West Hamilton News

The City of Loveland has dedicated a portion of State Route 48/Second Street as Pat Furterer Way.

Furterer is one of the 11 founders of Loveland Stage Company, the city’s nonprofit community theater group. Two honorary street signs will be placed along Second Street near LSC’s home, Crist Theater, 110 S. Second St.

“The city wanted to recognize Mrs. Furterer’s efforts over the years to promote arts in the local community. She has worked tirelessly, quite literally in any role needed, to promote the theater and arts within the city. She has created a community gathering place and made Loveland stronger through her work. For her dedicated commitment, the city is very fortunate,” said Mayor Kathy Bailey.

After moving to Loveland with her husband in 1977, she discovered the city had no community theater. She took matters into her own hands by placing an ad in the local paper to seek individuals interested in starting a theater company. By 1979, LSC was officially staging shows. In fact, LSC’s first production took place in Furterer’s backyard!

Through the years, she has filled the roles of director, producer, actor, publicist, usher, designer, set constructor, house manager, stage crew, props assistant, board member, ticket agent — the list goes on. Since 2013, Furterer has served as LSC’s President Emeritus.

In 2008, LSC’s Crist Theater caught fire, damaging the roof. Furterer worked tirelessly with volunteers to rebuild and reopen the theater one year later.  

Throughout her service to LSC, her commitment to the Loveland community has been constant. In addition to offering seasonal shows, LSC offers mentoring programs, dance classes, and a successful children’s theater program with more than 120 children participating annually. She began LSC’s tradition of staging free Christmas shows and participating in city events, like the annual Independence Day Celebration.

Additionally, Furterer is a member of the Loveland Woman’s Club, a Loveland Valentine Lady, and was director of the Loveland Chamber of Commerce (now known as the Little Miami River Chamber Alliance).   

For her dedicated community involvement, she was inducted into the Ohio Department of Aging’s Senior Citizens Hall of Fame in Columbus in September 2022. At the ceremony, Gov. Mike DeWine stated, “These individuals represent the best kind of Ohioan – one who serves others, changes lives, and makes us all stronger.”

Original source can be found here.