Hamilton County • May 8, 2025
Good morning, Hamilton County. The phrase "Bearcat Spirit" has a new standard-bearer as Evan Phelps earns the prestigious Mr. Bearcat title for 2025. The recent UC graduate, whose journey included five co-op experiences and multiple leadership roles, represents the culmination of a tradition dating back to 1949. His story of unexpected campus involvement mirrors the transformative power of stepping outside one's comfort zone—something we could all draw inspiration from.
Meanwhile, Cincinnati's transportation future is taking shape as Metro unveils new rapid transit station plans at upcoming open houses. Community members can view renderings and provide feedback at four locations between May 14-16. In less promising news, approximately 1,500 EPA employees face uncertain futures amid a major reorganization that threatens to disrupt critical environmental research. Scientists working on drinking water safety and pollution prevention may soon find themselves competing for roughly 500 positions across reorganized departments.
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🐾 UC honors standout graduate Evan Phelps as 2025 Mr. Bearcat. The prestigious title, awarded by Sigma Sigma honorary fraternity since 1949, recognizes exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and embodiment of "Bearcat Spirit." Phelps, who graduated on May 2 with degrees in business economics and finance, was highlighted by Spectrum News 1 for his impressive accomplishments. During his time at UC, he completed five co-op experiences and held multiple executive leadership positions across various student organizations. "Never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd get involved as I did," Phelps reflected on his transformative university experience.
🚌 Cincinnati Metro reveals new rapid transit stations at May open houses. The community engagement events will showcase proposed station locations and names for the city's first Bus Rapid Transit corridors. Visitors can view maps, renderings, and speak directly with project staff at four different open house sessions between May 14-16. Metro officials emphasize that community feedback remains essential as they refine plans for improved mobility, access, and regional connectivity. Open houses will be held at Downtown Main Library, Bond Hill Recreation Center, and College Hill Recreation Center.
🌍 EPA reorganization threatens 1,500 jobs in Cincinnati and beyond. Hundreds of employees at Cincinnati's EPA facilities face uncertain futures as the agency plans to split research activities across different program offices. Administrator Lee Zeldin claims the reorganization will save $300 million by 2026 and improve efficiency, but union president Michael Ottlinger warns it will disrupt critical research on drinking water and pollution prevention. Scientists may be forced to abandon current projects as they compete for roughly 500 new positions across different departments. Employees are attempting to continue their important environmental work while facing the bizarre reality that their jobs may soon disappear.
Archbishop Moeller outlasted Elder 9-7 in a Greater Catholic slugfest Tuesday, pushing their impressive record to 14-2. The Fighting Crusaders held off a determined Panthers squad in what might be just the appetizer, as these Cincinnati rivals face off again Wednesday in what promises to be another barnburner.Walnut Hills finally found their groove, overwhelming Western Hills 9-2 in non-league action to improve to 4-10. The Eagles' bats came alive just in time for their upcoming Eastern Cincinnati showdown with the 10-7 Anderson Raptors, who just hammered Madeira 19-2 in their own Tuesday statement win.Lakota East made quick work of Colerain in a 14-0 mercy-rule shellacking, improving to 12-7 while leaving the Cardinals searching for answers. The Thunderhawks' dominant pitching performance sets up an intriguing crosstown rivalry game against 14-5 Lakota West on Wednesday.Oak Hills squeezed past Fairfield 5-4 in Greater Miami action, pushing the Highlanders to a solid 13-5 while the Indians fell to a disappointing 2-18. The nail-biter gives Oak Hills momentum heading into Wednesday's clash with Colerain, while Fairfield hopes to finally right the ship against
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
La Salle (8-8) | ||
@ Archbishop McNicholas | L 6-1 | |
Elder (7-8) | ||
@ Archbishop Moeller | L 9-7 | |
Walnut Hills (4-11) | ||
vs Western Hills | W 9-2 | |
Withrow (10-3) | ||
@ Shroder Paideia Academy | W 20-6 | |
Sycamore (8-10) | ||
vs Hamilton | W 8-7 | |
Oak Hills (13-6) | ||
vs Fairfield | W 5-4 | |
Colerain (8-9) | ||
vs Lakota East | L 14-0 | |
Indian Hill (13-5) | ||
vs Ross | W 13-3 | |
Mariemont (8-5) | ||
@ MVCA | W 10-2 | |
Madeira (15-7) | ||
vs Anderson | L 19-2 | |
Anderson (11-7) | ||
@ Madeira | W 19-2 | |
Purcell Marian (5-11) | ||
vs Cincinnati Country Day | L 6-1 | |
Archbishop McNicholas (10-7) | ||
vs La Salle | W 6-1 | |
Archbishop Moeller (14-2-1) | ||
vs Elder | W 9-7 |
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Sycamore (9-11) | ||
@ CHCA | W 11-7 | |
Colerain (4-13) | ||
vs Ross | L 19-7 | |
Anderson (5-7) | ||
vs Little Miami | L 7-5 |
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