🦅 Bird-friendly glass

Good morning, Clermont County. A staggering 1.4 billion birds lose their lives annually by flying into reflective glass across North America—a sobering statistic that the University of Cincinnati is tackling head-on. Their newly renovated Old Chem building now features innovative windows with opaque dot patterns, creating a bird-friendly campus that could inspire similar sustainability efforts nationwide. While these feathered friends find safer skies, Hyde Park might soon see a dramatic skyline change with Mayor Pureval championing a controversial $150M development project.

In a plot that sounds straight from a small-town thriller, Miami Township's fiscal drama has trustees taking action against their own official. Bob Matthews allegedly attempted to use public funds to purchase gold coins at a markup, then reportedly tried to fire the finance director who thwarted the transaction. The unanimous vote to pursue criminal prosecution showcases that when it comes to township finances, all that glitters is definitely not gold.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Loveland

49°

70°

87%

Milford

49°

70°

84%

Batavia

50°

70°

84%

New Richmond

51°

69°

84%

Bethel

52°

70°

89%

Williamsburg

49°

69°

84%

Owensville

49°

71°

89%

Felicity

49°

69°

84%

Moscow

50°

70°

84%

Neville

51°

69°

86%

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🐦 Bird-safe glass saves lives at University of Cincinnati's renovated building. The $190 million Old Chem renovation features windows with opaque dot patterns that prevent birds from flying into reflective glass. UC biologist Ronald Canterbury, who studies bird mortality, explains that glass windows kill approximately 1.4 billion birds annually in North America alone. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service warns this problem affects bird populations globally. Professor Theresa Culley suggests the project could serve as a model for other institutions seeking sustainable solutions.

🏙️ Cincinnati mayor backs controversial $150M Hyde Park Square development. Mayor Aftab Pureval supports the mixed-use project that would bring 125 apartments, a 90-room hotel, and underground parking to replace a surface lot. Despite opposition from the Hyde Park Neighborhood Council over the proposed 85-foot building height, Pureval argues the development addresses housing needs in an affluent area where home values average $574,716. The project requires approval from five of nine city council members, with a key rezoning vote expected this month.

💰 Township official caught trying to buy gold coins with public funds. Miami Township trustees have taken action against Fiscal Officer Bob Matthews for allegedly misusing township funds to purchase gold coins at a significant markup without approval. The transaction was caught and canceled by fraud controls, but Matthews then allegedly attempted to retaliate by trying to fire the finance director who stopped him. Trustees unanimously voted to report the incident to state authorities, pursue criminal prosecution, and restrict Matthews' access to township offices. Matthews, who took office in April 2024, has declined to comment on the allegations.

Affordable three-bedroom Loveland retreat: Priced at $75,000, this grey and white single-wide mobile home in Loveland, Ohio offers 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and modern amenities within a peaceful community that includes a pool and playground.

Spacious Woodland Retreat Near Golf: Priced at $540,000, this 2,201 sq.ft. woodland retreat offers modern charm with a primary suite, gourmet kitchen, heated floors, and finished walk-out basement, all nestled between golf courses on a serene 0.80-acre lot.

Urban oasis with fireplaces galore: This $259,900 brick ranch offers secluded tranquility with urban convenience, featuring two fireplaces, hardwood floors, and a finished lower level in a friendly, walkable neighborhood.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🍷 Apr. 3 - Free Appetizer Thursday: Thirsty Thursday alert! Indulge in a FREE appetizer (hot brie or goat cheese toast) when you purchase two glasses or a bottle of wine at 233 Main St, Milford. Or enjoy two free sodas with any appetizer purchase.

🎲 Apr. 3 - Thursday Board Game Night: Unleash your competitive spirit at Time Warp Cards and Comics' special Thursday Board Game night on April 3! Join fellow gamers at 4601 Eastgate Blvd for demos and games from their extensive library.

🎸 Apr. 3 - Noah Smith's Whiskey Blues: Catch Cincinnati's own Noah Smith at Milford's Cincinnati Distilling on April 3, where his whiskey blues and soulful roots create a sound that captivates both country and rock fans alike.

🌺 Apr. 4 - Hawaiian Dining Experience: Aloha your taste buds at Dine in HAWAIIN on April 4th! Swing by 3376 OH-125 in Bethel for island-inspired flavors. Check their Facebook page for the mouthwatering menu before you go.

🎵 Apr. 4 - Mystic Mile Live: Catch the smooth sounds of Mystic Mile as they bring their melodic magic to Front Street Café on April 4. Enjoy great tunes in this charming New Richmond spot at 120 Front Street.

🎲 Apr. 5 - Saturday Board Game Meetup: Roll the dice at Time Warp Cards and Comics every Saturday! Join fellow gamers at 4601 Eastgate Blvd for our weekly board game meetup—bring your own games or try something from our library. New friends await!

🏙️ Apr. 5 - Cincinnati Weekend Event: Join us for a weekend of excitement at Holiday Inn & Suites Cincinnati-Eastgate! Mark your calendar for April 5-6, 2025, and secure your spot now for this not-to-be-missed Cincinnati event.

🧘 Apr. 05 - Free Community Yoga Class: Stretch into serenity at Clermont County Library's free community yoga class with Jen! Join fellow yogis on April 5 at 9:30 AM at the Miami Township Branch. Registration opens March 29.

🙏 In Remembrance

Billi Jean Johnson

Billi Jean Johnson, 71, of Woodlawn, Ohio, passed away on March 24, 2025, and will be remembered during services on April 5, 2025, at Kemper Road Christian Church, with burial at Oak Hill Cemetery. Born on October 28, 1953, in Cincinnati, Billi was a lifelong learner who earned degrees from Oberlin College, Miami University, and pursued doctoral studies at Indiana University. She served as a Full Professor at the University of Cincinnati, making significant contributions to both the Africana Studies and English departments, while also being known for her infectious giggle, love of shopping, and deep spiritual faith. Billi is survived by her sister Jeanette Bronson, numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends who request donations to Oberlin College in lieu of flowers.

Audrey Fay French

Audrey Fay French, née Burdett, passed away on March 30, 2025, at age 91. She was the beloved wife of the late Clayton French and is survived by her children, Rhonda and Robin, seven grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren. A devoted member of Friendship Baptist Church for over 70 years, Audrey was also a proud member of the Mt. Healthy Chapter #365 OES. Visitation will be held on April 4 at Friendship Baptist Church, followed by a funeral service on April 5, after which she will be laid to rest at Arlington Memorial Gardens.

Barbara Norris Liszniewski

Barbara Norris Liszniewski, 79, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on Sunday, March 30, 2025. Born on August 27, 1945, in Cincinnati, she will be honored at a graveside service at Spring Grove on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is handling arrangements for the Liszniewski family. Well-wishers can share memories on the Tribute Wall or send flowers through the funeral home's floral store.

Annette M. Strauss

Annette Schumacher-Strauss (née Carle), aged 89, passed away on March 29th. She was the widow of both Robert "Bob" Schumacher and Jim Strauss, and is survived by her three children, seven grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, and fourteen great-grandchildren. Visitation will be held on Monday, April 7th at Bayley Place in Cincinnati, followed by a Funeral Mass and burial at St. Joseph New Cemetery. The family has requested that memorial contributions be directed to Bayley Place in lieu of flowers.

Robert Brownlee

Robert Brownlee, 76, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on Saturday, March 22, 2025. Born on July 29, 1948, Brownlee will be remembered during a gathering of family and friends on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm at the Walker Event Center, followed immediately by a memorial service. Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is handling arrangements for the Brownlee family, and condolences can be shared on the funeral home's tribute wall.

Arthur Anthony Connors

Arthur Connors, who passed away on March 29, 2025, at age 81, was a devoted family man who shared a 59-year marriage with his wife Sue and treasured his role as father and grandfather. An adventurous outdoorsman, Art enjoyed boating, fishing, traveling, and socializing with friends in both Ohio and Florida. After serving in the United States Air Force, he built a career as a plumber while maintaining a reputation for generosity and helping others. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, four grandchildren, and three siblings, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, adventure, and unwavering love.

Felton Orlando Williamson

Felton Orlando Williamson, 64, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, passed away on March 18, 2025, after being born in Chicago, Illinois on July 6, 1960. His visitation will be held on April 7, 2025, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am at Walker Funeral Home in Cincinnati, with the funeral service immediately following. After the service, Felton will be interred at Vine Street Cemetery. Walker Funeral Home is assisting the Williamson family during this difficult time, and those wishing to honor his memory may share tributes online or send flowers.

Wilma Frances Woods

Wilma Frances Woods, 65, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on March 25, 2025. Born on July 10, 1959, in Cincinnati, Wilma's memorial service will be held on May 17, 2025, at Christ Temple Full Gospel Baptist Church, with visitation from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm followed by the service. Family and friends can share memories on the online Tribute Wall. Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is handling the arrangements for the Woods family.

Anna Lois Huffman

Anna Lois Huffman (née Jackson) passed away on March 27th at the age of 88, joining her late husband Robert Vance Huffman. She is survived by her son Robert Howard Huffman, grandchildren Chloe, Emily, Sierra, Jeffrey, Bradley, and Elizabeth, as well as five great-grandchildren. A visitation will be held on Thursday, April 3rd from 12:00 PM, followed by funeral services at 1:00 PM at Dalbert Woodruff and Isenogle Funeral Home in Cincinnati. Memorial donations may be made to Friendship Baptist Church.

Ellis Williams

Ellis Williams, 63, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on March 26, 2025. Born on April 5, 1961, in Cincinnati, his visitation will be held on April 12, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Walker Event Center, followed immediately by a funeral service. Family and friends will gather to honor his memory and share stories of his life. Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is handling the arrangements for the Williams family.

Brenda Lee Rider

Brenda Lee Rider, 61, passed away on March 31, 2025, after a life dedicated to her family, horses, and Elvis Presley. She worked as a payroll manager in the staffing industry and was known for creating a warm home environment through pool gatherings and family meals. Brenda is survived by her husband Bruce, three children, daughter-in-law, and her dog Hank. Services include a visitation at Evans Funeral Home on April 4 and a graveside service at Memorial Burial Park on April 7, where family and friends will celebrate her loving spirit.

Edward K. Pregitzer

Edward Pregitzer, a dedicated Marketing teacher at Great Oaks and Milford High School for 35 years, was known for teaching real-life skills and mentoring students who achieved success through DECA conferences. Beyond the classroom, he shared his expertise by coordinating teacher conferences and later worked as a supervisor of Marketing teachers after retiring from teaching. In 2014, Ed moved to Northern Michigan with his wife Terri, where he developed Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), though he left behind a lasting educational legacy. A Celebration of Life will be held on April 12, 2025, at Evans Funeral Home in Milford, Ohio.