Dec 2025

Dec. 2025/Jan. 2026

More than a destination

Cultivating community in Downtown & OTR

Anchor retailer

MiCA 12/v

CCJO’s jazzy ‘Nutcracker Remix’

A&C listings: Holidays + January

Photos: 50+ fall events

3CDC’s

Movers &Makers

Dec. 2025/Jan. 2026

MoversMakers.org

Publisher’s Letter 4

Arts & Culture 6

CCJO commits ‘Nutcracker Remix’ to CD | By David Lyman 6

Tall tales and offbeat holiday songs at The Know 7

The A/C List 8

Sign Museum marks 25 years with new picture book 9

FOCUS ON: Community development 18

3CDC’s Christy Samad puts the street-level pieces together | By John Faherty 18

The story of MiCA 12/v | By Shauna Steigerwald 20

The Datebook 24

Social calendar shines a spotlight on the movers and makers behind Greater Cincinnati’s fundraisers, friend-raisers and community events.

Gifts & Grants 26

Nonprofit

News 28

Names in the News 30

Snapshots

32

RetroFittings fashion show by DAAP benefits SVDP 32

Freedom Center awards honor social justice 33

Magnified Giving celebrates youth-led philanthropy 35

Advocates raise $350K for child abuse victims 36

Bowling and plaid strike for Caracole 38

FotoFocus zooms in on economic issues 39

Event raises $110K for new Dancefix Foundation 40

Conservation efforts celebrated at Root Ball 42

Starfire summit seeks social isolation answers 43

OneSource honors community excellence 44

Cincinnati Animal CARE unleashes Power of Love 46

Sporting Clays bags $110K for Stepping Stones 49

NewPath honors volunteers at Heart & Hope Gala 53

Movers & Makers 30th anniversary mixer 54

BBB Torch Awards honor ethical business practices 56

Talbert House’s new Crisis Center expands services 57

La Soupe dinner serves up $460K 60

The Last Word 66

Polly Campbell: Navigating the season of charity

www.helenadamsphotography.com helen@helenadamsphotography.com

Igrewup in a retail family in Galesburg, Illinois, not far from the Mississippi. My dad’s father and great-uncle owned a small-town department store that my dad managed from after World War II until 1967. As a kid, I helped the ladies in the basement (adjacent to my dad’s office – so glamorous) make change for the store clerks using the system of vacuum tubes that snaked throughout the four-floor establishment. It was so exciting to hear the tubes whooshing down and plopping out into the bin. My mom and dad met in that store when she took a job as a teenager running the elevator part time. Now there’s a rom-com set-up for you.

After the department store closed, Dad went to work for our next-door neighbor who owned a men’s clothing store and, at the same time, bought a gift shop that sold china, glassware – bridal registry and more.

And while my mother

frequently suggested I not go into retail, I did end up with two stints working in music retail: Record Theatre in Norwood and Borders Books and Music, where Elizabeth and I found each other. See, Mom, it was the right choice all along.

Now you know more than you ever might want to know about my earlier life, but hopefully this will explain why we are focusing this holiday issue of M&M on community development – brick-and-mortar retail and

street-level activation – as we are about to get sucked into the holiday shopping season. While I occasionally take advantage of the convenience of online shopping, my heart will always be with those who create a welcoming environment and curate a unique, in-person browsing experience in cities around the world.

John Faherty interviewed 3CDC’s Christy Samad about how the organization is working to activate street-level spaces across downtown and Overthe-Rhine as numerous new and converted buildings are designed to attract people to live in the urban basin. And Shauna Steigerwald profiled the owners of one of OTR’s pioneer retailers, Carolyn and Mike Deininger of MiCA 12/v. Learn their motivation for putting their stake in then-uncharted territory.

We hope you’ll do at least some of your shopping locally this season – in a neighborhood, with family or friends, and have lunch

nearby, rather than on your couch in your PJs. Your memories will be so much richer, and you’ll be supporting your neighbors rather than faceless tech companies.

Overflowing with generosity

Years ago, Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn re-imagined Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” into a jazzy, bluesy big band suite that became a staple of holiday listening. Inspired by that effort, the creative minds behind the Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra tried their hand at a 21st-century version of “Nutcracker.” It was so wellreceived over several years of performances that they decided (as I hoped and encouraged) to record their suite and make it available to the public. David Lyman details the process, in advance of the band’s CD-release performances on Dec. 10 and 11. The arrangements are amazing; get your copy and give one to a friend.

Elizabeth & Thom Mariner, co-publishers

Digital edition & daily posts

MoversMakers.org

Social media

@moversmakerscincinnati

Movers & Makers Magazine

@moversmakers

News/calendar submissions editor@moversmakers.org

Advertising & distribution

Thom Mariner, 513-543-0890 or tmariner@moversmakers.org

Creative & accounting

Elizabeth Mariner, emariner@moversmakers.org

Free direct mail subscriptions and email newsletter sign up: moversmakers.org/subscribe

Publishing schedule

Issue Deadline Available

FEBRUARY DEC 30 JAN 28

MARCH JAN 30 FEB 25

APRIL FEB 27 MARCH 25

MAY MARCH 27 APRIL 22

JUNE APRIL 24 MAY 20

JULY MAY 29 JUNE 24

AUGUST JUNE 26 JULY 22

SEPTEMBER JULY 31 AUG 26

OCTOBER AUG. 28 SEPT 23

NOVEMBER OCT 2 OCT 28

DEC ’26 / JAN ’27 OCT 30 NOV 25

 moversmakers.org/publishing-schedule

© Copyright 2025 Movers & Makers Publishing

We make every effort to verify information submitted for publication (print and online), but are not responsible for incorrect information or misidentified photos provided to us.

Readers are advised to confirm event dates and other important details and check for last-minute changes with the organizations or advertisers involved.

Publication of this magazine and its website (MoversMakers.org) does not necessarily constitute an endorsement of any information contained within, including advertisements and links.

Movers & Makers Publishing is an Ohio nonprofit operating under 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsorship.

For their work on this issue, our gratitude to:

• Casey Weldon, digital editor

• Phil Fisher and Ray Cooklis, copy editors

• Shasta Taber, volunteer proofreader

• All the nonprofits that contributed news and photos.

Support comes from:

By the end of 2025, M&M will have listed more than 600 events in our Datebook of fundraisers and friend-raisers. It seems as if about half took place in the last three months. So many that we have added 16 pages to the magazine to accommodate photos from 48 events! This seems only fitting, however, as M&M was founded 30 years ago for that “express” purpose (See what I did there, old-timers?) – helping nonprofits acknowledge their benefactors in a free, public forum. View photos from our anniversary happy hour on Page 54. Thanks, Casey Weldon, for the pics.

We hope you’ll show your own generosity this season, whether that is through gifts to family and friends, or by investing in the noble work of nonprofits who do the work our governments don’t and for-profits won’t.

Elizabeth and I wish each of you a meaningful holiday season and a bountiful 2026. Thanks for reading!

Thom Mariner, co-publisher

Jazz orchestra puts contemporary ‘Nutcracker Remix’ on stage, CD

By David Lyman

“Sometimes, it can’t just be about the money,” said Doug Lillibridge, board president of the Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra, the CCJO.

That is a noble sentiment. But it’s also a tough one to live up to when you’re trying to keep the books balanced in a precarious economy. That wasn’t enough to keep Lillibridge and the CCJO from releasing a new album, “The Nutcracker Remix.”

You can understand if someone might be skeptical about the project. Who makes CDs anymore? And does anyone really need another recording of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker?”

“This one, I promise you, is different,” Lillibridge said.

The concept for the composition surfaced a decade or so ago when Rob Parton – then the artistic director of the CCJO – floated the idea of creating a new jazz version of “Nutcracker.”

It was a cheeky suggestion. After all, jazz giants Billy Strayhorn and Duke Ellington had already created their own jazz version of the work in 1960 when they recorded “The Nutcracker Suite.” In the years that followed, it

well-known and well-established piece of the big band repertoire.

But jazz has evolved enormously in the halfcentury since Strayhorn and Ellington created their work. Despite its lush and often inventive arrangements, “The Nutcracker Suite” can sound a little dated to the modern ear.

“No matter how you feel about Ellington’s version, the fact that he and Billy Strayhorn already had their own version of ‘Nutcracker’ made this project all the more intimidating,” said CCJO artistic director Eric Lechliter, who arranged six of the nine sections that comprise “The Nutcracker Remix.” CCJO trombonist Dominic Marino arranged three others. “There’s nothing we could add to the original source material – Tchaikovsky – or the classic EllingtonStrayhorn work, so we had to approach this thinking, ‘How can we add to the legacy?’ ”

New flavors add spice to a classic

The solution: “There’s a little bit of everything in it; Brazilian, hip-hop, R&B, swing, New Orleans jazz – it’s all in there,” Lechliter said.

“We just took ‘The Nutcracker’ around the world and explored some different territory with it.”

As a result, Tchaikovsky’s “March of the Toy Soldiers” became “The Pistachio March,” while the Chinese dance morphed into “General Tso’s Gumbo” and “Waltz of the Flowers” turned into “Everybody Digs Flowers.”

On top of that, the holiday suite includes three cuts sung by veteran jazz vocalist Mandy Gaines, who has collaborated so often with CCJO that she is considered an honorary member.

When CCJO finally premiered the entire work in December 2016, Lillibridge said, he was floored by the result.

“When it was over, I looked at a

couple of board members and said, ‘This is it. We have to do this.’ ” Lillibridge had heard excerpts of the work prior to that premiere performance. “But when I heard the whole thing, I was completely sold on the idea. We had to record it.” He and his fellow board members immediately set about raising upwards of $20,000 to bring the recording to fruition. But why a CD? Why not just offer a streaming version of the recording? Industry sources estimate that streaming accounts for more than 84 percent of music purchases.

Eric Lechliter

Some expenses remain the same no matter which distribution route you take. Whether you’re streaming or creating a CD or even vinyl, you still have to pay musicians. And recording engineers. And marketing.

“But with a CD, you have the added costs of pressing, additional artwork, printing of the liner notes and credits,” said Lillibridge. “And then you have to pay someone to assemble all those materials and distribute them. Is it possible that we’ll make money on this? Yes, it’s possible. But it’s likely to take many years.”

Something physical for posterity

As Lillibridge said, decisions like this aren’t always about turning a profit. Some of the decision to create a CD was spurred by marketing considerations. When people leave a live performance, their enthusiasm for the music is as strong as it is ever likely to be. That’s why so many performances peddle merchandise in the lobby after shows, whether they be Broadway productions, ballets or even symphony orchestras.

“But sometimes, it’s about wanting to create something physical for posterity’s sake,” Lillibridge said. “Computer files sit on hard drives and can be forgotten. A CD can live on a shelf or coffee table forever.”

That’s especially true with holiday-related music. CCJO has a pair of “Jingle Jazz” performances scheduled for the Redmoor on Dec. 10-11. “The Nutcracker Remix” will be played in its entirety at both shows. And you can bet there will be a stack of CDs available for purchase as you leave the theater.

Equally important, though much harder to measure, is the role CDs play in marketing a music organization.

“Cincinnati is a relatively small market,” said Lechliter, artistic director since 2019. “We here in Cincinnati know what a gem it is. But the rest of the world, not so much. One of the longer-range goals of CCJO is to blow the lid

off that image. The word ‘contemporary’ is part of our name for a reason. We commission a lot of new music. We’re trying to expand the repertoire.”

Recording, he said, is a big part of that. An audio file arriving unannounced in an email inbox doesn’t garner as much attention as a well-designed CD landing in the morning mail.

“I have sold charts to people as far away as Brazil and the Netherlands,” Lechliter said. “And having physical recordings – CDs – has had everything to do with that.”

Music historians tell us that jazz stopped being America’s popular music sometime around 1945. A few big bands survived. Think Woody Herman, Stan Kenton, Thad Jones/Mel Lewis and various iterations of the Ellington Orchestra. But increasingly, musical taste and the economics of popular music leaned toward four-piece bands with a couple of guitars, a drummer and a bass.

“But today, there is a resurgence of interest in big bands,” said Lechliter. “There is a revival of artistry and adventure in jazz music. We’re not inventing a new genre, but I think we’re participating in a flowering of expression through the medium of big bands. And I think that big bands have a unique ability to proselytize. When you have all of those people in front of you – 12 horns and great singers – it blows the hair off the back of your head. There is nothing like it.”   cincinnatijazz.org

Offbeat holiday storytelling returns to Know Theatre

Storyteller Paul Strickland returns to Know Theatre this Christmas season with “Ain’t True & Uncle False for the Holidays,” a set of tall tales and offbeat holiday songs with performance artist Erika MacDonald. The show runs Dec. 7, 9, 13 and 14.

Strickland is a familiar name to local theatergoers, known for his award-winning Cincinnati Fringe Festival performances and for cofounding the Cincinnati Storytelling Festival, now in its fifth year. MacDonald, a Covington-based performance artist, has earned praise for her solo work and for her cabaret “Show Us Your Weird,” also at Know.

In “Ain’t True & Uncle False,” the pair will take over Know’s off-nights with Strickland’s tongue-in-cheek retellings of familiar seasonal stories. Audiences can expect playful twists on holiday lore, including a reimagining of “Frosty the Snowman,” along with MacDonald’s harmonies and kazoo playing.

Performances are 90 minutes with an intermission and will be held on Know Theatre’s Mainstage, 1120 Jackson St. Shows start at 7:30 p.m. each night. General admission is $27. Tickets are available on the Know Theatre website.

 knowtheatre.com

The A/C List

Cultural Exhibits/Tours

American Construction Toy Museum | Norwood. actmuseum.org

ƒ Preservation and history of 3D building toys in America

American Legacy Tours | Over-the-Rhine. 859-951-8560. americanlegacytours.com

ƒ Historic tours

American Sign Museum | Camp Washington. 513-541-6366. americansignmuseum.org

ƒ Saturdays, noon & 2 p.m. & Sundays, 2 p.m. Guided museum tours

Archaeological Research Institute | Lawrenceburg. 812-290-2966. exploreari.org

ƒ Hands-on educational experiences

Behringer-Crawford Museum | Devou Park, Covington. 859-491-4003. bcmuseum.org

ƒ Thru December. “The Legacy of Behringer-Crawford Museum: 75 Years of Art, Culture and Community”

ƒ Thru Jan. 11. Holly Jolly Days - Holiday toy trains and Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” exhibition

Betts House | West End. 513-651-0734. facebook.com/thebettshouse

ƒ By appointment only. Oldest home in Cincinnati

Blue Ash Historical Society | Historic Hunt House, Blue Ash. 513-745-6260. blueashhistoricalsociety.org

ƒ Dec. 6, 1-4 p.m. “Holiday Memories”

Brewing Heritage Trail Tour Center | Over-the-Rhine. 513-604-9812. brewingheritagetrail.org

ƒ Exploring Queen City brewing history

Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library | Main library, downtown. 513-369-6900. chpl.org

ƒ Thru December. “Urban Appalachian Kith and Kin” exhibit

Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame | Brady Center, The Banks. cincyblackmusicwalkoffame.org

ƒ Daily, 6 a.m.-11 p.m. Queen City contributions to Black music

Cincinnati Fire Museum | Downtown. 513-621-5553. cincyfiremuseum.com

ƒ Permanent collection: historic artifacts and equipment

Cincinnati Food Tours | Findlay Market, Over-the-Rhine. 513-602-5602. cincinnatifoodtours.com

ƒ Exploring Queen City food culture

Cincinnati Museum Center | Queensgate. 513-287-7000. cincymuseum.org

ƒ Current exhibits: “Cincinnati in Motion”

• “Shaping Our City” • “You Are Here”

• “Made in Cincinnati”

ƒ Fridays-Sundays. Union Terminal rotunda tours

ƒ Thru Jan. 5. “Holiday Junction”

ƒ Thru April 12. “Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away.”

Cincinnati Nature Center | Milford. cincynature.org

ƒ Jan. 10-11, noon-4 p.m. “Maple Fest”

Cincinnati Night of Lights | Clermont County Fairgrounds, Owensville. queencitylightshow.com

ƒ Thru Jan. 3. Drive-thru holiday light display

Cincinnati Observatory | Hyde Park. cincinnatiobservatory.org

ƒ Oldest professional observatory in U.S.

Cincinnati Type & Print Museum | Lower Price Hill. cincinnatitypeprintmuseum.org

ƒ Permanent collection: equipment, tools and artifacts

Cincinnati Zoo | Avondale. 513-281-4700. cincinnatizoo.org

ƒ World-class fauna and flora

Findlay Market | Over-the-Rhine. findlaymarket.org

ƒ Saturdays in December, 2-3:30 p.m. “Merry Market Tasting Tour”

Friends of Music Hall | Music Hall, Over-the-Rhine. 513-621-2787. friendsofmusichall.org

ƒ Tours of Queen City landmark

Glendale Heritage Preservation | Village Square, Glendale. 513-771-8722. glendaleheritage.org

ƒ Permanent exhibit: displays of Glendale’s history

Revolution Dance Theatre reheats “Hot Chocolate” for a fifth-anniversary production that places Black talent center stage. Runs Dec. 19-21 at the Aronoff Center’s Jarson-Kaplan Theater.

Greater Cincinnati Police Museum | Pendleton. 513-300-3664. police-museum.org

ƒ Permanent collection: historic artifacts and equipment

Harriet Beecher Stowe House | Walnut Hills. 513-751-0651. stowehousecincy.org

ƒ Historic family home of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” author and later a Green Book site

Heritage Village Museum | Sharonville. 513-563-9484. heritagevillagecincinnati.org

ƒ Select Saturdays, 7-10 p.m. “Spirits by Starlight” ghost tours

ƒ Dec. 2, 6-7:30 p.m. Period Dinner: “Twas the Night: Christmas by Candlelight”

ƒ Dec. 3-12, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 19th-century holiday guided tour

ƒ Dec. 6, 6-7:30 p.m. Period Dinner: “Christmas Brunch at Hogwarts”

ƒ Dec. 12, 6-9 p.m. Holly & Hearth Night

ƒ Dec. 17-Jan. 4. Train Days

Holocaust & Humanity Center | Cincinnati Museum Center. 513-487-3055. holocaustandhumanity.org

ƒ Media, artifacts, art and interactive exhibitions

Imperial Theatre | Mohawk, Over-the-Rhine. imperialmohawk.org

ƒ 2nd Saturday, 10 a.m. Tour of historic theater being redeveloped

Krohn Conservatory | Eden Park. 513421-4086. cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks

ƒ Thru Jan. 4. “Festival of Ferns”

Lebanon Mason & Monroe Railroad | Lebanon. lebanonrr.com

ƒ Thru Dec. 23. “North Pole Express” holiday-themed train ride

Lloyd Library and Museum | Downtown. 513-721-3707. lloydlibrary.org

ƒ Permanent exhibit: George Rieveschl Jr.: “History of Pharmaceutical Chemistry”

ƒ Dec. 12, 5-7 p.m. “The Botany of Beverages” open house

Loveland Castle & Museum | Loveland. lovelandcastle.com

ƒ Full-scale replica of medieval castle

Milford Historical Society | Promont, Milford. 513-248-0324. milfordhistory.net

ƒ Permanent exhibit: historic art, artifacts and more

National Museum of the United States Air Force | Wright-Patterson AFB, Fairborn. nationalmuseum.af.mil

ƒ World’s largest military aviation museum

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center | Freedom Way, The Banks. 513-333-7500. freedomcenter.org

ƒ Thru Dec. 7. “Faith & (in)Justice”

ƒ Jan. 19, 7:45 a.m. 2026 King Legacy Celebration: keynote, performances. Free admission at noon

National VOA Museum of Broadcasting | West Chester. 513-777-0027. voamuseum.org

ƒ Cincinnati’s role in America’s global voice

Newport Aquarium | Newport. newportaquarium.com

ƒ Exotic aquatic creatures

Over-the-Rhine Museum | Memorial Hall, Over-the-Rhine. 513-813-7309. otrmuseum.org

ƒ Dec. 10, 6 p.m. Three Acts in Over-theRhine: “Food, Family and Tradition”

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum | Ohio 128, Hamilton. 513-868-1234. pyramidhill.org

ƒ Thru Jan. 4. Pyramid Hill Lights

Skirball Museum | Hebrew Union College, Clifton. 513-221-1875. csm.huc.edu

ƒ Permanent exhibit: “An Eternal People: The Jewish Experience”

Taft Museum of Art | Lytle Park, downtown. 513-241-0343. taftmuseum.org

ƒ Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Holiday Family Funday: Classic Christmas

ƒ Dec. 14, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Holiday Family Funday: Hanukkah Celebration

Tri-State Warbird Museum | Batavia. tri-statewarbirdmuseum.org

ƒ Permanent exhibit: military aviation

Valley View Nature Preserve | Milford. valleyviewcampus.org

ƒ Preserved 190-acre farm and open land

Vent Haven Museum | Ft. Mitchell. 859-341-0461. venthaven.org

ƒ By appointment only. World’s only museum dedicated to ventriloquism

White Water Shaker Village | Harrison. whitewatervillage.org

ƒ Preserved historic village

William Howard Taft National Historic Site | Mt. Auburn. nps.gov/wiho/index.htm

ƒ Historic home of U.S. president and Supreme Court justice

Dance

Cincinnati Arts Association | Procter & Gamble Hall, Aronoff Center, downtown. 513-621-2787. cincinnatiarts.org

ƒ Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m. “Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico”

Cincinnati Ballet | Music Hall, Over-the-Rhine. 513-621-5219. cballet.org

ƒ Dec. 18-28. “The Nutcracker”

Clifton Cultural Arts Center | Clifton. 513-497-2860. cliftonculturalarts.org

ƒ Jan. 11, 2 p.m. Bulgarian Association of Cincinnati: “A Taste of Bulgaria”

College-Conservatory of Music | Corbett Theater, University of Cincinnati. 513-556-4183. ccm.uc.edu

ƒ Dec. 12-14. Fall Youth Ballet Concert

Dayton Ballet | Schuster Center, Dayton. daytonperformingarts.org

ƒ Dec. 13-22. “The Nutcracker”

Dayton Contemporary Dance Company | Dayton. dcdc.org

ƒ Dec. 12-13. “The Littlest Angel”

DE LA Dance Company | Kennedy Heights. 513-871-0914. deladancecompany.org

ƒ Nov. 28-29 & Dec. 11-13 “Nutcracker, Jazzed Up”

Mutual Dance Theatre | Mutual Arts Center, Hartwell. 513-494-6526. mutualdance.org

ƒ Dec. 4-13. “Up-Close ’25”

Revolution Dance Theatre | Jarson-Kaplan Theater, Aronoff Center, downtown. revodance.com

ƒ Dec. 19-21. David Choate’s “Hot Chocolate”

School for Creative & Performing Arts | Over-the-Rhine. 513-363-8100. scpa.cps-k12.org

ƒ Dec. 12-14. “The Nutcracker”

Fairs/Festivals/Markets

Artisan Marketplace | Washington Park, Over-the-Rhine. artisanfest513.org

ƒ Dec. 13-14, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. GrinchMas Cincinnati: Holiday Market

Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt | Moerlein Lager House, The Banks. cincinnatichristkindlmarkt.com

ƒ Thru Dec. 28. Holiday cheer, festive traditions and experiences

Cincinnati Nights of Lights | Clermont County Fairgrounds, Owensville. queencitylightshow.com

ƒ Thru Jan. 3. Drive-thru holiday display

Cincinnati Zoo | Avondale. 513-281-4700. cincinnatizoo.org

ƒ Thru Jan. 4. Festival of Lights

Sign Museum marks 25 years with new photography book

The American Sign Museum is marking its 25th anniversary with a new photography book tracing the history of U.S. signage along with details of its own evolution.

The museum began as a small collection in the basement of “Signs of the Times,” a local trade magazine. Founder Tod Swormstedt, whose family has long ties to the publication, started gathering pieces that documented the craft and commercial impact of signs. That grew into a formal museum, eventually moving to Camp Washington and expanding into a 40,000-square-foot facility.

Today the museum displays more than 800 signs and artifacts from the past century at its recently expanded compound and is regarded as one of the most comprehensive public collections of historic signage in the country.

Pyramid Hill to restore

‘Cincinnati Story’

sculpture

The anniversary book features photos by local artist and educator Natalie Grilli, writing by Sam Roberts – editor and publisher of “BLAG” (Better Letters Magazine) – and design by Kathy Kikkert, known for her work in book design and illustration.

“American Sign Museum: Celebrating 25 Years” is available for pre-order on the museum’s website and will also be sold in the gift shop for the holidays.  americansignmuseum.org

One of Southwest Ohio’s most recognizable works of public art is getting a new lease on life. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum announced a major conservation project for “Cincinnati Story,” the sculpture by renowned American artist George Sugarman that has graced the park’s overlook for more than two decades.

Crews have disassembled the large-scale piece and transported it to a facility in Virginia. Conservation specialists will work through the winter to preserve the sculpture’s structural integrity and original color palette and it will return to Pyramid Hill in spring 2026 for a public unveiling and rededication celebration.

Sugarman pioneered American modern sculpture, introducing vibrant color into large-scale works that challenged conventional form. In 1982, he created “Cincinnati Story” for the former Chiquita Center in Downtown Cincinnati as a tribute to the city’s river heritage. It was moved to Pyramid Hill in 1999.

 pyramidhill.org

ARTS & CULTURE

College Hill Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation | chcurc.com

ƒ Thru December. Light Up College Hill

Covington Farmers Market | Braxton Brewing Company, Covington. greatneighborhoods.org

ƒ Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Regional market

Findlay Market | Over-the-Rhine. findlaymarket.org

ƒ Dec. 6-7. Holiday Market

Fountain Square | Downtown. 513-621-4400. myfountainsquare.com

ƒ Thru Dec. 31. Winterhaus

Great Parks | Winton Woods. 513-521-7275. greatparks.org

ƒ Dec. 4-23, 5-9 p.m. Holidays on the Farm

Kings Island | Mason. 513-754-5700. visitkingsisland.com

ƒ Nov. 28-Dec. 31. WinterFest

Madeira Farmers Market | McDonald Commons, Madeira (new location). madeirafarmersmarket.com

ƒ Thursdays thru December, 4-6 p.m. Local growers and purveyors

Market Bleu | Contemporary Arts Center, downtown. marketbleu.com

ƒ Dec. 6. Handcrafted products and fine arts

Market Grün | Clifton Cultural Arts Center, Clifton. facebook.com

ƒ Dec. 12, 5-9 p.m. Ecologically sustainable marketplace

Northside Farmers Market | Heart of Northside, Northside. northsidefm.org

ƒ Wednesdays thru March, 4-6 p.m. Regional food and beverage market

Purple People Bridge | From Newport to Cincinnati. purplepeoplebridge.com

ƒ Thru Jan. 4. Winter Nights & River Lights

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum | Ohio 128, Hamilton. pyramidhill.org

ƒ Thru Jan. 4. Pyramid Hill Lights: drive-thru holiday light display

Twin Lakes | Montgomery. 513-2471300. lec.org/communities/twin-lakes

ƒ Dec. 5, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Holiday Boutique

Yuletide Village | Renaissance Park, Waynesville. yuletidevillage.com

ƒ Fridays & Saturdays thru Dec. 20 Holiday lights, festive shows and Yuletide market

Film

Cincinnati Museum Center | Queensgate. 513-287-7000. cincymuseum.org/omnimax

ƒ Now playing/OMNIMAX: “D-Day: Normandy 1944” • “Ohio: Wild at Heart”

ƒ Dec. 12-13. “Rolling Stones – At the MAX”

Cincinnati World Cinema | Garfield Theatre, downtown. 859-957-3456. cincyworldcinema.org

ƒ Dec. 6-7. “The Librarians,” documentary about book banning ƒ Dec. 12-13. “Universal Language,” comedy set in Canada

ƒ Opens Jan. 23. “All That’s Left of You”

Cindependent Film Fest | Contemporary Arts Center downtown. 214-843-6781. cindependentfilmfest.org

ƒ Dec. 7, 1 p.m. Cindependent Spotlight: “The Best Years of Our Lives”

Indian Film Festival | iffcincy.com

ƒ Dec. 4, 6:45 p.m. First Look Premiere (Children’s Theatre, Madisonville)

ƒ Dec. 5, 6:15 p.m. Opening Night

(Fath Auditorium, Cincinnati Art Museum)

ƒ Dec. 6, 1 & 3:30 p.m. Shows (Mariemont Theatre)

ƒ Dec. 6, 6 p.m. Centerpiece (Children’s Theatre, Madisonville)

ƒ Dec. 7, 1, 3:30 & 6 p.m. Shows (Mariemont Theatre)

Memorial Hall | Over-the-Rhine. 513-977-8838. memorialhallotr.com

ƒ Dec. 13, 2 & 7 p.m. River City Puppets: “A Muppet Christmas Carol” screening with live musical performance

Sorg Opera House | Middletown. sorgoperahouse.org

ƒ Dec. 6. “Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure”

ƒ Dec. 7. “Gremlins”

Woodward Theater | Over-the-Rhine. 513-345-7981. woodwardtheater.com

ƒ Dec. 7, 1:30 p.m. “You Got Gold”

ƒ Dec. 8-10, 7:30 p.m. Encores

New music director Joe Miller leads Cincinnati’s Vocal Arts Ensemble in “An Italian Christmas: A Light in the Darkness,” Renaissance and Baroque music of the season. Performances are Dec. 19-20 at Christ Church Cathedral.

Literary/Lectures

Barnes & Noble | 513-972-5146. stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/3408

ƒ Dec. 1, 6 p.m. Shannon Messenger “Keeper Of The Lost Cities The Graphic Novel Part 2” (virtual)

ƒ Dec. 3, 6 p.m. Cassandra Clare “Better in Black: Ten Stories of Shadowhunters Romance” (virtual)

ƒ Dec. 8, 6 p.m. Ava Reid “An Archive of Romance” (virtual)

Cincinnati Art Museum | Eden Park. 513-721-2787. cincinnatiartmuseum.org

ƒ Jan. 17, 11:30 a.m. & Jan. 18, 10:30 a.m. See the Story: Christine Wenc “Funny Because It’s True: How The Onion Created Modern American News Satire”

Fitton Center, Celebrating Self | Hamilton. 513-863-8873. fittoncenter.org

ƒ Dec. 3, noon. Wrap It Up

ƒ Jan. 7, noon. Destination Butler County

Joseph-Beth Booksellers | Rookwood Commons, Norwood. 513-396-8960. josephbeth.com

ƒ Dec. 3, 7 p.m. Discussion: Falon Ballard “Something Wicked”

Mercantile Library | Downtown. 513-621-0717. mercantilelibrary.com

ƒ Dec. 8, 6 p.m. Discussion: Edward Fishman “Chokepoints”

Northern Kentucky University | Cincinnati Art Museum, Eden Park. civicengagement.nku.edu

ƒ Jan. 29, 6 p.m. Six@Six Lecture Series: Matthew Albritton “Community Lost and Found”

Poetry at Artifact | Urban Artifact, Northside. facebook.com/poetryatsitwells

ƒ First Tuesdays, 7-8:30 p.m. Poetry Night

Swell | Camp Washington. swellartcafe.com

ƒ Literary events, salons and visual arts

Word of Mouth Cincinnati | MOTR Pub, Over-the-Rhine. motrpub.com

ƒ Final Sunday, 6 p.m. Open poetry

Music

Bach Ensemble at St. Thomas | St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Terrace Park. 513-831-2052. bachensemble.org

ƒ Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m. An A Cappella Christmas

ƒ Jan. 18, 5 p.m. Bach Vespers

Blue Ash Montgomery Symphony Orchestra | Summit City Church, Montgomery. 513-549-2197. bamso.org

ƒ Dec. 7, 7 p.m. Holiday Concert: “Bassoon it will be Christmas!”

Bogart’s | Corryville. bogarts.com

ƒ Dec. 3, 6 p.m. Chiodos

ƒ Dec. 4, 7 p.m. Kip Moore

ƒ Dec. 5, 6:30 p.m. Hinder

ƒ Dec. 7, 7 p.m. Steel Panther

ƒ Dec. 10, 6:30 p.m. Them Dirty Roses

ƒ Dec. 13, 7 p.m. Motherfolk

ƒ Dec. 19, 8 p.m. R&B Only

ƒ Jan. 9, 7 p.m. Ten

ƒ Jan. 10, 7 p.m. The Four Horsemen

ƒ Jan. 29, 6 p.m. Lord of the Lost

Brady Music Center | The Banks, downtown. bradymusiccenter.com

ƒ Dec. 8, 8 p.m. Heart

ƒ Dec. 20, 7 p.m. Michael Marcagi and John Vincent III

ƒ Jan. 30, 8 p.m. Umphrey’s McGee

Caffè Vivace | Walnut Hills. 513-601-9897. caffevivace.com

ƒ Most evenings. Live jazz

The Carnegie | Covington. 859-957-1940. thecarnegie.com

ƒ Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m. A Cozy Christmas with Queen City Cabaret

ƒ Dec. 7, 3 p.m. Encore

Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption | Covington. 859-431-2060. cathedralconcertseries.org

ƒ Dec. 7, 3 p.m. Advent Festival of Lessons and Carols

ƒ Jan. 11, 3 p.m. An Epiphany Epilogue

Chamber Music Cincinnati | Memorial Hall, Over-the-Rhine. 513-342-6870. cincychamber.org

ƒ Jan. 13, 7:30 p.m. Miró Quartet

Christ Church Cathedral | Downtown. 513-621-1817. cincinnaticathedral.com

◆ First Sundays, 5 p.m. Choral Evensong

‚ Dec. 21, 4:30 p.m. A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols

‚ Jan. 3-4. 86th Annual Boar’s Head and Yule Log Festival

‚ Jan. 11, 4:30 p.m. An Epiphany Procession

◆ Tuesdays, 12:10 p.m. Music Live at Lunch (Christ Church Chapel):

‚ Dec. 2. Queen City Klezmorim

‚ Dec. 9. Heri et Hodie (women’s vocal ensemble)

‚ Dec. 16. Christ Church Treble Voices –Britten: “A Ceremony of Carols”

‚ Jan. 6. Vincent Phelan, violin; Steve Phillips, piano

‚ Jan. 13. Southbank Quartet

‚ Jan. 20. Faux Frenchmen

‚ Jan. 27. Mika Komuro, piano

Christ Church Glendale | Glendale. 513-771-1544. christchurchglendale.org

ƒ Dec. 4, 12:05 p.m. CCM saxophone quintet

ƒ Dec. 14, 4 p.m. A Festival of Lessons & Carols

ƒ Jan. 8, TBA. Music by violin, cello and piano.

Cincinnati Arts Association | Aronoff Center, downtown. 513-621-2787. cincinnatiarts.org

ƒ Dec. 5, 7 p.m. “Christmas Together” with Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith

& CeCe Winans (Procter & Gamble Hall)

ƒ Dec. 7, 3 & 7:30 p.m. ABBA Holly Jolly Christmas (Jarson-Kaplan Theater)

ƒ Dec. 13, 8 p.m. Jim Brickman Live: The Gift of Christmas (Procter & Gamble Hall)

Cincinnati Camerata | cincinnaticamerata.org

ƒ Dec. 13, 2 p.m. “Morning Star,” music for Advent and Christmas (Hyde Park Methodist, Hyde Park)

ƒ Dec. 14, 3 p.m. Encore (St. Catharine of Siena, Westwood)

Cincinnati Choral Society | Sycamore Presbyterian Church, Sycamore Twp. cincinnatichoralsociety.org

ƒ Dec. 8, 7 p.m. Winter Concert

Cincinnati Civic Orchestra | 513-861-9978. cincinnaticivicorchestra.org

ƒ Dec. 4, 7 p.m. Winter Concert (Kenton County Public Library)

ƒ Dec. 7, 4 p.m. Winter Concert (Springfield Twp.)

ƒ Dec. 11, 7 p.m. Holiday Concert (Colerain Twp.)

Cincinnati Community Orchestra | Church of the Savior United Methodist, Montgomery. 513-317-0300. cincinnaticommunityorchestra.org

ƒ Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m. “Curl Up with a Good Book”

Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra | 513-280-8181. cincinnatijazz.org

ƒ Dec. 14, 2 p.m. Jazz@First: “Harmonies for the Holidays” NKU Vocal Jazz Ensemble (First Unitarian Church, Avondale)

ƒ Dec. 10-11, 7 p.m. Big Band Series: “Jingle Jazz: The Nutcracker Remix” album release party (The Redmoor, Mt. Lookout Square)

Cincinnati Men’s Chorus | Memorial Hall, Over-the-Rhine. 513-542-2626. cincinnatimenschorus.org

ƒ Dec. 6-7, 2 p.m. “Joy!”

Cincinnati String Project | cincinnatistringproject.org

ƒ Jan. 31, 5 p.m. “Cornerstones” (All Saints Episcopal Church, Pleasant Ridge)

ƒ Feb. 1, 5 p.m. Encore (Temple Sholom, Blue Ash)

Cincinnati Symphony & Pops | Music Hall, Over-the-Rhine. 513-381-3300. cincinnatisymphony.org

ƒ Dec. 5-6, 7:30 p.m. (CSO) Handel: “Messiah” Lauren Snouffer, soprano; Sasha Cooke, mezzo-soprano; Nicholas

Phan, tenor; Jonathan Lemalu, bass; May Festival Chorus.

ƒ Dec. 12-14. (Pops) “Holiday Pops” Cody Fry, vocalist

ƒ Dec. 31, 8 p.m. (Pops) “New Year’s Eve: Cabaret Café”

ƒ Jan. 3-4. (Pops) Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story” in Concert

ƒ Jan. 10-11. (CSO) “Trifonov Plays Beethoven” Daniil Trifonov, piano

ƒ Jan. 16-17. (CSO) “American Voices” Morris Robinson, narrator & bass; Rita Dove, poet

ƒ Jan. 22, 7:30 p.m. (Winstead Chamber) “Baroque and Beyond”

ƒ Jan. 23-25. (Pops) Dolly Parton’s “Threads: My Songs in Symphony” Vocalists: Katelyn Drye, Hollie Hammel, Julie Williams, Blair Lamb, Denitia, Ally Jackson and Katie Basden

ƒ Jan. 30-31, 7:30 p.m. (CSO) “Slavic Legends” Oksana Lyniv, conductor; Esther Yoo, violin

Cincinnati Youth Choir | Corbett Auditorium, University of Cincinnati.

513-556-4183. cincinnatichoir.org

ƒ Dec. 13, 2 & 5 p.m. “Glow”

Classical Revolution |

The Loon, Northside.

classicalrevolutioncincinnati.com

ƒ Second Sunday, 7:30 p.m. Chamber music in casual bar setting

Clifton Cultural Arts Center | Clifton. 513-497-2860. cliftonculturalarts.org

ƒ Dec. 14, 2 p.m. Cincinnati Men’s Chorus: “Holiday Tunes with The Queen’s Men”

College-Conservatory of Music | University of Cincinnati. 513-556-4183. ccm.uc.edu

ƒ Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m. Musica Nova: “View From The Edge” (Corbett Theater)

ƒ Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. Chamber Music Bash (Corbett Theater)

ƒ Dec. 6-7, 2 & 5 p.m. “Feast of Carols” (Corbett Auditorium)

ƒ Dec. 8, 7 p.m. Youth Wind Ensemble Jr. Youth Wind Ensemble and Youth Wind Ensemble Saxophone Ensemble: “Winter Fantasy” (Corbett Auditorium)

ƒ Dec. 10, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m. Suzuki Strings (Cohen Studio Theater)

ƒ Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m. UC Symphony Orchestra: Winter Concert (Corbett Auditorium)

ƒ Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m. Bearcat Bands: Winter Concert (Corbett Auditorium)

ƒ Dec. 14, 2 p.m. Jr. Strings Orchestra (Corbett Theater)

ƒ Dec. 14, 7 p.m. Youth Jazz Orchestra and CCM Prep High School Jazz Combo: “Jazz Showcase” (Cohen Studio Theater)

Collegium Cincinnati | Christ Church Cathedral, downtown. collegiumcincinnati.org

ƒ Dec. 7, 3 p.m. Handel: “Messiah”

Fairfield Community Arts Center | Fairfield. 513-867-5348. fairfield-city.org

ƒ Dec. 20, 8 p.m. Tartan Terrors: Celtic Christmas

Fitton Center | Hamilton. 513-863-8873. fittoncenter.org

ƒ Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m. The Ultrasonics

ƒ Jan. 24, 7:30 p.m. Just Strange Brothers

Fountain Square | Downtown.

513-621-4400. myfountainsquare.com

ƒ Sundays thru Dec. 21, 10 a.m. Sunday Soundbath

ƒ Wednesdays, 5 p.m. CCM on Tap

ƒ Thursdays thru Dec. 18, 5 p.m. Fifth & Vinyl

ƒ Fridays thru Dec. 19, 6 p.m. Evening Piano at Winterhaus

CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL

Sublime music in worship and concert

Sunday, December 7 | 3:00 pm Handel’s complete Messiah

Saturday, December 13 | 3:00 pm A Viva Voices Christmas

Friday, December 19 | 7:30 pm

Saturday, December 20 | 2:00 pm An Italian Christmas with VAE

Sunday, December 21 | 5:00 pm

Christmas Lessons and Carols (Pre-service organ recital at 4:30 pm)

Sunday, January 11 | 5:00 pm

Epiphany Lessons and Carols (Pre-service organ recital at 4:30 pm)

Friends of Music Hall | Music Hall Ballroom, Over-the-Rhine. 513-621-2787. friendsofmusichall.org

ƒ Dec. 5, 7 p.m. Happy Holidays with the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ

Ghost Baby | Beneath Over-the-Rhine. ghost-baby.com

ƒ Most evenings. Live music

Hard Rock Casino | Downtown. hardrockcasinocincinnati.com

ƒ Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m. Masters of the Mic (hip-hop)

ƒ Dec. 19, 8 p.m. Chris Isaak

ƒ Dec. 26, 8 p.m. Little River Band

ƒ Jan. 17, 8 p.m. Don McLean

ƒ Jan. 24, 8 p.m. Rob Thomas, supporting Sidewalk Angels Foundation

The Härth Room | Downtown. theharthroom.com/music

ƒ Wednesday-Saturday evenings Live jazz

The Jazz Spoon | Forest Park. thejazzspoon.com

ƒ Friday and Saturday evenings. Live jazz

Knox Church | Hyde Park. 513-321-2573. knox.org/music

ƒ Dec. 14, 2 p.m. Britten: “St. Nicholas” Matthew Swanson, conductor

Linton Chamber Music | 513-381-6868. lintonmusic.org

ƒ Dec. 7, 4 p.m. “Schubert’s Divine Quintet” (First Unitarian Church, Avondale)

ƒ Dec. 8, 7:30 p.m. Encore

ƒ Jan. 18, 4 p.m. “A Dynamic Duo” (First Unitarian Church Avondale)

Ludlow Garage | Clifton. ludlowgaragecincinnati.com

Daniil Trifonov, one of the world’s greatest pianists, joins Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra for Beethoven’s Concerto No. 2, Jan. 10-11 at Music Hall.

ƒ Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m. Eric Gales

ƒ Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m. Samantha Fish

ƒ Dec. 17, 7:30 p.m. Irish Christmas in America

ƒ Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m. Dailey & Vincent

ƒ Dec. 19, 7:30 p.m. Countess Luann de Lesseps Christmas

ƒ Dec. 20, 3:30 & 7:30 p.m. Herman’s Hermits

ƒ Dec. 26, 7:30 p.m. E5C4P3

ƒ Dec. 31, 9 p.m. Red Hot Countdown to 2026

ƒ Jan. 3, 7:30 p.m. Lez Zeppelin

ƒ Jan. 17, 7:30 p.m. Najee

ƒ Jan. 18, 7:30 p.m. Eaglemania

ƒ Jan. 30, 7:30 p.m. Bob James

Madison Theater | Covington. 859-491-2444. madisontheater.com

ƒ Dec. 5, 8 p.m. Leftover Crack

ƒ Dec. 6, 8 p.m. Parmalee

ƒ Dec. 7, 7:30 p.m. Great American Ghost

ƒ Dec. 7, 8 p.m. The Casualties • Soul Coughing

ƒ Dec. 13, 7 p.m. Solar Circuit

ƒ Dec. 13, 8 p.m. Crown Watts

ƒ Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m. TRSH

ƒ Dec. 27, 8 p.m. Coop’s Nightmare

Mason Symphony Orchestra | Manor House, Mason. masonsymphonyorchestra.org

ƒ Dec. 7, 5 p.m. Christmas in Mason Festival Concert

MegaCorp Pavilion at Ovation | Newport. promowestlive.com

ƒ Dec. 5, 7 p.m. Yung Gravy

Memorial Hall | Over-the-Rhine. 513-977-8838. memorialhallotr.com

ƒ Dec. 1, 7 p.m. Al West Jr. “Nat King Cole Christmas”

ƒ Dec. 3, 8 p.m. Celtic Angels Christmas

ƒ Dec. 4, 8 p.m. Chris Renzema

ƒ Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m. A Peter White Christmas

ƒ Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. Storm Large

ƒ Dec. 8-9, 7 p.m. Phil DeGreg Trio “A Charlie Brown Christmas”

ƒ Dec. 12, 8 p.m. Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder Christmas

ƒ Dec. 15, 7 p.m. Mandy Gaines Wishes

You a Swinging Christmas

ƒ Dec. 19-21. An Acoustic Christmas with Over the Rhine

ƒ Dec. 22, 7 p.m. Jordan Pollard Trio “An Oscar Peterson Christmas”

ƒ Jan. 5, 7 p.m. John Zappa’s “Now Hear This”

ƒ Jan. 12, 7 p.m. Brandon Scott Coleman “Chaos Magick”

ƒ Jan. 19, 7 p.m. Ron Jones Quartet

ƒ Jan. 26, 7 p.m. Faux Frenchmen “Revenge of the Faux”

Miami University Performing Arts Series | Hall Auditorium, Oxford. 513-529-3200. miamioh.edu

ƒ Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m. Miami Choral Collective

New Downbeat | Northside Tavern, Northside. newdownbeat.com

ƒ Dec. 11, 6 p.m. Season 7 Fundraiser Concert

No Promises Vocal Band | nopromisesvocalband.com

ƒ Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m. Christmas with No Promises (St. Columban Parish, Loveland)

ƒ Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m. Encore (Community of the Good Shepherd, Montgomery)

ƒ Dec. 20, 7:30 p.m. Encore (The Carnegie, Covington)

Northern Kentucky University | Greaves Concert Hall, Highland Heights. 859-572-5464. music.nku.edu

ƒ Dec. 1, 7 p.m. Steel Band

ƒ Dec. 2, 7 p.m. Jazz Ensemble (Southgate House Revival, Newport)

ƒ Dec. 4, 7 p.m. Wind Symphony

ƒ Dec. 7, 5 p.m. Holiday Choral Concert (St. Thomas Church, Ft. Thomas)

Queen City Balladeers | Leo Coffeehouse, Zion United Church of Christ, Norwood. queencityballadeers.org

ƒ Dec. 7, 6:40 p.m. Greg Schaber, Greg Hansen, Two Picks

ƒ Dec. 14, 6 p.m. Open mic

ƒ Jan. 4, 6:40 p.m. Fresh Baked Bluegrass, Jolly Old Hawk, Mike Boerschig

ƒ Jan. 11, 6:40 p.m. Raison D’Tre, Whistlestop, Kabir Bakie & Isiah Tam

ƒ Jan. 18, 6 p.m. Open mic

ƒ Jan. 25, 6:40 p.m. Anna & the Deeper Well, Liz Bowater and Kaitlin Morrison

Queen City Cabaret | The Carnegie, Covington. queencitycabaretcincy.com

ƒ Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m. “A Cozy Christmas”

ƒ Dec. 7, 3 p.m. “A Cozy Christmas”

Radio Artifact | Urban Artifact, Northside. radioartifact.com

ƒ Sundays, 4 p.m. Open jam

ƒ Thursdays, 7 p.m. Open jazz

The Redmoor | Mt. Lookout. theredmoor.com

ƒ Most Fridays & Saturdays, 6 p.m. Rock and jazz

River’s Edge Brass Band | Norman Chapel, Spring Grove Cemetery. riversedgebrass.com

ƒ Dec. 7, 3 p.m. Holiday Concert

St. Rose Church | East End. 513-871-1162. strosecincinnati.org

ƒ Dec. 19, 7:30 p.m. Advent Concert

ƒ Dec. 21, 3 p.m. Advent Concert

Schwartz’s Point | Five Points, Over-the-Rhine. thepointclub.weebly.com

ƒ Thursdays-Sundays. Live jazz

Southgate House | Newport. 859-431-2201. southgatehouse.com

ƒ Nightly rock, alternative blues, etc.

Sycamore Community Singers | Sycamore Presbyterian Church, Sycamore Twp. sycamorecommunitysingers.com

ƒ Dec. 4-5, 7:30 p.m. Winter Concert

Symphony Hotel & Vivaldi’s Restaurant | Over-the-Rhine. symphonyhotel.com

ƒ Thursday-Saturday evenings. Live jazz

Taft Theatre | Downtown. tafttheatre.org

ƒ Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. Old Crow Medicine Show

ƒ Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m. Straight No Chaser

ƒ Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m. Preservation Hall Jazz Band

ƒ Dec. 12, 8 p.m. King George

ƒ Dec. 13, 8 p.m. Matteo Bocelli

ƒ Jan. 17, 7:30 p.m. Trampled By Turtles

ƒ Jan. 29, 6:30 p.m. Infamous Stringdusters

Trinity Episcopal Church, Midday Musical Menu | Covington. 859-431-1786. trinitycovington.org

ƒ Dec. 17, 12:15 p.m. Christmas carol sing

ƒ Jan. 21, 12:15 p.m.. Vincent Phelan, violin; Steve Phillips, piano

Viva Voices | Christ Church Cathedral, downtown. vivavoices.net

ƒ Dec. 13, 3 p.m. “A Viva Voices Christmas”

Vocal Arts Ensemble | Christ Church Cathedral, downtown. 513-381-3300. vaecinci.com

ƒ Dec. 19, 7:30 p.m. “An Italian Christmas”

ƒ Dec. 20, 2 p.m. Encore

Woodward Theater | Over-the-Rhine. 513-345-7981. woodwardtheater.com

ƒ Dec. 5-6, 8 p.m. The Raisins

Young Professionals Choral Collective | St. Francis de Sales, Walnut Hills. 513-601-8699. ypccsing.org

ƒ Dec. 13, 3 p.m. Winter Cycle Concert: “Lux Aeterna” with Cincinnati Collective Ringing Project

Theater/Comedy

The Angelico Projec t | St. Monica St. George, Clifton Heights. angelicoproject.org

ƒ 3rd Monday, 7 p.m. Catholic Theater Group

ƒ 1st Wednesday, 7-9 p.m. Improv Night

Beechmont Players | Anderson Center, Anderson Twp. 513-233-2468. beechmontplayers.org

ƒ Dec. 11-14. “It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play”

Broadway Across America | Procter & Gamble Hall, Aronoff Center, downtown. 513-721-3344. cincinnati.broadway.com

ƒ Dec. 16-Jan. 4. “Hamilton”

ƒ Jan. 13-25. “Hell’s Kitchen”

The Carnegie | Covington. 859-491-2030. thecarnegie.com

ƒ Dec. 9-10. “It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play”

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati | Emery Theatre, Over-the-Rhine. 513-569-8080. thechildrenstheatre.com

ƒ Dec. 5-21. “Elf, the Musical Jr.”

Cincinnati Arts Association | Aronoff Center, downtown. 513-621-2787. cincinnatiarts.org

ƒ Dec. 6, 5 & 8 p.m. Jerry Seinfeld (Procter & Gamble Hall)

ƒ Dec. 12, 7 p.m. A Magical Cirque Christmas (Procter & Gamble Hall)

ƒ Jan. 24, 4 & 8 p.m. The Jokers of Magic (Jarson-Kaplan Theater)

Cincinnati Landmark Productions | Covedale Center, Price Hill. 513-241-6550. cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com

ƒ Dec. 4-28. “Holiday Inn”

ƒ Jan. 22-Feb. 15. “Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story”

Cincinnati Music Theatre | Fifth Third Bank Theater, Aronoff Center, downtown. 513-621-2787. cincinnatimusictheatre.org

ƒ Jan. 23-31. “Witchcraft: The Songs of Cy Coleman”

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company | Over-the-Rhine. 513-381-2273. cincyshakes.com

ƒ Thru Dec. 6. “Love’s Labour’s Lost”

ƒ Dec. 10-28. “Every Christmas Story Ever Told”

ƒ Jan. 30-Feb. 15. “A Soldier’s Play”

College-Conservatory of Music | University of Cincinnati. 513-556-4183. ccm.uc.edu

ƒ Dec. 4-6. “The World Goes ’Round” (Cohen Studio Theater)

ƒ Dec. 9-10. “It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” (The Carnegie, Covington)

Commonwealth Sanctuary | Dayton, Ky. commonwealthsanctuary.com

ƒ Weekly comedy shows

Dayton Live Broadway Series | Schuster Center, Dayton, Ohio. daytonlive.org/series/broadway

ƒ Dec. 2-7. “Back To The Future: The Musical”

Dayton Playhouse | Dayton, Ohio. wordpress.thedaytonplayhouse.com

ƒ Jan. 16-Feb. 1. “Jesus Christ Superstar”

The Dinner Detective | Embassy Suites Rivercenter, Covington. thedinnerdetective.com/cincinnati

ƒ Saturdays, 6 p.m. Murder Mystery Dinner Show

Drama Workshop | Cheviot. 513-598-8303. thedramaworkshop.org

ƒ Dec. 5-21. “Christmas My Way: A Brat Pack Holiday Bash”

ƒ Jan. 9-11. “Home Brew Theatre 9” celebration of short plays

Ensemble Theatre | Over-the-Rhine. 513-421-3555. ensemblecincinnati.org

ƒ Dec. 3-31. “It’s Fritz”

ƒ Jan. 31-Feb. 22. “Where We Stand”

Falcon Theatre | Newport. 513-479-6783. falcontheater.net

ƒ Jan. 23-Feb. 7. “A Girl In School Uniform (Walks into a Bar)”

Fitton Center | Hamilton. 513-863-8873. fittoncenter.org

ƒ Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. “Reindeer Games”

ƒ Jan. 16, 7:30 p.m. Cap’n Kraken’s Yo Ho Ho Pirate Show

Footlighters | Stained Glass Theatre, Newport. 859-291-7464. footlighters.org

ƒ Jan. 29-Feb. 15. “A Streetcar Named Desire”

The Funny Bone | Liberty Twp. liberty.funnybone.com

ƒ Weekly comedy shows

The Ghostlight Stage Company | Falcon Theatre, Newport. theghostlightstageco.com

Fiona the world-famous hippo has a little brother who is getting his own moment in the spotlight. Ensemble Theatre debuts “It’s Fritz,” a new musical about him finding his place in the hippoverse. Runs Dec. 3-31

ƒ Dec. 1, 7 p.m. Ghostlight x Caracole World AIDS Day Project

Go Bananas Comedy Club | Montgomery. gobananascomedy.com

ƒ Weekly comedy shows

Human Race Theatre | Loft Theatre, Dayton, Ohio. humanracetheatre.org

ƒ Dec. 10-21. “Seasonal Shorts”

Improv Cincinnati | Clifton Performance Theatre, Clifton. improvcincinnati.com

ƒ Thursday-Saturday evenings. Comedy shows

Kincaid Regional Theatre | Falmouth. 859-654-2636. krtshows.com

ƒ Dec. 4-14. “The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe”

Know Theatre | Over-the-Rhine. 513-300-5669. knowtheatre.com

ƒ Thru Dec. 21. “‘Die Hard’ is a Christmas Movie”

ƒ Jan. 26. “Serials!” Season 16

La Comedia Dinner Theatre | Springboro. 800-677-9505. lacomedia.com

ƒ Thru Dec. 28. “Scrooge: The Musical”

ƒ Jan. 15-Feb. 15. “Murder on the Orient Express”

Loveland Stage Company | Loveland. 513-443-4572. lovelandstagecompany.org

ƒ Jan. 9-25. “Zanna, Don’t!”

Lumos Players I Maineville. lumosplayers.com

ƒ Dec. 12-20. “A Sherlock Carol”

Mariemont Players | Mariemont. 513-684-1236. mariemontplayers.com

ƒ Jan. 8-25. “Scotland Road”

Mason Community Players | Mason Community Playhouse, Mason. 513-398-7804. masonplayers.org

ƒ Dec. 4-7. “Welcome to Our Home for Christmas”

Memorial Hall | Over-the-Rhine. 513-977-8838. memorialhallotr.com

ƒ Dec. 13, 2 & 7 p.m. River City Puppets: “A Muppet Christmas Carol” screening with live musical performance

Northern Kentucky University | Highland Heights. 859-572-5464. theatre.nku.edu

ƒ Thru Dec. 7. “A Christmas Carol” (Corbett Theatre)

ƒ Dec. 7-8, 7:30 p.m. First Year Showcase (Stauss Theatre)

Oxford Community Arts Center | Oxford. 513-524-8506. oxarts.org

ƒ Dec. 19, 7 p.m. Madcap Puppets: “A Madcap Christmas Carol”

ƒ Jan. 23, 7 p.m. Madcap Puppets: “Aesop’s Fables”

Playhouse in the Park | Mt. Adams. 513-421-3888. cincyplay.com

ƒ Thru Dec. 28. “A Christmas Carol” (Rouse Theatre)

ƒ Dec. 3-23. “Because You’re Mine” (Rosenthal Shelterhouse Theatre)

ƒ Jan. 17-Feb. 15. “Little Women” (Rouse Theatre)

School for Creative & Performing Arts | Over-the-Rhine.

513-363-8100. scpa.cps-k12.org

ƒ Jan. 30-31. “Orphan Trains”

Sunset Players | Arts Center at Dunham, Price Hill. 513-588-4988. sunsetplayers.org

ƒ Dec. 5-14. “Christmas at the Bayou Bowl”

Taft Theatre | Downtown. tafttheatre.org

ƒ Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. Bored Teachers Comedy Tour

ƒ Jan. 10, 8 p.m. Trey Kennedy, comedian

ƒ Jan. 16, 7 p.m. Fortune Feimster, comedian

ƒ Jan. 18, 8 p.m. Grace Helbig, comedian

Tri-County Players | Bell Tower Arts Pavilion, Evendale. 513-471-2030. facebook.com

ƒ Dec. 5-13. “A Christmas Carol”

True Theatre | Memorial Hall, Over-the-Rhine. memorialhallotr.com

ƒ Jan. 22, 7:30 p.m. “trueLOVE”

Village Players | Ft. Thomas. 859-392-0500. villageplayers.org

ƒ Dec. 5-14. “A Doublewide, Texas Christmas”

Visual Art

21c Museum Hotel | Downtown. 513-578-6600. 21cmuseumhotels.com/cincinnati

ƒ Thru August . “Fragile Figures: Beings and Time”

The Angelico Project | St. Francis Xavier Church, downtown. angelicoproject.org

ƒ Jan. 24-April 9. Annual Juried Art Exhibition. Reception: Jan. 24, 7-10 p.m.

Art Academy of Cincinnati | Over-theRhine. 513-562-6262. artacademy.edu

ƒ Thru Dec. 12. “Story Art: Works by Regional Book Illustrators”

ƒ Jan. 30-March 6. AAC Faculty Exhibition 2026. Reception: Jan. 30, 5-8 p.m.

Art Beyond Boundaries | Over-the-Rhine. 513-421-8726. artbeyondboundaries.com

ƒ Thru January. “Changing Perceptions: Just Us”

Art on Vine | Rhinegeist Brewery, Over-the-Rhine. artonvinecincy.com

ƒ Dec. 7, noon-6 p.m. Holiday Gifts

ƒ Dec. 21, noon-6 p.m. Holiday Gifts

ARTclectic Gallery | Silverton. 513-822-5200. artclecticgallery.com

ƒ Thru Dec. 31. “Small Art for Big Smiles”

ArtWorks | Walnut Hills. 513-333-0388. artworkscincinnati.org

ƒ Thru Dec. 4. Josie Love Roebuck: “Threads of our Lives”

Baker Hunt Art & Cultural Center | Covington. 859-431-0020. bakerhunt.org

ƒ Thru Feb. 20. DBL Art Show

The Carnegie | Covington. 859-491-2030. thecarnegie.com

ƒ Thru March 7. “All Four Seasons in Equal Measure”

Cincinnati Art Club | Mt. Adams. 513-241-4591. cincinnatiartclub.org

ƒ Jan. 16-18, Abstract Art Exhibition.

Reception: Jan. 16, 6-8:30 p.m.

Cincinnati Art Galleries | Downtown. 513-381-2128. cincyart.com

ƒ Dec. 6-Jan. 23. “Panorama of Cincinnati Art XL”

Cincinnati Art Museum | Eden Park. 513-721-2787. cincinnatiartmuseum.org

ƒ Thru Jan. 4. “Recall. Reframe. Respond. The Art of Paul Scott”

ƒ Thru Jan. 11. “Influence(d): Female Innovators in Contemporary Japanese Design”

ƒ Thru Jan. 18. “Rediscovered Treasures”

ƒ Thru Feb. 22. Modern and Contemporary Craft

ƒ Thru March 1. “What, Me Worry? The Art and Humor of MAD Magazine”

ƒ Thru April 5. Tamary Kudita: “African Victorian and Birds of Paradise”

ƒ Jan. 30, 5-9 p.m. Art After Dark

Cincinnati Nature Center | Milford. cincynature.org

ƒ Thru Dec. 7. “Walk in the Woods”

ƒ Dec. 11-Jan. 4. “Woodland Wonders”

Clay Alliance | Clifton Recreation Center, Clifton. clayalliance.org

ƒ Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Holiday Pottery Fair

Clifton Cultural Arts Center | Clifton. 513-497-2860. cliftonculturalarts.org

ƒ Thru Dec. 12. “The Golden Ticket” juried exhibition

Contemporary Arts Center | Downtown. 513-345-8400. contemporaryartscenter.org

ƒ Thru Dec. 30. Kahlil Robert Irving: “Ground Water from screen Falls [(Collaged media) + Midwest] Street”

ƒ Thru Jan. 25. “Sheida Soleimani: What a Revolutionary Must Know” • Lillian Schwartz: “Pictures from a Gallery”

ƒ Thru Oct. 31. “Gravity’s Rainbow”

The Contemporary Dayton | Dayton, Ohio. 937-224-3822. codayton.org

ƒ Thru Jan. 24. Xaviera Simmons: “Figure Eleven” Reception: Jan. 24, 4-6 p.m.

DAAP Galleries | University of Cincinnati. 513-556-2839. daap.uc.edu

ƒ Thru Dec. 7. “Wright in Ohio: Photographs by Thomas R. Schiff” (Reed Gallery)

On Dec. 4, a studio in the Solway Building in the West End will host “Surface Tension,” featuring works by Jolie Harris, Suzanne Fisher and Sarah Jane Bellamy, 5-8 p.m.

Dayton Art Institute | Dayton, Ohio. 937-223-4278. daytonartinstitute.org

ƒ Thru Jan. 4. “Strange Worlds: Photographs by Jay Hoops”

ƒ Thru Jan. 11. “The Triumph of Nature: Art Nouveau from the Chrysler Museum of Art”

ƒ Thru April 19. “Engaged: Rings from Around the World”

ƒ Dec. 6-Feb. 22. Dayton Printmakers Cooperative: Dayton/Kyoto Invitational

Dayton Society of Artists | Dayton, Ohio. 937-228-4532. daytondsa.org

ƒ Thru Dec. 13. “Small But Mighty 2025”

Essex Studios | Walnut Hills. 513-476-2170. essexstudioscincinnati.com

ƒ Dec. 5-6, 6-10 p.m. Art Walk

Eva G. Farris Galler y | Thomas More University, Crestview Hills. 859-344-3300. thomasmore.edu

ƒ Thru Dec. 4. 2025 Juried High School Art Exhibition

Evendale Cultural Arts Center | Evendale. 513-563-1350. evendaleohio.org

ƒ Thru Feb. 1. Juried Photo Exhibit

Fitton Center | Hamilton. 513-863-8873. fittoncenter.org

ƒ Thru Jan. 9. “Rock & Root”

Gallery 506 | Elsmere. 513-919-5415. gallery-506.com

ƒ Thru Dec. 20. Frank Herrmann: “Dimensions”

Glendale Heritage Preservation | Village Square, Glendale. 513-771-8722. glendaleheritage.org

ƒ Permanent exhibition: “Women of Glendale”

Kennedy Heights Arts Center | Kennedy Heights. 513-631-4278. kennedyarts.org

ƒ Thru Dec. 11. Local Talent 2025

ƒ Thru Dec. 20. “Unleashed: New Works by Kennedy Collective Members”

Manifest Gallery | East Walnut Hills. 513-861-3638. manifestgallery.org

ƒ Thru Dec. 5. “Lost Arts” • “Furniture”

• “Tools”

ƒ Dec. 12-Jan. 9. “Tapped 16” • “Jubilee” • “Glimmer” • 16th Annual Manifest Prize Reception: Dec. 12, 6-9 p.m.

ƒ Jan. 23-Feb. 20. “Echo” • “Numbers” • “Interface” Reception: Jan. 23, 6-9 p.m.

Miami University/Richard and Carole Cocks Art Museum | Oxford. 513-529-2232. miamioh.edu/cca/ art-museum

ƒ Thru Dec. 13. From the Collections (Douglass Gallery) • Department of Art Faculty and Alumni Exhibition (McKie and Farmer Galleries)

ƒ Jan. 27-June 13, 2026. From the Collections (Douglass Gallery) • “Culture Crops” (Farmer Gallery) • Art & Architecture History Senior Capstone (McKie Gallery)

Middletown Arts Center | Middletown. 513-424-2417. middletownartscenter.com

ƒ Thru Dec. 11. Area Art Exhibition

The Mohawk Gallery | Over-the-Rhine. 513-381-5116. robinimaging.com

ƒ Thru Dec. 12. The Art of Kevin Nichols

Northern Kentucky University | Highland Heights. 859-572-5148. nku.edu/gallery

ƒ Thru Dec. 5. BFA Senior Exhibitions

ƒ Jan. 22-Feb. 19. FE26: Art & Design

Faculty Exhibition • Julie MaderMeersman: “Sabbatical Work”

Pendleton Art Center | Pendleton. 513-421-4339. pendletonartcenter.com

ƒ Final Fridays, 5-9 p.m. Open studios

Pendleton Art Center - Middletown | Middletown. 513-465-5038. pendletonartcenter.com

ƒ First Fridays, 5-9 p.m. Open studios

Queen City Clay | Norwood. queencityclay.com

ƒ Thru Dec. 31. Annual Resident Art Show

Rosewood Arts Centre | Rosewood Gallery, Kettering. 937-296-0294. playkettering.org/rosewood-gallery-home

ƒ Thru Jan. 3. Eden Quispe: quilts • Denny Gerwin: figurative work

Sharonville Cultural Arts Center | Sharonville. 513-554-1014. sharonvilleculturalarts.org

ƒ Thru Dec. 13. Art North 2025 Exhibition

Skirball Museum | Hebrew Union College, Clifton. csm.huc.edu

ƒ Thru Feb. 9. “The Collars of RBG: Photographs of Elinor Carucci”

Lecture: Dec. 2, 7 p.m. Abby Schwartz

Solway Building | 424 Findlay St., West End.

ƒ Dec. 4, 5-8 p.m. “Surface Tension,” works by Jolie Harris, Suzanne Fisher and Sarah Jane Bellamy

Solway Gallery | 424 Findlay St., West End. 513-621-0069. solwaygallery.com

ƒ Thru Jan. 15. Yoko Ono: “Colours of the Globe,” exhibition of multiples and ephemera from 1966-2014 • Gregory Thorp: “Bliss,” recent photographs

Studio San Giuseppe Art Gallery | Mount St. Joseph University, Delhi. msj.edu

ƒ Thru Dec. 3. “Selections 2025”

In a celebration of local art excellence, the Weston Art Gallery presents 16 Cincinnatiarea artists who received Summerfair grants from 2022 to 2024. Through Jan. 11 at the Aronoff Center, downtown.

ƒ Jan. 22-March 18. “Cultural Tradition & Artistic Voices”

Summit Hotel | Madisonville. 513-527-9900. thesummithotel.com

ƒ Thru Feb. 28. “Outer Space / Inner Worlds”

Taft Museum of Art | Lytle Park, downtown. 513-241-0343. taftmuseum.org

ƒ Thru Jan. 11. “Indigo and the Art of Quiltmaking”

Warren County Historical Museum | 105 S. Broadway, Lebanon. wchsmuseum.org

ƒ Thru Dec. 5. Thomas Corwin: “A Profile in Courage”

Weston Art Gallery | Aronoff Center, downtown. 513-977-4165. cincinnatiarts.org/weston-art-gallery

ƒ Thru Jan. 11. Carmel Buckley and Mark Harris: “Sparrow Come Back Home” • Summerfair Select 2025

ƒ Jan. 30-March 15. Beverly Fishman: “— orexia” • John Brooks: “Islands Are Not Forever” • Terence Hammonds: “Transmission from the Mothership” Reception: Jan. 30, 6-8 p.m.

Wright State University | Creative Arts Center, Fairborn. liberal-arts.wright.edu/art-galleries

ƒ Thru Dec. 13. 2025 Art Faculty and Staff Exhibition • Kathy A. Moore: “Quiet Intimate Order–Still Lifes from My Perspective”

Xavier University Art Gallery | A.B. Cohen Center, Evanston. xavier.edu/art-department

ƒ Dec. 4-19. Thesis Exhibitions 

Get listed

Arts/Culture listings are free. Send event details and photos to: editor@moversmakers.org

See Page 4 for print deadlines. Visit moversmakers.org for more listings.

Cincinnati Art Galleries celebrates 40 Years of Panorama of Cincinnati Art

This year’s Panorama XL will benefit the Taft Museum of Art and its upcoming exhibition Edie McKee Harper: Modernist at Play

Opening Night Reception: Friday, December 5th, 2025 | 5-8 pm

$125 per person | Reservations Required Opens free to the public December 6th and continues through January 23rd, 2026. This exhibition and sale will feature over 150 works by Cincinnati artists and other artists from the Cincinnati region, as well as paintings by our gallery artists.

Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, & Saturday from 10am - 4pm Thursday from 10am - 6pm | Closed Sunday & Monday Cincinnati Art Galleries

225 East 6th Street | Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 513-381-2128 | art@cincyart.com | www.cincyart.com

Christy Samad puts pieces together to strengthen OTR and downtown Power of connection

By John O. Faherty

WhenChristy Samad graduated from the University of Cincinnati in 2006 with a degree in marketing and international business, she knew she wanted to be available for her family because her father was seriously ill. But she also wanted to make sure the world did not pass her by.

So she took a job that looked like a side gig but was actually a strategic decision. She served breakfast and coffee at First Watch in Rookwood Pavilion. The job brought in steady cash and allowed her to help take care of her dad. But there was one other element that mattered to her.

“Half the people eating there are having morning work meetings,” Samad said. “I met everybody.”

Even then, she knew the power of connection.

Nobody who knows Samad will be surprised to learn that her plan worked to perfection. A married couple, a pair of regulars, would always ask Samad how she was doing, what she was up to, and what was next for her. Late in 2007, she told them that the night before she had been to the lighting of the Christmas tree at Fountain Square and that it was terrific.

Because this was Cincinnati, where everybody knows everybody, the couple of course told Samad that their daughter had organized the event.

The following Monday, that same couple found her number in the phone book, called her and told her that their daughter was looking for an intern.

The daughter was Kelly Leon, at the time the vice president for communications and community relations for the Cincinnati Center City Development Corp. – better known as 3CDC. 3CDC is a nonprofit real estate development and finance organization focused on revitalizing the city’s urban core in partnership with the City of Cincinnati and the Cincinnati corporate

community. Its work is focused on the Central Business District and Over-the-Rhine.

Samad got the internship, and somewhere along the way she forgot to leave. But in her 17 years, she has never stood still. She spent four years in Communications, and then 12 years in Events, where she was named vice president and then senior vice president. In 2024, the Event Management and Commercial Leasing teams merged under Samad’s oversight and she was promoted to executive vice president of civic and commercial space activation.

And through it all, Samad is still making connections with people as she did when she was serving egg sandwiches and coffee to regulars at First Watch.

A destination and a neighborhood

Liz Keating has worked with Samad as both a Cincinnati City Council member and as vice president of government affairs and advocacy with the Cincinnati Regional Chamber. She thinks Cincinnati is lucky to have Samad.

“Christy brings both professional expertise and lived experience to Over-the-Rhine. As a leader, she understands the market forces that make the district flourish, yet as a resident, she sees the deeper story: neighbors, small businesses and local families who bring it alive,” Keating said. “Her approach is about more than filling storefronts; it’s about curating a mix that strengthens OTR as both a vibrant destination and a thriving neighborhood.”

The term “space activation” may seem squishy and confusing, but at 3CDC it boils down to maintaining two vibrant neighborhoods. The fact that those two neighborhoods are downtown and OTR means a lot of people are depending on Samad.

There is no doubt that there are plenty of good options to eat and drink in downtown and OTR, and those are important pieces for a

neighborhood. But Samad knows there is much work to be done. Adding a viable grocery store, Kroger On The Rhine, was a significant step. The next step may mean adding things like florists’ shops and dentists and dry cleaners.

These are the things, like churches and schools, that keep people grounded in a neighborhood … keep them in a neighborhood.

“We are always answering the question of how do we keep our neighborhood vibrant and safe,” Samad said.

Samad also works to make sure that, when people commit to the area, they get the help they need to stay successful. Idlewild is a good example. It’s a clothing store for women with good and interesting taste. Idlewild opened 10 years ago on Vine Street, and this year expanded. This must be considered a real success.

Tessa Clark is co-owner of the store and the person who runs it. She knows how important Samad’s work is for the community.

“I worked directly with Christy during Idlewild’s recent expansion,” Clark said. “She listens, is personable and has 3CDC’s tenants’ best interests. She’s obviously dedicated to OTR and making an impact on downtown Cincinnati. She lives and breathes downtown, and that was obvious when working with her.”

Samad is the definition of local. She grew up in Cincinnati, went to Walnut Hills High School, and now lives near Findlay Market with her husband and their two children. So she is committed to her city and her home.

“Downtown and Over-the-Rhine are our neighborhoods. This is where we are raising our children. It matters to us.”

Connecting separate spaces

3CDC is invested in a lot. The organization is committed to mixed-use developments with residents typically living above street-level

Continued on Page 22

By Shauna Steigerwald

At MiCA 12/v, the Deiningers are ‘telling a story’

Mike Deininger and Carolyn Deininger’s story is a tale of love and art and leaps of faith. It’s taken them around the world, from Portland, Maine, to Cornwall, England, to Chincoteague Island in Virginia’s Eastern Shore region.

But it was Cincinnati and Over-the-Rhine that ultimately won their hearts – and benefited from their entrepreneurial spirits. For the last 18 years, their gift shop and gallery MiCA 12/v has been a fixture on the corner for which it’s named, showcasing design-based, handmade local art at 12th and Vine streets.

Chapter one

Their story begins like this: 1990. Maine. Carolyn: A student at Portland School of Art (now Maine College of Art & Design). Mike: A former Cincinnatian whose wanderlust had brought him to the Navy and Bath, Maine, the shipbuilding town where Carolyn grew up.

Both spent their childhoods surrounded by makers. Not only did Carolyn’s mother knit and make toys, but she was also the bookkeeper for a craft co-op.

“I spent a lot of time in that store,” Carolyn said. “They were mostly women taking care of kids and selling things on the side that they could make.”

Her father, meanwhile, remodeled their entire house, even building the staircase and vanity. Similarly, Mike’s mom ran a handmade shop in Madeira in the 1970s, and his father built things.

By 1990, they were living in very different settings.

“I was around art students and here was this very clean-cut, super-polite military guy who opened the doors for me. (And you still open doors for me.) I was very different than the Navy people,” Carolyn said.

“I thought you were exciting to be around,” Mike replied. “You were in art school; your apartment was cool.”

Despite those contrasts, the two were alike enough to get each other’s jokes and have fun together.

“You had such an innate goodness about you, and that meant a lot,” Carolyn added.

In the days before email and FaceTime, sending letters and postcards while Mike was at sea fueled Carolyn’s love for stationery – a love that, many years later, manifested as Paper Wings, the couple’s stationery shop. (It opened in 2019 in its own space, just up Vine; in 2024, they moved it to the second side of MiCA 12/v.)

They married in 1993 and spent the next decade traveling with the Navy. Immersion in the artistic traditions of Cornwall (not to mention the many other parts of Europe they visited) and years working in an artist-owned shop on Chincoteague Island fueled the dream Carolyn had had since college of owning her own shop. Importantly, she wanted it to be a store with a point of view.

“There was not a specific aesthetic in the stores (back then),” she said. “It’s something that’s really changed in the last 10 years … where stores have a really thought out vision instead of just having handmade items from everywhere that aren’t a specific look.”

Finding their place

When Mike got out of the Navy, they might have stayed in Chincoteague to pursue that dream. But by then, another important character – 2-year-old Madelyn – had joined their story.

The couple saw Cincinnati as having better opportunities for their daughter, including the chance to grow up around Mike’s family. They moved here in 2003, opening MiCA (a moniker

that combined the first two letters of each of their first names) Contemporary Craft in O’Bryonville that same year.

“We did everything you’re supposed to do –the business plan, and all that,” Carolyn said. “The tough thing was, and it still is really, is balance.”

That meant being there for Madelyn, who would come to the store with Carolyn and make little drawings she’d sell for five cents. Mike worked second and third shifts in tech support at Fifth Third Bank for their first three years.

“It was tough, but rewarding, because I was getting to do what I’d been wanting to do for years,” Carolyn said.

Fortunately, they had a lot of support: Carolyn’s mom came from Maine and lived with them from the time Madelyn was 5 until she went to college. She and Mike’s mom each worked in the shop one day a week for the first year so it could be open every day.

With the security net of a military retirement, Mike quit his job in 2006 to focus on the store.

“We knew it might actually work; people were responding to it, and it was going to be OK,” Carolyn said, with Mike adding “probably.”

The idea of a second store wasn’t even on their radar when, in 2007, 3CDC approached them about opening one in Over-the-Rhine.

“They brought us down here and showed us all these beautiful spaces that were completely raw at the time,” Carolyn said. The 1,000-square-foot space that’s now their shop “had a toilet in the middle and the windows were completely boarded up.

“It was for sure a leap of faith,” she said. “But you could just see it.”

“It” was not only the potential of a neighborhood in transition, but also the possibility of one day owning a beautiful corner space on what

commercial spaces – ideally a locally owned business. 3CDC has completed dozens of mixed-use residential developments, resulting in nearly 600 condos and more than 1,700 apartment units and creating over 2 million square feet of commercial space.

Now it is time to tie it all together. Samad talks about the eight civic spaces that 3CDC manages. Think of these as pockets of development with residents and businesses and amenities. They are: Fountain Square, Washington Park, Zeigler Park, Memorial Hall, Court Street Plaza, Imagination Alley, Elm Street Plaza – which is coming online as the Convention Center is rebuilt – and the Findlay Community Center coming in 2027.

Sometimes these are a geographic area, sometimes a particular anchor. 3CDC builds spaces to live and work, and then finds ways to breathe life into them.

“At the end of the day, we all just want a vibrant, well-working community,” Samad said. “We have these assets and want people to enjoy them.”

Eventually, these civic spaces will run from Findlay Market all the way south to the river. In theory, a person could leave a Cincinnati Bengals game, stop at Elm Street Plaza, then Fountain Square and Court Street Plaza, stop at Ziegler Park or Imagination Alley, see a show at Memorial Hall, and have dinner near Findlay Market in a city that feels safe and connected.

And yes, safety is part of every conversation. This summer seemed like an endless debate about the safety of our city. Every website, TV station and newspaper was telling stories of lawlessness and danger, despite the fact that many people who work and live downtown and in OTR feel safe.

“We have so much good happening here. Why the media is focusing on crime is a good question,” Samad said. “Yes, there is some crime, same as anywhere else in the country.”

And the work is not stopping.

“We are going to continue to lean into local businesses. We are going to continue to have events. We are going to keep working with our businesses to learn what they need and how we can help. And we are going to continue to bring in more services. That is the next step, services for the people who live and work here. We will continue with density and food and beverages, but services are important.” 

would become the streetcar line.

When MiCA opened, it had a handful of shops and restaurants, as well as Ensemble Theatre, as neighbors.

“There weren’t a lot of us,” Carolyn said. “It looks very different now.”

“It was exciting,” Mike said. “There was always something new opening.”

Their intention was to operate both stores, each with its own style and inventory. But after two years of running both, the economic downturn hit, and they had to make a choice.

“We would have people come into the O’Bryonville store and find something they wanted to buy; they’d ask to transfer it here (to OTR) so they could pay for it and support this store,” Carolyn said. “It was kind of a clear decision based on that. … People were really loyal to this neighborhood.”

“And the idea of this neighborhood,” Mike added.

“It’s where our hearts were,” Carolyn said. “That’s hokey, but it’s what we wanted.”

While the neighborhood stole their hearts, it also benefited from their presence.

“They’re trailblazers, really,” said Bertie Ray III, co-owner of Switch Lighting & Design, which opened two doors up from MiCA in 2008. (It has since moved to Fourth Street and, in 2023, to Sixth Street.) “They really took a chance on the neighborhood back in the early days.

“I believe that their consistent presence at 12th and Vine has made it possible for other retailers to open up, especially in the Vine Street corridor, because they’ve seen their longevity there,” he added. “They’ve been a stabilizing force for retail in Over-the-Rhine.”

Ray attributes MiCA’s longevity to the couple’s creativity and leadership, as well as their “consistent high-quality merchandise, unique vendors, excellent customer service.”

“They really are just two stellar individuals, and together they are one of the best teams … that I know,” he said.

Even after nearly two decades, the Deiningers still enjoy working together. These days, Carolyn often works from their North Avondale home on behind-the-scenes tasks, like ordering merchandise; about half of it is by local artists. Mike is in the shop “about 50 hours per week –probably even more.”

“They both work too much,” daughter Madelyn, now 24, affirms from the next room.

“It’s fun to work here; I love being here,” Mike said.

“There’s no way I could have done this or could still be here without you,” Carolyn said. “We make a really good team.”

New chapters still being written

As their story has unfolded, the Mike and Carolyn have watched their community change during their long tenure on Vine. In the early days, “People would come in and just hang out and chat … it was a lot of familiar faces over and over,” Carolyn said.

Today, many of their customers are tourists, visiting the city for conferences or events.

“I think it is amazing that every day, what you can count on is somebody coming in who doesn't live in Cincinnati and telling you how great Cincinnati is,” Mike said, noting that he’s excited to see if the renovations to the Convention Center will bring in even more groups.

“From our perspective sitting here on this corner, (tourism) feels like it’s building,” Carolyn said.

They’d love to see the empty storefronts on nearby streets filled with more independent stores. With the number of visitors they get, they think there’s still plenty of opportunity.

“I don’t think you can have too much,” Carolyn said. “This is already such an artsoriented area; it would make sense if there were more galleries and things down here. I think the independent stores and having all of that in this area, that is Cincinnati. It is the identity of this city … you’re getting a picture of the city that is unique when you have the ability to shop in a small store and buy locally made things.”

But they stress that there are already plenty of “very worthy options” to shop on Vine Street alone.

“I think people really care about where they’re spending their money,” Carolyn said. “That’s turned back to the early days; it feels like people want to support us because we’re an independent, small store.”

And, as Carolyn always dreamed, it’s a store with a point of view, a distinct aesthetic.

“I want it to feel like a collection of things that works together, that could all be in one person’s home,” Carolyn said. “I’m hoping that we’re telling a story.” 

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24 The Datebook

DEC. 4, THURSDAY

Baker Hunt, Annual Sip & Shop Holiday Art Market | 4-7 p.m. Baker Hunt, Covington. Shop local artists, baked goods, cash bar, kids crafting table, gift wrapping station, museum tours and a visit from Krampus. Tickets: $30.

 bakerhunt.org

DEC. 7, SUNDAY

Cincinnati Preservation, Annual Meeting and Reception | 2-4 p.m. Mercantile Library, downtown. Meeting and reception.

 cincinnatipreservation.org/events

Matthew 25: Ministries, Family Holiday Bash | 2-5 p.m. Matthew 25: Ministries Event Center, Blue Ash. Crafts, games, characters and photos with Santa. Tickets: $15.

 m25m.org/event/holidaybash

DEC. 8, MONDAY

Center for Respite Care, Michael Chertock and Friends Holiday Concert | 7 p.m. Sycamore Presbyterian Church. Performances by Michael Chertock, Cincinnati Choral Society, a special soloist, and the brass and percussion players of the Blue AshMontgomery Symphony.

 sycamorechurch.org

DEC. 9, TUESDAY

Assistance League of Greater Cincinnati, Jingle & Mingle | 11 a.m. Ivy Hills Country Club. Luncheon and raffles. Tickets: $40.

 assistanceleaguecincinnati.org

The Chatfield Edge, Open House | 5:30-7:30 p.m. The Chatfield Edge, Loveland. Drinks and appetizers.

 chatfieldedge.org/event/open-house

DEC. 10, WEDNESDAY

Adventure Crew, Sustainable Fashion Show | 6:30-9:30 p.m. The Barn, Mariemont. Hosted by Roads, Rivers and Trails, showcasing sustainable outdoor apparel. Tickets: $60.

 adventurecrew.org/events

With a Spotlight on the Movers and Makers behind Greater Cincinnati’s Fundraisers, Friend-Raisers and Community Events

ProKids, Annual Holiday Tree Showcase & Silent Auction | 5-8 p.m. Tisdel Distributing, The Kenwood Collection. Lite bites, cocktails, holiday tree showcase, silent auction and music.

 prokids.org

DEC. 11, THURSDAY

New Downbeat, Fundraiser Concert | 6 p.m. Northside Tavern. Live music by composers-in-residence, brief presentation and raffle. Tickets: $25.  newdownbeat.com/fundraiser

JAN. 19, MONDAY

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, 2026 King Legacy Celebration | 7:45 a.m. National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Keynote: Khalil Greene. Music by Fisk Jubilee Singers. Tickets: $50.

 freedomcenter.org

JAN. 21, WEDNESDAY

Visit Cincy, Annual Meeting | 2:30-6 p.m. Cincinnati Convention Center. Meeting, interactive experiences, live entertainment, food and drinks.

 visitcincy.com

JAN. 23, FRIDAY

University of Cincinnati CollegeConservatory of Music, Moveable Feast | 6-11 p.m. CCM Village. Cocktail hour, performances, dinner by-the-bite and after-party. Tickets: $100 ($150 after Nov. 26).

 foundation.uc.edu/MoveableFeast

FEB. 7, FRIDAY

Good Samaritans Foundation, Annual Gala - Ruby Jubilee | 6-11 p.m. Music Hall Ballroom. Cocktail hour, dinner and dancing. Tickets: $300.  9116.thankyou4caring.org/gala

FEB. 12, THURSDAY

Cincinnati Museum Center, After Hours: '80s Edition | 7-10 p.m. Cincinnati Museum Center. Food, cash bar and programming. Tickets: $20.

 cincymuseum.org/after-hours

The American Heart Association will honor George Vincent and Kim Vincent with its Heart of the City Award during the Heart Ball, Feb. 21, at the Cincinnati Convention Center.

FEB. 16, MONDAY

Mardi Gras for Homeless Children | 5:30-10 p.m. Northern Kentucky Convention Center. Food, drinks, live music, marching band parade, silent auction, live auctions and celebrity guests. Proceeds benefit Brighton Center, Welcome House and Bethany House. Tickets: $100.

 mardigrasnky.org

FEB. 19, THURSDAY

Queen City Book Bank, Gala for Literacy | Hard Rock Casino.

 queencitybookbank.org

FEB. 21, SATURDAY

American Heart Association, Greater Cincinnati Heart Ball | 6:30 p.m.midnight. Duke Energy Convention Center. Annual black-tie gala with silent and live auctions, dinner and dancing. Tickets: $1,000.

 ahacincinnati.ejoinme.org

Human Rights Campaign, Annual Dinner | 5 p.m. Hard Rock Casino. Cocktail reception, silent auction, dinner, awards and after-party. Tickets: $250.

 cincinnati.hrc.org

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*See Page 4 for print deadlines. Events must meet our editorial standards. Print content is chosen at the discretion of editorial staff and featured as space allows.

FEB. 26, THURSDAY

Cincinnati Regional Chamber, Annual Dinner | Cincinnati Convention Center. Honoring Great Living Cincinnatians: James M. Anderson, Dolores J. Lindsay, Charles R. Scheper and Geraldine B. Warner. Honoring We Are Making Black History Honorees: Damian Hoskins, Kai Lewars, Sheryl Long, Roddell McCullough, David Minor, Rickell Howard Smith, Robie K. Suggs and Siobhan Taylor.

 cincinnatichamber.com

FEB. 28, SATURDAY

Lord’s Gym Ministries, Annual Fowling Tournament |  lordsgymministries.org/events

MARCH 7, SATURDAY

Junior League of Cincinnati, Women

Doing a World of Good| 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Memorial Hall, Over-the-Rhine. Keynote: Elizabeth Smart. Luncheon, VIP reception, book signing, community resource fair and raffle prizes.

 cincinnati.jl.org

MARCH 7, SATURDAY

Ohio Valley Voices, Gala | Westin Hotel, downtown. Entertainment, food, drinks, games and prizes.

 ohiovalleyvoices.org/support

MARCH 10, TUESDAY

Woman’s City Club, National Speaker Forum | 7 p.m. Memorial Hall, Over-the-Rhine. Keynote: Gina Belafonte. Tickets: $50.

 womanscityclub.org

MARCH 11, WEDNESDAY

NKY Chamber, Workforce Best Practices Symposium | 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Kenton County Public Library, Erlanger. Roundtable discussions centered on theme, "Future-Ready Workplaces: Building Talent, Data and Culture." Tickets: $70.

 business.nkychamber.com

MARCH 12, THURSDAY

HER Cincinnati, Her Unfiltered | 5:30-8 p.m. Memorial Hall, Over-theRhine. Performances and reception. Tickets on sale Nov. 13. kdelaura@ HERCincinnati.org or 513-702-4878.  hercincinnati.org

MARCH 15, SUNDAY

American Heart Association, Cincinnati Heart Mini-Marathon| Downtown, corner of 5th & Lawrence streets. 15K mini-marathon, half marathon, plus other walks to raise funds for heart research.

 www2.heart.org

APRIL 10, FRIDAY

Children's Home of Northern Kentucky, Annual Breakfast Fundraiser | 8-9:30 a.m. Drees Pavilion, Covington. Keynote: Michelle Keller, Kentucky Supreme Court justice.  chnk.org

APRIL 11, SATURDAY

COVERD, Diaper Wrap-Off | 5-9 p.m. Bracket-style competition to wrap the most diapers. Food, drinks, raffles, silent auctions and games.

 coverdgc.org

APRIL 18, SATURDAY

Upspring, Benefit Bash | 6 p.m. Sports Club, Great American Ball Park. Annual gala with silent and live auctions and more.

 upspring.org/benefitbash

APRIL 22, WEDNESDAY

Pregnancy Center Plus, Annual Evening for Life | Cintas Center, Xavier University. Keynote: Robert G. Casey.  pcplus.org

APRIL 24, FRIDAY

Atrium Medical Center Foundation, Care in the Air Gala | Wright Bros. Aero hangar, Dayton International Airport. Save the date.  atriummedcenterfoundation.org/gala

CCM’s Moveable Feast , a smorgasbord of talent from Cincinnati’s nationally ranked conservatory, returns Jan. 23 THE GOOD SAMARITANS OF GOOD SAMARITAN FOUNDATION PRESENT

MAY 1-3, FRIDAY-SUNDAY

Flying Pig Marathon |  flyingpigmarathon.com

MAY 13, WEDNESDAY

Over-the-Rhine Chamber of Commerce, OTR Awards |  otrchamber.com/otr-awards 

XLI

GAMEPLAN FOR GOOD SAM

SATURDAY • FEBRUARY 7, 2026 6PM KICKOFF - 11PM // CREATIVE BLACK TIE ATTIRE CINCINNATI MUSIC HALL

Gifts & Grants

Gardner Foundation gives $20M toward neuorsicence research

A $20 million gift from the James J. and Joan A. Gardner Family Foundation will strengthen research, patient care and national recognition at the University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute. The donation brings the foundation’s total support for UC neuroscience initiatives to more than $50 million since 2007.

This latest unding will support studies on memory disorders, expand specialized care, and advance UC’s efforts to earn designation as an Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. It also will expand the Cincinnati Cohort Biomarker Program, which matches patients with therapies to slow or halt brain-aging diseases.

Over the past two decades, the foundation has fueled major advances in Parkinson’s and movement disorder research, supported the creation of a state-of-the-art outpatient center, and funded upgrades to the Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit.

 uchealth.com/en/neuroscience-institute

Scripps Howard Fund makes $1.8M investment in childhood literacy

The Cincinnati-based Scripps Howard Fund is making its largest-ever investment in childhood literacy through its ninth annual “If You Give a Child a Book …” campaign. This year’s effort will provide more than 300,000 free books to children at low-income schools across the United States, including many in Greater Cincinnati.

Supported by The E.W. Scripps Company, its employees, family members and the communities it serves, the fund’s campaign focuses on improving reading access for children in kindergarten through fifth grade. The goal is to help young readers who are still working

toward proficiency by putting books directly into their hands and homes. For every $12 contributed, the Fund is able to give two books to a child in need.

In partnership with Scholastic Books, the Fund also hosts free Scholastic Book Fairs at about 100 Title I schools nationwide. Each participating student receives about 10 new books a year.

Couple’s $4M gift honors UC roots

University of Cincinnati alumni Mohammad H. Qayoumi and Najia Karim are making a transformative $4 million donation to the College of Engineering and Applied Science and the College of Allied Health Sciences. The gift establishes two endowed chairs – one in electrical and computer engineering and one in nutrition and dietetics – and creates an endowed fund for a new electronics lab on UC’s Uptown Campus.

Qayoumi and Karim met as UC students, married and bought their first home near campus. Qayoumi earned multiple master’s degrees, an MBA and a Ph.D. at UC and later served as a staff engineer and adjunct faculty member. Karim earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees, became a registered dietitian and worked at UC Medical Center’s Lipid Research Clinic.

Qayoumi and Karim thanked UC faculty, students and staff for their “unwavering commitment and exemplary dedication.”

Christ Hospital receives $2M in gifts for nursing scholarships

The Christ Hospital Health Network and The Christ College of Nursing & Health Sciences announced two $1 million gifts that will expand scholarships and strengthen the region’s nursing workforce. The investment includes an estate commitment from Ellen

Camm and Dr. William Camm and a contribution from Linda Callard honoring her late husband, Dr. George M. Callard.

Both physicians dedicated their careers to The Christ Hospital Health Network, where they helped advance patient care and clinical excellence.

The funding will benefit students at The Christ College of Nursing & Health Sciences on the hospital’s main campus. The college offers degrees in nursing and health sciences, connecting students to paid clinical experience, tuition benefits and career opportunities.

 thechristcollege.edu

Benefactors’ new scholarships aid local tech, DAAP students

Carol Born and Gil Born have created two new annual scholarships to support local students, the Cincinnati Scholarship Foundation announced. Each award provides $3,000 per year through graduation beginning with the 2025-26 academic year.

The Carol Born Scholarship Fund for Technology honors Carol’s pioneering career in Greater Cincinnati’s tech industry. After earning a psychology degree from the University of Cincinnati, she began as a keypunch operator at General Electric and later worked as a programming analyst at Control Data Corporation. The scholarship continues her legacy as one of the first women in information technology.

The Gil and Carol Born Scholarship Fund for DAAP celebrates Gil’s decades-long connection to UC’s College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning. A graduate of UC’s industrial design program, Gil taught at DAAP for more than 40 years, including 12 years as chair of industrial design, mentoring generations of students. The first recipients are attending the University of Dayton and the University of Cincinnati.

 cincinnatischolarshipfoundation.org

City helps expand food access in violence-affected neighborhoods

The City of Cincinnati has awarded an $850,000 grant to Cincinnati Children’s and several local nonprofits to expand access to healthy food in neighborhoods affected by gun violence. The funding will support the creation of food resource hubs and urban farming sites. The grant targets survivors of gun violence, youth involved in the justice system and local public school students. City officials say improving access to healthy food is a key step in building neighborhood stability and long-term community safety.

Cincinnati Children’s will lead the initiative through its System to Achieve Food Equity, or SAFE, network, in partnership with ACT for Cincy, the city’s violence prevention program.

Neighborhood hubs will open in Avondale, East Price Hill and the West End, providing food, support services and community gathering spaces. The initiative will also expand urban farms, expected to produce tens of thousands of pounds of fresh food and create paid work opportunities for residents.

Nonprofit partners include Closing the Health Gap, Findlay Market, Feed the Soul, Greater Cincinnati Resilience Coalition, Green Umbrella, Isaiah 55 Inc., La Soupe, Lord’s Gym, Urban Farming Initiative, Verge Monarch, Love in Action, Produce Rx and Whole Again.

Recently rebranded Achievers Network secures record $750K grant

The Achievers Network has received a $750,000 grant from JPMorgan Chase, the largest in its history, to expand its Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition Accelerator into new markets nationwide. With the funding, the Cincinnati-based program will grow into North Carolina, in partnership with Asheville-based Mountain BizWorks, as well as Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, Houston and Philadelphia. The grant is a milestone for the recently

rebranded nonprofit, formerly known as Black Achievers. The updated name reflects a broader, more inclusive mission while continuing to support underrepresented entrepreneurs through education, business ownership and community connection, said Michael Moore, Achievers Network’s CEO and president.

“This support means more than funding,” Moore said. “It represents an investment in closing the wealth gap by giving underrepresented entrepreneurs the tools, training and access to capital needed to purchase existing businesses and keep them thriving.”

 achieversnetwork.org

Grant to help tackle local affordable housing shortage

Cincinnati Development Fund received a $200,000 grant from the KeyBank Foundation to expand its Affordable Housing Leverage Fund, which supports the development and preservation of affordable housing across Greater Cincinnati.

The funding will help Cincinnati Development Fund combine multiple sources of capital and direct flexible financing into local housing projects that strengthen neighborhoods and create long-term community impact. The initiative aligns with both organizations’ missions to expand access to safe, affordable homes and promote economic stability across the region.

KeyBank Foundation is providing $200,000 in each of its 27 markets nationwide – $5.4 million in total – to support organizations that help build stronger, more equitable communities.

 cindevfund.org

Community Shares awards funds to support local trans youth

Community Shares of Greater Cincinnati has awarded nine grants totaling $225,000 to organizations supporting the mental health and safety of transgender youth. The funding comes

from a two-year appropriation by the City of Cincinnati.

Grant recipients include Transform Cincy, which received $50,000 to expand community center programming for LGBTQIA+ youth to weekends and after-school hours; Heartland Trans Wellness, awarded $40,000 to develop trans sensitivity trainings for doctors, teachers and other professionals; and Equality Ohio Education Fund, receiving $31,575 for legal clinics for name and gender marker changes. Other grantees include the National Association of Social Workers Foundation ($23,425), GLSEN Greater Cincinnati ($22,500), Cincinnati Trans Youth Virtual Magazine ($20,000), TransOhio ($15,000), Camp Lilac ($12,000) and TransMasc Cincy ($10,500).

 cintishares.org

Youth-led programs get aid for mental health initiatives

Youth-led organizations across Southwest Ohio are receiving new funding to strengthen suicide prevention and mental health programs in their communities.

The Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation awarded micro-grants to four local programs as part of a statewide initiative in partnership with the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, distributing more than $80,000 to 22 projects. Awards aim to promote wellness, reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking.

Southwest Ohio recipients: AXIS Teen Centers in Butler County, which received $500 to train youth leaders to run monthly wellness campaigns; Envision Partnerships in Butler County, awarded $3,000 to expand Youth Town Halls in Hamilton and Fairfield; the Coalition for a Drug-Free Clermont County, granted $1,500 to renovate a high school Wellness Room; and The Young CEO Program in Hamilton County, which received $3,000 for its Breathe, Relax, Recover initiative supporting Black teens.

 ohiospf.org 

Nonprofit News

Boys & Girls Clubs’ first teen-only workforce development center

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Cincinnati has opened a new Price Hill hub designed exclusively for high school students, a key part of the organization’s $50 million “A New Generation” campaign.

The 10,000-square-foot Williams Foundation Building on Dewey Avenue houses the Western & Southern Workforce Development Center and BGCGC’s administrative offices. It’s the organization’s first teen-only center in 85 years.

“This is a space built entirely with teens in mind,” CEO Bill Bresser said. “It’s a place where they don’t feel like an afterthought.” Teens helped shape the center, asking for social spaces, outdoor areas, gaming and career-focused programs.

The facility will serve about 150 high school students annually, offering programming in career exploration, job readiness, financial literacy, and communication skills. It includes flexible classrooms, hangout areas, a kitchenette, a courtyard and a garage for hands-on training.

 bgcgc.org

Chamber rolls out membership for remote workers

The Cincinnati Regional Chamber has launched a membership tier for remote workers who live in the Cincinnati region but work for companies headquartered elsewhere.

The Regional Remote Professional Membership gives members access to networking events, professional-development programs, discounts on business services, and subscriptions to the Chamber’s newsletters and quarterly magazine REALM. Annual dues are $120.

Eligibility is limited to remote workers whose companies have no significant physical presence in the Cincinnati metropolitan area. Applicants can’t be current or former Chamber members.

 cincinnatichamber.com

Great Parks adds features, enhancements at two parks

Great Parks of Hamilton County is adding features at Glenwood Gardens and Mitchell Memorial Forest.

Glenwood Gardens is undergoing a $1.25 million renovation to make the 338-acre park more accessible and welcoming. Great Parks is restoring aging features and enhancing areas, including the Highfield Discovery Garden, Woodland Walk and the Cotswold Overlook.

Visitors will see new sculptures, including a six-foot-tall purple wizard hat and lilypad and mushroom installations, rebuilt boardwalks with hand railings, refreshed patios, updated decorative concrete and restored iron fencing. The project is funded through the Robert R. & Cooper L. Burchenal Foundation and levy-supported capital funds.

At Mitchell Memorial Forest in Cleves, a skills course and loop trail for mountain bikers opened. The additions enhance the park’s 8.2-mile trail, letting riders practice basic and advanced techniques. The $160,000 project was funded by a state grant and a 2021 levy. Mitchell Memorial Forest, covering 1,625 acres, also offers nature trails, fishing, playgrounds, picnic areas and a group camp.

 greatparks.org/parks/glenwood-gardens

Ronald

McDonald

House thanks local McDonald’s and customers

Representatives from Cincinnati’s Ronald McDonald House visited all 112 area McDonald’s locations to personally thank owner/operators, managers, crew members and customers. Ronald McDonald House provides critical assistance to families with seriously ill children.

 rmhcincinnati.org

Art Academy introduces loan repayment assistance program

The Art Academy of Cincinnati will introduce a loan repayment assistance program for all new and transfer students starting in fall 2026. The program helps graduates repay federal, private and parent PLUS loans if their income is below $50,000, continuing until earnings rise above that threshold or the loans are paid off.

The initiative complements AAC’s existing Four Year Tuition Promise, which guarantees tuition will not increase for undergraduates over four years. The college also offers scholarships including the Tri-State Creative Scholar Award, the Cincinnati Public Schools Scholarship, and the Vision Scholarship for first-generation, Pell-eligible students.

 artacademy.edu

Ribbon cuttings highlight Camp Washington nonprofit’s efforts

Camp Washington is celebrating a fresh wave of investment after five ribbon cuttings welcomed a mix of new businesses and updated housing units.

Hosted by the Camp Washington Urban Revitalization Corp. and the Camp Washington Business Association, the events showcased the district’s growing momentum.

The new openings add to the district’s mix of creative and community-focused offerings: a cannabis dispensary, an art café, a leather-arts studio and a honky-tonk bar, as well as a fully restored six-unit apartment building.

“These ribbon cuttings represent years of dedication to revitalizing Camp Washington while preserving its unique character,” said Sidney Prigge, executive director of CWURC. “Each new storefront and apartment unit is a step toward achieving our mission of enhancing economic opportunities, promoting social engagement, and creating a safe, blight-free physical environment in Camp Washington.”

 cwurc.org 

Chamber Music Cincinnati opened its 96th season under new president Adrian Michael Cunningham, marking a major milestone for an African American in chamber music. A longtime board member and former vice president, Cunningham helped double audiences and expand school and community outreach through programs such as Chamber Connect, which brings musicians into classrooms, community centers and faith-based spaces.

Talbert House hired Shelley Batch as vice president of behavioral health. She brings more than 15 years of leadership in mental health and social services, most recently as director of Central Connection at Central Clinic Behavioral Health. Batch’s experience in behavioral health, child welfare and developmental disability services aligns with Talbert House’s integrated model of care, which provides prevention, crisis response and outpatient treatment across five counties.

Jill E. Dunne is this year’s recipient of PRSA Cincinnati ’s Werner-VonderHaarBogart Award, the chapter’s highest honor recognizing excellence in service to the community, PRSA and the local chapter. Her career spans nonprofit, agency, corporate and consulting roles with leadership positions at the Cincinnati Art Museum, ArtWorks, Cincinnati Metro, Western & Southern and the Newport Aquarium.

Lighthouse Youth & Family Services named George Guy as its next president and CEO, effective Dec. 1. He joins the organization after 11 years leading the Fort Wayne Housing Authority, where he managed a $100 million budget and oversaw more than $200 million in community investment projects. Paul Haffner, Lighthouse’s current president and CEO, will retire at year’s end and serve in an advisory role through Dec. 31.



Talbert House named Stacy Cole as chair of its Foundation Board, succeeding Rachel Rasmussen. Cole, a partner at KMK Law, worked for 17 years at Graydon Law, where she was chief privacy officer and litigation practice group leader. She has served on the Foundation Board for eight years, most recently as vice chair, and is also active with the Make Camp Possible committee and the Ambassador Board.

The European American Chamber of Commerce Greater Cincinnati appointed Stacy Hanna as its new executive director. Hanna has 20 years of experience in marketing, business development, and nonprofit and corporate leadership, along with experience living and working in Europe. She’ll lead the organization’s efforts to foster transatlantic collaboration.

Easterseals Redwood named Colleen Lindholz , group vice president and president of Kroger Health, as its new board chair. Lindholz, who joined Kroger in 1995 and now leads its healthcare division, has decades of experience in pharmacy, healthcare and business management. The organization also named Greg Hammond , president and CEO of Hixson Architecture, as vice chair; Laurence Jones, president and co-founder of RiskVersity, as secretary; and Jim Salters, co-founder of Quanta HCM and CEO Accelerators, as treasurer. Two new members joined the board: Jim Dietz , partner at Frost Brown Todd LLC, and John Hutchinson, an entrepreneur and investor with expertise in scaling small and mid-sized businesses.

Crayons to Computers announced several staff changes. MerryBeth McKee was promoted to chief financial officer, while Jonathan Swiger and Taylor Young were named associate directors of programs. Tarryn Mansfield has moved from store coordinator to development coordinator, and Jonelle Wehrman joins the organization as the new store coordinator.

The Music Teachers National Association added Elizabeth Keri as director of publishing and digital content. She’ll provide editorial direction and strategic guidance for all MTNA content, overseeing the creation, design and distribution of the Cincinnati-based organization’s publications. Keri, experienced in editorial strategy and publication management, most recently served as director of communications for the College of Arts and Sciences at UNC Greensboro.



Freestore Foodbank hired Lindsey Armor as major and planned gift officer. She joins the fundraising team after serving as senior major gifts officer at the Cincinnati Nature Center.

Longtime fundraising professional Sneja Tomassian has joined the board of The Mercantile Library. She brings deep arts leadership and advancement experience, currently serving as chief philanthropy officer at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park.

Emily Harper has been hired as the new transition instructor at The Point/Arc’s Zembrodt Education Center. Harper, a former Boone County Schools educator certified in moderate to severe disabilities, brings experience supporting students who need additional life-skills development.

Former Cincinnati City Manager

Paula Boggs Muething is joining the Cincinnati Center City Development Corp. as chief operating officer. Boggs Muething will work alongside 3CDC president and CEO Steve Leeper and the senior management team as the organization continues to expand its focus beyond real estate development and into what the nonprofit described as its “next chapter.”



Music & Event Management Inc named Lauren Stark talent buyer. She’ll help book and program shows and concerts across the portfolio of venues and festivals operated by MEMI, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. Stark specializes in live entertainment booking and event strategy, most recently as associate director of booking at Milwaukee’s Summerfest.

Forest Park Mayor Aharon C. Brown was appointed to the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library Board of Trustees. He’ll serve a four-year term through October 2029. Brown will chair the operations committee and serve on the development and strategy committees. Brown has experience in community engagement, economic development and volunteer leadership.

Queen City Book Bank added Molly Bernosky, Adam Centner and Kate Ward to its board of directors. Bernosky, director of the Springer Diagnostic Center, brings expertise in school psychology and educational diagnostics. Centner, a partner at KMK Law, specializes in estate planning and nonprofit administration. Ward, senior vice president and chief business officer at the Cincinnati Regional Chamber, adds experience in finance, audit and business leadership.

Jennifer Zimmerman was promoted to senior vice president of the bi3 Fund . She has been with the organization since 2016 and will now oversee bi3’s grantmaking operations, while also taking on expanded executive leadership responsibilities.

Kevin Manley joins The Christ Hospital Foundation as director of development and major gifts. He will collaborate with community partners to advance initiatives across the Christ Hospital Health Network. Manley brings a distinguished record in relationship management and fundraising, along “with a deep passion for connecting generosity to impact,” per the Foundation.

Valerie Pence , director of plant research at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife , or CREW, received the Ulysses S. Seal Award for Innovation in Conservation from the Conservation Planning Specialist Group. The award recognizes contributions that transform species conservation. Pence is the first recipient honored for plant conservation work. A global leader in plant cryopreservation and propagation, Pence has led CREW’s Plant Research Division since 1988. Her work includes developing the “Frozen Garden,” one of the world’s most diverse cryobanks for endangered plants.

Heather Verbeck is the new executive director of the Sharonville Cultural Arts Center. Verbeck, a flutist and educator, has more than 20 years of experience in arts administration, education and financial management, with a record of building community partnerships.



Brooke Schweitzer is the newest member of the Independence Alliance Board of Directors. Schweitzer is a longtime HR professional who’s spent the past six-plus years with UC Health. Independence Alliance is a nonprofit serving Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky people with physical, sensory, cognitive and psychological disabilities.

On Veterans Day, Ohio Valley Goodwill honored Army veteran Stephen Wysong with its Veteran of the Year Award. The annual award recognizes veterans who have made significant progress or c ontributions through Goodwill programs, celebrating their perseverance and success in rebuilding independence. Wysong, 69, served on active duty from 1975 to 1978 and later in the Army Reserves, achieving the rank of sergeant with the Army Corps of Engineers. After experiencing two years of homelessness, Wysong found stability through Goodwill’s Veterans Dormitory program, eventually securing permanent housing with support from staff. 

Who, what, where & why

SVDP, DAAP unite for RetroFittings, a night of fashion, philanthropy

More than 600 guests came to Music Hall for the 20th anniversary edition of RetroFittings, St. Vincent de Paul-Cincinnati’s signature night of fashion and philanthropy, presented by Protective Life and SVDP Thrift Stores.

Guests arrived in creative, thrift-inspired outfits, posed on the red carpet and shopped at a curated boutique featuring high-end items from St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Stores. The highlight of the evening was a runway show featuring original designs by University of Cincinnati College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning fashion students, each created from thrifted materials with a $25 budget. DAAP students reimagined these finds into runway-ready looks reflecting this year’s theme: 20 Years of Bold, Transformative Fashion.

The event raised more than $310,000 to provide food, clothing, beds, medications, and rent and utility assistance for families throughout Greater Cincinnati.

 svdpcincinnati.org

International Freedom Conductor Awards lift lantern for social justice

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center welcomed more than a thousand guests to honor five individuals whose work embodies the pursuit of freedom and justice.

The International Freedom Conductor Award is the museum’s highest honor, given to those whose vision and leadership carry forward the spirit of the Underground Railroad.

This year’s honorees were Lonnie G. Bunch III, founding director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture and secretary of the Smithsonian Institution; Opal Lee, the “Grandmother of Juneteenth;” Toni Morrison, Nobel Prize-winning author (posthumous); John E. Pepper Jr., businessman, philanthropist and former Freedom Center CEO; and Isabel Wilkerson, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of “The Warmth of Other Suns” and “Caste.”

Hosted by journalist Tamron Hall and presented by Procter & Gamble, the event brought together community members, civic leaders, corporate partners and friends of the Freedom Center for an evening celebrating the honorees and supporting the museum’s mission.

 freedomcenter.org

included supporters from

Baker Hunt’s Twilight event visits Wonderland

This year’s Twilight fundraiser at Baker Hunt embraced a Wonderland theme, filling the Covington art and culture center with whimsical décor and colorful costumes. The event raised support for the nonprofit’s outreach programs that provide free art and culinary education to schools, youth organizations, senior care facilities and veterans.

The evening included live music, silent and live auctions, art demonstrations by instructors, games, raffles and food. Competing for the honor of top chef, members of Baker Hunt’s culinary team created a dish inspired by “Alice in Wonderland.” Guests voted for their favorite.

Mikhayla Hughes-Shaw from Cincy Lifestyle was emcee. The event raised $20,000 for the program. Sponsors included the Milburn Family Trust, Blue North, Rusk, US Bank, Corporex and DBL.

 bakerhunt.org

AJC honors four with human relations award

American Jewish Committee Cincinnati presented Cindy Motley, Mark Motley, Jan Frankel and John Cobey each with a 2025 National Human Relations Award. The annual accolade honors distinguished community leaders dedicated to empowering the success of others and building bridges to drive social impact.

 ajc.org/cincinnati

Magnified Giving celebrates $2M in youth-led philanthropy

Magnified Giving welcomed more than 280 guests to its annual Fall Dinner at Cooper Creek Event Center, celebrating over $2 million granted to local nonprofits through the efforts of youth. The evening highlighted the organization’s mission to educate, inspire and engage young people in philanthropy.

Payton Obert, 13, founder of Payton’s Lemonade Stand, inspired the crowd with her message about the power of youth to create change. Lakota East High School junior Shubhangi Srishti received the Roger Grein Legacy Scholarship, and Lebanon High School alumnus Zach McGinty was presented with the Bill Keating Jr. Next Gen Award by Liz Keating. Francesca Dishueme, Magnified Giving alumna, was emcee.

Magnified Giving’s new growth initiative aims to double its reach and engage more students in philanthropy. Event sponsors included KPG Creative, Interact for Health, Dunkley Brothers Construction, PayOptions, and Clare Blankemeyer and Tony Blankemeyer.

 magnifiedgiving.org

The Advocates: (Back row) Christine Duggins, Keri Nichols, Jennifer Vories and Elisabeth Metzidis; (middle row) Emily Wright, Cynthia Browning, Kendall Reynolds, Tasha KlaberFlood, Amy Prather and Kimberly Carlisle; (front row) Leslee Dietz, Katie Brauer, Ashlea Pullen, Stephanie Berens, Lori Watson,

Advocates’ gala helps children affected by abuse

The Advocates for Northern Kentucky Children’s Advocacy Center hosted Grand Gala: Safari Soirée to benefit children who experience abuse. Supporters helped raise over $350,000, including a record-breaking $67,000 paddle raise. These funds will provide vital services, comfort and care for children and families impacted by abuse – helping them find safety, healing and hope.

 nkycac.org

Bowling and plaids strike for Caracole

Caracole, Greater Cincinnati’s HIV services nonprofit, hosted its Pins ’n’ Plaid bowling fundraiser at Super Bowl Bellewood Lanes in Newport. The event brought together supporters and friends for an evening of cocktails, bites, bowling and plaid-clad fun, all to support Caracole’s mission to positively change lives through HIV prevention, housing and care.

The event also honored long-time supporters Jeff Thomas and Kent Shaw for their efforts in the fight against HIV. Guests enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, music and a short fashion show celebrating the best dressed in plaid.

 caracole.org/pinsnplaid

FotoFocus zooms in on economic issues

Artists, scholars, curators, photo enthusiasts and many others attended the 2025 FotoFocus Symposium: Photo-Economics at Lightborne Communications. Through conversations, panel discussions and spotlight presentations, participants explored issues of global industrialization and distribution, including the impacts of these realities on social and political systems.

Photo-Economics marked the 10-year anniversary of the FotoFocus Symposium, continuing a tradition of collaborative thinking about the contemporary world through the medium of photography and lens-based art.

 fotofocus.org

Keynote conversation between Robert Slifkin, New York University professor of fine arts, and photographer Mitch Epstein

Katie Siegwarth,



Dancefix Foundation raises $110K at inaugural fundraiser

The Dancefix Foundation introduced the Studio DFX event in support of their mission to create health, happiness and connection through dance. Community leaders and supporters came together to raise funds for dance classes for youth and schools throughout Greater Cincinnati, as well as for movement programming for adults, cancer patients, survivors and caregivers.

Co-chairs Kathryn Harsh and Diane Rumpke hosted the evening, which included dinner by neighborhood eateries, a silent auction and raffles, music by DJ Blu and dance performances.

Studio DFX presenting sponsors were Bob Coughlin and Jeanne Coughlin, Bill Rumpke Jr. and Diane Rumpke, Patti Foster and Simon Foster, and the Vanasse family. Step Up sponsors include Ann Gibson and Jeff Gibson, the Harsh family, Jenny Mottier, and Meredith Roblyer and Giles Roblyer.

 dancefixfoundation.org

Presenting sponsors Bill Rumpke, Diane Rumpke, Olivia Westerfield, Rebecca Sarver, Molly Rumpke, Debbie Rumpke and Jeff Rumpke

Central Clinic Behavioral Health honors retired Judge Lisa Allen

Central Clinic Behavioral Health honored retired Judge Lisa Allen at its second annual Vibes & Lives FUNdraiser at The George. Money raised at the event will expand behavioral health services across Greater Cincinnati.

Local 12 news anchor Kyle Inskeep emceed the event, during which Allen received the Dr. Walter S. Smitson Legacy Award, named for the late president and CEO of CCBH. Allen served on Hamilton County Common Pleas Court from 2013 to 2022 after 13 years on the Municipal Court bench, presiding over the Mental Health Court.

Kimberly Mages, CEO and president, and Mike Chaney, board president, hosted more than 100 guests to support CCBH’s range of care, including mental health, addiction and forensic services.

One client shared his behavioral health journey during the evening, which also included live jazz, a silent auction, food and fostering connections among guests.

 centralclinic.org

Guests at Root Ball celebrate Great Parks’ conservation work

Great Parks Forever celebrated its annual Root Ball, an evening of celebration and support for Great Parks’ conservation work across Hamilton County.

Over 300 guests enjoyed an evening of cocktails, dinner, live music, a silent auction and campfire-side chat at The Savannah Center while learning about Great Parks’ impact and plans. The event raised over $132,000, a 32% increase over 2024. Root Ball was presented by Cincinnati MINI, Cincinnati Business Courier, and Melissa Wilz and James Wilz.

 greatparks.org

Tom Carleton, chief of planning Janet Broughton Murray and CEO Todd Palmeter discuss projects during the campfire-side chat.

Starfire event seeks answers to crisis of social isolation

More than 250 advocates, leaders and changemakers from 17 states packed the Cincinnati Art Museum for Starfire’s first Inclusion Seekers Summit, a gathering to address the growing crisis of social isolation.

The day was anchored by a keynote from former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, who spotlighted loneliness as a public health emergency and urged communities to rebuild social bonds. Attendees participated in breakout sessions, talks and workshops, all guided by Starfire’s four pillars: building networks, launching projects, strengthening collaboration and connecting resources.

Starfire empowers families and neighbors to connect, create and celebrate strengths through local projects, training and storytelling.

starfirecouncil.org

OneSource Center celebrates nonprofit community

OneSource Center for Nonprofit Excellence hosted more than 200 guests at The Filson restaurant at The Banks for The 10:10 Experience, an evening celebrating community, connection and purpose.

Several leaders received Community Excellence Awards from the center. The event raised $180,000 to help support the Greater Cincinnati nonprofit community.

As Cincinnati’s nonprofit for nonprofits, OneSource helps over 300 organizations through affordable consulting, training and a furniture bank.

 onesourcecenter.org

Youth Collaborative looks to the future

Cincinnati Youth Collaborative gathered partners and supporters for its Forging the Future Together breakfast. Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval and Vice Mayor Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney underscored the need to stand with young people, reaffirming the city’s backing of CYC’s work to empower students.

CYC named Chuck Ackerman, senior vice president at Colliers and long-time mentor, volunteer and golf outing chair, as this year’s Hall of Fame inductee.

Recent program graduate Armonte Bohannon shared her story, thanking her mentor-turned-adoptive-father, Lamont Bohannon, and the GEAR UP team for helping her find her way in life.

 cycyouth.org

As Cincinnati’s nonprofit for nonprofits, OneSource Center is the go-to resource hub for local nonprofits, supporting organizations through affordable consulting, transformative training, and our expansive furniture bank. We serve over 350 Greater Cincinnati nonprofits, saving them more than $1.16 million annually. No matter where a nonprofit is on its journey, OneSource is here to help.

This impact wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our sustaining sponsors! Thank you! SILVER

SPONSORS

SPONSORS

THE 10:10 EXPERIENCE SPONSORS

‘Unleashed’ event supports animal shelter

More than 250 people attended Cincinnati Animal CARE’s first fundraiser, Unleashed: The Power of Love, contributing more than $190,000 to support Hamilton County’s only no-kill, open-intake shelter and the animals it serves every day.

Held at The Clubhouse at Rhinegeist Brewery, the event featured food from local restaurants, a live and silent auction, and speakers who shared what the shelter means to the community. A highlight of the night was the Redemption Runway, where pets who once needed care walked the stage with the families who adopted them, showing what a second chance can look like.

The money raised will help provide shelter, medical treatment, behavior support and new beginnings for nearly 9,000 animals each year. Cincinnati Animal CARE is the sole provider of animal services for the county.

 cincycare.org

Meals on Wheels breaks ground on new home

Meals on Wheels of Southwest OH & Northern KY broke ground on the property of their future headquarters and meals production center.

The site, the former John Nolan Ford dealership, is located at 3251 Highland Ave. in Columbia Township. The new headquarters will enable Meals on Wheels to increase its annual meal production from 1.2 million to 3 million, expand its reach from 10,000 seniors served to 30,000 and become a one-stop resource for older adults, families and caregivers.

Renovation of the property is the centerpiece of Meals on Wheels’ $30 million Driving Into The Future Campaign. The nonprofit has raised $24.4 million as of the groundbreaking. The organization expects to move into its new home in late 2026.

 muchmorethanameal.org

Cops for a Cure 5K supports officers battling cancer

More than 240 runners and walkers gathered at Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum to participate in the second annual Cops for a Cure 5K, hosted by Cops Caring for Cops. The event, which brought together sponsors, volunteers, law-enforcement personnel and community members, raised $25,442. A substantial portion of those funds will support members of the Cincinnati Police Department who are battling cancer, helping to offset treatment-related deductible costs.

Cops Caring for Cops was created to support members of the Cincinnati Police Department who have been diagnosed with cancer. Emcee Mike Dardis of WLWT provided commentary, recognized officer-survivors and acknowledged sponsors and volunteers.

 copscaringfrcops.org

Woman’s Club hears ‘Muses of Music Hall’

The Cincinnati Woman’s Club welcomed members and guests for “The Muses of Music Hall: The Concert,” led by Cincinnati Pops conductor John Morris Russell.

The all-female cast honored the women who took the stage at Music Hall between 1890 and 1950, with music and stories curated by Russell and his wife, Thea Tjepkema, highlighting the legacy of the historic Over-the-Rhine venue and the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.

The performance is one of two annual concerts held in memory of Louise Deiterle Nippert, the business leader, vocalist and arts philanthropist who, along with her husband Louis, championed Music Hall and many other local cultural institutions. She also served as president of the Woman’s Club in 1964.

The program featured singers Jennifer Cherest, Victoria Okafor and Noël Walton, CSO concertmaster Stefani Matsuo and Pops pianist Julie Spangler.

 cincinnatiwomansclub.com

Lighting on the agenda for Friends of Music Hall

Friends of Music Hall members gathered in Corbett Tower with an eye on the future of one of Cincinnati’s most iconic landmarks. The annual meeting featured a keynote address from Matt Minard of KLH Engineers on the role of architectural lighting in preserving historic spaces, setting the stage for FMH’s coming fundraiser to bring new lighting to Music Hall.

The evening also marked board transitions. Outgoing members Rick Pender, Alek Lucke and Kelley Brandstetter Tracy were recognized for their service, while Patty Beggs, Kelly Holtel and Linda Kiefer joined the board for the year ahead.

 friendsofmusichall.org

Quiera Levy-Smith;

Kreider, Mark Weadick, Jennifer Buchholz, Peter Koenig, Lynne Reckman, Eric Jackson, Tricia Johnson and Kathy Wade.

Not pictured: Patricia Beggs, Kyle Campbell, Meredith Gillespie, Ed Rider, Nicole Roberts and Yemi Oyediran

Matt Minard of KLH Engineers

Stepping Stones bags over $110K at sporting clays event

Stepping Stones hosted its ninth annual Sporting Clays Tournament at the Sycamore Pheasant Club in Loveland, raising more than $110,300 to support year-round programming for children, teens and adults with disabilities.

Attendees hit the course for a clay shoot featuring 75 targets and a flurry game. Supporters raised money by participating in a raffle and a live auction. Greg Berling, Burke Byer, Nathan Neyra and Adam Hock, representing CB Management Services, won the team competition. Hock was the winning individual shooter as well.

Stepping Stones, founded in 1963, serves more than 700 people with disabilities in day and overnight programs that increase independence and promote inclusion with educational, recreational and social programs.

 steppingstonesohio.org

Kevin Gade, Marty Rittenhouse, C.J. Judge and Kip Kummerle

Rob Zesch, Scott Ready, Doug Marsh, Mike Lang and Keith Lang

Jill Freshley, Kerry Mongelluzzo, Kerry Vollmer and Ann Gibson

Key Sponsors

Anchor Associates

The Anning Group - UBS

Inc.

Bartlett Wealth Management

Brian Albach, Stephen Dauer & Gregory Wells

Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP

Carpetland

Daley Design + Build

Dean Dorton

Matt & Dr. Allison Hemberger

HighGrain Brewing Co.

Jersey Mike’s

Northpoint Development

Redden

Center for Great Neighborhoods celebrates Covington’s heart

The 2025 Heart of the Community Celebration brought together residents, business owners and elected officials from Covington to support the community development work of The Center for Great Neighborhoods. The event was held at the Hellmann Creative Center.

The center’s annual fundraiser brought in $10,000, supporting programs including the Covington Sparks youth program, real estate and small business support programs, Keep Covington Beautiful and the Covington Farmers Market.

The event also honored Covington residents and businesses that make positive impacts with the Heart of the Community Awards and Key to the Future youth awards.

 greatneighborhoods.org

Kickoff event names Heart Ball honorees

The 2026 Greater Cincinnati Heart Ball season is underway, launched with a kickoff reception in Indian Hill that brought together American Heart Association staff, board members, volunteers and event leaders to build momentum for February’s Heart Ball. During the program, Heart Ball chair Steve Mullinger of Truist announced this year’s honorees: George Vincent and Kim Vincent will receive the Heart of the City Award; Dr. Frank Noyes and JoAnne Noyes will receive the Dr. Creighton B. Wright Excellence in Healthcare Award.

 heart.org/cincyheartball

Stronger Than Cancer Celebration helps fund free support programs

The Cancer Support Community of Greater Cincinnati/NKY’s Stronger Than Cancer Celebration presented by St. Elizabeth Healthcare, brought together more than 200 guests for an evening of hope, generosity and community. With support from attendees, sponsors and donors, the event raised over $160,000 to benefit CSC’s free programs for local individuals and families affected by cancer.

The night featured a strolling dinner, auctions and stories of strength and resilience in our community. Every dollar raised helps ensure that no one faces cancer alone, with CSC providing emotional support, education, wellness programs and more.

 mycancersupportcommunity.org

Memorial Hall, Longworth-Anderson Series celebrate at annual get-together

The Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society and Longworth-Anderson Series hosted their annual summer get-together at Alcove OTR, celebrating and thanking the CMHS Board of Trustees, LAS Advisory Committee members and staff.

The evening recognized CMHS’s leadership team, whose support and expertise fuel Memorial Hall’s historic preservation efforts and the

P&G Alumni grant program honors Francie Garber Pepper

The P&G Alumni Foundation’s Night of Gratitude featured the announcement of the first Francie Garber Pepper Grant for Women’s Empowerment. John Pepper, Deb Kielty and Janet Ried paid tribute to Francie and all she did to make the world a better place. U.S. Rep. Greg Landsman shared a congressional proclamation saluting Francie and the establishment of the grant in her name.

The foundation raised over $400,000 for grants all around the world, including matching donations of $100,000 each from Kielty and Pepper. The first award of $25,000 went to The Aruna Project, which creates freedom for survivors of sex trafficking in India by providing sustainable employment and holistic care.

 pgalumnifoundation.org

Longworth-Anderson Series’ contemporary music programming.

Melvin Grier, Bill Baumann and Jim Wellinghoff were honored with the title of trustee emeritus, recognizing their service and dedication to CMHS. Guests enjoyed light fare and refreshments.

 longworth-andersonseries.com

 memorialhallotr.com/cmhs-friends

NewPath gala salutes volunteers and more

NewPath Child & Family Solutions hosted its annual Heart & Hope Gala at Cincinnati Music Hall, creating an evening of storytelling and celebration of the 2025 award recipients. These awards recognize volunteers, donors, foster parents and team members who go above and beyond to care for children and families NewPath supports. The honorees:

• Heart Award: Anna Marie Logan, lead workforce development coordinator.

• Hope Award: Aretha Sims, case managerday treatment, NewPath Academy.

• Spark Award: Amanda Holbrook , NewPath LEAD board chair.

• Torch Award: Betty Terrill and James Terrill, NewPath foster parents.

With their sponsors and supporters, NewPath raised $126,795 to strengthen healing resources and expand opportunities for the young people in NewPath’s care.

 newpath.org

Movers & Makers celebrates 30 years of promoting area nonprofit activities

About 150 supporters filled Greater Cincinnati Foundation’s atrium to celebrate Movers & Makers Magazine for its 30th anniversary as the public voice of Greater Cincinnati nonprofits and its 10th year under the M&M brand.

The event was sponsored by GCF and Eat Well Celebrations and Feasts. Co-publishers Elizabeth Mariner and Thom Mariner welcomed Derek Chancellor, regional director for U.S. Sen. Jon Husted, who presented M&M with a proclamation in honor of the occasion.

M&M hosts informal happy hour gatherings each month, February through November. Thanks to everyone who attended and to everyone who has supported us for three decades. Please join us and find out why we have so many regular attendees!

 moversmakers.org

William Ross, Nadya Ellerhorst, Tina Gutierrez and Coleen Houston

Katherine Oney, Janet Hill, Janice Weiss, Sally Grimes, Rachel Stallings and Mary-Ellen Theisen

M&M digital editor Casey Weldon doubled as photographer for

Big Brothers Big Sisters celebrates ‘Hometown Heroes’

More than 300 community and business leaders gathered at Drees Pavilion, raising more than $200,000 to support the mentoring programs of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cincinnati.

This year’s Big Breakfast 2025, presented by Cintas, carried the theme, “Hometown Heroes: Cincinnati’s Favorites Igniting Potential.” The event celebrated the city’s mentoring spirit, past and present, by featuring local business icons and honoring the historic roots of Big Brothers Big Sisters, which began in Cincinnati in 1903.

Michelle Hopkins, WCPO host and Greater Cincinnati Foundation community engagement director, moderated the keynote panel featuring three Cincinnati restaurant leaders: Dick Williams, CEO of Skyline Chili; Dean Gregory, VP of Montgomery Inn; and Mike LaRosa, CEO of LaRosa’s Pizzeria. They shared stories about mentorship in their own careers, how community connections shaped their businesses, and why investing in young people is essential to the region’s success.

Cincinnati’s National Big Brother and Little Brother of the Year, Norm Boyd and Tyjon Cousins, shared their story and received Defenders of Potential medals and commemorative jackets.

Sallie Westheimer, granddaughter of BBBS national founder Irv Westheimer, reflected on her family’s century-long connection to mentoring and on the organization’s enduring impact.

 bigsforkids.org

BBBS Big and Little Brothers of the year, Norm Boyd and Tyjon Cousins, with BBBS CEO Jessica Esterkamp

Gala recognizes businesses, nonprofits for ethics, innovation

Better Business Bureau Cincinnati’s gala celebrated local organizations that go above and beyond to serve their customers, employees and community.

Guests walked the red carpet, mingled with regional business trailblazers and innovators, struck poses at the 360-degree photo booth, danced along to Freddy Mac’s DJing and witnessed the reveal of this year’s Torch Awards for Ethics and Spark Awards winners.

BBB gave seven businesses and nonprofit organizations Torch Awards for Ethics: Best Point Education & Behavioral Health, Bethany House Services, CareStar, Crayons to Computers, Faithful Friends Pet Memory Center, New Seasons Auction & Estates, and Rumpke Waste & Recycling.

Three new businesses were named Spark Awards winners: BrandRank.AI, Custom Canine Obedience and REP General Contracting

 bbb.org/local/0292/torch-spark-awards

With new Crisis Center, Talbert House expands behavioral health services

Talbert House hosted the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Hamilton County Crisis Center, marking a milestone in expanding behavioral health services for the community. The 47,000-square-foot facility will serve as a hub for addiction and mental health crisis intervention, stabilization services and treatment for those in need.

The center also includes a primary care clinic and pharmacy, providing an integrated approach to meet the needs of clients. The facility will serve approximately 1,500 individuals annually.

The center is a result of a collaboration among community partners, including the Hamilton County Mental Health Recovery Services Board, Central Clinic Behavioral Health, the City of Cincinnati, Greater Cincinnati Behavioral Health Services, Ohio Department of Behavioral Health and Genoa Healthcare.  talberthouse.org

Jewish Hospital Gala raises more than $1M for cancer care

Mercy Health and the Auxiliary of The Jewish Hospital hosted the 2025 Jewish Hospital Gala at the Hyatt Regency, featuring Emmy-winning television personality Kathie Lee Gifford. The evening brought together hundreds of supporters and raised more than $1 million to benefit oncology programs at The Jewish Hospital-Mercy Health.

The event was underwritten by the Jewish Auxiliary Committee, ensuring that every dollar raised directly supports patient care and cancer treatment innovation.

Michael Kramer, president of The Jewish Hospital-Mercy Health, highlighted the hospital’s legacy of fighting cancer. He recognized event co-chairs Peggy Greenberg and Cherie Silverstein, and acknowledged the platinum sponsor, The Jewish Hospital Medical Staff, and gold sponsors Champlin Architecture, Fifth Third Bank, Medpace and Western & Southern Financial Group.

 mercy.com/locations/hospitals/cincinnati/ the-jewish-hospital-mercyhealth

Mayerson JCC exhibit celebrates art, culture and community

The Mayerson JCC celebrated Sukkot with its annual Under One Roof Sukkah Art Exhibit. Nearly 50 individual artists, organizations and community groups created works of art centered on the theme of unity. The exhibit was accompanied by a variety of special events. Community members joined local artists at the Art Reception; others tapped into their creativity at a 20s & 30s Paint n’ Sip; and this year, the Mayerson JCC partnered on Under One Harvest Moon, a celebration connecting Judaism and Asian culture through crafts, food and more.

 mayersonjcc.org

Foundation

President Missy Hendon Deters, board member Michele O’Rourke and Erin Mignano

Queen City Book Bank celebrates 250th Little Free Library

The Queen City Book Bank celebrated the unveiling of its 250th Little Free Library in Greater Cincinnati. The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at the Avondale home of retired librarian and community literacy champion Connie Harris.

Harris was introduced to QCBB through her work with the Reading Bears, a volunteer group passionate about children’s literacy. As a retired librarian, she brings a lifetime of dedication to books and education.

In seven years, QCBB has placed Little Free Libraries in schools, parks, community centers and front yards, connecting communities and ensuring access to books for thousands of residents. Queen City Book Bank has distributed over 450,000 free books throughout the Tristate.

 queencitybookbank.org

MadTree plants roots in West End with Let’s Grow Local

Volunteers, partners and neighbors came together to plant more than 100 new trees throughout the West End, completing community projects to enhance public spaces.

Led by MadTree Brewing, alongside 1% for the Planet partners Cincinnati Parks Foundation, Cincinnati Parks and Groundwork Ohio River Valley, this event continues a sixyear legacy of collaboration. Since 2019, these organizations and their partners have planted over 6,000 trees citywide, including 673 through the Let’s Grow Local initiative alone. In celebration of this event, MadTree crafted Let’s Grow Local, a Vienna-style lager, brewed entirely with hyper-local ingredients.

 madtree.com/lets-grow-local

 cincinnatiparksfoundation.org

NKY Chamber honors technology leader Gaby Batshoun

The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce presented the NKY Community Award to Gaby Batshoun, president and founder of Global Business Solutions, at an Eggs ‘N Issues breakfast. Batshoun was recognized for his forward-thinking approach and tireless drive in the technology sector.

Batshoun was born in Jordan, grew up in Morocco and moved to the United States in the 1980s to attend college. In 1994, he founded GBS, a technology solutions provider that offers a range of services, including IT, AV, physical security and more.

His board service includes NKY Chamber, Faith Community Pharmacy, Northern Kentucky Children’s Advocacy Center and Square 1. He is the past president of the Covington Catholic School Board and served on the school’s STEM Advisory Board.

 nkychamber.com

Gateway ignites student interest in skilled trades

Gateway Community & Technical College welcomed more than 100 Northern Kentucky high school students to its Boone Campus for Manufacturing Day 2025, a hands-on event designed to inspire the region’s next generation of makers, builders and problem-solvers. The annual event lets students step inside Gateway’s advanced manufacturing and skilled trade labs, operate state-of-the-art equipment and meet instructors and employers. Students, chaperons and career coaches experienced interactive demonstrations in welding, robotics, industrial maintenance, HVAC technology and advanced manufacturing. Local industry partners included Krauss-Maffei Corporation, Safran Landing Systems, River Metals Recycling, Altium Packaging, Amrize-Building Envelope, Bosch, Steinart and Nucor Steel Gallatin.  gateway.kctcs.edu

La Soupe anniversary dinner serves up $460K in support

Friends, supporters and community stakeholders gathered at The Palomar to celebrate La Soupe’s 10-year anniversary. Guests enjoyed a one-of-a-kind multi-course dinner showcasing the creativity of La Soupe’s chefs.

The sold-out event brought in over $410,000, amplified by a $50,000 matching gift from The Joe Burrow Foundation. Funds raised during the milestone evening will carry forward La Soupe’s mission of wasting less and feeding more in Greater Cincinnati.

 lasoupe.org

corporate affairs for The Kroger Co.,

James Gibbs, Susan Gibbs honored by Beechwood Home

The Beechwood Home honored long-time supporters James Gibbs and Susan Gibbs at its annual gala. The event at the Kenwood Country Club will benefit the home’s 80 residents, who have multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) or another neurological condition.

Over more than 17 years as a member of The Beechwood Home board, Jim Gibbs has served as chair, vice chair and secretary. He serves on the board of The Beechwood Home Foundation. Throughout his years of service, he has shared his professional insurance expertise with Beechwood.

Guest speakers David Fulcher, a former Cincinnati Bengal, and Judy Fulcher shared their experiences of living and thriving with Judy’s multiple sclerosis.

Located in Hyde Park, The Beechwood Home promotes residents’ independence and rehabilitation in a family-like home with personalized services that foster hope and support.

 beechwoodhome.com

Emily Schoeny, David Middleton, Beth Middleton, Robi McIntire and Scott McIntire; (front row) James Gibbs and Susan Gibbs

Episcopal Retirement Services offer gala with a view

Episcopal Retirement Services, one of Cincinnati’s premier not-for-profit senior living organizations, continued its Gatherings for Good gala series with The Chicago Story, an evening of celebration at The View in Mount Adams.

Guests enjoyed breathtaking skyline views, inspiring performances and heartfelt stories highlighting the life-changing impact of ERS programs. The night also featured artwork by residents and personal reflections.

The event raised $300,000 which will support the Good Samaritan Mission Fund, which invests more than $3 million a year in programs such as Resident Financial Aid, Affordable Living, Meals on Wheels, spiritual services and health screenings for nearly 4,000 older adults.

This event was made possible by sponsors Ohio Capital Corporation for Housing, Christ Church Cathedral, Ridge Stone Builders and Developers, Diocese of Southern Ohio, Model Group, The Key and Clark Schaefer Consulting.

 episcopalretirement.com

SATURDAY 6:30PM CET SUNDAY 8:30PM CET ARTS

Join Barbara Kellar as she showcases artists and cultural leaders from the Greater Cincinnati community.

DePaul Cristo Rey event benefits new golf team

DePaul Cristo Rey High School’s 14th annual Golf Classic, a sellout with 128 golfers, raised over $110,000. The money will support student academic and enrichment programs, including the school’s new golf team. The outing was held at the Western Hills Country Club.

Dave Lockard, a longtime school admirer and coach of DPCR’s inaugural golf team, chaired the event. Cintas was the presenting sponsor, with many other sponsors giving support. Volunteers and golf team members kept the event running smoothly.

DePaul Cristo Rey is a Catholic, collegepreparatory high school with a mission to educate young people who have the potential but limited financial means to go to college.

 depaulcristorey.org

Encore Talent workers build playground

for childcare center

More than 20 employees of Encore Talent Solutions transformed outdoor space at the new Western & Southern Childcare & Wellness Center, part of Best Point Education & Behavioral Health, into a playground for children and families. Led by Greg Vollmer, president of Encore Talent Solutions and a Best Point board member, the team installed playground equipment, painted interactive activity courts and planted greenery to create the playground on Cincinnati’s West Side.

Volunteers assembled music panels, sensory tables, stepping stumps and an arch bridge, and painted designs like hopscotch, foursquare and alphabet games. They also planted arborvitaes and filled the sandbox. The build was made possible through collaboration with The Adventurous Child, local experts in educational play environments, which provided tools, materials and on-site guidance.  bestpoint.org



DPCR board member

Steve Robertson, supporters Susie Lame and John Lame, former board member Tim Stautberg and Lisa Muething, DPCR assistant director of advancement

Ballet celebrates ‘Gatsby’ with 1920s-themed gala

The Cincinnati Ballet celebrated an evening of elegance at its Great Gatsby Gala in the Hall of Mirrors at the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza. Nearly 400 guests gathered in 1920s style to toast the ballet’s artistry and community impact, raising more than $300,000 to support its education programs and community engagement initiatives.

The evening featured cocktails, dinner and live music from Matt Tolentino, and the New Liberty Dance Orchestra played pieces inspired by the Jazz Age. Guests enjoyed live music, dancing and Roaring ’20s-inspired performances that set the stage for the company’s “The Great Gatsby” at the Aronoff Center.

 cballet.org

Event co-chairs Sarah Frank Fogarty and Caroline Joseph

Caracole event declares HIV ‘Fight Isn’t Over’

Caracole, Greater Cincinnati’s HIV services nonprofit, hosted its eighth annual Caraconfence with the theme “The Fight Isn’t Over.” The symposium brought together experts, practitioners and people with lived experience to explore innovation, equity and community leadership in the fight against HIV.



Virtual sessions featured national leaders and advocates discussing policy threats, prevention tools and public health strategies. The in-person day at Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati included speakers, interactive learning and networking, highlighted by keynote speaker Jesse Milan Jr., CEO emeritus of AIDS United.

 caracole.org

Kay Johnson from the Infectious Disease Center at the University of Cincinnati talks about HIV resistance.

1920s-style clothing and dancing were part of the evening’s entertainment at the Cincinnati Ballet’s Great Gatsby Gala.

Cincinnati Preservation celebrates region’s history

Cincinnati Preservation’s 30th annual Fall Forum drew a sold-out luncheon crowd to the Hall of Mirrors at the Hilton Netherland Plaza.

David Stradling, professor of urban history at the University of Cincinnati, spoke on the topic “On Living in Cincinnati or Someplace Like That,” exploring the ways our city reflects – and stands apart from – national urban trends.

The event underscored Cincinnati Preservation’s mission to protect and celebrate the places that define our region’s history.

 cincinnatipreservation.org

Bethany House Bash raises support for local families

Bethany House Services packed the American Sign Museum for its annual Welcome Home Bash, drawing more than 300 supporters. Together, they raised over $329,000 to help families facing homelessness find stability and a fresh start.

Kyla Woods emceed the evening, and guests enjoyed music and entertainment by DJ Pillo, along with seasonal fare, beer, wine and a variety of signature cocktails by Cincinnati mixologist Molly Wellmann.

Beacon Awards were presented to Carolyn Washburn, Perry Washburn and Hamilton County Common Pleas Judge Virginia Tallent for their efforts on behalf of families in need. Event support came from Bethany’s Raise the Roof sponsors, Western & Southern Financial Group, Bob Stenger and Lynn Stenger.

Bethany House Services is the largest provider of homelessness services in Greater Cincinnati, serving more than 2,500 people each year, two-thirds of them children.

 bethanyhouseservices.org

CliftonFest hosts 9,500 guests for music, art and family fun

The Clifton Cultural Arts Center brought together 9,500 members of the community on Ludlow Avenue for CliftonFest, a celebration of music, art, food and family fun. Taking place for the first time since 2019, the event showcased local arts and culture, with more than 40 artisan vendors, 15 live performances, family activities and dozens of sidewalk chalk “art carpets.”

The Clifton Cultural Arts Center serves the diverse Uptown Cincinnati neighborhoods of Clifton, Corryville, CUF, Mount Auburn and Avondale. Its mission is to “strengthen the critical link between participation in the cultural arts and successful, healthy children, adults and communities.”

 cliftonculturalarts.org

Jesuit Academy hosts health, education advocate John Dau

Xavier Jesuit Academy welcomed over 165 supporters for An Evening with John Dau Dhieu-Deng Leek, a fundraising event highlighting the transformative power of education.

The keynote speaker was John Dau, one of the “Lost Boys of Sudan” and subject of the award-winning documentary “God Grew Tired of Us” who shared his journey from fleeing civil war at age 12 to founding 19 health facilities in South Sudan.

XJA opened in Bond Hill in August 2024 as Cincinnati’s first Jesuit Nativity school, serving 45 boys in grades 3-5. The academy’s president, Father Nathan Wendt, joined board member Deacon Royce Winters and Principal Kyle Chandler to present XJA's vision for preparing young men to be leaders through rigorous academic preparation.

The event was underwritten by the Albach, Wells & Dauer Group at Morgan Stanley and by Prestige AV and Creative Services.

 xavierja.org

Megan McCuen, John Dau, Lori MacDonald and Emily Baechtold

Navigating the season of charity

Decemberis the giving month. We search for things we hope our loved ones will need and like and wrap them up in shiny paper. Many people also make charitable gifts this time of year, to help make changes in lives beyond their own. This year, as government pulls back on its traditional role of offering some help to the least fortunate among us, there will be so much need out there and everyone still on the safe side of the poverty line will have lots of choices on how to help.

Looking for inspiration on this topic in my files, I found a piece I’d started two years ago but gave up on. I thought it was worth reviving. It’s about Damar Hamlin.

You’ll recall that he was a safety for the Buffalo Bills who went into cardiac arrest after a tackle during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. He stood up, then fell like a tree. He

was basically brought back to life with CPR and defibrillation and then cared for at University of Cincinnati Medical Center.

The story was in the news for days. It was a dramatic event that many people saw, either at the time or in re-played clips. Several narratives emerged. One was about the great doctors at UC Health. One was about how Cincinnati came together with our football rival Buffalo in support. Another was about what a great guy Hamlin was.

He even had a gifts-for-kids foundation, and while following his story, people donated a collective $10 million to it. He’s now using that to train more people in CPR and provide defibrillators to youth sports.

It was touching that people were so moved they donated that much money, but I couldn’t help thinking it was also irrational. After all,

he didn’t actually need the money. But any time someone is moved to generosity by empathy with another human is a good thing. I think there are some lessons from the story.

Giving up some of your own money for a cause should always come from the heart. It feels good and right to help someone who is in peril and pain. Donating at the time expressed sympathy and maybe relieved the stress of witnessing someone else’s trauma. We should all keep that feeling in mind, because there are millions of suffering people in the world for whom charitable dollars would make a difference. You don’t have to see them fall on a football field to know that. You just need a little imagination and empathy. It was easy to send money Hamlin’s way. There were no complicating issues. He seems to be a great guy, a sincere Catholic. He wasn’t political, he didn’t get in trouble. But it’s not always that easy. Many people who need help have more complicated situations. But no one needs to be blameless to earn your sympathy and support.

Now, the self-congratulation that Cincinnati and Buffalo were being so nice to each other did feel bogus to me. The doctors at UC Medical Center weren’t ever going to say “I can’t treat this man. He’s from… a nearby state!” The enmity we thought we were overcoming is based completely on football, and that’s not real, right? But sometimes I wonder if my aggressively sports-free life means I’m missing a feeling of being part of a fierce affinity group. Because the people who saw the game were sharing sympathy and generosity as a community, and that felt good. It would be nice if that happened more often.

nonprofits, and decide where your money might help, not leave it to chance events.

If teaching more people CPR and distributing defibrillators to children’s sports teams is your cause, donate to Chasing M’s, Hamlin’s charity. If you care about the football players who have entertained you, but end their careers with brain injuries, donate to the Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund. If you want to join others in your community, donate to a Cincinnati-centric charity or cause. Or, well, there are 1.48 million 501(c)(3) organizations in the United States.

When my husband and I realized we could be giving more money, we talked out a plan and set up modest monthly automatic donations. Now, if anyone asks me for money, I tell them we stick to a budget and that as much as I would love to give to their good cause, we have made our choices already. If a panhandler seems extra hapless or a friend invites us to a fundraiser they care about, I’ll be guided by spontaneity and emotion.

This year, I think the Freestore Foodbank and other charities that help struggling people directly will be getting more from us. There are getting to be fewer of us on the safe side of the poverty line to do it.

Reacting to a situation with help is human and positive. But if you have enough money to share, rationality and planning are also important. You can check your values, your bank account, research

Polly Campbell covered restaurants and food for the Cincinnati Enquirer from 1996 until 2020. She writes monthly on a variety of topics, and she welcomes your feedback and column suggestions at editor@moversmakers.org

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