Bee Yourself

The Queen Bee Half Marathon’s 10th anniversary is the perfect occasion for Abdi Abdirahman, described by The New York Times as the “the longtime bon vivant of American distance running,” to visit Cincinnati.

Abdirahman and his partner Diane Nukuri, who both elite distance runners and former Olympians, will be in town to celebrate the Queen Bee Half and the incredible accomplishments of all the runners.

For the past decade, the Queen Bee Half has been on a mission to promote the fun of fitness while raising support and funds for local charities that focus on women. Race weekend is always a party, but this year the celebration will be even bigger.

The race is Saturday, Oct. 14, starting at 7:30 a.m., with a huge afterparty at Sawyer Point. The Bee-u-tique Expo will be held at the Duke Energy Convention Center on Friday, Oct. 13, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Find more details at flyingpigmarathon.com.

Behind the Scenes

Backlot 2023
Saturday, Oct. 28, 7 –11 p.m.
Waypoint Aviation, Lunken Airport

General admission ($150):
7 p.m, arrival, includes red carpet, food & entertainment, and open bar

VIP ($250):
6 p.m. arrival with VIP cocktail mingle, includes red carpet, food & entertainment, and open bar

Dressed as your assigned character or in cocktail attire!

Get tickets now at filmcincinnati.com/backlot.

If you think you’ve missed your chance to be in an intense drama or wacky comedy from the 1970s, think again. You’ll have your chance to light up the big screen at Film Cincinnati’s annual fundraiser.

This year, Film Cincinnati will be making a faux ‘70s-inspired motion picture at Backlot. Artswave and the Haile Foundation have donated funds to compensate the artists and technicians in the area who are out of work because of the unprecedented strike.

“Film Cincinnati is proud to support our local crew members through events like Backlot,” said Kristen Schlotman, executive director of Film Cincinnati. “We want to keep these crews working and build the morale of the incredible film scene in Cincinnati, so we are thinking outside the box to find ways for them to showcase their talents for the entire community.”

Those local crew members will use their talents to transform Waypoint Aviation's hangar into a magical film set for Backlot: grips and electricians will light the hangar like a movie set. Special effects will wow the crowds, and wardrobe, hair and makeup artists will help patrons find their own Hollywood glam. Backlot will be a completely immersive experience for guests making them feel almost famous.

“Backlot” is Film Cincinnati’s largest fundraiser, helping the non-profit continue to bring in major motion picture production teams to the Greater Cincinnati area. In 2022, Film Cincinnati recruited six major motion pictures to the area, resulting in more than 3000 jobs and an impact of more than $60 million dollars into the local economy.

Backlot is just the start of how Film Cincinnati is finding ways to employ local crews during the strike.

Through special events like “Backlot,” Film Cincinnati aims to directly hire this local workforce of film industry professionals to do what they do best. Instead of creating sets for films, or lighting for TV shows, Film Cincinnati is creating ways for the more than 500 industry professionals to use their talents for programs and events that other audiences can enjoy. The program is intended to solidify and retain talent in the film industry in Cincinnati, so that when the strike is resolved, Film Cincinnati has maintained most of their current talent base and can easily fill the flood of job opportunities expected to be available when film creation starts up again.

Off to a Good Start

BIG Breakfast: Building Futures
Tuesday, Oct. 10, 8–9 a.m.
Northern Kentucky Convention Center
1 W Rivercenter Blvd., Covington

This year’s breakfast celebrates leadership in the construction industry.

For tickets visit bigbreakfast.givesmart.com.

Breakfast, it’s said, is the most important meal of the day. That’s especially true for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cincinnati, whose annual BIG Breakfast is a big fundraiser for the organization.

Last year, the BIG Breakfast raised more than $200,000 to support

“The BIG Breakfast is a true ‘mission momen’ event,” says Deb Haas, marketing and public relations manager with Big Brothers Big Sisters. “Our incredible panel of speakers will share stories of successes and challenges, and the impact and importance mentoring has played—in both their professional and personal lives. We all have had mentors in our lives who encouraged, guided and supported us, and this is a chance to learn more about how leaders in our community navigated a path to success, and how they make it a mission to share their knowledge and mentorship with each other and the next generation.”

The 2023 Building Futures BIG Breakfast brings together four of Cincinnati's most respected and influential business leaders in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters. Tim Steigerwald, president of Messer Construction, will join Molly North, CEO of Al. Neyer; Bill Baker, vice president and managing partner of MSA Design; and Michele O’Rourke, CEO of O-Rourke Wrecking Company for a discussion on the importance of mentoring in their personal and business lives.

Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”), in the TriState. The most well known program gives Bigs and Littles an opportunity to experience a wide range of activities. These activities are a fun bonding experience for all involved.

But Big Brothers Big Sisters also provides site-based activities at Boys & Girls Club. Bigs can play games, share lunch, help with homework and build a friendship with the Littles.

“There have been many significant happenings at our agency this past year!” says Haas. “We're excited to start a new mentoring program called 'Beyond School Walls,' in which we pair a school with a business. Once a month, middle and high school students leave campus and are taken to a nearby partner company to meet with their Bigs. The goal is that they learn what its like to be in a work environment, learn job skills, and find a potential career.  Like our current programs, Bigs and LIttles maintain a one-to-one friendship throughout the year. These programs have just begun and we continue to look for new companies to get involved.”

For more than 100 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters has worked to ensure that all children in our program reach their full potential.

“Our agency has two key needs: New volunteers to become Big Brother/Big Sister mentors to kids in the 13-county Greater Cincinnati region we serve, and financial investments to allow us to serve these matches,” says Haas. “For people not in a position to become a Big right now, help us schedule a Lunch & Learn at work or with a community group, volunteer at one of our events, refer someone to be a Big, follow us (and share!) on social media, put us in touch with friends, community leaders and/or others who may support our agency.”

Shining Through

Shining Bright Like a Diamond
Saturday, Oct. 21, 6:30–11:30 p.m.
Duke Energy Convention Center
525 Elm St.

Dinner and dessert by the bite courtesy of Black and women restaurateurs; open bar.

The night will also be a celebration of 50 years of hip hop with headliner, KID CAPRI, recognized globally as an innovator and pioneer of DJ culture. Additional entertainment by the 2nd Wind Band and DJ Vader.

Tickets available at www.ulgso.org/gala.

To honor 75 years of working to empower communities and change lives through advocacy, education, and development, the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio (ULGSO) is bringing back its in-person celebration this year.

“Due to COVID our last gala was in 2019,” said Urban League President and CEO, Christie Kuhns. “So, we are extremely excited to have our return gala in such a historic year for the organization. This is an opportunity for us to celebrate 75 years of incredible impact in our community and raise funds to make sure the work continues for another 75 years.”

Co-chairs for the gala, with the theme “Shining Bright Like a Diamond,” are Philip and Gail Holloman and Barabara and Daman Turner.

“The Urban League has a long, proud tradition of serving the Cincinnati community through programs that have real impact on people’s lives,” said Barbara Turner, Urban League Board President and gala co-chair. “Whether helping people find employment, improve their financial stability or helping entrepreneurs grow, the Urban League can help people improve their quality of life.”   

AALDP Class 30

Salimah Abdul-Hakim, Soleil Kitchen

Barbara Bell, U.S. House of Representatives/Rep. Greg Landsman 

D'arrell Brown, Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio

Tai Collins, University of Cincinnati

Maria Cunningham Hill, Hillman Group

Akiva Freeman, The Kroger Co.

Lindzie Gunnels, 3CDC/Gunnels Realty

Rickell Howard Smith, YWCA Greater Cincinnati

Alexandria Merriweather-Turner, Central State University

Janice Miller, Council on Aging 

Nick Mockabee, The Kroger Co.

Ayanna Morgan, Cradle Cincinnati

Toilynn O'Neal Turner, Robert O'Neal Multicultural Arts Center

DeShawn Raimey, Western & Southern Financial Group

Robert Sanders, Sanders Development Group

Ryane Sickles, University of Cincinnati

Devona Stripling, Cincinnati Regional Chamber of Commerce

Marcus Thompson, Triversity Construction

Janaya Trotter Bratton, Hamilton County Municipal Court

Chantal Weaver, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

Donald Young, Secure & Protect

The Urban League also recently announced Class 30 of their African American Leadership Development Program (AALDP).

AALDP is the most highly regarded professional development opportunity and networking platform for African American professionals in Greater Cincinnati. Through 10 interactive sessions led by nationally recognized expert facilitators, participants increase their awareness of their professional and personal strengths, enhance their knowledge of critical community issues and grow their leadership skills. The program provides an overview of Cincinnati’s rich cultural history, power and influence, government, advocacy and economics framed in Black history and perspective.

“AALDP provides an opportunity for African American leaders to connect and grow with one another in powerful ways,” said Kuhns. “So many of Cincinnati’s prominent African American leaders are graduates of AALDP. I believe that speaks to the enduring power and legacy of this program.”

Seeing Stars

The Cincinnati Observatory is known as “The Birthplace of American Astronomy.” 

150 Years in Mt. Lookout Celebration
Saturday, Sept. 30, 6 p.m.
3489 Observatory Place

Members: $125, Non-members: $150
(21+)

More information and tickets at www.cincinnatiobservatory.org.

Not only is it home to one of the oldest working telescopes in the world, it was the first public observatory in the western hemisphere. The Observatory is a fully functioning 19th century observatory used daily by the public and amateur astronomers in the 21st century. 

The original building in Mount Lookout, the Herget Building was completed in 1873 and established the Observatory’s park-like campus. Named in honor of longtime Observatory Director Dr. Paul Herget, hundreds of thousands of people have come through the buildings to be inspired by the night sky.

To celebrate the iconic Herget building, and help raise money for the ongoing preservation and care of the facility, the Observatory is holding a 150th anniversary celebration in its Mount Lookout location.

The public is invited to join the celebration for this milestone and see the Observatory’s plans for the future. The gala event includes heavy appetizers and drinks, along with architectural tours. The evening wrap up with, what else, a viewing through theri historic telescope.

The Best of Health

Sept. 22 and 23, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The Banks

Download the app for festival alerts, browse programing, and explore the map.
Available in the iTunes store and Google Play.

For more information, visit the Kroger Wellness Festival website.

Fitting in time to take care of yourself can be a struggle, but sometimes good advice and gentle nudge can help you get on the right track.

Get ready for two days of encouragement, support, and inspiration at the Kroger Wellness Festival, presented by PepsiCo featuring Gatorade.

The largest free health and wellness festival in America, the festival features talks and panel discussions with celebrities including Cameron Diaz, John Cena, Peyton and Eli Manning, and Venus Williams.

Live In Concert!

Friday, 5–6:30 p.m.

The Barenaked Ladies, presented by General Mills, will perform on the BODYARMOR Stage. Over the course of 35 years, the Toronto quartet has sold 15 million records worldwide and built up an arsenal of hits such as “If I Had $1000000,” “One Week,” “Pinch Me” and “The Big Bang Theory Theme.”

Saturday, 5–6:30 p.m.,

Flo Rida, presented by smartwater, will perform on the Kenvue Stage. Poised at the confluence of feel-good rap, pop, and electronic, Flo Rida established himself as the party king of the late 2000s with global smash hits like the T-Pain-assisted “Low” and the massive club banger “Right Round” featuring Kesha.

The festival will also feature local favorites including Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame Broadcaster Marty Brennaman and his wife, Amanda, Chef Christian Gill, Drew and Lea Lachey, NFL Hall of Famer Anthony Muñoz and bartender Molly Wellmann.

The Kroger Wellness Festivalcelebrates physical, mental and emotional health for the whole family. The event feature more than 100 experiences and food offerings focused on six core pillars of transformation: balance, move, breathe, care, uplift and play.

The festival also includes food demonstrations, fitness classes and musical performances across six stages.

Venus Williams

Amanda Kloots

Chad Johnson

John Cena

Amanda Freitag

Peyton Manning

Eli Manning

Cameron Diaz

Anthony Muñoz

2023 Kroger Wellness Festival Programming Highlights

Friday, Sept. 22

11–11:30 a.m., Campbell’s Food as Medicine Stage

Reds Hall of Fame Broadcaster Marty Brennaman and his wife, Amanda, will share comfort meal recipes from the original Campbell’s Cookbook and Laura’s Lean.

11:15 a.m. – 12 p.m., American Greetings Stage

Explore the shifting employer landscape and future of workforce with former bachelor-turned-entrepreneur Dylan Barbour.

 12:15–12:45pm, Campbell’s Food as Medicine Stage

Chef Christian Gill will lead two chefs in making Cincinnati recipes with a healthy, surprise twist during the Culinary Creator Challenge.

 12:30-1:15 p.m., Gatorade Stage

Venus Williams, seven-time Grand Slam Winner, entrepreneur and wellness leader, will lead a fireside chat on leadership and resilience, presented by PepsiCo.

1:15–2 p.m., Saratoga Stage

Unplug and recharge with a digital detox with mindfulness expert Meriden McGraw.

1:30–2 p.m., BODYARMOR Stage

Learn basketball fundamentals, mindset and competitive spirit from the Cincinnati Bearcats, led by former player Alex Meacham.

4:15–5 p.m., Kenvue Stage

Amanda Kloots, “The Talk” television host, dancer, actress and fitness instructor, will lead an empowering HIIT workout.

Saturday, Sept. 23

11 a.m.–12 p.m., BODYARMOR Stage

Bengals legend Chad Johnson and FC Cincinnati player Michael Millay and team will lead a workout session, presented by BODYARMOR.

12:15 –1 p.m., Saratoga Stage

Internationally recognized barber Vernon Jackson and little-person super-athlete Allison Warrell and others share powerful stories of peak performers who defy the odds.

12:15–1 p.m., Campbell’s Food as Medicine Stage

Actor, author and entrepreneur Cameron Diaz will share her favorite organic recipes that support longevity and healthy aging.

12:45–1:15 p.m., BODYARMOR Stage

Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky’s favorite mascots, including the Krojis, will join a Tik Tok dance routine led by Jess Evans from Dance Factory Fitness and KISS 107’s Jon Jon.

1:15–2 p.m., Gatorade Stage

16-time World Champion, New York Times best-selling author and record-setting Make-A-Wish granter John Cena will host a fierce workout led by Cornerstone Fitness.

1:45–2:15 p.m., Campbell’s Food as Medicine Stage

Food Network Chef Amanda Freitag will explore plant-based meals during this cooking demonstration, presented by Blue Diamond Almond Flour.

2:30–3:30 p.m., Kenvue Stage

Bartender Molly Wellmann will lead a demonstration and tasting of a spectrum of tequila spirits with (21+- ID required.)

 2:45–3:30 p.m., BODYARMOR Stage

Drew and Lea Lachey will present label•less, their musical that focuses on the issues that affect our society with inspiring musical performances.

3–3:45 p.m., Campbell’s Food as Medicine Stage

Former NFL great Chad Johnson and Chris Marschall of Sans Bar will discuss the health benefits associated with alcohol abstinence and the importance of living a fully present life.

4-4:45 p.m., Gatorade Stage

NFL Super Bowl champions Eli and Peyton Manning will be joined on-stage by special guests, unveiling their secrets to achieving peak performance on and off the field, presented by Gatorade.

4:15–5 p.m., American Greetings Stage

Matt Summers, Bengals director of Sports Medicine, and NFL Hall of Famer Anthony Muñoz will discuss how to fuel your sports performance.

Dream Team

The Dream Makers Gala Celebration: Generations of Success!
Thursday, Sept. 28
Graduate Hotel
151 Goodman Drive.

Gala event open to community members, corporate partners, and supporters who share a passion for investing in the potential of young people.

For registration information, sponsorship opportunities, and event details, visit /www.cycyouth.org/dreammakers.

Cincinnati Youth Collaborative (CYC) is thrilled to announce its most anticipated fundraising event of the year – the Dream Makers Gala celebrating 35 years of CYC!  Cincinnati Youth Collaborative is a nonprofit organization committed to nurturing the potential of youth through innovative educational programs, mentoring initiatives, and college and career readiness support.

Set to take place on September 28th at The Graduate Hotel, the Dream Makers Gala promises an unforgettable evening of inspiration, community, and celebration. This year we will be time traveling with a 1980’s theme as we celebrate 35 years of excellence. The Dream Makers gala holds special significance as it will honor this year's nine Outstanding student scholarship recipients! This year's Outstanding Students are all recent graduates from Cincinnati area high schools (Shroder High School, Oyler High School, Mt. Healthy High School, North College Hill High School, Western Hills High School) and are all pursuing post-secondary education and employment representing colleges like The University of Cincinnati, Xavier University, Northern Kentucky University, and more. We are thrilled to come together to celebrate the accomplishments and success of our Outstanding student scholarship recipients.  

Attendees can look forward to an elegant evening filled with captivating speeches, heartwarming success stories, student performances, and a lovely dinner by the bite all dedicated to showcasing the power of education and mentorship. As part of the festivities, Cincinnati Youth Collaborative will be inducting its inaugural class into The CYC Hall of Fame. This year's Hall of Fame class includes Ed Berg, Wan Lim, Charlie Cavallo, Procter and Gamble, and Miriam West, who have achieved remarkable success in their respective fields and have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation. Our honorees have long supported CYC through their work with UC Med Mentors, Saturday Hoops and other CYC mentoring programs.

Cincinnati Youth Collaborative believes that every young person deserves the opportunity to dream big and achieve their full potential. The Dream Makers Gala Celebration is not only a moment to honor remarkable individuals but also a reflection of our commitment to fostering a brighter future for our youth. Funds raised from the gala will directly support Cincinnati Youth Collaborative’s essential programs, including college and career readiness initiatives, mentoring programs, and other transformative experiences designed to equip young individuals with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

BREWTIFUL DAY

Beer? Check.

Pretzels? Check.

Dogs in costumes? Check and check.

This year’s Oktoberfest Zinzinnati® promises to be bigger and better, with a move to Fifth Street and four days of fun.

From Sept. 14–17, the nation’s largest Oktoberfest will convert downtown Cincinnati’s into a vibrant Bavarian village serving up German cuisine, entertainment, and beer.

To zelebrate the return to Fifth Street, festivities will start a day earlier than last year, with expanded entertainment and activities. On Sunday, the party starts an hour earlier, so you can tailgate in the wurst way imaginable.

The new Snyder’s of Hanover Fun Zone introduces a designated area with a wide range of activities and entertainment for all ages. The creation of this space will provide an experience where everyone can come together and celebrate the rich German heritage of southwestern Ohio.

Local artist Daniel Shields and artist collective "The Beefs are gearing up to elevate the Oktoberfest Zinzinnati environment in the Snyder’s Fun Zone, along with the Krombacher and Radeberger Fest Tents. Drawing inspiration from classic Bavarian aesthetics, highlights of their designs include a 6-foot pretzel chandelier and winged wiener dogs welcoming attendees to the space.

And strictly for adults, Jägermeister has signed on as the official shot of Oktoberfest 2023, adding to the extensive selection of beverages available which includes more than 40 types of German beers, German wines, local craft beers, domestic brews, and notably, for the first time at Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, an assortment of non-alcoholic beer options. Jägermeister will be served at the new Jägermeister Fest Tent and the Sonder, Grainworks, Fifty West, Urban Artifact, and West Side Brewing booths.

With extra time to zelebrate, attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy beloved events like the ‘Running of the Wieners’ and the ‘Chicken Dance’ while also experiencing new entertainment and activities. Oktoberfest Zinzinnati is excited to welcome the Bavarian Band, Die Bubis, to the queen city. Featuring rich sounds of brass, electric guitars, drums and vocals, Die Bubis will bring the energy with multiple performances over the four-day event.

It’s About Stein

Thursday, Sept. 14, 4 p.m.

Opening Ceremonies and Gemütlichkeit Games (G-Games)
The Main Stage at Fifth and Sycamore

Gemütlichkeit means goodwill, cordiality or friendliness. The idea of gemütlichkeit began after the Napoleonic war in 1815 and before the revolutionary wars started in 1848. People in Germany were tired of war and politics and decided, instead, to spend their spare time focused on family and friends.

Events will include the beer barrel roll and the beer stein carry, in which participants carry six one-liter steins, filled with Samuel Adams, to the finish line. Scores are based on time and the least amount of beer spillage. 

While Oktoberfest Zinzinnati’s Gemütlichkeit Games (or G-Games) are a competition between members of Zinzinnati media, creatig mostly friendly contests.

Oktoberfest Zinzinnati's food lineup features many familiar dishes, but also several new twists on tradition. More than 30% of the vendors this year are new to the festival, and many are local and diverse restaurants that are offering up German-Style twists on their menu items.

According to the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber, grazing gourmets created the following Statistiken with their gluttonous consumption at a previous Oktoberfest Zinzinnati:

• 87,542 metts

• 64,000 sauerkraut balls

• 24,640 potato pancakes

• 20,000 cream puffs

• 6,000 jumbo pickles

• 1,875 lbs. German potato salad

• 700 pigtails

• 80,500 bratwurst

• 56,250 sausages

• 23,004 soft pretzels

• 16,002 strudel

• 3,600 lbs. sauerkraut

• 702 lbs. Limburger cheese

• 400 pickled pigs feet

Check the more than 150 menu items and participating vendors at oktoberfestzinzinnati.com/food.

Friday, Sept. 15,

Running of the Wieners, presented by Nestle Purina
11:30 a.m., Main Stage at Fifth and Sycamore

The Running of the Wieners will feature 100 dachshunds donning costumes while running approximately 75 feet, in heats of ten, to its owner waiting at the finish line. The winners from each heat will compete in a final race to determine Zinzinnati’s fastest wiener dog. New this year, the winner will receive one year of free Beneful Incredibites Dry Dog Food provided by Purina.

Samuel Adams Stein Hoist Championship
4 p.m., Main Stage at Fifth adn Sycamore

The ultimate test of strength and endurance, competitors must hold a one-liter stein of beer, straight out, without bending an elbow or spilling any beer. One male and one female-identifying winner each receive a custom 3ft Sam Adams Stein, a $250 gift card to the Cincinnati Sam Adams Tap Room and other Sam Adams swag.

Oktoberfest Best Dressed Contest
8 p.m., Main stage at Fifth and Sycamore

Guests dressed to impress in their German best will want to enter the Samuel Adams Oktoberfest Best Dressed Contest. Wear a dirndl or lederhosen – be authentic, get creative and you could win fun prizes from Samuel Adams.

Saturday, Sept. 16,

Oktoberfest Zinzinnati Offizielle Zeremonien
(Official Ceremonies)
Noon, Main Stage at Fifth and Sycamore

The Oktoberfest Zinzinnati official ceremonies are a great way to experience the region’s rich German heritage. They feature music, beer, dancing, beer, and a procession of local German groups throughout the event. The procession will visit and dedicate each bier garten and fest tent. Co-founder and chairman of Boston Beer, Jim Koch, returns this year to join the zelebration.

The Rich Walburg World’s Largest Chicken Dance
4 p.m., Main Stage at Fifth and Sycamore

Thousands of chicken dancers have congregated every year since 1994 when Zinzinnatians set the Guinness World Record as the World’s Largest Chicken Dance! It will be poultry in motion as Oktoberfest guests gather to participate in this Zinzinnati tradition.
The grand marshals are members of the Cincinnati Fire Deprtment, led by Captain Eric Tombragel who has served on the Cincinnati Fire Department for 33 years with the last seven as Fire Captain for special events. Oktoberfest Zinzinnati will mark the last big event of his career.

Sunday, Sept. 17, 10 a.m.

Orange and Black Tailgate Rally
Sports Zone

Oktoberfest becomes a tailgate party as former Bengal Ickey Woods and DJ Etrayn entertain the crowd with tunes, trivia and the famous Ickey Shuffle. Oktoberfest opens an hour early so you can start your Sunday here before heading down to the Bengals first home game of the season. Or stay and watch the game on the big screens in the Sports Zone.

The new location on Fifth Street runs from Main Street to the Columbia Parkway and I-71 on-ramps. The Fifth Street experience takes full advantage of the space and includes nine entertainment areas including a large Main Stage, two beer gardens, five fest tents, and an LED board in to view the jam-packed Cincinnati sports weekend.

Ale to the Chief

Have you been part of the world’s largest chicken dance?

If you’ve ever been to Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, the odds are pretty good that you have.

In 1994, the inaugural year for the chicken dance, the record was set, when more than 48,000 people flapped their arms and shook their tailfeathers in pursuit of the feat, documented in the Guinness Book of Records, 1995-97 editions. That year, the Crown Prince of Bavaria himself helped set the world record. Since then, celebrities, both local and intergalactic, have acted as the grand marshal of the event.

This year keeps that tradition intact, with members of the Cincinnati Fire Deprtment stepping up to the chicken dance challenge. The firefighters will be led by Captain Eric Tombragel who has served on the Cincinnati Fire Department for 33 years with the last seven as Fire Captain for special events. Oktoberfest Zinzinnati marks the last big event of his career.

Last year, the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber renamed the World’s Largest Chicken Dance in honor of longtime Chamber employee and local media legend Rich Walburg. Walburg was the Chicken Dance’s biggest fans and had a hand in booking some of the most popular grand marshals over the years.

Widely known as the “Chicken Dance,” this dance song was composed by Werner Thomas in the 1970s in Davos, Switzerland, and was originally called “Der Ententanz,” which means The Duck Dance, but became known as the Vogeltanz, Chicken Dance, and also as Dance Little Bird. There were many versions of this that became hit songs, but the song and dance have had the greatest longevity in the U.S., where it has become a popular German heritage song.

2009: Homer Simpson

Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber

2012: Tom Browning

Courtesy Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber

2013: George Takei

Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber

2014: Drew and Nick Lachey

Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber

2011: Joe Morgan

Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber

2015: Ken Anderson

Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber

2016: FC Cincinnati

Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber

2017: Andy Dalton and A.J. Green

Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber

2018: Thane Maynard

Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber

2019: Katherine Nero

Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber

A grand( marshal) tradition

2022: Cast of Hamilton, from Broadway in Cincinnati

2021: Local 12, Bob Zerzog

2020: Jim Scott, with local celebrities in bars across the Tristate

• Frank Marzullo, Frisch’s Big Boy Mainliner

• Nick Wetta, Municipal Brew Works

• Bob Herzog, Arnold's Bar and Grill

• Randi Rico, Holy Grail Tavern and Grille

• Lauren Minor, Tin Roof

• Jim Day, Sonder Brewing

• Kathrine Nero, Braxton Brewing Company

• Mike McConnell, Fretboard Brewing

• Jessica Brown, The Blind Pig

• Megan Mitchell, Jerry's Jug House

• Mo Egger, West Side Brewing

2019: Nine (Nein?) Cincinnati Celebrities on nine stages, including Cincinnati People’s own Kathrine Nero

2018: Thane Maynard, Cincinnati Zoo

2017: A.J. Green and Andy Dalton, former Bengals

2016: FC Cincinnati

2015: Ken Anderson, Bengals legend

2014: Drew and Nick Lachey

2013: George Takei, from Star Trek

2012: Tom Browning, Cincinnati Reds “Mr. Perfect”

2011: Joe Morgan, Cincinnati Reds legend

2010: Rich Franklin, UCF Champion

2009: Homer Simpson and George Wendt (Cheers)

2008: Mary Wineberg and David Payne, Olympians

2007: Joe Nuxhall

2006: Chad Johnson, former Bengal

2005: Uncle Al and Captain WindyI

2004: Vince Neil, of Mötley Crüe

2003: Eddie Money

2002: Verne Troyer, Mini Me from the Austin Powers films

2001: Tony Orlando

2000: Davy Jones, The Monkees

1999: Weird Al Yankovic

1998: Al Hirt, trumpterand the World's Largest Kazoo Band

1997: Davy Jones, The Monkees

1995: San Diego Chicken, sports mascot

1994: Crown Prince of Bavaria

Coach Up

Who better to create a winning team than Bengals head coach Zac Taylor.

Working with CancerFree KIDS, Taylor has joined the 100 Mile Challenge, presented by Chard Snyder, a 30-day fitness and fundraising campaign in September, which is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

The concept is simple: do 100 miles of activity, from walking and running to gardening and yoga and raise $100 to help kids with cancer. Participants can complete their miles doing any activity they prefer and along the way, will learn more about kids who have or are currently battling cancer.

“We have over 1,300 people registered with new people joining every day,” according to Julie Brink, executive director of CancerFree Kids. “We have 105 teams registered with 48 of those teams (34 companies) competing in the Corporate Competition. We have two companies who have created subteams within the company, which is why the 34 companies and 48 teams.”

At September’s half-way point, participants have raised more than $131,000 so far and completed over 33,333 miles.

If you think it’s too late to challenge, think again!

Brink points out that people are counting their steps to get their miles in. Individuals are sharing their many accomplishments, including hiking and biking mountains across the country, rowing machines during work breaks, walking, running, playing corn hole, cross country races, playing soccer, volleyball, exercise classes, yoga, swimming, and walks with friends and family.

You can still join the challenge and count any miles completed since Sept, 1. Brink said they are encouraging everyone to wear their T-shirts, which you can order when you register, on Tuesdays and use the hashtag #cfktshirttuesday.

Get moving and make a difference for kids battling cancer. Learn more at cfk100milechallenge.org.

As well as supporting the efforts of CancerFREE Kids, all Challengers receive two tickets to the Celebration of Champions After Party Concert. The Celebration of Champions on Sept. 29, presented by altafiber and CBTS, is at MegaCorp Pavilion features dinner and an After Party Concert with The Rockers for Research All Star Band.

The evening will inspire guests with incredible stories of courage and resilience as we raise money to fuel our mission. In addition to our inspiring and entertaining program, guests will enjoy our best-in-class silent auction, Grand Raffles, wine and bourbon pulls and live auction packages. The silent auction opens at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 24, closing Friday, Sept. 29.

This September, during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, about 1,290 kids in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer, the leading cause of death by disease in children. The 100 Mile Challenge is designed to spread awareness and raise funds to fuel CancerFree KIDS’ mission to get these new, innovative ideas off the ground.

Winning A Round

Minjee Lee picked up her ninth career victory on the LPGA Tour with a playoff victory over Charley Hull at the 2023 Kroger Queen City Championship presented by P&G on Sunday, September 10 at Cincinnati’s Kenwood Country Club. Lee won with a birdie on the second playoff hole to earn her first tournament victory this year.

Lee put herself in contention on Saturday with a 7-under 65 that included three straight birdies to make up a six-shot deficit and hold a two-shot lead at the end of the third round. Hull, who started Sunday two shots back, was as many as five shots behind through 13 holes before three straight birdies on the 14th, 15th and 16th to tie Lee. Both players had pars on the final two holes to finish in a tie at -16. Both parred the 18th on the first playoff hole, then, playing 18 again, Lee drained a three-footer for the birdie and the win.

This is the fourth time this season Hull has finished in second place, the most recent at the AIG Women’s Open last month. Third was Ruoning Yin with a 14 under par 274. With her win, Lee earns $300,000; she has earned $1,189,936 this season and $13,403,104 in her career.

“I started really well on the front nine,” said Lee. “I was pretty solid all week and the playoff was a lot of fun playing with Charley. I had a great time playing the course, for tournament play it was set up really well and I had a lot of fun playing it. The fans were really great, with the good weather I think everyone came out and enjoyed the walk.”

According to tournament officials, more than 50,000 fans attended the tournament from September 4-10 with an economic impact of $14 million to the area. The tournament was broadcast globally on GOLF Channel with more than three billion media impressions from coverage earned over the four days.

“We are so thrilled with how the community has embraced the Kroger Queen City Championship presented by P&G in its second year,” said Emily Norell, tournament director. “We could not put on this world-class event without the support of our corporate partners, our fans and our volunteers. We also want to congratulate Minjee Lee on her championship, and thank the staff at Kenwood Country Club for their hospitality.”

It was also the second year of the Game Changers program established in conjunction the LPGA Kroger Queen City Championship presented by P&G to uplift women in sports, business and education through innovative programming and professional networking opportunities.

“In just the second year of the Game Changers program, we are honored to have supported over 150 women in pursuit of their academic and professional aspirations, including awarding over $70,000 to students since the scholarship program began,” said Kate Meyer, Kroger Health & Beauty Care Vice President. “Together with P&G, we are so proud to welcome more participants into the into the leadership program and empower even more scholars to pursue their dreams.”

Game Changers includes the world-class leadership program, the Queen City Game Changers, to accelerate female advancement into executive leadership roles. It also features the Game Changers Scholarship program to support a diverse group of women seeking advanced degrees in business and liberal arts.

In year one, the Queen City Game Changers leadership program graduated more than130 women from corporate and entrepreneurial backgrounds, with 20% of corporate participants earning promotions and numerous entrepreneurs growing their businesses while gaining access to corporate collaborations.

The 2023 Game Changers scholarship program presented by The Kroger Foundation and Always® Brand this year awarded 23 female students from each Kroger division with a $2,000 scholarship. All honorees were recognized at ceremonies held during the Kroger Queen City Championship presented by P&G.

“We couldn’t be prouder to showcase how the Queen City is a great place to work, live, raise a family, and enjoy world-class events like the Kroger Queen City Championship Presented by P&G,” said Pat Cady, P&G Sales Senior Vice President. “In year two, it’s incredible to see how the impact of the Game Changers program has grown to empower women not only here in Cincinnati, but also across the country.”

Cincinnati Corporate Community Capitalizes on Sponsorships

Alongside Kroger and P&G, five Founding Partners continued their support of the Queen City Game Changers Women’s Leadership Program, including Cintas, St. Elizabeth Healthcare, TriHealth, Great American Insurance Group and GE Aviation. Additional corporate sponsors who supported the LPGA in Cincinnati included: Lexus, Performance Automotive, Beacon Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, Chosen Foods, Visit Cincy, Truepoint Wealth Counsel, Constellation Wealth Management, Fortinet, Danone, Deloitte, Morgan Stanley, Fred Meyer Jewelers, Próspero Tequila and Tito’s Handmade Vodka.

Kroger and P&G this year added a number of new and enhanced fan activation stations and player/caddie amenities, which included:

• Pampers Family Center returned with its parents room, changing stations, and an area where parents could take a break from the day with their kids and enjoy fun activities. This year, additional changing stations were added throughout the tournament grounds.

• Dawn, Swiffer, and Febreze activated their “Close the Chore Gap” campaign by taking over the on-site Volunteer HQ, with branding in any areas where Volunteers were present, including the Marshal Quiet Paddles and the Standard Header.

• Tide was featured on the full back of the Caddie Bibs. Throughout the tournament grounds fabric care brands were visible, including Gain, Downy, and Unstoppables.

• Secret Deodorant sponsored the Driving Range and was represented on all the Tee Markers. This year, the Secret Driving Range added DJ Etrayn and a beverage stand from Wednesday-Sunday. An LPGA Selfie Station also was available for fans and families to take pictures and capture memories from the tournament.

• Gillette Venus and Head & Shoulders sponsored “Patriot’s Pavilion” – an area celebrating current & prior military members, situated on the 14th Green.

• Bounty was the official concessions partner of the tournament, sponsoring the “Bounty Meal Deal” to help keep food affordable and mess-free for the entire family.

• Pantene, Herbal Essences, and Mielle had a special Braid Bar and Selfie Station at the Fan Zone with product giveaways and fun activities for the whole family.

• The Kroger “Our Brands” distributed samples from Kroger Simple Truth and Private Selection brands from Thursday thru Sunday.

• Kroger Kroji Mascots were present on select days to engage with fans through photo ops and unique one-on-one experiences. Kroger held a longest putt experience for all fans where they could test their skills and win exclusive prizes. Kroger also set up a “Re-Fresh Zone” at this year’s tournament where fans could get a break from the heat and relax.

All in Due Course

In the 1980s, the LPGA was the hottest golf tour around, with stars such as Jan Stephenson, Nancy Lopez and Sally Little making headlines and setting records. And Cincinnati was the epicenter for much of that excitement, as the home of the LPGA Championship at the Jack Nicklaus Golf Center at Kings Island.

The Championship left in 1989, but not before Lopez, who also called the golf course home for a time, won three titles on her way to a Hall of Fame Career. Fast forward 30+ years to when the LPGA returned to the area in 2022 for the Kroger Queen City Championship presented by P&G.

This is the second year for the stop, with a purse raised to $2 million for the 144 players teeing it up this week at Kenwood Country Club. If you were at the tournament last year, you’re familiar with some of the amenities for spectators. If not, here’s a quick read on who you’ll see, the added amenities on course, and what you can do:

• First, 12 of the 18 different LPGA Tour champions are in the field this week, including major champions Allisen Corpuz and Ruoning Yin, Rolex First-Time Winners Linn Grant, Grace Kim, Alexa Pano, Elizabeth Szokol and Rose Zhang, and the LPGA’s most recent champion, rookie Chanettee Wannasaen who won last week in Portland. Zhang is one of the most exciting young players on tour, leaving Stanford this spring to turn pro after winning the NCAA singles title (for the second year in a row), then winning the next week on the LPGA Tour, the first time an LPGA player had won her professional debut in 72 years.

• Last year’s inaugural Queen City Championship winner, Ally Ewing, is in the field this week. In 2022, Ewing shot a final round 66 to claim her third LPGA Tour victory. She set the 54- and 72-hole scoring records last year, while Jeongeun Lee6 set both the 18- and 36-hole scoring records.

• This is the last event before the 2023 Solheim Cup, the biennial international faceoff between the U.S. and European golfers. Twelve 2023 Solheim Cup participants are playing in Cincinnati this week including Jennifer Kupcho, Lexi Thompson, Andrea Lee, Charley Hull, Madelene Sagstrom, Allisen Corpuz, Ally Ewing, Cheyenne Knight, Gemma Dryburgh, Linn Grant, Angel Yin, Emily Kristine Pedersen and Rose Zhang

 Driving to the tournament? Parking is complimentary for spectators at the Tire Discounters Lot, 11511 Reed Hartman Highway in Blue Ash (Ensemble Health Partners Offices).  Complimentary shuttle service will be provided to and from the Main Entrance at Kenwood Country Club. There is no public parking at Kenwood Country Club during Tournament Week.

Unique Fan Experiences

Don Francisco’s Coffee
Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee right inside the Main Entrance! Don Francisco’s Coffee, the Official Coffee of the Queen City Championship, is giving away free coffee to all spectators from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. every day.

Kroger Our Brands Trailer
Grab some quick snacks before walking the course at the Kroger Our Brands Trailer located at the Main Entrance.

Kroger Freshest Putt
Head to the Fan Zone and sink a 30-foot putt and be entered to win Kroger gift cards and other prizes!

Beauty on the Green
Herbal Essences, Mielle, and Pantene are helping you look your best on the course! Swing by the Fan Zone for product advice, giveaways, a braid bar, and selfie station from 12:00pm – 5:00pm on Thursday and Friday and 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Pampers Family Center
Bringing a little one along? The Pampers Family Center has a private nursing station, indoor play space, and is stocked with diapers. New this year: two additional on-course Pampers Changing Stations (located at the 19th Hole and by 3 Green) to stop that blowout in its tracks!

Secret Driving Range
Swing by the Secret Driving Range from 9am-2pm on Thursday and Friday and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday to catch DJ ETrayn and snap a selfie at the LPGA Selfie Station while watching the best in the world prep for their round.

Kroger Kooling Zone
Catch a break from the heat at the Kroger Cooling Zone at the 19th Hole. With free water, misters, and plenty of shade – there’s no cooler place to be.

Gain + Bounty Grandstands
Take a seat and let the play come to you from the Gain + Downy Grandstands located on the 1st Tee and 18th Green. All public grandstand seating is first come, first served.

Patriots Pavilion presented by Gillette Venus and Head & Shoulders
All guests with Military Tickets and their guests are welcome in the Patriots Pavilion, located on the 6th Tee. Enjoy free non-alcoholic refreshments and light snacks each day.

Carlo & Johnny Pavilion by Jeff Ruby
A premium experience with 360° views of the 6th tee, 13th green and 14th green. Enjoy elevated refreshments with the Jeff Ruby Culinary touch while watching the best in golf.

Need merch?

The official Tournament merchandise tent is set up just past the main entrance. Hats, shirts, you name it, you can find it there.

And just like almost every sporting event, there is a bag policy (smaller than 6” by 6” by 6” or clear bags smaller than 12” x 6” x 12”) and tickets are mobile. Check the list of prohibited items here.

Sunscreen is a must, along with comfortable walking shoes so you can follow your favorite players. And you won’t find a more gracious group of pro athletes than the LPGA Tour players, who are grateful to have the opportunity to play the game they love.

The Kroger Queen City Championship presented by P&G is your chance to see some of the best golfers on the planet on one of the best courses in the area. Don’t miss it!

Good Green Fun

Of “course” you’ll have fun at the Kroger Queen City Championship Presented By P&G at the Kenwood Country Club.

This weekend you’ll find great interactive activities. have the chance to try out products, and indulge in five-star dining.

You trip starts with the easy of free parking provided by Tire Discounters. When you need a break from the golf, head to The Carlo & Johnny Pavilion for delicious food and drinks from Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment.

The fun for the whole family includes":

Pampers Family Center will include a mom’s room, changing stations for parents, and an area where parents can take a break with their kids from the day and enjoy fun activities under the supervision of qualified daycare experts. This year, additional changing stations will be added throughout the tournament grounds to make it more convenient for families to enjoy the tournament, no matter where they are on the course.

Dawn, Swiffer, and Febreze will activate their “Close the Chore Gap” campaign, by taking over the on-site Volunteer HQ but also being featured in any areas where Volunteers will be present. This includes everything from the Marshal Quiet Paddles, Standard Bearer Shirts and the Standard Header, all Volunteer Cinch Bags, and the Front Pocket of all Caddie Bibs.

Tide will come to life in one of the highest-visibility placements in the entire tournament by sponsoring the full back of the Caddie Bibs. Caddies play such an important role in supporting the athletes to play at their best. Tide will play a similar role to ensure the players stay clean and fresh throughout the week, providing daily laundry service through our local Tide Dry Cleaners. Each Caddie will also receive a Tide-branded towel throughout the course to wash their clubs. Throughout the entire tournament grounds, you’ll see our fabric care brands represented, including Gain, Downy, and Unstoppables.

Secret Deodorant will sponsor the Driving Range and will be represented on all the Tee Markers and the Tee fence. This year, the tournament has added DJ Etrayn and a beverage stand from Wednesday-Sunday at the Secret Driving Range (beverages will include beer, wine, mixed cocktails, sodas and water). An LPGA Selfie Station will also be available for fans and families to take pictures and capture memories from the tournament.

The Kroger “Our Brands” trailer will be distributing samples from Kroger Simple Truth and Private Selection brands from Thursday thru Sunday.

Kroger Kroji Mascots will be present on select days to engage with fans through photo ops and unique one-on-one experiences. Kroger will host a longest putt experience for all fans where they can test their skills and win exclusive prizes. Kroger will also host a “Re-Fresh Zone” at this year’s tournament where fans can get a break from the heat and relax.

Carry Through

Giving back to our nation’s veterans has never been easier.

Now through Sept. 25, when you make a donation to Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) at Tire Discounters, you can receive up to $300 in discounts off of a set of tires.

Tire Discounters is the largest 100% family-owned and operated independent tire and automotive repair provider in the country. They are committed to helping injured veterans and their families through their support of WWP and the nonprofit’s free programs and services.

Through the month of September, customers can donate to WWP as part of Tire Discounters’ “It’s Our Turn to Give” initiative. With any donation, customers receive a discount on a set of tires.

“It’s Our Turn to Give” gives customers at all of Tires Discounters’ almost 200 locations the opportunity to participate in the fundraiser.

This is the fourth year Tire Discounters has led the fundraiser for WWP, donating $375,000 since 2019.

Funds raised by partners like Tire Discounters provide warriors and their families with free, life-changing programs and services in mental health, career counseling, long-term rehabilitative care, and policy advocacy.

Customers will be able to make donations through Sept. 25.

All Duck No or No Dinner

• Bob’s Quack Pack: $50 helps provide 150 meals. You get 10 ducks + two free!

• Football Duck Pack: $100 helps provide 300 meals. You get 20 ducks + four free!

Prizes:

First place prize: This year one lucky winner will receive a 2024 Honda HR-V courtesy of the Greater Cincinnati-Northern Kentucky Honda Dealers.

Second place prize is $5,200 in gift cards from Kroger ($100 a week for a year)

The remaining five prizes are $500 in cash from Kemba Credit Union.

Buy a duck!

Donate to Freestore Foodbank.

You know the drill by now.. “Buy a duck. Feed a child. Win a car! ”

As the annual Rubber Duck Regatta returns this Sunday, Sept. 3, we take a look back at is origins and impact.

“When this event started back in 1995, everyone thought Rubber Duck Regatta founder Bob Edwards had a crazy idea,” according to Kurt Reiber, the president CEO of Freestore Foodbank. “It might still be crazy, but to date, we’ve sold more than three million ducks, which is enough to provide at least 45 million meals!”

With more than 60,000 children in the Tristate without a reliable source of nutritious food, the contributions to Freestore during the Rubber Duck Regatta make a big difference.

Longtime Rubber Duck Regatta volunteer Jim Coates and his wife, Joan, moved to Greater Cincinnati in 1970 when P&G recruited him right out of graduate school. They raised their two children here, and it's where Jim first got involved with Freestore Foodbank more than three decades ago. 

Straight from the Duck’s Mouth
Provided by Freestore Foodbank

It's not every day that you get to sit down and talk with a 5-foot-tall duck about helping children get nutritious food. So when the opportunity arose to interview the tristate area's coolest duck, we jumped at the chance! 

Quacky, how long have you been the official mascot of Freestore Foodbank and the Rubber Duck Regatta?:

I've been with Freestore Foodbank since 1995, when I was just a young duckling wanting to make a difference. It's been 29 amazing years of making friends and supporting the community. 

Tell us a little about the job of being the mascot. What's it like? 

It's the best job ever, even though some people mistake me for a chicken. I've learned you have to put your best webfoot and feather forward and bring a happy bill to every job, and the Rubber Duck Regatta makes that easy! 

I've seen some pictures of you with Who Dey from the Bengals. That's pretty exciting! Tell us about some other mascots you hang out with and what that's like. 

What?! I'm not just a mascot ... I like to see myself more as a spokesduck with a purpose. I love all my mascot friends and every opportunity to meet someone new! 

It must really be an honor to be part of this iconic event that helps so many children. 

It is a unique way to discuss a serious subject like hunger and open the door to meaningful action in our hometown. By highlighting the issue, we can work together to address the root causes. 

What's your favorite part of the regatta? 

All the ducks, of course! I love swimming with 200,000 of my closest friends to support the region and getting to see the shock and excitement of the prize winners. 

Anything else you'd like to share with us? 

I know many of us ducks look alike, but keep an eye out for me - the coolest duck who has sunglasses on and ... Buy a Duck! Feed a Child! 

It all started when Coates worked in corporate distribution at P&G. His section was involved with getting rid of surplus product, and they had two truckloads of laundry detergent. Coates worked with Freestore Foodbank staff to have the supplies delivered, and the staff distributed the detergent to struggling families. 

Years later, “Freestore Foodbank called me and had a crazy idea of dropping some rubber ducks into the river,” Coates says. “I was happy to help. I've been here since the first rubber duck, and I've been involved every year since.”

To say Coates has "been involved" is a HUGE understatement. He’s been instrumental in figuring out how to get the ducks into the water, how to make them race, and how to fish them back out again. “I was in charge of making sure the ducks, crane and equipment got onto the bridge, and then I gave the signal to drop them,” he says. 

In his time with the Rubber Duck Regatta, Jim has helped work through all kinds of “ducky drama.”

“The first year, the ducks wouldn't float down the river,” Coates remembers. “We had to ask the fire department to help move them along with their fire hoses. Another year, we had a thunderstorm roll in and it blew the ducks toward Pittsburgh instead of Louisville.”

Through it all, what keeps Jim coming back is knowing the incredible impact the event has for our neighbors facing hunger.

“The major thing is raising money for Freestore Foodbank, which feeds people,” Coates says. “Rubber Duck Regatta is a long day, but at the end of the day, feeding people keeps me involved.”

When Bob Edwards first had the idea of holding a fundraiser with thousands of rubber ducks, he floated the idea past his fellow board members at Freestore Foodbank. 

One had a strong reaction: “That is the craziest thing I've ever heard. That really is a dumb idea, Bob.”

Sylvia Edwards laughs as she recounts this story about her late husband, whose “dumb idea” went on to become arguably one of the most famous fundraising events in the nation. 

“That was all Bob needed to hear,” says Sylvia, recalling the board member's reaction. ‘Bob took it from there. And, of course, it's gotten bigger and bigger over the years.”

Sylvia, married to Bob for 55 years before his death in 2014, has been involved all along numbering ducks beforehand, power-washing them after, and everything in between. 

“I bailed ducks out of the river the first year, and every single year after until the event went virtual,” she says. “And after Bob was gone, I always bailed out the first batch.”

That “first batch:” is vital, because they're the ones that win prizes. The first duck plucked wins a new car donated by Cincinnati-Northern Kentucky Honda Dealers. 

Sylvia recalls one particular year when Duck No. 1 had a familiar name. 

“Scott Edwards,” Sylvia says, laughing again. “Bob said something like, ‘Uh-oh, that's our son!’ It can't go to a family member!” By rule, a family member can’t win, so to avoid fowl play, Bob quickly called for duck No. 2. 

Sylvia says Bob's greatest asset was his gift of convincing others to come on board — from major corporate sponsors to individual donors. 

“He could talk people into anything,” she says. “Anything. Bob was a force to be reckoned with, in a very unassuming, quiet way. And he worked on this nonstop, year-round.”

"Freestore [Foodbank] is a great organization, and there's a huge need out there.”

That's why Sylvia encourages you to buy a duck or three for this year's event. To everyone that buys a duck, she wishes you the best of luck. Because every duck that is purchased helps our community fight hunger. 

---

Thank you to Freestore Foodbank for allowing us to use Sylvia’s story.

Have a Blast

Cincinnati has said goodbye to summer with the Labor Day Fireworks since 1977, and everyone has their favorite spots to enjoy the show. Whether it’s shoulder to shoulder on the river with 500,000 of your closest friends, far away from the madding crowd in a quiet park overlooking the city, or plopped in front of the tv in your own living room – it’s a tradition the first Sunday in September.

But let’s say you want something a little different this year. Maybe air conditioning and indoor bathrooms are starting to seem like necessities, rather than luxuries for a day of fun. Several organizations and businesses have found ways to elevate the fireworks experience – and in many cases, bring you closer to the show than you’ve ever been.

CAST Boom Bash

Commonwealth Artists Student Theatre is hosting an evening of fun and fundraising at the Sample Space at The Banks with (wait for it) bathrooms, food and an open bar. It’s the trifecta of comfort. Try your hand at ping pong and skee-ball, karaoke and dancing. When the fireworks begin, you can walk right outside and get an amazing view. Tickets to CAST Boom Bash are $125 and proceeds benefit the development of a regional high school awards program for area students from all high schools.

Boom on the Bridge

You can’t get much closer to the fireworks than the Purple People Bridge. Boom on the Bridge is a complete VIP experience with unobstructed views, live music featuring The Naked Karate Girls, local food and drinks and easy parking at Newport on the Levee. All proceeds from the celebration will go to preserving, maintaining and enhancing the iconic Purple People Bridge.

 Labor Day at Shire’s Garden

The View at Shire’s Garden is the perfect rooftop to check out the fireworks, while being far away from the fray. Labor Day at Shire’s Garden starts at 5:30pm, and guests can enjoy a buffet throughout the night and a sparkling wine toast when the fireworks begin. Tickets are $150 and can be bought individually or by the table.

RiverfestWest

Bring the family to Mt. Echo Park to check out the fireworks after a day of activities. Family fun starts at 4pm with food trucks, inflatables, games and live music by Cincinnati Dancing Pigs and Marsha Brady. The event is free.

Labor Day & Riverfest Fireworks Cruise

BB Riverboats provides an up-close view of the Riverfest from the river itself. Tickets for the Labor Day fireworks cruise are $175 for the evening of family-friendly fun featuring a

dinner buffet, dessert, and a snack buffet for a grand finale to the fireworks.

Swing Into High Gear

Kroger Queen City Championship,
presented by P&G,
Sept. 6–10 
Kenwood Country Club
6501 Kenwood Road

Ticket and hospitality packages are available now!

Children 17 and under will receive complimentary admission with a ticketed adult and all active, and retired military will also receive free admission

Order now at queencitylpga.com/

Some of the finest golfers in the world will be just a short drive away starting next week.

The second annual Kroger Queen City Championship, presented by P&G, will be held Sept. 6–10 at Kenwood Country Club, featuring a field of 144 of the world’s best golfers.

The tournament welcomed more than 50,000 patrons to Kenwood Country Club in 2022, with more than 70 local and national partners supporting the tournament, 700+ volunteers, and by delivering more than $12 million of economic impact to Cincinnati.

Kroger and P&G announced that the purse for this year’s Queen City Championship will increase to $2 Million, up from $1.75 million in 2022.

“The Kroger Queen City Championship presented by P&G is more than a professional golf tournament,” said Kate Meyer, Kroger Vice President of Health & Beauty Merchandising. “It’s also a game-changing platform to advance women in sports, business, and education. This effort includes the Queen City Game Changers Leadership Program that recently graduated 135 Cincinnati-based women from both corporate and entrepreneurial backgrounds. Additionally, this September the Kroger Foundation and P&G’s Always® Brand will award 23 scholarships to diverse female students from across the country – expanding our reach from the 5 scholarships awarded the prior year.”

This year’s tournament will feature two teenage golfers already making their mark on the LPGA Tour, along with a long-time fan favorite who made a big splash with a hole-in-one at the event last year.

Schedule:

Wednesday, Sept. 6, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Thursday & Friday, Sept. 7 & 8, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday, Sept. 9 & 10, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m
Tournament Gates are CLOSED on Monday and Tuesday.

Wednesday, Sept. 6 | Pro-Am Day
The Official Pro-Am tee times are 7:30 AM – 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 – 2:40 p.m., starting on Holes #1 and #10.

Thursday, Sept. 7– Sunday, Sept. 10 | Tournament Rounds
Start times are approximate and assume that there are no delays, inclement weather, etc.

Thursday, Sep. 7 & Friday, Sept. 8
Starting on Holes #1 and #10 (groups of three)

1st & 2nd Round Morning Wave, 7:30 – 9:31 a.m.*
1st & 2nd Round Afternoon Wave, 12:30 – 2:31 p.m.*

Saturday, Sept. 9 & Sunday, Sept. 10
Starting on Hole #1 (groups of two)

3rd & Final Round Starting Times, 7:42 – 11:55*

*Starting times are subject to change

“With an already impressive lineup for the Kroger Queen City Championship presented by P&G, our three sponsor exemptions will make this field even more exciting,” said Pat Cady, Senior Vice President of Sales, P&G. “Paula has been an LPGA Tour favorite for more than a decade, and Mia and Gianna represent the next generation of great golfers we’ll see for years to come.”

Mia Hammond from New Albany, Ohio, made her LPGA Tour debut earlier this summer shooting a 5-under 66 to win the Monday qualifier at the Dana Open in Toledo. The 15-year-old made the cut on a pair of 68s and finished the tournament T-26. Some of her notable wins include the 2022 Drive, Chip and Putt National Championship at Augusta National, 2022 AJGA Memorial Junior at Ohio State and 2022 AJGA Visit Fayetteville Junior Championship in North Carolina.

Returning to Kenwood is Gianna Clemente, who, as a 14-year-old last year, won Monday qualifiers three weeks in a row, including a 7-under 65 at Kenwood, to earn her way in the field for the Kroger Queen City Championship. Clemente has been playing competitive golf since she was 5 and this year was chosen for the 2023 U.S. PING Junior Solheim Cup team.

Rounding out the sponsor exemptions for this year is major championship winner Paula Creamer, who made Cincinnati her second stop last year following her maternity leave. She stole the show at last year’s event with a hole-in-one during Thursday’s round that took the No. 1 spot on ESPN SportsCenter’s Top 10.

Just Keep Swimming

Ever thought “I’d like to do a few laps in the Ohio River?”

Bill Keating, Jr. Great Ohio River Swim

Sunday, Aug. 27

8:15 a.m. start time
Registration opens at 7 a.m.

On the day of the event, on-site registration opens at 7 a.m., with mandatory open water safety instructions at 8 a.m. and an 8:15 a.m. start. Double Dippers must be present by 6:15 a.m. to complete their 2.5-mile swim before joining the 900-meter course.

Participants enter the Ohio River at the Serpentine Wall in Downtown Cincinnati, then swim to the Kentucky side of the river and back (approximately 900 meters, or one-half mile) while the river is closed to motorized traffic. Registration is open on the event website.

Online pre-registration closes at noon on Saturday, August 26. On-site registration is $75 for all swimmers.

www.greatohioriverswim.com

You’re not alone!

Every year, hundreds of people take part in the Bill Keating, Jr. Great Ohio River Swim, the only – and largest! – open water swim across the Ohio River and back.

Besides the fun of it all, the event is also a fundraiser for Adventure Crew, a local nonprofit that connects city teens with nature and each other through outdoor adventures.

“The Great Ohio River Swim has become a ‘bucket list’ event for many local swimmers,” said Miriam Wise, Adventure Crew’s director of support and engagement. “We’re excited to host both competitive and recreational swimmers in support of Adventure Crew’s Swim Training Program, which provides city teens with access to swim lessons, water safety instruction and lifeguard certification.”

Swimmers who want to go the extra miles (literally) can become “Double Dippers.” This small group of participants will take a 2.5-mile swim downstream along the Ohio shoreline before joining participants in the traditional 900-meter course. Double Dippers are encouraged to raise $200 for Adventure Crew. Only a few Double Dipper spots remain; interested swimmers must apply online and be accepted to participate.

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

This weekend’s swim is named for Bill Keating, Jr., one of the first swimmers to sign up for the inaugural event in 2007. He won the men’s swim that year, but lost the overall title to his daughter, Caroline Keating, who now serves as the event chair. He continued to be a huge supporter of the event until he lost his battle with brain cancer in 2017.

“I’m thrilled to continue being part of this event and to honor my dad’s legacy,” said Keating, who also serves on Adventure Crew’s board. “Adventure Crew broadens access to swim instruction and provides city teens with a critical life-saving skill, thanks in part to the proceeds from this fun morning on the river.”

If river conditions are uncooperative, the event will be rescheduled for Sunday, Sept. 10.

Join the Club

If your golf expertise starts and end with the windmill at the putt putt course, fear not!

You will still enjoy the Kroger Queen City Championship Presented By P&G. While members of the LPGA Tour play for $2 million at the Kenwood Country Club, Sept. 6–10, you can enjoy interactive activities. try out products, sample new foods, and indulge in five-star dining.

Free parking for the Queen City Championship will be provided by Tire Discounters so all guests will have convenient access to the tournament.

The Commissioners Club will become the Carlo & Johnny Pavilion featuring food and beverage from one of Cincinnati’s most iconic names, as the Jeff Ruby family adds their supporting to the tournament.

New fan interactions this year are

Pampers Family Center will include a mom’s room, changing stations for parents, and an area where parents can take a break with their kids from the day and enjoy fun activities under the supervision of qualified daycare experts. This year, additional changing stations will be added throughout the tournament grounds to make it more convenient for families to enjoy the tournament, no matter where they are on the course.

Dawn, Swiffer, and Febreze will activate their “Close the Chore Gap” campaign, by taking over the on-site Volunteer HQ but also being featured in any areas where Volunteers will be present. This includes everything from the Marshal Quiet Paddles, Standard Bearer Shirts and the Standard Header, all Volunteer Cinch Bags, and the Front Pocket of all Caddie Bibs.

Tide will come to life in one of the highest-visibility placements in the entire tournament by sponsoring the full back of the Caddie Bibs. Caddies play such an important role in supporting the athletes to play at their best. Tide will play a similar role to ensure the players stay clean and fresh throughout the week, providing daily laundry service through our local Tide Dry Cleaners. Each Caddie will also receive a Tide-branded towel throughout the course to wash their clubs. Throughout the entire tournament grounds, you’ll see our fabric care brands represented, including Gain, Downy, and Unstoppables.

Secret Deodorant will sponsor the Driving Range and will be represented on all the Tee Markers and the Tee fence. This year, the tournament has added DJ Etrayn and a beverage stand from Wednesday-Sunday at the Secret Driving Range (beverages will include beer, wine, mixed cocktails, sodas and water). An LPGA Selfie Station will also be available for fans and families to take pictures and capture memories from the tournament.

The Kroger “Our Brands” trailer will be distributing samples from Kroger Simple Truth and Private Selection brands from Thursday thru Sunday.

Kroger Kroji Mascots will be present on select days to engage with fans through photo ops and unique one-on-one experiences. Kroger will host a longest putt experience for all fans where they can test their skills and win exclusive prizes. Kroger will also host a “Re-Fresh Zone” at this year’s tournament where fans can get a break from the heat and relax.

Striving Forward

2023 National Fallen Firefighter Foundation 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb 

Saturday, Sept. 9
TQL Stadium
1501 Central Parkway

• 8 a.m. – Registration and check-in opens

• 9 a.m. – Opening Ceremonies

• 9:30 a.m. – National Fallen Fire Fighter 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb begins

• 12:30 p.m. – Event concludes

Registration is $45. Funds provided by the NFFF support the families of your local fallen firefighters and the FDNY Counseling Services Unit.

Register now!

Though some debts can never be truly repaid, the dedication of those who served can always be honored.

Each year, the  National Fallen Firefighter Foundation (NFFF) pays tribute to the FDNY firefighters who selflessly gave their lives so that others could live on Sept. 11, 2001 with the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb Event.

This year, the local NFFF event will be held at TQL Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 9, sponsored by Cintas.

“At Cintas, we’re proud to partner with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to honor and remember the 343 FDNY firefighters who selflessly gave their lives to save others on Sept. 11, 2001,” said Crystal Hooper, philanthropy & community relations specialist. “Support through our Stair Climb event provides assistance to the surviving families and co-workers of these fallen heroes.”

During the event, each participant pays tribute to a FDNY firefighter by climbing the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center. The individual tributes not only remember the sacrifice of a FDNY brother, but symbolically completes their heroic journey to save others.

Registration is now open for individuals and teams that would like to participate. Cintas is also accepting donations on behalf of NFFF for those unable to join the stair climb.