🌆 Heat inequality

Good morning, Clermont County. Urban concrete can create a 10-degree temperature difference between neighborhoods, a stark reality facing Cincinnati's most vulnerable communities this summer. Six of the city's poorest areas—including Winton Hills and Roll Hill—are experiencing dangerous "heat islands" where over 40% of residents face high health risks during extreme temperatures. As health officials urge caution, this invisible inequality highlights how infrastructure shapes our daily well-being beyond what meets the eye.

Meanwhile, Cincinnati is taking steps to address another infrastructure challenge with a $100,000 pilot program tackling broken sidewalks in seven low-income neighborhoods. Starting July 1, residents in areas like East Westwood and South Fairmount can call 311 for repairs that typically cost homeowners up to $2,500. In Lincoln Heights, residents continue pressing for justice four months after neo-Nazis demonstrated near their predominantly Black community, taking their concerns to county commissioners despite limited jurisdictional authority.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Loveland

76°

98°

Milford

76°

98°

Batavia

73°

94°

New Richmond

74°

97°

Bethel

73°

93°

Williamsburg

73°

94°

Owensville

76°

98°

Felicity

73°

93°

Moscow

72°

94°

Neville

73°

93°

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🚶‍♀️ Cincinnati tackles broken sidewalks for cash-strapped homeowners. The city approved $100,000 to fund residential sidewalk repairs in seven low-income neighborhoods starting July 1. Residents in East Westwood, Villages at Roll Hill, South Cumminsville, Millvale, English Woods, North Fairmount, and South Fairmount can call 311 to report needed repairs. The pilot program aims to ease the burden on homeowners who face repair costs ranging from $500 to $2,500. Councilmember Anna Albi, who championed the initiative, says success will be measured by how many sidewalks can be fixed while gauging demand for future expansion.

✊ Lincoln Heights residents demand justice after neo-Nazi rally. Four months after neo-Nazis demonstrated on a highway overpass near their predominantly Black community, Lincoln Heights residents are pressing Hamilton County Commissioners to investigate further. Despite two separate investigations finding no chargeable offenses, community members claim evidence exists of direct threats, including allegations that a demonstrator pointed a gun at a resident. The Heights Movement executive director Daronce Daniels criticized the investigations' scope, arguing they normalize hate speech in their community. While commissioners expressed support for residents' concerns, they acknowledged limitations in their authority, prompting some residents to take their fight to the Ohio Statehouse.

🔥 Cincinnati's poorest neighborhoods bake in dangerous summer heat. An Enquirer analysis found extreme temperatures create "heat islands" in urban areas where residents face significantly higher health risks. Six of the city's seven most impoverished neighborhoods—including Winton Hills, Roll Hill, and South Cumminsville—have the greatest vulnerability to heat, with over 40% of residents at high risk. These areas can be 5-10 degrees hotter than outlying neighborhoods due to scarce tree cover and abundant concrete. Health officials urge vulnerable residents to seek shade, stay hydrated, and monitor medical conditions during extreme heat events.

Luxury Belle Meade lakefront gem: This move-in ready Belle Meade home asks $485,000 for 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a finished basement, multi-tiered deck, and scenic lake views, with recent updates like new paint and appliances.

Luxury rural haven with extras: Priced at $1,250,000, this pastoral 16-acre Colonial homestead offers 4BR/3BA, a stocked pond, historic barn, detached in-law house, and no HOA restrictions, all within minutes of city conveniences.

Wooded retreat with classic vibes: This $365,000 home nestled on a wooded lot offers 4 bedrooms and classic charm with vaulted ceilings, country kitchen, and flexible living spaces for privacy-seeking buyers.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🥩 Jun. 27 - Steak it EAZY Truck: Savor sizzling delights when Steak it EAZY food truck rolls into Bethel on June 27! Find mouthwatering eats at 3376 OH-125 and treat yourself to a delicious meal without the fuss.

🍖 Jun. 27 - BIG D BBQ Truck: Satisfy your BBQ cravings when BIG D BBQ & Wraps rolls into Legen-Dairy on June 27! Stop by 3376 OH-125 in Bethel for mouthwatering smoky goodness and delicious wraps.

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

🍑 Jun. 27 - Lowe's Peach Truck Stop: Juicy summer sweetness arrives at Lowe's on Mt Moriah Drive! The Peach Truck rolls into Cincinnati on June 27, bringing farm-fresh peaches straight to you. Don't miss this seasonal treat!

🥫 Jun. 27 - CNE Cares Food Distribution: CNE Cares hosts its Summer Distribution at 463 S Broadway St in Owensville on June 27. New families must enter data before registering, and please don't line up before 4pm or block entrances.

🎲 Jun. 28 - Saturday Board Game Meetup: Roll the dice at Time Warp's Board Game Meet Up this Saturday! Bring your own games or try something from their library while making new friends at 4601 Eastgate Blvd. Tables open all day.

🏛️ Jun. 28 - Historic Grailville Tour: Step into the storied past of Grailville on June 28! Sacred Heritage Tours guides you through this spiritual landmark's historic buildings in Loveland, offering an inspiring glimpse into local heritage. Meet at 931 O'Bannonville Rd.

🧚 Jun. 28 - Madcap Puppets Fairy Tales: Giant puppets come to life at Union Township Civic Center Amphitheater on June 28! Madcap Puppets presents "Fantastic Fairy Tales" - a family-friendly show that will enchant audiences of all ages.

💰 Financial Friday

Consider building an emergency fund that covers three to six months' worth of expenses; this financial safety net can provide peace of mind and protect you from unexpected expenses or job loss.

🙏 In Remembrance

Jeannie T. Greco

Jeannie T. Greco was a devoted mother to Sarah and Samantha, and a loving grandmother to four grandchildren, as well as a daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. Her family was her greatest pride, and she expressed her nurturing spirit through unconditional love. An adventurous soul who enjoyed travel and outdoor activities, Jeannie also channeled her creativity through crafting and created a warm, welcoming home. Her strong Christian faith guided her life, and she brought joy to others through her professional work as a dental assistant and pharmacy technician, as well as through her goofy, talkative spirit that brightened every gathering.

Thomas Tillman

Thomas Nicholas Tillman, born June 26, 1969, passed away on June 22, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and love for family and friends. A graduate of Elder High School where he excelled in cross-country, Thomas worked as a financial advisor at Respect the Vet, helping veterans. Known as the "fun uncle" to his nephews and great-niece and nephews, he enjoyed fishing, golfing, and running. Visitation and Mass of Christian Burial will be held on June 27, 2025, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, with memorials directed to The YES Home instead of flowers.

Dossie Lee Washington Jr.

Dossie Lee Washington Jr., 64, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on Monday, June 16, 2025. Born on June 23, 1960, in Cincinnati, his family will announce service details at a later date. Well-wishers can leave messages on the online "Tribute Wall" for the Washington family. Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is handling arrangements, with additional information available by phone or website.

Michael P. McGill

Michael Patrick McGill, 77, passed away peacefully on June 18th, 2025, in Cincinnati, Ohio. A Kansas State University graduate and Army Reserves member, Mike worked at General Electric where he pioneered innovative processes for blow molded products and received recognition for his developments. After relocating to Cincinnati in 1990, he spent over 20 years as a consultant in his field. Mike is survived by his children, Michael Jr. and Shannon, four grandchildren, and his sister Nancy, having been predeceased by his wife of 51 years, Karen.

Michael E. Miller

Michael Miller passed away on June 23, 2025, at the age of 65. He was the son of the late Marvin and Molly Miller. Michael is survived by his brother Patrick and sister-in-law Patricia, as well as his nephews Nicholas, Sean, Spencer, and niece Harper. He was preceded in death by his brother Joseph. Funeral services will be announced later.

Dale John McCoy

Dale John McCoy, 81, of Delhi Township in Cincinnati, passed away on June 24, 2025, leaving behind his wife Linda, two children, and four grandchildren. He worked as a Probation Officer for Hamilton County Juvenile Court for 35 years, making a positive impact on many young people's lives. Dale enjoyed simple pleasures like playing cards, jogging, and relaxing on the porch with a drink and cigarette. He will be remembered for his readiness to engage in debates, help friends, and discuss life philosophy, with funeral services scheduled for July 1-2, 2025.

Stephanie Denise Smith

Stephanie Denise Smith, 53, of Covington, Kentucky, passed away on June 24, 2025, in Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky. Born on January 16, 1972, in Covington, she will be remembered during a visitation and funeral service at the Ninth Street Baptist Church on July 3, 2025. Following the funeral service, interment will take place at Highland Cemetery in Ft. Mitchell. The Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the Smith family with arrangements during this difficult time.

Brian J. Rich

Brian J. Rich, 61, passed away at home on June 22. He was the son of Carole and the late Paul Rich, Jr., partner to Lisa Lomboy Rich, and brother to Bruce, Vicki, and Lesley. Brian graduated from Withrow High School in 1982 and became a Journeyman electrician. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on July 1st at 11AM at St. Cecilia Parish in Oakley, with family receiving friends beforehand.

Pete Wietholter

Louis H. "Pete" Wietholter, 85, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2025. An Army veteran who served from 1958-1961, Pete worked as a meat cutter for over 60 years at IGA and Sam's Club. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, yard work, watching the Cincinnati Bengals and NASCAR, and had a great sense of humor. Pete is survived by his wife of 61 years, Janet; two children; eight grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and one sister, while being preceded in death by his daughter Diana and four siblings.

Jane Kelley

Mary "Jane" Kelley, born on November 9, 1939, passed away on June 23, 2025, at age 85. She was a devoted wife, mother to three children, grandmother to five, and an active 85-year member of St. Philomena Church where she sang in the choir and served on the bereavement committee. Jane was known for her unwavering support of her family, especially at her grandchildren's events, and for her upbeat spirit, sharp wit, and warm smile that brightened every gathering. She is preceded in death by her husband Thomas, her son Keith, her parents, and eight siblings, with services scheduled for July 2, 2025, at Evans Funeral Home and St. Philomena Church.

Alvin R. Curless

Alvin Russell Curless passed away on June 21, 2025, at age 84, having been born in Cincinnati in 1941. He was passionate about outdoor activities including landscaping, grilling, fishing, and camping, and was an enthusiastic fan of Cincinnati sports teams. Alvin was preceded in death by his wife Judy and is survived by his children Cynthia and Matt, along with five grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on July 3, 2025, at Evans Funeral Home in Milford, where attendees are encouraged to honor his memory by wearing his characteristic ball cap, plaid shirt, and blue jeans.

Richard W. "Rick" Zoz

Richard "Rick" W. Zoz, born February 27, 1951, in Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on June 22, 2025, at age 74. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Gail, his son Zachary, and granddaughters Taylor and Madison, with his daughter Molly and granddaughter Morgyn preceding him in death. Rick was passionate about golf and yard maintenance, but found his greatest joy in family, especially his granddaughters. His celebration of life will be held at Sacred Heart Church in Fairfield on June 30, with memorial contributions directed to Stephen T. Badin High School Athletics - Girls Golf Team.