Under Wraps

All Aboard!

The Cincinnati Bell Connector is free to ride every day. The streetcar’s operating hours are

• Monday–Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.

• Saturday: 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.

• Sunday: 9:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.

 Learn more about the Cincinnati Bell Connector and see photos of the new wrap at cincinnatibellconnector.com.

The City of Cincinnati, ArtsWave and Cincinnati Bell Inc. are celebrating the five-year anniversary of the Cincinnati Bell Connector with a special “Music Hall” themed streetcar that made its public debut today, Thursday, Sept. 9.

“We have one of the most vibrant arts scenes in the country thanks to our generous donors and loyal patrons,” sayss Alecia Kintner, president and CEO of ArtsWave. “This fall will bring with it arts for everyone to enjoy and, at the same time, employment for the thousands of actors, performers, musicians, artists and staff associated with our arts organizations in Cincinnati. We welcome everyone’s return as we come together in person again to enjoy the arts and support our artists.”   

Leigh Fox, President and CEO of Cincinnati Bell, said the arts theme is a natural choice for the streetcar's new look.   

“The arts play an essential role in making Greater Cincinnati the incredible place it is to live, work and play,” said Fox, a former chair of the ArtsWave fundraising campaign.

Cincinnati Bell bought naming rights to the city’s streetcar system at the time it began passenger service on Sept. 9, 2016. 

“After the challenges of the pandemic, live arts are returning and we are celebrating our connections to everything Cincinnati,” added Travis Jeric, Streetcar Director. "This is the first Connector to don a new arts-oriented look. The appearance of our other four Connectors will also be individually reimagined over the next year. We look forward to sharing more about the different designs in the months ahead.” 

The fall season includes arts programs throughout the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region. View a complete listing at ArtsWave Guide, the region’s arts calendar.  

Big Shot

If You Go

Billy Joel at Great American Ball Park

Friday, Sept. 10, doors open at 6 p.m., show time at 8 p.m.

Buy Tickets

The only acceptable way for a Mets’ fan to be on the field at Great American Ball Park is if he’s playing piano. Legendary musician Billy Joel will perform live at Great American Ball Park. This performance will be Joel’s stadium show in Cincninati

Joel is one of the biggest concert draws in the world and continues this achievement with an impressive run of sold-out consecutive stadium shows and concert arenas. Having sold 150 million records over the past quarter century, scoring 33 consecutive Top 40 hits, Joel ranks as one of most popular recording artists and respected entertainers in history. The singer/songwriter/composer is the sixth best-selling recording artist of all time and the third best-selling solo artist. In 2016, the Library of Congress selected “Piano Man” for preservation in the National Recording Registry for its “cultural, historic, and artistic significance.”

In November 2014, Joel received both The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song which honors living musical artists' lifetime achievement in promoting the genre of song as a vehicle of cultural understanding; entertaining and informing audiences; and inspiring new generations, and the once-in-a-century ASCAP Centennial Award, which is presented to American music icons in recognition of their incomparable accomplishments in their respective music genres and beyond.

In December 2013, Joel received The Kennedy Center Honors, one of the United States' top cultural awards. He is also the recipient of six GRAMMY® Awards, including the prestigious Grammy Legend Award. Joel has been inducted into the Songwriter's Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and has received numerous industry awards including a TONY AWARD for “Movin’ Out,” a Broadway musical based on Joel's music. For his accomplishments as a musician and as a humanitarian, Joel was honored as the 2002 MusiCares Person Of The Year by the MusiCares Foundation and the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences. Billy Joel: New York State of Mind, the documentary film, explores Joel's unprecedented franchise at Madison Square Garden and the film won five New York Emmys at the 61st Annual NY Emmy Awards in April 2018.

Joel has also performed alongside other music greats at two of Madison Square Garden's most extraordinary benefit concerts - “12-12-12, The Concert For Sandy Relief,” which raised awareness and money for those affected by Hurricane Sandy and “The Concert for New York City,” which was held to help aid 9/11 victims and heroes.

Roaring Back

Though the Bengals end preseason play on Sunday, Aug. 29, it will nevertheless be a day of new beginnings.

As fans head to Paul Brown Stadium this season, looking forward to that first beer and first win, they will also see some changes at for gameday.

Before the game, fans can start their celebration at the new Jungle Zone on the lawn of The Andrew J Brady ICON Music Center across from Paul Brown Stadium. The Jungle Zone opens at 2 p.m. and features music, food, drinks and games for all ages. Fans can meet members of the Stripes Squad and watch the Ben-Gals perform before heading over to the game.

One important thing fans also need to know is that as of Aug. 29, Paul Brown Stadium is cashless. All purchases in the stadium must be made using a credit card, debit card or mobile payment. This includes all purchases, from the concession stands to retail locations. Roaming vendors will have mobile credit card devices to process cashless payments.

If you do bring cash, PBS has cash-to-card kiosks that can transfer cash to a card (with no fees) which can be used anywhere, not just at the stadium.

The most welcome development at PBS on Sunday will no doubt be the return of Joe Burrow. Bengals head coach Zac Taylor expects Burrow to take the field for what the coach describes as a “very limited number of snaps.”

“It will be good to get him out there in front of the home crowd in a very similar environment to week one in terms of being at home, time of day,” Taylor said. “It will be good to get guys next to each other in the huddle with the coaches on the field and the fans cheering them on.”

Burrow’s return is timed perfectly with the Bengals’ new pregame ritual, the Ruler of The Jungle ceremony. Though kickoff is at 4 p.m., fans are asked to be in their seats by 3:45 p.m. to participate in what is set to become a new tradition.

From a jungle-themed throne, the Ruler of The Jungle will lead the crowd in the “Who Dey” chant right before kickoff to create a more energetic gameday environment.

The inaugural Ruler of The Jungle will be James “JB” Brown. A fan since 1968, Brown was well known by early Bengal player, even gaining the attention Paul Brown himself. Brown rewarded his loyalty by welcoming him inside the locker room. JB has been to nearly every Bengals home game and has led the team onto the field for many years.

Set to Music

If You Go

ArtsWave: Enjoy the Arts @ Parks
Saturday, August 28, 1–5:30 p.m.
Miami Whitewater Forest
9001 Mount Hope Road
FREE

More information at artswave.org/parks.

Enjoy every last moment of summer with ArtsWave’s Enjoy the Arts @ Parks next concert.

Satin Smooth Project kicks off the day with their blend of smooth jazz, funk and soul. They'll take you down memory lane until you're dancin’ by the lake to some of your favorite songs of the last 40 years.

Taifa will keep you moving as they bring a soulful edge to songs you know and love. Just Vince and the Fellas take a break from their usual gig at the Redmoor to treat you to timeless classics of pop, R&B, soul, dance and more to wrap up the afternoon.

Enjoy the Arts @ Parks Series, presented by Macy’s, is a new, eight-month series programmed during ArtsWave’s 2021 Campaign to fund the arts. Each event features performances from a diverse set of arts organizations and independent artists. ArtsWave created the series through partnerships with Great Parks of Hamilton County, the City of Covington (Devou Parks) and Boone County Parks (Boone Woods). The Miami Whitewater Forest concert marks the fourth of the six that will be performed at various Great Parks of Hamilton County locations across the region.

New donors to ArtsWave and those increasing their last gift by 10%+ can receive a free year-long Great Parks of Hamilton County Motor Vehicle Permit, which allows free parking at all Great Parks throughout 2021, as well as other benefits.

Concerts are free and details on performances, dates and times can be found at artswave.org/parks. Donations to the arts can be made at artswave.org/give.

Family Time

Midwest Black Family Reunion

• Senior Pavilion with live DJ, activities (such as bingo), fitness demonstrations, resources and more

• Youth & Young Adult Pavilion with live DJ, activities, giveaways, and contests

• Children’s Pavilion with games, activities, crafts, face painting, giveaways, and resources

• Sports Pavilion with basketball tournament, giveaways, resources

• Inspirational Pavilion with live entertainment, spiritual resources, performances

• Health Pavilion with resources, giveaways, demonstrations, health screenings and more.

Find out more at www.myblackfamilyreunion.org.

The Midwest Regional Black Family Reunion continues to grow and is now one of Cincinnati's largest family-focused events drawing over 20,000 patrons.

“We are excited to be returning for our 33rd year and look forward to being able to serve our community in person this year,” says Tracey Artis, executive director of BFR.

The three-day celebration began on Fountain Square on Friday, Aug. 20 and continues at Sawyer Point Park on through Sunday, Aug. 22. This family-friendly event features food, entertainment, community resources, giveaways and more.

On Sunday, BFR also hosts their Urban Gospel Concert with Darwin Hobbs and James Fortune. Darwin Hobbs is one of the most respected and sought after recording artists and Worship Pastors in Gospel music. His inimitable, supple tenor has provided a rich backdrop to hundreds of recordings by artists including Michael W. Smith, Jars of Clay, Amy Grant, Natalie Grant, Michael Card, Bebe & Cece Winans, Donnie McClurkin, Michael McDonald, Donna Summer, Chris Tomlin, and countless others.

James Fortune is a Houston-bred, singer, songwriter and producer. Called to music ministry as a child, the idea of a record label, worldwide travel, an abundance of accolades and two Grammy-nominations were the least of his thoughts and aspirations. Since his music ministry's 2004 debut with You Survived, James Fortune has gone on to record and release The Transformation (2007), Encore (2010), Identity and Grace Gift (both released in 2012). James Fortune's 2017 release, Dear Future Me, intertwined trust with the act of forgiving self, and realizing that your future will flourish with God's grace. The album debuted at #1 on the Billboard Gospel chart with its lead single “Favor of God” receiving a 2019 ASCAP Urban Rhythm & Soul Award.

Throughout the day, guests can expect family fun, activities, throughout the par. There will also be vaccination stations, voter registration, and a school supply giveaway within the park.

“The Black Family Reunion exists to uplift and celebrate Black families and we intend to do just that. With everything that has occurred over the last year and a half, it’s important for us to remain steadfast and strong, just like our theme states,” says Artis.

Picture of Health

No matter your plans for Fall, The Wellness Experience by Kroger, is ready to help you live your best life.

The two-day, free health and wellness festival August 20 and 21, presented by Molson Coors Beverage Company and L.A. Libations, celebrates physical, mental and emotional health for the whole human. Inclusion Companies LLC, in partnership with The Kroger Co. and festival co-founder Jewel have created a festival that features more than 100 experiences focused on four core pillars of transformation: health, activity, nutrition and inspiration.

Free concerts will take place on both Friday and Saturday. Simple Truth presents the Friday, Aug. 20 concert featuring Quinn XCII with hometown favorite Blessid Union of Souls.

Among other events are

• Jewel’s Anxiety Workshop: Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and event co-founder leads an inspiring session about how to work through anxiety and not let it rule your life.

• Food As Medicine: Take part in a conversation with actress and vegan foodie Tabitha Brown and Kroger Health President Colleen Lindholz about using food as treatment.

• Joanne Molinaro ‘The Korean Vegan’ will prepare her latest meal obsession that’s healthy, plant-based and delicious.

• Cincinnati’s own Marty and Amanda Brennaman will prepare a dish that’s a real home run, featuring Laura’s Lean Beef

• Tone It Up co-founder Karena Dawn

• TV personality and entrepreneur star Matt James

The festival also offers a Kid’s Zone, Ninja Warrior course, food sampling, a cooking stage showcasing plant-based eating options, and live music all weekend.

All events at The Wellness Experience will be held outdoors at The Banks. Organizers ask that all patrons be aware of social distancing as they enjoy the event.

Patron-facing staff will be wearing masks. Free masks will be available to all patrons. Additionally, Kroger Health will offer a COVID vaccination clinic at the Sample Space at The Banks.

Word to Your Mother

The last time the Reds won the World Series was in 1990, so it’s fitting that they are hosting the “I Love the 90s” show at Great American Ball Park, part of the Ohio Lottery Post-Game Concert Series on Saturday, August 21.

VANILLA ICE

Don’t sleep on Vanilla Ice, nee Rob Van Winkle. While he gained fame for the super catchy (to David Bowie and Queen, too) “Ice Ice Baby,” he was definitely back with a brand new invention, becoming a real estate entrepreneur and remodeling expert with his own show on the DIY Network, The Vanilla Ice Project.

TONE LOC

Best known for his hits “Wild Thing” and “Funky Cold Medina,” the Grammy-nominated Tone Loc has used his signature rasp to become a successful voice actor, working on the film FernGully: The Last Rainforest and on TV in King of the Hill, Uncle Grandpa, and Chowder.

ROB BASE

Best known for “It Takes Two,” Rob Base began his career with DJ E-Z Rock. That platinum single has appeared in more than 30 TV shows and movies, including Love and Basketball, The Wire, Iron Man 2, Parks & Recreation, and Pose.

NAUGHTY BY NATURE

We may never all agree on what exactly “O.P.P.” means, no one argue that Naughty By Nature created one of the first true crossover hits with that Grammy-nominated song. In 2020, the group teamed up with Rita Wilson for a charity re-mix of “Hip Hip Hooray.”

The “I Love the 90s” tours offers a chance to either relive your glory days or be transported to a middle school dance, depending on your demographic. All while listening to some of the most iconic, indelible names in rap, hip hop and R&B.

The concert will begin approximately 20 minutes after the Reds vs. Marlins game ends.

Everyone with a ticket to the Reds game will have the chance to enjoy the show from some of hip-hop’s biggest stars of the ‘90s.

Tickets and information at www.mlb.com/reds/tickets/concerts/love-the-90s.

Eat and Run

Bust a Crust! Pie-K 5K

Sep. 19, 8:30 a.m.

Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum.

Register for the Bust a Crust! Pie-K 5K Run/Walk.

Meals on Wheels Southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky is getting ready for the inaugural Bust a Crust! Pie-K 5K Run/Walk. The family friendly, timed race is open to all people and will help Meals on Wheels feed more than 10,000 local seniors.

All participants will receive a Bust a Crust! Pie-K 5K T-shirt and a unique commemorative medal. Trophies will be awarded to the overall top three male and female runners and the overall male and female walkers. Prizes will be awarded to the first-place male and female finishers determined by chip time in each age group: 6-12, 12-18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, and 80+.

Following the Bust a Crust! Pie-K 5K, participants will enjoy pie and other treats, drinks and music from DJ Brandon Scott Perry of Sound for Days and the Highlandaires.

“We’re excited for hundreds of friends, families, runners and walkers to join Meals on Wheels for the inaugural Bust a Crust! Pie-K 5K,” said Jennifer Steele, Meals on Wheels CEO. “Participants will support our mission to help seniors live independently by bringing healthy meals to their doors, checking on their well-being, and providing care and human connection.”

The Bust a Crust! Pie-K 5K kicks off the hugely popular Bust a Crust! annual fundraiser scheduled for Oct. 15-Nov. 15, 2021. Meals on Wheels expects to sell nearly 10,000 pies to benefit seniors in the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region. Pies are donated by generous Pie Masters including Cherbourg Cypress, Chartwells, Chubby Bunny Bakery, The Fresh Market Oakley, Fork and Pie Bakery, MAKERS BAKERS Co., Mama Rose’s, Meijer, Nay Mama’s Sweet Treats, Perkins, Reinhart, Station BBQ, Sweets by LaDawn, Taste of Belgium, and UC Dining Services.

The Bust a Crust! Pie-K 5K is generously sponsored by Graydon, Driehaus Insurance Group, JTM Food Group, Champlin Architecture, Barnes Dennig, Bartlett Wealth Management, Doscher’s Candy Co., Enterprise Fleet Management, Happy Go Healthy, Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church, LK Tech, Mutual of America Financial Group, Revecore, Ritter & Randolph, Robert Half, Senior Impact Publications, Skyline Chili, Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum, Strategic Benefits, Vomela Companies, Belflex Staffing Network, Clark Schaefer Hackett, Huntington National Bank, Millennium Business Systems, Prairie Farms, Preferred Packaging, Republic Bank, Rumpke and Wordsworth.

Be a Goldfish?

Fishbowl at The Banks, a casual, modern, energetic tropical bar and party spot, has expanded by more than 1,000 square feet. The bigger location officially opened Thursday, Aug. 5, kicking off a schedule of live music, seven days a week, for the remainder of the summer. (Visit www.fishbowlatthebanks.com to see the lineup.)

Fishbowl’s Expansion Kickoff Celebration will also feature the debut of a special new Fishbowl drink, the Ocean Vive, perfect for these sultry August nights.

“We can’t wait for you to visit our bigger Fishbowl with more entertainment, sound, lights, TVs and Fishbowls,” said Fishbowl owner Danny Scott. “So many improvements are happening at The Banks, including the beautiful new pedestrian walkway and the DORA District. This celebration is a thank you to the many guests who stuck with us through the pandemic – and a welcome to those who have yet to enjoy Fishbowl at The Banks.”

Fishbowl at the Banks expanded into its adjacent location, 151 East Freedom Way, formerly occupied by Tervis. Construction began in February of 2021. Fishbowl at the Banks originally opened in October of 2019, just months before eatery and pub restrictions were put in place due to the pandemic.

The 85-acre Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) District at The Banks allows guests to take their beverage and explore public plazas and green spaces at The Banks. Drinks must be in an official DORA Cup and purchased from one of the 18 establishments at The Banks. The DORA District at The Banks is open 11 a.m.–1 a.m., daily.

Best Foot Forward

Cincinnati is one of 17 U.S. cities vying to be a World Cup Host City for the 2026 international event at Paul Brown Stadium. Of the 17, 10 Host Cities will be chosen from the United States with the remaining Host Cities from Mexico and Canada. Only two Midwestern cities, Cincinnati and Kansas City, are among the final 17 U.S. cities competing for the World Cup.

The CEOs from four of the region’s largest companies will champion Cincinnati’s bid to host 2026 FIFA World Cup™.

P&G’s David Taylor, Ohio National’s Barbara Turner, Kroger’s Rodney McMullen and American Financial Group’s Carl H. Lindner III will serve as co-chairs of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) that is working to bring the world’s largest sporting event to Cincinnati.

“Cincinnati is the perfect host city for the World Cup,” said David Taylor, chairman, president and CEO of P&G. “Our community comes together to rally around big initiatives and get the job done. We’re ready to roll up our sleeves and show FIFA all that the Cincinnati region has to offer.”

The 2026 FIFA World Cup™ will be the first time that the expanded field of 48 teams will play in the World Cup, with 80 total matches. Hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup™ could generate more than $5 billion in short-term economic activity, including supporting approximately 40,000 jobs and more than $1 billion in incremental worker earnings across North America, according to a study done by The Boston Consulting Group (BCG), a leading global management consulting firm.

Canada, Mexico and the United States are hosting the 48-team tournament in 2026, which will be the largest in FIFA World Cup™ history. The study further estimates that individual host cities could expect to see approximately $160-$620 million in incremental economic activity. That translates to a net benefit of approximately $90-$480 million per city.

“Cincinnati is passionate about this beautiful game and we’re prepared to represent the Midwest as a great American soccer city,” said Barbara Turner, CEO of Ohio National Financial Services. “The hard working and collaborative nature of our region puts us in a strong position to win this bid.”

Cincinnati is well positioned to represent the United States as a World Cup host city. With 60% of the nation’s population within an eight hour drive of Cincinnati, the city is located at the center of America’s heartland. The Local Organizing Committee is committed to helping FIFA achieve its goals to roll out the hospitality red carpet and grow the sport of soccer through fan and visitor engagement. In Cincinnati, World Cup will have top billing and be the priority focus.

“Cincinnati is an incredible city with a robust arts, culture and entertainment scene,” said Rodney McMullen, CEO of The Kroger Company. “By hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Cincinnatians will have the chance to host the world’s greatest soccer fans and show them the vibrant and welcoming city we know and love.”

The last time that America was the host of the World Cup was in 1994, with a record attendance of more than 3.5 million, and an average of 69,174 fans per match. FIFA is looking to break that attendance record on its return to the United States with the expanded World Cup field.

Later in 2021, FIFA is planning site visits to the bidding cities with final Host City selections to follow.

Badwater Rising

School for Creative and Performing Arts teacher and veteran Flying Pig marathoner Harvey Lewis won this years’s Badwater 135 endurance race, the second time in his career he has won the grueling run.

The 135 mile course starts at the lowest elevation in North America, 282 feet below sea level in Death Valley, and ends at an elevation of 8,360 feet at the trailhead to Mt. Whitney. Lewis finished the course in 25 hours, 50 minutes and 23 seconds. He also won Badwater in 2014 and is a 10 time finisher. 

Billed the “World’s Toughest Foot Race,” Badwater this year had 84 entrants start with temperatures up to 117 degrees 

Lewis is a familiar figure in running in the Greater Cincinnati area, running the Flying Pig Marathon every year since its inception in 1999 and pacing marathon running groups throughout the country. Lewis also ran the Appalachian Trail in 2918 in less than 50 days, finishing in 45 days, 14 hours, a top-10 all-time finish.

The Badwater 135 Ultramarathon, the 135-Mile World Championship, was held July 19-21. Now in its 44th year – with the 2020 race canceled last-minute due to the pandemic – this world-renowned event pits up to 100 of the world’s toughest athletes against one another and the elements in a crucible like no other. From below sea level in scorching temperatures to altitudes as high as 8,360 feet (2548m), endurance athletes from 17 countries and 29 American states plus the Navajo Nation will face off in a grueling 135-mile trek non-stop from Death Valley to Mt. Whitney, CA. Widely recognized as “the world’s toughest foot race,” the invitational Badwater 135 is the most demanding and extreme running race on the planet.

Family Portraits

Though the COVID-19 pandemic has brought unapparelled loss to millions around the world, it has also revealed a compassion and resilience in people. As often happens, we turn to artists in the community to help us all process our grief and create poignancy from tragedy.

“After months of listening to news reports about the death toll from COVID, which felt distant, anonymous, and disconnected, I wanted to do something that brought the reality of this devastating time into sharp focus,” says Christian Schmit, a programmer at the William E. Durr Branch of the Kenton County Public Library. 

“I struggled to find a way to do this, but finally realized the answer is simple: I am an artist, I know lots of artists, let's make portraits of people,” says Schmit,

Schmit, in collaboration with other 21 local artists, created The COVID Portrait Project, currently on view through August 6 at the Durr branch in Independence. The portraits are their effort to remember those who passed away over that past year and memorialize them with honor and dignity.

“The result of this project is a humble display, 24 portraits,” says Schmit. “But I hope that through the artists' skill and the touching words of family and friends, we have created something monumental, that replaces cold numbers with faces, names and lives worth remembering,”

Earlier this year, the library asked patrons to submit photos of loved ones who had died during the pandemic. Then they recruited artists to create the portraits. Each portrait is accompanied by a short biography from a family member or friend and a remembrance of a happy time in their loved one’s life. 

“It's an emotional drawing to make because you know that the person has passed away, says Katelyn Wolary, one of the portrait artists. “It's not just a job. It's very personal, very one to one. To not even know the family receiving the portrait on a personal level, it doesn't change the intimacy of what we're doing as artists.”

“Sometimes it feels so huge that you don't even know where to turn with COVID and the pandemic and this brings it down to a level that we all can understand,” says Wolary. “We can all feel like we're giving something that is beneficial or positive.”

– Tricia Suit

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The William E. Durr Branch of the Kenton County Library is at 1992 Walton-Nicholson in Independence, Ky. The library is open Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday, 9 am. – 6 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The library is closed on Sunday.

For more information about The COVID Portrait Project visit www.kentonlibrary.org/the-covid-portrait-project.

Bank on a Good Time

Don’t miss the Open House for The Andrew J Brady ICON Music Center’s today from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 25. The public has a FREE chance to get a first look inside the brand-new concert venue, hosted by Music & Event Management, Inc.

Throughout the day, local bands will play on The ICON Festival Stage at Smale Park, along with concessions and family-friendly activities.

The ICON Festival Stage at Smale Park lineup is

11 – 11:35 a.m. KNOTTS
11:55 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Tracy Walker
12:50 – 1:25 p.m. MADQUEEN
1:45 – 2:20 p.m. Carriers

DJ Mowgli will also be spinning throughout the day, beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Concessions will be available for purchase including beer, seltzers, water, soda, Skyline Chili Cheese Coneys and walking tacos, and Papa John’s Pizza. While you're there, you can even take a souvenir photo or have your face painted before the Reds game!

EVT Management Services and MEMI will be accepting applications to fill the following positions: Event Staff, Box Office Staff, Maintenance, Housekeeping, Bartenders, Bar-backs and Cashiers.

The venue box office will be open on Sunday, July 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., with no service fees when paying with cash and $2 per ticket fee when paying with a credit card.

About the bands:

DJ MOWGLI: DJ Mowgli started DJing during the first wave of raves in the early ‘90s. Prior to that, he was a promoter & MC. Taking in the first wave of Darkcore Breakbeat dance music, he started collecting that stuff in the only format available, vinyl. The collection getting immense, he began to DJ for parties and events, eventually creating “The Cincinnati Bomb Squad” (CBS).

CBS started hosting their own events, bringing in legendary headliners. Over the years, DJ Mowgli has shared the stage with Jam Master Jay of RUN DMC, Juan Atkins & Derrick May (fathers of Techno), Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, Jimmy Edgar, Mark Farina, Apocalyptica, Grammy Award-winners Bone, Thugs ‘N’ Harmony, Public Enemy, DJ Q-Bert, and many more.

KNOTTS: KNOTTS lead singer/songwriter, Adalia Powell-Boehne possesses a truly one-of-a-kind plaintive voice that grounds all her songs with a strong sense of someone searching for her place in the world. Powell-Boehne enlisted local musicians Antoine Franklin (keys/bass), Jordan Wilson (guitar) and CJ Eliasen (drums) to perform with her. At first listen KNOTTS exemplifies all things indie pop, with electric guitars, synths and catchy hooks. Listen a little closer and you hear folk songwriting and R&B influences and Soul music. The common thread throughout the band’s music is the unmistakable vulnerability in the lyrics and impassioned tone of the vocals.

TRACY WALKER: Just as palpable as her ringing alto and her estimable guitar skills, there is a blazing honesty that runs through Tracy’s work, from her 1998 debut album Naked to 2013’s Coetaneous Vibrations. She recently recorded an intimate set of songs, Bare Bones, with guitarist Brian Rivers for listeners who prefer a less is more approach to her songs. Tracy has been the recipient of two CAMMY Awards (Cincinnati Enquirer), 2 CEA Awards (Cincinnati CityBeat) and the prestigious Taft Museum of Art Duncanson Artist in Residency Honor among others celebrating her achievements in music. Tracy has developed a reputation as a fierce performer both solo as well as with her band.

MADQUEEN: MADQUEEN is an original rock/pop band started by Jaki Howser and Stephen Yokley. They added Young Heirlooms’ guitarist/ vocalist Chris Robinson and bassist Kyle Elkins, creating a unique combination of catchy melody lines, polyrhythms, harmonic minor themes, and a drummer that plays and sings at the same time. Live interaction, excellent musicianship, and a few theatrical moments. MADQUEEN was named Best New Artist. Pop/Rock at the 2019’s Cincinnati Entertainment Awards.

CARRIERS: Having played in several bands and touring throughout the U.S., Cincinnati-based artist Curt Kiser adopted the moniker Carriers in 2014. The project also works as a collective of friends, including Bryan Devendorf (The National) and John Curley (The Afghan Whigs), coming together to bring his sweeping rock visions to life. Kiser found break out success with Carriers’ debut LP, Now Is The Time For Loving Me, Yourself & Everyone Else, released in the summer of 2019 drawing praise from Paste Magazine, Consequence of Sound and more. A testament to the power of self-reflection, the 9-track album evokes the same guitar-led grandeur of The War on Drugs as Kiser takes stock of life, death, relationships and gratitude for another day.

Live Out Your Love

Cincinnati Music Festival presented by P&G (CMF) presents three events on the traditional July weekend of the Cincinnati Music Festival, which has been postponed to 2022 due to the pandemic.

For the first concert at The Andrew J. Brady ICON Music Center at The Banks, Cincinnati Music Festival will partner with P&G and Vibe Cincinnati for a live concert by KEM with special guest Leela James. Tickets are on sale now.

An internationally renowned R&B singer/songwriter, Kem has one platinum album, two gold records, three GRAMMY nominations; five #1 hit singles (“Love Calls,” “I Can’t Stop Loving You,” “Why Would You Stay,” “It’s You” and “Nobody”), along with several sold-out national tours and international shows. He last performed at Cincinnati Music Festival in 2018.

Friday Flow, featuring live music from Love Street with Vibe 5 and Tonia Ruby, in Washington Park on Friday, July 23, from 6 – 9 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.

On Saturday, July 24, The Cincinnati Music Festival Outdoor Artwork Gallery opens in Washington Park, and then will travel to Court Street to be on display for a period of time, before heading back to the businesses to be proudly displayed within their space.. The gallery, sponsored by P&G with partners Kroger, ArtsWave, 3CDC and AGAR, that includes musical entertainment. This curated exhibit of outdoor artwork will highlight 15 BIPOC-owned businesses and artists that will be paired to create a unique and collaborative exhibition focused on supporting local artists, local businesses and the celebration of both unique types of art. The collaborative artworks will be celebrated through a month’s long installation of outdoor artwork within

The Cincinnati Music festival presented by P&G returns to Cincinnati’s Paul Brown Stadium, July 21-23, 2022. A complete lineup will be announced in the next few months. Tickets are now on sale at CincyMusicFestival.com.

Moment of Truth

If You Go

Truth & Reconciliation – Events July 18

Live performances, Memorial Hall, 1225 Elm St., 3–9 p.m.

Film Shorts, NURFC, 50, E. Freedom Way, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Visual Art Exhibition, NURFC, 50, E. Freedom Way, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Exhibition continues through Oct. 31.

All three components of the Showcase are free, although signup for the performances is needed.

Please visit artswave.org/showcase for the full schedule.

A showcase of 27 commissioned projects on the themes of “truth” and “reconciliation,” that ArtsWave in partnership with the City of Cincinnati announced earlier in the year, was unveiled July 16 during a press conference and ribbon cutting ceremony held at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (NURFC) earlier this morning.

The multidisciplinary Showcase includes a Visual Art Exhibition with five works, a set of a dozen Film Shorts happening this Saturday and Sunday, and Live Performances on Sunday by nine artists with the day’s event emceed by Local 12’s Kyle Inskeep. The art exhibit and films will be held at NURFC, and performances will be held at Memorial Hall.

ArtsWave, the region’s engine for the arts, and the City of Cincinnati have been working on this partnership to support and elevate local Black and Brown artists for several years. After 2020’s COVID-19 pandemic and stark displays of systemic racism, racial injustice and inequities that confront Black and Brown individuals, it was decided that the first year of projects should reflect a variety of artistic disciplines and approaches to the complexities of ”truth” and “reconciliation.” Artists have collaborated with community members and other partners on their projects, so that the larger public can participate in reconciling the moment and imagining a more just and equitable future for the Cincinnati region through the arts.

Funding for the grants and showcase comes from the City of Cincinnati, Greater Cincinnati Foundation, Duke Energy, Fifth Third Bank, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and ArtsWave’s Arts Vibrancy Recovery Fund. Artist selection through a competitive, community-based selection process, was chaired by Toilynn O’Neal Turner, founder of the Robert O’Neal Multicultural Art Center (“The ROMAC”).

The Visual Art Exhibition will be at the NURFC through October 31. The Film Shorts and Live Performances will happen this weekend (July 17 and 18) and they will be repeated September 18-19.

At the Press Conference, funding for a second year of projects was announced, with the City of Cincinnati renewing its partnership and long-time ArtsWave supporter Macy’s joining in as well. More information on the theme for next year’s program and corresponding grant process will be available later in the year.

The Showcase, one of various investments in Black artists and cultural organizations, is part of ArtsWave’s ongoing commitment to elevate a diverse array of artistic expressions. To help fund cultural diversity efforts like these, go to artswave.org/give.

Ready to Rock

It’s time to get that “Hard Rock Cafe Cincinnati” T-shirt.

As part of the 50th-anniversary celebration of Hard Rock, Hard Rock Cafe will open its doors, Thursday, July 15 at Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati. The Hard Rock Grand Opening celebration will include a 9 p.m. live concert with Cincinnati’s own Blessid Union of Souls, globally known for hits including “Hey Leonardo,” “I Believe” and “Oh Virginia.”

There will always be something exciting happening at Hard Rock Cafe Cincinnati. No matter when you sit down for burgers and drinks, you can always count on one thing—the party never stops with live music and entertainers.

Hard Rock Cafe Cincinnati will offer a one-of-a-kind dining experience with lunch and dinner, fresh burgers ground on-site, and a commitment to serving fresh, high-quality ingredients. To satisfy the consumer’s ever-changing palate, Hard Rock continually updates its menu with limited-time offerings including burger pairings, innovative cocktails, and more.

Hard Rock Cafe is an internationally recognized, world-class hospitality brand that operates cafes around the world, which are visited by millions of guests annually. The first Hard Rock Cafe opened in London, England in 1971. From there the brand has expanded to major cities such as New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, Paris, Sydney – and now Cincinnati!

Hard Rock Cafe at Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati will be open to those 21 and older.

Footie Race

Ready to Run?

Saturday, July 17, 6 p.m.
Registration is now open at fccrace.com.

Only going to the Watch Party? Get tickets.

In-person racing returns for the first time since February 2020, as runners get ready for the FCC3.

The FCC3, presented by Medpace, returns July 17 to downtown Cincinnati. The FCC3 will start with a 3-mile walk/run with the finish line at TQL Stadium. Following the race there will be a Watch Party, presented by TQL, as FC Cincinnati takes on CF Montreal that night on the road.

All participants will receive a shirt and medal as well as access into the TQL Watch Party at TQL Stadium to watch the game. Anyone who deferred their registration from 2020 to this year will have the option to register for this year’s event or save their registration for 2022 or 2023.

You don’t need to run to go to the Watch Party, though. The game against CF Montreal will be streamed live at TQL Stadium – the game starts at 7:30 p.m.

Don’t miss:

• Food from Cincinnati favorites

• Craft beer and beverage stations

• Giveaways from FC Cincinnati and the Flying Pig Marathon

• Mascot appearances

• Much more!

Proceeds from the race will benefit the FC Cincinnati Foundation, the charitable arm of FC Cincinnati, and Flying Pig Marathon Charities. Details on the time of the event and the course map will be released closer to the date. For more information, visit www.fccrace.com.

Fowl Weather Friends

If You Go

Fowling Tournament to Benefit Sam Hubbard Foundation

Thursday, July 8, 5 p.m.

The Fowling Warehouse
2940 Highland Ave #230

Register at https://www.slinkevents.com/.

If you can’t decide if you like bowling or football better, fowling offers you the best of both worlds.

Enjoy a fun night of fowling, food, drinks and prizes along with current and former NFL players, all for a great cause during the second annual Fowling Tournament to benefit the Sam Hubbard Foundation

Try to beat current and former NFL players at their own game, but with a twist. Instead of throwing the pigskin to a receiver, teams of two will be trying to knock down 10 pins as fast as they can.

To keep up their strength, fowlers will enjoy LaRosa’s, Skyline Chili (Oakley), Chick-fil-A, and Gigi’s Cupcakes during the event.

All proceeds from this event will benefit the Sam Hubbard Foundation. The Foundation will be offering a youth football camp on July 19 and the money raised from the event will help sponsor some kids who may not otherwise be able to afford to attend.

Ignite the Light

Fourth of July is this weekend! With COVID canceling last year’s celebrations, communities are returning to celebrate America with fireworks, food, drinks, and even drones. This year, you’ll find many places to watch fireworks and enjoy the holiday this weekend throughout the region.

Friday, July 2

Tap Tastes and Tunes Festival
Voice of America Park, 8070 Tylersville Road, West Chester
Friday, 5–11 p.m., FREE
Tap Tastes and Tunes Festival on Facebook

Experience the Tap Tastes and Tunes Festival the entire holiday weekend, with live music, food, beverages, craft beer and family-friendly activities. The festival continues on Saturday (12–11 p.m.) and Sunday (12–10 p.m.), with fireworks wrapping up the celebration at 10 p.m. on Sunday. Parking is available close to the Athletic Field Complex and UC Health-West Chester Hospital Fieldhouse, 7850 VOA Park Drive.

Cincinnati Reds Firework Friday
Great American Ballpark, 100 Joe Nuxhall Way
7:10 p.m.; Ticket start at $12
www.mlb.com/reds/tickets

Start your Fourth of July weekend with the Reds and Rozzi’s post-game fireworks. The series against the Cubs continues Saturday and Sunday with a “Super Saturday” patriotic T-shirt giveaway and Military Appreciation Day.

Sparks in the Park
Riverside Ballfield, 3969 Round Bottom Road, Milford
8–10 p.m., FREE
www.milfordohio.org/residents/calendar_of_events.php

Milford celebrates the holiday with music, refreshing drinks, and fireworks. The Milford Community Fire Department will have ice cold soda and water and the American Legion will have adult beverages in special event DORA cups. Kona Ice will have two locations onsite and Johnny's Creamy Whip mobile unit will be serving delicious ice cream treats. The Billy Rock Band performs at 8 p.m. with an incredible fireworks display from Rozzi Famous Fireworks at 10 p.m.

Saturday, July 3

Independence Day Celebration
900 S. Ft. Thomas Ave., Fort Thomas
3–10 p.m., FREE
ftthomas.org

Celebrate Independence Day all day at Tower Park in Fort Thomas. A kids’ fun run begins at 7:40 a.m., followed by the Firecracker 5K at 8:15 a.m. and a parade at 10:30 a.m. Stick around for shopping, local food and drinks, kids’ activities, live music from
Jet Dress (5 p.m.), Frank Schmitt Orchestra (6:30 p.m.), and River City (8:30 p.m.), with fireworks at 10 p.m.

Madeira's 2021 Independence Day Celebration
McDonald Commons, 7502-7110 Dawson Road
5:30 – 10:30 p.m., FREE
www.madeiracity.com

Madeira’s celebration has a new home at McDonald Commons Park. A one-mile fun run begins at 5:30 p.m. on Miami Avenue followed by a 6 p.m. parade that ends at St. Gertrude Church. The party gets started at 7 p.m. with live music, food and beer. The firework show begins at 10 p.m. For those concerned with social distancing, an auxiliary site to view fireworks is at St. Gertrude’s lower parking lot.

4th of July Spectacular
Colerain Township Government Complex, 4200 Springdale Road
6:30–10 p.m., FREE
www.colerain.org/4th-of-July-Spectacular

Colerain Township and Rumpke present a party focused on “back-to-basics, hometown Americana” with an alcohol-free event. Guests can park at Colerain Middle School and Northgate Mall. with a free shuttle to the event location. No coolers or oversized bags are permitted as food and drinks are on-site. Fireworks begin at 10 p.m. 

Balloon Glow
Coney Island, 6201 Kellogg Ave.
8–10 p.m., FREE
coneyislandpark.com/event/balloon-glow
(Separate admission charged for Sunlite Pool)

Coney Island’s 21st Annual Balloon Glow is a go! See brilliant hot air balloons fill the sky. Enjoy live music, food, drinks and Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks at 10:30 p.m. The Balloon Glow and fireworks are free to watch, but parking is $15 before 2 p.m. and $20 after 2 p.m. Spend the day at Coney Island–Sunlite Pool and the new Challenge Zone will be open from 10 a.m.–9:30 p.m.!

Red, White and Kaboom!
Harbin Park, 300 Hunter Road, Fairfield
8–10 p.m., FREE
www.fairfield-city.org/578/Red-White-Kaboom

If you want big fireworks that can be seen from afar, check out Red, White and Kaboom! Rozzi’s Fireworks designed special fireworks with larger shells and a bigger shooting zone to expand the viewing area. Harbin Park will be closed to vehicular and foot traffic at 6 p.m. The soccer lot will be open to foot traffic only for viewing purposes starting at 8 p.m.

Sunday, July 4

Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks
Harrison Community Center, 300 George St., Harrison
4 p.m., parade; fireworks at dusk, FREE
www.harrisonohio.gov/Calendar

The city of Harrison provides an action-packed afternoon that includes a parade at 4 p.m. and free cornhole tournament from 6–9 p.m. Other activities include caricature drawings, face painting and magicians throughout the evening. Live music starts at 7 p.m. from the Miss Jacque Band and fireworks beginning at dusk. Food and drinks will be available for purchase.

Independence Day Celebration
Downtown Loveland, Loveland
7 p.m., parade; fireworks, 10 p.m., FREE
lovelandoh.gov/433/Independence-Day-Celebration

Loveland’s annual celebration includes a kid zone with rides, inflatable games, face painting, performers and more! A parade will occur at 7 p.m. while live music will be performed all afternoon until the firework show at 10 p.m. Local food trucks and vendors will be present. Parking shuttles will be available to visitors at Loveland High School and the Loveland Early Childhood Center.

Cincinnati Pops: Red, White and BOOM
Riverbend Music Center, 6295 Kellogg Ave.
8 p.m., Tickets $15–$55.
www.cincinnatisymphony.org/tickets-and-events/red-white-and-boom/

John Morris Russell and the Cincinnati Pops will perform American favorites inspired by this country and its people at 8 p.m. America the Beautiful will feature music that invigorates patriotism among all. After the concert, fireworks will light up the sky. Free lawn admission to those under 17, veteran tickets are $5.

Red, White and Blue Ash
Summit Park, 4335 Glendale Milford Road
10 p.m., FREE
www.blueashevents.com

Expect a dazzling show at Summit Park with fireworks shot from the ground, sky, and observation tower. The display will also include 200 drones to complement the firework show with synchronized movements in the air. WARM 98.5 will provide an Independence Day-themed soundtrack. There will be no food or drink vendors, so attendees are invited to bring their own picnic.

–Jacob Mantle 

All Aglow

If You Go

Balloon Glow
Saturday, July 3
Coney Island

FREE, parking is $15 until 2 p.m. and $20 after 2 p.m.

Regular rates apply for Coney Island’s Sunlite Water Adventure. Get for July 3.

Balloon Glow returns to Coney Island on Saturday, July 3. Celebrate Independence Day weekend with an up-close look at lighted, tethered, beautiful hot air balloons. Additionally, live music, entertainment, carnival rides and games will be available for the entire family. The evening’s grand finale will be a Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks spectacular over Coney Island’s Lake Como.

Make a day of it to enjoy all of Coney Island’s favorites like Sunlite Pool, Cannonball Cove, and Twister water slides, and the brand-new floating in-pool obstacle course, The Challenge Zone.

In the interest of safety, Coney Island is continuing to implement enhanced sanitation practices and guest policies based on the most up-to-date state and local recommendations and guidelines. For a complete listing of Coney Island’s policies and procedures, please visit https://coneyislandpark.com/plan-your-visit/faqs-and-policies/.