger Co. and festival co-founder Jewel have created a festival that features more than 100 experiences focused on four core pillars of transformation: health, activity, nutrition and inspiration.

Free concerts will take place on both Friday and Saturday. Simple Truth presents the Friday, Aug. 20 concert featuring Quinn XCII with hometown favorite Blessid Union of Souls.

Among other events are

• Jewel’s Anxiety Workshop: Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and event co-founder leads an inspiring session about how to work through anxiety and not let it rule your life.

• Food As Medicine: Take part in a conversation with actress and vegan foodie Tabitha Brown and Kroger Health President Colleen Lindholz about using food as treatment.

• Joanne Molinaro ‘The Korean Vegan’ will prepare her latest meal obsession that’s healthy, plant-based and delicious.

• Cincinnati’s own Marty and Amanda Brennaman will prepare a dish that’s a real home run, featuring Laura’s Lean Beef

• Tone It Up co-founder Karena Dawn

• TV personality and entrepreneur star Matt James

The festival also offers a Kid’s Zone, Ninja Warrior course, food sampling, a cooking stage showcasing plant-based eating options, and live music all weekend.

All events at The Wellness Experience will be held outdoors at The Banks. Organizers ask that all patrons be aware of social distancing as they enjoy the event.

Patron-facing staff will be wearing masks. Free masks will be available to all patrons. Additionally, Kroger Health will offer a COVID vaccination clinic at the Sample Space at The Banks.

Word to Your Mother

The last time the Reds won the World Series was in 1990, so it’s fitting that they are hosting the “I Love the 90s” show at Great American Ball Park, part of the Ohio Lottery Post-Game Concert Series on Saturday, August 21.

VANILLA ICE

Don’t sleep on Vanilla Ice, nee Rob Van Winkle. While he gained fame for the super catchy (to David Bowie and Queen, too) “Ice Ice Baby,” he was definitely back with a brand new invention, becoming a real estate entrepreneur and remodeling expert with his own show on the DIY Network, The Vanilla Ice Project.

TONE LOC

Best known for his hits “Wild Thing” and “Funky Cold Medina,” the Grammy-nominated Tone Loc has used his signature rasp to become a successful voice actor, working on the film FernGully: The Last Rainforest and on TV in King of the Hill, Uncle Grandpa, and Chowder.

ROB BASE

Best known for “It Takes Two,” Rob Base began his career with DJ E-Z Rock. That platinum single has appeared in more than 30 TV shows and movies, including Love and Basketball, The Wire, Iron Man 2, Parks & Recreation, and Pose.

NAUGHTY BY NATURE

We may never all agree on what exactly “O.P.P.” means, no one argue that Naughty By Nature created one of the first true crossover hits with that Grammy-nominated song. In 2020, the group teamed up with Rita Wilson for a charity re-mix of “Hip Hip Hooray.”

The “I Love the 90s” tours offers a chance to either relive your glory days or be transported to a middle school dance, depending on your demographic. All while listening to some of the most iconic, indelible names in rap, hip hop and R&B.

The concert will begin approximately 20 minutes after the Reds vs. Marlins game ends.

Everyone with a ticket to the Reds game will have the chance to enjoy the show from some of hip-hop’s biggest stars of the ‘90s.

Tickets and information at www.mlb.com/reds/tickets/concerts/love-the-90s.

Eat and Run

Bust a Crust! Pie-K 5K

Sep. 19, 8:30 a.m.

Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum.

Register for the Bust a Crust! Pie-K 5K Run/Walk.

Meals on Wheels Southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky is getting ready for the inaugural Bust a Crust! Pie-K 5K Run/Walk. The family friendly, timed race is open to all people and will help Meals on Wheels feed more than 10,000 local seniors.

All participants will receive a Bust a Crust! Pie-K 5K T-shirt and a unique commemorative medal. Trophies will be awarded to the overall top three male and female runners and the overall male and female walkers. Prizes will be awarded to the first-place male and female finishers determined by chip time in each age group: 6-12, 12-18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, and 80+.

Following the Bust a Crust! Pie-K 5K, participants will enjoy pie and other treats, drinks and music from DJ Brandon Scott Perry of Sound for Days and the Highlandaires.

“We’re excited for hundreds of friends, families, runners and walkers to join Meals on Wheels for the inaugural Bust a Crust! Pie-K 5K,” said Jennifer Steele, Meals on Wheels CEO. “Participants will support our mission to help seniors live independently by bringing healthy meals to their doors, checking on their well-being, and providing care and human connection.”

The Bust a Crust! Pie-K 5K kicks off the hugely popular Bust a Crust! annual fundraiser scheduled for Oct. 15-Nov. 15, 2021. Meals on Wheels expects to sell nearly 10,000 pies to benefit seniors in the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region. Pies are donated by generous Pie Masters including Cherbourg Cypress, Chartwells, Chubby Bunny Bakery, The Fresh Market Oakley, Fork and Pie Bakery, MAKERS BAKERS Co., Mama Rose’s, Meijer, Nay Mama’s Sweet Treats, Perkins, Reinhart, Station BBQ, Sweets by LaDawn, Taste of Belgium, and UC Dining Services.

The Bust a Crust! Pie-K 5K is generously sponsored by Graydon, Driehaus Insurance Group, JTM Food Group, Champlin Architecture, Barnes Dennig, Bartlett Wealth Management, Doscher’s Candy Co., Enterprise Fleet Management, Happy Go Healthy, Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church, LK Tech, Mutual of America Financial Group, Revecore, Ritter & Randolph, Robert Half, Senior Impact Publications, Skyline Chili, Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum, Strategic Benefits, Vomela Companies, Belflex Staffing Network, Clark Schaefer Hackett, Huntington National Bank, Millennium Business Systems, Prairie Farms, Preferred Packaging, Republic Bank, Rumpke and Wordsworth.

Be a Goldfish?

Fishbowl at The Banks, a casual, modern, energetic tropical bar and party spot, has expanded by more than 1,000 square feet. The bigger location officially opened Thursday, Aug. 5, kicking off a schedule of live music, seven days a week, for the remainder of the summer. (Visit www.fishbowlatthebanks.com to see the lineup.)

Fishbowl’s Expansion Kickoff Celebration will also feature the debut of a special new Fishbowl drink, the Ocean Vive, perfect for these sultry August nights.

“We can’t wait for you to visit our bigger Fishbowl with more entertainment, sound, lights, TVs and Fishbowls,” said Fishbowl owner Danny Scott. “So many improvements are happening at The Banks, including the beautiful new pedestrian walkway and the DORA District. This celebration is a thank you to the many guests who stuck with us through the pandemic – and a welcome to those who have yet to enjoy Fishbowl at The Banks.”

Fishbowl at the Banks expanded into its adjacent location, 151 East Freedom Way, formerly occupied by Tervis. Construction began in February of 2021. Fishbowl at the Banks originally opened in October of 2019, just months before eatery and pub restrictions were put in place due to the pandemic.

The 85-acre Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) District at The Banks allows guests to take their beverage and explore public plazas and green spaces at The Banks. Drinks must be in an official DORA Cup and purchased from one of the 18 establishments at The Banks. The DORA District at The Banks is open 11 a.m.–1 a.m., daily.

Best Foot Forward

Cincinnati is one of 17 U.S. cities vying to be a World Cup Host City for the 2026 international event at Paul Brown Stadium. Of the 17, 10 Host Cities will be chosen from the United States with the remaining Host Cities from Mexico and Canada. Only two Midwestern cities, Cincinnati and Kansas City, are among the final 17 U.S. cities competing for the World Cup.

The CEOs from four of the region’s largest companies will champion Cincinnati’s bid to host 2026 FIFA World Cup™.

P&G’s David Taylor, Ohio National’s Barbara Turner, Kroger’s Rodney McMullen and American Financial Group’s Carl H. Lindner III will serve as co-chairs of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) that is working to bring the world’s largest sporting event to Cincinnati.

“Cincinnati is the perfect host city for the World Cup,” said David Taylor, chairman, president and CEO of P&G. “Our community comes together to rally around big initiatives and get the job done. We’re ready to roll up our sleeves and show FIFA all that the Cincinnati region has to offer.”

The 2026 FIFA World Cup™ will be the first time that the expanded field of 48 teams will play in the World Cup, with 80 total matches. Hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup™ could generate more than $5 billion in short-term economic activity, including supporting approximately 40,000 jobs and more than $1 billion in incremental worker earnings across North America, according to a study done by The Boston Consulting Group (BCG), a leading global management consulting firm.

Canada, Mexico and the United States are hosting the 48-team tournament in 2026, which will be the largest in FIFA World Cup™ history. The study further estimates that individual host cities could expect to see approximately $160-$620 million in incremental economic activity. That translates to a net benefit of approximately $90-$480 million per city.

“Cincinnati is passionate about this beautiful game and we’re prepared to represent the Midwest as a great American soccer city,” said Barbara Turner, CEO of Ohio National Financial Services. “The hard working and collaborative nature of our region puts us in a strong position to win this bid.”

Cincinnati is well positioned to represent the United States as a World Cup host city. With 60% of the nation’s population within an eight hour drive of Cincinnati, the city is located at the center of America’s heartland. The Local Organizing Committee is committed to helping FIFA achieve its goals to roll out the hospitality red carpet and grow the sport of soccer through fan and visitor engagement. In Cincinnati, World Cup will have top billing and be the priority focus.

“Cincinnati is an incredible city with a robust arts, culture and entertainment scene,” said Rodney McMullen, CEO of The Kroger Company. “By hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Cincinnatians will have the chance to host the world’s greatest soccer fans and show them the vibrant and welcoming city we know and love.”

The last time that America was the host of the World Cup was in 1994, with a record attendance of more than 3.5 million, and an average of 69,174 fans per match. FIFA is looking to break that attendance record on its return to the United States with the expanded World Cup field.

Later in 2021, FIFA is planning site visits to the bidding cities with final Host City selections to follow.

Badwater Rising

School for Creative and Performing Arts teacher and veteran Flying Pig marathoner Harvey Lewis won this years’s Badwater 135 endurance race, the second time in his career he has won the grueling run.

The 135 mile course starts at the lowest elevation in North America, 282 feet below sea level in Death Valley, and ends at an elevation of 8,360 feet at the trailhead to Mt. Whitney. Lewis finished the course in 25 hours, 50 minutes and 23 seconds. He also won Badwater in 2014 and is a 10 time finisher. 

Billed the “World’s Toughest Foot Race,” Badwater this year had 84 entrants start with temperatures up to 117 degrees 

Lewis is a familiar figure in running in the Greater Cincinnati area, running the Flying Pig Marathon every year since its inception in 1999 and pacing marathon running groups throughout the country. Lewis also ran the Appalachian Trail in 2918 in less than 50 days, finishing in 45 days, 14 hours, a top-10 all-time finish.

The Badwater 135 Ultramarathon, the 135-Mile World Championship, was held July 19-21. Now in its 44th year – with the 2020 race canceled last-minute due to the pandemic – this world-renowned event pits up to 100 of the world’s toughest athletes against one another and the elements in a crucible like no other. From below sea level in scorching temperatures to altitudes as high as 8,360 feet (2548m), endurance athletes from 17 countries and 29 American states plus the Navajo Nation will face off in a grueling 135-mile trek non-stop from Death Valley to Mt. Whitney, CA. Widely recognized as “the world’s toughest foot race,” the invitational Badwater 135 is the most demanding and extreme running race on the planet.

Family Portraits

Though the COVID-19 pandemic has brought unapparelled loss to millions around the world, it has also revealed a compassion and resilience in people. As often happens, we turn to artists in the community to help us all process our grief and create poignancy from tragedy.

“After months of listening to news reports about the death toll from COVID, which felt distant, anonymous, and disconnected, I wanted to do something that brought the reality of this devastating time into sharp focus,” says Christian Schmit, a programmer at the William E. Durr Branch of the Kenton County Public Library. 

“I struggled to find a way to do this, but finally realized the answer is simple: I am an artist, I know lots of artists, let's make portraits of people,” says Schmit,

Schmit, in collaboration with other 21 local artists, created The COVID Portrait Project, currently on view through August 6 at the Durr branch in Independence. The portraits are their effort to remember those who passed away over that past year and memorialize them with honor and dignity.

“The result of this project is a humble display, 24 portraits,” says Schmit. “But I hope that through the artists' skill and the touching words of family and friends, we have created something monumental, that replaces cold numbers with faces, names and lives worth remembering,”

Earlier this year, the library asked patrons to submit photos of loved ones who had died during the pandemic. Then they recruited artists to create the portraits. Each portrait is accompanied by a short biography from a family member or friend and a remembrance of a happy time in their loved one’s life. 

“It's an emotional drawing to make because you know that the person has passed away, says Katelyn Wolary, one of the portrait artists. “It's not just a job. It's very personal, very one to one. To not even know the family receiving the portrait on a personal level, it doesn't change the intimacy of what we're doing as artists.”

“Sometimes it feels so huge that you don't even know where to turn with COVID and the pandemic and this brings it down to a level that we all can understand,” says Wolary. “We can all feel like we're giving something that is beneficial or positive.”

– Tricia Suit

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The William E. Durr Branch of the Kenton County Library is at 1992 Walton-Nicholson in Independence, Ky. The library is open Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday, 9 am. – 6 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The library is closed on Sunday.

For more information about The COVID Portrait Project visit www.kentonlibrary.org/the-covid-portrait-project.

Bank on a Good Time

Don’t miss the Open House for The Andrew J Brady ICON Music Center’s today from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 25. The public has a FREE chance to get a first look inside the brand-new concert venue, hosted by Music & Event Management, Inc.

Throughout the day, local bands will play on The ICON Festival Stage at Smale Park, along with concessions and family-friendly activities.

The ICON Festival Stage at Smale Park lineup is

11 – 11:35 a.m. KNOTTS
11:55 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Tracy Walker
12:50 – 1:25 p.m. MADQUEEN
1:45 – 2:20 p.m. Carriers

DJ Mowgli will also be spinning throughout the day, beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Concessions will be available for purchase including beer, seltzers, water, soda, Skyline Chili Cheese Coneys and walking tacos, and Papa John’s Pizza. While you're there, you can even take a souvenir photo or have your face painted before the Reds game!

EVT Management Services and MEMI will be accepting applications to fill the following positions: Event Staff, Box Office Staff, Maintenance, Housekeeping, Bartenders, Bar-backs and Cashiers.

The venue box office will be open on Sunday, July 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., with no service fees when paying with cash and $2 per ticket fee when paying with a credit card.

About the bands:

DJ MOWGLI: DJ Mowgli started DJing during the first wave of raves in the early ‘90s. Prior to that, he was a promoter & MC. Taking in the first wave of Darkcore Breakbeat dance music, he started collecting that stuff in the only format available, vinyl. The collection getting immense, he began to DJ for parties and events, eventually creating “The Cincinnati Bomb Squad” (CBS).

CBS started hosting their own events, bringing in legendary headliners. Over the years, DJ Mowgli has shared the stage with Jam Master Jay of RUN DMC, Juan Atkins & Derrick May (fathers of Techno), Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, Jimmy Edgar, Mark Farina, Apocalyptica, Grammy Award-winners Bone, Thugs ‘N’ Harmony, Public Enemy, DJ Q-Bert, and many more.

KNOTTS: KNOTTS lead singer/songwriter, Adalia Powell-Boehne possesses a truly one-of-a-kind plaintive voice that grounds all her songs with a strong sense of someone searching for her place in the world. Powell-Boehne enlisted local musicians Antoine Franklin (keys/bass), Jordan Wilson (guitar) and CJ Eliasen (drums) to perform with her. At first listen KNOTTS exemplifies all things indie pop, with electric guitars, synths and catchy hooks. Listen a little closer and you hear folk songwriting and R&B influences and Soul music. The common thread throughout the band’s music is the unmistakable vulnerability in the lyrics and impassioned tone of the vocals.

TRACY WALKER: Just as palpable as her ringing alto and her estimable guitar skills, there is a blazing honesty that runs through Tracy’s work, from her 1998 debut album Naked to 2013’s Coetaneous Vibrations. She recently recorded an intimate set of songs, Bare Bones, with guitarist Brian Rivers for listeners who prefer a less is more approach to her songs. Tracy has been the recipient of two CAMMY Awards (Cincinnati Enquirer), 2 CEA Awards (Cincinnati CityBeat) and the prestigious Taft Museum of Art Duncanson Artist in Residency Honor among others celebrating her achievements in music. Tracy has developed a reputation as a fierce performer both solo as well as with her band.

MADQUEEN: MADQUEEN is an original rock/pop band started by Jaki Howser and Stephen Yokley. They added Young Heirlooms’ guitarist/ vocalist Chris Robinson and bassist Kyle Elkins, creating a unique combination of catchy melody lines, polyrhythms, harmonic minor themes, and a drummer that plays and sings at the same time. Live interaction, excellent musicianship, and a few theatrical moments. MADQUEEN was named Best New Artist. Pop/Rock at the 2019’s Cincinnati Entertainment Awards.

CARRIERS: Having played in several bands and touring throughout the U.S., Cincinnati-based artist Curt Kiser adopted the moniker Carriers in 2014. The project also works as a collective of friends, including Bryan Devendorf (The National) and John Curley (The Afghan Whigs), coming together to bring his sweeping rock visions to life. Kiser found break out success with Carriers’ debut LP, Now Is The Time For Loving Me, Yourself & Everyone Else, released in the summer of 2019 drawing praise from Paste Magazine, Consequence of Sound and more. A testament to the power of self-reflection, the 9-track album evokes the same guitar-led grandeur of The War on Drugs as Kiser takes stock of life, death, relationships and gratitude for another day.