Mariemont Youth Chosen as Honoree for 2018 Arthritis Foundation’s Cincinnati Jingle Bell Run
By Laura Young Grace’s Story
In October of 2016, when Grace Wellinghoff was 20 months old, she started to limp. After weeks of seeing orthopedists and having multiple rounds of x-rays, an MRI and bloodwork officially confirmed that Grace has Oligoarticular Juvenile Idopathic Arthritis (affecting two joints, the cause being unknown). Grace’s eyes are also affected (thankfully discovered before there was any permanent damage).
After steroid joint injections, an intense regimen of medications and eye drops, Grace’s disease is currently “managed” by her weekly, at-home injections and some maintenance medications. But her disease is also unpredictable. Some days are better than others. Grace experiences pain with extreme weather changes and large amounts of physical activity. Grace works closely with the rhuematology team at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, specifically Dr. Jennifer Huggins, as well as physical therapists to improve her walking and running.
This year, Grace was chosen as the 2018 Arthritis Foundation’s Cincinnati Jingle Bell Run Honoree. The Jingle Bell Run is a fun run/holiday event featuring a 5K and shorter Kids Fun Run, followed by an after-party that includes a visit from Santa!
“The run raises money to help find a cure for the chronic pain JIA patients face that is often invisible to others,” said Grace’s
mother, Jessica Wellinghoff. “We’ve put a team together called Warriors for Grace. Community members in the Village can support our team by joining our team for the family-friendly 5K (run or walk) or by donating financially to our team.”
The Cincinnati Jingle Bell Run takes place Saturday, December 8 at the Northern
Kentucky Convention Center. The expo opens at 8:30 a.m., with the 5K starting at 10 a.m. You can join team Warriors for Grace to walk or run the 5K OR simply support their mission through a donation by going to https://events. arthritis.org/team/8482 and selecting either “Join Our Team” or “Support Us.”
Juvenile Arthritis Facts
(from the Arthritis Foundation’s website):
• Approximately 300,000 children in the U.S. suffer with Juvenile Arthritis.
• JIA is considered an autoimmune disease.
A healthy immune system fights invaders such as viruses and bacteria. In people with autoimmune diseases, the immune system doesn’t work properly—it becomes overactive, even when there is no infection to fight, and mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissue.
Grace Wellinghoff
The Wellinghoff family
Remember to Get Out and Vote!
Mark your calendars: Tuesday, November 6 is election day, and your vote makes a difference. There are three issues on the ballot specific to Mariemont this election:
Issue 2 – Proposed Tax Levy (Additional) for the Mariemont City School District for the purposes of providing for current operating expenses and for general permanent improvements.
Issue 27 – Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal) for the Village of Mariemont for the purpose of current operating expenses.
Issue 28 – Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal) for the Village of Mariemont for the purpose of providing funds for recreational purposes of the Marielders, Inc.
A complete voter guide is available through the League of Women Voters website at lwvcincinnati.org as well as at the Mariemont library and in CityBeat newspaper. You can also view all Hamilton County candidates and issues at the Hamilton County Board of Elections website at https:// boe.hamilton-co.org/files/files/elections/ November2018/GEN18_Candidate_Issues_ List.pdf.
Early Voting Now Open
Did you know you can VOTE EARLY? Early voting allows you to make sure your voice is heard, in case you are out of town, get sick, or just get busy and fear forgetting on election day.
Any resident of Hamilton County can vote in person early at the Hamilton County Board of Elections located at 4700 Smith Rd. Hours of operation are:
Oct 10-26: M-F, 8a-5p
Oct 27: Sat, 8a-4p
Oct 29-Nov 2: M-F, 8a-7p
Nov 3: Sat, 8a-4p
Nov 4: Sun, 1-5p
Nov 5: Mon, 8a-2p
Village
Share Your Holiday Memories With Us!
The Town Crier invites you to share your favorite holiday tradition, memory, or gift (given or received). Please send
your full name and up to 125 words about your favorite tradition/memory/ gift to mariemonttowncrier@gmail.com by
TheNOVEMBER 10. We will then run as many as we can in our December issue! Feel free to include a photo if you would like.
The Town Crier would like to thank our supporters! Funding for production of the Town Crier comes solely from our advertisers and your contributions. Individuals contributing throughout the publishing year will have their names included in each remaining issue. Your contribution can be mailed to: Mariemont Town Crier c/o Matt Weinland, 3812 Indianview Avenue Mariemont, Ohio, 45227 Club
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r achel B ohl
i sa B ella & v eronica D rake
a lly M aier
Z ach M aier
M ax & F inn M arque Z
c olin M ikesell
e MM a M iller
c lara & P arker n ichols
o wen P ro FF itt w ill q ueen
r yan s ullivan h enry t eght M eyer n oah v anags
D avis w ickha M
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(Siblings listed together share routes; siblings listed separately have their own routes)
December deadline:
The deadline for the next Town Crier is November 10, 2018 All camera-ready ads and articles must be submitted by 5p.m. to Matt Weinland at MariemontTownCrier@ gmail.com. Articles should be sent via email in Microsoft® Word, with photos sent as jpg files of at least 350KB. Payment and advertising contracts should be submitted to: Matt Weinland, 3812 Indianview, Mariemont, Ohio, 45227
The Mariemont Town Crier, LLC, "The Voice of the Village of Mariemont," is published monthly from Sept. through Dec. and Feb. through May as a service to residents and organizations of the Village of Mariemont.
EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS: Press releases, photographs and event calendars are welcomed. Please contact Suzy Weinland at MariemontTownCrier@gmail.com to discuss article ideas. All submissions are due by the 15th of the 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.
INSERTS: As a public service to the non-profit organizations of Mariemont, the Town Crier accepts inserts for a flat fee of $75, due at the time of delivery (check made out to Mariemont Town Crier). Inserts must be pre-approved and scheduled with the editor, printed and separated into stacks of 50, and delivered to Tiffany Proffitt at 3585 Homewood Rd. by the 15th of the month prior to publication. Please contact Tiffany ahead of delivery at tmproffitt@fuse.net or 513-271-0672. Inserts and ads of a political nature are not accepted.
ADS: All camera-ready ads must be submitted by 5 p.m. on the 10th of the month prior to publication to Matt Weinland at MariemontTownCrier@gmail.com. Payment and advertising contracts should be delivered to Matt Weinland, 3812 Indianview Avenue, Mariemont, Ohio, 45227, and must be received prior to publication.
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Spotlight on Mariemont Police Chaplain, Reverend Todd Keyes
By Rex Bevis
Since 2011, Reverend Todd Keyes of the Village Church of Mariemont has served in the volunteer capacity of Chaplain of the Hamilton County Police Association (HCPA). Reverend Keyes is one of about 15 clergy who have been selected to serve Hamilton County. I had the opportunity recently to sit down with Reverend Keyes to learn more about this important role that he serves.
Reverend Keyes initially completed a 20-hour training program in subjects including Crisis Intervention, Suicide Risk Assessment, Trauma and Grief Intervention, Stress-Coping Strategies, Simulated Firearms Training, and Death Notification. Annually the police clergy participate in six training sessions to prepare for critical incident situations. Reverend Keyes has been
designated as the official Police Chaplain for the Mariemont and Fairfax Police Departments, and he may be called upon for other areas throughout Hamilton County.
According to the Hamilton County Police Association (HCPA) website, the HCPA Police Clergy Team is co-sponsored by the HCPA and the Council of Christian Communities. The Team is open to clergy of both sexes, all races, and a variety of creeds. The Team Members assist police personnel in handling crisis situations and provide police and citizens the best possible service in the time of personal crisis or tragedy. Examples include:
• Death notifications
• Contemplated or attempted suicides
• Aggravated domestic problems
• Grief and trauma counseling at critical incidence events
• Police officer counseling
• Funerals performed for police officers and victims of critical incidents
Mariemont residents are grateful for the services that Reverend Keyes provides and we are pleased to spotlight him in this edition of the Town Crier.
Schools
Mariemont High School Announces Distinguished Alumni Recipients
By Alex Lange
The Mariemont Alumni Association and the Mariemont School Foundation are pleased to announce the recipients of Mariemont High School’s sixth annual Distinguished Alumni Award. The award recognizes Mariemont High School graduates of at least 10 years who have notably distinguished themselves by extraordinary contributions and/or remarkable accomplishments in their chosen career; skill, trade or business; in civic duties; in military service; in philanthropy; in volunteerism; in the arts; in the sciences; in education; in religion; or any other field, endeavor or pursuit.
The 2018 recipients are Susan DavisAli, class of 1982, and James Verdin, class of 1955. The sixth class of recipients was selected from nominations submitted to a committee of Mariemont School Foundation (MSF) board members.
Susan Davis-Ali, PhD (Susan Davis) graduated from Mariemont High School with the class of 1982. She was a class officer for two years, a loud and proud cheerleader for four years, and was actively involved on the yearbook staff. After an undergraduate career at Miami University, Susan furthered her education by obtaining a Ph.D. in Social Psychology at the University of Michigan.
She moved to Minnesota with her husband in 1992, and was a successful business executive in the test development industry for over a decade. However, in 2006, Susan followed her passion and started her own e-platform leadership development and coaching company called Leadhership1 (the “her” is for the company’s focus on women’s leadership). Susan’s area of expertise is in the retention and advancement of women technologists, and she developed a program that is used with women all around the world who work for large technology companies.
Suzanne Sizer (L), a friend and co-worker of the late James Verdin, stands with Susan Davis-Ali (R) in front of the plaques that Verdin and DavisAli received as the 2018 Mariemont High School Distinguished Alulmni.
Susan also serves as the Chief Social Science Advisor to the Anita Borg Institute – the premier nonprofit organization serving women technologists. She published a book called “How to Become Successful Without Becoming a Man” and was a weekly career advice columnist for USA Today for several years. In her “spare” time, Susan volunteers for non-profits in St. Paul that serve the homeless in St. Paul, Minn., where she lives with her husband Jeff and their children Kate (19) and Andrew (14).
She returns to Mariemont often to visit her family in her childhood home on Fieldhouse Way, and she still calls Mariemont “home.”
James R. Verdin (Jim) grew up in Mariemont and graduated with the Class of 1955. He was President and CEO of The Verdin Company, a 175-year-old family business located in Cincinnati. Verdin manufactures and sells bronze bells, tower and street clocks, electronic carillons and organs.
Jim was instrumental in creating the Verdin Bell Foundry on Wheels for the Ohio Bicentennial. The foundry cast bells in each of Ohio’s 88 counties as a gifts to the counties. Along with church bells and clocks, Verdin creates many unique installations using bells, clocks and towers. Nationwide, Verdin is involved in projects honoring veterans and first responders with custom bells and bell towers. The bell that opens and closes the New York Stock Exchange was recently cast by Verdin in Cincinnati.
Greater Cincinnati projects include the “Foot Piano” at Smale Park, the glockenspiel in Covington, Ky., and the World Peace Bell in Newport, Ky. The clock in front of the Mariemont Inn and atop the Parish Center are Verdin clocks. The Emery Carillon in Dogwood Park was also a Verdin project.
Jim was also a founder of three Pendleton Art Centers. Cincinnati is the largest with more than 250 working artists in the warehouse in Pendleton-OTR. Other Pendleton locations are Middletown, Ohio and Rising Sun, Ind. He has been honored many times for his involvement in the arts, preservation, business, and community involvement. Most recently, Jim and The Verdin Company were honored by the State of Ohio for their work in honoring and hiring veterans. Jim’s daughter and family reside in Mariemont.
The Mariemont School Foundation is a non-profit organization whose mission is to support the long-term success of our students and community through initiatives that enhance excellence in the Mariemont School District. Your support of its Annual Fund Drive is critical to the success of the organization. For more information contact Molly Smyth, MSF Trustee, at 513-271-3316. Nominations for the Distinguished Alumni Award will be solicited in the spring. Visit http://mariemontschoolfoundation.org/ for more information.
1N5’s 9th Warrior Run Celebrates Another Record Year
By Erin Horn
The 2018 Warrior Run on October 6 drew another record crowd again this year, with nearly 3,400 participants enjoying the 5K run/ walk through Mariemont and the familyfriendly night of music, games, food, silent auction, and movie that followed in Dogwood Park.
Funds from the race support Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center’s newly revamped Adapting for Life— Surviving the Teens program and mental health education programming. To date, 1N5, founded by Mariemont’s Nancy Eigel-Miller, has donated over $460,000 to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital allowing for the program to expand from 24 to 75 area schools. 1N5 has also donated $313,000 to 20 area high schools and five local universities.
“The 2016 CDC report showed that nationwide we lost 6,159 children age 10-24 to suicide. Our youth are in crisis,” said Nancy Eigel-Miller, Founder and Executive Director of 1N5. “We love that our race allows the community to show their support for mental wellness and mental health education programming. Together, we can change the stigma and start the conversation. The race continues to grow and shows that our community wants to provide our youth with the evidence-based programs that will meet their needs and provide them with the appropriate resources to ultimately prevent suicide.”
Since 2008, 1N5 has raised over $865,000 and impacted 87,000 high school and university students through evidence-based mental health programs. Working with parents, students, and schools at each level, 1N5 develops a mix of educational tools and programming to help educate community members and craft better awareness and response to mental health issues.
For more information about Adapting for
Life—Surviving the Teens program, please visit https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/ service/s/surviving-teens. For more details
about mental health education and resiliency programs, events, and donating to 1N5, please go to www.1N5.org.
- https://www.facebook.com/cnzdesignstudio/
Bib 1202 Ryan Glassmeyer, bib 969 Todd Cline, bib 451 Brian Lewis
Elizabeth Curran age 10
Jennifer Molano
Barre3 Mariemont led a pre-race mindful stretch
Photo credits: Cindy Zulla, CNZ Design Studio
This Month in Sustainable Mariemont: Food Waste
By Margaret Jevic
Sustainable Mariemont will host its first ever community event at the Parish Center on November 8. The topic is food waste.
Dinner will be provided starting at 6:30 p.m. by La Soupe, a local, non-profit organization that aims to reduce food waste by providing meals where they’re needed using rescued ingredients that would otherwise be wasted. At 7:30, the documentary “Wasted! The Story of Food Waste” will be shown. “Wasted!” tells the story of the food waste problem, how vast the impacts are, and how each of us can be part of the solution.
If you are interested in attending the event, please visit Sustainable Mariemont’s Facebook page to register. Due to seating constraints, the event is registration only. If you would like to attend but do not have Facebook, please email sustainablemariemont@gmail.com to secure your spot.
The event is free and is sure to spark great conversation and incentivize each of us to make some positive changes in our lives. Think globally, act locally!
Join in and ‘Move for Good’
Move for Good, an 8-week walking program that mixes fitness, friends, and a good cause, is underway! Two groups are currently meeting each week at the Dilly Deli at 8:35 a.m. on M, W and F, and at 5:30 p.m. on M. More days/times can be added as each group desires.
Each walker “earns” a cash amount per mile walked (example .50 per mile), and at the end of the 8 weeks, the total amount of “earned” dollars will be donated to the Mariemont Preservation Foundation by Move for Good sponsor, Comey & Shepherd.
Tri-State Running Company is also incentivizing walkers with a $10 gift card for 50 miles logged and $20 gift card for 100 miles logged over the 8-week challenge. They will also provide information about the right shoes you should wear, how to layer for the weather, and other important training expertise.
Walkers are also invited to join our Move for Good team on December 8, the final day of our 8-week program, for the Jingle Bell Run. If you are interested in joining the Move for Good challenge, please email Kim Beach at kimbeach13@gmail.com, 513-252-4262 for more details.
For more information about our sponsors, please visit: www.comey.com, www.tristaterunning. com.
By Kim Beach
Thrive Therapy: Serving Those Who Serve
Jenn Simpson has a long history with the Village of Mariemont. Her grandparents, William and Marie Steffen, ran a catering business and deli here in the ‘50s. The Pinewood Food Shop was in the current Graeter’s location and advertised “entertaining made easy.” Her grandmother later ran a ladies’ sportswear and children’s shop called Margene’s, located at 3908 Miami Road (currently Lisa Larkin, MD). Marie also did sewing and alterations at Margene’s and was commissioned to create the Town Crier uniform for Mariemont’s original Town Crier, Ralph Smith. (I lived in Mariemont at the time and remember Margene’s, which closed in 1978 and was replaced with the Towne Mouse—the origin of my preppy phase.)
Jenn graduated from Glen Este High School and had many friends in Mariemont, so spent a lot of time here. She currently resides in Newtown with husband Brett and their perfectly spaced four children, ages 4, 6, 8 and 10. Mabel, the French Bulldog, is the Simpson family canine companion and dearly loved by all.
Her family was thrilled when, in March, she moved her private practice, Thrive Therapy, into the office space just down from her family’s entrepreneurial beginnings. As the mother of four kids, Jenn realized “time flies and having my own practice allows me to have more flexibility in my schedule and more time with my family, while continuing to provide the same quality care to those I work with.”
Prior to opening her own practice, Jenn worked at the U.C. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and received incredible training, research, and clinical opportunities. “I found the folks I worked best with and who connected well with me were sexual assault survivors, child abuse survivors, combat veterans, and first responders,” Jenn replied when asked about her clinical focus. “I received a great deal of experience and really grew and developed as a trauma therapist.”
Jenn’s success comes from her compassion
and genuine care for those she treats. She is passionate about taking people from the place they are “stuck” to the place they want to be. She related, “It never gets old seeing people be able to finally heal from past trauma and be able to live life how they want to!”
Jenn Simpson
Jenn received both her Bachelor’s in Psychology and Master’s in Clinical Social Work at the University of Cincinnati. After getting her undergrad degree, Jenn knew she wanted to work somewhere in mental health. She knew she needed a graduate degree but wasn’t sure in what specialty.
Jenn worked for a psychiatrist for a couple of
years, who she said was a wonderful mentor, and during this time realized that with a Master’s in Social Work she could become independently licensed and do clinical work. She had discovered her path and went to work, going to school full-time and juggling a full-time job.
Upon graduation, she worked with a very broad clinical practice but knew she wanted more of a focus. It was at that time she met the woman who would be her boss for the next 11 years and a strong influence on her career path. Through her mentor’s example, Jenn found her love for working with trauma survivors and treating PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).
As her practice grows, she sees an opportunity to become a go-to in the community for people struggling with PTSD. Her knowledge, training, and experience is unique in what she offers, which is only evidence-based therapies. “I see this as an opportunity to become connected with others in the community who treat trauma in different ways,” Jenn said.
As we approach Veteran’s Day, we would like to remember those who have selflessly served our country and the families who supported them. Jenn has an enthusiasm for working with the military and veterans that began with an internship in 2005. She has worked extensively with men and women who have served and can help with many of the issues that arise from military service. She wants those who are
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hurting to know there are effective treatments available and “you do not have to suffer alone.”
“If you are dealing with distressing memories from your service (e.g. combat, military sexual trauma), help is available,” said Jenn. Her favorite saying, “You got this!”, is a great reminder for all of us dealing with difficult situations and challenges.
When not working, Jenn enjoys outdoor activities with her family and especially their annual trips to Madeira Beach, Florida. She especially cherishes “sharing the ocean and the beach life with my kids and having a chance to relax in a calm and peaceful place.” Locally, her favorite Mariemont spot is The Sweeterie. “Please feel free to drop off the double-fudge cupcakes whenever you like,” she quipped!
For more information about Jenn Simpson and Thrive Therapy, please visit www. thrivetherapy.com. Her office is located at 3914 Miami Rd., Suite 209 and she can be reached at 513-780-5313. If you are having suicidal thoughts, please text/call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
A New Voice in the Village Village
By Eli Wendler
As many may have noticed, the Village offices now have a new “voice” on the line. The new phone system is finally here!
In response to water damage suffered in 2015, former councilman Eric Marsland had gathered opinions and put together a plan for the purchase of a new system from Cincinnati Bell. The new Village phone system replaces our 20-yearold damaged equipment and brings to the Village new options for customer service. Residents can now use a single phone number to reach all Village services, while the old numbers will be retained for an easy transition.
New features include voicemail options and auto attendant
functionality that will allow residents to connect directly to services they need. The added ability for employees and department heads to access their voicemail remotely will ensure that messages get returned in a timely fashion. The Village hopes to eventually explore further uses of the system
Village
Marielders News
By Kathy Chapman-Dick Winter Fundraiser -
Texas Roadhouse Gift
Cards
THE MARIELDERS will be selling gift cards to Texas Roadhouse as their winter fundraiser. If you are looking for a unique gift for someone special, this is it. The kickoff will begin on November 6 and run through November 20. Stop by the Center and place your gift card order. The cards should be available by the second week of December.
Great Decisions –South Africa’s Fragile Democracy
On Wednesday, November 14 at 1p.m., we will be discussing The African National Congress party. The ANC has governed South Africa since the end of Apartheid in 1994. But the party suffers from popular frustration over official corruption and economic stagnation. Join us for this lively discussion.
The Roosevelts: An Intimate History
This new documentary series from director Ken Burns explores the lives of Theodore, Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt, three members of the most prominent and influential family in American politics. This 14-hour series will start Monday, November 19 at 2p.m. and will continue every Monday.
Mammography Van
The Mercy/Jewish mammography van will be at the MARIELDERS on December 4 from 1:30-3:30p.m. Call the Center for an appointment at 513-271-5588.
Bridge Players
THE MARIELDERS is looking for bridge players for Friday afternoons at 12:30. We offer two different levels. Upstairs is Party Bridge – lots of laughter, fun and talking. In
our lower level we have more Serious Bridge. If you are interested in playing please call the Center so we can connect you to the organizers.
be both non-fatal and fatal. But the one thing we forget is the cost of a fall. Both financial and personal. There are easy things to do in your own home to help prevent falls, such as
Vote YES on Issue 28 for MARIELDERS!
MARIELDERS was founded in 1977 by residents of the Village of Mariemont. For 41 years, the senior center has provided programs and services to help keep our older adults healthy and independent. Once again we are asking for your support on November 6. Please vote YES for our RENEWAL LEVY, ISSUE 28. Aging is everybody’s business; please make it yours. This levy will not increase your taxes. Thank you.
Exercise, Exercise, Exercise!!!
We have all heard how important it is to exercise; 30 minutes 3x a week…no wait, 20 minutes in short burst….or is it 10 minutes every hour on the hour… Whatever. I have never enjoyed the word or the work of exercise. But I do enjoy when someone says lets go for a walk, or how many steps did you do today. Forgetting that it is exercise.
Over the years everything has changed to how many hours of exercise a week to do. I like to think if you make a good try to get up and move away from the TV you are doing great. As I age I have really seen and felt the difference in my own body. I’m not as strong as I used to be, my joints don’t like to move, and what is that popping noise I keep hearing from my knees? I think the scariest part is losing my balance and falling.
According to the NCOA, one in four Americans age 65+ falls every year. Falls can
removing throw rugs, picking junk up off the floor, and removing large furniture that make it difficult to walk safely through your place.
The other important factor is exercise (it figures). But as we age we do loose are balance, our muscles weaken, and we tire easily. See where this is heading? To avoid falls, strength, balance and stretching exercises are proving to be the key. So be aware of your surroundings, and get out and exercise!
Here at the MARIELDERS we offer a many different exercise classes under our Mindful Maintenance Exercise Program. The purpose of MME is to increase self-awareness of mobility and balance in order to reduce falls. We offer Core and Balance, Maintaining Your Strength, Tai Chi, Laughtercise, Yoga, and Line dancing. If you are interested in any of these classes call the MARIELDERS for at 513-271-5588.
Return on Investment for Home Renovations
By Delta Crabtree
Planning on selling your home in the near future? Or perhaps, planning on home renovation projects to enjoy while also keeping an eye on future resale value? Hopefully I can add some valuable insight on how to wisely invest in your home.
The ultimate goal is for the bathroom to be impeccably clean and that the choice of colors and finishes are cohesive. Although white and neutrals are a safe choice with broad appeal, tastefully selected accent tiles can also give a bathroom a designer’s flair. When in doubt - stay neutral, but also consult with your preferred local real estate professional to discuss bolder color schemes.
#2 - Upgraded Landscaping
Many of us are avid HGTV fans and have learned from episodes of “Property Brothers,” “Love it or List it” and “Flip or Flop” about trends in home design. According to HGTV, these are the top four home renovations that will net you the most Return on Investment (ROI):
#1 - Minor Bathroom Remodel
This category includes replacing a tub, tile surround or floor tile, replacing fixtures such as toilets, sink, vanities, and faucets. Upgrading a bathroom should yield a 100% return. Some local examples that offer high impact for minimal investment are re-grouting tub and tiles, updating lighting fixtures, and replacing an outdated mirror with a modern framed mirror that coordinates with the lighting and faucets. Another low price project is to re-glaze a tub or tile surround instead of replacement.
This includes adding color with flowering shrubs or trees, installing a flagstone walkway, planters, fresh mulch and more! Many homeowners will choose to hire a professional to design an overall landscape plan that will yield the best results. The expected return on this investment is also 100%.
There is no lack of examples in Mariemont of beautifully landscaped yards. On a walk this morning, I saw a lovely terraced front yard with a new stone retaining wall. The bed of greens and seasonal flowers made a major impact on what might have been considered a challenging front yard. If you are faced with a similar challenge, take a walk through the neighborhood and I guarantee you will find inspiration!
#3 - Minor Kitchen Remodel
If your kitchen’s floor plan is good but requires a cosmetic update, consider re-facing or painting wood cabinets, adding a new countertop, and improving the lighting with recessed can
Custom kitchen renovations, such as this one at 6909 Mt. Vernon, can draw a high ROI.
lights and under-cabinet lighting. This remodel will yield a highly motivating 98.5% return on investment!
Shelley Miller Reed of Sibcy Cline shared an example of a recent sale that involved a high ROI: “A minor kitchen upgrade will definitely bring additional value to your home, but buyers will pay a premium for a complete custom renovation. My listing, at 6909 Mt. Vernon, sold in multiple offers over the asking price at $307 per square foot this past summer. The stunning kitchen was beautifully done with all the amenities today’s buyers are looking for including quartz counters, beamed ceiling, high end appliances, light colored cabinetry and open to other rooms. Kitchens, because they are ‘The Heart of a Home,’ sell houses quickly and for a premium!” Shelley provided a photo of this kitchen that is truly inspirational and aspirational!
#4 - Exterior Improvements
Outdoor spaces add curb appeal and a place to enjoy all the new landscaping. You may need to repaint your home or invest in low-maintenance siding. A new front door, or a fresh coat of paint on a front door, can add a welcoming feel. The return on this investment comes in at 95.5%
As always, reach out to one of our capable Mariemont professional realtors for input on all of your real estate questions. No one can give you better insight on our local market than a realtor that is also a neighbor! I am always looking for input and feedback for future columns, so please reach out - dcrabtree@comey.com
Children
What’s Happening at the Mariemont Branch Library - November
Movers & Shakers — 10:30 a.m. & 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.
Crafty Kids 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8
Make and take a fun craft. Ages 5-10.
Tales to Tails — 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8
Read a story to Bonny the therapy dog. Ages 5-10.
Adults
Easy and Beautiful: Holiday Craft — 6:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 12
Make a beautiful holiday ornament! Registration required.
Which Craft? Needle Craft Club — 10:30 a.m. Saturdays, Nov. 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, Nov. 29
Title TBA. Pick up your copy 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; closed Monday, May 28, for Memorial Day
Community
Join in This Year’s Holiday Festivities and Offerings in Mariemont
We invite all businesses and non-profits in and around Mariemont to share your events, activities and offerings going on around the holidays. If you have something you’d like to share in our December issue, please email us at mariemonttowncrier@gmail.com by NOVEMBER 10. Please include: Business/ organization name, event/activity name and 1-2 sentence description, date(s), time(s), and contact info if R.S.V.P. or registration is necessary.
Luminaria & Tree Lighting Saturday, December 1
• 5:30-6:00p.m. – Bell Tower Carillon Concert (Richard Watson)
• 5:30-6:00p.m. – Dance Coalition performs (Main Stage)
• 5:30-7:00p.m. – Food Trucks (Oak & Maple)
• 6:00-6:15p.m. – Opening Ceremonies (Main Stage)
• 6:15p.m. – Lighting of the Tree / Santa’s arrival
Main Stage Entertainment
• 6:20p.m. – Mariemont High School Chorus
• 6:50p.m. – Dance Coalition
Stone Chapel
• 6:25p.m. – Mariemont High School Strings Orchestra
• 6:55p.m. – Mariemont High School Chorus
• 7:25p.m. – Mariemont High School Strings Orchestra
Village Church of Mariemont – Fellowship Hall (Corner of Oak & Maple)
• 6:20-7:45p.m. – Children’s crafts and cookie decorating
• 6:30 & 7:00p.m.- Children’s Nativity Play
The MARIELDERS
Winter FundraiserTexas Roadhouse Gift Cards
Looking for a unique stocking stuffer or a gift for your boss, friend or neighbor? Support the MARIELDERS’ winter fundraiser by ordering a Texas Roadhouse gift card November 6-20 at the MARIELDERS’ Center front desk. Cards will be available by the second week of December.
Mariemont
Schools
Mariemont Elementary
• Thanksgiving Canned Food Drive –November 5-9
• Veterans Day Assembly – Friday, November 9, 9 a.m.
• Special Persons Day – Tuesday,
November 20
• Winter Program (grades K-2) –Monday, December 3 – 6:00 p.m. (K), 6:45 p.m. (1st), 7:15 p.m. (2nd)
• Winter Program (grades 3-4) –Thursday, December 6 – 6:00 p.m. (3rd), 6:45 p.m. (4th)
• Elementary Strings and Band Winter Concert (grades 5-6, ME Auditorium) – Tuesday, December 11 – 6:30 p.m. (strings), 7:30 p.m. (band)
• Elementary Chorus Winter Concert (grades 5-6, ME Auditorium) –Wednesday, December 12 – 7:00 p.m.
Mariemont Junior High
• Winter Concert – Thursday, December 13 – 7 p.m. (ME auditorium)
Mariemont High School
• Veterans Day Assembly – Friday, November 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m
• Key Club Thanksgiving Canned Food Drive – November 12-16
• Mariemont High School Winter Concert – Monday, Dec. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
The Woman’s Art Cultural Center
• Showcase of Art – Featuring 40 venders and several new mediums. Saturday, Dec. 1, 10a.m. - 5p.m. Sunday, Dec. 2, noon - 5p.m.
Mariemont Preservation Foundation
• Members Holiday Party – Sunday, Dec. 2, 5 – 7p.m. at the National Exemplar. To become an MPF member, visit mariemontpreservation.org.
National Merit Scholars Announced
Congratulations to this year’s National Merit SemiFinalists (back row, L to R) Catherine Geary and Anna Scheeser, and Commended Scholars (front row, L to R) Amelia Popowicz, Kate Overbey and Avery Lindner.
Mariemont Garden Club
By Fran Turner
October Tussie-Mussies
The Garden Club of Mariemont met Wednesday, October 3. We heard a fascinating talk on Tussie-Mussies and had the chance to make one for ourselves! Every proper Victorian lady knew how to make one, and would give one as a gift to family or friends when she went calling.
A Tussie-Mussie is a small bouquet of flowers and herbs; each of the flowers in the bouquet has a special meaning. For example, a daisy means friendship, lavender means success, marigold means health or
joy, and, thanks to Shakespeare, we know that rosemary is for remembrance. There are books published on the language of flowers and the Internet also has a great deal of information.
We also learned that in 1890, the Jabez Elliot Flower Market opened on sixth street between Elm and Plum in downtown Cincinnati. Most of the flowers were grown in Delhi. It was thought to be the largest flower market in the country. There is an excellent nursery in Delhi even today!
November and Beyond
On November 7, we will travel to Raptors,
Inc. in Milford. Raptors are birds of prey, and one usually does not want to get as close to them as we will be able to do! To join us, please call Karen Berkich at 271-3612 or email her at edwardkarenber@gmail.com.
We hibernate in the winter months, but on March 5 we will hear from Brian Jorg, manager of the Native Plant Program at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden. His topic will be Bringing up Bulbs. On April 3, Jason Neumann from the Nature Center will speak on Dandelions: Panacea or Plague? These programs will both take place at The Barn at 1 p.m. On April 17 at 6:30 p.m., we will hear about Bats in the Barn. We will meet in The Barn in Mariemont, and if the speaker brings bats from EchoBats, Inc., she will leave with them!
Mark your calendar or tell your cell phone that The Annual Plant Sale will be Saturday May 12, 2019. It will be held on the Municipal Building front lawn from 9a.m.-3p.m. Again we will have members’ plants and beautiful hanging baskets plus some surprises for sale.
Till then, plant bulbs and trees, get the leaves off the lawn, and enjoy the cooler days of fall.
Schools
The Students’ Perspective on the Upcoming Levy
By Olivia Simpson
Students hurry from class to class carrying big loads of books in their backpacks, lunch boxes full of food, and an extra jacket. In each class there is the continuous struggle to focus on what the teacher is saying while not thinking about how hot or cold they are (which depends on the classroom).
When Mother Nature calls, students rush to the bathroom where a strange smell meets them as they open the door. In a few occasions, after they are done, they wash their hands with water only, and are then forced to air dry, since sometimes there is no soap and the hand dryers aren’t working. When the bell
rings, they run outside and see the big, shiny sun that they didn’t even know came out that day due to the lack of windows in each room.
At the high school, there is little consensus about what should happen with the school. But a majority of students agree that the school is falling apart and that something needs to be changed. A problem that a lot of students agree on is the temperature fluctuation from room to room throughout the school.
Downstairs in the Physics lab, students shiver from the lack of heat as they try to listen to their teacher. Junior Naomi Akagha said during Physics it’s so cold that it’s “hard to pay attention.”
Then in the upstairs, everything becomes extremely hot. Josie Holt, a sophomore at the High School said that the Latin room at times feels like “a swamp.”
Temperature regulation isn’t the only problem with the air conditioning, it is also leaking, because of problems with the roofing system. This has become a safety concern for the students. During the first week of school, Mr. Miller, a math teacher at the school, was moved to a different room because the safety of his room and the adjacent bathrooms was questionable.
Mr. Miller’s class has yet to return to their room, and this scare has disrupted the students. Mike Ryan, a junior, said that if the school got fixed he “wouldn’t have to worry about getting crushed by” air conditioning vents. But this is unlikely to happen, and it’s more likely that one would get drenched by water, which is also very unlikely.
This problem is also happening other places around the school. Leaks from the ceiling have caused the floor in the gym to erode, and over time it has been replaced on numerous occasions.
Windows are hard to come by at Mariemont High School.
Healthy School Networks, Inc., a school policy reform organization based in Albany, New York, reported that a school in Fort Collins, Co., found a “7% improvement in test scores in those classrooms that used daylight and a 14% to 18% improvement for those students in the classroom with the largest window areas.”
Windows are a key point to better learning, and Abby Black, a freshman, said that “windows make for happier learning.”
Another problem with the school is its safety. One security guards patrol the school, but if there ever were an extreme emergency, the school would have a problem. Within the history, English, and math pod, there are three unprotected, accessible doors.
Having only one road to drive in and out of the school grounds also is a pain. Juniors and seniors typically have to wait 10 minutes to get off the school property. Holt said, “I’m going to be driving soon and I don’t want to sit through that.”
Still with all the problems the school has, not everyone believes there should be a new school.
Nick Comer, a sophomore, said, “We can have another few years at the school.”
The students at the high school are anticipating the outcome once voters leave their booth on November 6. Some are praying that our school doesn’t fall apart before then. But most are going to have to trust in the adults to make the choice they think is most fitting.
Schools Letters to the Editor Regarding the Upcoming Mariemont Schools Levy
To the residents of the Mariemont City School District:
As real estate professionals working and living in the school district, we want to share our perspective on the proposed Mariemont City Schools Levy, Issue 2.
It’s fairly simple. Communities are defined by their schools, which in turn impacts the value of their homes. The number one factor bringing new families to our neighborhoods is the excellent reputation of the Mariemont City School District.
Our schools’ high achievement and strong support is a huge selling point to buyers and often the reason they end up purchasing in our community. This was evident when our elementary schools and junior high school were updated. Buyer demand increased tremendously which has had a positive impact on the value of our homes.
Let’s come together as communities and support our number one asset, our schools. Please join us in voting FOR Issue 2.
Sincerely,
Christine Adam
Amy Minor
Ogle Annett
Shelley Miller Reed
Rick Block
Debbie Renick-Sims
Delta Crabtree
Malia Ridge
Sherry Crowley
Amy Roe
Molly Bortz Druffel
Lauren Shteiwi
Steve Early
Patti Sibcy
Jerry Garrison
Diane Wiesmann
Steve Hromadke
Molly Zuckerberg
Sandy Koehler
Dear
Editor,
According to Mariemont City Schools
Treasurer/CFO Tom Golinar, our district has passed 94% of its school levies since 1970. This remarkable statistic reflects our 48-year civic commitment to public education. It is a statistic that spans multiple generations, differentiates our community, and reveals the nature of our core values. As a 15-year resident, I am voting FOR Mariemont Schools Issue 2 for the following reasons:
(http://www.mariemontschools.org/mariemonthigh-school/facilities-planning-process)
Our teachers, staff and administration are committed to their fiduciary responsibilities.
Our district has demonstrated a consistent commitment to fiscal conservatism. For example, the district stretched the previous levy by an additional year. This exceptional accomplishment is too often understated and exemplifies the fiduciary commitment by our school board, administration, principals, teachers and staff. I
The community engaged in a transparent and rigorous process involving hundreds of people. Over the last two years, our community engaged in a rigorous process of studying our future academic and infrastructure needs. This was a transparent process that involved hundreds of volunteers across multiple demographics, and included students, parents, residents, teachers, staff, and administrators. After months of study and deliberation, their findings and recommendations were accepted unanimously by the school board. I trust these people, their findings, and the process, and I believe it yielded a solid assessment based on accurate information.
am grateful to them for this achievement, as they were expected to maintain exceptional levels of academic excellence despite $1 million in state funding reductions. If the levy passes, I trust that they will continue to manage our tax dollars wisely. (http://www.mariemontschools.org/about/ blog/1615912/we-must-maintain-the-excellenceof-mariemont-city-schools-clone)
A downgrade in our academic services will negatively impact our students and teachers.
The ongoing reductions in state funding for public schools, coupled with the increasing costs of maintaining our outdated high school,
will have negative consequences on our district’s financial health. If the levy does not pass, this will result in financial constraints that will lead to a reduction in critical programs for all schools. The administration will also be forced to cut into the muscle of our academic offerings and student services in ways that will have an adverse impact on our children, teachers, and community.
(http://www.mariemontschools.org/newsand-events/news/1644189/mariemont-cityschools-board-takes-action-to-balance-budget-ifnovember-6-levy-is-not-approved-by-voters)
The economic benefits of maintaining a highly-rated school district cannot be ignored, and I tend to view the recurring increases to my property value as a direct benefit of passing school levies. However, the financial gains afforded to property owners who consistently support their local school districts, pales in comparison to the future we are building for our children. The school board we elected, the administrators and teachers that we trust with our children, the hundreds of residents who volunteered their time and talent to a multi-year due diligence process, have asked us for our help. We should honor the 48-year commitment we have made to our schools by voting FOR Mariemont Schools Issue 2 on November 6.
Sincerely, Jamie Flerlage
Flerlage and his family live in Terrace Park and are active members of their schools, church and community.
Dear Editor and Residents of the Mariemont City School District,
Issue 2 is a SMART, FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE approach that was VETTED EXTENSIVELY FOR TWO YEARS through a citizen-based committee and many talented volunteers. After considering all the alternatives, the current plan is the best plan and IT WILL SUFFICIENTLY ADDRESS the critical and immediate safety, operational and facility needs facing our schools.
Along with hundreds of community volunteers, we had the honor of recently participating in the high school facility master planning process. This was literally a two-year
Schools
process during which our team, local citizens, and staff thoroughly vetted all possible building options for our school district. We are deeply appreciative for this open approach and feel that our school leaders appropriately utilized our knowledge and experience as alumni, parents, residents and professionals involved in business, finance and real estate.
During the previous facilities planning process in 2009, it was clearly stated that Mariemont High School had significant needs. However, given budget realities, the 2009 community committee recommended that the district prioritize the work needed on the other facilities and continue ongoing maintenance as needed at the high school. The administration accepted this guidance, and the community came together to pass a bond issue for the renovation and rebuilding of Mariemont Elementary, Terrace Park Elementary and Mariemont Junior High.
Over the last decade, the physical improvement needs at the high school have only grown. Despite costly repairs that have been completed, the campus has serious safety, structural and mechanical problems that continue to decline and need to be addressed very soon. The high school also needs updated classrooms and labs appropriate for today’s science, technology, engineering and math courses. We encourage you to take a tour and see for yourself—simply call the school office at 2727600.
After much research and deliberation, we can say the recommended plan put forth—called “Issue 2” on the ballot—is the best, most fiscally responsible, plan that meets these needs.
Several design options were considered, deeply analyzed, and presented to the public. With significant community input, the committees determined the other alternatives to not be as feasible or prudent as the course of action we recommended. The “repair as needed” option costs less in next couple of years, but it was woefully insufficient and left unaddressed the safety and academic needs in the building—and our committees agreed this was not a wise long-term solution. Our district would have to re-engage in major construction within the next five years or so because the academic and safety needs in the building would not have been addressed. And waiting results in higher construction costs. Likewise, the much more
expensive “all new” option was unnecessary as there is equity in some of the existing high school areas that could be protected and still allow us to accomplish what needs improved.
The “hybrid” option we moved forward gets the job done once and for all, isn’t excessive and takes care of the needs identified by industry experts and the hundreds of community volunteers who participated in the process.
As taxpayers who help fund the system, we expect our schools to make good financial decisions. We believe that Issue 2 allows our schools to do just that. Issue 2 will provide the necessary funds so that our district will no longer have to divert funds from the daily operating budget in order to make emergency repairs as they arise. That kind of trade-off takes funding away from the classroom, and it really does not offer a long-term solution to the underlying problems.
Issue 2 will allow our schools to do what needs to be done in order to update the building structurally, mechanically, educationally and for safety needs. After reviewing all the options, we know this is a reasonable and prudent request. Issue 2 is a smart and fiscally responsible plan. It will provide our schools with the resources they need to invest in our high school facilities and provide operating dollars so that we can secure the future for the high quality of education that we care about here in Mariemont.
Given our experience reviewing the detailed information, we urge you to vote FOR Issue 2 in this election. Issue 2 is smart business.
Sincerely,
Pete Findley, Terrace Park Resident
Todd Pease, Mariemont Resident
Beth Finke, Mariemont Resident
Henry Purdy, Columbia Township Resident
Phil Forbes, Terrace Park Resident
Steve Spooner, Mariemont Resident
Susan Fraley, Mariemont Resident
Dan Telgkamp, Fairfax Resident
John Getgey, Mariemont Resident
Suzy Weinland, Mariemont Resident
Bridgett Karlson, Mariemont Resident
Dina Wilder, Mariemont Resident
Rick Koehler, Terrace Park Resident
Rusty Wilson, Terrace Park Resident
Fall at The Barn
International Quilt Exhibit Exclusively at The Barn
The Barn is pleased to announce that it will host an international quilt show December 11-23, sponsored by The Cherrywood Quilt Company (CQC) and brought to Cincinnati by Fiber Art at The Barn and The Contemporary Quilt and Fiber Art group. The Barn is the country’s only venue displaying the complete collection.
The exhibit has extended hours from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesdays through Fridays, and from 1-4 p.m. on the weekends.
In recognition of the display, The Barn invites the community to attend its Dec. 13 ARTflix film entitled “Loving Vincent.” Visitors will have an opportunity to appreciate the van Gogh-inspired quilts as well as enjoy a film about his life. The film begins at 7 p.m. Both
they’re looking for and how they determined its worth. Please note that this estimated evaluation is not an official assessment and cannot be used for tax, estate, or other legal purposes, according to Mariemont resident Marie Huenefeld, event coordinator.
Cowan’s specialist will examine paintings, prints, pottery, porcelain, glass, folk art, small furniture, silver, jewelry and watches. Photographs are acceptable.
Each item will cost $25. Proceeds will help pay for more than 30 public free or low-cost events each year pertaining to the visual and performing arts.
In 2017 CQC challenged artists around the world to create a 24 x 24-inch quilt about Dutch Post-Impressionist Vincent van Gogh. CQC chose 200 quilts, then split the entries into a French and Dutch exhibition. Cincinnati is the only city in the U.S. to display both French and Dutch installations.
Ten of the exhibitors reside in the Greater Cincinnati area and eight of them are members of CQAFA, which meets monthly at The Barn. The exhibition travelled through the U.S., England, France, and Australia in 2018. Once displayed in Cincinnati, the exhibit will be dismantled and quilts sent back to the original artists.
“It is an exquisite exhibit and I am hoping lots of people will come see it,” said Susan Austen, Volunteer Fiber Art Coordinator. “Most children learn about Van Gogh throughout their education so it is not only a wonderful exhibit for adults, but family friendly as well.”
events are free and open to the public.
The Contemporary Quilt and Fiber Art group meets monthly at The Barn on the second Monday of the month from 7-9 p.m.
Openings Still Available for Roadshow
Wes Cowan, the internationally-recognized expert in historic Americana and frequent appraiser in the PBS television series Antiques Roadshow, is sending three of his representatives to The Barn, also known as The Woman’s Art Cultural Center (WACC), for a roadshow-style event to benefit the WACC Foundation.
The Barn invites registrants to bring a treasured item to the Barn on Nov. 9., then tell the story of the forgotten treasure - passed down in family, unearthed at a flea market, or left behind in an attic. Cowan’s specialists will evaluate the items, and briefly explain what
To register for the event, go to thebarn. cincyregister.com/cowanroadshow2018. As always, The Barn welcomes walk-ins. The Roadshow runs from 9 a.m. until Noon.
Showcase of Art
More than 40 top artists and artisans of the region present their work just in time for the holiday gift-giving season. The Barn’s gallery and loft will be transformed into a an art lover’s dream filled with finely-crafted wood, glass, paper, ceramic and fiber creations.
“Cakes Come True and Truffles, Too” will supply delicious artistry by Jane Cervantes and fiber-artist Jane Lach will have the perfect apron to wear while you serve them. Shoppers will have an array of jewelry, home decorations and live-greenery from the Girl Scouts from which to choose.
Hours are 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., Saturday,
Cont'd on next page
Quilt Show Finalists, L-R: Susan Austin, Carole Price, Robbie Porter, Nora MacFarlane, Betsy Terrill, Lynn Ticotsky, Jenny Farrell-Graham, and Cris Fee. Missing from the picture are Larry McKenny and Sue Paas.
Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center
December 1, and noon until 5 p.m.on Sunday, December 2. Handicap-accessible parking is near the door. Hourly raffles.
Everybody Loves Saturday Mornings
Mariemont Preservation Foundation Presents…
Nov. 17 Family Artmaking - Artist Beth Renick
Dec. 15 The Wizard of Oz – MadCap Puppets
Jan. 26 Cyrano – Cincinnati Playhouse Off the Hill
Feb. 16 Rosa Parks – TCT on Tour, a division of the Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati
Mar. 16 Variety Puppet Show – Frisch Marionettes
Apr. 6 Family Artmaking - artist Beth Renick
May 18 Five Little Monkeys – Cincinnati Playhouse Off the Hill
ARTflix: An Evening of Vincent van Gogh- Fiber and Film
The Barn invites the community to celebrate the life and work of Vincent van Gogh through the unique venues of film and fiber. On December 13, ARTflix features a most amazing accomplishment in film production. Loving Vincent is the world’s first full-length movie using oil-painted frames. Funded by the Polish Film Institute, this 2017 piece employed the talents of more than 100 artists who painted more than 65,000 frames of van Gogh’s techniques to depict the story of his life and death. “Loving Vincent” is the recipient of the Golden Eagle Award for Best Foreign Language Film and for the European Film Award for Best Animated Feature in 2017.
The Barn doors open at 6:30 p.m. for an introduction; the film begins at 7 p.m. BYOB. Soft drinks, snacks, and door prizes are available. No charge.
Dec. 13 “Loving Vincent” (2017). Van Gogh quilts will be available for viewing.
Jan. 10 “The Agony & the Ecstasy” (1965)
Feb. 7 “Words & Pictures” (2013) —A love story for February.
Mar. 14 “Rembrandt” (1936)
Apr. 11 “Camille Claudel” (1988)
May 9 Double Feature! “Matisse-Picasso” (2002) AND “A Model for Matisse”
Reservations: thebarncincyregister.com/ artflix. The Barn welcomes walk-ins.
Fall Art Classes at The Barn
Drawing the Face and Hands with Charlie Berger: Intermediate, or Beginner with some experience. Graphite and charcoal. Each session with a professional model. Fee: $175 includes the model fee. Call 513-272-3700.
Drawing Bootcamp - Essentials of Good Drawing with Charlie Berger: Five Thursdays from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Classes are for beginners or those with little experience. Fee is $145. 513212-4679.
Drawing Mariemont - Landscapes and Adventures with Charlie Berger: Fee: $165. Call 513-212-4679 for days and times.
Mosaics with Sandy Caruso: To sign up, go to the Art Academy Community Education page.
Pencil, Paint and Composition with Eileen McConkey: Tuesdays at Noon. 513-801-7648 or Eileen.mcconkey@gmail.com.
Introduction to Creative Drawing and Painting with Dave Laug: Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to Noon. All levels. 513-831-5338 or dvdlaug@gmail.com.
WACC Open Studio: Tuesdays from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. Free for members; $5 for nonmembers (Cash only, please.) No sign-up required.
WACC Open Model Sketch: First and Third Tuesdays, 1–4 p.m., $10 for members, $15 for non-members—cash only. Deborah Ridgley at 513-259-9302.
Oil Painting with Jan Boone: Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and 1:154:15 p.m. $20 per class. 513-791-7044 or janwrites@fuse.net.
Acrylic Painting with Dave Laug: Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m.–Noon and 7–10 p.m. dvdlaug@gmail.com or 513-885-5284.
Drawing and Painting: Thursdays with Mary Lou Holt. 1:30-4:30 p.m. Through November 15, then January 17-March 7. 513226-3833 or marylou@marylouiseholt.com.
Oil Painting with Jeff Morrow: Thursdays from 6-9 p.m. jeffmorrow@gmail.com or 937267-6868.
China Painting: Please visit artatthebarn.org.
Graduate Pastels with Ray Hassard: Second and final Fridays of each month. 12-3 p.m. 513- 941-1116.
Cincinnati Skyline Intro to Quilting (Fusible Appliqué and Basic Quilting) with Abby Graham. Two weeks. Mondays Nov. 19 and 28. Artatthebarn.org or 513-272-3700.
Heads up!
Mark your calendar for The Art We Make. The Woman’s Art Club All-Member Show invites the community to attend its opening reception on January 18 at 5 p.m.
Did you know…
Norman Rockwell’s Thanksgiving Dinner, also known as Freedom from Want, was reproduced as a poster promoting war bonds during World War II? Inspired by Franklin D. Roosevelt’s State of the Union Address entitled Four Freedoms, Rockwell completed the 45-inch by 35-inch painting in oil. The Saturday Evening Post published it on March 6, 1943.
Village Government
Due to the considerable length and intricate nature of most Mariemont Village Council meeting minutes, and the desire to inform residents of as many council and committee issues as possible, the Town Crier will no longer run full council minutes. Instead, we will attempt to include brief summaries of monthly council meetings and any committee meetings that may have occurred during the previous month. Complete Council agendas and minutes as well as agendas and minutes for ARB and Planning Commission can be found on the Village website at www.mariemont.org. You can also request that agendas and minutes be emailed directly to you by contacting Sue Singleton in the Village administration office at ssingleton@ mariemont.org.
Regular Council Meeting- September 24
Mr. Bob Blum addressed the council regarding the issue of hiring attorney, Jack Hemminway of Frost, Brown, Todd LLC, for the Village. After much discussion, councilmember Bartlett said he agreed that perhaps we should be looking at other law firms as well.
Mr. Jerry Vianello addressed the council regarding concerns he had about the special council meeting.
Councilmember Schwartz moved, seconded by Councilmember Palazzolo to pay the bills as approved by the Fiscal Officer, Mayor and Chairman of the Finance Committee. Mayor Policastro will make a claim to the insurance companies of both the electrician and the general contractor. He will place the statement of loss in the Council packet when it is complete. On roll call; six ayes, no nays.
Councilmember Bartlett moved, seconded by Councilmember Brown to accept the recommendation of the Finance Committee which met to discuss input that had been previously collected on updating the Village website. Bartlett said he spoke with Mr. Marsland and Ms. Wendler and it was decided to brainstorm and come back to the Committee. On roll call; six ayes, no nays.
Councilmember Rankin moved, seconded by Councilmember Palazzolo to accept the recommendation of the Finance Committee which was held to discuss the need to purchase new in-car computers for the police cars. After consulting with Fiscal Officer Tony Borgerding, the committee recommends approving $13,000
to purchase and install new in-car computers for the remaining four police cars. Fiscal Officer Borgerding said the installation will come out of the General Fund and will be split between the other two funds. On roll call; six ayes, no nays.
Mr. Brown moved, seconded by Mr. Bartlett, to accept the recommendation of the Safety Committee. The Committee recommends leaving parking as is on Maple behind the “honey moon suite”. If there is not already a speed limit sign on Maple one is to be added. Mrs. Graves said several residents from Maple Street came for the discussion. They viewed the area with the Police Chief and Village Engineer and it was not deemed too much of a safety hazard. There was a proposal to change the angle of the parking but that would reduce one parking space. Mrs. Rankin said there was also discussion to have the speed monitor displayed to help reduce the speed. On roll call; six ayes, no nays.
Mayor Policastro said we are still having problems on Homewood Road. Mrs. Rankin said when the digging began last Thursday it was discovered that a Cincinnati Bell electric and fiber optic line needed to be moved and it will require an additional cost. It is an additional discovery.
Councilmember Rankin said Council received an email from The Waldorf School. Mayor Policastro said yesterday Dr. Tankersley and Ms. Schomburg went to measure everything off. The Waldorf School is trying to say that there is not an Indian burial ground alongside of the Pioneer Grave Yard. Mayor Policastro said the Parks Board has been working on this and once they have all the information then he will bring it to Council.
Mr. Bartlett said he talked with Mr. Brown about putting in place the new Ordinance regarding the satellite dishes. He approached Mr. Keyes who said he needs help enforcing it. We have a rule on the books that is very clear about how they need to be positioned. Mayor Policastro referred the matter back to committee.
Mr. Bartlett said the Finance Committee is to look into the matter of part-time help for the Building Department and it was brought to his attention that we have three people, Patty Busam, Debbie Combs and Sue Singleton, retiring in the next 15 months. It seems like it would be an opportunity to look at what is the best lineup of people in different roles. Mayor Policastro referred to the Committee of the Whole.
Council Representatives
Rob Bartlett robbartlettcouncil@gmail.com
Bill Brown wbrown1750@gmail.com
Avia Graves agraves@mariemont.org
Maggie Palazzolo magpal00@gmail.com
Kelly Rankin kellrankincouncil@gmail.com
Mary Ann Schwartz maschwartz@mariemont.org
Mayor: Dan Policastro mayordan1@gmail.com
Regular Council Meeting- September 10
Assistant Fire Chief Chief Kiefer is working with the Maintenance Department to put a second sump pump in the Municipal Building.
Superintendent Scherpenberg reported there was some tree damage on Wooster Pike by the Elementary School and also some down on Flintpoint. Most of the damage was branch hangers and most of the trees will survive but the one on Wooster will more than likely have to come down. Superintendent Scherpenberg said the tree that was struck on Hammerstone and Pleasant is scheduled to be removed and was on the schedule prior to being hit.
Mr. Tim Feichtner, Mariemont Fire Department, was granted permission to address Council to discuss facility concerns at the Municipal Building. As many know, the Municipal Building was constructed in the early 1960’s and was never meant to house the number of employees that currently work out of it today. During this time there have been very limited upgrades to the building which has in turn allowed for multiple problems to develop and in turn fester. If any changes have been made to the building it has been merely cosmetic with some minor construction. All of the upgrades (excluding the building addition) have been completed by the employees. This includes construction of a day room and sleeping quarters for the firefighters, the construction of the shed, and small kitchen remodel. Due to issues with ongoing construction and flooding in the basement, moral is at an all time low. He
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Boy Scout Christmas Tree Sales in 26th Year
The Boy Scouts of Mariemont Troop 149 will return for their 26th consecutive year of Christmas tree sales on Black Friday, November 23. Located on the lawn of the Mariemont Municipal Building at 6907 Wooster Pike, the Boy Scout Christmas tree lot is an annual tradition for many in the area. New this year, we’re extending our Black Friday hours: noon to 8 p.m., so you can kick the season off right!
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 23 to December 16 (or until we run out of trees,
so don’t put off coming to see us!) Learn more about the tree sales, including hours, at Troop 149’s Facebook page: Facebook.com/ BoyScoutChristmasTree.
asked that Council meet to address the building conditions and to allow for employees to voice their concerns. Councilmember Palazzolo asked that it be referred to The Committee of the Whole and Councilmember Bartlett agreed to look into building grants.
Councilmember Brown moved, seconded by Councilmember Schwartz to pay the bills as approved by the Fiscal Officer, Mayor and Chairman of the Finance Committee. On roll call; six ayes, no nays.
Councilmember Graves moved, seconded by Councilmember Palazzolo to accept the recommendation of the Public Works and Service Committee which met on Friday September 7, 2018 in Council Chambers to discuss changing the schedule for trash, recycling, yard waste, and large item collection in the Village to one day per week instead of two separate days. After discussion, the Committee recommends making the change to having all trash, recycling, yard waste and large items collected throughout the Village on Tuesdays, beginning with the first Tuesday in October 2018.
Councilmember Bartlett moved, seconded by Councilmember Schwartz to accept the recommendation of the Public Works and Service Committee was held at 12:00 pm on Friday September 7, 2018 in Council Chambers to discuss approving the additional costs necessary
for the Homewood Road improvement project. A revision in plans was made necessary due to Duke Energy gas line being inaccurately marked on the original plan map. After discussion, the Committee recommends approving an additional $20,000 for the project. On roll call; six ayes, no nays.
Councilmember Graves moved, seconded by Councilmember Rankin to accept the recommendation of the Committee of the Whole which met to discuss extending Chief Rick Hines’ employment past his set retirement date of December 31, 2018. The Committee agreed to recommend that Council approve the contract. On roll call; six ayes, no nays.
Councilmember Brown said there have been communications with Mr. Heines’ attorney regarding the Steam Plant. Solicitor McTigue said he never heard the word condominium until they met a couple weeks ago. They still need approval for the project. Brown said there are still disputes over the property lines and the surveyors need to get together and that the first obstacle will be when they submit their geotechnical plans. There is some confusion on what was first proposed and what is being done now.
Council discussed the possibility of hiring an attorney, Jack Hemminway of Frost, Brown, and Todd LLC, to represent the village in the area of municipal law. Members expressed their concern and the need for hiring an additional attorney to assist the village.
Councilmember Palazzolo said she is still working on the Noise Ordinance and hopes to have the final meeting soon. She wants to review the original paperwork with The Barn to make sure we did not overlook something.
Resolution “To Accept the Amounts and Rates as Determined by the Budget Commission and Authorizing the Necessary Tax Levies and Certifying Them to the County Auditor” had a first reading.
Ordinance “To Renew Current Contract for the Following Kinds of Insurance: Real and Personal Property, Comprehensive General Liability, Business Automobile, and Other Coverages; To Pay Premiums; and To Declare Emergency” considered. After discussion, On roll call; six ayes, no nays. Councilmember Schwartz moved, seconded by Councilmember Brown to invoke the emergency clause. On roll call; six ayes, no nays. Ordinance No. O-22-18 was adopted.
Special Council Meeting – September 4
Council voted to fill the vacancy left by Eric Marsland. Six candidates were on the ballot, and they were heard in alphabetical order. Those candidates were: Matt Ayer, Bill Brown, Michael Cain, Sean Jordan, Charles Kronke, and Craig Waltz.
After many residents shared their support for various candidates, Mr. Bill Brown was elected by council to fill the vacancy.
Council Minutes (from prev. page)
Village
Shop Small on Small Business Saturday
Support Local Small Businesses on November 24
Small Business Saturday is celebrated on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. This year it takes place on Saturday, November 24.
Eyecare on the Square
6833 Wooster Pike
Stop in Saturday, Nov. 24, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., and take 20-50% off all in-house frames, brand dependent.
Sandwiched between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, it is a day to support small, brickand-mortar businesses with holiday shopping. This unique shopping day is a registered trademark of American Express, created by the company in 2010 and aggressively marketed via social media, radio and national broadcasting. In 2013, the United Kingdom adopted their own Small Business Saturday after the success of the American holiday. The U.K holiday is celebrated on the first Saturday in December.
Here are some Small Business Saturday offers around Mariemont for you to enjoy while supporting our local businesses:
Sara Benjamin’s
6810 Wooster Pike
Make a purchase on Friday, Nov 23 or Saturday, Nov. 24 and receive 25% off your entire purchase. Come check out our modern take on the classic boutique experience! Sizes and styles to fit every lifestyle.
National Exemplar
6880 Wooster Pike
(inside the Mariemont Inn)
The Exemplar is making shopping in Mariemont a little sweeter! On Small Business Saturday (Nov. 24), visit one of the many neighboring retailers and then stop by the Exemplar to enjoy cozy fireplaces, overstuffed chairs, delectable desserts, and steaming hot drinks. Show your server your shopping receipt and enjoy $5 towards any entrée! For more information about The National Exemplar, its history, menu, hours, and neighboring businesses, please visit www. nationalexemplar.com.
Remember to shop local this holiday season and support your Mariemont area small businesses!
YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ORTHODONTIST
Wnek…
Village
Village Worship Services
Village Church of Mariemont
Villagechurchofmariemont.org
Todd Keyes, Pastor
Jamie Keyes, Children’s Ministries
Invite a friend or neighbor and join us for worship services each Sunday at 10 a.m. at the Mariemont Memorial Stone Chapel on Cherry Lane. Children’s Sunday School for pre-K through 6th grade is provided, during the service, at the VCM building, 3920 Oak St. (corner of Oak and Maple), just a block from the Chapel.
Current & Ongoing:
Sunday Sermon Series - Join us in the month of November for “If You Want to Walk on Water, You’ve Got to Get Out of the Boat!” This series will guide you to overcome fears and doubts by following Christ’s call so you learn to live the life God intended for you.
Wednesday Night Prayer and Discussion - Join us every Wednesday night in our Oak Street Building from 6:00-7:30 p.m. for dessert as we start with prayer and then enjoy teaching and discussion on “Being the Best Stewards of Our Lives.”
Hurricane Victims’ Donations - Every Sunday this month we will have a donation
box at our Sunday Worship Service for victims of Hurricane Michael. Please see the Matthew 25 Ministry website for details on donations - m25m.org.
Whiz Kids – Weekly after-school reading program at Mariemont Elementary. Anyone interested in tutoring a child in this program please contact Jamie Keyes at jamiekeyes6@ gmail.com
Men’s Breakfast – First Saturday of each month at 8 a.m. in the VCM fellowship hall.
Coming Up:
Children’s Nativity Play - At the Tree Lighting on December 1, our children will perform a wonderful Nativity Play in our Oak Street Building Sanctuary. There will be two performances at 6:30 p.m. and 7:00 pm.
Mariemont Community Church
Mariemontchurch.org
Denis Beausajoir, Senior Pastor
Paul Rasmussen, Worship Pastor Leslie Seetin, Children’s Director
Mariemont Community Church welcomes you to their Sunday services, held at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. at the Parish Center building, 3908 Plainville Rd. All activities are held at the Parish Center unless otherwise noted.
Coming Up:
Tree Lighting Concerts in the Chapel Saturday, December 1 6:20, 6:55, 7:30 p.m.
Advent Services at the Parish Center Sundays, December 2, 9, 16, and 23 9:00 and 11:00 a.m.
Ongoing:
Weekly Prayer Meeting – Wednesdays, 7-8 p.m. There will not be a prayer meeting on November 21.
Joy in the Morning Women’s Bible StudyTuesdays, 9:15-11:15 a.m.
Evening Joy Women’s Bible Study - 1st and 3rd Mondays, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Family Shop Sale – Second and fourth Saturdays of each month, 9 a.m.-noon.
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
