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The Columbia Journal January 2010
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January 18, Monthly Community Council Meeting, 7:00 - 8:30 pm, Columbia Baptist Church
Enter through front door on 3718 Eastern. Street parking or use parking lots at Gilligan's Law office (two doors down) and St. Stephen's. |
- Three short speakers:
1. Ohio Secretary of State Liason: state services
2. Parkside Church Outreach Center - Jennifer Cowgill
3. Irish American Heritage Center - Maureen Kennedy
- Discussion on how to spend 2010 Neighborhood Support
Program (NSP) and Neighborhood Business District (NBD)
funds |
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CT Calendar
February 15th, Monthly Community Council Meeting, 7:00-8:30 pm, Columbia Baptist Church
-Funding in amounts up to $4,775 ($5,000 less $225 general liability insurance fee) in Neighborhood Support Program (NSP) and $2,000 in Neighborhood Business District Support Funds (NBDSF) will be considered and voted on.
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| Columbia Tusculum Community Council Notes |
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There was no December CTCC Meeting |
2010 CTCC City of Cincinnati Funding
Where does a community council get money to operate? We are not a "department" of the City of Cincinnati with direct funding. Columbia Tusculum Community Council is a separate State of Ohio nonprofit organization, run by volunteers.
We get funding in two ways. The first is through community fund-raising projects, such as the CTCC Historic Home Tour. CTCC also sponsors a water station for the Flying Pig marathon and staffs it with volunteers. The Flying Pig organization gives us a share of their profits.
The other way Councils can get funding is by participating in the City's Neighborhood Support (NSP) and Neighborhood Business District (NDBSF) grant programs. Ideas for 2010 Neighborhood grant projects will be discussed at the Jan. 18th CTCC meeting. All resident input is welcome.
City Council believes strong neighborhoods make for a strong city and has provided basic operating funds for neighborhood councils and funds for small projects in neighborhood business districts in the form of grants. Due to the projected City budget deficit for the current year, the 2010 funds for NSP and NBDSF are $5,000 and $2,000, respectively.
Each neighborhoods proposed projects are approved by peer groups, consisting of other neighborhood leaders, and the City, to ensure that the projects meet the guidelines set by the City for the use of the funds.
Once approved, neighborhoods receive money only after completing projects and producing invoices and canceled checks. This ensures integrity in the process, but means CTCC must cover spending until reimbursed later in the year.
CTCC Grant proposals
This is the time of year to develop proposals for 2010. All Columbia Tusculum residents and property owners can recommend and vote on projects; they do not need to be CTCC voting members.
CTCC will receive $5,000 for 2010 council operating costs (NSP). Examples of past operating costs are publishing The Columbia e-Journal, website maintenance, rental of a storage facility, and maintaining a P.O. Box for council mail. These monies have also been used for maintaining our gateway and pocket parks, paying water bills to keep these looking good, supplying mutt mitt stations, banners, etc.
The Neighborhood Business District Support Funds (NBDSF) are earmarked for improving defined business districts. CT's neighborhood business district is from Columbia Parkway to Eastern Avenue, between Delta Avenue and Stanley Avenue. In 2009 we used a portion of this money to beautify our greenspaces and fund the mural, to be installed in April 2010 on the railroad overpass where Delta Avenue meets Eastern Avenue. NBDSF funding for 2010 is $2,000. We will be requesting input from CT businesses at the January CT business association on how to spend these funds.
2010 recommendations
Some projects and operating costs are ongoing, and will need to be renewed, such as beautification, funds for the newsletter and the revised website, and insurance. Seed money will also be needed as we plan to have a 2010 Columbia Tusculum Historic Home Tour (see the article below). The CTCC Steering Team will present base proposals for review and to initiate discussion at the Jan. 18th council meeting. We welcome any ideas you also have.
At the February 15th council meeting we will vote on a final proposal and in March the final proposals will be reviewed for approval by the City and previously mentioned peer groups. |
Be a Voting Member of CT Community Council - Easy and Free
All residents, property owners, and business owners are invited to share their thoughts at CT Community Council meetings. All you have to do is show up. Making your vote count is just as simple. If you are one of the above, all you need to do is, 1) attend 3 meetings within the past year, 2) volunteer 6 hours in the past year, or 3) some combination of both. There is no fee to be able to vote. We invite you to join us and make CT a REAL community.
It is important to note, all residents can vote on use of the City of Cincinnati funding mentioned in the previous article, even if they are not voting members of CT Community Council. |
2010 CT Home Tour in the Planning Stages
We are very excited to announce the Columbia Tusculum Historic Home Tour is back! It's our opportunity to showcase our neighborhood and inform the entire Cincy metro area of what we have to offer. It brings us closer together as a community, through volunteer efforts and the sharing of one's home. It also acts as a fundraiser for various projects in the neighborhood and brings people to our local businesses.
Community council board member Stephen Sayre will be organizing the tour this year and we thank him in advance for the effort he will be putting forth. But, he can't do it alone. We will need volunteers to share the load and those efforts start now to make it successful. Please contact Steve at ssayre70@msn.com or 236-4154 to let him know you are willing to volunteer. |
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Flying Pig Marathon Mile 21.3 Water Station
CTCC will once again take charge of staffing a water station for the Flying Pig marathon on Sunday, May 2. See the whole spectacle of the race from a front-row seat in front of the Carnegie Center. Plan to arrive by 8:15 AM to see race leaders pass by. 
Fran Santangelo, owner of BeneFit Studio, will organize the water station. She needs 30-40 volunteers to set up/clean up and hand out water to runners. It's a lot of fun and you'll receive a 2010 Flying Pig marathon T-shirt.
If you are interested in signing up or have questions, please contact Fran at franniesantangelo@yahoo.com or 484-3395. |
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Bike Path Signage
On December 22, 2009, an Ohio River Trailhead sign was erected on Kellogg Avenue, noting where people access the trail and park a car, if necessary.
More way-finding signs, maps, etc are to be installed with the Ohio River Trail construction between Carrel/Dumont and Lunken Airport Terminal in 2010. The next phase will include a signed bike route to connect the pieces of trail through Columbia Tusculum and add signing at the Farmer's Market Trailhead on Wilmer Ave. |
Butterfield Alley Renamed Van Volkenburgh Lane
John Van Volkenburgh was a long time resident and champion of Columbia Tusculum, volunteering his time for well over 10 years, starting in 1989. The ongoing development of the Business District and recent groundbreaking of Columbia Square can be largely attributed to his efforts working with the City and local real estate owners to develop solutions in the best interests of neighborhood residents, and the City as a whole.
John passed away in 2005, though his efforts are not forgotten; rather, they have been celebrated more than ever. John was honored in a speech given by Ben Young at the neighborhood's June 21, 2007 Community Celebration to over 100 residents and business owners.
The change of Butterfield Alley to Van Volkenburgh Lane is to honor John's many years of selfless efforts on behalf of the community.
Van Volkenburgh Lane runs parallel to Columbia Parkway, from Stanley Avenue, behind BeneFit Studio and Interiors by Kurtinitis, to Columbia Square. |
Addressing Unmaintained Properties
In mid-2009, Councilmember Chris Monzel spoke with us on how to address unmaintained properties, a growing issue in many neighborhoods. These steps can be taken, based on the nature of the complaint.
For City owned properties or other issues not resolved in a timely manner, call Monzel's office at 352-3640. The City has been short staffed for grass cutting, in the summer months, and it may take 60-90 days for them to clean up their properties after a call.
For privately owned properties, complaints must be called in. Multiple calls will get more attention. The City's Code Enforcement Response Team (CERT) may be used to address properties with serious & multiple problems, using the Health Dept to issue citations for high grass and trash, the Fire Dept. for fire hazards and Building Inspections for disrepair.
City lawyers can bring property owners to the housing court for unaddressed problems and issue fines. Delinquent fines can result in charges added to the city water bill at the owner's personal residence. Nonpayment can lead to shutting off water at their own home. Serious unaddressed property issues can also result in jail sentences up to six months.
The City will continue to look for creative solutions to address unmaintained properties including nonprofit groups like Keep Cincinnati Beautiful, and local volunteer organizations and resources like the County Sheriff's adult probation teams of supervised individuals completing terms of probation.
Multiple family dwellings with crime complaints (e.g., drug dealing), can be deemed a chronic nuisance if at least 3 to 4 complaints are called in.
Councilmember Monzel has assigned his aide, Lanita Hanekamp as Community Liaison. She will periodically attend our meetings. You can reach her for questions or help at Lanita.Hanekamp@cincinnati-oh.gov or at Monzel's office # 352-3640. |
LeBlond Recreation Center Information
Please enjoy any CRC facility for the months of January and February for free. CRC memberships are not required for the months of January and February at all recreation centers. Participants are only required to pay for classes which have fees and must pay the membership for weight/fitness room activities.
Basketball Personal Training
Sherwin's Star Sports
Sherwin Anderson
602-STAR (7827)
Email: Sherwin@sherwinstars.com
**Please contact Sherwin Anderson for price and registration.
Zumba
Wednesdays 6:00pm-6:50pm
Cost: Membership Free for January and February
Indoor Group Cycling
Tuesdays and Thursdays 11:00am-11:45am
Fridays 9:00am-9:45am
Cost: Membership Free for January and February
Personal Fitness Training Sessions
$40.00/hour
$20.00/30-minute session
Please contact Katie Lear at 281-3209 for more details.
Regular Center Hours
Monday-Thursday 11:00am-7:00pm
Friday 9:00am-5:00pm
Saturday/Sunday CLOSED
**Please call 281-3209 to find out about rental fees and available dates.
LeBlond Recreation Center
2335 Riverside Drive
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
(513) 281-3209
For Information:
Christian Armstrong-Owens
Service Area Coordinator (SAC)
Christian.armstrong@cincinnati-oh.gov
Katie Lear
Community Center Director (CCD)
Katie.lear@cincinnati-oh.gov |
| Columbia Tusculum Business - Brain Integration Center |
Natural Solutions for Learning Disabilities
Struggling with learning? Having trouble concentrating? Can't get organized?
Greg Sletager is excited to announce that the Brain Integration Center in Columbia Tusculum is now offering a natural solution to children and adults struggling with learning and cognitive difficulties.
The Brain Integration Center utilizes the comprehensive system of Crossinology'sŪ Brain Integration Technique (BIT) to help children and adults regain their natural optimal brain functioning. BIT is a revolutionary stress reduction process that improves the flow of information in the brain with no drugs or surgery. We treat each client with a program designed for his or her unique goals.This relaxing, non-invasive therapy is a drug-free alternative for the correction of ADD, ADHD and dyslexia.
Please contact Greg Sletager for a free consultation and assessment at his home office at 341 Tusculum Ave. For more info call (513) 288-0698 or go to www.brainintegrationcenter.com. |
Hamilton County Parks Employment Open House
Date and Time: Saturday, February 6 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Locations: 
Winton Woods - Mill Race Banquet Center
Sharon Woods - Sharon Centre
Miami Whitewater Forest - Visitor Center
Woodland Mound - Sweetwine Banquet Center
Complete an application and talk with department supervisors. There are more than 100 positions available for the 2010 season at the boathouses, campground, snack bars, banquet centers, golf courses, outdoor education, park maintenance and admissions.
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'Old House, Green House': Learn How to 'Green' Your Historic Building
Cincinnati Preservation Association (CPA) is proud to sponsor "Old House, Green House," Cincinnati's first-ever program on energy efficiency and sustainability for old-house owners. The program will be held on Saturday, January 23 from 9:30 to noon at the Art Academy of Cincinnati at 1212 Jackson Street in Over-the-Rhine. The format will allow plenty of time for questions and discussion. Admission is $10.00 for members and $15.00 for non-members. Reservations are required due to limited space. To purchase tickets contact CPA at (513) 721-4506 or visit www.cincinnatipreservation.org. Parking is available in an open lot across the street.
Much of what we hear about the green movement relates to new construction. But new buildings are only part of the story. One of our country's most urgent tasks is to "green" the buildings we already have-including historic buildings.
Fortunately, many historic buildings have inherent green features such as durable, natural materials and natural ventilation. Building on an old house's good qualities, owners can improve efficiency and comfort levels, without sacrificing historic character or making costly upgrades. Many features of new "green" homes can be duplicated in older buildings, including efficient lighting, water-saving plumbing fixtures, and high-value insulation.
"Old House, Green House" will cover the following topics:
-Insulation options for historic buildings: how to keep out drafts without causing moisture problems. Presented by Apollo Heating & Air Conditioning
-High-efficiency heating and air conditioning systems: saving energy and saving money. Presented by Apollo Heating & Air Conditioning
-All about geothermal energy: 21st-century renewable energy options for your historic home. Presented by Apollo Heating & Air Conditioning
-Appropriate storm windows: preserving your historic windows while improving energy efficiency. Presented by Allied Windows
-Greening your renovation: reusing materials and minimizing waste. Presented by Jerry Janszen of Building Value |
A New Plan for Preservation
Cincinnati Preservation Association (CPA), the Over-the-Rhine Foundation (OTRF), and Centripetus will make the second public presentation of a commonsense, holistic proposal to make preservation work better in all of Cincinnati's neighborhoods. It will take place in Columbia Tusculum on Wednesday, February 17, at 6:00 p.m. at the Junior League Headquarters, 3500 Columbia Parkway.
Please come and hear the new and exciting changes that are happening behind City Council's door that will affect preservation in every one of Cincinnati's neighborhoods. The OTRF and CPA presented an overview of this plan to City Council's Vibrant Neighborhoods Committee in several working sessions during the summer and fall of 2009. Since then, some of the recommendations of the proposal have been adopted by City Council, and the City has formed a committee to review the policy recommendations.
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| Give the Gift of Columbia Tusculum |
Originally produced for the historic district, you do not need to own a historic home to order one.
Just provide your home's construction date, often available on the Hamilton County Auditor's website.
$35
Columbia Tusculum Padfolios
 These black faux leather padfolios hold a standard 8 1/2 x 11 tablet on the right and have pockets of several sizes on the left. A large outer pocket and zipper enclosure make these perfect for both work and school. A large CTCC urn and flowers logo is embossed on the front, letting people know we are "Cincinnati's Oldest Neighborhood." $18.00
Let them know you're from Columbia Tusculum with a CT tote bag
This heavy organic cotton canvas tote bag holds a lot because it's 17 in. x 13 in. with deep 7 inch side panels. Something old, something new with both CT logos front and back. A classy bargain at $12.50.
To place your order: send a check & identify items ordered to CTCC, P.O. Box 26085, Cincinnati, OH 45226. Include your name, address, email address & phone #. If orders cannot be left on your porch, give delivery instructions. We only deliver within the 45226 area. No shipping included. Indicate in your instructions if you plan to pick up.
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Get involved in Columbia Tusculum
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If you would like to get more involved in your community and make new friends, consider volunteering. Newsletter and Website support continue to be our top needs!!
2010 Columbia Tusculum Home Tour: See article above in CT Neighborhood News.
2010 Flying Pig CT Water Station: See article above in CT Neighborhood News.
Columbia Journal editor and support: Have ideas to improve the look and content of the e-Journal? Stories to contribute? We need someone to take over as Journal editor, as well as help in writing stories.
Columbia Tusculum Welcome Bags - Track home sale info and put together welcome bags for new residents with neighborhood and CT business information and coupons.
Special project help: Is your time limited, but still willing to help on an ad hoc basis? We can match you with current needs. Let us know your time availability or the kind of skills you have to offer.
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It's easy to send us news. Do you have a local event to tell your neighbors about? Know of someone who's won an award, started a new business or some other noteworthy news? |
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Important phone numbers:
Emergency Calls: 911
Non-emergency police calls: 513-765-1212 (use this for most, nonemergency calls)
8 a.m. - 4 p.m.:
Officer Germaine Love, Neighborhood Liaison Officer 513-979-4480
Sgt. Cassandra Tucker, Unit Supervisor 513-979-4470
Lt. Joe Williams, 1st Shift Commander (7 a.m.-3 p.m.) 513-979-4438
Lt. Michael John, 2nd Shift Commander (1 p.m.-9 p.m.) 513-979-4437 Lt. John Rees, 3rd Shift Commander (9 p.m.-5 a.m.) 513-979-4439
District 2 Police Front Desk - 24 hours 513-979-4400
Street Corner Unit - 352-2555
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