Loveland, Ohio – Loveland City School District has been honored with the “Best Communities for Music Education” designation from the NAMM Foundation. Districts earn this recognition for outstanding achievement in providing music access and education to all students.
“We are incredibly proud of the music opportunities we provide students at every step of their journey through Loveland City Schools, from the first introductions to music for our youngest students, to the amazing performances of our high school band, orchestra, and choir groups. Thank you to our Loveland music teachers and musicians at every level for their outstanding work.” Superintendent Mike Broadwater said.
This is the first time Loveland has earned the “Best Communities for Music Education” honor.
To qualify, districts complete detailed questionnaires about their music programs, including instruction time, participation, and community support. The NAMM Foundation has recognized communities for their outstanding music education programs for 26 years.
“The ‘Best Communities for Music Education’ designation is truly a community award. This honor would not be possible without the army of parents and volunteers who support our programs, including the Loveland Performing Arts Boosters. Thank you to everyone who supports our students,” Broadwater said.
To learn more about the Best Communities for Music Education designation and the NAMM Foundation, follow this link to their website.
Since the legal sale of medical marijuana began in January 2019, The Drug Enforcement and Policy Center at The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law has distributed an annual survey regarding the Medical Marijuana Control Program (MMCP). As Ohio enters another year of medical marijuana sales, they are again distributing a survey to active and prospective medical marijuana patients, in an effort to assess their experiences and satisfaction with the MMCP to date. If you are interested in participating, you may share your insights by taking this survey, which will take approximately 5-10 minutes to complete.
Please note this survey is conducted by The Ohio State University Drug Enforcement and Policy Center and is not affiliated with the MMCP or the Division of Cannabis Control.
Medical Marijuana Control Program
Individuals using or considering using cannabis are encouraged to consult with a physician, and Medical Marijuana Control Program (MMCP) patients are encouraged to remain within the MMCP. Doing so ensures the patient is speaking with a physician about their qualifying condition and maintains access to medical marijuana at operational marijuana dispensaries. Furthermore, active MMCP patients are provided with access to medical marijuana specific discounts that may be offered at dispensaries as well as being exempt from the 10% excise tax levied on non-medical sales per the approved statute.
It is important to note employers have discretion to establish their own drug-free workplace policies. Some individual employers have chosen to take the status of an employee as a medical marijuana patient into consideration. Similar considerations have been given for individuals under court supervision who are medical marijuana patients.
Patients and caregivers can find more information and resources here.
Find a CTR
A physician must be certified with the State Medical Board of Ohio to recommend medical marijuana. You can find a list of physicians with a certificate to recommend here.
Find a Dispensary
If you have an active medical marijuana physician recommendation and patient or caregiver card, you may purchase medical marijuana from a licensed Ohio dispensary.
Small Business Day – The Deal Zone: Secure Your Spot Before Midnight!
Hamilton County’s Third Annual Small Business Day is just around the corner, and one of the event’s biggest highlights is The Deal Zone — an exclusive opportunity to connect directly with major companies looking for local suppliers.
Even if you haven’t registered for Small Business Day, you can still secure a Deal Zone appointment — but you must sign up by 11:59 p.m. tonight. Walk-ins are welcome at Small Business Day (doors open at 8 a.m.), but Deal Zone appointments must be reserved in advance to guarantee an appointment.
Participants can choose one 15-minute session with a company of their choice. Companies include CVG Airport, Skanska USA, Turner Construction, The Model Group, and more. Want to meet with more than one? You can meet additional organizations during the Deal Zone open networking session from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. (spots not guaranteed).
Tip: bring a capability statement — a one-page summary of your services and contact information. This helps companies understand what you offer and makes your time more impactful.
Small Business Day Details:
Location: The Cintas Center, 1624 Musketeer Dr, Cincinnati, OH 45207
Date: Monday, May 12
Time: Doors open at 8 a.m. (Deal Zone from 10 a.m. to noon, Deal Zone Open Networking from noon to 1:00 p.m.)
Don’t miss this chance to connect with industry leaders and grow your business. Secure your Deal Zone appointment before midnight!
How it Works:
To participate in the Deal Zone, you must sign-up in advance! Sign-up starts April 21st at 8:00 AM
Each participant may register for ONE 15-minute session with ONE of the 14 companies.
Please note: If you would like to meet with more than one company, or your first-choice is full, you will have an opportunity to connect with additional organizations at the Deal Zone’s open session from 12:00pm – 1:00pm.
Sign-Up Information: Sign-up for one 15-minute appointment with the company of your choice.
Day of Schedule: The Deal Zone will host pre-scheduled appointments from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. From 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., the Deal Zone will host an open session, giving an opportunity for walk-ins and all participants to connect with companies in an open-house-style format.
What to Bring: Please bring a capability statement, or a one-page description of your services, including your contact information.
Appointment changes, cancellations and late policy: If you need to cancel or change your pre-scheduled appointment, please do so online at your earliest convenience. If you are late to your scheduled appointment, know that you may lose your spot.
When: Monday, May 12th. See the below schedule for specific times:
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Pre-scheduled appointments in 15-minute increments.
12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Open Session
Deal Zone Partners:
3CDC– 3CDC is a non-profit, real estate development, property management, and finance organization focused on strategically revitalizing Cincinnati’s downtown urban core in partnership with the City of Cincinnati and the Cincinnati corporate community. Our work is specifically focused on the Central Business District and in Over-the-Rhine. 3CDC is looking for general trade contractors such as electrical, site work, plumbing, etc.
Cincinnati Metro– Metro is Southwest Ohio’s fixed-route bus service, which serves Hamilton County residents in addition to providing commuter routes from Clermont, Butler and Warren counties into Cincinnati. Metro is a non-profit, tax-funded public service of the Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), having provided 10 million rides in 2022 in the Greater Cincinnati area. Metro’s mission is to provide regional transportation connecting people and places, driving economic growth and expanding quality of life. Metro’s vision is a regional system connecting our community with 20 million rides by 2026. Cincinnati Metro is lookin for general trade contractors such as electrical, plumbing, evacating, concrete and blacktop, etc, architectural and engineering firms, marketing and advertising agencies, facility cleaning, construction cleanup, outreach and consulting agencies, bus part suppliers, petroleum suppliers, office material supplies.
Cincinnati Metropolitan Housing Authority– For more than 80 years the agency has provided quality, affordable rental housing opportunities for individuals and families throughout the county. The agency operates or administers three separate programs. Asset Management consists of 5,309 units owned and managed by CMHA. The Housing Choice Voucher can administer Housing Assistance Payments for over 11,600 households. The agency also operates 274 units of other affordable rental housing.
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden– Cincinnati Zoo & Botantical Garden the second oldest zoo in the United States and is dedicated to creating adventure, conveying knowledge, conserving nature, and serving the community. At its core lies an abundance of biodiversity, featuring over 400 species of animals and 3,000 plant species. It is also a world-renowned leader in the areas of endangered species reproduction, groundbreaking education collaboratives, and green practices.
CVG Airport- Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport is a public international airport located in Boone County, Kentucky, United States, around the community of Hebron. The airport serves the Cincinnati tri-state area. In 2022, CVG had a $9.3 billion annual economic impact. This is a $6 billion increase over the past 10 years, according to a recent study conducted by the University of Cincinnati Economics Center based on 2022 data. In 2022, CVG supported more than 49,000 direct and indirect jobs with the Cincinnati MSA. CVG Airport is looking to work with HVAC subcontractors, general construction contractors and a variety of material suppliers.
Greater Cincinnati Water Works– GCWW employees provide customers with a plentiful supply of high-quality water, support environmental sustainability, and deliver excellent services in a financially responsible manner. Greater Cincinnati Water Works has been a municipally owned and operated utility since it was purchased by the City of Cincinnati in 1839. GCWW is currently working on the lead line replacement program and is looking to work with plumbing contractors, general construction contractors, child care agencies, and children and health consultants.
Messer Construction Co.– Construction manager and general contractor that creates stunning buildings and stronger communities through a commitment to safety; quality; innovation; and diversity, equity and inclusion. We are honored and grateful for the work we get to do across our 11 regions. Messer Construction is looking for general trade contractors, mechanical, electrical and plumbing contractors, masonry, catering companies, construction material suppliers. They have asked for no marketing or IT agenices.
Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati– MSD collects and treats wastewater from Greater Cincinnati communities, protecting the environment and public health by returning clean water to local rivers and streams.MSD is a local wastewater utility that provides sewer service to about 232,000 households and businesses in the City of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, Ohio. MSD’s service area encompasses 290+ square miles and serves 43 or 49 communities in Hamilton County as well as small parts of Butler, Clermont, and Warren counties. MSD operates and maintains more than 3,000 miles of public sewers, about 100 pump stations, 9 wet weather facilities, 9 wastewater treatment plants, and the Lick Run Greenway in South Fairmount.
Prus Construction Company– Prus Construction is a family-owned concrete construction company, delivering superior results for over a century. In five generations we’ve grown to be a forward-thinking company with six divisions and operations in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana.
Skanksa USA Building Inc.- Skanska is one of the largest, most financially sound construction and development companies in the U.S., serving a broad range of clients including those in transportation, power, industrial, water/wastewater, healthcare, education, sports, data centers, government, aviation and commercial.
Model Group- Model Group is a real estate development and construction company and a recognized leader in mixed-use urban development, neighborhood revitalization, senior living communities, historic preservation, and high-impact affordable housing that is indistinguishable from market-rate housing.
The Port of Greater Cincinnati- The Port of Greater Cincinnati Development Authority is a public agency that partners with the City of Cincinnati and Hamilton County officials, along with economic development organizations, municipalities, and foundations to ensure every acre of local real estate is developed into its highest and best use. Specifically, The Port works to redevelop manufacturing and residential real estate to build the foundation of job creation and livable, revitalized communities so our residents can experience economic prosperity.
Turner Construction Company– Turner is a North American-based, international construction services company and a leading builder in diverse market segments. The company has earned recognition for undertaking large and complex projects, fostering innovation, embracing emerging technologies, and making a difference for its clients, employees, and community. With over 11,000 employees, the company completes $17 billion of construction on 1,500 projects each year.
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital– Cincinnati Children’s is a nonprofit, comprehensive pediatric health system. As the leader in research and education, Cincinnati Children’s is consistently ranked as one of America’s best children’s hospitals by U.S. News & World Report and is one of the top recipients of pediatric research grants from the National Institutes of Health. Cincinnati’s Children’s Hospital is looking for HVAC contractors, coffee and water service and suppliers, vending services, chemical waste collection, laundry and linen distribution and services, logistics and freight transports.
Walsh Kokosing Joint Venture (WKJV)- Walsh Construction and Kokosing, two premier construction service providers, have teamed to build two significant bridge projects in Cincinnati. For the Western Hills Viaduct Replacement, we are the Walsh Kokosing Joint Venture. For the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor project, we are the Walsh Kokosing Design-Build Team, with team members AECOM and Jacobs for design. Walsh Construction and Kokosing, two premier construction service providers, have teamed to build two significant bridge projects in Cincinnati; Western Hills Viaduct Replacement and the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor project. Walsh/Kokosing Joint Venture and Make It Plain Consulting are currently looking for general construction contractors, catering companies, child care agencies for the Brent Spence Bridge Project.
Monarch Construction- Monarch Construction Company is a full-service general contractor based in Cincinnati, Ohio, serving Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana since 1963. Monarch has specialized in the construction of commercial and institutional projects ranging in size from $5 million to $65 million. Monarch is a true full-service general contractor; providing conceptual design, estimating, constructability review service, self-performing concrete, carpentry work and project management from groundbreaking through closeout. Monarch Construction is looking for all general contracting work.
For any questions, please contact Erica Thomas, Small Business Development Specialist, Economic Inclusion and Equity at erica.thomas@hamiltoncountyohio.gov or call 513-946-4323.
Loveland, Ohio – The 3rd episode of Courtney Explains it All features an individual named Jason Yockey who is both a business owner and a fantastic self-advocate! Jason Yockey started his very own DJ business and so far, has seen a lot of success! Since he started about three years ago, Jason has DJ’d two weddings with the help of his friend David, a yearly campground event, about once a month at Empowered, and Fairfield Junior High’s 8th-grade dance. He has also done Empower’s all-state Banquet in Springfield, Ohio, and Our Lady of Victory’s Trike-a-Thon fundraiser.
During my vlog episode, I asked Jason how he started his business, what he likes about being a DJ, and how he’s advocated for himself and others with disabilities. I hope you enjoy this episode, and our conversation makes you think about how you can help others with disabilities start their own business or do something they are passionate about!
In April, 2025 Courtney took her advocacy on the road to Washington, D.C., to attend the Disability Policy Seminar and Advocacy Day. While in D.C., Courtney met many disability and inclusion fellow advocates, shared her story, and explained why disability policies are vital to the developmental disability community with several U.S. legislators.”
My desire is that you will find the following organizations helpful as we continue our journey together!
Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities
The Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities supports over 4,100 Butler County Residents. Supports and services are available life-long through contracts with partner agencies or directly provided by our Board.
Founded in 1967, the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities supports over 4,100 people. Supports and services are available life-long through partner agencies or directly provided by our Board.
Much of our services go beyond the walls of our facilities and take place in the community. The Board’s supports are geared toward the philosophy of person-centered thinking, which places the individual at the center of decisions made about the services they receive. We are committed to helping people determine their dreams and helping to make those dreams come true.
Hamilton County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services (HCDDS) is a government social services agency established by state law. For more than 50 years, HCDDS has provided educational, vocational, and residential support and services to thousands of individuals with developmental disabilities (DD). Each year, we support approximately 7,300 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout their lives, from babies through seniors, by providing case management, monitoring service quality, and funding services provided by our community partners.
We treat each person we serve as a unique individual and connect them to services to reflect the life they want. By collaborating with more than 1,000 certified providers, we’re able to support people to live a life that is important and meaningful to them, on their own terms.
Clermont County Board of Developmental Disabilities
The mission of the Clermont County Board of Developmental Disabilities is to help those we serve expand capabilities and navigate the possibilities. We envision a culture comprised of inclusive communities where people with disabilities thrive and live a life on their own terms. Individuals and families served by the Clermont County Board of DD have the right of choice and flexibility regarding what, how and where services are provided. Individuals and families will be empowered to make decisions, become partners and work cooperatively with professionals, and exert control over the services provided to them.
Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities
The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities provides services and supports to over 2,400 people in Warren County who have developmental disabilities. The mission of the board is supporting people with disabilities and their families to achieve what is important to them. The Board employs 127 people in full and part time positions. We operate out of four locations in Warren County, and have an annual budget of $30,500,000.00. More than 65% of our revenue is derived from local levy funds.
Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council
The mission of the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council (Ohio DD Council) is to create change that improves independence, productivity and inclusion for people with developmental disabilities and their families in community life. The Ohio DD Council operates under the authority of the federal Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (DD Act) and is a part of the Ohio DD Network. The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities assists and supports the Ohio DD Council as the federally mandated designated state agency.
“Disability organizations across the country are waiting to receive federal funding that Congress approved in March while also bracing for the possibility of more cuts.” (Image by Thinkstock)
President Donald Trump wants to cut $163 billion in federal spending next year, potentially zeroing out key disability programs, some of which are already pausing services because they’re running out of money.
The White House unveiled a budget summary late last week known as a “skinny budget” that calls on Congress to slash funding for non-defense discretionary spending by 22.6% for the fiscal year starting in October. This would affect programs that Congress reauthorizes annually, but does not include mandatory programs like Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security.
The summary offers little detail about how many disability programs would be impacted. However, a widely circulated budget document leaked last month from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers clues. That document shows that the Trump administration wants to eliminate funding for protection and advocacy agencies, state councils on developmental disabilities, the lifespan respite program and university centers on developmental disabilities, among other programs, advocates say.
“Level funding IDEA in particular — as proposed by the White House — is actually a cut,” said Denise S. Marshall, CEO of the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, or COPAA, a nonprofit that advocates for the rights of students with disabilities and their families. That’s because funding has been static since 2023 even as the number of students with disabilities has grown, she said.
Loveland, Ohio – Founded in 2005, BRS Insurance partners Carey Bush and Bill Re set out to build on their years of insurance experience to deliver the most comprehensive buying experience for their clients. Prior to founding BRS, Carey and Bill worked for a large, multi-national insurance carrier and as management consultants with a number of companies within the insurance industry. As a result, they understand how insurance companies work from the inside out. Together, they built an insurance agency that provides their clients with a comprehensive buying experience and a high level of claims service. https://www.brsinsurance.com/ BRS Insurance
“Worry Less with BRS” in the West Loveland Historic District with free parking.
Loveland, Ohio – The 12th Annual Loveland Food Truck Rally is rolling back into town—bigger and better than ever! Join us on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 12 PM to 8 PM at Shopper’s Haven Plaza (597 Loveland-Madeira Rd.) for an unforgettable day of delicious eats, family fun, and community spirit—all with free admission!
Enjoy a wide selection of food from 30 food trucks offering something for everyone. Beverages will be available for purchase, including beer, wine, seltzers, soda, and water while enjoying live music to keep party vibes going all day and into the evening.
But that’s not all—join forces with the Loveland Police Department as we stuff-a-truck with non-perishable donations for the Loveland LIFE Food Pantry. And for the little ones, there’s a jam-packed children’s area featuring inflatables, face painting, and more excitement!
Additionally, we will be kicking Fentanyl to the Curb with beverage tips Supporting the Do it for Jack Foundation.
The food truck rally kicks off at 12:00 PM with local performances from Premier Tumbling & Dance, then the one and only Naked Karate Girls take the stage and get the party started at 1:00PM. Stay and play and catch the Counting Skeletons rockin us through the evening until close at 8:00PM. If you can’t get enough, swing by for a take-out order to enjoy the flavor fest at home!
Be sure to enjoy the Children’s Zone play area and bring along your pet for the NEW Pet Zone complete with a water station and treats!
Best of all, entrance is free, and you can indulge in mouthwatering eats priced at just $6-$10 per item.
Food trucks in attendance:
Adena’s Beefstroll
Best Thing Smokin
Big Dogs Pizza
Cheese N Chong
Chef Shack Food Truck
City Belle Fried Pies
Daizie’s Dillas
Dine-In Hawaiian
El Cardenal taqueria
FolksNMotionLLC
Funnel Vision
Graeter’s Ice Cream
Just Jerks
Kabobske
Kona Ice of NE Cincinnati
Lazy Dogs
MamaBear’s Mac
Maw Maw’s Creole Kitchen
Nou Street Food
Off The Hook
Quad Que BBQ
Quite Frankly LLC
Red sesame korean bbq
S.E.A. Cuisine Ohio LLC
Schmidt’s Sausage Truck
Steak It Eazy
Streetpops
Sweets & Meats BBQ
The Cheesecakery
Twisted Greek
Schedule of events:
12pm-1pm: Premier Dance & Tumbling
1pm -4pm: Naked Karate Girls
4:30-8pm: Counting Skeletons
The event is currently at capacity for food truck vendors. Parking is available at the Primary School across the street and in the Goodwill lot just a block from the event.
Loveland, Ohio – The Loveland High School Student Athletic Leadership Team (SALT) has launched their Relay for Life in support of the American Cancer Society. Their goal is to raise $20,000. Follow this link to make a donation to support the students in this effort or purchase a luminaria bag to dedicate to someone who has battled or is battling cancer.
Relay for Life will be taking place on May 9, 2025, at the high school track. Questions? Contact Brian Baugh at baughbr@lovelandschools.org.
Detour will utilize Wall Street to Fallis Road to Rich Road.
Loveland, Ohio – The Loveland Police Department has announced on FaceBook that West Loveland Avenue will be closed daily at Cherokee Drive between 8:30 AM and 2:30 PM from April 23 until April 25. They said that weather may affect the project dates.
The City will be replacing the water main in the Loveland Heights neighborhood. A new public water main will be installed where currently only a private main exists.
Loveland, Ohio – April is the Month of the Military Child and Loveland City Schools honored students who have a close family member serving in the armed forces by wearing purple on Tuesday, April 15, for Purple Up! Day.
The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce announced that Loveland Middle and High Schools received Purple Star designations as members of the Purple Star Class of 2025. Purple Star schools show a significant commitment to serving students and families connected to our nation’s armed forces.
Loveland Middle and High Schools first earned their Purple Star Award in 2024.
The Purple Star Award recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and families connected to our nation’s military. Schools that earn the award will receive a special Purple Star recognition to display.
A school will be honored with the Purple Star Award if it completes all the required activities, plus one optional activity. The Purple Star Advisory Board helps decide a school’s eligibility for the award.
To learn more about the Best Communities for Music Education designation and the NAMM Foundation, follow this link to their website.
Contact and hire Jason – 513-290-9657
Donate to Jason via 
Courtney Hineman is a disability rights advocate. She is the Community Outreach Advocate at the 
Clermont County Board of Developmental Disabilities
The food truck rally kicks off at 12:00 PM with local performances from Premier Tumbling & Dance, then the one and only Naked Karate Girls take the stage and get the party started at 1:00PM. Stay and play and catch the Counting Skeletons rockin us through the evening until close at 8:00PM. If you can’t get enough, swing by for a take-out order to enjoy the flavor fest at home!
The Purple Star Award recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and families connected to our nation’s military. Schools that earn the award will receive a special Purple Star recognition to display.
