Mariemont Town Crier, February 2021, Vol. XLV, No. 5

Restoring a Transportation Corridor

By Matt Ayer

The Murray Multi-Use Path project is progressing, as Village officials met with its engineering contractor to review drawings on January 8. Construction drawings are expected later this month, followed by the Mariemont Village Engineer assembling specifications and seeking competitive bids for the construction phase, targeted for Spring 2021. The most recent drawings include significant improvements to resolve surface water drainage issues in the existing median. Watch for future project developments at www.murraypath.org or follow Murray Path on Facebook.

At right: One of three trolley cars bought and refurbished by the

While Mariemont builds this trail segment and connects to the existing Fairfax multi-use path, public grants and private donations are making Phases 4 and 5 of Wasson Way a reality, with construction slated to start later in 2021. These phases will extend Wasson Way through Ault Park and connect to the Murray Path. As we approach the Village’s Centennial celebration in two years, this northern edge of the Historic District will be restored as a transportation corridor for travel to and from our Village.

Flashback to 1923. The headlines of the Cincinnati Times Star (April 24) proclaimed, “Cincinnati Woman Realizes Dream of a Lifetime When Work on Mariemont, Model

Town, Begins.” The Cincinnati, Milford, and Blanchester (CM&B) Traction Line ran along the north boundary.

As of February 1926, the Cincinnati Motor Bus Company was busily expanding service on the east side of Cincinnati, boasting eight buses to Madisonville and one to Coney Island. In April 1926, 18 of the latest model, six-wheel buses were put into service from Government Square to Mariemont. However, transportation officials in that era still viewed streetcars as the preferred option over busses for large numbers of commuters; buses were generally considered feeders to and from areas of lower population density.

The further reaches of this CM&B line became unprofitable and service discontinued from Milford to Blanchester in January 1926. In March of that year, the Cincinnati Street Railway Company purchased the CM&B line from Erie Avenue to Milford for $49,000, viewing it as an opportunity for profit in this section. It was a no-risk proposition -- their offer was the sum of the scrap value of the 11 miles of track (T-rail, poles, ties, trolley and feed wires, and property).

The Mariemont Company, with hopes of 20,000 people living in the area, purchased and

Cont'd on page 5

Above: The Murray Rd. section of the trolley line that connected Mariemont to downtown circa 1920s.

Mariemont Co. to promote Mariemont.

Letter to the Editor

Thank you for the (November 2020) article on the Mariemont Garden Club planting daffodils at Hopkins Park. It brought back fond memories of my late father’s involvement as a volunteer in Mariemont. Our family had only lived on Pocahontas a short while when the site of Hopkins Park became available when the service station there closed. My father, Tom Kiger, lobbied the Village to

acquire the property and develop it as a park in memory of Mary Emery’s sister.

I recently moved back to the area, and it is heartwarming to see the trees that date back to the establishment of the park and to see so many residents using it on a daily basis. Many residents of the Village may remember Tom Kiger as the voice/announcer of the

Mariemont Swim Team, as my two brothers (Russ and Paul) and I participated on the swim team in the 1970s. It was seeing acts like these while growing up that led me to perform similar volunteer functions over the years. I’m sure he would be delighted with the addition of these flowers to Hopkins Park.

~

Jon Kiger, Village resident 1968 - 1983

Looking for Contacts for Upcoming Town Crier Stories

Hello, neighbors! Our Town Crier staff would like your help in finding residents who we could interview for some future stories. If you or anyone you know might be a good fit for the following, please contact me at suzy. weinland@gmail.com or 513-833-3075.

Entrepreneurs in our Midst – We would like to highlight residents who have

started their own business. Any business. Any size. Looking for any age – individual, parent and child, families.

One Person’s Trash … - Have you ever turned a curbside find into a special piece for your home? Do you LOVE finding other’s discarded “trash” and upcycling it into a special treasure? We want to hear

NEWS YOU CAN USE FROM

from you!

Mariemont’s Frontline Heroes – We’d like to pay tribute to Mariemont residents who are doctors, nurses, teachers, public transportation workers, grocery store employees… any and all essential workers who continue to “do for others” in the face of the pandemic.

It’s

average days on market was 21 days compared to 40 days last year. Nineteen less homes sold this year but that was totally due to lack of inventory. All of these factors make it an advantageous time to sell! In addition to the 51 single family homes sold, 16 condos sold in 2020, which represents 27% of the overall sales in Mariemont. We had the highest price single family home sale in Mariemont since 2011 at $1,250,000. This fabulous home sold in multiple offers at list price. It was beautifully updated throughout and has one of the best lots in the village.

We would be happy to meet with you if you are thinking about selling now or in the future to share our expertise.

Cincinnatihome Reed

The

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D avi D a n D rews

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l incoln w ickha M

(Siblings listed together share routes; siblings listed separately have their own routes)

March deadline:

The deadline for the next Town Crier is February 10, 2021 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.

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refurbished the three CM&B cars at a cost of $5,000 each. Two painted in shades of green, and one in orange, the cars advertised “Mariemont, the New Town.” A study at the time indicated that, rather than connecting to a main line at Erie Avenue, a Mariemont line should be extended to the heart of Cincinnati, and several thousand people would use the cars.

Imagine buying into Mariemont’s Indian View Subdivision in the late 1920s. A 50-by-150 foot lot cost from $100 to $200, advertised as “the finest and cheapest lots in Hamilton County.” If you purchased a monthly trolley line ticket, a trip from Mariemont to downtown Cincinnati cost seven cents and, with the one transfer at Erie Avenue, took 40 minutes. Stops in Mariemont were at Beech (where there was a fancy shelter), Oak, Plainville, Rowan Hill, and Miami/Indianview, where a loop with shelter was added in 1929.

As it turned out, construction of the new town paused during the Great Depression. The population was not nearly as dense as envisioned by our founders, as the region filled up with large homes and people bought automobiles. In April 1936, the last trolley car traveled from Milford to Mariemont, and the line terminated at the loop (today’s “Trolley Turnaround Park”). Fixed-track traction lines were losing profitability with the proliferation of autos and bus service.

The last car on the Mariemont Line ran on January 6, 1942. No time was lost dismantling the line, as copper and steel were in high demand during wartime. Service was briefly replaced by a shuttle bus that connected with street cars at Bramble and Whetsel Avenues. Due to lack of patronage, the bus operation discontinued on February 6, 1943.

In summary, trolley service in the new town of Mariemont was short-lived – a time span just shy of 16 years from the refurbishment of the three Mariemont cars arranged by Charles Livingood in 1926, to that last trip in 1942. The ribbon of land between the two Murray Avenues

Village

has served only as a utility right-of-way and something of an eyesore for 79 years (1942 to 2021), until its rebirth as an integral piece of a healthy transportation network in our region.

Thanks to a flood of over 200 generous donations, Murray Path will be landscaped in a manner suited to our beautiful, planned community. Soon we will once again be able to use this route to travel into the heart of Cincinnati, with the electric traction motor replaced by human-powered wheels or feet. Or, for that

matter, inner city residents can once again enjoy a trip for the day to Mariemont without the need for bus or automobile. And, in a rare cost-savings from yesteryear to today, it won’t even cost seven cents!

Railway information courtesy of “Cincinnati, Milford & Loveland Traction Company,” David McNeil, 2002, from the collection of Mariemont Preservation Foundation. Thanks to Linda Bartlett, archivist, for help with this article.

Murray Path (from front page)

Long Awaited ‘Emery’ Restaurant Opens on The Square

By Nancy Parrott, Looking Glass Hospitality Group

Emery, a new polished-casual restaurant located on Mariemont Square, is now open for dine-in service and carryout with curbside pickup. Designed to be as special as the community it calls home, Emery brings a one-of-a-kind urban dining experience to the heart of the historic Mariemont neighborhood.

The 5800 square-foot space at 6914 Wooster Pike has been transformed into a full-service restaurant. The first floor is home to a casual pub, and an outdoor patio will open this spring. A dining room, cocktail lounge, and private dining space make up the sophisticated upper level that is imbued with easy elegance and beckons visitors to sit down, relax, and enjoy. The centerpiece is a saltwater aquarium.

There is something for everyone on the menu, but Emery is passionate about seafood. Everything is made in house using fresh and high-quality ingredients. The menu is paired with signature cocktails, craft beers, and an extensive wine list with state minimum pricing.

Emery is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for its guests and team members. The restaurant is implementing both the mandatory and recommended COVID-19 protocols set forth by the Ohio Department of Health and has also committed to the Ohio Restaurant Promise in partnership with the Ohio Restaurant Association

Emery is located at 6914 Wooster Pike, and open for dinner TuesdayThursday, 4-9p.m., and Friday-Saturday, 4-10p.m. Reservations can be made online at EmeryMariemont.com or via the RESY app. Parties of seven or more should call the restaurant at 513-272-5150.

Photo Credit: RVP Photography

Submitted by the Kindergarten, First and Second Grade Teachers at Mariemont Elementary

What is love? Certainly it's a profound question for adults. Kids, though, don't have trouble expressing what it means to them. Teachers at Mariemont Elementary asked students in Kindergarten, first and second grade, "What is love?" Here's a sampling of their responses.

Kindergarten

Love is my mommy and daddy.

- Apollonia

Love is brightness. - Ella Bea

Love is hugs. - Jude

Love means caring. - Sylvia Love is a kiss. - Naedin

Love is thanks. - Winnie

Love is a heart. - Max

Schools

What is Love?

Love is when my sisters cuddle me. - Evelyn

First Graders

Love is great. - Spence

Love is being kind. - Grace

Love is love. - Eloise

Love is something your friends and family are that you care about them. - Kenley

Love is wonderful. - Laney

Love is the best. - Aubrey

Love is being there for someone in need. - Clara Love is when you love doing something. - Phoenix

Love a person. - Hannah

Love is being kind. - Grace

Love is being helpful. - Nash

Love is being helpful. - Liam Love to me is hugs. - Bradley

Love is love. - Charlie

Love is when my Dad plays soccer with me. - Jackie

Love is when my Mom hugs me. - Phoebe

Love is when my Mom gives me a hug. - Jude Love is... when my baby brother snuggles with me. - Evelyn

Love is when my Mom kisses me on the lips. - Will

Love is friends and family. - Craig Love means a joy and respect of nice. - RJ

Love is when I found my cat.Ella

Love is when I will snuggle in my bed. - Ava

Love is being nice. - Hayes

Love is helping people out.Owen

Love is caring. - Annabelle

Love is being together. - Rue Love is a feeling. - Cara Love is kindness. - Cooper I think love is helping people.

- Jace When you see a person and your heart feels funny. - Ethan Kindness, truthfulness and happiness. - James Love is someone you care about a lot. - Emma

A good relationship with 2 people.

- Dawson

Love is where somebody cares about you and it is warm inside your heart. Very, very, very, very, very warm. - Elle

Always caring for people. - Gus Niceness and helping people. - Josephine

Love is love. - Oliver

People are together and they are happy. - Charlie Caring about someone. - Lucas

Love is when my Mom hugs me. - Ellen

Love is when my brother hugs me. - Sonny Love is when I see my family. - Lydia Love is when my cat cuddles me. - Lillian

Something that is kind for someone else. - Maggie

Love is giving someone a hug.Brynn

Love is sleeping with your dogs.

- Tillie

Love is Mom. - Mabel

Love is like I love my dog and cats.

- Layna

Love is the world to me. - Catherine Love is loving someone. - Avery

Love means snuggles. - Theo

Love is cuddling and hugging and kissing your family. - Kyhlee

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Love is someone who's special. - Nolan Love means family. - Jason Love is caring.William

Second Grade

To me, love is a way to say you like someone a lot. Soentimes love makes people feel connected to each other. You can hug your family or just say you love someone.

- Paige Love is things I like: friends, horses family. - Lillian

Love is being kind and grateful and love is everything when you show love. Love other people, show love, love is great. - Taylor

Love is someone you care about. It can also be a friend you care about. - Katie

Hugging my Mom, kissing my dog, learning chess with my Dad, playing with my friends, drawing with my sister, snuggling with my stuffed animals. - Emmie

It means smoochy, smoochy.

- Oliver Being kind to others, loving family members and others. Standing up for others, not fighting with them. - James

Love is my dog when we play together.Leo

I love my dog. We play together all the time. When he begs I give hime some of my food. When I get home from school he looks at me and wags his tail. - David

Love my Mommy and Daddy. I love my cat. I love Grace and Quinn. I love Grandma and Grandpa. I love when it's time for breakfast. - Eliza

Schools

Cross Country Warriors Run All the Way to State!

By Paola Biro

Our Mariemont High School Cross Country teams brought home some fantastic results this past fall, delivering a year of benchmark achievements and many significant accolades for several of our runners.

Many of the roughly 70 cross country runners had their spring track season canceled due to COVID-19, and there were very real doubts about whether they would get a fall cross country season. They optimistically started their training in June, running and/or lifting weights almost every day no matter the weather until they were averaging 45 running miles a week.

When the season was given the green light for competition, the runners quickly adapted to new COVID-safe protocols that included masks worn right up to the starting line, changes to transportation, and even how they were allowed to warm up for races.

The varsity teams are comprised of the school’s top 7 runners. The Warriors proved to be a force to be reckoned with as the season unfolded, winning or placing in the top three in nearly every meet. High school cross country races are 5 kilometers (3.1 miles), run on grass or other uneven terrain including over steep hills, through streams and forests, typically with 75 – 100 or more runners in each race. Below is a summary of the 2020 season accomplishments by our Running Warriors.

CHL Championship

The Varsity Boys won the Cincinnati Hills League (CHL) Championship for the first time since 2011. The team’s 22 points tied for the fifth lowest point total at a Boys League Championship in CHL history. The Warriors swept the top four podium finishes with sophomore Bennett Turan winning the meet, Sam Beeler placing second, Ben Fahnestock placing third, and Santi Biro placing fourth. All four were named First Team All-League.

Henry Buck (12th), Andrew Chen (14th) and Martin Eisenhauer (15th) earned All-League Honorable Mention honors. Turan was named CHL Runner of the Year and coach Natalie Dragovich earned Boys Coach of the Year honors.

The Girls Cross Country team took third place at the CHL Championship meet. Sophomore Lily Bauer won the meet and earned Runner of the Year honors, finishing almost one whole minute ahead of the second-place finisher. Kiersten Souders (13th), Grace Mavridoglou (14th) and Jessica Beeler (15th) all earned All-League Honorable Mention honors.

District Championships

A week after winning CHL championship, the boys won the Division II District Championship at Voice of America Park in West Chester. The team scored a total of 24 points with second place Madeira earning 47. Bennett Turan was crowned District Champion with the fastest DII time of 16:24.0 and Sam Beeler just behind him in 16:25.4. Ben Fahnestock placed 5th, Santi Biro 7th and Henry Buck 9th.

The Girls Cross Country team was also crowned Division II Champions, scoring 24

points in the meet ahead of second place Taylor. Lily Bauer was again the fastest runner of the day with a time of 18:46.8 (51 seconds ahead of the next competitor). Grace Mavridoglou finished 7th, Kiersten Souders 9th, Jessica Beeler 10th, and Bridget Gilmore 11th.

Regionals

The boys finished third at the Regional meet in Troy, Ohio, qualifying the entire team for State (last time MHS boys team made it to state was 2011). Beeler was fifth out of 99 runners while Turan was 11th, Fahnestock 15th, and Biro 17th.

At the Regional Meet, Lily Bauer placed 7th out of 90 runners booking her place in the State meet. The team finished seventh, ending the season for the rest of the runners.

State

The boys team finished 10th at State. Sam Beeler earned the All-State Team recognition with a 26th place finish. Meanwhile, Lily Bauer earned All-State Team recognition after finishing 29th in the State meet.

On top of great results during the season,

Cross Country Varsity Girls, L-R: Kiersten Souders, Lily Bauer, Bridget Gilmore, Natalie Kubicki, Alexa DeCamp, Grace Mavridoglou, Jessica Beeler

the team was showered with additional awards at the Southwest District Level.

Coach Natalie Dragovich earned Southwest District 2020 All Star Boys Coach of the Year. Lily Bauer was named Southwest District All-Star DII Runner of the Year and All Star 1st

Team

Sam Beeler was named Southwest District All-Star DII Runner of the Year and All Star 1st Team.

Bennett Turan and Ben Fahnestock were named Southwest District All-Star 1st Team, Santi Biro and Henry Buck earned Southwest District All-Star 2nd Team, and Andrew Chen received All-Star Honorable Mention.

Grace Mavridoglou, Kiersten Souders, and Jess Beeler all were named Southwest District All-Star 2nd Team while Bridget Gilmore, Natalie Kubicki and Alexa DeCamp earned All-Star Honorable Mentions.

Schools

Cross Country Varsity Boys, L-R: Andrew Chen, Bennett Turan, Santi Biro, Sam Beeler, Coach Natalie Dragovich, Ben Fahnestock, Martin Eisenhauer, Henry Buck, and Tyler Ching

Village

Police Department Welcomes Its Newest Member

By Suzy Weinland

The Village of Mariemont Police Department welcomes its newest member, Dasty, a Malanwall Shepherd, who joined the team in January as the official police K9.

Dasty is 16 months old and will be handled and cared for by Officer Matt Kurtz, who has been with the Mariemont Police Dept. going on six years. Prior to his service in Mariemont, Kurtz worked as a police officer in Lockland. This is Kurtz’s first time being a K9 handler, but says with his experiences in Lockland, and his love for being outdoors, this was a logical next step for him and our community.

“I’m looking forward to working with Dasty and keeping the Mariemont community safe,” said Kurtz. Kurtz and Dasty spent 14 weeks in training together through the Cincinnati Police Department’s K9 School, and they both received certification on January 7, 2021.

“We trained all over Cincinnati, and will continue maintenance training every other Wednesday both around Mariemont and in other communities.” Kurtz explained that all K9 police dogs are trained in many locations so that if/when there is an incident in an area where they may be called to help, they will be familiar with it and best able to do their job.

With the ongoing drug crisis in Hamilton County, and Route 50 being a main artery for running drugs cross-state, Dasty serves a very important role in helping our police department

to reduce crime and keep our community safe. His primary duties will include tracking for home break-ins and sniffing vehicles that have been stopped for suspected drugs.

Kurtz shared that there are laws that K9s must follow as to what incidents they can be brought into. “Dasty is a ‘non-lethal use of force’ tool. The incident has to be a severe crime, such as a home burglary, domestic violence with severe injuries, felony warrants and felony assaults or injuries.”

Dasty was purchased through a grant from The Matt Haverkamp Foundation. Matt Haverkamp was a Colerain High School graduate and police officer in the Golf Manor Police Department. He started a bicycle patrol and a K9 unit there. Matt died in an off-duty car

accident in July 2005. His parents started The Matt Haverkamp Foundation in November 2005 with the mission of continuing Matt’s legacy and keeping his memory alive by supporting the law enforcement agencies in communities in the greater Cincinnati area. To date, the Foundation has funded the purchase of 70 canines for police departments around Cincinnati.

According to Mariemont Police Chief Rick Hines, the grant covered the full $9,000 cost to purchase Dasty, and the Cincinnati Police Department covered the cost of the 14-week training for both Dasty and Kurtz. Once word got out about the new canine, several Mariemont businesses and residents offered to fund both the initial setup and contribute to Dasty’s annual care, including a kennel for Matt Kurtz’s home where Dasty will live, outfitting Matt’s police car to keep Dasty safe and comfortable in the back seat, and food and other miscellaneous expenses throughout the year. A local vet has also offered to provide shots and annual veterinary care to Dasty for free.

“I had to fill out a lot of paperwork, and then interview with Nancy Haverkamp – Matt’s mother - and the Foundation’s board,” said Chief Hines. “But almost immediately after the interview, they discussed and offered us the grant to purchase

Cont'd on next page

Mariemont’s new K9, Dasty, with handler and Mariemont Police Officer Matt Kurtz

K9 (from previous page)

Dasty. Without them and the funding and support we’ve received so far, it couldn’t have happened.”

Chief Hines said that having Dasty on the team is exciting for residents, who will benefit in many ways, and for the children, who will get to meet Dasty and Matt through future presentations and events, such as the annual Police Night Out.

In addition to supporting needs in the Village

of Mariemont, Dasty will be available to help any agency on the East Side when needed. Chief Hines said, “This is a win-win because Cincinnati Police and other nearby departments can call on our dog and handler if we are closer to an incident than they are. By the same token, we can call on one of theirs when needed. This is just another example of the ongoing cooperation and shared use of resources between departments, which benefits

all of our communities.”

If you would like to donate to Dasty’s continued care and future needs, please contact Chief Rick Hines at 271-4089. For more information on The Matt Haverkamp Foundation and to meet the canines and handlers it has provided to local agencies, go to https:// matthaverkamp.com/about-matt-our-mission/.

Girl Scouts Have an Eventful December

By Emma Aiello

First grade Troop 4162 is meeting over Zoom the next couple of (cold) months and hopes to resume outside meetings in March. They are also selling cookies, mostly through digital sales.

The sixth grade Troop 45352 just finished earning their virtual babysitting award. They are preparing to enter the competitive Mariemont babysitters market...post Covid of course. Next up, the troop will begin working on their cooking badge, where they will take an online class hosted

Ninth grade Troop 40829 has been busy with various activities. At Christmas they donated shoeboxes to Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child. The shoeboxes, packed with toys, activities and basic necessities, were sent to children in Burundi! The girls had fun going vintage

shopping in Northside and ice skating at 50 West together, and they anticipate holding Zoom meetings in the next couple of months to complete their First Aid badge.

The Ninth Grade Troop 40829 enjoyed ice skating at 50 West and preparing Operation Christmas Child gift boxes for Samaritan’s Purse in December.

Anyone interested in learning more about Girl Scouts, please contact Megan Francus, Community Development Manager, Girl Scouts of Western Ohio at 513-619-1386 or MeganFrancus@gswo.org.

by Out of Thyme. The girls will make homemade spaghetti sauce and meatballs and magic cookie bars.

Lap of Love Provides Care for Our Companions

By Kim Beach

Dogs are a big part of the Mariemont community, and we are lucky to have a new resident whose job is to take care of our special pets at a time when they need us most. Beth Ruggles is a veterinarian who works for LapofLove.com, an organization of mobile veterinarians dedicated to end-of-life care for pets.

Beth was raised in Ohio (Urbana) and attended The Ohio State University for both undergraduate and veterinarian school. She moved to Lexington, Ky., after school where she raised two children, a son who is a graduate of the University of Kentucky and a daughter who will be graduating from UK this spring. After raising her kids, Beth decided to return to Ohio to do the meaningful work she had always wanted to do.

Working from home, Beth covers a territory from Northern Kentucky to Dayton. She provides home hospice and euthanasia for area pets and says it is the most fulfilling job she’s ever had. Clients find out about her service in several ways: online, their personal vet, and word of mouth. She visits their home to assess the pet’s health

and provide the services needed. She appreciates the opportunity to help animals have a peaceful transition and to bring comfort to the family at this time of grief.

Beth had wanted to be a vet from a very young age and remembers finding a wounded squirrel in the first grade, which she tried to rescue and heal. She sees her biggest opportunity in the next year to help more families as their pets face the end of their lives. The attributes that make Beth successful include compassion, a calm demeanor, the ability to bring peace and comfort to pet owners, and a loving disposition. This tender disposition inspires her favorite two-word saying, “Always Love”.

Beth keeps busy with several hobbies, including pickle ball, piano playing, and golf. She also enjoys walks with her Australian Shepherd, Helen. Their favorite location to walk is down by the river in the Lower 80 of the Village. Beth also has three cats that complete her household. She moved into Mariemont in May of 2020 and feels like she has found “home” here in the Village. Outside of Mariemont, her favorite spot in the city is the Cincinnati Art Museum, and she looks

forward to traveling when she can.

We know Beth is going to be a special part of our community and will provide tender loving care to the pets that are such important members of our families. To learn more about Lap of Love’s services, please visit https://www.lapoflove.com/

Beth Ruggles with her dog, Helen.

By The 2021 FAB Team

This Year is Going to

Like so many things, this year’s Mariemont City Schools FAB Affair will look a little different. No need to purchase an event ticket, hire a babysitter, worry about dress code, or buy a new outfit. But, you can still look forward to the chance of winning some amazing raffle baskets and, as always, the opportunity to support our Mariemont Schools!

FAB is a joint fundraiser benefiting our three district-wide support organizations: the Mariemont School Foundation, Mariemont Arts Association, and Mariemont Athletic Boosters. The event is a great opportunity to support all three organizations with your donation!

How does your donation help? FAB proceeds have been used to support such items as:

• The purchase of equipment like a steel drum, a pottery kiln, athletic equipment, and extra software for MHS master classes and art students

• The purchase of an awning for the lower entrance of MHS

• Warriors Beyond activities across all four district schools, including wheelchair basketball at MJHS and the Makers Gonna Make Intersession course at MHS

• Student participation in an international art show in collaboration with our sister city of Kharkiv, Ukraine

• A new mural that will be installed at ME

• Scholarships for graduating seniors

Fundraising efforts are already underway, and your financial support is more important than ever. You can make a donation or purchase raffle tickets at www. fabtix.org. We’ll keep track of how many raffle tickets you purchase and remind you of how many you have to place when we unveil our FABulous raffle prizes in March.

We sincerely appreciate you taking the

time to consider making a tax-deductible donation to The 2021 FAB Affair!

A Special Thank You to the FAB Affair Donation Team: Ry Naticchioni, Meagan Ulrich, Scott McIntosh, and Anne Mosemiller-Hagen as well as our three organization presidents – Stacie Holloway (Foundation), Suzy Weinland (Arts), and Tom Gilmore (Boosters).

Community

Kiwanis Celebrates 55 Years of Service to Mariemont

By Ken White

If you are looking for an opportunity to volunteer with a group with a good mission, Kiwanis of Mariemont is a great option. Our chapter was formed in 1966 and is one of the best active Kiwanis clubs in Ohio.

You may know us for our sponsorship and fundraisers such as the Art and Craft Fair on the Square, the Holiday Nut Sale, the Texas Hold ‘em Tournament, Golf Tournament, and Fairfax Festival Beer Truck.

Our mission is to serve the Mariemont School District communities. We have members working with teachers and youth for the Key Club, Builders Clubs, Warriors Walk Tall, Stock Club in the Junior High, Memorial Day Essay Contest, and others.

Our membership grew by about 25 percent in 2020, and we want to add additional activities and service projects in 2021. We would love for you to become involved. Some of our current members, who you may know and who could tell you more about our mission, include:

From the School District - Past club presidents include Steve Estepp, Lance Hollander, and Jim Renner. Other school district leaders who are club members are Tami Croll, Thad Highbaugh, Rob Polca, Erika Simmons, Brian Sugerman, and Brent Wise.

From the Community - A few community members involved, or leading committees, are Barb Anderson, Dave Boyles, Jeremy Gates, Todd Keyes, Matt Nickum, David Peterson, Steve Spooner, Jack Smith,

Gina Stalzer, and Ken White. Some members attend weekly and others just for special events because of commitments. Feel free to ask any of these members more about Kiwanis.

One notable member is Rob Porter (Porter and Porter Law) who graciously set up our new 501-C3 charitable option-Kiwanis of Mariemont Children’s Foundation. This group will allow our supporters to make donations that are fully tax deductible. In the first year donations exceeded our expectations

Longtime Kiwanis member Jack Smith (R) presents outgoing President Lance Hollander (L) with a gavel in recognition of his contributions and service.

and took pressure off have the fundraiser events. In a year of Covid this was very timely.

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Recently, we have supported as many as 10 students in one year with scholarship grants (renewable for 4 years) totaling a combined $15,000 per year. We have given over $255,000 since the program started. We hope with the Foundation that this amount can only grow. Our scholarship effort is lead by Jack Smith of Terrace Park who offers an ear, support, and advice to

Community

this amazing group.

Please check our Website at www. mariemonkiwanis.org or follow us on Twitter @Mariemontkclub and Facebook at Mariemont Kiwanis. We also welcome you to join us for a Zoom meeting or in-person at the Village Church on the corner of Oak and Maple in Old Towne Mariemont. We meet

Emerg

South: (937) 436-4853 North (937) 890-8342

4787 Gateway

W ater R estoration- Offering 24 hour emergency response. We have 7 dedicated trucked mounted extraction vehicles, 100 dehumidifiers and over 1000 fans. For large structural drying projects we use the unique Water Out process.

G arment R estoration- Free pick up and

delivery, as well as free storage. There is no charge for any item that is not successfully restored

M old R emediation- Extensive experience in

microbial re mediation projects We use a six step process We also offer state of the art duct cleaning and indoor air quality testing.

F ire R estoration- Complete structural and content cleaning, using ozone and thermal fogging techniques to remove odor. We pack contents after cle aning and then store them in a climate controlled facility.

every Tuesday at 7:45 a.m. for 45 minutes. We share coffee and donuts and have speakers on current topics ranging from A to Z (e.g., Woman’s Art Club to the Cincinnati Zoo).

Call or email Ken White for membership info or the Zoom meeting link at 513-3031422 or kenrwhite3247@gmail.com. You may also reach out to our current president, Mike Pope, at kpassoc@fuse.net.

Fully B onded and Insured State of the Ar t Equipment

IICRC Cer ti ed T echnicians

24 Hour Emergency Respons e

Professional and Courteous Employ ees

W ater R esto

News from the Village Administration Office

• The Administration Office will be closed on 2/15/2021 for President’s Day

emergency response. We have 7 dedicated trucked mounted extraction vehicles, 100 dehumidifiers and over 1000 fans For large structural drying projects we use the unique Water Out process

G arment R e

M old R emed

• Sign up for emails from the Village at https://www.mariemont.org/ registration-2/ If you’d like to receive weekly COVID-19 updates be sure to select the “Mariemont News and Alerts” distribution list.

delivery, as well as free storage. There is no charge for any item that is not successfully restored.

• We still have “Yard Waste” labels for your yard waste cans. Rumpke shared these with us; they are not mandatory. Available while supplies last, in the lobby of the municipal building.

microbial re mediation projects. We use a six step process. We also offer state of the art duct cleaning and indoor air quality testing

F ire R estora

content cleaning, using ozone and thermal fogging techniques to remove odor. We pack contents after cle aning and then store them in a climate controlled

• As a reminder, we are still using the yellow trash stickers for waste collection. Please note, if you are using a 65 gallon brown Rumpke cart, you only need to place ONE yellow sticker on it. Yellow trash stickers can be purchased at Ace or Kroger for $2/ each.

Kids Need Kiwanis. Kiwanis Needs You.

Kiwanis (from previous page)

Being a ‘Pet Parent’ Requires Love and Responsibility

By Suzy Weinland

February is Responsible Pet Owners Month. Since we all know that Mariemonters are avid pet-lovers – many even adding additional furry family members since the pandemic started – we thought this would be a good time to talk about what being a responsible pet owner entails. So, here are some tips and helpful advice from a pet-loving neighbor, a realtor, a vet, and our Village offices.

Neighborly Suggestions

Mariemont resident Marcia Duval, her husband Jude, and daughter Claire are the owners of four-year-old, Sweet Dream House Rescue pup Luna and a rescued cat named Lazarus. The family moved here from Sonoma, Calif., three years ago, and they have always been partial to rescue pets.

“I feel it’s very important to rescue unwanted animals, and I love to foster or adopt elderly dogs who’ve lost their people,” said Marcia. “I advise anyone wanting a rescue pet to consider your circumstances and the dog’s personality, energy level, and requirements. Know what’s best for you and your family – if you are gone a lot with work or travelling, and can’t give constant attention, then don’t get a puppy.”

Once you bring your new friend home, watch and learn about your pet. “Listen and get a feel for their verbal cues - when they are happy, upset, wanting to play,” suggested Marcia, adding that while tending to a pet’s needs isn’t that hard, you do have to carve out time to feed, walk, play with and love them. “You aren’t just pet-sitting; they become part of your family. And they bring so much joy and love!”

Marcia feels lucky that she is able to take Luna for an almost two-hour walk daily. She takes her to the South 80, sometimes meets up with other dog owners, lets Luna play and “get her energy out,” she said. “And that’s good for everybody!”

Marcia and I came up with a few suggestions on how dog and cat owners can keep their pets safe while outside as well as keep the peace with neighbors:

Be a responsible dog walker. Be aware of other dog walkers; give them space if you see them tightening their dog’s leash and walking around you. Not all dogs interact well with dogs they don’t know. What your dog sees as play time may be seen as an attack by the other dog.

Clean up after your dog. It’s not only common courtesy, it’s part of our Village code (see next page). “We’ve all had a time or two when we’ve forgotten our plastic bags, but try to remember to go back and pick it up,” suggested Marcia. Additionally, dog feces can contain parasites, and you don’t want your dog eating another’s dogs feces – or vice versa! For those who regularly walk their pet in the South 80, it is important to also note that dog poop can drive other animals away from their

natural habitat. Not to mention the chance for hikers and runners to accidentally step in it.

Train your dog. Be the “pet” parent, and teach your dog how you expect it to act. Dogs are inherently wild animals and unless you teach them the rules and that you are the “Alpha” in the house, they will act as if they are in control. Dogs should be taught to sit, stay, come when called and not bark incessantly. If you don’t have the time, or are having difficulty getting your pet to follow your rules, there are trainers and even phone apps to guide you. A well-trained dog will reward you with a calmer household, they will be happier because they have “boundaries” (just like a toddler), and your neighbors will thank you!

Don’t let your pet wander. Keep an eye on your dog when they go outside if you don’t have a fenced-in yard, even if they are on a lead. They can surprise you and suddenly run off, get lost, or get hit by a car. Keep cat’s inside. Most domestic cats are declawed and cannot defend themselves if attacked by another animal. As well, cats like to wander and mark their territory, including neighbors’ outdoor furniture cushions.

Vet Advice

Beth Ruggles, DVM, end-of-life care veterinarian, and new Mariemont resident as of April 2020, expands upon pet safety and provides sound advice on keeping your pet healthy and happy. Beth was an emergency room vet for many years, and said the most “preventable” injuries she saw in dogs were bites and scratches needing stitches, brought upon by not leashing a dog while walking or at a park.

“You may think your dog is the sweetest in the world, but the one they walk up to may not be,” said Beth. “My dog is the nicest thing, but she has severe vision problems and gets scared when other dogs run up to her.” Beth says unattended and unleashed dogs cause the biggest vet bills and are the most preventable.

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Jude Hoffner and Marcia Duval with their dog, Luna and cat, Lazarus.

Pet Parents (from previous page)

As an ER vet she has also attended to more than one dog who jumped out of a car window or caused the driver to have an accident. “I’ve seen dogs dragged by leashes outside the car door because they jumped off the driver’s lap and out an open window when they saw a squirrel. A friend of mine let her cat out of the carrier and it got under the car pedals causing my friend to roll her car,” shared Beth, explaining why it’s so important to have your pet in a carrier or seatbelt when in the car. “It sounds like common sense, and we think we know our pets so well, but we don’t know what they will do. It’s really like caring for a toddler.”

Heat stroke is another oft-seen issue. “Dogs who go with their owner on a long walk or run in extreme heat can end badly. They have a thick, furry coat, and unlike humans, they won’t stop if they are tired, achey or thirsty. They want to be with you,” said Beth. “Fresh water and shade for your dog when they are outside on hot days is very important.”

Beth recommends taking your pet for yearly vet visits for ages 6 and under. After that, she says going in two times a year wouldn’t hurt. “Things change fast in animals. Waiting six months may not seem long to us, but it is to them. The earlier we can catch something the better the chance of giving that pet a longer and more quality life.” Most dogs are considered “seniors” starting between the age of 8-10. Beth advises really knowing your pet and consulting with your vet as they age to make sure of what they can handle.

She also recommends using flea, tick and heartworm prevention year-round. “Ticks are active at 45 degrees and up, so if you have a warm winter day… a dog contracting Lyme disease in the winter is not unheard of. Mosquitoes can come out in mild weather, too, so heartworm is a consistent concern. And flea eggs can lay dormant in a house for years. If they hatch and get on your pet, then they breed and you can have an infestation

that never goes away.” She also recommends cleaning your pet’s teeth regularly. February is Pet Dental Health Month, and many vets offer teeth cleaning discounts.

Selling Your “Pet Friendly” Home

Mariemont real estate guru and pet mom to a Maltese Shitzu, Shelley Miller Reed weighed in with things pet owners should strongly consider when trying to sell their home.

“A house where there are pets can smell. Especially with cats. That can be a huge turn off to some people,” said Shelley. “I literally had one person who walked one foot into a home, said it smelled like dog, and walked out.” She said some pet owners are so used to their home’s smell that they’ve become immune to it.

It’s important to get your carpets cleaned prior to putting it on the market. Between showings, vacuum up pet hair regularly, clean out litter boxes and put them, and food and water bowls, out of sight for showings.

unpredictable when strangers are around.”

Village Ordinances

What is predictable, however, are the penalties and fines related to offenses and breaking of the animal ordinances set by the Village of Mariemont. Some of the info from the code is summarized nicely on a sign that is posted in the South 80. You can also peruse all sections of the Village’s animal ordinance by visiting the Mariemont Village website, going to “Governance” and “Code of Ordinances,” and scrolling down to “Chapter 90: Animals” - here is the direct link: https:// codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/mariemont/ latest/mariemont_oh/00-0-5899

“And forego having lots of lit candles or plugins. It almost seems like you are trying to cover something up. Best to have it the way it is –but clean – so a potential buyer can see it and discuss it.”

A big concern for pet owners is knowing what to do with their furry friends during an open house or showing. Shelley advises to take them for a walk or ride in your car or to a park, or even ask a neighbor to help watch them if you are unavailable. “Don’t leave your pet in a cage or carrier somewhere in the house, and definitely don’t let them run loose,” said Shelley. “Some owners will say ‘Oh, he’ll hide,’ but I still see them, and they can be

Allison Uhrig, in the Village administrative office, shares that a few areas of the ordinance were recently updated by Council, but are still being updated online. One such section outlines areas where pets can now be “offleash” (see Chapter 90: Animals, Section 90.01 (1) (a) (b)).

Allison comments, “The ongoing and consistent complaint we receive about pets is POOP. People not picking up dog poop, throwing dog poop in other people’s trash and/ or recycling cans, and people letting their dog poop on property that is not theirs and not cleaning it up.”

Alrighty, friends, we can do better! As we celebrate Valentine’s Day, let’s be sure to show our pets – and our neighbors – a little more love. Get to know your fuzzy family members better. Vow to keep them safe, healthy, and happy. And help make our community the best place to be a pet owner.

FUN FACT: In 1860, business man James Spratt recognized the need for canines to be fed according to their biology, not a human’s, and so he developed the first commercially available dog food. (Source: nationaltoday.com/ responsible-pet-owners-month/)

By Kim Flick, MariElders, Transportation Coordinator

When you flip through the photographs of decades past, you might chuckle at the hair styles, note the car you were driving, feel the love you have for the people in the picture with you, or have twinges of sadness.

As you look beyond the image and think about who you were, what you were doing at that point in your life, that can be the start of your life story. You do not have to tell it to a specific person. Tell it to your self.

Start back before you were born. Who were your parents? What were their circumstances around the time you came into the world? And then begin the chronology of how you got to where you are now.

Perhaps start the story by writing a letter to your younger self - how you would make it through your school years, what obstacles you would overcome, what favorite things you would do and whether you still do them, or why you

Village

Tell Your Story

outgrew them. Did you serve in the Armed Forces, as an example? Give a concise accounting of what that was like. If you intend to expand on a subject, make notes and fill in the blanks.

Use post-it notes or index cards to catch fleeting ideas. Keep your stream of consciousness flowing. Chronicle the major points first. Expound later as you flesh out your story. Take it in small chunks, to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Organizing your photos into a loose chronology might help trigger your memories.

“Why bother putting my story out there for anyone,” you might wonder? Here are a few reasons to consider:

Writing out your thoughts is more beneficial than abstractly thinking about your past.

It can give you a sense of mastery over your life, boost your self-esteem, improve your cognition, and lessen depression.

Reminiscing, reflection and ordering your history can cause you to think differently about your life, in a good way.

It is important to examine your struggles and hardships as well as your accomplishments and achievements.

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MariElders (from previous page)

Telling your story is not a way of bragging, but an honest account of your journey. Touch upon the value of friendship, the importance of marriage, the joy of birth, and pain of losing loved ones. Know that your story may some day be read by someone who has not even been born yet – a legacy to a future generation. They will feel connected to you through the ages because you took some time to reveal who you were.

Approach documenting your story as a process. If you are comfortable using the computer, do so. You can incorporate digital copies of your old pictures simply by photographing them with your smart phone. There are life story websites and digital interview resources online. The Cincinnati Public Library’s Genealogy and Local History department houses one of the nation’s largest and oldest genealogy collections, including the complete U.S. federal census dating back to 1790. Genealogy has become hugely popular, so your story could potentially leaf out a lot of the branches on your family tree for your kinfolk.

If paper and pen have the right feel for you - go for it. Waiting for someone to give their time to help you record your life story may make you less likely to complete it. Try using a little of your own time each day when your thoughts are fresh. You might find yourself looking forward to picking up where you left off the day before. Keeping it sequential will probably help you stay organized and give your eventual readers a better understanding of your timeline, especially as it relates to history. You shouldn’t feel compelled to glamorize or embellish your accounts. Keep it real.

If you are seeking information about generations past or lost relatives, why not email a cousin, write an aunt or uncle, call an old crony,

Village

pull out forgotten letters, dig though that box of keepsakes. Searching your past may conjure feelings and emotions. Emotions are good and it is important to remember that you have control over them. It’s alright to feel differently and to look at your life objectively from time to time.

Undoubtedly, these reflections may make you

feel both cheerful and wistful. Telling your story is a good way to visit your past without living in the past. As long as you are here on this good old Earth, there are still plenty of stories for you to live out and new chapters for you to write. And when it is all said and done, you will hopefully come to realize that you have created an especially important memoir – Your own!

Village

A Farewell Tribute to Joe Stoner

By Suzy Weinland

It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the sudden passing of longtime Mariemont resident Joe Stoner on January 22, 2021. Joseph Arthur Stoner was born May 20, 1947 in Columbus, Ohio, to loving parents, Arthur and Regina Stoner. Joe and his wife, Aquila, have lived in Mariemont since 1982.

Joe loved his community and its beauty, and used his talents and passion for photography and art to capture the many special places and moments in Mariemont. In recent years Joe served the Mariemont Preservation Foundation as a member of the Board of Trustees, as President Emeritus, and prior to April, 2020 as President. He contributed his time and talents to exhibits at The Barn, the former annual Civic Association Calendar, Mariemont’s Vision 2012 Planbook, and much more.

Throughout the years, Joe exhibited his fractal art and photographs at KZF gallery, the

Arts Consortium, and other venues. His work can also be found in corporate collections, such as Cincinnati Bell and Realteam.

His wife Aquila shared that Joe loved to take walks almost every day since they settled here. “He has taken pictures of every inch of Mariemont. He would often go spend time at the Old Town Square, taking photos, and Whiskey Creek. He especially loved to photograph the Ginko tree leaves when they turned yellow in the fall.”

Joe traveled throughout Europe twice in the 1970s: a solo camping trip on a motorcycle, followed later by a one-year course at the Academy of Continuous Education in the Cotswolds, with his wife. Joe served state side during the Vietnam Era as a 1st Lieutenant in the Air Force on the Aeromedical Evacuation Team. He earned his MS in Biomedical Communications at the University of Cincinnati and spent most of his working career as a Senior Research Associate at the University of

Cincinnati Medical Center Dean’s Office.

Joe’s family said, “Joe was a complex and wonderful man of many interests and talents. He leaves a legacy of service and doing what he loved – capturing the beauty of life with his camera.”

In addition to wife Aquila, Joe leaves behind a sister, Carol Marie Stoner, and brothers, Christopher, Paul, and James. He was predeceased by his brother Peter Stoner. He will also be greatly missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Due to COVID-19 concerns, Joe’s family held private services. A memorial service will be announced at a future time. If you would like to pay tribute to Joe, his obituary and tribute page can be found at thomasjustinmemorial.com under Joseph Stoner.

The Town Crier reached out to friends and

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Tribute (from previous page)

colleagues to gather words of tribute to Joe:

Rex Bevis (Friend, current MPF President)

Joe was the consummate MPF President and Trustee, caring deeply about the Village of Mariemont and its history. His photography of Village scenes and sites have inspired all of us and are recognized throughout the Village and beyond as exceptional work. His passion for Mariemont led Joe to become an extraordinary resource for all of us. When any of us wanted to know about aspects of our history, Joe was by far and away our ‘go to’ person.

Claire Kupferle (Friend, former MPF President, past Town Crier editor)

I suspect Joe’s preference for being the one taking the pictures rather than being in them came from his humble character. When I turned over the reins of MPF to Joe as President, he was at first reluctant to take on a prominent role, but immediately became an amazing leader and a strong voice for positivity in the Village. Joe had a quiet manner, but his passion for Mariemont was clear.

Jan Ring (Neighbor, friend, artist, and active

Village

member of The Barn)

Joe and Aquila have been my neighbors for over thirty years. We often saw Joe out walking around with his camera, and had no idea what a professional he was! A few years ago an envelope appeared in my mailbox containing two beautiful photographs of our home taken during the holidays with all the decorations. One was a daytime photo and the other taken at night. Typical of Joe, just quietly put them in my mail box - no fanfare!

Bill and Kim Klumb (Friends and neighbors)

Joe was my good friend and next door neighbor of 18 years. We shared passions for the Village, fast sports cars, and learning about technology and new things. He was generous with his time and many talents. Joe was always there, willing to help solve any computer issue and to discuss Village and current world events. He loved taking our two dogs for a walk and a swim down in the lower 80. We will dearly miss Joe and his friendly smile and demeanor.

Lynn Long (Friend and Director of The Barn)

Joe’s gentle demeanor and eye for beauty will

be sorely missed. Luckily I took a photograph of winning entrants from the paired exhibit at The Barn in 2018, “Reinterpreting Nancy Ford Cones”, a Fotofocus Biennial event. Joe reinterpreted the Nancy Ford Cones photo of a woman ascending a long staircase with his smartphone photo of people riding a long escalator. (Pictured above) He was very instrumental in the success of this exhibit, making large prints of MPF’s Nancy Ford Cones photographs, lending some originals, and giving a short talk at the Lecture by Ren Egbert.

Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center

Falling in Love at the Barn

Calling Artists!

The Woman’s Art Club of Cincinnati is calling female artists from around the Tri-State region to participate in its annual juried show running April 6-25 at The Barn, located at 6980 Cambridge Avenue.

The goal of this exhibition is to showcase fine art works produced by adult women from Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. The focus of the jurying process will be on craftsmanship, color, and composition with an emphasis upon diversity in style and subject. The organization does not accept computer-generated art.

Award-winning Jeanne McLeish will serve as juror for the country’s longest-running exhibition of its kind. McLeish’s watercolor and oil paintings hang in numerous private and public collections. Credentials include her stint as the National Park Service’s Artist in Residence at the Indiana Dunes National Lake Shore Park, as well as a residency at Shades State Park in celebration of the Bicentennial.

Artist L. Diana Young will select the winners of the competition. Her award-winning paintings have been shown in numerous galleries and recognized in various shows and plein air competitions including Painters of America, American Impressionist Show and Salon International Show. In addition to painting, Young taught at the Art Academy of Cincinnati and worked in commercial art and illustration. She will present the awards on April 11 at the show’s reception from 2 – 4 p.m.

Awards come to a total of more than $3,500.

Entry fee is $50 for Woman’s Art Club members and $65 for non-members. Please mail your check to The Woman’s Art Club of Cincinnati, 6980 Cambridge Avenue, Mariemont, Ohio, 45227. Deadline is Feb. 28.

For more information and specific guidelines, please go to womansartclub.com, then click on Call for Entries. For other questions, call 513272-3700. All contestants must be a female of more than 18 years of age and a resident of Ohio, Kentucky or Indiana.

Brush & Palette Painters: Chasing the Light

The Cincinnati Brush & Palette Painters invite the public to attend its annual show running March 6 -28 at The Barn.

Chasing the Light features the work of more than 70 local artists who visited numerous sites of natural interest in an effort to capture the colors and composition of the moment. In addition, the group will feature many still life and studio paintings—all created within the restraints of the pandemic.

“Artists traveled from the farmlands to the heart…and to the heat of the city,” said Mandy Putnam, spokesperson for the group.

New to the event is the introduction of Art in Bloom. The Terrace Park and Mariemont Garden Clubs will present floral arrangements on two selected days of the exhibition, according to Putnam, a Loveland resident.

The collaboration with The Barn , Terrace Park Garden Club, Mariemont Garden Club

and the Brush and Palette Painters started when Mariemont members visited Art in Bloom at the Cincinnati Art Museum.

“The program chair suggested that we as a group should do a smaller version at The Barn since we hold our meetings there,”said Cathy Schneider, a member of the Mariemont club.

Art in Bloom reception takes place March 6 from 3-6 p.m. Regular hours are Tuesdays through Fridays 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. and weekends 1-4 p.m, March 13-14. The exhibition ends on March 28

Classes from the Heart

Wednesdays

Oil Painting with Jan Boone. 9:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Ongoing sign-up.

Watercolors with Bruce Neville. 6-8 p.m. Ongoing sign-up.

Japanese Flower Arranging with Sogetsu Ikebana. 6-8 p.m. Second Wednesday of each month. Ongoing sign-up.

Thursdays

Beginning and Intermediate Watercolors with Chris Campbell. 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. through February 25.

6755 highland avenue

cincinnati, ohio 45236 (513) 791-3282

www.osterwisch.com

Ohio License: 16334, 14921, 11981

Kentucky License: CE12931, HMO2565

Fridays

The Pastel Workshop. 9 a.m. – Noon. For Beginners and Intermediates through Feb. 19.

Japanese Flower Arranging with Sogetsu Ikebana. 10 a.m. – Noon. Fourth Fridays, only. On-going sign-up.

TGIF! Open Painting Studio with Charlie Berger. 1 – 4 p.m. Drop In. Acrylic, Oil and Pastels. Please contact Charlie to sign up.

Saturdays

Much Better Drawing with Charlie Berger. 9 a.m. – Noon through February 20.

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Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center

Create Wire and Bead Jewelry with Ivanka Lempitskiy. A one day class. Sign up for as many as you wish. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Feb. 6, Feb. 20 and March 6.

Learn to Paint the Bob Ross Way with Gary Waits. Ages 16 and older. 1– 4 p.m. on February 20, April 17 and May 15.

Create Decorated Eggs in the Ukrainian Style with Ivanka Lempitskiy. A one-day class. Sign up for as many as you wish. 2–5 p.m. February 6, February 20, March 18 and April 11.

Sundays

Learn to Paint the Bob Ross Way with Gary Waits. 1-6 p.m. On February 21, March 14, April 18, May 16 and June 20.

Create Wire and Bead Jewelry with Ivanka Lempitskiy. One-day class, . 1-4 p.m. on March 21 and April 11.

Support Made Easy

You can support The Barn every time you shop on Amazon. 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% of your purchase amount and you can support the opportunities that The Barn provides to all citizens of the Greater Cincinnati region.

In addition, The Barn can receive donations from The Kroger Co. at no cost to you. Kroger donates annually to participating organizations based on participants’ percentage of spending as it relates to the total spending associated with all participating Kroger Community Rewards organizations. Once you link your Card to an

organization, all you have to do is shop at Kroger and swipe your Shopper’s Card. This will not impact your gas points.

Go to artatthebarn.org or call 513-272-3700 for more information.

Zoom, Zoom, Zoom with Dave Laug

As a special, free Valentine treat, you are invited to enjoy Sunday in the Park with George at a Zoom watch party hosted by Dave Laug on Feb.11. This 1986 video production of the Pulitzer-prize winning musical stage production stars Mandy Patinkin and Bernadette Peters. In a series of Sundays between 1884 and 1886, George, a struggling artist, and his mistress Dot attempt to keep their relationship together as their differing wants and life styles divide them. Then, a century

The gift that lasts a century

If you are looking for a gift for a person who has everything or a discriminating individual with a passion for art and history, The Barn can help you find it. The 100-year old shingles on the exterior walls of the nearly century-old building are falling apart and must be replaced.

A $25, tax-deductible donation will buy a single shingle that will be numbered and painted before installation. We will send the lucky recipient a gift card acknowledging your timeless gift to them and to The Barn. We will note your shingle number with your recipient’s name, optional message, and optional photo in a time capsule within the new wall.

To join in this historic fundraiser simply visit thebarn.regfox.com/deckthewalls to give a lasting gift. Your gift will bring joy this year and for a century to come.

Love, but NO KISSING at the Barn this Valentine’s Day

The Barn enforces strict COVID-19 protection guidelines by limiting 10 guests at a time and requiring the use of face masks at its functions. In an effort to provide effective tracing methods in the event of a break-out, the Board of Directors request registration upon entrance. Please visit artatthebarn.org for a COVID-19 update before visiting The Barn. Barn (from previous page)

Mariemont Village Council Minutes printed in the Town Crier are edited for space. To view full Council and Committee minutes and agendas, please visit the Village of Mariemont website at www. mariemont.org, click on the upper-right dropdown menu / Governance / Public Records.

Residents are encouraged to sign up at https:// www.mariemont.org/registration-2/ to receive Village news and announcements as well as Council agendas/minutes.

Village Council Permanent Improvement Meeting, January 11, 2021

Present were Police Chief Hines and Council Member Rob Bartlett. Present virtually due to COVID-19 were Council Members Dr. Lewis, Ms. Palazzolo, Mrs. Rankin, and Mr. Stelzer, Assistant Fire Chief Time Feichtner, Service Superintendent Scherpenberg and Fiscal Officer Tony Borgerding.

Fiscal Officer Borgerding distributed prior to the meeting a revised 2021 Capital Improvement Budget.

• Summary of Funds Available: $372,600

• Income for Perm Imp Fund 2021

• 3.0 Mill Levy (Per County Auditor)

$108,000

• 3.5 Mill Levy (Per County Auditor)

$300,000

• Subtotal

$408,000

• Total Funds Available $780,600

• Less: Petoskey Project $175,000

• $465,000 (Less $290,000 from Street Fund)

• Less: Bond & Ambulance $152,000

• TOTAL Funds Available – Unreserved

$453,600

The Police Department requested a 2021 Ford Explorer plus equipment $45,000 and cameras $30,000. Total cost $75,000. $18,000 is being targeted from the Traffic Enforcement Fund to pay for the computer software that keeps the department’s policies and procedures up to date with the State of Ohio.

The Fire/Paramedic Department requested 5 sets of Turn-Out Gear $17,500.

The Service Department requested a dump truck $86,000 and sewers $15,000. Total

Village Government

Cost $101,000. New trees will be Permanent Improvement while maintenance and trimming of trees will come from the General Fund.

The Recreation Department requested service to repair water leaks $50,000, painting (lap pool and bath house) $22,000, replace rusted fixtures $40,000, concrete work and fencing $20,000, bathhouse maintenance $20,000. The slide request was removed but the hope is that there will be monies ($22,000) donated for a potential purchase. The question was raised if adding a slide will increase the cost of liability insurance. Mrs. Van Pelt will follow up with the Village liability insurance carrier. The focus needs to be on improvements to the functional portions of the pools. It is important to catch the pool back up as it was left in disrepair for years. Total Cost $145,000. Council agreed on $125,000. Discussion ensued whether painting and repairs should come from the Permanent Improvement Fund or the General Fund. Mayor Brown said he is getting estimates for a new filtration system for the lap pool and baby pool. Initial estimates are $50,000.

Infrastructure was estimated at $5,000. The hope is to still do some other street work in 2021.

The Administration Department requested storage cabinets $3,000 and remodel/move office $56,000. Total Cost $59,000. Miscellaneous Auditor fees $5,000.

Total needs $407,500. Total available $453,600 leaving $46,100 surplus. This does not authorize payment for any projects until approved by Council.

Regular Council Meeting

January 11, 2021

(A list of communications and reports is available in the full minutes on the Village website.)

Dr. Lewis moved, seconded by Mr. Bartlett to nominate Mrs. Rankin as President Pro Tem. On roll call; six ayes, no nays.

Appropriation Ordinance: “An Ordinance to Make Appropriations for Current Expenses and Other Expenditures of the Village of Mariemont, Ohio, State of Ohio, During the Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2021” had a first reading. Mrs. Rankin moved, seconded by Mr. Bartlett to suspend

Council Representatives

Rob Bartlett robbartlettcouncil@gmail.com

Avia Graves aviagraves@gmail.com

Marcy Lewis marcylewiscouncil@gmail.com

Maggie Palazzolo magpal00@gmail.com

Kelly Rankin kellrankincouncil@gmail.com

Joe Stelzer joestelzercouncil@gmail.com

Mayor: Bill Brown mayor@mariemont.org

the rules to allow for the second and third readings. On roll call; six ayes, no nays. The Ordinance had a second reading. Mr. Stelzer indicated he is not comfortable signing off on these numbers. Fiscal Officer Borgerding said we can supplement the Ordinance as much as Council wants, in addition to Supplemental Ordinances. These numbers were based on the numbers Council agreed to at the 2021 Budget hearing held in July 2020. Before any money is spent Council needs to appropriate funds. Once the year is closed, he can prepare his annual report. Mr. Stelzer wants to lock in the 2020 figures and put a 2% inflation spend on the 2021 budget. Fiscal Officer Borgerding said he will resubmit once the year is closed. He and Mr. Stelzer agreed to discuss the matter further outside of the meeting. The Ordinance had a third reading. Mrs. Rankin moved, seconded by Mr. Bartlett to adopt the Ordinance. On roll call; six ayes, no nays. Ordinance No. O-1-21 was adopted.

Motion To Pay Bills:

Mr. Bartlett moved, seconded by Dr. Lewis to pay the bills as approved by the Mayor, Fiscal Officer and Chairman of the Finance Committee. On roll call; six ayes, no nays. (Itemized list of bills paid is available online on the Village website.)

Miscellaneous

Dr. Lewis moved, seconded by Mr. Bartlett

Cont'd on next page

Council (from previous page)

to nominate Mrs. Rankin as the Council Representative for the Planning Commission. On roll call; six ayes, no nays.

Mrs. Rankin moved, seconded by Mr. Bartlett to nominate Dr. Lewis as the Council Representative for the Architectural Review Board. On roll call; six ayes, no nays.

The Outstanding Citizen Award nominations are due to Mrs. Van Pelt by March 11, 2021

Mayor Brown referred to the Finance Committee the salary ordinances for full-time, parttime employees and appointed officials.

Mr. Stelzer said Council needs to review the organizational structure of the Village including the discussion of hiring a Village Administrator. He would like to see if the Administrator can help us with economic development activities, organize, coordinate pursuit of grants and help the Village with analysis of issues and opportunities the Village may be facing. Mayor Brown referred the matter to the Finance Committee.

Mayor Brown referred the matter of Police Department and Fire Department Permanent Improvement Requests to the Finance Department.

Ms. Palazzolo said the target date for reviewing the MCO will be March 2021. Council agreed to remove overnight parking from the Rules and Law Committee. Ms. Palazzolo said she will pick up on the work for the solar panels after addressing other items in her committee.

Resolutions:

Village Government

To amend Mariemont Code of Ordinances

Chapter 95 Parks and Recreation: Municipal Swimming Pool

To amend Mariemont Code of Ordinances

Chapter 31 Executive Authority, Fiscal Officer

Ordinance establishing a Tree Advisory Board in the Village of Mariemont and creating new Section 37.06 of the Mariemont Code of Ordinances

To amend Section 51.025(A)(1)(a) of the Mariemont Code of Ordinances relative to the Architectural

Review Board

Creating a designated outdoor refreshment area for downtown Mariemont and enacting regulations. Solicitor McTigue said he is working on other code sections that refer to “open containers.”

To amend Mariemont Code of Ordinances

Chapter 79, Schedule I(B)(1), No Parking; Chapter 79, Schedule II(A) Limited Parking; Parallel Parking

To amend Mariemont Code of Ordinance Chapter 75.09, Riding on Sidewalks

Ordinance amending Section 32.13 Rules of

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First Readings - To reappoint Don Keyes to the position of Building Dept. Administrator for calendar years 2021 and 2022, and to set compensation. Resolution to update swimming pool fees Resolution to update tennis court fees for the season

Second Reading -To appoint Tom Gilmore as a member of the Pool Commission for calendar year 2021 to fill unexpired term of Anita Hunt.

Ordinances

First Readings - To remove Chapter 79, Schedule II(B)(1) and (2) and (C) restricting overnight parking

To remove Section 37.20 through Section 37.22 regarding Civil Defense Organization

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Village

From the Desk of Mayor Bill Brown

2020 —What a year for the Village!

The headline event of the year was obviously the COVID-19 virus and the many difficulties it posed for our residents and the Village.

I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the efforts of Village residents, Council, my administrative staff, Police and Fire Departments, and our Maintenance Department for rising to the challenges presented by COVID.

Some of these challenges included the unknown revenue shortfall into the Village due to the COVID shutdown order and how it would affect our ability to maintain services, having to cancel the Memorial Day Parade and other annual events, postponing the July 4th fireworks, and postponing road projects due to budget constraints. (And let’s not forget the bane of Zoom Council and Committee meetings, standing six feet apart, and wearing facemasks!)

Special thanks go to Chief Hines and Assistant Fire Chief Feichtner for their efforts to safely provide police and fire protection and services to our residents. Bravo to a job well done!

I’m particularly proud of the challenge we faced in getting the pool open for the season. This effort represents one of the finest examples of community spirit and collective action; so many volunteers gave not only their time but also financial donations. Our pool manager Jordan Schad kept everything running smoothly while enforcing new regulations and keeping the swimmers and staff safe.

Going forward, the newly formed Pool

Task Force organized by Councilman Joe Stelzer and headed up by Lorne Hlad will work to upgrade and enhance the pool experience.

Since I don’t have a crystal ball I can’t entirely predict what 2021 will bring. We’re clearly not over the virus. The vaccines are promising but only time will bring an end. I do know with certainty that Mariemont will prevail. The character and generosity, the remarkable spirit of our residents and our Village employees will sustain us throughout the coming year.

My very best wishes to you and your families for a 2021 filled with health and happiness.

Community Village Worship Services

Village Church of Mariemont

Villagechurchofmariemont.org

Todd Keyes, Pastor

Jamie Keyes, Children’s Ministries

The Village Church of Mariemont invites you to join us Sundays for worship at 10 a.m. During this pandemic period, services are being held inside our location at 3920 Oak Street. We ask that you be safe and respect others by wearing a mask and social distancing.

If you can’t be with us in person, join us online at facebook.com/VCMChurch at 10 a.m., or you may prefer to watch the message later on our website: www. villagechurchofmariemont.org. Either way, we hope you enjoy our service and look forward to meeting you in the future.

90-Day Journey Through The Bible: Sunday February 7, our church will start a journey of reading the Bible in 90 days. Many people say they want to read through the Bible at least once in their lifetime. Well, here is your chance to do it in 90 days! We will have resources for you to read through it or listen to the passages with an app on your phone –super easy! Then we will focus on practical applications from these Bible readings in our Sunday services. For more information and resources for this journey, check our website.

Mariemont Community Church

Mariemontchurch.org

Denis Beausejour, Senior Pastor

Jamie Moore, Co-senior Pastor

Paul Rasmussen, Worship Pastor

Leslie Seetin, Children’s Director

Sunday Services 9 a.m. We are now having in-person services. No RSVP needed. Masks required. Limited interaction outdoors only. Livestream can be found on Facebook at Mariemont Church, our website at mariemontchurch. org, and YouTube at https://www.youtube. com/c/MariemontChurch/videos.

New Co-Senior Pastor Named

We are excited to announce that Jamie Moore, previously the Family and Discipleship Pastor, has been named Co- Senior Pastor of MCC with Denis Beausejour.

Current and Coming Up

January 3- April 4 - Astonished Series: A 12-week sermon series about knowing and loving the Father, Son, and Spirit. Join us as we consider some of the attributes of God: Loving, Holy, Eternal, Missional, Victorious and more.

February 6 - Women’s Day Retreat:  “A Day with Beth Gukenberger.” The retreat will be both in-person and livestreamed,

similar to our Sunday services. The time will be 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. The retreat will be free of charge and includes a box lunch for those attending in-person. No childcare will be provided.

If you would like to attend the retreat in-person, please RSVP by January 23 to Paula Ayer, ayerpaula@gmail.com. Reservations will be on a first-come firstserved basis, due to limited space in the sanctuary. Our current limit is 50.

If you are attending via live stream, please consider inviting a friend or family member to participate with you.

February 10 - Worship Night:  Join us at the Parish Center, 3908 Plainville Road, at 7 p.m. for a night of worship. Masks required.

February 13 - Speaking the Truth in Love: Join Equipping Ministries International and learn essential tools that help in friendships, mentoring, discipling, small group leading, parenting….and more! Come learn practical tools to:

• speak up in ways that reduce defensiveness

• remain calm in conflict or disagreement build bridges of understanding and cooperation

Find course description and registration at https://www.equippingministries.org/.