Charlie Brown's Lucy is from Mariemont
By Joan Welsh
With the holiday season upon us many enjoy viewing favorite movies together. Holiday Inn, It’s a Wonderful Life, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation may be some titles you enjoy, but one of the most endearing Christmas movies of all time is the 1965 “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Did you know that the character of Lucy Van Pelt was named after a Mariemont resident?
John Kiesewetter of Cincinnati.Com writes “A Charlie Brown Christmas reminds me of my 2007 story about how Lucy Van Pelt was inspired by Louann Van Pelt of Mariemont. She knew “Peanuts” creator Charles “Sparky” Schulz in the early 1950s, when they both lived in Colorado Springs. Louann Van Pelt was 11 in 1940 when her family moved from Iowa to the Mariemont area. She and her future husband, Fritz, graduated from the old Plainville (now Mariemont) High School. The Van Pelts moved in 1947 to Colorado where Fritz was a teacher. Fritz and Charles (nicknamed Sparky) Schulz were in the same 20th Armored Infantry
Division during WWII. In an interview for the PBS show “American Masters: Good Ol’ Charles Schulz” Louann states, “when we accidentally found them in Colorado, we became fast friends, taught them to play bridge, and loved them and their then two children.”
Around that time Schulz was honing his “Peanuts” comic strip and its cast of characters, led by Charlie Brown. And that’s how Louann Van Pelt influenced the character of Lucy, according to her son, David Merrill.
Louann recalled, “Sparky created Lucy while in Colorado Springs in 1951. He did remark once that he didn’t think my nickname of Lou was suitable. He tacked on the Van Pelt surname after they moved back to Minneapolis when Sparky became syndicated. It was sort of a way to say ‘Hi!’ to us who always read the strip.”
“Schulz and Peanuts: A Biography,” by David Michaelis, reports the newlywed Schulzes went four months without making any friends
in Colorado Springs until they met the Van Pelts. Louann Van Pelt agrees with “American Masters” and Schulz biographers that Lucy’s blunt, domineering personality came from Joyce, the cartoonist’s first wife. “We have always felt that Lucy is fashioned after Joyce. She was very opinionated,” Van Pelt says. “I always hasten to tell people I’m actually much kinder than Lucy and would never snatch that football away” when Charlie Brown wanted to kick it. Of all the Peanuts characters, Lucy is perhaps the strongest personality, a know-it-all who hands out advice in her front-yard psychiatrists’ booth. For that reason, Merrill says his mom did not always enjoy the comparison.
Lucy’s younger brother Linus was named because the letter “L” would help fit with Lucy’s name, according to the Michaelis book. Louann Van Pelt died in 2015, leaving behind three children and several grandchildren. Schulz died in 2000. When you next view “A Charlie Brown Christmas” you may enjoy knowing this charming Mariemont connection.
I never thought it was such a bad little tree. It’s not bad at all, really. Maybe it just needs a little love.
Village Municipal Building Expansion Plans Unveiled
As some of you may have heard by now, the Mayor and Village council have been working on plans to add an addition to the Municipal Building. It will be a two-story structure of approximately 2200 square feet located on the northeast side of the existing building.
The Tax Office will be relocated to the first floor. On the second floor there will be a conference table and display cases containing artifacts from many of the archeological digs done over the years in and around Mariemont. There will also be an elevator, handicapped restrooms, and handicapped access to the building.
On Monday, December 19, we will hold a public meeting from 5:00-7:00 pm in Council information.
5TIMES MORE homes sold in Mariemont in 2016 than any competing agent.
Village
DAR Honors Vietnam Era Veterans
Eighteen Vietnam era Veterans and their spouses were honored on November 19, 2016, by the Mariemont Chapter DAR. As a Commemorative partner of the United States of American Vietnam War Commemoration Program, Mariemont Chapter is authorized to provide certificates and lapel pins as a token of appreciation by a grateful nation for the faithful service of veterans during the Vietnam War Era.
The entire program was directed toward honoring those who served. The Nolan Carson Memorial Color Guard under Michael B. Gunn PhD, Color Guard Commander and President of the Cincinnati Chapter SAR presented the colors and a welcome was sent by Children of the America Revolution President Meredith Haynes. Following a brief video provided by the Department of Defense and explanations of the meaning of the Vietnam Era Memorial Flag and the components of the lapel pin,
15, 2016
each veteran was called forward to receive his individual certificate and pin. Spouses were called forward to receive a red rose and thanked for their sacrifice in the service of our country. Mr. David Savage then presented a most informative program on the history of the building of the Vietnam War Memorial Wall in Washington DC.
The following veterans representing the US Navy, US Air Force and US Army were honored: Richard L. Bowman, Jack Buchholz, Jay DeWitt, Kelly Farrish, Michael M. Fischer, Jim Garner, Thomas Geygan, Neal Hamlin, Samuel K. Hines, Phillip L. Hughes, Thomas R. Jones, James E. Kuertz, Michael L. Loudenslager, Ronald L. O’Banion, Terry L. Shetler, Lou Terhar, Kenneth Whittier and William G. (Bill) Williams .
This is the second of the three-year project involving Mariemont Chapter to honor
Speaker David Savage
Vietnam Era Veterans under the chairmanship of Vice Regent Miriam Lillback. The chapter plans to continue to conduct meetings and ceremonies to honor Vietnam Era veterans during 2017. For information regarding the program or the Mariemont Chapter, contact Regent Jan Mauch at jan@mariemontdar.org
Club The
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Carriers
D avi D a n D rews s cott H ollan D J ackson H ouse a lly an D Z ac H M aier a lex M antle M ax an D F inn M arque Z c olin M ikesell a bby M iller o wen P ro FF itt b en r eiter H enry t eg H t M eyer n oa H v anags e rin w il D er b ray D en w olu J ewic Z
(Siblings listed together share routes; siblings listed separately have their own routes)
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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.
Town Crier
Village
Close Encounter
By Dennis Wolter
After church last Sunday, a fellow parishioner described to me a disturbing experience she recently had while walking her small dog in the woods at the south end of Pocahontas. During the walk, her dog suddenly became agitated, at which point this woman heard numerous yelping sounds coming from the dense woods. Correctly assuming the yelping was from coyotes, she abruptly left the area.
After telling her story, she asked me if the Village of Mariemont was doing anything in an effort to control coyotes. I explained that we have implemented a very carefully managed deer/coyote culling program in the lower 80 park, but the fact is coyotes are very difficult to control. To understand why is to understand the coyote itself.
Wiley Coyote is a perfect nickname for these interesting canine critters. Coyotes are tenacious, adaptable, hearty, social, intelligent, clever, organized and very resourceful. All of those qualities add up to the reality, once coyotes establish themselves in an area, it is all but impossible to get rid of them. If through a culling program ten coyotes are eliminated in a short time, the breeding females will give birth to ten replacements. Population levels are controlled by available food source and habitat. Coyotes can live in almost any environment, even the inner city. Due to Mariemont’s proximity to the ideal coyote habitat (wooded areas and a river), we are stuck with dealing with them. That means understanding and mitigating the risk they present.
Coyotes hunt in two main ways. First is the direct attack, as experienced by the lady on Pocahontas; in that case the pack was assembling as a group to directly attack the prey. These animals
are even sophisticated enough to silently lay in wait to attack their victim as it passes by. A second tactic coyotes can use is to attract an off-leash dog or cat by presenting a playful demeanor that lures the domestic animal into the proximity of the pack. Clever stuff, huh! I myself watched an intelligently planned and executed attack on an adult elk by a pack of coyotes about five years ago in a remote area of Yellowstone Park. While fly fishing, I noticed an elk in the distance running full speed and being chased by a lone coyote. After a while, a second coyote took up the pursuit as the now tired first coyote dropped back. Then a third, fourth and fifth coyote continued the chase until the elk was so exhausted that it simply stopped and put up a futile defense against the pack. Needless to say, the elk was taken down. Think of the coordination and planning that went into that attack.
These animals do present a real challenge. Here are some suggestions to help us safely share our environment with them.
1 Be aware of where and when you are likely to encounter coyotes. They are most active from dusk to dawn; they prefer woods but can be in neighborhoods.
2 Don’t let pets run loose in suspected areas or if you see signs of coyote activity. Pay attention if
your pet exhibits unusual behavior.
3 Don’t leave pet food out in your yard.
4 Stay with your pet, even if you’re in your own yard.
5 Fences and lighting tend to deter coyotes. The operative words here are ‘tend to’.
6 Carry bear spray or pepper spray when walking your pet at night or in a wooded area.
7 Be aware that cats and smaller dogs are more vulnerable to attack.
8 Never deliberately approach a coyote. If one sees you and doesn’t move away from you, it could be sick; rabies runs rampant in coyotes. Keep your distance.
9 If you accidentally corner a coyote in a confined area, back off slowly. Don’t try to intimidate a wild animal of any type; they are unpredictable and quicker than you are.
10 Never attempt to feed or render assistance to a coyote, healthy or unhealthy.
11 Finally, if you see one coyote there are likely more nearby, so be alert.
Understanding these animals is our best defense. A healthy coyote does not normally attack an adult human but, that said, always be aware of your surroundings and stay cautious. We ask that you report coyote activity and sightings to the Mariemont Police Department at 271-4089. They are here to help.
Village
Walking for Mariemont Elementary School
By Lucy Dorn - 5th grader at Mariemont Elementary School
Every year Mariemont Elementary PTO organizes a Walk-A-Thon, which is a fundraiser for the school. Kindergarten through sixth grade students go to Mariemont High School to walk around the track. This year we did activities in between walking around the track. Some of those activities included juggling and yard stick balancing. We were provided popsicles from the PTO. Students turn in Walk-A-Thon pledges, or money to give to the school.
On Friday, September 23, the 2016 Walk-A-Thon was held. This year we raised the most money we ever have, which was $22,027.45! The grade that raised the most money for Mariemont Schools was fifth grade, which raised $2,890.50 and the top selling
class was Mrs. Colaw’s homeroom, which raised $1,188.50.
The top pledge collectors for Kindergarten through third grade were Peyton Quiambao (3rd grade) and Carson Quiambao (2nd grade). The top pledge collectors for grades fourth to sixth were, Anna Reiter (6th grade) and Caleb Erickson (5th grade). The top seller in the whole school was Anna Reiter.
Every year we have sponsors who donate to Mariemont Schools. This year’s sponsors were Wnek Orthodontics, Jules & Bing, Apollo Home, 50 West, Various Views Research, Eyecare on the Square and Miller Insurance. Another thing that we do is have restaurant week. Restaurant week is a week where our sponsoring restaurants donate a percentage of the money they get that day to Mariemont Schools. For example, this year on a certain
week if you ate at Chipotle on Monday, a percentage of that money would go to Mariemont Elementary School. We want to thank Chipotle, Mio’s, Mac’s, Mango Tree and Orange Leaf.
Thanks again to the PTO and everyone who gave money to the school and made the 2016 Walk-A-Thon a success!
MariElders December News
Musical Performance
The Waldorf School seventh and eighth grade vocal and string group will be performing at the MARIELDERS on Wednesday, December 7 at 10 am to start off our month-long holiday celebrations. Please join us for this occasion.
Ted Talks
How important are Christmas lights? Can the Christmas season change people’s lives? What about advertising? On Monday December 12 at 10 am we will be watching “How Christmas lights Helped Guerillas Put Down Their Guns”. This is a powerful true account of what has happened and continues to happen in Columbia.
MariElders Christmas Party
Let’s us celebrate the Christmas season together. On Monday December 19 at 4:30 pm, the Center will be hosting a party at the Waldorf School Cafeteria. The Cincinnati Museum Center will be presenting and performing a collection of Rosemary Clooney and Doris Day Christmas performances. We will be serving appetizers and punch before the show. Cost for the evening is $8 and due by December 12 at the Center’s front desk.
MariElders Contact Info
6923 Madisonville Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45227
Phone: (513) 271-5588
Mariemont Preservation Foundation Offers Jigsaw Puzzles of Local Landmarks
The Mariemont Preservation Foundation (MPF) is selling jigsaws puzzles created from beautiful photos of our village taken by resident Joe Stoner. There is a series of four,
haneyprc.com to apply.
Fall
Holiday Craft Idea From The Garden Club
Carolyn Tuttle, Mariemont Garden Club
One activity I always enjoyed with my parents was feeding and watching the birds flock to our bird feeders. One can prepare and design various feeders when the birds need a little extra help with food and water during the winter months. Standing in the garden I was able to pick some seed heads and magnolia pods to create a winter ornament. If you use fresh birdseed and fruit to put together a bird feeder it will attract many birds.
You can use floral foam – the kind used for dried floral arrangements. I used a wire hanger and shaped it into a diamond and wired the foam to the hanger.
Stick in a few evergreen branches such as Colorado spruce, creeping juniper or soft pine that provides the birds a little shelter while they peck at the buffet.
Now add fruit to the floral form. Pierce orange halves and apple slices with a wood floral pick or bend floral wire into the skin of the fruit.
Smear pinecones (without the glossy varnish coating) with peanut butter and roll them in the birdseed. Attach the pinecones to a wood pick or twig and poke into the floral foam.
Make it more colorful by poking cranberries on a kabob stick. The Blum’s four-year-old grandchild, Gabby, assisted with pushing the cranberries on the stick and placing them on the form.
Now invite the birds and hang your form from a fence post or tree.
Gabby and I created a small feeder and decoration. We just used the magnolia pod dipped in peanut butter and birdseed. She added her cranberry stick. We wired the pod and cranberries to a soft pine. We will add a
small red bow and hang it from the tree. Think we might make lots more for our barren tree. It’s our Christmas treat for the birds!
Even when the birds aren’t perched and
feeding, you can create a winter ornament from birdseed, seed heads, fruit, peanut butter or berries. Create it, and they will enjoy nibbling their winter treat!
Village
What’s Happening at the Mariemont Branch Library
December
All Ages
Holiday Open House — 3-6 pm. Thursday, December 15
Bring the whole family for music, crafts, and sweet treats.
Children
Movers & Shakers — 10:30 am and 1:30 pm Wednesdays
Bring the little ones in for stories, songs, and dance as they learn about the Library. Ages 1-4. Note: No program December 28.
Library Babies 11:30 am Wednesdays
Have fun, meet other parents and babies, and promote early literacy! Ages 6-18 months. Note: No program December 28.
Adults
Handmade Holiday — 6:30 pm Thursday, December 1
Get into the holiday spirit by crafting a handmade ornament. Registration required.
Which Craft? Needle Craft Club — 10:30 am Saturdays, December 3 & 17
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.
Library hours are noon to 8 pm Monday, Tuesday and Thursday; 10 am-6 pm Wednesday, Friday and Saturday
JAMES T. WESTERFIELD, D.V.M. 6892 Murray Avenue • (513) 561-0020
ATTENTION: Home Owners... If You Have a Plumbing Problem, Don't Panic! "How to Get a 'Top Talent' Plumber to Show Up On Time So You Don't Waste Time" Call FORSEE PLUMBING Co., Inc. 513-271-6720 for your appointment window. As a Mariemont resident present this ad and you will receive $10 off the $59 service call fee. Robert Forsee Jr., President OH License PL #16160 and KY License M7256
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Village
Kiwanis Holiday Nut Sale in Full Swing
The Kiwanis Club of Mariemont has kicked off its annual nut sale fundraiser, with all proceeds benefiting local scholarships. Just in time for the holidays, their large variety of offerings are great for family or client gifts, or just snacking at home! Cashews, mixed nuts, and a variety of chocolate covered offerings are perfect for any occasion.
“Our annual nut sale has grown bigger and bigger each year,” said Chairman David Peterson, “We have a blast being involved with the school concerts and really appreciate them letting us be a part of that. It’s gotten to the point where people expect us to be there and look forward to it, which is great to see.”
This year’s fundraiser which once again features $10 containers and $5 bags, including their newest item, chocolate covered raisins. “Every year we get a few requests for other products. We tried several out last year that were a hit, so we’re happy to bring those back. We try to have a good variety for the non-nut crowd as well.”
Once again, the Kiwanis Club will have nuts available at all school concerts as well as several local businesses including Mac’s Pizza Pub and Snappy Tomato Pizza in Fairfax, and
Ace Hardware in Mariemont. They can also be purchased at MariElders during regular hours. Orders can be placed by phone contacting David Peterson at 814-598-6235.
The annual nut sale is the club’s holiday fundraiser for local scholarships. Each year, the Kiwanis Club of Mariemont raises nearly $15,000 for students in Fairfax, Terrace Park and Mariemont through events such as the Arts & Crafts Fair and spring golf outing. Now in its 51st year, the Kiwanis Club has raised over $200,000 for local scholarships
benefiting nearly 70 students.
The Kiwanis Club of Mariemont meets every Tuesday morning at 7:45 am in the Mariemont Elementary school cafeteria. A continental breakfast is served at 7:15 am. Meetings end by 8:30 and always feature a local speaker. We invite you to be our guest at an upcoming meeting. For more information visit MariemontKiwanis.org Follow along on social media via Facebook and Twitter (@MariemontKClub) with #KidsNeedsKiwanis.
Village
Kindervelt 54 Saddled Up for Mental Health on a Beautiful October Night
The western themed progressive party, ‘Bike Crawl Ya’ll’, was chock full of a lot of good drink, grub, and company.
Zip’s Cafe and Samuel Adams hopped on the band wagon and we sure do appreciate the contributions!
It all got started at the York home, we moseyed on over to the Bartletts, and landed at the Wells homestead.
A good time was had by all!
Mariemont
Civic Association Calendars on Sale
The 2017 Mariemont photo calendars from the Mariemont Civic Association are available at Graeter’s, the Mariemont Inn, MariElders and The Villager for $10. The calendars are very attractive besides being useful and would also be an easy gift to send to former Mariemonters or anyone who might be interested in Mariemont.
The Kindervelt Psychiatric Emergency Assessment Center (KV PEAC) is intended to improve the comprehensive assessment, care and support of our mental health patients. Funding for KV PEAC will also help support a comprehensive team of registered nurses, mental health specialists, and patient care assistants, and allow for the time needed to evaluate the child’s mental health and carefully determine care plans with family members, ensuring the best possible decision on next steps for patient care. All proceeds of the event benefit KV PEAC.
Dr Edward J Wnek… extensive experience and education… a personal approach to each and every patient… and outstanding outcomes! For a beautiful healthy smile, contact us for your personal consultation at 513-271-5265, or visit us at www.wnekorthodontics.com. Edward J Wnek DDS,MS • Mariemont Square
YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ORTHODONTIST
Specializing In Orthodontics
Kim Beach (co-chair), Lisa Jones, and MaryBeth York (co-chair)
Happy Holidays from the Woman's Art Cultural Center
December awaits us
Please join us at the Barn for two special events this week.
Friday, December 2: The Art Roadshow; 9 am until Noon. The Woman's Art Cultural Center (WACC) welcomes observers-free to the public. Three professionals from Cowan’s Roadshow will be on hand to evaluate the artwork of the locals. Saturday and Sunday, December 3-4: 10:00 am until 5:00 pm and Noon until 5:00 pm (respectively). Artisans from all over the Tri-State will offer their homemade arts and crafts for sale at affordable prices. A food truck will be available.
Saturday, December 17: 10:00 am at the Mariemont Preservation Foundation (MPF) along with artist Beth Renick will present Family Artmaking. Attendees will make holiday crafts on the main floor (the gallery) of the old barn. The event costs $5. Register at thebarn.cincyregister.com/ MPF2016 or call 513-272-3700.
December 10-31: Studio 7C-Artworks
Beating the winter blues…
The Mariemont Preservation Foundation announced its barn-yard repertoire for the new year and it’s looking fabulous!
January 28: Around the World in 80 Days. Cincinnati Playhouse Off the Hill. February 25: Harriet Tubman. TCT on Tour: A Division of Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati.
March 18: Family Artmaking. Spring Crafts with Artist Beth Renick.
April 22: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Cincinnati Playhouse.
May 20: Drumming Workshop. Liz Wu, Turtie & Stone.
Each event costs $5 and starts at 10:00 am. To register, go to thebarn.cincyregister. com/MPF2016 or call 513-272-3700.
Classes/Sessions
Open Studio for All Levels
The Barn is open from 10 am to 3 pm on the second, fourth and fifth Tuesdays of each month for anyone who would like to paint with other artists. Bring your own supplies. Fee is $5 (cash only) for nonmembers and free for Woman’s Art Club members.
Clothed models are available on December 6, January 3 and 17, February 7 and 21, March 7 and 21, April 4 and 18, and May 2 and 16. All classes run from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
Each session is free for WACC members and $5 (cash only) for nonmembers. Text Deborah at 513-259-9302 by the Monday before each class to assure availability. Please note the club can only accept cash.
Tuesday Evening Painters
The Barn invites all levels of oil painters to attend an informal session of painting on Tuesdays from 6 pm to 9 pm for $5 each evening. Periodically, artist Ray Hassard will assess the work of the class for $20 per person. Please contact susanelisetemple@ gmail.com for more information. Please note that this is not an instruction class. BYOB and supplies.
Felt art
Wet felting is the oldest form of felting. Come and explore and discover what happens when you layer fibers together
and use the wet felting technique to create your very own fiber art. Workshops are on Fridays from December 10, January 14, February 11, and March 11, 2017. Spaces are available for a minimum of 4 people. Questions? Call or write Therese Holt at thereseholt@aol.com or (513) 8852781. The cost of the workshop is $80 plus $20 for supplies.
Stitch by stitch
Sunday afternoons and Tuesday evenings are set aside for sewing classes at the Barn. No sewing machine? No problem - you can rent one of the Barn’s machines.
Classes will cover sewing knits, making quilts, baskets, bags & totes, even a vintageinspired apron. Classes are for ages 8 and up, so you can sign up with one of your favorite youngsters and learn some new sewing tricks. Call 513-272-3700 for more information.
Painting like a Pro
Eileen McConkey is teaching an oilpainting class on Tuesdays from noon until 3:00 pm. Eileen emphasizes the use of values, color, edges and composition for intermediate students. Cost is $200 for eight weeks. To register check out eileenmcconkey@gmail.com. Class size is limited.
Creative Acrylics with Dave Laug
It’s time to express yourself. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced painter,
cont'd on next page
Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center
allow Dave to help you sharpen your palette while enjoying artistic conversation and art making. Can't commit to ten weeks? Contact Dave to personalize your schedule. Call 513272-3700 for more information. Classes are on Wednesdays from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Mosaics with Ray
Create mosaics in an atmosphere of relaxed fun and inspiration. Learn how to use nippers on china and tile. Incorporate a variety of materials such as plates, beads, coins, glass and more. Students may try different adhesives and experiment with grout colors. Ray welcomes all skill levels. All materials and supplies are provided. This class is offered by the Art Academy of Cincinnati and held at The Barn. Learn Advanced Pastel Techniques with well-known Cincinnati artist Ray Hassard. Classes meet Noon until 3:00 pm in the Tack Room.
Shop Amazon, Kroger and Support WACC
Please help be a part of Mariemont history. Amazon.com customers can help raise money for the Woman’s Art Cultural Center. Go to smile.amazon.com and search for Woman’s Art Club of Cincinnati
Foundation. Select it as your charity, then shop as usual. The donation will not affect the customer’s price.
Also Kroger Community rewards pays the Barn quarterly, based on purchases by registered families. Please visit www.kroger. com/community rewards.
WACC will apply proceeds to the Loft Improvement Project, which includes the addition of an elevator for handicap accessibility and numerous other upgrades to the Barn’s second floor.
The Barn whole-heartedly thanks its supporters in advance.
The Barn reaches out
As part of WACC’s outreach to the community, local artist and educator Dave Laug has begun a class in introductory sketching and drawing. The class was held at the Marielders Building on Madisonville Rd. Marielders is a non-profit senior center dedicated to the enrichment of life for adults 55 years and older by providing activities and services. Established in 1977, Marielders serves Fairfax, Madison Place, Mariemont, Plainville and Terrace Park. The classes were open to Marielders members, and happened throughout the fall. Typically around 15 seniors attended each of the classes. Dave Laug is a Director at the Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center, and heads up the Adult Education task force. WACC hopes to extend these classes into the winter. Watch for details.
Visit artatthebarn.org for more information or call 513-272-3700. The Barn is located at 6980 Cambridge Avenue in Mariemont.
All-Member Show Winners
Sycamore Township resident Deborah Ridgely took first prize at the Woman’s Art Club’s annual all-member show in October. She said a recent dining experience in Over-the-Rhine inspired this painting of the busy kitchen.
Second Place was awarded to Elaine West, with third place awarded to Nancy Neville.
Honorable mentions include Beth Mizelle, Nancy Achberger, and Cookie Their.
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD MEETINGOCTOBER 17, 2016
In attendance were Mr. Bruggeman, Ms. Stalzer, Mr. Thomas and Mayor Policastro. Also in attendance was Building Administrator Don Keyes.
There was a request from Dr. Lisa Larkin for Certificate of Appropriateness for the alteration of the building at 3908 Miami Road. Building Administrator Keyes said the building is being remodeled for use as a medical practice. The previous remodeling plans are being voided in favor of maintaining the current building size. It is desired to increase the size of the front windows to increase the amount of daylight into the office area. The rear of the building is being revised to allow entry at ground level and to redecorate the rear to include additional windows. Building remodel plans have been reviewed to insure that Mariemont and Ohio building codes are met.
Mr. Steve Kurtz, Architect for Dr. Larkin, said they have scaled the project back and will be using the existing structure. Part of the proposed plan is to replace the windows in the front with a taller section to allow as much light as possible. Dr. Larkin said if you look at each building next to hers you can see that Roosters has taken out the grills on the windows making it all plain glass as opposed to Graeter’s which have the mullions in the windows. She is open to either option but her goal is to get as much light as possible. Mr. Thomas said his personal preference is the divided light with mullions that matches the look of Graeter’s. Mayor Policastro moved, seconded by Ms. Stalzer to grant the Certificate of Appropriateness as proposed and to approve the front windows as selected by the applicant. On roll call; four ayes, no nays.
COUNCIL MEETING - OCTOBER 24, 2016
Mayor Policastro called the meeting to order with the following Council members present: Mr. Brown, Mr. Hlad, Mr. Marsland, Ms. Palazzolo, Ms. Schwartz and Mr. Wolter.
Boy Scout Mac Marsland, 3600 Center Street, was granted permission to address Council. He said the road by the Concourse needs to be fixed. Fiscal Officer Borgerding said when he was running in the Warrior Run he noticed a large pothole. Mayor Policastro said he will take note of that and have the Service Department look at it.
Village Government
Council Representative Information
District 1: Dennis Wolter dwolter@mariemont.org
District 2: Bill Brown wbrown@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
Leaf Season will begin October 24, 2016 and will run to December 20, 2016
Resolutions:
“To Accept the Amounts and Rates as Determined by the Budget Commission and Authorizing the Necessary Tax Levies and Certifying them to the County Auditor; and To Declare Emergency had a first reading. Mr. Marsland moved, seconded by Mr. Brown to suspend the rules to allow for the second and third readings. On roll call; six ayes, no nays. The Resolution had a second reading. Fiscal Officer Borgerding said we do this every year. We plan the budget in July and send it to Hamilton County. They certify the amounts which the Village then accepts. The rates were just sent to us and the county needs the Resolution no later than October 31, 2016 which is the reason for the emergency. The Resolution had a third reading. Mr. Wolter moved, seconded by Ms. Schwartz to adopt the Resolution. On roll call; six ayes, no nays. Mr. Marsland moved, seconded by Mr. Brown to invoke the emergency clause. On roll call; six ayes, no nays. Resolution No. R-24-16 was adopted.
Ordinances:
“To Amend Section 37.01 of the Mariemont Code of Ordinances To Increase the Number of Members of the Planning Commission from Five to Seven” had a third reading. Ms. Palazzolo moved, seconded by Ms. Schwartz to adopt the Ordinance. On roll call; six ayes, no nays. Ordinance No. O-20-16 was adopted.
“Ordinance to Amend Chapter 90.01 of the Mariemont Code of Ordinances to Prohibit Dogs from Fenced in Portion or Being Tied to Fenced In Portion of Bell Tower Playground “Tot Lot” had a third reading. Mr. Brown asked if there was agreement on what type of signage it would be. Mayor Policastro said there will be a sign posted at each gate. They will resemble the brown wood
signs that our Service Department makes. Ms. Palazzolo moved, seconded by Mr. Hlad to adopt the Ordinance. On roll call; six ayes, no nays. Ordinance No. O-21-16 was adopted.
Mr. Wolter said he made the suggestion to Mr. Hlad to add arrows on the pavement as you come into the Village westbound to motivate people early to move into the right lane with the hope that it would end some of the drama that happens there frequently. Mayor Policastro said he will get with Superintendent Scherpenberg.
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Mr. Brown asked if we are going to repaint any of the lines down Wooster Pike in the square. Mayor Policastro said he will check with Superintendent Scherpenberg because US 50 is owned by the State of Ohio.
Mr. Marsland asked where Dr. Larkin’s project stands. Mayor Policastro said she is not going to do the kick out in the back because of threatening remarks of filing a lawsuit. He believes she may still need to have one more Planning Commission meeting.
COUNCIL MEETING - NOVEMBER 14, 2016
Mayor Policastro called the meeting to order with the following Council members present: Mr. Brown, Mr. Marsland, Ms. Palazzolo, Ms. Schwartz and Mr. Wolter.
Mr. Brown asked Service Superintendent Scherpenberg if there were two leaf trucks this year. Service Superintendent Scherpenberg said there are three. One truck does the trash can route and brush route and when complete will then go and start collecting leaves. The department has been able to keep up with the leaf pick-up so far but typically the leaves fall the heaviest in the next few weeks.
Mayor Policastro reported Mary Lou Holt sold the original painting of the South 80 to Chief Glenna Wallace of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma.
Mayor Policastro said Building Administrator Keyes brought to his attention that the utility companies are not charged a permit fee when they do work here in the Village. There is a provision in the code that allows for us to charge $35 but in the past it has not been implemented. He asked the Public Works and Service Committee to look at increasing the fee and to make it a standard practice going forward. Mr. Brown said it may encourage them to do a better job when working in the Village if the work will be inspected.
Mayor Policastro said he would like to get the bids out on the Street Rehabilitation Project for 2017 as soon as possible. He referred the matter to the Public Works and Service Committee to meet with the Village Engineer to determine the list. First and foremost, we have to do the work on Settle Road and are actively trying to secure grant money. If we do not get the grant we will
Village Government
have to pull back from the list to focus on Settle Road. Mr. Marsland asked if we know what the Settle Road project is going to cost. Engineer Ertel said his estimate is $250,000. He is hopeful for a low bid and that we will be successful in obtaining the $100,000 grant. Fiscal Officer Borgerding asked if there are any other roads in the Village that need repairs desperately. Engineer Ertel said Madisonville Road needs to be resurfaced. We may be able to apply for grants through the Municipal Road Fund which is for streets that go from one municipality to another. Mr. Wolter
asked if the condition of the road has anything to do with the recent construction. Engineer Ertel said it is not entirely to blame but yes. Mr. Wolter said it might be nice to be able to recoup some of the funds from the entity that that caused the damage. Engineer Ertel said something like that would be addressed in the developer agreement. Mayor Policastro said perhaps when contractors ask for abatements we can ask in return that a certain amount of money be given to the Village to repair the roads they damage with their heavy equipment.
Mariemont Business Named Ohio 'Best Workplace'
The Big Idea Group (big*), whose office is located in the Old Town Square, was recognized by Ohio Business Magazine as one of the “2016 Best Workplaces in Ohio.” big* was founded by Mariemont resident James Ferguson in 2015.
Big Idea Group is turning the traditional marketing agency model on its head. By combining senior-level marketing and creative talent with an entrepreneurial, brand-building spirit, and proven methods to help brands grow and thrive, big* becomes its clients’ internal strategic partner, not just an outside vendor.
President and CEO James Ferguson explained, “We believe great people with great ideas can achieve great things. As such, we want to partner with entrepreneurial business
The big* team, from left to right: Liz Plachecki, Matt Weinland, Suzy Weinland, Christopher Ferguson, Kelly Rankin, James Ferguson, Jenny Ferguson, and Kim Wehby cont'd on next page
leaders who value marketing, believe in the value of branding, embrace fresh thinking, and are able to collaborate in creating big ideas and seamlessly take them to market.”
Big Idea Group’s core service areas are: Marketing Concierge – your internal strategic partner
Innovations Lab – creating big ideas and smoothly taking them to market Investments Group – investing time and money behind innovative brands big* believes in Social Good – giving back to the community.
big*’s principle client base is focused in healthcare, technology, retail, and B2B segments. Clients range from national Fortune 500 to local, medium-sized businesses. The company is on target to achieve a more than 300 percent growth in revenue in 2016 compared to that of 2015.
“We become your internal strategic partner, not just an outside vendor,” added Ferguson. “Clients like the model because we are personally vested in the brands we work with, mindful of their money. Importantly, we
Big Idea Group Welcomes Mariemont Resident as
New Social Media Director
The Big Idea Group (big*) is excited to welcome Elizabeth Plachecki to the team as their Social Media Director. She will oversee social strategy and execution for clients as well as efforts on behalf of big*.
Liz is a seasoned marketing professional with over eight years of experience in social media strategy, project management, and client relationship building.
Elizabeth’s passion for her work drives her to influence best practices in the industry, and
embrace performance-based compensation which dramatically changes the dynamic of our relationships. We win together...we lose together.”
To see some of Big Idea Group’s work and find out more about their vision, visit thinkbigideagroup.com.
she hopes to help big* clients create longterm engagement and build a strong following across numerous social channels.
In addition to creating clever hashtags, Elizabeth loves spending time with her oneyear-old daughter, husband, and dog. Her favorite pastimes include power walking, taking photos, and enjoying a cup of coffee. Little known fact: Elizabeth’s basketball skills earned her a spot in Mariemont High School's Athletic Hall of Fame.
MARIEMONT
The 3rd quarter in our village saw a decrease in the number of homes sold and the average sale price was down about 3%, from the 2nd quarter. The good news is that the 3rd quarter average sale price was up 32% from the 1st quarter.
Knowing the market is essential in Mariemont to get the best possible price for Sellers or Buyers. As a Realtor and a 30-year resident who sells in Mariemont, it would be my pleasure to guide you through your real estate needs. Please give me a call and I would be happy to give you an idea of your homes value in today’s market.
