Sense of Adventure

Enrollment is open now for the 2026-2027 program year.

Families can find a local pack or troop by visiting www.BeAScout.org.

As students head back to the classroom this month, Dan Beard Council, Scouting America, is inviting kids and families across the region to start the year with a new kind of adventure. The back-to-school season is one of the best times to join Scouting, a proven way for youth to make new friends, build lifelong skills, and give back to their community.

“Scouting gave me the friendships, the outdoor experiences, and the leadership skills that shaped who I am today, and I see that same transformation happen in kids across our council every single year,” said Andy Zahn, Scout Executive, President and CEO of Dan Beard Council, and an Eagle Scout himself. “The start of the school year is the perfect time for a family to give Scouting a try. In just a few months, you’ll see a child who is more confident, more capable, and surrounded by great friends.”

Scouting programs from Cub Scouts to Scouts BSA, Venturing, and Sea Scouts welcome boys and girls in kindergarten through age 20. Members camp, hike, and explore alongside peers who become lasting friends, while adult volunteers guide them through hands-on activities that build confidence, leadership, and character. Along the way, Scouts complete community service projects that make a real difference where they live.

Dan Beard Council’s impact across the region speaks for itself:

• Serves more than 11,000 youth and families each year across 12 counties in Southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky.

• Operates throughout local school districts, supported by hundreds of Cub Scout Packs, Scouts BSA Troops, Venturing Crews, and Sea Scout Ships.

• Maintains four camp properties Camp Friedlander, Camp Craig, Cub World, and Camp Michaels, giving Scouts year-round access to the outdoors.

• Produced 257 new Eagle Scouts in 2025, including a council-record 27 young women earning Scouting’s highest rank.

Joy of My life

Photo: Megan Coffey

Cincinnati never lets weather stop a good time. Despite a thunderstorms and a delay, Chris Stapleton fans at Paycor Stadium on Saturday night never thought “You Should Probably Leave,” one of the singer/songwriter’s classics.

Lainey Wilson’s set was moved up to 6:45 p.m., and she took the stage in her signature Wrangler jeans, white tank top, and cowboy hat. She energized the crowd with fan favorites including “Heart Like a Truck,” “Watermelon Moonshine,” and “Wildflowers and Wild Horses.”

The most memorable moment of Wilson;s set came when she stepped off the stage to perform “4x4xU” with a local 10-year-old fan, creating an emotional moment that had the entire stadium cheering.

As severe weather approached, Paycor Stadium was evacuated. Once the storms passed and the skies cleared, after lengthy delay, a visibly emotional Stapleton took the stage just after 10 p.m. He thanked the crowd for sticking it out.

“This place does not look like anyone left, and I love you all for it,” Stapleton said to the fans. “You guys are what keeps me going!”

Stapleton opened with “Bad as I Used to Be” before delivering a set packed with hits, including “Fire Away,” “White Horse,” “Millionaire,'“ and “Parachute.” He also performed “I Think I’m in Love With You” alongside his wife, Morgane Stapleton, with signature harmonies that are the heart of his live shows.

He closed the unforgettable night just after midnight with two of his biggest songs, “Tennessee Whiskey” and “Outlaw State of Mind,” rewarding the diehard fans who weathered the storm to see him perform that night.

– Megan Coffey

Rhythm of the Night

Last weekend, Cincinnati Music Festival, presented by P&G, and the Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame Induction Ceremony put Cincinnati in the national spotlight celebrating Black music and culture. According to Visit Cincy, hotels reached an average of 89% occupancy rate over the weekend, maintaining the record of being one of the region's largest annual tourism times of the year.

“The 2026 Cincinnati Music Festival presented by P&G was a powerful celebration of R&B music and culture, bringing together more than fans,” said Joe Santangelo, producer of the festival. “It was inspiring to see people from across the country travel to Cincinnati to experience the music and support our vibrant tourism economy.”

The Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame celebrated its annual induction ceremony on Saturday, July 24 with the 2026 Class: Heatwave: Famed R&B/funk group behind “Always and Forever” and “Boogie Nights,” WCIN: A pioneering, historic Black-formatted radio station founded in 1953 and Regina Belle: 2026 Recipient of the Legacy Award. Additional signature events held during Cincinnati’s largest tourism weekend of the year, included: The Rickey Smiley Show Live on Fountain Square and Festival 513.  

“The Cincinnati Music Festival is one of the events that makes our city shine on a national stage,” said Andrea Wilkerson, P&G Vice President, Brand & Consumer Insights. “As a Cincinnati-based company, P&G is proud to support a festival that celebrates incredible musical talent and creates lasting benefits for our local businesses, neighborhoods, and community. We're grateful to help make this incredible weekend possible year after year.”

As one of the largest urban music festivals in the United States, CMF featured live performances by Mary J Blige, Charlie Wilson, Nelly, Trey Songz, SWV, Doug E Fresh, Talib Kweli and more at Paycor Stadium. 

The 60th Cincinnati Music Festival will return in 2027 from July 22–24. The full lineup of performances will be announced at a later date.

“The Cincinnati Music Festival Weekend is a true reflection of our city’s soul,” said Julie Kirkpatrick, Interim President & CEO of Visit Cincy. “Beyond the incredible performances, the festival brings people together, celebrates our cultural vibrancy, and fuels economic impact across the region. From the community events to the energy of our visitors, this weekend showcased Cincinnati’s heritage and our standing as a premier destination on the global stage.”

Official sponsors of the Cincinnati Music Festival are P&G, Visit Cincy/Meet NKY, AARP and Life Center.

Scout’s Honor

About Dan Beard Council

Dan Beard Council, Scouting America serves over 11,000 youth and volunteers across Southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky. Through outdoor adventure, leadership development, community service, STEM education, and workforce readiness programs, Scouting helps young people build character, develop leadership skills, and prepare for success in life.

To learn more about Scouting programs or to find a local pack, troop, or crew, visit www.danbeard.org.

As the United States celebrates its 250th birthday in 2026, Dan Beard Council, Scouting America is invites families across Southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky to honor America’s legacy by investing in the next generation of leaders, citizens, and community servants through Scouting.

In recognition of the sacrifices made by military families, Scouting America offers a national joining fee waiver program for active-duty military families, helping reduce barriers to participation and ensuring more youth can experience the benefits of Scouting.

“America’s 250th birthday is an opportunity to reflect on the values that have shaped our nation and to invest in the young people who will carry those values forward,” said Andy Zahn, Scout Executive and CEO of the Dan Beard Council. “Scouting helps young people develop character, leadership, citizenship, and a commitment to service. We are proud that Scouting America continues to support military families through programs that make participation more accessible.”

Through outdoor adventure, leadership development, community service, STEM education, and workforce readiness programs, Scouting provides youth with opportunities to build confidence, learn practical skills, and become active, engaged citizens.

Driving Ahead

The purpose of Cincy Sports is to:

• Grow the Regional Economy: To grow the Cincinnati regional economy (hotel bed tax revenue and visitor spending at restaurants, hotels and retail outlets) through professional, collegiate, amateur and community sports events.

• Increase Brand Awareness: To increase the visibility of the Cincinnati region through organic and intentional direct, digital and word-of-mouth sports marketing. It is a complimentary organization to Visit Cincy and Northern Kentucky CVB, the region’s leading Destination Marketing Organizations (DMO). 

• Promote Healthy Living: To drive social and community engagement, promote health and well-being, advance cultural exchange and educational opportunities, enable long-term investment in sports and recreational facilities and support sustainable practices.

See more at www.visitcincy.com/cincysports.

This summer, a new partnership is helping more kids go green. Youth on Course, the Cincinnati Regional Sports Commission, and the Cincinnati Recreation Commission (CRC) have joined forces to expand access to affordable golf around the region.

Youth on Course, a national nonprofit organization providing youth with access to life-changing opportunities through golf, is partnering with the Cincinnati Regional Sports Commission at 11 CRC courses throughout the Greater Cincinnati area.

By combining resources, community relationships and a passion for youth development, these organizations are expanding access to golf through a growing network of participating courses that offer rounds for $5 or less, providing a timely opportunity for youth to get outdoors as summer begins and continue enjoying the game throughout the year.

Through the partnership with the Cincinnati Regional Sports Commission, the Greater Cincinnati footprint has expanded, significantly increasing access and ensuring more consistent opportunities for local youth to play golf. This expansion comes at a time of rising demand across the region, with Youth on Course membership in Southern Ohio growing by 6.4% in the first half of 2026, underscoring the need for continued investment in accessible entry points to the sport.

“Partnering with the Cincinnati Regional Sports Commission marks an exciting step forward in expanding youth access to golf,” said Youth on Course CEO Adam Heieck. “We’re incredibly proud of this collaboration because we believe in golf’s ability to transform lives, build confidence, friendships, community, and create new opportunities. We are eager to see how this partnership will inspire and positively impact the youth of Cincinnati.”

New course partners for 2026 are:

• Avon Fields Golf Course, 4081 Reading Road

• California Golf Course, 5924 Kellogg Ave.

• Glenview Golf Course, 10965 Springfield Pike

• Neumann Golf Course, 7215 Bridgetown Road

• Reeves Golf Course, 4757 Playfield Lane

• Woodland Golf Course, 5820 Muddy Creek Road

In addition to providing affordable access to the sport, Youth on Course helps young people build meaningful relationships, foster a sense of belonging, and support overall well-being through golf. A recent member survey highlights the positive impact participation can have on mental and emotional health:

• 41.4% built friendships or social connections through golf

• 32.1% felt like they belonged in the golf community

• 27.1% said their mental health improved

• 18.8% felt more emotionally balanced or better able to manage feelings

The Cincinnati Regional Sports Commission has long championed youth development through sports, advocating for active and healthy lifestyles. This collaboration will help accelerate Youth on Course’s reach across the state, building on a strong foundation to empower the next generation of players.

Today, the Youth on Course network spans over 2,300 golf courses and more than 400,000 members across the U.S., Canada, and Australia. With members recently surpassing 5million rounds played, the organization continues to demonstrate its meaningful impact on young golfers and the communities it serves. Beyond affordable rounds, Youth on Course members gain access to college scholarships, internship programs, and leadership opportunities designed to support their growth on and off the course.

Banks for the Memories

Thursday, July 9
4 p.m. – France v. Morocco

Friday, July 10
3 p.m. – Spain v Belgium

Saturday, July 11
5 p.m. – Norway v England
9 p.m. – Argentina v Switzerland

Tuesday, July 14
3 p.m. – Semi-final

Wednesday, July 16
3 p.m. – Semi-final

Saturday, July 18
5 p.m. – Third place playoff

Sunday, July 19
3 p.m. –  Final

There are nights when downtown just feels different, and Friday, June 12, was one of those. As the clock crept toward 9 p.m., the stretch of riverfront between Great American Ball Park and Paycor Stadium had quietly transformed into one enormous living room, and a few thousand of our closest neighbors had claimed their patch of The Banks to watch the United States kick off its home World Cup.

If you haven’t yet wandered down to The Banks this summer, consider this your nudge. Through the July final, the city’s riverfront entertainment district is doing double duty as the 2026 Soccer Viewing Village, a free, all-ages fan zone built around a giant outdoor screen, full match sound, and food and drinks from the restaurants right next door.

And what a night to show up! Opening matches can be nerve wracking even for the fans, but the U.S. Men’s Team opened with a bang. Barely seven minutes in, a Weston McKennie cross caused enough chaos that Paraguay's Damián Bobadilla turned it into his own net, and the crowd at The Banks erupted in cheers. From there, striker Folarin Balogun took over, burying a Christian Pulisic cross in the 31st minute and then weaving through two defenders in first-half stoppage time to make it three. That second goal made Balogun the first American to score twice in a single World Cup match since 1930, a stat that drew a commotion from the folks watching beside me near the screen.

Paraguay pulled one back midway through the second half, briefly quieting the riverside party, but Cincinnati got its exclamation point deep into stoppage time when Gio Reyna curled a shot off the outside of his right foot and into the corner. 4-1. It was the most goals the U.S. men have ever scored in a single World Cup game, and for a few glorious minutes The Banks was bustling with U.S. pride for a sport that has taken Cincinnati by storm since FCC.

You could have caught the same match on your couch, but you’d have missed the stranger in a full-blown USA overalls with a matching hat, high-fiving everyone and the collective gasp before every American shot. There’s a reason people keep choosing to watch the big ones together, and on Friday, downtown made the case better than any person could.

The good news is that the party is far from over. The Village runs way through the World Cup final in July, with the most popular matches, Team USA and global heavyweights like Spain, England, France, Brazil, and Argentina among them, shown on the big screen with festival style energy.

So bring your friends, your flags, and your country’s jersey. Cincinnati has spent this summer reminding the world that it knows how to throw a party, and down at The Banks, the whole world is invited.

 – Tim David

Community Values

Interested creating life-changing opportunities for local kids?

Every ticket, experience, volunteer, and donation helps ensure more young people have access to moments that inspire confidence, build connections, and create lasting memories.

Learn more about MVK’s mission, become a supporter, or find ways to get involved by visiting Most Valuable Kids of Greater Cincinnati.

For 20 years, Most Valuable Kids (MVK) has helped remove financial barriers so children from underserved communities can experience the inspiration, excitement, and life lessons that come from live sports, entertainment, and cultural events. Since launching in 2005 with just five partner agencies and 6,100 distributed tickets, MVK has grown into a network of more than 80 nonprofit partners, providing over 10,000 tickets and unique experiences each year to children throughout Greater Cincinnati.

On June 10, supporters, volunteers, board members, agency partners, and alumni gathered at the Fifth Third Bank Theater in the Aronoff Center before “Disney’s The Lion King” to celebrate MVK's 20th Anniversary. The evening reflected on two decades of impact, honoring the dedicated individuals whose passion and commitment have helped create countless memories and opportunities for local youth.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of MVK's Student Impact Awards. Nominated by their mentors for the impact they have made in their communities and continued pursuit of their goals, this year's top honorees were:

• Enyjah Winston, a pre-med psychology major at the University of Cincinnati

• Gyp Banks, a psychology major at the University of Cincinnati

Enyjah and Gyp were awarded a transformative support package valued at $10,000. The award includes one year of on-campus housing, personalized mentorship, assistance with financial planning and savings, and career guidance designed to help them thrive during their college journey.

Several additional alumni were also recognized with support tailored to their individual needs. The honorees, Tateyana Cure, Ka’Liyah Phelps, and Brandon Cupp received mentorship and assistance in securing housing, along with resources to support their educational and personal goals, including computers, furnishings, and other essential items.

As MVK looks toward its next chapter, the organization remains committed to creating opportunities that inspire, empower, and uplift young people. The anniversary celebration served as both a reflection on two decades of impact and a reminder that the best is yet to come.

– Courtney Tomasetti

Ready to Glow

Open you eyes to new possibilities, as BLINK, illuminated by ArtsWave, returns Oct. 8–11, with more than 90 artists participating in its fifth edition, which will be free and open to the public across Cincinnati and the Northern Kentucky area. (Full list below.)

Since 2017, BLINK has biennially transformed the urban core of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky into a massive, immersive art festival spanning more than sixty downtown city blocks. This year’s renowned local, national and international artists will continue to shed light on the area and encourage new ways of looking at the familiar, through This year’s iteration features the latest technology and digital art techniques, a record number of women artists, and marks the first time many of the participating artists are exhibiting at BLINK, underscoring the festival’s role as both a global showcase and a launchpad for emerging and established talent alike. The biennial highlights the city’s creative economy and growing arts ecosystem, utilizing local cultural workers and emerging artists while also showcasing artists who regularly exhibit at international festivals and cultural institutions.

BLINK welcomes audiences of all ages and interests, and creates space for experimentation, play and discovery. In its last iteration, BLINK was attended by over 2 million people and is estimated to have had a $205 million impact on the city. Past installations from 2024 can be seen here.

The Ready. Set. BLINK! opening ceremony on Thursday, Oct. 8, 4 – 9 p.m., marks the evolution of BLINK’s traditional opening parade into a larger, more immersive opening celebration that brings the community together. From 4 to 9 p.m., the area surrounding TQL Stadium will transform into a five-block, block party-style experience featuring live music from local DJs and performers, interactive and collaborative art installations, hands-on light art creation stations, community activations, and food and beverage vendors throughout the event footprint.

“First Financial Bank is proud to sponsor the new ‘Turn On the Lights’ Contest,” said Mandy Neeley, Chief Consumer Bank and Corporate Strategy Officer at First Financial Bank. “This region-wide community engagement experience will build excitement and anticipation for BLINK 2026 while inviting participants to play a meaningful role in one of the festival’s signature and most anticipated moments — the opening night celebration. By extending the campaign directly into communities across the region, First Financial is helping broaden the festival’s impact, encourage public participation, and reinforce our commitment to supporting vibrant, thriving communities.”

The evening centers around an activated stage built over the steps of TQL Stadium. Community groups, artists, and attendees become part of the experience through participatory light art and interactive installations that celebrate the creativity and inclusivity at the heart of BLINK.

As the sun sets, the event transitions into BLINK’s opening ceremony. At sundown, there will be a collective moment to “turn the lights on,” officially launching the 2026 festival, followed by a spectacular drone and pyrotechnic show that illuminates the stadium and surrounding skyline. Blending music, technology, art, and community participation, Ready. Set. BLINK! serves as the opening chapter of the four-day festival and sets the stage for the immersive experiences that await throughout BLINK.

For BLINK 2026, visitors will enjoy art, architecture, live performance, food and beverage, enhancing Cincinnati’s already rich cultural landscape. Details about programming, including talks and additional community events, will be announced at a later date. More information can be found on BLINK’s website.

BLINK 2026 PARTICIPATING ARTISTS:

Kyle Eli Ebersole, Cincinnati
LeMonde Studio*, Austin
Leslie Epsztein*, France
Lightborne, Cincinnati
Lindsay Glatz & William Nemitoff*, LA
Liv Cassinelli, Cincinnati
Marc Phelps*, Northern Kentucky
Marie Ajras*, New York, NY
Max Sansing, Chicago
Medianeras*, Barcelona
Miami University - Emerging Technology in Business & Design,     
    Oxford, OH
Mike Stasny*, Atlanta
Mindscape Studio*, Romania
Napoleon Maddox, Cincinnati
Northern Kentucky University Art Students, Erlanger, KY
Onda Studio*, Italy
Paper Acorn, Cincinnati
Paper Massacre*, Italy
Parker Heyl*, England
Pastel*, Argentina
Polina Soloveichik*, Berlin
Radius Concepts, School for Creative and Performing Arts*, 
   Cincinnati
Scott Pennington*, Baltimore
Sean Van Praag, Cincinnati
Sew Valley, Cincinnati
Shahzia Sikander*, New York
Silent Partners Studio, Montreal
Smash Studio*, Sweden
SnellBeast, Cincinnati
Sofles*, Australia
Spencer Sterling*, California
Strangeloop*, Los Angeles
Structurals*, Switzerland
Susan Kosti, Australia
The Mz.Icar Collective, New York
The University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music≠ 
   Lighting Design & Technology, Cincinnati,
This is Loop, England
Truly Design Crew*, Italy
Vamos Animation*, Germany
Vigas*, Brazil
Vince Fraser, England
Wayne Horse*, Amsterdam
Xavier University Art Students*, Cincinnati

*Denotes an artist who is new to BLINK.

0H10M1ke*, New York
1001 Colors, Cincinnati
2Looking Up Arts*, San Francisco, CA
577 Studio, Los Angeles, CA
Aérosculpture*, France
Ana Tomashvili*, Georgia
Art Academy of Cincinnati, Cincinnati
Asha AMA, Cincinnati + New York
Asianati, Cincinnati
Beamhacker*, Australia
Big Art, Canada
Black Art Speaks, Cincinnati
Brett Bolton, Las Vegas
Cedric Michael Cox & Studio 181 Brent Keltch*, Cincinnati
Chase Melendez*, Covington, KY
Chaske Haverkos, Cincinnati
Christian Reichle & Squid Kohut, Reno, NV
Christo Squier & Thomas Blackburn*, England
Cincinnati Skatepark Project, Cincinnati
Columbus College of Art & Design, Columbus, OH
Custom Fibre Optics*, England
Daniel Rossa*, Germany
Daniel Shields, Cincinnati
DecideKit, Thailand
Drew Merritt*, NM
Dulk*, Valencia, Spain
Elléna Lourens*, New York
Felix Frank, Germany
Fifth Third Design, Cincinnati
Filip Roca, Barcelona
Forealism, Northern Kentucky
Gera 1*, Greece
Greg D’Amico, Cincinnati
Inka Kendzia, South Africa
James Bullough*, Berlin
Jérémie Bellot, France
Jérémy Oury*, France
Jim Tucker and Frank Young*, Cincinnati
Jonas Denzel*, Germany
JP Jackson & Brian Havener, Nashville, TN
Juan Fuentes*, Madrid
Justin Boh, Cincinnati
Kasumi Art Studios*, Cleveland
Ke Jyun Wu*, Los Angeles
Keep Cincinnati Beautiful, Cincinnati
Kemper Sauce Studios, Cincinnati
Koros Design Studio*, Hungary

A Bright Spot

Summerfair Cincinnati celebrated its 59th anniversary May 29 to 31 at Coney Island.

More than 350 artists from across the country brought their fine art and crafts, where arts lovers from around the region shopped for ceramics, paintings, metal works, wood sculpture and more. The weekend also included music from great regional bands and the popular Youth Arts area, where budding artists got a jump on creating for a future Summerfair!

Sign Me Up

On Saturday, Deafinitely For All Entertainmen teamed up with the Reds Hall of Fame to share the story of Deaf baseball player William “Dummy” Hoy for a special celebration at The Banks centered on his birthday, May 23.

DFA Entertainment is a Deaf founded production company that promotes inclusivity and empowers Deaf/hard of hearing talent through film, TV and media.

With help from Hall of Famer Marty Brennaman, along with ASL-interpreters and Jon-Jon, the event brought renewed attention to Hoy’s legacy and contributions to the game. Hoy played 14 professional seasons in the late 1800s and became one of the era’s most respected leadoff hitters. His presence in the game helped influence the use of hand signals for balls, strikes, safe, and out calls – a system that remains central to baseball more than a century later.

The birthday party waw part of a larger push to have Hoy inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.

You can add your name to the petition at signforhoy.com today!

Get the Pig Picture

By the Numbers

2026 Registration Numbers per Race: 45,197

Full Marathon: 6,202 

Paycor Half Marathon: 13,750 

City Dash 4-Person Relay: 1,600 

Toyota 10K: 5,300 

Queen City Running Co. 5K: 8,300 

Children’s 26th Mile: 2,598  

Pigabilities presented Goodwill Industries: 1,558 

First Watch Flying Piglet: 727 

Flying Fur Dog Walk/Run presented by Bounce: 630 

Fifty West Mile:  3,199 

In a weekend that saw a record number of participants, the 20-year-old event record for the Flying Pig Marathon fell on Sunday as Zach Kreft, 26, from Sunbury, Ohio, won the marathon in a time of 2:17:40.

Kreft’s time was 2:44 faster than the previous event record, set by Cecil Franke in 2006 in 2:20:24.

Kreft’s running resume goes back to Buckeye Valley High School, where he set the Ohio High School 5K record and won four state titles, two in cross country and two in track. In college, he ran for the University of Notre Dame, where he placed first at the Winrow Valparaiso Open and set a personal best time in the 2021 Blue & Gold Invitational.

“I wanted to go into it pretty conservative and then really work the back half,” Kreft said. “I was targeting the course record and everything executed really well. The crowd really brought us home, and the energy of Cincinnati was special.

Ohio marathons have been good to Kreft, as he now has won Columbus (2023), Cleveland, Air Force (both in 2025) and now the Flying Pig in 2026.

Second in the men’s division was Emerson Wells, 24, of Cincinnati in 2:23:52 and third was Garang Madut, 30, of Dayton, OH, in 2:25:38. In the new handcycle division, Steve Chapman, 61, of Cedar Springs was first in a time of 1:41:33. Second was Yoshinori Tomoyasu, 52, of Oxford in 1:48:54 and third was Jason Wilke, 32, of Lexington in 2:28:07. James Garman, 47, of Danville, KY won the men’s wheelchair in 3:01:42.

In the women’s division, Katie Hallahan, 32, of Cincinnati, a former runner-up in the Flying Pig Marathon, took first place this year in a time of 2:48:43. The Indian Hill High School graduate came in second in the marathon in 2023 and won the Queen Bee Half Marathon that same year.

“The Cincinnati running community is so awesome,” Hallahan said. “You’re out on a Saturday and see lots of people running around, everyone’s so positive and encouraging other people. The support for the Pig is special. You’re running through all the neighborhoods, and the energy and positivity are great.”

Second for the women was Daniella Townsend, 38, of Cincinnati in 2:49:46. Townsend was the winner of the Paycor Half Marathon in 2021. Third was Morgan Gaskins, 24, also of Cincinnati, in 2:53:28. 

This was the largest field in Flying Pig weekend history, with 45,197 registered over the three days of events. The previous record field was in 2018, when 43,127 participated in the “Pig.”

In the Paycor Half Marathon, Simon Heys, 24, from Wilmington, Ohio, won the men’s division in 1:09:58. Second was Eric Gruenbacher, 34, of Loveland in 1:10:21. Gruenbacher was third in the event last year and second the two years before that. Third was David Riddle, 44, of Cincinnati in 1:12:12. On the women’s side, Amanda Zerhusen, 20, of Cincinnati won in her second Paycor Half Marathon in 1:19:50. Second was the 2025 half marathon winner, Madeline Trevisan, 28, of Cincinnati in a time of 1:21:34. Third was Christina Sharp, 37, of Olathe, KS, in 1:23:08.

In the Paycor Half Marathon handcycle division, Bart Burgess, 41, of Hillsboro won in the men’s division with a time of 1:11:25. In the women’s handcycle division, Mikiahya Greene, 23, of Erlanger won in 1:35:20 after winning the Toyota 10K on Saturday.

Also in Saturday’s Toyota 10K, former Flying Pig Marathon winner Jack Randall, 31, of Cincinnati took the title in the men’s division with a time of 32:37. Second in the men’s division was Ben Merk, 29, of Cincinnati in 33:08 and third was Sean Smith, 21, of Newport, KY, in 33:56. For the women, Alisha Detmer, 22, of Patriot, IN, won in a time of 36:55. Second in the women’s division was Sophia Delisio, 25, of Covington in 37:45 and third was Sam Mikula, 27, of Cincinnati in 38:08.

In the Toyota 10K handcycle division, Brayden Bastin, 19, of Okeana, OH was first with a time of 32:17. In the women’s handcycle division, Mikiahya Greene, 23, of Erlanger won in a time of 39:05. 

In the Queen City Running 5K, William Doering, 32, of Fort Thomas defended his men’s division title in a time of 15:24, nearly 20 seconds better than his winning time in this event last year. Second was Jersson Pachar, 30, of Cincinnati, in 15:27. Pachar finished second in the Toyota 10K last year and also won the Flying Fur event in 2025. Third was Nolan Hefferman, 25, of Burlington, in 15:37.

For the women, Katie Ruhlman, 36, of Dayton, Ohio, won in 17:37, also defending her title from 2025. She also won the Thanksgiving Day Chick-fil-A 5K this past November. Second for the women was Hannah Wyler, 21, of Mineral City, Ohio, in 18:30 and third was Melanie Pliskin, 41, of Cincinnati, in 18:48. Among many other area races where she’s placed, in 2015 Pliskin won both the Flying Pig Friday Mile event and the Saturday 5K.

In this year’s Fifty West Mile Friday night, Mark Shannon, 26, of Twinsburg, OH won the elite men’s division in 4:15. Second was Elliot Rodstrom, 24, of Cleveland Heights in 4:17 and third was Nicky Alexander, 25, of London, OH in 4:17. In the women’s elite division, Liz Gurko, 26, of Cincinnati won in 5:05. Second was Shelby Nolan, 28, of Burlington in 5:07 and third was Katie Ruhlman, who won Saturday’s Queen City Running 5K. Ruhlman’s time in the mile was 5:07.

In the Paint

When it opened last fall, the OneNKY Center was designed to be home regional growth organizations, aligning economic development, business support, innovation, tourism, and place enhancement services to businesses, local government, and the community.

Julie Kirkpatrick, Christine Russell, Susan Brynees, Alecia Kintner, Rachael Parker, and Lisa Sauer at the opening of “Streams of Consciousness: Fields/Clouds/Bubbles” at OneNKY Center Gallery Fueled by ArtsWave.

At the entrance of the building is the OneNKY Center Gallery Fueled by ArtsWave, centering the importance of art to transform public space into a vibrant destination, reflecting the unique spirit of NKY and creating new opportunities in the creative economy.

The inaugural artist-in-residence program with artist Susan Brynes is now on view. This exhibition, on view through the summer, builds on the formal collaboration between ArtsWave, MeetNKY and the Northern Kentucky Port Authority.

“This exhibition and residency serve our goal to ensure that the arts are central to how we design spaces, grow our economy and build connection in Northern Kentucky,” says Rachael Parker, ArtsWave’s director of Northern Kentucky creative placemaking

Byrnes is a multidisciplinary artist whose work includes painting, sculpture, multimedia installation, radio broadcasts and writing. Her work exhibits close attention to detail and an interest in how ordinary objects and materials contextualize human history. 

“I’m thrilled to participate in this brand new residency program, and proud to be part of an arts community that truly values what artists provide for the region,” says Byrnes, “I look forward to creating new work in support of the project, and inspiring fellow artists to seek out this incredible opportunity in the future.” 

Byrnes’ work has been exhibited in galleries and museums in Cincinnati, Dayton, Cleveland, Chicago, Minneapolis, Albuquerque and Amarillo. Her works of public art appear in regions across Ohio, and her audio pieces have been broadcast on public radio stations in Ohio and Kentucky. 

“The arts are an essential part of creating a welcoming space,” adds Christine Russell, executive director of the Northern Kentucky Port Authority. “This residency and the gallery itself reflect their important role in economic development and community building.”

Running through Sept. 10, “Streams of Consciousness: Fields/Clouds/Bubbles” consists of works made through an intuitive, continuous approach, similar to how writers use “stream of consciousness” as a literary device. Events for the general public, including Artist Talks, will take place over the summer.

Fore a Good Time

There was nothing “mini” about the support at the “Cincy Arts Shirt Week” event at The Acres on Thursday, April 16.

Fans and supporters joined arts organizations from around the region, including Cincinnati Opera, Fitton Center for the Arts, Pones, and Taft Museum of Art to putt-putt for great prizes and a good time.

If you missed the fun on the course, you can still order a shirt and support your favorite arts group at https://artswave.org/shirts.

Smart Moves

From its beginnings in 2018, the Flying Pig Scholars program has grown from a one-time scholarship of $2,500 in 2018 to $20,000 for 24 students. Starting this fall, the scholarship will have committed $1.32 million toward the education of 66 students from this area.

The student-athletes were honored at the annual Flying Pig Community Scholars breakfast at Music Hall on Thursday, April 9.

This year’s scholarship winners and their schools are:

• Colin Albers, St. Xavier

• Silas Baird, Madeira

• Bianca Dills, Walton-Verona

• Daniel Egelston, Middletown

• Malcom Faison, Seven Hills School

• Megan Fedor, Notre Dame Academy

• Alexander Filippi, Sycamore

• Ruby Fries, Beechwood

• Chaseton Gamble, Hughes STEM

• Liz George, Indian Hill

• Mason Haffey, Highlands

• Jayonna Johnson, Aiken

• James Kirby, Harrison

• Ava Kohlhaas, Lakota East

• Joseph Mayer, Covington Catholic

• Jash’i Revels, Spencer Center

• Nathan Sommers, Ross

• Parker Tan, Lakota West

• Londyn Walls, Purcell Marian

• Hailey Wendling, Felicity-Franklin

• Kelly Wiesman, Ursuline Academy

• Claire Wiltshire, Summit Country Day

• Kennedy Woods, Aiken New Tech

• Andrew Wyckoff, Connor

Started by Flying Pig Marathon founder Bob Coughlin, the program is supported by the Bob and Jeanne Coughlin Foundation, Jeff Clark, Steve Haussler, Oxford Financial, Chuck Schmalz, Stacey Browning, Bobby Slattery, Iris Simpson-Bush, Barbara Hauser, Skyline Chili, and Chiquita.

Also at the breakfast, the annual Spirit of the Pig award was given to former board member and long-time volunteer Mary Enzweiler. Pig Works Board Chair Mark Ramler was the keynote speaker.

Dreaming Pig

“Piggy Bank Beer” Release
Thursday, April 9, 6 p.m.
Fifty West Brewing, 7605 Wooster Pike

Features remarks by Bobby Slattery of Fifty West Brewing and Doug Olberding, president and CEO of Pig Works

The event concludes with Fun Run with Fleet Feet followed by post-party.

Through a new collaboration with Fifty West Brewing, the Flying Pig Marathon takes going for a beer run to a whole new level

Fifty West has a new “Piggy Bank Beer” created to support the Flying Pig Marathon’s $12 million capital campaign.

Pig Works, the parent organization of the Flying Pig Marathon, has entered the public phase of its capital campaign, When Pigs Fly, Anything’s Possible, inviting the Greater Cincinnati community to help accelerate the next chapter of growth, health, and economic impact across the region.

The campaign will fund three transformational priorities: A new Pig Works Community Headquarters in Walnut Hills, expanded partnerships and youth programming, along with strategic growth of the Flying Pig Marathon and related events.

Since April 2025, Pig Works has raised more than $8.5 million toward its $12 million goal to secure during the public phase, thanks in part to a transformational $4 million gift by the Bob and Jeanne Coughlin Foundation. Bob is the Founder of the Flying Pig Marathon and founder of Paycor. Additional leadership gifts for the Campaign include Fifth Third, P&G, Peter Klekamp and Steven and Elanor Haussler.

“This campaign is about possibility,” said Doug Olberding, CEO of Pig Works. “What started as a playful name has become a powerful symbol for what can happen when a region rallies behind something bigger than itself. With community support, we will build the infrastructure and capacity to move even more people toward healthier, more connected lives.”

At the heart of the campaign is a major investment in a permanent 18,000 square-foot Community Headquarters and adjacent park at 792 East McMillan in Walnut Hills. The facility will serve as a year-round hub for running clubs, training groups, packet pick-ups, youth programs, and community events, while anchoring continued revitalization in the historic neighborhood. The headquarters will centralize operations, support scalable growth, and create an iconic space dedicated to movement, fitness, and community engagement.

An additional investment will expand staff and partnerships to deepen Pig Works’ charitable and youth reach. Today, Pig Works:

• Hosts 17 annual events serving more than 53,000 participants from all 50 states and 20 countries.

• Raises funds for more than 300 local nonprofit partners, with more than $18 million generated to date.

• Awards more than twenty $20,000 college scholarships ($5,000 annually over four years) to local cross country and track athletes who have committed to making a positive impact in their communities.

• Serves 12,000 youth and 2,000 individuals with disabilities annually.

The remaining investment will strengthen growth and sustainability for the Flying Pig Marathon and its related events. Named the 2024 USA Today #1 Marathon, the Flying Pig has become a bucket-list race for runners around the globe. Pig Works plans to grow marathon and half-marathon participation by more than 35 percent and expand its annual economic impact beyond $60 million. Currently, the Flying Pig Marathon generates $45.9 million in annual economic impact, supporting or sustaining 671 jobs.

The campaign also prioritizes sustainability initiatives, with a goal to divert more than 90 percent of race waste from landfills.

With campaign support, Pig Works aims to help more than 400 charities raise over $2 million annually and inspire more than 20,000 children to get outside and moving each year.

Each can of Piggy Bank Beer includes a QR code that connects drinkers directly to the campaign, making it easy to get involved ahead of Flying Pig Marathon weekend, May 1–3.

On a Pig Adventure

Photos: Shae Combs

The Flying Pig believes that everyone deserves to feel the joy of crossing the official Flying Pig Marathon Finish Swine. More than a decade ago, the organization created PigAbilities, a one-mile event designed to be fully accessible for athletes of all abilities and their supporters. Participants are empowered to run, walk, or roll at their own pace. With no official times or winners, PigAbilities is a celebration of achievement and an opportunity for people of all ages and abilities..

“We are thrilled to bring back our PigAbilities training event to the Cincinnati Zoo,” said Doug Olberding, president and CEO of Pig Works. “Thanks to our partners at the Cincinnati Zoo and Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services for providing these free opportunities for PigAbilities athletes to socialize and train together.”

Participants in the PigAbilities” kicked-off their training at the Cincinnati Zoo on Saturday, March 28. Athletes and their escorts began the day in the zoo’s Education Building for animal encounters and a short program. After the program, participants made a lap around the pond and enjoyed a scavenger hunt with check-ins around the route.

Lots of Luck

For the first time in years, the Cincinnati St. Patrick’s Parade was broadcast live on TV, bringing the celebration at The Banks to homes around the Tristate.

The parade featured families showing their Celtic pride, marching bands from across the region, Shriners in tiny cars, and plenty o’ Irish pride, including of the four-legged variety.

Check out some scenes from the day!

High Time

A bill in the Ohio Senate would ban intoxicating hemp products from being sold outside licensed marijuana dispensaries. This would be blow to local breweries that sell THC-infused seltzers.

Ahead of that possible change, The Contemporary Arts Center is taking a closer look at “The (High) Art of Seltzer,” with a guided tasting and gallery tour in partnership with Rhinegeist Brewery.

The (High) Art of Seltzer
Thursday, March 12, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Contemporary Arts Center, 44 E.Sitth St.

Next Gen Members: $20; Members: $25; General Admission: $30

To purchase tickets or learn more, visit cincycac.org/thc.

Fuzzy Bones contains 100% naturally-occuring hemp-derived Delta-9 THC. Effects typically begin within 10–20 minutes and may last one to two hours. Individual experiences vary. Do not drive or operate machinery after consumption. Consume responsibly. Must be 21 or older.

Taking place just days before changes to Ohio regulations impacting hemp-derived THC beverages, the program offers a timely opportunity to explore the craft, science, and cultural conversation surrounding these products in an informed, art-centered setting. The fight over THC-infused drinks in Ohio is intensifying, and the clock is ticking for opponents to get a referendum on the November ballot.

“CAC’s ‘The Art of...’ series is about exploring creativity in all its forms, and we're excited to partner with Rhinegeist to examine the craft, science, and sensory experience behind this evolving field,” said Carolyn Hefner, chief of external affairs at CAC. “Programs like this invite people into the museum in new ways—connecting contemporary art with everyday experiences and encouraging curiosity, conversation, and discovery.”

Led by Nick Brehm, director of innovation and raw materials and Tracey Ireland, vice president of marketing at Rhinegeist, the evening will feature Fuzzy Bones, an alcohol-free sparkling beverage crafted with hemp-derived Delta-9 THC and real fruit juice. Rhinegeist's team will guide participants through the formulation, production, and evolving landscape of hemp-derived beverages, offering insightaround:

• How hemp-derived Delta-9 THC is legally defined

• Nanoemulsion technology and its role in onset timing

• What “quick onset” means in practice

• Understanding 5mg dosing and pacing consumption

• The influence of minor cannabinoids such as CBG and CBN

Guests will sample three flavors–Blood Orange Tangerine, Lemon Blueberry, and Blackberry Hibiscus–and receive one 12 oz. 5mg can to take home.

Following the tasting, participants will join CAC Adjunct Curator, Maria Seda-Reeder, for a guided exploration of the galleries. Slowing down with a work of art invites a different kind of awareness. This portion of the evening encourages guests to consider how perception shifts when we tune into our senses more intentionally.

As a museum committed to open dialogue and creative exploration, CAC provides space for thoughtful conversations around culture, design, art, science, and community. “The (High) Art of Seltzer” continues CAC’s “The Art of” series, examining craft and creativity across disciplines--from wine and bourbon to emerging beverage innovations from the hemp industry.

This event is open to guests 21 and over. Valid ID is required. Capacity is limited.

Honor Roll

Photos: Megan Coffey

On Friday, Feb. 28, We Mentor Cincy held their annual summit which brought together a community of mentoring leaders, volunteers, and aspiring mentors all in one room, all with one goal: ensuring every young person in our region has access to a mentor.

“ (The) summit is meant to help mentors, volunteers, and mentoring organizations come together, to continue learning best practices around how we can continue to pour into young people and make a difference,” said Amy Thompson, CEO of Cincinnati Youth Collaborative.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Shamarah J. Hutchins, offered a powerful reminder of why the work of mentoring matters. The breakout session leaders – Tony Aloise, Dubonna Dawkins, Rachel Dubose, Hannah Foley, Tommie Lewis, Dr. Brandi Neal, Cody Saraco-Polner, Michael Sickles, and Elissa Yancey –brought insights and practical tools to help strengthening local programs.

Elena Terán, director of Impact at Revision Collective, was honored with the Tony Aloise Mentoring Impact Award.

Local organizations, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, CYC, and Ladies of Leadership, were onhand to share information and creat outreach opportunities.

With a shared commitment to connecting, learning, sharing ideas, and collaborating, the summit offers a way for the important work of mentoring to move this work forward.

Let’s Go to the Movies!

Last week, the Milan Town Hall in Milan, Ohio, served as the starting point for a marathon celebration of cinema. The date wasn't accidental – it marked the birthday of Thomas Edison, the town’s most famous son and a pivotal figure in the invention of the motion picture.

Screenings and events in all 88 counties,now through October.

See the full line-up at ohiogoestothemovies.org

The event was a tribute to the early days of film. Attendees gathered to watch a selection of Edison’s early short films, followed by the 1910 versions of Frankenstein and Alice in Wonderland.

It was a relaxed, community-focused evening that officially launched Ohio Goes to the Movies, a statewide initiative planning 250 screenings across all 88 counties to celebrate the U.S. Semiquincentennial.

And Cincinnati, you’re in luck! Ohio Goes to the Movies has a schedule packed with local screenings, many of which highlight famous actors and directors born right in the Queen City, like Steven Spielberg and Doris Day.

Spring Screenings

March 1: A triple header across different venues:

• A.I. Artificial Intelligence at Cinemark Western Hills 14 (directed by Cincinnati-born Steven Spielberg).

• The Color Purple at Cinemark Oakley Station.

• Hook at Cinemark Milford (Clermont County).

April 5: Lover Come Back at the Mariemont Theatre, celebrating Cincinnati legend Doris Day.

April 21: Grant at the Gaslight Theater in Georgetown (Brown County), the birthplace of Ulysses S. Grant.

Coming soon to a screen near you

The tour will move across the state, bringing a mix of Hollywood classics and Ohio-connected films to local theaters and parks. Here are a few highlights to look for in the coming months.

Celebrity & Filmmaker Appearances:

• Cleveland Heights: Melissa Newman will host a screening of Cool Hand Luke, starring her father, Paul Newman, at the Cedar Lee Theatre.

• Worthington: Actress Rachael Harris will be at the McConnell Arts Center for a screening of the comedy Best in Show.

• Wooster: Producer Christopher Buchanan will participate in a Q&A following a showing of Raising Arizona.

Regional Favorites

• Wapakoneta: The town will celebrate its aerospace heritage with screenings of First Man and Apollo 11.

• Mansfield/Salem: Fans of The Shawshank Redemption can catch the film near its original filming locations.

• Springfield: A special presentation of The Great Victory will take place at the High Street Church.

Outdoor Summer Series

As the weather warms up, the schedule shifts toward "Movies in the Park," including family-friendly hits like Spider-Man in Massillon and The Avengers in Lucas County.

The goal is to hit 250 events by the time the program wraps up in October. Most screenings are free to the public, though some require a reserved ticket due to venue capacity.

All OGTTM signature events are free, but because many are held in historic or smaller theaters, you usually need to reserve a "seat" on their website ahead of time. Each screening includes a pre-show presentation explaining why the film was chosen, whether it was the filming location, the director, or a featured actor from the area.