Loud & Proud

Cincinnati Pride Parade and Festival

Saturday, June 22

11 a.m., parade
12–9 p.m, Festival
Sawyer Point

For more information visit www.cincinnatipride.org.

This year marks the 51st annual Cincinnati Pride.

“We have a much more diverse group of talent on our three stages this year, from drag artists to musicians to choirs to dance troupes, trying to showcase all different types of art within our community”, says Jake Hitch, director of communications for the festival.

This year’s festival headliner is indie pop group, The Aces, as well as Canadian singer and reality television drag artist Priyanka. Both headliners serve as pivotal influencers in the LGBTQ+ community.

Along with the diverse music lineup, the festival includes a family fun zone with inflatables, a sober zone, a teen zone, an art zone, a silent disco, as well as the food trucks, more than 100 local vendors.

Cincinnati Pride provides a platform that encourages acceptance and affirms individuality within the LGBTQIA+ community. Both the festival and the parade offer action-seeking individuals a voice to make an impact regarding the equality.

This year, the parade, in partnership with Transform Cincy, selected transgender youth to be the 2024 Grand Marshals. Transform Cincy is an organization that works with transgender and gender non-conforming youth to provide free wardrobes.

Cincinnati Pride partners with organizations and businesses like Transform Cincy to provide ally-safe options and resources that raise awareness about LGBTQ+ issues. These organizations utilize educational workshops, outreach programs, and a variety of other tools to support LGBTQ+ members. The Buckeye Region Anti-Violence Organization (BRAVO), a program of Equitas Health, has teamed with Cincinnati Pride this year and has created a theme, “Take Pride in Your Health” to connect the people of Cincinnati to a welcoming and inclusive healthcare service.

“Each year, Pride is among our greatest opportunities to interface with current and future patients,” says Anthony Clemente, BRAVO’S director of marketing communications. “In Cincinnati, more than 100,000 people gather for the event each year. Our team marches in the parade and sets up shop at the festival, where we talk to attendees about healthcare services like primary care, pharmacy, gender-affirming care, HIV/STI testing, and mental health.”

The expected attendance approximates nearly 250,000 individuals, making Cincinnati Pride the city’s third largest annual event.

– Sydney Carter

The Stars Align

There’s nothing to be afraid of for Cincinnati Fear!

Cincinnati Fear, the Queen City's professional esports team, started their Summer season this week, playing in the North American Challengers League (NACL) for League of Legends. The Fear enters the season with a new roster and a new partnership with Starforge System.

Cincinnati Fear is entering its fourth season in the NACL with arguably its strongest lineup yet. The roster consists of five former-LCS members in Philip Zeng, Lawrence Lin Xiu, Nicholas Abbott, and Kim Dong-Keon, and Tony Ng. All five are looking to make a name for themselves for this upcoming season and make an impression on LCS organizations watching.

Tim David, Cincinnati Fear general manager

“This new Fear lineup brings experience from the highest level of League of Legends competition,” says Tim David, Cincinnati Fear general manager. “All five have previously played in the League Championship Series, and are looking to show they still have what it takes to perform at that level. We also have a returning player for his second year with us, Philip, and it's rare for a player to stick with a team longer than a year, so I am looking forward to seeing him continue to represent the Fear. “

During the NACL Summer season Cincinnati Fear will go by “Fear Starforge” representing their partnership with Starforge Systems. Starforge Systems strives to build the PCs “in the universe” and work with customers on building their dream PCs. Starforge is also backed by the OTK content creators, which holds some of the top streaming talent in Esfand, Emiru, and MoistCr1TiKaL.

Starforge Systems announced the Fear partnership on social media earlier this month, saying “We're not looking to slap a logo on some jerseys and call it a day, because that's simply not how we operate. We're excited to be providing powerful PCs (The best in the universe, some would say) for the players to practice on so they can avoid tech issues. We are also working on planning content in conjunction with our parent company, OTK Network, to introduce this team to new audiences. The NACL is about the players and teams having the opportunity for growth, and we want to help with that.”

“The Starforge Systems is not only our first partnership, but also one that comes with a lot of social influence backing” says David. “Starforge Systems work alongside the OTK Network, a group of content creators that have over 22 million followers combined, which includes Emiru, Sodapoppin, Asmongold, and Mizkif to name a few. This is one of the first-of-its-kind partnerships in the NACL and we're excited to be working alongside them!”

Cincinnati Fear was founded in 2022 as Cincinnati’s fourth professional sports team, competing in esports with players representing the Queen City. Professional, collegiate and high school players of Cincinnati Fear will compete in tournaments and live events with titles such as League of Legends and Super Smash Brothers, among other titles to be added in the fall. 

“We have one of the strongest rosters that has ever played in this league, with players who have fun play styles and strong personalities,” says David. “Going into most seasons, I keep expectations tame, but this time around we want to win it all. They're working hard and it's going to be a fun season.”

All Cincinnati Fear games can be watched live starting at Twitch.TV/NACL.

Father Knows Best

Once a year, we set aside a special day to honor dads. And while Mother’s Day means fancy brunches and spa days, Father’s Day usually ends up being another Sunday at the grill for the man of the house. But not this year!

No matter what kind of dad you have (or are!) we’ve found fun things to do.

Bourbon Dads

Has bourbon (or Scotch) become his whole personality? Being this close Bourbon Country makes finding a great gift a lot easier.

On Saturday, June 15 or Sunday, June 16, you can treat him to a special bourbon experience at Moerlein Lager House (115 Joe Nuxhall Way). He can enjoy a sample flight of half-ounce pours of Weller Special Reserve, 12-Year-Old, and Antique 107 for just $25. Make it a full day, with brunch or dinner, plus an incredible view of the Roebling. Check out the details and make reservations at www.moerleinlagerhouse.com.

Is he more into the whole process? Tours at New Riff Distillery (24 Distillery Way, Newport) offer a firsthand look at Kentucky bourbon distilling process, from grain to barrel. The tour explores fermentation, distillation, and barreling. After the tour, New Riff offers a complimentary comprehensive tasting of a variety of spirits. The distillery tour lasts between 45 and 60 minutes, tours are $20 per person. More at www.newriffdistilling.com.

Beatles Dad

Does he spends a lot of time noodling on his guitar? Is he obsessively watching those Beatles documentaries on Apple TV? Well, “Here Comes the Sun” for the best Father’s Day ever.

Head to Moerlein Lager House a bit early on Sunday to join a community sing-along of “Good Day Sunshine.”

The restaurant and The Cincinnati Parks Foundation have teamed up for this special community event on the Great Lawn at Smale Riverfront Park on Sunday, June 16 at 9 a.m.

This event is a celebration of McCartney’s upcoming birthday along with his incredible contributions to music. It’s also a heartfelt invitation for him to visit our city for the Cincinnati Opera’s world stage premiere of his “Liverpool Oratorio,” at Music Hall July 18–27.

Participants are encouraged to arrive early, bring their friends and family and use the hashtag #GetPaultoMusicHall to spread the word and amplify the invitation.

The first 50 people to attend will receive a free ticket to the Butterfly Show at the Krohn Conservatory (see below), courtesy of Cincinnati Parks. Moerlein Lager House will also be giving away gift certificates for a discount at the restaurant to all attendees.!

Ancestry Dads

Has someone gotten REALLY into researching the family tree? It’s cool if you’re descended from Vikings, but make him step away from ancestry.com for the day to have a little fun.

You can take your da on a “trip” to Ireland with a visit to Red Leprechaun (20 West Freedom Way, The Banks) for brunch on Sunday, June 16, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Not only will he enjoy traditional dishes like pasties, shepherd’s pie, and fish and chips, along with brunch favorites, he can belly up to the bar, a hand-carved shipped all the way from the old country (Malahide, Ireland). There will be a special secret performer from Ireland from at 1 p.m.

This Father’s Day celebration would also work for your père, papa, padre, or Vater.

History Channel Dads

In between episodes of “Ancient Aliens,” it’s still possible to learn about actual historic events on The History Channel, but it sure is getting harder. Why not do a little exploration on your own at Cincinnati Museum Center (1301 Western Ave.).

Courtesy Cincinnati Museum Center

Now through July 28, you can see Pompeii: The Exhibition, a media-rich, object-based immersive experience. Authentic artifacts recreate the bustling commercial port and strategic military and trading center, allowing you to discover how people lived, loved, worked, worshipped and found entertainment at the height of the Roman Empire. The exhibition includes a video with dramatic reconstructions of Pompeii and the nearby volcano, a reproduced atrium from a Roman villa in 79 A.D., holographic gladiatorial combat, and a 4D eruption theater that lets you experience the deadly impact Mount Vesuvius. You’ll also find more than 150 authentic artifacts from Pompeii including mosaics and frescoes; gladiator helmets, armor and weapons; a ship’s anchor; lamps, jugs, cups, plates, pots and pans and other household objects and furniture; jewelry; medical instruments; and tools. More at www.cincymuseum.org.

Space Nerd Dads

Courtesy Cincinnati Parks

Can he not wait for the next ep of “The Acolyte” (and also just binged “Andor” again)? Does he watch “The Martian” every single time it’s on? Then treat him to the real thing with Butterflies in Space at Krohn Conservatory (1501 Eden Park Dr.).

The aren’t really aliens, but this summer’s butterfly show is inspired by the butterflies on the International Space Station in 2009, who successfully adapted to a zero-gravity environment. The whole family can explore Krohn’s on the space station while the butter-nauts soar through a galaxy of plants and flowers.

Dad Jokes

Courtesy Taft Museum of Art

Does he think he’s funny? Has he never met a pun he didn’t like?

Call his comedy bluff at the free Family Funday at the Taft Museum of Art (316 Pike St.) this Sunday. He can join a workshop with Improv Cincinnati and enter a dad-joke telling contest!

You can also see the new exhibition, Moment in Time, and enjoy music, art-making, and family tours, plus grab specialty food and drinks in the museum’s café. Cap off the day with a performance by School of Rock Cincinnati! Details at www.taftmuseum.org.

To Market, To Market

June 15, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Washington Park

July 20,10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Washington Park

August 17, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Kids Market
Washington Park

Sept. 21, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Washington Park

Oct. 12, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Washington Park

Nov. 2, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Fall Vintage Market
Factory 52, 4590 Beech St., Norwood

Your favorite shop and stroll event is back this weekend!

City Flea, the original urban flea market, returns to Washington Park this Saturday, helping dozens of small businesses grow right in the heart of Cincinnati.

Since2011, the market has seen hundreds of unique vendors and small businesses sell carefully curated merchandise. City Flea brings a unique, local, and energetic approach to engage shoppers and keep their dollars local.

“(City Flea) is an ecosystem of local commerce that provides creative outlets and financial independence for many Cincinnatians” says Nick Dewald, co-founder. “In addition to empowering vendors to be their own boss and do what they love, there is a big spill over into the surrounding neighborhood of OTR which is a small business beehive of a different scale.”

Vendors do change from month to month, so whether you are searching for fine jewelry or artisan pizza, one thing remains the same – there is definitely something for everyone!

City Flea brings together a community that looks to buy and sell, but also mingle, welcoming people from all walks of life to enjoy the day. Though it is a market, individuals are free to browse and socialize without spending a dime.

– Sydney Carter

Pig Changes Ahead

She’s kind of a pig deal.

For 26 years, Iris Simpson Bush has been synonymous with the Flying Pig Marathon. She served as one of its initial board members, and was so passionate she became Executive Director in 2022. She’s  helped propel the event to a world-class weekend that is talked about in the same breath as famed marathons in New York and Boston.

And now, she’s decided it’s time to pass the pig baton.

Pig Works, the parent organization of the Flying Pig Marathon, announced at an event last night at Fulton Yards that Doug Olberding has been appointed President & CEO, as Iris Simpson Bush moves into the role of Director of Community Engagement, Pig Works.

Iris Simpson-Bush, outgoing CEO of the Flying Pig Marathon with Jamie Smith, board chair of Pig Works.

Olberding, who recently retired from Xavier University where he chaired the Department of Sports Studies for 14 years, and also served as Associate Professor in Sports Science and Management for 25 years, has been a board member of the Flying Pig Marathon for more than 20 years. He is an expert in the field of sports economics and created the formula for the Flying Pig Marathon economic impact report, among others. Olberding has completed seven marathons.

“Doug has been a long-time valued volunteer leader on the board of the Flying Pig Marathon, and we are thrilled he accepted our offer to lead the organization as President & CEO,” said Jamie Smith, Board Chair of Pig Works. “With Doug’s knowledge and passion for the organization, I know we will have a seamless transition in leadership.”

“I am deeply honored to step into the role of CEO for Pig Works,” said Olberding. “I have great passion for our mission and I am committed to continuing the incredible work of Iris and this all-star staff, bringing opportunities for health, fitness, and fun to participants of all abilities.”

Simpson Bush, will remain active with Pig Works overseeing the community outreach of the organization, which raises more than $1 million a year for more than 300 charities. She will also lead the Flying Pig Scholars Program that annually awards scholarships to local high school student athletes.

Under Simpson Bush’s leadership, the Flying Pig Marathon has grown into one of largest and most celebrated running festivals in America. In 2024, USA Today named the Flying Pig Marathon as the #1 Marathon in America. Since 1999, the Flying Pig Marathon has raised more than $20 million for hundreds of charities.

She was one of the first board members who joined the organization in 1997 and became executive director of the Flying Pig Marathon in 2002 after a successful career in broadcast sales. Simpson Bush has been recognized as Race Director of the Year by Road Race Management and was inducted in the Running USA Hall of Fame. Simpson Bush has been honored as an Enquirer Woman of the Year and by the YWCA Greater Cincinnati as a Career Woman of Achievement.

To honor and recognize Simpson Bush, the Flying Pig Finish Swine was re-named “The Iris Simpson Bush Finish Swine” on race morning of the 2024 Marathon. Additional tributes will be added to the Flying Pig course for the 2025 Marathon.

“Under Iris’ leadership, the Flying Pig Marathon has become one of the most iconic road races in America for all of the right reasons: the race experience, the charitable aspect and the community support,” said Smith. “We are grateful for Iris’ service and thankful she is staying with the organization to lead our community relations program.”

“It has been an absolute honor to lead my hometown marathon and all of the aspects that go into the making it such a special event for our community,” said Simpson Bush. “I want to thank all of the participants over the years, the grunts, the street squealers, and those who have made the ‘Pig’ happen including staff, board members and sponsors.”

The Flying Pig Marathon, founded by Bob Coughlin, the founder of Paycor, was introduced in 1997 and the first events were held in 1999. Today, Pig Works events include more than 50,000 participants annually, and include the Flying Pig Marathon weekend, TQL Beer Series and the Queen Bee Half Marathon & 4 Miler. 

Pour for More

CancerFree KIDS recently held their annual Wine with Dean fundraiser at the Montgomery Inn Boat House.

The event featured dinner with wine pairings led by Dean Gregory, and honored those whose leadership and expertise support the mission of CancerFree KIDS, including their Visionary Society members, board members, and volunteers.

The evening began with an introduction to CancerFree KIDS and their mission from Jill Brinck, executive director, followed by a speech from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center researcher, Dr. Biplab Dasgupta, a multiple-time recipient of CancerFree KIDS New Idea Awards. He spoke about the importance of CancerFree KIDS’ impact in the world of pediatric cancer research.

During the evening, the CancerFree KIDS Champions – children who have had cancer – volunteered to be table hosts and assisted the waitstaff in serving guests. During the program, they also shared their most recent accomplishments.

Another opportunity to support CancerFree KIDS is the 100 Mile Challenge. This fitness and fundraising campaign during the month of September, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, asks participants can “conquer the challenge” by completing 100 miles of any activity and raise $100 to support CancerFree KIDS’ mission to fund childhood cancer research.

Individuals can create a Community Team with friends and family or start a team with co-workers and employees to join our Corporate Competition. The winning teams receive a CancerFree KIDS grant named in their team/company’s honor.

CancerFree KIDS is holding a 100 Mile Challenge virtual info session this Wednesday, June 12, at noon. Click to RSVP!

Photos: Tasha Pinelo

Truth. Oar. Dare.

2024 NCAA Women’s Rowing Championships
May 31 to June 2
Harsha Lake at East Fork State Park
3294 Elklick Road Bethel
Grounds open at 7 a.m.; competition schedule begins around 8 a.m.
DII and III finals are Saturday, and DI finals are Sunday. See complete schedule.

Ticket prices range from $25-$50. Tickets are available online ONLY at https://www.ncaatickets.com/sport/rowing.
No tickets will be sold on site.

Harsha Lake at East Fork State Park has a long history of hosting competitive water sport competitions, dating back to the early 1980s. Regattas regularly took place in the 1980s and 1990s, including the National Collegiate Rowing Championship for more than five years in the 1990s. Its most recent major regattas include the 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2019 USRowing National Championships, the 2022 Big Ten Invitational and the 2023 USRowing Summer National Championships. 

This weekend, rowing returns, as the 2024 NCAA Women’s Rowing Championships takes to the water.

Teams representing NCAA Divisions I, II and III will participate, including

Division I teams: Boston U., Brown, California, Duke, Gonzaga, Indiana, Jacksonville, Michigan, Northeastern, Ohio State, Pennsylvania, Princeton, Rhode Island, Rutgers, SMU, Stanford, Syracuse, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington and Yale.

Division II teams: Cal Poly Humboldt, Central Oklahoma; Embry-Riddle (Florida), Mercyhurst, Seattle Pacific; and Western Washington.

Division III teams: Ithaca, Puget Sound, St. Mary’s (Maryland), Smith, Trinity (Connecticut), Tufts, Wesleyan (Connecticut) and Williams.

Discover Clermont, Visit Cincy and Marietta College are hosting the the NCAA Championships. The events are expected to generate more than $1.6 million in direct economic impact according to Destination International's Economic Impact Calculator for sports events. It will also support 572 jobs in the area, and result in almost 3,500 hotel room nights.

Y'all Are Welcome

It’s crystal clear Northern Kentucky will be celebrating this weekend!

NKY Pride Pride marks 15the anniversary – the crystal one – with fun events leading up to parade and festival on Sunday, which celebrates the LGBTQ+ community in the region and fosters inclusivity and love.

Celebrate Pride in NKY

Kickoff to Pride Drag Show
Thursday, May 30, 7 p.m.
Braxton Brewery, 27 W. Seventh St., Covington

Pop-Up Shop
Friday, May 31, 3–6 p.m.
Saturday, June 1, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
NKY Pride Center, 230 W. Pike St., Covington

Pride Parade & Festival
Sunday, June 2, 12–5 p.m.
Downtown Covington
Afterparty at Hotel Covington, 5 p.m.
638 Madison Ave.

The party starts on Thursday, May 30 at Braxton Brewing Company. The NKY Pride Center hosts a Pride Rooftop Drag Show emceed by Molly Mormen.

Then get your shop on before the festival at the NKY Pride Pop Up Shop on Friday, May 31, and Saturday, June 1 .

Sunday’s parade route includes key points such as Hotel Covington, Braxton Brewery, Pike Street, and Main Street, ending in MainStrasse Village.

The festival held in MainStrasse Village and Goebel Park includes a full stage line-up of local performers, more than 100 vendors, and family friendly activities.

The celebration continues at the official NKY Pride After Party at Hotel Covington, with music from DJ Bard at 5 p.m. and
emcees Brooklyn Steele-Tate and Sarah Jessica Darker at 6:30 p.m., with performances by Alexander Cameron,P.H. Dee, Mirelle Jane Divine, Jessica Marie Jones, Ginger LeSnapps and Molly Mormen

The NKY Pride Center’s mission is to advance LGBTQ+ equity and inclusion efforts in the region by meeting the needs for community-based services and programs for LGBTQ+ Northern Kentuckians.

A Matter of Taste

Saturday, May 25
11 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Sunday, May 26
11 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Monday, May 27
11 a.m – 8 p.m.

Fifth Street, downtown

More at tasteofcincinnati.com.

Everyone has their idea about when summer starts. For some, it’s when the pool opens. For others it’s their first time grabbing a creamy whip. But in Cincinnati, summer starts with Taste of Cincinnati.

Held every Memorial Day weekend since 1979, Taste is now the nation’s longest running culinary arts festival.

Taste of Cincinnati features more than 50 restaurants and food trucks serving delicious menu items, all priced between $4 and $11.

Event Map

Taste of Cincinnati is also a music festival, with continuous live entertainment featuring local and national recording stars performing on multiple stages throughout the event.

With its new expanded footprint into the Lytle Park historic district, the Taft Museum of Art is inviting festival-goers in for free admission on Saturday, May 25, and Sunday, May 26, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Visitors to the Taft can embrace their inner foodie with a “Foodie Faves Scavenger Hunt” in the collection galleries! The front lawn will be set up with games for outdoor fun. Visit taftmuseum.org/Visit for more detailes.

Word of Honor

For many, Memorial Day means the end of school and the start of summer. But pool time and sunshine aren’t the reason for the holiday. It marks the day we remember and honor our fallen heroes.

From North to South, East to West, the Cincinnati area is full of parades, ceremonies and concerts to mark the day, Monday, May 27.

The Blue Ash Memorial Day parade begins at 10:15 a.m. at Reed Hartman and Cooper Roads. A ceremony follows at around 11:15 a.m. with a keynote address from Major General Leonard Randolph, Jr. The celebrations continue into the evening, when the Blue Ash/Montgomery Symphony performs a Memorial Day concert at Blue Ash Towne Square.

The Clifton Community Council will hold its annual Memorial Day community participation parade at 11 a.m. The parade participants walk to Mount Storm (streets will be closed); volunteers prepare a picnic, and a band will play.

Fairfield’s Parade begins at 10 a.m. on Dixie Highway with veterans groups, military units, the Fairfield High School Marching Band, community groups and organizations, the Fairfield Police Department, and Fairfield Fire and Paramedic units. It ends, fittingly, at Veterans Memorial Park and is followed by ceremony featuring speakers and a flag retirement ceremony.

In Hamilton, Memorial Day observances begin with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Soldiers, Sailors and Pioneers Monument at 9:30 a.m. The parade follows, starting at the Butler County Historic Courthouse and ends at Greenwood Cemetery, where another ceremony will bookend the day.

Spring Grove Cemetery will host a series of events on Memorial Day weekend, beginning with Boy Scouts placing flags on soldiers’ graves on Thursday, May 23. The Ohio Military Band will also perform Thursday night.

On Memorial Day, rose petals will be scattered on the graves of Civil War soldiers, a custom dating back to 1868. A Civil War historian will also speak, and music of the era will be performed. Tours are available throughout the day, and in the afternoon, a Moment of Remembrance will be held, along with the playing of Taps.

One thousand American flags will be placed on graves at Arlington Memorial Gardens in Springfield Township beginning Friday, May 24, creating the Field of Memories. Events run throughout the weekend, including a a travelling 9/11 display. On Memorial Day, the gardens will observe a moment of silence at 3pm and the reading of the names at 3:15 p.m.

In Northern Kentucky, several time-honored traditions continue. The City of Florence hosts its annual parade at 10am, which begins at Boone Co. High School and ends at the Florence Govt. Building. An 11:30 a.m. ceremony follows to honor the fallen at the Veterans Memorial.

In Park Hills, the parade begins at 11:30 a.m. and ends with a ceremony in Trolley Park.

Power Forward

Dribblethon
Saturday, May 11, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Free lunch at noon.
Ziegler Park, 1322 Sycamore St.

Learn more at saturdayhoops.org/dribblethon.

Saturday Hoops heads outside for some fun in the sun!

During Dribblethon, Saturday Hoops kids, families, and neighbors gather to have fun, meet their friends, and dribble basketballs. This huge block party, open to the entire Cincinnati community, also includes basketball, dancing, food, art, and many other activities.

Summer Hoops, the Saturday Hoops summer programming at Ziegler Park begins May 18 and includes basketball, swimming, soccer, music, and art. Young people in the community can enjoy the same benefits of community and volunteer interaction during the summer that are offered at Saturday Hoops locations. Summer Hoops continues through Saturday, Sept. 7.

Saturday Hoops is a group of friends and kids who meet on Saturday mornings for fun, faith, and positive role modeling. The goal of the program is to make kids feel loved, important, and confident. Volunteers connect one-on-one with kids through a variety of activities. The program began in the Over-The -Rhine Community Center 20 years ago. Summer programs are held in Ziegler Park, which opened in 2017 and has greenspace, playgrounds and a swimming pool.

At each Summer and Saturday Hoops program, the youth involved make a pledge, stating “I am a cheerful giver, I am a hard worker, and I am an overcomer. I understand that faith and education are the keys to my success and happiness. I will not let guns and drugs crush my dreams. I matter. I control my destiny. And I AM going to make this world a better place.”

Happy Campers

The wait is nearly over! Camp Snoopy opens this Friday, May 24th!

The area features Snoopy’s Soap Box Racers the new family coaster; Beagle Scout Acres, a new shaded place to play; and Pig Pen’s Mess Hall, a new place to eat.

Additionally, the park recently announced its summer events lineup including a new Food and Wine Festival on weekends from June 7 – 30!

More details are available at visitkingsisland.com.

Your little campers can join Snoopy and the Beagle Scouts in this new interactive area.

They’ll want to hop on Snoopy’s Soap Box Racers! The coaster will race forward and backward at speeds up to 36 miles per hour!

It’s part of the all-new Camp Snoopy which will feature a new shaded play space, Beagle Scout Acres. This new play area will allow kids to experience the Peanuts Gang in new ways.

a THE BEAST of a birthday

The longest wooden roller coaster in the WORLD sits in our backyard!

Plan your visit now to experience Kings Island, Soak City Water Park, Halloween events and WinterFest!

More info and tickets at visitkingsisland.com.

When The Beast first opened to the public April 14, 1979, it was called America’s ultimate roller coaster. It broke all existing records as the longest and fastest ride in the world.

Designed and built in-house by Kings Island personnel, the thrilling ride is still listed in the “Guinness Book of World Records” as the longest wooden roller coaster in the world at 7,361 feet.

Features of The Beast include a ride time of more than four minutes; vertical drops of 137 feet (at a 53-degree angle) and 141 feet (at an 18-degree angle); a 125-foot long underground tunnel at the bottom of the 137-foot drop; eight banked turns – some to 45 degrees; 540-degree helix tunnel and speeds up to 65 mph.

Along with the Beast’s 45th anniversary, King’s Island will celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Diamondback and the 10th anniversary of the Banshee.

To celebrate these landmark anniversaries, Kings Island will give the first 750 riders of The Beast, Diamondback and Banshee a limited edition Ride Anniversary Trading Card pack. These trading cards will include current rides, former rides and key moments in Kings Island history.

A Swine Time to Run

The 26th Flying Pig Marathon
May 3–5

Friday, May 3

P&G Health and Fitness Expo, 12–7 p.m.
Duke Energy Convention Center, Halls A-C
Free and open to the public
Packet pick-up for all events

Fifty West Mile, 7 p.m.
Starts at Longworth Hall and finishes on Mehring Way at Smale Riverfront Park

Saturday, May 4

Toyota 10K, 7 a.m.
Smale Riverfront Park

Family Fun Festival, 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
Smale Riverfront Park

Queen City Running Co. 5K, 9 a.m.
Mehring Way

P&G Health and Fitness Expo, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Duke Energy Convention Center, Halls A-C
Free and open to the public
Packet pick-up for Sunday events

Mascot Parade followed by
Flying Piglet Kids’ Fun Run, 10 a.m. 
Smale Riverfront Park

Cincinnati Children’s 26th Mile, 11 a.m.
Freedom Way

PigAbilities, 12 p.m.
Freedom Way

Flying Fur Race presented by Bounce, 1 p.m.
Mehring Way

Sunday, May 5

Opening Ceremonies, 6:15 a.m.
Start Line: Elm Street at Freedom Way

Flying Pig Marathon, powered by P&G,
6:30 a.m.
Paycor Half Marathon
City Dash 4-Person Relay

Michelob Ultra Victory Party, 8 a.m.–3 p.m.
Smale Riverfront Park

Recently named the Best Marathon in America by the 2024 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice travel award, the Flying Pig Marathon is off and running with a weekend full of events.

More than 38,000 participants are expected to compete in Flying Pig Marathon events, including 70 Streakers, participants who will compete in their 26th consecutive Flying Pig Marathon.

This year, participants represent all 50 states and 21 countries including Andorra, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Kenya, Peru, Spain, and Venezuela.

First run in 1999, the The Flying Pig Marathon began when from Paycor Founder Bob Coughlin and other runners drew the proposed course on a cocktail napkin at O’Bryon’s after a training run. Today, the The Flying Pig Marathon is a non-profit itself, helping more than 300 charities raise more than $1 million this year.

More than 200 live entertainment and themed fluid/nutrition stations are planned along the Sunday marathon and half marathon courses, including the 40 themed fluid and food stations.

With so much going on, especially at The Banks, roads throughout the region will closed. You can find all road closure information here, along with parking suggestions for the busy weekend.

Want to keep up with the runner? Download the Pig Works Events App, driven by TQL, to put the event guide in your pocket. Live tracking is available in the app thanks to Cincinnati Incorporated.

It's About Lime

The Banks is ready for you holiday celebration this weekend, whether your drink of choice is blue milk, a mint julep, or tequila.

The Banks is hosting a Cinco de Mayo bar crawl on Sunday, May 5, from 4 to 9 p.m.

Guests can pick up a “passport” for the six participating bars and restaurants offering food and drink specials, plus enjoy a live performance on the plaza by La Fórmula mariachi band from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Passports stamped at all six establishments will be entered for the chance to win $350 in gift cards.

The participating venues are

• The Stretch

• Tin Roof

• Fishbowl

• Killer Queen

• Jefferson Social

• Holy Grail

Indoor and outdoor beverage sales will be available in the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) district, so you can keep the party moving.

For more information, visit thebankscincy.com/events.

In the Works

“I really like the idea of making connections, of helping students find what’s the right fit for them,” says Neil Choudury, the new workforce engagement manager with Cincinnati Youth Collaborative.

With more than two decades of experience in education in a variety of fields, including international ESL, higher education, and corporate training, Choudury is a great fit to lead CYC’s recently launched program to help young people transition successfully into meaningful employment. 

“The day after graduation is scary – ‘What do I do now?’ – if you don’t have something lined up,” Choudury says. “CYC can help students avoid that anxiety by helping them find that next thing.”

Good Jobs Challenge Boot Camp
June 3–14, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Good Jobs Challenge is an initiative that connects graduating high school students and adults to career pathways and opportunities in Advanced Manufacturing.

Those interested in attending can find more information and a link to the application at www.cycyouth.org/gjcamp.

One way CYC is helping recent grads find that “next thing” is through the Good Jobs Challenge Boot Camp. This initiative connects graduating high school students and young adults to career pathways and opportunities in advanced manufacturing.

Advanced manufacturing is exactly that, advanced, explains Choudury. Think technology, robotics, AI, machines, programming, and more.

“Many people start out on the manufacturing floor and move up into positions in HR, management, shipping, logistics, and recruiting,” Choudhury says.

The Good Jobs Challenge is a partnership with Advanced Manufacturing Industry Partnership (AMIP), Cincinnati Works, and several other regional and national partners.

“We are looking for ALL candidates, from 18 on up!” says Choudhury. “This is the perfect opportunity for those looking to transition into a new career or maybe even back into manufacturing. This especially includes women and applicants from underrepresented groups.”

The Good Jobs Challenge helps train, employ and upskill individuals with no experience, related experience, or decades of experience in modern manufacturing.

“For me it’s working with young people – the world’s their oyster,” he says. “It’s powerful to help them take that next step.”

The Central Issue

 With University of Iowa women’s basketball superstar Caitlin Clark expected to go to the Indiana Fever with the first-overall pick of the 2024 WNBA Draft on April 15, the choice is not only a boost for the Fever’s roster—it is also expected to mean a significant economic impact for Central Indiana.

“All eyes will be on Indiana and Caitlin Clark when the WNBA season tips off in May,” said CCIM Dean Dr. Paaige Turner. “The media impact she will have will extend far beyond the court, as higher TV viewership and higher attendance means fans will be exposed to everything this area offers, including restaurants, education, tourism, and recreation.”

That kind of exposure is “priceless to women’s college basketball,” according to Betsy Ross, former ESPN anchor and founder and president of Game Day.

“There is no reason to think that viewers would lose interest when Clark makes the jump from college basketball to the pros,” Ross said. “The intangible is that she adds a ‘cool’ and ‘trendy’ factor to the city that the hottest player in the league will call home.”

According to a study conducted by Dr. Michael Hicks from the Miller College of Business at Ball State University, Clark’s addition to the Fever roster is expected to bring an estimated 26,000 more fans to Fever games throughout the season, at least 10,000 of whom will be coming from outside the region and will spend money in hotels, restaurants, and other entertainment venues during their stay.

“This will bring a net increase of more than $2.4 million to the region, and will boost local employment by roughly 23 workers,” said Dr. Hicks, George and Frances Ball Distinguished Professor of Economics and Business Research and director of Ball State’s Center for Business and Economic Research.

In addition, the increased media attention on the Fever in Indianapolis and Central Indiana is projected to result in millions of dollars worth of exposure for both the city and the broader area. For example, the Iowa-LSU Elite Eight matchup on April 1 became the most-watched women’s college basketball game ever, with an average of 12.3 million viewers, according to ESPN. In comparison, last year’s MLB World Series averaged 9.11 million viewers for the series. That record was broken just days later, with the NCAA Final Four semifinal matchup between Iowa and UConn averaging more than 14.2 million viewers, with 16 million tuning in at peak viewership.

It only took two days for that record to be shattered again, as preliminary viewership numbers from ESPN and ABC’s broadcast of the NCAA women’s national title game averaged 18.7 million, according to ESPN. Nielsen numbers reported the audience peaked at 24 million for the contest between South Carolina and Iowa. ESPN reports it was the most-watched basketball game since the 2019 men’s NCAA title game between Texas Tech and Virginia.

Media coverage of Caitlin Clark during the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament from March 20 through April 9 was calculated by Ball State’s College of Communication, Information, and Media ( CCIM), in partnership with Game Day, a media and marketing agency based in Cincinnati. The results are impactful: more than 162,000 media stories featured Clark, resulting in 177 billion media impressions valued at more than $2.6 billion (source: Critical Mention).

Clark is also expected to elevate the entire league—similar to the “Messi effect” when global soccer superstar Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023, leading to increased jersey sales, skyrocketing ticket prices on the secondary market and new sponsorships.

According to Fortune, MLS league partnership revenue was up 17 percent from 2022 to 2023 when Mr. Messi joined Miami, and individual club sponsorship was up 15 percent, while Mr. Messi’s Miami jersey was the highest seller of any soccer player and was tops among all athletes except Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. 

“Caitlin Clark is a media star, and we are so fortunate that Central Indiana will benefit from her popularity and her accessibility to fans and sponsors,” Dean Turner said.

Cover image courtesy University of Iowa Athletics.

Off and Running

Pig Works, the parent organization of the Flying Pig Marathon, today awarded 14 scholarships to area high school track and cross country athletes at its annual Scholarship Breakfast at Music Hall. The breakfast is part of the celebration of the 26th running of Flying Pig Marathon weekend, which will be May 3 through 5.

“This is the second year we have been able to host the scholarship breakfast event,” said Iris Simpson Bush, CEO of Pig Works. “Because of the generosity of the Bob and Jeanne Coughlin Foundation, we were able increase the number of student athletes who will benefit from these awards.”

The annual scholarships, totaling $20,000 ($5,000 a year), are awarded equally to male and female students who are members of their high school’s cross country or track and field teams and who demonstrate dedication, teamwork and service to their schools and communities.

The athletes and their high schools are:

•  Lily Diebold, Colerain High School

• Ben Fahnestock, Mariemont High School

• Mary Hallgarth, South Dearborn High School

• Joanna Hamilton, Felicity Franklin High School

• Brayden Holland, Oak Hills High School

• Hannah Hurlburt, Springboro High School

• Dominic Jackson, St. Xavier High School

• Adam Kolar, Villa Madonna Academy

•  Alex Navarro, Roger Bacon High School

• Keira O’Cull, Madeira High School

• Rojina Rai, Aiken High School

• Nathan Ruth, Bishop Brossart High School

•  Kinsey Sullivan, St. Ursula Academy

• Marquez Whitehead, Spencer Center for Gifted and Exceptional Students

Also presented at the breakfast was the Spirit of the Flying Pig award, presented to the Flying Pig Medical team, led by UC Health’s Dr. Jon Divine. The medical team from multiple healthcare systems across the region, are at our events throughout the weekend, making sure every participant is safe and taken care of immediately, if necessary.

The scholarships are made possible through the Bob and Jeanne Coughlin Foundation and Skyline Chili, among additional donors, including Steve Haussler, Peter Klekamp, Gary Mitchell, Kyle Murray, Scott Miller, Oxford Financial Group, The Paul and Sue Verst Foundation and members of the Pig Works Board of Directors.

“Our goal for The Flying Pig Scholars program is to ensure the sustainability of the scholarship program while allowing others to join in supporting lifelong runners who start competing in high school and are good students and citizens,” said Bob Coughlin, who is also the founder of the Flying Pig Marathon.

Also this year, the Coughlin Foundation committed a $500,000 donation for the scholarship program to honor the history of the marathon and to ensure the marathon continues to grow and support the next generation of runners.

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 To learn more or donate to the scholarship fund, visit flyingpigmarathon.com/get-involved/high-school-scholarship.

One for the Road

It only makes sense for a a family-owned company to hold a grand opening that focused on the community and giving back.

This past weekend, Tire Discounters, celebrated two openings in Mason that brought together the community and helped raise money for the Mason-based non-profit, Shine Like Sable. Over the weekend the joint openings had more than 2,000 free car washes and almost $8,000 in donations to Mason charity Shine Like Sable.

More than 3,500 customers joined in the celebrations at the neighboring businesses, at 5241 and 5251 Kings Mills Road, Mason OH. Carriage House Car Wash provided 2,050 free car washes, and families enjoyed food trucks, balloon animals, and even a visit from Tire Discounters’ iconic Phantom Tire Buyer.

A state-of-the-art Tire Discounters at 5241 Kings Mills Road, and the hi-tech Carriage House Car Wash, 5251 Kings Mills Road, also offered free car washes and family fun. Mason Mayor Diana K. Nelson was the first through, enjoying a ceremonial first car wash.

The purpose of the Shine Like Sable Foundation is to spread kindness through weekday and weekend food packs, buddy bench awareness, coordination of needs with teachers...wherever someone needs kindness.

The Shine Like Sable Foundation honors the memory of Sable Paige Gibson. The primary focus is on paying it forward with kindness, just like Sable so often did for her classmates.

Learn more at www.shinelikesable.org.

On Saturday, Tire Discounters had prizes and raffles, plus a balloon twister, food truck, giveaways and more. Representatives from Shine Like Sable were on hand to share their story, with part of the proceeds from the weekend donated to the organization.

With the new stores now open, customers will enjoy a superior experience with a larger Tire Discounters store, additional bays to service cars, a more comfortable waiting area with amenities, additional parking and the most advanced equipment in the country to service emerging technology. 

Just steps away is Carriage House Car Wash, an industry-changing, innovative approach to a traditional car wash that provides drivers with free vacuums, interior cleaning supplies and towels. Carriage House also features automated pay stations and license plate readers, making the car wash process quick and seamless.

“This combination of a Carriage House Car Wash right next door to a new Tire Discounters location is huge for our customers,"“said Jamie Ward, President & CEO of Tire Discounters. “It provides a one-stop shop for everything they need for their car - inside and out.”

Cincinnati-based Tire Discounters is the country’s largest 100% family-owned and operated tire and service provider.

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Find a Tire Discounters at www.tirediscounters.com/home

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Header image: Front row: Scott and Holly Gibson, Shine Like Sable, Steven Wood, Division VP of Carriage House Car Wash, Mason Mayor Diana K. Nelson, Tire Discounters CEO Jamie Ward. Back row: Mason first responders.

Ready for Take Off

Now boarding … a first class event to put fun on the calendar of women living with breast cancer.

17th Annual Karen’s Gift: Take Flight

Saturday, April 13, 7 p.m.
Hard Rock Casino, 1000 Broadway,

Immerse yourself in a world of premium pours with our open bar, carefully curated cuisine + our late night bites! Let the Sly-Band be your in-flight entertainment as you dance the night away amongst the stars with friends.

Buy tickets

The Karen Wellington Foundation, the organization that puts the FUN in fundraising, is taking a vintage aviation theme into the weekend as it hosts its biggest event of the year, the 17th annual Karen’s Gift: Taking Flight.

Buckle up for takeoff at the Hard Rock Casino. Tickets remain, and KWF is holding a “Final Boarding Call” sale with the code TAKINGFLIGHT17.

KWF is the anti-cancer, cancer foundation. It knows other organizations focus on the science, the awareness, and the serious. KWF recognizes that life is better lived with FUN on the calendar and cancer is better when kicked to the curb. Its mission is to make sure that women dealing with appointments, therapies, radiation, chemo, surgeries and stress have an opportunity to put all that behind them with KWF’s Gifts of Fun.

This year, KWF celebrates 17 years of giving those gifts of fun, like the namesake of the organization did her entire life. Karen Wellington lived with breast cancer for 10 years, but still found moments of fun. She would take her kids, Angeline and Robby, ‘reverse trick or treating’ during Halloween. Decked out in their October best, the kids would pass out candy to women getting chemotherapy. And so the idea of giving gifts of fun began. Her family and the Karen Wellington Foundation continues this tradition, now impacting thousands of women and their families through the mission of her foundation. Just this month, on Karen’s birthday, April 1, volunteers dropped off cookies at local chemotherapy centers in memory of Karen.

KWF accepts nominations of women who are living with breast cancer and provides recipients with everything from a “Lemons to Lemonade” box, filled with comfort items like socks, candles and silk scarves featuring Karen’s artwork, to spa days, vacations and beach weekends. All of this comes at no cost to the women and their families.

On stage Saturday night, volunteers and staff will celebrate Karen’s legacy by giving the organization’s 3,000th Gift of Fun – with a goal of giving away 1,000 more this year alone.

Total Blackout

Do’s and Don’ts for Eclipse Viewing

You know this already, but looking directly at the sun is dangerous! But you can view the eclipse safely with a little planning.

• Never look directly at the Sun without proper equipment

• If you're not absolutely sure of your equipment, don't use your telescope

• Use specially made eclipse glasses marked ISO 12312-2.

• Use #14 welder's glass

• Use professionally made solar filters designed for telescopes and binoculars

• Only during what is known as “totality,” – the few moments when the sun is completely blocked by the moon – is it safe to view the sun without proper equipment.

– Cincinnati Observatory

“Seeing a total solar eclipse makes the solar system come alive,” says Christa Speights, planetarium director, at Northern Kentucky University’s Haile Planetarium. “Instead of the sizes, distances, and motions of the sun and moon being theoretical, during a total solar eclipse, you can see these for yourself!”

Though our entire region won’t be in totality, you can still revel in the celestial celebrations from the comfort of your home.

With its watch party sold out, the Cincinnati Observatory has viewing ideas you can duplicate on your own. These range from using the sun to make art to creating a pinhole camera! See the Observatory’s full list of crafts and activities for kids (and adults).

A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun. When the moon covers part of the sun, it’s a partial solar eclipse, which we had on Oct. 14, 2023. But when the moon blocks the Sun entirely – during the coolest astronomical event you will ever see without looking directly at it – that’s a total solar eclipse. That’s what we’re expecting on Monday, April 8.

While awe-inspiring to witness, a solar eclipse can also play a part in scientific research.

“During a total solar eclipse in 1919, two stars whose light had to travel near the sun in order to get to Earth appeared in different positions than they do when seen at night,” Speights says. “This measurement supported Einstein’s new theory of General Relativity, which predicted that mass distorts spacetime, changing the path of photons that pass near a massive object, like the sun.”

Speights says there are also citizen science projects where regular folks can contribute to studies about the sun and how it affects the Earth. Projects range from measuring the exact size and shape of the sun to measuring wildlife’s response to a solar eclipse and researching how a solar eclipse impacts Earth’s atmosphere.