Loveland, Ohio – The agenda for the 6 PM Tuesday, December 3 meeting of the Loveland Planing and Zoning Commission has now been published. The meeting that was cancelled and rescheduled is to consider the proposal to construct 12 single family homes for Riverside Drive in the West Loveland Historic District.
POPULAR CARD GAME CHARACTERS COME TO LIFE IN GRAPHIC NOVEL ‘TACO CAT GOAT CHEESE PIZZA AND THE CASE OF THE MISSING HAT’.
Loveland Author Jenna Schroeder
Loveland, Ohio – The beloved characters of an iconic family card game are now coming to life in a new graphic novel. Youth readers and their parents may now learn more of the characters’ individual backstories in “Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza and the Case of the Missing Hat” ($14.99, Dolphin Hat Games, ISBN: 9798219358129), featuring the primary characters of the family game by the same name.
Like the Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza game, with sales topping eight million worldwide, the “Case of the Missing Hat” is for children ages seven and older. Written by Jenna Schroeder, the hardcover book features colorful Manga-style illustrations by Yamerpro, aka Mandy E, who was among the initial illustrators for the game. Schroeder and Yamerpro met through Dolphin Hat Games, collaborating on a book project for the first time.
As the longtime communications director for the family-run Dolphin Hat Games, which created and launched Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza in 2017, Schroeder explained the inspiration for the new work originated after the card game achieved global popularity. Schroeder also had long-term familiarity with the game characters as her brother, Dave Campbell, created the game, which contributed to Dolphin Hat’s growth into a large family business that opened in 2012.
“After championing these game characters for several years, I began to think about what their shared adventures might resemble and how I could make their world come alive for fans to enjoy,” said Schroeder, “Soon after writing my first children’s book, ‘Are Enchanted Forests Real?,’ the story of ‘Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza and the Case of the Missing Hat’ flowed out of me.”
“When I first shared the book concept with Dave, he said he felt strong connections with the personalities created from his characters, and he generously entrusted me with the opportunity to bring them to life,” added Schroeder. “He loved the story, and we both knew it was something that had to be in this world, so we combined our superpowers to create more laughter and smiles on kids’ faces with these funny, happy game heroes.” Schroeder also said that when she would write a scene and how she wanted it to look, Mandy E would amplify it in the best and most comedic ways with her artwork.
“Once Dave greenlit this project, Mandy and I worked together tirelessly and seamlessly for a year to bring it to fruition,” said Schroeder. “Both of us have grown with the characters since their origination, and as I created their personalities and expanded their world, Mandy E was aligned every step of the way.”
Schroeder wrote the book’s cover notes to explain how the fan-favorite characters leaped from cards to the comic-style narrative:
What happens when characters from the infamous card game Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza fall out of the game box and go on an epic adventure? You are about to find out! Join Taco Cat Goat Cheese and Pizza as they attempt to crack the case of the missing hat! Dive into a world of silliness, friendship, and laughter as these endearing characters take you on a knee-slapping story in a world all their own. With positive themes and eye-catching artwork, new and old Taco Cat fans alike will not want this incredible adventure to end!
In step with the book’s initial availability via Amazon and the Dolphin Hat website, Schroder will appear with Campbell for book signings and gameplay at a growing list of autumn events/venues including Snakes & Lattes Chicago, as well as Marvin’s Toy Store in Crystal Lake, Ill.
Other book-related events include a reading hosted by the Brookville Library in Dayton, a booth at the Christmas Tree Lighting Festival in Loveland, Ohio, on Dec. 7 and an appearance to be scheduled at Bike Trail Books in Loveland in February.
ABOUT JENNA SCHROEDER
Based in the Cincinnati suburb of Loveland, Ohio, Jenna Schroeder is a writer, mother of four, and the director of communications for Dolphin Hat Games. Additionally, she is the founder of Little Bird Press and her creative projects include the inspiring children’s book “Are Enchanted Forests Real?” Schroeder also contributed to the 2021 book “Peace in the Presence of God: Devotionals for Women with Anxiety” published by Michael Lacey. She earned a bachelor’s degree in interpersonal communications from Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio. For more information visit JennaaSchroeder.com or follow her @jennaaschroeder.
ABOUT YAMERPRO (AKA MANDY E)
An Ohio native, Yamerpro aka Mandy E (Mandy Ecenbarger) is a graphic designer, digital illustrator, animation and motion graphics creator and costume designer. She earned a bachelor’s degree in computer art from the University of Saint Francis in Fort Wayne, Ind. For more information visit Yamerpro.com or follow her @yamerpro.
ABOUT DOLPHIN HAT GAMES
Founded in 2012 and based in the Dayton suburb of Clayton, Ohio, Dolphin Hat Games is a family-owned game company focused on creating memorable, fun and easy-to-learn games to capture the imaginations of casual gamers and family members of all ages worldwide. In 2017, they published the bestselling family card game Cat Taco Goat Cheese Pizza, purchased by more than eight million players. For more information visit DolphinHat.com or follow @dolphinhatgames.
Loveland, Ohio – Loveland’s drinking water is contaminated with harmful levels of Forever Chemicals at the highest concentrations in the region. Testing has revealed that Loveland has two “Forever Chemicals” in its drinking water. One, at a level four times higher than what is the enforceable standards of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This is the highest reported level in the Cincinnati area. The US EPA has acknowledged that no levels of PFAS are safe without the risk of negative health impacts.
The City simultaneously told the Clermont County Common Pleas Court and a U.S District Court in South Carolina in June of 2023:
“PFOA and PFOS are toxic and persistent in the environment, do not biodegrade, move readily through soil and water, and pose a significant risk to human health and safety and the environment.”
Loveland Magazine Managing Editor David Miller at last year’s Loveland Frogman Festival
Loveland, Ohio – The 3rd annual Frogman Festival will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025 from (9:30 AM until 6 PM and Sunday, March 2 from 10 AM until 4 PM at Oasis Conference Center.
There will be over 60 unique vendors selling their art, crafts and merchandise in the large ballroom they will call “The Terrarium”. Speakers will be presenting their research on cryptids, paranormal activity, UFO’s and other unusual topics in a separate room.
The Loveland Frog, Jeff Craig, and Andy the Pied Piper of Loveland.
At noon each day, the Pied Piper of Loveland will lead a parade of costumed participants that is open to anyone interested.
Wander the Oasis to find face-painting, an intuitive reader, live animals, a puppet show, music and more. Food and drink including beer will be available a la carte.
Visit frogmanfestival.org for more details. Ticket prices online are lower than paying at the door. There are no refunds for tickets purchased. Kids 12 and under are free when accompanied by a paid adult but please order a kids ticket (free) for them.
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Read about and watch the videos from last year’s Festival:
Just like last year, we can offer Discounted Rooms for Frogman Attendees. Take advantage of this offer to stay at the closest hotel to the convention center.
Loveland, Ohio – When the election conversation comes up during the Thanksgiving meal, here is a conversation changer. “Well Uncle Bill, what did you think about the City’s capital improvement budget for next year?”
On November 26 City Manager Dave Kennedy, Assistant City Manager Chris Wojnicz, and Kelsey Richards the City Engineer made a presentation to Council on the City’s projected capital improvement plans of $10.5 M.
Kennedy said that almost 40% of the costs will come from “outside” grant sources. Sidewalk improvements are approximately 26% of the plan.
There are plans to build a new 1M amphitheater in Nisbet Park and a walking trail expansion and “Riverside Swings” for almost 68K. Also, a roundabout at Valleyview Lane.
A plan for PFAS (Forever Chemical) removal from Loveland’s Drinking Water is moving forward, but without a component for water softening.
Loveland, Ohio– A pine, standing almost 60 feet tall next to the Loveland Bike Trail is being decorated with approximately 2,500 lights and 250 ornaments for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Festival in Historic Downtown Loveland.
This is a FREE, family friendly event with holiday activities for all ages.
A holiday themed drone show by Rozzi’s Fireworks will cap off the evening. You and your children and your sweetheart can enjoy 100 drones synced to music.
Saturday, December 7 between 4 and 8 PM
Activities
Entertainment around town featuring a full lineup of stage performers (see below) and the Loveland High School Jazz Band at City Hall
Loveland, Ohio – for those that are late to the party, Jonathan India’s time in a Reds uniform has come to a close. The fan favorite was traded this past week to the Kansas City Royals along with outfielder Joey Wiemer. It was a trade that no doubt came with a wide array of emotions for fans.
After winning the Rookie of the Year award in 2021 there was a lot of belief that India could take the next step and be a potential all star in the following seasons. However, he never was able to match his award winning output and most of his numbers declined with each successive year. Despite those struggles no one in Cincinnati questioned India’s dedication to this city and the team as he consistently played through injuries and gave everything he could.
Despite his popularity there were significant calls to trade him in the offseason. Given the Reds’ surplus of infielders it was an understandable reaction. But the devastating early season injury to Matt McLain changed that very quickly and thrust India back into the starting lineup.
While it wasn’t a perfect 2024 campaign for him, India was extremely solid. He hit .248 and his on base percentage, OPS+ and BWAR were the highest since his rookie season. It was a much better season than most expected and certainly meant that his potential trade value was the highest it might realistically have been.
Thank you, @JonathanIndia, for giving Reds Country 110% on and off the field. You've been our ROTY, Captain America and a phenomenal representative of the Reds organization. We wish you, Daniella and Adalina nothing but the best in Kansas City. pic.twitter.com/OM9ftOQFcl
While we all love and will miss Jonathan India, it’s clear that it is now the Matt McLain era at second base is here to stay. It’s time to remember all of the great memories that Jonathan India gave this team, but also recognize that the Reds got a solid pitcher in return.
Here is a video of newest Red, Brady Singer, paying off his parents debt on Christmas a couple years back.
Brady Singer might not have dominant numbers, but he brings a lot of what the Reds need on their pitching staff. As MLB.com points out, “In 32 starts and 179 2/3 innings for Kansas City last season, Singer was 9-13 with a 3.71 ERA and 3.1 bWAR. He had more starts and innings than anybody on Cincinnati’s pitching staff in 2024.” This league is all about pitching and establishing depth. Singer provides that for a team that saw a flurry of injuries to its starters all year. He is primarily a ground ball pitcher, something that will be a significant benefit at the hitter-friendly Great American Ballpark.
Charlie Goldsmith also notes that over the last three years, Singer ranks 24th among big league pitchers in total WAR. There was a real chance that Jonathan India was going to spend a good chunk of the 2025 season on the Reds bench. Now, because of this trade Cincinnati added another decent arm for its pitching staff, something they clearly needed based on what happened in 2024. Time will tell if this trade was a “win” for the team, but at first blush, when you take out the emotion of trading away a fan favorite (struggles or no) and look at the objective reality of it, the move makes good baseball sense.
"It's an old-fashioned baseball trade. I like that a lot for the Royals, I like that a lot for the Reds."@ctrent breaks down the trade that sent Jonathan India and Joey Wiemer to the Royals in exchange for Brady Singer. pic.twitter.com/Ixxe9GqeBs
Hey readers… have an opinion about sports? How about a topic you’d like to see written about in Loveland Magazine or a thought about one of our articles?
Just need to vent and get out your frustration about the Reds, Bengals, or any other sports issues?
Christopher Ball is a longtime Loveland resident and an attorney. He graduated from Loveland High School in 2003 and was a member of the football team before going on to become a coach’s assistant at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana. He has been following and rooting for the Reds and Bengals since the early 1990s and has been through the many ups and downs that fandom has wrought over the years.
Loveland, Ohio – On this week’s episode of the podcast, Chris and Mark wade through the negativity of a weekend that included a crushing Bengals loss to the Chargers, and the Bearcats struggling on the road against Iowa State. The guys get into whether the Cats can become bowl eligible and what is going on with Brendan Sorsby. They also break down what went wrong on Sunday night in Los Angeles and lament more wasted offensive performances from Joe Burrow and company. And they finish by going into just what it could take to get Cincinnati into a competitive position in 2025 and beyond, if this season is truly over (and the numbers look pretty bleak). But they at least start of the pod with some positivity and all the good things that Simas Lukošius and the Cincinnati Bearcats basketball team has been doing in this early season.
And don’t worry, when you hear Mark go nuts in the middle of our discussion, all was well, it wasn’t someone breaking into his home. He’d just won a nice little wager, so felt the need to celebrate!
Have a listen and don’t forget to leave your comments and feedback!
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Hey readers… have an opinion about sports? How about a topic you’d like to see written about in Loveland Magazine or a thought about one of our articles?
Just need to vent and get out your frustration about the Reds, Bengals, or any other sports issues?
Christopher Ball is a longtime Loveland resident and an attorney. He graduated from Loveland High School in 2003 and was a member of the football team before going on to become a coach’s assistant at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana. He has been following and rooting for the Reds and Bengals since the early 1990s and has been through the many ups and downs that fandom has wrought over the years.
Loveland, Ohio – The Cardinal Land Conservancy staff at their future headquarters in Loveland, is in need of volunteer help clearing debris from two buildings. The work itself will involve clearing broken glass from carpet before cutting up the carpet to be removed and discarded. We will have tools, transportive machinery, and a dumpster on site.
“We recommend that volunteers bring heavy gloves and wear appropriate foot ware. If you have questions, you can direct them to Facilities Manager, Pat Hill via email or phone (513)535-3729″
Loveland, Ohio – Chris Ball the Editor of the Loveland Magazine Sports Desk has taken his stories and podcasts to Instagram. You can find Chris by using the handle @lovelandsportsg.
Hey readers… have an opinion about sports? How about a topic you’d like to see written about in Loveland Magazine or a thought about one of our articles?
Just need to vent and get out your frustration about the Reds, Bengals, or any other sports issues?
![[TAKE THE POLL] What choice of water filtration have you made to protect from Forever Chemicals in Loveland’s tap water?](https://lovelandmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/mom-making-formula.png)
City Council CIP Work Session November 26, 2024
A holiday themed drone show by Rozzi’s Fireworks will cap off the evening. You and your children and your sweetheart can enjoy 100 drones synced to music.
by Chris Ball
