Good morning, Hamilton.

The Commonwealth Center broke ground today in Hamilton as local officials and community members gathered to mark the start of construction.

The center is designed to host community programs and add valuable space downtown (organizers outlined plans for future phases).

Retired Butler County 911 dispatcher Chris Ferguson (Ferg the Bike Dude) has raised over $12,000 by refurbishing and selling bikes on Facebook Marketplace to help Animal Friends Humane Society, and he plans to keep fundraising as the shelter seeks additional foster families and volunteers.

The Lakota Local Schools Board approved a 37-year, $223M replacement bond issue for the Nov.

3 ballot to fund renovations for growing enrollment. The new 2.20 mill levy will start collections in 2029 without increasing taxes.

Hamilton approved a plan on Wednesday, June 10 to defer Spooky Nook Sports Champion Mill's loan payments until January 2, 2029 (letting the complex reinvest revenue and expand after pandemic setbacks) while keeping the loan amount and maturity unchanged.

Kevin Norris, a Colerain Township resident who lost his legs in a 2019 overdose + now shares his recovery journey on Facebook Live to support others with addiction.

In May, Hamilton County officials said overdose deaths more than doubled from last year, highlighting the ongoing fight against addiction.

A bat collected in West Chester Township tested positive for rabies Thursday after a possible human exposure, according to the Butler County General Health District (BCHGD).

Officials advise residents to avoid handling bats with bare hands and to keep pets current on rabies vaccinations.

Candlelight: Neo-Soul Favorites

6:30-7:29 p.m. — National Underground Railroad Freedom Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soothing sounds of Neo-Soul favorites in a candlelit setting.

Emma - The Play

2-4 p.m. — The Otto M.Budig Theater — Tickets start at $131 — Experience the live adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic in a captivating performance.

The Lion King Musical

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Aronoff Center for the Arts - Fifth Third Bank Theater — VIP tickets available — Experience the magic of The Lion King with premium seating and special packages.

North Mississippi Allstars Concert

7:30-9:00 PM — Ludlow Garage — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of southern rock and blues with the acclaimed North Mississippi Allstars.

The Pharcyde Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Ludlow Garage — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of iconic hip-hop with The Pharcyde in Cincinnati.

AAU Basketball Girls World Championships

All day — Spooky Nook Sports Champion Mill — Registration required — Compete in thrilling basketball matches at a premier venue in Hamilton, OH.

The Flying Circus Airshow

12–3:30 p.m. — Butler County Regional Airport — Tickets from $2 — Experience thrilling model aircraft displays and exciting aerial maneuvers at this annual celebration.

The Lion King (Touring)

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Aronoff Center for the Arts - Fifth Third Bank Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of The Lion King live in Cincinnati.

Mr. Speed Tribute Concert

5:30-7:30 p.m. — RiversEdge Amphitheater — Free General Admission — Experience a night of KISS tribute music followed by The Kokotto Comeback at the scenic RiversEdge Park.

Baltimore Orioles at Cincinnati Reds

1-2 p.m. — Great American Ball Park — Scheduled event — Catch the action as the Cincinnati Reds face off against the Baltimore Orioles in an exciting home game.