2012A GUIDE GUIDE TO TO INTEGRATED INTEGRATED COMMUNITIES COMMUNITIES IN IN HAMILTON HAMILTON COUNTY COUNTY Hidden Treasures

Profiles and demographics of 28 neighborhoods that have embraced diversity for 20, 30 or 40 years Contents WELCOME...... 3 PROFILES OF 40-YEAR INTEGRATED COMMUNITIES Corryville...... 4 Downtown/Riverfront...... 5 Kennedy Heights...... 6 Madisonville...... 7 Mount Auburn...... 8 Over-the-Rhine ...... 9 Woodlawn...... 10

PROFILES OF 30-YEAR INTEGRATED COMMUNITIES College Hill, East Walnut Hills...... 11 Fairview-Clifton Heights, Forest Park...... 12 Golf Manor...... 13 Mount Airy, North Avondale-Paddock Hills...... 14 Northside, Pleasant Ridge...... 15 On the Cover (left to right): Spring Grove Village, The Heights (University Heights)...... 16 Lydia Morgan of Kennedy Heights, Amy Yosmali of North Avondale (with PROFILES OF 20-YEAR INTEGRATED COMMUNITIES her 1-year-old daughter) and Brandon Camp Washington, Clifton...... 17 Wiers of Forest Park. Finneytown (Springfield Twp.), Hartwell...... 18 Mount Healthy...... 19 Managing Editor: Tim Curtis Mount Healthy Heights (Colerain Twp.), Pleasant Run Farms (Springfield Twp.)...... 20 South Fairmount, Springdale...... 21 Contributing Editor: Myra Calder Westwood...... 22 Art Director: Ron Huff Map of Communities...... 23 Cover Photography: Erin Thompson

2 HIDDEN TREASURES A Guide to Integrated Communities in Hamilton County Introduction There is a Hidden Treasure Around Every Corner The metropolitan area is made up of many wonderful neighborhoods and communities, each with its own distinct personality. This guide features 28 unique communities we refer to as Hidden Treasures. Some are older city Who Picked these residential neighborhoods. Some are Communities? suburban communities. And some are The communities recognized as urban, hip and edgy. So what do they Hidden Treasures were identified have in common? Each was identified as stable, integrated communities as being racially integrated and stable in demographic research for at least 20 years. conducted by Dr. Charles F. Casey- Housing Opportunities Made Equal Leininger. The research is based on data from the U.S. Census. (HOME) is a private fair housing For this publication, an integrated agency that serves the Cincinnati community in Hamilton County is area. We fight the remnants of racial defined as one with an African- discrimination in the housing market American population of not less and promote housing choice. We are than 10 percent and not more concerned that our metropolitan area, like many Midwestern cities, is still segregated than 80 percent, and with a by race. The results of research identifying numerous stable integrated communities Dissimilarity Index of not more surprised many of us. It identified a tapestry of neighborhoods that are diverse in than 65. This Index measures population and in housing stock, but uniformly rich in community. We need to whether the races are living as celebrate these communities. neighbors on the same streets or The research that was the basis for this guide originally was sponsored by the clustered in different parts of the Cincinnatus Association and championed by Brandon H. Wiers. Cincinnatus and same neighborhood. Dr. Casey- HOME jointly published the original Hidden Treasures guide in 2009. This second Leininger’s full research report is available at www.homecincy.org. edition relies on research that updated the original study with information from the 2010 U.S. Census. We are grateful for support from the Murray & Agnes Seasongood Good Government Foundation and the Wilder Foundation, which made the research and this publication possible. We are delighted that the number of stable integrated communities in Hamilton County has increased from 15 communities in 2000 to 28 communities today. This second edition of Hidden Treasures: A Guide to Integrated Communities in Hamilton County recognizes these 28 communities. Take a look at them. Drive through and talk to the neighbors. See which one feels like home.

Elizabeth Brown Executive Director, Housing Opportunities Made Equal

Housing Opportunities Made Equal 3 40-Year Integrated Community Corryville

nnexed to Cincinnati in 1870, dwellings. Corryville began as an agricultural Kay Weaks, a member of the Acommunity, and became Corryville Community Council, residential. It was named for William bought her home in 1978. Corry, mayor of Cincinnati (1815-1819) Its central location offers a “big and nephew of William McMillan, advantage,” she says, noting she likes the first justice of the eacep of the old being able to walk to the bank, Kroger settlement, Losantiville, which later and UC, where she used to teach in changed to Cincinnati. the Fashion Department. Early residents were mostly middle- Clyde Nowlin, a property owner class German-Americans. In the and former resident, agrees. mid-1900s, the population expanded “What attracted me to Corryville is to include lower-income families its close proximity to downtown and and university students, then shifted the University of Cincinnati. again to attract Appalachians and I enjoy the convenience of being able blacks. to attend sporting events, music and In the 1960s, homes disappeared plays at CCM (College-Conservatory for an expanding University of Music) and the diversity of of Cincinnati and the new restaurants.” Environmental Protection Agency Its well-known “Short Vine” building. However, investors saw business district — crammed with opportunity and began restoring specialty shops, dining spots, bars old buildings, which led to new and live music venues — often draws businesses, including specialty a crowd, especially UC students. shops, record stores and restaurants. In addition to a busy recreation Today, diversity abounds with center, other amenities include basic housing options ranging from older services, such as a post office, library, bricks, frames and brownstones banks and grocery stores, along with to new single and multi-family several clinics and hospitals. Corryville Community Council: www.corryville.org 2010 Census Population...... 3,284 White...... 49% Black...... 36% Other...... 15% Dissimilarity Index...... 41 Estimated Value of Detached Home according to city-data.com: ...... $109,301

4 HIDDEN TREASURES A Guide to Integrated Communities in Hamilton County 40-Year Integrated Community

Downtown/Riverfront incinnati’s Downtown, the area’s with a pick of housing stock from Downtown/Riverfront oldest settlement, extends from efficiency luxury apartments, Community Council: Cthe Ohio River to Third Street. Over renovated lofts, restored historic www.ilivedowntown.com time the area shifted from residential to buildings and new condominiums. 2010 Census primarily commercial and recreational. Longtime resident Conrad Thiede, Population...... 4,516 Most notably, it is home to two sports a former president of the Downtown White...... 59% stadiums (Great American Ball Park Residents Council, sees those Black...... 33% and Paul Brown Stadium), Bicentennial differences as assets. Other...... 8% Commons-Sawyer Point Park and “We have a very diverse group of Dissimilarity Index...... 53 the National Underground Railroad people — in interests, ages, incomes, Estimated Value of Detached Home according Freedom Center. creeds and races,” he says. “It’s healthy to city-data.com:...... N/A Housing returns with the to learn from one another. We’re in it construction of , a 24-hour together after all, so make the best out urban neighborhood with 3 million of the place.” square feet of apartments and condos One of the advantages of Downtown along with retail shops, restaurants, living is the city’s walkability, he says, offices and hotel rooms. Between it noting that working residents often and the stadiums will be the new 45- find their jobs in the neighborhood. acre Riverfront Park. Downtown is home to hundreds of Across Third Street from the employers including Fortune 500 Freedom Center is Downtown, the companies Procter & Gamble, Macy’s city’s business and cultural center. and Kroger. In the 1890s, Downtown was home Residents also have easy access to to some of city’s richest and poorest the Main Library as well as numerous people. Today, this vital and appealing churches, art galleries, theaters, area attracts young professionals, concert halls, sporting events, retail retired couples and empty nesters shops, bars and restaurants.

Housing Opportunities Made Equal 5 40-Year Integrated Community Kennedy Heights ennedy Heights, annexed to Decades-long residents Diana Cincinnati in 1914, is believed and Lee DeRhodes say they were Kto have begun with a log cabin drawn to Kennedy Heights because built in 1795 by Col. John McFarland. they wanted to live in an integrated Today, its housing options range community with a diverse mix from Cape Cods and English Tudors of people — working and retired, to old brick and frame homes to new younger and older, families and construction. singles, blacks, whites and other The Kennedy Heights Community races. Diana says she also likes that Council, founded in 1965, has “most everything is within walking strived through the years to build distance.” Husband Lee, a former an integrated neighborhood with social worker turned potter, assisted plenty of amenities. The arts center, with the arts center’s garden helping housed in a three-story structure to plant grasses, bushes and flowers. built in 1875, was once home to Jeanette Bronson, a resident for village founder and namesake Lewis more than 40 years, likes Kennedy Kennedy Heights Kennedy. Heights because “it’s integrated Community Council: www.kennedyheights.org Other perks include parks, a and because people take pride in 2010 Census playfield, churches, schools, dance their neighborhood.” She counts Population...... 4,847 troupes and numerous clubs, wonderful neighbors as a major White...... 25% including a Seniors Club, which bonus. Black...... 69% features programs and trips, along A resident since the ’90s, Jeane Other...... 6% with the Metallic Club, uniting Goings, formerly of Louisville, says Dissimilarity Index...... 46 retired men for fellowship and her initial visit swayed her. “It just Estimated Value of Detached Home education. Events include progressive had that neighborhood feel about according to city-data.com: ...... $143,349 dinners, auctions, fundraising run/ it to raise a family, safe for children walks, art parades, landscaping to grow and go to good schools. awards, neighborhood cleanups and Education is so important to me,” she citizen patrols. says.

6 HIDDEN TREASURES A Guide to Integrated Communities in Hamilton County 40-Year Integrated Community

Madisonville adisonville first was named from a bungalow,” he says. “It is one Madisonville “Madison” for President James of the most architecturally diverse Community Council: www.historicmadisonville. MMadison, newly elected when neighborhoods in the city.” com the neighborhood was founded in In addition to its historic and 2010 Census 1809. Incorporated in 1839, it was restored homes, visitors will find new Population...... 9,141 annexed to Cincinnati in 1911. condo and apartment complexes. White...... 38% The earliest residents were a Among the new additions is the $110 Black...... 57% diverse lot — well-to-do, middle- million, 15-story Kenwood by Senior Other...... 5% and lower-income families with Star, an upscale senior housing Dissimilarity Index...... 47 various backgrounds. Black residents facility with 215 apartment homes Estimated Value of Detached Home ...... often worked on nearby farms and penthouses, plus 24 condos. according to city-data.com: ...... $179,521 and the railroads. Native son and Madisonville also boasts a healthy author Dick Perry once described business community with banks, the Madisonville of old: “There’s beauty salons, automotive sales stability about Madisonville, because and repair, landscaping services, Cincinnati craftsmen are a stable lot.” medical centers, restaurants, retail Today, it remains a stable and stores and large employers like Fifth diverse community attracting young Third and Coca Cola. Joining them professionals, singles and families in is MedPace, with its new $15 million, search of affordable housing. 132,000-square-foot headquarters. Tony Bronson, one of those young Amenities include an arts center, professionals, says his favorite thing recreation center, schools, churches about Madisonville is its variety of and community garden. houses. Lifelong resident Ruth Ann “Often you will find an old Busald says there’s no place like her farmhouse next to a Victorian neighborhood. “I love everything about house, which is next to a four-unit Madisonville — for what it had been apartment building, across the street and to what it can become,” she says.

Housing Opportunities Made Equal 7 40-Year Integrated Community Mount Auburn onsidered by many as complement those imposing Cincinnati’s first suburb, Mount mansions to create a broad diversity C Auburn was founded as a hilltop of housing stock. retreat for the social elite where Joyce Hughley, a resident for wealthier people could escape the dirt, 46 years, knew no one in the heat, smoke and crowded conditions of community when she moved to the lower city. Their ornate mansions Mount Auburn. She was attracted to of Federal, Greek Revival, Italian Villa, its “quiet, convenient location” and Romanesque Revival and Georgian grew to love the area. Revival styles offered panoramic views “Like most of my neighbors, I care of the valley below. a lot about my community, and I feel Dating from as early as 1819, those very, very strong about education,” houses continue to be associated she says, noting her five sons all with prominent Cincinnatians of the received good educations at nearby period, most notably 27th President Catholic schools, including Holy William Howard Taft. He lived Name and St. George. in the Federal-style home at 2038 Other Mount Auburn amenities Auburn Ave., for most of the first include walking routes, a community 25 years of his life. Now a National garden and multiple medical Historic Landmark maintained facilities, including The Christ by the , it is Hospital, which opened in 1893. Cincinnati’s only National Park site Home to several parks and and regular attraction for school field playgrounds, Mount Auburn’s 20- trips and tourists. acre Inwood Park, bought by the city Modest single-family houses and in 1904, features a lake as well as a multi-unit apartment buildings swimming pool and a large pavilion.

Mount Auburn Community Council: www.historicmtauburn.org 2010 Census Population...... 4,904 White...... 30% Black...... 66% Other...... 4% Dissimilarity Index...... 48 Estimated Value of Detached Home according to city-data.com: ...... $115,616

8 HIDDEN TREASURES A Guide to Integrated Communities in Hamilton County 40-Year Integrated Community

Over-The-Rhine istory abounds in Over-the-Rhine, I feel Over-the-Rhine is a good place so much so that 362 acres and to raise children, and we’re looking H 943 buildings made the National forward to the opening of the renovated Register of Historic Places in 1983. park across the street. We love it here, Indeed its diverse architecture — and we’re committed to staying.” including Vernacular, Greek Revival, Stehlin also notes that OTR residents Italianate, Queen Anne, Federal, can walk to jobs, restaurants and Second Empire, Renaissance Revival entertainment, including some of and more — makes up one of America’s the city’s finest. Music Hall, founded largest and most cohesive surviving in 1878, hosts the Opera, Symphony, examples of an urban, 19th century Pops and May Festival. The Ensemble community. and Know theatres stage regular Founded by German-Americans, performances, and the historic 1912 OTR became home to mostly Emery Theatre is being renovated for Over-the-Rhine African-Americans and Appalachian- the 2012 World Choir Games. Since Community Council: Americans and later evolved into a 1869, the Art Academy has fostered www.over-the-rhine.org mix of ages, religions, cultures and talent, and in 1973, the School for 2010 Census economic classes. Creative and Performing Arts became Population...... 6,996 Mike Stehlin, a resident since 1989, the first K-12 selective arts school in the White...... 24% has seen that evolution up front. He, his country. Black...... 72% wife Catherine and their two children Quality food and beverages are Other...... 4% live in one apartment in the Race Street also aplenty in OTR. Findlay Market, Dissimilarity Index...... 52 building they bought in 2004. opened in 1855, offers fresh produce, Estimated Value of Detached Home according “Right now our tenants include meats, breads, seasonings and more. to city-data.com: ...... $130,275 singles, couples, white, black and And the nation’s oldest and largest Asian,” Stehlin says. “We have five Bockfest celebrates OTR’s brewery children under 10 here. Catherine and history.

Housing Opportunities Made Equal 9 40-Year Integrated Community

Woodlawn reen space is the norm for Woodlawn offers about 15 acres of Woodlawn, a 2.5-square-mile municipal parkland as well as a bike G area that began as a collection trail. And the Hamilton County Park of multiple farms and never lost that District’s Glenwood Gardens offers small-town flavor even as those farms 335 acres of wetlands, prairies and were subdivided. Incorporated in meadows with 2.5 miles of walking 1941, the village has built its industrial trails, including one mile that is and commercial offerings to include wheelchair accessible. more than 300 businesses. As a result, Other village amenities include a Woodlawn the daytime population reaches about community garden, municipal pool, 8,000 while the nighttime population Village Council: wwwbeautifulwoodlawn.us 350-seat auditorium, senior center and remains at about 3,000. 2010 Census recreation center. Population...... 3,294 “Our mix makes Woodlawn a A resident for more than 30 years, White...... 26% wonderful place to live and work,” Moore said her parents moved the Black...... 67% says Gina Ruffin Moore, a Woodlawn family there when she was 14 primarily Other...... 7% council member. “We’ve always because Woodlawn was “very Dissimilarity Index...... 46 been self-sustaining. And as we’ve friendly” and close to downtown as Estimated Value of Detached Home according developed, we’ve kept our focus on well as shopping, schools and parks. to city-data.com: ...... $123,797 maintaining our suburban feel. After attending college, Moore met “We were ‘green’ before green was and married her husband, and they cool. Gardens are common because bought their home in 1998, opting to they never went out of fashion. And raise their two children in Woodlawn our residents often walk throughout as well. their neighborhoods and talk with “We love the community each other, so ‘walking areas’ also are atmosphere and the diversity of the not new for us either.” homes and families,” she says.

10 HIDDEN TREASURES A Guide to Integrated Communities in Hamilton County 30-Year Integrated Community College Hill ncorporated in 1866, College Hill cottages to ranches, single-family to was named for two colleges there: multi-family. She enjoys knowing her I Farmers College and Ohio Female neighbors, she says, noting “it’s rare College. At nearly 900 feet above not to see a neighbor or friend” when sea level, it sits at one of the highest stopping by the College Hill Coffee points in Hamilton County. House in the engaging business The 27-room Laurel Court mansion, district. built at its peak in 1907, remains Other amenities include a 50-acre among America’s best surviving nature preserve, recreation center, examples of the “gilded age.” Also of award-winning schools and active note is Six Acres Bed & Breakfast, the churches of various denominations. 1860s home of abolitionist Zebulon Strong, who aided slaves escaping to College Hill freedom in Canada. Community Council: www.collegehilloh.net When Elizabeth Sherwood moved 2010 Census to College Hill in 1988, she says she Population...... 14,133 was attracted to the beautiful, old White...... 34% homes on tree-lined streets. Black...... 62% “I wouldn’t live anywhere else,” Other...... 4% says the Tennessee native. Her Dissimilarity Index...... 50 home is a stone Tudor, but houses Estimated Value of Detached Home according range from brick to old-style frame, to city-data.com: ...... $153,640 East Walnut Hills ealthy Cincinnatians lived Resident Teresa O’Farrell says East in East Walnut Hills in the Walnut Hills is where she wants to W late 1830s-1840s in stately be. Her family moved there when she and elegant homes of various was just 1 year old, and now she and architectural designs, including her husband are raising their three Colonial Revival, Tudor, English children there. Country Revival, Second Renaissance “People here are who they are, Revival, Dutch Revival and even no pretense,” O’Farrell says, noting a Swiss chalet. Today, the housing that neighbors often gather for block stock provides a mix of less imposing parties and community picnics to housing for renters as well as owners. socialize. The community features high-rise apartments and condos as well as East Walnut Hills renovated older homes and newly Community Council: www.eastwalnuthills.com constructed lofts. 2010 Census The neighborhood also is home Population...... 3,173 to several schools, churches and White...... 65% businesses. Landmarks include St. Black...... 30% Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Other...... 5% known for its 35,000-pound bell the New Thought Unity Center, a Dissimilarity Index...... 50 “Big Joe,” believed to be the largest nondenominational center that Estimated Value of Detached Home according free swinging bell in the world, and traces its roots to 1898. to city-data.com: ...... $311,664

Housing Opportunities Made Equal 11 30-Year Integrated Community Fairview/Clifton Heights airview and Clifton Heights once longtime resident Tony Walsh started were part of former Millcreek a 17-plot community garden between F Township before being annexed McMicken and McMillan. by Cincinnati in 1849 and 1870, Suzanne Fischer, a resident for respectively. more than 15 years, says their efforts Until the late 1860s, Fairview reflect a broader vision of the entire was named Riddle’s Hill for Col. community. John Riddle, an 1812 war vet, before “We work with one another for a gaining its current name because cleaner and safer neighborhood,” of its views of the basin and lower she says. “You know your immediate Mill Creek Valley. Both it and Clifton neighbors and you can count on them.” Heights started as mostly single- family, owner-occupied, middle-class Fairview/Clifton Heights communities. Today, they offer a Community Council: www.cufna.org blend of humanity — all races and 2010 Census incomes, families, students and Population...... 7,358 university staff in all types of housing. White...... 76% Lifelong resident Paul Gallagher, Black...... 17% a retired firefighter, uses his Other...... 7% landscaping skills to help maintain a Dissimilarity Index...... 43 “green community” by planting trees Estimated Value of Detached Home according and cleaning vacant lots. And in 1996, to city-data.com: ...... $142,982 Forest Park orest Park started as a planned community in the 1950s on land F once part of Greenhills, became a village in 1961 and a city in 1968. Today, the city just south of I-275 is the third largest in Hamilton County behind Cincinnati and Norwood. It is home to more than 550 companies, a 1.5-million-square-foot shopping center and a host of parks, sports facilities, restaurants and retail shops. Housing is equally diverse with old and new single-family enjoys the sidewalks for the children Forest Park and the nearby parks. homes, apartments, condos and City Council: www.forestpark.org Filipinos Vilma and Rodolfo luxury estates. 2010 Census Lagdameo, who emigrated more than Population...... 18,720 Resident Peggy Feirstine, a former 30 years ago, were attracted by the White...... 25% upstate New Yorker, was drawn to “family-friendly” environment and Forest Park more than 30 years ago convenience to everything. Black...... 65% for its diversity. Sally Huffman, clerk of council, Other...... 10% “We had two children and concurs, saying, “This is such a nice Dissimilarity Index...... 28 wanted them to live in a diverse area to live and raise a family. I have Estimated Value of Detached Home according environment,” she says, adding she never been swayed to live elsewhere.” to city-data.com: ...... $138,733

12 HIDDEN TREASURES A Guide to Integrated Communities in Hamilton County 30-Year Integrated Community Golf Manor n the 1800s, Golf Manor was made financial and social support. Among up of acres of farmland that drew them are the Woman’s Club, Civic Club, I many people looking for fresh Recreation Commission, Scouting and vegetables and other farm products. Camp Fire activity. Activities include Today, the village maintains its parades, festivals, cleanups, yard sales, neighborly feel with nearly 4,000 dances, costume parties, dinners and residents and 70 small-, medium- and holiday get-togethers. large-scale businesses dotting the roughly one square mile of streets. Golf Manor Resident Nikki Tilford says she Village Council: www.golfmanor.org was initially drawn to Golf Manor 2010 Census in 1978 because she wanted a safe, and fire,” Tilford says. “I also have Population...... 3,611 comfortable neighborhood for herself absolutely great neighbors. We talk, White...... 24% and her two daughters. Since then, share and really look out for each Black...... 73% she has come to appreciate the other. I love living here.” Other...... 3% village’s “small-town appeal” with its Golf Manor has an active, engaged Dissimilarity Index...... 29 well-kept streets and older trees. populace with dozens of organizations Estimated Value of Detached Home according “I like that we have our own police committed to its betterment through to city-data.com: ...... $108,783

What does “affordable” mean?

Accessibility - Quality Housing Racial Equality - Safety Affordable Housing for All

Affordable Housing Advocates’s Public Housing Report - Coming December 2011 Reserve your copy today!

Join hundreds of others standing with AHA’s mission to promote the availability of high quality, safe, accessible affordable housing in the Greater Cincinnati Area.

Get involved. Volunteer. Join us! www.ahacincy.org

Housing Opportunities Made Equal 13 30-Year Integrated Community Mount Airy ount Airy could be called a to $1 million. community of landmarks. Its Residents unite for the betterment M imposing 8.5-million-gallon of the whole, Walsh says, noting its water tower stands at the highest churches — Methodist, Catholic, point in Hamilton County. Nearby Pentecostal and nondenominational 1,500-acre Mount Airy Forest, which — jointly host Thanksgiving services begun as the nation’s first municipal and other special gatherings. reforestation project, is the city’s The “Green Team” cleans the largest park, complete with an neighborhood weekly. Social events arboretum featuring more than 5,000 include block parties, fireworks and plants of 1,600 species and varieties. fairs. Pinecroft, the 1928 mansion built on 113 acres for Powel Crosley Jr., famed Mount Airy inventor and former owner of the Town Council: www.mountairyonline.org Cincinnati Reds and WLW radio, is 2010 Census on the National Register of Historic Population...... 8,779 Places. architecture. Residents can buy White...... 30% For Town Council President or rent newly constructed homes, Black...... 65% Cindee Walsh, who has been a refurbished farmhouses, older Other...... 5% resident for more than 30 years, single-family houses, townhouses, Dissimilarity Index...... 44 Mount Airy reflects its long-standing apartments, condos, bricks, stones Estimated Value of Detached Home according character through its diverse and frames with prices from $50,000 to city-data.com: ...... $193,280 North Avondale/Paddock Hills stablished in the 1800s, North I don’t want him growing up seeing Avondale and Paddock Hills have color,” she says, noting the children E maintained their older trees play together and people look out and other green spaces as they’ve for one another. “You know your evolved into an eclectic mix of homes neighbors, who all take a lot of pride and families. Early residents, such as in their neighborhood.” businessmen Samuel Pogue, Frank Herschede and Barney Kroger, built North Avondale/Paddock Hills extravagant homes of Greek Revival, North Avondale Neighborhood Association: Italian Renaissance and English www.northavondalecincinnati.com Medieval styles. Paddock Hills Community Council: Some of those large homes later www.paddockhills.org were divided into apartments, and 2010 Census today, residents can find any size or Population...... 5,919 style of home they want. Vivian Kline, White...... 48% longtime Paddock Hills resident, likes Black...... 47% the house sizes — “not too small with white-collar. Jennifer A. Gibson, a Other...... 5% front lawns looking neat and well North Avondale resident for more Dissimilarity Index...... 60 kept.” than 10 years, sought that diversity Estimated Value of Detached Home according Residents are as diverse as their before moving to the community. to city-data.com: homes — black, white, Christian, “We wanted to raise our son in a North Avondale...... $214,496 Jewish, professional, blue-collar and successfully integrated community. Paddock Hills...... $231,252

14 HIDDEN TREASURES A Guide to Integrated Communities in Hamilton County 30-Year Integrated Community Northside orthside is blessed with scores of home to an eclectic mix of people active, engaged residents willing from all walks of life, living in all N to share their views and promote types of housing from older brick their neighborhood. Because of that and frame homes to cozy bungalows involvement, Northside has become a to large Victorians and new hip and happening place. construction. Its dozens of fine restaurants and Tim Jeckering, a resident since 1981, specialty shops are complemented calls Northside “a little village in a big by a business district of nearly 400 city … because of the character of the shops within a four-block radius. urban environment and the quality of Community events abound with the historic homes.” home tours, art sales, block parties, a Gay Pride Parade, a Fourth of July Northside Parade, a farmers’ market and more. Community Council: www.northside.net Other features include community 2010 Census gardens, wooded areas and parks, Population...... 7,467 a recreation center and a nonprofit White...... 59% collaborative ministry (Churches Black...... 36% Active in Northside) that assists Other...... 5% families in need. Dissimilarity Index...... 41 Early residents were Irish, German Estimated Value of Detached Home according and African-American. Now it is to city-data.com: ...... $108,414 Pleasant Ridge stablished in 1795, Pleasant home tours, parades, tree lightings, Ridge began as an area for and other events to make Pleasant E country retreats for wealthier Ridge a “destination point,” Phalen Cincinnatians. With the arrival of said. the railroad, it expanded to include The community also maintains a middle-income families and, in strong business district with unique the 1960s, began attracting black restaurants, coffee shops and families. Today, it offers numerous specialty stores. And its Recreation housing options – Cape Cods, Center is among the region’s most Colonials, Tudors, newer brick active. homes on quiet, tree-lined streets. Residents report solid community Pleasant Ridge engagement through neighborhood Community Council: www.pleasantridge.org clubs, block parties, and church 2010 Census activities. Lifelong resident Patricia Population...... 8,083 Meder lauded the work of churches White...... 58% in helping engage the community Hundreds contributed, she said, Black...... 36% and assist those in need whether of during her grassroots campaign food, shelter, clothing or education. to raise funds to update their Other...... 6% “We’re a community rich with landmark Federal-style library to Dissimilarity Index...... 41 dedicated volunteers,” she said. make it accessible to the disabled. Estimated Value of Detached Home according Mary Anne Phalen agreed. Other efforts promote art exhibits, to city-data.com: ...... $148,196

Housing Opportunities Made Equal 15 30-Year Integrated Community Spring Grove Village ncorporated in 1882 and annexed active community council, youth to Cincinnati in 1903, Winton center, community garden, business I Place changed its named to Spring association, churches and schools. Grove Village in 2007 to reclaim Isaac Greene, a resident since 2002 a variation of a former moniker, and a former president of community Spring Grove (1841-1872). Its best- council, says residents collaborate known historic landmark, Spring to create a tight-knit community Grove Cemetery & Arboretum, was uniting for a potluck picnic each established in 1845 and kept the summer and for periodic yard sales Spring Grove name. It encompasses and cleanups. over 730 acres and is the final resting place for many of the region’s most Spring Grove Village prominent citizens. Community Council: Early residents were a mix of www.springgrovevillage.org upper- and middle-income families 2010 Census who lived in large homes in the Population...... 1,964 heart of the village while working- White...... 41% class people — farm workers, black Black...... 51% woodcutters, gardeners and laborers Other...... 8% — occupied the outer edges of the worked in nearby plants. Dissimilarity Index...... 23 neighborhood. Train service drew Today, the area boasts more Estimated Value of Detached Home according even more diverse populations who than 100 businesses, as well as an to city-data.com: ...... $147,650 The Heights (University Heights) he Heights, aka University Heights, includes mostly T residential properties in a mixture of large apartment complexes, student rentals and single-family dwellings. “Houses here tend to have more lawn than Clifton Heights, and the area is less densely populated,” said resident Cindy Summers, who moved in while attending law school. She and her husband, and tertiary health-care facility in The Heights Daniel Lewis, appreciate the the area; and the Little Sisters of (University Heights) diversity and vitality of the area the Poor nursing home, founded by Community Council: www.cufna.org Saint Jeanne Jugan. as well as the ease of being able to 2010 Census walk to retail stores, restaurants, Rob Burke, a 23-year resident, Population...... 9,687 specialty shops, parks, and other says the view from his Coy Street points of interest. home is another attractive feature. White...... 70% Landmarks include Hebrew Union “I can see the Millcreek Valley from Black...... 15% College (founded 1875), the oldest my house, and in the early evening Other...... 15% institution of higher Jewish learning I love the enchanting sound of the Dissimilarity Index...... 44 in the country; Good Samaritan, train yard down below. It’s kind of a Estimated Value of Detached Home according the oldest, largest private teaching high-pitched tone.” to city-data.com: ...... $208,406

16 HIDDEN TREASURES A Guide to Integrated Communities in Hamilton County 20-Year Integrated Community Camp Washington amp Washington may be we are doing is not easy, but it’s nationally known for its certainly rewarding.” C award-winning chili, but this Complementing the CWCB is an historic community also fosters an active business association that environment for commercial and promotes business development, residential success. Most recently it organizes community activities and earned recognition for maintaining coordinates programs with city and the value of its properties even during county agencies. Its efforts helped an economic downturn. cut the crime rate to among the city’s The Camp Washington Community lowest. Board guided those efforts by buying, building or rehabbing more than Camp Washington 100 homes. Old, structurally solid Community Council: buildings were gutted and upgraded www.camp-washington.org to help residents and newcomers find 2010 Census and purchase affordable housing to Population...... 1,343 meet their needs. White...... 66% “It takes a lot of hard work to attract Black...... 30% good people to your neighborhood,” be able to offer viable alternatives. Other...... 4% says Paul Rudemiller, CWCB With these homes, the shell may be Dissimilarity Index...... 38 executive director. “When someone 100 years old, but the walls, plumbing Estimated Value of Detached Home according is looking for housing, you have to and electrical are months old. What to city-data.com:...... $95,402 Clifton ncorporated as a village in 1850, of young and old and everything in Clifton quickly became an elegant between.” I suburb of mansions, businesses Clifton also is home to three and smaller homes. After annexation public parks: , Rawson by Cincinnati in 1896, Clifton Nature Preserve and Mount Storm maintained its diversity and soon Park. Community activities include became known for its educated, parades, house tours, forums, tree artistic and eclectic populace. plantings, cleanups and other such For Dottie Lewis, a resident since projects. 1971, the community’s location was “ideal” for herself and her husband, Clifton then a professor at the nearby Town Meeting Board: University of Cincinnati. www.cliftoncommunity.org “It’s so convenient to anywhere in 2010 Census the city,” she says. “It’s 15 minutes Population...... 8,304 from anywhere if you know where exhibits, sports facilities and more. White...... 72% you’re going.” “We love walking our dogs and Black...... 17% Lewis also appreciates that the seeing all the young families with Other...... 11% village-like neighborhood allows their jogging strollers or walking Dissimilarity Index...... 48 residents to walk or ride bikes to with their children,” she says. “It’s Estimated Value of Detached Home according scores of shops, restaurants, cultural a wonderfully diverse population to city-data.com: ...... $311,437

Housing Opportunities Made Equal 17 20-Year Integrated Community Finneytown (Springfield Twp.) inneytown, the largest designated neighborhood in F Springfield Township, has seen its population shift from the late 1700s to become more ethnically and racially diverse as farmland gave way to streets, homes, schools and businesses. Musa Abdullah, a resident since 1987, says he and his wife, Ruth, were drawn to the area because of its central “close “We’ll continue living here,” he food celebration in Cincinnati. to everything” location, quality schools says. “We don’t have any desire to and community values. live anywhere else. We have good Finneytown (Springfield Twp.) “We were able to find a solid, sound neighbors, and we all get along well Trustees: www.springfieldtwp.org house that didn’t need much work to together.” 2010 Census update,” he says. “It was on a double Finneytown also boasts active Population...... 12,741 lot, so we had plenty of space.” business, civic and religious White...... 62% Their four children also benefited organizations that encourage Black...... 34% from excellent schools, Abdullah personal and professional Other...... 4% says, noting “Finneytown put development and a bit of fun. Indeed, Dissimilarity Index...... 49 them far ahead” of some of their its Panegyri Greek Festival has Estimated Value of Detached Home according counterparts. become the largest annual ethnic to city-data.com: ...... $150,430 Hartwell estled in the Mill Creek Valley, luncheons, craft shows, bake sales, Hartwell initially was part of corn hole competitions and chair N Springfield Township before volleyball. Scouting troops support being annexed to Cincinnati in boys, girls and teens. And, the 1912. Its central location, easy recreation center attracts crowds to access to highways and proximity classes, camps and more. In addition, to “everything” have fueled its Hartwell’s very successful swim team, continued growth and development. the Sea Dragons, is supported by All the while its long-time parents and business sponsors. residents, as well as newcomers, have maintained their mix of older Hartwell Victorian style homes with newer Improvement Association: developments along tree-lined “Ours is a good community,” Keith www.hartwellohio.org streets. says. “The people are nice. We’re 2010 Census Decades-long residents Keith and church and family-oriented. Everyone Population...... 4,640 Rose Burlingame have invested much kind of watches out for everybody White...... 56% of their time and energy toward else.” Black...... 36% creating and maintaining a thriving Various community groups Other...... 8% community through neighborhood help create an ongoing “sense of Dissimilarity Index...... 45 engagement and one-to-one neighborhood.” Its Hartwell Seniors, Estimated Value of Detached Home ...... interactions. founded in 1977, offers day trips, according to city-data.com: ...... $141,488

18 HIDDEN TREASURES A Guide to Integrated Communities in Hamilton County 20-Year Integrated Community Mount Healthy ettled as a village in 1817, Mount children also have purchased homes Healthy was originally named in Mount Healthy. S Mount Pleasant, but when City amenities include active many of its citizens survived the community groups such as the Cholera epidemic of 1850, it was Historical Society, the Business renamed, eventually becoming a Association, an aquatics center, city in 1951. Throughout its history, playgrounds and athletic fields. Mount Healthy was home to working people striving to build solid lives Mount Healthy for themselves, their families and mayor and council member. “We City Council: www.mthealthy.org their community. Most homes are have our differences, but our basic 2010 Census individually designed and situated values are the same. The right thing Population...... 6,098 among lofty trees that provide a to do is the right thing to do.” White...... 62% welcome natural atmosphere. Those values are reflected in the Black...... 33% “Ours has always been a walkable, continuity of Mount Healthy, he says, Other...... 5% family-friendly community,” says noting that his children were the fifth Dissimilarity Index...... 40 lifelong resident Stephen Wolf, generation to live in his Victorian Estimated Value of Detached Home according current city attorney and former house, and two of his three adult to city-data.com: ...... $111,345 FREE SUBSCRIPTION

Visit www.cincymagazine.com for a FREE subscription to Cincy Magazine

Housing Opportunities Made Equal 19 20-Year Integrated Community Mount Healthy Heights olerain Township was mostly rural farmland before C subdivisions were introduced in the 1950s. Among the first was Mount Healthy Heights in 1951, at the eastern edge of the township just south of I-275, east of Pippin Road and north of Springdale Road. Today, its tree- lined streets are home to hundreds. Charlie and Marlene Lintz, who the neighborhood. Both are officers Mount Healthy Heights bought their newly built house in (Marlene, president; Charlie, (Colerain Twp.) 1963, raised three children there. secretary) for the Cincinnati Central “We were looking for a quiet area,” Trustees: www.coleraintwp.org Turners, which relocated from 2010 Census Charlie says “It was a new subdivision Cincinnati to Mount Healthy Heights Population...... 3,264 at the time, and we were all young in the 1950s. Founded in 1858, the White...... 58% families just starting out. We liked German-American society promotes Black...... 38% the atmosphere and the schools. It athletics and education. Other...... 4% was still country at the time. The kids Also in Mount Healthy Heights Dissimilarity Index...... 54 could pick berries.” are the Elmer P. Beckman Adult Estimated Value of Detached Home according Through the decades, the couple Center and the North Central to city-data.com: ...... $120,172 has worked to build and maintain Branch of the Public Library. Pleasant Run Farms pringfield Township’s Pleasant Run Farms is one of five areas S detached geographically from the contiguous portions of the township. Predominantly residential, the community grew rapidly after Welch Elementary School was built there in 1977. Indeed, hundreds of traditional three- and four-bedroom homes dot both sides of the 30 or so streets of the 670-acre neighborhood. Jason Henry, a resident of more than walking distance?” Pleasant Run Farms 13 years and former president of the Residents also enjoy easy access to (Springfield Twp.) Civic Association, says PRF is made I-275 and Hamilton County’s 2,555- Civic Association: www.pleasantrunfarms.org up of dedicated people willing to acre Winton Woods Park. And, the 2010 Census volunteer time to benefit others. PRF’s Athletic and Civic associations Population...... 4,654 “We have enjoyed raising our host numerous community programs White...... 54% children in this active and friendly and events including Easter egg Black...... 40% community that has so much to hunts, pool parties, parades, picnics, Other...... 6% offer,” he says. “Where else can you hayrides, chili cookouts and more. Its Dissimilarity Index...... 20 live where you have ball fields, a Dolphins Swim Team is also a huge Estimated Value of Detached Home according school, churches and a pool all within source of community pride. to city-data.com: ...... $157,261

20 HIDDEN TREASURES A Guide to Integrated Communities in Hamilton County 20-Year Integrated Community South Fairmount ike many other communities, South Fairmont settled in the L early- to mid-1800s, starting out as the country get-away spot for wealthier city residents. Homes of the Second Empire, Italianate, Queen Anne and other grand styles sat on spacious lots close to nature. “We remain a ‘green’ community,” says Elliott Ellis, president of the “We like it here,” Ellis says, noting drop of cool water on hot days. community council. “Because we’re the “quietness” and the proximity to in something of a valley, we have one of the community’s best assets, South Fairmount lots of hillsides and natural growth the 18.4-acre St. Clair Heights Park, Community Council: www.cincinnati-oh.gov around us.” which features picnic and play areas 2010 Census Ellis’ wife, Erlene, grew up in South along with two overlooks of the Population...... 2,368 Fairmount, and the couple settled Millcreek Valley. White...... 37% into their 2.5-story brick home in the Among other amenities is the Black...... 57% mid-1980s. Their three children are Sprayground on Queen City Avenue. Other...... 6% grown, but they’re still committed to Operated by the city’s Recreation Dissimilarity Index...... 26 the neighborhood and are adding to Commission, it provides youngsters Estimated Value of Detached Home according their 1922 house. free access to the spray, sprinkle and to city-data.com: ...... $83,425 Springdale ounded in 1806, Springdale was platted astride a major F transportation route to become home for a host of business and residential properties. Throughout the decades, the City of Springdale (incorporated in 1971) has remained a hub of activity bisected by Interstate 275 and bordered by Interstate 75. Because of substantial retail, manufacturing and service enterprises, the city has a solid the-art community center, and other Springdale tax base that allows its residents municipal facilities and services. City Council: www.springdale.org access to many of the amenities of Pamela Williams, a resident since 2010 Census neighborhoods much larger than the 2005, said she appreciates the city’s Population...... 11,223 roughly five square miles that make location, services and schools. White...... 55% up Springdale. Residents have a choice “It’s convenient to everything,” she Black...... 30% of housing options from single-family said, “not just shopping … we love Other...... 15% to apartments and condominiums Tri-County Mall … but also schools, Dissimilarity Index...... 37 to senior communities. The city also churches and recreational areas. It’s Estimated Value of Detached Home according maintains its own police and fire in the middle of everything, so I don’t to city-data.com: ...... $155,089 departments, parks and rec, a state-of- have to travel far for anything.”

Housing Opportunities Made Equal 21 20-Year Integrated Community Westwood ncorporated as a village in 1868, Tudor and Ranch to Contemporary. Westwood began with about Westwood’s architecture placed I 100 homes on small farms and 115 acres and five buildings on the country estates. With its annexation National Register of Historic Places in to Cincinnati in 1806, the six-square- 1974. At the center was the Westwood mile community became the city’s Town Hall, a Romanesque structure largest geographical neighborhood built in 1889. with the highest number of residents. LaTonya Springs, a resident since Westwood 2001, says her family appreciates its all the latest fashions at reasonable Civic Association: www.westwoodcivic.org location and its offerings. prices.” 2010 Census “It’s close to everything, and Residents also have a choice in Population...... 33,892 everything we need is there,” she housing, with old and new multi- White...... 45% says. “I’m 10 minutes from my family and single-family homes Black...... 50% daughter’s school, 10 minutes from nestled among tree-lined streets Other...... 5% work and 10 minutes from shopping. convenient for walking, biking or just Dissimilarity Index...... 48 My daughter’s favorite shop is right hanging out. Styles cover the gamut Estimated Value of Detached Home according there. It’s an urban, hip shop with from Victorian and Four Square to to city-data.com: ...... $142,121

CINCY MAGAZINE CUSTOM Innovative Publications that Build Brands and Increase Business

ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO CINCY BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Trusts Leading Lawyer and Estates Spring 2007

Wills/Trusts Living Wills Estate Planning Trust Administration Probate Medicaid Planning Elder Law William E. Hesch, Esq., CPA, PFS

BILL SPEAKS OUT: Legal and CPA Services Go Hand-in-Hand in Planning Your Estate

INSIDE: An interview with our newest attorney 2005, 2006, 2007 Amy E. Pennekamp Cincy Business Leading Lawyer

Let us show you how we can give you your very own publication. 513.421.2533

22 HIDDEN TREASURES A Guide to Integrated Communities in Hamilton County 22

9 25

17

20 years 17integrated 28 8 30 years integrated 16

40 years integrated 8 11

3

10 12 14 21 24 19 18 13 2 27 1 26 4 23 7 6 15 20 5

Stable Integrated Communities in Hamilton County

1. Camp Washington 11. Hartwell 21. Pleasant Ridge 2. Clifton 12. Kennedy Heights 22. Pleasant Run Farm (Springfield Twp.) 3. College Hill 13. Madisonville 23. South Fairmount 4. Corryville 14. Mount Airy 24. Spring Grove Village 5. Downtown/Riverfront 15. Mount Auburn 25. Springdale 6. East Walnut Hills 16. Mount Healthy 26. University Heights (Heights) 7. Fairview-Clifton Heights (CUF) 17. Mount Healthy Heights (Colerain Twp.) 27. Westwood 8. Finneytown (Springfield Twp.) 18. North Avondale-Paddock Hills 28. Woodlawn 9. Forest Park 19. Northside 10. Golf Manor 20. Over-the-Rhine

Housing Opportunities Made Equal 23