Walking in Mariemont
By Frank Raeon
What started out as a co-written piece by two avid Mariemont walkers has resulted in an abundance of fun and informative material on walking in our Village. So, the Town Crier will run one author’s article here and another one in May’s issue! We hope everyone will enjoy reading about the many walking routes in our community, the numerous health benefits of walking, and why our neighbors consider “walkability” as one of their favorite things about Mariemont.
When people think of Mariemont a number of impressions quickly come to mind. Tree lined streets, outstanding schools, a charming village center, the “Old Town Square” neighborhood, and a variety of housing choices, to name a few. But, just as important – and perhaps even more coveted - is its high degree of walkability. Indeed, Mariemont is one of the most walkable communities in all of Greater Cincinnati.
On any given day, Mariemont’s streets and sidewalks, pathways and trails, are full of people who are out walking by themselves, as couples, in small groups, with their children in strollers, or with their dogs. Mornings, afternoons and evenings, weekdays and weekends, people of all ages can be seen walking throughout the Village. While many residents like to walk for exercise or solitude, others enjoy the company of good friends, neighbors, and family.
Interestingly, the area located south of Wooster Pike appears to attract more walkers than the area north of the Pike. And, regardless of geography, when it comes to walking there’s no arguing that women outnumber men.
Before moving to Mariemont, Julie Northrup lived in Terrace Park. At 87 years
young, she likes to walk by herself for an hour each day. Julie is a former tennis player, and walking 2 - 3 miles each day has become a passion - an important and fulfilling part of her life. While she enjoys walking throughout the Village and periodically stopping to talk with people she recognizes, Julie doesn’t like walking a set route. If you’re out and around first thing in the morning, you’ve probably seen her with her walking sticks on Crystal Springs, Mt. Vernon, and Mariemont Avenue.
Like many other Village residents, including the author of this article, walking has become a habit for Julie. As an example of her dedication and discipline, she was previously a member of group of walkers who were committed to walking “50 miles in 50 days.” When Julie vacations with her son and his family in Florida over Spring Break, she looks forward to walking in the sand along the ocean every day.
Liz Plachecki grew up in Mariemont and was a star multisport athlete at Mariemont High School. Now the mother of two little girls ages three and five, she likes to walk daily with them. Besides taking them to and picking them up from pre-school, Liz enjoys walking to Starbucks and to The Coffee Shop on Wooster in Fairfax. And when her husband joins them, Graeter’s on Mariemont Square is their favorite destination.
Northrop
Liz likes to walk in the Old Town Square neighborhood of Mariemont where her girls enjoy playing at the tot lot located behind the
Julie
A Letter from Mariemont Schools
To Our Community,
As we reach the one-year anniversary of the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the members of the Mariemont City Schools Board of Education would like to collectively thank each and every person who has played a role in educating our students this year. We know the tremendous effort and sacrifice it has taken to keep our buildings open in the face of true adversity.
To the community members and family members who support and encourage our students and staff, we send our dearest thanks. You help shape the futures of our students by mentoring, organizing, volunteering, and modeling what true citizenship can look like.
To our district administrators, thank you for your leadership through the tough times and for always keeping the health and safety of
our students and staff as your top priority. We are grateful to have you leading the way today and every day.
And most importantly to the district staff members, we most definitely could not have had such a successful school year without you all. Whether you are teaching in a classroom, teaching remotely, serving and delivering food, overseeing front offices, cleaning and sanitizing the buildings, transporting students, assisting with technology issues or working independently with students, your impact is tremendous.
THANK YOU!
Your commitment to working smart afforded us the opportunity to have students in our buildings while also following all of the health safety protocols. Your dedication to creating experience brought a sense of routine
and “normalcy” to our children’s lives. Your willingness to embrace growth allowed us to continue our educational excellence with all students, both in-person and online.
We know students will never forget this school year for the masks and the temperature checks, but hope they also remember you. That when the world stopped, their teachers and staff members were there. We know we certainly will never forget that!
The Mariemont City Schools Board of Education
Ken White (president)
Laura Organisciak (vice president)
Nan Dill
Kelli Neville
Brian Nichols
The
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D avi D a n D rews
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h annah e riksen
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a lly M aier
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l aura Q ueen
w ill Q ueen
c lara v aughan
B eckett w en D ler
D avis w ickha M
l incoln w ickha M
(Siblings listed together share routes; siblings listed separately have their own routes)
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apartments on Chestnut Street and Murray Avenue. There, they are free to ride their scooters with minimal concern for traffic.
When she crosses Wooster Pike, Liz and her daughters are usually on their way to visit her parents – Christie and Joe Kauffman. Oftentimes she’ll extend time with her Mom and Dad by visiting the playground at Dogwood Park – a “happy place” for all of them.
Liz feels safe walking in Mariemont – a sentiment shared by lots of other Village
residents. On her walks she enjoys seeing other parents and their children as well as people she knows. But, when she needs some “alone time” she loves taking the family’s dog out for a walk in her neighborhood.
Speaking of pets, Stacy Wilson enjoys walking a couple of times a day, seven days a week, with her nearly one-year-old puppy Millie. She’s not content to just walk around the block. Instead, she heads for nearby Dogwood Park – a place she refers to as not only a gem but a treasure. She’s fond of walking the length
of the park’s trail while enjoying the sense of discovery it affords. In the meantime, Millie loves splashing and swimming in Whiskey Creek.
Sometimes Stacy will walk the Murray Avenue Bike Trail in neighboring Fairfax while listening to a podcast. Before moving south of the Pike, she and her family lived on Rowan Hill. From their home it was an easy walk to places like the Mariemont Branch Library and Graeter’s.
A teacher, Stacy is another example of a Mariemont resident whose quality of life is enhanced by the opportunity to walk anywhere and everywhere in the Village. Mariemont offers superb connectivity, thanks in part to a town plan that features mostly short intersecting blocks, and has light to modest traffic along its residential streets. Like many other Village residents, Stacy walks year ‘round. Not even bad weather and cold temperatures are enough to prevent her from walking.
Liz Plachecki’s parents Christie and Joe Kauffman also walk on a regular basis. Every day before daylight, Christie joins a neighbor on a three mile loop – one which takes them to the Concourse and continues along Miami Bluff to the Mariemont swimming pool. From there they walk along Mariemont Avenue to its intersection with Pleasant before turning down Denney Place and onto Fieldhouse Way. On the last leg of their loop they walk along Miami Avenue, go past Albert Place, turn up Center Street, and then head back home along Mt. Vernon Avenue.
Along the way, Christie enjoys viewing picturesque sunrises, many beautiful wellmaintained homes, and greeting walkers whom she recognizes as regulars. She’s observed greater numbers of Village residents out walking as a result of the pandemic. On weekends Christie’s husband Joe enjoys walking the perimeter of the Village first thing in the morning. He always welcomes the opportunity to walk with his daughter as well.
Joe notes that while Mariemont is mostly flat, there are a number of places where people can raise their heartbeats by walking up one or
Walking (from front page)
more modest inclines. Some examples include lower Mariemont Avenue near the swimming pool; the narrow road leading from the community gardens and the Lower 80 to the swimming pool; Warrior Way from Pocahontas to and from the High School stadium; Pocahontas and Petoskey avenues north of Hiawatha; Bramble Hill and Rowan Hill Drive; and Miami Road from Lytle Woods Place to Mercy St. Theresa.
I have personally made walking my “go to” activity for 40 plus years. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays I walk a combination of streets, alleys, pathways, and trails in Mariemont. In addition, I periodically walk
Village
in Madison Place, Madisonville, and Fairfax. On Saturdays I becomes more adventurous and challenge myself by walking into either a nearby community like Indian Hill or Madeira, or into a pedestrian friendly neighborhood such as Hyde Park or Mt. Lookout. Ault Park is a long-time favorite destination. Longer walks like these provide me the opportunity to not only “explore” but climb streets in areas characterized by steeper inclines. In a typical week I walk 20 miles.
If you’ve heard of Walk Score you’re no doubt familiar with the fact that by typing in your street address you’ll quickly receive a walkability score. Places scoring 90 – 100
are considered to be a “Walker’s Paradise.” A little surprisingly, there are no addresses in Mariemont that fall into this category. Instead, Village scores register at the next level, 70 – 89, a category classified as “Very Walkable.”
According to Walkscore.com, “The average resident of a walkable neighborhood weighs 6-10 pounds less than someone who lives in a sprawling neighborhood.” Weight control is just one of the many benefits of walking (learn more in May’s installment of “Walking in Mariemont” by my new friend and avid walker Kristen Kalsem).
Realtors also understand the attraction of living in a walkable community. According to Seattle based Redfin, “Research shows that 1 point of Walk Score is worth $3,250 in home value.” If you are a property owner in Mariemont this is the equivalent of “money in the bank!
Walking costs absolutely nothing yet it provides numerous benefits. People who enjoy walking, whether they are young, middle age, or older, understand that it is an activity they can enjoy their entire lives. Walking not only contributes to Mariemont’s quality of life, it is a big reason why Mariemont is such a great place to call home.
Walking (from previous page)
Stacy Wilson and Millie
Girl Scouts Give Back, Egg Yards, Make BIG Travel Plans
By Leah Wilson, Troop 40829
This past month has been very eventful for the Mariemont Girl Scouts! Third grade Troop 41238 has been hard at work and having fun doing what they do best - giving back! The girls recently did a day of service at Sweet Cheeks Diaper Bank, helping sort and wrap diapers that will be given to families in need. Learn more about the important work Sweet Cheeks does, and how you can help, at sweetcheeksdiaperbank.org. Special thanks to Brownie mom Alandra Parchman for coordinating!
Meanwhile, the ninth grade Troop 40829 has been planning their first annual Easter Egg fundraiser! Thank you to all the neighbors who let them “egg your yard”! They are also planning on kayaking, hiking, and
camping this spring. The most exciting news is that they just voted to travel to England, Ireland, Wales, and Paris in 2023, so they’ll be doing lots of fundraising in the next two years. Stay tuned!
Troop 41238 at Sweet Cheeks Diaper Bank.
Troop 40829 prepares for the Easter Egg fundraiser.
Village
Father and Son Build a Business From Their Love of Tennis
By Christie Motz
“Strings Matter.” That’s the motto of Jeff and David Andrews, the father and son team who own The Warrior Tennis Company.
Jeff’s love for tennis began at an early age. He had a job in high school at a local tennis facility, where he taught lessons and learned how to string rackets, and continued to play and string rackets throughout college. He gained insight into how important string tension is to your racket, and what an impact the right strings can make in your game.
A proud father of five, Jeff is not the only member of the Andrews family who is passionate about tennis. His two oldest sons both played for Mariemont, and son David began playing around age seven. Jeff would string the family’s rackets and taught David to string as well.
Samuel’s Tennisport, a local tennis store, closed, and there was really no other place in town that offered a racket stringing service. Jeff and David decided to combine their love of the game with their knowledge of strings and The Warrior Tennis Company was born in the fall of 2019.
Jeff and David first began promoting the business within Mariemont, and then things really started to take off from word of mouth and their Google listing. The company has grown exponentially, currently serving players in Mariemont, Fairfax, Madeira, Hyde Park, Kenwood, Indian Hill, and surrounding areas.
The Warrior Tennis Company uses a Gamma 6-point Mount professional stringing machine to ensure accurate tension and a protected racket. Jeff and David are especially passionate about
helping customers choose the correct string for their racket, and offer a variety of strings to choose from. If you are unsure of what string would be best for you, they are ready with recommendations.
Recently, the duo received a call from a former top Women’s Tennis Association player to have her rackets restrung. Talk about a true honor! Jeff and David were happy to oblige. “You really need to replace your strings as many times a year as you play in a week,” says Jeff, “at least once a year, and of course if it breaks.”
The Warrior Tennis Company has been rewarding for both Jeff and David, but one of the best things, according to Jeff, is the handson learning experience it provides for his son. “I really enjoy getting to teach my son about business. How to work hard, how to work with people and treat customers well,” Jeff explains.
David, currently a sophomore on the tennis team at Mariemont High School, echoes his father’s sentiments and enjoys learning how to run a business. “I like learning from my dad, he’s been in business for a long time so it’s good to hear things from him.” David also enjoys meeting people and making money-and is already saving for college.
“David really enjoys tennis,” adds Jeff, “so owning a business in the sport he enjoys makes it easier to be energized by the work!” With spring weather soon approaching, many people will be eager to break out their rackets after a long winter in the garage. This is a perfect time to get your strings checked out by Jeff and David.
And if you are new to tennis? “Take a few lessons. There are a number of places locally to learn proper tennis strokes. Join a USTA team or a
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local club team. Mostly, just get out and play!” Jeff advises. If you are in the market for new strings, The Warrior Tennis Company provides a secure drop box, a convenient location in Mariemont, and 24-hour turnaround. The process is easysimply visit their website, and click a link to get started. String prices range from 27-43 dollars.
When asked their favorite part of working with one another, both answered “spending time together.” A shared interest with your child AND getting to spend quality time together doing what you both love? Jeff and David Andrews are living every parent’s dream.
Please visit The Warrior Tennis Company at www.warriortenniscompany.com for all your racket stringing needs.
David and Jeff Andrews
David restrings a racket.
By Mary Alice Maze
Come one, come all to a day of garden shopping on the Saturday before Mother’s Day – May 8! Hold off on your plant shopping and consider joining us once again!
The Garden Club of Mariemont is so very happy to announce the return of our Annual (except for 2020) plant sale! Annuals, herbs, vegetables, hanging baskets, and everyone’s most favorite - perennials from local gardens - will be offered. In addition you can stop by our “Potting Shed” for garden treasures – you never know what you will find… a useful tool, a birdhouse, some garden art or a handy gardening book.
It’s been quite a year since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and we can’t wait to see everyone once again at our sale. Grab a neighbor! Bring a friend! Please be sure to
wear a mask as this is expected.
If you are hesitant to come shop the open air sale and instead would like to purchase items from your car window, please call Mary Alice at 633-5617 the day of the sale and we will have one of our garden club members shop for you and bring your items to your car
– our version of a personal shopper! Of course all items are first come first serve based upon what delightful plants we have onsite the day of the sale.
Please join us on Saturday May 8 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on the lawn in front of the Village Municipal Building on Wooster Pike. Convenient parking is located on both Wooster Pike and on Crystal Springs. Or make an occasion of it, by taking a stroll through the Village and bring a wagon/kid to carry your plants home.
If you would like information on donating items to the Garden Club for the sale, joining the Garden Club, or if you would like to have our “diggers” remove unwanted perennials from your landscape, please give Mary Alice a call.
Happy Spring to you!
HOOPS
MHS Varsity Boys Basketball had a tough beginning to their 2021 season, with two key senior players out with torn ACLs, and an 8-8 game losing streak by mid-season. But they came back strong with 8 consecutive wins to play Versailles for the Division III district championship at Northmont on Saturday, March 6. Their Cinderella comeback ended with a 62-51 loss.
SOCCER
MHS Senior Luke Brothers has been named an All American high school soccer player and will be playing in the All American game in St. Louis on May 29.
Mariemont Basketball Finishes Strong
Senior Will Trubisky rises over an opponent in action for Mariemont HS..
Sophomre Tim Stewart probes the defense against conference rival Madeira. (Photo credit: Steve Spooner, mariemontstuff.com)
Seniors Andrew Glassmeyer (3) and Jack Borgerding (15) set the defense for the Warriors.
Luke Brothers will play in the All-American game in St. Louis on May 29. (Photo credit: Steve Spooner, mariemontstuff.com)
Eisele Gallery Moves to Mariemont Square
Eisele Gallery, under the new ownership of D.C. Smith Fine Art, has moved from its Fairfax location to 6936 Madisonville Rd. on Mariemont Square.
The new gallery space provides an intimate setting where a personalized, COVID- friendly art experience can be expected. Visitors will find a wide selection
of ever-changing and exceptional works by noted 19th and 20th Century American and European artists, along with new works by living artists.
Building on the legacy of being one of the finest art galleries in the Midwest, the new owner David C. Smith will continue to serve clients and artists with the knowledge
and service they are accustomed. Mr. Smith brings 20 years of experience in the visual arts, working with commercial and non-profit galleries, studios and institutions. He moved to Mariemont with his young family in 2015 and started working for Doug Eisele at the gallery’s Fairfax location in 2019.
“This is an exciting opportunity for the gallery and I look forward to joining the other retail businesses in the Village,” said Smith.
Eisele Gallery features a large selection of traditional and contemporary paintings, prints and sculpture. For nearly three decades, the gallery has developed and maintained strong relationships with individuals, collectors,
museums, and artists nationwide to provide access and resources that benefit clients with acquisitions, as well as the sale of fine art. Eisele Gallery’s renowned exhibition program fosters excellence within artistic practice, while promoting both emerging and established nationally and internationally recognized artists.
Admission to Eisele Gallery is free and open to the public. Free parking is available in the lot behind the gallery. For more information, visit www.eiselefineart.com or contact David C. Smith by phone at 791-7717.
Local Business Owner Starts New Company Focused on Women
Kim Beach, owner of Village Insurance, launched InsureWomen on Monday, March 8, International Women’s Day. The launch was celebrated locally with a ribbon cutting at her office in Mariemont Square. InsureWomen is an addition to Village Insurance that empowers women in the insurance buying process to feel confident, educated and treated with the respect and attention they deserve. For more information, visit https:// www.insurewomen.com/.
Chamber of Commerce Update
We are getting ready to resume in-person events (for those comfortable) and would love to include all area companies who are interested in networking with other local business stakeholders. If you would like information on future events or membership, please reach out to Kim Beach, kim@ insurethevillage.com, 513-252-4262.
Pictured L-R: Mariemont Chamber representatives Delta Crabtree and Ted Beach, Mayor Bill Brown, InsureWomen Founder Kim Beach, Chamber VP Tom Walsh, and MPF President Rex Bevis.
Village
Put Some Spring in Your Step
By Kimberly Flick, MariElders Transportation Coordinator
The older we get, the more things seem to wear out – on our body. The longer we walk around on this good old Earth, the more worn down our good old feet become. The average person with the average stride living until 80 will walk a distance of around 110,000 miles. And to think, your loyal feet are home to 26 bones –each! And 33 joints – really!
Each bone and joint needs to be in a specific place to function optimally. Our feet change with age. Each cell holds less water, affecting tendons, ligaments and collagen. Circulation diminishes and so does our ability to heal.
Taking care of your tootsies will help keep the spring in your step. A few simple measures to improve your foot care and footwear, could reduce your risk of falls. Unsafe shoes can cause loss of balance and bad gait. Worn, loose, or backless shoes and slippers are a common cause of injuries. Bunions, calluses and corns can be caused by ill-fitting shoes. If your “dogs are barking”, you’ll be less likely to move around. Your core gets soft, posture slumps, spine weakens, balance becomes less stable and insecurity increases. It’s a spiral you can pull out of.
Good footwear is worth the money. Consider walking shoes that provide some traction with support, but not too much cushion (which can destabilize you). Shop later in the day, as your feet may be a little bit larger. Wear your new shoes around the house on the carpet for at least 20 minutes. If you feel some discomfort, they’re likely not a good fit and you should probably return them. Find the pair that’s right for you. Shoes that tie or have a Velcro closure can accommodate swelling feet and/or orthotics. Swap out laces that come untied with elastic laces that stay put.
Around the house, ditch the slippers and opt for a house-shoe. Look for closed-back, well fitted, slip-resistant soles and stable support. A wide opening makes it easier to get in and out
of – especially if your feet swell. But they should close securely so that they won’t slip off.
Bare footin’ was the way to go in the warm weather of our youth. But stability is the name of the game as time marches on. Plus, a stubbed or broken toe or other foot injuries can run you into serious problems such as infections, ankle, knee or hip injuries.
Routine visits to a Podiatrist are an important part of a healthcare routine. In between visits, there are things you can do for happy feet. Clean and moisturize them to keep the skin from getting brittle and cracked. After bathing, remember to dry in between your toes. If reaching them is difficult, consider using the blow dryer for 15 seconds. Keep your toenails neat and tidy. Instead of trimming round at the corners of the nail, trim straight across. If it’s difficult to see and reach your toes, do yourself a favor and have a salon give you a simple and sterile pedicure so your feet will feel more comfortable. Or visit your Podiatrist to have your toenails trimmed. Obesity, osteoarthritis, diabetes and
depression can keep you off your feet. There are treatments for numbness, neuropathy, poor circulation and other sources of foot pain that your Podiatrist can find a solution to. A minor surgical procedure might get you back on your feet again. Orthotic shoe inserts can correct an irregular walking pattern. If you take care of your feet, they can take care of you.
Village Spring Has Sprung! Trivia Quiz
By Pete McBride
1. Back in 1957, what “clean-cut”, white-buckswearing teen idol crooned that April Love was “for the very young”?
a. Elvis Presley
b. Fabian
c. Frankie Avalon
d. Pat Boone
2. According to the English poet Alfred, Lord Tennyson, “In the spring a young man’s fancy turns to thoughts of…”
a. love
b. golf
c. March Madness
d. Florida
3. Although Benjamin Franklin casually proposed the idea in 1784, Daylight Saving Time (DST) was first formally introduced in:
a. Germany and Austria in 1916
b. 1908 in the city of Ft. William, Ontario, Canada
c. Albany, NY in 1892
d. the US in 1918
4. May Day is celebrated annually on May 1 in several nations around the globe as:
a. “Opening Day” of the baseball season
b. Mother’s Day
c. International Workers Day
d. “Bring your dog to work day”
5. According to Farmer’s Almanac, the average annual last day for a Spring frost in Cincinnati is:
a. May 1
b. May 21
c. April 23
d. March 25
6. Depending on the Vernal Equinox, what is the latest date on which Easter could be celebrated?
a. March 21
b. April 25
c. April 10
d. Whatever date the Easter Bunny’s schedule permits
7. What special day is held every year on May 4?
a. St. Ambrose Day
b. In-Laws Day
c. National Pet Day
d. Star Wars Day (“May the 4th be with you”)
8. The word “April” is derived from Latin ‘aprilis’, derived from ‘aperire’, meaning:
a. “to open”, as in budding trees and flowers
b. “to play tricks on people”
c. ‘appetite’, as in “I’m hungry”
d. ‘Apparent’, as in “it’s apparent I’m sick of wearing a mask
9. What route does Peter Cottontail “hop along” to bring Easter to Mariemont?
a. Route 50
b. The Bunny Trail
c. Rabbit Run
d. Crystal Springs Road
10. What hand-clapping, fan-pleasing John Fogarty hit song celebrates spring and baseball season?
a. Take Me Out to the Ball Game.
b. I Just Struck Out
c. Hit the Ball and Touch ‘em All
d. Centerfield
11. Although they hadn’t “seen a crocus or a rosebud or a robin on the wing,” what did Rodgers and Hammerstein decide in a 1945 song lyric from the movie “State Fair ‘’?
a. It was time to do some gardening.
b. It might as well be spring.
c. They needed to get their second Pfizer shot.
d. All is “fair” in love and war.
12. What event, person, pastime, or custom should be honored in April?
a. Plant a tree for “Arbor Day” on April 26
b. Have a Big Mac and fries to celebrate the opening of the first McDonalds on April 15
c. “Connect some words” on National Scrabble Day on April 13
d. Slay a dragon for England’s patron saint, St. George... on April 23
13. Not to be confused with the date of May 1, the international distress signal “mayday” originated…
a. in the 1920’s, in Paris; from the French expression “venez m’aider’ (“come help me”)
b. from the 19th century English aristocratic custom of a servant holiday called “Maid Day”
c. from an alert shouted by town criers in colonial New England that the noon hour (“midday”) was near
d. no one has ever traced the etymology
14. What did Bee Gees lead singer Barry Gibb offer as a seasonal spring tribute in 1969?
a. Stayin’ Alive
b. How Deep Is Your Love
c. To Love Somebody
d. First of May
15. But, in conclusion, what is the most important spring date in 2021?
a. Sunday, May 9
b. The day after May 8
c. The second Sunday in May
d. All of the above. You’ve been warned.
SOURCES: TriviaChamp.com; livemint.com; beegees.com; lyricsfever.net; calendar-12. com; wikipedia.org; history.com; earthsky. org; almanac.com; poetryfoundation.org; timeanddate.com; metro.co.uk; the spruce.com; behindthename.com; fineartamerica.com; npr. org; starwars.com
CAPA Summer Program Registration Now Open
Cincinnati Academy of Performing Arts (CAPA) summer programs are open for enrollment. This summer’s camps will include in-person instruction in film production and musical theatre.
In its ninth year, CAPA will offer Musical Theatre camps during the month of June, with two weeks full of dancing, singing, and acting. There will be separate two-week sessions offered for elementary, middle, and high school ages, with a performance at the end of each camp session. All three camps provide in-person camp opportunities for enrichment that adhere to state and local health guidelines.
The popular Film Production camp will be held in collaboration with Fourthwall Youth Studios in August. The two- week camp is a youth-oriented film and digital media program. Led by Frank O’Farrell, Fourthwall founder, students will develop concepts, write
scripts, shoot and edit their own four-minute films, utilizing a wide range of professional camera and audio production equipment. The camp culminates with a special screening event for family and friends.
CAPA is also excited about the new camp location, at The Summit Hotel at the corner of Redbank and Madison Road. The Summit Hotel is a longstanding supporter of local community arts.
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CAPA (from previous page)
Registration is now available at www. cincinnatiapa.org. Dates and details include:
Elementary Camp (Frozen Kids)
Week 1: June 7-11 (9 a.m.-2 p.m.)
Week 2: June 14-18 (1 p.m.-5 p.m.)
Middle School Camp (James and the Giant Peach JR.)
Week 1: June 14-18 (9 a.m.-2 p.m.)
Week 2: June 21-25 (1 p.m.-5 p.m.)
High School Camp (Rock of Ages)
Week 1: June 21-25 (9 a.m.-2 p.m.)
Week 2: June 28-July 2 (1 p.m.-5 p.m.)
Film Production Camp – Open to students in grades 7-12. Limited to 20 students.
Week 1: August 2 -6 (9 a.m.-3 p.m.)
Week 2: August 9-13 (9 a.m.-3 p.m.)
Families who register for CAPA’s summer camps are additionally helping to support the CAPA’s outreach performing arts programming at Mount Airy Elementary and Boys & Girls Club in Price Hill.
Community
The Cincinnati Academy of Performing Arts (CAPA) is a non-profit, 501(c)(3), providing students K-12 with quality lessons from local professionals in acting and theater, voice, and instrumental music, as well as after-school programming and educational and cultural enrichment opportunities in the
performing arts for local communities. The Academy’s community outreach program provides quality arts learning and performing opportunities for children in underserved communities.
For more information about Cincinnati Academy of Performing Arts, call Robin Schwanekamp at 513-813-7990 or visit www. cincinnatiapa.org.
FAB Committee Gives Thanks
Together we are making a difference!
To our school district communities… Your support of Mariemont Foundation Arts and Boosters annual FAB Affair is deeply appreciated! We wish every raffle ticket purchaser could have won one of the 30 amazing baskets, but we had to pick the winners on Saturday. You can view the winners on the foundation's website at www. mariemontschoolfoundation.org.
We would also like to recognize our 2021 FAB sponsors:
Sparkler
MSA Design
Gold
Hatton Foundation
Reed & Roe Real Estate – Coldwell
Banker Realty
Blue
Gilmore Branding & Design
Time Timer
Whirlybird Granola
Mariemont Police
Fairfax Police
Terrace Park Police
White
Mercedes Benz of Cincinnati
Malia Ridge – Comey & Shepherd
Various Views Research
Spooner Risk Control Services
Scarlet & Gray
We look forward to seeing you at a FABulous in person event at The Monastery on February 12, 2022!
Again, thank you for your support of the 2021 FAB Affair!
Sincerely,
2021 FAB Team
Scott McIntosh, Anne Mosemiller-Hagen, Ry Naticchioni & Meagan Ulrich
Village
Village News Includes Fireworks and Elimination of Trash Stickers
On February 26 our police clerk Margie Maupin retired after over 20 years of service to the community. She celebrated her last day with a special chili luncheon, provided by the Mariemont Fire Department. Margie plans to spend more time at home with her husband and is looking forward to the arrival of a grandchild. She will certainly be missed! Vikki Hill has joined the Village as our new police clerk. Ms. Hill has six years of experience in her previous position as a police clerk in the Cincinnati area. Welcome Vikki!
On March 18 Tim Feichtner retired from his position as assistant fire chief with the Village. Tim served the Village of Mariemont for 22 years. He started as a part-time firefighter and worked his way through the ranks to assistant chief. He plans to focus on his career with the Sycamore Fire Department and looks forward to having more time to spend with his wife and family. Tim will be missed and we wish him well!
No More Trash Stickers
In July of 2020 the Village partnered with Greater Cincinnati Water Works to replace the annual waste fee with monthly billing. As of May 1, the $8-$10/month that residents previously spent on stickers will be rolled into the monthly fee. April 27 will be the last day that stickers are required on trash cans. As a result of the trash sticker program being eliminated, the monthly waste collection fee
will increase based on a simple proration of the existing yearly waste collection fee with the added convenience of not having to purchase stickers. Single family homes/ townhouses will see a monthly increase from $8.33 to $19. Multiple dwelling units will see an increase from $5.83 to $14.26 per month. Residents who have extra stickers after April will receive a full refund from the Village
Pictured are Police Officer Watt, Margie Maupin, and Lt. Ostendarp.
Assistant Fire Chief Tim Feichtner
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Village news (from previous page)
office. Information about the trash sticker buyback will be available on our website at www.mariemont.org in May.
Fireworks Are On!
Last year our Independence Day celebration was postponed due to the pandemic, but this year the fireworks will be held on Sunday July 4th, 2021. Each year the Village enjoys gathering together to watch the fireworks show, but donations are necessary to keep this tradition going. If you are interested in making a donation you may send a check to the Village of Mariemont at 6907 Wooster Pike. Thank you for your continued support!
Tree Advisory Board
A recent Village ordinance passed by Council, O-9-21, created and established a Tree Advisory Board. One of the tasks of the group is to prune trees and engage in other maintenance of trees or bushes that are in the Village right-of-way. The volunteer members
Village
of the Tree Advisory Board are working with Village maintenance superintendent, John Scherpenberg.
Save the NEW Shred Day Date!
Shred Day will be held in May rather than June this year. This annual FREE event will take place May 22, 9-11 a.m. at the Municipal Building parking lot. Village of Mariemont residents may bring paper documents that require shredding, including:
• Billing records
• Customer lists
• Credit card receipts
• Financial reports
• Legal briefs and documents
• Medical records
• Memos/notes containing customer information
• Payroll and employment documents
Note: staples, binder clips, and paper clips MUST be removed. Any bound materials must be removed from binding.
Four Spots Open for Village Council Fall Elections
Mariemont Village Council will have four open spots on the ballot this coming November. Anyone interested in running needs to submit a petition to the Hamilton County Board of Elections by 4 p.m. on August 4. The petition requires at least 10 signatures from residents who are registered to vote in Mariemont. In addition to the petition, the Hamilton County Board of Elections requires a $30 payment as a filing fee. The petition is available online at sos.state.oh.us/globalassets/ elections/forms/3-o.pdf.
By Margaret Jevic
New Tree Committee Blooms in the Village
For nearly three decades, Mariemont has made the list as an official tree city. When you look around this beautiful Village, you’re greeted with sprawling old oaks, towering maples, and flowering cherries. Part of what gives Mariemont its unique charm is its canopy of show-stopping trees - shade in the summer, color in the fall, and a myriad of blossoms and buds in the spring.
These trees didn’t just happen. In the 1950s and 1960s a major planting effort was put forth by the Village, and most of the big trees we know and love were planted in the span of just a few years. That means now, over half a century later, those trees are reaching the end of their urban life all at the same time.
Many people are wondering about the loss of some of the neighborhood’s great trees, and rightfully so. Mariemont has had to take down swaths of trees in years past due to disease, and now the Village is dealing with a large population of aging trees. What to do? Fortunately we reside in a place with caring and knowledgeable residents who have formed a tree committee as an official part of Village business with the aim of addressing the needs of Village trees.
Working in tandem with the Regional Urban Forester, Mariemont’s new tree committee has been meeting for several months to determine its mission. The tree committee is made up of five voting board members and a handful of other non-voting
members who give input and contribute to the committee work. The committee has several goals including taking inventory of Village trees, creating a planting master plan, properly caring for current trees, and organizing events for the community. All
members of the committee are of varying backgrounds and levels of expertise when it comes to trees, with one common thread: care. All are committed to seeing this Village thrive in its urban forestry practices, maintaining our idyllic beauty.
A quality tree program takes time to build, input of experts in the field, volunteers, education, and one heck of a good plan. Mariemont is working to create a plan for the now to ensure a desirable tree canopy for the future residents of this special place we all call home.
Village
Arbor Day Celebration Reminder
On Saturday, May 1 at noon, Mariemont will be celebrating Arbor Day at Patriot’s Park (Lane F, North of Wooster Pike in Mariemont). All ages are invited!
The event will include an informative program about Arbor Day and how to properly plant a tree. There will also be a fun poetry contest! Mariemont kids and
teens are invited to submit an original poem about trees. Winners will be determined based on number of entries and age groups submitting poems and will receive prizes and a chance to be published online. Poetry is due to Cortney Scheeser at cscheeser@yahoo.com by April 15.
Everyone attending the Mariemont Arbor Day Celebration will be required to follow social distancing guidelines and must wear a mask. Let’s enjoy some time
outside together in celebration of our beautiful trees! We look forward to safely
Annual Kiwanis Holiday Nut Sale Raises Over $1,000 For Mariemont Student Scholarships
In a year full of change and finding new ways of doing things, the Kiwanis Club of Mariemont’s annual fundraiser was no different. With most events cancelled or moved online, the Club was forced to pivot its traditional in-personal sales model.
“Like everyone, we missed seeing people at the holiday concerts and interacting with members of the community,” said David Peterson, chair of the fundraiser. The group shifted their fundraiser online, selling products via their website and delivering them personally. Peterson said the response was “absolutely fantastic.”
The move to e-commerce allowed the event to extend its reach beyond the Mariemont School District, with orders placed from nearby Madeira and Indian Hill, extending to Lebanon. “One of the unintended consequences of our online pivot,” Peterson noted, “was reaching people who no longer lived in the community, but wanted to support the schools in some way. It was actually really fun to hear some of their stories and the connection they still felt to the area.”
The Club raised $1,000 for scholarships, and plans to continue the online store while also hoping to be back in-person for the 2021 holiday season.
Thirteen New Members Inducted
Kiwanis of Mariemont inducted 13
With the nut sale in the rearview, the Kiwanis Club of Mariemont is looking forward returning to some sense of normalcy with its events. Planning for the upcoming Spring Golf Outing is in full swing and is slated to be held in late May in partnership with the City of Fairfax.
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Pictured L-R: Don Keyes, Dr. Bob Keyes, David Boyles, Sid Raje, Thad Highbaugh, Bill Brown, Ken White, Brian Sugerman, Mike Pope, Brent Wise, Donald Venderbush, Erin Cash, Adrianna Henderson, Todd Keyes.
Kiwanis (from previous page)
new members at a ceremony during their weekly meeting on March 16.
“When I took over during the COVID19 pandemic, there was uncertainty about whether or not our club would continue to exist,” current Club President Mike Pope commented during the meeting. “Instead, we’ve continued to grow and thrive, and our impact in the community has never been as strong as it is today.”
Please join the Club in congratulating and welcoming the following new members:
• Erin Cash, recent UC graduate and former Kiwanis Scholarship recipient
• Adrianna Henderson, graduating from UC this spring and current Kiwanis Scholarship recipient
• Madison Smith, graduating from UC in 2022 and current Kiwanis Scholarship recipient
• Santi Martinez, graduating from UC this spring and current Kiwanis
Community
•
Scholarship recipient
• Thad Highbaugh, Dean of Students at Mariemont Elementary
• Brent Wise, Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Mariemont School District
• Brian Sugerman, Coordinator of Technology & Experiential Education for the Mariemont School District
• Bill Brown, current Mayor of the Village of Mariemont
• Don Venderbush, currently resides in Terrace Park
• Sid Raje, currently resides in Mariemont
• Jason Willett, currently resides in Terrace Park
• Stephanie Crellin, Executive
The Kiwanis Club of Mariemont exists to serve the youth of the Fairfax, Terrace Park and Mariemont communities. The Club’s annual events include the Art & Craft Fair, Golf Outing, Fairfax Fall Festival and Holiday Nut Sale. Collectively, these events raise nearly $15,000 each year for scholarships of local Mariemont Schools’ graduates.
Since 2000, the Kiwanis Club has awarded over $250,000 in scholarships to help support nearly 90 students from the District; many of whom receive support beyond their freshmen year of college. In addition, Kiwanis works closely with students in the surrounding communities to provide mentoring relationships and support local youth activities.
The Kiwanis Club of Mariemont meets every Tuesday morning at 7:45 a.m. at the
A continental breakfast is served and guests are welcome anytime. Meetings last less than one hour and feature a variety of local speakers. For information about how you can become more involved in serving our youth visit MariemontKiwanis.org.
Director at MariElders
Dr. Bob Keyes, currently resides in Mariemont
Village Church of Mariemont on the corner of Oak and Chestnut Streets.
Woman’s
Art Club Cultural Center
News from The Barn: Hogs and Holsteins
Hog Bristle Painters Return to their Pen
In association with The Barn, the Hog Bristle Painters invite the public to attend its annual presentation of original artwork. The opening reception is on April 30 from 6:308:30 p.m. in the Lindner Gallery on the main floor of The Barn.
This collection of 16 Cincinnati-based oil painters usually meet regularly to paint their visions and to offer their perspectives to one another. Each member expresses a unique genre. They have not met since March of 2020, but continue to work from their homes, frequently offering critiques through e-mails and Zoom meetings.
Styles include categories in representational, still life, portraiture, and disrupted realism, among those of an experimental nature offered by the confines of the quarantine.
Twenty percent of the evening’s proceeds will help support The Barn programs. The reception will offer prepackaged wine, beer, water and snacks.
The show runs through May 11. Hours: Tuesdays-Fridays 10 a.m.-2:00 p.m. and weekends 2-4 p.m. For more information
about The Barn and for health updates, please visit artathebarn.com. To see samples of the Hog Bristle’s work, please go to hogbristlepainters.com.
Dualing Art Shows
The Woman’s Art Club of Cincinnati hosts two shows running from April 13-25.
The Club will hold Art is our Passion, in the Loft and its annual Juried Show in the Lindner Gallery on the main floor.
Barn hours are: Tuesdays – Fridays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and weekends from 1-4 p.m. The Barn decided to hold both shows together in deference to the cancellation of its winter presentation due to the pandemic.
The Gift of a Lifetime
In order to restore The Barn’s exterior, the organization is selling personalized shingles for $25. A time capsule will bear your recipient’s name along with an optional message and photo from you. This shingle gift will last a century, ensuring The Barn can continue to provide free or low-cost programs of artistic value to all ages. To donate securely online, click on the Donate button at artatthebarn.org.
Can you help?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, The Barn continues to honor its mission of providing art classes, exhibitions, and events as safely as possible. It has been a challenge
and it misses the excitement and joy of bringing people together to spark creative energy, thought and activity. To shore up The Barn’s financial reserve for its care and maintenance, it has launched its 2021 Annual Campaign Drive. Thank you in advance for showing The Barn some love and keeping it ready to open wide when we can fully enjoy each other’s company.
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(from previous page)
Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center
Classes
For more information about classes, please visit artathebarn.com.
Wednesdays
Watercolors with Bruce Neville Ongoing. 6-8 p.m. Sign up anytime. Japanese Flower Arranging. Sogetsu Ikebana. Second Wednesday of each month. 6-8 p.m.
Fridays
Japanese Flower Arranging. Sogetsu Ikebana. Fourth Friday of each month. 10:00 a.m.-Noon
Open Painting Studio with Charlie Berger. TGIF! Acrylic, Oil and Pastel. 1-4 p.m. Please reserve your spot at charlieberger3@gmail.com or 513-212-2679.
Saturdays
Much Better Drawing with Charlie Berger. 9:00 a.m. – Noon. Call 513-212-2679 or write charlieberger3@gmail.com. to reserve your spot.
Learn to Paint the Bob Ross Way with Gary Waits. 1-6 p.m. April 17 and May 15. Ages 16 and older.
Sundays
Learn to Paint the Bob Ross Way with Gary Waits. 1-6 p.m. April 18, May 16, June 20 Ages 16 and older.
Create Wire & Bead Jewelry with Ivanka Lempitskiy. 1-4 p.m. April 11.
Interested in Teaching?
Do you have a passion for fiber arts, calligraphy, creative writing, painting, drawing, flower arranging, making jewelry or prints? You can share your expertise and earn extra income by holding a class at The Barn. You can choose the format that works best for you—weekly, one-day, workshops offering class times in the morning, afternoon, or evening, including weekends.
Each teaching studio is large, well-lit, and well-equipped for art classes, including chairs, tables, tabourets, drop cloths, easels, drawing boards, and sewing machines. The Barn has just added medical grade HEPA filtration for extra safety. Up to 9 students can provide a social distance in each classroom. Masks are required.
Seeing the Light
For more information and updates due to our changing health-alert status, before visiting The Barn, it is imperative you visit
artatthebarn.org. The Barn enforces strict COVID-19 protection guidelines by requiring the use of face masks at its functions. In an effort to provide effective tracing methods in the event of a break-out, organizers request registration upon entrance. Please visit artatthebarn.org for a COVID-19 update before attending an event.
“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Courtesy of twistedsifter.com
Barn
The Hog Bristle Painters
Village of Mariemont
Regular Council Meeting March 1, 2021
(Rescheduled from February 22, 2021)
Mr. Stelzer asked that the Council minutes from February 8, 2022 be amended to indicate that the official MPF Vision 2021 Report did recommend the hiring of a Village Administrator. Mr. Bartlett asked that the “companies” that Fairfax participates in be amended to read “organizations”.
Communications
January reports were read from: Assistant Fire Chief Feichtner, Tax Administrator Darrah, Fiscal Officer Borgerding, Service Superintendent Scherpenberg. Overall cost with benefits and materials for the February 8-19 snowfall was $23,400, with a year-to-date total of $25,649.65. More salt was ordered, which will be used next year if there is carryover.
From Council Member Stelzer: Email/ Proposals Regarding Improvements to Tennis Courts from Harry Ewers & Sons ($8150.00); and Proposal from Tennis Technology to Clean, Fill and Paint Tennis Courts ($12,836). Cracks will appear every year and funds are appropriated in the General Fund Budget. There is money to repair the Pickle Ball Court which is getting very popular. It is critical to start the work so it can be completed before the courts get busy, but the work cannot be done until the temperature is favorable. He is hopeful for April/May. It exceeds the $5,000 Mayor’s spending authority so Council needs to approve the expenditure. There is a quote for $31,000 for complete court re-pavement but it may be something we can apply for a grant through Nature Works. Discussions surrounded looking at pool and South 80 projects/fund requests and decide how many grants to apply for and who will write them. Application is due June 1, 2021. Tennis is break-even with the built-up revenue stream and donations. The High School pays for the nets and windscreen. There is some sort of agreement with the High School from the mid 1970’s. Purchases approved. Mayor Brown will sign the contracts and Service Superintendent Scherpenberg will prepare the purchase order and oversee the scope of the project.
Mayor Brown said he and Mr. Bartlett have been in discussions with The Little Miami Fire District (LMFD) regarding exploratory
Village Government
discussions with LMFD providing the Village with fire services. Reasons for exploring include: 1) Village is faced with financial challenges, 2) Two stations in close proximity, 3) For Mariemont to maintain Fire Department is a large chunk of the budget, 4) LMFD has had other contractual arrangements such as this with other municipalities.
Mr. Bartlett provided fire and EMS data from Hamilton County Communications Center from 2017-2020. The discussion is only about looking to contract fire services, not join LMFD, and EMS is not part of this discussion. The data shows similar response times between both departments. The Village has 3 times the EMS runs than fire. LMFD participates in 70% of the fire runs to Mariemont providing mutual aid. ISO (Insurance Services Office) rating for Mariemont is 2; LMFD is 3. The potential savings is $450,000-$480,000 savings minus the fee paid to LMFD for services.
A meeting with Chief Hines and Chief Timmers (LMFD) will be set up. Resident Matt Ayer recommended hiring a consultant, Bill Kramer, who has done studies regarding fire and EMS. The estimate for a report is $5,000-$10,000, with a free initial consultation. He and Mayor Brown plan to meet with him and share with Council what he could do for the Village and what the cost would be. It would be beneficial to all to have an expert and an objective 3rd party opinion. A proposed trial period is being discussed to take place over the summer before anyone making hard commitments.
Mrs. Rankin asked that Council be made aware of when future meetings will take place and who will be attending. Dr. Lewis said she would like to see what the generated revenue would be if the Village contracted our services. Mr. Stelzer said he asked for that 5 weeks ago and has yet to see it. Mr. Bartlett said one area that still needs to be discussed is the boundary area for EMS Services. Both departments drive by the other to get to a part of the municipality that they need to service. But that discussion will take place after the fire service is decided.
Permission To Address Council
Mr. Joel Purcell and his wife, at 4104 Rowan Hill, want to put more money into their home but there were concerns of over capitalizing. They need more room but without a tax abatement it would be hard to justify the investment back
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
into the property. A house just down from them on Murray has the same layout as theirs and that house qualifies for a tax abatement. He wanted Council to look at moving the line of those who would qualify for a tax abatement. Ms. Palazzolo explained the working of the Community Reinvestment Area (CRA) and the specific rules which apply. One rule is that it must be one contiguous area. It has been a point of debate in Council in years past how to make it one contiguous area without including places that Council would not necessarily intend to give a huge tax write off and lose income to do things such as fix streets etc. Dr. Lewis said the CRA is in her Committee of Council and will contact him when the Committee will be meeting.
Committee Reports
The Public Works and Service Committee recommends exercising the option to renew the mowing contract with Grass Cor through 2022. The contracted amount will be $47,858.76. Mr Scherpenberg said he has been satisfied with the service. On roll call; six ayes, no nays.
Miscellaneous
Outstanding Citizen Award nominations are due to Mrs. Van Pelt by March 11, 2021.
Mayor Brown said Kellogg’s has notified the Village that 250 employees will be laid off. It will affect 165 workers in July and the rest in the 4th quarter of 2021. He has been in contact with Tom Brinkman, Redi Cincinnati and the Business Representative, Dave Puckett, for the Baker’s Union Local 253. Mr. Puckett has
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contacted Sherrod Brown’s office and gave him Mayor Brown’s contact information. They want to have a meeting to explore if there are any options or incentives to do something about this move of product line. The impact from the loss of earnings tax revenue is estimated to be $180,000$200,000. We are going to have to work and strategize what we are going to do about the loss of income to the Village.
Mr. Stelzer started discussion about the Village’s fiscal challenges beyond Kellogg potential loss. Loss of Estate Tax 10 years ago took away about $300,000/year, one-time events in 2020 won’t be happening this year (BWC Rebates, CARES Act, Water Works payment on Petoskey street repair and the $75,000 donation from Columbia Township for the Murray Path), 70% of real estate taxes go to the school district. We need a holistic view and to come up with a plan that assures the Village will be financially stable well into the future. We cannot ask for a
Village Government
fire departments and private swim and tennis facilities. He would like to see Fiscal Officer Borgerding and Mayor Brown in the next 30 days come up with an analysis about where our current tax burden is and see where we stand.
Resolutions
“Resolution to Update Swimming Pool Fees” had a third reading. Discussion surrounded whether/how to create a policy for determining what age/swim level a child should be at in order to attend alone. Dr. Lewis will look at IH and TP and report back to Council. Ms. Palazzolo also recommended checking into the impact with our liability insurance carrier.
“Resolution to Update Tennis Court Fees for the Season” No. R-5-21 was adopted.
“To Reappoint Christopher M. Ertel as Village Engineer for Calendar Years 2021 and 2022 and Set Compensation” had a second
2022 and Set Compensation” had a second reading.
To Authorize the Solicitation of Bids for the Murray Avenue Multi-Use Path; And To Declare Emergency had a first, second and third reading. Resolution No. R-6-21 was adopted.
For bills paid and ordinances amended, please see full minutes online at www. mariemont.org.
Mariemont Planning Commission Regular Meeting - January 20, 2021
Present virtually due to COVID-19 were Mrs. Rankin, Ms. Reed, Mr. Rich, and the Building Administrator Don Keyes. Mayor Brown said nominations for Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Secretary will be held at the next meeting when there is a whole quorum.
Village news (from previous page)
consolidate what are now 5 parcels into 1 and then divide that parcel into 2 for purposes of building a house to sell. Findings of the Building Administrator: The parcel created for purposes of building a house has been determined to have sufficient space to meet Mariemont required setbacks. No building permit applications have been submitted at this time.
Mr. Rich asked for confirmation and Building Administrator Keyes confirmed that this is a buildable lot. Building cannot be done on easements without a variance. Given that the protected hillsides are not buildable lots he assumes that the current owner is putting a covenant there to protect it. Mr. Rich referenced the fire hydrant. Mayor Brown said he checked with the Assistant Fire Chief. It does not appear on any map and is considered inactive. Mr. Rich moved, seconded by Mrs. Rankin to agree to consolidate the plat into one plat as described by the survey provided by the applicant. On roll call; three ayes, no nays (Ms. Reed abstained due to her involvement with getting the street vacated). Mr. Rich moved, seconded by Mayor Brown to divide the single parcel into parcel A & B as described by the survey provided by the
Village Government
applicant. On roll call; three ayes; no nays (Ms. Reed abstained due to her involvement with getting the street vacated).
The second request was from Tom Wilcox, Wilcox Architecture, on behalf of Robert Daye and Laurie Gunderson, 6984 Crystal Springs road for two side yard setback variances in order to accommodate a 2-story addition to back of house that includes a master suite over a hearth room, full kitchen renovation and new back entry to make the stairway more gradual, in addition to adding an elevator. Variances include setback for air conditioner compressor. Intent is to match existing brick and roof and keep within the style of the neighborhood.
Findings of the Building Administrator: According to Mariemont code, the side yard setback for this house is 10.5 feet. The addition would result 1.8-foot reduction of the setback at one corner and 1.2 feet on the other corner. Mr. Rich voiced that he thinks the addition could be designed within the existing setback line. Mr. Wilcox said the master bathroom and hearth room would be too small, and to reposition the whole addition would alter the stairway and elevator.
Ms. Reed said from a Realtor standpoint she would agree with Mr. Wilcox. Ms. Linda Sawma, 6980 Crystal Springs Road, said as a neighbor she was unclear how it would impact her. After reviewing the plan, she had no concerns as the proposed addition will take place on the opposite side of her home. Mr. Daye indicated that he talked with the Andy Seeger, neighbor to the east, who did not voice any objection. Mrs. Rankin moved, seconded by Ms. Reed to approve the request as submitted regarding the variances requested for the air conditioner unit and the two setbacks based on Section 151.024(3)(b)(2)(c)(d) (e)(f). On roll call; three ayes, one nay (Mr. Rich).
A request was submitted from Ariel Tiedemann for the property at 3732 West Street, Mariemont, Ohio 45227 to change a 3-unit apartment building into 3 separate condominiums. Findings of the Building Administrator: Mariemont code allows for apartment buildings to be converted into condominiums. Mayor Brown said he considers this an incomplete application. The Planning Commission did not have enough information to render an opinion at this meeting.
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 soon!
90-Day Journey Through The Bible
Our church has started a journey of reading the Bible in 90 days, and you are welcome to join us at any point. We will have resources for you to read 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. Feel free to join us Sundays even if you can’t do the Bible readings – you will still be encouraged by your time with us. See our website for more information on this journey.
Breadcrumbs For The Journey
Check out our new weekly blog posts on our website that provide tips and tidbits of information along our journey through the Bible. Each week will include interesting Bible facts to increase your understanding of our readings and a fun activity to deepen your knowledge of the Bible.
Walk Through The Bible Class
After our Sunday services, from 11-11:30 a.m., come join us for a brief summary of the Bible history, geography, genre and more from our weekly Bible journey as Dr. Bob Keyes leads this engaging class and discussion.
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 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. We are having in-person services. No RSVP needed. Masks required. Limited interaction outdoors only. Livestream can be found on Facebook: Mariemont Church, our website: mariemontchurch.org, and YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ MariemontChurch/videos.
Current and Coming Up
April 4 Resurrection Sunday Services in person at 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. beginning today. Children’s classes at 11:00 a.m. Live Stream at 9:00 a.m.
April 11
New Sermon Series begins in which the apostle Paul once wrote a letter to a small village that talked about truth, fake news, and hope. Join us for “A Journey through Colossians” in person at 9:00 & 11:00 a.m. Children and Youth meet at 11:00 a.m. Live Stream is at 9:00 a.m.
April 14 Wednesday Worship
Join us at the Parish Center, 3908 Plainville Road, at 7:00 p.m. for a night of worship and prayer. Masks required.
“Over 80 Years of Service”
