Back to the Garden
Get ready for a the second weekend of the Cincinnati Home + Garden Show.
If you still need help with your home improvement projects, you’re in luck! The Cincinnati Home + Garden Show is back for another weekend.
You can see stunning patios and gardens, along with kitchen, bath, and more, plus talk to experts about how to bring it home to you from Thursday, March 2 through Sunday, March 5 at the Duke Energy Convention Center.
Thursday is Hero Day, with free admission for active military, veterans, current or retired police, fire, highway patrol, healthcare workers, and teachers. Stop by the show office and show an ID or proof of your service to get in free on that day.
Friday and Saturday, HGTV’s Joe Mazza takes the stage to answer questions and offer his expert advice. A home inspector with a 20-year construction background and a sixth sense for safety, Mazza runs Exclusive Home Inspection in Westchester, New York. On HGTV, he works with his design partner to help house hunters achieve their dream home designs while also repairing high priority safety issues.
Get more details and discounted tickets at www.cincinnatihomeandgardenshow.com.
Spring to Mind
If the recent springtime weather has you ready to start planting, find inspiration at the Cincinnati Home + Garden Show, opening this Saturday. You'll find more than 350 experts specializing in outdoor living, plus kitchen and bath and home improvement.
Duke Energy Convention Center
Saturday, Feb. 25, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sunday, Feb. 26, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Thursday, March 2, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, March 3, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday, March 4, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sunday, March 5, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tickets: $15, box office (adult admission); $13, at www.cincinnatihomeandgardenshow.com
Discount courtesy Ray St. Clair Roofing
FREE for children 12 years old and under
With the spring-like weather, it’s easy to start dreaming about starting your garden or working on a new home improvement project. But before you get to far, make sure to ask an expert!
The 54th annual Cincinnati Home + Garden Show, presented by Cincinnati-Northern Kentucky Honda Dealers has more than 350 experts in landscaping and home improvement trends all in one place. Running over two weekends, this annual showcase is a one-stop spot for idea, advice, and vendors.
This year’s special guest is Joe Mazza, the host of HGTV’s “Home Inspector Joe.” Mazza will be at the Home + Garden Show on Friday, March 3 and Saturday, March 4.
Mazza is an expert home inspector with a 20-year construction background and a sixth sense for safety. He runs Exclusive Home Inspection in Westchester, New York, and his job is to ensure his clients won’t move into an unsafe home. On HGTV, he works with his design partner to help house hunters achieve their dream home designs while also repairing high priority safety issues.
Other highlights of the Home + Garden show this year are:
FEATURE GARDENS
Explore a bridge to spring as you stroll through the Garden Showcase and see the outdoor inspirations created by Cincinnati’s top landscapers. Find new ideas, solutions, tips and design inspiration from the pros for all your outdoor needs. Local master gardens presenting awards in categories.
PICKLEBALL COURT
It’s the hottest trend in backyard fun! Cincy Sportscapes features VersaCourt, the premier athletic court system to reduce joint impact and athlete injury. Sportscapes is an authorized dealer of VersaCourt.
ASK A DESIGNER
Get expert advice plus 2023 tips and trends for home décor questions at the “Ask a Designer” exhibit presented by Sacksteder’s Interiors. Bring photos and project samples along with your questions!
HERO DAY
To honor those who serve or have served, the Cincinnati Home + Garden Show will offer free admission on March 2 (includes active military, veterans, current or retired police, fire, highway patrol, healthcare, and teachers). Stop by the show office and an ID or proof of your service and you will get in for FREE on this day.
Mad about the beer
Mad Tree celebrates a decade in brewing with anniversary party.
Get ready for a beer bonanza this weekend! Madtree Brewing is celebrating 10 years of brewing with a huge party, and everyone’s invited.
Madtree Taproom
3301 Madison Road,Oakley
Saturday, Feb. 25, 11 a.m. – 1 a.m.
Details at www.madtreebrewing.com/bonanza
“I would say there’s been some significant growth over the past 10 years,” says Madtree’s co-founder, Kenny McNutt. “When we first started, the goal was distribution. Within the first three months, some laws had changed and we realized there was a big opportunity to really connect to the consumer through our taproom…that grew and blossomed.”
Madtree continued to grow. In 2017, they opened the taproom in Oakley, with the Alcove in OTR opening in 2022, winning a “diner’s choice award” through Open Table within it’s first few months.
Madtree doubled it’s employee base (again), released its first non-beer vodka soda, Sway (it’s delicious) and won three medals for two of its lagers and Happy Amber.
“Year 9 was a really good year,” says McNutt.
Hop on In
Cuddle up to Bunnies and Blooms at Krohn Conservatory.
Are you hopping these spring-like weather lasts? You can always enjoy warm temps at Krohn Conservatory, and right now you can enjoy one of the cutest signs of Spring!
Bunnies & Blooms is underway and you can get up close and cozy with some of the cutest, fluffiest little bunnies.
If You Go
Bunnies & Blooms
Krohn Conservatory
1501 Eden Park Drive
Through March 12
Tickets: $10 for adults, $7 for youth; Free for kids under 5
“Surrounding the bunnies are gardens featuring a lot of vegetables, which we thought was ironic,” says Mark House, assistant manager Krohn Conservatory. “The bunnies do eyeball them but they can’t eat them. They’re relegated to the hay and vegetables in their pen.”
Raised by a local family, the bunnies are used to a lot of attention. This event is a first for Krohn and House says there’s a very specific demographic who enjoys it.
“Usually the under-5 crowd who has a favorite children’s book featuring a bunny,” he says. “Their eyes just light up when they see these rabbits because they’re every bit as cute as they are in the books.”
At “Bunnies & Blooms,” keep an eye out for a few of your favorite children’s books/themes sprinkled around the showroom.
Pick Your Battles
Like to cook? Like to eat? Like to support a great cause? Food Fight 513 on Feb 20 at TQL Stadium is just what you're craving. Chefs battle it out with each other and even the general public during this fundraiser for The LEE Initiative.
If you think a potluck should be more competitive, Food Fight 513 might be just what you’re looking for.
If You Go
Food Fight 513
Monday. Feb. 20, 6–11 p.m.
TQL Stadium, Medpace Tunnel Club
Free parking for all who attend. Kids 10 and under get in free.
Tickets are $10 cash at the door. Proceeds from the door will go to The LEE Initiative.
This event – part potluck, part cooking contest –brings together some of the best chefs in region. But the fun isn’t limited to the pros!
You want to be judge? Put your name in the pot. You want to fight? Put your name in the same pot. The trick – It’s the same pot.
So don’t bring a dish if you aren’t ready to play.
But everyone attending the event is encouraged to bring a dish, whether it’s a family fave casserole or a box of coneys you picked up on the way over – just be sure to have a sign explaining what it is.
Cocktailoligist Molly Wellmann will be stirring things up at a casheless bar with DJ Mowgli shaking the tunes. Adopt-a-Pit and other non-profits will have raffle baskets and Cincy Sharp will be sharpening knives on site.
Date Nights
Whether it's a first date meet-up or a family friendly excursion, celebrate Valentine's Day by spending time with the ones you love.
Much like Cupid’s very own arrow, Valentine’s Day strikes fear in the hearts of many people. The panic over finding just the right gift, the dread of forgetting to make a dinner reservation, or the absolute terror of empty buckets in the Kroger floral department can all be too much.
But fear not, we have a few tips that will make Feb. 14 (or even the weekend before!) a little more fun and a whole lot easier.
First things first
Courtesy Hilton Netherland Plaza
Maybe you’ve Bumbled or Matched your way to finding someone online, and it’s time to meet IRL.
The pressure! You could probably use a drink.
The Bar at the Palm Court (Hilton Netherland Plaza, Fifth and Vine Streets) is just the place you need to meet a new love interest. The art deco setting is classic and romantic, plus offers plenty of fodder for conversation. Order a Martini or an Old Fashioned, nestle into a banquette, and settle into the rich history of the bar.
Once you’ve steeled your courage, head out to the next phase of your date. Just around the corner from the Palm Court is the Van Gogh Expo, (18 West Fourth St.) This immersive visual art experience allows you to walk through the paintings. It’s better than going to a movie – you can actually talk during it, getting to know each other better while you stroll through the light and music of Van Gogh’s work.
While that is certainly a lovely initial meeting, if you still want to spend a little more time together, take a trip to Graeter’s on Fountain Square. You can learn a lot about someone’s through their choice of ice cream flavor!
A Little Romance
Have you been dating for a while and need some new fun? Or maybe you’re newlyweds who feel all dated out? When life has become a bit more Netflix and Zzzz than party on, it’s time to act like a kid again!
Pick up those cool college vibes with a trip to Art Academy of Cincinnati’s (1212 Jackson St.) current exhibition, Minumental 33. The 2" x 2" works works of art in the Pearlman and McClure Galleries will spark big conversation. As a plus, the art is for sale, if you still need a gift!
Courtesy Pins Mechanical
It may not be the video arcade of your youth – though there is pinball – but duckpin bowling is much more interactive. At Pins Mechanical (1124 Main St.) the bowling using smaller balls and smaller pins which makes it much more difficult. While not obviously romantic, the healthy competition, and a little trash talk, will certainly heat things up, in a good way.
Courtesy Pendleton Parlor
Keep the spirit of fun going by grabbing a slice at Goodfellas (1211 Main St.) Along with specialty pies and sandwiches, you’ll also find salads, since you’re not a kid anymore!
After the game and pizza, cap off the evening with a trip to Pendleton Parlor (1218 Broadway St.) While the initial appeal may be ice cream, sundaes, and shakes, the real draw is every kid’s fantasy, edible cookie dough.
Family Fun
If Valentine’s Day has become more of a family affair, share the love with kid-centric fun.
Celebrate a little early, as the Contemporary Arts Center (44 E. Sixth Street) holds their winter family festival, Ice Ice Baby, in the Creativity Center on Saturday, Feb. 11. This free drop-in program offers loads of art and science-themed projects plus a meet-and-greet with a penguin. The day also includes an indoor snowball fight.
The recently opened Creativity Center has exhibitions and art making every day, so it’s a fun way to reconnect through art on any day.
Across the street, Bru Burger (41 E. Sixth St.) has an expansive list of burgers available for all ages, but also offers a special kids menu along with root beer floats! Grown-ups can also choose from chef-driven salads and sandwiches, plus local craft beers and cocktails.
The ice rink at Fountain Square is still open, which includes both skating and bumper cars. To make the day even more dazzling, the Winter Wonder Light Show happens every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday throughout the evening.
From a chat over a cocktail to a turn on the ice, you’l find plenty of ways to make memories this Valentine’s Day, and isn’t that what love is all about.
Sow Much to Learn
Pig Works starts scholarship program to benefit community-minded student runners.
Flying Pig Community Scholars
Applicants must demonstrate a passion for running and community service. Applicants who are interested in applying to the Flying Pig Community Scholars Program must meet the following criteria:
Be enrolled as a high school senior
Participate on a high school Cross Country or Track & Field team
Have a cumulative 2.7 GPA or higher
Be recommended by a teacher, coach or community leader
Submit a personal essay
For additional information about the Flying Pig Community Scholars Program and how to apply, please visit https://flyingpigmarathon.com/flying-pig-high-school-scholarship/
To learn more about other charity efforts at Pig Works, visit our Charity Program Overview https://flyingpigmarathon.com/get-involved-2/2015-charity-program-overview/
Running is good for your body and mind, with Pig Works, the non-profit parent organization behind the Flying Pig Marathon, offering a new scholarship opportunity for students in the area.
Flying Pig Community Scholars will award 10 scholarships of $5,000 annually to community-minded student runners, helping them pursue their running goals and their post-secondary education.
“The Flying Pig has always been about the spirit of Greater Cincinnati and ultimately about creating a vibrant future for our community. Investing in these amazing young track and cross-country athletes in our community is a great way to give back while helping them become the leaders of the future, ” said Bob Coughlin, founder, Paycor and The Flying Pig Marathon.
The program is an expansion of Pig Work’s existing youth initiatives, including a scholarship program that has awarded more than $100,000 and The Flying Pig Youth Program which provides opportunities for kids of all ages and abilities to learn healthy nutrition and exercise habits while training for the Cincinnati Children’s 26th Mile and the Flying Pig 5k. The program is generously funded through the Coughlin Family Foundation, sponsorship from Skyline Chili and donations to Flying Pig charities.
This will be one of the largest scholarship programs for high-school runners in the country, extending Pig Works commitment to care for the Greater Cincinnati community through fostering support for community-minded student athletes who are seniors in high school with financial assistance to pursue their academic and athletic dreams.
Beer Me
Cold weather and cold beer at Cincy Winter Beerfest.
Think beer is just for the summer? Think again!
The Cincy Winter Beerfest brings more 150 local and craft brews, as well as new craft wineries and distilleries to the Duke Energy Convention Center on Friday, Feb. 3 and Saturday, Feb. 4.
Ready to go? Get tickets!
Dive Right In
The water's fine for a good cause at the Polar Plunge at The Banks.
If even thinking about the scene in the freezing water at the end of Titanic is too much for you, jumping into the Greater Cincinnati Polar Plunge the Polar Plunge may not be for you.
But you can still support Special Olympics during this annual event and still stay warm and dry!
This year’s Polar Plunge returns to The Banks on Saturday, Jan. 28, with the opening ceremonies starting at 10:15 a.m. Then those who have raised at least $75 will jump into the cold water, many in costume.
Along with the Plunges, the day includes a costume contest as well as fun throughout the day for participants and spectators alike. There will also be vendor booths set up near the Plunge and many restaurants at The Banks will be opening early on Plunge day.
Prizes are awarded for best costume – the best individual and team costumes will receive the coveted Golden Plunger award – and for the top individual fundraiser and for the top fundraising teams in corporate/civic, school and law enforcement divisions.
Held in front of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, the event is a fundraiser for both Special Olympics Ohio and Special Olympics Kentucky to support the Special Olympics mission of providing sports training and competition opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The Plunge has raised nearly $1.9 million for the two programs.
Special Olympics is the world’s largest program of sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Participation is open to all individuals eight years of age or older. Training and competition in local, area, state, and national programs is offered year-round in 25 sports.
For more information about Special Olympics Programs, visit www.sooh.org or www.soky.org.
From Soup to Nuts
Meals on Wheels Southwest Ohio & Northern Kentucky and La Soupe have partnered for a program to deliver chef-driven, medically tailored meals from rescued ingredients to local seniors.
Bringing delicious and nutritious meals to people is the mission of both La Soupe and Meals on Wheels Southwest Ohio & Northern Kentucky. It’s fitting, then, that these two organizations have teamed up for a new project.
Working with La Soupe, a nonprofit that bridges the gap between food waste and food insecurity, Meals on Wheels will deliver fresh, chef-driven medically tailored meals to their clients, using sustainable, rescued ingredients.
This marks the first collaboration between a local Meals on Wheels America organization and a food rescue nonprofit.
La Soupe chefs have been creating “Medically Tailored Meals” for over a year as part of their Food as Medicine Program, which provides healthy food as nutrition intervention for those with chronic illnesses in the community. La Soupe's recipes will provide an increased variety of flavors for those receiving Meals on Wheel’s diabetic and heart healthy therapeutic meals.
Through this new partnership with La Soupe and its recent merger with 55North, Meals on Wheel is continuing to innovate in its fight against food insecurity, malnourishment, and senior isolation in the community.
Drink in the History
Enjoy the great indoors on new brewing and distilling tour on the Cincinnati Brewing Heritage Trail.
If You Go
Brewing Heritage Trail Guided Tours
1939 Race St.
Tours offered include the winter Cincinnati Brewing & Distilling Tasting Tour, Built on Beer, and Over & Under the Rhine
For more information visit brewingheritagetrail.org/tours.
If you like your pint of beer with a side of Cincinnati history, look no further than Brewing Heritage Trails in Over-the-Rhine.
We took you along on a haunted brewery tour last Fall, and recently we stopped by for another tour, with beer and spirit tastings!
Brewing Heritage Trails has a number of guided tours, but the new winter tour is an indoor tour focused on Cincinnati Brewing & Distilling Tasting.
During the tour, we learned about modern and historic brewing and distilling. We sampled a flight of beers from Rhinegeist and a flight of spirits from Northern Row Brewery & Distillery.
The first stop on the tour is the Rhinegeist Brewery
We toured the pre-Prohibition brewing structure, got a behind the scenes tour & finished our time there with a flight of their winter beverages.
Safety glasses are needed for this portion of the tour – We walked past the “employee only” signs (with our tour guides, of course) and learned about historic and modern day brewing techniques!
We stood in awe of the massive pallets of IPA Truth, then finished our tour with a few cold ones.
Next, we walked through the lagering cellar of the historic Jackson Brewery.
We explored underground passages where beer was fermented and cold stored dating back to the 1850s!
After touring the tunnels below Jackson Brewery, we made our way back to West McMicken, to our final stop, Northern Row Brewery & Distillery.
Here, we were treated to a behind the scenes tour and finished our day with a Northern Row spirits tasting.
There’s nothing quite like this in Cincinnati. It’s so fun to walk through the old lagering tunnels and learn more about the history of brewing in the Queen City.
– Lauren Artino
Connecting Community
Docent tours, interactive art, and discussions mark the celebration of MLK Day at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Woodrow “Woody” Keown, Jr. president and CEO, shares the details about a day devoted to social justice movements – past, present, and future.
Admission to the Freedom Center’s exhibits and permanent collection are FREE on Monday, Jan. 16 for their MLK Fifth Third Community Day.
Art Activity with local artist Brent Billingsley
11 a.m. – 4 p.m. I Grand Hall
Brent Billingslev. is an artist and empowering voice behind young, disenfranchised youth. Stop by for an art activity about the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Unpacking Love & Justice with Brittany Packnett Cunningham
2–3 p.m. I Harriet Tubman Theater
Moderated by Angenita Brown with Union Institute & University, this open discussion explores the intersection of culture and justice with Brittanv. Packnett Cunningham. Brittany is an award-winning activist, educator and writer. Cited by President Barack Obama as a leader whose “voice is going to be making a difference for years to come,” Brittany is an award-winning educator, organizer, writer and leader. Brittany has become a remarkable voice in the work of social change, empowerment and freedom.
Education Resources
All day I 3rd floor
Stop by and learn about the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center's educational resources, field trip opportunities and youth initiatives.
The King Legacy Celebration at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center begins at 8 a.m. with a continental breakfast and an opportunity for fellowship before the program begins. Tickets available.
Artist Destiny L will perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing” to start the program and Revolution Dance Theatre will perform prior to the keynote. The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra’s Nouveau program will perform in reflection to Dr. King’s philosophy and students from the Freedom Center’s Youth Docent Program will speak about Dr. King’s six principles.
The event also includes a keynote discussion between Brittany Packnett Cunningham and Lacey Roberts from WLWT.
Brittany Packnett Cunningham is an award-winning educator, organizer, writer and leader who is leading at the intersection of culture and justice.
Doctor's Orders
Bars at The Banks raise big money for charity.
The outpouring of love and generosity for Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin was inspiring. From Bengals fans gathering for a vigil outside UC Medical Center to the millions of dollars donated to his Chasing Ms foundation, people were trying to find ways to show support.
Last Sunday, as the Bengals faced the Ravens, the bars and restaurants at The Banks joined the cause.
Fans made direct donations to Hamlin’s foundation by scanning a QR code shown on the Reds Hall of Fame video board on Joe Nuxhall at Freedom Way.
But inside the establishments, money was being raised for the UC Medical Center Trauma Center. From the proceeds of drinks sold before and after the Bengals game, $18,853 was donated to the UC Health Foundation, designated for the Trauma Center.
Save the Date
Events are back in a big way! Plan now so you don’t miss any of Cincinnati’s favorite races, festivals, and fairs.
A new year means a chance to do it all over again, and maybe – to try things for the first time. Whichever bucket you fall into, it’s time to make a plan for fun.
As we turn the calendar page (does anybody use paper calendars anymore?), let’s take a look at some of the things Cincinnati People is most looking forward to in 2023.
Reds Opening Day
The city may have Bengals fever right now, but Reds Opening Day is right around the corner. Baseball’s oldest team will open play on Thursday, March 30 against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Great American Ball Park. A new beginning might be just what the doctor ordered. The team’s performance on the field left something to be desired in 2022, but hope springs eternal in the Cincinnati sports world. Besides, the Findlay Market Opening Day parade never disappoints.
Flying Pig Marathon
One of the country’s favorite marathons celebrates its silver anniversary in 2023. The 25th Flying Pig Marathon weekend is May 5-7, 2023 in downtown Cincinnati. Races range from one to 26.2 miles, with events perfect for serious runners, furry friends - and those looking for some family fun. Don’t miss the P&G Health and Fitness Expo at the Duke Energy Convention Center on Friday and Saturday, May 6-7 and the Family Fun Fest at Smale Park on Saturday, May 6.
Taste of Cincinnati
It feels only right to follow up Cincinnati’s healthiest weekend with one full of gastronomic delights. Kick off your summer with Taste of Cincinnati, May 27–29. The nation’s longest-running culinary arts festival begin in 1979 and has expanded into a bucket-list item for foodies everywhere. More than 450,000 hungry folks are expected at the annual food extravaganza in downtown Cincinnati, where more than 50 restaurants and food trucks will serve up delicious menu items. Taste is also a music festival, with continuous live entertainment throughout Memorial Day weekend.
Summerfair
Let’s roll right into the next weekend, when Summerfair Cincinnati takes the spotlight. In its 56th year, Summerfair will be held once again at historic Coney Island, June 2–4, 2003. More than 300 artisans and craftspeople from all over the country will feature their work, along with a variety of gourmet arts and regional performers. Artists apply and then are judged, allowing only the best to exhibit their pieces for the more than 20,000 who visit Summerfair yearly.
Queen City Championship
In 2022, the LPGA returned to Cincinnati after more than 30 years. The Kroger Queen City Championship, presented by P&G, drew enormous crowds in its inaugural year at Kenwood Country Club, and will return there September 4-10, 2023. The gorgeous grounds at Kenwood CC are the perfect backdrop for the world’s best female golfers to show their incredible skill and their personalities, as fans cheer them along the way.
Oktoberfest Zinzinnati
Prost! Cincinnati loves its festivals, and its German heritage. Put them together and you have the marquee event of the year: Oktoberfest Zinzinnati. The event is the second largest Oktoberfest in the world, behind only Munich, Germany, and returns to downtown streets in mid-September. A half million patrons will eat 20,000 cream puffs, 23,000 Bavarian pretzels and 3,600 pounds of sauerkraut. And the beer. Oh, the beer. Last year’s Oktoberfest featured more than 130 varieties of beer and alcoholic beverages from national and local breweries.
Kroger Wellness Festival
The newest addition to Cincinnati’s festival lineup is the Kroger Wellness Festival. This free two-day health and wellness festival brings together all the good stuff: healthy foods, celebrities, interesting discussions, live entertainment and tons of freebies. You can check out chef demos, product sampling, celebrity fitness challenges and hear from industry experts – at The Banks in downtown Cincinnati. Dates for the 2023 festival have yet to be announced.
Cincinnati loves its festivals and big events, and you will, too. From baseball to beer, golf to great art, there’s something for everyone in 2023.
– Kathrine Nero
Bring the Heat
It's getting chili in here, as plans for new bowl game heat up.
If the college bowl games over New Year’s left you hungry for more, you’re in luck!
The board of the Cincinnati USA Sports Commission is exploring a new college football bowl game that would be held at TQL Stadium, and air exclusively on The CW Network.
Called the Cincinnati Chili Bowl, the new event will feature two Division I conferences where two of their Bowl eligible teams will be invited to play in the December postseason game. Discussions with conferences are underway. Pending official approval, the three-hour telecast would air on The CW Network and would be available in 100+ million homes across America.
Officials from the Cincinnati USA Sports Commission have studied best practices from college football games over the last year to ensure the following ideals: A professionally managed football game aired on national TV to promote the Cincinnati region, a fiscally responsible opportunity for the participating colleges, unique fan engagement events and an opportunity for the student athletes to network with area executives for future employment opportunities.
On the day after the Bowl Game, 30 regional corporate leaders will be invited to host the “Big Wigs Business Brunch” where student athletes from both schools can meet and network with business leaders to discuss employment opportunities.
Additionally, the Player Gifting Suite will be focused on professional attire and tools the student athletes can use for internships and employment.
The proceeds from the Cincinnati Chili Bowl will benefit the Cincinnati USA Sports Commission to be used in attracting new sporting events to the region to drive economic impact.
To that end, the Cincinnati Chili Bowl Champions—a collective of regional executives—will be invited to support the Bowl Game with a financial contribution, sponsorship opportunities and ticket purchases for the Bowl Game.
The feasibility study for the Cincinnati Chili Bowl will be led by Jackie Reau, CEO of Game Day, along with local businessmen Steven Young and John Schenk.
The financial support needed to move forward will include a mix of corporate sponsors, hospitality and ticket sales as well as local event tickets.
Initial fan engagement plans feature bourbon and craft beer tours, culinary tours, college marching band, cheer and dance team challenges, an esports tournament between the two schools and a fan fest.
4 More: Adam Turer
See how Adam Turer and other volunteers are teaming up to make sure Saturday Hoops is a winner.
As part of our year-end issue, we are revisiting some of our favorite Cincinnati People from 2022.
We checked in with Saturday Hoops’ Adam Turer.
What’s been the biggest surprise to you in 2022?
A pleasant surprise has been a significant influx of young volunteers. We’ve seen tremendous and consistent dedication from local high school and university students volunteering their time each Saturday morning. We hope to continue that trend in 2023.
What’s changed since we last spoke?
We opened the resource closet courtesy of Bigger Than Sneakers, which allows us to provide our kids with new basketballs, shoes, clothes, and other accessories each week. For the first time, we started programming in September in Winton Terrace and the West End, serving over 500 kids this Fall. We officially became a program of Cincinnati Youth Collaborative, providing additional resources and leadership for our group mentoring model.
What have you learned about our community this year?
The future is in great hands. We’ve had so many alumni of our program who are now young adults continue to come back and serve. The younger kids look up to them as role models and that’s exactly what our program is designed to build. We mentor our community’s future mentors, strengthening the cycle of cheerful giving and good stewardship.
What are you most looking forward to in 2023?
We aim to open our third Saturday Hoops location in Avondale in February, which creates an opportunity to serve hundreds more children. This presents an opportunity for new volunteers and donors to help us reach more kids and serve in a new community.
Find more info on Saturday Hoops and its impact here.
4MORE: Tamara Harkavy
Though 2021 marked the 200th anniversary of Jewish community in Cincinnati, the celebration continued into this year, and co-chair of the The Jewish Cincinnati Bicentennial, Tamara Harkavy, shares her thoughts.
As part of our year-end issue, we are revisiting some of our favorite Cincinnati People from 2022.
We checked in with Tamara Harkavy, co-chair of the Jewish Cincinnati Bicentennial.
What’s been the biggest surprise to you in 2022?
The committee intentionally planned offerings that were as diverse as our community. Activities were planned in partnership with Cincinnati’s many Jewish institutions; the Skirball Museum, Mayerson JCC, Jewish Cemeteries of Greater Cincinnati, and American Jewish Archives among them. But to our delight we found that so many of Cincinnati’s institutions were also eager to participate. From the Museum Center to the Cincinnati Art Museum to the Playhouse in the Park to the Opera, all going above and beyond to present relevant and captivating performances, exhibitions and events that celebrated our 200-year history in Cincinnati.
What’s changed since we last spoke?
Initially, we offered a lot of amazing programming in celebration of the bicentennial. There were about 30 planned events, in total. But as the community became more involved and recognized the significance of the bicentennial, we actually doubled that number, to about 60 events! Some of the events were small and intimate, others were months-long and aimed at attracting the broader public. Many were postponed or retooled because of Covid. The “Leaders in Light Speaker Series” was a great example of this. In partnership with the Mercantile Library, the series was to feature in-person engagements with four dynamic speakers; but we had to pivot. Still, we saw people log on and join us virtually for this very timely series. We believe each speaker made an impact on the audience. This was witnessed by the willingness of attendees (virtually or in person) to participate with questions and responses that showed how profoundly important it is to address issues that relate to hatred, racial bias and antisemitism.
What have you learned about our community this year?
I’ll use one amazing event as an example and it’s one that inspired me the most: Rainbow Shabbat. It was fun, colorful and filled with joy. This event, like no other, showed how eager the Jewish Community is to embrace diversity and celebrate differences. Music, food and even a drag queen were the backdrop of Rainbow Shabbat, but the real stars were the people who attended. LGBTQ+ Allies coming together to pray, eat, dance and share in a shabbat experience like no other. The minute it ended, people started talking about next year! A new Jewish Cincinnati Tradition is born. I am already looking forward to Rainbow Shabbat 2023!
What are you looking forward to in 2023?
Obviously, Rainbow Shabbat 2023! We have made so many new friends during this celebration and we want to strengthen those bonds as we move forward into 2023 and beyond. What we found, is that people are interested and appreciative of our Jewish community. When we opened our arms and invited people in, they responded with energy and excitement. To celebrate the way the Jewish culture and Jewish people are interwoven into Cincinnati’s history was a very significant aspect of the bicentennial, but equally significant, is the desire to look ahead and figure out how to be more inclusive, more welcoming, and more engaged. I think we created a solid foundation for that, that we will continue to build on, for another 200 years.
4 More: Jennifer Steele
Jennifer Steele, CEO of Meals on Wheels Southwest OH & Northern KY, talks about their incredible year and their recent merger.
As part of our year-end issue, we are revisiting some of our favorite Cincinnati People from 2022.
We checked in with Jennifer Steele, CEO of Meals on Wheels Southwest OH & Northern KY.
Check out an interview with Jennifer, below.
What’s been the biggest surprise to you in 2022?
I was continually surprised by the pure goodness of others in 2022. In spite of so many challenges, I was still brought to tears more than once by just how thoughtful and kind people can be. People stepped up to help in the most amazing ways: rushing to our aid when catalytic converters were stolen from vehicles we use to take seniors to critical medical appointments, giving to seniors on fixed incomes even as inflation hit their own families hard, giving of their time when they had so little for themselves. It has been truly inspiring to witness. I wish that everyone could see what I get to see each day – there is just so much good in this world, so much reason for hope.
What’s changed since we last spoke?
The biggest change for Meals on Wheels has also been the most recent! We announced a merger with 55 North this month, which will improve services for more than 11,000 area seniors. Combining the resources of two forward-thinking organizations will help us increase the quality of life of the seniors in the communities we serve.
What have you learned about our community this year?
I like to think that when we merged with Cincinnati Area Senior Services last year we kicked off a trend in nonprofit mergers and combinations in our region. I’ve learned that we are a community of leaders, donors, volunteers, and supporters willing to do whatever it takes to work smarter, serve more people in better ways, and to have a greater collective impact. I love that we’re closing out the year with a bang, and with another merger. Togetherness is something we care a lot about at Meals on Wheels, and it takes many forms.
What are you looking forward to in 2023?
Growth! In 2023 we will be expanding innovative programs and services to keep seniors healthy and connected in this rapidly changing world. I’m also really looking forward to continuing to put our region on the map nationally through our research into senior hunger and loneliness, and to rolling out an equity-based innovation roadmap that we’ve been working on for the past 18 months.
Light Year
Celebrate Hanukkah with the Cincinnati Jewish Community on Fountain Square, with an outdoor menorah lighting, light show, ice skating, bumper cars, and more.
Cincinnati’s Jewish community is inviting the city to celebrate the Festival of Lights.
Hanukkah on the Square
Wednesday, Dec. 21, 6 p.m.
Fountain Square
Fifth and Vine Streets
Details at mayersonjcc.org/hanukkah-at-fountain-square
“The message of Hanukkah is the message of light,” said Rabbi Yosef Kalmanson of Chabad of Southern Ohio. “The nature of light is that it is always victorious over darkness. A small amount of light dispels a lot of darkness. Another act of goodness and kindness, another act of light, can make all the difference.”
Though the official Hanukkah at Fountain Square event is sold out, guests are still welcome to come to Fountain Square and enjoy the light show and lighting of the menorah.
The evening also includes ice skating, bumper cars, and more on Fountain Square.
“With public celebrations in the area, Jewish children get to grow up with pride in their Jewish heritage and a feeling of equality and
self-confidence as Americans,” said Rabbi Kalmanson.
Rabbi Kalmanson was instrumental in fighting for the display of a menorah on Fountain Square, which began in 1985.
“For many years it was challenged in court, but still appeared on the Square,” said Rabbi Kalmanson. “Chabad also lit the Menorah in City Hall and the Mayor's office starting in the late ‘80s.
Hanukkah on the Square is is presented by the Mayerson JCC in partnership with Jewish Federation of Cincinnati and Chabad of Southern Ohio.
“The Menorah serves as a symbol of Cincinnati's dedication to
preserving and encouraging the right and liberty of all its citizens
to worship God freely, openly, and with pride,” said Rabbi Kalmanson. “This is especially true in the United States, a nation that was founded upon and vigorously protects the right of every person to practice his or her religion free from restraint and persecution.”
Holiday Fandemonium
Shopping for Cincy fans just got easier with the Sports Flea at The Banks this Saturday, with great gear from all their favorite teams.
Got a Cincy sports fan on your list? You probably have more than one!
Get gifts for everyone, and something for yourself, at the Sports Flea at The Banks on Saturday, Dec. 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cincinnati sports teams will be on-site selling merch and apparel, giving you a one-stop shop for all your holiday present needs.
Teams will be set up at Sample Space, 140 Marian Spencer Way. Find unique items from
FC Cincinnati
Cincinnati Fear
Cincinnati Cyclones
UC
Xavier
The Bengals and Reds team shops will be open, too, so you can stroll through The Banks and wrap up all your shopping!
