Too busy enjoying the nice weather this week to stay on top of the latest news? No worries, just check out this week’s most important stories below. From stalled police reform to jumping spiders to saving a historic bell tower, here’s everything that you need to know.
One Year After Murder of George Floyd, Police Reform Is Stalled in Ohio
In response to the murder of George Floyd on May 25, 2020 by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, Gov. Mike DeWine initially proposed a package of legislation to increase police accountability. But as of the one-year anniversary of Floyd’s death, none of these proposals have become laws or put to vote, stalling police reform efforts. DeWine also promised a police reform package “within a few days” one day after the last month’s conviction of Chauvin with no results or actual legislation as of yet. Read CityBeat’s story about Ohio stalling police reform.
These Tiny Jumping Spiders Might Be Able to Recognize Faces, Says Cincinnati Lab
The Morehouse Lab located on the University of Cincinnati campus has been conducting research into paradise jumping spiders and their facial recognition abilities. The team is interested in finding just how much facial recognition these tiny little arachnids have and how they use it in their daily lives. “Their brains and eyes are fundamentally different, so how might they go about recognizing faces and using them to inform their decisions?” asks the head of the lab, Professor Nate Morehouse. Read CityBeat’s story on these hopping arachnids.
10-Acre Field of Flags to Be Installed at Cincinnati’s Arlington Memorial Gardens Over Memorial Day Weekend
This Memorial Day, Arlington Gardens will honor veterans with a “Field of Memories,” a 10-acre display of more than 800 American flags. The 3-foot-by-five-foot flags are also available for purchase for $35. Additional activities at the display include a flag-raising ceremony on Sunday at 12:30 p.m. and a moment of silence at 3 p.m. on Monday. Read CityBeat’s story about Arlington Memorial’s Memorial Day activities.
25 Dog-Friendly Cincinnati Patios to Sip On With Your Pooch
Don’t worry about leaving the pooch at home this summer! We’ve compiled the perfect list of places where you and your furry pal can hang out in the sunshine and enjoy some fantastic eats. Dead Low Brewing Company, The Porch at Washington Park and Libby’s Southern Comfort are just some of the options. See CityBeat’s list of amazing pet-friendly patios.
To Save Historic Over-the-Rhine Bell Tower, First Lutheran Church Needs to Raise $1.6 million by June 5
Over-the-Rhine’s historic First Lutheran Church is facing the demolition of it’s distinctive bell tower, which has been a local architectural landmark for 126 years. The Cincinnati Preservation Association and the church are partnering to raise awareness about the destruction of a beloved landmark and hopefully raise funds for restoration. Both organizations are asking the public for help in the form of (tax-deductible) donations, which can be made at firstlutherancincy.org/donate. Read CityBeat’s story about the church’s plan.
St. Vincent Touring with Stop at Cincinnati’s ICON Music Center
Singer and guitarist Annie Clark, known by her stage name “St. Vincent” will perform at Cincinnati’s ICON Music Center on Tuesday, September 7 in support of her new album Daddy’s Home. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. June 3. Read CityBeat’s story on St. Vincent’s upcoming performance.
Commentary: Ohio’s Black Environmental Leaders Association Advocates to Move the Lincoln Heights Gun Range
The Black Environmental Leaders Association advocates for moving the Lincoln Heights Gun Range from its current location that borders what is a predominantly black neighborhood. The group’s “Black Landscapes Matter ” town hall series will be held at 6 p.m. June 3 on Facebook Live. Read CityBeat’s commentary on environmentalism.
American Idiot Returns to The Carnegie Stage for One Night Only to Benefit Local Performers Affected by COVID-19
The Carnegie is bringing American Idiot back in a big way. For one night only, catch the original local cast from the 2019 production of the hit musical at 8 p.m. June 5 at the theater. All proceeds will benefit local performers and crew affected by COVID-19. Tickets are available at the Carnegie box office, by phone at 859-957-1940 or online at thecarnegie.com. Read CityBeat’s story about the reunion show.
Esquire Magazine Names Walnut Hills Bar One of the ‘Best Bars in America’
Walnut Hills’ very own bar Comfort Station was recently given a coveted spot on Esquire magazine’s roundup of the best bars in America. “You’ll find what feels like the city’s spiritual center” in this neighborhood favorite, says Esquire’s Sarah Renz. Opened in 2019 in a former “Public Comfort Station,” Comfort Station is the only bar in Cincinnati to win the honor this year. Read CityBeat’s story about the bar.
This article appears in May 1-31, 2021.
