🧊 Bearcat budget cool

Good morning, Clermont County. The thermometer may be climbing, but Cincinnati's college students are finding budget-friendly ways to beat the heat. From free outdoor movies at Washington Park to paddling the Ohio River, the Queen City offers a treasure trove of affordable summer adventures. Those Bearcat IDs are unlocking more than just classrooms—they're the key to discounted museum visits, Reds games, and cultural experiences that won't drain those summer job earnings.

Meanwhile, drama unfolds in Newtown as Mayor Mark Kobasuk resigns amid a federal lawsuit filed by Police Chief Tom Synan alleging harassment and retaliation. The resignation comes just as Cincinnati welcomes Mark Riley as its new Director of Public Services. The veteran administrator steps into the role at a critical time, inheriting responsibility for everything from pothole repairs to trash collection as the city navigates budget challenges and recent criticism over service delivery.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Loveland

70°

84°

Milford

70°

84°

Batavia

68°

82°

80%

New Richmond

69°

85°

Bethel

69°

80°

88%

Williamsburg

68°

82°

80%

Owensville

70°

84°

Felicity

69°

80°

88%

Moscow

67°

82°

88%

Neville

69°

80°

88%

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🌞 Cincinnati sizzles with budget-friendly summer adventures for college students. From free outdoor movie nights at Washington Park to kayaking on the Ohio River, the Queen City offers countless ways to enjoy summer without breaking the bank. Students can explore vibrant festivals like Cincy Soul Food Fest, cool off with iconic Graeter's ice cream, or escape to nearby hiking spots in Mount Airy Forest. Your Bearcat ID unlocks student discounts at museums, concerts, and Reds games, making it easy to experience Cincinnati's rich culture even on a tight budget.

🚨 Newtown mayor quits amid police chief's "vendetta" lawsuit. Mayor Mark Kobasuk resigned after buying a home in Kentucky, leaving amid serious allegations from Police Chief Tom Synan. The federal lawsuit claims Kobasuk engaged in "relentless harassment, bullying, retaliation and defamation" after Synan refused to participate in what he believed was an illegal scheme. The feud allegedly began in 2016 when Synan reported concerns about the mayor's plan to force out an employee. Despite his resignation, Kobasuk expressed confidence in the village's continued progress under new leadership.

🛣️ Cincinnati taps Mark Riley to fix potholes and handle trash. Riley, who previously worked in several Ohio cities including Reynoldsburg, started Monday as the new director of the Department of Public Services. He replaces Jerry Wilkerson, who is retiring in September after more than 30 years with the city. City Manager Sheryl Long sought a leader who understands data and budget priorities as Cincinnati faces financial deficits and climate change challenges. The department recently faced criticism from City Council over snow removal failures, but the new budget includes increased funding and promised technological upgrades for public services.

Brick ranch on peaceful culdesac: This brick ranch home on a .65-acre cul-de-sac lot is listed at $225,000. It features three bedrooms, an eat-in kitchen, garage plus carport, two storage sheds, and a patio overlooking a spacious backyard.

Renovated gem with private yard: For $249,900, snag this fully renovated 3-bedroom home featuring a large private yard, newer roof, upgraded kitchen, updated bath, and fresh flooring throughout. This gem won't stay on the market long.

Quiet Milford ranch plus warranty: This solid brick ranch in Milford is going for $245,000, offering one-floor living on a large lot in a quiet cul-de-sac, with the seller throwing in a home warranty.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🥫 Jul. 1 - MercyWorks Food Pantry: Feed your community spirit at MercyWorks Food Pantry every Tuesday at 5pm! Stop by 1300 White Oak Rd in Amelia if you're in need or want to lend a helping hand as a volunteer.

🩺 Jul. 2 - Mobile Mammography Screenings: TriHealth Mobile Mammography brings life-saving screenings to Batavia Township Community Center on July 2. Women 40+ and high-risk women 30-39 can access convenient 3D mammography services at 1535 Clough Pike.

🥫 Jul. 3 - CNE Cares Food Distribution: CNE Cares hosts their Summer Distribution at 463 S Broadway St in Owensville on July 3. New families must enter data before registering, and please don't line up before 4pm or block entrances.

🎲 Jul. 3 - Thursday Board Game Night: Roll the dice at Time Warp Cards and Comics' Thursday Board Game night on July 3! Bring friends or meet new ones while trying games from their library at 4601 Eastgate Blvd in Cincinnati.

🎭 Jul. 5 - Lori's Secret Party: The Cardboard Boat Museum hosts a private gathering on July 5th. While this event isn't open to the public, keep an eye out for upcoming community happenings at this charming New Richmond venue.

🎆 Jul. 5 - Bishops' Independence Day Bash: Kick off Independence Day weekend with Woodside Church's celebration at the Bishops' home! Join the community festivities on Saturday, July 5 at 85 W Main St in Amelia for a star-spangled good time.

🔥 Jul. 5 - North Perimeter Breach: Join the thrilling "Fire Watch" mission at Parker's Airsoft Field on July 5! Breach the North perimeter, take out machine gun nests, and hunt down PFC Gator's elite OP-IV team in this action-packed tactical challenge.

🙏 In Remembrance

Paul Bauer Huelsebusch

Paul (Pete) Bauer Huelsebusch, born in Cincinnati in 1951, died on June 26, 2025, from complications following open heart surgery. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sandra, three children, two grandchildren, siblings, and extended family members, while his parents preceded him in death. Pete was dedicated to his family, having met his wife in 4th grade, and built a log cabin home in Pleasant Plain, OH where they raised their family. He worked as a business and finance teacher and tennis coach, imparting both technical knowledge and practical common sense to his students, and recently expressed feeling like "the luckiest man on earth" for the people and experiences in his life.