🍔 Burger gratitude

Good morning, Clermont County. A decade of flipping burgers has turned into a heartwarming story of community reciprocity. Bard's Burgers & Chili is celebrating its 10th anniversary by giving back to the institution that helped launch its success – the Kenton County Public Library. Their special "Li-berry Lemonade" isn't just refreshing patrons; it's supporting the library's new Latonia Branch that opened earlier this month, proving that successful businesses remember the ladders that helped them climb.

Meanwhile, public institutions are making headlines for different reasons. Hamilton County Commissioners recently released a Bengals stadium document after a 51-day delay – significantly longer than the "prompt" response required by Ohio's Public Records Act. And in election news, Loveland resident Brian Hambley has announced his candidacy for Ohio Secretary of State, focusing on addressing gerrymandered districts and improving voter assistance programs – adding a local connection to next year's statewide races.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Loveland

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Milford

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Batavia

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New Richmond

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Bethel

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Williamsburg

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Owensville

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Felicity

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Moscow

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Neville

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🍔 Local burger joint toasts library that helped launch its success. Bard's Burgers & Chili in Covington, Kentucky is celebrating its 10th anniversary by honoring the Kenton County Public Library, which owner Jordan Stephenson credits as crucial to his restaurant's foundation. The restaurant has created a special "Li-berry Lemonade" made with raspberries from the Latonia community garden, with a portion of sales benefiting the library's new Latonia Branch. The timing is perfect as the library just opened its new branch in the restaurant's neighborhood earlier this month. "The Kenton County Public Library is proud to help power dreams," said library spokesperson Gina Stegner.

⚖️ County officials don't understand what "promptly" means in public records law. Hamilton County Commissioners took nearly two months to release a one-page Bengals stadium document requested by The Cincinnati Enquirer. The Ohio Public Records Act requires officials to respond to requests "promptly," which typically means within three business days for routine requests. Instead, the commissioners held onto the unredacted Paycor Stadium Lease Extension document for 51 days before finally releasing it on June 12. The delay violated both the letter and spirit of the law, which recognizes these documents as "the people's records," not the property of government officials.

🗳️ Cancer doctor challenges Ohio's gerrymandered democracy in Secretary race. Brian Hambley, the only declared Democratic candidate for Ohio Secretary of State, lives in Loveland with his trauma surgeon wife and two school-age children. In a recent interview, Hambley discussed his plans to address Ohio's gerrymandered districts, confusing ballot language created by the current administration, and improving assistance for caregivers helping disabled voters. He also emphasized his commitment to enhancing civility among Ohio politicians. Two Republicans have also declared their candidacy for the position.

Spacious updated Batavia school district: Priced at $315,000, this spacious 4-bedroom home features updated kitchen, fresh paint, whirlpool tub in master bath, and charming outdoor spaces with no rear neighbors, all conveniently located near Batavia Schools.

Luxury executive estate awaits: Listed at $600,000, this executive home in Reserves of Greycliff offers over 4,500 sq ft of meticulously maintained luxury, featuring a gourmet kitchen, finished basement with bar, and private cul-de-sac location for both comfort and entertaining.

Recently upgraded ranch near Union: This $225,000 ranch in Union Township sits on a nearly half-acre lot with recent upgrades including a granite kitchen, renovated bathroom, new carpet, and a fenced yard with deck and shed.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🍖 Jun. 26 - BIG D BBQ Truck: Savor mouthwatering barbecue and wraps when BIG D BBQ & Wraps food truck rolls into Legen-Dairy on June 26. Stop by 3376 OH-125 in Bethel for a delicious summer treat!

🥫 Jun. 26 - CNE Cares Food Distribution: CNE Cares hosts their Summer Distribution at 463 S Broadway St in Owensville on June 26. New families must enter data before registering, and please don't line up before 4pm or block entrances.

🥩 Jun. 27 - Steak it EAZY Truck: Satisfy your steak cravings when Steak it EAZY food truck rolls into Bethel on June 27! Find mouthwatering meals at 3376 OH-125 and treat yourself to a delicious break from cooking.

💦 Jun. 27 - Creek Splash Adventure: Splash into summer fun at Creek Days! Join a naturalist to explore geology and wildlife at Sycamore Park creek on June 27. Perfect for curious kids of all ages. 4082 OH-132, Batavia.

🍑 Jun. 27 - Peach Truck at Lowe's: The Peach Truck rolls into Cincinnati's Lowe's on Mt Moriah Drive June 27! Grab the season's freshest peaches at this local pickup stop—a juicy summer tradition you won't want to miss.

🍺 Jun. 27 - Pint Night Specials: Raise your glass at Jungle Jim's Eastgate for June Pint Nights! Sip on bubbly brews for as low as $4 on June 27, with possible special pint glasses to collect. Free entry!

🎲 Jun. 28 - Saturday Board Game Meetup: Roll the dice at Time Warp Cards and Comics' Saturday Board Game Meet-up! Bring your own games or try something from their library while making new friends. June 28 at 4601 Eastgate Blvd.

🏛️ Jun. 28 - Historic Grailville Tour: Step into the storied past of Grailville on June 28! Sacred Heritage Tours leads an inspiring walk through this unique spiritual landmark in Loveland, showcasing historic buildings and cultural treasures. Located at 931 O'Bannonville Rd.

🙏 In Remembrance

Richard T. Garrison

Richard T. Garrison, a 63-year-old Tech 1 mechanic with Penske Trucking, passed away on June 23, 2025, in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. Born in Cincinnati on February 6, 1962, he graduated from William Henry Harrison High School in 1980 and married Sarah K. Peck in 1989. He is survived by his wife, mother, three siblings, and numerous nieces and nephews, while being preceded in death by his father. A graveside service will be held on June 26, 2025, at Arlington Memorial Gardens in Cincinnati.

Julie Hagen

Julie Marie Hagen, 64, passed away on June 22, 2025, in Loveland, Ohio. A University of Toledo nursing graduate, she worked for 29 years, most notably providing counsel to expectant mothers at the CPC ministry in Northwest Ohio. Julie was married to Bob Hagen for 42 years, and together they raised three sons in Defiance, Ohio, before she retired to Loveland in 2023. She is survived by her husband, parents, siblings, children, and eight grandchildren, with services scheduled for June 27-28 at Kings Cross Church in Defiance.

Robert F. "Bob" Ferguson

Robert "Bob" Fielden Ferguson, 86, passed away unexpectedly at home on June 20, 2025. He was the beloved husband of 53 years to the late Carol Sue Ferguson, father to Robin Sue Reed, grandfather to Sarah and Andrew, and great-grandfather to three children. Born in Knoxville, TN and raised in Cincinnati, Bob served in the Air Force as a radar repairman, later worked as a retail store manager, and enjoyed traveling in his RV with his wife during retirement. A graveside funeral service will be held at Arlington Memorial Gardens in Cincinnati on June 25, 2025.

Albert William Gundrum

Albert William Gundrum, 87, passed away on June 20, 2025, leaving behind his wife Loretta and numerous family members. A graduate of Colerain High School and Xavier University, he had a distinguished career as a teacher and basketball coach, which included winning the NIT in 1958 and being inducted into the Greater Cincinnati Basketball Hall of Fame in 2023. Beyond his professional achievements, Gundrum was known for his dedication to his students and players, many of whom maintained contact with him throughout his life. He found great joy in family time, Xavier basketball games, and spending time at Indian Lake on his boat with loved ones.

Everlene Fields

Everlene Fields, 82, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on June 21, 2025, after being born in Clayton, Alabama on September 16, 1942. Visitation will be held on July 8, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Walker Funeral Home in Mt. Healthy, followed immediately by the funeral service. Interment will take place at Crown Hill Memorial Park & Mausoleum in Colerain Township. The Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the Fields family during this difficult time.

JULIE MARIE HAGEN

Julie Marie Hagen (née Alt) passed away on June 22, 2025, at age 64 in Loveland, Ohio. A nursing professional for 29 years, Julie worked as an Ultrasonographer and Nurse Manager at CPC ministry, providing counsel to expectant mothers. She was married to Bob Hagen for 42 years and was a mother of three sons, grandmother to eight, and sister to five siblings. After retiring in 2023, Julie moved from Defiance to Loveland to be closer to her family, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and service to others.

John Steven Koehler

John Steven Koehler, who passed away on June 22, 2025, at age 69, was a respected Static Control Sales Representative at Simco and a devoted family man. He shared 45 years of marriage with his wife Janet and was a loving father to Steven and Jennifer, and grandfather to Jack and Kelly. John enjoyed golf, casino games, scary movies, and the Rolling Stones, while maintaining close bonds with his Delta Sigma Pi fraternity brothers. He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and two sisters, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, warmth, and humor that touched many lives.

Danny E. Bryant

Danny Eugene Bryant, 69, passed away unexpectedly on June 22, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of devoted fatherhood to his four children and proud grandfatherhood to twelve grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. A talented handyman who could fix anything, Danny moved from Florida to Cincinnati to be closer to his family, whom he considered his greatest joy in life. He is survived by three siblings and was preceded in death by his parents and three other siblings. Danny's memory will be cherished for his quiet strength, unconditional love, and willingness to help others.

Lois Augusta Daiker

Lois Augusta Daiker, 90, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and compassion. She was a devoted member of Monfort Heights United Methodist Church and worked for Hamilton County Park Services at Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve, sharing her love of nature with others. Known for her selfless, maternal nature and generosity to both family and charities, Lois is survived by her son, two daughters, seven grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and extended family. Services will be held on June 26th at Monfort Heights United Methodist Church, with burial at Arlington Memorial Gardens.

Timothy Dontae Lowe

Timothy Dontae Lowe, 38, of Newport, Kentucky, passed away on June 22, 2025, in Covington, Kentucky. Born on May 21, 1987, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Timothy will be remembered by friends and family gathering for his visitation and funeral service on July 7, 2025, at Walker Funeral Home in Cincinnati. The Walker Funeral Home is caring for the Lowe family during this difficult time, and those wishing to honor Timothy's memory can share tributes on the funeral home's website or send flowers.

James Rethman

James Rethman, born on September 29, 1951, passed away peacefully at age 73 on June 19, 2025, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He worked for many years on the assembly line at Larosa's in the hospitality industry and found joy in outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, and taking countryside drives. James is survived by his brother John, niece Jennifer, nephews Bryan and David, and nine great-nieces and nephews, having been preceded in death by his parents, two children, and second wife. A memorial service will be held on July 14, 2025, followed by placement of his cremated remains at Arlington Memorial Gardens in Cincinnati.

Elaine Belle Cole

Elaine Belle "Mimi" Cole passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025, at age 87 in Cincinnati, Ohio. She was a devoted mother to three children, grandmother to nine, and great-grandmother to twelve. Throughout her vibrant life, Elaine worked as a switchboard operator at Cincinnati Bell, a liaison for Paramount Pictures, and had a successful career in sales at Furniture Fair. She loved the outdoors, convertible rides, animals, and was a talented artist who painted with oils and watercolors. A service will be held on July 1, 2025, at Arlington Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, with the family requesting donations to Hospice of Cincinnati, Cincinnati ArtsWave, or the MS Society in lieu of flowers.

William A. Lipps

William A. Lipps, 66, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on June 22, 2025, at Christ Hospital. Born in 1958, he earned an associate's degree in Computer Programming and worked for AAA and Union Institute and University. Bill was an active person who enjoyed running, hiking with family and dogs, biking, and was passionate about golf, achieving a hole-in-one last year. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Debbie, two sons, three grandchildren, and numerous siblings and in-laws. A memorial service will be held at Rael Funeral Home on June 26, 2025.

Larry Dean Keller Jr.

Larry Dean Keller Jr., 70, of Harrison, passed away on June 23, 2025, survived by his wife Janet, three children, six grandchildren, and his sister. A Purdue University graduate, Larry worked in auditing at Hill-Rom until retirement and was known for his dedication to family, passion for cycling, photography, and outdoor activities. He was an active community member who served as treasurer for the Harrison High School Athletic Boosters and had a special bond with his dogs. Larry's life was characterized by his unwavering Purdue loyalty, competitive spirit in sports, and the joy he found in supporting his children and spending time with his grandchildren.

Keelan Maurice Crutchfield

Keelan Maurice Crutchfield, born June 7, 2007, in Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on June 18, 2025, at the age of 18. He was the beloved son of Courtney Smith and Brandon Crutchfield, and a cherished brother to seven siblings, with additional close relationships with his cousins, aunts, and grandparents. Keelan enjoyed spending time with family and playing Xbox games, known for his warm smile and open heart. A visitation and funeral service will be held on June 25th at House of Hope Fellowship Church in Cincinnati, with the family requesting plants or donations in lieu of flowers.

Gary Wayne Reddish

Gary Wayne Reddish, age 70, of Amberley, passed away on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. In accordance with his wishes, no public services will be held. He will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery. Those wishing to share condolences can sign the online guest book at www.staleyfuneralhome.com. Floral tributes or memorial trees can be arranged through the funeral home's floral store.

Jacqueline Sebastian

Jacqueline Sebastian, 79, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on Monday, June 23, 2025, after being born in Flemings, Kentucky on September 1, 1945. Family and friends will gather for a memorial service on Friday, July 11, 2025, at the Walker Funeral Home in Mt. Healthy, with gathering beginning at 2:00 pm followed by the service at 2:30 pm. The Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the Sebastian family with arrangements during this difficult time. Well-wishers may share memories on the online Tribute Wall or send floral tributes through the funeral home's website.