Clermont County • September 30, 2025
Good morning, Clermont County. Beneath the waters of history, a Cold War relic resurfaces in Butler County. The USS Cincinnati's conning tower has found a new home at Voice of America Park, anchoring a $9.5 million memorial that promises to transport visitors back to a pivotal era. When completed in 2026, this 360-foot replica—complete with the sub's original "Big Red Machine" diesel engine—will offer free educational experiences with submarine veterans occasionally on hand to share firsthand accounts.
Meanwhile, transitions are reshaping local institutions as Thane Maynard announces his departure after nearly 20 years at the Cincinnati Zoo's helm, while Hamilton County communities seek innovative ways to reconnect neighborhoods divided by decades-old infrastructure barriers. From submarines to suburbs, the region continues to navigate the delicate balance between preserving history and building bridges toward a more connected future.
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🚢 Cold War nuclear submarine rises again in Butler County park. The USS Cincinnati's original conning tower has been installed as part of a $9.5 million memorial at West Chester Township's Voice of America Park. The 360-foot replica will include the sub's preserved emergency diesel engine, nicknamed "the big Red machine" after the 1970s Cincinnati Reds. Opening in mid-May 2026, the free attraction aims to educate visitors about Cold War history while inspiring students to pursue STEM careers. Submarine veterans will serve as docents on special holidays to share their experiences.
🦁 Cincinnati Zoo director Thane Maynard announces departure after nearly 20 years. After 48 years with the zoo, he will become executive chair of the board in January 2026, with COO Dave Jenike taking over as director. Meanwhile, Xavier University launched a $500 million capital campaign and announced automatic admission for regional high school students with a 3.5 GPA. Other local developments include JBM Packaging's $7 million expansion in Lebanon and Four Entertainment Group opening a new retro-themed bar in OTR. The article concludes with a farewell message from the reporter, who is leaving Cincinnati to move closer to family in Pennsylvania.
🚂 Hamilton County's divided communities seek reconnection solutions. Planners are gathering public input on how to bridge barriers created by I-75 and railways in six northern Cincinnati suburbs. Residents in Arlington Heights, Evendale, Lincoln Heights, Lockland, Reading, and Sharonville will share ideas at three October sessions about improving connectivity. The initiative aims to enhance safety, access to necessities, and economic development while preserving each community's unique character. "We're basically locked in here," says Lockland Mayor Mark Mason, highlighting how infrastructure has isolated these neighborhoods for decades.
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