All the Way ThroughAn Appalachian Trail Adventure
By Joan Welsh
Does walking 2190 miles on your own two feet sound like a good idea? Those hikers who travel the entire length of the Appalachian Trail pass through 14 states , eight different national forests, six national park units and numerous state parks, forests, and game lands with approximately 464,500’ gain/loss in elevation. Mariemont resident Bryan Georgilis did just that last summer as he hiked from Georgia to Maine. Completing the entire 2,190 miles of the Appalachian Trail (AT) in one trip is a mammoth undertaking. Each year, thousands of hikers attempt a thru-hike; only about one in four makes it all the way. A typical thru-hiker takes 5 to 7 months to hike the entire trail. Trekking the full AT is no easy feat, so you have to be sure you are well prepared. In addition to planning your route and supplies, physical and mental preparations become important factors in a successful thru-hike.
Bryan, 24, was graduating from Washington and Lee University in Lexington, VA. He wanted to take this opportunity to use the 6 month hike as a time for some self reflection on his next step in life and to “cleanse his body and mind.” Bryan and a college buddy, Nate, decided to ‘do’ the AT. They remained together for the entire hike. Upon reflection, Bryan recommends each hiker has to “hike their own hike” and sometimes
hiking with others interferes with your objectives. Bryan’s first day on the Trail in Springer Mountain, GA was March 7. He ended his thru-hike on September 25 at the granite Mt. Katahdin, Maine. Walking through the change of seasons was thrilling: from the barren tones of March, through the blossoms of springtime, the greens of summer, to hints of autumn gold.
To prepare for a thru-hike there are many outfitter stores, blogs, websites and books to assist a potential hiker. You also have to be sure you are in good physical shape with the right
equipment. On the AT, hiking weight is all important. Everything you bear on your back weighs you down so each item you carry must be analyzed carefully. The biggest mistake most hikers make is taking too much with them. Substantial hiking boots are the first priority. Your backpack will carry everything you need such as your tent/ tarp, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, cell phone, clothing, stove, cooking utensils, water (and treatments for making water sanitary), a credit card and food. Bryan’s past experiences as a Boy Scout and other outdoor endeavors helped
(cont'd on page 21)
Bryan Georgilis still had a long way to go.
Help Support the 2016 Eliminate 5k
By Ellie Kapcar
On April 10, Mariemont High School’s Key Club is hosting their third annual Eliminate 5K at Mariemont High School (MHS) Kusel Stadium. In partnership with Kiwanis International and UNICEF, this student-led race raises money for the Eliminate Project, which vaccinates mothers in third world countries to prevent maternal and neonatal tetanus.
Over the past two years, MHS Key Club has raised over $21,000 for the Eliminate Project, saving over 11,000 families from maternal and neonatal tetanus. In 2013, the race was honored by 4C’s Youth Champions for Children, receiving The Next Generation Award. MHS Key Club has been recognized as the top fundraiser for the Eliminate
Project in Ohio and also a top 10 Eliminate fundraiser in the world.
Families are encouraged to walk or run in the Eliminate 5k through Mariemont on April 10th and can register at warriors4theworld.org. Also be on the lookout for upcoming fundraisers at the Fairfax Chipotle, where half of the proceeds will go to the Eliminate Project.
Anyone interested in being a sponsor or making a donation can contact Ellie Kapcar at (513) 340-6264 or kapcar.eleanor@ mariemontschools.org.
All race questions should be directed to Amanda Lewis at (513) 720-9693 or lewis. amanda@mariemontschools.org. Thank you in advance for your support!
Please Join Us For Food For A Good cause MONDAY, MARCH 12TH 5-9PM At the National Exemplar
You are invited to join us as we host our 23rd Annual Dinner Event benefiting Cancer Support Community
Corrections
The name of Alecia Kintner was misspelled in the February issue of the Town Crier. Also, the name of the artist commissioned to paint the portrait of Mayor Clarence Erickson, Deborah Ridgley, was inadvertently omitted from the Council minute report.
The
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Carriers D avi D a n D rews G inny C aesar K atie C opetas Z oe C opetas s C ott H ollan D J a CK son H ouse a lly an D Z a CH M aier a lex M antle M ax an D F inn M arque Z J ona H an D C olin M i K esell o wen p ro FF itt H enry t e GH t M eyer n oa
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(Siblings listed together share routes; siblings listed separately have their own routes)
April deadline: The deadline for the next Town Crier is March 17, 2016 All camera-ready ads and articles must be submitted by 5 pm to Claire Kupferle at indy3844@aol.com. Articles should be sent via email in Microsoft® Word, with photos sent as jpg files of at least 350KB. Payment and advertising contracts should be submitted to: Claire Kupferle, 3844 Indianview, Cinti., OH
The Town Crier is published monthly from September through May as “The Voice Of The Village Of Mariemont.” The Mariemont Town Crier, LLC is published as a service to the residents and organizations of the Village of Mariemont. Articles (typed and double-spaced) and photographs are welcomed. They may be dropped off or emailed by 5 pm on the article due date. Signed Letters to the Editor are accepted as space allows. The Town Crier reserves the right to edit letters for length. Letters to the Editor reflect the opinions of the authors and do not represent the views of The Town Crier staff. Photographs will not be returned unless indicated. Due to limited space, the editorial staff reserves the right to select and edit articles for both content and space. As a public service to the non-profit organizations of Mariemont, The Town Crier does accept inserts for a fee. The editorial staff reserves the right to select and edit inserts. Inserts and ads of a political nature are not accepted.
Mariemont High School Presents The Secret Garden
By Gordon N. Goodwin
Every day, many Mariemont students gather in the auditorium after school. They come from many different walks of life, some are athletes, some are nerds, some are chorus kids, but they’re all there for the same purpose; the high school musical. Progress is going smoothly, with many students and parents taking leadership roles this year, as Mariemont High School Juniors
Grace Haffner and Corrine Fanta aid in the choreography. Even the students’ parents are involved - working hard to build and decorate the set. The musical this year is The Secret Garden, a story of a spoiled girl, Mary Lennox, who is swept away to a new life in Yorkshire after cholera kills her family and servants in India. Showing March 18 and 19 at 7:30 pm and March 20 at 2:00 pm, this musical is a whimsical departure from the more lighthearted musicals of the past.
A native of Mariemont, Kelly Pear is excited to join Carol Harris and the team at Comey & Shepherd’s Mariemont Office. Kelly hopes to partner her energetic attitude and valuable experience in customer service, international business and project management with her customer-centric expertise, to help her clients find the perfect home!
I have spent many years looking for a business partner who shares my dedication to Cincinnati buyers and sellers. Kelly fits all my ideals of a professional. She brings a high level of service, integrity and sophistication, and I am excited to have the opportunity to work with her. - Carol Harris
We are so delighted to have Kelly Pear join our office. Kelly truly knows what makes the Village special…and she is uniquely positioned to provide the market knowledge and personalized service that our clients expect. Kelly’s enthusiasm, commitment and integrity make her an exceptional choice to help purchase or sell your Mariemont home. - Monika Osborn
Mariemont High School students busy rehearsing for the upcoming musical The Secret Garden.
The Village of Mariemont Turns 75!
By Claire Kupferle
We owe a great deal of thanks to those folks who, in 1941, voted to incorporate the Village of Mariemont rather than become part of the City of Cincinnati. The Village of Mariemont will commemorate this momentous event with a series of celebrations throughout the year. A committee of the Mayor and interested residents has been formed to plan the festivities.
Mariemont has two important dates related to its founding. Mariemont’s “birthday” is considered to be April 23, 1923, when Mary Emery turned the first spadeful of earth to mark the beginning of construction on her new town of Mariemont. In only seven short years, we will be celebrating the 100th year since that important day. This year, however, we are celebrating Mariemont’s “anniversary,” dating to July 12, 1941 when Mariemont officially incorporated to become a village.
The City of Cincinnati had been looking to expand, and targeted Mariemont, Fairfax and Madison Place for annexation. It was up to each community to vote on the issue, which was quite divisive! Some folks strongly believed Mariemont should become part of the big city of Cincinnati, with its services such as fire, police and garbage, rather than trying to provide such services itself. Another faction wanted Mariemont to incorporate in order to have more control. As we know, the voters of Mariemont and Fairfax decided to incorporate, while Madison Place became part of the City of Cincinnati. As an incorporated entity, Mariemont has been able to make its own decisions and chart its own course better than had it become a Cincinnati neighborhood.
Once the vote to incorporate had been won, a group of involved residents was formed to decide on the best way to run this newly-incorporated village. Prominent on the committee were E. Boyd and Marie Jordan. One of the first teachers hired by the
Mariemont Company in 1924, Marie taught first grade in the two-room temporary school building at the corner of Beech Street and Wooster Pike. She and her 14 students would take their lunches over to the churchyard and watch the construction of Mariemont Church and Dale Park School. The following year she taught fifth grade at the newly completed Dale Park Elementary School. Marie and her husband, E. Boyd Jordan, an attorney, were instrumental in devising the system of government made up of a Mayor and six council members who represent a specific district within the Village. Mr. Jordan became Mariemont’s first mayor in 1941. It was the Jordans and other involved citizens who put together the Mariemont Town Meeting system that is still in use today. They also appointed the first Town Crier. 75 years later, that position is held by Bob Keyes.
Without the foresight of the voters and community leaders 75 years ago, we would most probably not enjoy the quality of life available to Mariemont residents today.
Village
Valentine's Day Love
In a sweet annual tradition, district kindergarten students visit Mercy St. Theresa in Mariemont to sing songs and hand out valentines and smiles to the residents and staff.
Mariemont Elementary kindergarten students Drew Lehman, Molly Ross and Connor Lehman display their valentines.
Happy Valentine’s Day to you, too, Bailey Hackney!
Mariemont Elementary student Rudi Naticchioni is happy to share his valentine.
Everyone is proud of their valentines! (L to R, back row): Maya Dorsey, Penelope Smith, Norah Dershaw, Dylan Wolujewicz, Maeve O’Brien. (L to R, front row): Jack Klekar, Adam Brown, Kier Andrus.
Terrace Park Elementary students Finley Santoro, Nellie Deeter, Sarah Jane Anderson are excited to give their valentines to the residents.
Village
Advice from the Mariemont Tax Office
By Patricia Busam
The 2015 tax filing deadline is rapidly approaching. This year the due date is April 18, 2016.
Our new e-File program went live on January 30, 2016. You can visit our website at www.mariemont.org and scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on the big e-File button. Once on the page you will need to enter your social security number in the account number space and check the button to set up a new pin, enter it in the pin space. You need to read the terms and conditions and click the button to unlock the account.
After that all you need to do is follow the directions. It’s easy!
In addition to the e-File capability, we are offering an online payment option that should be up and running by the end of February. There is a small convenience charge for this service which is paid to our online provider.
If you don’t have access to the internet, we will be happy to prepare your Mariemont return for you at no cost. You will need
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The Village of Mariemont has an earnings tax of 1.25% that applies to all who live, work or operate a business within the Village
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to bring in your Federal form 1040 and W-2(s). If you file a Schedule C, E, F, have miscellaneous or gambling income we will need documentation of those as well. No appointment is necessary but we request that you come in between 8:30 am - 3:30 pm prior to the filing due date to avoid waiting in line.
The Village of Mariemont has an earnings tax of 1.25% that applies to all who live, work or operate a business within the Village.
We have mandatory filing, so all residents over the age of 18 are required to file whether a tax is due or not unless they are on file as “Retired-No Earned Income”. You can request this change of status once you have filed with this office for two consecutive years showing no earned income on your Federal 1040 front page.
An extension for filing the annual Mariemont income tax return may be requested by any business or individual by submitting a written request or providing a copy of the Federal extension to the Tax Office on or before the due date for filing the return. The extension only extends the filing date of the return. The extension does not extend the due date for payment of the tax. If your 2016 estimate is $200.00 or more, quarterly payments are required. Payments are due on or before April 15 each year or the 15th day of the 4th month following the end of the fiscal year. The remaining quarterly payments are due on June 15th, September 15th and December 15th. This is a change from prior years and was mandated by the state when HB5 was passed at the end of 2014. Quarterly payments must also be made for succeeding quarters to keep accounts current and avoid late pay penalties.
As always, if you have any questions, please call the office at 271-1606.
Village
The Promise of Spring Planning
By Carolyn Tuttle, President of the Garden Club of Mariemont
It’s that time of year when we all look forward to the first signs of spring – snowdrops, colorful crocuses, grape hyacinths and the official Mariemont flower, the daffodil, gracing areas of our Village. This year, you might want to try forcing some branches from blooming shrubs. You can bring in the twigs of forsythia and pussy willows and place them in warm water to force the blooms to pop earlier than the outside bushes. Locate a vase, add a colorful ribbon or spring symbol on a stick, add your twigs, and spring has arrived at your home!
Or maybe the season might inspire you to plan for a bird-friendly garden. Some points to consider:
Provide safety: Birds need dense hedges and trees that can be planted to provide visual interest while providing shelter.
Food source: Birds like their shelter close to their food source. Bird feeders, berry trees/shrubs, seed producing grasses and flowers will attract certain species of birds.
Insects: A garden with an abundant amount of insects will help provide protein for birds.
Water: Providing a bird bath or more elaborate water feature attracts birds and adds more visual interest to your garden.
Style of garden: Birds are not fickle. They love a garden whether it’s formal or naturalistic. Keep in mind that you select plants that will help create a successful bird-friendly garden that you and your family will enjoy for many years.
Remember- a water source, cover, and plants that draw insects are key elements of a bird-friendly garden.
Resource: Horticulture Jan/Feb 2015
Forcing branches from flowering shrubs to bloom helps get spring started early.
Schools
Mariemont Crowdfunding Efforts Lead to Innovative Classroom Enhancements
Mariemont City School District supporters have long appreciated a collaborative relationship between residents, local businesses and the schools and teachers themselves. The spirit of this connection was illustrated by the recent success of the Mariemont School Foundation’s Make It Happen program.
Make It Happen is a crowd-funding initiative that supports specific teacher requests for the kinds of classroom items that often fall outside the scope of the district budget. This year, these requests directly reflected the school district’s initiative to focus on enhancing experiential learning in and outside of the classroom.
Projects were funded for elementary, junior high and high school classrooms. At the elementary level, students will now have the opportunity to discover and develop their creative learning skills with electric pottery wheels requested by art teachers. “We are so grateful for all of the effort and time that you put into making this ceramics experience happen for our students,” said art teacher Shelley Komrska. “And we are so thankful for everyone who designated their gift toward the wheel. This will be a wonderful addition to our program and the Warriors BEyond enrichment classes we are offering.”
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathmatics) skill building for fourth through sixth graders will now be supported
with new activity kits focused on simple machines, construction, lasers and robotics.
At Mariemont Junior High School, students will practice time management skills with new digital wall timers and create children’s books to share with kindergarten students. High school
$9,500 through the generous donations of parents and business sponsors Time Timer, The Quarter Bistro, Miller Insurance, and Madison Wealth Management which matched donations. The Mariemont Arts Association contributed to the Art Pen Tablets, and the Mariemont
students in art and STEM classes will create designs with new Art Pen Tablets, allowing them greater control and precision than a computer
Nearly all of the funding requests were completely filled.
mouse. Students at the high school will also have the chance to build a drone using new materials purchased through Make It Happen.
The idea behind The Make It Happen program is that even small donations, when contributed by many donors, can aggregate to create significant impact.
This year’s Make it Happen campaign raised
Elementary, Terrace Park Elementary and Mariemont High School PTOs made generous donations toward the campaigns as well.
Make It Happen committee chair Mark Campbell said he was overwhelmed by the generosity of so many in the district. “On behalf of the Mariemont School Foundation, I would like to say thank you and congratulations to the classroom teachers, building administrators, PTOs, parents and local businesses. Together, they certainly Made it Happen.”
The Mariemont School Foundation is a non-profit organization whose mission is to support the long-term success of our students and community through initiatives that enhance educational excellence in the Mariemont City School District.
Over the four years of the Make It Happen program, the Mariemont School Foundation has raised over $24,000 to support teacher requests. Your support in contributing toward efforts like Make it Happen and other initiatives that support the Warriors BEyond experiential learning programs in the Mariemont City School District are greatly appreciated.
For more information, or to support the Mariemont School Foundation, contact Julie Nerl at info@mariemontschoolfoundation. org or visit mariemontschoolfoundation.org
Schools
Mariemont High School Students Pursue Justice
Was a police officer’s use of deadly force against a teenager holding a toy weapon justified?
That was the issue faced by Ohio High School Mock Trial teams this year.
Ohio Mock Trial offers an innovative approach to learning about law and how our legal system functions. Guided by teachers and volunteer legal advisors, students participate in an original, unscripted simulated trial based on a case written by attorneys. High school students argue both sides of the case in real courtrooms across the state. The state finals are held in the Ohio Statehouse, and the winner advances to the national competition.
In this year’s case, 17-year-old AJ Bryant and his friend were attending a medieval fair. While en route, they stopped at a local convenience store and AJ caused a disturbance by staying in character with a bow and arrow. Although it was a toy, the store owner believed that it was a real weapon, prompting a call to 911. Officer Riley Green was dispatched to the scene in response to a suspected armed robbery and upon arrival, found AJ and his friend arguing in the parking lot. During the argument, AJ was flexing the bow, leading Officer Green to determine there was an imminent risk of serious bodily harm. As a result, she shot AJ in the shoulder.
“Every second matters; every life matters.”
“It was just a kid; it was just a toy.”
These were the competing themes created by the Mariemont High School (MHS) Mock Trial Team. Individually and collectively, team members used these themes as the basis for writing their own opening and closing statements, drafting direct and cross examination questions, and performing as attorneys and witnesses.
Throughout the process of developing their cases, the students:
Improved their critical thinking, reading, writing, public speaking and listening skills; Developed an understanding and appreciation for the law, court procedures, and the judicial system; and, Increased their understanding of constitutional rights and responsibilities.
“The MHS Mock Trial students take this task seriously and always enjoy the real-world simulation in the court rooms,” says teacher sponsor David Wolfford. “Advocating for plaintiffs or defense, they really believe in
their client and work hard to seek justice at trial.”
“With so many talented senior participants graduating, we look forward to some younger students trying their hand at Mock Trial next year.”
The 2016-17 season starts in early October when the case is released. If interested, see Mr. Wolfford at MHS next fall, or contact Terrace Park residents and attorney coaches Jeanette Hargraves Moreno and Andrea Barter.
Pictured L to R: Jordan Lobsinger, Connor Day, Zack Keith, Coach David Wolfford, Will Bragg, Wilson Compton, Will Hobart, Alex Wilson, Noah Dill, Matthew McGrory)
Annual Kiwanis Golf Scramble Set for May 14
The Kiwanis Club of Mariemont will hold its annual golf scramble on Saturday, May 14 at Reeves Golf Course at Lunken Airport.
Now in its 16th year, the annual event is the Kiwanis Club’s spring fundraiser for local scholarships, helping raise nearly $15,000 each year for students in Fairfax, Terrace Park and Mariemont.
“This time of year we know everyone is looking forward to getting back out on the course,” said Ted Beach, who chairs the event. “We invite everyone, from amateur to pro, to join us for a good time and a good cause.”
Cost is $70 per golfer and includes all fees, golf cart and lunch. Participants can form their own foursome or ask to be organized with others and prizes will once again be awarded for longest
drive and putt, as well as most accurate drive and closest to the pin. Contact Ted Beach at 513-252-4258 to sign up or visit MariemontKiwanis.org for more
information. Interested supporters can also become a hole sponsor. The deadline to register is May 3.
The Kiwanis Club of Mariemont exists to serve the youth of the Mariemont School District, with an emphasis on fundraising for scholarships. To date, the Kiwanis Club has raised over $200,000 for scholarships, helping nearly 70 students attend college. All are invited to attend a weekly meeting. The club meets every Tuesday morning at 7:45 am in the Mariemont Elementary school cafeteria. A continental breakfast is provided with meetings lasting less than one hour and featuring a local speaker.
Author Visit Gives Students the Chance to be Heroes
Several years ago, children’s author Rick Sowash visited the district elementary schools as the first visiting author to Mariemont City Schools. And in early January, he made his annual visit to Mariemont Elementary School for the “Ohio Heroes” assembly, where fourth grade students participated in a reenactment presentations while third grade students served as their audience.
“Mr. Sowash does a great job interacting with the students and making them truly commit to their characters,” said Linda Lee, principal at Terrace Park Elementary. “He still entertains students with his ability to make curriculum come alive.”
This presentation is based on Sowash’s book, Heroes of Ohio, which tells the story of 23 Ohioans who changed the course of history. Through costumes, props, music, sound effects, pageantry, drama, humor and audience participation, the fourth grade students represented the true stories of the men and women who pioneered our past.
Thank you to Rick Sowash for visiting and to the elementary school PTOs for making this visit possible.
Mariemont Elementary 4th grade student Tanner Letton played the part of Rodger Young.
Mariemont Elementary 4th grade student Matthew Tucker played the role of Neil Armstrong
Mariemont Elementary students pose with author Rick Sowash.
MarieElders News Village
Italian Festival
THE MARIELDERS will be hosting an Italian Festival from 5:30-9:30 pm on Friday, April 15 at the Fairfax Recreation Center. The Pete Wagner Band will be back again this year and will start playing at 6:00 pm. During the evening you may purchase tickets for our Raffle Baskets and split the pot. Dinner for the evening will include Spaghetti/Ravioli with meatballs, salad, Italian Bread, dessert, coffee and tea. Wine and beer will be available for purchase. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Children under 12 are $5. Tickets are available at the MARIELDERS. For more information call 271-5588.
Men’s Book Club
New at the Center is our menonly book club. This month we begin with a startup meeting so those interested can come together and decide how they would like to move forward and what books you would like to read. Our first meeting will be Friday, March 4 at 9:30 am. This group will be meeting in the lower level of the Center. Coffee and donuts will be provided. Please sign up by March 3.
Coffee Talk
Mr. Stacey Wolley, a violinist with the Cincinnati Pops will be here on Monday, March 21 at 10:00 am to talk about the history and culture of the Cincinnati Pops. In April we will be attending a Pops Concert.
Mariemont Resident Publishes Children's Books
Town Crier staff writer and Mariemont resident, Karen Kennedy, has authored two educational books for children ages 3-7 years, based on “values.”
In the book, Don’t Step On The Ants, Karen has used her own experience to illustrate the powerful impact of teaching kindness to young children, by starting with the most vulnerable of insects, a tiny ant. The effects however, are enormous! Moo Moo, the “values dog,” shows examples of kindness and compassion that are silly, exaggerated and honest. This is a tale with a constructive message that children will love to read again and again! The illustrations are cute and endearing. Your kids will fall in
The second book, Moo Moo Waits To Play Ball, is an early introduction to distraction techniques, useful in helping young children develop the ability to be patient and to delay gratification. Many specialists agree that these
are two characteristics found in successful people. This story is simple and repetitive so the children easily get the idea this fluffy dog is waiting…and waiting…and waiting for her favorite thing, while being productive and having fun. The illustrations are fun and will capture and keep your child’s interest.
love with the loveable Moo Moo.
Children
What’s Happening at the Mariemont Branch Library - March
Winter Play Day — 1-3 pm. Saturday, March 19
Get out of the house for fun and music.
Ages: 1-5 (Play begins at 1 pm, music at 2 pm)
Movers & Shakers — 10:30 am on Wednesdays
Bring the little ones in for stories, songs and dance as they learn about the Library.
Ages: 1-4
Library Babies — 11:30 am on Wednesdays
Have fun, meet other parents and babies and promote early literacy!
Ages: 6-18 months
Preschool Story Time — 1:30 pm Wednesdays
Join us for stories and crafts.
Ages: 3-5
Crafty Kids — 4 pm Thursday, March 24
Get crafty at the library — make-it and take it!
Ages: 5-10.
Teens
Paper Airplanes — 4:30 pm Tuesday, March 8
Design your own plane and see whose flies the farthest!
Adults
Happy Scrappers Scrapbooking — 6:30 pm Thursday, March 10
Bring winter/holiday photos and create pretty pages. Fancy paper and some other supplies provided. Door prize!
Which Craft Needlecraft Club — 10:30 am Saturdays, March 5 & 19
Stop by with your current work in progress for pointers or just to have fun with co-enthusiasts. Knitting, crochet, needlework whatever you like to do.
Branch Book Club — 6:45 pm Thursday, March 31
The Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling) is March’s featured title. Copies will be available at the desk.
Hours: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, noon to 8 pm.; Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm.
Schools
High School Music Students Benefit from Collaboration with Symphony Orchestra
The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra (CSO) has collaborated with the combined student orchestras of the Indian Hill, Mariemont and Madeira High Schools.
Students from each school work on the same pieces of music throughout the
winter semester and in spring come together for a large concert involving well over 200 kids. Pops Conductor John Morris Russell, and CSO/Pops Assistant Conductors and musicians will work with the students throughout the winter months, rehearsing and fine-tuning as they prepare for a
culminating concert that Conductor Russell leads on April 12 at 7 pm at Indian Hill High School. The event is free and open to the public.
Conductor Russell said, “What’s best about this project is the opportunity to develop more in-depth musical relationships with the young musicians, and reinforce the outstanding work their orchestra and band directors deliver every day of the school year. We also nurture the 21st century skills such as teamwork, selfdiscipline, and creative problem solving that are invaluable to students no matter what career path they choose.”
Both photos picture Conductor John Morris Russell leading the combined bands in last year’s performance.
Warrior Coalition - Supporting Our Families in Developing Healthy, Resilient Children
Raising children….. one of life’s most unpredictable journeys. As adults, we have experienced the trials and tribulations of our own “growing up” and as parents, we are determined to shield our offspring from the mistakes we made when we were young. Yet, from birth, personalities are set. Our job is to nurture, guide and understand this little person. When our children are young, we feel in control. We know where they are going, who they are with, what they are putting in their bodies and for the most part, how they are feeling. Life is busy. We don’t sleep, we eat off their plates and our schedules are dictated by their naps or moods.
And then it happens. Almost overnight, our little people enter the “calm before the storm” phase. They are more independent yet still close by. They continue to laugh at our jokes and agree to go for long walks….. but only at night to avoid being seen with their mom or dad. Their free time begins to wither away into the technology we have so lovingly purchased for them. Conversations become one word exchanges. Suddenly, the wind begins to blow and the first sprinkles of adolescence begin to fall. ABANDON SHIP!
The Warrior Coalition wants to be a lifeboat to our families, a resource for the turbulent tides of raising young people. We have expanded our focus in 2016 to include not only substance abuse prevention, but health and wellness.
Why? We have learned over the past few years that substance abuse is only one of the challenges facing our children. The pressure to succeed both in the classroom and on the field, stress, and low self-esteem are all factors that can lead to substance abuse or other risky behaviors. These pressures can lead to feelings of inadequacy and depression, even suicidal thoughts.
The Warrior Coalition will work to bring valuable educational programs for our families and information to our community. From our very youngest child to our college kids, we want to empower our children with the resilience to navigate the positive and negative challenges of their young lives. Visit our website at www. warriorcoalition.org or “like” us on Facebook for important resources to help your children live healthy in 2016.
The Mariemont Preservation Foundation Grants Program has been suspended, effective February 26, 2016. The Trustees of the Foundation are taking time to study the influence the program has had over the three years it has been in place. To date, MPF has awarded $35,000 in grants for such things as a patio by the Boathouse, Barn activities, beautification at our parks, Dr. Tankersley's research into the Madisonville site, and more. The program will be reevaluated as it is measured against the MPF mission statement:
• To foster within the Village an appreciation for the unique qualities of Mariemont.
• To assure the continuity of the principles of town planning.
• To award a variety of partial and fully funded grants which will benefit historic properties and historic districts within the Village of Mariemont.
• To partner with groups and organizations which are focused on further enhancing the quality of life in mariemont.
• To perpetuate the dream of The founder of Mariemont, Mary Emery, of making the Village a special place for family life.
Schools
Creative Spotlight
By Karen Kennedy
Teachers, Ann Bullar, Mary Jacob, Mary Martin and Margie Massie, gave their second grade students an assignment that an Artist or Graphic Designer would face if he/she were designing a “love” stamp. They were schooled on some of the techniques and the 2nd graders ran with it. As you can see, anyone would feel great about using any one of these stamps! They all were so creative and very special! Here are three of them, created by students Louie Barber, Anayah Ramirez and Molly O’Donnell.
Anayah Ramirez
Louie Barber Molly O'Donnell
Village
The Art of the Compliment
By Delta Crabtree
“You are like an old shoe.” It is not every day I am compared to a shoe, let alone an old shoe. I received this compliment from a friend, and yes, I know that it was in fact intended as a compliment because of the nature of our relationship. The image of a shoe is familiar and easy for most to conjure. We all can easily imagine sturdy shoes, playful shoes, athletic shoes and party shoes. There are pairs that are soft and comfortable, and others that are too tight and rub the wrong way.
The added element of old vs. new is also an easy visual. New shoes are shiny, untested, unworn and full of exciting possibility. The old pair has proven their worth – they fit comfortably, they deliver consistent results and they should not hold any surprises. On the downside they may be
in need of a good polishing as some of their shine may have worn off over time.
As a reliable and trust-worthy “old shoe”, I intend to track down the great stories I know our new Mariemont neighbors will enjoy sharing in our community Town Crier I have had very limited success in getting responses to my request for information from new neighbors. Perhaps it is a sign
New Neighbor News
of the times many are unwilling to respond to a solicitation for personal information, to be shared in a community publication, with neighbors they have yet to meet. I understand the dilemma!
Mariemont because of the safe, familyfriendly environment and the easy work commute for Donna. They arrived in the dead of winter and are looking forward to a beautiful spring and many seasons to come in Mariemont. Please join me in welcoming them!
I would also like to welcome Charlene Taylor and her two children Grace and Eli Bales. They have been long-time residents of Terrace Park and are now happy to be making the move to the heart of the village, to one of our most picturesque and charming streets – Albert Place. Charlene is an artist that works in many mediums but is currently especially interested in helping achieve “sacred space” in a home environment. I was completely captivated by Charlene’s description of how space design and choice of materials can influence and orient your personal energy.
Going forward, I would like to use the email communication facilitated by Nextdoor Mariemont. Each month I will provide the street names where there have been recent “solds” and I will ask that you reach out on my behalf to your new neighbors. As an added incentive, I am going to work with the Mayor and our business community to see if we can create a welcome packet that includes useful Mariemont information as well as discount coupons for goods and services.
For this month’s issue – your friendly “old shoe” has two new neighbors to highlight. Lucky for me – one is my new next door neighbor and the other is a personal friend who is making the move from Terrace Park to Mariemont.
Donna Gastevich and her daughter Gigi recently purchased 3800 Miami Rd. They come to Mariemont from Pasadena, California, where Donna previously worked for the California Institute of Technology. Donna was recruited by the University of Cincinnati to take on their new role as a Foundation VP and Advancement Campaign Director. Mariemont Bearcats take note!
Donna’s daughter, Gigi, is a junior at USC double majoring in design and print & digital journalism. Donna and Gigi chose
Grace is a spirited world traveler, who at the moment is visiting several countries in Europe before ending in Kenya for a fiveweek social services volunteer program. In the fall, Grace will be attending the University of Aberdeen, Scotland working towards a degree in Neuroscience with a minor in Psychology. Eli is currently a junior at Mariemont High School with a strong interest in Astrophysics. I kid you not – this is a very accomplished family with an impressive resume – but their warmth and genuine spirit will impress you even more!
Please look for my Nextdoor Mariemont postings as I change my approach for gathering information to share in this monthly article. Rest assured, that I will refrain from comparing anyone to a shoe –old, new or otherwise!
I can be reached on my cell at 513-3044719 or via email at dcrabtree@comey.com I am a real estate agent with the Mariemont Comey & Shepherd office on the square – so feel free to stop by and say Hello! any time. I am always up for meeting and greeting my neighbors in person!
Mariemont Elementary Celebrates 100 Days of School Schools
Sophia Iannello points to the 100 buttons she counted out for the celebration.
Blake Knue brought 100 chips to count.
Brayden Sebens brought in 100 Lucky Charms marshmallows.
him anticipate some of the rigors of the AT.
Along the way, Bryan says the first 500 miles were the “honeymoon” phase, with the highlight of the summer coming when he and Nate arrived at Washington and Lee in time to participate in their college graduation ceremonies, next it was “down to business” on the Trail. Maine’s White Mountains proved incredibly demanding. Bryan never ever thought of quitting; instead he learned how to conserve both time and energy.
Names. It all started on the Appalachian Trail–so many people were hiking that it was easier to keep people straight if they were called by a nickname specific to them. Instead of Bob, Jan, Susan…they became Birdman, Gluten Puff, and Tiny Dancer. Most hikers feel their trail name says something about their personality, or history, their given name never could. Bryan and Matt chose the names Rosencrantz and Guildenstern honoring one of their favorite plays Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead by Tom Stoppard. In fact, Bryan took on the extra weight of always carrying books to read along the way.
One of the biggest surprises of the trip was getting used to ever present hunger. Bryan says he learned to think of food in a new sense; relying on food as a source of fuel for his body. Timing of snacks during the day was essential. The boredom of eating Ramen noodles and instant potatoes was a constant reminder of the lack of variety of food along the AT. Bryan lost 50 pounds during his 6 months on the Trail. Periodically they would restock supplies along the way in nearby towns. Bryan reports he doesn’t want to see another Little Debbie or Hostess cake soon!
Animals Bryan saw along the way included snakes, a mother bear and her two cubs, and moose. Weather included everything from sun, snow, wind and storms. The entire AT is maintained through a combination of efforts from hundreds of volunteers, conservation groups, professional trail crews, and shelter caretakers
Bryan states this trip was the most “fruitful investment of energy he ever made.” He set out on this trek to spend time in nature while discovering clarity about his next steps in life. If Bryan were
to do the Appalachian Trail again he would go alone, and he would purchase lighter gear. Bryan’s parents, Andrew and Ellen, were very supportive of his efforts. They joined him for graduation in Virginia and at the end of the Trail in Maine. Now that Bryan has returned to Mariemont he has really enjoyed spending time with some of his high school friends. He finds it's hard to live up to his hopes from the Trail, but realizes there is constant growth while he now undertakes the process of finding meaningful employment.
Bryan pauses at one of the many checkpoints along the trail.
Appalachian Trail (cont'd from page 1)
Signature Member Show and Sale Arrives in February
Party at the Moulin Rouge in Mariemont
On April 22
More than an oil-painted masterpiece, “At the Moulin Rouge,” will take center stage as the 2016 fundraiser for the Woman’s Art Cultural Center (the Barn). If partiers look closely through the crowd - not unlike a scene at an authentic cabaret - they will catch a glimpse of Dr. Richard Brettell among the crowd.
Dr. Brettell is a faculty member at the University of Dallas, who specializes in Modernism and 19th and 20th Century Impressionism. The professor also holds the Margaret McDermott Distinguished Chair of Art and Aesthetic Studies. He is also the founder of the Edith O’Donnell Institute of Art History and has held numerous academic appointments including positions at the University of Chicago, Yale University, and Harvard. Brettell has provided lectures throughout Europe, including Paris, the home of At the Moulin Rouge, by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, from which he had just returned. Given the professor’s affection for the splendors of Paris, it seemed rather odd when he said, “I look forward to Cincinnati every April.”
Indeed, the professor has a certain propensity for the Tri-State. Thanks to the generosity of ArtsWave and Drs. Steve and Ann Bjornson, he has attended Barn fundraisers for six years and typically bids
on numerous items during the auction. In addition, he provides a full-length lecture on the following day at the Taft Museum of Art. “Cincinnati is one of my favorite cities,” he said.
Just weeks ago, Brettell stood at the actual doorstep of the Moulin Rouge in Paris, a cabaret known for Europe’s first rabble-rousing routines of Cancan ladies, thus defining the Moulin Rouge in its heyday as a place of seduction and self-indulgence. Translated to English, "moulin rouge" means "red mill." A fire destroyed the original structure in 1915, but didn’t affect the spirit of an open dance floor and the rapscallions who delighted in it.
This year’s Woman's Art Club Cultural Center (WACC) fundraiser features French cuisine, the live music of French Axe, a raffle, an art sale and a few brief comments from Brettell. He will provide a full lecture on the subject the following day at the Taft Museum of Art.
Party at the Moulin Rouge takes place on Friday, April 22 at 6:30 pm at 6980 Cambridge Avenue in Mariemont. Tickets cost $75 per person. Please call 513-2723700 or check out www.artatthebarn.org for required reservations or to inquire about private or corporate sponsorship of the event.
Signature Show
Nancy Reynolds (Anderson), Sue Monteith (Mason), and Marie Redfern Smith (Kenwood) gathered at the Woman’s Art Cultural Center (the Barn) for a preview presentation of the Daubigny, Monet, and van Gogh Exhibition: Impressions of Landscapes running through May 29, 2016 at the Taft Museum of Art.
Monteith, a retired school teacher and a former employee of AT&T, is a docent volunteer at the Taft. She amused and educated her audience for about an hour
regarding the evolution of the paint strokes and styles of these three European artists throughout their lives. The Barn served wine and refreshments after the presentation.
Brush and Palette Painters
The Brush and Palette Painters presents its annual showcase on March 4 of Plein Air work completed last summer. The opening reception is from 6-9 pm at the Barn. “Unique Impressions” runs through March 27. Gallery hours include Tuesday through Fridays (10-2) and Saturdays and Sundays (1-4). Free admission.
Discussion and Food, Movie
For a $15 donation, the public is welcome to attend a short discussion and enjoy a few light refreshments on Thursday, March 24 at the Barn at 6:30 pm. After the
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Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center
discussion, the Barn will present the movie Moulin Rouge. BYOB. Soft drinks provided.
Fiber Art
For details involving spring classes in Fiber Art, visit artatthebarn.org. Type in any appropriate word in the search box. to find information. Learn to sew pajama bottoms, Easter baskets, or pillowcases or much more.
Woman’s Art Club of Cincinnati Juried 123rd Art Show in April
The Barn will present its 123rd Juried Art Show (and sale) on April 9-April 24, 2016. Executive Director of the Richmond Art Museum, Shaun Dingwerth, will judge this year’s entries. The goal of this event is to represent examples of fine art throughout the Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana region. The jury will concentrate on craftsmanship, color, and composition with an emphasis on diversity. Awards add to a total of more than $3500.
The Barn will serve wine and appetizers at its opening reception on April 8 from 6-9 pm. Free admission. Open to public.
Family Fun Coming Up
All programs start at 10:30am. You can register and prepay online at https://thebarn. cincyregister.com/MPF2015. Each event costs $5.
Thanks to another generous grant from the Mariemont Preservation Foundation, the Barn offers a unique series of family-fun events in the spring of 2016.
March 19: “Chamber Music for Kids” with Ensemble Fioratura. Cincinnati’s childfriendly classical chamber ensemble interacts with children to experience what it’s like to play a flute, bow a violin, tickle the ivory and hear a soprano hold a high C. Performing flutist is Suzanne Bona, who hosts Sunday Baroque—a weekly syndicated public radio show.
April 30: “The Garden of Rikki Tikki Tavi” Rudyard Kipling’s classic tells a story of friendship about a pesky young mongoose, a dim-witted muskrat and a bossy bird.
May 21: “The Joy of Zentangle” with teaching artist Joy Ritter. Learn the art of meditative and reflective drawing. The studio will provide basic Zentangle supplies, including drawing tiles and pens. For ages five and beyond.
Saturdays with Charlie
Artist Charlie Berger is offering two series of six drawing classes beginning in March. March 5-April 9 (9 am-noon): Warm and Wonderful Conte Crayon. You will discover how pencils and crayons create a unique sense of light and shadow. $120 for six sessions.
April 16-May 21 (9:00 am-Noon): Dynamic Figure Drawing. Focus on observation, gesture, measurement and the geometry of the human figure through the use of tonal value to define form and to create mood. Nude and clothed models. $140 for six sessions.
For more information, call Charlie Berger at 513-212-4679 or e-mail him at charlieberger3@gmail.com
Open Studio for All Levels
The Barn is open from 10 am to 3 pm on the second, fourth and fifth Tuesday of each month for anyone who would like to paint with other artists. Bring your own supplies. Fee is $5.00 (cash only) for non-members and free for Woman’s Art Club members.
New to this long-term program is an opportunity to sketch live, clothed models on December 1 & December 15, March 1 & 15, April 5 &19, May 3 & 17, June 7 & 21. All classes using models run from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. WACC members pay $10, while non-members pay $15 in order to reimburse the model. The class is held in the Lindner Classroom at the Barn (6790 Cambridge Avenue) in Mariemont.
Open studio is in the Lindner Classroom at the Barn (6790 Cambridge Avenue, Mariemont). Each session costs $10 (cash only) for WACC members and $15 (cash only) for non-members. Text Deborah at 513259-9302 by the Monday before each class to assure availability. Please note the club can only accept cash.
Artswave
Artswave is a Greater Cincinnati regional organization that supports more than 100 community and art-based programs. It is the largest organization of its type in the U.S.
Council Minutes – January 25, 2016
Mayor Policastro asked for a moment of silence in honor of Olivia Erhardt, Mariemont High School 2014 Alumni and student at Columbia University, who lost her life tragically while doing humanitarian work in Honduras this month.
Fiscal Officer Borgerding presented the 2015 Annual Report. He said the earnings tax leveled off the last few years after a nice run. Due to that he will not budget 3-5% increase and asked Council to keep that in mind. He attributes it to wages being stagnant and the level on people moving in and out of the Village. Mr. Hlad asked if that was the biggest contributing factor in the change in the fund balance. Fiscal Officer Borgerding said that was a factor along with the increase in the Police Department being fully staffed this past year as opposed to paying overtime. Human costs increased $73,000 due to raises, increase in benefit costs and fully staffing the Police Department. Overall we budgeted for a deficit for 2015 of $101,000 and we came in about $104,000. We were light on the revenue but also light on the expenses.
Mayor Policastro said supposedly a contract has been signed to tear down the heating plant which could bring 12-13 more households to the Village. The condominiums on Madisonville Road are half complete, hopefully with people moving in this November. As one can see economic development continues in the Village. Mr. Wolter said the revenue really won’t show any change until next year. Fiscal Officer Borgerding said the real estate taxes did increase $20,000 this past year due to a lot of development.
Mr. Hlad asked if Council sees a levy in the future for Village operations. Mayor Policastro said as long as we end the year with an excess of one million dollars in our General Fund he does not think we need to. Mr. Hlad said he is addressing the issue from a safety perspective knowing where our police department is as far as other municipalities in regards to wages. He is not suggesting a huge levy to raise everyone’s taxes but looking out to future years. He asked if it would be something wise to look at. It has been 20 plus years since the Village has increased the operating levy. Fiscal Officer Borgerding
Village Government
Council Representative Information
District 1: Dennis Wolter dwolter@mariemont.org
District 2: Joe Miller jmiller@mariemont.org
District 3: Eric Marsland emarsland@mariemont.org
District 4: Maggie Palazzolo mpalazzolo@mariemont.org
District 5: Mary Ann Schwartz maschwartz@mariemont.org
District 6: Lorne Hlad lhlad@mariemont.org
Mayor: Dan Policastro mayordan1@gmail.com
said he and the Mayor have discussed some things with the Paramedic Levy. Right now the paramedic salaries are split between the Paramedic Fund and the General Fund. The thought is if we bump up the Paramedic Levy it would in turn increase the General Fund as well by $50,000-$60,000 per year. Mr. Wolter said we have pretty much squeezed the turnip as much as the turnip can be squeezed with changes to the Fire Department, combining Fire/Police Chief positions. We are working our Village employees 100%.
Mr. Hlad said he is concerned from a safety standpoint that compared to other municipalities starting salaries here in the Village are lower and may contribute to the reason we are losing police officers to other agencies. Fiscal Officer Borgerding said we started a process in 2015 to slowly increase the rate of pay in the police department over the course of the next few years. Mayor Policastro said we are probably a couple of years away from putting on a few more mills to the Paramedic Levy. Years ago when we put a continuous levy of 1.94 mills we thought that it would be enough but now 13 years later it is not. Most of our staff is both a firefighter and a Paramedic which require a higher wage. He believes a mill or two levy would put us at where we need to be. Right now the Village is in good shape as long as we stay somewhat conservative.
Mr. Hlad said he has worked on a Committee for Loveland working on a School Resource Officer and perhaps a levy could help fund, in addition to help from our school district, a Resource Officer here in the Village. Mr. Wolter said he would like to see the school district carry more of the load when it comes to the crossing guards. Chief Hines said a proposal was given to the school district for a School Resource Officer in the high school
several months ago. He should hear what the Committee recommends to the School Board in March. He feels very strongly this is something that should be put into place. He began the dialogue with the school in 2012 with Paul Imhoff. From conversations he has had with residents of Mariemont, Terrace Park and Fairfax - all support this proposal. Ultimately he would like to see a School Resource Officer in all four of the school buildings but that is a funding that would have to be worked out. The proposal he submitted is very cost effective to put an officer in the high school to start with and then evaluate it to see how it is working out. With the Village paying for the crossing guards the majority of the cost for the School Resource Officer would be paid by the school district.
Fiscal Officer Borgerding said the Permanent Improvement Fund is down $300,000 from last year. However we finally have the fire truck paid off. We also had some unexpected expenses with the swim pool and repairs here in the Municipal Building. The Fund should replenish itself. Mayor Policastro asked for an updated breakdown of what each levy nets the Village. Fiscal Officer Borgerding said he would prepare a new breakdown. Mr. Wolter asked if the Village got hit with the assessment from Hamilton County. Fiscal Officer Borgerding said the Village was overpaid by $2,000 in Inheritance Tax which they will deduct from our real estate taxes.
A bid from Chris Niehoff of Mt. Lookout Services for replacing HVAC in the basement of the Municipal Building was discussed. Mayor Policastro said the air handler was out and therefore there was no heat in the basement where the firemen sleep. The unit in the basement needs to be torn out which
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Village Government
will not be an easy job, but will be easier than the ones in the attic. The estimate is $10,000. In addition, it was discovered that we have a leak in the tank which they will repair for $1000. His proposal says if both projects are complete they will reduce the repair cost to $1,900. Mr. Wolter said this should take care of both the heating and air conditioning. Mr. Hlad verified that this is the same company that performed the other work and commented that it would be good to have them be able to service all of the equipment. Fiscal Officer Borgerding said he would add the work to the Permanent Improvement budget. Mr. Wolter moved, seconded by Ms. Schwartz to approve the repairs costs. On roll call; four ayes, no nays.
Nominations for Outstanding Citizen are due to Mrs. Van Pelt by March 17, 2016.
Ordinances
“To Amend Ordinance O-3-99 To Provide for the New Rates for Swimming Pool Membership Fees” had a second reading. Fiscal Officer Borgerding said the pool brought in $91,000 revenue with operating expenses of $115,000. We are subsiding approximately $24,000. In addition the Village spent $54,000 on permanent improvements at the pool. We made the step this year to increase the rates which is good. Most of the expense is salaries.
“To Amend Section 78, Schedule I of the Mariemont Code of Ordinances to Include No Parking on Certain Streets within the Village” had a second reading. Mr. Hlad said the Safety Committee is going to meet to finish doing the rest of the streets and then all the Village streets should be up to date. There has been some resistance by some residents on Mound Way on agreement of sign placement, yellow curb painting etc. so he believes that is the only street that has been discussed but not yet been brought up to code. Fiscal Officer Borgerding asked if we should be consistent throughout the Village so residents do not get confused. Mr. Hlad said typically yellow paint is reserved for restricting parking in a small section. Signs can be used to restrict parking in any circumstance and is the preferred method when it is an entire street. These are the two approved methods of restricting parking in the Village. We just updated
our code to include the language for yellow curbs but it could be amended to state yellow paint is for small sections only etc. Mayor Policastro said one problem with yellow paint is that after a period of time the paint can begin to flake and becomes unsightly.
Council
Meeting February 8, 2016
Mayor Policastro said Police Sergeant Phil Mitchell has completed his probationary period and it is recommended by Police Chief Hines to grant Sergeant Mitchell Regular Full-Time employee status. He was hired as a Patrol Officer on December 6, 2009 and was promoted to probationary Sergeant on March 19, 2015. He is assigned as the second shift supervisor. Chief Hines said Sergeant Mitchell is doing an excellent job. Sergeant Mitchell thanked Chief Hines, Mayor Policastro and Council for the opportunity to serve the community. He looks forward to serving for more years. Mr. Hlad moved, seconded by Mr. Wolter to move Sergeant Mitchell to Regular Full-Time status. On roll call; five ayes, no nays.
Fiscal Officer Bergerding presented the January report. Mayor Policastro said normally the balance goes down in January. Borgerding said the Tax Department collected $55,000 more this January than in January 2015. Mr. Miller asked if the new tax software had an effect on what was collected. Mrs. Busam said she really cannot tell. However, they have enacted a new e-file system which accepts online payments.
Mr. Wolter commented that the Department Annual Reports also showed many instances of saving money and coming in under budget. It shows that we really are squeezing the turnip and he commends our employees. We should be proud of our Village finances.
Ordinances
“To Amend Ordinance O-3-99 To Provide for the New Rates for Swimming Pool Membership Fees” had a third reading. Mr. Hlad moved, seconded by Mr. Marsland to adopt the Ordinance. On roll call; five ayes, no nays. Ordinance No. O-4-16 was adopted.
“To Amend Section 78, Schedule I of the Mariemont Code of Ordinances to Include
No Parking on Certain Streets within the Village” had a third reading. Ms. Palazzolo moved, seconded by Mr. Marsland to adopt the Ordinance. On roll call; five ayes, no nays. Ordinance No. O-5-16 was adopted.
Committee of the Whole Meeting –February 8, 2016
Present were Mayor Policastro, Mr. Hlad, Mr. Marsland, Mr. Miller, Ms. Palazzolo and Mr. Wolter.
Fiscal Officer Borgerding distributed a summary of funds available and attached the various requests from the Department Heads. At the beginning of the year the balance was $227,000 (with $200,000 being reserved for the Administration Building). He anticipates income from the levies to be $385,000 for a total of $612,000. With the amounts previously reserved for the Administration Building we have total funds available (unreserved) in the amount of $412,000. With the final payment for the fire truck being made in 2015 this fund will start to replenish itself. Mayor Policastro said he is hopeful we will be awarded $400,000 in grant money for the Administration Building. In speaking with State Representative Tom Brinkman, he is confident that we should get at least $200,000 for use in renovations to the Administration Building at this point. Former Building Commissioner, Dennis Malone, estimates the work to be $410,000 but he thinks it will be closer to $500,000.
Mayor Policastro went over the levy money distribution from 2013 to educate Council and give a good idea of how much money is generated from each levy and what it can be used for. It shows that we have two general operating levies (one brings in $240,000 and the other from 1941 brings in $77,000). We also have two Permanent Improvement levies (1981- brings in $94,000 and 1997 brings in $257,000). 1997 was the last year the Village asked for “new money” as far as a tax levy. In 2003 when the joint Fire District disbanded the Village passed a Paramedic Levy which is used to pay for EMS salaries, etc. The 1.9 mill is not enough to pay the salaries. It is currently split with half of the year the salaries being paid by the Paramedic Fund, the other half the salaries are
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paid out of the General Fund (approximately $75,000). He suggested perhaps next year increasing the levy to 2.5 mills which would be less than a mill increase. The MariElder’s Levy does not provide any monies to the Village – it all goes to MariElder’s. We ended the year with 1.2 million in the General Fund but we certainly do not want the balance to go downhill because last year we ended the year with a balance of $1.3 million.
Fiscal Officer Borgerding said he got an update on rates from Hamilton County and will prepare a report for Council for the next meeting. Fiscal Officer Borgerding said he budgeted $50,000 for tree work. It will be used for new trees and tree removal. It will not be used for general maintenance which would come out of the General Fund. The department is going to hold off until 2017 for the dump truck and utility bucket truck. In addition, $2200 is earmarked for Reclamite Rejuvenation and $20,000 for other miscellaneous needs. Total budget cost allocated for the Maintenance Department is $72,200.
Village Government
In addition, Fiscal Officer Borgerding budgeted $15,000 for Swim Pool maintenance, $10,000 for a storage barn at the ballfields and $15,000 for the shelter house at the Tennis Courts. Superintendent Scherpenberg said he believes the Recreation Association is going to pay for the storage barn or reimburse the Village. He will check into that. Mayor Policastro said we submitted an application for grant money for the shelter house at the tennis courts with MPF. He is hopeful with that grant money it will pay to have the plans drawn up. The estimate for those drawings is $9,000. Total budget cost allocated for the Recreation Department is $40,000.
Fiscal Officer Borgerding said the Police Department is requesting a new 2016 Ford Explorer and equipment ($37,500) and new in car camera systems for all the cruisers ($30,000). Chief Hines said the cameras are eleven years old. The quality of the footage is not what it needs to be for prosecution purposes. These cameras should last ten years. We will probably get rid of the oldest
car in the fleet. Total budget cost allocated for the Police Department is $67,500.
The Fire Department requested bunker gear (turnout gear $9,000) and new tires ($5,000) which have already been purchased. Assistant Fire Chief Kiefer said he is working on a Bureau of Worker’s Compensation 3-1 grant. For every dollar the Village spends they will match with three dollars. He is applying for a power cot and loading system. It is a hydraulic lift. The cost is $45,000 which would be an expenditure of $15,000 to the Village. The grant is scheduled to be opened in April. Mayor Policastro said if we get good bids on the Street Rehab project we should have money left over to do this should we be awarded the grant. It was agreed to add this to the budget request. Total budget cost allocated to the Fire Department is $29,000.
Fiscal Officer Borgerding said the Tax Department does not have any requests at this time. Mrs. Van Pelt indicated that the Administration Office does not need anything (cont'd on next page)
at this time but asked that $12,000 be set aside should the copier begin to fail.
Fiscal Officer Borgerding said Engineer Ertel requested $20,000 for the rectangular flashing beacon which will be located at Wooster Pike and Belmont Avenue. It would match the money we will get from OKI. In addition, $20,000 was allocated for sidewalk and curb repair. Depending on how the street rehabilitation bids come in it was agreed to budget $80,000 should the Street Fund not have enough to cover the cost. Total budget cost allocated to Infrastructure was $125,000.
With miscellaneous expenses Fiscal Officer Borgerding said that bring us to approximately $350,000 from the $412,000 unreserved funds available leaving $62,000 to carry over to 2017. He estimates we should have $300,000 balance to start 2017, but it could be less depending on if any work to the Administration Building is done this year.
Mayor Policastro said he will refer the individual department requests to a Committee of Council during the regular
Council meeting. Each Committee will need to meet to discuss the requests and make a formal recommendation to Council.
Planning Commission Meeting February 10
Present were Mayor Policastro, Ms. Reed, Mr. Wolter and Mr. Vianello. Also in attendance was the Building Administrator Don Keyes.
Mr. Wolter moved, seconded by Mr. Vianello to nominate Mayor Policastro as Chairman of the Planning Commission for 2016, Ms. Reed as Vice-Chariman of the Planning Commission for 2016 and Mr. Vianello as Secretary for the Planning Commission for 2016. On roll call; four ayes, no nays.
A request was made from Matt & Erin Lesseuer of 3604 Mound Way to remove an attached shed and replace the structure with a full garage and second floor addition to the master bedroom above the garage. The addition will require a variance to the side
6812 Hammerstone Way
yard setback reducing the setback to 5.4 feet.
Mayor Policastro said the upstairs master bathroom is very narrow. He sees this as a good thing. In addition, letters of support were submitted by their adjacent neighbors. Mr. Lesseuer said the plans show that they are keeping in line with the existing architecture. Currently they have no master closet and a very small narrow bathroom in the master bedroom. Mr. Wolter said the design is very integrated and most would not notice it as an addition.
Arnie & Mary Austin, residents since 2014
We thought we were too active and independent to move to Deupree House. What were we thinking? Now we actually have more opportunities for golf, skiing, socializing and all the other things we love to do. And because of the individualized wellness programs here, we do all those things even better than before. We are Living well into the future® . And that future is secure because even if we should outlive our savings, we will always have a home here. Contact Gini Tarr at 513.561.4200 or visit www.deupreehouse.com/austins.
