Silver Lining
Betsy Ross to receive Silver Circle Award from National Academy of Television.
Game Day founder, and broadcasting legend, Betsy Ross has been chosen by The Ohio Valley Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences as a Silver Circle Honoree.
Ross was surprised by friends and colleagues at a celebration in her honor. The official Emmy ceremony will be held July 30 in Columbus.
Ross began her career in the 1980s as a news anchor at WCPO, moving to SportsChannel America, a 24-hour sports network, in the ‘90s. In 1997, she was named as one of six female anchors working on SportsCenter and ESPNews.
In 2002, Betsy launched Game Day Communications, a media and marketing agency specializing in sports and entertainment. She is the author of “Playing Ball with the Boys: The Rise of Women in the World of Men’s Sports,” which has become a popular reference for college sports journalism classes.
Ross currently works as sports anchor at FOX 19 and as a college basketball analyst for ESPN and FOX Sports. She is also the voice of women’s athletics at the University of Cincinnati.
One of the highest honors given by NATAS, the Ohio Valley Silver Circle recognizes television professionals who have performed distinguished service within the television industry for 25 years or more, a significant part of which was done within our chapter’s region of Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana and West Virginia. Gold Circle inductees have served the industry for 50 years or more. Silver and Gold Circle members are honored for more than their longevity — they are honored for making an enduring contribution to the vitality of the television industry and for setting standards of achievement we can all hope to emulate.
These honorees also give back to the community as mentors, educators, and volunteers.
Cause and Effect
Bob Huggins returns for Huggins Homecoming, his annual fundraiser for cancer research.
If You Go
Huggins Homecoming
Monday, June 6, 6:30 p.m.
Original Montgomery Inn
9440 Montgomery Road
Sponsorships include Platinum Sponsorship at $3,500; Gold Sponsorship at $2,500; Silver Sponsor at $1,500 and $750 for two admissions. Tickets and sponsorship packages are now available.
More info at normamaehuggins.com/hugginshomecoming.
Hall of Fame Coach Bob Huggins returns to Cincinnati for his annual Huggins Homecoming event to raise money for the Norma Mae Huggins Endowment Fund.
The event includes a VIP Happy Hour, Montgomery Inn ribs and chicken dinner, auction and special presentations. .
Philanthropic support from committed friends like WVU Men’s Basketball Coach Bob Huggins is playing a key role in advancing the fight against cancer. On May 24, 2003, Norma Mae Huggins, mother of Coach Huggins, passed away after a long battle with colon cancer. In her memory, the coach established the Norma Mae Huggins Cancer Endowment at the WVU Cancer Institute. The Endowment Fund supports patient care and clinical cancer research that targets many types of the disease that are common among residents of the Mountain State. West Virginia has one of the highest cancer mortality rates in the nation.
As of early 2022, over $16 million has been raised for the Norma Mae Huggins Cancer Endowment.
Huggins Homecoming is presented by Fleet Feet Cincinnati, Oxford Physical Therapy, Central Bank and The Assaley Feck Herold Group at Morgan Stanley.
Stop, Collaborate, and Listen
CAC opens collaborative exhibition Artist-Run Spaces with performances.
Artist-Run Spaces Opening Reception
Vesper James
7:30 p.m., Black Box
Free for members; $20 general admission
Fractionated Flashbacks will be a reading where Vesper James' mind plays tricks on him by recalling repressed scenarios. The poem Glitting Selfie Construct will be read while a series of intrusion poems insert themselves during the reading.
Public Opening: Artist-Run Spaces,
8 p.m., Second Floor Gallery
FREE, Open to the public
O.J.A.I.
8 p.m., Second Floor Gallery
FREE, Open to the public
Office for Joint Administrative Intelligence will present Urban Inventory 1, a new performance based on an idiosyncratic walking practice they call Urban Reconnaissance. The piece combines aspects of architectural storytelling, political ideation, filed recordings, and the casting of bureaucratic spells.
Nora Barton
9 p.m., Second Floor Gallery
FREE, Open to the public
Cellist Nora Barton is a recent Chicago transplant currently residing in Northern Kentucky. As Planchette, she finds warmth in harsh sounds and unexpected inspiration in the minutiae of near silence through improvisation, delayed loops, and acoustic resonance.
Artist-Run Spaces, an exhibition of 10 artist-run spaces and collectives from Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, opens at the Contemporary Arts Center on Friday, May 27.
Co-organized by the CAC and Wave Pool, this convening of independent arts organizations, nonprofits, and collectives in the region highlights their work and ethos, with a focus on showcasing the work of artists and makers within their networks.
“The best thing about operating an artist-run project in the region is without a doubt the network of support that exists here, especially from other artists and the spaces they run. The art book fair would not be able to exist without that,” says Kyle Mace, from Cincinnati Art Book Fair. “I’m continually inspired by the atmosphere of experimentation that’s cultivated by what other projects in the region are doing.”
In a moment of reflection and reopening amid the pandemic, the interests and needs of these artist-run and independent spaces, which are often able to pivot and react to current events much quicker than larger organizations, are timely and important.
“The best thing about running an artist-run space in this region is the opportunity to provide a platform for marginalized voices through different forms of art,” says Janet Albright-Captain with Storefronts.
Visitors can start their evening at Fausto at the CAC’s Final Friday Dinner Party, $39/individual, with a curated cuisine experience led by the team recently recognized in Food & Wine magazine. Vegetarian and gluten free options; reservations required at events@theferraribros.com.
The opening reception features several performances and presentations from the highlighted arts organizations.
Duck and Cover
Local artists offer industrial strength sculptures at the Art Academy of Cincinnati's Duck Tape festival in Washington Park.
Knock it Out of the Park
Washington Park, 1230 Elm St.
Friday, May 27 through Monday, May 30
See an exhibit of Duck Tape® sculptures by Art Academy of Cincinnati interns, Duck Tape alumni artists, Summit Country Day Middle School students, and local artists.
Did you know the same thing you use to patch your jeans or reattach your rearview mirror can also be used to create works of art?
Joe Girondola, president of Art Academy of Cincinnati (AAC), has been inspired for duct tape for years.
More than 15 years ago, he discovered its artistic properties while using the tape to protect his hands while he was sculpting. He soon began to create using the new material.
As an educator, he developed duct tape classes, teaching at AAC and University of Cincinnati before that. The founder of the Duck Tape company saw the work of Girondola and his students, and they created a collaboration that would fund students so they could make more ambitious works out of duct tape.
This weekend, 14 sculptures made of Duck Tape will be on display in Washington Park. The exhibit, called “Knock It Out of the Park,” is organized by AAC.
Jake Brinkman, facilities administrator for student services at the AAC, is a former student Girondola’s .
“The idea of being able to build and design a sculpture from start to finish while being sponsored by Shurtape LLC sounded like an epic experience,” says Brinkman. “To build sculptures out of Duck Tape, with all the materials provided for and free tape, who would pass up an opportunity like that?”
As often happens, the student becomes the master. Brinkman now teaches the Duck Tape class.
“Duck Tape has created this amazing studio environment where students get to problem-solve challenges they face together when creating,” says Brinkman. “It’s also created an alumni community, so former students continue to participate in building duck tape sculptures together.
The exhibit in Washington Park promises fantastic photo ops, along with some interactive sculptures.
Going Overboard
Get in the game this weekend with the American Cornhole Organization match in Fairfield.
If You Go
Friday, May 20, 9:30 a.m. and Saturday, May 21, 9 a.m.
Gametime Training Center, 530 Quality Blvd., Fairfield,
There is a guaranteed $5000 purse for participants. Play runs through both days.
Get tickets now.
The American Cornhole Organization is busy this weekend, hosting tournaments at home and away.
The ACO Cincinnati Major cornhole tournament in Fairfield offers the chance to watch some of the best cornhole players in the country play at Gametime Training Center, with a guaranteed $5000 purse for participants.
But ACO is also hosting a cornhole competition at the National Senior Games in Fort Lauderdale.
The National Senior Games presented by Humana continue through May 23, with more than 13,000 athletes from ages 50 to 100+ participating. The cornhole competition is scheduled from Friday, May 20 through Sunday, May 22 at the Broward County Convention Center.
“We’re excited to add the sport of cornhole to the impressive lineup already offered by the National Senior Games,” said Frank Geers, president and CEO of ACO. “It shows that the sport of cornhole is made for athletes of all ages.”
While most of the 22 sports offered at the National Senior Games require athletes to qualify through one of the National Senior Games Association’s 52 member games, qualifying is not required when new sports are added.
Let It Slide
Slide into a record at Sunlite Pool. Find out how you can join the fun!
If You Go
Get tickets to Coney Island at coneyislandpark.com/tickets-passes/daily-tickets/.
Tickets to the special midnight swim on June 17, 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. are $10. The park is offering free admission on June 18, from midnight to 8 a.m.
If you always wanted to set a world record but didn’t know where to start, your friends at Coney Island have got you covered.
On June 17 and 18, Coney Island will attempt to set the world record for most people down a water slide in 24 hours. Any visitor to Coney Island between noon on Friday, June 17 and noon on Saturday, June 18 who slides down the Twister world record slide will count toward the world record attempt.
Coney Island will remain open for the entire 24-hour period to maximize the number of sliders. So if you’ve ever wanted to go down a water slide at midnight, this is your chance! This marks the first time that's happened in the 130 year history of the park.
To thank guests for their Herculean efforts, Coney Island will give those one who participates a free ticket for a future visit during the 2022 season. Participants will also receive a souvenir world record participant wristband.
The park will be open regular hours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, June 17 and Saturday, June 18 with a bonus midnight swim on Friday, June 17, from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. All of the attractions will be open that night, with music, games as fun as sliders help the park set a new world record.
At end of the midnight swim, the other attractions will close, but all four twister water slides will run continuously for 24 hours so guests can join in the world record attempt. No admission or parking will be charged to nighttime sliders who come between midnight and 8 a.m.
Just and Good
Mary Stagaman from the 2026 Cincy LOC discusses the human rights efforts around the World Cup bid.
While the selection process for cities to host the FIFA World Cup 2026 continues, Cincinnati is still very much in the running.
Putting together the Cincy 2026 FIFA World Cup bid included not just facilities, hotels, housing and more, but also included a comprehensive human rights outline. Mary Stagaman leads the bid’s human rights efforts. and in this podcast, she discusses the importance of a strong human rights campaign and how it relates to the 2026 World Cup bid.
Stagaman, along with Jeff Berding, co-founder & president of FC Cincinnati, and Jackie Reau, CEO of Game Day, is on the 2026 Cincy LOC leadership team.
The strategies and actions detailed in the human rights document were developed by the Cincinnati team with the intent of applying them across the group of strategic Midwest markets that will support FIFA World Cup 2026 in Cincinnati. Members of the 2026 Cincy LOC Human Rights Leadership Committee.
Mamma Mia
Whether she has a rock 'n' roll heart, is a total fashionista, or loves to pamper her fur babies, we have some tips for finding great gifts for Mother's Day.
Mother’s Day is this Sunday, so you still have some time to pick a great gift. If flowers and candy won’t cut it for the mom on your list, we have a few other ideas.
Rock Shop
Remember when you used to rock ‘n’ roll? For gifts with a little dge, head to the Rock Shop at Hard Rock Casino. From their classic T-shirt to a fun take on Rosie the Riveter, along with funky bags and even local specialties, you’ll find something cool for your mom and probably yourself, too.
While you’re there, you can grab a bite, have a drink, see a band, or play the slots, so you can also give the gift of time.
Rock Shop is at Hard Rock Casino, 1000 Broadway. Hours are Sunday to Wednesday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.– 12 a.m. More info at www.hardrockcasinocincinnati.com/rock-shop.
Shop Charbon
Based on the idea of “fashion, fun, and friends,” Shop Charbon was started by two sisters, who named the store after their parents. Inside you’ll find plenty of family photos tucked in among items, making it feel more like you’re browsing you’re stylish friend’s closet than shopping.
This women’s boutique is stocked with adorable clothes, quirky accessories, and home decor items, including the iconic Capri Blue Volcano candle! The store also hosts events – from bra-fittings to spray tan demos – that help create a fun sense of connection for shoppers.
Shop Charbon is at 5671 Rapid Run Road. Open Monday to Thursday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. More info at www.facebook.com/FUNFASHIONFRIENDS.
Applehead city Pet
Looking for a thoughtful gift for a mom to “fur babies”?
Applehead City Pet promises goods for “Mindful Pet Parenting.” All of their products are created with love and mindfulness, adhering to the shop’s cruelty free, environmentally sustainable and philanthropic values.
More than a store, Applehead is also the region’s only organic dog grooming spa. Which mean no toxic chemical products, plus no crates or muzzles.
Along with their own line of organic, natural goods, they also sell locally made bowls, so both your dog and your home will look god!
Applehead City Pets, 707 Fairfield Ave, Bellevue, KY. More info at www.appleheadcitypet.com.
Taking Flight
The weekend belonged to the Flying Pig! Runners took to the streets of Cincinnati with supporters cheering them along the way.
Photos by Michael Anderson
Going Whole Hog
From the Pig Expo to the Family Festival to the Michelob Victory Party, the Flying Pig is a marathon of celebrations, too. See the schedule so you don't miss a minute!
Are you running in the Flying Pig Marathon or one of the other races?
Do you have a kid or friend or dog running?
Do you like to have fun?
If you answered “yes” to any of those questions, you’re in for a good time this weekend.
On Friday, the P&G Health & Fitness Expo opens at the Duke Energy Convention Center, from 12 to 7 p.m. The expo serves as packet pickup for in-person race participants. It is free and open to the public, hosting local and national vendors, from running groups and other marathons to Everything Cincy and Taste of Belgium. You’ll also find the Flying Pig Vintage Apparel booth, if you’re looking for gear from previous years. The expo is open on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
On Saturday, don’t miss the the Family Fun Festival at Smale Riverfront Park (from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.) with music and activities for the littlest runners in the Piglet.
The Michelob Ultra Victory Party will also be in Smale Riverfront Park (Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
The Victory Party is a great place for runners to reunite with family and friends and celebrate their accomplishments – whether they ran a 5K, a marathon, or the Flying Fur. Like any good party, you’ll find food and drinks available for purchase and live music all day long. On Sunday, that day’s race participants will receive a complimentary beer, thanks to Michelob Ultra. D
Easy Being Green
Art Academy of Cincinnati students tackle environmental issues through art, teaming up with Cincinnati Parks and Cincinnati Art Museum to celebrate Earth Day this Friday.
Celebrating Earth Day
4:15–5 p.m. – FREE Community Yoga with World Peace Yoga
5–5:30 p.m. – Erin Locke: singer/songwriter
5:30–5:40 – Art Academy of Cincinnati Student speakers
5:45–6:00 – Cincinnati STEAM, Sustainability, and Equity
6:00–6:20 – Community Dancing: Dunham Technique with Jeanne Speier
6:20–6:30 – Art Academy of Cincinnati Student speakers
6:30–7 – CLEÖCRT: Inspired by Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On
7–7:30 – Community Earth, Art, Diversity, Innovation, and Design Meditation and Closing
More information on Earth Day in Eden Park.
“Our college-aged students, high school students, middle and elementary school students are fully aware of the human problems that we are facing on the planet,” says Annie Melzer, an instructor at the Art Academy and a local environmental, cultural, and applied anthropologist. “These youths are our innovators of the future.”
Students from the Art Academy of Cincinnati, in partnership with Cincinnati Parks and the Cincinnati Art Museum, are hosting an Earth Day event at Seasongood Pavilion in Eden Park on Friday, April 22, 2022 from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m.
“This event is about designing a positive space for the community to come together at the local level, to celebrate Earth Day, creativity, diversity, innovative thinking in community and more,” says Menzler.
This free, community-based event is designed to inspire creative problem solving and focused conversations on climate change, deforestation, water pollution, and other eco-issues. The student organizers are working within their community to create real world, local change in real time for Earth Day 2022, in an effort to put Cincinnati at the forefront on environmental issues.
Art Academy students will be speaking during the event and exhibiting their artwork to engage the community with creativity, art, and design. The Cincinnati Art Museum will be open until 5 p.m., with free admission. Indigo Hippo will have are materials available for children's art. The event will also include music, dancers, and nonprofit organizations. Foodtrucks from BOL, the first acai bowl bar in Cincinnati, and Fire on High, Cincinnati's first organic food truck, will be onsite with food for sale.
Melzer believes that Cincinnati may emerge as a leader for the global community when it comes to making the real shifts necessary to repair our relationship with the earth.
“We can do this in Cincinnati and be a leading city in this eco/green/sustainable/more equitable movement and the only way to begin to tackle these global human-initiated problems is to begin with a positive community-based force at the local level,” says Menzler.
Home (Run) Cooking
Take the whole family out for the ballgame, as the Reds celebrate Kids Opening Day at Great American Ball Park on Saturday, with Big Boy stepping up to the plate to add to the fun.
The Run-down
11:15 a.m.: Mascot parade on the red carpet
12–1:30 p.m.: Reds player parade on the red carpet
Kids 14 and younger attending the Reds vs. Cardinals game will receive a Kids Opening Day Reds Hat presented by Frisch’s Big Boy, while supplies last.
1:30 p.m.: Ballpark gates open for all fans
4:10 p.m.: Reds vs. Cardinals first pitch by Big Boy and Frisch's President and CFO Tony Vasconcellos
For more information and to purchase tickets, call (513) 381-REDS (7337) or visit reds.com/KidsOpeningDay.
Though “mulligan” is a golf term, it may be a good time to start using it in baseball. With “Kids Opening Day” on Saturday, the Reds have the chance for a do-over of their home-opener, hopefully with a more successful outcome.
This time, they’ll have Big Boy on their side!
Frisch’s Big Boy is officially kicks off its 75th anniversary celebration by partnering with the Reds on Saturday, April 23 for Kids Opening Day presented by Frisch’s Big Boy, with a full day of fun before the Cincinnati Reds take on the St. Louis Cardinals at 4:10 p.m.
The Kids Opening Day red carpet parade kicks off at 11:15 a.m. with kids lining up outside the ballpark along Joe Nuxhall Way to see Reds mascots, Frisch’s Big Boy, and others walk the red carpet. Around noon, Reds players will walk the red carpet to greet fans.
Fans can get their photo taken with Big Boy and try the new Frisch's Big Boy sliders, the Official Slider of the Cincinnati Reds. (Though Nick Lodolo’s slider is coming in a close second!)
Fans who show the Frisch's Big Boy app get a free string bag while supplies last as well as coupons for free kids meals.
After the gates open at GABP, fans can enjoy Kids Opening Day activities in the First Star Fan Zone. The party features circus performers, face painters, mascots, a performance by the Cincinnati School of Rock, and more.
Kids can line up after the game to run the bases, with line priority for Reds Heads kids club members.
Fans attending the game will receive a free 2022 Reds calendar, presented by Kroger, while supplies last.
Another Opening, Another Show
Relive the magic of Opening Day with images from the Findlay Market Parade.
Though the outcome was not what we’d hoped for on Opening Day, the return of the Findlay Market Parade did not disappoint!
Crowds gathered from Over-the-Rhine to Fountain Square to cheer for local marching bands, businesses, and hometown favorites!
A Sound Plan
Join The Bob and Tom Show live at Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati on Opening Day.
An Opening Day tradition returns as Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati welcomes The Bob & Tom Show from 6-10 a.m. in the Hard Rock Cafe on April 12.
“The Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati is thrilled to host The Bob & Tom Show for the Opening Day of baseball in Cincinnati,” said George Goldhoff, president of Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati. “We will get the festivities started bright and early in our Hard Rock Cafe to celebrate the return of baseball in Cincinnati.”
Seats are first-come, first-serve, and the Cafe will open at 5:30 a.m. The event is free and open to the general public, 21+.
Tom Griswold co-hosts the radio show, The Bob & Tom Show, together with Chick McGee, Kristi Lee, and Josh Arnold. (Co-host Bob Kevoian retired at the end of 2015.)
This comedy-based early morning program is among the highest rated in American radio and has been nationally syndicated since 1995. The Bob & Tom Show airs on 92.5 FM The Fox in Cincinnati on Monday through Friday from 6–10 a.m.
Keep Your Eye on the Ball
After an incredible Super Bowl run, and as Cincinnati makes its bid for the World Cup and welcomes back the LPGA, the Future of Sports looks bright, bringing big business o the city.
The Future of Sports
Thursday, April 7
7:30 a.m. –12 p.m.
Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati
1000 Broadway St.
The deadline to register is April 4, 2022.
Tickets at www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/event/the-future-of-sports.
In case you need a reminder, the Bengals went to the Super Bowl this year. That championship run generated an incredible $4.4 billion in media impressions of Cincinnati.
With the LPGA returning this Fall for the Kroger Queen City Championship presented by P&G and a bid for the 2026 World Cup still very much in the works, Cincinnati is already seeing how a big game can lead to a big gain.
“Over the next year, the Cincinnati sports business landscape will continue to change. Legalized sporting betting will launch with sports books opening up all over the state joining our neighbors to the north and west who are already seeing millions of dollars in new tax revenue,” says Jackie Reau, a member of the 2026 Cincy Local Organizing Committee committee and one of the presenters at The Future of Sports.
The event, presented by the Cincinnati Business Courier, will focus on the future of athletics and what the city can expect for facilities, construction, and the economic impact in the Greater Cincinnati region.
The program will begin with a virtual Q&A with Cris Collinsworth, Reau and Jamie Smith, publisher of the Cincinnati Business Courier.
“Cincinnati will learn if it’s a Host City for the largest sporting event in the world in 2026 as FIFA will narrow its decision to those cities who will host World Cup matches in less than five years,” Reau says. “Esports will continue to grow in popularity and reach into mainstream media. NIL deals among collegiate athletes will also continue to grow in interest and popularity.”
The morning will feature three panels including high school athletics, college athletics, and professional sports teams game day experience. The panelists will be
Phil Castellini, chief operating officer, Cincinnati Reds
Bobby Straka, director of marketing, FC Cincinnati
Seth Tanner, director of content, Cincinnati Bengals
Ken Bothof, athletic director, northern Kentucky University
Greg Christopher, athletic director, Xavier University
John Cunningham, director of athletics, University of Cincinnati
David Sayler, athletic director, Miami University
Tony Bacigalupo, athletic director, Covington Catholic High School
Justin Bayer, athletic director, Moeller High School
Jabreel Moton, athletic director, Woodward Career Technical High School
Brian Phelps, director of athletics, Indian Hill Exempted Village School District
Brian Reinhart, director of athletics, St. Xavier High School
“The entire Cincinnati sports business community is coming together to discuss the Future of Sports,” says Reau. “Join the discussion.”
No Foolin'
Join in the community celebration of the legacy of beloved media guru and renowned punster at Rich Walburg at Day at The Banks on April 1.
Order the official Rich Walburg Day T-shirt from Cincy Shirts!
What better way to pay tribute to a consummate jokester than by honoring him on April Fool’s Day.
On Friday, April 1, colleagues and friends of Rich Walburg are gathering to celebrate his life and work at an event organized by Game Day Communications. But everyone is invited to raise a glass and share a story in his honor and a life well-lived.
Walburg, a beloved figure in local media, passed away in January. Throughout his career, Walburg worked at WLW-AM, Q102, King's Island, Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber, and the National MS Society's Ohio Valley Chapter. He was renowned for his quick wit, love of puns, and incredible professionalism.
Giving Back
To honor his legacy, his life’s work, and his alma mater, the Richard Walburg Media Scholarship at the University of Cincinnati has been established.
You can donate to the scholarship at foundation.uc.edu/ccmscholarship. Please put “Richard Walburg” in the memo line.
“Rich was Cincinnati’s cheerleader for most of his career,” says Jackie Reau, CEO of Game Day. “We were so lucky to have Rich join us at Game Day. I miss Rich as a trusted colleague and, more importantly as a great friend.”
The celebration begins at Holy Grail at 3 p.m., with a special performance at 4 p.m. from Walburg’s favorite college marching band.
Guests are invited to purchase a limited edition “Be. Kind.” T-shirt to benefit the Rich Walburg Media Scholarship at University of Cincinnati.
Making the Pitch
City officials, along with the CVB and local businesses, made their case to bring the World Cup to Cincinnati at Soccerex in Miami this week.
A delegation of Cincinnati business leaders representing the 2026 CINCY Local Organizing Committee (LOC) along with Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval presented at Soccerex Americas in Miami on March 15 to bolster Cincinnati’s campaign as a Host City for FIFA World Cup 2026.
At the close of the presentation Mayor Pureval offered his personal cell phone number telling FIFA officials that they were one phone call away from any assistance they may need when hosting FIFA World Cup matches in Cincinnati.
Soccerex Americas is an event hosted in partnership with Concacaf, US Soccer Federation, Major League Soccer and LaLiga to connect 2,000+ senior executives from the soccer communities in North, Central and South America to offer programming on soccer industry trends, workshops and networking opportunities. FIFA and US Soccer executives will also attend the event.
The 2026 CINCY Delegation included
Aftab Pureval, Mayor of Cincinnati
Jeff Berding, Co-CEO of FC Cincinnati & 2026 CINCY LOC
Julie Calvert, President & CEO of Cincinnati USA Convention & Visitors Bureau
Andy Conklin, Vice President of the Cincinnati USA Convention & Visitors Bureau
Shelley Delaney, Sales Manager for Sports, Cincinnati USA Convention & Visitors Bureau
Gary Lindgren, President of the Cincinnati Business Committee & 2026 CINCY LOC
Jackie Reau, CEO of Game Day & 2026 CINCY LOC
Gina Rittinger, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at REDI Cincinnati
Ian Smith, Business Development Director at REDI Cincinnati
Amy Spiller, President of Duke Energy Ohio & Kentucky and 2026 CINCY
Co-Chair of the Human Rights CommitteeFor more information on Cincinnati’s bid to host FIFA World Cup 2026, visit 2026Cincy.com.
2026 CINCY, a community collaborative created to host 2026 FIFA World Cup in Cincinnati, Ohio, includes the city’s top government, safety, corporate, sports and civic leaders committed to hosting a world-class event.
“Cincinnati’s bid to host FIFA World Cup will shine a light on the passionate soccer fan base in the Queen City, the compassionate leaders working on human rights initiatives and the outstanding venues and facilities,” said Mayor Pureval. “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.”
At Soccerex Americas, Cincinnati will have a presence at the Expo with a Cincinnati-branded booth.
Clover the Moon
After a two-year hiatus, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade makes its long-awaited return this Saturday, bringing good luck and good cheer to The Banks.
Get the Party Started at The Banks
After two long years, the Cincinnati St. Patrick’s Day parade returns! Festivities begin on Thursday, March 10, with the official keg tapping of MadTree's Mac the Willis at Holy Grail.
The party continues into the weekend at The Banks.
Fishbowl at The Banks opens at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 12, before the parade begins.
Get an even early start at Moerlein Lager House, which opens on Saturday at 10 a.m. Brunch specials include shepherd’s pie and corned beef hash with poached egg. The bar is serving Irish coffee and Irish mimosas, plus Guinness on draft. Reservations can be made at www.moerleinlagerhouse.com
Galla Park serves brunch on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with entertainment all day. Plus the kitchen will be open late for all-day revelers.
The Stretch opens at noon, inviting you to grab a drink and watch the parade in the DORA district, then head back inside for green beer and your favorite Irish whiskey.
After waiting two years, a little snow isn’t going to slow down the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
On Saturday, March 12, the parade celebrate its 54th year, stepping off at 12 p.m. on Mehring Way.
What began as a small religious procession in 1967 has grown to large parade with pipers, step dancers, Irish families, marching bands, and floats. In 2001, the parade was moved to Saturday before Saint Patrick’s Day.
The parade’s honorary grand marshal is Cincinnati’s own Bob Harper, the president of Ohio’s Ancient Order of Hibernians. The AOH is the oldest Irish Catholic fraternal organization in the country, founded in 1836.
Lady's Choice
The LPGA returns to Cincinnati this Fall, with ticket packages and volunteer opportunities available now.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer registration is officially open, and the tournament is seeking more than 650 volunteers who will be critical to the success of the event. Available committees include player services, tournament scoring, marshals, concessions, guest services, admissions and many more.
The full list of volunteer committees and information about becoming a volunteer can be found at queencitylpga.com/volunteers.
Cincinnati’s history with women’s professional golf dates back to 1963, when Kenwood Country Club hosted the U.S. Women’s Open.
The LPGA returns to Kenwood Country Club this Fall, with the Queen City Championship presented by P&G set for September 5–11.
“We are thrilled to welcome the LPGA back to Cincinnati for the first time in over 30 years, and we know that this passionate golf fan base will celebrate and support its return,” said tournament director Emily Norell. “From volunteering to watching along the rope lines as the best players in the world compete for the championship, there will be something for everyone at the tournament and we look forward to building a can’t-miss event on the Cincinnati sports calendar!”
A number of ticketing options for the even are available. Children aged 17 or under will receive complimentary admission with a ticketed adult, and all active, retired military members and veterans will also gain entry free of charge.
Spectator ticketing options include:
General Admission
General Admission Tickets provide access to the tournament grounds, public grandstands, and fan areas.
Single Day (Tuesday–Wednesday), $20 – valid on either day of choice
Single Day (Thursday–Sunday), $25 – valid on any one day of choice
Weekly Ticket (Tuesday –Sunday), $80 – valid all week
Commissioner’s Club
The Commissioner’s Club pays homage to three former LPGA Commissioners who all had ties to the city of Cincinnati and helped shape the Tour – Charlie Mechem, Ty Votaw, and Mike Whan. This upgraded ticket provides access to a viewing platform with covered indoor space and outdoor seating overlooking multiple holes. Upscale food options will be available for purchase.
Daily Commissioner’s Club Ticket
(Thursday–Sunday), $100 – valid any one day
Weekly Commissioner’s Club Ticket
(Thursday–Sunday), $350 – valid all week
All-inclusive ticketing options including private skyboxes and clubhouse hospitality are also available for purchase. For full ticket information visit queencitylpga.com/tickets.
Here We Goat Again
After a year away, Bockfest returns March 4–6, to celebrate the coming of Spring, and our brewing heritage
If You Go
Bockfest
March 4–6
Bockfest Hall, 1811 Vine St
Programs during the weekend include historic tours, live music, yoga, food, and beer.
Find details at www.bockfest.com.
One of the last events before the pandemic shutdown in 2020 was Bockfest. The parade was a snowy, goat-filled revel that gave way to a weekend of events celebrating Cincinnati’s beer history.
“(The parade) has taken on the spirit of the krewes in New Orleans where the same groups come back year after year and put their own spin on entires,” says says Steve Hampton, executive director of the Brewery District Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation. “Some keep it simple and some go big. Some go all in on monks and goat while other have fun with puns.”
Last year’s Bockfest was a more subdued affair.
“You don’t quite get the full effect of goats, monks, and other craziness through a Zoom chat!” says Steve Hampton, executive director of the Brewery District Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation. “Bockfest is about celebrating, and there are so many people that head out to Bockfest each year and meet up. Seeing old friends and making new friends will be especially special this year.”
“Where else but Over-the-Rhine can you borrow bales of straw in a pinch for
your beer festival from your neighboring monks?”
While the Sausage Queen and the baby goats get a lot of attention, Bockfest offers much more. The weekend begins with a parade, ends with a petting zoo, and in between has a pig roast, historic tours, German bands, and even a race.
“We love our friends at the Flying Pig Marathon, who put on a fantastic Bockfest 5K on Saturday,” says Hampton. “But Bockfest is really built for those who want to ‘run’ the .05K Run on Sunday. It’s a grueling 164 feet, with all the bells and whistles of a real run like bottle opener medals for finishers. It is a really fun end to the weekend seeing the triumph of the human spirit!”
Steve Hampton talks about the Bockfest 5K.
Though Bockfest has become one of the city’s marquee events –while maintaining its authentic weirdness – the festival stays true to its scrappy, community-oriented roots.
Hampton reminisces about one early Bockfest.
“We had a tent set up in a gravel parking lot, and it had snowed before being set up. As the heaters kicked onm the snow melted and created a bunch of puddles and slush,” says Hampton. “This was as the festival was starting so we didn’t have a lot of options. I was talking to Brother Tim, one of the Franciscans next door to Bockfest Hall, and he offered up the bales of straw they had leftover from their Christmas live Nativity. Where else but Over-the-Rhine can you borrow bales of straw in a pinch for your beer festival from your neighboring monks?”
Though Hampton is a longtime organizer of Bockfest, he also has a deeply personal connection to the event. In an only-in-Cincinnati meet cut, he met his wife at Bockfest.
“She volunteered for one of our historic brewery tours,” Hampton says, “And we first met 30 feet underground in an old lagering cellar.”