COVID-19 Vaccines May Be Ready for Teens This Summer
Encouraging news about COVID-19 vaccines keeps coming. No unusual safety issues arose during the first month of vaccination, when 13.8 million doses of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines were administered in the United States, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported February 19. The vaccines also appear to slow the spread of the coronavirus (SN: 2/12/21). But…
Man Shot While Walking Lady Gaga’s Dogs Reportedly Is From Cincinnati
The shooting that has social media buzzing may have Cincinnati connections. Page Six reports without substantiation that Ryan Fischer, the man who reportedly was shot while walking pop superstar Lady Gaga’s dogs on Feb. 24, was born in Cincinnati. A Feb. 26 Cincinnati Enquirer story says “Authorities have not named the man. But according to…
Global Inequity in COVID-19 Vaccination Is More than a Moral Problem
Months before the first COVID-19 vaccine was even approved, wealthy nations scrambled to secure hundreds of millions of advance doses for their citizens. By the end of 2020, Canada bought up 338 million doses, enough to inoculate their population four times over. The United Kingdom snagged enough to cover a population three times its size. The…
SNAP, Medicaid Rollback Bill Would Cost Nearly $20 Million in Red Tape, Analysts Say
A legislative proposal to restrict eligibility for social safety net programs like food stamps or Medicaid would cost nearly $20 million to implement, according to state policy analysts. The Ohio Legislative Service Commission, a nonpartisan arm of the state legislature that evaluates policy proposals, estimated a plan to require photo identification on every Supplemental Nutrition…
‘Aisha’s Law’ for Domestic Violence Protections Returns to Ohio Legislature
Expansions to domestic violence protections have once again returned to the Ohio Statehouse, after passing the House last year but failing to see daylight in the Senate. State Rep. Janine Boyd, D-Cleveland Heights, said in Thursday’s House Criminal Justice Committee that this was the 14th version of the bill attempting to enhance punishments for certain…
Cincinnati City Council to Recognize March 1 as ‘COVID-19 Memorial Day’
The Cincinnati City Council will pay tribute to the many people who have died — as well as their surviving loved ones — from COVID-19. During the Feb. 24 council meeting, the council voted to recognize March 1 as “COVID-19 Memorial Day.” The date marks a year from the first time a Cincinnatian died from…
Finally: Some Good COVID-19 Vaccine News for Ohio
The days are warming and more good coronavirus news is coming to Ohio. After drugmakers Pfizer and Moderna on Tuesday announced big increases in vaccine production, Gov. Mike DeWine on Feb. 25 said that the number of doses coming into Ohio would rise from about 230,000 this week to about 310,000 next week. “We may see that…
Cannabis-Themed Sandwich Shop Cheba Hut ‘Toasted’ Subs to Open in Cincinnati
Just in time for 4/20, marijuana-themed sandwich chain Cheba Hut "Toasted" Subs is opening a location in the Queen City. Local franchise owners Ron and Allison Hamilton have experience in the food and beverage industry from their 17 years operating a commercial photography studio, which "inspired them to look into food brands that would allow them to expand…
Meals on Wheels and Cincinnati Area Senior Services Have Joined Forces as a New Agency
Two nonprofits in the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area, dedicated to bringing meals and care to seniors, have merged to reach a wider span of individuals. Cincinnati Area Senior Services (CASS) and Southwest Ohio/Northern Kentucky Meals on Wheels decided to join their efforts to enhance what each organization does best — helping older adults thrive.…
Live Your Cottagecore Fantasy in These Trendy Ohio WiFi-Less Cabins with Phone Lock Boxes
It sounds pretty dreamy, right? A cozy and aesthetically pleasing, reasonably-priced cabin situated in nature where your iPhone's red notification bubbles, social media pings, and unanswered work emails are no match for the peace and serenity that comes with truly logging the hell off. Well, Brooklyn-based startup Getaway has created escapes across the nation that would be perfectly…
R.I.P. Barry W. Baker: A Playlist for Father’s (Last) Day
A good deal of my childhood was spent in my father's car, for a horribly tragic reason. When my mother Eleanor died at the incomprehensible age of 26 from lymphatic cancer, my father Barry went off the rails emotionally. He quickly decided he could no longer bear to be reminded of Mom by continuing to…
New Report Finds Racial Disparities in Ohio’s Police Intervention Fatalities
Hamilton County is one of the top places in Ohio where residents die at the hands of police, a new report finds. Statistics from the Ohio Alliance for Innovation in Population Health show that police have killed 10 people in Hamilton County from 2015 to 2020. The rate of police shooting fatalities in Hamilton County…
Cincinnati Named No. 6 Best City in the Nation for Chefs in 2021
Chefs need a hungry audience and Cincinnati loves to eat, so it comes as no surprise that the Queen City is now considered one of the best places for pros. In a report released earlier in February, Rent.com declares Cincinnati to be one of the top-ten cities in which professional chefs can thrive. Cincinnati lands…
Judge To Consider if Ohio Woman’s Capitol Riot Charges Are ‘Crimes of Violence’
A federal judge Tuesday delayed his ruling on whether to allow the pre-trial release of an Ohio woman accused of organizing a paramilitary unit to storm the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6. U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta asked an attorney for Jessica Watkins, who commanded a self-described militia, and prosecutors to submit arguments as to…
Cincinnati’s MadTree Brewing Introduces New Year-Round Legendary Lager
A new year-round lager from MadTree Brewing is "classic, crisp, and celebratory," according to a press release about the new brew. MadTree describes the Legendary Lager as "balanced" with "a light kettle hop aroma." The MadTree website adds that the beer lands in the midpoint “between a craft Pilsner and Macro American Lager,” complete with “floral notes followed…
Ohio Bought a Hell of a Lot of Guns in 2020, Apparently
In the United States, we’ve hoarded a lot of surprising things over the course of the coronavirus pandemic, especially in the beginning. Toilet paper. Beef. Puzzles. And here in Ohio, we apparently bought up all the guns. According to the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), 976,751 firearm background checks were performed in…
Graeter’s Black Raspberry Chip Donut Returns This Spring
Cincinnati-based ice cream chain Graeter's is welcoming back a delicious spin on its signature black raspberry chip ice cream. Originally introduced in winter of 2019, the black raspberry chip donut will make its return to Greater Cincinnati area shop locations starting Tuesday, March 2, a Facebook announcement says. The limited-time creation is a raspberry-iced glazed…
This is Ohio’s Favorite Pizza Chain, According to Google Maps Searches
Remember former Papa John's Pizza founder John Schnatter's bizarrely sweaty 2019 interview with Louisville-based news outlet WDRB news, where he claimed to have eaten 40 Papa John's pizzas in 30 days, bashing the quality since coming under new ownership. Well, apparently Ohioans didn't get the memo. Google Maps recently released a report identifying each state's top-searched…
Great, the U.K. Variant of COVID-19 Is in Hamilton County Now
The much-feared United Kingdom coronavirus variant is here in Hamilton County, and health officials say that while they will continue to closely observe it, the vaccines currently in production likely will help blunt the new strain. Hamilton County Health Commissioner Greg Kesterman says that the B.1.1.7 variant, which was revealed earlier in the week, was…
After Attempting Northside Yacht Club’s 5-Coney Food Challenge, Local Man Is Hungry Again
The month of February signifies different things for different people. At Northside Yacht Club, it means the seasonal return of something deliciously sinister… The Cincinnati Chimichanga, AKA, the deep-fried chili cheese coney — a house-made coney using Avril-Bleh-infused chili, wrapped in a tortilla loaded with more chili and cheese and deep-fried until golden and crispy. …
FotoFocus Talks Storytelling With Filmmaker Behind Michelle Obama Documentary Ahead of Her March Virtual Visit
An award-winning filmmaker from the Bronx, New York, Nadia Hallgren directed the Emmy Award–nominated documentary Becoming and the Academy Award–shortlisted short documentary After Maria—though those are just two recent titles on a CV packed with acclaimed work. On March 4, Hallgren will join performance whisperer George Mumford for a Lens Mix conversation about social friction, professional barriers, and…
Cincinnati-Based Bridal Shop Renée Grace Bridal Helps Fight Human Trafficking With Every Dress Sale
Sewing gowns and saving lives are both included in a Cincinnati-based bridal shop’s business model. Renée Grace Bridal, co-founded by husband and wife Steve and Teresa Eklund, donates a percentage of every single dress sale to international organizations that combat human trafficking. “What we're trying to do is structure a company around something greater than…
Cincinnati’s Rose Lavelle Wins MVP, Rightly Remains Soccer’s Darling
Winning a World Cup just isn’t enough for Rose Lavelle. And why should it be? Lavelle, a midfielder for the U.S. Women’s National Team and Cincinnati native, clearly is MVP material, having won the honor in Wednesday’s winning match of the 2021 SheBelieves Cup. Lavelle helped her team to a tournament victory over all three…
U.K. Approves World’s First COVID-19 Human Challenge Trial
In a few weeks, dozens of young and healthy volunteers in the United Kingdom will be intentionally exposed to the coronavirus as part of the world’s first COVID-19 human challenge trial. The project, which received ethics approval February 17 from the U.K. government, will study how much virus is required to kick-start an infection. Eventually, researchers could…
Very Cute Breaking News: Cincinnati Zoo to Welcome its First Baby Sloth
In need of some wholesome zoo news? The Cincinnati Zoo announced that it's looking forward to welcoming its baby sloth this fall. Sloth duo Lightning and Moe are awaiting the birth of their sloth pup in September or October. Expectant mother sloth, Lightning, came to the Cincinnati Zoo in 2019, 13 years after dad, Moe,…
Cincinnati Metro to Host Virtual Public Meetings Ahead of Reinventing Metro Plan
Cincinnati Metro has some big changes in motion, but they want input from the community to discover what will be the most impactful. The service will host three online meetings in March for locals to attend and submit their final feedback on the transportation system’s proposed new routes, location frequencies, travel times and transit infrastructure.…
Two Greater Cincinnati Restaurants Make Yelp’s List of Top 100 Places to Eat in 2021
Two Greater Cincinnati restaurants have landed on Yelp's national Top 100 Places to Eat in 2021 list. We know where we're picking up dinner tonight! Northstar Café in Liberty Township and Two Cities Pizza Company in Mason both made the top 100, which Yelp reevaluates annually. At No. 57, Northstar Café has garnered 386 reviews and nearly a 4.5-star…
Several Candidates Fail to Qualify for Cincinnati Mayor Primary
And then there were six. Just six candidates remain in the race to become the next mayor of Cincinnati, pending Hamilton County Board of Elections’ continued review. This week, Adam Paul Teague Koehler and Kelli Prather failed to qualify because they did not obtain the required 500 valid signatures supporting their candidacy, the BOE found.…
Pleasant Ridge’s Coffee Exchange Wins $10,000 from Barstool Pandemic Fund
Sarah Peters, owner of the Coffee Exchange in Pleasant Ridge, was washing dishes at home when she received a FaceTime call from David Portnoy of the Barstool Fund. The recorded call is now on Twitter and has received more than 160,000 views. Peters knew exactly who was on the other line when she saw his…
500,000 U.S. COVID-19 Deaths as Compared to Cincinnati Sports Venue Capacities
This week, the United States reached a milestone that many feared and few predicted — 500,000 COVID-19 deaths. The nation hit that grim marker on Feb. 22, pushing U.S. President Joe Biden to order American flags to half staff through Friday and state governors — including Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine — to follow suit. Half a million people…
West Chester’s Holtman’s Donuts, Rep. Jennifer Gross Continue to Battle over Weekend Incident
[Editor's note 2/26/20: We have updated this story to reflect that Rep. Jennifer Gross has removed her Facebook post rebutting Holtman's Donut Shop's version of the events. We've replaced our previous Facebook embed at the bottom of this story with a screenshot of her post from 2/20/20.] A disagreement between a doughnut shop and a…
OTR Film Fest to Host Virtual Celebrity-Packed ‘Celebration of Inclusion’
Over-the-Rhine International Film Festival, formerly the ReelAbilities Film Festival, is gearing up for its annual event which takes place this summer. In the meantime, they're hosting a virtual hour-long event which will bring celebrity-packed line-up to homes across the city. A Celebration of Inclusion in Film and Media will take place virtually on March 11, at 6:30…
Serious Reactions to First 14 Million COVID-19 Vaccines Extremely Rare, CDC Says
Of the first nearly 14 million COVID-19 vaccine doses administered, serious adverse reactions were extraordinarily rare, according to CDC research published Friday. The findings, reported in the agency’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, illustrate that the vaccine is a safe preventative for the overwhelming majority of its recipients. “The postauthorization safety profiles for both vaccines are…
Ohio Spent $1 Million on National Guard Security After Deadly Jan. 6 Insurrection
It cost the state of Ohio more than $1 million to send hundreds of troops to the Ohio Statehouse last month to protect against acts of political violence. All told, taxpayers spent millions of dollars to pay for enhanced security in Columbus and Washington, D.C. following the Jan. 6 events at the U.S. Capitol. After…
Over-the-Rhine’s Goose & Elder Introduces $21 Three-Course Tasting Menu Plus Beer Deal
Over-the-Rhine's Goose & Elder, local chef and restaurateur Jose Salazar's most recent venture, has become a neighborhood hotspot for approachable yet elevated eats, and that notion is being taken a step further with the restaurant's new offering. Visitors to the Findlay Market restaurant can enjoy a $21 three-course tasting menu of favorites on Mondays, Thursdays…
Cincinnati’s Loads of Love Teaches Sustainable Life Skills While You Wash Your Clothes
Loads of Love: Life Skills Through Laundry has kicked off its second round of community outreach after its success in 2019. The program was started by Kathy Wade, CEO of Learning Through Art, Inc., and Erica Page, a graduate student at the University of Cincinnati. Loads of Love teaches people valuable, sustainable life skills during…
Reds, FC Cincinnati Could See 30% Attendance for 2021, Ohio Gov. DeWine Says
Cincinnati’s sports teams may see more fans — or any at all — back in stadiums this year, COVID be damned. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said Monday that the state is considering 30% in-person attendance for sports that are played in outdoor stadiums in 2021. Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball and Major League Soccer…
Another COVID Blow: Dairy Queen Cancels Free Cone Day for 2021
The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has destroyed yet another sacred tradition. Free Cone Day at Dairy Queen is canceled for 2021. Dairy Queen typically celebrates Free Cone Day in March each year by handing out vanilla soft-serve cones to hungry visitors. “As spring approaches, we all look forward to Free Cone Day, an event that attracts…
George Clooney to Produce Series About Ohio State Scandal That Allegedly Involved Ohio Congressman Jim Jordan
The Hollywood Reporter reports that actor/director/producer George Clooney plans to produce a docuseries about the sexual abuse scandal that has dogged Ohio State University for decades. Clooney’s and Grant Heslov's Smokehouse Pictures will produce the series in conjunction with Sports Illustrated Studios and 101 Studios, Hollywood Reporter says. The series will be based on an…
Construction Begins on Beechmont Bridge Connector over Little Miami River
Cyclists soon will have a new connection to local and regional trails. Great Parks of Hamilton County has begun construction for the Beechmont Bridge Connector. The project will allow users to safely travel from the Little Miami Scenic Trail to the Ohio River Trail for the first time. “VERY exciting news: We’re breaking ground on…
Butler County Bomb Squad Discovers Bag of Kittens While Investigating ‘Suspicious Package’
On Thursday, Feb. 18, the Butler County Sheriff’s Office was called out to a church in New Miami because of a “suspicious package.” "When Specialist Mike Grimes and Det. Detherage arrived, they didn't hear ticking, they heard purring," a Facebook post from the Sheriff's office read. The package did not contain a bomb, but of a…
Cincinnati’s Court Street Lobster Bar Announces Grand Re-Opening
Downtown's Court Street Lobster Bar temporarily closed its doors November due to the rise in COVID cases. But with Ohio's cases significantly falling, the seafood-centric eatery has announced its grand re-opening plans. The restaurant will host its re-opening on Friday, March 19. Over the course of their break, the team has orchestrated some new changes to…
COVID Crisis Puts Spotlight on Home-Based Child Care in Kentucky
Community advocates say home-based family child care could play a major role in closing gaps in access across Kentucky during the pandemic and beyond, but current zoning creates obstacles for individuals interested in opening licensed and regulated home child-care centers. In a recent survey conducted by Kentucky Youth Advocates, one in four current family child-care providers said…
A Complete Abortion Ban Isn’t Law in Ohio, but Some Residents Still Think Abortion Here Is Illegal
Currently, abortion is legal in Ohio for pregnancies up to 22 weeks gestation. But an analysis by researchers in the state says the legislative back-and-forth over abortion and the length of time Ohio’s lawmakers and governors have been talking about it have impacted public opinion, even without successfully banning all abortion. “The discourse and debate…
Half a Million Deaths Later, Gov. DeWine Says He Didn’t Foresee Magnitude of COVID Pandemic
The coronavirus pandemic has been grinding on for so many months that it’s easy to become numb to its staggering cost. But now, as the United States is crossing the grim milestone of 500,000 dead from the disease, it seems as if February 2020 marked the end of a different, easier era. In Ohio, where nearly 17,000 have…
Moonrise Doughnuts Opens Mornings-Only Second Location in Crescent Springs
A Northern Kentucky bakery with a cult-following is expanding to another lucky neighborhood. Moonrise Doughnuts, which has gained popularity operating as an evening-only donut shop with made-to-order nightly treats, is opening up an additional location in Crescent Springs. However, this location will be open during the daytime only, starting at 7 a.m. until they sell…
Vegan Dish From Cincinnati’s ESSEN Kitchen Recognized Among PETA’S Top Faux-Fish Dishes of 2021
Over-the-Rhine restaurant ESSEN recently earned national praise from animal rights organization PETA for one of its vegan dishes. The eatery's “Bagel & Lox” was selected as one of PETA’s Top Faux-Fish Dishes of 2021, which is a list of flavorful plant-based dishes across America. ESSEN's dish is a toasted bagel with marinated tomato "lox," capers,…
Cincinnati’s Flying Pig Marathon and Bockfest 5K Will Be Held Virtually This Spring
Cincinnati’s annual races Flying Pig Marathon and Bockfest 5K have shifted to a virtual format this spring due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Although Flying Pig Weekend has been rescheduled for Oct. 29-31, the race will still virtually take place May 1-2. Register online for the spring Flying Pig. Regular registration options, like the full and half-marathon,…
More Ohio Militia Members Arrested in Connection to Jan. 6 Capitol Building Insurrection
Ohio residents who allegedly were part of the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C., are in the news again as more motivations behind their actions come to light. Jessica Watkins of Champaign County was federally charged in January with entering restricted grounds, violent entry, and obstruction of a congressional proceeding…
We’re Over the Moon for the Cincinnati Zoo’s Newest Little Blue Penguins
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden has welcomed two new additions to its bird family. “Mars” and “Rover,” blue penguin chicks, are only four weeks old, but they already mark an integral part of history. Their names derive from NASA’s successful rover landing of Perseverance on Mars last week. The mission marks a new development for the…
Cincinnati Bengals Add Upgrades for 2021 Season-Ticket Members
We thought that the Cincinnati Bengals’ #NewStripes campaign simply referred to the team’s tease of new uniforms in January. But an announcement about new season-ticket benefits with the same hashtag seems to show that the Bengals have more going on under their fur. On Feb. 18, the Bengals debuted season-ticket plans that include upgraded benefits and new…
CBP Dog Sniffs Out Cocaine-Covered Corn Flakes in Cincinnati
A member of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection K9 unit in Cincinnati sniffed out a cereal coated in a substance that definitely was not part of a nutritious breakfast. Bico, a CBP narcotics dog, alerted officers to 44 pounds of corn flakes covered in cocaine on Feb. 13, a release says. Bico detected boxes…
Nine Candidates File in Race to Become Cincinnati’s Next Mayor
Nine candidates will vie to become Cincinnati’s next mayor. After a series of withdrawals last week, a group of candidates filed their nominating petitions of 500 registered-voter signatures by 4 p.m. on Feb. 18, the deadline to declare intent to participate in the May 4 nonpartisan primary. Hamilton County Board of Elections must certify the…
No, the World Isn’t Ending (Yet), That Monday Morning Tornado Siren Was Just an Operator Error
There's no better way to enter the week than with a healthy dose of panic. And thanks to our local Emergency Management Agency, Greater Cincinnatians are ready to kick off our Monday with an elevated heart rate. Emergency weather sirens inexplicably sounded just before 9 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 22, causing folks to head to…
Ohio Bill Would Remove Biz Penalties for Violating COVID-19 Health Orders
A Republican lawmaker wants to spare Ohio businesses from facing consequences for violating public health orders enacted to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Rep. Derek Merrin, R-Monclova, introduced House Bill 127 to halt enforcement of coronavirus health orders going forward. It would also require the state to reimburse businesses fined for having violated health orders since the…
2020’s COVID-19 Death Toll Sent U.S. Life Expectancy Plunging
Life expectancy in the United States plunged in the first half of 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic took hold. A preliminary estimate of overall U.S. life expectancy from birth finds it dropped a full year compared with 2019, from 78.8 to 77.8 years, the National Center for Health Statistics reports online February 18. It’s the largest decline in…
Kentucky Farmers Voice Support for Bill Tackling Monopoly Power
Decades of unchecked mergers in the agricultural industry have left many farmers struggling, and rural advocacy groups says a proposal in Congress aims to change that. The "Competition and Antitrust Law Enforcement Reform Act" would give agencies like the Federal Trade Commission more funding and resources to put a stop to unfair consolidation, and strengthen…
CNN Crowns Cincinnati as Ohio’s New State Capital
Congratulations, Cincinnati! We have finally knocked the teeth out of Columbus to become the capital of Ohio. Yaaaaaay, we did it! Well, CNN seems to think so, anyway. During a Feb. 18 liveblog of weather updates around the country, the cable network highlighted Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s proclamation declaring a state of emergency for Lawrence…
Japanese-Style Pop-Up Mochiko to Open Brick-and-Mortar in East Walnut Hills
After operating as a Cincinnati pop-up for several years, Japanese-style eatery Mochiko is getting a permanent home in East Walnut Hills this spring. Co-owners Elaine Townsend and Erik Bentz launched Mochiko in the spring of 2019, a culinary endeavor that takes inspiration from a style of Japanese cuisine known as “yoshoku,” which incorporates Western recipes with…
How to Narc on Your Greater Cincinnati Neighbors For Leaving Animals Outside in the Cold
As winter storms blanket the Greater Cincinnati area with snow, sleet and frigid temperatures, our attention turns to protect one of our most vulnerable populations—“outdoor pets.” While many animals can be found cozied up next to their owner beneath a blanket during these colder months, not all pets are afforded that luxury. According to the American…
Need a Job? FC Cincinnati’s West End Stadium Is Hiring
More than 1,000 gameday employees are expected to be hired at West End Stadium in anticipation of FC Cincinnati’s first season at the stadium this spring, representatives announced this week. Positions include part-time work in customer service, ticketing, retail, merchandise, food and beverage, security, and housekeeping. The virtual application process begins at the West End…
Bipartisan Bill Might Finally Abolish the Death Penalty in Ohio
A bipartisan group of Ohio lawmakers will soon introduce legislation to abolish the death penalty in Ohio. State Sen. Nickie Antonio in a virtual press conference Feb. 18 said, “There is a team right now that is dedicated to ending the death penalty in Ohio. And that team can only get larger.” The bill will be…
Ohio Dept. of Health Targets Minority Populations with COVID-19 Vaccine Town Halls
The Ohio Department of Health is hoping that a series of town halls will encourage more people to get the COVID-19 vaccine. ODH will livestream four public town halls aimed at specific Ohio populations beginning Feb. 22. There will be town halls dedicated to Ohioans who are Black, Hispanic/Latino/Latina, Asian-American and Pacific Islander as well…
Parlor Pizza Project Is Now Open in Hyde Park
Last summer, our mouths and souls were graced by a tasty weekly pop-up at Cincinnati vino shop and bar Oakley Wines. Parlor Pizza Project, founded by Alex Plattner, kicked off its Sunday Slice pop-up in late August, featuring two or three different 10-inch pizza options weekly, which guests could either enjoy at the shop or take to-go. And after…
Ohio Gov. DeWine Refuses to Explain Aide’s Role in Bailout Scandal
If you asked most people to start up a dark money group and then funnel more than $1 million through it and into another such group, they’d probably want to know what it was going to be used for. But now that the second 501(c)(4) dark-money group, Generation Now, has pleaded guilty to being at the…
The ACA Insurance Marketplace Is Open Again. Here’s What You Need to Know.
For people who’ve been without health insurance during the pandemic, relief is in sight. In January, President Joe Biden signed an executive order to open up the federal health insurance marketplace for three months as of Monday so uninsured people can buy a plan and those who want to change their marketplace coverage can do so. Consumer advocates applauded…
Medical-Aid-in-Dying Bill Puts Spotlight on Terminally Ill Kentuckians
Medical-aid-in-dying laws that allow terminally ill individuals to end their lives peacefully using medication have passed in at least ten states, and Kentucky lawmakers are now considering similar legislation. Rep. Josie Raymond, D-Louisville, introduced House Bill 506 last week, and said terminally ill Kentuckians experiencing unbearable pain currently have no options. "This has been something that I've…
Here’s What Cincinnati Musicians Have Been Up To Since the Pandemic Pushed Pause on Live Performances
It’s been nearly a year since the world ground to a halt under the deadly and disruptive coronavirus. 2020 easily could have been “The Year Without a Santa Claus” for the local music community, but Cincinnati musicians have shown resilience and resourcefulness in the myriad ways they’ve worked within and around the pandemic’s fallout of…
Cincinnati’s Red Sesame Food Truck Now Available For Delivery on DoorDash & Grubhub
Many Cincinnatians recognize the name Red Sesame, even if they can’t pinpoint where they know it from. The popular food truck has popped up everywhere from the University of Cincinnati’s main campus, various regional events, the Ridge Avenue Shell, Medpace, as well as local neighborhoods. If you haven’t been able to catch it in the…
Sittenfeld, Seelbach Drop from Race for Cincinnati Mayor
Two prominent hopefuls for Cincinnati’s next mayor announced this week that they would not be seeking the office after all. In a Feb. 18 Facebook post, P.G. Sittenfeld shares that he will drop out of the mayoral race immediately. “It is with a very heavy heart that, due to the current situation, I've made the…
Along with Ohio Health Department, State Auditor Missed 4,000 COVID-19 Deaths During Probe
The Ohio State Auditor’s months-long investigation into the state health department’s COVID-19 data practices failed to detect the 4,000 newly discovered COVID-19 deaths announced by the Ohio Department of Health last week. Auditor Keith Faber’s staff have declined to fully explain how they missed the deaths — which sprung Ohio’s death toll from about 12,000…
Ohio-Based Platform Beer Co. to Provide Financial Relief to Restaurant Workers With Beer Fundraiser
Cleveland-based brewery Platform Beer Co. has launched a fundraising program that will help Ohio restaurant workers in 2021. The brewery, founded in 2014 by Paul Benner and Justin Carson, is partnering with the Ohio Restaurant Employee Relief Fund to donate $1 of the proceeds from each case of their Haze Jude IPA to restaurant workers…
Everybody in Ohio Is Moving to Cincinnati, Apparently
Is Cincinnati the best city in Ohio? We don’t know, but based on U.S. Census data, it sure looks like other Ohioans dig us. Data-storytelling website Stacker recently examined Census data for 2014 to 2018 to see which metro areas people were moving to and from throughout the nation. In its December report, Stacker finds…
Cincinnati’s Kings Island Has Announced Its 2021 Opening Date
Last year, the pandemic heavily affected almost every industry, including the amusement park industry. Cincinnati’s local park Kings Island was no exception. In 2020, the park pushed opening day to July 2, but this year, Kings Island plans to open on May 15 to the general public. While Gold and Platinum pass holders can attend…
Cincinnati Steak Lovers, Rejoice! Jeff Ruby’s $99 Filet and Lobster For Two Special is Back
Cincinnati-based steakhouse chain Jeff Ruby's is bringing back a limited-time special for two that plates up a little bit of surf and a little bit of turf. The $99 dinner comes with a 6 oz. filet mignon, petite cold water lobster tail, a Freddie Salad, mashed potatoes and asparagus for both guests. The meal is…
Lord Help Us: Northside Yacht Club Introduces Deep-Fried Coney Eating Challenge
Have an appetite for destruction? Northside Yacht Club recently announced that it is taking its seasonal delicacy — the deep-fried chili cheese coney — to the next level. We present to you, the "5 Coney Food Challenge." Scarf down five "Cincinnati Chimichangas" (vegetarian and vegan options available) and a rather large-looking basket of fries in…
Ohio Among Worst States for Gun Safety, Giffords Law Center Finds
According to the Giffords Law Center’s annual Gun Law Scorecard, Ohio isn’t exactly the safest state in the nation. Released Feb. 17, the Scorecard grades states on their gun safety initiatives and compares those with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s data on gun-related deaths. For 2021, Ohio earns a “D” grade on the…
Making Masks Fit Better Can Reduce Coronavirus Exposure by 96 Percent
By now, most people have gotten the message that wearing a face mask is one way to help stop the spread of COVID-19. But now health officials are taking the masking message a step further: Don’t just wear a mask, wear it well. Taking steps to improve the way medical masks fit can protect wearers…
Here’s How to Build a Winter Cat Shelter to Keep Cincinnati Strays Safe This Season
As the winter turns colder, it's time to invest in some inexpensive real estate to keep your community’s cats safe. While recent winter storms seem to have elicited some of the most snowfall in recent memory, Cincinnati has a recurring history of rough wintery weather. Due to these frigid conditions, Ohio-based cat welfare nonprofit Give…
Cincinnati Zoo Provides Giraffe Pedicures in Remarkable Training Feat
Following weeks of training, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s giraffe population now accepts pedicures. Zoo personnel have worked closely with the skittish animals to participate in their own hoof care. According to a recent press release, giraffes are notoriously hesitant to stand still while being touched and handled by people. To perform proper hoof trimming,…
Farmer Nate’s Hot Sauce Spices Up Greater Cincinnati
Like it spicy? Farmer Nate’s Sauce Co. premiered its first line of locally harvested and processed hot sauces in December. Nate Nunemaker is new to farming, but he jumped right in with his boots on. Before he began introducing himself to the public as Farmer Nate, Nunemaker worked as a photographer and videographer. These days,…
Could Kentucky Become the Next State to Legalize Recreational Marijuana?
Recreational marijuana may finally become a reality in Kentucky Northern Kentucky Rep. Rachel Roberts, a Democrat, aims to legalize recreational marijuana use through a new House Bill, which would make Kentucky the fifth state to do so in the past year. Voters in the November 2020 election legalized recreational use in Arizona, Montana, New Jersey…
Hall of Famer Barry Larkin Joins Cincinnati Reds Broadcast Team
FOX Sports Ohio just got a major upgrade. Cincinnati legend and Cooperstown inductee Barry Larkin will join the Cincinnati Reds’ television broadcast team on FOX Sports Ohio beginning with the 2021 season. The Reds tweeted the announcement on Feb. 16. The former Reds shortstop will serve as a color analyst. Larkin previously had been an…
Cincinnati’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade Has Been Cancelled Again
It was just a little over a year ago when Cincinnati's 54th-annual St. Patrick's Day parade was canceled due to the growing coronavirus pandemic. It was one of the first few major event cancellations locally, and a glimpse into changes the next year would entail. And as COVID-19 continues to be a national health threat,…
Cincinnati’s Paul Brown Stadium Among Most Expensive in the World, Study Says
Cincinnati is home to one of the most expensive sports stadiums in the history of ever throughout the entire world. Go, us! ConstructionDisputes, a firm that provides bond and lien filing assistance for contractors and suppliers, recently shared an infographic examining costs associated with the construction of stadiums on a global scale. The list includes…
Will Sports Gambling Be Legalized in Ohio? Lawmakers Giving it Thought
Ohio lawmakers are taking a fresh start to approaching the issue of legalized sports gambling in the Buckeye State. There are not yet any specific proposals on the table in 2021. Instead, seven state senators make up the Select Committee on Gaming, which has begun meeting weekly to hear general testimony on the subjects of…
Census Data Delays May Significantly Impact Ohio Redistricting Process
Delays in processing the 2020 U.S. Census data will likely impact Ohio’s ability to redraw legislative districts later this year. The U.S. Census Bureau announced last Friday it has pushed back the deadline to release population data to Sept. 30, months later than was originally expected, due to the pandemic. The delay could pose major…
How Coronavirus Variants May Drive Reinfection and Shape Vaccination Efforts
Vaccine rollout in the United States has been undeniably slow. And while we wait, worrisome new coronavirus variants are emerging, heightening the urgency to control the pandemic. Some variants, including ones first identified in Brazil, South Africa and the United Kingdom, have mutations that help the coronavirus evade parts of the immune system, raising the…
Could Passenger Rail Finally Expand Within Ohio?
Could passenger rail finally expand within Ohio? Rail-transportation advocacy group All Aboard Ohio thinks so. All Aboard Ohio recently shared blueprints of proposed Amtrak rail corridors that include Cincinnati in statewide plans. Within the state, the routes would connect Cincinnati to Dayton, Columbus and Cleveland. Amtrak also reportedly is proposing three routes that would connect Ohio with other…
New Agreement Links Cincinnati Reds, Dayton Dragons Through 2030
Get ready, Dayton Dragons fans — the Cincinnati Reds say it’s time for the minor-league team to move on up. On Feb. 15, the teams announced a new Major League Baseball Player Development License agreement that will keep the Dragons affiliated with the Reds organization for the next 10 years. That links the two clubs…
Cincinnati Public Library To Hold ‘Worst Album’ Live Stream Series
Folks at the Cincinnati Public Library understand that we all have a few favorite albums that the vast population don't regard as “masterpieces.” Whether it’s an old Nickelback or Vanilla Ice record, just about everyone has an album or two that they likely will not be recommending to friends. “My Favorite Album is Terrible” is…
Ohio Couples Take the Longest in the Nation to Get Engaged
Here in Ohio, we like to take things slooooowwwwww — at least when it comes to the path to marriage. A recent study from jewelry chain Shane Co. finds that Ohio couples take 47.5 months to move their relationships from dating to engaged, the longest in the United States for 2021. That’s nearly five months longer…
Kentucky Lawmakers Weigh Options for Expanding State Voting Rights
State lawmakers are considering bills to restore rights for people with felonies in their past, as well as expand polling hours, vote-by-mail options and same-day registration. A virtual event Thursday by Kentuckians for the Commonwealth (KFTC) aims to keep people informed about the potential voting-related changes. Bonifacio Aleman, a member KFTC's Jefferson County chapter, said he supports…
College Hill’s Brink Brewing Co. to Celebrate Fourth Anniversary with Heated Patio Party
The cold weather won’t stop College Hill’s Brink Brewing Co. from celebrating its fourth anniversary this weekend. Although the brewery's grand opening saw 70 degree weather back in 2017, this anniversary is shaping up to be a little — or a lot — more chilly. But don’t fret — Brink's patio tents will be toasty and…
Latin-American Brunch Spot Yucca to Open in Bellevue’s Former Fairfield Café+Bar Space
A layer of spicy chorizo rests underneath a blanket of sunny-side-up eggs. Beneath those are the homemade, steaming breakfast potatoes. The fresh jalapeño compliments the creaminess of the avocado slices and the tang of the house-made pico de gallo. This made-from-scratch dish is called The Hangover, and it’s one of the most popular dishes at…
Ohio Health Dept. Epidemiologist Resigns after State Discovers 4000 Omitted COVID-19 Deaths
An epidemiology investigator resigned last week and the head of the Bureau of Infectious Diseases was reassigned after the state health department discovered it undercounted Ohio’s COVID-19 death toll by about 34%. Karthik Kondapally resigned from the Ohio Department of Health, said Arundi Venkayya, the department’s chief communications officer, in an email Feb. 12. Likewise, Sietske…
Ohio Among Top States for Long-Term Care COVID Vaccinations
Ohio is at the head of the pack when it comes to getting the COVID-19 vaccine into long-term care facilities. According to data by state updated Feb.14, Ohio has administered the fifth-highest number of doses nationally through the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Program. Peter Van Runkle, executive director…
Check Cincinnati’s Snow Plow Tracker for Clear Streets Near You
Curious when that Cincinnati snow plow is going to reach your neighborhood? There’s a tracker for that. Now that we’re in the winter of extreme discontent — in which Greater Cincinnati won’t even see temperatures above freezing until Feb. 21, thanks to an ongoing blanket of snow and sleet — we really should just stay…
Future Retrieval’s “Close Parallel” Exhibition Launches This Month at Cincinnati Art Museum
Katie Parker and Guy Michael Davis – aka art duo (and married couple) Future Retrieval – spent most of 2020 creating art for their solo exhibition Close Parallel for the Cincinnati Art Museum, which opens Feb. 26. It’s the biggest show of their lives, they say — one that has been years in the making.…
DeWine Aide’s Organization Was Link to Now-Guilty Dark Money Group
Dan McCarthy, a top aide to Gov. Mike DeWine, hasn’t explained what he thought the point was of the millions funneling through a dark money group he founded and into another at the heart of a huge corruption scandal that has rocked Ohio. He did say, however, that he had no reason to believe it…
Critics Say a Vaccine ‘Opt-Out’ Bill Puts Kentuckians’ Health at Risk
Medical experts and health-care advocacy groups warn legislation to expand Kentuckians' ability to opt out of vaccinations against infectious diseases is dangerous and unnecessary, especially during a pandemic. Sen. Mike Wilson, R-Bowling Green, the majority whip, said he filed the bill because some of his constituents voiced concern the government might force them to get…
In Taft Museum of Art’s ‘Walk This Way’ Exhibition, Shoes Do Both the Walking and the Talking
The upcoming Taft Museum of Art exhibition Walk This Way is as much a showcase of improbability as it is a collection of historical shoes. Shoes haven’t always been made to last — not for a decade, and certainly not for hundreds of years. But some do, which leads to the coincidental way the exhibition’s…
Cincinnati Indie Band KNOTTS Releases Music Video for Pandemic-Inspired “Moon Face Girl”
Earlier this month, local indie band KNOTTS released the music video for their melodic and ariose track "Moon Faced Girl" off the band’s EP, “Good Glasses.” The music video was filmed at Mount Storm Park in Clifton as well as French Park in Amberley Village by video artist, filmmaker, and screenwriter Francesca Marcotte Rietz, along…
Cincinnati-Based Kroger Sells Beef That Destroys Amazon Rainforest, Report Says
Is Kroger selling meat from a controversial supplier? That’s what an investigation by Andrew Wasley and Alexandra Heal of media outlet The Guardian appears to reveal. The Guardian alleges that along with Walmart and Costco, Cincinnati-based Kroger has been selling Brazilian beef from a company that has been linked to deforestation of the Amazon rainforest. JBS,…
Frisch’s Big Boy Introduces Two New Fish Sandwich Varieties to Menu
Frisch’s Big Boy has expanded its menu to include two new fish sandwiches for the upcoming Lent season. In addition to the sammies, the local restaurant chain also has introduced some sweet dessert items. The two new sandwiches, which are available now, offer a saucy spin to the classic fried fish favorite at Frisch’s. The…
5 Greater Cincinnati Sledding Hills to Bomb This Wintery Week
Yes, Mother Nature’s frosty grip has taken hold of the Midwest this week. And after a rather stressful year and the start of yet another one, some whimsical winter fun is just what the doctor ordered. Greater Cincinnati’s hilly terrain makes it a great city for sledding — in the rare chances we get enough…
Sled-less in Cincinnati? Here Are Five Alternatives You Probably Have at Home
With a winter storm continuing to blanket the area’s hills with inches and inches of snow, the young and the young at heart typically take to the slopes with sleds. If your local store is sold out of sled or you just feel like staying off the roads, here are some at-home alternative products to…
CBP Officers in Cincinnati Cockblock Illicit Viagra Shipment
A Missouri-bound shipment of "herbal pasta" turned out to contain a different kind of noodle-related product — containers of 17,000 illegally imported Viagra pills that, if sold, could have engorged someone's wallet with $1.2 million. Instead, the shipment ran into a squeeze at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection in Cincinnati, where federal agents busted…
Ohio Sen. Rob Portman Still Has No Spine, FYI
The U.S. Senate voted on Saturday to acquit former President Donald Trump on a charge of inciting the deadly Jan. 6 insurrectionist attack on the U.S. Capitol, concluding his second impeachment trial with the same verdict as his first impeachment. In the 57-43 vote, seven Republicans joined every Senate Democrat and independent in support of…
Where to Get Mardi Gras King Cakes in Cincinnati in 2021
What better way to celebrate Mardi Gras — or Fat Tuesday in French — than by consuming a deliciously sweet king cake? New Orleans isn’t the only place to find this traditional yeast cake that reminds us of a cinnamon roll in the shape of a giant donut, complete with royal icing, and purple, green,…
Major Bockfest Activities Are Cancelled (Thanks, COVID-19), But There Are Still Plenty of Ways to Celebrate
Cincinnati's 29th-annual Bockfest celebration returns March 5-7, and like most things we've experienced this past year, it will look a little bit different. The fest features three days of protracted celebration held to honor the coming of spring, bock beer and OTR’s brewing heritage. But due to the pandemic, the festival has cancelled some of its…
Guy Fieri Brings a Taste of Flavortown to Greater Cincinnati with Three Delivery-Only Ghost Kitchens
You can keep your caviar, duck confit, foie gras, weird fucking foams, and edible balloons because, in Flavortown, pretentious and frilly Fraiser-approved canapés take a backseat to belly-busters like the Bacon Mac N' Cheese Burger, fried pickles, and egg rolls stuffed with shaved ribeye, sriracha ketchup, and SMC, aka super melty cheese. Guy Fieri — the spiky-haired, flame shirt-obsessed…
Cincy Shirts is Selling Viral Meme-Inspired ‘I’m Not a Cat.’ Shirts
Unless you just came out of Internet exile you've likely seen the video clip of attorney Rod Ponton that's been shared millions of times after being uploaded to YouTube by Judge Roy Ferguson of the 394th Judicial District of Texas. During a zoom hearing, Ponton was transformed into a fluffy kitten by a filter while using his secretary's computer, an…
There May Be Some Bright Spots Amid Ohio’s COVID-19 Gloom
For almost a year now, Ohioans have been subjected to a relentless stream of bad news about the coronavirus. First it was a shortage of masks, hand sanitizer, personal protective equipment and testing. Then, in December, the exciting news that a vaccine was finally here was closely followed by a botched rollout that fell far…
Hamilton County Deputy Officer Under Fire for Extremist Posts on Social Media
The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an officer who allegedly had posted an extremist militia flag on his personal Facebook page. Craig Cheatham of WCPO reports that Deputy Michael Stemmerding posted a Three Percenters (3%ers) flag as his Facebook cover photo in December and has had it there for six weeks. “The FBI has…
Homemade Sign Implores Sledders at Covington’s Devou Park to Not Be ‘Stupid’
A homemade sign in Devou Park shows that someone in Greater Cincinnati knows their physics. Kelly Brown snapped a photo in the Covington park of a cardboard sign urging park-goers not to sue Devou should they hit a tree while sledding during our current stretch of winter storms. The sign's creator is unknown. The sign…
Kentucky Lawmakers Explore Tax Ramifications for Historical Horse-Racing Slot Machines
State lawmakers will soon decide the fate of historical horse racing in the Commonwealth – and some experts say if this type of slot-machine gambling becomes legal, it should be taxed at a higher rate. Historical horse racing allows players to place bets on the results of thousands of past horse races, and this type…
Welp, Ohio Buffets and Self-Serve Food Stations Have Officially Reopened
A taste of normalcy is returning to the lives of Ohioans this week — whether they're ready for it or not — after many, many months of COVID-related restrictions in order to keep communities safe. During a press conference on Thursday, Feb. 11, Gov. Mike DeWine announced that he and the Ohio Department of Health lifted…
Cincinnati Reds’ Home Opener is April 1, but Will Fans Be There?
The Cincinnati Reds are singing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” with its 2021 game schedule, but there’s still no word that fans will be able to buy some peanuts and Cracker Jack. Major League Baseball announced Thursday that the league has set game times for its master regular-season schedule. For the fourth consecutive season,…
OKI Recognized for Solar Energy Growth Efforts with Silver Designation
The OKI Regional Council of Governments has received a Silver designation from the national SolSmart program. This comes following local governments’ efforts to make it faster, easier and more affordable to use solar energy, according to a statement released from OKI. “We are proud to recognize OKI as the first regional organization in Ohio, Kentucky…
DeWine Lifts Ohio Curfew, Effective Immediately
Ohio Gov. DeWine and the Ohio Department of Health lifted the state’s curfew Thursday, citing downward-trending coronavirus stats. “Thanks to a sustained decrease in #COVID19 hospitalizations, Ohio’s curfew has been lifted. If hospitalizations begin rising again, @OhioDeptofHealth may reinstate it. It's crucial that we all continue safety protocols to #SlowTheSpread and prevent hospitalizations from going…
Somebody Tell Ohio Congressman Jim Jordan That Trump Lost the Election
We’re not sure if you’ve heard the news, but U.S. House Rep Jim Jordan’s proficiency at being a man "for the people" is questionable. The Ohio Republican has been repeatedly accused of looking away as Ohio State University’s team physician sexually abused members of the wrestling team for which Jordan was an assistant coach. During…
Cincinnati Public Library Has Free, Printable Valentine’s Day Cards That You Can Color
Attention all bibliophiles: this Valentine’s Day, you can spread a little love by sending an adorable Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library Valentine to someone you care about. CHPL’s graphic designer, Ashley Kroninger, has designed three custom valentines that are available for download online. Just download the free PDF, print the page, add some color,…
Cincinnati’s Wave Pool Gallery Offering a Free Tax Season Support Group for Artists
Wave Pool Gallery in Camp Washington is offering a weekly support group for artists during the upcoming tax season. Wave Pool, which has the goal of “pairing communities’ needs with artists’ sense of possibility” according to their website, has teamed up with fine-arts and finance expert Morgan Rigaud to help independent artists navigate tax season.…
WalletHub Proclaims Cincinnati a Top U.S. Wedding Destination for 2021
Are wedding bells constantly ringing in Cincinnati? WalletHub seems to think so. The personal-finance website ranks Cincinnati as No. 11 on its “Best Places to Get Married” list for 2021. We know, we know — the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has put a pause on big fairy-tale nuptials. But, WalletHub reasons, COVID-19 eventually will be history,…
Cherry Thing-a-Lings, the Seasonal Cult-Favorite from Indiana’s Schmidt Bakery, Have Returned
Batesville, Indiana's Schmidt Bakery has a tasty tradition nearly 50 years in the making. Once a year during President's Day weekend, the bakery offers its beloved Cherry Thing-a-Lings, a fried fritter-like donut made with cherries and topped with a sweet cherry glaze. People travel far and wide for the limited-time treat, but last year, the bakery introduced a…
Ohio Vaccinations Speed Up While the Coronavirus Recedes
More than 1.1 million Ohioans have begun the two-shot vaccination process against COVID-19, just 11 months after the state health department first detected the new coronavirus in Ohio. An analysis of state data shows the seven-day moving average of the number of Ohioans starting the vaccination process has slowly and steadily risen between the first…
Celebrate National Inventors’ Day with Five Inventors from Greater Cincinnati
Happy National Inventors' Day! What? You didn't know? U.S. President Ronald Reagan declared Feb. 11 as National Inventors' Day in 1983 to celebrate Thomas Edison’s birthday. Edison had more than 1,000 patents throughout his lifetime, with some of his more notable inventions being the phonograph, dictaphone and incandescent light bulb. Edison was born in Milan,…
Ohio Department of Health Undercounts COVID Deaths by 4,000
The Ohio Department of Health announced Wednesday that it may have missed as many as 4,000 coronavirus-related deaths in recent data counts. In a Feb. 10 news release, the health department says issues affecting deaths that were recorded through the state’s reporting issues began in October. The deaths will be added to Ohio’s death count…
‘Smut Peddler’ Larry Flynt Dies at Age 78
Larry Flynt, king of smut and lawsuits, died Feb. 10, TMZ reports. He was 78. Sources tell TMZ that Flynt died of heart failure. Flynt is perhaps most famous for his empire in the adult entertainment industry, notably for founding the explicit and frequently violent and demeaning Hustler Magazine, which is credited with displaying the…
10 Cincinnati Restaurants & Bars Offering Carry-Out Valentine’s Day Meals
For the last year, the COVID-19 pandemic has placed plans on hold — whether it’s vacations, trips to loved ones’ houses for the holidays, or even a date night out on the town. For those who still want to stay in and stay safe, these local businesses are providing meal-kits and carry-out options so that…
Cincinnati’s ArtsWave to Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Illuminations, Photo Contests
If you’re looking for an artsy and COVID-safe Valentine's Day weekend idea, ArtsWave has you covered with its #ILoveTheArts event. From 6-9 p.m. on Friday Feb. 12 and Saturday Feb. 13, nearly 50 buildings throughout Greater Cincinnati will light up in “ArtsWave red.” Whether you’re choosing to navigate the streets on foot, by car, bicycle or…
Buff City Soap to Bring Handcrafted, Plant-Based Soaps to Oakley
Buff City Soap is coming to Oakley on Feb. 18, opening next to Smoothie King in Oakley Station. The all-natural soap-shop franchise hand-crafts everything from body scrubs, bath bombs, foaming hand soap, and even laundry detergent. Each location makes every item in-shop so customers can see the ingredients that go into the product they are purchasing.…
All the Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Cincinnati — For Couples and Singles Alike
Valentine’s Day Weekend is right around the corner, and many local businesses are offering special dinner deals, meal kits, and fun activities to spoil your special someone. Whether you’re going out, staying in, or a combination of both, here are some ways to celebrate the holiday while showing some love to local businesses. Love on…
Ohio Study Shows Third-Grade English Achievement Dropped Amid Pandemic
A study done by political science researchers at the Ohio State University showed a significant loss for third-graders in the area of English Language Arts caused by pandemic learning. The study, released by the John Glenn College of Public Affairs used data from the fall administration of the third-grade English Language Arts assessment in an effort to…
Legislation Seeks to Provide Internet Access in Unserved Areas of Ohio
Ohio legislators are making quick work on the issue of broadband expansion so far in 2021, with the goal of providing internet access to all areas of the state. A Republican-led effort is already seeing progress during the new legislative term. A bill to encourage and finance new broadband infrastructure projects was advanced Tuesday by…
Cincinnati’s Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum Hosts Moonlight Winter Stroll This Month
Embark on a crisp, moonlit stroll through Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum this month, led by local horticulturalist Dave Gressley. The free walk begins at 6 p.m., Feb. 25 on the front lawn of the cemetery’s Historic Office, just inside the main gates at Spring Grove. Guests are required to wear a mask and to…
Ohio Bill Targeting Health Dept. Authority May Be Unconstitutional, Statehouse Researchers Say
Some Ohio lawmakers believe the health orders issued over the past year are unconstitutional and reflect an executive branch of government overstepping its boundaries. A proposed bill to solve that problem may itself be unconstitutional. That’s the opinion of the Legislative Service Commission, a non-partisan group which provides legal and policy research to Ohio legislators. Senate…
Ohio’s Top Republicans (Sort of) Disagree About Vaccinating Teachers
Ohio’s two top Republicans seem to have different ideas about when students should return to school — although one of them wouldn’t acknowledge it on Tuesday. Last week, Sen. Rob Portman appeared to signal a rare public disagreement with Gov. Mike DeWine, who for a year has been taking fire from some on his right…
Cincinnati’s Procter & Gamble Takes Its Refillable Antiperspirants Nationwide
The ongoing coronavirus pandemic and work-from-home situation means that, for many of us, we’re not using as much stuff as we were before last March. Less gasoline. Less makeup. Less clothing (except for sweatshirts and pajamas, of course). But the pandemic also means that we’re probably using more single-use plastic at home than we realize,…
Vote for Cincinnati’s Smale Riverfront Park as USA Today’s Best River Walk
We’re not doing much traveling these days (Thanks, COVID), but one of Cincinnati’s own parks is up for a travel award from USA Today — and your vote can help. “10 Best,” USA Today’s travel information hub that frequently relies on reader input, has included Smale Riverfront Park among its nominees for best river walk in…
Cincinnati Bengals, Local Health Officials Exploring Paul Brown Stadium as Mass COVID-19 Vaccination Site
The Bengals’ Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati could become a mass COVID-19 vaccination site, due to an offer from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to U.S. President Joe Biden. In Goodell’s letter to Biden on Feb. 5, the football commissioner affirmed a commitment to making all 30 NFL stadiums available for health administrators to distribute vaccines.…
Cincinnati’s Peppermint Pig Animal Rescue Funds its Volunteer-Based Adoption Agency with a Thrift Store
Thrift shopping is more than uncovering the perfect blouse, rug or lounge chair you’ve been dying to get your hands on at affordable prices. As many of us know, thrifting is a great, practical way to help reduce waste and carbon emissions that the “fast fashion” industry produces. Knowing this to be true, Peppermint Pig…
DoorDash Extends $5,000 Grant Opportunity to Cincinnati Restaurants
DoorDash is expanding its Main Street Strong grant program to include Cincinnati. The grants, each $5,000, are part of DoorDash’s $200 million initiative to help restaurants through the winter and the pandemic. According to a statement, the grants are meant to assist restaurants with funding for necessary changes for the winter months, like extra personal protective…
Fort Mitchell’s Greyhound Tavern Named “Most Legendary” Restaurant in Kentucky
Greater Cincinnati is well-known for its culinary excellence, a sturdy prestige built on the backs of historic eateries that have stood the test of time. Now booming with new eateries to choose from (despite the pandemic), it's clear that our coveted dining scene isn't going anywhere soon — but recognition for our staple eateries is…
Cincinnati Apparently Is a Great Pass-Through City for Green Cocaine and Fake iPhones
First it was fake Rolex watches. Now it’s fake iPhones. Oh, and some very not-fake cocaine. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers in Cincinnati have been busy lately, seizing 5 Apple iPhones on Feb. 2 and 433 pounds of green powder cocaine between October and February. In a news release, CBP says that local…
Cincinnati is the No. 2 U.S. City for Working from Home, Apartment Guide Says
Stay home, Cincinnati! You’re apparently already built for it. In a recent report, Apartment Guide bills Cincinnati as one of the best cities in which to work from home. The Queen City comes in at No. 2 on the list and has the best showing of any city in the Midwest. With more people working…
Bankruptcy Imminent if Pandemic Income Tax Lost, Ohio Mayors Say
A bipartisan group of Ohio’s mayors said of the policies they’ll be watching over the next year, keeping the income tax changes implemented early in the pandemic is the most vital. Members of the Ohio Mayors Alliance met on Monday to lay out their priorities, which unsurprisingly focus mainly on the end of the COVID-19…
Ohio Abortion Clinics Praise Lifting of Global Gag Rule, Set Hopes on Domestic Funding
While local women’s health clinics are optimistic after President Joe Biden lifted a gag rule on federal funding to abortion-related international organizations, they still want to see domestic funding for abortion providers brought back as well. Biden rescinded the “Global Gag Rule,” also called the Mexico City Policy, brought in originally by President Ronald Reagan…
Two Cincinnati Coffee Shops Recognized in Yelp’s ‘Black-Owned Businesses to Watch in 2021’ List
Two Black-owned, Cincinnati coffee shops made it onto Yelp’s 2021list of “Black-owned businesses to watch in 2021.” In celebration of Black History Month, Yelp put together a list of Black-owned businesses that have shown increases in ratings and reviews in 2020 as compared to 2019 (or opened in or after 2019). Yelp limited its list…
Kentucky’s Farms to Food Banks Program Seen as ‘Lifeline’ During Pandemic
As the food-insecurity crisis continues, Kentucky growers are stepping in to fill the void. Last year 371 farmers participated in the state's Farms to Food Banks program, and advocates say a funding boost could help feed more families at a time when many are facing financial hardship, while also financially compensating growers. Karena Cash, advocacy director for…
‘Food & Wine’ Says Cincinnati’s Bonomini Bakery Has the Best Doughnuts in Ohio
Cincinnati's Bonomini Bakery was recently recognized by Food & Wine Magazine for having the best doughnuts in Ohio — a fact that comes as absolutely no surprise to Northsiders, who love their local gem. The list identifies the "finest fried dough treats" in every state. Author and foodie David Landsel declares Bonomini's "Clunker" for the…
Cincinnati Zoo’s Fiona the Hippo Auditions To Be 2021 Cadbury Bunny
Fiona the Hippo has plunged into a new venture by announcing her audition as the 2021 Cadbury bunny. The annual international contest, hosted by Cadbury, will feature the winner in its annual Easter commercials and win $5,000. The contest includes custom stickers that participants can pin on a picture of their pet that give them…
Show Your Boo Some Love with a Valentine’s Day Flower Bundle From Cincinnati’s Krohn Conservatory
Krohn Conservatory, located in Eden Park, closed its doors to the public in November when coronavirus cases surged in the fall. However, the luscious plants grown at the conservatory did not go to waste. In a series of weekly sales, plant lovers can now purchase blooms from Krohn Conservatory that would typically premiere in its…
Downtown’s Shanghai Mama’s Reopens in New Location
Downtown Cincinnati's Shanghai Mama's has made a delicious impact on Queen City diners, as well as on visitors passing through, over its two decades in business. And after the building that the restaurant was located in was suddenly sold this past fall, the owners of the Chinese eatery were forced to close and find a new space. …
FC Cincinnati’s Saad Abdul-Salaam Helps Bring Financial Literacy Program to Western Hills High School
After the recent GameStop stock frenzy story left millions of Americans confused, financial literacy is clearly a hot topic in 2021. But even before the WallStreetBets vs. Robinhood face-off, three African American activists were working to create a free financial literacy program for local high school students. University of Bristol scholar and founder of Kids…
Cincinnatians: Solve Puzzles This Valentine’s Day Weekend to Win Some Cash
Puzzle Crawl, a Cincinnati-based small business, will be hosting a Valentine’s Day weekend puzzle contest this year, with more than $2,000 in cash prizes up for grabs. John Bromels, co-founder of Puzzle Crawl, created the event in hopes that singles, couples and groups will “stay in and solve puzzles” instead of going out. Bromels wanted…
Lead Testing of Ohio Children Plummets During Pandemic
The number of Ohio children tested for lead exposure in the first five months of 2020 plummeted compared to the same time frame the year before, according to the CDC. The drop-off is part of a larger pattern. New research from the CDC found about a 34% decrease nationally in the number of children tested for lead…
Ohio House Speaker Defends Naming Anti-Vaccine Rep as Health Chairman
The Speaker of the Ohio House defended his decision on Feb. 3 to re-appoint a representative with outspoken anti-vaccine views to the helm of the House Health Committee. Rep. Scott Lipps, R-Franklin, has pushed legislation to weaken Ohio’s vaccine laws; called in to video conferences hosted by anti-vaccine groups; made public statements about the need…
NFL Snubs Bengals’ Ken Riley for ‘In Memoriam’ Segment Before Super Bowl
The Cincinnati Bengals are calling foul on the NFL for ignoring a city legend who passed away last year. On Feb. 8, just a few hours before the kickoff for Super Bowl LV and shortly before Miley Cyrus began her TikTok tailgate performance, the Bengals tweeted their dissatisfaction with the National Football League for omitting…
Ohio Labor Group Calls for End to Farm Contractor Abuses
A legal victory in North Carolina could open the door to reforms that would protect farm workers in the Buckeye State as well. A federal judge has given preliminary approval to the last of three settlements in a class-action lawsuit against growers who used a farm-labor contractor to cut labor costs – a contractor who…
Samuel Adams Beer Has Deep Cincinnati Roots and a Bright Future
It's no secret that breweries are a mainstay of Cincinnati. Today, there are more than 70 breweries across the Greater Cincinnati area, each with its distinct selection of beers and backstory. But as much as beer is a part of present-day Cincinnati, the brewing industry is also tightly intertwined in the city’s history and identity.…
It’s February, Which Means Deep-Fried Chili Cheese Coneys are Back at Northside Yacht Club
The month of February yields different connotations for different people. And in the fine neighborhood of Northside, it also signals the return of an infamous Midwestern monstrocity. That's right. Northside Yacht Club's deep-fried chili cheese coney, aka the "Cincinnati Chimichanga," is back starting today, Feb. 5. The restaurant announced the reemergence of the seasonal menu item…
New Riff to Release 15-Year Bourbon to Benefit Service Industry Relief Efforts
New Riff Distilling announced its plans to release almost 900 bottles of a 15-year-old straight bourbon whiskey in the next few months, in order to raise funds for support relief efforts. The distillery posted about its plans on Facebook, explaining that the profits made from sales of the bourbon will go towards the Ohio Restaurant…
Gold Star Chili Fundraiser Contributes Over $10,000 to Cincinnati Children’s Hosptial
Tiffany Messer and her husband Keith have spent more time than preferred at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. When their twin boys Benjamin and Alex were born in June 2014, Benjamin had heterotaxy syndrome. Heterotaxy syndrome is a rare congenital defect in which major organs are distributed abnormally within the chest and abdomen. “He had severe heart…
Cincinnati Museum Center’s Holocaust & Humanity Center Opens New Interactive Exhibit of Holocaust Testimony
Cincinnati Museum Center's Nancy and David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center has introduced an innovative way for visitors to closely connect with the experiences of the Holocaust. The museum held a virtual ribbon-cutting ceremony ahead of the exhibit's Feb. 5 opening, unveiling the new exhibition. "Dimensions in Testimony" invites attendees to have virtual “conversations” with Holocaust…
DeWine, Husted Hope Redrawing Districts Will Create More Competitive Elections
Gov. Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted on Tuesday said they hope a new system of drawing congressional and state legislative districts will result in more competitive elections. But, they cautioned, the task will be far from simple. Ohio has among the worst partisan gerrymandering, according to multiple analyses. Districts are typically redrawn once every 10…
Pandemic Increases Vaping, Tobacco Use for Kentucky Students, Survey Says
More than a third of Kentucky middle and high schoolers say the pandemic has increased their use of e-cigarettes or vapes and other tobacco products, according to a recent survey. The survey of 400 middle and high-school students across 22 counties was conducted in November and December by the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky, in partnership with Kentucky…
New Apple Music Playlist Highlights Under-the-Radar Midwest Rappers
Video killed the radio star, but these days, streaming playlists are the new hitmakers in music. To dig deeper into local indie music scenes, Apple Music launched a series of new curated playlists on Feb. 3. One of them, "The New Midwest," highlights lesser-known Midwest rappers. Well, lesser-known to the rest of the world, that…
Cincinnati State’s Midwest Culinary Institute Dishes Up Successful Alums
Kayla Robison expected it would take decades for her to reach the success she had always dreamed of in the food industry. When she graduated from Cincinnati State’s Midwest Culinary Institute in 2012, she didn’t realize how quickly her career was going to take off. But now, more than eight years later, to say that…
Gov. DeWine Can’t Say When Most Ohioans Can Expect to be Vaccinated
The pace of coronavirus vaccinations is accelerating in Ohio, but Gov. Mike DeWine on Thursday said it was still too early to say when non-priority Ohioans can expect to get a shot in the arm. There was good news on the vaccine front, DeWine said during one of his regular coronavirus press conferences. The state…
14 Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Cincinnati This Year
Valentine’s Day Weekend is right around the corner, and many local businesses are offering special dinner deals, meal kits, and fun activities to spoil your special someone. Whether you’re going out, staying in, or a combination of both, here are some ways to celebrate the holiday while showing some love to local businesses. Love on…
Cincinnati’s Taft Brewporium to Host Girl Scout Cookie and Beer Pairing
Girl Scout Cookie season is upon us, and Taft's Brewporium is celebrating with a special event dedicated to washing down those tasty treats with some thoughtfully paired brews. The event takes place Wednesday, March 10, and offers a self-guided pairing list with four cookies and a flight of four beers. Lemonades cookies are paired with Nellie's…
Cincinnati’s Skyline Chili is Offering Limited-Time Andouille Sausage Coneys
A Cajun spin on a classic is back at Skyline Chili — just in time for Mardi Gras. The local chili chain has again teamed up with local Queen City Sausage to feature a limited-time special, the Andouille Sausage Coney. The partnership began in 2017 and was reintroduced this year in early January. It will…
PETA Offering Reward for Information on Raccoon Burned in Price Hill
PETA is offering up to $5,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person who set a live raccoon on fire in Price Hill. On Jan. 26, a young adult raccoon was found with third degree burns and charred fur. While the raccoon was found barely breathing, a veterinarian decided that…
Cincinnati City Council Adds Gender Expression, Identity to Hate Crime Ordinance
Cincinnati City Council proved Wednesday that Republicans and Democrats can find common ground. During the Feb. 3 council meeting, council members voted to approve language that adds gender identity and gender expression as protected categories under the city’s hate crime ordinance. The council minutes list the action modifying the Cincinnati Municipal Code as follows: ORDINANCE…
Odds for a Bengals Super Bowl Run Next Year Are… Not Good
The Super Bowl happens in just a few days, and you know who isn’t in it? The Cincinnati Bengals. Yes, again. And oddsmakers aren’t placing their bets on the team for next season, either. BetOnline, a leading game-tracking site, sets the Bengals’ chances of a Super Bowl run at 75 to 1 for the 2021…
Cincinnati’s Fishbowl at the Banks is Expanding
Tropical-themed Cincinnati party bar known for its large-format cocktails sipped out of "fishbowls" is growing. Local PR company Game Day Communications announced Fishbowl at the Banks' plan in an email on Feb. 4, explaining that the bar and restaurant will take over the former Tervis shop, located at 151 East Freedom Way — an expansion…
Anti-Mask, Anti-Vax Ohioans Support Bill Targeting Health Dept. Authority
Maskless and frustrated, a string of Ohioans offered tales Wednesday of their personal aggrievement since the coronavirus pandemic began. A woman told of her favorite gluten-free bake shop closing down in 2020, thus denying her access to “cheesy bread with the best freshly made marinara sauce I’ve ever tasted.” She also claimed her cat died…
Despite Anti-Vaccine Protest, Teacher Immunizations off to Smooth Start in Some Areas
Ohio teachers began their march toward immunity Tuesday, despite a small crowd of anti-vaccine activists who protested outside the first COVID-19 vaccine clinic for Ohio educators. Even before the first appointments at noon, teachers lined up outside Hilliard Davidson High School for appointments to receive a vaccine against the new coronavirus. Gov. Mike DeWine opted to…
Congrats, Cincinnati! We’re Among Orkin’s Top Bed Bug Cities
You can feel your skin crawling after reading that headline, can’t you? There may be a reason for that. Orkin, the national pest-control company, says that Cincinnati is among the top cities for bed bugs. Cincinnati comes in at No. 8 on Orkin’s list of 50 bug-friendly cities for 2020, released on Feb. 1. The…
5 Cincinnati-Themed Snack Ideas for Celebrating the Super Bowl at Home
While we won’t see any Cincinnati Bengals running around on the Super Bowl LV field, you can bring tastes of Cincinnati to your (pod-only, masked, safely distanced, COVID-era) watch party with these Cincinnati-inspired big-game snacks. Skyline Chili Dip It’s a Cincinnati staple. Layers of cream cheese, (and onions and mustard, if you’re feeling wild), chili…
COVID-19 Precautions May Be Reducing Cases of Flu and Other Respiratory Infections
Heading into the dead of winter, doctors and scientists have noticed something odd: Missing cases of non-COVID-19 respiratory illnesses, specifically flu and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV. “We’re seeing very low numbers of both of these infections, even now, while we’re in the peak season,” says Rachel Baker, an epidemiologist at Princeton University. “We really…
Mason’s Banana Leaf Modern Thai Has Permanently Closed
Downtown Mason's Banana Leaf Modern Thai has been a community staple for more than a decade, inhabiting a historic building at the corner of E. Main Street and Mason Montgomery Road. Last month, the restaurant's owners announced via a Facebook post that they would be permanently closing its doors on Jan. 23. "Thank you, thank…
Barbie’s Totally Throwback Truck Tour Comes to Cincinnati This Weekend
Barbara Millicent Roberts, more commonly known as Barbie, made her debut in March 1959. She was an 11-inch plastic doll with blonde hair, bright pink lips, and sassy outfits that could be purchased for only $3. Her impressive slew of talents set an example to her adoring fans — you can be anything you set…
Cincinnati Zoo’s Isla the Tamandua Is Expecting a Baby This Summer
Animal lovers will get to meet a new baby at the Cincinnati Zoo this summer. Isla the tamandua has been expecting her third baby since October. On Feb.1, the Cincinnati Zoo hosted its first winter virtual Home Safaris episode, and more than 180,000 viewers on Facebook heard the exciting pregnancy announcement and watched as Isla…
Donate a Meal for a Cincinnatian in Need Through Thunderdome Restaurant Online Orders
This month, customers ordering online from The Eagle, Bakersfield, Pepp & Dolores, Currito and other Thunderdome Restaurant Group eateries will have the opportunity to purchase an additional meal for a member of the community in need. The Cincinnati-based restaurant group has partnered with City Gospel Mission to provide hot meals that will be delivered and…
Even During COVID-19 Pandemic, Mercy Health’s Mobile Mammography Unit Brings Preventative Care to Communities
During a time when many people are avoiding the doctor’s office due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mercy Health's mobile mammography unit is bringing routine health screenings to the streets. Two mobile coaches will visit several locations throughout the Greater Cincinnati area in February for mammography. Mercy representatives say that the quick and easy process intends…
Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra’s New Initiative Will Develop Young BIPOC Talent
Systemic barriers often block the career paths of classical musicians of color, but the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra wants to change that tune through a new partnership. The CSO is partnering with NIMAN (National Instrumental Mentoring and Advancement Network), an initiative addressing the lack of racial equity in American orchestras. Jonathan Martin, president and CEO of…
$5.8 Million Fake Rolex Haul Busted at Port of Cincinnati
Fake Rolex watches have a growing market in Cincinnati as a connection point — apparently one worth at least $5.8 million. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers recently seized a haul of counterfeit Rolex watches coming through the Port of Cincinnati, re-designated in 2015 as the Ports of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. The 85 watches…
Commentary: Honoring Black History and Fighting for the Future of Education
On Feb. 1, as Black History Month began in Ohio’s classrooms and virtual classrooms, Gov. Mike DeWine unveiled his proposed budget for the next two years, which continues the education funding policies that systematically underfund public schools that educate Black students and even shift some of that funding away toward unaccountable, for-profit private schools. Black…
Cincinnati Pride Cancels 2021 Festival and Parade Amid COVID-19 Concerns
Cincinnati Pride has announced that in-person Pride celebrations would be canceled for 2021. In a Feb. 1 Facebook post from Benjamin Morano, Cincinnati Pride's festival and parade chairperson, the organization says that its board of directors concluded that in-person events don't support health initiatives to slow the spread of the coronavirus during the ongoing pandemic. "We know…
Cincinnati Native Launches Local Mobile Gym Service Franchise GYMGUYZ
Keith Connolly was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at birth. “When I was born, the life expectancy was about 18 years old,” Connolly tells CityBeat. “The doctors said, realistically, you probably won’t expect a lot of [me] from a physical capacity-wise because of the nature of the disease. Thankfully, my parents didn’t listen to [the doctor].” Exercise…
Activists Call on New EPA to Regulate Ohio River Pollution
The Sierra Club is petitioning the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to create nutrient standards for the Ohio River, on which five million residents rely for drinking water. Hank Graddy, chapter water committee chair for the Sierra Club-Kentucky, said more than 700 miles of the river currently is unusable and is posing a threat to residents'…
Cooking Channel’s ‘Bizarre Foods’ Explores Cincinnati’s European Culinary Influences in Recent Episode
The Queen City's culinary landscape was in the spotlight recently, with a special visit from Andrew Zimmern, host of the Food Channel's "Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations." This isn't the first time our city has been the star of a food-related television show, and it likely won't be the last, but it still yields some true…
Education Budget Returns to Pre-Pandemic Levels in Gov. DeWine’s Proposal
The newly released budget proposal from Gov. Mike DeWine doesn’t change the K-12 funding formula, but it does return the education budget to pre-pandemic levels. DeWine introduced his full budget proposal on Feb. 2, and said the funding formula for schools didn’t change in his version of the budget because of the potential changes to…
Over-the-Rhine’s Northern Row Brewery to Host Open Mic and Live Music Nights
Northern Row Brewery & Distillery is offering a spot for musicians to share their sounds every Tuesday night from 6-9 p.m. The venue, located in Over-the-Rhine, hopes to re-cultivate the pandemic-affected arts community by encouraging up-and-coming artists to perform a cover, an original song, or a short-set on a regular basis. “COVID has been hard…
Cincinnati Ballet to Return With Free, Outdoor Performances This Spring
This May, the Cincinnati Ballet will return with Ballet in the Park. The group's performance last fall (also free and outdoors) was so well-received that it decided to add another show to the roster. “We were overwhelmed with the positive response to our performances at P&G Pavilion at Sawyer Point Park. Dance lovers snapped up…
Cincinnati’s Xavier University Investigating Vandalism and Hate Speech
After discovering campus vandalism by white supremacists, Xavier University has one message: “These incidents were an attack on our community.” Xavier president Michael Graham, S.J., shared those words in a statement to the university on Monday about hateful stickers and destruction of property found on campus on Jan. 30. The Xavier Newswire, the university’s independent…
Newport’s Bridgeview Box Park to Host Family-Friendly Valentine’s Day Celebration ‘Love on the Levee’
Newport on the Levee is feelin' the love this holiday season, celebrating Valentine's Day with a party at Bridgeeview Box Park welcome to all — singles, couples and families. The afternoon event Love on the Levee will take place 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 13, and will feature themed cocktails and treats, interactive experiences and plenty…
Southern Poverty Law Center Identifies 21 Hate Groups in Ohio in 2020
According to the Southern Poverty Law Center's annual "Year in Hate and Extremism" report, released Feb. 1, the number of active hate groups in America declined for a second year. According to the report, the SPLC identified 838 active hate groups operating across the United States in 2020 — a decrease from the 940 documented in 2019…
What to Know About Ohio Gov. DeWine’s Proposed State Budget
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine outlined his administration’s proposed state budget on Feb. 1, calling his plan “truly an investment into our future.” Acknowledging this as being an “extremely challenging time in Ohio,” DeWine nevertheless offered an optimistic view of the coming two years and said 2021 in particular would be a year of recovery. The…
What Do COVID-19 Vaccines Mean for Daily Life in the Months Ahead?
As more COVID-19 vaccines show signs of being able to protect people from getting really sick, they’re fueling hopes that some sense of normalcy is within reach. Two vaccines have been authorized for emergency use in the United States and are slowly getting into arms across the country. And two more vaccine makers have just…
Lawrenceburg, Indiana Ski Hero Nick Goepper Wins Gold at X Games
A familiar skier has returned to the gold-medal podium. Lawrenceburg, Indiana’s own Nick Goepper placed first in men’s ski slopestyle at the 2021 X Games Aspen on Jan. 31. The champ had fostered his love of the sport at Perfect North Slopes in Lawrenceburg, about 30 minutes west of Cincinnati. Goepper’s medal makes him the…
Cincinnati Zoo’s Winter Home Safaris Offer Virtual Visits with Zoo Friends
Last spring, millions of people around the world tuned in to virtually meet and learn about the exotic and beloved animals at the Cincinnati Zoo. Home Safaris got its start at the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020, when the Zoo was forced to temporarily close due to social distancing regulations. Now, roughly one…
University of Cincinnati’s CCM Prep to Offer Arts Workshops for High School Students this Summer
University of Cincinnati’s College of Conservatory of Music is offering preparatory workshops in the arts for high school students this summer. CCM Preparatory and Community Engagement’s High School Arts Immersion program will begin in June and is intended for incoming sophomores through rising seniors. Some programs for fourth through ninth graders are available. The summer…
Learn How to Paint Cincinnati Zoo’s Kris & Remus in This Virtual Fundraising Class
Cincinnati Zoo's famous cheetah and canine duo Kris and Remus are our favorite furry best friends, and on Feb. 6, you can celebrate the pals while exploring your creative side. West Chester's Pinot’s Palette will be hosting a virtual painting class 1-3 p.m on Saturday, Feb. 6. where you and your friends can learn to paint the adorable…
Ohio Apparently Is the No. 8 Best State For Singles
Whether you agree with it or not, the Buckeye State is apparently a real hot spot for single folks. That is according to a recent study by personal finance website WalletHub, which, in addition to assisting with credit-related topics, spends a whole lot of time analyzing sets of data to determine rankings in a wide range…
Cincinnati Steakhouse Brand Jeff Ruby’s Offers Valentine’s Day Dinner Kits
Set the mood this Valentine’s Day with a full-course dinner, cooked by you and your sweetheart, with a little help from the professionals. Cincinnati-based steakhouse brand Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment is offering an exclusive Valentine’s Day meal kit that includes two 8-ounce center cut filet mignons, two 8-ounce cold-water lobster tails, and four huge tiger…
Voting for the 2021 Best Of Cincinnati Reader Poll Has Been Extended
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Critics Say Kentucky Voucher Plan Would Siphon Funds from Public Schools
Some Kentucky lawmakers are proposing a statewide voucher program based on tax credits, so families can send their kids to private schools. House Bill 149 would give donors like major corporations a special-interest tax break for giving money to privately controlled organizations that use the funds to pay kids' private-school tuition. Critics argue it would drain…
AJ+ Spotlights Anti-Vax Sentiments in Ohio Statehouse as Covid Vaccine Rollout Continues
In April 2020, as the pandemic was taking hold of the country and the world, Ohio Rep. Scott Lipps, the Republican who serves as chairman of the Ohio House Health committee, appeared on an anti-vax group's video conference and promised the group he'd fight for medical freedom. “I need help with members of the health…
Ohio Man Who Kicked in U.S. Capitol Window During Riot Arrested
An Ohio man who kicked in a reinforced window shutter at the U.S. Capitol during the violent insurrection Jan. 6 was arrested in connection with his role in the raid. Footage from the crowd captures Troy Faulkner, of Whitehall, kicking in a reinforced window shutter that prosecutors say was worth $1000. While Faulkner turned himself…
