Title: HFSO announces the 8th annual "David L. Belew American Masters Concert"

Date: February 6, 2008

Sunday; February 24, 2008 4:00 p.m.
First St. John UCC;
412 South Front St.; Hamilton, Ohio 45011

This event features the HFSO Chorale in celebration of 10 years of great choral music and presents the Choral Spirituals of Dr. Charles Lloyd, America's leading exponent of African-American Spirituals. (See Charles Lloyd bio below)

The American Masters concerts bring an important living American composer to town for a concert featuring their works. "It is a unique blend of creative spirits as performers get a chance to walk, talk, and breath with a living legend", according to Music director, Paul John Stanbery. "These performers will have spent the better part of the year in preparation for the arrival, so this event is always a cultural stimulus." It was the American Masters Concert which was recognized by both the Post-Corbett organization, as well as the American Symphony Orchestra League for making music important at the grass roots level. Guest artists include Dayton's premier men's quintet, "Gospel Harvest"; The Mason High School Concert Choir; and Richard Ruby, baritone.

Tickets are $10 by calling 513-895-5151; online at www.hfso.org , and at the door.

For more information, contact: Paul Stanbery at 513-314-8496 or paul.stanbery@yahoo.com

Charles Lloyd, Jr. is a musician of diverse gifts and accomplishments: composer, pianist, arranger, accompanist, and coach. A much loved professor, he teachers at Southern University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he has been acclaimed a “living legend” by the music students there. A native of Toledo, Ohio, he received a B.S. in music education from Norfolk State University in Virginia, and a M.M. from the University of Michigan.

Mr. Lloyd is much in demand as a composer and arranger. Two of his works were performed by Kathleen Battle and Jessye Norman on Spirtuals in Concert, a 1990 broadcast conducted by James Levine and recorded by Deutsche Grammophon. His compositions and arrangements appear on Great Day in the Morning and Spirituals, recorded by Jessye Norman on Philips Records, and The Passion of Christ in Spirituals, recorded by Laura English-Robinson, soprano, and Carolyn Sebron, mezzo-soprano.

Mr. Lloyd’s works have been performed in recital and by orchestras throughout the United States and Europe . He was commissioned to adapt spirituals by William L. Dawson for orchestra and chorus which were premiered by the Toledo Symphony Orchestra. His opera, Song of Solomon, was premiered in Detroit, Michigan, in 1988. In 2000, Warner Bros. Publications published a collection of Mr. Lloyd’s spirituals, entitled The Spiritual Art Song Collection , together with a CD of the works performed by Mr. Lloyd, piano, Jacqueline Paige-Green, soprano, and Richard Hobson, baritone. His art song “Compensation” is published in the anthology Art Songs of Black American Composers , compiled by Willis Patterson. In addition Mr. Lloyd has had several choral spirituals published and his compositions have been included in two doctoral dissertations. He was commissioned to write two art songs for Kevin Maynor, bass, with a text by South Africa’s Don Matera. He has also composed more than sixty a cappella arrangements of spirituals entitled The Invisible Church.

Mr. Lloyd has been the official accompanist for several international competitions, including the International Voice competition in Rio de Janeiro, the International Gaudeamus Competition of 20^th Century Music in Rotterdam, the Munich Voice Competition, and the Sixth International Tchaikovsky Competition for Voice in Moscow, where he was honored with a distinguished accompanying award.

Recent projects include a commission to compose the opera “Emmett Till” for the Trilogy Opera company in New Jersey. Mr. Lloyd is the recipient of the 1993 ASCAP Award and the Arts Ambassador’s Award by the Baton Rouge Arts Council.

Paul John Stanbery
Post-Corbett Award Honoree, 2005

Development Specialist/Fund Raiser for the Non-Profit Sector

Music Director and CEO; Hamilton-Fairfield Symphony Orchestra and Chorale
Great Miami Youth Symphony www.hfso.org
853 Morman Road; Hamilton, Ohio 45013; 513-314-8496 (cell)
513-844-1584 (home office & fax)

Title: Animal Friends Humane Society Event Alert

Date: October 25, 2007

Event: HowlFest

Date: Saturday, October 27

Time: 11:00am-4:00pm

Location: Animal Friends Humane Society, 5225 Trenton Rd, Trenton

Event Summary:

1) Humane Society open house

2) Walk homeless dogs on haunted nature trail

3) Barbeque and candy for kids

4) Volunteer orientation 1pm

5) Vet on hand to examine pets owned by low income residents of Butler County 2pm-4pm

6) Low cost spay/neuter available

7) Low cost micro-chipping available

8) Dog licenses available

9) Free dog and cat training DVDs

Event Detail:

This year marks the Humane Society's third annual Howlfest in partnership with the City of Trenton’s “Make a Difference Day”. Last year's event drew over 250 people to the shelter. Visitors can take a homeless dog for a walk on a haunted nature trail or give treats to the more than 200 animals in the Humane Society. There will be a barbeque and candy for kids. Anyone who adopts a pet will also get a free pumpkin and a chance to win a free supply of Science Diet pet food. At 1:00 p.m., a half-hour volunteer orientation will also take place. Owner education is a major part of this year’s Howlfest. Dr. Kelly Meyer from Home Sweet Home Mobile Vet Care will be on hand from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Low-income residents of Butler County are welcome to bring their pets to the Humane Society to be examined by Dr. Meyer for free. Additional services are available at minimal cost. Low-income residents must show proof of government assistance or low income to qualify (WIC, Medicaid, SS Supplemental, Food Stamps, pay-stub, W2*). “We want to work with the community to help reduce the amount of pets coming to the Humane Society. Presently, 20-50 animals a day enter the Humane Society”, said Executive Director Leland Gordon. During Howlfest the Humane Society will have low cost spaying/neutering available for sign up. Dog surgeries are $50 and cat surgeries $25 through the Humane Society’s UCAN program. In addition, there will be $15 micro-chipping, dog licenses, and ID tags available. Bayer Animal Health has also donated pet training DVDs to be given out to visitors. “We want to make Butler County pet owners the best around. Many people who get pets do not realize how expensive it can be to properly care for these pets. Proper vet care, training, and good pet food can easily cost more than $500 a year. Many people also do not make life time commitments to their pets. These animals are eventually dropped off at animal shelters by their owners or come in as strays and are never claimed. We are also begging that more people spay/neuter their pets. There simply are too many unwanted pets. Howlfest is an opportunity to have lots of fun while learning more about pet care”, said Humane Society Director Leland Gordon.

Title: Great Miami River Days Historic Reenactors

Date: August 31, 2007

GREAT MIAMI RIVER DAYS - HISTORIC REENACTOR AREA - HAMILTON, OH - September 8th & 9th, 2007

Saturday 10AM-9PM - Sunday 10AM-8PM

The Historic Reenactors Encampment and Civil War Historical Area of Great Miami River Days are being brought to the community by the Hamilton Community foundation Michael J. Colligan Fund. Great Miami River Days is being held in Hamilton, OH along the east bank of the Great Miami River. Meet reenactors from the Miami Valley Reenactors, 5th Ohio Light Artillery, Confederate States Marines, 5th Texas Co. D and Ladies Living History. A complete schedule is found at the end of this release.

Visit Great Miami River Days to see ALL DAY demonstrations and displays of “Living History” lifestyle by the Miami Valley Reenactor Company. The following offers a sampling of the reeneactors of the Great Miami River Days event:

All Nations Drum represents several different Native American Nations. They are the Blackfoot, Cherokee, Shawnee and Mingo. They specialize in the education of the young people, working in schools, out doors teaching and demonstrations of Native music and song.

Drum Keeper is John Spotted Horse. Members are Panther, Crow, Lisa, Jack Lewis, Scott and Veronica, Sam and Shannon, and April Reid. They have their first CD for sale. "In Honor Of Creator"

www.allnationsdrum.com

JOHN DE BOER'S "Tribute to the Native American Flute" includes a musical performance of original and classic Native American songs on some of the worlds finest Native American style love flutes. John has performed thousands of times for over a hundreds thousand people at festivals, concert, night clubs, coffee houses and given countless presentations for Universities, High Schools, Organizations and Private Clubs. John De Boer has played with or fronted for many well known artists such as Chubby Checker, The Crystals, Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels, Henry Lee Summers, Johnny Paycheck, Lou Christie, Billy Joe Royal, John Anderson, Merle Hagert and many more. He has recorded and released six albums and his music has been played on many radio stations, TV Stations, used as sound tracks for PBS special presentations and countless video productions.

DEBORAH DEBOER, a Cherokee descendant has been beading most of her adult life. Deborah’s work varies from traditional to original designs noted for vibrant color and attention to detail. Her background in art and photography enhance her work with color harmony and composition. She has been commissioned to do every kind of beadwork from jewelry for Native American Weddings to presentation pieces for Tribal Chiefs; incorporating design elements of special significance to the participants. “I bead for the Grandmothers From their hands to my heart. I do it for those now gone whose beadwork lives on in our museums and family heirlooms. My goal is to honor my grandmothers by doing the very best work that I can. It is my duty. I invite you to enjoy with me in keeping this art alive. Wa do’ (thank you- Cherokee)”

GEORGE REITER has agreed to accept the title of Head Veteran, and to carry and post the American Flag (a flag flown in Iraq), in the dance circle during the Grand Entry March in a "Tribute To All Veterans" at Noon each day, in the Historical Area. Veterans of all conflicts are INVITED & ENCOURAGED TO TAKE PART in this special tribute.

KOSIA OSHIRO has agreed to come to the Gathering by the River. She is a member of the United Remnant Band Shawnee and specializes in pit-firing pottery, an old way of firing done before the wheel came around. Kosia Oshiro comes from Athens, Ohio, to demonstrate pit firing of pottery. She makes her own pottery in the style of the Ohio Shawnee, using the native clays of the area. She is a member of the United Remnant Band of Shawnee of Ohio, and has produced a number of modern day firings of Shawnee pottery on land owned by the Shawnee up near Zane's Caverns.

THE HISTORICAL AREA SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES for SATURDAY & SUNDAY ARE AS FOLLOWS:

10:00 a.m. GMRD Festival opens with a cannon salute: The Ohio 5th Light Artillery Unit

10:05 a.m. History talks by Generals Robert E. Lee and George Armstrong Custer

11:00 a.m. The story of the flute by John DeBoer, “Spirit Of Thunder”

11:30 a.m. Reenactors parade through the Midway into the Historical Area led by the Ross High School marching band

12:00 p.m. Tom Netz MC, opens the dance circle in a tribute to veterans with George Reiter Head Veteran presenting the American Flag. The All Nation’s Drum and Southern Singer’s Drum provide a grand entry of inter-tribal dancers for the “Gathering By The River” celebration

2:00 p.m. Demonstration of cannon, rifle, and mortar fire by Ohio 5th Light Artillery Unit - Civil war lifestyle demonstration by Rod Grubb

2:15 p.m. Duets from 1890 by Phil and Ann Case (Sunday only)

3:00 p.m. Reenactment of an attack on the Ohio 5th Light Artillery Unit

4:30 p.m. All Nations Drum and Southern Singers provide inter-tribal dancing for the “Gathering By The River” concluding with the removal of the Colors and a cannon salute

6:00 p.m. The story of the flute by John DeBoer

6:45 p.m. Duets from 1890 by Phil and Ann Case (Sunday only)

The Great Miami River Days HISTORIC REENACTOR AREA is sponsored by the Hamilton Community Foundation Michael J. Colligan Fund

See more Great Miami River Days event schedules at www.greatmiamiriverdays.org

Bring a folding chair or blanket, and enjoy the day with Great Miami River Days. Please - no coolers or pets.

DIRECTIONS: From I-75N, take SR129W (Exit 24). Follow SR129 westbound into Hamilton. The highway ends; continue straight onto High Street. Turn left onto Martin Luther King Blvd. and right onto Knightsbridge Drive. The turn left onto University Blvd. Free parking is located at Miami University Hamilton located on the right.

Powerboat Superleague

Date Released: August 3, 2007, for immediate use

Dateline: New Martinsville, WV/Hamilton, OH

Powerboat Superleague Circuit to Race in

Hamilton, Ohio

with the Great Miami River Days Festival

Powerboat Superleague is pleased to announce that the circuit will make Hamilton, Ohio’s Great Miami River Days a national tour stop (number 8 on an eight-race calendar). The racing event, a first for the area, will be held over the September 8-9 weekend in conjunction with the popular festival. “The Miami River is a perfect place to showcase the Formula Three class; the competition is heart-stopping and high-energy excitement will be fun for everyone,” commented Sam and Sherron Winer, Powerboat Superleague owners. “We were not expecting to add an event this year, however, when the festival committee called us, and we found that the festival dates were open on our calendar, saying yes was easy.” The new addition to the 2007 Superleague calendar will be a two-day race for the circuit, and the final race of the season for the class. With the points spread so close, the best teams in the nation will be in Hamilton looking for that last chance to add to their totals and capture a berth in the Formula Two top ten.

“It’s an exciting venue in a major market.” stated Superleague. “With a great location, an terrific venue in an excellent demographic market, a festival atmosphere, and a varied and exciting schedule of activities in addition to the race program, we have all of the elements necessary to make the Great Miami River Days race a home run for area motorsports fans. We are looking forward to an incredible weekend of fun and fast-paced entertainment.”

Visit the Superleague web site (www.APRsuperleague.com) for information as it becomes available as well as circuit racing news, the current buzz, the latest word and race site updates.

Title: Great Miami River Days is Held Over Two Days!

Date: August 1, 2007

GMRD is to be held over 2 Days with Boat Racing, a 50-ton Sand Sculpture and Bungee Jumping are New Attractions on September 8-9, 2007 along the banks of the Great Miami River, Neilan Boulevard, Hamilton OH

Saturday 10:00 a.m.- 9:00 p.m.

Sunday 10:00 a.m.- 8:00 p.m.

Planning is well-underway for the exciting 3^rd annual Great Miami River Days – which celebrates one of our County’s largest natural assets! The event is taking place Saturday, September 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Sunday, September 9, 2007 from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. along the banks of the Great Miami River in Hamilton, OH on Neilan Boulevard at Vora Technology Park and Miami University Hamilton Campus. An estimated ten thousand people were in attendance last year, and with the expansion of two full days the River Days committee expects to double that number this year.

Great Miami River Days features historical and recreational events while conservation and recreation organizations participate with hands-on displays to help citizens understand the value of the river – both as a natural resource and an economic-development tool.

According to River Days chairperson Bob Lentz, “Fresh water is the single most important resource in the world. Most people in Southwest Ohio are unaware of this fact since the Great Miami River and the buried valley aquifer provide fresh water in great abundance. The Great Miami River Days festival is a way to celebrate our good fortune and to promote conservation of our precious resource.”

Tony Traub, owner of Hamilton-based American Business Technologies, is chair of the land and water activities for this year’s River Days. He states, “We’d like to invite everyone to come down for a fun filled weekend of education, good food and great entertainment. It is fun for the whole family and there is something here for everyone.”

The following is a listing of some of the festival activities and educational exhibits that are scheduled:

· Powerboat APR Superleague Boat Racing

· Badgerland Waterski Show Team

· Rowing Exhibitions presented by the Hamilton Vision Commission

· Rides for kids-adults including Bungee Jumping

· The City of Sculpture’s monumental 25 ton sand sculpture

· Water Ski / Wake Boarding Competition presented by No Wake Marina

· Pontoon Rides hosted by the Hamilton Boat Club

· Miami Valley 1700-1865 Reenactors and Campbell County KY Reenactor Encampment

· American Heart Association Annual 5K Heart Walk (along the bike path)

· Izaak Walton League Fishing Derby for ages 5-15 and a Stream Doctor Water Testing Workshop, which is the watershed restoration project of the Izaak Walton League of America’s Save our Streams Program

· WFWA Free Style Jet Ski Team

· A 200 gallon Aquarium

· Music entertainment includes national recording artist John Ford Coley, formerly of the Grammy nominated duo “England Dan and John Ford Coley.”

· A wide variety of educational booths, storytellers, food and more!

Traub says, “The committee is excited to have the support of the city. The community is realizing this is a premier event. As it grows we hope to attract even more entertainment.”

Lentz states, “This isn’t just a festival for the sake of having a festival. The Great Miami River Days also wants to give back to the community. In line with our mission to promote water resource education and recreation, the festival committee has designated a portion of the festival proceeds to be given to the development of the Great Miami River Recreation Trail.” This project will ultimately connect existing trails in Montgomery, Greene, Clark, Warren and Clermont Counties with Butler County.

Presenting Sponsors for Great Miami River Days are the CITY OF HAMILTON and TIME WARNER CABLE TV. Watershed Sponsors are the Hamilton Community Foundation Colligan Fund, Butler County DES, Butler County Storm Water District, Downtown Hamilton, TV Hamilton, Journal News and Watson Gravel. Aquifer Sponsors is Miller Brewing.

For more information on Great Miami River Days, visit www.GreatMiamiRiverDays.org or call the Greater Hamilton Visitors Bureau at 513-844-8080.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Bob Lentz, GMRD Chair – Butler County Storm Water District 513-785-4101 or lentzb@stormwaterdistrict.org

Tony Traub, GMRD Land & Water – ABT Technologies 513-617-4994 or tonyt@abustech.com

Debbie Fescina Rulon, GMRD Marketing – Hamilton Visitors Bureau 513-844-8080 or hamiltonohcvb@fuse.net

Tim McLelland, GMRD Logistics – Groundwater Consortium 513-383-3162 or tmclelln@ci.hamilton.oh.us

Powerboat Superleague www.APRsuperleague.com

World Freestyle Watercraft Alliance www.wfwaalliance.com

City of Sculpture: www.cityofsculpture.org

Miami Valley 1700-1865 Reenactor Company www.mvreenactors.com

John Ford Coley: www.johnfordcoley.com

Title: 53rd Annual Hamilton/Fairfield Antique and Classic Car Parade, July 28th

Date: July 1, 2007

Hundreds of the area's finest majestic antique and classic cars will parade
through Fairfield, Ohio and descend upon beautiful downtown Hamilton in what
is heralded as the oldest and largest independently sponsored Antique and
Classic Car Parade in the United Stated. In recognition of the 75th
anniversary of the venerable Ford 'flat-head' V, the parade will feature
1932-1953 Fords powered by that engine. A 1932 Ford 5 Window Coupe, owned by
Pat and Candy Fenner of Wilmington, has been selected to be the lead
vehicle.

The assembly area will be in the Hamilton West Shopping Center at Main St.
(Rt. 177) and Brookwood Avenue starting at 8:00 AM. Judging of parade vehicles
will take place 9:30-11:00 in 62 classes for award of three trophies per
class. A commemorative plaque will be awarded to all parade participants.
Parade vehicles will be on public display until the parade starts at 1:00.

The parade will first proceed eastbound on Main St. and turn south on Neilan
Blvd. to Patterson Blvd. in Fairfield, for a one-hour stopover for viewing.
It will then proceed north on Pleasant Ave. (Rt. 127) to downtown Hamilton.
The Ft. Hamilton Jazz Band will provide live music on the courthouse lawn
3:00-4:00. All parade vehicles will remain on public display in downtown
Hamilton until all trophies are awarded between 4:00 and 5:00 at the
Courthouse. For additional information and registration, go to: www.antiquecars.org

Title: Summer Playground Program Weekly Themes Announced

Date: May 30, 2007

The City of Hamilton Parks and Recreation Department is proud to announce the themes of the Summer Drop-In Playground Program which will be held this summer at six City of Hamilton playground sites. The program starts on Monday, June 11, 2007 and will conclude Friday, August 3, 2007. Recreation Leaders will be on hand to direct activities at each location from 8:30 am – 12:00 noon and then again from 1:00 – 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday. The six locations are Eastview Park located at Hensley and Parrish Avenue, Wayne Park located at Park Avenue and D Street, Symmes Park located at 3^rd and Sycamore Streets, Millikin Woods Park located off Ross Ave (and Washington Blvd), Lindenwald “Minor Avenue” Park and North End (Ford Park) located on Joe Nuxhall Blvd. The weekly themes for the 2007 program are as follows: Week # 1(June 11 – 15) “Funkie” Friendship Week, Week # 2 (June 18 – 22) “Rowdie” Rodeo Week, Week # 3 (June 25 – 29) Wet and Wild Week, Week # 4 (July 2 – 6) “Wackie” Old Fashioned USA Week, Week # 5 (July 9 – 13) “Funkie” International Week, Week # 6 (July 16 – 20) “Funnie, Funkie” Hollywood Week, Week # 7 (July 23 – 27) “Freakie, Funnie” Holiday Week, and Week # 8 (July 30 – August 3) “Wackie” Animal Week. If you have any questions, call the Parks and Recreation office at (513) 785-7060.

See you at the park!!!

Bob

Robert C. Harris, CPRP

Director

Hamilton Parks and Recreation Department

One Renaissance Center

345 High Street

Hamilton, Ohio 45011

(513) 785-7060

Remember the Benefits of Parks and Recreation are ENDLESS.

Title: 2007 MAY PROMENADE OF HOMES

Date: May 2, 2007

Dayton Lane Historic Area, Incorporated
Hamilton! Ohio
Press Release

The Dayton Lane Historic Area in Hamilton! Ohio is pleased to announce our 2007 May Promenade of Homes on Sunday, May 20, 2007. This biennial home tour celebrates National Historic Preservation Month. We would appreciate your help in publicizing this fund raising event for our neighborhood. The May Promenade allows us to showcase our Victorian homes and gardens as well as raising the necessary funds for neighborhood projects. Our current fund raising efforts are geared towards the Sherry Corbett Memorial Fountain for Campbell Avenue Park. Please place the following press release as a community brief:

The Dayton Lane Historic Area announces its biennial May Promenade on May 20, 2007 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Spend an afternoon exploring the historic homes and gardens of Dayton Lane, a slice of Victoriana in Hamilton! Ohio. See homes never before on tour as well as old favorites. View completed restoration as well as work in progress. Experience the district by horse and carriage. Listen to the melodies from jazz to chamber as several music groups perform throughout the district. Stop awhile on one of the front porches and watch the Wheelmen on their vintage bicycles. Enjoy the neighborhood as it appeared 100 years ago. Shop the Art Bazaar for that unique piece of art. Proposed plans for the Sherry Corbett Memorial Sculpture will also be unveiled. No automobile traffic is allowed in the district during the tour. Tickets are $20.00 per person. Member price is $15.00. Pre-sale tickets are available at Nye Family Vision, 712 Dayton Street, Hamilton, Ohio 45011 (513. 887.1100). Advance tickets can also be purchased at the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, 201 Dayton Street, Hamilton, 513.844.1500. Tickets on the day of the tour will be available in a tent outside the Dayton Lane Gardens, 600 block of Dayton Street. For more information, check our website: www.historicdaytonlane.org.

SOME OF THE HOMES SCHEDULED TO BE OPEN ON SUNDAY, MAY 20
115 North 6th Street: Trinity Episcopal Church. In 1884, prominent Cincinnati architect A.C. Nash began drawing plans for an early English Gothic style church. Ground breaking began November 1887. The church was dedicated on December 27, 1888. At first the church contained only the nave. Completion of the chancel and choir was left for the future. The Reverend G.H. Edwards, the diocesan general missionary, urged Colonel Alexander Gordon, president of the Niles Tool Works in Hamilton and William Procter, president of Procter & Gamble, to give money to complete the church. Mr. Procter, a resident of nearby Glendale, donated $4,500 for the exterior and stonework, and Colonel Gordon contributed $1,500 for the interior and woodwork. The result was a lovely English Gothic church constructed of rough-cut native stone. Trinity’s pride is the stained glass altar window made by the Tiroler Glasmalerei in Innsbruck, Austria and is the only one of its kind in the world. Colonel Gordon ordered the window for the completion of the church, and he gave it “To the Glory of God” and in memory of his father, mother and sister.

610 Dayton (Carriage House): The house and carriage house are two of the finest examples of half-timbered Queen Anne architecture in the city. The main house was built in 1883 for Robert McKinney, president of Niles Tool Works, which was the largest machine tool manufacturing company in the world at the turn of the century. The carriage house was added for Thomas Curley, the second occupant, president and manager of the Columbia Carriage Company. Originally the home of the carriage driver, this spacious loft was on the September, 2000 cover of Design, Southwest Ohio’s Home and Garden Magazine.

610 Dayton (Main House): The McKinney House was built circa 1883 by Robert McKinney, secretary and treasurer of the Niles Tool Works. The Niles Tool works was the largest tool manufacturing company of its kind in the entire world at the turn of the century. The McKinneys were very prominent socially and were the center of Hamilton’s social elite during the “gay 90’s.” It has been said that the landing on the main staircase to the second floor was used as a music room with a grand piano. Many locally and nationally prominent people attended social events in this elegant home. Thomas Curley, the second occupant, was president and manager of the Columbia Carriage Company. This may be the reason for the outstanding carriage house to the rear. Preservation architects have described this home as one of the finest Queen Anne homes in the area. Appropriate enough as this home serves as one of the gateways to the Dayton-Campbell Historic Area, a National Register Historic District. This house has a profusion of Queen Anne details including leaded glass windows, gable ends, turrets, a steeply pitched hipped roof with protruding half timbered gables and second floor balconies. The interior features seven ornate Victorian fireplace mantles, fifteen bucolic paintings of rural America, many original gas/electric light fixtures, intricately patterned wood floors and Victorian styled baths.

643 Dayton: The home was designed by Charles Eisel in 1882 for George Adam Rentschler. George Adam was the founding father of one of Hamilton’s most illustrious families. A mirror image of the Sohn House next door, Rentschler extensively remodeled and enlarged the home for his wife in 1900. This home’s special features include a variety of woods, a cherry staircase, eight fireplaces, and unique parquet floors. This house is individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

644 Dayton Street: (Fashion show on the grounds) Original, one of a kind women’s evening wear designed and created by Just Jackie will be presented on the grounds of this historic home at 3:00 PM. Music will be provided by Gerhard Albinus. This Victorian Home was built in the 1840’s as the residence of John McKee, postmaster. It later became the home of Allen Andrews, a member of one of Hamilton’s prominent families.

709 Dayton Street: Major John Bender built the beautiful mansion on the corner of 7th & Dayton Street, in 1892. He owned the Bender Building Co. & the Hamilton Brick Co. This house is a “marriage” of the Jacobean Revival & Queen Anne styles. His home was truly a “calling card” & a form of advertising for him. The formal first floor consists of over 1800 square feet. The Parlor is constructed with Maple wood, the Living Room with Cherry, and the Dining Room with Oak. Major Bender’s original office sits privately by itself. There are over 17 stained glass windows in the Mansion. Each fireplace is unique, with ornate screens & tile surrounds signed by The Hamilton Tile Company. Parquet floors of exotic woods cover most of the first floor. This home has been a boarding house, a multi-family apartment building, a massage parlor and now has been turned back to a single family home. During our last tour, the current owners had just bought this corner mansion. In the last two years they have taken an older home and shown how a modern family can join 19th century Victorian architecture with the 21st Century conveniences. The restoration included bold colors, a master suite with new master bath and dressing room, a revamped kitchen including the adjacent butler’s pantry and the children’s rooms are located on the third floor with a play room.

712 Dayton Street: This 8,200 square feet Prairie style home with Italian Renaissance details was built in 1910 by William Shuler of Shuler and Benninghofen. The home’s exterior brick was fired in Belgium and arrived individually paper wrapped. Interior features include quartered oak molding, a Rookwood fireplace, and a solid mahogany beamed ceiling.

807 Dayton Street: Taking 2 years to build, this 7,100 square foot home was built between 1890 and 1892 by Christian Benninghofen, a prominent industrialist. It is considered to be one of the finer examples of turn-of-the-century Queen Anne free classic style. The interior features parquet floors and 9 fireplaces. The home is noted for its distinctive woodwork (Bird’s Eye Maple, Cherry and Quarter Sawn Oak among others). As each of the adjoining rooms is made of a different wood, the connecting doors are veneered to match the room. Like most homes in the neighborhood, this grand old home survived the Great Miami Flood of 1913. It has been said the water level reached the top of the interior doors on the first floor. Mud from the flood was still popping up through the 1980’s when a large mirror in the hall was removed from the wall for repairs. The back was caked with mud. The pocket doors would also give up some of the past every time they were closed by dropping mud on the floor. Most of the interior is original from when the house was built. Owned by the Benninghofen family for over 80 years has helped to preserve this home. Recently purchased by Dave Loeffler, Past Dayton Lane Board President, it is in the process of being returned to its turn of the century glory. From the lincrusta on the walls to the gas and electric chandelier in the front parlor, original features abound in this home. One of the notable rooms is the walnut library. It features an ornately carved fireplace, three walls of glass- fronted bookcases and stained glass windows of owls and a globe.

1008 Dayton Street: This was the home of John Schweizer, manufacturer of carriages. It has elements of the Prairie style with clean, crisp lines, earth colored bricks and geometric patterns in the entryway. Another Frank Lloyd Wright inspired design.

FAST FACTS ABOUT DAYTON LANE

The year 2000 marked our 25th anniversary of historic preservation. To celebrate a progressive dinner party was held for 150 guests. We were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985. Our neighborhood reflected the neighborhood of choice for Hamilton’s prominent industrialists at the turn of the century. Campbell Avenue was named for Lewis D. Campbell, advisor to Presidents Lincoln and Johnson and a principal landholder who donated a stretch of land, previously used as a race course, to the city for use as Campbell Avenue Park. Our 210 structures represent a variety of architectural styles from the last quarter of the nineteenth century through the first quarter of the twentieth century. The 1868 Titus Atlas of Butler County shows that the area contained within the district was only sparsely settled. Not until the 1870’s through the 1890’s was there a major stimulus to the development of the district with many new industries relocating or being founded in Hamilton. These industries were attracted by an abundance of inexpensive land and water power. Hamilton harnessed the power of the Great Miami through a system of hydraulic canals to provide this inexpensive power. The Dayton Lane area, lying just east of the many new industries, provided a convenient location for founders and managers of these companies. With the influx of these wealthy industrialists, most of the prominent residences are found on Dayton Street with several on Campbell Avenue. The proximity to the factories provided convenient residences for the factory workers as well. In addition to the homes on tour, we will have various music groups from jazz to chamber performing throughout the district both inside and outside the homes. We have also arranged for Cincinnati Carriage Company to provide a horse drawn hotel trolley (included in the price of the ticket.) One of the added features of our home tour is that all vehicles are removed from the street and the streets are blocked off to traffic for the day. The Wheelmen, a vintage bicycle enthusiast’s organization, will be returning to add more period flavor to our event. See the attached info sheet on this organization.

SHERRY CORBETT MEMORIAL SCULPTURE

Plans for the prospective sculpture will be unveiled at this year’s home tour. Two artists have been working on designs for this tribute dedicated to Sherry Corbett, who was the driving force behind the restoration of this neighborhood. The sculpture will include our logo, the hi-wheeled bicycle and items that are significant to our neighborhood including the Great Miami River which flows 6 blocks down from our district. The sculpture will be installed in the 800 block of Campbell Avenue Park opposite the Wolf Gazebo in the 900 block.

DIRECTIONS

Use the new Butler County Regional Highway (Route 129, north of I-275) off of I-75. Take 129 West to Hamilton. Continue on 129 West past Route 4 several miles past By-Pass 4. Go under the train overpass. Turn right on Martin Luther King Boulevard (next right). Dayton Street is the next traffic light. We are located two blocks to the East. Parking available in lots off of Martin Luther King Boulevard.

Title: ELLIOT ENGEL PRESENTING THE HISTORY OF WINE

Date: March 7, 2007

First Financial Bank ENTERTAINMENTPLUS!

FEATURES

ELLIOT ENGEL PRESENTING THE HISTORY OF WINE

Hamilton – On Saturday, March 24 the First Financial Bank ENTERTAINMENTPLUS! series at the Fitton Center for Creative Arts will present Dr. Elliott Engel. Dr. Engel is a scholar and performer whose infectious enthusiasm and radiant wit create a delightfully imaginative presentation. His presentation is titled the history of wine and will feature his usual anecdotes, analysis, and large doses of humor.

A native of Indianapolis, Dr. Elliott Engel earned his B.A. at Indiana University and his M.A. and Ph.D. as a Woodrow Wilson Fellow at UCLA. Professor Engel's six books have been published by both British and American presses, and his articles have appeared in numerous magazines, including Newsweek.

ENTERTAINMENTPLUS! is an entertainment series featuring a variety of performers from musicians to magicians. This season is sponsored by First Financial Bank. For more information or for tickets please call (513)863-8873 ext. 24. Performances take place in the Benninghofen Theatre at the Fitton Center, 101 S. Monument Ave. Hamilton at 8pm. Tickets are $15 for Fitton Center members, $17 for non-members and $6 for students and include a reception after the performance.

Contact: Sonja Kranbuhl

(513) 863-8873 ext. 30; sonja@fittoncenter.org

Title: Fitton Center for Creative Arts announces upcoming workshops

Date: March 5, 2007

Registrations are now being accepted for two new workshops.

The Saturday Sculpture Series which occurs on Saturday, March 17 and 31 from 9:30 – 11:30 am will teach the basics of sculpting your own clay figures as well as glazing and finishing your project. This is a great workshop for a parent and child to take together.

A Foxtrot dance workshop will be held on Sunday, March 25 from 2:00 – 4:30 pm. This is your chance to learn to dance like the stars. Bring a dancing partner or come alone.

Please visit www.fittoncenter.org for pricing information or more details. To register, please call 513.863.8873 ext. 10.

Contact: Sonja Kranbuhl

(513) 863-8873 ext. 30; sonja@fittoncenter.org

Title: CALL FOR ENTRIES FOR THE 43^RD ANNUAL GREATER HAMILTON ART EXHIBIT

Date: March 1, 2007

Hamilton - The 43^rd Annual Greater Hamilton Art Exhibit will be on display at the Fitton Center for Creative Arts April 29 through June 15. This is a juried competition open to visual artists within a 50 mile radius of Hamilton, Ohio. Artists must be at least 18 years of age and the artwork must have been created with in the past 3 years.

Entries may be submitted March 29, 30 or 31. Judging will be based on originality, concept, design, technique, craftsmanship and presentation. Cash prizes will be awarded. There is a non-refundable entry fee of $15 per item. Each artist may submit only 2 pieces of art.

For entry forms or more information please contact Cathy Mayhugh, Director of Exhibitions, at (513)863-8873 ext. 22 or e-mail her at cathy@fittoncenter.org.

Contact: Sonja Kranbuhl

(513) 863-8873 ext. 30; sonja@fittoncenter.org

Title: NEW EXHIBIT OPENS FEBRUARY 8^th

Date: February 1, 2007

Hamilton - The Fitton Center for Creative Art is pleased to present a new exhibition, which will run February 8 through March 23, featuring three solo artists. Paintings by Valerie Devitt Escobedo and Grace Ann Schwab will be on view in the Anne Ruder Bever galleries on the second floor while photographs by Elmer Harbron will be displayed in the lobby gallery on the first floor.

Escobedo’s work is “visual product of my desires and attempts to remain "checked in" to life and to communicate the potency I recognize in banal domestic moments.”&nb