Cincinnati Equinox
By: Ryan McLendon, 6/30/2009
The Queen City prepares to show its best to a number of outside visitors this weekend as Cincinnati Equinox takes over Fountain Square and most of downtown. The goal? To demonstrate the progress the city has made in becoming a gay-friendly urban center following the repeal of Article XXII.
Soapicks June 30-July 6
By: Sheila Owens, 6/29/2009
Time once again to celebrate "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" in Cincinnati as Independence Day weekend blows into town with Equinox Cincinnati, a new exhibit at Artworks and a two-day Independence Day Throwdown show at the Southgate House.
CPS's Montessori Story
By: Julie Zimmerman, 6/29/2009
In most cities, parents pay thousands of dollars to give their children a Montessori education. In Cincinnati Public Schools, students get the same education, emphasizing self-directed learning in a prepared environment, for free.
Staking a claim in OTR
By: Christopher Burgan, 6/23/2009
With so much attention lauded on Vine Street's recent makeover, local artists are working hard to make sure OTR's other main thoroughfare is not forgotten. Jessie Cundiff, along with a slew of other gallery and shop owners, are keeping Main Street relevant.
Soapicks June 23-29
By: Sheila Owens, 6/22/2009
Cincinnatians have their pick of events this week beginning with Collective Nouns, the first solo photography show from Soapbox Art Director, Scott Beseler. Also this week, catch a very special celebration of community taking place at Milton's Prospect Hill Tavern as well as the 9th Annual Hyde Park Blast. And Cincinnati Opera's summer festival continues with Don Carlo.
Cincinnati Rollergirls: Punk Rockin' and Rollin' to Success
By: Sarah Stevens, 6/22/2009
The Cincinnati Rollergirls are the best kind of jocks: their sport is
actually entertaining, they're dedicated athletes with a healthy sense
of humor, adorable yet tough as nails, and they provide $1 beer for
your tasting pleasure. What's not to love?
Soapicks June 16-22
By: Sheila Owens, 6/16/2009
What better way to explore Over-the-Rhine and its revitalization than with the annual GO OTR 5K Walk/Run that tours participants in and around the urban neighborhood. Work up an appetite and check out Taste of the NFL with host, Andrew Whitworth. Eden Park gets steamy with Some Like It Hot, the first film of the Cinema in the City series, and Mad Hatter hosts a one big Reggae Release Party, while the Cincinnati Art Museum steps Outside the Ordinary.
Urban trendsetters: DAAP's Fashion Program
By: MaryKate Moran, 6/16/2009
University of Cincinnati’s School of Design, Art, Architecture and Planning (DAAP) produces an impressive class of fashion designers each year who are ready to begin their careers at fashion heavyweights such as Vera Wang, Macy’s, Liz Claiborne and Abercrombie and Fitch.
Soapicks June 9-15
By: Sheila Owens, 6/9/2009
June is Pride month and The Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Cincinnati is celebrating things right with Squealin' with Pride in '09 this weekend. Cincinnati World Cinema screens Who Does She Think She Is?, a story about artistic housewives from across the globe while Mixx Ultra Lounge presents Soulful Gardens, a celebration of the spoken word and good food.
Soapdish: Of Parks and Platitudes
By: Casey Coston, 6/9/2009
Soapdish columnist, Casey Coston takes a look at the Cincinnati Parks system and what the "Great Stimulus" could mean for Riverfront Park and The Banks projects.
The art of giving back - lavishly
By: Bethany Rudolph, 6/9/2009
One entrepreneur's spirit of commitment helped to launch a new concept combining online retail and philanthropy, as well as pulling her through her bout with cancer.
Preaching the Soapdish from the choir to the Fringe
By: Casey Coston, 6/2/2009
It's a well known fact that Cincinnati can legitimately boast a vibrant arts scene, but Soapdish columnist Casey Coston ponders what happens when locals go beyond platitudes of gratitude and take a chance on the events that help to define our region's uniqueness.
Networking your way into a new job
By: Tanya Bricking Leach, 6/2/2009
The Cincinnati job market may be dismal, but that doesn't mean you should despair. Local headhunters and counselors recommend identifying your strengths and going after what you want in order to land that new career. Surfing job boards is a start, but networking remains the best way to find a job in this economy.
Soapicks June 2-8
By: Sheila Owens, 6/1/2009
Cincinnati's forward motion continues with Agenda 360's Transformational Dialogue serving as just one more indicator we're heading in the right direction. The New Neighbors, a PBS documentary that acts as a roadmap for creating a vibrant, integrated community premiers this week while MUSE Woman's Choir celebrates life in their annual spring concert. Cincinnati Opera's Opera Idol offers the chance for one vocalist's dreams to come true.
Soapicks May 26-June 1
By: Sheila Owens, 5/26/2009
Summer is the season when Cincinnati gets serious about its fun and this week is no exception with the kick off of twelve days of the sixth annual Cincinnati Fringe Festival featuring over 300 local, regional, national and intervational artists getting to know why art is important to the Queen City. Lokua Kanza arrives from the Congo to perform a benefit concert while Summerfair takes hold at Coney Island.
Minting through the ages
By: Jane Durrell, 5/26/2009
One of the city's oldest and, as it happens, most innovative companies
stands on a Camp Washington street that is more or less a neighborhood
secret, as it lacks street signs for much of its length.
Osborne Coinage Co., is America's oldest private mint and has been quietly changing with the times since 1845.
Queen City: Guerrillas in their midst
By: Ryan McLendon, 5/26/2009
Through a network of Internet profiles through Facebook and e-mail, a local gay activist has taken to mobilizing gays and lesbians around the city to infiltrate a straight bar on the first Friday of every month. With the intent to blend, rather than take over, the innovative approach to GLBT visibility has helped to draw attention to Cincinnati's sexual diversity.
Cincinnati punchline
By: Josh Katzowitz, 5/19/2009
Josh Sneed is a successful comedian with a Comedy Central special already under his belt. Along with his success is a determination to grow the area's comedy scene.
Soapicks May 19-25
By: Sheila Owens, 5/19/2009
Cincinnati takes its Memorial Day seriously with a slew of events coming your way such as Of People and Not Things as well as the 20th Century Theater's Get Down Give Back Charity Concert supporting local musicians. Celebrate a true Cincinnati gem with the 2009 May Festival which opens this weekend at Music Hall. And nothing ushers in summer quite like the Taste of Cincinnati which takes over downtown for the annual food frenzy.
Cincinnati Innovates Featured Entry: Merchant Reputation & Consumer Insights
By: SOAPBOX, 5/19/2009
Cincinnati Innovates' first featured innovator is Sanjiv Karani of Mason, OH who submits his idea for Neputation, a web product designed to provide an integrated view of company's reputation and consumers feedback. Each week, Soapbox will spotlight one of these titans of entrepreneurship who have submitted their ideas to Cincinnati Innovates. For more information on submitting your innovative product or idea, visit the Soapbox video page below.
Linking Ohio through the power of rail
By: Randy Simes, 5/19/2009
Connecting Cincinnati to Columbus to Cleveland with a 120 mph train that runs multiple times a day may become a reality if All Aboard Ohio has their way, and the implications could be significant.
24 Hours in Mt. Adams
By: Melissa Sheffel, 5/12/2009
Boasting some of the most striking views of the city, the hilltop community of Mt. Adams is home to a number of cozy independent shops, bars and restaurants as well as Cincinnati's own crown emerald garden of delight, Eden Park.
Strive Education model makes a giant leap into national spotlight
By: Feoshia Henderson, 5/12/2009
Strive, the Cincinnati region's cradle-to-career education initiative, is in the midst of its own learning period as it carries out the mission of a $750,000 investment that will make Strive a model for four other cities across the nation.
Soapicks May 12-18
By: Sheila Owens, 5/12/2009
Cincinnati takes a step into the surreal this week when Surreal Escape: A
Night of Absurd Reality hits the Cincinnati Art Museum. Hal Holbrook
delivers his one-man interpretation of Samuel Clemens in Mark Twain Tonight and the
Cincinnati Acclaim Awards honor the best in Cincinnati theatre while MainStrasse
Village helps usher in Spring with their weekend-long Maifest.
Soapicks May 12-18
By: Sheila Owens, 5/11/2009
It's time to get a little absurd in the Queen City this week as the Cincinnati Art Museum presents Surreal Escape: A Night of Absurd Realities. Hal Holbrook blows into town for a one-night performance of Mark Twain Tonight at the Aronoff and the Cincinnati Acclaim Awards honor the Best of Cincinnati Theater.
Soapicks May 12-18
By: Sheila Owens, 5/11/2009
Cincinnati is getting a little crazy this week as Surreal Escape: A Night of Absurd Reality his the Cincinnati Art Museum. Hal Holbrook sweeps into town for his one-man show Mark Twain Tonight and the Cincinnati Acclaim Awards honor the best in Cincy theater. MainStrasse Village gets into the summer spirit with their weekend-long Maifest.
Soapdish: OTR segues to Segway
By: Casey Coston, 5/5/2009
More and more Cincinnatians are taking to the slightly goofy, two-wheeled gyro-scopic personal chariots known as Segways thanks to the opening of Segways of Cincinnati in Over-the-Rhine. Soapdish columnist Casey Coston tries his hand at the motorized transport vehicle and ponders what their arrival means for urban Cincinnati.
What 249 smiles looks like to working parents
By: Melissa Sheffel, 4/28/2009
“Somebody should invent a better way to do this.” We’ve all said it at one time or another. Meet the Cincinnati parents who not only said it, but actually did it. Their newly launched website takes all the guesswork out of finding a childcare provider for Greater Cincinnati's working parents.
How to add $1.6 billion to the region's economy
By: Jeff Syroney, 4/28/2009
What is one way in which the Cincinnati metro area can increase its
economic impact by $1.6 billion annually? The answer, says CEOs For
Cities President, Carol Coletta, lies in seeing an increase of just one
percentage point more of our region's talent attaining an educational
degree.
Soapicks April 28-May 4
By: Sheila Owens, 4/27/2009
Cincinnati bids a sad farewell to New Stage Collective as the company opens its final production, A Little Night Music at Know Theatre of Cincinnati while the 11th Annual Flying Pig Marathon turns the streets of downtown into one big pig pen. Ballet dancers belly up to the "barre" and Architreks takes you on a tour of OTR's best kept secrets this weekend. Fiesta on Fountain Square wraps up the weekend with its Cinco de Mayo celebration.
24 Hours in Newport
By: Gina Holt, 4/21/2009
Newport is filled with a colorful history – once known for gambling,
brothels, and high end clubs like the Beverly Hills Supper Club that
attracted names as big as Frank Sinatra. Books like "The Syndicate's
Wife" capture Sin City's sordid past. But Newport has evolved over the
last 50 years or so from a seedy city to a place filled with great
food, shopping, art, and nightlife. It's become a great place for the
locals to hang out, as well as a town for others to visit.
Soapdish: Over the (green) Rhine
By: Casey Coston, 4/21/2009
Tucked into a corner of OTR on Stark Street works a tireless 4th generation
Cincinista and OTR booster by the name of Bryan Vielhauer whose vision to convert gas guzzlers into electric vehicles is a beautiful reality. Soapdish columnist Casey Coston takes an inside look at the folks behind the Over-the-Rhine Electric Motor Car Company.
Soapicks April 21-27
By: Sheila Owens, 4/21/2009
This week InkTank invites you to evaluate the "American Dream" in their latest writer's workshop while Swedish rockers Peter, Bjorn and John rock the Southgate House. Art of the Everyday takes root at the Greenwich and free pots of pansies are to be had only on Fountain Square on Sunday.
The dimple makes the difference
By: Virginia Baker, 4/14/2009
For Corwyn Thomas, head designer for Krimson by Kwame and designer/owner of Corwyn Apparel, crimson is the color that launched him from behind the desk of his office at P&G into the professional apparel design world.
Soapicks April 14-20
By: Sheila Owens, 4/14/2009
This week Know Theatre of Cincinnati hosts a little Post Tax Relief Fun at Hugo restaurant while Tick, Tick...Boom takes the stage at Below Zero Lounge. The art of India is on display at the Krohn Conservatory as well as multiple other galleries with the citywide exhibition, Metamorphosis: Change and Continuity in Indian Contemporary Art, and the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network of Cincinnati is getting into the high school spirit with their annual Alternative Prom.
Queen City: musings on gay Cincinnati
By: Ryan McLendon, 4/14/2009
In spite of its quiet voice, Cincinnati is home to a vibrant and dynamic gay community that shows signs of coming into its own through fresh leadership and a national platform of LGBT issues. What does the future hold for the Queen City's reinvigorated Pride?
Cookin' it up at the Midwest Culinary Institute
By: Tanya Bricking Leach, 4/7/2009
The Midwest Culinary Institute is exploding in flavors as well as in numbers. 35 years ago, it had seven culinary students. Now it has 700. It's also home to a fine dining restaurant, 12 kitchens, a TV studio, plasma TV screens in every classroom, and its own meat and fish butcheries.
Soap Dish: The view from behind the fence
By: Casey Coston, 4/7/2009
If you take a peek behind and over the fences around Cincinnati, you’re more likely to
find active construction sites rather than abandoned lots, and that's a good thing according to Soap Dish columnist, Casey Coston.
Soapicks April 7-13
By: Sheila Owens, 4/7/2009
If you're looking to get out of the rain this week, there are a slew of fun and dry activities. Miller Gallery opens its Beauty exhibit while the Coochie Chronicles: The Spoken Word Stage adds spice to the Madisonville Arts Center. The Esquire is screening the 1941 version of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and jazz musician Reggie Calloway returns home for a one night performance at the Blue Wisp Jazz Club.
48 Hours in Oakley
By: Laura Turner, 3/31/2009
The neighborhood of Oakley offers services and goods that appeal to a multitude of
different interests - bargain hunters, history buffs, book fanatics,
the adventurous eater, art aficionados, dog lovers, sugar addicts and
the inner child in all of us.
Cincinnati's digital media makeover: a revolutionary boon for Queen City creatives
By: Jonathan DeHart, 3/31/2009
Today, a growing number of Cincinnati-based creative solutions firms are using the far-reaching capabilities of digital media to transform advertising, marketing and print media. A potential windfall for Cincinnati, this digital media boom is forging ties across the country and giving the Queen City an edge in an emerging field that promises to revolutionize how companies and customers communicate and connect.
Soapicks March 31-April 6
By: Sheila Owens, 3/31/2009
March is coming to an end but April is just heating up. See works of art created by Cincinnati's finest design, architecture, construction and engineering firms for the Freestore Foodbank's Canstruction exhibit. Kites take flight at Voice of America Park for KiteFest and Jake Speed and The Freddies warm up with a pre-Opening Day production at Northside Tavern. It might go without saying, but in case you forgot, Monday is practically a Cincinnati holiday as thousands call in sick to line the streets for the 89th Findlay Market Opening Day Parade.
Talking architecture with Aaron Betsky
By: Jane Durrell, 3/24/2009
Conversations with Aaron Betsky, Cincinnati Art Museum director, are likely to wheel around to architecture. He and Jane Durrell settle down to talk on that subject itself, beginning with Betsky's "Of course, architects never do what you expect them to."
Kids in the city
By: Melissa Sheffel, 3/24/2009
One mother's quest to prove to her kids that city living can be even more fun than country living leads her to a number of discoveries about the Cincinnati children's scene including some not so obvious choices.
Soapicks March 24-30
By: Sheila Owens, 3/24/2009
March Madness is in full swing but if you're looking to take a break from college hoops then check out this week's events. There's nothing bolder than the fifth annual Bold Fusion event taking place this Thursday. This year's theme is all about creating game changers through social networking and features an impressive line up of speakers. Other events this week include Cincinnati Ballet's performance of Twyla Tharp's Sinatra Suite at the Aronoff.
A bold step towards recovery
By: Jeff Syroney, 3/24/2009
It's no news that these are challenging times for the region and the country as the world's economy continues to shift in unprecedented ways, but relief for area families and non-profit organizations may be on its way in the form of an innovative collaboration of the region's philanthropic institutions led by the Greater Cincinnati Foundation.
Glimpsing the future with the Duke Envision Center
By: Feoshia Henderson, 3/17/2009
In the house of the not-so-distant future you can control your lights, dishwasher and coffee maker from your phone, computer or television. New energy efficient devices and appliances help your manage your energy use and your bills. Duke Energy is an emerging leader in setting this vision for the future with the Envision Center in Erlanger, KY.
Soapdish: Bohemia Rises
By: Casey Coston, 3/17/2009
In true Cincinnati fortitude, downtown and OTR developers refuse to bend to the economic doomsayers as another set of nightclubs open over the course of the next few months. Soapbox columnist, Casey Coston takes a look at these new digs housed in some of the city's most interesting buildings while reflecting on the ghosts of Cincinnati's past.
Soapicks March 17-23
By: Sheila Owens, 3/17/2009
Cincinnati is shining this week with Tom Bacher's Luminous exhibition at the Weston Art Gallery and the premiere of Taking The Stage, a reality series shot at the city's School for Creative and Performing Arts for MTV. Feeling like connecting to something deeper? Catch the city's first professional production of the 1979 drama Bent at New Stage Collective or check out the stunningly gorgeous production of Eurydice at Know Theatre of Cincinnati or hop over to the Contemporary Dance Theater for Gesel Mason's solo dance project, No Boundaries: Dancing the Visions of Contemporary Black Choreographers.
Soapicks March 10-16
By: Sheila Owens, 3/10/2009
The theme of the week is forward movement. Each of these events is centered around positive change whether in the world of music or urban development. The 2009 MusicNOW Festival showcases talent that doesn't fit neatly into a style box. Get a divine laugh from 3 Comics, 3 Faiths: An Interfaith Comedy Show at Memorial Hall or stop by the Freedom Project's final information session to explore ways to break down the barriers of race in Cincinnati. Then Saturday, Adonis nightclub hosts A Night To Remember IV for The Martha Kidd Foundation.
A look around UC's College of Medicine's CARE/Crawley Building
By: Alison Matthews Sampson, 3/9/2009
The University of Cincinnati's newest signature space was designed to be functional, strategic, and environmentally-friendly. The Center for Academic and Research Excellence is not your father's medical school building.
Redefining the workplace
By: Andy Erickson, 3/3/2009
The old model of assigned cubicles and
sanctioned coffee breaks is being rejected by the next generation of
talent. Two local businesses demonstrate an advanced understanding of how and where we work has a direct affect on productivity.
Soapdish: What lies beneath
By: Casey Coston, 3/3/2009
Cincinnati's Over-the-Rhine neighborhood is a veritable treasure trove of hidden architectural gems. Soapdish columnist Casey Coston recently discovered one of the most hidden - Vine Street's Cosmopolitan Hall, or what most remember as the old Warehouse nightclub.
Thanks to Ben Self
By: SOAPBOX, 3/3/2009
Soapbox celebrated its one year anniversary in style last week with guest speaker and digital guru, Ben Self. Responsible for helping to shape the electronic arm of Barack Obama's grass roots campaign, Self shared his thoughts on what could help bring streetcars to Cincinnati as well as how our city's arts and cultural institutions can help drive economic prosperity.
Soapicks March 3-9
By: Sheila Owens, 3/2/2009
March is in full swing so get rolling with these not to be missed events. It's time once again for Bockfest, the local OTR festival that marks the end of the winter brewing cycle and the beginning of glorious Spring. The Art of Food is an exhibit which turns food into artistic creations. The Third Annual Cincinnati Director's Competition pits stage directors head-to-head to determine best in show.
Soapicks February 24-March 2
By: Sheila Owens, 2/24/2009
Spend your Fat Tuesday with the Mardi Gras for Homeless Children or treat yourself to a night of Frost/Nixon at the Aronoff Center. Create a video for cash and prizes with Hype Up Cincinnati or swing by Music Hall for a touch of the Blues Friday evening as part of the Cincinnati Blues Festival.
A case for the Fine Arts Fund
By: Jeff Syroney, 2/24/2009
The health of a region's arts organizations is widely regarded as a key indicator to the vitality of a community. Paramount to maintaining that health is the Fine Arts Fund, the nation's largest and oldest united arts fund. More than keeping ballerinas in tu-tu's, the organization is responsible for adding more to the quality of your life than you may think.
Ben Self to kick off Soapbox celebration
By: SOAPBOX, 2/24/2009
Soapbox is proud to present Ben Self - the man who helped to mobilize the grass roots digital revolution for President Obama as he shares his thoughts on what the social media movement could mean for the Greater Cincinnati region. As part of Soapbox's one year anniversary celebration, Mr. Self helps start a new conversation.
Diamonds in the Rough: A Price Hill Story
By: Keith Rutowski, 2/17/2009
As the saying goes, there is no place like home. It might also be said that there is nothing better for a healthy community than a good housing stock. Those at the non-profit organization Price Hill Will know this, and they are busy doctoring up a neighborhood which has been limping since the economic downturn.
Soapdish: A Streetcar Named Desire... or a Road to Nowhere?
By: Casey Coston, 2/17/2009
There are a lot of arguments both for and against the proposed Cincinnati streetcar system, but a recent call for the widening of freeways at an estimated cost of $800 million vs. the $185 million it would take to lay tracks between UC and the Ohio River sent Soapdish columnist Casey Coston running to his computer. Read what follows here.
Launching Agenda 360
By: Feoshia Henderson, 2/17/2009
Agenda 360 is more than just another planning document destined to gather dust, supporters say. It marks a new chapter in regional cooperation, action and accountability that will make Greater Cincinnati more competitive in a global economic environment.
Pecha Kucha - the chit-chat, low-down on Cincinnati's hottest designers
By: Jonathan DeHart, 2/17/2009
Pecha Kucha (PK), Japanese for chit-chat, is a global conversation initiated six years ago in Tokyo and now taking place in cities around the world. PK events bring together designers, academics, and other professionals who network and share their ideas in a revolutionary format with a unique twist. Ready to display its own creative powers, Cincinnati is now in on the conversation too.
Soapicks February 17-23
By: Sheila Owens, 2/17/2009
If you spent all your energy devising great Valentine's Day ideas, have no fear. This week offers a number of events that you don't need to think twice about attending. The Fine Arts Fund kicks off their annual campaign with a number of not-to-be-missed events including a "Night of Magic" at the CAC on Friday. Minumental art works take over two galleries at the Art Academy of Cincinnati; nothing over two inches, so don't forget the bifocals. Finish out the week with the screening of "That Old Black Magic" at Cincinnati World Cinema.
A glimpse of Paris in Northside
By: Virginia Baker, 2/10/2009
From grassroots efforts to top designer in the world of bridal wear, Debra Moreland, owner of Paris in Northside, is constantly designing and pushing the spectrum of bridal wear innovations—all with the help of her family.
Bucking real estate trends - Greater Cincinnati's hottest up and coming markets
By: Tanya Bricking Leach, 2/10/2009
Think all the real estate news you hear is bad? Not so say some real-estate agents and developers who believe places such as Over-the-Rhine's Gateway Quarter and Oakley have the answer: striking the right mix of rehabbed homes, specialty shops and restaurants. These are but a few of the communities in Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati moving property.
Soapicks February 10-16
By: Sheila Owens, 2/10/2009
Love is in the air as Cupid swoops in with a quiver full of romantic events. The Barber of Seville sings its way into CCM while Cincinnati Ballet's Peter Pan pirouettes around the Aronoff Center. Too giddy to sit through a performance? Take in the opening of Lovely Paintings for Sweetheart Prices at Cincinnati Art Galleries. Bang Night Club is celebrating solidarity with their 'As Single as I want To Be' Little Red Dress Party or head on over to Northside Tavern's Valentine's Day Massacre!; a performance that will have your love-struck heart thumping.
Soapdish: Foodie Feudies
By: Casey Coston, 2/3/2009
The much publicized breakup of Jean-Robert de Caval from financial backers Martin & Marilyn Wade and the subsequent closing of Pigall's restaurant have seen a furious storm of hand wringing and gnashing of teeth within the Cincinnati dining set. Will the closing mark the end of sophisticated dining in Cincinnati? Soapdish columnist, Casey Coston reminds us that, far from in decline, the Cincinnati culinary scene is just hitting its stride.
Soapicks February 3-9
By: Sheila Owens, 2/3/2009
The snowstorm is over. It's time to dig out your cars and hit the town for some February fun. Take in the scene at the I Gave Away The Sky Festival or groove to the experimental tunes of Traum. Take a trip across the river to Artisan's Enterprise Center for artistic stories or enjoy a brew at the Midwest Winter Beer Festival.
Exporting the Cincinnati Blues Sound
By: Rick Bird, 2/3/2009
Three Cincinnati area blues musicians will be taking some ivory to Memphis this week. The "home of the blues" will hear a uniquely Cincinnati sound - rollicking, bawdy blues piano. It is a bit of a coincidence, but all three area entries this year at the prestigious International Blues Challenge are piano players. All three are also veteran performers, who stand a good chance to go far in the competition, as they carry on a remarkable Cincinnati piano blues tradition.
China wakes in the Queen City
By: Jonathan DeHart, 1/27/2009
These are exciting times for Cincinnati-China relations. Cincinnati firms are flocking to China, while key players are spreading Chinese business and cultural awareness in Cincinnati. Two such players – the Greater Cincinnati Chinese Chamber of Commerce and the Public Library of Cincinnati's innovative Ni Hao! program – share their thoughts here about the development of this important relationship.
I was there. A Cincinnatian's view of the Inauguration
By: Ryan McLendon, 1/27/2009
Last week the world stood witness to the historic Inauguration of Barack Obama. Soapbox reporter, Ryan McLendon was among the 2 million strong, shivering on the National Mall ready to welcome the new leader of the free world.
Soapicks January 27-February 2
By: Sheila Owens, 1/26/2009
January is coming to an end and with that we welcome February, featuring colder days and even hotter winter events in Cincinnati. This week catch a play about love at Know Theatre of Cincinnati, drink in the poetry of Richard Hague at InkTank, celebrate Obama's presidency with recycled trash at The Base Cooperative Gallery and listen to over 25 bands perform for the Winter Blues Fest.
Greater Cincinnati's Flavor Factories
By: Bethe Ferguson, 1/20/2009
For more than 150 years, local companies have been creating the flavor combinations that intrigue the senses and please discerning palates. Hidden to most, these companies are providing key ingredients to everyday culinary delights right here in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
Soapicks January 20-26
By: Sheila Owens, 1/20/2009
Temperatures may be below zero but Cincinnati is avoiding the frostbite with hot events this week. Celebrate #44 with The Blue Ball, catch Travels of Angelica, view works from Northside's past and listen to the music styling's of Taylor Hicks.
Bringing on the power: Ohio's push for advanced energy
By: Feoshia Henderson, 1/20/2009
Solar paneled rooftops? Wind generated electricity? Geothermal heated homes? It's all possible in Cincinnati with a little help from a multi-million dollar Ohio economic stimulus program aimed at tapping into clean, renewable energy sources manufacturing innovation.
Take the CEOs for Cities Challenge
By: SOAPBOX, 1/20/2009
What if a national team of designers from multiple disciplines were assigned to tackle one big-picture civic issue requiring high-level strategic thinking in Cincinnati? You can make it happen.
CEOs for Cities is accepting applications from people just like you wanting to create a positive change in their community. So speak up Greater Cincinnati, and we might just find ourselves in the national spotlight talking about innovation and new ideas.
Soapicks January 13-19
By: Sheila Owens, 1/13/2009
If you're waiting on that tax return and a little short on cash, you're in luck because this week Cincinnati has a couple of entertainment choices that don't cost a thing. Come take in a Fabric Art exhibit or the African Culture Fest, both for no moolah. If you have a little money to burn, the Infamous Stringdusters are in town along with the Tranny Roadshow and Chalk is celebrating their first birthday!
Decoding Cincinnati's Alphabet Soup
By: Liz Wu, 1/13/2009
If you have ever confused 3CDC with DCI or pondered the difference between the Convention and Visitor's Bureau and the Regional Tourism Network, look no further – this handy-dandy guide dispels the mysteries behind the acronym curtain.
Soapdish: Tripadvisor
By: Casey Coston, 1/13/2009
Out of town company is coming into town. What do you do with them? How do you show off your home city? Soapdish columnist, Casey Coston offers up his thoughts on the subject and suggests showcasing what he calls the "authentic Cincinnati experience." We'd love to hear your thoughts on where you take your guests to show off your city. Share your experiences with us at
feedback@soapboxmedia.com.
Soapicks January 6-12
By: Sheila Owens, 1/6/2009
Looking for a way to work off those holiday pounds? Well GET UP and GET MOVING because Cincinnati is just as hopping in 2009 as it was 2008. This week we've got Dying City the play, The Painters exhibit at Carnegie, an art collision and The Turnbull AC's taking the stage.
CinciMedia, 3D tech, and the Pride of Cincinnati
By: Andy Erickson, 1/6/2009
What do Lithuania, a local university, and a poorly thrown Frisbee have in common? Find out what Karl Treier had in mind as he took the reins of CinciMedia, and as CEO, relocated its headquarters here.
Soapdish: Cranes and sidewalks
By: Casey Coston, 1/6/2009
Soapdish columnist, Casey Coston is back from holiday hiatus with a lot on his mind including his love for center city sidewalks as well as the number of riverfront cranes popping up in the face of the economy.
Soapicks December 16-22
By: Sheila Owens, 12/16/2008
Christmas is just around the corner and chances are you're doing some last minute shopping. But don't forget to take a break from the holiday hoopla to check out what's going on this week such as an art celebration of Cincinnati's Golden Age, a Christmas gathering on Ludlow or music by the Heartless Bastards.
A love letter, or how to find your place in Cincinnati
By: Margy Waller, 12/16/2008
Margy Waller recently took a job at the Fine Arts Fund's Arts and Culture Partnership which meant she would need to leave her D.C. apartment and find a new place to live in Cincinnati. We asked if she would write about her search for a new home here on the pages of Soapbox.
Plugging into social media across Cincinnati
By: Jeff Syroney, 12/16/2008
Keeping up with the Macintoshes - as well as the news, trends, latest celebrity gossip or whatever else you might be into, is a lot easier than it used to be thanks to the virtual explosion of the new social media landscape. But staying ahead of the pack, as new technology is created faster than we can invent uses for it, proves to be little challenge for some Cincinnatians.
Happy Holidays from Soapbox!
By: SOAPBOX, 12/15/2008
Soapbox will be taking the next two weeks off in order to allow our staff and writers time to refresh as well as spend time with their family and friends. We will return on January 6, 2009!
Soapicks December 9-15
By: Sheila Owens, 12/9/2008
Mark your calendars!
The Soapbox crew is hosting the first annual Bubbles and Holly Holiday Spectacular on Tuesday, December 9th, 2008 at the downtown Cincinnati Athletic Club located at 111 Shillito Pl. The party starts after work at 6:00pm and all Soapbox readers, writers and well wishers are invited. Music and videos will be provided by Soapbox’s own Mix Master, Casey Coston.
Snow flakes are falling and temperatures continue to drop. This week head inside to stay warm with holiday parties big and small, a Club Clau décor art exhibit and a Christmas play that will have you laughing out loud.
Congregation Beth Adam: progressive Judaism coming to a computer near you
By: Jonathan DeHart, 12/9/2008
All things change - even 3,300 year-old religious traditions. With 28 years of progressive involvement under its belt, Blue Ash-based Congregation Beth Adam has taken things to the next level: an online congregation. Rabbis Robert Barr and Laura Baum discuss progressive religion, the conception of Beth Adam’s cyber synagogue and what it means for the future of Judaism.
Life Sciences Bloom in Blue Ash
By: Feoshia Henderson, 12/9/2008
Create excitement about a prospective employee’s new city. Train them for promotions. Invest in a mentoring program. This is a recipe for success for companies seeking to attract and retain talent. The City of Blue Ash understands this and is taking strong strides to draw and keep lucrative life science industries to the growing city North of Cincinnati.
Soapdish: 52 Card Pickup
By: Casey Coston, 12/2/2008
Cincinnati is the home of 52 individual and unique neighborhoods that, some say, serve as the the "key to city's success." But how did we come to have such a rich, quilted patchwork of localities and how will these 52 different personalities work to create a charged and united region? Soapdisher turned explorer, Casey Coston takes us on a quick tour...
Soapicks December 2-8
By: Sheila Owens, 12/2/2008
Mark your calendars!
The Soapbox crew is hosting the first annual Bubbles and Holly Holiday Spectacular on Tuesday, December 9th, 2008 at the downtown Cincinnati Athletic Club located at 111 Shillito Pl. The party starts after work at 6:00pm and all Soapbox readers, writers and well wishers are invited. Music and videos will be provided by Soapbox’s own Mix Master, Casey Coston.
December is here and you all know what that means: letters to Santa, crowded mall parking lots and a collection of unique winter activities. This week enjoy CCM dancers shakin' it, a Winter Yoo-Hoo of gifts, Santa rappelling and a NVISION fashion show! Oh and a reminder to all you artists out there, the
Cincinnati Fringe Festival is now accepting submissions!!
How green jobs are taking root in Cincinnati
By: Feoshia Henderson, 12/2/2008
With the volatility of energy prices, the sagging economy and the continued loss of manufacturing jobs across the Midwest, the environmentally conscious or modern “Green” phenomena is set to become more than a marketing tag or a trend for the Cincinnati region.
Choosing Independently
By: Rene' Brunelle, 12/2/2008
Whether it’s shopping for gifts, updating your wardrobe or choosing a
great spot to dine, Cincinnati offers an ever-increasing choice of
independent businesses that help citizens reengage with the social
fabric of their community.
Soapicks November 18-24
By: Sheila Owens, 11/18/2008
Cincinnati ushers in a new batch of stimulating activities. From dining with some of your not-so-closest friends to rockin’ out to 80’s ballads, spending a night in Spain, handing out awards and running up hills for fun, there’s no time to sit and watch the leaves change this week!
A different kind of lending institution
By: Sheila Owens, 11/17/2008
No one knows what the future holds for our economy but Cincinnatian’s are rediscovering their local libraries as valuable resources when budgets are tight. Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati are home to some of the largest and most successful libraries in the nation with services that may just surprise you.
Why they chose Cincinnati
By: Jonathan DeHart, 11/16/2008
Special Note. Because of the Thanksgiving holiday next week, Soapbox will re-run our last issue this week and will resume telling the new Cincinnati story next Tuesday. We now return you to your regularly scheduled dose of Cincinnati talent, innovation, diversity and environment news.
As cities clamor to attract new residents, Cincinnati is faring better than you might imagine. Lured by its blend of charm and laid back sophistication, many discerning professionals are choosing Cincinnati from the milieu of possibilities.
Soapicks November 11-17
By: Sheila Owens, 11/11/2008
As the days grow shorter and colder, the nights in Cincinnati continue to heat up. This week enjoy a whirlwind Fire & Ice Soiree, secret works of art, a fashion show from afar and a little Jazz for Lease.
Finding room for Blue Whitespace to grow
By: Megan Parin, 11/11/2008
Make room for Blue Whitespace. With a new parent company, a slew of awards and accolades and a passion for design, this marketing firm is moving up and out and showing clients nationwide Cincinnati knows good design.
SoapDish: YP Worry?
By: Casey Coston, 11/11/2008
Every major American city is looking for ways to attract and retain the much sought-after and elusive “Young Professional,” but it takes a lot more than happy hours and catchy names to secure change-inducing talent. This week, Soapbox columnist Casey Coston takes a look at how the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber of Commerce's HYPE initiative as well as a number of other similar organizations are taking a new approach to plugging the proverbial brain drain.
Rising Sun over Northern Kentucky
By: Jonathan DeHart, 11/4/2008
Japan is the largest source of foreign direct investment in greater Cincinnati. However, it’s not all business. There is a thriving Japanese community that has grown up around the Toyota-centric northern Kentucky economic base, which has forged strong cultural ties between the Bluegrass State and the Land of the Rising Sun.
Soapicks November 4-10
By: Sheila Owens, 11/4/2008
November is here and so continues the fall fun. This week Cincinnatians have a couple choices for socializing: the VERMILLION party or Dress for Success drinks and charity. A local family shares their treasured Chinese art, CATS hits the stage and McCormick & Schmick’s pay tribute to military veterans.
Cincinnati's Architectural Nuance
By: Trudy Backus, 11/4/2008
Cincinnati boasts a long list of historical and contemporary architectural statements dotted throughout downtown and Over-the-Rhine. Soapbox now gives you 10 great reasons to cut a new swath across your city as we explore some of the most stunning and surprising buildings in the region.
Cookin' up something good
By: Megan Parin, 10/28/2008
At an age when most people are wrapping up their undergraduate years and launching their careers, Caitlin Steininger spearheaded Cooking With Caitlin, a multi-layered culinary campaign focusing on using food and family to get Cincinnatians back around the dinner table. Now, 21-year-old Steininger, and her partners, Steininger’s sister, Kelly Trush, and Molly Sandquist, are taking their tips and tricks out of the kitchen and onto the web, prompting a tech-savvy generation of foodies to trade their cookbooks for computers.
Soapicks October 28-November 2
By: Sheila Owens, 10/28/2008
It’s that time of year again when the scariest of scary come out to play: little ghosts, goblins and Sarah Palin look-alikes. That’s right, it’s HALLOWEEN in Cincinnati and we’ve got a week of freakishly fun events. Get face-to-face with a T-Rex, listen to Souse’s soothing sounds, chuck a pumpkin or meet your favorite author downtown.
Advancing technology through research
By: Bethe Ferguson, 10/28/2008
Universities are the perfect breeding grounds for revolutionary ideas that become medical and technological advancements. They have experienced researchers and teachers, and a continual infusion of new ideas from incoming students. Existing and start-up businesses are looking for innovations to help them excel and know researchers have the necessary expertise. This relationship fueled technology transfers.
Soap Dish
By: Casey Coston, 10/28/2008
Cincinnati's moth balled, but not forgotten, Emery Theater at Central Parkway and Walnut is showing signs of life and a potential comeback thanks to the efforts of community super-heroes and events like CityBeat's Cincinnati Entertainment Awards on November 23.
A walk in the park
By: Steve Rosen, 10/21/2008
While parks have often had wooded hiking trails -- along with ball fields, golf courses and picnic groves -- paved walking/cycling paths are a relatively new phenomenon. But they're becoming increasingly popular in Cincinnati, as residents look for new and varied ways to enjoy healthy walks. Even including labyrinths.
Soapicks October 21-26
By: Sheila Owens, 10/21/2008
It’s hot one day and cold the next but at least the fun Cincinnati has to offer is staying constant. This week we’ve got a little history with Abe, a little comedic romance in Love Song and a lot of moving and shaking between the canvases at Pendleton Art Gallery and the stages at Scribble Jam.
The xYz's of Cincinnati's New Workforce
By: Sheila Owens, 10/21/2008
Millennials, those twenty-something’s from Generation Y, are causing a stir in Cincinnati’s workforce. Bringing a whole new set of ideals, goals and skills, Millennials are making their mark on Cincinnati businesses.
The view from Eden Park is global
By: Jane Durell, 10/14/2008
In this issue of Soapbox, we dedicate a large portion of our coverage to the Cincinnati Art Museum and their innovative dedication to making one of the city's oldest institutions ever relevant. Director, Aaron Betsky finds a global perspective for the Cincinnati Art Museum no stretch at all as he positions one of the city's most treasured arts organizations squarely into its next phase of development and growth.
Soapicks October 14-20
By: Sheila Owens, 10/14/2008
As the leaves continue to change and the nights get colder, a new swarm of hot events come to town. Between Russian concert tributes by CCM, beer tastings outside the lion’s den, a look back at our 16th President and an invasion of Chinese design, Cincinnati shows no signs of cooling down this fall. If nothing I suggest here tickles your fancy, check out the latest creative art guide for the city,
Cinstages.com.
Silicon Valley comes to town
By: David Holthaus, 10/14/2008
Silicon Valley has been the hotbed of innovation in America for years, so when three heavy hitters from the Valley's entrepreneurial, corporate and venture capital worlds gathered in downtown Cincinnati on a sunny Saturday afternoon, they stirred up some high-powered thinking about change, social networking and chaos.
The wild, wild east: Cincinnati gets first look at China’s design frontier
By: Jonathan DeHart,Jonathan DeHart, 10/14/2008
To crib Napoleon, China, the once slumbering dragon, has awoken. And it’s shaking more than just the world’s economy. Today a thriving, rapidly growing creative class is putting Chinese design on the map and the Cincinnati Art Museum is the first in the US to give a tour through the brave new world of Chinese design.
Soapicks October 7-13
By: Sheila Owens, 10/7/2008
It’s another week of worldly influence in Cincinnati, reminding us our little city is just part of this great big thing called Earth. So even though the temperature is dropping, the second week of October keeps things warm with international music, Iraqi inspired theater and a scavenger hunt around town.
A jumpstart for biomedical jobs in Ohio
By: David Holthaus, 10/7/2008
A little known provision in an economic stimulus package signed by Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland this summer calls for a $100 million fund to help attract biomedical business to the state. A group of economic development experts met in Cincinnati last week to start talking about how to get the most bang out of those bucks.
Neighborhood Profile: Columbia Tusculum
By: David Lyman, 10/7/2008
Columbia Tusculum is Cincinnati’s oldest neighborhood. And while its October 12 Historic Homes Tour is meant to show off its architectural prowess, it also reveals a functional neighborhood trying to balance community civility with development.
From Cuba with love
By: Julie Mullins, 10/7/2008
Three years ago, professional dancers Cervilio Amador and Gema Diaz made the decision to leave their homes and families and defect to the US from Cuba. Their decision brought them to here where dancing for the Cincinnati Ballet has given them a new home.
Who's got IT? We got IT.
By: David Holthaus, 9/30/2008
Moving to the heartland from India in the late '80s, Mahendra Vora became a one-person information technology hub, starting and successfully exiting about a half-dozen high-tech firms. His latest venture is his most expensive and ambitious yet, and he's done it all without ever once thinking about moving to Silicon Valley.
Red Bull hits the soap slope
By: Rene' Brunelle, 9/30/2008
Red Bull promises to give Cincinnati wings at the Red Bull Soapbox Race, pumping thrills down the hills of Mt. Adams. The man-powered and fabricated soapbox cars will exude flair with fast and furious aptitude, showcasing once-in-a-lifetime skill on the hill from forty teams of local and national, amateur and professional soapbox rockers.
Creating places that matter
By: Kevin LeMaster, 9/30/2008
This weekend, the City of Cincinnati and the Cincinnati chapter of the Urban Land Institute open convene the Building Valued Neighborhood Conference, a two-day open exploration of how form based codes can attract talent and develop "places that matter."
Soapdish: What a weekend!
By: Casey Coston, 9/30/2008
Cincinnati truly outdid herself this past weekend and Soapdisher, Casey Coston was on the scene. Between the success of the Downtown Tour of Living and Midpoint Music Festival, the city was alive in a way that bodes well for our collective future. The good news is, this is happening more and more.
Neigbhorhood Profile: A day on MainStrasse
By: Sheila Owens, 9/23/2008
Just across the Ohio River, nestled in the heart of Covington, sits the German descended MainStrasse Village. With over 30 different eateries, shops and galleries, the Village has it all. I invite you to spend just one day discovering this little slice of Germany which sets in our own backyard.
Soapicks September 23-28
By: Sheila Owens, 9/23/2008
With hurricane Ike gone and electricity back on, Cincinnati continues to bring a line-up of Fall events which you absolutely cannot miss. This week it’s rock and roll’s turn to blow into town as the MidPoint Music Festival takes over stages everywhere. Also sweeping in is the 20/20 Arts Festival which kicks-off Cincinnati’s arts season. Making smaller vibrations are short films from around the world and a radio’s look at this year’s Presidential race.
The return of Midpoint!
By: Rick Bird, 9/23/2008
All downtown is a stage this year for organizers of the Midpoint Music Festival expanding the six-year-old indie band bacchanalia into several central downtown venues in addition to maintaining its Over- the-Rhine base. It amounts to one of the Midwest’s largest three-day showcases for alternative and indie rock in a walkable, urban environment that will highlight downtown Cincinnati venues, not to mention over 185 original music acts.
Ladies night is back
By: Feoshia Henderson, 9/16/2008
Ladies Night in Cincinnati isn’t just about free drinks. Retailers across the city are tapping into the power of the purse sponsoring Ladies Night Out events to create long lasting shopping relationships.
the sundresses released
By: Jeff Syroney, 9/16/2008
On fire with the anticipation of their latest release, the sundresses is a Cincinnati band determined to make it to the top through a combination of great music, innovative business strategy and a fierce loyalty to themselves. While at it, they wouldn’t mind bringing the modern recording industry to its knees.
Soapicks September 16-22
By: Sheila Owens, 9/16/2008
Europe has a hold on Cincinnati this week as our top picks reflect influence from across the Atlantic Ocean. From European White wine on Fountain Square to Zinzinnati’s famed Oktoberfest and the music styling of a Croatian music sensation, rediscover your heritage around town. If you’re not of the European decent, no worries, we’ve got some reefer for you to enjoy!
SoapDish: The rise of the Banks
By: Casey Coston, 9/16/2008
The lights dim on the Bartlett Building but the Banks digs in as Casey Coston shares his thoughts about the latest downtown doings.
Can form-based codes restore Cincinnati's urbanity?
By: Kevin LeMaster, 9/9/2008
City of Cincinnati staff, in conjunction with several local groups including the Cincinnati chapter of the Urban Land Institute, is exploring the use of form-based codes as an alternative to the traditional zoning process. Can this new development tool restore Cincinnati's business districts to the historic, dense, and walkable nodes that they were built to be?
Soapicks: September 9-15
By: Sheila Owens, 9/9/2008
There's more to do in this city than you can shake a stick at and with the National Baptist Convention in town this week, you can bet downtown is going to be hopping. Here are some events you might want to check out...
Cincinnati's Metrosexual Awakening: A New Breed of Men or Old-Hat?
By: Jonathan DeHart, 9/2/2008
"Clothes make the man," Mark Twain once said. With the advent of the metrosexual, this quip is truer than ever. Or is it? Cincinnati's fashion savvy debunk this convenient catch-phrase and shed new light on the male makeover taking place around town.
World travel served to you one bite at a time
By: Liz Wu, 9/2/2008
A trip to India, Lebanon or Ethiopia may not be within your budget, but you can travel there by taste. With Cincinnati's wide selection of ethnic dining options, those looking to explore new culinary horizons probably won't even have to leave their neighborhood.
Soap Dish: Midday observations from 4th and Vine
By: Casey Coston, 9/2/2008
Soapbox raconteur, Casey Coston is back with a delicious tale of off the beaten treasures one can find with a free afternoon downtown. It’s enough to make you want to punch the time card a couple hours early and meet your paramour du jour for an unexpected romantic encounter while the rest of the city adjusts to position its nose closer to the grindstone. Is that the sound of autumn approaching?
Soapicks September 3-8
By: Sheila Owens, 8/30/2008
September kicks off the changing of the leaves and a whole new set of events to take advantage of around town. There is no lack of festivals to be found this week as Cincinnati gets a little culture of the European and Latin American influence.
A courageous journey
By: Ellen M. Gilligan, 8/26/2008
The work to build a more just and equitable community takes many years of sustained effort – but a recent report published by Better Together Cincinnati, helps us know how far we've come on the journey – and how far we have to go.
New Uptown = New Urbanism
By: Alison Matthews Sampson, 8/26/2008
Uptown Cincinnati’s new developments are embracing the smarter principles of land use, blending bold vision and design with respect to community. The Burnet Avenue Revitalization Plan and recent developments like Stetson Square show how New Urbanism is the New Uptown.
Soapicks for August 26 - September 2
By: Sheila Owens, 8/26/2008
As we approach the end of the Summer of '08, we thought we'd list a few events that are off the beaten path...
An action packed Labor Day weekend awaits starting off with Final Friday on Main St. and night of smooth Jazz at the Blue Wisp. And don't forget to buy your duck for the annual Rubber Duck Regatta, benefiting the FreestoreFoodbank.
Commuting by bike in Cincinnati shifts into gear
By: Steven Rosen, 8/19/2008
Cincinnati isn't always associated with being bike friendly - due in part to the topography of our politics and our 7+ hills. But soon, more pedals may be turning following the Park Board's announcement that a bicycle center is in the works as part of the new Riverfront Park.
Retaining Executives and Bringing the Focus Back To Cincinnati
By: Bethe Ferguson, 8/19/2008
Big name companies draw big name employees to Cincinnati. Now, one company helps newly relocated employees feel at home in Cincinnati by creating a tailored, personal experience for them, showcasing the best the city has to offer.
Soapicks for Aug 19-24
By: Sheila Owens, 8/19/2008
So much going on in the city this summer. Here are a few to check out that are off the beaten path...
CAC's letting the architects rule the roost this week while Sawyer Point hosts a rowdy bunch of comics and over 70 different varieties of beer. Cincinnati World Cinema is showcasing a documentary about race and gardening and FUNKe is setting you up with a glass of wine, a chuck of wet clay and a humming wheel... What could be better?
Soapicks for August 13 - 18
By: Sheila Owens, 8/12/2008
With so much happening in Cincinnati, the staff of Soapbox helps highlight some of the "not to be missed" off the beaten path events going on around town each week. This week, graffiti artists, tailgators and an unplugged Taft Museum of Art get featured in Soapbox's official Soapicks.
Working the numbers on Agenda 360 and Vision 2015
By: Laura Z. Weldon, 8/11/2008
The region's newest long-term planning strategies, Agenda 360 and Vision 2015, hold great promise to go beyond "plans in a binder" and generate real transformative momentum making the region a power magnet for talent, jobs, and economic opportunity.
Waste not, want not - it's the Toyota way
By: David Holthaus, 8/5/2008
Their trash cans gone, employees at Toyota's North American manufacturing and engineering headquarters started thinking seriously about recycling, helping the 1,400-employee site reach the goal of sending no waste to landfills. And the managers there also helped drive an even bigger goal -- zero waste to landfills at its 12 factories in North America, a goal it's close to achieving.
Heavy Medal - on the run to Beijing
By: Josh Katzowitz, 8/1/2008
Cincinnati's Mary Wineberg is on her way to the Olympics in Beijing. Four years ago, hardly anybody would have believed that statement could be true.
Soapbox Neighborhood Profile: Hyde Park
By: Rene' Brunelle, 7/29/2008
Charm and allure flow through the tree-lined avenues of Hyde Park, peppered with gourmet eateries, imaginative boutiques and unparalleled architecture. A close knit community with open arms to visitors from Cincinnati and lands far away, Hyde Park is the perfect neighborhood for a relaxing afternoon, an energetic night out or perhaps a permanent residence.
SoapDish for July 29, 2008
By: Casey Coston, 7/29/2008
SoapDish columnist Casey Coston reflects this week by the waters of the city center's fountain, on what he considers to be one of Cincinnati's greatest moves - Fountain Square.
Soapbox Picks: July 29 - August 5
By: Sheila Owens, 7/29/2008
There's so much happening in the 'Nati, the Soapbox staff has added a new feature that highlights events you should know about. So take a look each week at these two or three things you should know about your great city on the river.
Livin' La Vida Scooter
By: Sarah Stephens, 7/22/2008
So maybe you’ve heard that gas prices have gone up some? While many have adopted scooters and mopeds to counteract petroleum woes, for groups of scooter and moped enthusiasts, their rides are about more than a gas pump alternative – they’re a way of life.
Soapbox Picks: July 22-29
By: Jeff Syroney, 7/22/2008
There's so much happening in the 'Nati, the Soapbox staff has added a new feature that highlights events that influencers like you need to know about. So take a look each week at these two or three things you should know about your great city on the river.
Adventures in Cincinnati's Blog Land
By: Liz Wu, 7/21/2008
From the comfort of your laptop, you can explore people’s bona fide opinions, their favorite eateries, their fears and their passions all through the power of Cincinnati’s far reaching blog-o-sphere. But beware – it may be more addicting than reality TV.
Cincinnati: Convention destination
By: Feoshia Henderson, 7/15/2008
The beginning of the century marked a low point for Cincinnati race-relations, but things are slowly changing. And after years of being shunned by ethnic conventions and performers, the city once again is welcoming high-profile events like the 99th Annual NAACP convention and others.
100 people. Three days. One new company.
By: David Holthaus, 7/15/2008
A hundred or so entrepreneurs, students, corporate refugees, budding entrepreneurs and the just plain curious came together in a big room Friday afternoon and were challenged to dream up, build and launch a new enterprise by Sunday night. They not only did it, they generated enough energy to keep the entrepreneurial buzz going for a long time.
Soapbox Picks: Don't miss these events!
By: Jeff Syroney, 7/14/2008
There's so much happening in the 'Nati, the Soapbox staff has added a new feature that highlights events that influencers like you need to know about. So take a look each week at these two or three things you should know about your great city on the river.
Soapbox Profile: LeBraun Colvin
By: Jonathan DeHart, 7/8/2008
LeBraun Colvin had a vision: custom sneaker and clothing art exclusive to Cincinnati. Vision now reality, Colvin's art tells his story, speaks to the revitalization occurring downtown, and gives a glimpse into a quirky, popular form of wearable urban art.
Regaining our Competitive Advantage: A National Blueprint for Prosperity
By: Tracy Certo, 6/24/2008
It's a different global world today and yet our federal government is still stuck in the '80s, argues Bruce Katz of the Brookings Institution. More than a bold plan for big themes like transportation, his national Blueprint for American Prosperity is a call to action for those who care about their cities. Are you game?
Three Cincinnati companies that can change the world
By: David Holthaus, 6/24/2008
What rapidly growing Cincinnati companies have what it takes to reshape the global marketplace in a positive way, improve lives and, in short, change the world? Soapbox produces the first list of three companies that have the power to do just that.
Soapdish - It's easy, it's clean, it's safe
By: Casey Coston, 6/24/2008
Soapbox is proud to introduce Soapdish - a new feature from our very own loose cannon, columnist Casey Coston. Twice a month he'll dish - in his own way, on all things Cincinnati.
A vinyl daze is returning
By: Rick Bird, 6/17/2008
The vinyl record is making a comeback, fueled by the MP3 generation re-discovering the classic LP. That’s good news for the neighborhood record store, like Everybody’s Records in Pleasant Ridge celebrating its 30th anniversary this month.
Virtually working
By: Matt Koesters, 6/17/2008
As more and more Cincinnati entrepreneurs start their own businesses, the face and place of the typical work day is changing radically. Gone are the Dilbert style cubicles as small business owners place flexibility and mobility over traditional bricks and mortar. Th