Education

One Device, Big Difference

Vision Nonprofit Unlocks Potential in Local Low Vision Children Article by A.J. Lape | Photography by Len Kaltman When West Chester couple Eric and Jillian Hintz first learned their son Joey had low vision caused by congenital nystagmus, their world shifted, but so did their purpose. They saw firsthand how the right tools could change everything—how technology could help Joey not just adapt but thrive. Fueled by love and a fierce determination to clear a path for their son, the Hintzes turned...

Life + Culture

Tail-Wagging Approval

Brewhaus Bakes with Purpose Article by A.J. Lape | Photography by Cara Jonas Photography Peanut butter? Check. Dough mixed in the 60-quart commercial mixer? Check. Locally sourced eggs, donated craft beer grains and a no-junk promise? Triple check. At Brewhaus Bakery and Dog Bones in Cincinnati, every batch of dog treats begins with care—from premium, all-natural ingredients to a purpose-driven workspace where employees with disabilities find pride in every biscuit. What started as Lisa...

Education

Springboard to Success

Springer School and Center is a Game Changer for Students with ADHD + Learning Disabilities Article by Tera Michelson | Photography by Amanda Lippert Photography By the time Molly and Erick Blenk contacted Springer Diagnostic Center, they already suspected that their daughter Fiona had dyslexia. The tipping point was when they saw their eight-year-old’s confidence taking a nosedive. With a short six weeks of help at the Center, Fiona had a diagnosis, a personalized action plan, a team of...

Education

Student Safety

Local Dad + Security Expert Invents a Low-Profile Protective Barrier Article by Tera Michelson | Photography by Len Kaltman + Provided As we send children back to school, safety is top of mind for many. Local parent Michael Rush took his thoughts about security to the next level, using his experience to invent a practical device that protects children in classrooms. Wingshield acts as a functional whiteboard for daily use and an impenetrable doorblock in case of emergency. “I was a federal...

Education

Dog Days

Lakota’s Therapy Dogs Are Excited to Go Back to School Article by Tera Michelson | Photography by Len Kaltman + Romey Shields It’s the dog days of summer, but soon it will be time for Lakota’s team of therapy dogs to get back to school, where they’ll be busy providing unconditional love and support to Lakota students and staff. Executive Director of Pupil Services Andrea Longworth is top dog of the program for Lakota Local Schools. She arranges for these specially trained dogs and matches them...

Entertainment

Pedal Power

Explore Hamilton with a Ride on the Pour House Pedal Wagon Article by Mike Burcham | Photography by Amanda Lippert Photography Rafael and Toni Salem are driven by positivity and opportunity. While vacationing in Florida in 2022, the couple spotted a self-service bar concept that sparked inspiration. Just nine months later, they brought that vision to life in Hamilton with the opening of The Pour House—a self-pour drinking establishment offering 42 taps of beer, seltzers, ciders, wine and...

Travel

Hooray for Dollywood

Celebrating 40 Years of Thrills, Music + Mountain Magic at Dolly Parton’s Theme Park Article by Michelle Moody | Photography by Provided by Dollywood Parks & Resorts + Michelle Moody Nestled in the foothills of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Dollywood is more than just a theme park—it’s a celebration of Southern charm, mountain heritage and the enduring spirit of Dolly Parton. From the scent of fresh-baked cinnamon bread wafting through the air to the rush of wind on each of its ten roller coasters...

Education

Community Hub

Find Your Fit at the New MidPointe Library Liberty Article by Tera Michelson | Photography by Len Kaltman The wait is over! MidPointe Library Liberty opened in June with much excitement and fanfare at its new facility at 6716 Yankee Road in Liberty Township. After enjoying six and a half years at Liberty Center mall, the branch has expanded into the third largest in the MidPointe System. The curved front of the modern structure welcomes the community with outstretched arms, a warm invitation...

Sports + Recreation

Cincitucky Trails

Founder Brian Bozeman Shines a Light on the Region’s Trail Network Article by Rob Pasquinucci | Photography by Bonnie Phillips Smoothly pedaling under a canopy of trees along the Little Miami River. A bumpy descent over rocks and tree roots on the Tower Park off-road trail. A bike-friendly stop for a post-ride coffee or beer. Outdoor trails and gathering spots are an underrated asset in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky—but Brian Bozeman, founder of Cincitucky Trails, wants to change that. ...

Local Services

Tradition + Progress

Meet West Chester Township’s New Police Chief Brian Rebholz Article by A.J. Lape | Photography by Cara Jonas Photography As West Chester Township’s new Police Chief, Brian Rebholz, steps into a new title, he’s continuing a 32-year journey of service, leadership and community connection. From his early days as a K-9 officer to his time as a detective and SWAT team member, Rebholz has built a career around his commitment to teamwork, adaptability and a deep respect for those he serves. Now, as...