INDIAN HILL VILLAGE

BULLETIN

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION of the VILLAGE OF INDIAN HILL, OHIO

All Village Bulletins available on our website www.ihill.org

February 5, 2020 Number #1

COUNCIL ACTIONS

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

January 27, 2020

Presentation – Colonel Schlie presented the Ranger

Achievement Award to Lt. Shawn Perdue

Presentation – Council expressed its appreciation to Mr.

Harold Thomas for his generous donation to the Indian Hill

Rangers

Passed Emergency Ordinance – Establishing the Ranger

Fund

Passed Emergency Ordinance - Amending Ordinance 13-19

and making appropriations for the expenses of the City of the Village of Indian Hill for the Fiscal year 2020

First Reading – Ordinance approving the plat of DDB Towhee Woods Subdivision recorded in Plat Book 475, Pages

85 and 86 of the Hamilton County, Ohio Recorders Office and

accepting the dedication of Demar Road ID No. 529-0152-

0091

First Reading – Ordinance replacing Section 34.40 and 34.41

of the City of the Village of Indian Hill Codified Ordinances

First Reading – Ordinance repealing the Personnel Rules of

the Manager and the Rules of the Personnel Advisory and

Appeals Board and to amend Chapter 35 to incorporate and

approve the Civil Service Rules and Regulations of the City of

the Village of Indian Hill

Passed Resolution – Confirming the current appointments to

the Indian Hill Recreation Commission

Passed Resolution – Revising fees for the Indian Hill

Recreation Commission

Passed Resolution - Authorizing the City Manager to accept

the 2019 Green Area gifts

Passed Resolution - Authorizing the City Manager to employ

an engineer to prepare plans and specifications for street

rehabilitation, equipment, supplies and other special capital

improvement projects, advertise for bids, and award contracts

for the construction of said work and purchase of said

equipment/supplies

Announced - 2020 Village Council Meeting Dates

Please go to http://www.ihill.org/council/council.aspx

to review full Council Packet for more details

PLANNING COMMISSION

REGULAR MEETING

ACTIONS

January 21, 2020

Approved - A request for Final Plat approval to

subdivide Lot 3 Stevens Estates Subdivision into

two single family home sites was Approved. The

property is located at 5875 Towhee Lane.

Conditionally Approved - A request for Concept

Plan review to create three single family home sites

served by a private drive was Conditionally

Approved. The property is located at 5680 Drake

Road.

Conditionally Approved - A request for a

Resource Protection Area Swap for the property

located at 9 Stirrup Cup Drive was Conditionally

Approved.

Village of Indian Hill Public Meeting Dates

All meetings held in Council Chambers

Please see back page for a complete listing of Village Public

meeting dates & times.

COPY DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE

February 14, 2020

Village offices will be closed

on Monday, February 17th in

observance of Presidents Day.

February 5, 2020 —Indian Hill Bulletin— Page 2

THE VILLAGE OF INDIAN HILL, OHIO OFFICIAL DIRECTORY

VILLAGE COUNCIL

6525 Drake Road

Melissa S. Cowan, Mayor

Richard J. Hidy

Elizabeth C. Isspording

Stephen H Krehbiel

Shayne Manning

Donald C. McGraw

Monique A. Sewell

VILLAGE STAFF

Dina C. Minneci, City Manager

Jonathan D. West, Assistant City Manager

Paul C. Riordan, Clerk/Compt.

Scott D. Phillips, Solicitor

Scott Gully, Finance Director / Tax Commissioner

561-6500

Chuck Schlie, Chief of Police

561-7000

911 (Emergency) Jason Adkins, Superintendent WW & PW Departments

831-3712

Rick Babcock, Park Ranger Grand Valley Preserve

979-6221

Stephen C. Oughterson, Fire Chief

561-7926 (Business)

911 (Fire call)

Tim Ingram, Health Commissioner

PLANNING COMMISSION

Paul F. Madden, Chairperson

Shayne Manning Joe Rhodenbaugh

Rita Stolper Richard C. Wiggers

GREEN AREAS

ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Ms. Liz Tilton, Chairperson

Eileen Alexander Todd Bailey

Ann Gibson Jeffrey Graham

Pat Hinkley Ken Koster

Cynthia King Trish Krehbiel

Wallace Lovejoy Shayne Manning

Jenny Margo Ellen Schiefer

STANLEY M. ROWE ARBORETUM 4600 Muchmore Road—561-5151

Jason Donovan

GUN CLUB REPRESENTATIVE Dick Steuerwald, Range Supervisor 831-0994

Jack Basham, Asst Supervisor 831-0994

Thomas C. Rink, Village Representative

PERSONNEL ADVISORY &

APPEALS BOARD Kim Burke, Chairperson

Eric Holzapfel

George Glover

MADEIRA/INDIAN HILL JOINT FIRE DIST.

Robert Gehring, President

Beth Wright, Vice President

Jim Gulick, Treasurer

Jeff Evans, Secretary

David Ellis Scott Gehring

John Hassan William Higgins

Jennifer Lightcap Don McGraw

Dave Parlin Sam Robinson

THE HEART CHURCH MINISTRIES

OF CAMP DENNISON

10048 Campbell St, Camp Dennison OH 45111

513-831-5659

Alfred B Winters Jr, Pastor

10:45 am Sunday Worship Service

7:00 pm Tues Night Bible Study & Perfecting Class

2:30 pm 1st Saturdays, Ministry of Love at Heartland

of Madeira Nursing Home

7:00 pm 4th Friday Men & Women Fellowship (please

call for Host/Hostess location for the month)

INDIAN HILL EXEMPTED

VILLAGE SCHOOL DISTRICT

BOARD OF EDUCATION 6855 Drake Rd., Cincinnati, Ohio 45243

Nancy Airchholz, President

Kim Martin Lewis, Vice President of Finance

Elizabeth Johnston, Vice President of Operations

Eddie Hooker & Niki Singh

Mr. Kirk Koennecke, Supt. 272-4500

Mick Davis, Treasurer 272-4513

Indian Hill High School 272-4550

Indian Hill Middle School 272-4642

Indian Hill Elementary School 272-4703

Indian Hill Primary School 272-4754

RECREATION COMMISSION John Rabenold, Chairman 271-4938

Jack Alley, Program Coordinator 979-6212

www.ihrecsports.com

INDIAN HILL HISTORICAL SOCIETY

891-1873

Mrs. Frank Welsh, President

Mr. Chip Hunter, Vice President

Mr. Gregory Miller, Vice President

Ms. Lois Rust, Secretary

Mr. James Barber, Treasurer

ST. GERTRUDE PARISH Miami Ave. & Shawnee Run Rd.

Church 561-5954

School 561-8020

Religious Education 561-8369

www.stgertrude.org

Fr. Andre-Joseph LaCasse, O.P. Pastor

Sister Mary Aquinas, O.P. Principal

Shari Siebert, Dir. of Religious Education

Mass Schedule:

Daily: 7:00, 8:00 & 11:30 a.m.

Saturday: 4:30 p.m.

Sunday: 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.

12:30 & 6:00 p.m.

THE INDIAN HILL CLUB

SWIM & TENNIS

Dot Lane off Shawnee Run Road

Across from St. Gertrude, www.ihclub.com

INDIAN HILL WINTER CLUB

10005 Fletcher Road

Camp Dennison, OH 45111

513-576-9444

ihwinterclub.com

CINCINNATI COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

6905 Given Road, Cincinnati, OH 45243

513-561-7298

Anthony T. T. Jaccaci, Head of School

ARMSTRONG CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST

CHURCH

5125 Drake Road

Cincinnati, Ohio 45243—561-4220

www.armstrongchapel.org

Www.armstrongpreschool.org

David Brown, Lead Pastor

8:20 a.m. Traditional Worship in Old Chapel

9:40 a.m. Traditional Worship in Sanctuary

10:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship in Worship Ctr

Student Ministries—Wed. at 7:00 p.m.

THE INDIAN HILL CHURCH

Episcopal-Presbyterian

6000 Drake Road

Telephone: 561-6805

www.indianhillchurch.org

The Rev. Dr. Stephen Caine, Presbyterian Minister

The Nancy Hopkins-Green, Episcopal Priest

Jennifer Taylor, Dir. Of Youth

Worship Schedule: Sunday 8 am & 10:30 am

(Alternating Services: Episcopal/Presbyterian)

Nursery/Preschool care provided 10:30 am

Sunday School (K-7th grade) 10:30 am

Adult Ed Forum 9 am (Sept-May)

CINCINNATI FRIENDS MEETING

8075 Keller Road—791-0788

www.cincinnatifriends.org

Jim Newby, Minister

SUNDAY:

Adult Discussion 10:00 a.m.

Meeting for Worship 11:00 a.m.

Children’s Sunday School 11:00 a.m.

Nursery and childcare provided

SONRISE COMMUNITY CHURCH

8136 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati, Ohio 45227

513-576-6000

www.sonrise-church.com

Facebook: facebook.com/SonRiseCommunityChurch

Twitter: @sonrisec

Contemporary Worship & K-6 Programs:

Sundays @ 9 a.m. & 11 a.m.

Childcare provided at both services

Jr. & Sr. High Sundays @ 6 p.m.

HORIZON COMMUNITY CHURCH

3950 Newtown Rd.

Cincinnati, Ohio 45244

513-272-5800 www.horizoncc.com

“Yours to Explore”

Schedule of Sunday Services: 8:50 a.m. Equipping

Service, 10:00 a.m. & 11:10 a.m. Exploring Service

Separate programs offered for infants through high

school students

GREENACRES ARTS CENTER

8400 Blome Road, 45243

513-793-2787

AUDIT REVIEW COMMITTEE

Monique A. Sewell, Chairperson

Al Koncius David Williams

Michael Sewell Paul C. Riordan

February 5, 2020 —Indian Hill Bulletin— Page 3

VILLAGE COUNCIL ESTABLISHES 2020 GOALS

Every year, Village Council meets for a Special Council

Session in January to discuss specific goals for staff to

pursue throughout the year. These goals represent various

opportunities for the Village to continue to provide

exemplary, high quality services to its residents.

On January 13, 2020, Village Council established a list of

several goals that concentrate in areas such as, but not

limited to, a study of Redbirdhollow Trail stream erosion,

a strategic plan for tree reforestation and soil preservation

within the Green Areas, completion of several major

infrastructure projects including the rehabilitation of

Blome Road bridge, and evaluating effects that adjacent

communities’ significant infrastructure projects may have

within the Village.

To review the full list of the 2020 Council Goals, please

refer to www.ihill.org or contact Dina Minneci, City

Manager, at 513-561-6500.

During its annual review of Village operating funds and a

ten year capital improvement program in 2019, Village

Council approved maintaining the local income tax rate at

0.525% for 2020 (for the 2019 tax year).

All residents will be receiving postcards in the mail which

provide information on the Village income tax process.

The postcard will include instructions, deadline and

contact information. To accommodate those who still

wish to utilize a hard-copy tax form, the Village will have

them available at the Administration Offices, and they also

can be downloaded from the Village’s website

www.ihill.org.

For questions regarding the tax rate or additional

information regarding the 2020 income tax filing season

(for tax year 2019), please do not hesitate to contact Scott

Gully, Finance Director/Tax Commissioner, at 513-561-

6500.

2020 TAX SEASON BEGINS

0.525% RATE REMAINS THE SAME

If you have moved into the Village within the past year,

you will be receiving a letter from Constellation

NewEnergy for the Village’s Natural Gas Aggregation

Program.

As background, Village residents voted in 2008 to create a

natural gas aggregation program. This program allows

Village residents to capitalize on a lower rate for the gas

generation portion of the utility bill through “bulk buying”

with other local communities and frees the residents from

having to negotiate such rates on an individual basis. The

flat rate for gas generation that the Village negotiates with

its suppler, Constellation NewEnergy, competitively

competes with Duke Energy’s monthly variable rate.

Although some months may not be as competitive as

others, the aggregation program provides savings to

residents over a full year of gas usage.

In May 2019, Constellation was able to secure a fixed rate

of $0.396/Ccf ($0.4237/Ccf with current 7% sales tax) that

became effective with June 2019 meter reading (July

invoice) and will end with the May 2022 meter reading

(June 2022 invoice).

In order for new residents to take advantage of the

program, Constellation will be sending notification letters

to all new residents since last year. This notification

explains the fixed rate and provides additional information

about the Village’s program. If you did not receive a

notification in the mail but want to enroll, please contact

Constellation at 1-877-226-9456.

Upon receiving the letter, if you wish to participate in the

Village’s gas aggregation program, you do not have to do

anything as you will be automatically enrolled.

However, if you wish to opt-out of the program, please fill

out the documentation attached with the letter.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact

the Indian Hill toll free customer service number at 877-

226-9456 (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week) or log

on to Indian Hill’s dedicated web page at

www.constellation.com/oh-indianhill.

NATURAL GAS AGGREGATION INFORMATION

FOR NEW VILLAGE RESIDENTS

February 5, 2020 —Indian Hill Bulletin— Page 4

At the Employee Holiday Luncheon in December, ten (10)

Village staff members were honored for their years of

service to Indian Hill residents and surrounding

communities. These individuals represent a vast amount of

dedication, experience, knowledge, professionalism and

ability. Their commitment to the Village mission of

providing high quality and beyond-the-call-of-duty

customer service on a daily basis is commendable. The

following are those recognized in 2019:

5 Years

Jon West – Assistant City Manager

15 Years Denise Burkert - Dispatcher

James Dunigan – Ranger

Diane Slagle – Dispatcher

Ken Smith – Public Works Foreman

Bill Schwartz – Ranger

Dean Ramsey – Ranger

20 Years Mark Rolfes – Service Worker

Frank Cogliano – Police Lieutenant

Mike Dressell – Police Captain/Assistant Chief

VILLAGE RECOGNIZES YEARS OF SERVICE

In conjunction with

The American Conifer Society

Invites you to attend our Conifer Connection

Lunch / Learn / Auction / Grafting Workshop

Join us for an informative presentation on Cohesion vs.

Chaos creating design in the collector ’s garden with

guest speaker Bob Iiams. Bob has been a long time

member of the American Conifer Society and president of

numerous plant societies.

Where: The Sky Galley Restaurant located within Lunken

Airport main building.

When: February 29, 2020

Informal lunch starts 11:30 - 12:00.

Presentation followed by auction 1:00 - 2:30 pm

Grafting workshop 2:30 - 4:00 pm

This event is free with no registration

Over the last several months, the Indian Hill

Bulletin and Village website have included

articles regarding the Village’s Charter Review

Committee which was created to assess the entire

Village Charter that was last amended by voters

in 1999. Over several meetings, the Committee

made recommendations which assist in creating

more efficient and effective municipal operations

while also bringing the Charter format up-to-date.

Those recommendations were discussed at the

September 2019 Community Forum and were

presented to Council in three separate readings at

Council meetings that included a public hearing

and final legislative approval in November.

This month, the Hamilton County Board of

Elections has validated Council’s request to place

the recommended Charter changes on the March

17, 2020 ballot. All registered voters within the

Village will receive a letter that includes an

Executive Summary of the recommended

changes along with a presentation of the

recommended revised Charter. This same

information is also available on the Village

website www.ihill.org.

If you have questions regarding the Charter

recommendations or if you do not receive a letter,

please contact Dina Minneci, City Manager, at

dminneci@ihill.org or 513-561-6500.

INDIAN HILL CHARTER

REVIEW UPDATE

February 5, 2020 —Indian Hill Bulletin— Page 5

APPRECIATION TO THOSE

WHO DONATED TO GREEN AREAS

In 2019, the Green Areas Trust expanded by 0.5686 acres.

Through the generosity of the resident listed below, the Trust

now comprises more than 3,000 acres of preserved natural land

in Indian Hill. Please join Village Council and the Green Areas

Advisory Committee in expressing appreciation to:

David Keefer 8725 Indian Hill Road 0.5686 Acres

Total Acres = 0.5686

The Green Areas Advisory Committee encourages residents to

consider green areas donations throughout the year. Those

living in a five acre zone may reduce their lot down to 3 acres

(2 plus acre gift). Three acre lot residents may reduce their lot

down to 2 acres (1 plus acre gift). Many past donors have

enjoyed tax benefits as a result of their contributions in addition

to the satisfaction of being an integral part of preserving the

Village’s mission of maintaining a rural community.

For questions regarding the green areas donations, please

contact Jon West, Assistant City Manager, at 561-6500.

February 5, 2020 —Indian Hill Bulletin— Page 6

Check out our new look at www.ihill.org! With this new

look comes easier viewing and navigation, especially on

mobile devices. And on the back end, the new site will

allow Village staff to make changes to the site quickly,

keeping you up-to-date on important events, including

road construction, announcements from the Rangers,

Public Works and Waterworks and other pertinent

information. As always, the monthly Bulletin will be

available for download.

This updated website and the Indian Hill App allow you to

stay in touch with the latest events in the Village. In

addition, contacting us has never been easier -- by email,

phone or through the website or App Service Request

feature. Please check out the new site and catch up on all

the latest news and events from the Village of Indian Hill!

NEW VILLAGE WEBSITE DEBUTS

The new upgrades to the Indian Hill Shooting Club’s Five

Stand field are paying off in dividends of added

challenges and fun for the shotgun enthusiasts of the

IHSC.

In the Fall of 2019, the target throwers were converted to

a wireless system to improve the reliability of the

throwers. New light-weight carts and machine covers

replaced the old stationary wooded platforms to add

mobility and versatility to the target presentation on the

field. Each throwing machine was assessed and fitted

with new parts and circuit boards as needed. Tree limbs

and branches were trimmed to improve visibility for the

shooters. The shooting stations themselves got a facelift

and were made adjustable. All of this adds up to a vastly

improved experience for the IHSC members who enjoy

the shooting sports.

The result of the upgrades has been a resurgence in the

popularity of Five Stand shooting at the Indian Hill

Shooting Club. A league was started in mid-December

with 18 members participating and will culminate in

January with a handicapped tournament to determine the

champions.

More improvements are planned. In the spring of 2020,

construction will begin on the Five Stand shelter which

will include overhead protection from the weather, heater

units, lighting and other amenities.

Instructional classes on basic firearms ownership and

usage are conducted regularly at the Indian Hill Shooting

Club and membership is always available without a wait

to the residents of the Village of Indian Hill.

To become a member or for more information on

becoming a member, contact Dick Steuerwald, IHSC

Supervisor by emailing DSteuerwald@ihill.org

IHSC member & “League Co-

Commissioner” Mike Bausano

breaking a target downrange.

IHSC member Clay

Slusher calling for a

target in League play

“League Co-Commissioner” Ryan Conner & IHSC member Jerry

Ruschau keep score & oversee the contest

IMPROVEMENTS TO THE SHOOTING CLUB BRING RENEWED INTEREST

February 5, 2020 —Indian Hill Bulletin— Page 7

THE INDIAN HILL RANGERS RECEIVE GENEROUS DONATION

FROM HAROLD & GENIE THOMAS

It is with great pleasure that Indian Hill Council and the

Indian Hill Rangers express their heart-felt appreciation

(again!) to Indian Hill residents Harold and Genie

Thomas.

In December 2019, Mr. Thomas visited with Colonel

Schlie, Police Chief of the Indian Hill Rangers. On this

fateful day, Mr. Thomas expressed his desire to create a

special fund for the police department to assist with the

purchase of equipment and/or any other resources deemed

necessary to fulfill the Ranger’s mission of providing high

standard protective services to Village residents.

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas’ generosity truly is an inspiration.

This donation is not the first for Mr. and Mrs. Thomas. It

is one of a long line of gifts that include, but definitely are

not limited to, the construction of the Madeira & Indian

Hill firehouses, the purchase of an ambulance for the

Madeira & Indian Hill Joint Fire District, fire hydrant

painting throughout the Village, the purchase of safety

vehicles and equipment for neighboring communities, and

the inception of a scholarship fund at Cincinnati State

Tech & Community College to honor retired Fire Chief

Steve Ashbrock.

Colonel Schlie states “The Village is fortunate to have

residents such as Mr. and Mrs. Thomas representing such

a charitable spirit and genuine passion for the Village. The

Thomas donation represents all that is humble and selfless.

The Rangers cannot express enough appreciation for this

gift as we will ensure that it benefits many people for

many years.”

“On behalf of the Village and its residents, I extend our

deepest appreciation to Mr. and Mrs. Thomas for their

extremely generous donation” stated Melissa Cowan,

Mayor of Indian Hill. “It is difficult to describe in words

how meaningful this gift will be to the Rangers and the

Village. We can never overstate the impact Mr. and Mrs.

Thomas and their gifts have had on the community.”

The recent Native Plant Symposium at the

Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden

gave lots of ideas about how to improve

our landscape plantings, and at the same

time reduce maintenance and support our

native wildlife— the birds, bees, butterflies, and moths. To

that end, author Doug Tallamy’s first suggestion was to

“cut your lawn in half,” by converting it into meadow.

Landscape designer Larry Weaner detailed how to plant a

native wildflower meadow. Here are a few highlights from

his talk.

1. Site planning and preparation is very important. Full sun

is a necessary requirement for a wildflower meadow

planting. Existing growth— especially invasive plants

including non-native grasses— must be eliminated from

the site.

2. Wildflower meadows always include grasses; these are

warm-season grasses, which are ornamental and clump-

forming. Native wildflowers (broad-leaved, herbaceous

plants) get along well with these clump-forming grasses.

3. A successful wildflower meadow planting grows to

maturity through succession over a period of several years.

Some plants (e.g. annual grass) establish a cover in the

first year, some (e.g. rudbeckia) during the next 2-3 years.

By the third year, desirable plants are adequately

suppressing the re-seeding of undesirable plants. Even so,

some plants (e.g. baptista) won’t be major players for 5-6

years. Planning for this succession will help assure that

there is no opening for seasonal weed invasion.

4. Almost all commercial wildflower seed mixes are not

worth planting. These typically grow a short-lived riot of

colors, but don’t allow for the succession (described

above) that is necessary to establish a permanent, low-

maintenance wildflower meadow. A better way is to order

seed by individual species (of native perennials and

grasses), with consideration of your local conditions (wet,

dry, loam, clay, etc.).

5. Sometimes it is possible to seed a new meadow without

turning over or tilling the soil. Large projects can be drill-

seeded. Smaller lawn-conversion projects typically start

with killing the grass, then de-thatching, then hand-

seeding, then lightly thatching again (to seat the seed).

(Continued on page 13)

PLANNING AND PLANTING A NATIVE MEADOW

February 5, 2020 —Indian Hill Bulletin— Page 8

The 2020 Census counts every person living in the 50

states, District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories.

Every home will receive an invitation to participate in the

2020 Census by April 1, 2020. Once the invitation

arrives, you should respond for your home in one of three

ways: online, by phone, or by mail. The census provides

critical data that lawmakers, business owners, teachers,

and many others use to provide daily services, products,

and support for you and your community. The results of

the census also determine the number of seats each state

will have in the U.S. House of Representatives, and they

are used to draw congressional and state legislative

districts. The 2020 Census will mark the 24th time that the

country has counted its population since 1790.

The Census will ask you questions about the number of

people living or staying in your home, if the home is

owned or rented, the sex, age, race, ethnicity, and marital

status of each person in your home. **If you are every

contacted by a person claiming to be from the Census

Bureau, please remember that the Census Bureau will

NEVER ask you for your social security number, money

or donations, bank or credit account numbers.

For more information about the 2020 Census, please visit

www.census.gov

The Census Bureau is already recruiting to fill important

temporary positions. Apply online at 2020census.gov/jobs

UNITED STATES CENSUS 2020

EXPRESSION OF GRATITUDE

BY MR. EPPA RIXEY, MAYOR 2007-2009

I wanted to take a moment, at this special time of the year,

to express my sincere appreciation to all the Indian Hill

Village Employees, Staff and Volunteers. We are

exceedingly fortunate to live in a wonderful community

with such dedicated and caring people surrounding us.

Our Village Administrative Staff and the Public Works

and Waterworks departments exhibit a commitment to

service which is exceptional. The Rangers and Fire

Departments are second to none in their respective fields.

Their collective dedication to taking care of our

community is unwavering. In the rare instances when

their help is needed, it is a huge comfort to see a familiar

face. I addition, I would like to recognize and applaud our

outstanding community volunteers who serve our Village

on the Village Council, School Board, Planning

Commission, Fire Department Board, Green Areas,

Recreation Commission, and so many, many other

volunteer positions throughout our community. These

great volunteers offer not only their time and talent but in

many cases their treasure as well. We are blessed with

individuals that are extremely talented and willing to give

their personal time and share their many talents to make

our Village what it is today.

I would like to offer a very special thank you to our

retiring Mayor, Mr. Mark Kuenning. His six years on

Village Council, with an additional two years as Mayor, is

the commitment that has been made by many of our

residents, over the years. Mark agreed to run for Council

nine years ago, when our Village truly needed his

extensive talent in both business and finance at a time the

Village was dealing with financial challenges. Mark’s

leadership on the Finance Committee was invaluable in so

many ways. One special example is when the State of

Ohio enacted legislation requiring every local

municipality to standardize their local taxing procedure to

an “earnings” tax, and run the collection of that tax

through the State. This was totally different from the

system the Village had always used for collecting our

local taxes which was based on a resident’s “adjusted

gross income”. This change, in addition to the elimination

of the Ohio State Estate tax, would have had tremendous

negative impact on the Village Budget, our residents, and

the services that we have all become accustomed to

enjoying. Mark was committed to addressing this

situation and presenting our special case to the Ohio

Legislature. After numerous trips to Columbus, and

endless phone calls, he was successful in winning a

special exception which allowed us to continue using our

tried and true formula for collecting and calculating our

Village Taxes. This is just one example of what goes on

behind the scenes and how fortunate we are to have

talented and committed people dedicated to helping guide

our Village daily.

A big thank you to everyone that makes our community

such a wonderful place to live.

Sincerely,

Eppa Rixey

February 5, 2020 —Indian Hill Bulletin— Page 9

COUNTRY DAY’S HIRSCHAUER NAMED

NATIONAL SOCCER COACH OF THE YEAR

Jack Kruse, 7th grader at

IHES and lifelong IH

resident, recently starred in

a Children’s Theatre

production at Taft

Theatre. He played the title

role in “Casper, the Friendly

Musical.”

Not many people were

aware of how Jack tirelessly

rehearsed leading up to

opening night making his

solos, flight, lines, and

choreography perfect for the world premiere of

"Casper, the Friendly Musical."

He sang solos while flying over Taft Theatre’s stage

(via harness and cable wire). Jack embodies the

friendly ghost’s spirit with his generous smile and

playful nature.

Because Jack is so humble, you wouldn’t be aware

that he is a star; that is, unless you attended the

musical. And since there were 17 performances at

Taft Theatre, which has a capacity of 2000 people per

show, it’s quite possible you were in attendance.

The United Soccer

Coaches have named

Cincinnati Country

Day School’s Theresa

Hirschauer the 2019

National Girls’ Soccer

Coach of the Year.

Hirschauer, coached

the soccer team in

back-to-back Ohio

Division III state

championships in 2018 and 2019, posting a 20-0-2 record

in 2019.

“This is an incredible honor,” Hirschauer said. “I credit

our players and the entire coaching staff of Brady Brandt,

Brittany Woods and Olivia Robinson. The head coach gets

credit, but it is a total team effort. I’m proud to represent

the CCDS Girls Soccer Program as well as the Southwest

Ohio Soccer Coaches at the national convention.”

Hirschauer had previously been named Region Coach of

the Year by the United Soccer Coaches for the Central Fall

Region. She was one of 11 finalists for United Soccer

Coaches National Coach of the Year.

She won the national award in the category of Private/

Parochial schools. The award will be presented at the

annual High School Coaches Breakfast on Jan. 17 at the

Hilton Holiday Ballroom in Baltimore, in conjunction with

the 73rd United Soccer Coaches Convention.

Hirschauer was also named Ohio Coach of the Year by the

Ohio High School Coaches Association. This is her 29th

year as a head coach at CCDS and she sports a career

record of 389-133-41.

She is a member of the Brown University Athletic Hall of

Fame for soccer and softball and was selected as a

member of the Ivy League women’s Silver Anniversary

Team in soccer in 1999. From 1986-89 Hirschauer led the

Brown soccer team to four straight Ivy titles and two

NCAA appearances. In the process she was named Ivy

Rookie of the Year in 1985 and Ivy Player of the Year and

All American in 1988.

Hirschauer also serves as the Head of the Middle School at

Country Day and coaches the softball team in the spring.

For more information, contact Theresa Hirschauer at

hirschaut@countryday.net or 513-218-6345.

February 5, 2020 —Indian Hill Bulletin— Page 10

CCDS MIDDLE SCHOOL WINNER IN THE STOCK MARKET GAME

Cincinnati Country Day School Middle School teams have

won the Fall Stock Market Game for all Middle School

teams in Ohio. CCDS teams took the top 10 places in the

Middle School Division of the Stock Market Game out of

126 teams.

The top three of the CCDS teams were in the top 10 for all

schools, High Schools, Middle Schools and Elementary

Schools out of 613 teams.

Top Middle School Winners in the State from Indian

Hill:

4th Place Team – 8th Grade - Alex Reaves, Will Deimer,

Sam Kohnen, Story Rufener - $119.067.28

CCDS eighth-grade math teacher Susie Lewis is the

advisor for students who play the Stock Market Game.

She explained how to play: Each team receives $100,000

in virtual money to invest for 10 weeks. Whoever makes

the most money wins.

Teams must invest in at least four stocks, bonds or mutual

funds. Companies must be on The NYSE or NASDAQ.

Teams can have no more than $30,000 in any one stock.

They must buy at least 10 shares. No share can be bought

that is below $3 per share. Students can buy or short sell

stocks.

The game started on Oct. 1 and ended on Dec. 13

CCDS VOLUNTEERS PACK GROCERIES FOR KIDS IN NEED

Cincinnati Country Day students, faculty and staff once

again rolled up their sleeves to ensure that food insecure

families had enough groceries to feed their children over

winter break.

Thirty volunteers packed 480 bags of groceries that

Childhood Food Solutions (CFS) supplied and distributed

to schools that mostly serve Price Hill students. Some 300

sacks were delivered to Roberts Academy, 155 sacks were

given to Resurrection School, a parochial school that

serves poor children, and 25 sacks went to Oyler School.

Tony Fairchild, executive director of CFS, spoke with two

staff members at Resurrection School. “They gratefully

accepted the sacks for distribution to their students but

told about how easy it is to “hope” students are OK for

food at home. They mentioned school lunch items that are

not tried and become waste. Is this because nutritious food

can be unfamiliar? CFS provides familiar groceries that

provide reasonable nutrition.”

CFS groceries are very “filling” so about 250 calories can

fill a child's stomach, Fairchild said. The sacks CCDS

packed provide 9,230 calories, about 37 “fill-ups.” Among

the items packed were peanut butter, ramen noodles, fruit

and grain bars, graham crackers, boxes of macaroni and

cheese, and Aldi’s coupons.

Fairchild shared a story he heard about a student who said

he enjoyed going to Burger King. “Does this mean that his

family has plenty of money for food? Unfortunately, it is

more likely that Burger King was a one-time treat the

student was proud to report. The lack of food, during a

time like winter break, is not reported for fear of being

placed in foster care because his family runs out of food.”

This is the second year that CCDS Upper School

chemistry teacher Paula Butler and her son, Brian ’20,

have brought CFS to campus and invited students, faculty

and staff to participate in the service project.

Submitted by resident Louise Vaughan.

This year’s sixth graders came full circle when they

mentored younger students during Hour of Code, a one-

hour introduction to computer science designed to

demystify code.

“Many of the current sixth graders were here in first and

second grades, and they remember the ‘big kids’ working

with them during our annual Hour of Code,” said Director

of Technology Rob Baker. “I think it is so empowering

for them to now be the ‘big kids.’ They have a chance to

help them make a difference.”

(Continued on page 11)

CCDS SIXTH GRADERS HELP YOUNG STUDENTS DEMYSTIFY CODE

February 5, 2020 —Indian Hill Bulletin— Page 11

During Hour of Code, K-2 students began coding with

Angry Birds and other puzzles. Parents receive a link to

the games so students can continue coding at home at their

own pace.

“I am so impressed with how seriously they took

mentoring some of our youngest learners here at CCDS,”

Baker said. “We pair them up with Coding Buddies, and

they encourage the younger children to solve puzzles using

code. I love to see our students collaborating across

divisions, and it was great to hear cheers and see high fives

among these students as they celebrated learning.”

Formal coding becomes part of the curriculum in third

grade when students have an opportunity to work through

different levels and challenges of coding. Coding

continues in fourth and fifth grades.

Sixth graders take STEAM classes that include coding,

plus a significant amount of engineering that involves

hands-on making, controlling robots and other electronics

with code. “Controlling a physical object really adds

another layer to it. Not only do you code, you've got to put

some wheels on it, attach a motor and figure out how to

make the motor spin the way you want,” Baker said.

“This isn't all about making engineers. It’s about kids

being good problem solvers and giving them open-ended

challenges that they don’t get right away. Too much

material is information they already know, and they tell

you. We want a little struggle. We want the right amount

of friction for the kids to not know exactly what to do, but

not tell them the next step. When you have that kind of

open-ended, hands-on learning, it's really powerful and

they always step up.”

(Continued from page 10)

Dr. Candace Kendle is the Co-founder

and former Chairman and CEO of

Kendle International Inc., a global

clinical research organization that

delivered a wide range of clinical

development and clinical trial services

to biopharmaceutical companies around the world. INC

Research, LLC, acquired the company in 2011.

Prior to founding Kendle International Inc., Dr. Kendle

held senior faculty positions at several leading academic

institutions including University of North Carolina,

Chapel Hill, Schools of Pharmacy and Medicine;

University of Pennsylvania, School of Medicine;

Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science; and the

University of Cincinnati, College of Pharmacy.

She is the President and Co-founder of the Read Aloud 15

MINUTES National Campaign, a national non-profit that

fosters parent engagement in early childhood

development. As a result of this work, she was a recipient

of the Business Champion for Children Award,

ReadyNation, Washington D.C. in October 2015.

Dr. Kendle earned a Bachelor of Science and Doctorate in

Pharmacy from the University of Cincinnati, College of

Pharmacy. She was awarded an honorary Ph.D. in

Science, University of Cincinnati in 2010.

Brave Service Award: Dorothy Koch Family

Foundation

“The Dorothy Koch Family Foundation honors our

mother Dorothy Kautz Koch and her lifelong commitment

to education,” state her children Lisa Greene (’74), Bill

Koch (’68), Jim Koch (’67) and Susan Koch (’65). Mrs.

Koch emphasized education both in raising her four

children and in her career as an elementary school teacher,

including many years at Indian Hill Elementary. All of

her children and four of her grandchildren are Indian Hill

graduates.

Starting in 2008, gifts from the Dorothy Koch Family

Foundation, given through the Indian Hill Foundation,

have totaled over $150,000 and have continued her legacy

of impact by transforming the STEAM (Science,

Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) curriculum

across the IH District.

In the fall of 2018, the District opened the Elementary

School’s Dorothy Koch iLab. “The iLab is an innovative,

hands-on space that builds important skills of critical

thinking, creativity and collaboration,” explains Dr.

Melissa Stewart. “The iLab has become a model of space

and instruction, resulting in over 30 visitors from other

districts and agencies to gather inspiration for their own

initiatives in STEAM.”

Young Brave Award: Sarah E. Sanders (IHHS 2008)

(Continued on page 12)

IH FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES 2020 ALUMNI AWARDS HONOREES

February 5, 2020 —Indian Hill Bulletin— Page 12

HIGH-FIVE FOR INDIAN HILL HIGH

SCHOOL MOCK TRIAL TEAM

The Indian Hill High School (IHHS) Mock Trial Team has

five reasons to celebrate just before winter recess; Braves

earned their fifth-consecutive victory at the fifth-annual

MockHawk Tournament hosted by Miami University the

weekend of December 14-15.

“In the four previous years of this tournament, no school

other than Indian Hill has taken home the title, so the

expectations were high – and our kids did not disappoint,”

said IHHS teacher and Mock Trial coach Steve Reger.

IHHS junior Brooke Youngblood and sophomore Paige

Falter earned Outstanding Witness awards. Sophomores

Avery Valz, Tacey Hutton, and junior Ethan Marx (the

third highest scoring attorney in the entire tournament) won

Outstanding Attorney awards. The IHHS Mock Trial Team

defends their title at the University of Cincinnati

Tournament in January.

Members of the winning Indian Hill High School Mock Trial Team

included (L to R): Brooke Youngblood, Sydney Poffenberger, Audrey

Bristol, Tacey Hutton, Kanksha Buch, Michael Ragnone, and Ethan

Marx.

Sarah Sanders is the Co-founder of

Native AgTech, Inc, a software company

based between New York City and the

Midwest focused on generating greater

efficiency and transparency in our food

supply chain. Sarah began her career

working in hospitality at the Tavern

Restaurant Group. Upon completing her

MBA in 2014 she joined Rubicon Global, a cloud-based

platform for waste and recycling services, where she

worked for the CEO managing investor relations through

multiple rounds of fundraising.

In 2017 Sarah joined Toast, a cloud-based point-of-sale

system addressing the antiquated restaurant technology

market. She relocated to New York City to grow Toast’s

market share in Manhattan, prior to launching Native. In

2019 Sarah was awarded the Distinguished Young Alumni

Award from the University of Kentucky’s Gatton College

of Business & Economics, and shortly after joined the

college’s Emerging Leaders Board. She earned her

undergraduate degree in Business Management from UK

and her MBA in International Business from Xavier

University.

(Continued from page 11)

Conquer the Hill 5K Race

and Walk

April 25, 2020

8:00 am start

Info and Registration at

www.indianhillfoundation.

org

February 5, 2020 —Indian Hill Bulletin— Page 13

SUBMITTING ARTICLES AND PICTURES

All copy and pictures sent to the Village office to be included in the Bulletin should be sent by email to

kzenni@ihill.org. If it is not possible for you to email, you can contact Kari at 979-6218.

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE WWW.IHILL.ORG

You can find the Indian Hill Bulletin on our website at www.ihill.org. Just click on Bulletin and begin

reading! You will find the most recent Bulletin as well as past Bulletins. You will also find information on all

our departments, Grand Valley and meeting minutes for Council and Planning Commission. You can find

schedules for recycling and trash pickup and fill out forms for Building and Zoning, the Rangers, Public

Works and Taxes. There are also links to the schools, churches and the Recreation Commission.

Village of Indian Hill

2020 Bulletin Schedule

ONLINE BILL PAYMENT

NOW AVAILABLE

Residents and customers can now make payments online. This service is a bill payment service for alarm

monitoring, boat storage, bridle trail membership, gun club membership, extra pickups, water bills, or any

other account you may have with the Village. One time payments can be made, or you can sign up for

payments to be deducted from your bank account on their due date automatically. This service allows for

secure electronic transfer of payments from your bank account. To sign up for this service, log on to the

Village’s website at ihill.org and click on the link on the homepage.

6. Soil nutrient levels aren’t very important, since most native plants are adapted to existing conditions. Any fertilization

is likely to favor the weeds more than the desirable species.

7. For the first one to two years after planting, the new meadow can be mowed every six weeks to a height of 4” to 6”.

This will prevent annual weeds from seeding, and allow young perennials growing below mow height to get enough

light. So, you don’t want annual wildflowers in your seed mix.

For further details, see: Larry Weaner, “Wildflower Meadows; Let’s Get Real,” at http://lweanerassociates.com/?p=1203

(Continued from page 7)

Copy Deadline Mailing date

1/10/2020 2/5/2020

2/14/2020 3/4/2020

3/13/2020 4/1/2020

4/10/2020 4/29/2020

5/8/2020 5/27/2020

6/5/2020 6/24/2020

8/21/2020 9/9/2020

9/18/2020 10/7/2020

10/16/2020 11/4/2020

11/13/2020 12/2/2020

12/18/2020 12/30/2020

February 5, 2020 —Indian Hill Bulletin— Page 14

Minstrel Shows of the Past - and in Indian Hill

IMAGES

...THEN AND NOW

From the Indian Hill Historical Society Buckingham Lodge 1861

Minstrel shows were derived from European traditional carnivals, but were adapted by Americans in the 1830s. This

form of entertainment was popular for more than 120 years.

While there were variations from show to show, the performance began with the company assembling (and sometimes

parading through the audience) and taking the stage. Then there was a series of jokes between the middleman (Mr.

Interlocutor) and the end men – who were to the far left or far right of a line or semicircle of performers. Jokes were

intermingled with songs, dances and comedic banter. Then the show concluded with a skit

or group song and dance.

In the 20th century, minstrel shows’ popularity declined nationally as vaudeville, radio,

film and television competed against this older form of entertainment. Yet amateur groups

continued to stage minstrel shows – often as benefits for churches or other organizations.

Jokes often commented on local issues or personalities. From these exhibitions, some of

the most beloved songs in American history were popularized including “Camptown

Races”, “Oh Susannah”, and “My Old Kentucky Home”.

The Indian Hill Men’s Community Club presented 10 minstrel shows between 1930 –

1940 at Jefferson School or the Grange Hall to benefit Armstrong Chapel. The doors

opened at 7:00 p.m. and the curtain rose at 8:15. The local amateur troupe interspersed

slapstick comedy with music from the Indian Hill Orchestra or individual soloists. Usually

8-10 actors were on stage with the local orchestra seated below the stage at the audience’s

level.

Families from Indian Hill, Terrace Park, Madeira, Newtown, and Madisonville attended

these annual springtime shows, which took place on 2 consecutive nights. Before the

performance, spectators chatted amongst themselves or looked through the 20 page

program, which listed the characters, orchestra members, soloists, and the sequence of

events. It also contained advertisements for commercial establishments which were

sponsors. Some of the products advertised were Silver King

tractors, baby chicks from a Mason hatchery, a family size

refrigerator for $140 in Madisonville, laundry washing

service at Model Laundry in Fairfax, asparagus and fruit from Sky Farm, or “Butter that

Betters the Bread” from Breezy Hill Farm.

The evening’s amusement began with an overture (often a southern medley), and then

the minstrels took the stage, with Mr. Interlocutor and the others engaging in repartees,

sometimes singling out their friends. For instance, one young male was teased about being

a Girl Scout, because he was always scouting for a girl, and one family was ribbed about

pregnancy being contagious to the neighbors. The end men’s language was peppered with

vernacular, and after each segment of the show there was a musical interlude, either lyrical

or instrumental. One year, there was a juggler with a trained dog, and another year the Leap

Year Chorus belted out melodies. Special attractions included a tap dance, and the arrival

of a real horse while the orchestra repeatedly played the chorus of “The Old Gray Mare” until the horse got up on the

stage. The night ended with a Grand Finale, usually a song featuring the entire orchestra and cast.

The rousing songs and skits that poked fun at local folk provided amusement for village residents and those of nearby

communities during the Depression and pre-World War II years. The show’s profits raised funds for Armstrong Chapel.

This unique, captivating form of entertainment showcased local talent in the particular American cultural tradition of

minstrel shows.

Program cover from the

Indian Hill Men’s Community

Club 10th Annual Minstrel

A picture of one of the skits

from the Men’s Community

Club Minstrel Show

February 5, 2020 —Indian Hill Bulletin— Page 15

INDIAN HILL HISTORICAL SOCIETY

E-Newsletter Indian Hill Historical Society’s quarterly newsletter contains fun facts, stories and news!

If you would like an emailed copy (you do not have to be a member), please provide your

email address by sending it to ihhist@cinci.rr.com or by calling 891-1873.

Tales & Tastings with Woodford Reserve

It will be an evening of fun and bourbon sampling with one of the area’s finest distillers.

Chris Poynter of Woodford Reserve will share the rich history of Kentucky bourbon and its

connections with horses and the world famous Kentucky Derby.

A roaring fire, bourbon tastings, and a burgoo dinner will warm this February evening.

Saturday, February 22nd ~ 5:00 p.m. ~ Livingston Lodge

Members $55, Non-Members $65

RSVP by 2/14

Call 891-1873, email: ihhist@cinci.rr.com, or visit

www.indianhill.org

Rent the Little Red Schoolhouse

For your next party, off-site business meeting, rehearsal dinner, wedding, reunion,

anniversary, shower, or any occasion!

Charming, beautiful, historic one-room

schoolhouse

Choose your own caterer

Bring your own food / alcohol

Modern, commercial kitchen

A/V system,Wi-Fi, BlueTooth

Tree shaded lawn - perfect for tents and

outdoor activities

Unique rural setting

Inquiries: 513-891-1873 ihhist@cinci.rr.com www.indianhill.org

Battle Royale: The Fight for Women’s Suffrage Enjoy lunch, celebrate the centennial of the 19th Amendment, and

learn about Ohio’s pivotal role in the process.

Wednesday, March 18, 11:00 a.m.

RETURN TO:

INDIAN HILL BULLETIN

6525 DRAKE ROAD

CINCINNATI, OHIO 45243

Village of Indian Hill Public Meeting Dates

All meetings held in Council Chambers

February 2020

Recreation Commission 7:30 p.m. Feb. 3, 2020

Green Areas Advisory Comm 5:30 p.m. Feb. 5, 2020

Public Safety Committee 7:30 a.m. Feb. 13, 2020

Law Committee 8:00 a.m. Feb. 13, 2020

Finance Committee 7:30 a.m. Feb. 14, 2020

Water Works Committee 7:00 a.m. Feb. 18, 2020

Public Works Committee 7:30 a.m. Feb. 18, 2020

Buildings & Grounds Committee 8:00 a.m. Feb. 18, 2020

Planning Commission 7:00 p.m. Feb. 18, 2020

Mayor’s Court/Council Meeting 6:00 p.m. Feb. 24, 2020

March 2020

Recreation Commission 7:30 p.m. March 2, 2020

Green Areas Advisory Comm 5:30 p.m. March 4, 2020

Public Safety Committee 7:30 a.m. March 12, 2020

Law Committee 8:00 a.m. March 12, 2020

Finance Committee 7:30 a.m. March 13, 2020

Water Works Committee 7:00 a.m. March 17, 2020

Public Works Committee 7:30 a.m. March 17, 2020

Buildings & Grounds Committee 8:00 a.m. March 17, 2020

Mayor’s Court/Council Meeting 6:00 p.m. March 23, 2020

Planning Commission 7:00 p.m. March 24, 2020

Within the next few months work will begin within the Village of Indian Hill. Star will be burying fiber cable for

MCI/Verizon for their fiber densification project. The majority of the work will take place in the right of way next

to the roads, but there will be times that the equipment could possibly block a lane temporarily. This project is

both passing through and servicing sites that are within Indian Hill. A week or two before the planned start of

work you should find a door hanger either on your gate or front door. Please note that there is a contact number on

the placard where you can report any issues. Our goal is to be in and out of the Village of Indian Hill with a

minimum of disruptions and pristine restorations.