🪲 Cicada safari

Good morning, Clermont County. The deafening buzz of billions of cicadas has transformed Kings Island into an unexpected wildlife safari. Viral TikTok videos capture the insects swarming thrill-seekers along the I-71 corridor, with expert Gene Kritsky assuring residents that the noisy invasion will subside by early July. While these periodic visitors create temporary chaos, they're a reminder of nature's fascinating rhythms—even if they're making roller coaster rides more adventurous than advertised.

In more deliberate community-building news, Cincinnati's queer women are creating their own inclusive haven with Blended Café & Club, a daytime coffee spot that transforms into a craft cocktail bar by night. Their Pride Month Kickstarter has already raised over $7,400 toward a $40,000 goal. The project stands in stark contrast to the darker history being remembered as Drake Center closes, forever linked to "Angel of Death" Donald Harvey, whose 1980s killing spree claimed at least 37 elderly patients.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Loveland

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Milford

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Batavia

61°

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New Richmond

62°

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Bethel

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Williamsburg

61°

83°

Owensville

64°

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Felicity

59°

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Moscow

57°

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Neville

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🦟 Cicadas have invaded Kings Island, terrorizing thrill-seekers in Cincinnati. Viral TikTok videos show the loud-screaming insects swarming parkgoers and latching onto their clothing at the popular amusement park. The bugs are part of Brood XIV, which has emerged in billions across 13 states including Ohio. According to expert Gene Kritsky, the cicada invasion is approaching its peak, with their deafening chorus expected to decline over the next two weeks and end by early July. The insects are particularly concentrated along the I-71 corridor and eastern parts of Cincinnati.

🌈 Cincinnati's queer women are building their own safe haven. Blended Café & Club aims to become one of America's few lesbian bars, operating as a cozy café by day and craft cocktail bar by night. The project launched a Kickstarter during Pride Month, raising over $7,400 in its first week toward a $40,000 goal. Creative Director Claudia Rieth and Beverage Director Julia Smith envision a versatile space offering everything from book clubs to espresso martini flights. Even if fundraising falls short, the team remains committed to creating what Rieth calls "everyone's place" where "no one is ever alone."

💉 A hospital closes, but a serial killer's dark legacy remains. Donald Harvey, known as the "Angel of Death," murdered at least 37 elderly patients while working as a nurse's aide at Drake Center in Ohio during the 1980s. He killed by injecting cyanide or turning off oxygen tanks, claiming these were "mercy killings" for suffering patients. After pleading guilty and receiving multiple life sentences, Harvey himself met a violent end when he was beaten to death in prison in 2017 by an inmate connected to one of his victims' families.

Wooded retreat brick country home: This full brick home, located on a beautifully landscaped .46-acre lot, offers country quiet for $325,000. Features include upgraded kitchen appliances, hardwood floors, a family room with wood-burning fireplace, and a spacious deck for outdoor enjoyment.

Luxurious home outdoor paradise: Listed at $449,900, this 3+ bedroom home features a first floor primary suite, vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors, and luxurious outdoor spaces including a screened porch, deck, and fenced yard with hot tub.

Spacious luxury estate pool included: Priced at $700,000, this meticulously maintained 4800 sq ft home features an open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, and luxury amenities including a primary suite with cathedral ceiling and a backyard with in-ground pool on 1.33 acres.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎵 Jun. 12 - Noah Smith Live: Catch rising star Noah Smith as he takes the stage at Cincinnati Distilling in Milford on June 12. Doors open at 7:00 PM for this intimate performance in the heart of Mill Street.

🥫 Jun. 12 - CNE Cares Food Distribution: CNE Cares hosts their Summer Distribution at 463 S Broadway St in Owensville on June 12. New families must enter data before registering for the pantry—please arrive after 4pm and keep entrances clear.

🎸 Jun. 13 - Folk Music @ Trailyard: Tap your toes to Americana/Folk rhythms as The Foles bring soulful melodies to The Miamiville Trailyard's patio. Catch these vibrant outdoor vibes on June 13 at 368 Center St.

🌈 Jun. 14 - Clermont County PRIDE Festival: Celebrate love and inclusion at Clermont County's inaugural PRIDE Festival! Join the festivities at Riverside Park on June 14th (11am-11pm) with over 40 vendors, food trucks, and live performances throughout the day.

👑 Jun. 14 - NO KINGS Rally: Stand up for democracy at "NO KINGS" national day of action at Veterans Memorial Park on June 14. Join fellow citizens in this grassroots response to authoritarian threats in our community.

🎨 Jun. 14 - WSCW 15th Anniversary Celebration: Celebrate 15 years of creative clay at Whistle Stop Clay Works! Join the anniversary festivities on June 14 at noon for cake, studio tours, wheel demonstrations, and free giveaways at their Loveland studio.

🐷 Jun. 14 - The BUCKIN Pig Truck: Hungry for something delicious? The BUCKIN Pig food truck rolls into Bethel on June 14, serving up mouthwatering eats at 3376 OH-125. Come satisfy your cravings with this local favorite!

🚗 Jun. 14 - Seniors' Classic Car Cruise: Rev up some joy at Eastgate Care Springs Cruise-In on June 14! Park your classic wheels at 4400 Glen Este-Withamsville Rd and bring smiles to seniors in a respectful, laid-back atmosphere.

🙏 In Remembrance

Treasure Aika Thomas

Treasure Aika Thomas, age 22, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on June 9, 2025. Born on May 3, 2003, in Cincinnati, her visitation and funeral service will be held on June 26, 2025, at the Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel, with visitation from 10-11 am followed immediately by the funeral service. Friends and family will gather to share memories and honor her legacy. Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the Thomas family during this difficult time.

Wanda Alberta Baskin

Wanda Alberta Baskin, 79, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on Saturday, June 7, 2025. Born on May 17, 1946, in Cincinnati, she leaves behind family who will plan a memorial service at a later date. No immediate funeral services are scheduled, and the family will notify loved ones when arrangements are made. Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the Baskin family during this time.

Anne Dick

Anne Dick, 78, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on Saturday, June 7, 2025. Born on April 13, 1947, in Cleveland, Ohio, Anne's family has not immediately planned a funeral or memorial service but will notify loved ones when arrangements are made. Those wishing to share memories or messages with the Dick family can do so through the "Tribute Wall" on the funeral home's website. Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is handling the arrangements during this time.

Robert C Clawson

Robert "Bob" C. Clawson, born in 1943 in Kenton, Ohio, passed away peacefully at age 82 on June 5, 2025. After graduating from Otterbein College where he played football, Bob dedicated his career to helping others as a claims representative for State Auto and later enjoyed woodworking and following the stock market in retirement. He is survived by his wife Jessie, three sons, seven grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, three siblings, and his dog Leo. Bob's life was marked by kindness and generosity, leaving an indelible impact on everyone who knew him.

Linda Lee Platt

Linda Lee Platt (July 15, 1947 - June 7, 2025) passed away at age 77, leaving behind her husband of nearly 54 years, Danny, their son Michael, and two granddaughters. A woman of deep faith, Linda was a long-time member of Groesbeck Church and served as president of the Northwest Women's Club. Family was central to her life, as she enjoyed trips to Disney World and the Smoky Mountains with her grandchildren, shopping with her sister Kim, and participating in community activities. A visitation and service will be held at Groesbeck Church on June 13, 2025, with memorial contributions directed to Groesbeck Church or the Morris Animal Foundation.

William L. Engelkamp

William Lester Engelkamp, 79, passed away on June 6, 2025, in Cincinnati, OH after a life dedicated to his family and community. A U.S. Army veteran and Western Hills High School graduate, William enjoyed simple pleasures like visiting casinos and playing the lottery. He is survived by his children James, Joseph, and Tracy, two grandchildren, his sister Virginia, and several nieces and nephews, having been preceded in death by his wife Diane. A visitation and funeral service will be held on June 13, 2025, at Radel Funeral and Cremation Service in Cincinnati.

Albert A. Tritschler

Albert A. Tritschler passed away on June 8, 2025, at the age of 90. He was a beloved husband to Joanne Tritschler and a loving father to Julie St John and Jennifer Caudill. Albert was also a devoted grandfather to five grandchildren and great-grandfather to six great-grandchildren, though he was predeceased by his grandson Jason Rutter. Private family services will be held with burial at Miamitown Cemetery.

Ruth Marie Williams

Ruth Marie Williams, a beloved matriarch who passed away on May 28, 2025, at age 94, was known for her warmth, listening skills, and dedication to family. After retiring from the Ohio Liquor Board following a 25-year career, she embraced her favorite role as grandmother to her 14 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Ruth enjoyed adventures, vacationing with family at favorite destinations including Maine, Michigan, and South Carolina, and was a lifelong Cincinnati Reds fan. She is survived by her six children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and resilience that will be cherished by all who knew her.

Dalon I. Foley

Dalon Ilo Foley, a 94-year-old Korean War veteran, passed away on June 9, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to family and faith. For 60 years, he was married to Jenny Charlice Foley, raising four children and cherishing his role as grandfather to ten, great-grandfather to sixteen, and great-great-grandfather to six. After serving honorably in the U.S. Army Infantry, Dalon worked as a machinist at OPW Union and enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time with his grandchildren. Visitation will be held June 15 at Vitt, Stermer & Anderson Funeral Home, with funeral services the following day and interment at Arlington Memorial Gardens.

Vanessa Odie Booker

Vanessa Odie Booker, 70, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on June 9, 2025. Born on November 20, 1954, in Cincinnati, she will be remembered during a visitation and memorial service on July 5, 2025, at Walker Funeral Home's Walnut Hills Chapel. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor her memory and share remembrances. Well-wishers can leave messages on the funeral home's "Tribute Wall" or send flowers through their floral store.

Gregory Thompson

Gregory Thompson, age 49, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on June 9, 2025. Born on November 8, 1975, in Cincinnati, Gregory's visitation will be held on June 27, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm at the Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel. Friends and family are invited to attend the visitation to honor his memory and share in remembrance. Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is handling the arrangements for the Thompson family.

Mary L. Fayard

Mary L. Fayard, 93, passed away on June 7, 2025, after being born in Seattle in 1931 to Homer and Esther Polley. She was married to Louis Fayard for over 66 years until his death in 2015, and was mother to four children, two of whom predeceased her. Mary was grandmother to 11 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren, and will be honored at a memorial service on June 19, 2025, at White Oak Christian Church in Cincinnati, where memorial contributions may be directed to Clifton Seventh-day Adventist Church instead of flowers.