Give Locally This Holiday Season
By Elizabeth Wood
November is a month for gratitude. It’s a time to remember that even when the headlines are grim and the world feels broken in so many ways, there is still abundant goodness pulsing through our everyday lives. This is a season to be grateful for the things and people that bring us joy, and it’s also a time to extend our blessings to others. If your heart strings are tugging this Thanksgiving season to do something kind and generous for others, here are some ways you can help right here in Mariemont and in surrounding neighborhoods.
Canned Food Drive: The Mariemont Elementary PTO is conducting a food and non-perishable items drive to benefit the Madisonville Education and Assistance Center (MEAC), which directly serves families in the 45227 area. The drive will be running Nov. 13-17 in preparation for Thanksgiving. Donations can be sent with elementary students to school, or you can drop off items at the Mariemont Elementary main office. Donation suggestions include cereal, canned fruit, canned meat (tuna, salmon, chicken), canned soup, canned or powered milk, dried pasta, deodorant, shampoo, body soap, feminine hygiene products, packaged razors, toilet paper, paper towels, facial tissue, laundry detergent, and dish detergent. For any questions, please contact Donna Hojnoski at 513288-8669 or donnahojnoski@gmail.com.
Hurricane Relief: The Village Church of Mariemont is accepting donations on behalf of Matthew 25 Ministries to aid the victims of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma from now through Christmas. Donations can be brought during Sunday service
from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Stone Memorial Chapel on Cherry Lane, or call Pastor Todd Keyes at 513-515-1551 to schedule an alternate drop-off time. Suggested donation items include first aid supplies, school supplies, personal hygiene products, new and gently used clothing, baby products, and nonperishable food items. Visit m25m.org for an extensive list of donation items.
Donate a Complete Thanksgiving Meal: Through Crossroads’ annual Thanksgiving Food Drive, you can purchase, assemble, and donate a complete Thanksgiving meal (turkey and all!) that will serve a local family. Participants must use the Crossroadsissued box and shopping list, which are available for pick-up at the Crossroads Oakley location (3500 Madison Rd.) on the weekends of Nov. 4-5 and Nov. 11-12. The drop-off weekend for completed boxes is Nov. 18-19. For more
information, visit crossroads.net/tfd.
Eat for a Cause: Rather than donating funds or goods for this Thanksgiving fundraiser, St. Paul Lutheran Church in Madisonville is inviting community members to purchase a turkey dinner to enjoy themselves on Saturday, Nov. 11 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Small-plate tickets are $5 and large-plate tickets are $7, and proceeds will be donated to the Women’s Ministries Mission Fund. Tickets can be purchased at the door (5433 Madison Road). Call 513-271-4147 for more information.
Coat Drive: The Mariemont Police are partnering with St. Vincent de Paul again this year to collect gently used winter coats for the needy in the Greater Cincinnati area. You can drop off any youth- or adult-sized coats to the Mariemont police department. Please make sure items are clean.
Cars line up at Crossroads Church to drop off Thanksgiving meals.
Village Share Your Holiday Memories with Us!
Do have a precious holiday memory or tradition that comes to mind every year as you celebrate the season? What was the absolute best gift you’ve ever received or given? Is there a special way in which you and your family have given back to others during the holiday season – locally or abroad?
The Town Crier would like to hear from you about any or all of these topics. We will pull as many responses together as we can and share with readers over our next couple of issues. Submissions should be 200 words or less and include a photo (.jpg format, 1 MB or higher resolution is best). Photos could be of you and your family sharing a holiday tradition, you as a child with your favorite gift (just use your phone to snap a high-resolution pic of your printed photo), your group serving others during this season of giving – whatever you desire to share.
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Luminaria sponsor
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• Appointed Member, Mariemont Building & Planning Commission
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Staff
Contributors
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Rex Bevis rexbevis@fuse.net
Delta Crabtree dcrabtree@comey.com
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Julie Renner jr.healthworks@gmail.com
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Randy York ryork@cinci.rr.com
Laura Young lb.young@gmail.com
Photographer Ron Schroeder ronschroederimaging@gmail.com
Carriers
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(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 December and February 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 and photographs are welcomed. Please contact the editor at MariemontTownCrier@gmail.com to discuss your article ideas. All final articles must be submitted by the 10th of month prior to publication. The editorial staff reserves the right to select and edit articles for both content and space. Photos sent as jpg files via email are preferred, but originals also will be accepted and returned upon request. Signed Letters to the Editor are accepted and will be published 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 necessarily represent the views of the Town Crier Staff. As a public service to the non-profit organizations of Mariemont, the Town Crier accepts inserts for a flat fee of $50, due at time of delivery. Inserts must be preapproved and scheduled with the editor, separated into stacks of 50, and delivered to Tiffany Proffitt by the 20th of the month prior to publication. Inserts and ads of a political nature are not accepted.political nature are not accepted. (C)2017 The Mariemont Town Crier, LLC.
Mariemont Boy Scout Christmas Tree Sale Returns for 25th Year
By Erika Turan
The Boy Scouts of Mariemont Troop 149 will return for their 25th consecutive year of selling Christmas trees on Black Friday, November 24. Located on the lawn of the Mariemont Municipal Building at 6907 Wooster Pike, visiting the Boy Scout Christmas tree lot is an annual tradition for many in the area.
Immediately after being cut down, Fraser firs and white pines ranging from five feet to 12 feet tall are brought by truck from a farm in North Carolina. The troop receives several shipments during the season so you know you’re getting a fresh tree. Thick, fresh pine roping, tree stands, and tree disposal bags are also sold. The local Girl Scouts sell fresh hand-decorated pine wreaths.
The tree sales are Troop 149’s only fundraiser. As such, every Scout will volunteer for a minimum of 24 hours at the tree lot – rain or shine – in addition to his other extracurriculars, sports, and academics. Every tree includes a fresh cut, branches trimmed following your instruction, and mounting on your car for no additional charge. We’ll even happily take a photo of your family with your new tree. Credit cards are accepted, making payment quick and easy.
The lot is open daily November 24 to December 16 (or until we run out of
trees, so don’t put off coming to see us!) Learn more about the tree sale, including hours, at Troop 149’s Facebook page: Facebook.com/BoyScoutChristmasTree.
Troop 149 Boy Scouts Michael Curran (L) and Bennett Turan (R) help take a Christmas Tree to a customer’s car.
Village
A Record Year for 1N5’s Warrior Run
The eighth annual Warrior Run drew a record crowd to Mariemont on September 30. Nearly 3,000 participants enjoyed the picturesque views and a crisp fall evening participating in the 5K run/walk and a family-friendly after party to raise awareness for mental illness and suicide prevention.
The USA Track and Field (USATF)sanctioned 5K Warrior Run and untimed onemile walk began at the Mariemont Bell Tower on Pleasant Street and wound through the tree-lined streets of the Village. Following the race, participants and guests enjoyed a night of music, Bid-n-Buy auction, carnival-style kid’s games, and food from LaRosa’s Pizza, City BBQ, UDF ice cream, as well as homemade chili, grilled cheeses, hot dogs, hamburgers, and desserts. At dusk, the event concluded with the family movie Sing in the center of the Bell Tower Park.
The Warrior Run: The Race for Life benefits Surviving the Teens, a Cincinnati
Children’s Hospital Medical Center program and also funds in-school mental health programs at five area colleges and 16 high schools through 1N5, founded in 2008 by Mariemont resident and Warrior Run director Nancy Miller to honor her late husband James W. Miller who took his life that year. The name 1N5 was inspired by the statistic that one in five teens and adults suffer from mental illness.
1N5 facilitates two events with one purpose, The Warrior Run and the Spring4Life gala event. Since 2008, 1N5 has raised over $865,000 and impacted 75,000 university students and 10,500 high school students.
Surviving the Teens has helped over 70,000 teens and their families facing the threats of mental illness. The program teaches students depression and suicide prevention, providing adaptive ways to cope with stressors, ways to connect and positively communicate with parents, how to help themselves or others who may be depressed or suicidal, and how to access referral sources. Surviving the Teens is currently in 24 schools in the area; however, by January of 2018, it is anticipated that this program will be implemented in 75 local schools.
“Each year suicide takes about 4,600 young lives, making it the second leading cause of death in children ages 15-24 according to the National Institute of Mental Health,” said Miller. “A nationwide survey showed that thirty-eight percent of high school students have had serious suicidal thoughts and/or attempted to take their own life. Twenty percent of kids ages 13-18 are living with a mental health condition. Our youth are in crisis.”
For details about donating to 1N5, please go to www.1N5.org. For more information about Surviving the Teens, please visit www. cincinnatichildrens.org/surviving-teens.
Friends gather at the starting line.
Annual MHS Holiday Fair Supports Clubs, Scholarships, and More
By Kim Richardson, MHS Art Teacher
This year’s Mariemont High School Holiday Fair takes place Friday, Dec. 1 from 5-8 p.m. in the MHS gym. Holiday fair is sponsored by the MHS Student Council. Many school clubs will have booths throughout the gymnasium, with games, music, food, prizes, and lots and lots of beautiful hand-painted arts and crafts for sale -- at right are a couple of last year's creations. There may even be a silent auction!
An annual favorite among Holiday Fair goers, the MHS Art Club will continue its tradition of selling hand-painted furniture,
Christmas ornaments, and hand-made fused glass jewelry, as well as provide face painting for children. Money raised by Art Club will be used for two $500 Art Club Scholarships given to two high school seniors planning on pursuing art in college.
Art Club also uses money raised from Holiday Fair to purchase supplies for painting murals on the walls throughout the high school building to help beautify and enhance the school environment.
There is something for everyone at Holiday Fair! Come see why families keep coming back to this great holiday tradition year after year.
Village MariElders Celebrates 40 Years
The MariElders Senior Center will hold an open house to celebrate 40 years of service on Sunday, Nov. 5 from 1-4 p.m. at the MariElders Center, 6923 Madisonville Road. You will get the opportunity to tour the Center, meet the members, staff, and our Board of Trustees. There will be wine, appetizers, desserts, live music, and raffle baskets. For more information on the event or the MariElders program, please call 513271-5588.
November Events & Activities:
Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a wonderful way to incorporate movement into your schedule and create a space of peace and quietness. Certified instructor Kristin Dietsche leads this hour class on Tuesday, Nov. 14 and 28 at 10 a.m. Cost is $6 per class.
Cincinnati Zoo
On Wednesday, November 8 we will be taking a trip to the Zoo, hoping to get a look at their star hippo, Fiona. Cost is $15 a person and includes transportation and admission. Please sign up by Nov. 6 as space is limited to 6.
Thanksgiving Lunch
Join us for a traditional Thanksgiving meal followed by the film Home for the Holidays: The History of Thanksgiving. Lunch is $5 and must be paid for by Nov. 10 at the front desk.
Practicing Mindfulness
As the holiday rush begins, we often lose our connection with the present moment – how we feel, what we’re thinking. We find ourselves forgetting about what we are thankful for, when in fact the reminders are there each and every day for the noticing.
Session 1, on Thursday, Nov. 9 at 10 a.m., we will be discussing what mindfulness is, the benefits of it, and the introduction to meditation. Session 2, on Tuesday Nov. 21 at 10 a.m., we will start with mediation then explore the various ways we can practice mindfulness, especially while eating.
Christmas Shopping
Kenwood Towne Center here we come! On Monday, Nov. 20 we will start our
Christmas shopping spree by meeting at the MariElders at noon, and return from mall around 4 p.m. Please sign up by Nov. 17.
Non-Fiction Book Club
Christmas Remembered, written by Tomie DePaola, offers a montage of Christmas memories from his life. This fun collection of warm, personal essays from a beloved artist who takes joy in making a holiday feel even more special, will be discussed on Thursday, Nov. 30 at 10 a.m
Bikes Available for Those in Need
Mariemont Civic Association has three like-new bikes available for Mariemont families in need of a bike for their child as a Christmas gift. We have one 24-inch girl’s mountain bike, one 26-inch boy’s mountain bike, and one 26-inch single speed girl’s bike.
All bikes have been serviced and are in excellent condition. Contact Mayor Dan Policastro at 615-5729, or Dennis Wolter at 732-6688 or 509-8650. The Civic Association can deliver to your home. We wish everyone a joyous holiday season!
Dr. Lisa Larkin – Direct Primary Care and Women’s Health
By Delta Crabtree
Welcome to Lisa Larkin, MD, & Associates. This practice is occupying the building right next to Graeter’s Ice Cream Shoppe on the square. Dr. Larkin purchased the building and has fully renovated the facility to relocate her Direct Primary Care practice. Dr. Larkin lives right up the hill with her family, which made the Mariemont square location ideal for her busy life as a business owner, physician, and mother to a blended family of six kids!
In my phone interview with Dr. Larkin, so much interesting information was shared that I feel like this introductory article will only whet your appetite to learn more. Dr. Larkin is passionate about the Direct Primary Care (DPC) model as well as offering specialized health services for women. According to Dr. Larkin, her practice is the region's only DPC and internal medicine group practice serving men and women (over the age of 16), and the region’s only DPC practice with access to EPIC – the region’s electronic health records system.
By limiting the number of patients in the practice, offering greater access, and building strong relationships, they are able to offer a more comprehensive, evidencebased, personalized approach to medicine.
This practice is also certified in women’s specialty health services, and offers a comprehensive approach to women’s health. Examples of the specialized women’s services include breast cancer risk assessments, oneon-one nutrition counseling, a weightmanagement program, and Botox – for cosmetic treatments and for therapeutic treatments for migraine headaches. They also have providers specializing in wellness offerings such as yoga therapy, therapeutic massage and other mindfulness practices. Dr. Larkin says the healing benefits of
these non-traditional wellness practices enable patients to improve on a physical, emotional, and spiritual level.
How does direct primary care differ from traditional primary care? According to Dr. Larkin, the difference between Direct Primary Care and traditional primary care comes down to three key qualities: the patient-provider relationship, accessibility, and affordability.
In a traditional primary care practice, doctors operate under a model evaluated by productivity. Dr. Larkin explains that a traditional practice operates under contractual obligation with insurance carriers/third-party payers, often at inflated rates. Providers, with panel sizes often around 2,500 patients or greater, are compensated based on the volume of patients they see, and how they “code” the visit for each of those patients.
This results in larger panels, higher visit volume, and shorter visits, which leads to care that is focused on disease management only, with little time for preventative healthcare," says Dr. Larkin. This leads to “defensive medicine,” resulting in increased imaging and specialist referrals. Higher patient volume also leads to a reduction in access (patients are unable to get an appointment when they are ill), resulting in increased visits to urgent care and emergency rooms for patients. Dr. Larkin shares that all of this results in providers having little time to develop meaningful relationships with patients beyond disease treatment.
Dr. Larkin explains that in DPC, panel sizes are reduced to 500-600 patients per full time provider, allowing practices to provide better access for urgent needs (most guarantee same day appointments), longer appointment times, and more personalized and preventionfocused care. This leads to a reduction in unnecessary imaging and specialist
Lisa Larkin, M.D.
referrals, as well as reduction in urgent care and ER visits, which results in cost savings. In addition, because there are no contractual agreements with insurance and burdensome billing costs, DPC practices are able to operate at lower overhead and can provide better care at a lower cost. Patients and providers can develop a trusting relationship focused on total patient wellness, including disease management as well as prevention.
"With DPC, patients may see a reduction in total out-of-pocket costs," says Dr. Larkin. "they are able to move to higher deductible plans with lower monthly premiums, thus off-setting the monthly membership fees of a DPC practice." She adds that because DPC patients have greater access to more personalized attention, they’re likely to utilize their primary care as intended – as the first line for healthcare – rather than being pushed out to specialists, or forced to urgent care or ERs due to lack of access.
Please check out Dr. Larkin’s website http://lisalarkinmd.com/ for even more information. How fortunate are we as a community to have this innovative practice available to us right in the heart of our Village!
Three Decades of MHS Alumni Celebrate Homecoming
By Suzy Weinland
Homecoming is a tried-and-true tradition in Mariemont, bringing together all ages to reminisce and enjoy floats, a parade, alumni tent activities, Boosters’ tailgate, and, of course, football.
This year, three decades of Mariemont graduates gathered to celebrate their respective milestones and share stories
of days-gone-by. Some Class of 1967 graduates, who attended high school in what is now the elementary school, had a chance to tour the new building for the first time since it was renovated. And the Class of 1977 toured the current high school, whose classrooms were “openconcept” without walls, back then.
The Classes of 1985 and 1987 gathered together, with many siblings among them,
to celebrate homecoming (’85 celebrated “32 years/Our 50th Birthday!”). I happen to be an ’85 graduate and hadn’t seen some of my classmates since graduation! It was fun reuniting with hugs, smiles and laughter, and discovering what everyone has been doing over the years.
Thanks to Suzi Vianello, Kim Beach, and Matt Weinland for capturing these group shots.
YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ORTHODONTIST
Wnek…
Class of '67 - On Homecoming Saturday, the Class of 1967 toured the Mariemont Elementary School, which was their high school at the time they graduated. The group then went to Frisch’s for lunch.
Class of ‘77 - Graduates of the Class of 1977 toured the high school on Saturday afternoon.
Classes of ’85 and ‘87 - The class of 1985 held a “32nd Reunion/Our 50th Birthday!” celebration, while the class of 1987 celebrated their 30th at 50 West.
Village
Recycling in Sustainable Mariemont
By Margaret Jevic
It’s November, fall is well under way, and the horrors of the poundage of candy your children have eaten since Halloween are probably still fresh. In the spirit of elevated dental care, Sustainable Mariemont brings you dental supply recycling!
Used dental supplies can be placed in the marked bin at the storefront of Ace Hardware on Wooster Pike throughout the month of November. You can bring things like used toothpaste tubes, old toothbrushes, toothpaste boxes, empty floss containers, etc. These items will be taken to UC Blue Ash where the Dental Hygiene program recycles these items to raise money to pay for dental care for those who wish to use their clinic but may not be able to pay for certain services. You can read more about this
program here: http://www.ucblueash.edu/ now/2017/03/08/uc-blue-ash-studentswant-old-toothbrush/
Since batteries seem to be a chronic burden on the conscience of our community, we are offering year-round alkaline battery recycling. You can bring your dead batteries to Ace on Wooster –any leaking batteries must be contained in
a Ziploc bag, and we are not accepting car or other large batteries. Batteries are taken to Canter Battery Co. for proper recycling, preventing battery toxins from leaching into our landfills.
Our September drive to collect cell phones was a little slim, but still a good step. We collected many a broken power cord, a few cell phones, and even an iPad. Those items were taken to the Zoo in support of Project Saving Species. We collected: 56 phones, 1 iPad, 3 iPods, 1 palm pilot, for a total weight of 24.5 lbs.
If you want to learn more about Sustainable Mariemont, visit our Facebook page “Sustainable Mariemont” or email sustainablemariemont@gmail.com . We can’t thank Ace on Wooster enough for their continued cheerleading and generous donation of space for our recycling efforts.
Village
What’s In a Name Part 3: John Nolen
By Marcy Lewis
Early last summer, the Mariemont Preservation Foundation (MPF) presented four short lectures on the Mariemont visionaries for whom the Griewe Development Mariemont Condominiums are named. The event was held at the Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center (aka “The Barn”). After a brief introduction by MPF president Joe Stoner, MPF volunteers Cindy Chalfonte spoke about Mary M. Emery, Frank Raeon spoke about Charles J. Livingood , Betty Klingerman spoke about John Nolen and Janet Setchell spoke about E. Boyd Jordan.
Each of these individuals played a unique role in the planning and development of Mariemont. Wealthy philanthropist Mary Emery aspired to create a town that was a “national exemplar” where working class families could enjoy a clean and safe community. She entrusted the execution of her dream to her life-long employee Charles J. Livingood. It was Livingood who hired renowned landscape architect John Nolen to design Mariemont. E. Boyd Jordan became first mayor of Mariemont when the town made the historic decision to incorporate in 1941.
In the past two issues of the Town Crier, Mary Emery’s and Charles J. Livingood’s lives were summarized. This month, the life of John Nolen, a pioneer in city planning who would combine his practical and aesthetic abilities to create Mariemont, is examined.
John Nolen
John Nolen was a man of humble beginnings. He was born in Philadelphia in 1869. At an early age he lost his father and although his mother eventually remarried, her new husband refused to provide financially for his stepson. His mother appealed to the Children Aid’s Society for help, and at nine years old, Nolen was accepted into Girard College, a residential school for orphaned boys that is still in existence. In 1894 he graduated
from Girard first in his class.
After working several years in various positions with Girard College and the Girard family, Nolen entered the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Finance and Economy in the fall of 1891. Nolen’s Ivy League education was hard won. Though he received a small scholarship, he primarily supported himself by working as a gardener at the Girard estate.
During his time at Wharton, Nolen was taught the concept that physical environment and society were interdependent and that systematic planning could improve society in general and this undoubtedly influenced him to look for a profession devoted to cultural and social improvement.
Upon graduation, Nolen began working for the American Society for the Extension of University Teaching (ASEUT), a night school program that offered a liberal arts education to young men and women employed in the trades and businesses. Although he achieved success at ASEUT, he found himself growing restless after a few years and began to contemplate a career that combined art and his love of landscape gardening.
In 1902, he was given a gift that would determine the course of the rest of his life. It was a book entitled, “Charles Eliot: Landscape Architect”. Nolen left ASEUT to obtain a degree in Landscape Architecture from Harvard University and upon graduation in 1905, set up practice in Cambridge, Mass.
In 1921, the now widely successful Nolen was hired by Charles Livingood to design Mariemont. Nolen incorporated his signature elements, such as a formal
entrance, a prominent town center, large public green spaces, and grouping of housing, into Mariemont’s plan. In particular, he intentionally utilized the natural topographic features of the site. The areas least suited for development, such as floodplains, ravines and steep slopes, were preserved as green space. Unique topographic features were exploited; for example, Nolen designed the town square to lie on a park like linear axis to the Concourse, the green space on the bluff that overlooks the Little Miami River.
Nolen said at the time, “Mariemont was to be a practical, convenient and beautiful town; practical from the viewpoint of use and beautiful from the viewpoint of appearance. It was not to be a suburb for the rich, nor for the very poor alone, but for a wide range of workers of different economic grades.”
Ultimately, Nolen was involved in the planning of fifty cities in over twenty states, including Madison, Wisc., and Venice, Fla. More than thirty professional reports and books of his were published. In 1927, he was recognized by Lewis Mumford (an American historian and sociologist noted for his study of cities and urban architecture) as a the one city planner who “realizes where the path of intelligent and humane achievement will lead in the next generation.” John Nolen died in 1937.
Next month, the discussion of Mariemont’s visionaries will conclude with information about the life of Mariemont’s first mayor, E. Boyd Jordan. In the meantime, for more fascinating Mariemont history, you can visit the MPF website, mariemontpreservation. org. To view the lecture in it’s entirety, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=Bmmjq7wBHrU
John Nolen (1916)
Mariemont Paint Out Draws an Array of Talented Artists
By Kym Kuenning
In late September, Mariemont residents and visitors may have noticed a hint of old France in the air. More than 60 artists dotted the landscapes of the Village in an effort to win $5,000 in prize money by depicting its sites, scenes, and every-day hustle on canvas. Bill Fletcher of Nicholasville, Ky., earned first place for his rendition in oil of a Mariemont gazebo.
The Barn, also known as The Woman’s Art Cultural Center, extends bodacious thank-yous and hearty handshakes to all its participants, enthusiastic by-passers, and especially to the businesses who sponsored The Barn’s third annual Paint Out.
Sponsors included Stan and Bobbi Bahler, The Exemplar, Roosters, Dr. Lisa Larkin & Assoc., Dr. Powers DDS, and the Mariemont Preservation Foundation.
Save the date: The Barn will present its next Paint Out on May 11-12, 2018.
Artists of all ages and talents put brush to canvas to create their depictions of Mariemont’s historic landmarks.
By Laura Young
Ask a Mariemont resident what their favorite Village tradition is, and Lumimaria is sure to be at the top of the list. At this annual event you can expect a carillon concert, candlelit lantern-lined streets, carriage rides, a tree lighting, caroling, and even a visit from Santa himself! This year’s event will take place from 5:30-8:00 p.m. on December 2nd.
This year, local food trucks will be added to the festivities. Patrons can enjoy Cincinnati-style chili dogs from Chili Hut and grab a special dessert from SugarSnap.
Celebrate the Annual Luminaria and Tree Lighting December 2 Construction Continues on The Barn
Mariemont Preschool Parents Group (MPPG) invites residents to purchase Luminaria lantern kits to line their sidewalks and driveways. Kits are $15 and can be purchased at the Boy Scout Christmas Tree sale on November 24-25 and December 2. Please plan to have your candles lit by 5:30 on the evening of Luminaria.
Luminaria is sponsored by MPPG, and members volunteer to coordinate the event. The group raises money via sales of Luminaria kits to village residents, event sponsorship from area businesses, and donations on the day of the event.
In addition to giving back to the community, 75 percent of Luminaria
profits are donated to a charitable cause or organization voted on by MPPG members. MPPG’s 2016 Luminaria donation recipient was the Madonna House, a notfor-profit shelter for motivated young pregnant women and single mothers.
Remaining proceeds from Luminaria are used to fund projects throughout
the community. Most recently, profits have funded playground equipment and fencing at Dogwood Park and playground equipment at Anne Buntin Becker Park. Donations have also benefitted local schools and our library.
For more information please visit: MariemontPPG.com/luminaria
By Kym Kuenning
If you’ve driven down Cambridge Ave. lately, you’ve noticed quite a commotion taking place at The Barn. Renovations are underway to expand the Loft for classes, demonstrations, and community events.
A project several years in the making, renovations aim to keep the historic Loft interior, with all its original wood flooring, sidewalls and rafters, intact. In addition to adding new shingles to the roof, up lighting will be added to showcase the one-of-a-kind cupola.
An HVAC unit will also be added to service the Loft; just in time for “The Showcase of the Arts,” taking place the first weekend of December.
The Barn team is currently focusing its efforts on writing grants to help install an elevator in the silo to make the Loft accessible for all.
Children
November at the Mariemont Branch Library
Movers & Shakers — 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Wednesdays Ages 1-4. Bring the little ones in for stories, songs, and dancing as they learn about the Library.
Library Babies — 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays Ages 6-18 months. Have fun, meet other parents and babies, and promote early literacy!
Tales to Tails — 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9 Ages 5-10. Read a story to Bonny the therapy dog.
Crafty Kids — 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9 Ages 5-10. Make and take a fun craft!
Teens
Fall Craft Fun for Teens — 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16 Ages 10-18. Drop by to make a cool craft!
Adults
Which Craft? Needle Craft Club — 10:30 a.m. Saturdays, Nov. 4 and 18 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.
Who Killed the Lindbergh Baby? — 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9
Led by Queen City Gothic author J.T. Townsend. Registration required.
Book Club — 6:45 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30
We will discuss The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George. Copies will be available at the branch.
Library hours are noon to 8 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday; 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday
Mariemont Branch Library, 3810 Pocahontas Ave. 513-369-4467
JAMES T. WESTERFIELD, D.V.M. 6892 Murray Avenue • (513) 561-0020
By Fran Turner
Garden Tips for Late Fall
On Wednesday Oct. 9, the Garden Club of Mariemont had a lively meeting where we learned all about growing roses. On Nov. 1, Dr. Carolyn Howes Keiffer, a professor at Miami University, spoke to us about the American Chestnut Foundation. It is an organization trying to save our endangered chestnut trees.
On Nov. 7 we will have an Open House Meeting starting at 6 p.m. at The Barn. We will see and learn about owls from a member of Raptor Inc. We are holding this meeting in the evening to accommodate those who work during the day but would like to attend. If you are interested in coming, call Karen Berkich at 271-3612 to reserve a spot. Unfortunately, we will not
to rake up all of them so that the insects will not have a good place to hibernate. If you put down compost in your flower beds after all the dead plant material has been raked out, the bed will have a good
There is still time to plant spring blooming bulbs. And hardy pansies are in the nurseries now. A boost of color for the gray months! When everything is done, it would be a good time to have your tools
Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center
November Activities at The Barn
The Barn, also known as The Woman’s Art Cultural Center, is located at 6980 Cambridge Avenue.
The Barn is a great place to visit in late fall. Catch a movie, purchase unique gifts, attend art classes, and view the autumnal sky through its new skylights. You might even have a chance to meet an old wooden Scrooge!
Showcase of Art: A Holiday Boutique— New Vendors, New Creations
Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 3, 12-5 p.m.
Thanks to the renovating efforts at The Barn, Santa Claus and his team of reindeer can now land safely on its roof—just in time to drop off countless handmade art pieces for the annual Showcase of Art: A Holiday Boutique.
The Barn, as part of its ongoing improvement project, recently installed 12 skylights, structural upgrades, and insulation to its badly-needed roof. Guests at this year’s Boutique will now have the opportunity to soak in the December sky for the first time in history.
On December 2 and 3, The Barn, will open its doors to more than 33 artists and artisans from the Tri-State who are offering original handmade gifts no one could ever find in a mall.
Woodturner Jerry Warner, a professor Emeritus at Northern Kentucky University and president of the Ohio Valley Woodturners Guild, returns to the Boutique for his fifth year to present pieces inspired
by nature and the art of ceramics using local hardwoods from trimmers in Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio. He maintains a studio in Kennedy Heights, equipped with 13 lathes.
Jaime and Tracy Iliff of Cheviot use clay from the Miami River to spin pottery that boasts an exuberant shine. “Our branchhandled pieces show the natural unglazed look of the clay. This technique makes the style appear to look like lifelike wood branches,” said Tracy.
Illustrator and painter Dawna Boehmer, a Butler County resident, may be new to this year’s Showcase, but she is no stranger to creativity. In grade school, she made pot holders and illustrated books, then sold a few to her classmates. Over the next 30 years, Dawna designed clothing, weaves, dye fabric, shibori, and quilts, but returned to her original loves of painting and illustrating. Creator of the poster “The ABCs of Cincinnati,” Dawna is inspired by American illustrator Norman Rockwell, as well as human faces. She said her paintings always tell a story and that her sense of humor always come through in them.
This year’s event will feature new glass designers and new jewelers, who use copper, smithed sterling and bronze as their materials. Carol Rentschler of Kenwood will be there offering her warm and cozy fiber
garments in anticipation of the wintery days ahead. Carol was the first-place recipient at the Hyde Park Art Show held in October.
“Tuesday Night Painters” will share the oil paintings they’ve made throughout the last year during their evening gatherings at The Barn. Award-winning artists will be offering original paintings for sale of their landscapes and of life.
While perusing all the creative art offerings, guests will delight in the holiday scents of fresh-baked goods, a hint of evergreen, and the aromatic joy of handmade soap, as well as the handiwork of Jane Cervantes, a local chocolatier. The sisters of Fire on High will again be offering hot food and beverages in the parking lot.
Artflix
Free movie, snacks, and discussion led by artist and educator Dave Laug.
The big Barn doors open at 6:30 p.m., each show begins at 7 p.m. Donations help the second-floor loft renovations. To reserve a seat, please go to thebarn.cincyregister.com/ artflix2017. The Barn welcomes walk-ins.
Nov. 9: “Little Ashes” Dali biopic (2008) The film is about the young life and loves of artist Salvador Dalí, filmmaker Luis Buñuel, and poet and revolutionary Federico García Lorca as they struggle with forbidden attraction in an age of social change in Madrid. 152 minutes.
Dec. 14: “Peggy Guggenheim” (2015) A portrait of a patron of the arts
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Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center
extraordinaire who transformed a modest fortune and impeccable taste into one of the premiere collections of twentieth-century art. Through personal tragedy, she maintained one of the world’s most prestigious collections of art in her Venetian palazzo.
MPF Sponsors Saturday Morning Classics
Thanks to Mariemont Preservation Foundation, there is great reason to step away from the TV on Saturday morning. All events begin at 10 a.m. at The Barn. To register, go to thebarn.cincyregister.com/MPF2017. The Barn welcomes walk-ins.
November 18: Mandalas 4 Families. (Artmaking). Learn about the significance of the mandalas and create your personal sample in time for Thanksgiving with artist Fabrica Duell. Ages 6 and older.
December 16: A MadCap Christmas Carol. A holiday classic with a twist of strings. Actors will provide a demonstration at finale. (Please insert Scrooge here)
January 20: Lion King Craft 4 Families. (Beth Renick, artist). Make a special Lion King craft. Wear your paint clothes!
February 17: Pinocchio. (Cincinnati Playhouse Off the Hill). A wooden puppet who dreams of becoming a real boy. Ages 6 and up.
March 17: Trip Jones and the Missing Music. (RokCincy). Interactive, adventure opera. Recommend K-6.
April 28: The Cat in the Hat. (The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati). A red and
white hat on a mischievous cat. Ages 4 and up. May 19: Rapunzel. (Playhouse Off the Hill). Young Rapunzel is over protected, but finds friendship from a local boy who helps her find her courage. Ages 4 and older.
Roadshow with Cowan’s Auction Returns
On November 10 from 9 a.m. until noon, The Barn will present the second “Art Roadshow at The Barn with Cowan’s Auction.” Three Cowan representatives will be available to evaluate your artwork and other family treasures. New this year to the event is an expert in jewelry and coins.
Each session will take about 10 minutes. Specialists from Cowan will examine each item, explain what they are looking for and how they determine the value. They will then provide an estimated purchase price at auction. This value is helpful for future estate planning, but cannot be used for insurance, tax or other legal purposes.
In many cases, they will be able to provide a history of the artist, according to Eric Duncan, Marketing Coordinator. “Just hearing the background of the pieces… is fun,” he said. “We’re excited to be back in Mariemont.” Cowan’s Auction is providing this event as a community service.
In addition to coins and jewelry, other acceptable items include: paintings, vases, pottery, porcelain, folk art, small furniture, quilts, photographs, silver, glassware, small wood pieces, sketches, sculptures, and photographs of furniture. Participants must be able to comfortably carry their items to the designated area in the room.
For more information and to register an item for evaluation, please go to thebarn. cincyregister.com/cowan. The fee is $25. Limit is one item per person. Observation is free.
Karen Rolfes Art: Abundant with Generosity
Barn gallery hours: Tuesdays-Fridays 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Nationally-recognized artist Karen Alf Rolfes invites the public to stop by The Barn for the grand opening reception of her fall show on Sunday, Nov. 12 from 1-4 p.m. Karen is a native Cincinnati artist. She
paints colorful, impressionistic oil paintings of landscapes, floral, and water scenes in a variety of sizes. Her style unfolded 16 years ago as she explored the work of Claude Monet. Since that time, she has developed a unique style using a palette knife and color to create paintings that exude happiness.
Karen has won numerous awards, including the 2013 National Finalist, 2014 Landscape Artist of the Year, 2015 William W. Duebber Award, 2016 YMCA Award Winner, and numerous Purchase Awards. Karen has shown her work in Miami, New York, and Santa Fe. Venue Magazine, Blink Art Resource, and The Scout Guide have published photos of her paintings.
Karen has a gallery and studio in Madeira and a seasonal summer gallery in Harbor
Springs, Mich. She has artwork in galleries in Naples, Fla.; Greenwich, Conn.; New York; Rhode Island; and Chicago.
“I am looking forward to the opportunity to exhibit at The Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center and give back to such a special place we are so fortunate to have in our community,” she said.
Karen has agreed to donate 20 percent of her sales between Nov. 9-21 to The Barn. Oil Paintings by Karen Rolfes is located at 6808 Miami Ave. (next to BioWheels) and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11-3 p.m. or by appointment. Questions? 513-315-5491 or visit www.karenrolfes.com
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Karen Rolfes
Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center
Woman’s Art Club President Mary Beth Thompson Dowlin will be presenting an oilpainting exhibition at “Dowlin and Friends” at the Barn on Nov. 1-5. Mary Beth invites the public to attend its opening reception on Nov. 3 from 6-9 p.m. The show will feature works representing diverse mediums—all created by the hands of her close friends.
Mary Beth studied Theatre, Art and Interior Design at The University of Mississippi. She worked as an interior designer at Lombard’s in Columbus and at the A.B. Closson, Jr. Co. in Cincinnati. Her many projects included model rooms and signature table settings. She served as design liaison for the refurbishment of the Netherland hotel, a noted Art Deco Cincinnati landmark. She left the art world briefly in order to spend time with her young family, but summertime on Martha’ s Vineyard rekindled her love for painting.
“The magical light and textures of the Vineyard are an inspiration, and I try to bring that to all to my work,” she said.
Mary Beth, a Signature member of the Woman’s Art Club, has studied with several noted artists, including Carl Zimmerman, Boston’s Tom Dunlay and Kevin Shea. She regularly participates in regional shows and on Martha’s Vineyard. Two of her designs for The Big Pig Gig public works art project were selected and appeared at City Hall (Hamri Matisse), and Sow-Vatore Pastavinoat at Sawyer Point. O’Bryonville’s Bello Design Group and Macy’s 5th Street Gallery shows her pieces.
Mary Beth is also a member of the Cincinnati Art Club, the Brush and Palette Painters, The Ohio Plein Air Society, the SouthWest Ohio Plein Air Painters and the Martha’s Vineyard Art Association. She said that she is proud to serve as WACC as it ushers in its 125th year of operation.
Gallery Hours:
Reception: Nov. 3 from 6-9 p.m.
Nov. 1-3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 4-5 from 1-4 p.m.
Barn Hands Needed
For more information on Barn activities go to www.artatthebarn.org
To assist with Barn activities go thebarn. cincyregister.com/volunteer or contact Donna at donna_morabito@msn.com.
Shop Amazon, Kroger and Support WACC
Please help be a part of Mariemont history. Customers of Amazon.com 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 your 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 wheelchair accessibility and numerous other upgrades to the Barn’s second floor.
Art Classes for All. What’s in YOUR Toolbox?
Mosaics: Mondays with Sandy Caruso of the Art Academy of Cincinnati. All skill levels. 6-9 p.m., Oct. 9-Nov. 13.
Pencil, Paint and Composition: Tuesdays with Eileen McConkey at Noon. 801-7648 or Eileen.mcconkey@gmail.com.
WACC Open Studio: Every Tuesday from 10 a.m. – 3p.m. Free for members, $5 for non-members. (Cash only, please.)
WACC Open Model Sketch: First and Third Tuesdays, 1-4 p.m., $10 for members, $15 for non-members—cash only. Please RSVP to Deborah Ridgley at 513-259-9302.
Oil Painting: Wednesdays with Jan Boon for beginner and advanced students, from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. AND 1:15-4:15 p.m. $20 per class. 513-7917044 or janwrites@fuse.net
Acrylic Painting: Wednesday evenings with Dave Laug: 7-10 p.m. Email dvdlaug@ gmail.com or call 513-885-5284.
Beginner/Intermediate Watercolor: Thursdays with Chris Campbell, from 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Email mmivsu2@comcast.net
Drawing and Painting: Thursdays with Mary Lou Holt, 1:30-4:30 p.m. 513-2263833 or marylouiseholt@yahoo.com.
Oil Painting for Mid-Level and Advanced: Thursdays with Chuck Marshall, 1-4 p.m. 4043161 or marshallstudio@aol.com
Oil Painting: “A Strong Foundation for your Paintings.” Thursdays with Jeff Morrow, 6-9 p.m. Email jeffmorrow@gmail.com or call 937-267-6868.
Graduate Pastels: With Ray Hassard on the second and final Fridays each month, Noon-3 p.m. 941-1116 or ray@rayhassard. com
Arts for Kids: Artrageous Adventures. Saturdays with the Art Academy of Cincinnati at the Barn. Ages 5-11. 1-3:30 p.m.
Fiber Art: 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 and totes, even a vintage-inspired apron. Classes are for ages 8 and up, so you can sign up with one of your favorite youngsters and learn a few new sewing tricks of your own. Call 513-2723700 for more information.
To sign up for class or to learn about any other Barn activities, please go to www. artatthebarn.org or call 513-272-3700.
COUNCIL MEETING – October 9, 2017
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.
Mr. Brown moved, seconded by Ms. Palazzolo to accept the minutes as written for the Council meeting September 25, 2017 and Committee of the Whole September 19, 2017. Mr. Wolter made a motion to have the minutes from the Committee of the Whole meeting August 22, 2017 as written by Mr. Marsland be read into the minutes. Mayor Policastro said we will table the vote till the next meeting so everyone may read the rewritten minutes. On roll call; six ayes, no nays.
From Building Administrator Keyes: September 2017 Monthly Report. Mr. Wolter asked when he could expect the fee structure so he can call a meeting together to discuss raising the Building Department permit fees. Building Administrator Keyes said he hopes to have them by next week. Mayor Policastro said we are set to have another ARB meeting next Mon. Oct. 16.
From Tax Administrator Busam: September 2017 Monthly Report/HB 49 Handout and Narrative. Mrs. Busam said the Ordinance is to join the litigation against the State of Ohio. At the end of last week there were 65 municipalities who have joined to fight the erosion of home rule and the taking of the net profit accounts. She believes this is “a foot in the door” and then the State will try to go after withholding tax and individual returns. At that point, the Village would lose all control to audit or review because we will not have any documentation. The State can issue refunds, even if they should not. She believes Council should carefully consider this legislation.
At this time this will just affect businesses. Businesses will have the option to just file with the State. They will then have to file with the State until they opt out. A June 2019 tax receipt would be made by August 5, 2019. We will not get a report of who filed so it will be hard to post payments to the proper accounts. We would have to take the money and assume that it is right. The new Chapter of ORC 718.80-718.95 would deal with the new State collections. Businesses have to let the State know by March 1, 2018 if they plan to opt into that program.
From Ed McTigue: E-mail Dated October 2, 2017 and October 4, 2017 re: Municipal
Village Government
Coalition’s Legal Action re: HB 49
From Assistant Fiscal Officer Wendler: September 2017 Fiscal Officer’s Monthly Report. Fiscal Officer Borgerding said we have $60,000 more than we did this time last year.
Mr. Marsland moved, seconded by Mr. Wolter to accept the recommendation of the Economic Development and Zoning Committee which met on Wednesday, October 4, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. Present at the meeting were Committee Chair Bill Brown, Vice-Chair Eric Marsland, and Member Lorne Hlad. Also present were Mayor Dan Policastro, Mary Ann Schwartz, and John Scherpenberg.
The Committee met to consider the two lowest proposed bids for the addition to the Mariemont Municipal Building. The two companies in consideration were Empire Building Company and Perkins/Carmack Construction LLC. Both companies have strong qualifications and good reputations within their industries. The Village of Mariemont and the Mariemont School District have prior experience with Perkins/Carmack. They satisfactorily built our Maintenance Building in 2005, constructed the front entrance deck at Mariemont High School, and the Board of Education remodeling at the rear of the building. Based on these past experiences, and the fact that they are the lowest bidder, the Committee recommends accepting Perkins/ Carmack’s bid of seven hundred ninety-seven thousand dollars ($797,000.00) to construct the addition to the Village’s Municipal Building.
The Committee also recommends stipulating that a Schindler elevator be installed. This is contrary to the elevator company listed on Perkins/Carmack’s bid form. Additionally, the Committee recommends passing on emergency the legislation necessary to accept bid and issue contract. Mayor Policastro said we have been working on this for 17 years. He believes Mr. Brown and Mr. Marsland have done a wonderful job putting this together. Mr. Wolter said he went with Mr. Brown and Mr. Marsland to a work construction site and believes they will do a good job. He thinks this is a good bid. Mr. Brown said he and Ms. Schwartz visited the Empire Site in Indian Hill which was very clean. In the end there was just too much gap between the bids. They are in the final stages on a project in Kentucky but would have different crews starting the project here. Mr. Wolter said Perkins/Carmack also gave a good explanation of accounting mechanics of why
Council Representative Information
Bill Brown wbrown@mariemont.org
Lorne Hlad
lhlad@mariemont.org
Eric Marsland
emarsland@mariemont.org
Maggie Palazzolo
mpalazzolo@mariemont.org
Mary Ann Schwartz maschwartz@mariemont.org
Dennis Wolter
dwolter@mariemont.org
Mayor: Dan Policastro mayordan1@gmail.com
there was an $80,000 price difference. On roll call; six ayes, no nays.
Mr. Hlad moved, seconded by Mr. Wolter to accept the recommendation of the Committee of the Whole, which met on Tuesday, September 19, 2017, at 7:30 p.m., in the Village of Mariemont Council Chambers at 6907 Wooster Pike, Mariemont, Ohio, 45227, to discuss the legalization of medical marijuana in Ohio and its impact on Mariemont. Present at the meeting were Vice Mayor Eric Marsland, Committee Members Bill Brown, Lorne Hlad, Maggie Palazollo, Mary Ann Schwartz, and Dennis Wolter, Mayor Dan Policastro and Mariemont Executive Assistant Joanee Van Pelt.
Initial discussion included information about the communities of Blue Ash and Madeira and their recent legislation banning dispensaries. Dennis Wolter provided a packet of documentation indicating the problems associated with such dispensaries and the legalization of medical marijuana in general. After brief discussion, it was unanimously decided
*To receive a copy of Council agendas and minutes as well as minutes from Commissions and ARB meetings, contact Sue Singleton in the Village office at ssingleton@mariemont.org or call 2713246. Council agendas and minutes are also available via the Village website at www.mariemont.org. cont'd on the next page
that we ask Ed McTigue, our Solicitor, to draft legislation banning marijuana dispensaries.
The Committee of the Whole discussion of the medical marijuana issue concluded at 7:50 p.m., and the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m. after a discussion of the hillside repair on Whisky Creek. On roll call; six ayes, no nays.
Mayor Policastro referred to the Safety Committee parked cars on West Street between the new condominiums. During school hours it is chaos. He suggested having the Engineer and the Police Chief look at it too. Mr. Hlad said he would like to add revisiting Cherry Lane. He went with Troy Hawkins and looked at the area. We took three spots and made them no parking during 7-9 a.m. school days. After seeing how cars still park on the curve it would be best to restudy the area to potentially making it no parking on that small curve around the chapel on Cherry Lane 7-9 a.m. school days only.
Mayor Policastro read the following miscellaneous announcements:
Leaf pick up will begin Monday October 16, 2017. Last day of leave pick up will be December 22, 2017
Beggar’s Night will be October 31, 2017 6:00 p.m. to 8:00p.m.
The Council meeting for December will be Monday December 18, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. The Civic Association Raffle winner will be pulled after the meeting.
Mayor Policastro referred to the Finance Committee Bonus Pay for Full-Time Employees.
Ordinances:
“To Amend Section 31.077 of the Mariemont Code of Ordinances to Set Forth Authority of Building Commissioner to Obtain a Warrant to Conduct Rental Property Searches” had a third reading. O-17-17 was adopted.
“An Ordinance Authorizing Application and Contracting with the Ohio Public Works Commission” had a second reading. (Potential Grant Funding for Madisonville Road)
“Ordinance Adopting a New Chapter 138.19 Entitled “Medical Marijuana” of the Codified Ordinances, Mariemont, Ohio ; and To Declare
Village Government
Emergency” had a first, second and third reading. Ordinance No. O-18-17 was adopted.
“To Accept Bid of Perkins/Carmack for Mariemont Administration Building and To Declare Emergency” had a first, second and third reading. Ordinance No. O-19-17 was adopted.
Mr. Marsland gave a verbal report regarding the phone system and website upgrades. He said it would make more sense to wait until the construction was done on the addition to the Municipal Building. The meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.
EDITOR’s NOTE: Tax Administrator
Busam’s full report and Council dialogue, as well as Resolutions reappointing residents to various committees can be viewed in the full minutes located on the Village website or by calling Joanee in the Village offices at 271-3246.
ARB MEETING – October 16, 2017
In attendance: Mr. Brown, Ms. Schwartz, Mr. Kintner, Mr. Thomas, Mayor Policastro, and Building Administrator Don Keyes.
The request was from Dr. Lisa Larkin for Certificate of Appropriateness for the alteration of the building at 3908 Miami Road.
A – The front of the building has been modified for use as a medical practice. Previous reviews have only partially reviewed the front of the building and its signage as it exists.
B – The rear of the building has been modified for use as a medical practice. Previous reviews included the plan to enlarge and then the reversal of that plan. The redesign of the rear of the building was then done in steps, not all of which have been reviewed.
C – The placement of the bench and flower pots in the front of the building was reviewed and approved by the Mayor in accordance with Mariemont code 55.29 and is only mentioned here for information.
Findings of the Building Department Administrator:
The building has been remodeled for use as a medical practice. The remodeling plans were done in steps resulting from necessary changes in favor of maintaining the current building size, the desire to increase the size of the front windows to increase the amount of daylight into the office area and to keep the building within the same design characteristics as neighboring buildings. The rear of the building revision to allow entry at ground level and to redecorate the rear to include additional windows was revised due to engineering concerns. All building remodel plans have been reviewed to insure that Mariemont and Ohio building codes are met.
Mr. Joe Trauth, Attorney for Mr. Spinnenweber, wanted to clarify a procedural question and asked if there was a registered architect on the ARB. Mayor Policastro said Mr. Bentley has been appointed but the legislation has not gone through three readings. Mr. Trauth said
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Section 151.025 states that the ARB shall include at least one registered architect and others with interest. If there is not a registered architect then the Board is illegally constituted and any action taken by the Board is null and void. It further states that at least one member shall be the owner of property within the Historic District - meaning the District in question that we are referring to. Mayor Policastro said he does not get that connotation. Mr. Trauth said it does not refer to “a” or “an” historic district but the historic district. Mr. Keyes said there are no residences in district. Mr. Trauth said the code reads incorrectly. Mr. Brown said we could not possibly have a board member from each district. Mayor Policastro said we will have the emergency readings at the next Council meeting. Mr. Trauth wanted to verify that at the October 17, 2016 when this was originally approved there was a registered architect on board. Mr. Thomas said Mr. Bruggeman was on the board and was a registered architect.
Dr. Larkin presented a summary timeline of events between March 2016 and October 2017 that support her belief that all of the complaints of Mr. Spinnenweber and associated ARB, Planning Commission and Council meetings over the last 18 months are a result of “sour grapes” about Mr.
Spinnenweber’s failure to purchase 3908 Miami Road (my property) and the lack of ARB approval of his fence to close off the north entrance to the Theatre parking lot.
She reminded the Village Council, ARB and Members of the community that she is a valuable addition to the Mariemont community. She is an enthusiastic and passionate member of the Village. She hopes to practice medicine here for the next 10-20 years. As a business owner who has improved and renovated the building, she pays substantial taxes to the Village. She pays property taxes, business taxes, and payroll taxes to Mariemont for all of her employees. She has really been rung through the mill during the last 18 months.
She will address the current specific issues raised by Mr. Spinnenweber about the aesthetics of her property that has led to this additional ARB meeting.
She is going to present an overview of the aesthetics of Mr. Spinnenweber’s properties in comparison to her property and the lack of similar approval by the ARB for signage.
She is going to seek final approval for her building at this ARB meeting, however now that may be in question because of yet again another procedural issue.
She is going to openly and publically request that Mr. Spinnenweber 1) cease and desist in his attempts to interfere with her business and 2) to stop wasting tax payer dollars and the time of ARB and Council Members with frivolous ongoing meetings.
And finally, she would like to invite Mr. Spinnenweber to meet with her, and with Mr. Thurner and Mr. Graeter (the 4 individuals that own Theatre parking lot property) to discuss issues and concerns about the rear parking, and to negotiate a long-term solution.
EDITOR’s NOTE: Full minutes of this ARB meeting, including this issue’s history, Dr. Larkin’s complete presentation, Mr. Trauth’s requests to nullify all previous ARB meetings, and the ARB Committee’s approval of all modifications listed in Issue’s A, B and C, are available by calling Joanee in the Village offices at 271-3246. To receive all future Council and Committee meeting agendas and minutes, ask to be added to the email list.
Christmas serviCes & events at st. thomas
C hristmas Ev E
Christmas Pageant
4:00 p.m.
Festive Eucharist
8:00 p.m.
Choral Eucharist 11:00 p.m.
Carol prelude at 10:30 p.m.
C hristmas D ay
Festive Eucharist
10:00 a.m.
D ECE mb E r E v E nts
Christmas Caper
Saturday, the 9th 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Our annual Christmas festival of cookies, music and more! (Lunch will be available)
Lessons & Carols Service
Sunday, the 17th 5:00 p.m.
Handel’s “Messiah” Sing-A-Long
Monday, the 18th at 7:30 p.m. Info at bachensemble.org/messiah
Voting 101: Candidates, Districts and How it all Works
By Suzy Weinland
As election day quickly approaches, we have heard friends and neighbors say they are confused about districts, Town Meeting candidates vs. non-Town Meeting candidates, and how they are “allowed” to vote. We thought it would be helpful to outline the steps by which candidates get nominated, elected for, and serve on Village Council, and introduce you to each of this year’s five candidates.
According to the Hamilton County Board of Elections (BOE), the job title of each Mariemont councilperson is a “Member of Council at Large” and is not linked to any particular district. Once elected, all councilpersons vote on every issue, may chair or sit on any committee, and are not limited based on the district in which they live.
The BOE recognizes two voting precincts in Mariemont based on our population size. This is why we have two polling places. The campaigns of all candidates running for any public office are governed by the rules of the BOE.
Mariemont’s Town Meeting is a Political Action Committee (PAC) that sets out a structure in which council candidates may choose to run, including dividing Mariemont into six districts (the six Town Meeting districts are outlined on a map in the Mariemont Directory). Candidates running for office through Town Meeting must reside in the district for which they are running based on the PAC’s rules. However, Town Meeting candidates are not acknowledged by the BOE as different from those running outside Town Meeting, nor are Town Meeting districts reflected on the November ballot.
The traditional idea behind districts is that by having council members who each represent a specific, smaller area of
the community, they will have a better knowledge of that area’s needs and closer relationships with those immediate neighbors. Some believe this can prevent “over-representation” from one part of town.
However, many residents feel Mariemont is small enough that every councilperson knows what’s going on in all areas of the Village. Additionally, many residents find they have been better served by council members not necessarily in their district, often due to knowing that council member personally, feeling that member is better at listening or taking care of a situation in a timely manner, or based on that member serving on a committee that oversees a particular area of concern.
This year there are five candidates running for four seats. Incumbent Maggie
Palazzolo moved from one Town Meeting district to another, where a sitting council member, Eric Marsland (also up for re-election) resides. According to the PAC, only one can be a “Town Meeting” candidate. Eric and Maggie encouraged each other to run, thus Maggie is running independently. The other candidates include incumbent Bill Brown, and newcomers Avia Graves and Troy Hawkins.
Our elections for Mariemont Village Council members are structured as at-large elections, meaning the top vote getters will win seats irrespective of the Town Meeting Districts. All five candidates are officially recognized by the BOE, and residents can vote for the candidates whom they feel will best represent them and the needs of the Village of Mariemont.
John Nolen's original plan for Mariemont, before the concept of separate districts was introduced.
By Julie Renner
Your 2017 Village Council Candidates
As a student of politics, I see election time as an exciting and thought-provoking time to learn about candidates who want to serve. I interviewed our five Mariemont Village Council candidates to help everyone gain some insight into the possible decision makers for the Village, and discovered an impressive set of community experience, higher education, and commitment to service within the candidate pool. I hope you find this helpful, and I’ll see you at the polls!
Bill Brown - wbrown81@cinci.rr.com
Why have you decided to run for Mariemont Village Council?
I’ve loved living in Mariemont for over 33 years. As a business owner for 30 years, I have the time and broad skill-set to bring to Council. I intend to work tirelessly to build on the accomplishments of my first 18 months on Council. I look forward to continuing to serve all residents of Mariemont, to clearly communicate with them, and be responsive to their concerns.
What are the important issues facing the Mariemont Council?
Safety for our residents will always be a top priority. Our police and fire departments need to be kept well equipped and up-to-date. Also, a key issue is the addition to our Municipal Building. As part of Mary Emery’s vision, the addition
will enable us to house a display of Native American artifacts recovered from our area. The building will also be brought into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Our Tax Office will also be relocated in the addition. Another major issue is our infrastructure; that includes maintaining and upgrading our roads, sidewalks, and storm water runoff, as well as adding more parking spaces.
Please provide a brief personal overview (background, education, interests, accomplishments, organizations).
My wife, Debbie, and I are long-time residents, attended Mariemont schools, and always knew we wanted to raise our son Ted here. I graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a BBA in Finance. I am a current member of Council, a member of both the Architectural Review Board and Planning Commission, Chairman of the Economic Development and Zoning Committee, and member of the Finance Committee and on the Safety Committee. I’m also the Council liaison for the Municipal Building addition. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.
Why have you decided to run for Mariemont Village Council?
I believe we must invest in our
community and want to contribute to this wonderful place that we all love. I will work to ensure that our government is inclusive and transparent and openly communicates with its residents as we continue to develop economically to ensure our continued success.
What are the important issues facing the Mariemont Council?
I consider the most important issues facing the Council to be the redirection of Whiskey Trail and preservation of the historical sites so we can reopen the complete trail to our residents, the landslide repair on Mariemont Avenue, and ensuring the Settle Road improvement project is completed properly. I believe Council needs to come together to create a cohesive government, nimble and strategic, to support the development of Mariemont while preserving its heritage.
Please provide a brief personal overview (background, education, interests, accomplishments, and organizations).
For the past six years my family has called Mariemont our home, and we plan to make it our forever home. I have three children in the Mariemont School System, and for the past five years I have been actively involved in the Mariemont Preschool Parents Group as well as serving on the executive board for four of those years. I am a member of the Mariemont Preservation Foundation, Mariemont PTO, National Society of Human Resources, Greater Cincinnati Compensation and Benefits Association, and I volunteer for the Light House Community School Madisonville Gardens Project. Additionally, I chair the Mariemont Easter Egg Hunt and my family is actively involved in the Mariemont Community Gardens. I have a BA in Anthropology from the University of Cincinnati and a MA in Labor & Employment Relations from the University of Cincinnati.
Troy Hawkins - trh@alumni.cmu.edu
Why have you decided to run for Mariemont Village Council?
I was motivated to run for the District 6 position by a desire to serve the Mariemont community I have been proud to call home for the past 7 years. I find working with others to creatively solve problems personally rewarding, and I enjoy building relationships with neighbors and working to improve our village and community. I am excited to have the opportunity to contribute to the continuation and strengthening of the features, groups, and services so many of us love about Mariemont.
What are the important issues facing the Mariemont Council?
The most important issue facing the Mariemont Council is maintaining and improving upon the vibrancy of our community while managing changes in the coming years. Ensuring and growing our already strong tax base is important to continuing to provide the many services offered in the Village while maintaining a balanced budget and minimizing the financial burden on families and local businesses. The upcoming construction at the High School requires coordination with the School Board to ensure community voices are heard in the planning stages, to minimize disruption during construction, and to arrive at a solution that meets the needs of our community for many years to come.
I am committed to transparency, to providing a channel for all residents to have their voices heard and considered
in decisions, and to calm and respectful interactions with all members of our community and its stakeholders.
Some issues I hear about from my neighbors and am committed to addressing include: 1. Maintaining and improving the pedestrian friendliness of our community, 2. Minimizing traffic amount and speed on Settle and Belmont, 3. Maintaining and beautifying the green spaces and small parks throughout the community, 4. Working to ensure the Wasson Way is an asset for the community and, if possible, a driver for local businesses, 5. Providing safe access for hikers to the Dogwood park trails while avoiding damage to historical sites, and 6. Ensuring quiet nights for residents living near event sites.
Please provide a brief personal overview (background, education, interests, accomplishments, and organizations).
I live on Homewood Road with my wife, Carin, and my two daughters, Meredith & Beatrix, who are in K & 3rd grade at Mariemont Elementary.
After visiting and experiencing Luminaria, we knew Mariemont was the place for us. I have been active as a volunteer soccer coach, member of the Mariemont Preschool Parents Group, and volunteer for various community events.
I work remotely from my home as an environmental consultant with Eastern Research Group providing environmental life cycle assessment services to a variety of clients. On a day to day basis I’m interacting with individuals in corporations, industry associations, non-profits, and Federal and state government. I have worked for the US EPA where I gained an understanding of government bureaucracy and the way policy is made. I have also taught middle school math and science and worked at the Norwegian Univ. of Science & Technology.
I earned a PhD in Engineering & Public Policy from Carnegie Mellon Univ. and a BS in Physics from the Univ. of Michigan. I am currently serving on the Board of the American Center for Life Cycle Assessment as well as
Why have you decided to run for Mariemont Village Council?
I am running as the incumbent Town Meeting candidate for District 3 in Mariemont. It is a true pleasure to meet with the people who live in our village and discuss the issues facing us. Our government offers the opportunity for neighbors to work together and find solutions to issues that arise.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my fouryear tenure on Council. I am most proud of the successful passage of the new Safety Services Levy this past spring, which fell under the purview of the Finance Committee, which I chair. The successful passage of this levy places our Safety Services Department on sound financial footing for years to come and allows us to maintain a talented, dedicated police force.
This levy was a critical response to the loss of multiple Mariemont police officers to higher-paying jobs in neighboring communities. In the long run, recruiting, training, and outfitting new officers is costlier than retaining officers via competitive salaries.
What are the important issues facing the Mariemont Council?
Moving forward, we need to be ever mindful of the daily issues facing our village, including employee recruitment cont'd on next page
and retention, safety services, and fiscal responsibility. We must also be mindful of external pressures, including recent attempts to increase state revenue by stripping local villages of in-house, municipal services. Vigilance, on all fronts, will preserve Mariemont’s heritage and independence for future generations.
My goal on Council has always been to bring common sense and perspective to the issues. Years of fiscal responsibility and resident generosity – past and present –should be appreciated and not squandered. While maintaining fiscal responsibility, I will simultaneously work to maintain and grow Mary Emery’s vision for a diverse and unified village. Recent issues have divided our community, and we are overdue for fence mending, so that everyone is included in our local political process.
Increasing communication between neighbors and following established processes to address concerns are key strategies that foster an inclusive, participatory atmosphere. My role on council, as a non-polarizing figure, brings cohesion among council members and between residents. I will always seek consensus over strife and disconnections.
Please provide a brief personal overview (background, education, interests, accomplishments, and organizations).
As a resident of Mariemont, I have
served on the Parks Advisory Board, and the Elementary School Carnival and School Safety Committees. Currently, I am a Mariemont Preservation Foundation Trustee and Cub Scout Den Leader. I am chairman of the Village Finance committee and completing my second term as ViceMayor.
While pursuing education and training, my wife and I lived all over the Southeastern U.S., but with our 2007 move to Mariemont, we found our forever home. I hold a BS in Biology from Sewanee (The University of the South), a MS and PhD in Medical Entomology from The University of Tennessee and The University of Kentucky, respectively.
I received my post-doctoral training in Countermeasures to Bioterrorism from Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas. Amy, my wife of 20 years, is an OB/Gyn with UC Health and loves being a mom, physician, and medical student educator. Since 2006, I have been a stay-at-home dad to our three boys Mac (11), Thomas (9), and George (7).
Maggie Palazzolo - magpal00@gmail.com
Why have you decided to run for Mariemont Village Council?
During my last four years as a Council Member, I have seen Village Council go from a passive organization to one that
actively communicates with residents and is generating ideas and solutions to problems, and so I have decided to run again. We are beginning to improve the general health of communication between the residents and their local government. I am part of this change and would like to continue this work.
Additionally, I see a long list of projects over the next few years in a vibrant neighborhood, and I think continuity on
the Council is important. New Council members along with their fresh perspectives is an asset, and in general we are a young group in terms of years of experience; however, there is value in the institutional memory of a Council made up of some experienced members.
My priorities once elected are to improve communication between the community and our elected officials and facilitate community members’ ability to get involved in local decision-making, promote the type of economic development that ensures Mariemont’s long term stability and develop the sense of community here to build in more value for residents whose children have graduated from our schools to remain in Mariemont.
What are the important issues facing the Mariemont Council?
Strategic planning with regard to building and maintaining infrastructure including streets, the swimming pool, and our parks
Maintaining diversity in our housing
prices and remaining friendly to both younger home buyers and renters and to those older residents on fixed incomes Balanced economic development
Please provide a brief personal overview (background, education, interests, accomplishments, and organizations).
In 1996, I first became involved in the community while working at Starbucks and attending grad school at the University of Cincinnati. I moved to Mariemont in 2005 and have been a renter and now a home owner. With a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a Master’s in Criminal Justice, I worked at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital for the Disease Specific Innovations and Outcomes Program and then in Nephrology until 2015 when I decided to stay home with my three children. I chose to make Mariemont my home because of its beauty, walkability, and family friendliness.
My community and professional affiliations include Mariemont Village Council member since 2014, and Chair of the Rules and Law Committee. I also
am a member of the Mariemont Civic Association, Mariemont Preservation Foundation, Mariemont Preschool Parents Group, where I worked on the Executive Board, and am an Executive Board member for Living Arrangements for the Developmentally Disabled (LADD). Other memberships of note include the GeneLink Bioscience Scientific Advisory Board, Mariemont Farmer’s Market Board, and the Community Partners Committee to Oppose the Eastern Corridor project in Mariemont.
Craig White, Physical Therapist since 2001
Anne Reed, back to living her life
A er a stay in the hospital I told them my rst choice for rehab was Marjorie P. Lee in Hyde Park. The sta was incredible and they lived up to their reputation for getting people healthy, home and back to living their lives. No wonder they have consistently high patient satisfaction scores and were selected by area hospitals as a Center of Excellence for short-stay rehab. And yes, even the food was great.
Call Annie Novak 513.533.5014 or visit marjorieplee.com/rehab
Expertise includes orthopedics, cardiac, respiratory and wound care.