The Architects of Mariemont: An Introduction
By Matt Ayer
What comes to mind when Cincinnatians think of “Mariemont?” A quiet, idyllic, safe, well-to-do suburb east of Cincinnati. Tree-lined streets. A planned community. A village square, the Inn, theater, parks, the Bell Tower. Walkability. Perhaps the four sets of recently-constructed luxury condominiums. Traditional homes, many with massive additions that dwarf their small lots. Stroller moms and high-tech school buildings. To some, perhaps elitism and white privilege. What may not come to mind is a community planned primarily for the factory worker escaping the tenements of the inner city.
In 1924, Cincinnati was the third most congested city in the U.S., with some 28,000 families living in tenements. Only 10% of homes built since WWI were for the wage earner. Even before the War, there was no inducement to build housing for the wage earner, as there was “no money in it” for the profiteer.
That same year, Charles Livingood articulated Mary Emery’s vision for our Village in a paper delivered to the Literary Club of Cincinnati. He explained that “Mariemont is intended primarily as a place of residence. Its projectors believe that wage earners, for whom it is principally intended, would prefer not to live ‘under the shadow of the factory’ so long as they are not too far from their work. Trolleys, the motor bus, and private automobiles will enable the factory hand to reach Norwood and Oakley in a very few minutes.”
At the time, Cincinnati was a hub of industry, from its famous soap-making
Ivorydale complex, to the machine tool capital of the world; the center of valve manufacturing, meat-processing and other food plants; fine pottery and wrought iron; playing cards; railroad yards; foundries; inks and dyes; pianos; and Emery’s own plant, which produced candles and other products from tallow; and many others.
“It is believed, too, that many workers in the city, railroad and postal employees, clerks, stenographers, especially women who are supporting families, will be willing to journey to Mariemont for the better air and happier environment of the country.” The Mariemont Company also provided the infrastructure for two industrial areas (Mariemont South and Westover) to add more employment for its resident wage earners. Rapid train service was envisioned at low, monthly ticket rates to
benefit those working downtown.
Livingood contrasted the project to failures of government-sponsored housing projects. He noted that the town was not an “experiment” but rather an application of proven town planning principles of the “garden city movement” to American methods. Mariemont was “not to be a laboratory for sociological experiments in the problem of housing.” Our founders recognized Americans as individualistic, with a right to own property. Unlike other planned communities of its time, Mariemont was neither an “industrial village” nor a “company” enterprise.
“Mary Emery is simply showing in Cont'd on page 5
Mariemont Memorial Church, the first building started in the Dale Park District. Image courtesy of Marc Wavra
Plan on Getting Covid
The expectations are that using masks and vaccines (two doses and boosters every six months) will prevent Covid infection. I disagree. After being fully vaccinated I got Covid over Christmas break, and finally, after waiting in the parking lot three hours, saw a doctor at Urgent Care on December 31st. Thought I had “walking pneumonia.” When finally, in the center, I was tested and told I had Covid (15 minutes test). For me it was like a bad case of the flu, and my blood oxygen levels were high so no need for an ICU bed. Surprisingly, NO medications were recommended or available (no monoclonal antibodies, no remdesivir or even Hydroxychloroquine.) No therapeutics to relieve the symptoms. Only told to go
Letter to the Editor
home, quarantine and take Delsym for the cough.
The current case trends and my experience are that you will get Covid at some time regardless of wearing a mask, getting vaccines or keeping social distancing. The Omicron version may be more infectious, but reports are it is less lethal. Who knows? I suggest your experience and infection is “NOT IF - BUT WHEN.” I wish for a refocus on therapeutics by the medical establishment. After suffering for 10-12 days, I was past the worse effects, then my mid-20s-aged daughter got symptoms. I thought that at least she should try some remedies. At Walmart I purchased Theraflu, Vitamin C and Vitamin D. Maybe because of this or maybe because of her age or genetics, she
was fully symptom free in 24 hours. Again, why can’t our physicians become focused on therapeutics.
For everyone, expect to get the latest variant. It may be inevitable. Time will tell. BUT MAYBE with modern medications and therapeutics being prescribed we could recover faster and suffer less. Time for a new strategy.
Ken White, Mariemont Resident
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Architects (from front page)
a very practical way her interest in the proper development of home life and home ownership by providing an ideal place for home building.” The first homes were to be built by The Mariemont Company for renters, followed by homes built by others. Once the model was established with permanency, the properties would be sold, and the money generated would be used to repeat this example in other locations around the country.
“Mariemont is thus intended to be a ‘National Exemplar,’ a study field for individual home builders and the projectors of towns and subdivisions near great cities, not only by its plan of procedure and cityplanning principles, but to illustrate the advantage of modern methods in building, in cost-saving and the value of beauty both in placing and designing a home.”
A well-known firm, John Nolen, Philip W. Foster, Associate, Town Planners, of
Village
Cambridge, Mass., developed the town’s master plan. John Nolen was a nationallyrecognized town planner, as well as a pioneer in the emerging field of Landscape Architecture.
In brief summary, not as a financial investment but out of pure goodness, Mary Emery put forth the capital to plan the town and jump-start it with world-class infrastructure – roads, utilities (underground as part of the aesthetics and charm), police and fire protection, church, parks, community gardens, hospital, community center, recreation – to create an ideal, country-like
setting with modern amenities to benefit the working-class family, and most especially children. Hence our Village motto –“dedicated to youth.”
Charles Livingood, Mary Emery’s project manager, close friend and surrogate son
The Mariemont Company enlisted the services of 25 architects, all of national repute, to design typical homes and public buildings. Livingood interviewed many of the prospective architects in several meetings in New York City.
“In this way, many men (and women as it turned out) of many minds, yet all directed under a common purpose,
Cont'd on next page
By Kim Beach
A Heart for Animals: Stay at Home Pet Services
Bonnie Schantz has always been a caretaker. She wasn’t surprised when this caregiving turned to animals as she got older. Launching “Stay at Home Pet Services” in 2013 after leaving the design business, Bonnie knew she had a calling. As she says, “Since then, my mission has been to provide the highest quality, in-home professional pet care available by offering unsurpassed personal service to the pets and their parents.”
Moving to Mariemont 15 years ago, Bonnie and her family (son and grandson) wanted to take advantage of the outstanding school district. She was originally from the Anderson Township area (30 years) and had a short stint in Northside before moving to the Village.
She grew up in Grand Rapids, Mich., and majored in music at Grand Rapids Junior College. Fast forward several years and Bonnie graduated from the Art Institute of Cincinnati with a graphic design degree, at the young age of 58! She started out as a freelancer and eventually went to work at Home Depot, designing kitchens and baths, which she enjoyed immensely. She won “Top Designer” awards but eventually left the job when the housing market floundered.
Watching puppies as a business was a natural for the hobby pet-sitter and suddenly, Bonnie was an entrepreneur. Using her design skills, she created a logo, business cards, and a website. She was in business! Her pet-sitting company currently has 20 part-time employees, the majority being women. Finding workers is always a challenge for Bonnie because she is looking for folks who have a true love of animals, are trustworthy and compassionate.
She believes she is successful because of her professionalism, competitive rates, and customized solutions for her clients. She gets most of her clients through referrals and high-ranking Google reviews. Bonnie is interested in using new social media platforms to give her additional opportunities to grow her business in the coming year.
Bonnie also keeps busy with her extended family. She has four sons, six grandchildren (four boys/two girls), and five great-grandsons. Her oldest son is a sign language interpreter, and the next is an engineer who teaches physics at a local high school. Her third son is the West Coast manager for a beverage company, and the youngest has a very interesting job…he owns an online company that coaches women on dating .
Bonnie’s favorite saying, “Always find something to be grateful for,” exudes her passion for caring for animals and the thankfulness she has for her career. She has enjoyed her time in the Village and says her favorite place in Mariemont is the National Exemplar. She recently went to another favorite place, Mexico, where she and her son Matt celebrated their matching birthdate (10/28). They “hung out on the beach and had a blast with each other,” Bonnie stated.
Her hobbies include singing (she currently sings at the Center for Spiritual Living of Greater Cincinnati, located in Fairfax), as well as knitting and crocheting. The majority of her time is spent managing “Stay at Home Pet Services” and
taking care of the many pets in our communities. Bonnie’s compassion and true love of animals keep her busy and young-at-heart. When she is not caring for her clients’ furry friends, she is spending time with family, the one thing “she cannot live without.”
For more information about Stay at Home Pet Services, please visit their website at stayathomepetservices.com or give Bonnie a call at 513-706-7702.
Bonnie Schantz with a canine friend
By Suzy Weinland
This month we continue our coverage of the various Mariemont Village departments and employees with a spotlight on our fiscal officer, Village solicitor, and mayor.
Fiscal Officer Tony Borgerding
Tony was elected treasurer for the Village of Mariemont in 2006 upon the retirement of Bob Noggle. In 2014 he was appointed fiscal officer by then Mayor Dan Policastro. The fiscal officer duties include:
• Preparing an annual financial statement for the Village and providing it to the state auditor
• Preparing the annual operating budget and annual appropriations ordinance
• Preparing the capital spending budget
• Preparing various reports for the county auditor, such as the “certificate of resources available”
• Renewing tax levies and preparing new tax levies with the county auditor
Spotlight on our Village Officials
• Attending Village Council meetings twice a month and providing information to council and mayor about financial matters
• Managing the Village investments
• Reviewing monthly financial
reports prepared by assistant fiscal officer
• Analyzing budget vs. actual spending
• Preparing various reports and analysis requested by council
• Monitoring cash flow
Tony graduated from the University of Toledo, where he was a football player and had the honor of being coached by legendary head coach Nick Saban in 1990! He moved to Mariemont in 1995 and has
Cont'd on next page
L-R: Fiscal Officer Tony Borgerding, Mayor Bill Brown, and Village Solicitor Ed McTigue
Village
Village Officials (from previous page)
been here ever since. Tony received his MBA from Xavier University in 1999.
He is a partner at Franz CPAs, Inc., in the Montgomery/Blue Ash area, where he is in charge of the audit, accounting, and business valuation practices. Tony has two children –daughter Sophie, a senior at Tulane University, and son Jack, a freshman at Texas Christian University. Tony enjoys playing golf and walking and occasionally works out at the Sports Club. He also likes to visit the fine restaurants in the Village and surrounding area.
Mayor Bill Brown
Bill has served as mayor of the Village of Mariemont since January 2020 and served on council for many years prior to becoming mayor. He values his connections with residents and involving them in important decisions in the Village. A prime example is the Resident Fire/EMS Committee who were instrumental in keeping our Fire Department in the Village.
Bill also serves on the Architectural Review Board and Planning Commission, and is a member of the Mariemont Centennial Committee, Mariemont Preservation Foundation, Mariemont Civic Association, and Kiwanis Club of Mariemont. He is active in the community with MariElders, Scout troops, Mariemont City Schools, the annual Taste of Mariemont, and Porsche Rally, among others.
Bill and his wife of 48 years, Debbie, and their son Ted are proud graduates of Mariemont High School. Bill graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a BBA in Finance and ran his own business for 25 years. Debbie graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a BA in English Literature and earned a Masters in Library and Information Science from the University of Kentucky. She retired from the Cincinnati Public Library after 26 years as a librarian specializing in children’s services.
Ted and his wife are attorneys in Columbus and have two sons.
In his free time Bill likes to cook, enjoys theater and traveling, helping Ted with household projects, and spending time with his lively grandsons Owen (7) and Colin (5).
Cont'd on next page
Village officials (from previous page)
Bill encourages residents to participate in Village government by attending council meetings and addressing their concerns. Council meetings are open to the public and are held on the second and fourth Mondays of the month at 6:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building, 6907 Wooster Pike. To view meeting agendas, go the Mariemont. org , click on the Calendar tab at the top right of the menu bar, and choose a meeting date to see details. All Mariemont Council meetings are recorded by ICRC and are catalogued on the Village website. To view past meetings, go to https://icrctv. com/community/39/videos/community.)
Village Solicitor Ed McTigue
Ed obtained a BSBA from Xavier University and a Jurist Doctorate from Chase College of Law of Northern Kentucky University. He has been in a private practice law since 1980. His primary focus has been both civil and criminal litigation, although he also has a very general law practice.
For the last 25 years Ed has been the solicitor for the Village of Mariemont. In that capacity, he is responsible for providing a wide range of legal advice to the mayor, department heads, and council members relative to the operation of the Village. In addition, he prepares ordinances and resolutions and reviews all contracts that may come before the Village.
Ed also prosecutes in the Mayor’s Court for the Village of Mariemont,
Village
which involves the prosecution of various misdemeanor claims, primarily traffic violations.
Ed has been married 40 years and has three adult children and five grandchildren.
By Randy York
Village Mariemont Centennial Commemoration Updates
The Mariemont Centennial Committee along with the Mariemont Preservation Foundation and the Village are in the process of developing a number of capital improvement projects to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Mariemont’s groundbreaking on April 23, 1923. Special signage and community events are also being planned.
While some projects are planned to be completed for the centennial celebration, many of the projects are designed to be implemented as a prologue to our next century. Plans are being developed for the restoration of the Family Statuary, the redesign of Dogwood Park, the development of an amphitheater in
Dale Park, the Installation of an updated gateway signage package, and the rehabilitation of the historic streetlights.
The Centennial Committee was recently awarded a significant gift from the Thomas J Emery Memorial and this spring will be launching a private donation campaign. If you are interested in further information or want to become involved or contribute
please contact Centennial@mariemont. org or you can ask one of the current Centennial Committee members: Mary Alice Maze, Karen Koetzle, Megan Cooper, Matt Ayer, Liz Flynn, Jeff Hinebaugh, Tom Gilmore, Charlie Thomas, Greg Long, Mary Beth York, Janet Zach, Tim Wiley, Bill Herkamp, Janet Setchel, Gail McBride, Jordan Gaietto, Grace Cail, Kathleen Cail, Tony Schmidt, Ashley Crosh, or Leah Geldbaugh.
Community Manifest Photography Class Resident Instructor Title Named After Joe Stoner
By Mary Heider, Madeira Resident and Former Colleague of Joe Stoner
The Manifest Drawing Center, until recently in Madisonville and now at 656 East McMillan Street, Walnut Hills, includes a new class series entitled “The Next-Level, An Advanced Investigation of Darkroom Printing.” It is taught by the first-ever Joseph A. Stoner Resident Instructor of Photography, Michael Wilson.
Maybe known best for his photos of famed musicians like BB King, Robert Plant, and Emmylou Harris, Cincinnatian Michael Wilson’s name is not a surprise as Manifest’s choice to teach darkroom photography. What is unexpected is the photographer whose name is in Wilson’s title.
For more than 30 years, Joseph A. Stoner was Mariemont’s photographer. Joe’s death on January 22, 2021, was unexpected and received limited recognition in a time of COVID restrictions. I taught Joe as a biomedical communications graduate student in the 1970s at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and later worked with him in the college. While Joe spent his career as a senior research associate in medical education, I knew of his deep interest in photography and its relevance in his life. Thus, I felt it fitting to establish the Joseph A. Stoner Resident Instructor of Photography title at Manifest Drawing Center Studio.
Joe’s foremost photographic subject was the Village of Mariemont, a community he loved and committed his time to serving when retiring in 2001. Joe’s photos were filled with the scenic, the events engaging Mariemont residents, and the visual details that only Mariemont offers. Walking the Village, camera ready, was part of Joe’s life that brought him enjoyment and an outlet for
his deep but quietly held creativity.
His website (www.joe-stoner.com) opens to “Mariemont Photographs” grouped by seasons. It shows an elegant church softly revealed in winter. Next is his aerial view of the city taken onboard a flight over the Village (Joe was a former Air Force Veteran). In past
Cont'd on next page
Joe Stoner
years, Joe’s images of Mariemont in its seasons became the visuals for the Village’s Civic Association Calendar and other publications.
Joe had an interest in digital archival print making and had a printer on which he produced gallery-sized color images for many exhibiting photographers. For a time around 1990, Joe explored fractal photography, creating many photographic, giclée and digital prints, often exhibiting this work. Some fractals found their way into private collections. However, the greatest number are likely displayed at the University of Cincinnati’s College of Medicine. In retirement, Joe continued to exhibit his photographs most often in local exhibits.
Photography and all its elements –
Community
the camera, photo equipment, darkroom development, digital printing, composition, and exhibition – intrigued Joe. He also enjoyed exploring and solving problems and challenges in the photographic arena. He read endlessly about photography. Always, he could be counted on to put a small camera in his pocket and take a few candid photos of friends at any gathering. He would always share these photos and memorable events.
Photography has radically changed with entry of the digital camera, but understanding of the basics of darkroom photography and composition still are essentials – like teaching medical students first in the basics of physical diagnosis of the patient. I believe that there are many potential photographers out there who, like Joe, will find a reward and
mission in their lives that only photography can provide. Some may reach the fame of a Michael Wilson, but more will possibly be the next Joe Stoner and will give of their talents with a camera to their beloved communities. Manifest’s darkroom photography program provides such support.
For more information on Manifest Creative Research Gallery and Drawing Center visit http://www.manifestgallery.org/ studio/
Joe Stoner (from previous page)
Joe in a fiat – cars were another love of his.
The Christmas Star, photographed by Joe Stoner in December 2020.
Community
TP High Schoolers Nominated for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Student of the Year
A team of local high schoolers whose lives have been touched by cancer are joining forces to raise money for blood cancer research advancement. Mariemont High School juniors Graham Kempiners, Sadie Kohlman, and Ryder Osgood, and Terrace Park resident Patrick Crowley, a junior at St. Xavier High School, are leading team Warriors for a Cure as part of the annual Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Student of the Year Campaign, a seven week fundraising competition running February 17-April 7, 2022.
The LLS Student of the Year Campaign gives students a taste for entrepreneurship, leadership, project management, organization, fundraising, and more. But it’s not all business. In fact, to these students, it’s quite personal.
Like many people, each of the team leaders has been impacted by cancer. Sadie’s mother is a two-time cancer survivor and Patrick’s aunt recently completed treatment for breast cancer. Ryder lost his grandmother to cancer this year. Graham’s mother, Carrie Carothers, was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in January of 2021.
Part of the LLS’s stated mission is to advance research. Research studies published at the time of Carrie’s diagnosis directly impacted her treatment, allowing for less
chemotherapy. Additionally, the team has learned that research in blood cancer, like leukemia and lymphoma, can lead to advancements in treatment for all types of cancer, a true ripple effect in the landscape of cancer.
The Student of the Year Campaign is a competition with teams from all over Cincinnati. The team that raises the most money will win. You can support Warriors for a Cure, a team of over 25 local students, by participating in any of the special events that they will plan throughout the campaign or simply donate. Starting on February 17, donations can be submitted in one of the following ways:
• Submit online: https://events.lls.org/ soh/tristatesoy22warriorsforacure
• Venmo: @carrie-carothers with Student of the Year in the memo
• Check: Made out to LLS and sent to Carrie Carothers, 820 Floral Avenue, Terrace Park.
• Business sponsorship is welcome.
In addition to moving Warriors for a Cure up the leaderboard, your donation can have a real and meaningful impact in the fight against cancer.
Pictured, from left to right: Warriors for a Cure team leaders Ryder Osgood, Sadie Kohlman, Graham Kempiners. Not pictured: Patrick Crowley
Community
Happy New Year from The Mariemont Girl Scouts
By Ellie Haynes, 10th Grade Troop 40829
The Mariemont Girl Scout Troops are off to a running start in the new year! Even over the holidays they were very active. The first grade Daisy Troop 4198 held a Thanksgiving can drive, collecting 70 canned goods with an original goal of 21. Two girls continued the efforts when they went home, each collecting an extra 50 cans. With this drive, they earned their “Take Action” badge. Congratulations to these hard-working girls!
The Girl Scouts Holiday Morning Out provided sitting services along with fun and activities for local kids while parents finished holiday shopping.
The 10th grade Troop 40829 wants to thank everyone who came to their Mom’s Holiday Morning Out babysitting event. The girls and kids enjoyed the festive event! Some girls also helped out at the MCCP’s Noon Year’s Eve event and had lots of fun. These girls are beginning their “Room Makeover” badge with thrifting and upcycling materials for their bedrooms. They are looking forward to their first self-defense class through Cinci Martial Arts LLC where they will learn valuable skills to protect themselves. Keep
an eye out for their annual “Egg Your House” fundraiser! More information about this is the next article.
The troops want to thank everyone for your support and wish you a Happy 2022!
Tenth Grade Troop 40829 made holiday wreaths for the annual Mariemont Boy Scout Christmas Tree and Girl Scout Wreath sale.
Community MariElders February Activites
MariElders offers these fun activities every week in February! Stop by or call to join your friends at MariElders!
Mondays
Senior Fitness with Meredith
Senior Fitness with Meredith is a video platform of workouts for seniors. Each video is 20-30 minutes in length.
Pictionary
Pictionary is one of the easiest and most fun games to play. Pictionary involves one person drawing a picture based on a secret word, and others trying to guess the word correctly. No need to be good at drawing- the worse you draw the funnier the game is! If you want to laugh and have a good time, join us for Pictionary.
Needle Nook
For those interested in learning more about knitting, tatting or crocheting.
Canasta
For those who are excellent players, AND for those who want to learn.
Tuesdays
Chair Yoga
Cost: $5 per class. First Class is FREE!
Art Club with David Laug David Laug from the WACC/Art Barn will continue his weekly art class sessions teaching various techniques using a variety of mediums and platforms. Although this group has been meeting via Zoom during our closure, you are more than welcome to join in!
Mah Jongg
For those who are excellent players, AND for those who want to learn.
Wednesdays
Chair Volleyball
Chair Volleyball is an activity that includes physical activity, social interaction, competition,
and most of all - lots of laughs! From the fit to the not-so-fit, this activity is for everyone. It is played similarly to volleyball, with the difference being that the game is played with a 20-inch beach ball and players are seated at all times during play. Come join the fun!
Hand and Foot
Hand and Foot is a card game that is similar to Canasta. In Hand and Foot, players are dealt two sets of cards: the hand, which is played with first, and the foot, which is played after. If you are familiar with this game or would like to learn how to play, join us on Wednesdays!
Movie
February 2: Grumpy Old Men
February 9: My Fair Lady
February 16: Lincoln
February 23: In the Heat of the Night
Thursdays
Bingo
Join this rowdy group for big winnings and LOTS of laughter!
Line Dancing with Erica GREAT exercise, and great for your mind also. You do NOT have to know how to dance or move to a beat. That’s part of the fun of it!
Chair Yoga Cost: $5 per class.
Euchre
For those who are excellent players, AND for those who want to learn.
Board Games Galore
You can choose between nostalgic games such as Scrabble, Monopoly, Sorry, Clue, Uno, Rummikub, Yatzee, or bring your favorite game!
TV Series: Inspector Lewis
Kevin Whately (The English Patient) stars as Inspector Lewis, the former working-class foil to the erudite Detective Inspector Morse. Together with his cool, cerebral partner Detective Sergeant Hathaway (Laurence Fox, Gosford
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Park), Lewis tackles murder and mayhem in the seemingly-perfect academic haven of Oxford. In a partnership forged through loyalty and mutual–though often grudging–respect, Robbie Lewis untangles lies and murky motives with his combination of instinct and experience while James Hathaway, with his wit as sharp as his reason, handles suspects and classical allusions with the same deft intellect. Together, they struggle with procedural dilemmas and existential questions about their futures–on the force and in their personal lives.
Fridays
Balance and Strength with Melissa
Melissa Wilson has been teaching group fitness classes for over twenty years. This class will focus on improving balance and strength. We will perform exercises that will help prevent falls. We will also work on strengthening our legs and some upper body exercises. Body weight, hand held weights, and balls will be used. Cost: $5 per class.
Bridge
For those who are excellent players, AND for those who want to learn.
Lunch at a local restaurant
Meet up with your friends for a lunch at some of your favorite places, or maybe a place you haven’t tried before! We can transport you or we can double-up to carpool to these restaurants. Every Friday!
Paul Korchak from TrueDefense Self-Defense Training works on self-defense moves with Ann Marie Wendler.
Community
A Journey of Joy and Happiness
By Kimberly Flick, MariElders Transportation Coordinator
The subject of this piece might serve as a reminder for us all to think about “Joy” and its essential role in our life. We are inundated by so much troubling news. Hopefully, this will add a brighter perspective. ~ Kimberly
One of the most essential things for us to gather as we journey through this life is Joy. Of course, joy and/or happiness can happen spontaneously. But you can also create it, give it to others, and discover it all around you.
Maybe we do not think about joy enough. Because of schedules, deadlines, appointments, quotas, tasks; in all the busy-ness of life, joy gets pushed aside. The acquisition of objects and so many material things often supplants what really matters in life. As the saying goes, “don’t postpone joy.” Actively seek it.
Wouldn’t it be nice if we were to perceive joy as a reason for our existence? The ability to feel joy is innate - something we are all born with. Some studies suggest that joy is achieved internally, and happiness is achieved externally. Others have stated that happiness is a feeling based on circumstances. Whereas joy is an attitude that defies circumstances. A person pursues happiness but chooses joy. Either way, we need it.
So why are joy and happiness important throughout life and into our later years? Being happy can increase longevity, enhance your independence, and stave off serious health conditions. Studies have shown that it can lower your heart rate and blood pressure, fight stress and boost your immune system. Being joyful improves your overall quality of life. Joy endures hardship and trials. It connects us with meaning and purpose.
Instead of waiting for joy to happen,
create it. One simple way is by being grateful - for even the littlest things, which causes you to acknowledge the good in life. Studies show that we’re happiest when we’re around others who are joyful. It’s contagious. “Accentuate the positive, eliminate the negative.” Enjoy life’s simple pleasures, treasured memories, warm sunshine, a beautiful night sky, and the innocent wonder of children. For so many, faith in what is to come is their ultimate joy.
As time marches on, it’s important to remain active. Exercising regularly can boost your energy and your mood. Socializing keeps you healthy and engaged
in life around you. Play games and have fun. Spend time outdoors. Your friendly neighborhood, non-profit senior activity center, The MariElders, Inc., has lots of programs, outings and entertaining activities for you. Drop on by. Odds are you’ll run into folks you already know and meet others who share your interests.
Most importantly, love and take care of yourself. Smile in the mirror and give yourself plenty of credit. Be proud, and “keep on keepin’ on.” And be sure to gather up joy and happiness wherever you may find it along your journey.
Ah, Shucks! The Barn Loves You.
ARTflix Fires up for the 2022 Season
Join fellow art lovers at The Barn’s monthly presentation of free movies about art and artists, hosted by Dave Laug in the coziness of the Loft. Each month through June, Laug, a Terrace Park resident, is your host for an evening of education, discussion, door prizes, and a movie. BYOB. The big Barn doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the film starts at 7:00 p.m. Registration fee of $5 covers administrative costs associated with this educational program. The Barn loves its walkins! Please wear your masks and your coziest of sweaters. Please mark your calendars for the following films:
February 10: “Maudie” (2016) is a biographical film directed by Aisling Walsh and starring Sally Hawkins. A co-production of Ireland and Canada, the film is about the life of folk artist Maud Lewis—an artist, ridden with arthritis, who painted landscapes, portraits and nature. In the story, Maud (Hawkins) struggles with grief and an unsupported family before finding love. 116 minutes.
March 10: Ansel Adams (2002)
April 7 Double Header: “Toulouse Lautrec & Montmartre” (2005) and “Renoir: Revered & Reviled” (2016)
May 12: “Best Offer” (2013)
June 9: “Final Portrait” (2017)
Classes
Mondays
Ice cream Sewcial with Caitlyn McCall: Feb. 14 and Feb. 28 from 6-8:45 p.m. Open ended learning in stitching, mending, or embellishing textile. Registered students can send tutorial requests, such as zipper or pocket installations. Website https://www.weftschoolltd.com. To
register, go to hello@weftschoolltd.com or call 540-1971. $35 per session. Sign up with a friend and receive a ten-percent discount.
Tuesdays
Mosaics with Sandy Caruso (An Art Academy Class at The Barn): March 29- May 3 from 1-4 p.m. Sandylou1031@gmail.com. All levels. Sandy also offers Thursday evening classes. Description: Supplies provided. $175 (Standard), $155 (Seniors over 60). Seventy-five percent discount for faculty and staff of the art academy. Ten-percent discount for Academy alumni.
Figure Drawing with Dave Laug: 9:3011:30 a.m., Jan.11-March 15. $245. Live and print references.
The Art Club with Dave Laug. For seniors. Zoom it! 1:00-2:30 p.m., Jan.11-March 15. Instructor explores various drawing and painting projects stimulating creativity and offering good conversation. Register through MariElders. This class is a no-charge out-reach program. To register, visit marielders.com or call 513-2715588.
Oil Painting for the Thinking Artist with Chuck Marshall. Ongoing from 1-4 p.m. Instruction covers concepts, design, and use of abstract shape, use of prismatic palette, as well as other palettes, styles and painting techniques. First
class is a lecture and demonstration. $25 per class. Register at marshallstudio@icloud.com.
Wednesdays
Oil Painting with Jan Boone: Ongoing from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. or 1:15 – 4:15 p.m. Instruction in technique, realistic rendering, and design. Four classes each month for $80. Call 513382-7044 or janwrites@fuse.net .
Watercolors with Bruce Neville: Ongoing 7-9 p.m. Develop and expand your creativity and watercolor skills with Bruce Neville’s pay-as-yougo class, allowing you to work in as many classes as you wish around your schedule. This class is for advanced beginner | intermediate | advanced students. Each class begins with a demo by Bruce Neville. You will learn the process of painting watercolor in your style. Learn how to mix colors, create values and the value of composition. $30 per class. To register: email bnneville@aol.com.
Thursdays
Fundamental Drawing and Painting with Mary Lou Holt: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. OR 2 – 4 p.m. Jan.-13-March. 3 . $160 per eight-week series. $80 minimum for individual classes. Each class hosts sections for beginners and advanced artists. Call or write Mary Lou at 513-226-3833 or marylou@ marylouiseholt.com. Instructor requires face masks and vaccinations.
The Oil Painting Workshop with Charlie Berger: 6:30 - 9 p.m. Sessions: Jan. 13- Feb.17, March. 3-April 7, April 21-May 26. This class is for oil painters with some experience who are looking for serious professional instruction and frequent personal feedback. Charlie provides instruction in both traditional oil and water-soluble oil. $195 per series. Charlieberger@gmail.com or 513212-4679.
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The Barn (from previous page)
The Pastel Workshop with Charlie Berger 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Jan.14-Feb.18, March. 4- April 8, April 22- May 27. All experience levels. Individual professional feedback and advice. Register at Charlieberger@gmail.com or 513-212-4679. $185 per six-week series.
Mosaics with Sandy Caruso (An Art Academy Class at The Barn): 6- 9p.m. Description: An informal atmosphere of camaraderie and fun as you create mosaic art. Sandy will provide supplies and she welcomes all levels. $175. (Standard), $155. (Seniors over 60), Seventy-five percent discount for faculty and staff of the art academy. Ten-percent discount for Academy alumni. Tuesday morning classes are also available. To register, go to amp. activecommunities.com., then type “mosaics” in the search bar. Sandylou1031@gmail.com
Fridays
TGIF with Charlie Berger. 1 – 4 p.m. Jan. 14 through Feb. 18, and March 4 through April 15, and April 22 through May 27. Each 3-hour dropin class $25.
Community
Open to experienced beginners and above in any painting or drawing medium. Personal, professional instruction, feedback and advice geared to your individual skill level. Please call, text or email ahead to sign up for each individual Friday afternoon session.
Six sessions: Charlieberger@gmail.com or 513-212-4679.
Saturdays
Paint the Bob Ross Way with Gary Waits: Feb. 4 and March 5 from 2- 5 p.m. Beginner to intermediate oil painting. $50. 513-4762270 or g.waits@yahoo.com. Website: www. yesyoucanpaint.com
Create Decorated Eggs in the Ukrainian Style with Ivanka Lempitskiy: Feb. 5. Feb. 12, March 5, March 12, April 2 and April 9 from 2 - 5 p.m. Students will learn to decorate an an empty, clean egg shell using beeswax and vegetable dyes. 513-373-8660 or Ivanka.lempitskiy@gmail.com $40 per class.
The Figure Drawing Workshop with Charlie Berger
This class is for adults with some drawing experience.
Three-hour long-pose sessions with the nude model. Each six week session: $210. Includes the model fee. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Six week sessions: Jan. 15 - Feb. 19, March 5 – April 9, April 23 - May 28. Please call or write Charlie Berger —513-2124679 or charlieberger@gmail.com
Sundays
Paint the Bob Ross Way with Gary Waits. Feb. 13 and March 6 from 1 – 6 p.m. Gary also teaches on Saturdays. Beginning to intermediate oil painting. 513-476-2270 or g.waits@yahoo.com Website: www.yesyoucanpaint.com
Have you Herd?
The Barn is mooooovving closer to its goal of $78,000 in an effort to re-shingle its nearly 100-year-old hide. If you’re interested in buying a $25 shingle bearing your name, please go to artatthebarn.org. Save the Date
March 5: 6-8 p.m. Opening reception of the Brush and Palette Painters. Hue, Chroma, and Magic. Show continues through March 17. Website: https://www.facebook. com/Cincinnati-Brush-and-PalettePainters-184707068217722/. Watch for the March edition of the Town Crier for more information.
April 1 – May 1: The Woman’s Art Club’s annual juried show.
May 5 – May 17: The Hog Bristle Painters’ annual show. Reception: May 6 at 6 p.m. hogbristlepainters.com
Please go to artatthebarn.org., or call 513-272-3700 to confirm COVID-19 updates. The Barn is located at 6980 Cambridge Avenue, Mariemont, Ohio.
Village Government
Village News
Village News
Welcome New Council Members: Susan Brownknight, Leah Geldbaugh, Rob Bartlett, and Randy York were sworn in to Mariemont Village Council on January 3, 2022 by Mayor Bill Brown. They will join returning members Dr. Marcy Lewis and Kelly Rankin. New Committee assignments are posted on the website: https://mariemont.org/governance/ elected-appointed-officials/
Outstanding Citizen Nomination: Forms will be available in February. Please turn them in to Joanee by March 10. Call the Village office for more information. Forms will also be available on the website.
Closed: All Village offices will be closed on February 21.
A quick note from the tax office: At this time, the 2021 tax filing due date is April 18, 2022. Please feel free to submit filings at any time up to this date. Submissions should include but are not limited to:
• Page 1 and 2 of your Federal 1040
• W2(s) showing income information in box
5, as well as any withholding, reported in boxes 18, 19 and 20
• Federal schedules 1, C, E, F, K-1, 1099MISC, 1099-NEC, AND W2G if applicable.
As a reminder, every resident of the Village of Mariemont, except for registered retirees, 18 years of age or older, must file a Village return, whether or not you have taxable income or any tax is due.
As always, please contact me with any questions. DeAnna Darrah, Tax Administrator, 513-271-1606, option 5. www. taxdept@mariemont.org
Council Representatives
Mayor Bill Brown mayor@mariemont.org
Rob Bartlett rbartlett@mariemont.org
Susan Brownknight sbrownknight@mariemont.org
Leah Geldbaugh lgeldbaugh@mariemont.org
Dr. Marcy Lewis mlewis@mariemont.org
Kelly Rankin krankin@mariemont.org
Randy York ryork@mariemont.org
Permitting 101
By Rod Holloway, Building Administrator
Why are we required to have a building and/or zoning permit in the Village of Mariemont? The simple answer is that it provides the framework to maintain a high standard of community development, which in turn protects and preserves the value of your property and enables the Village to keep its distinctive historical character.
Generally speaking a permit is required for most works that cost more than $500. It is best to contact the building department to consult on what is needed and avoid potentially costly rework and fines. You can contact the building department via phone (513-271-3315, option #4), drop by the Village offices, or send an email to bldgdept@mariemont.org . We are staffed weekdays from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Once it’s determined that a permit is required, the first step is submittal of the appropriate application that can be found online at www.mariemont.org (building department drop down menu – forms), or it can be emailed or picked up at the office. The application should also include documentation to describe the proposed improvement. The application is reviewed
and determined whether it requires just a zoning review (e.g. fencing, tree removal, etc.) or a zoning and plan review (e.g. residence additions, decks, HVAC, etc.).
There are flat fees associated with the majority of the Village permits, however the more complex projects involving a plan/ drawing review have additional costs. More details on these two types of permits will be shared in subsequent articles.
After the permitting is in place, depending on the nature of the work, inspections would be required to insure your contractor is executing the scope as intended. Within the Village we have a team that coordinates in-process (e.g. footers, framing, and insulation) and a final inspection once
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Pictured L-R: Leah Geldbaugh, Randy York, Mayor Bill Brown, Rob Bartlett, Susan Brownknight
What’s Happening at the Mariemont Branch Library
February 2022
All Ages
Celebrate 2sday, 2-22-22! Tuesday, Feb. 22
Visit the Mariemont Branch Library on 2sday, 2-22-22 and enter our contest! Check out 2 items to earn an entry in our drawing for a framed $2.00 bill. You can earn another entry by “twinning up” with a buddy by wearing matching outfits!
Children
Library Babies 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays
Fun for you and your baby with songs, rhymes, stories, and movement. Ages birth to 18 months. Registration is required for both babies and adults.
Outdoor Storytime: Movers & Shakers — 11 a.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays
You and your child will shake it together! Sing, dance, and enjoy music, movement, and fun.
Ages 1-4. Registration is required.
Adults
Mariemont Mystery Bookclub — 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 15
NEW! Join us for lively discussions of books across the mystery subgenres. This month’s title is Cocaine Blues, by Kerry Greenwood. Registration encouraged.
Book Club 6:45 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 24
We are discussing You Were There Too: A Novel, by Colleen Oakley. Copies are available at the branch. Registration is required.
Library hours are 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. Monday and Tuesday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Mariemont Branch Library 3810 Pocahontas Ave. 513-369-4467
the contractor or homeowner alerts us to their readiness. Other inspections may be required with outside resources (e.g. electrical work via Inspection Bureau Inc. and plumbing work via Board of Health of Hamilton County) that the contractor typically coordinates directly with the agency.
Zoning permits can be turned around within a few days, but depending on the nature of the building permit this process can take up to 2-3 weeks to review plans, update drawings, and then issue the final documentation. Permits must be completed within 12 months of the issuance, but extensions are possible with the proper justification upon request to the Building Department.
“Over
80 Years of Service”
Gallery Presents Special Exhibition
By David Smith, Eisele Gallery Art Consultant
Eisele Gallery, at 6936 Madisonville Rd in Mariemont, welcomes artist Jacqueline Chanda as she exhibits her newest works, entitled “An Observation of Life,” February 5-19, 2022.
The paintings in this special exhibition capture everyday people working, playing or enjoying a moment of leisure. Chanda states: “I am drawn to representational genre scenes, intimate scenes of everyday life, of ordinary people at work or play. I love to capture people in the moment, in candid unscripted poses with unguarded expressions. The intent is to create visual metaphors of narrative moments in ongoing stories of life. Capturing the expressive characteristics connected to a scene of people can be quite elusive. But it is that challenge that drives my work and gives me great satisfaction when I succeed. My hope is that my paintings encourage the viewer to
connect with life on a different level and see themselves and everyone as an integral part of the human experience.”
Based in Tucson, Ariz., Chanda has received a number of awards, grants and fellowships, including a recent Fellowshipin-Residence with the Women’s International Study Center in Santa Fe, NM. In addition, she is a member of the Oil Painters of America, the Sonoran Plein Air Painters Society, and the Portrait Society of America. This is Jacqueline Chanda’s first exhibition at Eisele Gallery.
Eisele Gallery, and Jacqueline Chanda’s exhibit, are free and open to the public, including free parking in the rear of the building. Eisele Gallery has long been recognized as one of the most respected fine art galleries in the Midwest, featuring a large selection of Traditional and Contemporary artwork. They also work with museum quality estates and collections. Eisele Gallery’s renowned exhibition program fosters excellence within artistic practice, while
promoting both emerging and established nationally and internationally recognized artists.
For more information about Eisele Gallery, including hours, visit their website at www. eiselefineart.com or contact Gallery Art Consultant David Smith at 513-791-7717.
“The Muse” oil on board painting by Jacqueline Chanda
Community
Village Worship Services
Mariemont Community Church
mariemontchurch.org
Denis Beausejour, Co-senior Pastor Jamie Moore, Co-senior Pastor Paul Rasmussen, Worship Pastor Katie Smith, Interim Children’s Director
Sunday Services 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. We are having in-person services! Masks are optional. Kingdom Kids Ministry at 9:00 and 11:00 a.m., and Youth at 12:30 p.m., just after the second service. Livestream is at 9:00 a.m. on Facebook: Mariemont Church; our website: mariemontchurch.org; and YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ MariemontChurch
Worship Every Wednesday in the Parish Center auditorium. 7:00-8:30 p.m. All are welcome! Check mariemontchurch.org for any weekly details.
Fall/Winter Activities
Women’s Ministries
JOY in the Morning: Tuesdays from 9:1511:30 a.m. at the Parish Center. Fall studies are: A Study of Exodus; Surprise the World by Michael Frost and Walk With Me: Simple Principles for Everyday Disciple-making, by Bill Mowry; God of Deliverance: A Study of Exodus 1-18, by Jen Wilken Evening JOY: 1st/3rd Mondays, 7-8:30 p.m. at the Parish Center. Study is: The Women of the Bible Speak: The Wisdom of 16 Women and their Lessons for Today, by Shannon Bream
Women’s Retreat: It’s Time to Register! When: February 4-5, 2022. Topic: "Jesus is Better than…" Speaker: Liz Baker will be speaking on the goodness and sufficiency of Christ from Hebrews Chapter 10. Contact: Paula Ayer at ayerpaula@gmail. com
Spiritual Gifts Conference, March 4-6, 2022 at the Mariemont Church Parish
Center featuring author and pastor, Jack Deere. He is the author of the bestselling book, Surprised by the Power of the Spirit. Check mariemontchurch.org for details closer to the time of the event.
Continuation of Current Sermon Series on Spiritual Gifts: "Gifted and Going for It!" into March 2022.
Village Church of Mariemont
Villagechurchofmariemont.org
Todd Keyes, Pastor Jamie Keyes, Children’s Ministries
The Village Church of Mariemont has returned to the Memorial Chapel on the Old Village Square. We invite you to worship with us Sundays at 9:30 a.m. Services will also be live streamed at facebook.com/VCMChurch
Upcoming Events
Current Sermon Series is titled “5 Things You Must Do in 2022.” If you’re curious about
how you can get 2022 off to a great start, join us Sunday mornings.
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season. We will prepare our hearts for this sacrificial season at 7 p.m. on March 2 in the Memorial Chapel with a brief prayer service and ceremonial ashes.
Women’s Bible Study continues the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month - mornings at 9:30 a.m. or evenings at 7 p.m. During the month of February we will watch and discuss the movie “War Room.” Contact Valerie McEnroe for more information at vmcenroe1@gmail.com.
Kidz Connection continues Sunday evenings from 5-6:30 p.m. for elementary age kids in our building at 3920 Oak Street. Our children learn biblical principles through science projects, crafts and discussion. If your children are looking for a group to engage with, this is it!
For more information about these events or to learn more about our church, visit our website at www.villagechurchofmariemont. org or contact Pastor Todd Keyes at toddkeyes@villagechurchofmariemont.org.
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