Steadfastly Serving Seniors: Spotlight on Marielders’ Kathy Chapman-Dick
By Pete McBride
There seems to be a mounting wealth of evidence that many of the traditional “challenges” of aging can be offset by certain healthful practices and lifestyle variables. These include maintaining a beneficial diet, exercising, getting plenty of sleep, scheduling regular medical checkups, and so on. All good stuff. (Visit https:// www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/healthyaging-secret#1, for just one example of the many articles out there on healthy aging.)
Aside from these more tangible best practices, medical research also strongly indicates that tending to the cognitive/ emotional/social needs of our more mature relatives, friends and neighbors is equally important. Such “enrichment of life” supports are what Kathy Chapman-Dick and her team at the impressive Marielders Senior Center so strongly endorse and are so deeply and professionally committed to providing to their members.
Since 2012, Kathy has served as the executive director of Marielders Inc., the not-for-profit senior center housed at 6923 Madisonville Road – modestly positioned between the Mariemont Inn building and the Mariemont Executive Building at the corner of West Street and Madisonville Road. She will be resigning her position at the end of this year after an impressive 36-year career focused on geriatrics.
Kathy’s passion and avocation for teaching and working with the elderly, as well as wanting to serve and give back locally, were well-cultivated by several factors:
Kathy was born in Cincinnati, raised in Kettering, and obtained her BA in Social Work with a specialty in geriatric populations from University of Cincinnati.
Kathy was close to her two grandmothers, who were a study in
opposites. One was a devout Quaker who was finally convinced that it was not inappropriate for a righteous woman to wear blue jeans under her dress, “if only –for the sake of female modesty.” She lived to be 101. Kathy’s other grandma was an
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Barb Hampton, Helen Whitling, Kathy Chapman-Dick and Kim Flick at Marielders’ Italian Festival last April.
Spotlight (from page 1)
outgoing, fun-loving woman who earned the nickname “Hoo-Hoo” from her practice of greeting her regular friends and visitors to her home in Xenia with that standard greeting. Granny Hoo-Hoo lived with fun and joyfulness well into her 80s.
Kathy’s dad, a math teacher, loved teaching and coaching high school baseball.
Kathy’s first job was at the Dayton Senior Center, where she worked for three years as a social worker and then moved to an adult daycare center at the YMCA. She moved to Cincinnati and went to work for the Council on Aging as a case manager for the Passport Program, which provides in-home care for home-based adults. As a case manager, Kathy met Barb Anderson, her predecessor as executive director for Marielders. After that, Kathy joined the Cincinnati Jewish Community Center in geriatric case management, including “Meals-on-Wheels” services.
In 2000, Kathy was hired by Marielders as activities director. She then became the social worker and was thereafter promoted to executive director in 2012, replacing Barb Anderson who retired in 2011. In all three roles, she quickly recognized that “in a small place like Marielders, you do everything, including, when needed, ‘building maintenance’.” Marielders accomplishes a great deal with a very small staff that includes Kathy, Activities Coordinator Nicole Christ, and Transportation Coordinator Kim Flick, who drives the Marielders van.
Marielders is open to anyone 55 and older living in the Greater Cincinnati area. It currently has approximately 350 members, about half of whom are Mariemont residents. The rest are from Fairfax, Madison Place, Anderson, Newtown, Terrace Park, northern Kentucky, and elsewhere. About 130-140 of all
members participate regularly.
Part of the appeal of Marielders is its small size and its family-like atmosphere. Newcomers describe their first visits to the Marielders Center as “being like the first day of school” and afterward wonder “what took me so long to finally go there.” Hence, although their clever informational pamphlet and impressive monthly newsletters are effective awarenessbuilders, much of the Marielders marketing and membership recruitment efforts are largely the result of word-of-mouth endorsements.
Apart from its important function as an informal and welcoming gathering space, the Marielders hosts a virtual smorgasbord of activities: “Mindful Maintenance Exercise” classes, canasta, dominoes, Mah Jong, advanced and party bridge,
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MARIEMONT REAL ESTATE TRIVIA
FROM A VALUED CLIENT
Shelley did a great job helping us buy our new house in Mariemont, while selling our existing home. She guided us through the process and helped minimize the disruption in our lives.
art class, book groups, health and lecture presentations, holiday luncheons, “High Teas”, and technology support, including a well-furnished computer lab. Outings include museum and historical trips; theater, sporting, and concert events; “Just the Guys” tours; outdoor excursions; and casino and horseracing outings.
These and other operational functions of the Center are funded by a 1 mil Mariemont property tax levy that began back in 1978 (the first senior center in Ohio to receive such) under a “recreation” provision in the tax code. The levy raises about $65,000 annually. The Center Receives Title III funding from the Older Americans Act through the Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio, from local businesses and groups, and also from private donations. (For example, a local gentleman who had recently lost his wife kindly donated her doll collection and
commercial sewing equipment to the Marielders, who raised $25,000 through his generosity.) Funds are also generated via the Center’s Italian Festival, summer Junque Sale, and from its late fall letter campaign.
Kathy is especially gratified and driven by that fact that the Center is able to serve a number of members – male and female – who might otherwise feel isolated and alone, including those who are single or perhaps have recently lost a spouse or significant other. Many members talk about making new friendships that have been lifechanging for the better.
She also shared that she gets a bit tearyeyed and misses members and friends at Marielders whom she has loved and cared about, but who have passed on. When asked what was the hardest part of her otherwise greatly fun and highly rewarding
job, Kathy unhesitatingly and in a hushed and reverent tone answered simply: “The funerals.”
But Kathy’s job has not been without its share of laughter, too. She recalls the time a man called the Marielders Center looking for someone “old” – insinuating bored, desperate, exploitable, and eager for something to do – to perform “cleaning, ironing, and babysitting” services for him; supposedly at a low hourly rate. Good luck with that, pal.
Then there was a time when a tall, rampart-like, and institutional-looking, non-see-through privacy fence ran along the lot-line of the Marielders building. One fine day, a number of the members were outside the building (but within the enclosed and out-of-sight side yard)
The
Club
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Spotlight (from page 3)
chatting, enjoying the weather, and having fun. A group of 30-to-40-something year old adults passed by outside of the fence, heard the voices and laughter, and – unaware of what the Center was – one remarked: “Isn’t that nice? They finally let the ‘old people’ outside for some exercise and fresh air!” No joke.
Kathy’s decision to resign at the end of the year comes from her sense that, although it has been a very difficult decision for her, “fresh blood is needed” for the good of the organization. She is undecided as to what will come next for herself, but we suspect that whatever it is, she will be successful.
So, and as an honest and wise, 19-year-
Community
veteran’s retrospective on what her own position has entailed, Kathy recommended that her successor as executive director of Marielders be equipped with some of the following talents and dispositions:
• Ability to build trust and work with the not-for-profit organization’s by-laws and Board of Trustees
• Fundraising experience, and experience with social services networks
• Abundant, flexible, and “giving” leadership skills to serve the staff, the volunteers, and the membership
• People skills in general, but especially those most appropriate when interacting with older adults
• The ability to have fun and to enjoy thoroughly what you are doing
Thank you, Kathy! And congratulations on your 19 years of dedicated service to, and leadership of, the exemplary Marielders organization.
The Marielders Board of Trustees will be holding an Open House to recognize and thank Kathy Chapman-Dick on Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2019 from 4-7 p.m. at the The Barn Woman’s Art Club and Cultural Center, 6980 Cambridge Ave., Mariemont. Call (513) 271-5588 for information.
To learn more about Marielders, call (513) 271-5588, email Marielders@yahoo. com, or visit www.marielders.org.
Mariemont Area Chamber of Commerce: Join in!
Attention area businesses! Please join other local companies as we establish a local chamber for the Mariemont area. Goals of the chamber include:
• To further the interests of our local businesses
• To advocate on behalf of the business community
• To provide networking opportunities
• To offer cost-saving benefits to employers through SOCA (Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance)
• To work together on events that would showcase the local businesses
• To improve the economic, civic, and cultural wellbeing of the area
If you would like to be added to the list for future meetings, please email Kim Beach at kim@ insurethevillage.com.
By Kristen Van Scoy
FAB Affair Ramps Up for a Spectacular 10th Year
Mark your calendars! The tenth annual FAB Affair will be held Saturday, March 14, at the Cincinnati Music Hall Ballroom.
The FAB Committee is working hard to create a memorable night full of fun, excitement and surprises you won’t want to miss! The event features dinner and drinks, basket raffles, and a live auction, during which highdollar packages are sold.
Hosted jointly by the Mariemont School Foundation (MSF), Arts Association (MAA) and Athletic Boosters
organizations, the FAB Affair packs three fundraisers into one spectacular night. Funds raised are split equally between the groups, funding critical school district needs in the areas of education excellence, athletics and arts. Event planning responsibility rotates between the three benefitting organizations, with MAA overseeing the 2020 event.
Ticket sales begin in February, but there are some ways you can get
involved now. To become involved as an event sponsor or donate an item or experience, please contact the MSF office at info@mariemontschoolfoundation.org.
By David Peterson
Community Kiwanis Holiday Nut Sale in Full Swing
The Kiwanis Club of Mariemont has kicked off its annual nut sale fundraiser, with all proceeds benefiting local scholarships. Just in time for the holidays, their large variety of offerings are great for family, employee and client gifts, or just snacking at home! Cashews, mixed nuts, and a variety of chocolate covered offerings are perfect for any occasion.
“Our annual nut sale has continued to grow year after year,” said Chairman David Peterson, “We have a blast being involved with the school concerts and really appreciate them letting us be a part of that. It’s gotten to the point where people expect us to be there and look forward to it, which
is great to see.”
This year’s fundraiser will once again feature $10 and $5 offerings, including
“Over 80 Years of Service”
several non-nut varieties. Holiday nuts will be available at all school concerts as well as several local businesses including Mac’s Pizza Pub and Snappy Tomato Pizza in Fairfax, and Ace Hardware in Mariemont. They can also be purchased at MariElders during regular hours. Orders can be placed by phone by contacting David Peterson at 814-598-6235.
The annual nut sale is the club’s holiday fundraiser for local scholarships. Each year, the Kiwanis Club of Mariemont raises nearly $15,000 for students in Fairfax, Terrace Park and Mariemont through events such as the Art & Craft Fair and spring golf outing. Now in its 53rd year, the Kiwanis Club has raised nearly $250,000 for local scholarships benefiting over 70 students.
The Kiwanis Club of Mariemont meets every Tuesday morning at 7:45 a.m. in the Mariemont Elementary School cafeteria. A continental breakfast is served at 7:15 a.m. Meetings always feature a local speaker and end by 8:30. We invite you to be our guest at an upcoming meeting.
For more information visit MariemontKiwanis.org. Follow along on social media via Facebook and Twitter (@MariemontKClub) with #KidsNeedsKiwanis.
Village
Preservation Foundation News
New MPF Mariemont Jigsaw Puzzles Available
Just in time for holiday gift giving, MPF has three new puzzles for sale! Each beautifully depicts favorite Village scenes: the Village Square, Memorial Church, and Old Town Center. All are available at the MPF building (3919 Plainville Road) or online at mariemontpreservation.org.
Consider MPF for End-of-Year Giving
As 2019 draws to a close, please consider supporting the Mariemont Preservation Foundation. Your taxdeductible donation directly benefits our beloved and beautiful Village. MPF strives to educate, advocate, and preserve with initiatives such as tree-planting, docent-led programs at Mariemont
Elementary School, and preserving the buildings and Village culture we all enjoy. Visit mariemontpreservation.org for
additional donation and membership information. Happy Holidays!
Paul Mulvany shares Madisonville Site information and artifacts with Mariemont Elementary second graders. Each fall, MPF docents and volunteers gather with students for various presentations on Village pioneers, government, and the Fort Ancient people. (Photo credit: Gretchen Griffith)
A Thank You to Retiring Village Employees for Many Years of Service!
By Allison Uhrig and Suzy Weinland
The time has come to say ‘goodbye’ to two longtime Village employees and our mayor, all of whom will be moving on at the end of this year.
Mayor Dan Policastro has served Mariemont government for 26 years (six on council, one as vice mayor, and 19 as mayor) as well as served the community in numerous other capacities as a resident. His passion for and service to the Village of Mariemont will be long remembered. Mayor Policastro will be honored at an open house on Wednesday, December 18 from 6-9 p.m. in The Tudor Room at The National Exemplar. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served, and all are invited to stop in and wish him well. (Please look for a spotlight on Dan in the February issue of the
for a few years, but returned to the Village as the tax administrator upon Darlene Judd’s retirement in 2013. When all of Patty’s time in the Mariemont Tax Department is added together, she has given over 16 years to serving the residents of the Village. Patty is looking forward to more time with her husband, Joe, and their family. She will be missed, but has done an excellent job of finding and training her replacement, Deanna Darrah.
Sue Singleton began working as the administrative staff assistant in the Village of Mariemont Administration Office in 2002. When she retires at the end of this year, she will have worked in the Village for just over 17 years. Sue says she will miss her co-workers and all the residents she has come to know. She is looking forward to more free time and whatever new adventure she may find. Sue has been training her replacement, Allison Uhrig, since mid-August and is confident she is leaving the Village in good hands. Allison can be reached at auhrig@mariemont.org and
Patty and Sue will be recognized at an Open House on Friday, December 27, 2019 in Council Chambers of the Municipal Building from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Light snacks and drinks will be provided. All are welcome to stop in and
Patty Busam, tax administrator, began working as the staff assistant in the Village
Sue Singleton, Dan Policastro and Patty Busam
Community
Mariemont Police Offer Safety Tips for Seniors
By Chief Rick Hines
The Mariemont Police and Fire Department is always here to serve our Mariemont residents. In this day and age there are, unfortunately, many fraudulent people and unsafe scenarios, especially for senior citizens. Chief Hines has provided our Town Crier readers with this list of Senior Citizen Safety Tips—which serve as a good reminder to the rest of us as well! If you ever have questions or need non-emergency help, contact Mariemont Police at 271-4089. ALWAYS call 9-1-1 if you have an emergency.
At Home
• Never open your door automatically. Install and use a peephole.
• Lock your doors and windows.
• Vary your daily routine.
• Don’t leave notes on the door when going out.
• Leave lights on when going out at night; use a timer to turn lights on and off when you are away for an extended period of time.
• Respond to the Mariemont Police Department to fill out a vacation form when leaving for a trip or vacation.
• Notify trusting neighbors when going away on a trip.
• When you are away, remember to cancel deliveries such as newspapers, and arrange for someone – a neighbor’s child perhaps – to mow the lawn if need be. Arrange for your mail to be held by the Post Office, or ask a neighbor to collect it for you.
• Be wary of unsolicited offers to make repairs to your home. Deal only with reputable businesses.
• Keep an inventory with serial numbers and photographs of re-salable appliances, antiques and furniture. Leave copies in a safe place.
• Don’t hesitate to report crime or suspicious activity. (Call 9-1-1)
• Install deadbolt locks on all your doors.
• Keep your home well-lit at night, inside and out.
• Ask for proper identification from delivery persons or strangers.
• If a stranger asks to use your telephone, tell them you will place the call for them, then call 9-1-1 and advise the dispatch
that there is a suspicious person at your door.
• Never let a stranger into your home.
• Do not hide your keys under the mat or in other conspicuous places.
• Never give out information over the phone indicating you are alone or that you won’t be home for a certain time.
• If you arrive at home and suspect a stranger may be inside, DON’T GO IN! Leave quietly and call 9-1-1 to report the crime.
Walking
• If you are attacked on the street, make as much noise as possibly by calling for help.
Do not pursue your attacker. Call 9-1-1 and report the crime as soon as possible.
• Avoid walking alone; have a companion with you.
• Always plan your route and stay alert to your surroundings.
• Have your key ready when approaching your front door.
• Don’t carry large, bulky shoulder bags; carry only what you need.
Shopping
• Carry your purse very close to you. Don’t dangle it from your arm. Never leave your purse in a shopping cart. Never leave your purse unattended.
• Don’t carry any more cash than is necessary. All grocery stores now accept credit cards and many still accept checks. Don’t display large sums of cash.
In Your Car
• Always keep your car doors locked, whether you are in our out of your car.
• Keep your gas tank full and your engine properly maintained to avoid breakdowns.
• When at stop signs and traffic lights, keep the car in gear.
• Travel well-lit and busy streets. Plan your route.
• Don’t leave your purse on the seat beside you. Put it on the floor where it is more difficult for someone to grab it.
• Lock bundles or bags in the trunk. If interesting packages are out of sight, a thief will be less tempted to break in and steal them.
• When returning to your car, check the front and back before entering.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.
Banking
• Criminals know exactly when government or pension checks arrive each month, and may pick that day to attack. Avoid this by using Direct Deposit, which sends your money directly from
Community
the government to your bank. At many banks, free checking account are available for senior citizens. Your bank has all of the information needed in these areas.
• Never withdraw money from your bank accounts for anyone except YOURSELF. Be wary of con artists and the get-rich schemes that probably are too-good-tobe-true.
• Store valuables in a Safe Deposit Box.
• Never give your money or account information to someone who calls on you, identifying themselves as a bank official. A bank will NEVER ask you to remove your money. If you have been swindled or conned, report the crime to the police immediately.
Community
What’s Happening at the Mariemont Branch Library - December and January
Children
Movers & Shakers — 10:30 a.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, Dec. 12 and Jan. 9
Read a story to Bonny the therapy dog. Ages 5-10.
Crafty Kids — 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12 and Jan. 9
Make and take a fun craft! Ages 5-10.
The Science of Ice and Snow — 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28
Join our friends at Crystal Clear Science to learn how cool science can be. Participants will find out there is more than one kind of ice, explore chemistry with “instant snow,” and much more! Registration required. Ages 7-11.
Adults
Which Craft? Needle Craft Club — 10:30 a.m. Saturdays, Dec. 7 & 21, Jan. 4 & 18
Stop by with your current work in progress for pointers or just to have fun with co-enthusiasts. Knitting, crochet, needlework — whatever you like to do.
Dr. Priyesh Mehta
Memory Café — 10-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 12 & Jan. 9
The Memory Café is a welcoming place for people with Alzheimer’s or dementia and their care partners. Each month there is an opportunity to socialize and enjoy music, games, and other fun activities. Activities will vary each month. Registration is recommended.
Armchair Explorers: Cave Diving — 6:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13
Come hear John and Tracy’s amazing tales of diving in caves and wrecks! Adults and teens welcome. Registration is recommended.
Library hours are noon to 8 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday; closed Tuesday, Dec. 24, for Christmas Eve; Wednesday, Dec. 25, for Christmas Day.
The branch will close early at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31 for New Year’s Eve; closed Wednesday, Jan. 1, for New Year’s Day.
Mariemont Branch Library 3810 Pocahontas Ave. 513-369-4467
A dvent At s t
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t hom A s
C hristm A s At s t . t hom A s
St. Thomas Church Welcomes You!
For more information, please visit www.stthomasepiscopal.org www.bachensemble.org
regulAr Worship sChedule
Sundays (childcare provided beginning at 9:00 a.m.)
Holy Eucharist (Rite I): 8:00 a.m.
Choral Eucharist (Rite II): 10:15 a.m.
Occasional Evening Service: 5:00 p.m. (see calendar)
Tuesdays
Evening Prayer with Communion: 6:15 p.m.
Sunday, December 1, 2019 • 5:00 p.m.
Advent Lessons & Carols
Sunday, December 8, 2019 • 5:00 p.m.
Bach Vespers for Advent
Thursday, December 15, 2019 • 5:00 p.m.
Evening Prayer with Taizé
Sunday, December 22, 2019 • 5:00 p.m. A Festival of Lessons & Carols
Tuesday, December 24, 2019 • 4:00 p.m.
Christmas Pageant & Holy Communion
Tuesday, December 24, 2019 • 7:30 p.m.
Carol Prelude & Festive Choral Eucharist
Tuesday, December 24, 2019 • 10:30 p.m.
Carol Prelude & Festive Choral Eucharist
Wed., December 25, 2019 • 10:00 a.m.
Holy Eucharist for the Feast of the Holy Nativity
Great Things are Happening Here!
Here are some of the exciting events at St. Thomas! (for a full listing, please visit the calendar at www.stthomasepiscopal.org/calendar)
Advent Lessons & Carols
Sunday, December 1 • 5:00 p.m.
The Great Christmas Caper Saturday, December 14 • 11:00 a.m.
Messiah Sing-Along
Monday, December 16 • 7:30 p.m.
A Festival of Lessons & Carols Sunday, December 22 • 5:00 p.m.
By Kim Beach
Changing Seasons at Marjorie P. Lee
Marjorie P. Lee (MPL) is a community for seniors that enables its residents to live on their terms, on their schedule, regardless of level of care. The community also has many connections to Mariemont and its residents.
Village resident Karen Christopher has worked at MPL for over 12 years and is currently the director of communications. She originally came to MPL through a Mariemont friend and neighbor, Jenny Uehlin. As Karen explained, “Getting my first job here was a ‘God thing’, and I’ve been so happy since.”
Karen first learned about Mariemont when she was scouting locations for her State Farm agency many years ago. She selected a location in the Village because there weren’t any other State Farm agencies in the vicinity. She also recognized the value of the family environment and uniqueness of Mariemont.
After seven years as an insurance agent, Karen sold her agency to stay home with her children. Her favorite Mariemont memories include taking her kids to the tot lot near the Bell Tower and participating in Luminaria night.
Karen’s children are now grown, with two in college and two still in high school. Daughter Andy will graduate from UC in December and then continue her education at grad school to obtain a degree in Literature. Son Max is at Ohio Northern where he is an engineering student and plays lacrosse for the Polar Bears. Her youngest sons, Theo and Tucker are both at Mariemont High School (sophomore and freshman, respectfully).
As director of communications at MPL, Karen is responsible for creating events that bring potential residents to the facility. Currently there are waitlists
for most levels of care, but she continues with her efforts to fill newly created openings in the memory support and skilled nursing care units. When asked about the best part of working at MPL, Karen responded, “Hands down, it is working with the residents and their families. They are the best!”
One of those residents, George Kiel, is a past Mariemont resident and just celebrated his 100th birthday in his MPL home. George is an artist and was involved in many Mariemont organizations, including Kiwanis.
Marjorie P. Lee is closing in on five years of construction, which has given them an even greater ability to meet residents
Karen Christopher is in her 12th year serving seniors as director of communications at Marjorie P. Lee.
Business Highlight
Changing Seasons (from previous page)
where they are for their care. They are now able to deliver their “Enriched Living” services to the residential apartments. This means couples can remain together and get the care they need. As Karen emphasized, “MPL is a vibrant independent living community!”
It is this vibrant community that appealed to Mariemont resident Fran Turner. Fran has been in the Village since 1966, when she moved here with her family. They moved from the San Francisco Bay area
back to Cincinnati to be closer to family. The four Turner children (Bob, Sam, Ann and Barbara) all graduated from MHS, with the three oldest heading west for college (Oregon, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and UC Santa Cruz). The youngest, Barbara, graduated from the University of Cincinnati.
The family originally moved to a home on Mt. Vernon and then Fran moved to 10 Albert Place in 2007. Fran will be moving to MPL in December and selected this facility because she “had such a level of comfort when I walked in the door.” She also mentioned that she has several friends there and has “never heard anything negative said about the community.”
The multitude of activities at MPL also is very appealing to Fran. She is happy that she gets to keep her cat Gladys and her car, too. She is also looking forward to less responsibility and more interaction with the folks in the community.
Fran has enjoyed her years in Mariemont and will miss many things about the Village. The convenience to businesses and restaurants is at the top. She also mentioned, “In both places where I have lived in Mariemont, I have had wonderful neighbors who were friendly and kind. I knew I could count on them.” She loved walking around Mariemont and especially enjoyed watching the transforming landscapes and tree colors as the seasons changed. She is now looking forward to the “change of seasons” as she moves to her new home. We wish her all the best!
Mariemont resident Fran Turner looks forward to joining friends and becoming a resident at Marjorie P. Lee.
Why Should I Hire a Realtor to Help Me Buy or Sell a House?
By Delta Crabtree, Realtor – Comey & Shepherd
#10 – Realtors understand the market
Buyers and sellers are on separate sides of the fence when it comes to home sales. Buyers want to buy for the lowest possible price, while sellers are usually convinced that their home deserves top dollar. Navigating these transactions are the reason the real estate profession exists.
Many homeowners believe that they can save on the real estate commission by selling on their own, but they don’t realize that the main reason buyers look at FSBOs is because they also believe that they can save on the real estate agent’s commission. The seller and buyer can’t both save the commission!
Let’s face it – most of us will buy or sell a home once or twice in our lifetime and it will likely be our most significant financial investment. Expert guidance from a real estate professional should make sense for that reason alone, but let’s break it down in a top 10 countdown in no particular order, although the top 3 will all be about the money!
Here we go:
It is your home, your money and your future, but you cannot be successful in a real estate transaction – whether buying or selling – if you don’t have up to date knowledge of the market you are working in. Realtors have access to statistical reports that should inform all of your real estate decision-making. What is the best time of year to list or buy? Is there a balanced market of active listings to prospective buyers? How long will it take me to sell or buy a home in the current market? An excellent realtor will provide you all the answers and support you need!
#9 – Realtors work closely with mortgage lenders
An experienced realtor has worked with different mortgage providers and
mortgage products and will help buyers navigate their options in home financing. In a competitive market where inventory is low compared to active buyers, the type of financing and the buyer’s selected lender can make all the difference in a multiple offer situation.
A realtor can help sellers evaluate financing contractual terms and deadlines to make sure that their best interests are considered and protected.
#8 – The code of ethics obligates a Realtor to maintain your privacy and confidentiality, and establishes a fiduciary duty to the client.
Your real estate agent has your back whether you’re a buyer or a seller. They are Cont'd on next page
legally obligated to put their clients’ best interests first.
This duty imparts a very high standard for confidentiality. As a buyer, do you really want to turn over your most intimate financial details to a FSBO seller who is under no legal obligation to keep the information confidential? The same goes for turning any and all information over to the seller’s agent, who has no fiduciary responsibility to you but only to the seller. Your own agent would know whether any information the other agent is requesting from you is reasonable.
#7 – Realtors understand the product
As a seller, it is often very difficult to detach yourself emotionally and view your home as a product that you are trying to sell. Realtors provide the unbiased perspective that will help you prepare your home to sell for the highest possible price.
Community
Home staging, decluttering, deep cleaning, and strategic updates are all areas in which a realtor can help a homeowner make smart decisions with high return on investment. Realtors know your unique market and understand the dynamics in play that will motivate a buyer to make an offer.
problems and know how best to approach them. This experience and knowledge can end up saving you thousands down the road.
#6 – Realtors are expert negotiators
It’s your agent’s job to get you the best possible price for your home, or to see to it that you get the best possible deal on the property you want to buy.
Buyers usually have a pretty firm idea in mind of what they want in a property, from number of bedrooms to an attached garage to any number of other must-have factors.
Your agent will be alert for issues that might not cross your mind, such as furnace issues, leaks, roofing problems, and mold and insect issues. An agent will recognize the telltale signs of these
Agents are trained to negotiate well, and years of practice do pay off. They know what normally works and what does not. And, most importantly, they have no emotional stake in the outcome that can cloud thinking.
You, on the other hand, might be willing to impulsively pay more for a home without realizing that it’s really not necessary because you possess other bargaining chips. It is more money saved if you have an agent who prevents you from taking an unnecessary financial plunge.
#5 – Realtors are thinking about buyers and sellers all day every day!
Sellers want to make sure that their home has maximum exposure to the people that can make a difference in getting their home sold, and buyers want to have early access to listings in competitive markets. Both of these goals can be achieved with the help of expert realtors. Thirty-four percent of buyers find their homes through their real estate agent; therefore, an agent marketing to fellow agents will increase buyer traffic to
your home for sale. Realtors are constantly networking and are actively seeking out opportunities that match your homebuying search criteria to give you a jump on other competing buyers.
#4 – Realtors are experts at marketing and communication
Marketing communicates a message - making people aware of a service or a product that is being offered. A realtor has two different audiences: those who wish to sell a home and those who want to buy a home. The most important job of a realtor is to be a marketing expert. Realtors have many tools at their disposal. They use top class photography and gather relevant and accurate information to enter into the MLS system that will allow buyers to find your home based on their particular search criteria. Realtors also can use high quality video tours and drone photography to highlight features that will set your home apart from the competition.
Social media is also a key factor in selling your home. Your agent will use social media to increase the exposure of your listing to targeted buyer markets.
Your real estate expert should also be a master in personal communication. The relationship between a realtor and a client should be one of mutual consideration and respect; the client should feel “listened to” and the agent should feel that their expertise is valued and thoughtfully considered. In the end, the realtor works for you, the client – ideally it is a mutually beneficial relationship that will create a strong and lasting bond.
#3, #2 and #1 – Show me the Money!
Ultimately, a realtor’s job is to make sure you make more and invest wisely as a seller, spend less and negotiate effectively as a buyer, and to make sure that the deal actually closes so both sides win!
Real estate agents do a lot of work that their listing clients may never see in preparing the listing, marketing the property, negotiating the sale, and keeping the deal on track through closing. The real estate market is in constant flux and
Community
unless you are a professional real estate agent, it is difficult to be fully aware of everything that is going on in your local market. That is why you hire a buyer’s agent—because he or she will have all the market knowledge you need to make wellinformed decisions.
In essence, an agent serves as the 24-7 sales representative for you and your home—a representative able to do things that will get you to the closing table for a successful home purchase or sale.
Your Best Home (from previous page)
The MARIELDERS would like to wish everyone a Happy Holiday season!
Santa’s Gift Shop
To start our holiday season the MARIELDERS is hosting a Santa’s Gift Shop for the kindergartner classes at Mariemont Elementary on December 13. Each child will have the opportunity to purchase small gifts for their families.
Winter Wonderland Holiday Luncheon
When: Wednesday, December 18
Time: Noon
Where: Lower Level
Cost: $7
RSVP: By December 16
Join as we walk through a winter wonderland and celebrate the Christmas season. We may be dreaming of a white Christmas, but we will be enjoying a delicious meal of beef tenderloin, garlic mashed potatoes and classic green bean casserole.
MariElder News Community
New Year’s Eve Potluck Luncheon
When: Tuesday, December 31
Time: Noon
Where: Lower Level
RSVP: By December 27
This will be our Executive Director Kathy Chapman-Dick’s last day and to celebrate her future success, she would like to host a potluck luncheon. We are asking members to bring one of their favorite dishes and recipes. We hope to put together a recipe book for her and for the members.
In-House Movies
NOW on Thursdays! All movies are FREE and are shown in Lower Level at 1:30 p.m.
The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017)
When: Thursday, December 5 Holiday Affair (1949)
When: Thursday, December 12 Joyeux (2005)
When: Thursday, December 19
One-hour specialty consults with Lisa Larkin, MD, FACP, NCMP, IF Nationally recognized women’s health internist, speaker and educator
Founder, Ms.Medicine
Member, Board of Trustees North American Menopause Society
*Note you do not need to be a member of the practice to schedule a specialty consult with Dr. Larkin
Gina Curry, MD
Ashley Shea, DNP, AGPCNP-C
By Carolyn Hohl
These are a Few of Our Favorite Things…
It’s the most wonderful time of the year and Sustainable Mariemont is here to be your guide for environmentally conscientious gift giving. The following are gifts that even Santa himself would love, and they all help our planet!
One of the trendiest environmentally friendly
gifts of 2019 are Stasher bags. Stasher bags are a reusable silicone storage bags you can use to cook or store food items. Their mission is to provide a reusable alternative to disposable plastic baggies and single use plastic containers. Stasher
is made of pure platinum silicone that is made from natural resources — primarily sand. It’s 100 percent plastic and BPA free with no fillers. Stasher bags range from around $8 up to $87 for their bundles and are a perfect gift for anyone who packs a lunch or cooks at home!
If you are a fan of the TV show Shark Tank, you may be familiar with Blueland Cleaning Products. The Shark Tank episode aired in September 2019 and featured the innovative cleaning products that anyone with a home or apartment would love! The starter kit ($38) includes a foaming handsoap bottle as well as three spray bottles for glass cleaner, multi surface cleaner, and bathroom cleaner. You simply fill the bottles with water, drop in the corresponding tablet, and you are ready to clean! Blueland bottles are made to last and you can repurchase the tablets as needed for a fraction of the price of buying a new bottle of cleaning supplies. Not only
does this product eliminate single use plastic but Blueland also uses non-toxic ingredients in its cleaning supplies.
Many of you may have already heard of our next suggestion as S’well bottles have been around for a while, but they have really refreshed their products and designs. Not only can you buy a S’well bottle for water, wine, champagne, and beer but they now also make great kids cups, take away containers, and even carafes. They currently have a project called the Million Bottle project where they have set a goal to eliminate 100 million single use plastic bottles from being consumed. It’s S’well’s ongoing mission to create products that are both beautiful and eco-friendly, that infuse innovation with inspiration, and that continue to give back to communities in need. S’well has also partnered with UNICEF to provide
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clean and safe water to vulnerable communities. S’well products are a great gift for kids and adults of any age!
Eco-dough is made by the family-run business called eco-kids. They make all-natural art supplies that let your kids enjoy worry free play with non-toxic play dough, crayons, finger paints, and more! Made from all-natural ingredients, eco-dough is a safe option for building, molding, and sculpting anything they
Community
can imagine! Essential oils add a light scent while keeping dough pliable for hours of creative play. Eco-dough costs around $22 for a pack of six and is a great gift for kids young and old.
Sustainable Mariemont encourages you to consider purchasing environmentally conscientious gifts this holiday season for everyone on your list!
Ace Continues Recycling Holiday Lights
By Margaret Jevic
We got our Christmas tree the first week of November (we’re those people) and the happy pine is standing tall in our front window. Every year at this time, I find some kind of lighted décor item that no longer functions.
Fortunately for me, for the second year running, Sustainable Mariemont will be collecting broken holiday lights at Ace Hardware on Wooster. Just as we did last year, an extra bin labeled “holiday lights” will be placed near the storefront of Ace, specifically for the winter months, to collect strands of lights that have seen their day.
This year I’ll have an additional strand of orange Halloween lights from my college days that finally called it quits to donate to the bin. Our Sustainable Mariemont volunteers diligently collect the lights and haul them down to Cohen for recycling. Last year we brought in over 200 lbs of holiday lights – can we break the record this year?
Thanks to our wonderful community for helping do your part for the Earth and future generations. A special thank you to Ace for housing our collection bins and giving us your valuable floor space for the cause.
Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center
The Barn Highlights Festive Spirit
Showcase of Arts Returns
On December 7-8 , The Barn will open its doors to about 40 vendors who will provide an opportunity to purchase unique holiday gifts. Most of our 40 vendors have returned this year, bringing fine arts and fine crafts for holiday gift giving.
Many local creations are wearable, such as knits, hand crafted hats, adorable aprons, and printed t-shirts. Jewelers form metal into art you can wear, often adorned with semi-precious stones.
Also returning is functional pottery made by Dennis Allen of Whistle Creek Pottery, who specializes in mugs, plates and bowls. Art pottery created by award winner Jamie Iliff has been crafted from clay he digs himself from a location just outside of Cincinnati. The old 1920’s era dairy barn will be filled with one-of-a-kind items made from wood, glass and fiber.
The smells and tastes are good, too, with soaps and local honey filling the air. The Girl Scouts return with decorated fresh wreaths to adorn a front door or mantle. A local group of oil painters, known as Thee Hog Bristle Painters, will also return with a large selection of new works.
Betty Howell, a new vendor, will offer Bet’s Sweets and Treats. You’ll find everything from quick breads to fruit pies that can be shared at holiday gatherings or nibbled while walking around the booths. Priya Rama, another new vendor, will bring small paintings on canvas and miniature paintings on pendants and bracelets.
Visitors may purchase a lunch of organic ingredients by the Fire on High food truck. Hourly door prizes inlcude items created and donated by the exhibitors. Shopping hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday, December 7, and noon – 5 p.m. Sunday, December 8.
ARTflix
On December 12 , Artflix presents Big Eyes , a 2014 American biographical drama film starring Amy Adams and Christoph Waltz. The film is about the
life of American artist Margaret Keane, who gained fame with her portraits and paintings of big eyes. It follows the story of Margaret and husband Walter Keane as they struggled through a lawsuit and trial involving entitlement of artistic rights.
Admission is free. Soft drinks and light snacks au gratis. BYOB. To register, go to thebarn.regfox.com or call 513-272-3700.
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Sketch Group
The Woman’s Art Club invites the community to attend its bi-monthly sketch group on Tuesday afternoons from 1-4 p.m. in the Loft. Each week, the club hires a model for artists whose mediums include charcoal, pencils to painting. Fee is $5 for non-members, free for members.
Saturday’s Child
Dec. 21: “A MadCap Christmas Carol” (Madcap Puppets) Madcap turns this Christmas ghost story into a funny tale, bringing your favorite Dickens characters to life with giant puppets and exciting new twists. Ages 4+.
Madcap merged with a West Side arts organization, Cincinnati Landmark Productions, and moved into its new home at the Madcap Education Center. In collaboration with other organizations, Madcap specializes in developing productions that combine puppetry with art forms such as orchestral music, ballet, opera performances, and museum exhibits for family audiences around the country. These are powerful partnerships
Village
that provide an unforgettable, multi-level arts experience that opens potential for a lifetime of arts appreciation.
A MadCap Christmas Carol is funded by the Mariemont Preservation Foundation, Ohio Arts Council, and Artwaves. For sign-up, go to thebarn.regfox.com.
You Can Help the Barn!
You can support The Barn every time you shop on Amazon. Just go to smile.amazon.com, search for and select “Woman’s Art Club of Cincinnati Foundation” and shop as usual. The Barn will receive 0.5 percent of your purchase allowing you to support the appreciation, creation, and educational opportunities that The Barn provides to Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
So many choices…
For a complete list of classes, go to artatthebarn.org. The Barn offers classes for all levels and numerous mediums.
The Barn, also known as The Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center, is located at 6980 Cambridge Avenue in Mariemont. For more information, please go to artatthebarn.com or call 513-272-3700.
Village Government
The Town Crier would like to welcome Bill Brown as Mariemont’s new mayor and Marcy Lewis as a new Council member, both beginning in January, as well as congratulate Kelly Rankin for her re-election to Council. And a thank you and best wishes to outgoing Mayor Dan Policastro who has served the Village as a Council member and Mayor for more than 19 years. Please look for a spotlight on Dan in the February issue of the Town Crier.
Important Village Government Dates
December Council Meeting - Monday Dec. 16, 7 p.m.
Village Offices Closures - Tuesday Dec. 24, Wednesday Dec. 25, and Wednesday Jan. 1
Leaf collection ends Dec. 20. Leaves must be raked to the curb by Monday, Dec. 16.
*All ordinances, appointments and re-appointments handled during Council meetings can be found in the full minutes on the Village website.
Regular Council Meeting – October 28, 2019
The Finance Committee met Wed., Oct. 2 and Wed., Oct. 23 to discuss upgrading the Village website. The Committee had previously met with two website providers, Civic Plus and E-Gov Link. The Committee agreed on a list of functionality for the new website, received bids from Civic Plus and E-Gov Link and recommended proceeding with E-Gov Link for the following reasons: a) It's cost is $1,850 less over a three year period, b) It is located in Mason, Ohio, whereas Civic Plus is based out of Manhattan, Kansas, c) E-Gov Link offers a free refresh of the website after 3 years; Civic Plus does not, d) there are nearby municipalities who are using E-Gov Link and could act as a resource (including Fairfax, Columbia Township, Silverton, Wyoming and Mason).
There will be a one-time cost of $10,950 to set up the site and pages, and an annual cost of $4,400. The current cost spent is less than $1,400. However, the new site will provide much greater capability in terms of communications to residents, processing memberships, reserving parks or other village property, polling residents, providing a business directory, storing documents, being ADA compliant, and providing access via mobile phone. The contract has been reviewed and approved by Village Solicitor Ed McTigue. To get the new website up and running takes 16 to 19 weeks. The Department Heads agreed
that February would be the best month for all of the departments to participate in designing their individual pages and taking the necessary training. That would also support having the website up and running in time for accepting pool and tennis memberships in 2020. Ms. Wendler will be leading this project for the Village. To meet the target timeline, the project needs to be kicked off in mid-November.
Mr. Brown said it has been a long process and credits Mr. Bartlett and Mrs. Wendler for taking the lead. Recommendation passed with all five Council members in favor.
There was also discussion and approval of the annual Holiday Bonus for full-time employees. It will be the same as 2018, at $250 for every fulltime employee, and paid in the first pay period in December.
Another topic of discussion was the recommendation of the Public Works and Service Committee for allocation of funds for the 2020 street repair projects. The Committee recommended proceeding with the repaving project on the South side of Petoskey Ave., and moving the Albert Place drainage project to 2021. They recommended accepting the bid from Kleingers for $22,400 for survey and design of the Petoskey project (they did the road work for FC Cincinnati), which is less than the $28K bid from Choice One. The bid for construction will go out in January, and Mr. Bartlett suggested reaching out to other municipalities to see what their pricing may be. Mayor Policastro said it is important to get the bid out in January to get lower bids, but to be aware of other communities who may not be ready to go to bid at the same time, as we could lose more money. Mr. Bartlett suggested finding out other communities’ timelines. All five Council members were in favor.
Regular Council MeetingNovember 11, 2019
Mr. Ted Beach and Mrs. Kim Beach presented Council with a 911 Honor Flag. It has everyone listed on the flag who lost their lives on 9-11. They thought it would be a lovely tribute to the Village to honor and thank our Police and Fire Departments, saying that we are very blessed to have these great people take care of us. 412 police and firefighters were lost that day. Mr. Beach said they felt Veteran’s Day would be the perfect day to unveil and thanked all that served. He said an MHS classmate of theirs and Mr. Bartlett’s,
Council Representatives
Rob Bartlett robbartlettcouncil@gmail.com
Bill Brown wbrown1750@gmail.com
Avia Graves aviagraves@gmail.com
Maggie Palazzolo magpal00@gmail.com
Kelly Rankin kellrankincouncil@gmail.com
Mary Ann Schwartz maschwartz@mariemont.org
Mayor: Dan Policastro mayordan1@gmail.com
Douglas Cherry, lost his life that day. Chief Hines thanked the Beaches and said he plans to hang it in Police Clerk Maupin’s office so those in the lobby can see it. He is very appreciative of their support over the years.
Mrs. Rankin said on her run this morning she cleared three storm drains, and stated there are ordinances in place that are not enforced. She asked if the landscape companies are the biggest violator. Superintendent Scherpenberg said residents do not like to leave their leaves on their curb in fear that it will kill the grass. Hamilton County Board of Storm Water Management passed out educational flyers about the problems caused by raking leaves into the street. He will give a copy to the office to include in the next Mayor’s Bulletin. Mrs. Rankin said she would be more than happy to pass them out. Superintendent Scherpenberg said they have some in their trucks.
In a letter dated October 7, 2019, Jane McDonald thanked Mayor Policastro for the Key to the Village, citing that she felt he had done an amazing job leading the Village, and that it is a strong and very special place.
Mr. Joe Stelzer gave an update on the Murray Avenue project and the fundraising efforts. They are slated to meet to discuss landscape options for the Murray path and to look at the restrictions that Duke Energy put on the Village. Martin Koepke, Landscaping Architect, will present options. A website should be up and running shortly thanks to Gordon Rankin, and will include a pay online option. There is also a Facebook page with a link for those who wish to donate. They
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have partnered with a 501c and already have $10,000 collected from the Mariemont 5K and the tailgate party. They are kicking off Phase I of the fundraising effort with the sale of car magnets designed by resident Tony Schmidt, and with yard signs to be erected along the Murray median. People can also issue checks, which is preferred to save the convenience fee, made payable directly to Eventz for Charity-Murray Path Project, 6609 Pleasant Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45227. In the coming weeks he hopes to be announcing some significant contributions and the contributors. He asked everyone to share the information and the links to friends and residents.
The Rules and Law Committee (Rob Bartlett and Maggie Palazzolo in attendance) met Thursday October 10, 2019 to discuss streamlining the code language for the Parks Advisory Board and Swim Pool Commission. The language for each board will now list how many members, any official positions needed, term limits, scope of responsibilities, and how that board will communicate with Council. The committee will work with Ed to ensure the code is proper, and then it will be presented to Council.
The Finance Committee met Wednesday, October 23 to discuss fees the Village is charged when accepting payment via credit card. The Finance Committee was recently made aware that when the Village is accepting payment via credit card, currently some departments are charging a fee while others are not. Also, when the Village accepts payment via credit card, we are charged anywhere from 3% to 4%, resulting in lower revenue for the Village. The Finance Committee agreed that, because a person can still
Village Government
pay via check or cash, the Village should charge a fee when a credit card is used to cover our lost revenue. This is also consistent with the recent establishment of a $35 fee for any bounced checks to cover our expense. After discussion with the department heads, it was agreed to start with a fee of 3.5% for all payments accepted via credit card, beginning January 1, 2020. Mayor Policastro said he thought we looked at this years ago and it was determined that we could not charge a fee. Mr. Bartlett said the Solicitor has looked into the matter and prepared the necessary legislation. The Village can charge a fee to cover the cost.
On Wed., Oct. 30, the Finance Committee discussed the different ways in which bonuses for full time employees have been issued. Currently the bonus is the same amount for all employees. However, the language in the ordinance governing “Incentive Pay” also allows for bonuses to vary based on employee performance, and this has been done in the past. Specifically, an employee could earn a bonus if they were rated “very good” and a higher bonus if they were rated “exceptional.” Conversely, they could also earn no bonus if their performance fell below “very good.” The department heads felt that linking the bonus to performance worked well previously. Also, each department already has their own set of documented criteria they use in assessing their employees each year which could be used for this process. Given that recent holiday bonuses have been $250, the committee felt the range for incentive pay that is in the current legislation should be adjusted as follows:
Very Good – currently $500-$750, should reduce to $350-$600.
Exeptional – currently $750-$1,000 should reduce to $600-$850.
Department heads agreed to implement on January 1, 2020, and include the ordinance change when all salary ranges are updated in April. The Finance Committee also recommended that one of the criteria used in assessing the department heads be if the final spending in their department was within their appropriated amount. Exceptions could be made, though, if the department also brought in incremental revenue that offset any overspending relative to their appropriated amount, or if there were extenuating circumstances that were beyond the department’s control. Council passed the ordinance.
The Finance Committee met Tuesday, October 22, 2019 to discuss spending in 2019 in the Permanent Improvement Fund. They reviewed some of the expenses which have been charged to the Permanent Improvement Fund in the past, particularly in light of the most recent auditor’s report which states that the Permanent Improvement Fund is for “resources that are restricted, committed or assigned to expenditure for capital outlays, including the acquisition or construction of capital facilities and other capital assets.” In the past, the Village has charged items to the Permanent Improvement Fund that have been more maintenance in nature. Given the definition provided by the State Auditor, the Finance Committee believes it would be more appropriate for these maintenance related charges to go to individual departments versus the Permanent Improvement Fund, similar to how the Village purchases a vehicle using the Permanent Improvement Fund, but the on-going maintenance of that vehicle is charged to that Department’s budget. As such, starting in 2020, the Finance Committee is proposing that any charges that are not related to installing and/ or purchasing a new capital asset should go to an individual department versus the Permanent Improvement Fund. Since we have historically charged some of the tree maintenance to the Permanent Improvement Fund, the Finance Committee believes the “Landscaping & Beautification” account should receive an additional $24,000 beginning in 2020.
Community
December Community Events
Boy Scout Christmas Tree/ Girl Scout Wreath Sale
Now through December 15 - Mariemont Municipal Building, 6907 Wooster Pike
Freshly cut firs and white pines from a family-owned farm, ranging from 5-12 ft. tall, are trimmed, carried and tied onto your car by Boy Scout Troop 149. Local Girl Scouts decorate and sell fresh pine wreaths. For more information on tree sales and hours, visit Facebook.com/ScoutChristmasTree or mcc149.com/tree-sales.
TriHealth Mobile Mammography Screening Thursday, December 12 - 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
The TriHealth Mobile Mammography Van will be visiting Mariemont at Health First Physicians-Mariemont, 6825 Wooster Pike, to
provide screening mammograms for women ages 40 and older and women ages 35-39 who are considered high-risk or who have a strong family history (i.e. mother, sister or daughter). 3D technology now available! Appointments will be made in 10-minute intervals, and patients should expect to spend 30 minutes
community.trihealthmobile.timetrade.com or call 513-569-6565, option 1.
National Exemplar Breakfast with Santa December 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 - 9 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
We’re proud Breakfast with Santa has become another neighborhood tradition, and we’d love for you to join us for a Christmasthemed brunch, holiday cheer, and a visit with the one-and-only Mr. Claus! Reservations are $16 per child and $21 per adult, not inclusive of tax and gratuity. To reserve your spots for this very special Christmas celebration, contact Lisa Hopkins at LHopkins@ NationalExemplar.com.
Community Village Worship Services
Mariemont
Community Church
Mariemontchurch.org
Denis Beausejour, Senior Pastor
Paul Rasmussen, Worship Pastor
Jamie Moore, Discipleship 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
Join us at MCC for our Advent series, “The Christmas Before Christmas,” an amazing story of faith, grace, and destiny. December 1, 8, 16, 22, 24, and 29.
Ongoing
Joy in the Morning Women’s Bible Study - Tuesdays, 9:00-11:15 a.m. There are several study groups available. Contact Barb Leonard at tfleo@cinci.rr.com for more information.
Joy in the Evening Women’s Bible Study - 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month, 7-8:30 p.m. Contact Paula Ayer at ayerpaula@gmail. com for more information.
Weekly Prayer Meeting – Wednesdays, 7-8 p.m. in the Parish Center Hearth Room.
Joy Women’s Luncheon – Second Wednesday of each month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Family Shop Sale – Second and fourth Saturdays of each month, 9 a.m.-noon.
All activities are held at the Parish Center, 3908 Plainville, unless otherwise noted.
Village Church of Mariemont
Villagechurchofmariemont.org
Todd Keyes, Pastor Jamie Keyes, Children’s Ministries
The Village Church invites you to bring a friend or neighbor and join them 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 our Oak Street Building, 3920 Oak St. (corner of Oak and Maple), just a block from the Chapel.
Please excuse our mess! We are currently renovating the inside and outside of our Oak Street building in order to create a more inviting environment for families and guests. We hope
to have most of these improvements finished for our Christmas celebrations.
Coming Up
December Sunday Sermon Series - Join us in December for the four Advent Sundays leading up to Christmas. December 1, 8, and 15 services will be held in the Mariemont Memorial Stone Chapel. December 22 and Christmas Eve will be held in our 3920 Oak Street Building. The word “Advent” means “an expectant arrival.” So, we use these Sundays to create an expectation of our celebration of Jesus’ birth using the themes of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love. We invite you to join us for this journey of anticipation toward Christmas.
Children’s Nativity Pageant - Sunday, December 22 at 10 a.m., our children will perform the Nativity play in our 3920 Oak Street Building (Corner of Oak and Maple Streets). Complete with costumes and a Bethlehem setting, we will relive the birth of our Savior through the eyes of a child. Hope your whole family can join us!
Christmas Eve Service - Our Christmas Eve service will be 4:30 p.m. in our 3920 Oak Street Building (Corner of Oak and Maple Streets). We invite you to come and experience the wonder of Jesus’ birth once again through the biblical story, timeless Christmas carols and candlelight. Our carols that day will be led by the Mariemont Bell Tower Carillonneur, Rick Watson.
Ongoing
Wednesday Night Dinner - Join us Wednesdays, December 4 and 18 (the first and third Wednesday nights each month) in our Oak Street Building at 6 p.m. for dinner and engaging Bible discussion. RSVP for dinner by calling 513515-1551.
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 Discussion - First Saturday of each month at 8 a.m. in our Oak Street Building fellowship hall.
