A Conversation with Mariemont “Garden Lady” Louise Schomburg
By Peter McBride
Long-time Mariemont resident Louise Schomburg, often referred to as the “garden lady,” has had a distinguished career as a beloved teacher in Mariemont schools and in retirement has used her boundless energy and talent volunteering to tend the Village’s parks, public gardens and green spaces.
Ms. Schomburg’s teaching career began after earning a Bachelor of Education degree at UC and a Med degree at Xavier. In January 1969, she was hired mid-year as a Grade 4 teacher at what was then our (much smaller) elementary school on Chestnut Street. She started out teaching all subjects, but eventually became both the English and Social Studies teacher.
Louise has always loved history and was a member of the Cincinnati Historical Society, for whom she wrote a social studies workbook. In her role as the school’s Grade 4 social studies teacher, Schomburg wrote and developed Mariemont Elementary Schoolfocused curriculum units for social studies.
Louise remarked that her teaching style was always aimed at bringing a balance of effective classroom management, not just attentive focus on “the basics,” but also experiential learning and a deep caring for her students. “You have to be strict enough to keep control of your classroom, but you also need to make learning fun.”
Ms. Schomburg retired from teaching at the end of the school year in 2000, after 30 ½ years of school and classroom service as an exemplary teacher. When prompted to
reflect on that impressive and praiseworthy accomplishment, Louise noted that “Every student – and every parent – is unique and different, but ‘silly stuff’ almost always works. If you are a teacher and not having fun yourself (plus making learning fun for your students), you’re in the wrong profession.”
In fact, being remembered by former students is still among her proudest and fondest memories of teaching. She often bumps into former students or their parents around the Village, such as the young cashier
at Kroger’s who told Louise that (blush!) she “didn’t look any different from when you taught me”; or the parent who told the former teacher, “You were my son’s/ daughter’s all-time favorite teacher”; or “You were the ‘teacher-of-choice’ at the school and every parent wanted their children to ‘get’.” There was also the time that Louise received an invitation to a former student’s pending wedding reception. It came with a handwritten note that said that he wasn’t having a big wedding, but he wanted “one of cont'd on page 4
Our "Garden Lady," Louise Schomburg, tends to gardens in the Old Town Square.
Mariemont Trivia: Name That Place
By Margaret Jevic
Could you find last month’s mystery place? What used to be the library on Madisonville Road is now Mio’s Pizza.
This month’s mystery place is a bit of a challenge – I admit, I had to ask the MPF staff where it was after a few failed guesses. It’s funny how time and greenery change how a place looks. You might have to really do some window-shopping with this one.
Here’s your clue: In 1970 this place was Horton’s Drugstore & Central Trust. What and where is it today? There are some distinct clues within the photo, so take advantage of the spring weather that’s right around the corner and get looking! The answer will be published in one week on the Town Crier Facebook page, as well as in the next issue.
Mariemont Players Presents “Around the World in 80 Days”
Hop aboard the train as Phileas Fogg and a small troupe of actors take on a global collection of unforgettable characters in this imaginative and theatrical re-imagining of Jules Verne’s classic adventure. You won’t know what hit you as you become immersed in this exciting, and incredibly silly, rollercoaster spectacle presented by Mariemont Players.
The show runs March 9-11, 15-18, and 22-25 at Walton Creek Theater, 4101 Walton Creek Rd. Times vary, and all seating is reserved. Tickets are $20 for the general public, $15 for students, and can be purchased online at www. mariemontplayers.com (plus a $1 convenience fee) or by calling Betsy in the box office at 513-684-1236.
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"The Voice
the most influential and beloved people ever in his life” to be part of it.
But although her teaching interests and talents are truly impressive, they are just the first half of Louise’s ongoing career of dedicated service to her community. As so many residents of Mariemont have so frequently observed, the Village has a guardian angel of its public greenspaces— Louise.
She has always loved the outdoors. That enjoyment and hobby has shown itself starting with her own home landscaping and décor – a beautifully planned, planted and groomed garden that complement her “olde English,” Tudor-style home near the Old Town Square. Louise’s keen eye, botanical knowledge, sense of décor, and overall creative good taste in landscaping are the perfect match for one of the first homes built in Mariemont.
Louise’s career of community service began after she retired in 2000, when she noticed and then asked for the Village officials’ permission to trim back and/or remove the intrusive, invasive, and everspreading taxus plants growing wild in and near the Old Town Square. Permission was granted, and soon thereafter she started new plantings in the Old Town Square’s emaciated flowerbeds using transplants of flora from her own gardens that she had split and divided.
After marveling at Louise’s volunteer efforts and results, the Mayor and Village work crews asked Louise if she could/would expand her landscaping efforts in other parts of Mariemont. And, of course, she said “yes.”
Village
Her subsequent efforts have become an eye-catching walking tour of Mariemont parks, greenspaces, public gardens, and landmarks, including: Dale Park, the Litch Gate at the old pioneer cemetery, the Emery Memorial, the “family statuary” in Dale Park, the perimeter of the tennis courts, the memorial military marker, the gardens adjacent to the municipal building, and around the median “islands” on Wooster Pike all the way to the boundary of Fairfax.
Besides trimming, replacing dead or distressed plants, transplanting, planting perennials (that she has split and transplanted from her home gardens), Louise is frequently observed picking up left-behind trash and litter, watering, and even sometimes providing cold drinks and other refreshments to tired and overheated Village workers.
Louise cuts back and removes any overgrown foliage (especially honeysuckle) that obstructs the clear and easy recognition and reading of Village signs or that obscures views of the Little Miami Valley and “Lower 80.” Speaking of honeysuckle, here is a weeding tip from Louise: Cut honeysuckle down to ground level and carefully apply Round-Up to the remaining stump, which enters the remainder of the plant and kills the weed at its roots. This technique has worked well for her along Whiskey Creek, in the lower fields, in Dale Park, along Plainville Avenue and elsewhere.
Louise is supported and advised by her fellow members of The Parks Advisory Board, of which she has been President. Re-beautifying the Concourse is a major project for Louise and other members of The Mariemont Parks Advisory Board each year both before and after the annual Taste of Mariemont event. Starting around school “spring break” in March/April, depending on the weather, Louise begins her landscaping, armed with her shovels, trowels, rakes, hoes, clippers, hedge-trimmers, pitchfork and trusty hand-cart with its capacity to hold a large garbage can. If she needs to pick up something larger, she calls John Sherpenberg to come with his truck.
Louise has been lauded for her work, being awarded the prestigious annual Mary Emery Award in 2007. That same year, Louise also received a certificate of appreciation and presentation from The Mariemont Preservation Foundation. She was further recognized in 2009, receiving Mariemont’s Citizen of the Year award.
When asked what has motivated and sustained her long-term service to Mariemont’s education community and more recently to the look and feel of the community as a whole, Louise – with characteristic composure and matter-of-factness – replied, “The Village is part of my life. I want it to look (and be) good.”
Congratulations and thank you ever so much, Louise. We owe you – big time!
"Garden Lady" (cont'd from page 1)
Village History
The History of Kroger in Mariemont
By Suzy Weinland
Information provided by the Mariemont Preservation Foundation archives
While searching for photos of The Villager during its early days — for use with our February Town Crier article on the store’s closing — MPF’s Lisa Woodruff came across a picture with a “Kroger Parking” sign located where LaRosa’s now stands. As several of us were intrigued about whether or not there was actually a Kroger on that corner, Lisa did some further digging and came up with some very interesting historical information that former MPF President Jane Setchell had found and archived over the years.
A timeline shows: 1925-27 The first Mariemont Kroger location was on Chestnut St. in Old Town Center on the ground floor of Ripley & LeBoutillier building, in the space where Picture Perfect Photo Studio is today. The buildings were referred to as the “Dale Park Business Center.”
1927-41 Kroger built the building on Oak Street where the Dilly Deli used to reside, and then Ted and Kim Beach had their office, and that is now under consideration by The Waldorf School for a potential high school.
1941-53 According to a May 9, 1941 article (from the then Cincinnati Times-Star), “ground was broken on the north side of Mariemont’s
Town Center, next to the office of The Central Trust Company, at the corner of Madisonville Road and Wooster Pike” to make way for a Kroger Super Market. The general contract for the project was Roy Hilberg Company of Cincinnati. This would have been in the spaces where the most recent PNC was located and LaRosa’s now stands.
The article goes on to say: “The new store will have a frontage of nearly one hundred feet, the larger part being on Madisonville Road. There will be 5,500 square feet of floor space. Just north of the store there will be an entrance which will connect to the present parking space in the rear of the Mariemont Theatre and there will also be parking space alongside the building on the north side. The construction of this store is a part of the
general plan of the Thomas J. Emery Memorial in creating a business block in the Town Center district.”
1953-1993 On August 23, 1952, the TimesStar touted the “newest unit of the Kroger Co., to be established at the northeast corner of Wooster Pike and West Street.” This is where the Mariemont Strand now stands. This article goes on to say, “It will be constructed of brick, half timber, stucco and glass and was designed to blend into the general architecture of the model village. It will be between Mariemont Inn and the public school. Of the super market type, the store will extend 130 feet along Wooster Pike and have a frontage of 101 feet on West Street. There will be two entrances, one on the immediate corner of the intersection and the other from the parking lot which, extending to Madisonville Road, will be large enough to accommodate 116 cars. The doors of the establishment will be manipulated by magic-carpet equipment, swinging in and out when patrons approach.”
Another article dated May 13, 1953, includes a photo of officials previewing the Kroger store prior to opening that day. It reads, “The store…typical of the English village type of architecture, has been designed to harmonize with surrounding structures in Mariemont. The interior is the last word in modern design, with air-conditioning, fluorescent lighting, acoustical ceiling and walls decorated in tones of smoke rose and gray.”
1993-Present The Kroger that stands today at Wooster Pike in Columbia Township was built.
Artist's rendering of the Kroger store built at the corner of Wooster and West streets in 1952.
Village Garden Club Ramping up for Spring Events, Annual Plant Sale
By Fran Turner
Our first meeting in 2018 will be at The Barn on March 7 at 1 p.m. Our guest speaker will be Wes Duren from Marvin’s Organic Gardens. He will be speaking about Medicinal Herbs. It will also be a good time to find out what organic products are available at Marvin’s Gardens. If you are interested in gardening with fewer herbicides and pesticides and improving your soil and attracting beneficial insects, this program is for you! As many of you may be interested, but are unable to come to a meeting in the middle of the day, I will include some information in the next Town Crier.
Another date to keep in mind: April 4, 1 p.m. at The Barn. Rosemary Ballard will be speaking on arranging and designing with roses.
The Annual Plant Sale will take place on
Saturday, May 12 on the Dilly Deli Patio. We will have outstanding hanging flower pots and plants that have been growing in our members’ yards— so you know they will grow in Mariemont!
If you have planted Spring flowering bulbs you have already seen them growing, their brave leaves sticking up through leaves and snow and whatever else may be there. The urge to cover them is great. Don’t do it. They are just fine. Even though our weather has become less predictable and more radical, these plants will still do well if left alone.
As the days grow warmer and the sap rises in the trees, the urge to buy plants and get our hands in the soil seems overwhelming. Having made many, many mistakes in my wild enthusiasm, I would like to offer a bit of advice: No matter how beautiful they look in the catalogs, it is usually safer to buy plants from
companies in the Northern part of the USA than the Southern part. They acclimate better to our climate. I have also found it more practical to buy plants, especially perennials, from local nurseries. They are able to answer any question you might have about the plants, they sell what can be planted now, and they generally guarantee the plants.
Our country is divided into different climate zones. We are in Zone 5. Some horticulturalists say that we can be considered in Zone 6, but I think that it is safer to buy plants that are designated Zone 5. It is also wise to have a plan of what you want when you go to buy. You can always ask a nursery person for help in finding what you need. And then there is that gorgeous plant that just speaks to you and you must have it! Get it!
Good luck and happy gardening!
Village
Celebrate National Nutrition Month with Local Healthy Eating Options
By Elizabeth Wood
Each March, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics celebrates National Nutrition Month, a nutrition education and information campaign targeted to consumers. The campaign focuses on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. The Town Crier appreciates the value of sensible nutritional selections and has queried our local restaurants to find the healthy eating options available to you.
Mango Tree mangotreemariemont.com
The Mango Tree serves Thai food and Sushi. There are many vegetarian and vegan dishes that can be made gluten-free upon request. For their sushi, fish is delivered three times a week to insure freshness. They also offer sashimi (fish without rice) for our sushi. All Thai sauces are homemade, and they use lite oil and no msg in their cooking. Several variations of tea (green, jasmine, etc.) are available for a healthy beverage option.
A couple of healthy favorites are the ginger salad, seaweed salad, and the summer roll, a variety of sashimi. A Superfood roll consisting of cooked salmon, avocado, cucumber, seaweed salad and sweet potato in soy paper wrap is also an option. Or you can choose one of these yummy fish choices: Salmon teriyaki, steamed
fish in ginger lime sauce, and steamed sea bass in spinach ginger sauce.
The Mango Tree will be celebrating its fiveyear anniversary in March, and they would like to “thank the awesome Mariemont community and the surrounding area (Terrace Park, Indian Hill, Madisonville, and Hyde Park) for their kindness and support. We’d never have made it this far without their generosity. We will continue to provide good food and improve wherever we can and serve our friends, guests and communities for many years to come.”
Dilly Bistro dillybistro.com
The Dilly is well known for their salads, and their brand-new Butternut Squash and Kale salad is a great choice for healthy eating. The Mariemont Strand salad and Shrimp and Asparagus salad, two of their long-standing signature salads, are superb options as well. All of their dressings are made in-house and can be ordered on the side, if the customer prefers.
The Deli’s Black Bean Burger is a big hit. Not only is it nourishing, but it is also a great vegetarian option. Another popular healthy sandwich is the Salmon Burger. The Hummus Plate has gained in popularity to become the second best-selling appetizer (behind the popular yet less healthy Beer Cheese). It is served with pita, basil pesto, cucumber, feta, and marinated olives. As far as entrees go, the number one choice is the Sesame Encrusted Yellow Fin Ahi served with a ginger risotto cake, haricot verts, wasabi (pictured above.)
Gluten Free upon request and are denoted assuch on the menu.
National Exemplar
The National Exemplar has a variety of healthy eating options for breakfast, lunch and dinner, but their breakfast menu is packed full of choices: Egg Whites & Quinoa Scramble, Fresh Fruit Bowl, Quaker Steel-Cut Oats, House Made Granola & Muesli Cereal with fresh fruit, and lowfat strawberry yogurt.
The health-focused staff sources high quality fresh ingredients for their menu. A few examples include cage-free eggs, fructose-free local fresh jams, and egg substitute, which are available at no extra charge. Another “healthy” favorite is the Garden Vegetable Hash or Vegetable Omelet.
Healthy beverages are also a staple on their menu. They have a fresh juice program that includes seasonal items such as Fresh Made Daily Kale Tonic, Carrot & Ginger, and Beet Juice.
By far, the most requested healthy option is the Egg Whites & Quinoa Scramble…give it a try next time you stop by!
Mio’s
Pizza
Pizza can be healthy too! Mio’s Gardener pizza was once recognized by the American Heart Association as a heart healthy option. They also have fresh salad options from which to choose.
The Gardener pizza is the most requested healthy option at Mio’s. It has a sesame seed crust and has healthy vegetables and spices including zucchini, onion, broccoli, carrots, peas, red peppers and garlic, topped with cheese and tomatoes.
Wellness and Inspirational Event at MCC
Join your neighbors at the Mariemont Community Church for a FREE wellness and inspirational event, March 22 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Pizza, snacks and beverages provided. Open to all ages. For more information, contact Laura Burdo at 513.633.2225 or pilatespreacher.com/
Village
Mariemont Town Meeting: Defining Tradition
Thank you to Todd Keyes, former Town Meeting Chairman, for providing the Town Crier with documents that explain the history of and reasoning behind Town Meeting in Mariemont. Printed here, in its entirety, is one of the documents that serves to educate residents on the what, why and how of Town Meeting.
The Town Meeting provides a process for selection of local government representatives and a forum for discussing issues and expressing opinions that affect Village life.
On odd numbered years, nominations are made for Village positions whose terms are up - Mayor, Clerk, and Council representatives from Districts 1 and 5 are nominated every four years. Then two years later, the Treasurer and representatives from Districts 2, 3, 4, and 6 will be nominated. Any Village resident of voting age can seek a nomination and a second for the Villagewide positions of Mayor, Clerk, and Treasurer. Those seeking a Council seat are nominated in district caucuses after the general meeting, and must reside in that district. In even-numbered years, the meetings are strictly informational, and no nominations are heard.
This system of government was worked out in 1941 by Marie Jordan, a Mariemont schoolteacher, and her committee. Prior to 1941, The Mariemont Company and then The Thomas J. Emery Memorial ran Mariemont privately. The City of Cincinnati approached Mariemont with an offer to be annexed into the larger municipality. Given the choice to be annexed or incorporate as a village, Mariemont voted 522 FOR incorporation, and 286 AGAINST incorporation.
A new form of government was needed, and residents chose the New England model of Town Meeting proposed by Marie Jordan. Her husband, E. Boyd Jordan, was elected as our first Mayor. There are three components to Town Meeting: the annual meeting, the Town Crier, and district representation. Richard Ewald, a past Chairman of Town Meeting, stresses the importance of selecting representatives chosen from each of the six districts that were established in 1941.
“It’s very important to have people who
represent the different geographic areas of Mariemont,” Mr. Ewald stated. “There are issues that differ by district. For instance, trash pick-up in the Historic District has a different dynamic than in other areas.” Mr. Ewald believed that having Council members chosen by District is the best way to “continue to represent Mary Emery’s idea of equality.”
During the general portion of The Town Meeting, candidates for the Village-wide
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Mayor Policastro addresses Town Meeting in 2016.
During the general portion of The Town Meeting, candidates for the Village-wide positions are nominated, depending on which terms have expired. A second is required for the nomination to go forward to the November Hamilton County election. Generally, the candidates are unopposed, but if there is another nomination, the final name for the ballot is
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selected by vote in a run-off election held at the Elementary School between three and eight weeks following The Town Meeting.
If it is the position of Mayor, Clerk, or Treasurer being contested, all voters in Mariemont may cast their vote. If it is a Council position, only voters in that District may vote.
What is your opinion of Town Meeting? Helpful? Informative? I don't know?
The Town Crier would like to find out what our residents know about Town Meeting and if there are ideas to improve on our heritage and tradition. We've developed a brief 5-minute online survey and would love to get your feedback. Find the survey at: https://www. surveymonkey.com/r/F5DBGVC. You can also find the link on our Facebook page at www. facebook.com/MariemontTownCrier. No personal information is asked, but you are welcome to volunteer your ideas. We'll publish the survey results in the April issue of the Town Crier.
Candidates’ names that emerge from the process are then put on the ballot for the binding election in November. Candidates who are not selected through the Town Meeting process are able to run at large and can get their names on the November ballot by following the procedures laid out by Hamilton County.
Annual Town Meeting Set for March 11
This year’s Town Meeting will take place Sunday, March 11, beginning at 2 p.m., in the Mariemont Elementary Auditorium. According to Town Meeting Chairman Clem Luken, the meeting will be primarily informational and will include a presentation from Mariemont School District Superintendent Steve Estepp about plans for capital improvements at the high school.
Luken shared that the Town Meeting committee also “plans to introduce an amendment to the Town Meeting Constitution, giving the committee the option to hold the annual meeting in either March or April in any year. This amendment would change the language in Article VI, sections A and B. At present, the meetings can only be held in March.”
New this year, there will be an informal gathering for all residents before and possibly after Town Meeting, said Luken, “so that we can develop a little more understanding about who our neighbors are.” Light snacks will be provided by the National Exemplar, and soft drinks will be available as well.
For questions about this year’s event or to find out more about Town Meeting processes or running as a candidate for Village government, contact any of the followingTown Meeting committee chairs:
Sam Duran: duran@taftlaw.com
Alan Henning: ahenning@madisonadvisors. com
Clem Luken: cluken@whe-law.com
John Morabito: morabitoj3@gmail.com
Schools
The Sound of Mariemont: A Look at This Year’s Spring Musical
By Abby Dodson, MHS Senior Journalism Student
The Sound of Music, this year’s Spring Musical at Mariemont High School (MHS), will be performed March 16-18 (Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.) and features a cast and crew of some of Mariemont’s most talented students.
“It’s a classic. Everybody knows and loves it,” co-director and music teacher Liz McGahey told me, as she sat in her office, relaxed, with her legs crossed and smiling past me toward the stage. McGahey said she and co-director, English teacher Lee Lowery, picked the musical because it’s a timeless classic and highlights the talent of the cast.
“Not many musicals are really femaleoriented, which is what is so great about The Sound of Music,” said Lowery.
“The Sound of Music provides the opportunity to really showcase our strong female singers,” McGahey added.
The two main female leads are portrayed by seniors Shannon Mathews, who plays Maria, and Molly Mysogland, who plays Mother Abbess and serves as a co-student director.
“It’s my family’s favorite movie,” said Mysogland. She’s excited about the musical because she already knows the songs, and she’s sure the audience will love the beloved story. Mysogland takes on an additional role of student director, choreographing all the nun dances and taking on responsibility for media and promotion.
The seniors in the musical all recognize the importance of leadership this year. Mysogland explained there were fewer seniors this year
compared to years past, so the 13 of them had to assume leadership positions among the cast.
Senior actor Daniel Keyes said, “I love showing the younger students what it means to be dedicated to performing.”
“We have a few up-and-coming freshmen, and the seniors have been great mentors to them,” said Lowery.
Mysogland shared that she’s sad this is her last performance, as the musicals have been especially important to her—making friends and breaking down the divide between grade levels. “You gain friends in theater through shared vulnerability,” she explained. “When you’re all scared together, you gain the confidence to perform.”
Mathews said, “It’s a great opportunity for
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people who don’t do sports to connect students in all grades.”
Keyes also recognizes this. He said one of the most valuable parts of Mariemont’s theater program is “the family and connections you make.”
“When I started acting, it was because I wanted to get away from myself,” Keyes shared. “But I’ve grown to like being myself. I don’t have to seek a role anymore, and that’s truly the most invaluable thing (about performing arts).”
“Working with teenagers is the easiest part,” McGahey said. She, too, recognizes the bond formed among the cast. “Our cast is so fun and talented, and everybody is so hungry to learn,” she said.
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Elizabeth Pile (far right) leads students through choreography: (L to R) Brendan Schwartz, Connor Engle, Ashley Grimmer, Kat Embry, Casey Dutro, Steven Giordullo, Nick Kohlman, Emelia Ronalli, Jacob Cox, and Sydney Messner. (photo courtesy Abby Dodson)
But, it’s not just the cast on stage who will make The Sound of Music come alive.
“There are no teachers who know how the lighting works,” said senior lighting expert Colton Urbanski, who has been on light crew for eight shows and is currently training sophomore Reagan Kaiser to take his place. Knowledge about the light box has been passed down for generations, and it’s all student led and executed.
“Most people may not know that we have a live orchestra,” senior cellist Zach Weinland said about the live pit orchestra, which features a range of Mariemont’s most talented musicians. The musical pit changes locations for every show, so keep an eye out for the students providing live music during The Sound of Music.
“It’s difficult to play,” said Weinland about score. “We learn the music and practice without the cast.” The pit rehearses on their own until a week before the show, and then coordinates the songs with the on-stage singing during tech week.
“The week before musical,” a time cast and crew referred to as ‘tech week’, “you’re not allowed to have a life,” jokes Weinland.
Schools
Jokes aside, the orchestra, light and sound crew, and all of the backstage crew work tirelessly alongside the cast to put on a top-notch production.
“Nobody looks up,” said Urbanski, about the light booth above the audience. “[But] we sing along!”
“[I am excited] to watch it all come together, and show it to the community,” said McGahey.
Performances take place Friday, March 16 and Saturday, March 17 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 18 at 2 p.m. All seating is reserved. Buy your tickets early; MHS musicals often sell out! Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens.
Tickets can be purchased online by going to www.mariemontschools.org/mariemonthigh-school and clicking on “Purchase Tickets to The Sound of Music” at the bottom of the left-hand menu bar. This is a secure website for Mariemont ticket purchases (small processing fees apply). Online ticket sales close two hours prior to each performance. Tickets can also be purchased at the MHS Box Office located outside of the MHS Auditorium with cash or check made out to MHS during school lunch hours (11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.) the week of a performance plus one hour before each performance. If you have any questions, please contact Delta Crabtree at deltacrabtree@gmail.com. The Mariemont Arts Association is the proud provider of ticket services for all Mariemont performances.
Senior Shannon Mathews (Maria) receives instruction from director Liz McGahey. (photo courtesy Abby Dodson)
Community
What’s Happening at the Mariemont Branch Library - March
Children
Movers & Shakers — 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Wednesdays
Bring the little ones in for stories, songs, and dancing as they learn about the Library. Ages 1-4.
Library Babies 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays
Have fun, meet other parents and babies, and promote early literacy! Ages 6-18 months.
Tales to Tails — 4 p.m. Thursday, March 8
Read a story to Bonny the therapy dog. Ages 5-10.
Crafty Kids — 4 p.m. Thursday, March 8
Make and take a fun craft. Ages 5-10.
Every Child Ready for Science — 2 p.m. Saturday, March 17
Practice literacy skills while engaging in science games and activities Ages 2-5. Registration req.
Teens
Teen ArtLab — 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 13
Enjoy some relaxing down time after school, creating art! Snacks and a door prize drawing!
Adults
Easy . . . but Beautiful: Flour Sack Dish Towels — 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 5
Come by and decorate a lovely dish towel!
Which Craft? Needle Craft Club — 10:30 a.m. Saturdays, March 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.
Book Club — 6:45 p.m. Thursday, March 29
We will read The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery. Copies 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
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Village
2018 Tennis News
By Linda Bartlett
Happy Spring, everyone! The 2018 tennis season is set to kick off soon, and the Mariemont Tennis Association Board would like to invite all Mariemont residents and their guests to sign up early, to take full advantage of the warm weather that will be here before we know it. David Russell returns as Director of Tennis, and he and Tracy Glassmeyer will again offer a full slate of private lessons and clinics geared to players of all ages and stages!
Our courts were transformed last summer, and they look great! In addition to resurfacing all the courts and replacing our torn windscreens and nets, we’re happy to report that one of the lower courts was lined for pickleball as well as tennis. If you haven’t heard of pickleball, you’re in for a treat!
According to Wikipedia, “Pickleball is a paddle sport (similar to a racquet sport) that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. Two, three, or four players use solid paddles made of wood or composite materials to hit a perforated polymer ball, similar to a wiffle ball, over a net.” You can read about the rules, equipment, and much more at the USA Pickleball Association website (USAPA.org). Tracy will be available to assist new players who are interested in learning how to play this fun sport.
Did you know that Mariemont fields a women’s team (or two) each summer? It’s really flexible, fun, and casual. Dave runs our practice on Thursday mornings, where we work on skills and doubles strategy. Our matches are Friday mornings against other clubs in the area, both at home and away, and end with snacks and social time at the hosting club. The season generally runs from mid-May thru July, and we’re more than happy to work around vacation schedules! Women 21 and over who are proficient in tennis basics and want to have a great time improving their game with a bunch of friends are invited to come to one of our early spring clinics to learn more, or contact Linda (bartlettfive@gmail.com).
The Mariemont Tennis (and Pickleball) Courts are available for the use of members of the Mariemont Tennis Association and their guests, as well as the Mariemont High School
tennis teams – boys in the spring, girls in the fall. Mariemont residents can purchase membership and guest passes online beginning in early March.
Watch for additional information in the April Crier and online at Mariemont.org/recreation/ tennis. Hope to see you on the courts soon!
What is Pickleball?
By Peter McBride
OK. I don’t get out much, but this Town Crier reporter had never heard of “pickleball.”
According to the official pickleball website, www.usapa.org, pickleball is “A paddle sport created for all ages and skill levels. The rules are simple and the game is easy for beginners to learn, but can develop into a quick, fast-paced, competitive game for experienced players. It’s a fun sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong, is played both indoors or outdoors; on a badminton-sized court and a slightly modified tennis net with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes; and as doubles or singles.”
Quoting the USAPA website, “Pickleball was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, a short ferry ride from Seattle, Wash. Three dads — Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum — whose kids were bored with their summertime activities, are credited for creating the game. Pickleball has evolved from original handmade equipment and simple rules into a popular sport throughout the U.S. and Canada. The game is growing internationally as well, with many European and Asian countries adding courts.”
But why is it called “pickleball”? Well, again, referring to that same website: “After playing golf one Saturday during the summer of 1965, Joel
Pritchard, congressman from Washington State, and Bill Bell, a successful businessman, returned to Pritchard’s home on Bainbridge Island, Wash. (near Seattle) to find their families sitting around with nothing to do. The property had an old badminton court so Pritchard and Bell looked for some badminton equipment and could not find a full set of rackets. They improvised and started playing with Ping-Pong paddles. Soon, the men created rules, relying heavily on badminton. They kept in mind the original purpose, which was to provide a game that the whole family could play together. In the early years, no official name was assigned to the game. However, a year after the game was invented, the Pritchards purchased a cocker spaniel and named it “Pickles” (who loved to chase the ball). As the game progressed, an official name was needed and ‘pickleball’ was it.
Village
MariElders News
Italian Festival
Mark your calendars and dust off those dancing shoes. The Italian Festival will be on Friday April 13. Tickets, available at the Center, are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Join us for a great meal and live music from the Paul Wagner Band. Doors open at 5:30 at the Fairfax Cribbet Center.
Just the Guys Bridge
If you’re a gent and enjoy bridge, a new group is playing every other Friday afternoon at the MariElders lower level. For March the dates are the 9th and 30th at 1 p.m. If interested please call the Center at 271-5588 and leave a message for Russ.
Genealogy
Mr. Lee Cole will be here to assist in researching your genealogy on Tuesday afternoons in March. He will be explaining his program starting Tuesday, March 6 at our monthly members meeting (11 a.m.).
Documentary – Extremis
Extremis is a 2016 American short
documentary film following the doctors, families and patients as they make end-of-life decisions. The movie will be shown on March 14 at 1 p.m. with a discussion group to follow.
Anatomy
Health Benefits of Anatomy will be the topic for the March 14 and 28 class that starts at 9:15 a.m. Please sign up for these classes by calling 271-5588.
Great Decisions
Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. The program model involves reading the Great Decisions Briefing Book and meeting in a Discussion Group to discuss the most critical global issues facing America today. This new program will be held once a month with the first class on March 7 at 1 p.m. For more information regard cost please call the MariElders at 271-5588.
These are just the highlights of all the great things happening at the MariElders. For more information check us out at marielders.org
Last Chance to Sign up for Spring Sports
To sign up for spring Mariemont Rec sports, go to https://leagueathletics. com/Page.asp?n=104571&org=ma riemontsports.org. Check online for registration extensions.
Soccer Registration
Opens – January 1
Closes – February 25
Track Registration
Opens – January 1
Closes – February 25
Baseball Registration
Opens – January 1
Closes – February 25
Softball Registration
Opens – January 1
Closes – April 1
Instructional Volleyball Registration
Opens – January 1
Closes – April 11
Instructional T-Ball Registration
Opens – January 1
Closes – April 1
National Exemplar to Host Fundraiser for Cancer Support Community
The National Exemplar is proud to again host Great Food for a Great Cause 5-9 p.m. on Monday, March 12. This special fundraising dinner benefits the Cancer Support Community (CSC). All net proceeds from dine-in and carryout orders will go to the nonprofit organization helping anyone impacted by cancer.
Since 1994, The National Exemplar has raised more than $70,000 to help fund CSC’s free programs of support, education and hope for people in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky that are facing cancer. CSC’s programs are available to those who are newly diagnosed, during and after treatment, through long-term survivorship or with advanced diseases. Research based programming is also available to caregivers, youth and children.
“For 24 years, The National Exemplar has been a tremendous partner in our mission so no one has to face cancer alone,” said Michelle Johnson, president of Cancer Support Community of Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky. “It is a night that represents our community spirit of gathering for a common purpose. We are grateful that a local treasure has been a partner for such a long time and the support continues to fund the need of education, support and hope for anyone impacted by cancer.”
“The name of the event says it all,” said Mike Pardo, chief operating officer at The National Exemplar. “We’ve raised funds for this great organization for more than 20 years, and it’s an honor to help bring cancer support and hope to so many people.”
The National Exemplar is celebrating 35 years of serving long-time favorites like Hungarian Mushroom Soup and National Exemplar Prime Rib, as well as fresh, new dishes like Pork Osso Buco, Short Rib Pasta, Grilled Branzino and more.
The Great Food for a Great Cause dinner will be held in the main dining room of The National Exemplar, 6880 Wooster Pike, Mariemont, OH 45227. Reservations are encouraged, and carry out orders will count toward the fundraising event. Please call (513) 271-2103 or visit www.nationalexemplar. com to make a reservation.
Mid-Century Modern Rescue –Talent meets Entrepreneurial Spirit
By Delta Crabtree
Jeff Molski is the proprietor and talented craftsman behind the subject of this month’s Business Highlight. I am happy to write this from the perspective of a friend, neighbor and customer. Several of Jeff’s rescues are now part of my personal home décor.
Jeff and his wife Marion have lived in Mariemont, in the same house on Miami Bluff, for the last 20 years. Their three children, Henry, Ali and Joe all grew up and graduated from Mariemont schools. If your walking/cycling routine includes Miami Bluff, you probably have seen Jeff at work in his garage and driveway. If you have wondered what he is working on—allow me to introduce you to Mid-Century Modern Rescue.
Jeff began this side business just over a year ago. Monday thru Friday, Jeff is a long-time Director of Business Development with Proscan Imaging. After hours and on weekends, his passion for woodworking and a general curiosity and willingness to learn new things, prompted him to start this business.
His oldest son Henry was getting married and beginning to furnish his first home with his wife Erin. They are both fans of the popular MidCentury Modern aesthetic that is readily available
in furniture stores such as West Elm and Crate & Barrel. In helping the newlyweds, Jeff began to look around to see what quality pieces, original to that era might be available to restore. A visit to a thrift shop led Jeff to purchase his first piece—a cool green chair that cost him $5 and his time and materials. It sold for $80 his business was born.
Jeff attributes his interest in 1950’s and 1960’s furniture and décor to the familiarity that he shares with so many of us. This is rooted in our memories of our parents’ or grandparents’ homes. Current day popularity may have its beginnings with the popular TV series “Mad Men.” In reality, mid-century pieces are simply well-designed objects with a timeless look. They work well in contemporary homes and interiors—they still feel fresh and modern.
Historically speaking, function was as important as form in Mid-Century Modern designs, with an emphasis placed specifically on targeting the needs of the average American family. Jeff prefers to work with all wood pieces, but has recently realized that he can remove a laminate top and replace it with a wood veneer as part of his restoration. This adds the quality of all natural elements that is appreciated by today’s buyer. Jeff has also branched out to light fixtures, clocks and even small housewares, such as glassware sets.
See more pictures of Jeff's work at our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/MariemontTownCrier
I asked Jeff where he finds his treasures, and his sources are varied. His job takes him to Lexington and Louisville, Kentucky on a regular basis. He will often stop at thrift shops, antique stores and flea markets on his search for inventory. The Internet is a thriving marketplace for anything and everything, so there are many opportunities to find a particular piece or to find the needed part or accessory to complete a restoration.
The most important skill that Jeff possesses is a good eye for design and quality. He shared a quote from the TV show “American Pickers” that he has adopted, “If you see something you’ve never seen before, and you like it – you better buy it right away, or it will be gone.” This philosophy has served him well in the context of his business!
Jeff does have a unique criterian for picking projects. Every piece must fit in his Chevrolet SUV. He only wants to work with smaller, manageable pieces. If it requires a truck and two men to move – it will not be a Jeff Molski rescue! As a testament to the quality of his work, most restoration pieces sell very quickly. Jeff sells primarily online through numerous Mid-Century Facebook groups, Nextdoor, and Instagram, where he now has almost 700 followers from as far away as Denmark, Poland, England and Australia, and has shipped items to California and Oregon.
Follow Jeff on Instagram to see the pieces he has completed and that are for sale @ midcenturymodernrescue. Long-term, Jeff sees himself opening a brick and mortar shop. How lucky is he to have a life-long passion for creativity and discovery connect with a business venture!
Marching into Springtime at The Barn
In the Lamplight: Music, Food, and Parlour Games from the 1800s
The Barn presents its yearly dinner and auction on April 20 in the spirit of Eduardo Vuillard, a French painter and printmaker. Evening pleasures include an array of unique raffle items and an opportunity to purchase small Vuillard-inspired paintings donated by the gifted hands of local artists. Guests will have an opportunity to hear about the artist from art expert Richard Brettell, a faculty member from the University of Dallas, who will speak at the Taft Museum on the following day.
Brettell specializes in Modern and 19-20th Century Impressionism. The professor, who holds the Margaret McDermott Distinguished Chair of Art and Aesthetic Studies Chair and the Edith McDonnell Chair, has had numerous academic appointments at the University of Chicago, Yale University, and Harvard.
The mood of the evening is centered on Vuillard’s Interior with Six Figures (1897.) He was a painter who whispered when others cried out, according to Brettell. Come visit the Parisian apartment of Vuillard’s mind in the Barn on Friday evening, April 20 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $75. Register at thebarn.cincyregister.com/ lamplight or call 513-272-3700.
The Brush and Pallette Painters’ Show
The Brush and Palette Painters present “Color, Form and Focus” at its annual springtime showcase of original paintings. Nearly 17 local artists spent a year creating artwork depicting local landmarks, rural landscapes, and gardens in plein air (on site) for this event, although some artists selected still life’s. More than 60 oil, watercolor and pastel paintings will be on
display. The organization is now in its 51st year of existence.
“(This is) always an exciting show,” said Diane Kilfoil, former Woman’s Art Club president.
The group invites the public to attend its opening reception on March 2 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at The Barn. The show runs through March 25. Gallery hours include Tuesdays through Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and weekends 1:00 p.m. through 4:00 p.m.
Open Model Sketch Group
The Woman’s Art Club of Cincinnati invites the public to the opening reception of one of its newest open-session exhibitions.
In honor of its 125th Anniversary, WACC presents the “Open Model Sketch Group Exhibit,” which features the work of professional artists who draw and paint from live models twice each month.
The opening is on Thursday March 29 from 6-9 p.m. The exhibit and sale continue on Friday March 30 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on Saturday March 31 from 1-4 p.m. Guests will have an opportunity to enjoy the newly-renovated loft.
The event takes place in the first-floor gallery at the Woman’s Art Cultural Center, also known as the Barn, at 6980 Cambridge Avenue.
The Woman’s Art Club presents its 125th Annual Juried Show
In celebration of its 125th year anniversary, The Woman’s Art Club of Cincinnati will sing the blues with the jazzy sounds of Bruce Menefield at the closing event of the annual juried show.
This special anniversary exhibition’s opening reception and awards presentation runs from 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. on April 8. The show will feature original artwork completed by regional female artists who are competing for more than $3500 of award money.
Judges Laurie Risch and Bridgette Turner, MFA will focus on craftsmanship, color, and composition with an emphasis upon diversity in style and subject. Risch is Executive
Director of the Behringer-Crawford Museum in Covington, Kentucky, and founder of the popular freshART event, now in its 25th year. She has received awards for her service to various philanthropic organizations in Northern Kentucky.
Turner is the owner of Turner Studio & Gallery in Columbus. She is past president and current board member for the Ohio Plein Air Society. As a professional artist, she has served as juror for state and local art leagues, as well as the Ohio State Fair Plein Air Competition.
The Joan Cord Foundation is offering $1,500 to the first-place artist. The Club will hold its closing reception on April 29 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. Additional gallery hours include 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. (weekends;) and 10:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. (Tuesdays through Fridays.)
Heads-up!
The 2018 Mariemont Paint-Out is May 12-13 this year due to the Ohio Plein Air Society’s selection of Mariemont for its annual autumn event. Watch for details. The Barn Board is in need of helping hands for this event. If you are interested, please go to artatthebarn.org or call Lynn at 272-3700.
Summer Days Ahead
Look for summer camp opportunities for kids and teens in our e-mail subscriber. You can sign up on the website at the bottom right of each page. Amazing opportunities—no laziness this summer! July 9-27.
Artflix
The Barn holds its next ARTflix on March 8: “Klimt” – A portrait of artist Gustav Klimt, whose lavish, sexual paintings came to symbolize the
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Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center
art nouveau style of the late nineteenth and early twentieth century.” Stars John Malkovich and Veronica Ferres. This 131-minute adult drama speaks to opulence, seduction, and mental illness as it relates to his heart.
The event begins at 6:30 p.m. The film begins at 7:00. The Barn provides soft drinks, snacks, and door prizes, as well as discussion led by artist and art educator Dave Laug. The loft has a brand new HVAC system for added comfort. Register at thebarn@cincyregister.com/artflix.
The Barn welcomes walk-ins, but prefers registration. To reserve a seat, please go to artatthebarn.com and scroll to ARTflix or call 513-272-3700.
If anyone is interested in helping plan or sponsoring a portion of this event, please call 513272-3700.
Libretto, the love and the laughter--brought to you by the Mariemont Preservation Society
Thanks to harmonious blends of Roundabout Opera for Kids (ROKCincy), Tri-State children have the opportunity to experience the chill of a crescendo at Trip and the Missing Music. ROKCincy, a non-profit organization composed of developing professional musicians, will perform a full-stage, interactive opera for kids in grades K-6.
The opera begins at 10:00 a.m. To register for this and any other MPF event at the Barn, go to thebarn.cincyregister.com/MPF2017.
Playbill for Spring:
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.
For more information about the Mariemont Preservation Foundation, go to mariemont preservation.org.
Classes for 2018
New Class—Fridays from 9:00 a.m. through 12:00 p.m. for new and experienced oil painters. February 9 through March 16 with Carol Shikany. $250. 513-703-3265 or cshikany@me.com. Class is limited.
Pencil, Paint and Composition: Tuesdays with Eileen McConkey at Noon. 513-801-7648 or Eileen.mcconkey@gmail.com.
WACC Open Studio: Every Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Free for members; $5.00 for non-members (Cash only, please.)
WACC Open Model Sketch: First and Third Tuesdays, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., $10.00 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; Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. AND 1:15 p.m.- 4:15 p.m. $20.00 per class. 513-7917044 or janwrites@fuse.net.
Acrylic Painting: Wednesday evenings with Dave Laug: 7:00 p.m. -10:00 p.m. Write dvdlaug@gmail.com or call 513-885-5284.
Thursday: Beginner/Intermediate Watercolor with Chris Campbell. Thursday from 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. mmivsu2@comcast.net
Drawing and Painting: Thursdays with Mary Lou Holt: 1:30 p.m. -4:30 p.m. 513-2263833 ormarylouiseholt@yahoo.com
Oil Painting for Mid-Level and Advanced: Thursdays with Chuck Marshall 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. 404-3161 or marshallstudio@aol.com.
Oil Painting: Thursdays 6-9 p.m. “A Strong Foundation for your Paintings.” Write or call jeffmorrow@gmail.com or 937-267-6868.
Graduate Pastels: Fridays with Ray Hassard: Second and Final Fridays each month from Noon until 3:00 p.m. 941-1116 orray@ 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. Classes will cover sewing knits, making quilts, baskets, bags and 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 a few new sewing tricks of your own. Call 513-272-3700 for more information.
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 upgrades on the Barn’s second floor.
To sign up for class or to learn about any other Barn activities, please go to artatthebarn. org or call 513-272-3700. The Barn, also known as the Woman’s Art Cultural Center, is located at 6980 Cambridge Avenue in Mariemont. Please visit artatthebarn.org. It is a separate entity from the Woman’s Art Club.
Please note: Our new contact e-mail address is Contact@ArtAtTheBarn.org.
Special Council Meeting
February 19, 2018
Mayor Policastro, Mrs. Graves, Mr. Hawkins, Mr. Marsland, Ms. Palazzolo and Ms. Schwartz.
Ms. Schwartz moved, seconded by Ms. Palazzolo to accept the recommendation of the Finance Committee which met Monday February 12, 2018 at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers to discuss the purchase of a new police cruiser for the school resource officer. The Committee recommends the purchase of a new cruiser at the price of $26,599.00 with modifications to be made at a cost of $11,401.00 and that this acquisition be approved in an emergency meeting of Council due to the time sensitive nature of the transaction.
Ordinance No. 0-9-18: “To Purchase a 2018 Ford Explorer Police Cruiser Using the State of Ohio Purchasing Program and to Declare Emergency” had three readings and was adopted.
Mr. Clem Luken approached Council on behalf of Town Meeting. Ms. Schwartz said it was unclear if Mr. Luken could address Council since it was not on the agenda. Mayor Policastro said he could address Council for the allotted three minutes. Ms. Palazzolo said the agenda is not structured like a normal agenda and it would have been helpful to have it on camera so people who have been writing her incessantly about the District 2 caucus would be able to hear the answer to their questions.
Mr. Clem Luken, Town Meeting Chairman, said Town Meeting has a job to call a caucus in the event of a vacancy on Council. The vacancy of Council occurred on February 12, 2018. Town Meeting has 14 days to caucus and try to get a candidate/nominee from the caucus. That is their job and that is their limit. We cannot take any other steps.
The matter that became the first cause of concern was where we caucus. Whether we like it or not we have a process that began last year with an At Large Candidate who is not affiliated with a district. There have been three attorneys who have looked at this matter – himself, Sam Duran and Village Solicitor Ed McTigue. Every other comment that has come in has come from non-attorneys and that is what is driving this whole matter. The attorneys look at this and
Village Government
evaluate it on behalf of Town Meeting what they can do.
He said to the Mayor that he was unsure if Town Meeting could caucus District 2 because Mr. Wolter left from District 1. All three attorney looked at the bylaws, Mariemont Ordinances and the Ohio Revised Code. There is nothing that they could find that prevents the Mayor from slotting Ms. Palazzolo to whichever District he wishes. The fact that the Mayor did not slot Joe Stelzer somewhere else in 2012 just means that the Mayor had the discretion to do it. He chose not to. It does not prevent the Mayor from making that move now.
The reality is Town Meeting looks at the procedure. The Council and the Mayor potentially look at the political process. We have done everything that we are permitted to do under the Town Meeting constitution. Anyone who suggests we should have a second one falls outside. He does not care what anybody else says on that. The reality is those are the rules.
In a civilized society we create rules for how we organize ourselves and how we conduct business. If we don’t like it we change the rules. What has happened in Mariemont is everyone
Council Representatives
Avia Graves agraves@mariemont.org
Troy Hawkins thawkins@mariemont.org
Eric Marsland emarsland@mariemont.org
Maggie Palazzolo mpalazzolo@mariemont.org
Mary Ann Schwartz maschwartz@mariemont.org
Mayor: Dan Policastro mayordan1@gmail.com
seemingly with their emails is I don’t care what the rules are I’d like to do something else. And so far, apparently, that is going to win.
As of this printing, the regular February Council minutes were not available. For full Council Minutes, go to Mariemont.org or watch them on ICRCTV.com.
Did You Know?
The Mariemont Village Tax Office offers help with filing tax returns. Contact Mariemont Tax Administrator Pam Busam at 513.271.1606 to schedule an appointment.
Village
Find a Place to Park in Mariemont
By Bill Brown
For those wishing to spend an evening in our Village going to a movie, enjoying a meal at one of our fine restaurants, or just eating an ice cream cone sitting by the fountain, finding a parking place can at times be a challenge. So if you’ve ever been tempted to slip into that no-parking spot because you couldn’t find a place to park, I’m here to help and possibly save you from that dreaded ticket.
When parking at the Square, there are several options. The most convenient are the spaces surrounding the Square itself on the east and west sides. There is a two-hour limit between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Next, the lot behind the theater, accessed off Madisonville Road, is big and welllit at night. There’s also a lot behind the Comey and Shepherd building, but parking there is only allowed after 5 p.m. This lot is partially lit. Immediately adjacent to Comey and Shepherd, across Miami, is a smaller lot behind the row of businesses that front Wooster Pike.
In addition, there are lots between the Mariemont Inn and the Strand that extend all the way to Madisonville Road and can be accessed from both there and Wooster Pike. These lots are generally unrestricted and are also lit at night.
The elementary school lot is available for parking Monday through Friday between 4 p.m. and midnight and all day Saturday and Sunday. This lot is not lit.
Some of the key areas for on-street parking east of the Square are the designated parallel spaces on both sides of Wooster Pike. There’s good sidewalk access to the Square. No parking is permitted during rush hour: from 7 to 9 a.m., and 4 to 6 p.m. Additional unrestricted spaces are available on Miami Road directly across from the condominiums heading north.
Those few choice spaces between Graeter’s and Willard Rogers Lane are highly restricted: a one-hour limit between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and it’s posted
“strictly enforced.” More parking options are on Crystal Springs and the south side of Miami Road.
Heading west on Wooster Pike toward the Strand, there are some parallel spaces. These have a two-hour limit from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Other options are the diagonal spaces in front of the Strand and just around the corner on West Street that are intended for those patronizing businesses in the Strand. Parking there has a posted limit of 30 minutes.
Within the above listed spaces, there are some designated for handicapped parking. They are well marked. For the sake of those who truly need them, please be respectful of these spaces. A ticket here can really set you back.
If in doubt, parking signage throughout the Village is clearly posted. You can also call the Village fire/police non-emergency number: 271-4089.
Spring4Life Fundraiser Supports Mental Health Programming
This year’s Spring4Life fundraiser will be held at the new Summit Hotel in Cincinnati on April 21 from 7-10:30 p.m. The event, hosted by 1N5, aims to raise funds to provide sustainable mental health and mindfulness educational programming in area schools.
The evening will include light bites and libations, silent, live, and paddle auctions, music, and inspirational guest speakers whose stories will renew your belief that together we can stop the stigma and save lives. Amy Tobin will serve as emcee for the event.
1N5, named to bring attention to the startling statistic that one in every five teens and adults will experience a mental health issue in their lifetime, exists to expand mental health programs and education in Greater
Cincinnati schools and universities through partnerships with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, MindPeace, Interact for Health, and more. Its mission is to start the conversation around mental health as a means of stopping the stigma that forces so many into suffering in silence.
Founded in 2008, 1N5 has since raised over $765,000 in funding to support and implement mental health educational programming in local schools. 1N5 has experienced significant growth and recognition as an organization that is making a true impact in the lives of greater Cincinnati youth.
For more information about 1N5, to donate, or to purchase tickets to the
Spring4Life event, go to 1n5.org and click on the Events tab.
Schools Community Process Continues in High School Facility Project
By Steve Estepp, Mariemont City Schools Superintendent
Since the Mariemont High School Master Facility Plan process was announced nearly two years ago, community involvement has been a key focus. As I have shared in my blogs, podcasts and videos, the needs at Mariemont High School are many and will only continue to compound if we don’t take action now. But, working together, I know we will find the best possible solution for our students, staff and community in order to maintain our excellence in the classroom and continue to provide a tremendous value to our residents.
We cannot, have not and will not go at this process alone. Hundreds of community members have volunteered their time to help us in our planning for the future of Mariemont High School. Back in the fall of 2016 we started to look at our needs by forming the Community Facility Task Force and Futures Team, bringing together over 50 community members and staff to help identify areas to explore and evaluate. This work was followed with the creation of a Steering Committee of nearly 30 community members and staff to begin exploring possible solutions.
Then, in spring of 2017, over 250 residents attended one of three Community Design Workshops where MSA Architects, Turner Construction and the Steering Committee presented seven options for feedback and input. These workshops resulted in the Board of Education narrowing from seven to three options for further exploration.
This past fall we completed work with six community-driven Facility Teams. Each team participated in an in-depth investigation into specific areas including design/architecture, academic learning spaces, technology, finances, arts and athletics. Over 100 community members spent a period of two months researching and prioritizing the wants and needs of the high school. Presentations summarizing these findings were presented to the Board of Education and served as the building blocks for the Board’s decision to eliminate two of the three remaining solutions on the table and focus now only on a hybrid repair/replace model for the high school.
A third-party, statistically valid community survey also was conducted this fall, shedding light on the fact that 71% of district residents believe something needs to be done at Mariemont High School. And thanks to so much help from our community, we are getting closer to determining what the final plan will be.
We continue to listen. And we are relying on the community for input as we move forward with this process. Facility team presentations, survey results and all other facility updates can be found on the Mariemont City Schools website
at www.mariemontschools.org/mariemont-highschool/facilities-project.
This spring the community involvement will continue with the formation of a community finance committee and a facility project team. These teams, comprised of staff, parents, community members and board of education members, will collaborate with architects and construction consultants to review district financial needs, make preliminary design decisions and move forward recommendations to the Board of Education later this spring.
Additionally, all community members will have another opportunity to hear the latest facility updates and ask questions at one of four upcoming school chats. Dates for those school chats are as follows:
Thursday, March 8 | Online Chat | 7 p.m. (check our website and Facebook page for how to connect)
Tuesday, March 13 | Fairfax Community Center | 7 p.m.
Tuesday, March 20 | Village Church of Mariemont | 7 p.m.
The importance of community involvement in this process cannot be understated. Our residents have always been committed to our schools and today is certainly no different. We must work together to protect our most precious asset, our children, and give them every possible advantage to succeed in college, career and beyond.
By Margaret Jevic
This Month in Sustainable Mariemont
Winter was a busy time for Sustainable Mariemont. Many a recyclables were diligently collected by you all, dropped at Ace, and carted off to their individual recycling destinations. There were three drives going at Ace Hardware (Ace, you should truly be up for sainthood by now) for broken holiday lights, packing supplies, and as always, batteries.
I was the drop-off point for holiday lights, and I’ll just say this: I no longer park in my garage. It was amazing to see the bags and boxes that arrived on my front porch every few days, and we ended up with 112 lbs. of broken lights that were taken to Cohen for recycling.
Packing supplies brought in a few boxes of Styrofoam peanuts and were taken to the UPS store. It’s a good thing batteries are a continuous collection because we received a whopping 225 lbs. of them! If you’re curious, that’s about the weight of a refrigerator. All batteries were taken to Canter Battery for recycling.
Drives will continue this spring, and during the month of March Sustainable Mariemont will be collecting empty bill bottles and batteries. I know you all know the drill, so bring your recyclables to the storefront of Ace Hardware on Wooster Pike, place them in the marked bins, and sleep well at night knowing your small effort is making a dramatic difference in your community. We only ask that your pill bottles be completely empty
and batteries be contained in a plastic bag for everyone’s safety.
If you would like to learn more about Sustainable Mariemont, you can visit our Facebook page “Sustainable Mariemont” or email sustainablemariemont@gmail.com. We are always looking to add more passionate people to the group, so let us know if you’d like to attend a meeting or get involved.
