CityBeat | October 15, 2025

VOL. 28 | ISSUE 47

SPRING GROVE CEMETERY

PHOTO: MICHAEL D. MORGAN

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ASHLEY MOOR-MAHONEY

DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR

KATHERINE BARRIER

STAFF WRITER

MADELINE FENING

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

HAIMANTI GERMAIN

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

ASPEN SMIT

CONTRIBUTING CRITICS

THEATER CRITIC:

RICK PENDER

DINING CRITIC:

PAMA MITCHELL

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

BRIAN BAKER

JIM DEBROSSE

NADYA ELLERHORST

JASON GARGANO

CONTRIBUTING

PHOTOGRAPHERS

HAILEY BOLLINGER

RON VALLE

CATIE VIOX

DISTRIBUTION TEAM

TOM SAND

STEVE FERGUSON

BIG LOU HOLDINGS

DIGITAL OPERATIONS

COORDINATOR

ELIZABETH KNAPP

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

GUILLERMO RODRIGUEZ

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CHRIS KEATING

NEWS

Advocates Say Butler County Jail Locked Down Detainees During Protests; Sheriff’s Office Disputes Claim

Butler County Sheriff’s Office says protests pose security risk

BY JIM DEBROSSE AND LAWSON WULSIN

Organizers of anti-ICE protests outside the Butler County Jail in Hamilton say they stopped holding demonstrations there in July after detainees, their family members and lawyers told them jail officials were placing the inmates in lockdown during the protests.

Samantha Searls of Ignite Peace, a non-violent advocacy group for immigrants, said the lockdowns were punitive and aimed at suppressing the peaceful demonstrations.

“There have been at least three gatherings originally planned outside the jail that we decided to move,” Searls said in a text. “It’s a violation of free speech — they’re punishing innocent people when others are exercising their right to protest, essentially censoring advocates under threat of retaliating against the very people we’re there to support.”

Butler County Chief Deputy Anthony Dwyer said a lockdown occurred during only one protest

and that it included all inmates, not just ICE detainees. He couldn’t recall the date of the protest but said that, with only 30 guards to control 1,000 inmates, a large protest outside the jail’s fence is a security concern within.

“If you’ve ever been around three or 400 protesters, they can amass a pretty good push,” he said. “So anytime something like that happens, it could be a threat to the facility. That’s why we locked down everybody. And it’s not just ICE inmates. Everybody was locked down while (the protestors) were here.”

Dwyer was likely referring to a June 8 rally outside the jail protesting the arrest and detention of 19-yearold Emerson Colindres, a Honduran immigrant detained by ICE on June 4 and deported 13 days later. Colindres, a recent Gilbert A. Dater High School graduate and soccer standout recruited by the Cincy Galaxy soccer club, had no criminal record. Hundreds of protestors in front of

immigrants in their facilities. Colindres, contacted by phone in Honduras, confirmed that all inmates were forced back to their cells during lockdowns, but they were seldom given a reason for the lockdowns. During his 13 days there, he said there was a lockdown every day, often during the inmates’ 90-minute recreation periods. “Your time always gets cut short because, even if it’s like a small lockdown — like 30 minutes or 40 minutes — you don’t have that much time outdoors anyway.”

Searls said one of the detainees who asked that the protests be moved away from the front of the jail to avoid lockdowns was Ayman Soliman, the Muslim cleric and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital chaplain who was held for 72 days in the Butler County Jail before his release on Sept. 19. In a case that garnered national attention, the Department of Homeland Security restored Soliman’s asylum status and dropped deportation efforts after court filings revealed errors and inconsistencies in the government’s evidence portraying him as a terrorist.

Detainees also reported being subjected to additional harsh conditions inside the jail.

In a press conference following his release, Soliman offered a mixed review of his treatment at the jail. “Like any other place in the world, there are some very, very good people here. And there are some awful humans that shouldn’t actually be in that jail. They should be in a mental hospital, away in quarantine. They can’t deal with humans.”

the jail on June 8 marched, chanted and sang along Hanover Street. Hamilton police said they intervened when car traffic in front of the jail was obstructed. One protestor, a 26-year-old Dayton woman, was arrested on charges of assaulting a police officer and resisting arrest.

Butler County Jail data from Sept. 18-21 shows that, of the 1,089 inmates at the jail’s three facilities, 341 were ICE detainees. The jail expects to earn $4.7 million in 2025 from its contract with ICE, Dwyer said, or about 10 percent of the Butler County Sheriff Department’s $47.3 million budget. Under the February 2025 contract, ICE pays the jail a daily rate of $68 for each detainee and an hourly rate of $36 for county transportation, with the jail providing up to 300 beds for ICE detainees. The contract is part of ICE’s Jail Enforcement Model (JEM) Program, which authorizes sheriff deputies across the country to help identify, process and detain removable

During his intake at the jail, Soliman said he was forced to strip naked in front of other inmates after he had waited 11 hours in a cold holding area in only his T-shirt and underwear and was denied a restroom visit for five hours. Public nudity is strictly prohibited in Islam.

Dwyer responded to Soliman’s comments in an email. “No inmate or detainee is ever stripped before being jailed. Once inside the facility and after being booked in, detainees will eventually be showered out and changed from their civilian clothing to jail clothing. During that process, the individual is also given a towel.”

Colindres said that, during his intake, some jail staffers harassed detainees by asking them intimate questions in English, assuming they would not understand. “They just started bothering them (with questions) like, ‘Do you like men? Or ‘Do you like penises?’ Stuff like that.”

Dwyer said some booking questions do pertain to LGBTQ+ issues “but nothing like you were quoting.”

Meet the Democratic ‘Hillbilly’ Pastor Running for Middletown City Council

BY MADELINE FENING

Scotty Robertson moved to Middletown, Ohio, about eight years ago to work as a pastor for First Baptist Church of Middletown. He embraced Middletown as his new home — so much so that he’s running for Middletown City Council on Nov. 4 — but he told CityBeat one afternoon in a sandwich shop on Main Street that he’s a “true son of Appalachia.”

Robertson was raised in Man, West Virginia, a coal mining town of about 700 people located deep in the state’s southwest mountain region. His high school mascot was literally “the Hillbillies.”

“I was raised by a Baptist pastor and a coal miner, so that’s who I am,” he said. “I think that being raised where I was raised, I had instilled in me some very important values around hard work, caring for neighbors, the importance of community coming together.”

Unlike Middletown’s most famous selfproclaimed hillbilly politician, Robertson is a Democrat. While the Middletown City Council race is nonpartisan, 62% of residents voted for President Donald Trump and JD Vance last November. Still, Robertson thinks he can land one of the two open seats on Nov. 4.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

CB: What did you think about Middletown when you first moved here?

Scotty Robertson: Well, I didn’t know a whole lot about it. I mean, I didn’t really know anything about it. In fact, I never even heard of it until I moved here. But I love it.

CB: What would you say has been the most surprising thing about Middletown?

Robertson: I think how conservative politically some folks are, because the policies as of recent, that have been pursued by Trump and Vance and the Republican Party, have been policies that have hurt Middletown.

CB: What do you think the turnout for the Trump-Vance ticket last year says about Middletown voters?

Robertson: In recent cycles, the Democratic vote share has been rising. Part of that is because we’re putting in a lot of hard work, registering voters, getting new voters out to vote, and also fear among some of our citizens around what we’re seeing happen under a Trump-Vance presidency. What we have seen is much more of a Republican vote share in Middletown, but a Democratic vote share is trending. I think there is some anxiety and some anger around immigration and how our Spanish-speaking communities are being targeted. Even the fear around what’s happening in our foreign policy.

CB: What federal actions do you think have impacted Middletown since Trump and Vance took office?

Robertson: I think the fact that we’re looking at cutting Medicaid and Medicare — Medicare will hurt our seniors, Medicaid will hurt our kids. I think when it comes to unions and collective bargaining, I mean the fact that we still have some sort of a manufacturing base, yet the Republican Party continues to pursue strict right to work laws and seeks to do away with collective bargaining rights, I think that’s a problem.

But from a tax policy perspective, I think the fact that as we cut taxes for the wealthy and the tax burden has shifted to the working class and the poor. That obviously places a burden on a lot of families in Middletown.

CB: What do you think Vance owes the people of Middletown now that he’s VP?

Robertson: Well, I think that’s a question that only he can answer. I don’t know what he feels, but I do think what he definitely owes Middletown is not to have millions of dollars taken from our school system by the federal government, which clearly is a school system that is already underfunded. I think what he owes Middletown is an explanation as to why since he’s been elected infrastructure projects, economic development projects, projects within our city school system, have been interrupted and probably ended since he’s been in office.

I hope he will realize that what he does owe Middletown is a voice of opposition to this administration that he serves in, as they are just pursuing policy that is so detrimental, especially to vulnerable

children and families and the blue collar workers that they say that they represent. I think he owes those families an explanation. Why did he promise that he was going to be for them? And now it seems as if their lives will be much worse off that he is in the White House.

CB: How would you describe the political makeup of Middletown City Council? Why would you be a good addition?

Robertson: I think the makeup is much like what we find in a lot of Rust Belt towns in Ohio, which is majority conservative leaning. I think the current council probably has what I would call two more progressive candidates and the rest conservative leaning. What I will bring is another progressive voice in order to bring some balance, and then maybe to pursue some progressive initiatives.

I hope what I can bring is diverse coalitions coming together, not only from more progressive communities, but also in more conservative-leaning communities, and to really work together on some initiatives that will benefit all of Middletown.

CB: What are the big promises or values you really want voters to know about you?

Robertson: So I think that most of the citizens feel as if the current council doesn’t listen, and when they do listen, I think they feel as if they’re met with some arrogance and definitely some indifference about some of the things that are very important to them. I think some of the issues that are important to tackle here in Middletown are issues around food insecurity. I think something like 55% of our citizens live in food

deserts. Health disparities — the state of Ohio statistics show that here on the south end of town, the life expectancy is like 12 years less than on the east end of town. I think we need to do a better job at getting good quality, both physical and mental health care services in our most vulnerable communities, as well as providing transportation for those who are in those communities to get to the places where they can receive healthcare. And jobs — we’re living in a very uncertain time for manufacturing. The federal government is proving not to be a good partner with Cleveland-Cliffs and trying to change over their furnaces to hydro and really come through on providing some funding for some clean energy jobs, which I think will hurt the operation as it is. I think, unfortunately, we’ll continue to see scaling back. So I would like to be able to bring labor and business leaders together to talk about how we keep the manufacturing base that we have, but also, how do we grow the manufacturing base so that we can provide even more good-paying jobs for those blue collar workers.

CB: Who do you think is the most underrepresented group geographically in Middletown?

Robertson: There are three census tracts here on the south end of town that have the lowest quality of health in the state, which is why the state has chosen Middletown to be a pilot project for grant funding that is called the Ohio Health Improvement Zones. And so I think if you look at the evidence, I think you will find that neighborhoods around Rosa Parks Elementary and around Amanda Elementary are probably the most underrepresented and the most vulnerable.

CB: You are a pastor and you’re running for council. What role do you see those two sides of yourself playing in relation to one another if you get elected?

Robertson: I don’t know that much about my life will change if I’m elected to council, other than I’ll have to attend a few more meetings, and I will have a much bigger platform to advocate for important changes that help grow the city. I don’t know that I see the two roles as that separate. I think that the work is very similar, and if anything else, it just will help me to build on the work that I’ve already begun as a pastor, as a faith leader here in Middletown. I think that I will be very cautious not to blur the line of separation that exists and should always exist between church and state.

Election Day is Nov. 4. Middletown voters can find their polling location by visiting www.elections.bcohio.gov.

Ohio Republicans Want Public Schools to Teach Positive Impacts of Christianity on History

BY MEGAN HENRY, OHIO CAPITAL JOURNAL

Apair of Ohio Republican lawmakers want public schools and public universities to teach the positive impacts of Christianity on American history. No other religion is mentioned in the bill.

Republican state Reps. Gary Click and Mike Dovilla recently introduced Ohio House Bill 486, also known as the Charlie Kirk American Heritage Act. Kirk, a political activist who founded Turning Point USA and often spoke about his Christian faith, was killed while speaking at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10.

The bill does not create a new law but clarifies the law, Click said during Tuesday’s House Education Committee meeting.

“What it does is it removes the invisible shackles that often hinder a full transparency in the teaching of American history,” he said during his sponsor testimony. “We are not inviting instructors to teach doctrine or to proselytize … we’re simply affirming what is already in the law that exists.”

“The United States stands alone in history, in the history of nations, through the overwhelming influence of Christianity on our founding,” Click claimed.

The religions of America’s Founding Fathers had wide variation but most were Protestant. Many came from the Anglican, Presbyterian, and Congregationalist churches, with some Quakers, Lutherans, and Dutch Reformed, and some Catholics.

A significant minority of the founders were Unitarians or Deists, believing in a supreme creator but not in divine intervention. This included Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Paine.

With the Establishment and Free Exercise clauses as the first and second clauses in the First Amendment of the Bill of Rights, the U.S. Constitution stands as history’s most notable document establishing religious freedom in a nation at its founding.

Click said he has talked to teachers who are afraid to mention Christianity’s influence on history.

“If we teach it, we’re going to be accused of proselytizing, and we’re going to be accused of trying to convert people to Christianity,” Click said is something he has heard from teachers. He stressed his bill is permissive, not a requirement.

“This legislation allows Ohio’s educators, when teaching American history, to include instruction on the positive influence of religion — particularly Christianity — on the development of

our nation’s ideals, its civic institutions, and its culture,” Dovilla said. “This is not about rewriting history. It is about restoring honesty and depth to the way we teach it.”

The bill outlines several examples that could be taught including the history of the pilgrims, the signers of the Declaration of Independence, the religious influence on the U.S. Constitution, Benjamin Franklin’s call for prayer at the constitutional convention, the separation of church and state, the role of the Ten Commandments “in shaping American law,” the Civil Rights movement, and the impact of evangelist Billy Graham, among others, according to the bill’s language.

State Rep. Beryl Brown Piccolantonio, D-Gahanna, pointed out how the bill only mentions Christianity.

“The reason it focuses directly on Christianity is because those are the complaints that I have received personally, is that people don’t feel comfortable teaching that,” Click said. “And quite honestly, it is Christianity that was the predominant religion that our nation was established.”

ALCU of Ohio Legislative Director Gary Daniels said the bill is unnecessary, arguing teachers and professors are already allowed to teach about religion in the context of American history.

“The intentions are, quite obviously, to go beyond all of that which is constitutionally permitted and essentially encourage school staff and university staff to propagandize students,” he said.

Baby Olivia Act

State Rep. Melanie Miller, R–Ashland, testified in support of her new bill that would require Ohio public schools to show a video about fetal development to students starting in the third grade.

Ohio House Bill 485 would require showing the three-minute Meet Baby Olivia video and an ultrasound video at least three minutes long. The Baby Olivia video is produced by Live Action, which advocates against abortion.

“The miracle of life is not something that can be easily explained,” Miller said during her testimony. “By equipping students with the resources and knowledge about the remarkable stages of life, we can promote informed discussion grounded in science and respect for human biology.”

Planned Parenthood calls the “Baby Olivia” video “inaccurate, misleading, and manipulative.”

CROWN Act

Ohio state Reps. Juanita Brent, D-Cleveland, and Jamie Callender, R-Concord, spoke in favor of their bill that would ban discrimination against natural hair in public K-12 schools.

House Bill 415 is also known as the CROWN Act, which stands for Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair.

The bipartisan bill prohibits discrimination against someone’s hair texture and protective hair styles such

as braids, locs, twists and afros under Ohio’s Civil Rights Laws.

“We know that hair discrimination is still alive and well,” Brent said. “We’ve had situations where … a young lady went to school and she had to get sent home because she had some Afro puffs.”

“We want to make sure our kids are not removed from school. We want to make sure that unnecessary disciplinary actions are not occurring to our kids. We want to make sure that kids feel seen.”

This is the fourth legislative session in a row Brent has introduced the CROWN Act. The bill passed the Ohio House in the last General Assembly, but only had sponsor testimony in the Ohio Senate.

“We were rushing to get it out of committee, to get it on the floor as we approached the last days of session, and it just didn’t make it across the finish line,” Callender said.

Twenty-seven states and Washington D.C., have already enacted the CROWN Act. A handful of Ohio cities — including Columbus, Akron, Cleveland Heights, Cleveland Heights, and Cincinnati — have already enacted the CROWN Act at the local level.

“By passing this bill, we affirm that diversity in our schools should be celebrated, not punished,” Brent said. “Our children deserve to feel safe, seen and valued for who they are.”

This story was originally published by the Ohio Capital Journal and republished here with permission.

alloween season is here, and that means it’s time for chilling ghost stories and paranormal experiences. Cincinnati is an old city, and with that age comes plenty of hauntings and spaces that can make your skin crawl. Whether it’s supernatural apparitions in Spring Grove Cemetery, the eerie air of historic buildings or winding roads with no one else nearby, these Greater Cincinnati spots are some of the spookiest around.

Trigger warnings: The following content contains mentions of death, murder and suicide. If you or someone you know needs help, call or text 988 to get in touch with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Sedamsville Rectory

639 Steiner Ave., Sedamsville Sedamsville Rectory, once part of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, oozes haunted house energy with its imposing façade and faded red brick exterior. Inside isn’t much better, with its past owners and residents saying they experienced icy breezes in the home along with unexplained feelings of gloom and doom, assault-like scratches and shoves, disembodied footsteps and doors closing of their own accord. Some say it’s demonic forces in the building; others point to ghosts like those of Fr. Donald MacLeod, who reportedly died after

being struck by a train near the rectory; past clergymen; and the spirits of a child with a noose around his neck and a man, both of whom were found dead outside the rectory at different times. Are these tall tales or is there some truth lending to the former rectory’s creepiness? You can ask the Ghost Adventures’ crew, who investigated the building in 2012.

Over-the-Rhine’s Underground Beer Tunnels

If you dare to go beneath the city, you’ll find a labyrinth of lagering tunnels that once belonged to F&J Linck Brewery. While nothing knowingly nefarious happened down there (except maybe a bad batch of beer here and there), the tunnels under the streets of Over-theRhine, which were used to keep beer cool before refrigeration, are eerie and

tomb-like. You can see them for yourself on the Hidden Caverns or Ultimate Queen City Underground tours through American Legacy Tours.

Dunham Recreation Center Complex

1945 Dunham Way, Westwood

The land that we know today as the Dunham Recreation Center Complex used to be the site of the first municipal tuberculosis hospital in the United States, and an eerie feeling still hangs over the area where the arts center is today. According to records from the University of Cincinnati’s College of Medicine, in 1879, Cincinnati Hospital (now UC Health) bought what was then the Guerley Farm in order to relocate its smallpox isolation house. A hospital was constructed on the farmland and named Branch Hospital for Contagious Diseases. Almost 20 years later, the branch hospital saw the transfer of 15 tuberculosis patients from the main hospital, transforming it into a space to care for victims of TB. As tuberculosis cases grew, so did the hospital campus. More buildings to house patients were added, as were lodging for nurses and doctors; sleeping porches, which doctors at the time thought helped improve TB symptoms; an occupational therapy

building; and a preventorium and school for children of TB patients. But what is perhaps the creepiest aspect of Dunham isn’t that it used to be a hospital for victims of what, at the time, was a very deadly disease, but rather what lies underneath all the buildings to this day. Former recreation center employee Kenny Riddell told WCPO in 2015 that the disease was too advanced to be treated by the time many patients sought care, and Dunham was the place to go to die. To keep patient morale up, he said, the bodies would be removed from the hospital via underground tunnels that led to an incinerator where they would be cremated and their belongings would be burned. The tunnels still exist today, but they’re not accessible to the public and some parts are entirely sealed off. But if you spend enough time in the arts center, one of the last remaining buildings from the hospital era, recreation center employees say you may just see something…or someone.

Price Hill’s Potter’s Field

4700 Guerley Road, West Price Hill

We can’t talk about Dunham without mentioning the historic potter’s field just up the road from it, which

may be part of the reason that land was chosen to become a hospital for the fatally ill. Historically, a potter’s field was the name for any grave site meant to house the remains of poor or unclaimed people. The Price Hill Potter’s Field was used as a cemetery for Cincinnati’s poor, transients and criminals from 1849 to 1981. It’s believed that upward of 20,000 people were haphazardly laid to rest there, although it’s impossible to guess an accurate number. The site was used until it became so crowded that graves were dug to a depth reportedly as shallow as 18 inches. The newly deceased were stacked on a previous generation, and the oldest part of the site contains three layers of bodies. Years of neglect and overgrowth hide many unmarked graves or markers with the barest of details, but a plaque along Guerley Road identifies where it stands.

Cincinnati Music Hall

1241 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine

Even if you don’t believe in ghosts, you can’t deny the beautiful but unsettling nature of Music Hall, especially considering the southern part of the building was built over a potter’s field and bones have been discovered

during various excavations on-site. Those who have worked in the building late at night have reported many instances of paranormal activity, including things like hearing a singing woman; seeing apparitions of guests dressed in old-fashioned clothes; angry, disembodied whispering in the elevators and feelings of being watched.

Darby-Lee Cemetery

Can be accessed from the Bender Mountain Trail, 6320-6468 Bender Road, Delhi Township West Siders, you may have heard of Fiddlers Green Road, but have you heard the legend of Fiddler’s Green? It goes back to the Darby-Lee family of Delhi Township, members of which are buried in a small graveyard at the

top of Bender Mountain — the only known, remaining family cemetery in Delhi. Patriarch of the family Henry Darby was rumored to have been a conductor on the Underground Railroad. The legend of Fiddler’s Green goes that he would sit up on the ridge of his property overlooking the Ohio River into Kentucky. When it was safe for those fleeing enslavement to cross the river and come up the ridge to his home, Darby would light a lantern with a green flame and play his fiddle. On some nights now, you can supposedly see an otherworldly green glow from the cemetery and hear the strains from a fiddle being played nearby.

Bobby Mackey’s

44 Licking Pike, Wilder

Bobby Mackey’s ghosts are legendary around here, and the former building was enough to earn it its creepy reputation. The squat, warehouse-like honky tonk sat on the outskirts of the more residential areas of Newport, with not much else around it. But the most hair-raising part of Bobby Mackey’s was the supposed stories that happened within the walls of all the former buildings, from Satanic activity at the former slaughterhouse on the site, to mobster

intimidation, to a murder-suicide that involved a young pregnant woman named Johanna killing her father, who supposedly killed her lover, before taking her own life. Some also said the gateway to hell was in the basement of the most recent building, where you would have found the remaining slaughterhouse well. Bobby Mackey himself says he’s skeptical of the ghost stories, but many others have reported paranormal activity happening at the bar, and the Travel Channel’s show Ghost Adventures even came out to investigate. The bar’s building has been demolished and is scheduled to be rebuilt, so we’ll have to see if the ghosts decide to hang around.

Spring House Gazebo

Eden Park, 950 Eden Park Drive, Walnut Hills

Eden Park’s Moorish-style Spring House Gazebo was just a beautiful landmark until a fateful day in 1927 when notorious Cincinnati bootlegger George Remus shot and killed his wife, Imogene, there during a messy (to put it mildly) divorce. Now, Imogene’s ghost is said to haunt the gazebo and nearby Mirror Lake, likely unable to rest because George was acquitted of her murder, despite it happening in broad daylight in front of witnesses.

Cincinnati

Art Museum

953 Eden Park Drive, Walnut Hills

Perhaps one of the most haunted buildings in Cincinnati, the Cincinnati

Art Museum has some galleries that are spookier than others. The museum even has a self-guided ghost tour with all the spooky stops listed and the stories behind each one. Stories include Elizabeth Boott Duveneck, the wife of famous Covington painter Frank Duveneck, calling out to her husband from beyond the grave through the tomb cover he made of her; a haunted clock; and a monk who still stops at his 12th-century chapel to pray.

Spring Grove Cemetery

4521 Spring Grove Ave., Northside Spring Grove Cemetery’s tranquility and beauty are so unmatched that it’s a U.S. National Historic Landmark, but no amount of gorgeous landscaping can ease the chills some experience at there. The historic cemetery is home to tales like the very realistic — or, according to legends, very real — eyes on the bust of optometrist C.C. Breuer, which are said to follow you around the cemetery. Spring Grove grave keepers have also said they’ve experienced the feeling of someone grabbing their ankles, and visitors have claimed to see apparitions. It’s also said that, if you sit on the steps of Dexter Mausoleum, two white hounds (they may also be wolves) will appear and judge you based on your intentions. If they think you’re good, they’ll keep moving; if they’re unsure, they’ll stand and watch you; and if you’re up to no good, they’ll growl and chase you away.

Cincinnati’s Abandoned Subway Tunnels

Cincinnatians often speak of our legendary abandoned subway tunnels so reverently that they’re almost mythical. The reality is more a sad, doomedfrom-the-start tale of inflation, poor budgeting and litigation. Real work on the subway began in 1920, but inflation following World War I had raised the costs of construction and caused a shortage of materials (wow, this sounds familiar), so the city planned to raise funds to complete the subway later. However, funds ran out in 1927 and, by that time, the subway construction was causing the foundations of buildings along its route to crack, so then came the lawsuits, which are scary enough. There were several attempts to complete the subway in later years, but it wasn’t meant to be. The project was scrapped in 1948 and is now used to house a water main and optical fiber cables. It’s also a popular, albeit spooky, urban exploration spot.

Taft Museum of Art

316 Pike St., Downtown

Before the Taft Museum of Art was a museum, it was home to some of Cincinnati’s most prominent residents, including the Sinton and Taft families. It’s rumored that Charles Taft and his wife, Anna Sinton Taft, never left, staying behind to keep watch over their art collection. Employees and visitors have said they felt watched while in the

museum, heard their names called out and experienced items flying off the gift shop shelves.

St. Francis Seraph’s Crypt

Underneath the altar of St. Francis Seraph in Over-the-Rhine lies a crypt where some of Cincinnati’s earliest settlers rest. In 1819, Cincinnati’s first Catholic church, Christ Church, was built on that spot along with a cemetery. When work began to construct the then-new St. Francis Seraph in 1858, the cemetery was demolished and the bodies were moved into the crypt. It was only accessible to the friars who lived there — until recently, that is. If you dare, you can go beneath the altar to the crypt on the American Legacy Tours’ Ultimate Queen City Underground tour.

Mt. Notre Dame High School

You don’t get to be one of the oldest schools in Greater Cincinnati — and the oldest all-girls school — without becoming at least a little spooky. Mt. Notre Dame High School’s darkest piece of history reportedly happened in the ‘40s when a student is said to have committed suicide on the third floor. Now, all the ghostly activity seems to happen on that same floor. Most of the time, the activity involves one of two things: The first one occurs when students come to class in the morning. They discover that all the lockers on the third floor have somehow opened by themselves. The

second is that all the lights on the third floor will somehow turn on by themselves during the night.

Buffalo Ridge

Near Mitchell Memorial Forest (5401 Zion Road, Miami Township)

Buffalo Ridge may just appear to be another windy, forest-lined road on the West Side of Cincinnati, but it’s more the local legends that make it a good place to go ghost hunting. One legend is that the road used to be home to the Buffalo Ridge Crematorium, where Satanic rituals were held and bodies meant for cremation were tossed out into the woods and into a nearby lake before God himself smote the building. These tall-tale tellers would point to ruins in the woods (which are no longer there), said to be part of the crematorium, as evidence. But, like with a lot of things, the truth is a lot less intriguing. A crematorium was never constructed along Buffalo Ridge, but what was built there was part of an observatory that was abandoned due to lack of funding. However, as Creepy Cincinnati notes, materials from a building destroyed by a fire that killed several people were used to construct the observatory, so — if you believe in ghosts and negative energy — it’s still possible those woods along the road are haunted. Another legend of Buffalo Ridge states that if you drove down the road at night near Mitchell Memorial Forest, you would be chased off by a dark vehicle. (Author’s Note: As a former bored teenager from the West Side who has been on Buffalo Ridge many times, I call bullshit on this one.)

Cody Road Bridge

Cody Road near Carol Ann Lane, Independence

Is the Cody Road railroad bridge haunted by a woman killed in a fire, trying to alert people to the blaze? Maybe it’s haunted by another woman who was killed by a train? According to Creepy Cincinnati, it’s neither, and those tall tales were made up by those who made moonshine near the train tracks during Prohibition to keep people away. But even if the legends aren’t true, the way the rusted, old bridge that cuts above narrow, secluded Cody Road is ominous and still gives out a strong “KEEP AWAY” energy.

Lick Road

Near the Richardson Forest Preserve, 4000 W. Kemper Road, Colerain Township

A ghost named Amy supposedly haunts this secluded road in Colerain Township after having been murdered by her boyfriend. Legend says if you walk in the woods near the bridge where Amy may have been killed, you can hear footsteps behind you. You may also spot an apparition of Amy, or, if you drive down to the

cul-de-sac at the end of the road at night, you can hear a woman scream from the fields beyond.

Devou Park’s Gravity Hill

Ridgeway Court, Covington Has gravity in Covington gone haywire? On Ridgeway Court in Devou Park, it’s said that if you stop at the second telephone pole, put your car in neutral and take your foot off the brake, your car will roll uphill. While the phenomenon seems supernatural, it’s actually just an optical illusion. Gravity hills, like the one in Covington, are created by an obstructed horizon, which makes it difficult to determine the slope of a surface. So, it may appear the slope goes upward when you’re still really just working with the force of gravity and not the force of the paranormal.

The Golden Lamb Restaurant & Hotel

27 S. Broadway St., Lebanon It would make sense that Ohio’s oldest hotel is also one of its most haunted. Lebanon’s The Golden Lamb opened in 1803 and over the course of more than 220 years has played host to countless residents and travelers, some of whom, it seems, never really left. The inn and restaurant are believed to be haunted by Sarah Stubbs, who moved into the inn,

which her uncle ran at the time, with her family after her father’s death. While Sarah lived well into her 70s, it’s said that her spirit presents as a little girl. It’s also possible this spirit is Eliza Clay, the daughter of Henry Clay, who died from a fever at the inn in 1825 when she was just 12. The Golden Lamb is also home to the spirit of a gaunt, older man, believed to be either Sarah’s uncle, Albert Stubbs; Ohio Supreme Court judge Charles R. Sherman, who died at the inn from typhoid fever; or Ohio politician Clement Vallandigham. Whoever he may be, guests have reported the smell of cigar smoke when he’s around and have seen him gazing out of a window.

Arnold’s Bar and Grill

210 E. Eighth St., Downtown Home to the oldest continuously operated bar in Cincinnati, Arnold’s Bar and Grill is also home to at least several spirits. Staff have reported seeing the ghost of a woman with long, black hair, wearing a dark blue Victorian-era dress on the third floor of the building. The smell of roses on the second floor has also been reported, as well as the sounds of two children playing on the second floor. Paranormal investigator Dave Howard told CityBeat in 2022 that most of the spirits who haunt Arnold’s are benign, but there is at least one undesirable character who still hangs

around in the afterlife. This may be connected to local lore that Arnold’s made bathtub gin during prohibition. And two other spirits believed to haunt the building include former owner Jim Christakos and a cook named Steve. You can read more about Arnold’s resident ghosts here.

The Carneal House

405 E. Second St., Covington Covington’s Licking Riverside Historic District is marked by old mansions and a sometimes eerie, Southern Gothic atmosphere. The oldest home in the area is the Carneal House, a Federal-style mansion believed to be designed and built by one of Covington’s founders, Thomas Carneal, around 1815. It’s also believed the mansion is home to a phantom known as “the Lady in Grey.” Urban legend says this spirit is that of a young woman who committed suicide in the home after being rejected for a dance by Revolutionary War hero Marquis de Lafayette during a ball. Haunted happenings in the home include heavy footsteps, slamming doors, sudden drops in temperature and a rocking chair that has been known to sway back and forth independently. It’s important to note that Lafayette likely never even visited the Carneal House. But if you do stroll past the home at twilight, you never know: you may just catch a glimpse of a woman in a gray chiffon dress.

About This Guide

This guide for voters was prepared by the League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area (LWVCA) to provide a forum for candidates and information on the ballot issues.

The candidate materials in this guide were assembled in the following manner:

The information for the Hamilton County candidates is solicited and compiled by the League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area (LWVCA). LWVCA uses the following criteria: The questions selected by LWVCA were advertised to the candidates, who were informed that each response would be printed as received and that all candidates would be solely responsible for the content of their replies. Because of the nonpartisan nature of the guide, candidates were informed that any reference to other candidates is prohibited. Because of space limitations, candidates were informed of the word limit requirements and were advised that any reply over the word limit would be cut off at the correct number.

In making this information available to the public, the LWVCA neither endorses nor rejects the views of any candidate or political party. The League does not and cannot assume responsibility for any candidate’s reply, or for the candidate’s motive in making it.

The summaries and background for the Hamilton County ballot issues were prepared by the League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area volunteers. Descriptions of other ballot issues come from the Hamilton County Board of Elections.

The information in this guide is current as of September 11, 2025. LWVCA’s online voter guide VOTE411.org includes additional candidate information not included in this guide as well as any updates candidates may have made to their profile information after our publication deadline as stated above.

What ID to Bring When You Vote

There are several types of valid photo identification.

• Ohio driver’s license

• State of Ohio ID card

• Interim ID form issued by the Ohio BMV

• A US passport

• A US passport card

• US military ID card

• Ohio National Guard ID card

• US Department of Veterans Affairs ID card

All photo IDs must have the following:

• An expiration date that has not passed

• A photograph of the voter

• The voter’s name, which must substantially conform to the voter’s name as it appears in the Poll List or in the Poll Book

NOTICE: An unexpired Ohio Driver License, State ID Card, or Interim Documentation with your former address IS an ACCEPTABLE form of ID when your current address is in the pollbook

If you do not provide one of the above forms of photo ID, you will still be able to vote using a provisional ballot. However, for that ballot to be counted, you must return to the board of elections no later than four days following Election Day to provide a qualifying form of identification. If you do not have a photo ID because of a religious objection to being photographed, you may complete an affidavit of religious objection at the polls and have your provisional ballot count.

Voting on Election Day

Election Day is Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Polls are open from 6:30am until 7:30pm. By law, if you are in line at 7:30pm, the polls must stay open to allow you to vote. Contact your county Board of Elections (call 513-946-8500 or visit www.votehamiltoncountyohio.gov) or visit www.vote411.org to check your voter registration and to find out your polling place and precinct. Sometimes several precincts share the same polling place. To assure that your vote is counted, verify that you are voting in the correct precinct!

Above all, if you are sure you are at the correct polling precinct and voting a regular ballot is not an option for whatever reason, don’t leave the polls without voting a provisional ballot. A provisional ballot is the same as a regular ballot ONCE YOUR REGISTRATION AND ID IS VERIFIED.

Voting by mail

In Ohio you may obtain an absentee ballot for ANY reason. The process is explained on the Board of Elections (BOE) website, https:// votehamiltoncountyohio.gov/voting-options/mail/ Questions? Call (513) 946-8500.

Submit an absentee ballot application until 8:30 p.m. on October 28

1. Obtain an absentee ballot application from the Board of Elections by printing it from the BOE website, by phoning the BOE at 513-946-8500, or by picking one up at the Board of Elections Office or any Hamilton County Public Library.

2. Submit it to the BOE office by mail or drop it off in the secure drop box at the Board of Elections Office, 4700 Smith Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45224

3. Your ballot will be mailed to you beginning October 7 or when the application is processed. Use the BOE website or phone 513-946-8500 to check the progress of your vote-by-mail ballot.

4. Return your completed ballot – Place it in the BOE dropbox by 7:30 p.m. on November 4, 2025 at OR use USPS with a postmark stamped at your post office by November 3, 2025. Postage is required if mailed.

Allow at least 5 days for each mailing, or use the BOE drop box if time is short.

Voting Early In-Person

Location for early voting in Hamilton County: Hamilton County Board of Elections 4700 Smith Rd. Norwood, OH 45212 513-632-7000 https://votehamiltoncountyohio.gov/

Travel and bus routes: https://votehamiltoncountyohio.gov/wpcontent/uploads/2019/11/Driving-Directionsand-Bus-Routes-to-4700-Smith-Rd1.pdf

Early voting days and hours: Oct 7-10 T-F 8am-5pm, Oct 14-17 M-F 8am-5pm Oct 20-24 M-F 8am-5pm, Oct 27 M 7:30am-7:30pm, Oct 28 T 7:30am-8:30pm, Oct 29-Oct 31 W-F 7:30am-7:30pm, Nov 1 Sat 8am-4pm, Nov 2 Sun 1-5pm

HAMILTON CO. MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE

RESPONSIBILITIES: Has original jurisdiction in civil cases (auto, neighborhood disputes etc.) involving claims of $15,000 or under, and in criminal cases involving misdemeanors in Hamilton County. Conducts preliminary hearings in felony cases.

TERM: 6 YEARS

BASE SALARY: $114,100

QUESTIONS:

Q1: What skills and characteristics do you bring to the role of judge? (500 character limit)

Q2: What can individual judges do to prevent racial, ethnic and gender bias in the judicial system? (500 character limit)

Q3: What suggestions do you have to improve Municipal Court efficiency? (500 character limit)

Q4: What is your position on whether judges should provide public website access to old eviction records? (500 character limit)

DISTRICT 1

NOT PICTURED

Dwane Mallory

Biographical info: No response

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES: No response

DISTRICT 2

NOT PICTURED

Rodney J. Harris

Biographical info: No response

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES: No response

DISTRICT 3

Bernard Mundy

Endorsements: Hamilton County Democratic Party & Cincinnati AFL-CIO Experience: 31 years as a criminal defense attorney

Affiliations: Cincinnati Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers Campaign Website: berniemundyforjudge.com

Political Philosophy: My political philosophy is to pursue policies and advance positions that promote the greater good. Facebook: www.facebook.com/

MundyforJudge

Education: JD University of Cincinnati College of Law; BS Miami University Occupation: Attorney

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: I have practiced law for 31 years. I have defended cases ranging between misdemeanor of the 4th degree up to aggravated murder and every charge in between. I have been involved in many jury trials. My colleagues regard me as an even-tempered and reasonable person.

A2: As someone who comes from “working poor”, went to Walnut Hills, and worked my way through law school, I have interacted with folks from all walks of life. Part of keeping bias out of the courtroom is having judges who have more diverse lived experiences. Beyond the character of a judge, I will work to ensure transparency is a core principle of my courtroom. I will adopt the model set by other judges who stream their court proceedings, and will share sentencing data from my courtroom.

A3: First, we need to update our outdated court technology, as our systems are antiquated and expensive. Additionally, we need to provide alternative options for folks to appear in court, such as virtual court hearings for nonviolent cases.

A4: As judges, our job is to apply the law as written. This issue has recently appeared before a higher court, and thus precedent has been set.

WHY SHOULD YOU VOTE?

MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE

DISTRICT 4

Josh Berkowitz

Experience: Judge of the Hamilton County Municipal Court, 2015-current; Law Director of Norwood, 2012-2015; Assistant Hamilton County Prosecutor, 2008-2015; Assistant Franklin County Prosecutor, 2007-2008; associate, law office of Robert F. Krapenc & J. Scott Weisman, 2006-2007. Endorsements: Cincinnati Fraternal Order of Police, Queen City Lodge 69; Brad Wenstrup; Hamilton County Republican Party

Campaign Website: KeepJudgeBerkowitz. com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ JudgeBerkowitz

Twitter: https://x.com/JudgeBerkowitz

Education: B.A. Ohio State University, 2003; J.D. Capital University Law School, 2006

Occupation: Judge

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: Over 10 years on the bench, I’ve earned a reputation as a judge who always follows the law, treats people fairly, & works diligently to keep our community safe. A proper temperament is essential. I keep a calm & professional demeanor always. This is critical because people come to court in difficult, emotional circumstances. Every case & individual is unique. A judge cannot please everyone, but I can ensure that everyone feels heard & respected.

A2: “Equal & exact justice for all…” Every case & individual is unique. All who come before the court, whether as litigants, witnesses, jurors, attorneys, or employees, are entitled to equal justice under the law. It is essential that the judge approach each case with an open mind & remain as free as humanly possible from bias, prejudice, or sympathy of any kind. Judges are also bound by federal law regarding employment; Courts may not consider race, ethnicity, or gender for any purpose when hiring.

A3: The Cleveland Plain Dealer called Hamilton County Municipal Court “a model of equal justice & efficiency.” We resolve more cases faster, & with fewer judges,

Elected officials may or may not listen to our concerns but they value our vote. Voting gives you the credibility to make your concerns a top priority for legislators. But if voting does not matter to you, then you certainly won’t matter to politicians.

A4: In 2025 a unanimous Ohio Supreme Court struck down the blanket removal of older eviction records from the clerk’s website. The high court held that the sealing of records is a judicial function & may be done only based on the specific facts of a particular case. The Court held that under Ohio’s constitution, courtrooms & court records are presumed open to the public & should remain open in the most accessible means available unless evidence is produced which demonstrates a need to seal records

Biographical info: No response NOT PICTURED

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES: No response

DISTRICT 5 than any comparably sized Ohio court. I’m proud of my record as a judge who does the work efficiently but fairly, respecting the time of all involved in a case. As our court’s Presiding Judge, I am leading the transition to digital judgment entries. This will reduce the time & work needed to provide necessary access to court records.

Occupation: Chief of Court Operations at the Hamilton County Clerk of Courts Experience: Office of the Hamilton County Public Defender, 2016-2022

Endorsements: Hamilton County Democratic Party, Cincinnati AFL-CIO, Run for Something, Cincinnati Women’s Political Caucus

Political Philosophy: I believe politics are not meant for the courtroom. When I was a public defender, I took the role of protecting people’s constitutional rights very seriously. Fundamentally, it is imperative that the right to due process is followed, as this ensures public trust in the judicial process. As a judge, I will ardently uphold the U.S. and Ohio Constitutions and the rule of law.

Campaign Website: athenaforjudge.com/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ electathenajudge

Education: University of Cincinnati College of Law

MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE

DISTRICT 5

Athena E. Stefanou [CONTINUED]

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: As a former public defender, I have seven years of courtroom experience, practicing for most of that time in Municipal Court. Currently, I am the Chief of Court Operations for the Clerk of Court’s office. In both roles, I have helped hundreds of people navigate the court system and have been able to understand where the system is lacking. As judge, I will bring practical experience, a dedication to the rule of law, as well as treat everyone with fairness.

A2: To prevent bias in the judicial system, individual judges should be fair, impartial, and transparent in their decision-making. All individuals should be treated with dignity and respect from the moment they step foot in a courtroom, background should not matter. Judges should be transparent in their decision making, ensuring individuals are not being treated unfairly due to bias. If elected, I will be committed to preventing biases in my own decision making.

Betsy Sundermann

Occupation: Judge, Hamilton County Domestic Relations Court

Endorsements: Republican Party, Cincinnati FOP Queen City Lodge #69

Affiliations: Admitted to practice law in Ohio courts and the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio Campaign Website: BetsySundermann.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ SundermannforJudge/ Twitter: @voteSundermann

Education: B.A. from DePauw University, J.D. from the University of Cincinnati College of Law

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: I bring 27 years of courtroom experience as a judge, prosecutor, private attorney, and juvenile court social worker. I’ve protected children and families, applied the law as written, and earned a record of fairness. I am firm, efficient, and committed to upholding justice with integrity and accountability.

A2: Judges must apply the law equally to everyone, without political agendas or favoritism. The best way to prevent bias is to treat each person with respect, hold

A3: Improving the efficiency of Municipal Court is one of my top priorities. A key factor in improving efficiency is improving the critically antiquated case management system currently in place. I am committed to modernizing our system by pushing for more online access, reduced paper use & faster case processing. I’m dedicated to breaking down barriers that prevent people from effectively navigating the court system, including making the Court more accessible and understandable for everyone.

A4: As a general rule, public records should be accessible to the public. However, there are opportunities for individuals to petition the court to remove cases from website display. As a judge, I will follow the current Ohio court rules and law and determine whether public policy is served by restricting website access for a particular case. I would consider the status of the case (e.g. dismissal), age of the case, as well as, whether a judgment had been paid in full.

all parties to the same standards, and decide cases on facts and statutes-not ideology. By being fair, impartial, and consistent, judges strengthen public trust and ensure justice is blind.

A3: Efficiency requires accountability and common-sense use of resources. Judges should enforce deadlines, reduce unnecessary hearings, and use technology to cut costs and delays. By setting clear expectations and focusing on results, we can respect taxpayers’ money while ensuring timely justice.

A4: The public deserves open access to court records, including evictions, because it builds trust and ensures accountability. Hiding records should be the rare exception, not the rule. Judges should only limit access if the law requires confidentiality, if a record is sealed, or if someone’s safety is at risk. Openness is how we keep government honest and make sure people know the courts are working for them.

DISTRICT 6

Mike Peck

Occupation: Judge Experience: 15 years as Assistant Prosecuting Attorney with Hamilton County.

4 years as Law Director in the Village of St. Bernard. 10 years as a hotline attorney for ProSeniors.

Endorsements: Hamilton County GOP. FOP Queen City Lodge 69.

Education: JD Ave Maria School of Law. BA Franciscan University of Steubenville.

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: As a judge I efficiently managed a criminal and civil docket consisting of thousands of cases over the course of a 6 year term. As a prosecutor I tried cases from simple traffic tickets to aggravated murders and everything

in between. My court is a trial court and I know how cases should be tried. I spent 10 years as hotline attorney for low income seniors. My judicial demeanor is marked not only by firmness and fairness, but by empathy and compassion.

A2: Follow the law and the Code of Judicial Conduct.

A3: It is important to limit needless pretrial settings and continuances at trial settings. While it is necessary that judges take the time needed to make thorough and well thought out decisions, these decisions should be prompt to avoid delay.

A4: Transparency of information including court records, is very important to the public. Our court records should be easily accessible to the folks that we serve.

How to find info on Judicial Candidates

Voters often don’t have much information about judicial candidates. Because most citizens do not routinely interact with judges in their communities, they tend to know very little about how judges conduct themselves in the course of doing their jobs. In addition, state rules do not allow judicial candidates to discuss their views on controversial issues because judges must be impartial on the bench. It is important for voters to understand the role of the courts and the important qualities to consider when evaluating judicial candidates.

To learn about candidates for judge in your area consider reading candidates’ campaign literature, visiting campaign websites, and talking with people who know the candidates, including practicing attorneys.

In order to make a decision, when voting on judicial candidates, consider the answers to the following questions:

• To what extent has the candidate practiced in the area(s) of law the court handles?

• What work or other experience has the candidate had that will particularly qualify the candidate to perform the duties of a judge on this court?

• What is the candidate’s legal philosophy? Political philosophy?

• Consider the candidate’s integrity, judicial temperament, and level of commitment to public service and the administration of justice.

• Also, consider who is paying for any advertising about any particular judicial election. For our democracy to function, judges must carry out their tasks impartially and independently. Judges’ decisions should not follow public opinion or promote special interests or even reflect their personal beliefs.

Judges’ decisions should be based on facts and law. This judicial impartiality protects fair trials and upholds the rule of law.

MAYOR

DISTRICT 7

Gwen Bender

Occupation: Judge, Hamilton County Municipal Court Experience: I have been a municipal court judge for 8 years. Prior to that, I was a prosecutor for Hamilton County for 23 years, including serving as Chief Assistant Prosecutor of the Municipal Division.

Endorsements: Hamilton County Republican Party: Fraternal Order of Police, Queen City Lodge 69

Affiliations: Ohio State Bar Association; Cincinnati Bar Association; Ohio Judicial College; Association of Municipal Court Judges Campaign Website: judgegwenbender. com

Education: J.D,, University of Cincinnati College of Law: B.A.,St. Mary’s College (Notre DSame, Indiana)

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: I have 32 years of experience in criminal and civil law. I’ve worked as both a prosecutor and defense attorney. I make decisions based on the evidence presented to me, and apply the law as written. I listen to arguments presented by all parties before rendering a decision.I am fair, impartial and compassionate to those before me, whether as a witness, victim, defendant or counsel.

A2: A judge needs to lead by example. The Court can not tolerate any form of racial, ethnic or gender bias, whether explicit or implicit. Ongoing training and education are key factors in recognizing and rooting out bias of any sort from court proceedings.

A3: Courtroom efficiency is necessary for the proper administration of justice, whether in civil or criminal cases. It is the judge’s duty to manage a caseload so that she is respectful of the parties’ time before her, including defendants, witnesses and counsel. This includes starting the docket on time, and addressing time management with the parties. The public can view each judge’s docket management statistics on the Ohio Supreme Court website.

A4: Members of the public are entitled to view eviction records, without governmental interference.

CINCINNATI MAYOR

TERM: 4 years. 2 Terms limit

RESPONSIBILITIES:: The mayor is the presiding officer at council meetings but not a council member, has veto power over council-passed legislation with an override provision, assigns legislative matters to council committees, and appoints and removes council committee chairs and the vice-mayor without the advice and consent of council. The mayor initiates the hiring and removal of the city manager with the advice and consent of council. The mayor’s salary is twice the salary of a member of council.

Vote for no more than 1.

QUESTIONS:

Q1: What is your vision for the City and in what ways will you work with Council to implement that vision?

Q2: What services do you believe should be considered basic and essential for the City?

Q3: What is the appropriate role of various economic development tools and incentives like tax abatements, credits and loans?

Q4: What steps should be taken to ensure public safety? Do you agree with the perception that areas of the city, such as downtown, are unsafe?

Aftab Pureval

Twitter: @heyitsaftab

Education: Mayor Aftab graduated from The Ohio State University and the University of Cincinnati College of Law, where he represented victims of domestic violence who could not afford an attorney.

Campaign Website: www.aftabformayor. com

Affiliations: Democratic Party Facebook: www.facebook.com/ AftabforOhio/ Endorsements: Hamilton County Democratic Party Experience: Pureval was an associate at White & Case LLP, a special assistant U.S. attorney for the United States Department of Justice in Hamilton County, and a former legal counsel at Procter & Gamble.

In 2016, he was elected Hamilton County Clerk of Courts, and re-elected in 2020. In 2021, he was elected as Cincinnati’s 70th Mayor.

Occupation: Mayor of Cincinnati

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A2: Our most essential services are those that keep our residents in every neighborhood healthy, including trash collection, keeping our streets clean and safe in all weather, and providing public safety and emergency services. We have fulfilled our responsibility to make City Hall a driver of affordable housing and healthcare for all Ohioans. None of this would be possible without our 6,000 dedicated city employees who provide the services on which every Cincinnati resident relies.

A3: We are and will continue to tailor economic incentives that contribute to our goals of equity and vibrancy in all of our communities. For example, we introduced reforms to our residential tax abatement policy to bring more incentives to our most underinvested communities, and fewer to the wealthier neighborhoods that are already seeing investment. Investments in minority and women-owned businesses and affordable housing are examples of how we’re working to create a better future for all.

Cory Bowman

Biographical info: No response NOT PICTURED

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES: No response

Julien Spivey

Biographical info: No response NOT PICTURED

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES: No response

A1: When we took office, we faced undeniable challenges and clear expectations from Cincinnatians. Equitable growth is the key to moving Cincinnati forward and achieving our long-term goals, including public safety, expanded housing options, improved job opportunities, wage equity, and financial stability. We must continue to be bold. I intend to continue working with our City Council and Administration to strive for greater heights and collaborate with communities on lasting, systemic changes, inc

A4: We have taken a strategic and comprehensive approach to public safety In collaboration with diverse partners, we’ve prioritized both law enforcement resources and systems-level investments around the root causes of violence. And our interventions have driven real, dramatic progress.

Our downtown core is safe, and Cincinnati is a significantly safer city by any violence metric.

But progress is not the same thing as victory. We will continue to keep violence prevention at the center of our work

CINCINNATI CITY COUNCIL

TERM: 2 years.

DESCRIPTION: Governing body of the city. Each council member also serves on several of the committees that study, hold hearings and listen to citizens’ complaints or points of view on all proposed ordinances, resolutions, and motions before they are acted upon by the full council. The mayor has a seat on the council but no vote.

9 to be elected

QUESTIONS:

Q1: What are your 3 priorities for Cincinnati City Council?

Q2: Do you think factors such as housing, transportation, jobs, health care, youth programs are important to public safety?

Q3: What are your thoughts on housing and rental affordability in the city?

Q4: How will you balance support for existing neighborhoods and small businesses with new development projects? When is it appropriate to allow exceptions to zoning regulations?

Anna Albi

Occupation: City Councilmember Education: Bachelor of Creative Writing, Additional Major in Professional Writing & Master of Professional Writing - Carnegie Mellon University

Facebook: www.facebook.com/cincyalbi

Endorsements: HCDP, AFLCIO, AFSCME, IBEW, BLUF, Run for Something, Sierra Club, Ohio Environmental Council, Everytown, Gun Sense Candidate Distinction, Matriots, Cincinnati Women’s Political Caucus Campaign Website: www.albiforcincinnati.

com

Experience: Current Councilmember, formerly Moms Demand Action Local Lead, Madisonville Community Council Recording Secretary, Senior Strategic Communication Consultant

Twitter: Anna_Albi

Affiliations: Hamilton County Democratic Party Precinct Executive, Cincinnati Democratic Committee Vice Chair, Hamilton County Young Democrats Vice President, Daughters of the American Revolution Member, Madisonville Community Council Member, 2023 New Leaders Council Fellow, Moms Demand Action Former Local Lead Political Philosophy: Progressive

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: My top priority is addressing gun violence, which includes:

Gun safety - I ensured you can get a free gun lock from every library in the county and introduced a free out-of-home gun storage program

Food access - I led the charge to unlock over $1 million in funding for food security programs in neighborhoods hit hardest by

gun violence

Housing - I am proud that I along with this City Council have allocated more for 3x as many for income-restricted housing units than the previous five years

A2: Community safety means folks being paid enough to afford a roof over their heads, food on the table and access to healthcare. Imagine a hungry teen in the summer: they need meals to replace the free breakfast and lunch they were receiving at school, they need a safe place to be during the day, and they want to make money. Our ability as a City to meet those needs have a huge impact on the short- and long-term health of our community. That’s why we invest in Rec @ Nite, Youth to Work, and more.

A3: Housing costs in the City are rising way too high, way too quickly. We need more housing at all income levels across our entire city. This is why I’m proud to have voted in favor of changing our outdated, racist zoning code to make it legal to build middle housing along our rapid transit bus routes and in our business districts. As part of City Council, I remain committed to our partnership with the Cincinnati Development Fund (CDF) and directing them to fund more income-restricted projects.

A4: In order to support our local businesses and continue to fund basic services, we must grow our city. If we want housing costs to stabilize and decrease, we must build more housing. Welcoming more visitors and residents to our community is how we make sure our city and small businesses in all 52 neighborhoods can survive and thrive. I am passionate about increasing the City’s capacity for Neighborhood Plans so residents can set the vision for how they’d like their neighborhood to evolve over time

Audricia Brooks

Occupation: Nurse Practitioner

Education: BSN University of Cincinnati, MSN University of Kentucky Facebook: www.facebook.com/ audriciabrooksnp

Endorsements: NA

Campaign Website: www. audricia4cincinnati.com

Experience: Former director of National Nurses United Cincinnati VA Medical Center

Affiliations: League of Women Voters, NAACP, Black Nurse’s Association Political Philosophy: I believe in fair voting, majority rule with minority representation.

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: I believe in community benefit agreements that are legally binding for local communities and developers. I am particularly interested in the youth of our city, and promoting civic pride. Affordable housing and public safety are also priorities.

A2:The future of our city lies in our youth, their safety and well-being. Our youth must thrive not just survive. The infrastructure should be in place to support their growth and development. Healthcare is a right for all.

A3: All of our communities should share in the development of affordable housing. Without people being sheltered and feeling safe, we don’t have as much as a community that we could have.

A4: The city and our communities should collaborate together in the best interest of our citizens. There should be give and take. Some concessions need to be made by all parties involved. And all parties, particularly the communities should have a voice in those areas that integrally affect their communities.

WRITE-IN CANDIDATES

Occupation: Owner of Jonli Cleaning LLC

Education: Masters in Public Administration Facebook: facebook.com/share/1CjjsbWY4i/ Endorsements: Charter “Change” Committee, AFL-CIO, Teachers, Local 265, Matriots

Campaign Website: Www.laketacole.com

Experience: At the age of 29 I served as President Pro Tem of City Council from 20032010. Additionally, I am the Vice President of Bondhill Community Council. Affiliations: Democratic

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: 1. My top priorities are reducing violence with stronger prevention programs such as CCY for our youth.

2. Ensuring neighborhood voices are heard, by having an open door policy,

3. Supporting youth and families with better opportunities such as affordable housing.

A2: Yes! Public safety isn’t just about policing-- its about stability and opportunities. Affordable housing, good jobs, reliable transportation, access to health care, and strong youth programs all prevent crime before it happens. When people have security and hope, our neighborhoods thrive and become safer for everyone.

A3: Too many families are being priced-out of Cincinnati. We must expand affordable housing options, protect renters from unfair practices , and support first-time homebuyers. Development cant come at a cost of displacement. Every resident deserves safe, stable, and affordable housing in the neighborhoods they call home.

A4: We need growth but it must be done fairly. I’ll prioritize protecting neighborhoods and small businesses while welcoming responsible new development. Zoning exceptions should only be granted when communities are all at the table and benefit directly--like affordable housing or local business investment. Development must uplift, not displace.

This Voter Guide identifies write-in candidates by placing “(Write-in)” next to their name. You can also get a write-in list from your Precinct Election Official (PEO). To vote for a write-in candidate, completely darken the box to the left of the blank line and write in the candidate’s name as it appears on the write-in list. Ask your PEO for help if you have questions.

Jerry Corbett

Occupation: Retired from Greater Cincinnati Water Works

Education: Graduated from Elder High School and one year of college in Business Administration

Facebook: facebook.com/ corbettforcincinnati

Endorsements: None as yet. Awaiting final answer from Miami group Siena club. Campaign Website: Corbettforcincinnati. com

Experience: Worked for the City of Cincinnati for nearly 31 years. The final 12 years of my employment I handled day to day operations as well as developing infrastructure training, balancing budgets, prioritizing capital improvements etc.

Affiliations: I am a lifelong member of the Democratic Party

Political Philosophy: I am pro-union and also pro-public service. I believe strongly in our first amendment rights and am frankly very concerned with the direction the current presidential administration is taking.

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: 1. Improve city services. Focus on the above ground and underground infrastructure. Set performance measures for response times to such things as snow removal, pothole repair and all other services.

2. Make housing more affordable by supporting affordable housing initiatives, encouraging responsible development in all 52 neighborhoods, work to expand housing access.

3. Help small businesses in all 52 neighborhoods through grants, simplified permitting, and neighborhood-specific investment.

A2: People need a sense of self of worth and purpose and all of these things contribute to their mental and physical well being. Jobs, health care, and transportation give adults peace of mind. As a father and grandfather I have seen the positive impact after school programs have on children.

I went through a period of time in the 1980’s when i was unemployed with a wife and two small children. I experienced the stress, self doubt and feelings of inadequacy that comes from a lack of employment.

A3: Affordable housing is a national crisis. I would explore all avenues such as increased abatements and subsidies for middle to low income families. Another thing worth exploring is to insert provisions that would require building a certain

amount of real affordable housing for any new development. I would be open to any ideas that would increase home ownership. One idea to provide more rental options would be to discourage property owners from converting to full time Airbnb’s.

A4: Being a Cincinnatian my whole life, I know how important each of 52 neighborhoods in Cincinnati are to their residents. I personally feel that the residents should have a voice in any major changes/ developments that are proposed in their neighborhood. If the community agrees, a change in zoning would work. Small businesses are the heart and identity of every community. Anything that we can do to preserve their place should be done, such as, grants, loans and neighborhood investment programs.

Don Driehaus

Occupation: Current Business Owner

Education: University of Cincinnati Bachelors 1981 Continuing education in Finance over Thirty years.

Facebook: Facebook.com/ DonDriehausforCincinnati

Endorsements: Charter Committee Campaign Website: dondriehausforcincinnati.org

Experience: Thirty years as a Financial Advisor -Treasurer of the Incline Condo Association and owner - Partners with multiple local businesses

Affiliations: West Price Hill Community Council board, Price Hill Safety Action Team Political Philosophy: Moderate Independent Democrat

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: 1. Public Safety - We need to hire more police and fire personnel and build morale 2. Basic Services-We need to pave our streets and clean litter on a regular basis 3. Transparency- We need an open door policy at City Hall

A2: Yes Good jobs and reasonable rents provide stability for households to thrive. I work with young people in the City schools and they will work hard if given the opportunity. The Brent Spence bridge project is a great opportunity to build careers for young people and contractors.

A3 :We need to bring rents in line with household incomes.

A4: Good planning equals good development. When community voices are heard, developments will be successful.

Jeff Cramerding

Occupation: Cincinnati

City Councilman & Director of Contract Administration for the American Association of University Professors at the University Cincinnati (AAUP-UC)

Endorsements: Hamilton County Democratic Party, Cincinnati Realtors, Local 212, FOP, OEC Campaign Website: jeffcramerding.com/ Experience: Prior to joining council, I served as legislative aide to Councilmember Todd Portune and have been involved in numerous candidate and issue campaigns in Cincinnati.

Political Philosophy: Running to bring strong leadership to city council in order to tackle our cities toughest issues.

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: Vibrant, mixed-income neighborhoods, fund and plan for inclusive growth, ensure the Affordable Housing Trust Fund supports home ownership.

Economic development, modernize incentive policies, align them with neighborhood and citywide strategies to deliver tangible benefits.

Balanced budgets & infrastructure investment, reverse deferred maintenance of parks, sidewalks, recreation centers; ensure priorities are adequately funded..

A2: Yes. Safe communities are built on strong foundations. Affordable housing allows for families to have stable homes. A Strong transportation network connects people to opportunities. Access to health care keeps residents healthy and resilient. Youth services offer support and mentorship. Investing in these areas prevents crime and strengthens public safety overall.

A3: We’re facing a serious housing crisis. I’ve long championed mixed-income neighborhoods and helped lead zoning reforms through ‘Connected Communities’ to allow multiplexes and boost supply. I’ve also pushed against out-of-town landlords buying homes to rent, which inflates prices and erodes homeownership. We must act deliberately to ensure housing remains attainable for all.

A4: I believe in responsible growth that supports existing neighborhoods and small businesses while welcoming new development. Through Connected Communities, we allow more housing along transit corridors and business districts, bringing foot traffic and economic vitality. Exceptions to zoning should be granted sparingly: when development fills gaps, complements context, supports affordability, and includes neighborhood input.

Occupation: Auto mechanic.

Education: Woodward Sr high

Experience: 44 years

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: Safety, Wages, Housing

A2: Very much so

A3 :I think that we should work on trying to get a cap on rent. Repurpose old buildings to make efficiencies affordable housing for single people in homeless to get them off the street.

A4: Yes, I would allow for grocery store are nice business that will increase employment in the neighborhood or community

VOTING WITH DISABILITY OR CONFINEMENT

Persons who cannot vote at a polling location on Election Day or in person at the board office due to personal illness, physical disability, infirmity or confinement may receive and return a ballot by mail or in person through two boards of election employees. This includes voters confined to a nursing home or jail.

VOTING FROM THE HOSPITAL

Applications for persons who are hospitalized or whose minor child is hospitalized due to an accident or unforeseeable medical emergency occurring after 12:00pm noon on the Saturday before Election Day, will be accepted until 3 pm on Election Day.

CINCINNATI CITY COUNCIL

QUESTIONS:

Q1: What are your 3 priorities for Cincinnati City Council?

Q2: Do you think factors such as housing, transportation, jobs, health care, youth programs are important to public safety?

Q3: What are your thoughts on housing and rental affordability in the city?

Q4: How will you balance support for existing neighborhoods and small businesses with new development projects? When is it appropriate to allow exceptions to zoning regulations?

Kevin Farmer

Occupation: Engineering Marketing and PR Education: General Educational Development (GED) Some College Coursework Completed Major: Secondary Education Focus: Public Relations, Guerrilla Marketing, and Community Outreach Withrow High School Alum OSHA 30-Hour Certified - Occupational Safety and Health Administration Facebook: www.facebook.com/people/ Vote-Kevin-Farmer/61577352072392/ Endorsements: Butt Bezzy Black, Mike Martin, Greater Cincinnati Repulican Party, Tiffany & Joe Kelly, Former Linebacker Cincinnati Bengals Charlie Winburn, Former City Councilman Jim Neil, Former Hamilton County Sheriff Orlando Chapman, Business Owner Larry Kaufman, Owner Bad Story Clothing Rev. Damon Lynch III & Rev. Damon Lynch II Campaign Website: www.votekevinfarmer. com/ Experience: Public Relations for Political Campaigns Managed communications and public engagement strategies for local political candidates. Responsibilities included organizing press events, crafting messaging for various media platforms, coordinating volunteer outreach, and building strong relationships with local media outlets and community stakeholders. Local Business Owner and Operator- Petals Playhouse & Activities Center Founded and operated a children’s playhouse and activity center focused on early childhood education and development. Oversaw all aspects of business management including staffing, budgeting, program design, marketing, and community outreach. Built a loyal customer base and established strong partnerships within the community. Twitter: VoteKevinFarmer Affiliations: Affiliations Member, Rosemarie’s Baby Company Founder, Petals Inc. Volunteer Organizer, Save Hyde Park Square Initiative Trustee, Paddock Hills Community Board Member, New Prospect Baptist Church Political Philosophy: People Over Government, Power to the People

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: Three Priorities: Transparency Holding our legislation accountable for the commitments they made, including adding a third shift.

Youth Gun Violence & Safety Grandmas should be safe at night. Youth need to be held accountable for their actions. I was someone who learned through discipline, not just rewards.

Infrastructure & Economy

There is so much waste and fraud in all communities, with an emphasis on those affecting low-income families.

A2: Yes, these factors are essential to public safety. When communities have access to stable housing, reliable transportation, good jobs, quality health care, and strong youth programs, crime rates often decrease. These resources create stability, reduce economic stress, and provide positive opportunities, especially for young people. Public safety is built by addressing root causes and investing in the well-being of all residents.

A3: Housing and rental affordability is one of the most urgent challenges facing our city today. The cost of living continues to rise, while wages have not kept pace, leaving many residents burdened by high rent or struggling to find stable housing. This affects not only low-income families but also working professionals, seniors, and young people trying to establish themselves.

A4: There are no exceptions when it comes to regulatory compliance. However, certain regulations should be reevaluated to ensure they support, rather than hinder, sustainable growth.

Mediated strategies should focus on bringing existing businesses to the table, fostering collaboration and partnerships that strengthen the local economy. It is important to carefully weigh the pros and cons of scaling small businesses to ensure long-term viability.

Gary Favors

CITY COUNCIL

Occupation: A Special Education Teacher with 25 years in Cincinnati Public Schools, experienced across all grade levels. I create individualized plans, collaborate with families for student success, and currently teach in the Montessori program at North Avondale Education: Cincinnati City Council Leadership School, XU-Master of Education in Administration, NKU-Masters in Teaching , Carson-Newman College ROTC Student. BA in Communications S Facebook: facebook.com/gary.favors.50

Endorsements: FOP (Fraternal Order of Police)

Campaign Website: favorsforcincinnati.com

Experience: 25 years of teaching at Cincinnati Public Schools. Military Service - United States Army - Captain/Company Commander. Decorated Army Veteran - Two Gulf War Accommodation Medals . Founder of Hearts and Minds Inc. -a mentoring program designed to expose African American boys and their parents to hands-on experiences that explore the fundamental concepts of math, science and technology - 2011-2018. Guest presenter at the Education Writers Association Panel, “Rethinking Student Discipline” at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles. Twitter: https://www.wcpo.com/news/ local-news/hamilton-county/cincinnati/ over-the-rhine/suspect-in-stabbing-of-otrgym-owner-facing-12-new-charges-couldget-life-in-prison-with-no-parole

Affiliations: CFT Cincinnati Federation of Teachers, Republican Party Political Philosophy: My life is guided by “To whom much is given, much is required.” As a Council leader, I’ll honor those who shaped me by serving with integrity, expanding opportunity, uplifting the vulnerable, and building a connected, fair, and inclusive Cincinnati

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: Cincinnati deserves safety, fairness, and dignity. I’ll fight to staff first responders, protect kids in school zones, and keep streets safe. I’ll push for affordable housing and real solutions for homelessness-not just moving people around. By listening to those on the front lines and working with the community, we can build a city where every neighbor has a fair chance to thrive

A2: When people’s needs aren’t met, crime rises. The answer isn’t tougher talk-it’s stronger communities. By investing in housing, transit, healthcare, and youth programs, we can build a safer Cincinnati where neighbors feel supported, connected, and look out for each other. A city that cares for all will reduce crime and create real opportunity

A3: Cincinnati can’t thrive if families can’t afford to live here. Rising rents and mortgages are crushing workers, seniors, and young people. I’ll fight to expand affordable housing, protect renters from unfair practices, and partner with nonprofits and developers to create real solutions. Everyone deserves a fair chance to call this city home-and together we can make living in Cincinnati affordable again

A4: Those who’ve invested in our neighborhoods and businesses will not be abandoned. We must support them while welcoming smart development that strengthens-not displaces-our community. By engaging all stakeholders, we can balance growth, protect neighborhood character, and allow zoning exceptions only when projects bring real benefits like affordable housing, jobs, or public spaces with full resident input

Steven P. Goodin

Occupation:

Attorney, Partner at Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP

Education: Miami University (B.A., 1992), University of Cincinnati College of Law (J.D., 1999)

Facebook: www.facebook.com/share/17Hdw N7N9F/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Endorsements: Charter Committee of Greater Cincinnati, FOP Lodge No. 69, IAFF Local 48- Cincinnati Fire Fighters Union, Liuna Local Laborers 265, REALTOR Alliance of Greater Cincinnati Campaign Website: www.votegoodin.com

Experience: Former Cincinnati City Council member (2020-2021); Assistant Hamilton County Prosecutor; outside counsel for multiple City of Cincinnati Departments (including Economic Development); former chair, Hamilton County Regional Planning Commission; past president, Clifton Town Meeting

Twitter: electgoodin

Affiliations: Hamilton County Regional Planning Commission, Cincinnati Bar Association

Political Philosophy: I consider myself to be a back-to-basics centrist whose philosophy is not a perfect fit with either major national political party -- and certainly not as those parties’ top-down platforms relate to municipal governance. If the voters return to council, I will once again be an independent voice for neighborhoods with an emphasis on public safety, growing our housing stock and repairing our infrastructure. As many a famous Charterite has said, there is no Republican or Democratic way to fill a pothole.

STEVEN P. GOODIN CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: Reduce violent crime by fully staffing our police department for the first time in 20 years, and by steering much needed funds to proven youth programs such as union apprenticeships and expanded recreation center hours.

Radically increase development of new housing stock while also ensuring that new units respect the historic character of our iconic neighborhoods.

Rework our General Fund budget to relentlessly focus on the backlog of infrastructure it bears, with a specific focus on potholes.

A2: Absolutely- all of the above are crucial to creating a safer city. The bottom line is that we cannot ignore the long-established correlation between poverty and violent crime. Policing alone will not solve this problem.

Budgets indicate priorities- the city must invest in housing and youth employment programs in order to prioritize and enhance public safety.

A3: As a former council member, I approved and encouraged the funding of NOFA projects to bring much needed incomerestricted housing to our residents in need.

That said, I am extraordinarily concerned about this current council’s thoughtless efforts to concentrate such housing in a handful of neighborhoods.

We must also step up our efforts to develop market-rate housing throughout the city so that more naturally- occurring affordable housing becomes available.

A4: In my mind, the “Connected Communities” legislation was ill-conceived and needlessly cut neighborhood voices out of the development process.

That said, we must still revisit our chaotic zoning process with an eye toward allowing neighborhoods to speak out regarding projects within an agreed upon and publicly known set of criteria.

It is my view variances are appropriate when there is community buy-in and when a viable project fits with the “look and feel” of a given neighborhood.

Ryan James

CITY COUNCIL

Occupation: Social Impact Strategist

Education: University of Cincinnati for my undergrad and Masters degrees Facebook: www.facebook.com/ ryanjamesforcincinnati

Endorsements: Hamilton County Democratic Party, Cincinnati AFL-CIO, Run for Something, AFSCME Local 8, DMO, BLET, Cincinnati FOP Lodge 69 Campaign Website: www. ryanjamesforcincinnati.com/

Political Philosophy: My political philosophy can be summed up as building a Cincinnati that works for working people. We should court innovation, new ideas, new investment and infrastructure, while making sure that all our residents are equitably involved, and equally benefit from our upper trajectory.

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: My top priorities are housing, workforce, and youth opportunity. These are the three pillars of a Cincinnati that works for working families, especially in this affordability crisis. I will expand access to affordable housing, invest in job pathways, and grow youth programs that keep young people safe and engaged. I will also fix city systems that block residents from the resources they need.

A2: Yes. Public safety is deeply tied to housing, jobs, youth programs, health care, and transit. When people have their basic needs met, they are more likely to thrive and less likely to be in crisis. If no one is going hungry, unhoused, or without mental health care, we reduce the conditions that often lead to violence. Government must act early, not just react, to keep our communities safe.

A3: Families are in an economic crisis, and housing must be a top priority. I believe every family deserves a safe, affordable place to call home. That means expanding emergency programs to keep families housed, investing in home repair, supporting first-time homeownership, and partnering with nonprofits to grow affordable housing. We must also protect renters and prevent displacement.

A4: City Council should support growth in every neighborhood by partnering with local leaders, nonprofits, and residents. Development must reflect community priorities and protect small businesses. Zoning exceptions should only be allowed when they are part of a transparent process, clearly communicated, and aligned with what the neighborhood needs and supports.

Occupation: In addition to serving on Cincinnati City Council for the past 3.5 years, I am also a Founder and CEO of 4Sight, a machine learning company focused on identifying harmful ingredients before they reach headlines and impact industries. Education: I earned my Bachelor’s degree in History with Honors from the University of Chicago and went on to complete my MBA at Georgetown University earning the distinction Phi Beta Kappa. Facebook: www.facebook.com/ votemarkjeffreys

Endorsements: Some of my endorsements include the Hamilton County Democratic Party, AFL-CIO, The Sierra Club, the Realtors, the Teamsters Local 100, Ironworkers Local 44, LUINA Local 265, AFSCME, Fraternal Order of Police, and the Ohio Environmental Council. I have submitted applications for the Ohio Nurses Association, Equality Ohio, SWOYBD, the Black Fire PAC and CODE. I also anticipate submitting for all other union endorsements, the Sentinels, the Cincinnati Regional Chamber, and Planned Parenthood. Campaign Website: www.votejeffreys.com/ Experience: I grew up in Manhattan working poor, the son of an immigrant and janitor. My first job was cleaning toilets as a janitor. When I lost my mother at 15, I went to work as a union laborer, Local 59. That’s how I worked my way through college. I went on to spend over 16 years at P&G leading brands such as Pamper and Gillette. While serving at P&G, I envisioned and convinced P&G to donate $1 million to create the goVibrantscape at Smale Park, converting a 4.5 acre parking lot west of the Roebling Bridge to interactive features including the outdoor foot piano and the flying pig. I went on to found go Vibrant, a non-profit that is about making activity irresistible by encouraging walking. I left P&G eight years ago to found my own company, w Twitter: jeffreysms

Affiliations: Vice President of the OKI Regional Council of Governments and Executive Committee member of the Hamilton County Democratic Party. Political Philosophy: My political philosophy is informed by my upbringing. I grew up in a “forgotten neighborhood” that was rapidly gentrifying and leaving residents to watch without their voice being heard. As a result, my political philosophy is to collaborate with all stakeholders. I solicit input from any people or organizations that are involved in decisions. I frequently have people tell me that they appreciate me showing up - whether it’s through Walking all 52 neighborhoods or showing up to community councils. And it’s not just showing up once in a while; with the Beekman Corridor Coalition (in the Mill Creek Valley), for example, I show up to every quarterly meeting. Those communities call themselves the “ forgotten neighborhoods”; so they appreciate

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: My priorities focus on Safer, Cleaner, Greener. Safety means reducing gun violence, improving pedestrian safety, and protecting marginalized groups. Cleaner means continuing to cut illegal dumping and tackling lead paint that harms children. Greener means protecting parks, waterways, and completing the CROWN trail network. As Chair of Equitable Growth & Housing, I’m also pushing my Big Audacious Goal: 40,000 new units in 10 years.

A2: They significantly contribute to public safety and I will continue to take the actions to address each one individually. Housing is essential. I came up with and championed setting a goal of 40,000 new units in 10 years, legalized ADUs, passed a Vacant Building Ordinance, and tripled affordable housing production despite rising costs. I’m advancing a lead paint initiative to protect children, and funding programs like Building Futures and Rec at Nite to provide career pathways and safe spaces.

A3: Cincinnati has made progress on housing affordability with building more units, but it’s not enough. By investing in the Cincinnati Development Fund, we’ve produced nearly three times more incomerestricted units per year than before, supported by >$5M we invest/year in the trust fund. Zoning reform is key too - making it easier to build more housing of all types helps lower costs and address rising rents driven by high demand and a low supply. My Goal will make affordable housing a reality.

A4: It is a balance. Neighborhood residents and small businesses are key stakeholders whose input must be sought, especially those unable to attend council meetings. Their voices must be weighed against the city’s housing needs. We add ~2,000 residents yearly but build only ~1,000 units - driving up costs. To build more, we must rethink zoning and engage all stakeholders.

AFTER YOU VOTE...

Voting is not the final step but a starting point for taking an active part in government. Hold your elected officials accountable by asking questions, attending meetings and speaking out about the issues important to you and your family. We don’t have to go to Washington, DC. We can be heard from here.

CITY COUNCIL

CINCINNATI CITY COUNCIL

QUESTIONS:

Q1: What are your 3 priorities for Cincinnati City Council?

Q2: Do you think factors such as housing, transportation, jobs, health care, youth programs are important to public safety?

Q3: What are your thoughts on housing and rental affordability in the city?

Q4: How will you balance support for existing neighborhoods and small businesses with new development projects? When is it appropriate to allow exceptions to zoning regulations?

Scotty Johnson

Occupation: Retired Cincinnati Police Officer 33 yrs

Endorsements: AFL CIO, ASFME, REALATORS, Sentinel Police Association,

Experience: This would be my third term on Cincinnati city council. Chairman Of Safety And Governance Committee, Cochair of Budget Committee

Affiliations: Elder, Christ Emmanuel Church, LifeMember NAACP, Sentinel Police Association, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Mentor Woodward High Political Philosophy: Always be Authentic, Always tell the truth

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: 1. Jobs. Attract good-paying jobs to underserved neighborhoods by supporting entrepreneurs and connecting employers to communities often overlooked.

2. Housing. Push an “all-of-the-above” strategy: increase housing density and incentivize affordability, accounting for wages, transit, and social equity.

3. Public Safety. Strengthen safety by renewing the Collaborative Agreement, increasing transparency, and coordinating police, fire, and social services to reduce crime.

A2: Yes. Factors like housing, transportation, good-paying jobs, health care, and youth programs are foundational to public safety. When wages, transit, and social services aren’t aligned, insecurity and crime rates rise. Investment in these areas reduces poverty, strengthens neighborhoods, and builds trust between communities and public safety institutions.

A3: Housing and rental affordability are pressing concerns as prices soar but

wages and housing supply are behind. I support an all-of-the-above strategy. We must ensure affordability keeps pace with rising costs, so Cincinnati is a place where everyone can live and thrive.

A4: I support new development when it uplifts existing neighborhoods and small businesses rather than replaces them. Projects must be built in partnership with residents, ensuring affordability, good design, and infrastructure. Exceptions to zoning should only be granted when they deliver real community benefits, respect neighborhood character, and strengthen opportunities for local businesses and families.

Dawn Johnson

Occupation:

Business Owner Education: Two Bachelor’s in Communications and Spanish. Working on MBA Facebook: facebook.com/Dawnforcincy

Endorsements: Charter Committee of Greater Cincinnati Campaign Website: dawnforcincy.com

Experience: President of the North Avondale Community Council, where I led the creation of our neighborhood Master Plan, positioned North Avondale to become Cincinnati’s first full historic district, and helped launch a Community Development Corporation. Chair of the Vice Mayor’s Task Force to reform Connected Communities legislation. Over 8 years of professional experience in project management, human resources, and community development. Small business owner committed to economic growth, wellness, and equity in Cincinnati. Twitter: Dawnforcincy

Affiliations: Charter Committee of Greater Cincinnati Cincinnati NAACP (member) North Avondale Neighborhood Association (President) Coalition for a Better Cincinnati (founding member) Various grassroots and maternal health advocacy networks

SPolitical Philosophy: I believe that public service means putting people

first. Cincinnati deserves leaders who are accountable, transparent, and solutions-driven. My philosophy is rooted in collaboration: bringing diverse voices together, listening to our neighborhoods, and ensuring that every decision we make builds safety, opportunity, and prosperity for our residents. I am committed to progress that is both practical and compassionate-policies that work for today while building a stronger foundation for tomorrow.

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: My top three priorities are Safer Streets, through non-police crisis response, violence prevention, and stronger partnerships with first responders; Civic Development that requires real neighborhood input, fair growth, and enforceable community benefit agreements; and Youth Empowerment & Wellness, expanding education, housing, maternal health, and trauma recovery programs.

A2: Absolutely. Safety is about stability, not just policing. Families with safe housing, access to healthcare, reliable transportation, and steady jobs are less vulnerable to crime. Youth programs reduce violence by creating opportunity, mentorship, and belonging. Public safety must be holistic: prevention, intervention, and investment in people so every neighborhood can thrive.

A3: Cincinnati faces a housing affordability crisis. Too many families are being displaced by rising rents and unchecked development. I support repurposing underused properties into housing, stronger tenant protections, and requiring developers to sign enforceable community benefit agreements. Housing is a human right, and we must ensure growth includes affordability, dignity, and stability for all.

A4: I will always put neighborhoods and small businesses first when considering new development. Projects must include real community input and enforceable benefit agreements so growth uplifts residents, not displaces them. Exceptions to zoning should only be allowed when there is clear neighborhood support, affordable housing, and tangible benefits that strengthen the existing community.

Jan-Michele

Lemon Kearney

Occupation: Entrepreneur, Attorney, Realtor, Wife, Mom

Education: Cincinnati Public SchoolsRockdale and Walnut Hills; Dartmouth College &. Talladega College; Harvard Graduate School of Educ. & Harvard Law School

Endorsements: Ham. Co. Democratic Party, AFL-CIO, AFSCME, Cincinnati Women’s Political Caucus, Moms Demand Action, Realtor Alliance of Greater Cincinnati, Ohio Environmental Council, Sierra Club Campaign Website: KearneyforCincinnati. com

Experience: Appointed to City Council in 2020; Elected in 2021 & 2023 Twitter: @KearneyforCincy

Affiliations: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., The Cincinnati Chapter of The Links, Inc., Advocates for Youth Education Political Philosophy: All Cincinnatians deserve to live in safe, healthy, thriving neighborhoods, and have a voice in their government.

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: Economic Advancement: More jobs and mentorships for youth to provide a future filled with hope; jobs for underserved population (e.g. Building Futures program) to provide a path out of poverty; opportunities for minority and women contractors to grow (Equitable Dev. Policy to remove barriers), & support for small businesses

2. Stop gun violence by addressing the retaliatory, active shootings plaguing our neighborhoods.

3. Increase the affordable housing supplyboth rental and ownership.

A2: It is critical to attack the root causes of violence, including the factors mentioned. Gun violence is the number one cause of death for our young people, and much of it is retaliatory. Trauma is a major factor: Too many of our young people have experienced gun violence personally or through a friend or family member. Other factors contributing to violence are poverty, having no hope, and living in conditions where street life is the way to survive. We must give our youth hope and a path forward

A3: Rents have increased astronomically here and many residents have been pushed out of their homes and neighborhoods. While increasing the supply of market rate housing lowers costs for those at higher income levels, it does not help those in lower to moderate income levels. We need to help developers include affordable housing for low to moderate income families across the City along with market housing being developed. Let’s also support affordable homeownership (e.g., Habitat for Humanity).

A4: Community engagement is the key. I’m working hard to change the culture from developer vs. community to collaboration between developers and the community. It’s imperative that developers come to communities early in the process to understand the neighborhood plan and vision, share their development concept, and garner feedback and support. Everyone wants growth and development in their neighborhood, but we must not displace legacy residents, whether renters or home owners.

Liz Keating

Education: UCLA - Political Science, International Relations

Facebook: facebook.com/votelizkeating

Campaign Website: votelizkeating.com

Experience: Served on Cincinnati City Council 2020-2024

Twitter: votelizkeating

Political Philosophy: Listen to all sides, ask many questions, drive productive debate, and then work to find the best possible solution.

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: My top priorities are fiscal responsibility, public safety, and diversity of thought. Council must be good stewards of tax dollars, ensuring efficient and effective use of resources. We must prioritize safety by supporting law enforcement and proven prevention programs. Finally, Cincinnati needs independent voices to drive debate, hold government accountable, and deliver better outcomes for every neighborhood.

A2: Yes. Public safety is not only about strong policing - it’s also about opportunity and stability. Safe neighborhoods require access to good jobs, affordable housing, reliable transportation, and proven youth programs that give kids the opportunity to thrive. As we support law enforcement, we must also invest in areas that address root causes and prevent crime long term.

A3: Housing affordability is a challenge across Cincinnati. We must increase supply through smart, thoughtful development, preserve affordability in existing neighborhoods, and create a mix of housing options that serve families at all income levels. I believe we need to focus on missing middle housing - these kinds of projects make homeownership more attainable, create neighborhood stability, and balance the mix of rental and owner-occupied homes across the city.

A4: Growth must be balanced with respect for our neighborhoods and small businesses. Community voices should be central in development decisions - eroding public trust in development will only work against the long-term goal of more housing. Zoning exceptions can be granted when the neighborhood wants more enhancements with the investment - like affordable housing, infrastructure improvements, or more retail and parking amenities.

Dale Mallory

Occupation: Retired

Education:

Robert A. Taft High School Facebook: www.facebook.com/dale.

mallory.96

Campaign Website: WWW.

MalloryforCincinnati.COM

Experience: Former State Representative, Retired from GE Aircraft Engines, Community Youth Activist

Affiliations: Mallory-Buchy 4-H Initiative, NAACP, Central State University, Governor’s Faith-Based and Community Initiatives Taskforce, Ohio Athletic Commission.

Political Philosophy: Democratic

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: Agriculture Education, Lead Abatement and Jobs/Business--policies in our city should benefit the opportunity for residents to learn agriculture, work in agriculture and be agricultural entrepreneurs. Lead threatens the health of our families and prevents the planting of crops on vacant properties. We need lead abatement and connections for our people to agriculture and agriculture jobs. I am a big proponent of industrial hemp infused concrete for construction.

A2:Stable housing, good public transportation, jobs, healthcare and youth programs are what keeps people looking forward to positive outcomes for their life. When you don’t have those things, it impacts the negative path you may choose, therefore decreasing public safety. This is why I work with many people around the city to enhance and develop youth programming like the Cincinnati 4-H Initiative.

A3: With property taxes on the rise, and home values out of control, housing is becoming less affordable. We should be asking serious questions about what can be done. Residents. should be able to work one job and afford housing, but yet we see families where moms and dads are working two and three jobs just to make ends meet. This is an unacceptable situation. We should control property taxes and monitor rent costs to ensure fair and equitable housing is available for everyone in our city.

A4: Zoning plays a key role in ensuring our neighborhoods grow appropriately to impact quality of life. New growth in our older neighborhoods is a good thing because it can bring things like grocery stores and restaurants to food deserts, but it can also push long-time residents out of those neighborhoods due to rising property values. We should be very mindful when considering new neighborhood development, but we need to remember, progress is usually a good thing that can grow our city.

Linda Matthews

Occupation: Small Business Owner

Education: Xavier University (Ohio), B.L.A., and Cincinnati Hughes High School.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/votelindama tthews?mibextid=ZbWKwL

Endorsements: Cincinnati Fraternal Order of Police and Hamilton County Republican Party.

Campaign Website: www. votelindamatthews.com

Experience: I am Chief Executive Officer of the Millennium Group LLC, an education, and sustainability consulting firm in Cincinnati, Ohio. I currently serve as First Vice President of North Avondale Neighborhood Association and Trustee at Central State University.

Twitter: votematthews?t=SCP_ yyBuJlwGTwPEPQ3RsA&s=09

Affiliations: Ohio Republican State Central Committee, 9th Senate District.

Political Philosophy: Conservative

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: Public safety, repealing Connected Communities, and repairing Cincinnati’s crumbling infrastructure.

A2: Not on the whole. Everything starts with public safety. When citizens are safe and feel safe, things such as jobs, youth programs, and capital will follow.

A3:Housing, specifically rental property, is becoming more and more unaffordable. I support the responsible development of more housing in Cincinnati. Responsible development includes developers and community stakeholders coming together with the assistance of City Council and finding compromise on how those residential development deals get done.

A4: I will ensure true community engagement occurs between all stakeholders. It is appropriate to allow exceptions to zoning regulations when developers have community buy-in on projects that require variances from the zoning regulations.

Occupation: Forklift operator

Education: Lorain County JVS and Lorain County Community College 1999 culinary school graduate Facebook: facebook.com/ Brandonnixonforcouncil

Endorsements: Libertarian Party Campaign Website: www. brandonnixon4council.com

Experience: Board Member of Kennedy Heights Community Council, Founding Member of Ambassador Brotherhood, grassroots organizer for several local campaigns

Affiliations: 1119 SUIE union (Elyria, Ohio)

Political Philosophy: Brandon is deeply committed to community service and leadership, building and maintaining safer neighborhoods, expand opportunities for youth, and ensure every community has a voice at the table.

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: Giving youth an outlet to empower them. Not just “something to do” but giving life long skills, resources and connections to opportunities within the area.

Restoring safety to neighborhoods. Low income areas deserve the same protections as the more affluent areas do. Those communities are overlooked and often people are displaced. Every community has value and needs to be preserved and restored. More officers and more community based watch.

NOT aligning with the Connected Communities

A2: Yes. This isn’t something I can do on my own. This requires support from all the council members. There needs to be more active vocational training and apprenticeships starting before high school. Not all students are college bound. Giving them a voice and opportunities. Getting students involved in the young Cadet program to get them visible in the city and teaching public safety.

A3:There needs to be a limit on how many new developments can pop up. It has been known to displace people who are already struggling. There needs to be areas that are protected for lower to mid level income across the city. Federal funding to restore vacant buildings and homes. Utilize Habitat For Humanity and other non profit organizations to help.

A4: A: This is something I need to learn more about before I give an answer. I’m learning and want to research before giving an answer.

CINCINNATI CITY COUNCIL

QUESTIONS:

Q1: What are your 3 priorities for Cincinnati City Council?

Q2: Do you think factors such as housing, transportation, jobs, health care, youth programs are important to public safety?

Q3: What are your thoughts on housing and rental affordability in the city?

Q4: How will you balance support for existing neighborhoods and small businesses with new development projects? When is it appropriate to allow exceptions to zoning regulations?

Evan Nolan

Occupation:

Attorney with Katz Teller law firm, in Corporate and Real Estate practice groups, representing familyowned businesses; current City of Cincinnati Councilmember

Education: BA in Economics from University of Pennsylvania with minors in Math and English; JD from Georgetown Law

Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.

php?id=61574976056403

Endorsements: Hamilton County Democratic Party; Cincinnati AFL-CIO Labor Council; Ohio Environmental Council; American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Ohio Council 8; Sierra Club; and REALTOR Alliance of Greater Cincinnati Campaign Website: VoteNolan.com

Experience: I worked 3 years at IBM consulting with the US Air Force in the Pentagon and then USPS. After law school, I served as a legal fellow for Sen. Sherrod Brown. Upon moving back, I worked 3 years at a large firm before switching firms, when I also joined the Oakley Community Council (serving 8 years, all as Chair of the Economic Development & Zoning Committee and 5 as VP) and joined the board of our church. In 2022, I joined the City Law Department and advised the Planning Dept. and Planning Commission. In 2023, I returned to my current law firm part-time, so I could continue to support both City government and political candidates. In fall 2024, I was appointed Council. I also coach our daughters in volleyball and basketball.

Twitter: Vote_Nolan

Affiliations: Hamilton County Democratic Party

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: 1. Ensuring safety and inclusionCincinnati must be safe and welcoming for everyone. We must invest in and stay on top of trends in public safety and pedestrian safety, and root every decision in equity.

2. Investing in neighborhoods - We must

strengthen local infrastructure, support equitable growth, and build safe, vibrant communities.

3. Fostering economic opportunity - We must ensure every Cincinnatian has access to affordable housing, quality childcare, and pathways to upward mobility.

A2: Yes, absolutely, addressing the issues of housing, transportation, jobs, healthcare, and youth programming is fundamental to addressing the root causes of public safety issues. While law enforcement is necessary, our community thrives and is safest when people have stable homes, decent jobs, accessible care, reliable transit, and opportunities for young people to grow. City government should constantly evaluate the status of these factors and make investments where necessary.

A3:Our City population grew over the last full decade for the first time in 70 years, yet we lost 2300 housing units during that same decade. We do not have the housing units for the people we have today, let alone for the growth we would like to see. As a result, home prices and rents have been skyrocketing, increasing faster than any of our peer cities. Our City must invest in and promote the development of housing at every single opportunity and all across the City.

A4: On Council, I formed a Subcommittee to convene neighborhood-level discussions and create proactive engagement with all stakeholders on development opportunities in a particular area, including neighbors, so developers gain a sense of preferences and priorities before going too far into the design phase of any potential project. Exceptions to zoning are appropriate when there is clear neighborhood support, or if neighbors are undecided, when Council finds that the upside outweighs the downside.

Education: Miami University B.S. Communications & Marketing

Xavier University M.Ed Human Resource Development

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ MeekaOwens

Endorsements: AFSCME/Realtors/OEC/Sierra Club/Moms Demand Gun Sense Candidate Certification/CWPC/IBEW Campaign Website: VoteMeeka.com

Experience: Has served on City Council for 2 terms

Twitter: MeekaOwens1

Political Philosophy: Changing systems is the only way we move our community forward, programs are good, but polices and legislation are binding. I wake up every day with the intention of helping to improve people’s lives. That’s my philosophy to creating lasting change

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: The city is demanding, so it’s hard to limit priorities to only three. My hope is that policies I spend most time on, are elevating families and improving the day to day living of our residents.

1. Housing affordability and stabilityincluding building on the success of our Tenant Bill of Rights

2. Green Cincinnati Plan/Workforce Development

3. Aspirational Youth Agenda- including the creation of 3rd spaces and violence prevention.

A2: Absolutely.

Quality of life for the residents shouldn’t be determined solely by your zip code. Neighborhoods should have amenities to support this. Strong public transit is critical to connecting people to living wage jobs, healthcare, education, childcare and more. Issue 7 was significant to our region. We must continue to invest in the Affordable Housing Leveraged Fund and build more units across the city. Additionally, workforce and youth programs support thriving neighborhoods.

A3: We must build more housing and do it quicker than we ever have. We must continue to incentivize the creation of affordable units via the Affordable Housing Leveraged Fund in partnership with Cincinnati Development Fund. Let’s also focus on workforce housing to support our teachers, nurses and first responders who are essential to communities. Finally, let’s focus on increasing wages. As rising rents have outpaced wages, attracting high quality living wage jobs is priority.

A4: Cincinnati deserves to have neighborhoods that have housing and amenities that boost the local economy.

Projects that maximize land use, provide housing, support retail and maximize benefits to the community are reasons to look at exceptions to zoning. We have the opportunity to co-create our neighborhoods based on our values. The way we bring all voices to the table should be thoughtful, clear, intentional and consistent across every neighborhood in Cincinnati. We have to define this now.

Endorsements: None

Education: BA

Facebook: www.facebook. com/donald. washington.50/

Campaign Website: votedonaldwashington2025.com

Experience: US Air Force Vet. Former Case worker.

Political Philosophy: Politicians are public servants. It’s time that they act like it.

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: My top three priorities are reducing gun violence, increasing investment in our youth, and expanding access to mental health programs. Public safety starts with prevention, and that means addressing root causes. By creating opportunities for young people and ensuring mental health support is available, we can build safer neighborhoods and a stronger, more united Cincinnati.

A2:Housing, transportation, jobs, health care, and youth programs all play a critical role in public safety. When families have stable housing, access to good jobs, quality care, and opportunities for our youth, our neighborhoods become stronger and safer. If elected, I plan to tackle these issues headon, working to address root causes while building a safer, more equitable Cincinnati for everyone.

A3:Housing and rental costs in Cincinnati have risen too high. As a former realtor, I’ve seen firsthand how the market’s growth benefits investors and high earners while leaving many low- and middle-income families behind. We must address this issue urgently by promoting affordable housing options and ensuring Cincinnati remains a place where everyone has the opportunity to live and thrive.

A4: We must balance new development with supporting existing neighborhoods and small businesses. Growth should benefit everyone, not just investors. As a former realtor, I understand the importance of responsible planning. Exceptions to zoning should only be allowed when they create clear community benefits, like affordable housing, job opportunities, or improved infrastructure that strengthens our neighborhoods.

Raffel Prophett

Occupation: Community Activist

Education: Cincinnati Public School (Hughes High), Undergraduate degrees from the University of Cincinnati and Excelsior College and Master’s Degree in Urban Sustainability and Resilience from Xavier University. Facebook: www.facebook.com/raffel. prophett Campaign Website: www.prophettforcincy. com

Experience: Served over 32 years in the Cincinnati Fire Department, ultimately achieving the rank of District Chief. Served 32 years in the Ohio National Guard and U.S. Army Reserves, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. An oversees deployment in 2011. Co-Founder, Public Medical. Husband and girl dad to three intelligent and beautiful daughters.

Affiliations: The Martin Luther King Jr. Coalition of Cincinnati, The NAACP of Greater Cincinnati, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Political Philosophy: I am an Independent Democrat who believes people come before party and integrity must outweigh politics. My mission is to advance equity in housing, safety, health, and opportunity by listening, truth-seeking, and leading with courage. I will champion evidence-based, community-shaped policies, especially for the underserved, and work to build a Cincinnati where every child and family can thrive-today and for generations to come.

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: My top priorities are keeping every Cincinnati neighborhood safe, building an economy that works for everyone, and ensuring quality affordable housing. I will strengthen support for first responders and community safety programs, push for economic strategies that expand opportunity through strong partnerships, and commit to funding the Affordable Housing Trust so every resident has a stable place to call home.

A2: Yes. Public safety depends on strong foundations-affordable, quality housing, reliable transportation, good-paying jobs, and access to physical and mental health care. Investing in youth is critical, which is why I was one of the designers of the Public Safety Academy that was approved by voters seven years ago, yet not acted upon by City Hall.

A3: Current policies define affordability using the area median income-over $100k in Cincinnati-which ignores the reality for many working families, especially in Black communities. I support using neighborhoodlevel data, fully funding the Affordable Housing Trust, and creating policies tied to real household incomes so housing is truly affordable.

A4: I will help create policies that protect legacy residents and local businesses from displacement while encouraging responsible growth. New developments must enhance the character and needs of the community. Zoning exceptions must be transparent, equitable, and benefit the community. Zoning exceptions are appropriate when they, create affordable housing, support minority and locally owned businesses, improve sustainability, or access to transit, and are backed by meaningful community engagement.

Stephan Pryor

Biographical info: No response NOT PICTURED

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES: No response

Gwen Summers

Biographical info: No response NOT PICTURED

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES: No response

Christopher E.C. Smitherman

Occupation:

Financial Advisor

Education: MA in Counselling from BGSU Ohio, BA in Criminal Justice from The Ohio State University Endorsements: FOP, Realtor Alliance of Greater Cincinnati

Experience: Former Cincinnati Vice Mayor and Former Member of Cincinnati City Council

Twitter: @votesmitherman

Affiliations: Appointee to Casino Commission for the State of Ohio

Political Philosophy: Compromise is not a bad thing

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: Prioritize essential services -Support Police and Firefighters.

Work to keep violent suspects in jail until trial.

Listen to residents on development issues.

A2: I support a robust equitable Metro Bus System with a focus on reducing the need for transfers and executing a larger vision of heavy rail from the stadiums to Dayton, Ohio. I support safety net services for youth that raise their financial literacy and promote vocational education, military service,

and college access, as appropriate. Mentor programs for education and job training are essential. I support continued efforts to provide the citizens with safe neighborhoods and affordable housing,

A3: I do not favor rent control. Holding landlords accountable for clean and safe housing is within the jurisdiction of the city.

The city should make efforts to encourage local rather than out of state property ownership. The Cincinnati Law Department and Public Safety Committee should combine efforts to enforce landlord responsibilities and uphold tenant’s rights.

A4: I served on the Planning Commission for many years. The key to development projects for our 52 neighborhoods is careful communication about all projects. The city must be careful about allowing variances outside of our zoning code. The variance should be an exception to the rule, not the norm.

Our small business owners need support in lowering fees to do business in the city. There needs to be clarity up front regarding permitting and inspections. When our small businesses are in violation it

IF I’M AT THE RIGHT POLLING PLACE AND PRECINCT TABLE, BUT NOT ON THE REGISTER, I’LL VOTE A PROVISIONAL BALLOT!

A provisional ballot is used to record a vote if a voter’s eligibility is in question and the voter would otherwise not be permitted to vote at the voter’s polling precinct. The content of a provisional ballot is no different from a regular ballot, but it is cast “provisionally” until election officials can verify the voter’s eligibility to vote in that particular precinct at that election.

If you cast your provisional ballot and provided acceptable proof of identity, you typically do not need to provide any additional information to the Board of Elections.

Proof of identity: If you cast a provisional ballot and did not provide acceptable proof of identity at the time of voting, you must appear in person at the Board of Elections to provide such proof within the four days immediately following Election Day, in accordance with Ohio law. See What are acceptable forms of ID for voting?

Proof of name change: If you cast a provisional ballot because, at the time you voted, you changed your name but did not provide proof of a legal name change to a precinct election official, you must provide that proof in the form of a marriage license or a court order that indicates your current and prior names within four days immediately following the election.

Voter eligibility challenged: If you cast a provisional ballot because your right to vote was challenged at the polling place under Ohio Revised Code R.C. 3505.20, and the election officials either determined that you were ineligible to vote or were unable to determine your eligibility, you must provide any identification or other documentation required to resolve the challenge. Details concerning the process and required information can be found at http://codes.ohio.gov/ orc/3505.20. ABOVE

CINCINNATI CITY COUNCIL

QUESTIONS:

Q1: What are your 3 priorities for Cincinnati City Council?

Q2: Do you think factors such as housing, transportation, jobs, health care, youth programs are important to public safety?

Q3: What are your thoughts on housing and rental affordability in the city?

Q4: How will you balance support for existing neighborhoods and small businesses with new development projects? When is it appropriate to allow exceptions to zoning regulations?

Seth Walsh

Occupation: Nonprofit Community Developer

Education: Xavier University

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ sethwalshforcincinnati

Endorsements: AFL-CIO, Ohio Environmental Council, Ohio Nurses Association, Fraternal Order of Police, Cincinnati Sierra Club, Hamilton County Democratic Party, Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate, AFSCME, Cincinnati Realtors, Ironworkers Local 44, IBEW, Laborers Local 265, Road Sprinkler Fitters LU 669, Hamilton County Young Dems Campaign Website: www. sethwalshforcincinnati.com

Experience: Chief Executive OfficerCollege Hill Revitalization Corporation, Executive Director - Sedamsville Community Development Corporation

Twitter: SethTWalsh Affiliations: Democrat

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: Keep Cincinnati Growing Vibrant and Safe.

Growing - working to build more housing, development and jobs in the city.

Vibrant - bringing major events to the city, investing in the events we already have here, bringing new and exciting economic development to the City, investing in activating our downtown and urban core.

Safe - investing in and supporting public safety, ensuring the City meets the needs of our citizens when it comes to basic services (snow removal trash collection & potholes).

A2:Absolutely, part of keeping Cincinnati safe is ensuring everyone can live a life with dignity in our city. Part of this is ensuring that housing, transportation, and health care are affordable, high quality, and safe. Then we need to be building for the future whether

that be attracting employers to bring quality jobs to the city or investing in our youth by ensuring they are educated and cared for.

A3:As the only member of Council to have actually built affordable housing, ensuring that everyone can make Cincinnati home is a priority. This means expanding the housing stock to have more affordable housing in every community and preserve the affordable housing we already have. I’ve created new City funding streams intended to help catalyze more housing development in the City. Removing zoning barriers that are preventing affordable and dense housing is a step in the right direction.

A4: This has been my entire career. In College Hill, we found the balance between supporting the community with achieving their vision of a growing business district. We did it through purchasing the buildings with existing naturally occurring affordable housing and using the cashflow to pursue further development in the community. Ensuring that each of our neighborhoods has an ally in city hall is why I ran for office. I believe that we need to continue growing to keep our city attractive.

IS THIS YOU?

Aaron

Weiner

Occupation: Residential Real Estate Education: Bachelor of Arts in Organizational and Behavioral Communication, The Ohio State University. Facebook: www.facebook.com/ aaronweinerforcincinnaticitycouncil

Endorsements: The Charter Committee of Greater Cincinnati, Fraternal Order of Police Queen City Lodge Number 69, Realtor Alliance of Greater Cincinnati, RPAC. Campaign Website: www. weinerforcincinnati.com

Experience: I have 25 years of Residential Real Estate Experience specializing in primarily City of Cincinnati neighborhoods. This gives me a vast knowledge on housing needs, development, Real Estate investing and in-depth understanding of Cincinnati neighborhoods. My volunteer work on College Hill Urban Redevelopment Corporation (CHCURC) gives me experience in community economic and housing growth as well as navigating various sources of funding. I have been involved with many community service and engagement organizations and non-profits and serve and have served on multiple Boards. I bring both business acumen and non-profit experience to public service.

Affiliations: National Association or Realtors, Realtor Alliance of Greater Cincinnati, Ohio Association or Realtors, RPAC, College Hill Urban Redevelopment Corporation Advisory Board, Mayerson Jewish Community Center Executive Board, Jewish Federation of Cincinnati Board, Clifton Meadows Swim and Tennis Club Board, Human Rights Campaign. Political Philosophy: Moderate Democrat

CANDIDATE’S QUESTION RESPONSES:

A1: Housing: My 25 years in Real Estate will empower me to address housing and development issues. A primary focus is to implement ways to preserve naturally occurring affordable housing and smart

• I like to know what’s happening in my community, in my state and country.

• I want all elections to be conducted fairly.

• I want voters to have unbiased information about candidates and issues.

• I am interested in discussions of public policy.

• I like to have new ways to network with people.

development that respects neighborhood character. Public Safety: I am working on a program to encourage Police to move into City Limits. This is a recruiting tool that brings leadership to the City and builds trust. Quality of Life: Timely trash and snow removal, street maintenance, noise reduction etc.

A2: Crime does not happen in a vacuum. Situational circumstances are contributory factors to rising crime statistics. Lack of refuge or places to thrive have an immediate impact on our youth. Economic pressures, lack of adequate housing, access to healthcare, food insecurity creates untenable pressure on individuals. Meaningful investment in programs that address these issues can have a positive impact. Youth initiatives, after school and Summer programs, add positive direction for young people.

A3:The exponential growth and appeal of Cincinnati has caused us to compete with larger Mid-Western cities. As a contributory result, our housing prices have gone up in both rentals and home purchases. Lack of inventory is another main factor. People are living longer and staying put in their homes. I plan on establishing programs to preserve our naturally occurring affordable housing through tax and repair incentives and create more home options for middle age + so they move and open up the market

A4: I believe growth should enhance not erase neighborhoods. Development should grow neighborhood businesses and not displace them or residents. I would look at any development project through this lens. I do not see a problem looking at variances to zoning on a case by case basis. I would expect that the project would fit the architecture of the neighborhood and addresses specific housing and or business needs. In addition, I would want to facilitate win-win between the neighborhood and developer.

If this sounds like you, then we welcome you to check out the League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area. We’re a grassroots organization that includes women and men who value good government and fair elections. Join us! Contact us and let’s talk about your interests! 513-281-VOTE (8683) info@lwvcincinnati.org www.lwvcincinnati.org www.facebook.com/lwvcincinnati Instagram:LWVCincinnati

CINCINNATI CITY SCHOOL DISTRICTBOARD OF EDUCATION MEMBER

RESPONSIBILITIES: The board is a policy-making body, but exercises only those powers delegated to it by state law. It chooses its own officers.

TERM: 4 years.

SALARY: $125 per meeting

QUESTIONS:

Q1: Why do you want to serve on the School Board?

(500 character limit)

Q2: How can the School Board ensure equitable access to quality education?

(500 character limit)

Q3: What programs do you support to further a partnership among parents, teachers, students, and administrators?

(500 character limit)

Q4: What are public education’s major challenges and how should they be addressed?

(500 character limit)

Kari T Armbruster

Education: BA Xavier University Endorsements: Democratic Party of Hamilton County, Matriots

Campaign Website: www. armbrusterforschoolboard.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.

php?id=61579093530841

Occupation: Self Employed

A1: I’m running for school board because I believe I have the ability to make our schools better. I am a CPS parent with a background in engagement, coalition building and systems change. Our schools need a clear vision for a positive, exciting future. I want to build that with our leaders and move forward with energy and focus to improve student outcomes and school culture.

A2: We must make sure our neighborhood schools have all the resources needed to provide quality education. Our community learning center model is unique to CPS and helps ensure students have everything they need outside of school to be able to succeed inside of school as well. We need to ensure our students are able to get to our buildings safely and are excited to learn. They should be invested in their future.

A3: My children attend a montessori program so I am a firm believer in the power of parent, teacher and student collaboration. Along with school administration, I think community partners should also be involved in school success. We need all members of our community to want our schools to succeed. This requires shared goals and clear metrics that show progress toward better student outcomes where everyone has a defined role. Mentor programs, career tech and tutoring are some examples.

Brandon Craig

Education: JD (2009) from the University of Cincinnati College of Law and BA in Economics (2006) from the University of Cincinnati

Political Philosophy: Compassionate and responsible liberal Endorsements: Hamilton County Democratic Party Campaign Website: www.craig4board.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/craig4office/ Occupation: Assistant Director in the Office of Equal Opportunity at the University of Cincinnati

Experience: Serving currently in first term as a School Board member. Served as a past Vice President on the Board and was the prior Chair of the Budget, Finance, & Growth Committee. Additionally, I lave worked in Civil Rights

A1: As a current board member, I have been able to work hard to build processes and help strengthen the opportunities we provide for students. There is still more that needs to be done. If re-elected, I will fight to grow opportunities for career technical education to better prepare our students for their future. Additionally, the fight for fully funding public education continues to be a major concern that I am passionate about. If reelected, I will continue to push our budget efforts.

to money from our most vulnerable students. If we are going move forward in education, we need to fully fund public education. Limiting the means by which a school district can be funded is just another method of defunding education.

Jim Crosset

Endorsements: Hamilton County Democratic Party, Cincinnati AFL CIO, AFSCME Local 8 Campaign Website: www.

crossetforcincinnati.com/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ crossetforcincinnati

Occupation: Member of the Cincinnati Public School Board

A1: After serving on the volunteer audit committee for the District, I was appointed to the Board in 2024, and have decided to run for re-election to continue to serve the students and teachers of the district. I am passionate about creating a highquality educational environment for every student at CPS, and my experience as a business executive and accountant can help strengthen the district’s financial future, making that possible.

EXTENDED INFORMATION

AVAILABLE ONLINE

The League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area has extended election information available on www.vote411.org

From VOTE411, you can get your own personal ballot, polling place location, general guidance on how to choose a candidate, links to news articles and additional candidate information including biographies, endorsements and more Q & A’s. Visit VOTE411 today!

A4: It is clear our funding model is under attack. Public education must do a better job of creating new ways of securing resources for students. I think the other big issue is utilizing a curriculum that is engaging for students. We need to find a way to incorporate lessons that are relevant to student lives today. State testing has limited our teachers ability to connect with students. We need to pull back and find a way to balance these two important educational needs.

Check Vote411.org for information candidates may have added after print deadline.

A2: In CPS, we have an anti-racism policy and have implemented several changes over the years to ensure that all students feel welcomed at our schools. But we are continuing to work to build greater equity in our delivery of programming to ensure students have access to programming that pushes them to achieve their life goals. As we continue to expand the growth plan efforts, I believe we have to ensure that we are expanding opportunities for academic programming also.

A3: Since joining the board I have worked with several community partners to broaden the district’s ability to provide career technical education and potential employment possibilities after high school. These opportunities could be shared with parents and families by maximizing the work we do with our community learning center model. Additionally, the District has expanded our communication and outreach efforts so that parents and community members better understand district operations.

A4: The biggest threat to public education currently is the effort to defund public education coming from the state and federal legislature. Despite the recent line item vetoes from the Governor, we continue you see some in the legislature attempting

A2: When I was on the policy committee, we worked to revamp the performance review process for the Superintendent with a high level of accountability included for student outcomes, with an eye towards ensuring equitable access to education across all campuses. Beyond this, the board can and should advocate for the district to get more resources, IE, getting volunteer mentoring and tutoring for our students, or partnerships with nonprofits like the Cincinnati Youth Collaborative.

A3: I am the liaison to the Business Advisory Council. We work to find internships, jobs and exposure to career pathways. Last year the BAC provided over 300 internships. I have visited over half the 63 schools in my first year on the Board. Every visit provides me with knowledge that I take back to the Administration for identifying gaps and suggesting improvements. Also, I started the Innovation Council to help the district funnel and vet new ideas for affordability and feasibility.

A4: For public education, one of the biggest issues being faced is budgetary challenges due to the Ohio legislature’s cuts to public school funding & instead sending dollars to vouchers & private charter schools. CPS has not been fairly funded for over 30 years. We need to support students with a variety of resources, including tutors, reading specialists, social workers & school psychologists. I will advocate for increased resources for the district, seek efficiencies, and explore innovations.

Marcia A. Futel

Education: B.S. Computer Science - University of Illinois (UrbanaChampaign); Masters Certificate in Project Management- George Washington University; Professional Licensure: Life Insurance, Annuities, Series 6, 63, 65, and 26

Political Philosophy: I believe in representative government that supports the will of the people it serves and promotes a healthy middle class so citizens can enjoy their chosen careers and lifestyles.

Endorsements: None at this time Campaign Website: CitizensForMarciaFutel.org Facebook: www.facebook. com/CitizensForMarciaFutelCPSBoardofEducationMember

Affiliations: Currently, I serve on the Gamble Montessori Elementary Local School Decision Making Committee, Cincinnati Preschool Promise Board of Managers, the Cincinnati NAACP Education Committee, the League of Women Voters, and as an elected Hamilton County Democratic Party Precinct Executive and Ward Chair. I am a former parent leadership trainer and board member for Parents for Public Schools and alum of School Board School. I am also a proud Life member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority and charter member of the Cincinnati Alumnae Chapter.

Occupation: Financial Services

Professional: Licensed Insurance representative; Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative.

Experience: My 23-year career in Information Technology, Business and Project Management, 20 years in faithbased and education non-profits, 20 years in Financial services and over 30 years of contributions to the CPS district as an engaged parent and community leader have made me uniquely qualified to serve as a school board member. I have worked to develop policy, participated in strategic and budget committees, trained parents, served on Local School Decision Making Committees (LSDMCs) and actively supported every school levy including the initiative to provide access to high quality preschool to boost academic outcomes. My 3 children are CPS graduates from 3 different high schools with college degrees and successful careers.

A1: Our school system is responsible for preparing our students for their chosen careers that are rewarding and lucrative. Regardless of their choices, our students must graduate being able to read, communicate, and be equipped to make life decisions. This is not happening for all CPS students. I am running because we

must eliminate all barriers to success and be accountable for better academic outcomes, support for family and community engagement, and a rewarding work environment for our educators.

A2: I am concerned about the acceptance of mediocrity for the academic achievement for students of color and those economically disadvantaged with little expectation that they can do better.

I will promote high expectations for our students and for investing in improving their academic outcomes. The first step is to embrace academic data and understand what it is telling us about the inequities and barriers to success. Then we should bring our best resources to bear to eliminate them.

A3: I support the LSDMC governance at the school building level as an effective partnership among parents, teachers, students, administrators, and COMMUNITY. It is most effective when there is an active, inclusive parent organization at the school. A high functioning LSDMC will effectively raise academic achievement and foster an effective learning environment for students and educators.

A4: The major challenge in public education is the systemic reduction of financial resources from the federal and state levels that are desperately needed to improve academic outcomes. To address this, the Board and district administration must focus budgetary priorities on academics, safety, and transportation. The budget process should promote continuous communication with parents and community stakeholders to get their input and support.

Engineering Technology

Twitter: iamdrkareema

Kareem Moffett

Education: PhD in Education, MA in Education Foundations, BS in Natural Sciences, AAS in Chemical

Political Philosophy: My philosophy is rooted in equity, accountability, fiscal responsibility & community partnerships””because kids succeed when we ALL show up for them.

Endorsements: Democratic Party, AFL-CIO, AFSCME, Women’s Political Caucus

Campaign Website: www. drkareem4education.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/drk4edu

Affiliations: I am deeply connected across education, community, and civic spaces. I am the current President of the CPS Bd of Edu and I am a Trustee with the Ohio School Boards Association, where I collaborate with leaders from more than 30 districts across SW Ohio and the state to advocate for CPS students. I am a proud graduate of School Board School (class #1-the best 1), School Board Partners, a Leader in Educational Equity (LEE) fellow. I am a proud Lighthouse Board member

Occupation: Realtor

Experience: Current President of the CPS Board of Education

A1: I’m running for re-election to the Cincinnati School Board because every child deserves a safe, supportive, highquality education and I want to continue to fight for our students, support our staff and connect the community to education. As Board President, mother of three Withrow graduates, and grandmother of three CPS

DEFINITIONS OF BALLOT TERMS

TAX LEVY: Taxes that are assessed to homeowners and businesses based on their property values. These monies are used to fund government functions, as well as special programs or activities determined to be of significant benefit to the citizens. Tax levies may be placed on the ballot for public vote by a government entity (County Commissioners, City Council, Township Trustees) or taxing authority (School Board, Vocational District, Park Board, Library Board).

RENEWAL LEVY: A Renewal Levy is the CONTINUANCE OF AN EXISTING LEVY with the collection rate at the same dollar amount as when the levy was originally approved.

REPLACEMENT LEVY: A replacement levy is a NEW LEVY FOR THE SAME PURPOSE AS THE EXISTING LEVY but with a different collection rate than the levy it replaces. The collection rate uses the assessed value of the property at the time of the replacement.

COE: Current Operating Expenses

CPT: Continued Period of Time

MILL: The property tax is measured in mills; a mill is one tenth of a cent. This translates to $1 for each $1,000 taxable value of the property.

MARKET VALUE: The market value of property is determined by the County Auditor. The valuation considers regional and neighborhood economic conditions, building improvements and land value. By state law, there is a full reassessment to each parcel every six years, followed

students, I bring experience and heart to this work. I will continue to fight for equity, innovation, and accountability so every student, every day, is supported and educated.

A2: The School Board ensures equitable access by investing in equitably funded schools, addressing opportunity gaps, and prioritizing student needs over politics. This means expanding career, work and college pathways, strengthening mental health supports, enforcing accountability in resource allocation, and engaging families and communities. Equity requires innovation, collaboration, and the courage to ensure every student, in every neighborhood, receives the high-quality education they deserve.

A3: I support all programs that expand awareness, communication, and engagement for parents, families, staff, and the community with our district. Partnerships grow when all voices are invited in. If an effective program doesn’t exist, I support creating new opportunities tailored to meet the unique needs of our students and families so that collaboration between parents, teachers, students, and administrators is consistent, meaningful, and impactful.

A4: Public education’s biggest challenges are underfunding, inequitable resources, and external policies that threaten its future. To address these, we must fully fund schools, expand mental health and academic supports, strengthen career and college pathways, and ensure that equity guides every decision. Collaboration among families, educators, and communities is essential so every student has the tools, opportunities, and safe environment they need to thrive.

by a computerized update three years later. The last full reappraisal in Hamilton County was in2017.

ASSESSED VALUE: Assessed Value is 35% of the Market Value of a property. In Ohio, property taxes are determined by the Assessed Value.

TAX RATE (mills): The Full Tax Rate is the total millage for the year, most of which is approved by voters in the taxing district. The Effective Tax Rate is the annual total millage reduced by state mandated reductions such as the rollback and the homestead exemption. This is stated in mills, not dollars.

SPECIAL DISTRICT: A joint fire and/or ambulance district that provides shared services in a legally designated area. A uniform tax rate is levied against all jurisdictions specified in the district.

BALLOT ISSUES

SCHOOL DISTRICT ISSUES

1 LOCAL LIQUOR OPTION FOR PARTICULAR USE AT BUSINESS LOCATION (BY PETITION)

CINCINNATI 6-B

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall the sale of wine and mixed beverages be permitted for sale on Sunday by Sampeter Holdings, L.L.C., dba Street Corner Market at the Banks an applicant for a D-6 liquor permit who is engaged in the business of operating a carryout/ grocery store at 160 Marian Spencer Way, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 in this precinct?

YES | NO

2 PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT

CITY OF CINCINNATI

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall the Charter of the City of Cincinnati be amended to provide that graduates of a public safety internship program established by the City of Cincinnati be provided an incentive to serve the City in the fire and police departments through an award of five (5) points in examination credit on departmental entry level examinations, by amending Section 3 of Article V, “Civil Service,” of the Charter of Cincinnati?

YES | NO

3 PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT

CITY OF CINCINNATI

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall the Charter of the City of Cincinnati be amended to (1) align the City’s campaign finance reporting deadlines with those required by the State of Ohio, (2) adjust reporting periods to correspond with the timing of local elections, and (3) provide additional time to fill vacancies on the Cincinnati Elections Commission, by amending Sections 1, 2, and 4 of Article XIII, “Campaign Finance,” of the Charter of the City of Cincinnati?

YES | NO

4 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL)

CITY OF DEER PARK

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of City of Deer Park for the purpose of general construction, reconstruction, resurfacing, and repair of streets, roads, and bridges, that the county auditor estimates will collect $222,382 annually, at a rate not exceeding 2 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $44 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2026, first due in calendar year 2027.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

5 PROPOSED CHARTER REVISIONS

CITY OF MILFORD

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage

Shall the proposed charter revisions, as reported by the City of Milford council members be adopted?

YES | NO

6 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL)

CITY OF NORTH COLLEGE HILL

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of City of North College Hill for the purpose of providing fire and emergency medical services, that the county auditor estimates will collect $1,563,199 annually, at a rate not exceeding 12 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $265 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2026, first due in calendar year 2027.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

7 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL)

CITY OF NORTH COLLEGE HILL

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of City of North College Hill for the purpose of general construction, reconstruction, resurfacing, and repair of streets, roads, and bridges, that the county auditor estimates will collect $489,795 annually, at a rate not exceeding 4.8 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $65 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2026, first due in calendar year 2027.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

LOCAL ISSUES

8 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL)

VILLAGE OF ADDYSTON

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of Village of Addyston for the purpose of providing and maintaining public safety, including police, fire and emergency medical services, that the county auditor estimates will collect $102,586 annually, at a rate not exceeding 5 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $175 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

9 PROPOSED TAX LEVY

(RENEWAL)

VILLAGE OF ARLINGTON HEIGHTS

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Village of Arlington Heights for the purpose of current operating expenses, that the county auditor estimates will collect $111,964 annually, at a rate not exceeding 9 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $234 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

10 PROPOSED TAX LEVY

(ADDITIONAL)

VILLAGE OF CLEVES

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of Village of Cleves for the purpose of public safety services, including police protection, emergency response, equipment, personnel, and other operational needs, that the county auditor estimates will collect $375,027 annually, at a rate not exceeding 4.5 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $158 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

11 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL)

Village of Elmwood Place

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Village of Elmwood Place for the purpose of current expenses, that the county auditor estimates will collect $221,851 annually, at a rate not exceeding 10 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $157 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

12 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL)

VILLAGE OF GLENDALE

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of Village of Glendale for the purpose of roads and bridges, that the county auditor estimates will collect $614,744 annually, at a rate not exceeding 4.5 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $158 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 10 years, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

13 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) VILLAGE OF GREENHILLS

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Village of Greenhills for recreational purposes, that the county auditor estimates will collect $37,811 annually, at a rate not exceeding 0.7 mill for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $12 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

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Enter your full address below to get started. https://www.commoncause.org/find-your-representative/

14 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL)

VILLAGE OF LINCOLN HEIGHTS

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Village of Lincoln Heights for the purpose of current expenses, that the county auditor estimates will collect $351,073 annually, at a rate not exceeding 16 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $212 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026. FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

15 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL)

VILLAGE OF LINCOLN HEIGHTS

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage

An additional tax for the benefit of Village of Lincoln Heights for the purpose of current expenses, that the county auditor estimates will collect $74,969 annually, at a rate not exceeding 2 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $70 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026. FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

16 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL)

VILLAGE OF LINCOLN HEIGHTS

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of Village of Lincoln Heights for the purpose of providing police services, that the county auditor estimates will collect $149,939 annually, at a rate not exceeding 4 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $140 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

17 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL)

VILLAGE OF MARIEMONT

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Village of Mariemont for the purpose of permanent improvements, that the county auditor estimates will collect $113,587 annually, at a rate not exceeding 3 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $12 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2026, first due in calendar year 2027. FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

18 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL)

VILLAGE OF NORTH BEND

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Village of North Bend for the purpose of providing public safety services, that the county auditor estimates will collect $309,050 annually, at a rate not exceeding 2 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $57 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026. FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

19 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL)

VILLAGE OF ST. BERNARD

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Village of St. Bernard for the purpose of current expenses, that the county auditor estimates will collect $599,038 annually, at a rate not exceeding 7 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $99 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026. FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

22 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (REPLACEMENT AND INCREASE)

VILLAGE OF TERRACE PARK

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A replacement of 2.8 mills of an existing levy and an increase of 2.95 mills to constitute a tax for the benefit of Village of Terrace Park for the purpose of current expenses, that the county auditor estimates will collect $1,005,218 annually, at a rate not exceeding 5.75 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $201 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

23 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL)

TOWNSHIP OF COLERAIN

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of Township of Colerain for the purpose of providing police protection services, that the county auditor estimates will collect $5,294,878 annually, at a rate not exceeding 2.9 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $102 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

HAMILTON COUNTY TAX LEVY REVIEW COMMITTEE

The Hamilton County Board of Commissioners proposes tax levies to support certain public services. The proposed levies go before the electorate for approval. If approved, the levies appear on the tax bill for Hamilton County property owners.

The Commissioners appoint a citizen Tax Levy Review Committee (TLRC) to study levy requests and to advise the Commissioners whether a levy should appear on the ballot, the appropriate size and duration for each levy; and terms and conditions that should be inserted into contracts.

Prior to the placement of each levy on the ballot, the TLRC engages a consultant to review finances and programs funded by the levy and holds public hearings. At the completion of its review, the TLRC sends a written report of findings and recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners. The Commissioners make the final decision regarding the levy that is placed before the voters. If a levy is approved by voters, the TLRC is responsible for conducting a mid-term performance review to see that budget targets and contractual obligations are being met.

For more information about TLRC, including membership, levy procedures and reviews, see www.hamiltoncountyohio.gov/government/open_ hamilton_county/projects/tax_levy_review_committee

24 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL)

TOWNSHIP OF HARRISON (UNINCORPORATED)

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of Township of Harrison (Unincorporated) for the purpose of providing police protection services, that the county auditor estimates will collect $174,828 annually, at a rate not exceeding 1 mill for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $35 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

25 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL)

TOWNSHIP OF SYMMES

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Township of Symmes for the purpose of providing and maintaining firefighting, police and emergency medical services, that the county auditor estimates will collect $2,723,803 annually, at a rate not exceeding 4.1 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $94 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

26 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL AND INCREASE)

TOWNSHIP OF SYMMES

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of 0.4 mill and an increase of 0.35 mill for each $1 of taxable value to constitute a tax for the benefit of Township of Symmes for the purpose of general maintenance of streets, roads, and bridges and for the general maintenance of sidewalks, walkways, trails, bicycle pathways or similar improvements, that the county auditor estimates will collect $600,888 annually, at a rate not exceeding 0.75 mill for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $22 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 7 years, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

SCHOOL DISTRICT AND COUNTY ISSUES

SCHOOL DISTRICT ISSUES

28 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL)

CINCINNATI CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall a levy renewing an existing levy be imposed by the Cincinnati City School District for the purpose of providing for the emergency requirements of the school district in the sum of $48,000,000 and a levy of taxes to be made outside of the ten-mill limitation estimated by the county auditor to average 5.05 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $177 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for a period of 10 years, commencing in 2026, first due in calendar year 2027?

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

EXPLANATION:

Issue 28 is a proposed renewal of an emergency operating levy for 7.34 mills/$48,000,000 (per year) originally passed in 2016 and renewed in 2020 for a period of five years. Voter approval of this issue will not increase taxes. This year’s levy is for 10 years in lieu of a higher funding request, allowing the district to engage in more informed planning.

WHAT THIS LEVY WOULD DO:

This renewal levy for the benefit of Cincinnati Public Schools for these purposes:

1. To maintain learning programs for 34,900 CPS K-12 students by:

• Providing $33 million in annual funding;

• Continuing and expanding college, vocational, and career-readiness programs; and

• Restructuring K-12 education by combining some schools and creating separate middle schools to address overcrowding and to improve student engagement and learning outcomes.

2. To provide high-quality preschools for nearly 5,000 3- and 4-year-old children by:

• Maintaining $15 million in annual funding to provide affordable access to high quality preschools through CPS and Cincinnati Preschool Promise (CPP) community-based providers; and 3. To contribute to recruitment, retention and competitive wages for the early childhood education workforce.

29 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL)

DEER PARK COMMUNITY CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of Deer Park Community City School District for the purpose of current expenses, that the county auditor estimates will collect $2,631,403 annually, at a rate not exceeding 6.9 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $242 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

30 PROPOSED TAX

LEVY (ADDITIONAL)

MT. HEALTHY CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of Mt. Healthy City School District for the purpose of current expenses, that the county auditor estimates will collect $1,597,415 annually, at a rate not exceeding 3 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $105 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

31 PROPOSED BOND ISSUE

OAK HILLS LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall bonds be issued by the Oak Hills Local School District for the purpose of new construction, improvements, renovations and other additions to school facilities, as well as equipment, furnishings, site improvements, and all necessary appurtenances therefor, as part of a master facilities plan with the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission in the principal amount of $68,500,000, to be repaid annually over a maximum period of 37 years, and an annual levy of property taxes be made outside of the ten-mill limitation, estimated by the county auditor to average over the repayment period of the bond issue 2.05 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $74 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026, to pay the annual debt charges on the bonds, and to pay debt charges on any notes issued in anticipation of those bonds?

FOR THE BOND | AGAINST THE BOND

32 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (REPLACEMENT AND DECREASE)

ANDERSON TOWNSHIP PARK DISTRICT

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A replacement of a portion of an existing levy, being a reduction of 0.1 mill to constitute a tax for the benefit of Anderson Township Park District for the purpose of defraying the expenses of the park district and purchasing, maintaining and improving lands for parks and recreational purposes, including payment of debt service on bonds issued by the Park District, that the county auditor estimates will collect $3,344,770 annually, at a rate not exceeding 1.8 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $63 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 10 years, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

COUNTY ISSUE

34 PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL)

HAMILTON COUNTY

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Great Parks of Hamilton County for the purpose of acquisition, conservation, and protection of natural resources and park land; operation and administration of park facilities, and programs; improvements to park infrastructure, facilities and natural resources; development, maintenance, and provision of outdoor recreation and nature education facilities, trails, programs, and services in current and future parks and nature preserves owned, leased, or operated by Great Parks of Hamilton County; and for such other parks and recreational purposes as permitted by law, that the county auditor estimates will collect $20,265,255 annually, at a rate not exceeding 1 mill for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $22 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 10 years, commencing in 2026, first due in calendar year 2027.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

EXPLANATION:

Issue 34 is a proposed renewal property tax levy of one mill for 10 years for Great Parks of Hamilton County (GPHC). It will cost the owner of a $100,000 home $22.29 per year ($1.86 per month). The proposed levy would replace the current one mill levy which expires in December 2025. No increase in current taxes.

33 PROPOSED TAX LEVY

(ADDITIONAL)

DEER PARK SILVERTON JOINT FIRE DISTRICT

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of Deer Park Silverton Joint Fire District for the purpose of providing and maintaining firefighting and emergency medical services, that the county auditor estimates will collect $1,055,728 annually, at a rate not exceeding 3.5 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $123 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.

FOR THE LEVY | AGAINST THE LEVY

WHAT THE LEVY WOULD DO:

First approved in 1998, this Great Parks of Hamilton County 1 mill renewal levy (same purpose, same collection rate) generates approximately $2.58 million per year for capital projects.·

• Operations and Maintenance: Day to day upkeep of parks and facilities.

• Capital Improvements: Infrastructure repairs, playground upgrades, and enhancements to trails.· Natural Resources Management: Preservation and restoration of parks and wildlife habitats.

• Accessibility and Recreation: Improvements to trails and expansion of recreational facilities.

• Education: Children’s summer day camps, senior outreach groups and nature programs in continued partnership with Hamilton County communities.·

• Community benefits: Parks provide healthy spaces and contribute to environmental quality.

BACKGROUND:

Great Parks of Hamilton County (GPHC), formerly known as Hamilton County Park District, was founded in 1930 to protect natural resources for the enjoyment of current and future generations. GPHC operates 22 parks and four conservation areas covering 18,000 acres of land, in addition to conserving unique habitats.

HAMILTON COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT

Vote for not more than 1

-

HAMILTON COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE (DISTRICT 1)

 Dwane Mallory

HAMILTON COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE (DISTRICT 2)

 Rodney J. Harris

HAMILTON COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE (DISTRICT 3)

 Bernard Mundy

HAMILTON COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE (DISTRICT 4)

 Josh Berkowitz

 Danielle Cary Colliver

HAMILTON COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE (DISTRICT 5)

 Athena Stefanou

HAMILTON COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE (DISTRICT 6)

 Mike Peck

HAMILTON COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE (DISTRICT 7)

 Gwen Bender

CINCINNATI MAYOR

Vote for not more than 1

 Cory Bowman

 Aftab Pureval

 Julien Spivey (Write-In)

CINCINNATI MEMBER OF COUNCIL AT LARGE

Vote for not more than 9

 Anna M. Albi

 Audricia Brooks

 Laketa Cole

 Jerry Corbett

 Jeff Cramerding

 Don Driehaus

 Brian Ennix (Write-in)

 Kevin Farmer

 Gary Favors

 Steven P. Goodin

 Ryan James

 Mark Jeffreys

 Scotty Johnson

 Dawn Johnson

 Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney

 Liz Keating

 Dale Mallory

 Linda Matthews

 Brandon Nixon

 Evan Nolan

 Meeka D. Owens

 Raffel Prophett

 Stephan Pryor

 Christoper E.C. Smitherman

 Gwen Summers (Write-In)

 Seth Walsh

 Donald Washington

 Aaron Weiner

CINCINNATI CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

- BOARD OF EDUCATION MEMBER

Vote for not more than 4

 Kari T Armbruster

 Brandon Craig

 Jim Crosset

 Marcia A. Futel

 Kareem Moffett

CITY OF CINCINNATI ISSUES

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

2: PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENTCIVIL SERVICE

 YES  NO

3: PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENTCAMPAIGN FINANCE

 YES  NO

SCHOOL DISTRICT ISSUES

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

28: PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL)

Cincinnati City School District

 For the Tax Levy

 Against the Tax Levy

HAMILTON COUNTY EDUCATIONAL SERVICE CENTER

For Member of the Governing Board of Educational Service Ctr

Vote for not more than 3

 Bill Ferguson, Jr.

 Sandy R. Harrod

 Donald F. Rabe

HAMILTON COUNTY ISSUES

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

34: PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL)GREAT PARKS

 For the Tax Levy

 Against the Tax Levy

YOUR LOCAL ISSUES

RACES

Check Vote411.org for information candidates may have added after our print deadline. Additional races that can be found on Vote411.org for areas including:

Blue Ash

Cheviot Deer Park Forest Park Harrison Indian Hill Loveland Madeira Milford

Township

Golf Manor

Greenhills

ADDITIONAL CINCINNATI AREA ELECTION

INFORMATION

For additional information on Clermont County candidates, issues and elections please contact League of Women Voters of Clermont County at www.lwvclermont.com or P.O. Box 733, Milford, OH 45150 or email: LWVCLERMONT@GMAIL.COM

For information on some Butler County candidates, issues and elections please contact League of Women Voters of Oxford at https:// my.lwv.org/ohio/oxford or P.O. Box 504, Oxford, OH 45056.

TO ALL THE VOLUNTEERS WHO PUT THIS GUIDE TOGETHER:

League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area President: Claire Wagner Voter Service Vice President: Kimberly Jacobs

Vote411.org: Liz Shockey Voter Guide Editor: Mary Kate Genis LWVCA Staff: Hope Fountain LWVCA volunteers who assisted with this publication: Janet Smith, Claire Wagner, Pat Frey, Carol Aquino, Shelly Bromberg, Sarah Gideonse, Pat Brown

This publication would not be possible without the cooperation and assistance of the Hamilton County Board of Elections: Director of Elections and Deputy Director of Elections, Sherry Poland and Raquel D. Burgos and their staffs.

Thanks to the Barbershops and Salons acting as community hubs to help spread voting information, including the Voter Guide.

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization encouraging informed and active participation in government. It influences public policy through education and advocacy. We never support or oppose any political party or candidate.

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ARTS & CULTURE

Baby’s First Haunt

A first-timer faces both the lights-on and lights-off sides of the Dent Schoolhouse.

BY NADYA ELLERHORST

As relationships progress, you inevitably discover new things about your significant other. Well, before October rolled around, not only did I become acquainted with my boyfriend’s love for haunted houses, but I learned that this year, he’d be making me visit one.

I enjoy a good horror film, and I’m a dark ride fanatic, but I’ve shied away from haunted houses. For me, they cross into more vulnerable territory — I can’t press fast forward, nor am I confined to the safety of a Doom Buggy.

But having no say in the matter, I persuade my boyfriend to take a pre-visit, lights-on tour of one of his favorites (and one I’m well-acquainted with as a bornand-raised West Sider): The Dent Schoolhouse. And the staff is gracious enough to give us a private visit.

Lights on

Terry Rook, who has worked at the Dent Schoolhouse for a quarter of a century, greets us near the outdoor queue area. Rook gives us a brief history of the nationally ranked site. Dent was a real schoolhouse, built in 1894, and was also a machine shop and private residence throughout its existence.

We start off by touring a staff reception area, stuffed costume closet and makeup room on the building’s upper floor; a whiteboard lists the dozens of staff members’ positions for the night, and the makeup room is filled with retired masks and all the tools you could ever want for

making fake wounds. Near the manager’s office, I spot racks of out-of-circulation haunted house-focused magazines they’ve used for inspiration.

Rook then takes us scene-to-scene, showing us the behind-the-scenes of the scares that the attraction’s varied environments and 60-70 actors help facilitate: piped-in smells, painstaking attention to world-building details, compressed airpowered jumpscares, a handful of Easter eggs (I’m not revealing anything). He also shows us sets of interconnected hallways that can take actors between scenes or hide them for scares via seemingly innocuous holes in the walls. Something that caught my eye? Harnesses (four total!) for actors who deliver their scares from above.

He also dives into some scare methodology, much of which is designed to totally disorient guests. I was especially fascinated by intentional shifts from brightly lit spaces to dark ones, leaving no time for your eyes to adjust. Rook also points out that different thematic elements, from gore to clowns to evil teachers, will have varying degrees of scariness for guests.

”We run the buffet,” he says.

I notice that I’m already on edge; Rook assures me there’ll be no scares on the tour (although he does take the opportunity to jump scare me when I lean in to observe the details on a hanging dummy — well played), yet I’m still peering around every corner.

“I’m embarrassing myself,” I whisper to my boyfriend.

“You are,” he teases, audibly. Legend holds that school custodian Charlie McFree was responsible for a series of student disappearances throughout the ‘40s and ‘50s (whether this legend is total fiction is somewhat inconclusive, according to Rook, who has done his own research). You find out what happened to these children on your visit — I walked through scenes liable to make me queasy just thinking about them.

Before we conclude, as speakers come to life with spooky ambiance ahead of Dent’s opening for the night, I ask Rook what advice he’d give to (very) wary folks like me.

”Know where you’re going,” Rook says. “This is one of the safest haunts in the nation, and we’re a no-touch haunt. So if you’re very on edge, know that you’re safe.”

Lights off

An hour before we’re scheduled to experience Dent for real, I’m picking at my Ron’s Roost. I’m terrified. My boyfriend, while reassuring from the get-go, also says it’s not too late to turn back.

About three hours later, after standing in Dent’s infamously long line, there is no turning back. There were totally unphased 8-year-olds in line; I’m sure I can handle it.

And I do handle it. Loudly. To the couple walking behind us, I’m sorry. I screamed in a way (and pitch) I didn’t

recognize. While I tried to make a mental tally of the jumpscares during the tour, I still got got. I knew what to expect in some places, but with the lights off, and new sounds and smells added to the mix, it was a whole different playing field.

But I also discovered a new type of exhilaration. My glass-shattering screams were more often than not followed by my own cackles (and my boyfriend’s). I went from being totally freaked out to instantaneously remembering it’s all fake. And I think some actors had just as much fun — a few vocally encouraged me to scream louder. I delivered.

My much more stoic boyfriend had a blast too, as we alternated forcing each other to go first into each room (I usually won out).

My boyfriend thinks that I wouldn’t have made it through without the tour, and I can’t say I disagree. With this being my first experience, I was very lucky. I had a spectacular tour guide, a talented team ensuring I was scared and someone beside me to make sure I didn’t get too freaked out.

And so my own advice? Take the lightson tour, if you can. Know your limits, but don’t be afraid to push them. And, if you’re lucky enough, go with someone who’ll let you bury your face in their WEBN t-shirt as you conquer your fears, room by room and hand-in-hand.

The Dent Schoolhouse, 5963 Harrison Ave., Dent. More info: dentschoolhouse.com.

CULTURE

Arts & Culture Briefs

The latest arts & culture stories in Greater Cincinnati

BY KATHERINE BARRIER

New Indie Comic Explores Story of Kentucky Cryptid

ACincinnati indie publisher is weaving a story of cryptids, American folklore and Indigenous tales in a spooky and adventurous new comic book set in Kentucky.

The Goat: Pope Lick Creek Monster from Creative Mussel adds a new, diverse focus to the legend of the Pope Lick Monster, a cryptid said to be halfman, half-goat, who lives under a train trestle just outside Louisville. Writer Jay B. Kalagayan and illustrator Ethan Pope promise a story that will “derail” all your expectations of the story you’ve come to know about the creature.

“The Goat: Pope Lick Creek Monster plunges readers into a Kentucky night shattered by a desperate, silent cry. This cry echoes off the iron of the notorious Pope Lick Trestle, a structure already steeped in local legend and a magnet

for thrill-seekers. The comic asks: who is calling for help, and what monster lurks on the tracks?” reads a description of the comic.

Writer Kalagayan is Filipino-American and says he wanted to create a story that adds more diverse representation, including Indigenous histories, to an American folktale.

“We deserve to see ourselves reflected in these stories,” Kalagayan said in a press release. “This land has a rich tapestry of cultures…wouldn’t it be incredible to weave these diverse histories into the fabric of American folklore? This might just be the spark for something bigger.”

Illustrator Pope says he was excited to bring the real-life setting of the Pope Lick Trestle to the page, incorporating different tools to create a unified and moody scene, which he found “just a

fun story to invest in.”

“I love the mysterious origin of [the story’s heroine] Kamari’s powers, the moment where she psychically communicates with The Goat is one of my favorite panels,” Pope said. “The only hiccups were finding the flow and nuances in the staging of certain scenes…sitting around the table in the train car was interesting, compositionally having to compromise and adjust the scene, so that the reading order of the word balloons would make sense. Mostly just tinkering, nothing out of the blue.”

“Ethan’s artwork is so expressive, I had to remove dialogue — it’s that good! I knew I found an artist who could capture action and expressive scenes,” Kalagayan added.

You can purchase a copy of

The Goat: Pope Lick Creek Monster by visiting ko-fi.com.

Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market This November

It might only be October, but the holiday season is already on the brain. Plus, it’s never too early to shop for loved ones, especially at Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market, now in its 25th year, at its interim location at the Sharonville Convention Center. Cincinnati’s favorite holiday shopping event takes place from FridaySunday, Nov. 7-9, and will feature over 230 vendors. Local boutiques will be set up to offer a variety of handmade gifts, decor, apparel, toys, gourmet food, baked goods and more to get you in the holiday spirit.

“We’re thrilled to welcome everyone back to the Tri-State’s favorite holiday tradition for our 25th anniversary year,” show manager Kelly Scott said in a press release. “This location’s easy access and welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect place to kick off your holiday shopping season. Join us for an unforgettable weekend … packed with joy, local businesses you love, and holiday magic all under one roof. I can’t wait to see you there!”

This year, the Holiday Market will offer expanded general admission shopping hours, plus extended Girls’ Night Out shopping hours from 4-8 p.m. both Friday and Saturday. Other event highlights include festive photo opportunities, giveaways and the chance to get a selfie with Santa Claus. Festive floor clings, dubbed Candy Cane Lane, will be installed to help guide you

through the show.

There will also be several chances to win gift cards and unique items throughout the show, including the hourly Merry Money drawings where guests can win $25 gift cards that can be used at any vendor during the show weekend. You can also win unique giveaways from vendors on the official Cincy Holiday Market Facebook page leading up to and on-site at the show. Products include jewelry, treats, decor and more. And when your feet are lagging and your arms are tired from carrying

shopping bags, take a break to grab a bite and a cup of coffee, a cocktail or a glass of wine from the concessions area, food court or food trucks on site. This year, SPCA Cincinnati will also offer a free package check service for shoppers, but donations to help support the rescue are welcome.

If you want to shop before the crowds, you can buy a VIP ticket to receive early access to the market from 9 a.m. to noon Friday, Nov. 7. There will also be early-bird hours on that Saturday from 9-11 a.m., plus Hero Day — free general

admission for active military, veterans, police, fire and first responders on that Sunday with valid ID.

Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market, Sharonville Convention Center, 11355 Chester Road, Sharonville.

To learn more, see the full schedule or buy tickets, visit cincinnatiholidaymarket.com. There will be no box office for ticket sales this year; tickets will only be available online on a first-come-first-serve basis.

First-of-its-Kind Holographic Haunted House Comes to West Chester for Halloween

Afirst-of-its-kind haunted house is coming to Cincinnati this Halloween season.

“Trick ‘r Treat: An Interactive Holographic Haunted House,” from augmented reality (AR) outfit Verse Immersive, is a headset-based AR walkthrough inspired by the 2007 horror film Trick ‘r Treat from writer and director Michael Dougherty. The experience will be rolled out in 15 U.S. markets this year, including Greater Cincinnati at West Chester’s THE WEB Extreme Entertainment.

During Trick ‘r Treat, guests will step into the lore of Warren Valley, where they’ll encounter Sam — or Samhain — the film’s Halloween rules-obsessed antagonist and enforcer of said rules. In a chooseyour-own-adventure-style experience, participants will have to try to survive their time with Sam and decide their fates via an interactive “rules” engine, meaning the world will react to your decisions across the walkthrough, so if you break a rule, you’ll trigger a scare.

“Fans aren’t just watching a story, they’re living it, with outcomes that hinge on their choices,” Ray Kallmeyer, founder and CEO of Enklu, the company behind Verse Immersive, said in a press release. “It’s a holographic haunt: cinematic, social and built for sharing!”

The experience also features Easter eggs from the movie, as well as four cinematic scenes, including the neighborhood street, the quarry, McKinley Woods and Mr. Kreeg’s house, putting you directly in the story from a first-person perspective. The walkthrough is also designed for people who may be new to immersive experiences: because guests will see the real world overlaid with holograms, not VR, they won’t experience the VR-induced motion sickness.

Trick ‘r Treat is suitable for people 13 years and older and is open now through Nov. 2. Tickets are $30 and can be booked online by visiting verseimmersive.com/ cincinnati/trickrtreat.

Eats Briefs

The latest food and dining stories in Greater Cincinnati

BY KATHERINE BARRIER EATS

Retro Cocktail Bar and Dance Hall ‘Nice Life’ Opens in Over-the-Rhine

Anew retro-style cocktail bar and dance hall has opened in Overthe-Rhine this week.

Located in the former The Drinkery (and The Setback) at 1150 Main St., Nice Life is local hospitality company Four Entertainment Group (4EG)’s newest concept, featuring a menu of signature and classic cocktails and an atmosphere inspired by the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s. 4EG first announced The Drinkery would close to make way for Nice Life in July 2024; the bar closed in August of that year for renovations, but the project was delayed, and the bar reopened with the tongue-in-cheek name “The Setback” as construction plans were adjusted. The Setback closed this June, and the bar underwent a full renovation that included new flooring, additional bars, lighting, seating, decor, a sound system and an upgraded back patio.

Now, the bar offers seating for 50, with a mix of barstools, high-top tables and banquettes. There’s also a new speed bar on the dance floor to enhance service and double as a private-party setup.

Interior designer Michele Pinales helped bring the vision of Nice Life to

The New Cauldron Cafe to Bring Magic to Covington

Something magical is brewing in Covington: A Northern Kentucky couple is preparing to open their own cafe that combines a menu of specialty coffee, a cozy atmosphere and a sprinkle of enchantment for the whole community.

At 807 Madison Ave., husband-and-wife team Noah and Brittany Markowich are in the midst of crafting their dream coffee shop. As the final permits come in and the end stages of construction begin, an eclectic collection of chairs fills the space, ready to seat guests when the Markowichs open in a few weeks. Some are completely wooden; some feature fabric seats with embroidered flowers. All are what you would expect to find in a cottage kitchen, and all are unique, just like each guest who will pass through the doors of The Cauldron Cafe.

“Every person who comes in has something going on in their life that you probably have no idea about, and just being there for them, just being a positive source in someone’s day — We just want to be a safe space for people to come and be like, ‘I know I can come here. I’m gonna have a good cup of coffee. I can decompress for a few minutes and then be on my way. Or I can chat for 10 minutes if I wanted to.’ I think that’s really important for us,” Brittany tells CityBeat. It’s that understanding of how a good cup of coffee can help someone heal, even

just a little bit, that started the Markowichs on their journey to opening The Cauldron. In 2023, both Noah’s brother and mother died, just a few months apart.

“We worked our jobs, we lived in our house in the suburbs in Edgewood and we didn’t love the neighborhood,” Noah explains. “And those things kind of happening back-to-back, we kind of hit this point of, like, what do we want to do? We want to do something that makes us happy. Live somewhere else that really makes us happy. … We fell in love with coffee after that happened.”

While mourning Noah’s brother and mother and taking time off work, the Markowichs bought their first espresso machine and learned about the art of brewing. The idea of opening a coffee shop began to form as they shifted their lives to align with their dreams. They sold their home in Edgewood and moved to Covington last October. Whether it was a little bit of magic or just a coincidence, The Cauldron’s future space was just across the street from the couple’s new home.

“We moved here just kind of with the idea of, like, we want to do this in Covington, and we didn’t really have a spot in mind, and we just kind of slowly, just kept working on it,” Noah says. “It’s funny, actually: When we were just walking past one day, there was a sign in the window that said it was for lease, and we weren’t ready to do it right then and there, but

life. The space is decked out in bold orange patterned wallpaper, streaming light fixtures, neon accents, a gold disco ball and a colorblock dance floor that evokes the disco era. Outside, the patio features a mural by local artist Technique that channels the era of music videos on MTV.

it was just too perfect of a scenario. Too perfect of a space.”

At The Cauldron, guests can expect a warm and inviting space to work, study, socialize or just relax; think the cozy cottage of a kitchen witch: clean neutrals of linen and wood mixed with eclectic chairs, tables and decor to make you feel at home and something always brewing and bubbling behind the counter. Those who practice kitchen witchcraft view the kitchen as a sacred space, and their craft often focuses on infusing everyday life with magic through intentional practice in the culinary arts. That level of intention is what Noah and Brittany want to bring to the cafe’s menu.

“I think it’s really important to [make coffee] with intention and do it right. Because, if we were to mess it up, I feel like you’re doing the farmer a disservice. You’re doing the roaster a disservice by not putting enough care into it. So I think it’s very important to be intentional. It kind of honors the whole process,” Noah says.

The Cauldron’s menu will offer thirdwave coffee, a style that focuses on the artisanal side of coffee, with a focus on high-quality specialty beans and ethical farming and sourcing practices, with beans from South Carolina roaster Methodical Coffee.

“I compare it to craft cocktails, but craft coffee. So it’s really focused on not-youraverage flavor profiles. We’re trying to come up with stuff that’s maybe a little out of the box,” says Brittany. “Everything

Nice Life is a bar-only concept, offering cocktails, as well as beer, seltzers, THC beverages and non-alcoholic drinks. Signature drinks include the he Rosemary Rhapsody (Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Amaro-Meletti, rosemary-honey syrup, lemon juice, orange bitters and a torched rosemary sprig) and Saturday Night Cider (Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, chilled apple cider, lemon juice, ginger beer, brut Champagne and a cinnamon stick); or, opt for a classic cocktail like an espresso martini or an old fashioned, with a maple twist. You can get half-priced drinks during happy hour, 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. The bar will also host live music, including acoustic acts, party cover bands, karaoke and local and national DJs.

Nice Life is open Sunday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. and Saturday from 2 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.

Nice Life, 1150 Main St.,

Over-the-Rhine. More info: nicelifeotr.com.

on our menu — it’s all gonna be intentful. From drip all the way to even lemonade or tea or anything. … It’s more about letting everyone enjoy the experience of just a good quality cup of coffee, consistently.”

Noah has also been practicing crafting seasonal drinks, like a matcha latte made with apple cider, and Brittany says they’re hoping to work with North South Baking in Covington to offer pastries and breakfast sandwiches. They’re also hoping to offer events — floating ideas like book clubs, yoga pop-ups and craft nights — once they’re more comfortable running the cafe.

The Markowichs hope to open The Cauldron by the end of October, but will announce an official date in the coming weeks. In the meantime, they’re hoping the work they’re doing will shape The Cauldron into a third space where everyone can feel welcome.

“Just really a place people can go and feel like they have a sense of community around here. There’s so many really great local businesses; it would be great to have everyone connect over a great cup of coffee or just meet new people on a daily basis,” Brittany says.

Once open, The Cauldron will be open Tuesday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

You can stay updated on its progress on The Cauldron’s Instagram page, @ourcauldroncafe.

Dissolution:

Dissolution:

Dissolution:

MUSIC

Live and Let Die

Inside the method and madness of Cincinnati musician Maurice Mattei’s new album, Never Die Ever Again.

BY BRIAN BAKER

There are several dichotomies that characterize Cincinnati singer/ songwriter Maurice Mattei’s new album, Never Die Ever Again, the third installment in his de facto man-with-aguitar trilogy. Mattei’s writing process was comfortably consistent and yet distinctly different; his songs are completely contemporary yet presented in a design format literally borrowed from the 1960s, and he has eschewed his avowed love of odd numbers by offering an even dozen songs on Never Die Ever Again

“I was going to include a hidden track, but decided not to because I wanted to keep it like an old country or pop album to fit with the cover,” says Mattei over Cokes on the patio of Poppy’s in Cheviot. “So it’s six songs a side and that’s it.”

As noted, the design aesthetic of Never Die Ever Again isn’t just a homage to the ‘60s style guide for album covers, it’s a dead lift. The front cover is adapted from the actual artwork from John Gary’s 1965 release When Irish Eyes Are Smiling, and the back cover design comes from one of Mattei’s personal favorites, the George Jones/Melba Montgomery debut duet album, 1963’s Singing What’s in Our Hearts. Both albums were acquired during Mattei’s crate-digging expeditions at the West Side St. Vincent De Paul store.

“I’m fascinated by the covers in the ‘60s, before they got all arty,” says Mattei, also a photographer and designer by trade. “I

found the John Gary album and bought it for the cover, then I Photoshopped my head on him. I Photoshopped out his type and put in mine, but in the same style — Helvetica and titles on the side. The back didn’t fit right so I used the back of the George Jones/Melba Montgomery album. They look great together, and I kept it weathered so it looks like it came out of a secondhand store.”

“Weathered” is a good adjective for Mattei’s songs. His characters are careworn and weary, victims of bad luck, bad choices or a combination of both. His spare acoustic guitar accompaniment — particularly on his last four solo albums; 2017’s Jealous Wreck, 2019’s Velvet Lined Room, 2023’s double set Jungalingle and Never Die Ever Again — serves to heighten the atmosphere. Mattei has devised an apt description for the songwriting style that has driven most, if not all, of his band and solo releases.

“You have method acting, where the actor inhabits the character, like Daniel Day Lewis or Brando,” says Mattei. “Well, this is method songwriting, in the sense that I get into that character’s persona and write as that character. ‘A Week and a Day’ is a classic case. I’m not really that person. I try to inhabit what that person does. It’s touching, in a way. You see that person’s whole life in three verses.”

“A Week and a Day” is among many high points on Never Die Ever Again. The

thought, ‘Well, I do need a bit of an uptempo number here,’ so I threw it in there. I do like the story and the rhyme scheme, and I think it fits the album really well.”

It’s always been easy to draw a line between Mattei and Bob Dylan. Mattei understands there are answers contained in a blowing wind, and sometimes twists of fate are simple, but their consequences are often fiendishly complex. With Never Die Ever Again, Mattei has found another gear, combining his inherent musicology with Van Dyke Parks aplomb, and sharpening his lyrical focus with Randy Newman’s sardonic whetstone.

“It has that edge to it, although it’s nothing I could chart out,” says Mattei. “I have a lot of Randy Newman records, and I like his stories and his characters.”

The shift in Mattei’s writing process may be one of the clearest differences in Never Die Ever Again. Adhering to his standard two-to-three-month writing period, there was an added wrinkle when he began experiencing arthritic pain in his hands that limited his guitar playing.

track exemplifies Mattei’s best qualities — deft acoustic guitar work and his irresistible lyrical gift, which can be, at turns, hilarious (he works a Swisher Sweets reference into “Home Wrecker”) or heartbreaking. “A Week and a Day” examines a man who is addicted to the front row at strip clubs, who self-describes his problem as having “a head for figures.” And when he finds he can’t stay away even with a preacher’s help, he says, “Found a club in the yellow pages/Full’a workin’ girls dancing in cages.”

If Never Die Ever Again is the final arc in a trilogy (Jealous Wreck also features just Mattei and an acoustic guitar, but is exempt since it was studio recorded with producer Mike Tittel; the last three were home recorded by Mattei and his son Alex), Mattei sees clear differences in each similarly constructed works. He previously noted that Velvet Lined Room had been a little lighter, while Jungalingle, which was massaged and shaped during the Covid lockdown, was a good deal darker, so Never Die Ever Again strikes a balance between its predecessors.

“I think this is kind of a black comedy,” Mattei says with a laugh. “It’s got funny things in it, but there’s some darkness. ‘A Week and a Day’ is a funny song, but it’s dark because this guy just can’t resist going to strip clubs. And ‘Hang a Right’ was a last-minute addition. I wasn’t sold on it and I wasn’t going to put it on, but I

“I sat on the songs for a while this time around, more than I usually do,” Mattei notes. “Part of that was because I couldn’t play some of them like I could or should, especially for recording. It’s all acoustic, so you can’t hide. So I had to wait until I could pull it off, and I was still struggling a little but it was good because it actually got me to listen to the songs more. Writing is a little strange. You write a song but then you have to learn it in a way, and sometimes it takes on various forms that you didn’t expect. If you don’t sit on it for a while, you’ll just perform it the way you initially wrote it, and that’s not always good.”

Another shift in Mattei’s writing process came with the album’s final track, “Thankful.”

“That was actually a poem I wrote a year or two ago,” Mattei recalls. “I really liked it so I added music to it, which I never do. I start with a title, and it all happens simultaneously. I had to add a couple of verses because it was too short, but I really like the tune. It’s a nice closer.”

If there’s any doubt that Mattei can draw inspiration from just about any source, consider the story of how he came up with the album’s title.

“I don’t know exactly how this started, but my son and I were trying to think of a new James Bond movie title,” Mattei says. “And I said, ‘What about Never Die Ever Again?’ This was like three years ago. I’ve had that lying around and I thought, ‘I’ve got to have an album that’s called that.’ It’s kind of pertinent because some of the songs deal with death. It kind of makes sense.”

Never Die Ever Again is available at Shake It Records, Everybody’s Records and mmattei.com. Mattei will continue celebrating the album’s release at Arnold’s Bar & Grill on Saturday, Oct. 25.

SOUND ADVICE

THEY MIGHT BE GIANTS

Oct. 21-22 • Madison Theater

John Flansburgh and John Linnell have been making music together as They Might Be Giants for 43 years, crafting 23 studio albums rife with slanted pop songs and childlike panache. The New York City duo’s unconventional instrumentation and oddball, wit-laden lyrical themes drive their best-known tunes, most of which appear on their 1990 breakthrough, Flood: the jaunty “Birdhouse in Your Soul” is written from the perspective of a child’s nightlight; “Particle Man” is a lighthearted sing-along about four imaginary men with questionable intentions; and a cover of the novelty tune “Istanbul (Not Constantinople)” sounds like a polka run amok as the guys sing about the fall of an empire five centuries ago.

Tuneful dorkiness abounds in the surreal world of They Might Be Giants, with Linnell’s darker vocal delivery and accordion playing bouncing off Flansburgh’s guitar accents and higherpitched singing style. They’ve played as a twosome as well as with a full band behind them. This time the duo is calling their run of live gigs the “Big Show Tour,” which features a backing band that includes a three-person horn section. Set lists from the tour feature songs from across the band’s vast catalog, but it seems to change from night to night to keep things fresh.

“We don’t have a set list for this,” Linnell said in a recent interview with The Reader Omaha. “Flansburgh tends to cook up the set list, kind of at the last minute, so we don’t know exactly what songs we are playing. But I can tell you that there’s going to be

some new material.”

It’s interesting that Linnell mentions they will be playing fresh material, as the pair hasn’t released an album since 2021’s well-received Book, an audiovisual feast that included a 144page cloth-bound hardcover book featuring lyrics from across They Might Be Giants’ career, accompanied by the vivid photographic work of Brian Karlsson. That such a creative marvel would arrive four decades after the band’s inception is all you need to know about They Might Be Giants’ enduring relevance.

They Might Be Giants plays Madison Theater on Oct. 21 and 22 at 8 p.m. More info: madisontheater.com.

(Jason Gargano)

EVERCLEAR WITH LOCAL H AND SPONGE

Oct. 28 • Bogart’s Everclear frontman Art Alexakis likes to elongate his vowels, especially the letter o, when delivering his catchy tunes about flawed men and women trying to make sense of their world. His approach to singing — shouty but tuneful, terse but expressive — stood out from the pack of 1990s rock bands that surfaced in the wake of Nirvana’s success. His knowing, world-weary voice — he was, at 33, older than most of his peers when Everclear broke through with 1995’s Sparkle and Fade — is as much of a signature as his lowslung guitar and bleach-blonde hair.

Thirty years on, Alexakis is still touring, still singing songs that gave him a life he imagined might never come as a child of a broken family. His willingness to mine that childhood and its deep ripples is apparent in much of Everclear’s best-known output, beginning with Sparke and Fade, which Alexakis is celebrating with a 30th anniversary tour.

Listening to the record today yields a wash of nostalgia and yearning for a less chaotic time — an era when MTV and KROQ could break a song like “Santa Monica” into the mainstream and kickstart a run of records and tours that continue to draw new converts.

“We’re getting a lot of young kids who weren’t even born when those records came out,” Alexakis said in a recent interview with the Substack Zero Cred. “For them, it’s just valid rock and roll. They tell me that when I talk to them, that they’re not getting it from contemporary music, so they’re gravitating towards the ‘90s. They consider that classic rock, which makes sense to me because me and all the other people that were making music in the ‘90s, we all came of age in the ‘70s when original classic rock was there. So it’s cyclical.”

As expected, Alexakis and his current bandmates run through each of Sparkle and Fade’s 14 songs as well as fan favorites from other albums like “I Will Buy You a New Life,” “Father of Mine” and “Wonderful.” They, of course, close with “Santa Monica,” its signature refrain as relevant today as when Alexakis conjured it three decades ago: “Swim out past the breakers/Watch the world die/Yeah, watch the world die.”

Everclear plays Bogart’s on Oct. 28 at 8 p.m. More info: bogarts.com. (JG)