Springfield Township

2 SPRINGFIELDTOWNSHIP

OCTOBER 2009 3

Cover photo was taken byTricia McClure of TriciaMcClure Photography.Charity Williams and JubileeBilby play together atStephanie Hummer Park.

The Springfield Townshippublication is published

by the SpecialtyPublications Department of

The Community Press/The Community Recorder.

Questions and commentscan be sent to Editor

Melissa Hayden c/o The Community

Press/Recorder394 Wards Corner Road

Loveland, OH 45140 e-mail

[email protected]

Or call 248-7121.

For advertising call923-3111.

14

GOVERNMENT&SERVICES

4 Welcome letterTownship trustees introduce magazine.

5 About the townshipAn overview of township government.

7 Community of neighborhoodsTownship plans for the future wheneconomy rebounds.

8 At your serviceA listing of township services.

EDUCATION

10 Educational opportunities aboundLearn what local schools have to offer.

PLACES

12 Business, shoppingProfiles of local businesses.

13 A feeling of spiritual calmnessFormer St. Francis Seminary Mercy Community offers serene surroundings.

14 Escape to Winton WoodsDiscover a world of opportunity andexperiences good for the soul.

16 YMCA’s new outdoor pool unveiledSomething big is coming to the Powel Crosley Jr. YMCA.

17 Family Life Center reaches out to the communityFamily Life Center is here to help.

18 Parks, rentalsA graph of township parks amenities and information on rentals.

PEOPLE

19 Senior Center is discovery centerLearn more about yourself at the Senior Center.

20 Community goes green togetherFinneytown residents come together to create rain garden.

22 Athletic organizationsA listing of sports organizations.

DIVERSITY

23 A diverse cultureA profile of Cincinnati Catholic Kolpling Society.

23 Civic organizationsListing of local groups.

HAPPENINGS

25 Events calendar


GOVERNMENT&SERVICES

We hope you enjoy this edition of theCommunity Press SpringfieldTownship Living Magazine. We

invite you to look through these pages, anduncover the many wonderful opportunitiesSpringfield Township offers. We hope youwill learn more about the community’s his-torical sites, its premiere attractions, aca-demic opportunities and the outstandingservices Springfield Township residents havecome to enjoy.

This magazine is just one of the manyways we are promoting home ownership inSpringfield Township. We have reservedadditional copies of this magazine as a wayto showcase the Township’s assets with realestate agents and future residents. In addi-tion, we have worked alongside theCincinnati Board of Realtors to create newand innovative housing events, and we havepartnered with the Cincinnati Enquirer todevelop a short promotional video with rea-sons why residents say they enjoy living inthis great community. Each of these strate-gies has been made possible through part-nerships with no cost to the Township.

While flipping through the business sec-tion and paying special attention to theadvertisers of this publication, you will findthat pure convenience is a key element toliving in Springfield Township. Centrallylocated in the heart of Hamilton County,Springfield Township is within 20 minutes ofdowntown Cincinnati and other GreaterCincinnati business and shopping centers.

Locally, resi-dents enjoy theconveniencesof groceryshopping, drycleaning, carrepair, doctor visits, local veterinarians, fit-ness centers and their favorite restaurantswithin minutes of their front doors. Beyondconvenient shopping, Winton Woods pro-vides an outdoor retreat with golfing, camp-ing, fishing, biking, boating, and even a littlefarming!

Springfield Township truly is a communityof neighborhoods, and a great place to callhome. The housing opportunities here areplentiful. From first-time homebuyers toempty nesters; from easy urban living toheavily wooded lots; from condos to estates;Springfield Township has it all.

We hope you find this guide is an excellentresource. You will want to keep it handy, asthere are useful phone numbers, addressesand Web sites throughout. You will also finda comprehensive list of special events andactivities to keep your family entertained ona budget. To stay connected to Townshipnews and activities, we invite you log on towww.springfieldtwp.org and register for theTownship’s monthly e-news. Enjoy your tourthrough Springfield Township magazine!

Sincerely, Joseph Honerlaw, TrusteeTom Bryan, TrusteeGwen McFarlin, Trustee

WELCOME LETTER

OCTOBER 2009 5

GOVERNMENT&SERVICES

ABOUTTOWNSHIP GOVERNMENT

Springfield Township operates underthe township form of government, theoldest form of government in theUnited States and the one closest tothe people. The elected officials of atownship are three Trustees who arethe governing body and a fiscal officerwho is responsible for the financialand record keeping duties. SpringfieldTownship is managed by a profession-al Township Administrator, which isappointed by the Board of Trustees.The Administrator serves as the ChiefAdministrative Officer of the Townshipwith overall responsibility for the day-to-day operations of all Townshipfunctions. The Administrator directsand coordinates the overall activitiesand provides direct supervision of allTownship department heads andadministrative staff, including Police,Fire/EMS, Public Works, DevelopmentServices, Recreation, and Senior/Community Services. TheAdministrator is responsible for coor-dinating the annual Township budgetprocess and presenting to the Board ofTrustees for approval.

MEET THE TRUSTEESTrustee President - Joseph [email protected]

Joseph Honerlaw was appointedTrustee in April 1996 to fill an unex-

pired term and was elect-ed to a 4-year term inNovember 1997. Hewas re-elected to theBoard of Trustees inNovember 2001 andthen again, in 2005. Hehas served asChairman and as Vice

Chairman of the Board ofTrustees. Joseph has also served theTownship as a member of theSpringfield Township Vision and LandUse Committee and Vice President ofthe Hamilton County TownshipAssociation. He is currently a BoardMember of the Oversight Committee

for the Hamilton County Storm WaterDistrict where he represents theHamilton County TownshipAssociation in storm water and envi-ronmental issues.

Joseph has a degree in PoliticalScience from Kenyon College andreceived his Juris Doctorate fromCapital University. He has been a resi-dent of the Township for 28 years andis a partner in the SpringfieldTownship-based law firm of Honerlawand Honerlaw Co., LPA.

Trustee Vice President - Tom [email protected]

Tom Bryan was appointed as aTrustee in January 1993 and subse-

quently was elected to4 full 4-year terms inNovember 1993, 1997,2001 and 2005. Duringthat time, he hasserved as ViceChairman andChairman of the Board.

Tom's knowledge ofSpringfield Township is extensive, duein part to his 29 years service as a parttime, commissioned police officer withthe Springfield Township PoliceDepartment. He is member of theHamilton County TownshipAssociation (HCTA) and the Ohio

Township Association. He is the HCTA.representative to the District 2Integrating Committee, which over-sees the administration and awardingof funds from the State CapitalImprovements Program. Tom served afull six year term on the Ohio PublicWorks Commission, SmallGovernment Commission; five of thesix years as its' Chairman.

Tom, a graduate of the University ofCincinnati, is a former chemical engi-neer with Procter & Gamble. He hasbeen a resident of the Township for 36years and has been the owner ofSpringfield Township-based, W.T.Bryan & Associates Inc. for 29 years.

Trustee - Gwen [email protected]

Gwen McFarlin was elected Trusteein 1995 and subsequently

was elected to a full 4-year term in November1999, 2003 and 2007.Gwen has served asChairman and ViceChairman of the Boardof Trustees.

Following her under-graduate studies at

Miami University, Gwen completed

ABOUT THE TOWNSHIP

ABOUT THE TOWNSHIP | CONTINUED 4


GOVERNMENT&SERVICES

her graduate work in nursing andadministration at the University ofCincinnati. She is currently employedat The Christ Hospital. Gwen has beena resident of the Township for over 30years and owns her own consultingbusiness.

Currently, Gwen serves on severalcommittees, including the HamiltonCounty Tax Levy Review Board,Hamilton County Bicycle FriendlyCommunities, Clean Ohio Council,Mill Creek Restoration Project, the

Springfield Township FirefightersDependency Fund Council,Cincinnati Convention Center FacilityBoard, Powel Crosley Jr. YMCA Boardand the Talbert House ExecutiveCommittee. She regularly attendsmany of the civic and communityassociation meetings in SpringfieldTownship. Her past service as chair-person of the Hamilton CountyRegional Planning Partnership, theOhio State Board of FireCommissioners, and Mental HealthWorks Executive Committee has pro-vided a great deal of experience.

MEET THE FISCAL OFFICERJohn Waksmundski

[email protected] Waksmundski was elected Fiscal

Officer in 1995, 1999, 2003 and 2007 for a4-year term. Prior toassuming his duties asFiscal Officer, John servedas a Township Trusteefrom January 1982 until1995. During that time, heserved as both President

and Vice President of theBoard. John also serves as secretary of theDistrict Advisory Council to HamiltonCounty Public Health, and secretary of theHamilton County Township Association.

John served in the Air Force from1961 to 1965. He earned his Ph.D. inhistory from Ohio State University andtaught at both the high school andcollege levels throughout his 34-yearcareer as an educator. Currently he isan adjunct professor at the Universityof Cincinnati. He is a 30-year residentof the Township.

ABOUT THE TOWNSHIP | FROM 5

WHEN ARE TRUSTEE MEETINGS?The Springfield Township Trustees meet at 5:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday ofeach month in the Allen Paul Community Room at the Township Civic Center,9150 Winton Road. The meetings are videotaped by volunteers and shownLIVE on Waycross Government Access Channel 23 on Time Warner Cable,with additional playbacks the following evening at 9:30 p.m. and on Sundaysat 10 p.m., Tuesdays at 7 a.m. and Fridays at 7 p.m. on the same channel.

OCTOBER 2009 7

GOVERNMENT&SERVICES

By Neva Martin | Contributor

Communities all over the coun-try have felt the effects of theGreat Recession and

Springfield Township, dubbed a“Community of Neighborhoods,” is noexception.

Yet the diversity of those 11 to 12neighborhoods’ is one of its strengths,says Mike Hinnenkamp, townshipadministrator. Its location near themajor highways, only 20 minutes fromdowntown, along with its parks andseven different school districts, hasattracted residents who have boughthomes from start-ups to upscale estatehomes. As chief administrative officer,Hinnenkamp works with three trusteesas well as a fiscal officer, all electedofficials, to steer Springfield Townshipthrough these economic choppywaters.

“The challenging financial issues aremostly the result of what’s happeningnationally,” says Hinnenkamp, citingthe housing-market bubble and the

trickle-down effects from dwindlingcounty and state government funds.“We’re in pretty good shape financially,at the township level, but we are beingimpacted negatively by the crisis at thestate and county level.”

Hinnenkamp says the township isupdating a master plan, focusing onthree primary issues: bringing financialstability to the township; neighbor-hood revitalization and sustainability;and improving communication, bothto the community and internally.

Hinnenkamp and the township offi-cials have been holding 11 regionalmeetings this fall, about two per week,receiving feedback from residents onimprovements that center around thethree above primary criteria.

“We’ll take the information we’vegotten and work on formulating aplan,” says Hinnenkamp. “By the endof 2010 we hope to have an idea andget a list in place.”

The township also has an internalsystem also involving the trustees,called PerformanceStat.

“I meet monthly with all our depart-ments, which set goals and objectivesand we see where we meet thesegoals,” says Hinnenkamp, citing asexamples, “How can we fill a potholefaster, how can we get our fire truckson the scene faster, all using statisticsto measure our performance. That’s anongoing process.”

In looking for innovative ways,sometimes a community has to raisetaxes, and Hinnenkamp laudedSpringfield Township residents forsupporting a levy for the policedepartment this past May.

“They supported it by 70 percent to75 percent,” says Hinnenkamp. “Whenyou provide a good product and getgood information out, people knowsafety is a high priority (even in) one ofthe worst economic downturns.”

Springfield Township’s full descrip-tion is a “Community ofNeighborhoods - a great place to callhome.”

“We want to keep it a ‘great place tocall home’,” Hinnenkamp adds.

Community of NEIGHBORHOODSa bright futureahead


GOVERNMENT&SERVICES

The Springfield Township Fireand Police departments arecommitted to protecting resi-dents and businesses throughproactive education andawareness programs, highquality law enforcement, firesuppression and medical serv-ices whenever needed.

POLICE DEPARTMENT1130 Compton Road 729-1300David Heimpold, Police Chief

The Springfield Township PoliceDepartment is among the best in thecountry. As an InternationallyAccredited agency, the departmentoperates with the highest level of excel-lence and professionalism in lawenforcement services and communityawareness activities. Unlike mosttownships, the Springfield TownshipPolice Department does not rely on theSherriff's office for road patrol services.

The department is self-sustainingwith its own detectives, highly trained incrime scene processing using the mostmodern forensic and criminal investiga-tive techniques. The patrol officerscontinuously receive updated profes-sional training to be able to deliver highquality, professional law enforcementservices to our community.

Relevant to its strong police force,FBI statistics report a low crime rate inSpringfield Township in comparison toneighboring communities. SpringfieldTownship's Police Department has sev-eral specialized divisions including K-9, Vice Units, Detective Units, Traffic-safety, School Resource Officers, neigh-borhood bike patrols and has devel-oped a strategic IMPACT team to pro-vide targeted crime prevention.

Springfield Township police officersparticipate in the regional Drug AbuseReduction Taskforce (D.A.R.T.) andcountywide Special Weapons andTactics (S.W.A.T.) team. The PoliceDepartment also employs civilian per-sonnel in its Records andCommunications Division. In addition

to providing law enforcement services,the department conducts programssuch as a Citizens Police Academy,Citizens on Patrol, D.A.R.E.,Neighborhood Block Watch, Kids'Academy and an award-winning LawEnforcement Explorer Post for teensand young adults.

FIRE DEPARTMENTMain Station 799150 Winton Road 521-7578Station 7510335 Burlington Road 851-3030Robert Leininger, Fire Chief

Based on run volume and popula-tion served, Springfield Township'sFire and Emergency ServicesDepartment is among the busiest inSouthwest Ohio. The department hastwo fully staffed fire stations that serve39,755 residents with superior fire andparamedic services.

The department averages over 4,000medical and 1,000 fire emergenciesannually. Currently carrying an ISOrating of Class 3, the department isamong the top 3.5% of all fire depart-ments in the country. * ISO measureswhat a community is doing to mitigatefire loss. The rating scale is 1 to 10, thelower the number, the better propertyinsurance credits a homeowner orbusiness may qualify to receive.

The Springfield Township Fire

Department provides ParamedicEmergency Medical Services and oper-ates under the auspice of the GreaterCincinnati Academy of Medicine.Paramedic Emergency Medical Serviceis considered an advanced level of careknown as Advanced Life Support (ALS).Their four paramedic ambulances andtwo first responder vehicles areequipped with life-saving pharmaceu-ticals, heart monitors and automaticdefibrillators for quick assessment ofchest pain.

If a person is having a heart attack,the diagnostic data (EKG) can be sentvia a high tech modem directly to thehospital ER while in route. Residentsof Springfield Township can be assuredthat the Springfield Township FireDepartment's EMS will respond quick-ly with paramedics to any of theiremergency medical needs and provideAdvanced Life Support (ALS) if needed.

SERVICE DEPARTMENT952 Compton 522-4004 John Musselman, Service Director

The responsibility of maintainingover 92 miles of road, twelve neighbor-hood parks, the vehicles and themunicipal facilities of SpringfieldTownship is that of the ServiceDepartment. With care, attention to

AT YOUR SERVICE

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GOVERNMENT&SERVICES

detail and fiscal responsibility, routineresponsibilities of the ServiceDepartment include snow and iceremoval, road and curb repairs, streetsweeping, animal removal, stormdrain and storm sewer maintenance,resurfacing and street improvements,mowing and maintenance of 181.5acres of park space.

Since 1995, the department hasreceived over six million dollars ingrant funding. With the constructionof the new Service DepartmentFacility in 2005, the Township wasable to construct a 5,000 ton saltdome, which allows service crew tostockpile enough salt at a better price.The newer facility also holds a FleetMaintenance garage, with the capabil-ities to repair damaged Fire, Police,Service and Zoning department vehi-cles. Servicing our own vehicles hassaved each department hundreds ofthousands of dollars.

SENIOR/COMMUNITY CENTER9158 Winton Road 522-11554 Thom Schneider,Senior/Community Services Director

The Senior/Community Center,9158 Winton Road, is located behindthe Springfield TownshipAdministrative Complex, just east sideof the soccer field. The mission of theSenior Center is to develop and pro-vide quality programs, services andvolunteer opportunities in a support-ive environment in order to enhancethe quality of life of individuals 55 andbetter. To that mission, the Center

offers a variety of programs, activitiesand educational opportunities for thesenior community during weekdayhours, along with enrichment pro-grams and rental opportunities for allages on evenings and weekends.

Senior members have access to alibrary, gift shop, arts and crafts roomand a fully equipped woodshop, inconjunction with a variety of dailyactivities. The Center is open for sen-ior activities 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.Tuesdays through Thursdays and 9:30a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on Fridays.Community programs are scheduledat various times as offered. A com-plete list of programs can be found atwww.springfieldtwp.org.

DEVELOPMENTSERVICES DEPARTMENT9150 Winton Road, 522-1410Christopher Gilbert, Development Services Director andTownship Assistant Administrator

The Development Services

Department was created in 2001 tomeet the needs of existing businessesand to encourage new business devel-opment in the community. Working inunison with Hamilton CountyDevelopment Company, SpringfieldTownship offers and promotes incen-tive programs to attract and retainbusinesses.

The Department also enforces theTownship Zoning and PropertyMaintenance Codes in order to pro-mote public health and safety andpreserve the quality of life inTownship neighborhoods. Working inthe best interest of the community,the Development ServicesDepartment coordinates the processof securing grants for the Township.Most recently, the Departmentsecured a $750,000 grant to pay a largeamount of the streetscape for WintonRoad. Decorative street lighting and amodest landscaped area will be put inplace with grant dollars in Spring of2010.

AT YOUR SERVICE | FROM 8

SCHOOLS | FROM 10


EDUCATION

Compiled by Melissa Hayden | Editor

With seven different schooldistricts and the area’s top-ranked private academic

facilities, Springfield Townshipabounds with educational oppor-tunities for youth. Here is what setsthese schools apart and the key totheir success.

FINNEYTOWN LOCAL SCHOOLSShawn Maus,Communications CoordinatorWhat does the school district have to offer?We’re a small district that covers 4.8miles of Springfield Township. We’re apublic system that fulfills the needs ofstudents in kindergarten throughgrade 12. Our enrollment is 1,606.We’ve been rated an Effective districtfor four years in a row.

What is your goal as a district?Our vision and mission is the be anexcellent school district and weaccomplish that through the educa-tional programs and district organiza-tion. We provide a program that maxi-mizes each student’s potential andpromotes life-long learning.

What is the key to your success?The Community support and our staff.This is a wonderful community thatreally has that ‘small town feel.’

MT. HEALTHY CITY SCHOOLSDavid Horine, SuperintendentWhat does the school district have to offer?Mt. Healthy is a culturally diverseschool system, with a minority enroll-ment of 74 percent. The district offerscomprehensive educational programsthat span pre-kindergarten through12th grade, with college preparatory

and vocational opportunities. In the2010-11 school year, Mt. Healthy willcomplete a new building program andall students in kindergarten through12th grade will be in new schools.

What is your goal as a district?Mt. Healthy's Board of Education,administration and staff are commit-ted to providing: Diverse, high qualityacademic programs designed to maxi-mize each student’s potential; a highlyskilled and innovative professionalstaff, who reflect our community’s val-ues; a safe, clean and caring environ-ment, where discipline and respect areheld in the highest regard; and anatmosphere and attitude that welcomeparents, family and communityinvolvement.

Educational opportunities abound in township

SCHOOLS | CONTINUED 11

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EDUCATION

What is the key to your success?A hard-working staff that continuallystrives to improve academic achieve-ment. These improvements are basedupon professional development andprofessional growth and from buildingpositive relationships with parentsand students.

NORTH COLLEGE HILLCITY SCHOOLSGary Gellert, SuperintendentWhat does your district have to offer?NCH is a small community school. Weoffer personal attention in a disci-plined, caring environment. We arerated Effective by the OhioDepartment of education. Students ina small school get the opportunity toreally be involved whether it’s athlet-ics, drama, or other organizations.

What is your goal as a district?Our goal is to ensure that all studentsare prepared to fulfill their life’s dream.

What is the key to your success?The key to our success is our strongteaching staff. Their skill is one of ourgreatest assets. We also have a sup-portive community.

NORTHWEST LOCAL SCHOOLSPauletta Crawley, AdministrativeAssistant for Community andAdministrative ServicesWhat does your district have to offer?We were just ranked Excellent by theOhio Department of Education. Weare a very diverse school district with9,700 students.

What is your goal as a district?Our motto is to educate tomorrow’sleaders today. Our mission is to makesure all students are learning life-longskills, preparing them for work or postsecondary education.

What is the key to your success?I would say that is the dedication ofour staff and the commitment to helpevery student move forward.

WINTON WOODS CITY SCHOOLSAnita Williams, Director ofCurriculum and InstructionWhat does the district have to offer?Winton Woods City Schools offers aK-12 continuum of coursework in thecore subjects and a wide variety ofenrichment opportunities which pre-pare our students to work to their fullpotential and to find a pathway totheir futures.

What is your goal as a district?The three areas on which WintonWoods District focuses are increaseacademic achievement, improve theculture and assure fiscal stability.

What is the key to your success?Winton Woods City School's keys tosuccess are found in developing andfollowing a focused improvement planand monitoring its progress. Ourstrength is in our dedicated people.

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SCHOOLS | CONTINUED 24


PLACES

BUSINESS SHOPPINGCompiled by Melissa Hayden | Editor

“I like helping to solve people’s problems,” says PatrickBurke, owner of Burke Hardware since 2005.

Burke is proud to offer his neighbors a quality selectioncombined with the in-depth knowledge and “personal”attention that can only be found in a single location –Burke Hardware.

“It’s different,” Rob O’Hara, third generation owner of Mt.Healthy Hatcheries, says of his work in SpringfieldTownship.

He’s worked at the poultry hatchery since he was 16 yearsold. They deal in chicken, ducks, and turkeys and ship tofarms all over the country. The Hatchery was opened byO’Hara’s grandfather in 1924.

Fun is a priority at the Cincinnati Diving Center, saysScottie Fahey, owner since 2007. The full-service scubaretail store is one of the oldest operating dive centers inGreater Cincinnati, opening in 1978. From basic lessons toadvanced training, travel and equipment they eat, drinkand sleep scuba diving!

“I have an intense passion for marine life and helpingpeople discover things they have never seen before orheard of before,” says Fahey.

For 11 years Jeff Besterman and his son have been servingup delicious food for Skyline customers in Finneytown.

“I love working with my son, we’re a good match,” saysBesteman.

As good as a match as the quality ingredients andemployees who all work together to create a comfortablefamily atmosphere in the restaurant located on WintonRoad.

The best thing about the job, however: “The people” whocome in for a meal, says Besterman.

Brentwood Bowl is the perfect strike!With 48 lanes and home to a variety of leagues, fund-rais-

ers, and birthday parties it’s the perfect place for the wholefamily to hang together.

“Our goal is to be a family center for the community,”says Carol Provisor, owner since 1984.

For 50 years Grady’s Animal Clinic has been saving andbettering the lives of the township’s furry residents.

“We’re all here because we want to better the lives of ourpatients and help our clients,” says Hospital ManagerMarcia Grady.

Started by Carl Grady, who retired in 2000, it’s now ownedand operated by his sun Jeff Grady.

Since 1978 the clinic’s doors have always been opened –24 hours a day, seven days a week. They also have a boardcertified vet dentist (there are less than 100 in the world)and one of the nicest dental suites in the country.

BURKE HARDWARE8501 Winton Road,521-3111

SKYLINE CHILI9115 Winton Road,521-6900

MT. HEALTHYHATCHERIES9839 Winton Road,521-6900

BRENTWOOD BOWL9176 Winton Road,522-2320

CINCINNATIDIVING CENTER8412 Winton Road,521-3483

GRADY’S ANIMAL CLINIC9255 Winton Road,931-8675

OCTOBER 2009 13

PLACES

Long before Tom Cruise hopped up onOprah’s couch, he made himself at homeat the St. Francis Seminary at 10290 Mill

Road in Springfield Township.But Cruise’s stay at the former seminary – a

Renaissance-style building now listed on theNational Register of Historic Places – is defi-nitely far from the highlight of the placeCruise once, if briefly, called home.

Now a Franciscan retirement communitycalled Mercy Community at Winton Woods, itis a serene and lovely place so popular there’sa year’s waiting list. Seventy-three independ-ent-living apartments are available for resi-dents age 63 and older and of restrictedincome.

“There’s just a feeling of spiritual calmness –a sacred feeling. And it’s not just the building,it’s the grounds, too,” says Kelly Martin, direc-tor of business development for Mercy HealthPartners’ senior health and housing services.

Pathways winding through the property arelined with trees, flowers and grottos. An on-site chapel is available to residents, as is dailyMass.

The building itself features stained glasswindows and impressive murals, while apart-ments boast vaulted ceilings and huge win-dows invite natural light.

Cruise’s freshman-year stay at St. Franciswas in 1976-’77, Martin says, adding that hewas a participant in glee club, soccer and bas-ketball. And, a “reliable source” tells the semi-nary’s alumni Web site, www.franciscan-alum-ni.org/, that Thomas Cruise Mapother IV – asCruise was known then – got a hazing via a“swirly.” Other famous alumni include RonGlass – known to TV’s “Barney Miller” fans asDetective Ron Harris – a 1964 St. Francis grad-uate.

And while the National Register of HistoricPlaces lists the building’s “periods of signifi-cance” as 1900-1924 and 1925-1949, for cur-rent residents, the quiet, park-surrounded set-ting is of great value, too.

“There are lots of places to go and reflect,places used when it was an active seminary,”says Martin.

SPIRITUALCALMNESSBy Britt Kennerly | Contributor

“There’s just a feeling of spiritual calmness – a sacred feeling.”

A feeling of

OCTOBER 2009 15

PLACES


PLACES

By Melissa Hayden | Editor

The leaves flow effortlessly with the wind.The birds’ sweet caroling saturates thegentle air. The water is as still as the

moment. Nature surrounds. Welcome toWinton Woods.

Winton Woods, operated by the HamiltonCounty Park District, features dozens ofamenities to appease the mind, body, andspirit.

“Folks have a fantastic regional park herewhere they can spend time as a family andenjoy something they can really proud of,”says Joy Landry Communications Coordinator.

The park was created when a federal grantwas awarded to the Hamilton County ParkDistrict in the 1940s. Little by little it hasgrown into the recreational giant it is today.From camping in tents and cabins to fishingand row boating, to horseback riding, to livinglife on the farm; Winton Woods offers a worldof opportunity to “escape” the hustle and bus-tle of daily life, says Landry. And don’t forgetthe simple experience of nature. Of the 2,554

total acres, 80 percent is preserved land –small wetlands and prairie areas for wildlifeand the benefit of future generations.

“More and more people are being separatedfrom the earth,” explains Parky’s Farm InreachManager Randi Greathouse. “They don’t evenrealize where their food comes from. We pro-vide a lot of different experiences to get peo-ple involved with nature so they can under-stand it.”

Parky’s Farm, located within Winton Woodspromotes environmental and agricultural edu-cation. The100-acre demonstration farmincludes orchards, gardens and crops, as wellas a working windmill and an antique farmequipment display. There are even live farmanimals such as goats, pigs, sheep, chickensand horses!

In addition the farm features Parky’sPlayBarn, an indoor, two-story, farm-theme,accessible playground with soft safety flooring.

Landry says she loves her working at Parky’sFarm and helping others become aware of theimportance of conservation.

“People who are aware of conservation and

the need for green space really relish what’smost important in life,” Greathouse says. Theyvalue nature – the sunrise, the sunset. Theyvalue beauty and the non-material things thatmake up a full life.”

Dee Anderson also loves her job and valuesthe lessons she’s able to share with others atWinton Woods’ Riding Center. The horsebackriding lesson facility is for beginners throughadvanced riders. Many opportunities aboundhere from riding lessons to the Special Rider’sProgram for disabled riders, to summer daycamp to horse shows.

In 2008, the center was named HamiltonCounty’s first Special Olympics EquestrianTraining Facility. The center also hosted Ohio’sfirst ever Special Olympics StatewideEquestrian Invitational in September 2009.

“(The Riding Center) is the most amazingthing I’ve ever been blessed to be a part of,”says Anderson. “Horses are great for growthand development. Our athletes have had limi-tations put on them by others all their lives.But, here, we have high expectations of themand they meet them every time.” Anderson

says these are the things “big dreams” aremade of.

“Big dreams” and life lessons are also sharedat the Meadow Links Golf Academy, also locat-ed within Winton Woods.

“We’re growing golfers for the future,” saysHead Golf Professional Matt Starr. “This is asport you can play forever no matter how oldyou get.”

The Academy offers lessons to adults andchildren. Starr, who has worked at the acade-my for 15 years and as PGA professional, triesto make sure his students build a solid frame-work of the fundamentals while practicingand playing.

One of his favorite programs at the facility isthe Inreach Program, where a group of chil-dren from the city are offered a set of free golfclubs, six days of free instruction, and freelunches during those six days.

“There are a lot of life lessons learned hereand through this program,” Starr says. “Thekids learn that people come form all differentbackgrounds and hopefully build friendshipswith kids whom they otherwise would nothave met.”

“You also learn about being your own indi-vidual as well as honesty and respect.”

The experiences awaiting at Winton Woodsare endless – hiking, riding, fishing, picnicking– “experiences good for the soul,” Greathousesays.

ESCAPE TO WINTON WOODS


PLACES

By Melissa Hayden | Editor

Something big is coming to thePowel Crosley Jr. YMCA and it’sgoing to make a huge splash in

Springfield Township.“We are thrilled,” says Executive

Director Cindy Tomaszewski of thenew outdoor aquatic complex. “Ourcommunity deserves this.”

Scheduled to open in mid-May 2010,the new complex will nearly doublethe size of the YMCA’s main outdoorpool, making it ideal for both competi-tive and recreational swimming, andwill include a new baby pool with fun,interactive features such as geysersand a palm tree that sprays water.

The area will also have a new deckand fencing, as well as new lighting forevening swim meets. In addition to thepools, two adjoining tennis courts willbe resurfaced and receive new lighting.

The project is made possible by ananonymous donor who will be namedat the opening of the pool next May.

The new outdoor aquatic complex,gives the YMCA one of the region’slargest year-round aquatics centers.The new outdoor swimming pool willmeasure 50 meters by 25 yards withrecreational diving boards on its deep-est end, and is being designed with azero-entry wading entrance for acces-sibility. It will be versatile enough toaccommodate either a 10-lane 50meter or a 21-lane 25 yard competitiveswimming event. During recreationtime, it will be set up with eight swimlanes, a diving section, and an openswim area. The heated pool will alsobe open beyond other facilities' sea-sons - from mid-May through mid-November (weather permitting).

“This pool will be a lot more accessi-ble to members with physical chal-lenges,” Tomaszewski adds. “There willbe steps, a ramp and a lift – we cur-rently don’t have those features.”

The current pool dates back to 1963and has taken a lot of time, effort andmoney for repairs. Thomaszewski says

that the new pool will accommodatemore people.

“We have 150 kids on the swim teamand we teach more than 200 kids ayear to swim,” she says. “Now we’llhave more space and ability.”

Director of Competitive SwimmingMichael Leonard is very excited aboutthe project.

“It’s awesome,” he explains. “We’llhave a world-class pool! It will serve allof our aquatic interests for the next 50or 60 years.”

Leonard says he’s always dreamed ofthis kind of facility that will “meeteveryone’s needs.”

“Our mission is to put Christianprincipals into practice through pro-grams that build a healthy spirit,mind, and body for all,” saysThomaszewski. “We take the ‘for all’very seriously. This pool will helpmake that mission more possible. Ourmission doesn’t need a pool but theyare the tools we use to reach those inthe community.”

YMCA’snew

outdoorpool

unveiledAQUATIC COMPLEX WILL BE ONE OF THE LARGEST IN REGION

OCTOBER 2009 17

PLACES

By Neva Martin | Contributor

Caring for loved ones, copingwith diabetes, searching for anew job: These are only a few

of the challenges that can come atsome time in everyone’s life, and theFamily Life Center is there to help.

Family Life Center’s purpose is toreach out to people whose lives are intransition by offering support groupsto help them grow through this time,said Diane Kinsella, FLC director. Sherecruits, trains and supports groupleaders as well as leads a number ofthe groups.

“FLC is an outreach ministry ofNorthminster Presbyterian Church,”says Kinsella. “Our experience showsthat people find it helpful to talk withanother who has walked the pathbefore.”

Each volunteer who leads a grouphas personal experience with the topicbeing addressed grief, losing weight,divorce and each of the more than 100

volunteers who make this ministrypossible has completed training infacilitating small groups.

“Our team is proud … that in nineyears of serving the Greater Cincinnatiarea, fully 82 percent of the partici-pants in our support groups have hadno affiliation with Northminster,”Kinsella says, adding that while it wasoriginally envisioned as a ministry fornorthern Cincinnati, participants havecome from as far away as Dry Ridge,Ky., Amelia, Wooster, Ohio, and RisingSun, Ind.

Kinsella estimates that in 2009 FLChas provided direct help to more than500 people. Some groups meet month-ly, others weekly. A few are offered onlyonce during a calendar year. FLC isfunded solely by Northminster

Presbyterian Church.“All support groups are completely

free and free baby sitting can bearranged with advanced registration,”Kinsella says. “We also have a freelending library with 1,400 books andDVDs that address the issues ourgroups cover, in addition to other sub-ject matters.”

Of the more than 2,000 peopleKinsella “guesstimates” have beenhelped in FLC’s nearly 10 years of exis-tence, all anonymously, many havesent notes of appreciation. B.S. wrote,“Your group did a great job in helpingme come out of my sadness.” Pat adds,“I greatly appreciate the knowledgeand support that your program hasprovided to me.”

The Family Life Center is at 8994 Woodview Drive in Finneytown, adjacentto Northminster Presbyterian Church(703 Compton Road). For information,call 931-5777 or e-mail Diane Kinsella ([email protected]). Brochures andregistration forms for each group are available at FLC’s Web site at

www.tinyurl.com/FamilyLifeCenter.

FAMILY LIFE CENTERreaches out to the community

The HolisticHealth andWellnessGroup isjust one oftwo dozensupportgroups pro-vided bythe FamilyLearningCenter.DianeKinsella,FLC direc-tor, saysnew groupsare contin-ually beingdevelopedin responseto commu-nity needs.

Residents canreserve picnic sheltersfor $50 during thespring, summer andfall seasons.

To reserve a shelter,call Melanie McNultyat 522-1410.

SENIOR/COMMUNITY CENTER

With spaces accommodat-ing between 40 and 126guests, the Senior/Community Center is a per-fect place to host your func-tion at an affordable price!

We are conveniently locat-ed off Winton Road, behindthe AdministrationComplex, at 9158 WintonRoad.

There are four uniquerooms that can be rented forsmall-scale events such asfamily birthday parties,church services, sports ban-quets, baby and weddingshowers and retirement par-ties.

It is also a great place tohold corporate seminarsand meetings.

Contact Thom Schneiderat 522-1154 or at [email protected] tocheck pricing and avail-ability.

GROVE BANQUET HALLFor a larger event, the

Grove Banquet Hall includesa 35-foot square dance floorand can provide the perfectvenue for up to 350 guests!Book your 2010 occasionnow and select from a widevariety of caterers, sure to fityour own personal style andbudget. Linens and bar serv-ices can be customized aswell to make your event spe-cial and unique. Schedulean appointment to visit theGrove Banquet Hall by call-ing 522-1154 or at [email protected].

RECYCLINGTownship residents look-

ing to go green throughrecycling have a couple ofoptions.

Those wishing the conven-ience of curbside pickupand who contract withRumpke for waste collectioncan participate in theircurbside recycling programfor an additional fee.

The Township also pro-vides four drop-off recyclingDumpsters located at theAdministration Complex at9150 Winton Road.

Paper, fiberboard and cor-rugated boxes, glass, plastic

bottles (#1 HDPE and #2PETE) and aluminum andsteel cans can all be recycledtogether in the providedbins.

Complete informationabout what can be recycledcan be found on theTownship's website -www.springfieldtwp.org.Information about addition-al recycling opportunities,including yard waste andhazard household wastes,provided by HamiltonCounty can be found atwww.hcdoes.org.


PLACES

PARKS RENTALS

PLAYGROUND

TOWNSHIPPARKSPARK ADDRESSClifford George 12089 Mill Rd. 2 2

Frost Playground 2065 Mistyhill 1 Yes

Schottelkotte Park 10651 Hamilton Ave. 4 2 1 Yes

Hollydale Park Toulon Dr. 1 1 1 Yes

McKelvey Fields OldMcKelvey 2 2

Helwig Park 9990 Winton Rd. 4 Yes

Lexington Heights Park 1400 Meredith 2 1 2 2 Yes

The Grove Park 9158 Winton Rd. 1 2 1

Brentwood Park 8862 Monsanto Dr. 1 Yes

Crutchfield Park 6309 Simpson 2 1 1 1 Yes

Stephanie Hummer

Memorial Park 661 North Bend 3 1 Yes

Hillside Park 368 Caldwell Dr. 2 1 1 Yes

OCTOBER 2009 19

PEOPLE

SENIOR CENTER IS DISCOVERYCENTERBy Jill Rooksberry | Contributor

At the Springfield Township SeniorCommunity Center, 9158 Winton Road,you can discover your inner line dancer,

hone your stained glass making skills, surpriseyour grandchildren with your impressive Wiiproficiency, wow fellow card players with yourtalent for euchre or just engage in the pleasantart of conversation with an old neighbor or anew friend.

Thom Schneider has been the tireless directorof the center since July 2008. You can find himenergetically walking the halls greeting mem-bers by name and making sure this valuablecommunity resource is everything that it canand should be.

“The center provides vital social connectionswith different activities and educational oppor-tunities that keep seniors in our communityvibrant and active.” Schneider says. “The factthat Springfield Township has a vibrant seniorpopulation is one of the important aspects thatmakes Springfield Township a vibrant commu-nity.”

Sue Benzinger of Finneytown began coming tothe center when she and her husband, who hassince passed away, moved from North CollegeHill to the neighborhood three years ago.

“When we moved here I didn’t know anyoneand was invited by neighbors to join the seniorcenter,” Benzinger says. “I’ve learned new skillshere and take part in different activities andgames and have met a lot of new people.”

Benzinger, a volunteer by nature, jumpedright in and created the centers’ first Buncogroup complete with prizes from local mer-chants. She also expanded the libraries collec-tion of large print books and has recently decid-ed to run for the Seniors Inc. Board of Directors.

Even though Benzinger suffers from musculardystrophy and is confined to a wheelchair, shetakes the access bus to and from the center sev-eral times a week because it is important andfun for her to stay active and to experience newthings.

“I just can’t imagine staying home!” Benzingersays.

Sue Benzinger of Finneytown works on her stain glass at Springfield Township Senior Center.


PEOPLE

Domminick, David and Leigh Gaines in the Finneytown High School’s Rain Garden.

COMMUNITY GOES GREEN TOGETHERBy Jill Rooksberry | Contributor

When Finneytown resident David Gaines waslooking for a project to help his communitygo green, he didn’t have to look any further

than Finneytown High School’s upper parking lot.Located at the bottom of an eroding hill, the parkinglot was experiencing flooding and Gaines decided,along with his wife Leigh Gaines, to help remedy thesituation by organizing the construction ofFinneytown’s first rain garden.

“We brought the idea to the high school adminis-tration and they were all for it,” David explains.

Gaines is a trustee of the Finneytown CivicAssociation and is conservation chair for the MiamiChapter of the Sierra Club. He enlisted the help ofboth of these organizations, as well as that of theForrest Lytle and Sons landscape supply companyand a collection of Finneytown residents to get therain garden up and growing.

Matt Viola, the owner of Forrest Lytle and Sons,donated manpower and equipment that whittled ajob that could have taken all summer down to twodays. He was happy that his company was able tohelp out.

“I think it’s an awesome project,” Viola says. “Ourbusiness is environmentally conscious and any littlebit we can do to help the community we’re alwayswilling to pitch in,” Viola.

The Finneytown High School rain garden is animpressive collection of entirely native plants, herbsand grasses such as yellow coneflower, obedientplant, lavender and bee balm, among others.

“The great thing about using native plants is thatthey are hardy with strong roots that can pull waterdown through the soil we have here.” Leigh Gainessaid. “This helps conserve water and helps with ero-sion.”

After the success of this first green landscapingproject and seeing the involvement of Finneytownresidents who come out regularly to help weed andmaintain the rain garden, the Gaines are alreadybrainstorming future projects at the school includinga butterfly garden and a full prairie restoration.

For now, the hope is not only that the rain gardenwill help minimize the water runoff to the parkinglot, but that it will also function as an outdoor class-room, helping to teach important environmentallyconscious ideas to both high school students andmembers of the community.

“This project helps introduce the concepts of waterconservation, soil management and the importanceof utilizing native plant species,” Leigh says.

PEOPLE

OCTOBER 2009 21


PEOPLE

CINCINNATI YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL

[email protected]

CORPUS CHRISTI ATHLETIC ASSOCIATIONBASEBALL/SOFTBALL

[email protected] or 200-0081

FINNEYTOWN ATHLETICASSOCIATION


FINNEYTOWN ATHLETICASSOCIATION BASEBALL


FINNEYTOWN ATHLETICASSOCIATION SOFTBALL


FINNEYTOWN ATHLETICASSOCIATION SAY SOCCER


FINNEYTOWN ATHLETICASSOCIATION FOOTBALL

[email protected]

FINNEYTOWN BOYS [email protected] or 673-1798

GREENHILLS WINTON SPORTSASSOCIATION BASEBALL


GREENHILLS WINTON SPORTSASSOCIATION SAY


GREENHILLS WINTON SPORTSASSOCIATION SAY SOCCER


GREENHILLS WINTON SPORTSASSOCIATION BOARD


NORTH HILLS [email protected]

POWELL CROSLEY JR [email protected]

PLEASANT RUN FARM ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

[email protected]

PLEASANT RUN FARM ATHLETICASSOCIATION BASEBALL


PLEASANT RUN FARM ATHLETICASSOCIATION SOCCER

[email protected]

PLEASANT RUN FARM ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION


ST. BARTHELEMEW ATHLETICASSOCIATION


ST. BARTHELEMEW ATHLETICASSOCIATION FOOTBALL


ST. VIVIAN ATHLETIC [email protected] or 236-4588

ST. VIVIAN [email protected] or 780-7456

ST. VIVIAN [email protected] or 200-3650

ST. VIVIAN MEN'S SOFTBALL [email protected] or 573-3774

STAR SOCCER [email protected]

TRI-STATE VIKINGS FOOTBALL [email protected] or 368-7007

WINTON VALLEY [email protected] or 379-2518

ATHLETICS ORGANIZATIONS

OCTOBER 2009 23

DIVERSITY

SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP SENIORCENTER

Thom SchneiderSenior Center Director9158 Winton [email protected]

SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP CITIZENSPolice Academy Alumni Association

John Wintz, [email protected]

SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIPDEMOCRATIC CLUB

Melanie [email protected]

SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIPREPUBLICANS CLUB

Christa Criddle, President

[email protected]

SENIORS, INC.Jerry Altenau, [email protected]

COVERED BRIDGE CIVICMartin [email protected]

FINNEYTOWN BUSINESS NETWORKJonathan PapinWesBanco522-5551

FINNEYTOWN CIVICJoe Gorman, [email protected]

HOLLYHOCK FARMSNEIGHBORHOOD

Jim Golan [email protected]

HOLLYDALE CIVICJoseph Johns, [email protected]

LAKESHORE CIVICSharon DeNight772-1058

LAKESHORE WOMEN’S CLUBLeAnne [email protected]

LEXINGTON HEIGHTS CIVICChester Banks, [email protected]

PARK VIEW HEIGHTS CIVICJoe [email protected]

PLEASANT RUN FARMS CIVICDale [email protected]

VIEW PLACE CIVICDonna Saul, [email protected]

WEST COLLEGE HILL CIVICAndrew Thompson681-1755

WEST COLLEGE HILLNeighborhood Services Center

Mark Walpole, [email protected]

CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS

By Britt Kennerly | Contributor

The roots of Cincinnati's diversecommunity are firmly document-ed, and firmly entwined among

them is the work of the nonprofitCincinnati Catholic Kolping Society.

Since 1924, the Kolping Society hasnot only helped immigrants integrateinto the community, but make a betterlife and home for their families in theirnew surroundings.

That's the year that 13 youngGerman immigrants – who met at theCincinnati Zoo on German Day –banded together to support locally themission of Father Adolph Kolping.Back in 1849, along with seven jour-neymen, Kolping founded the CologneJourneymen's Association in Cologne,Germany, a group which evolved intothe Kolping Society. Providing afford-able shelter and help for journeymentraining for trades, Kolping strived tosupport community – and locally, themission remains the same.

In the 1950s, the Kolping facility onWinton Road was developed. TheCincinnati Kolping Society – one of thelargest “Kolping families” in the world

– now has more than 1,000 members,who continue to sponsor activitiesranging from athletic events to educa-tional, cultural, musical and socialopportunities for members and thegeneral community. “Sub-groups”include Young Kolping, SeniorCitizens, Sports Club, Shooting Club,the Kolping Band, and Sängerchor, afolk choir group focused on preserva-tion of German song.

Trey Seibel's grandfather, FrankDiekmann, was one of the foundingfathers of the Kolping Society ofCincinnati, first based on RepublicStreet in Over-the-Rhine.

“I'm very proud of all our people,

and what they do,” saysSeibel, who recalls vis-iting his grandfather –the president ofKolping back in 1926 –at the original Kolpinghouse in downtownCincinnati. “FatherKolping had set up asafe haven for peoplewho didn't have anyplace to go. They wouldstop at his place andhe'd teach them a

trade, like carpentry or farming. It waslike a school – once they learned thetrade, they could move on and be ableto support their family.”

Kolping members, its Web site says,still strive to “carry out the ideals ofBlessed Adolph Kolping in a way thatis relevant to our times.”

“We still help people who need aplace to stay; learn a trade and get a jobto support their families,” Seibel says.“We have a house in Vietnam; a housein India – there are Kolping Societies inSt. Louis, New York, Los Angeles andother places… I'm very proud of all ourpeople, and what they do.”

A DIVERSE culture

ST. XAVIERMark Motz, Director ofCommunications and PublicationsWhat does the school have to offer?There have literally been books writ-ten about the subject. First and fore-most, it’s a Jesuit Catholic school, thelargest all boys school of its kind inthe country.

What is your goal as a school?Our motto is to educate leaders. Wewant them to be servant leaders andgo out in the community and changethe world.

What is the key to your success?The key to our success is in Christ. Wealso have supportive alumni, parentalinvolvement – we’re all here for theboys, helping them become goodmen.

CENTRAL BAPTISTRichard Voiles, AdministratorWhat does your school have to offer?It’s a religious school.

What is your goal as a school?The mission is to give a quality educa-tion so children can do with it whatthey want after high school.

What is the key to your success?Persistence.

JOHN PAUL IINorrie Roach, PrincipalWhat does your school have to offer?We have an accelerated program. Wehave high expectations of our stu-dents. We offer a number of extra cur-ricular activities. We have small classsizes and services hat assist childrenstruggling in reading and speech.

What is your goal as a school?The goal is to instill faith and we strivetoward academic excellence.

What is the key to your success?The dedication of the teachers andparents. We’re a family-oriented com-munity. We are student driven.

ST. VIVIANStephen ZinserWhat does your school have to offer?We are blessed with an outstandingstaff who care deeply for our children.

What are your goals as a school?Our goal is to promote and be surewhen children leave this school theygo on to high school as successfulyoung men and ladies with a strongacademic and faith background.

What is the key to your success?Obviously the people. We are blessedwith wonderful people who believe infaith and children and do what theycan to help make them successful.

The Cincinnati Public and Princetonschool districts could not be reachedfor comment.


EDUCATION

SCHOOLS |FROM 11

OCTOBER 2009 25

HAPPENINGS

Looking for fun?For an ongoing

event listing, visitSpringfieldtwp.organd click on the com-munity calendar andnews board tab orvisit Cincinnati.com

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL/ CHANNEL 5 CARES COAT DRIVEThru December 4Springfield Township Main FireHeadquarters, 9150 Winton Road

For many families and individu-als, there is simply no extra incometo purchase a winter coat. The 5Cares Coat Drive helps ensure thatno one in our community go with-out a winter coat. Drop off a new orgently used coat to the SpringfieldTownship Fire Station, located at9150 Winton Road, anytimethrough December 4th. Your kind-ness will touch many lives!

WINTON WOODS HALLOWEEN NIGHTSThru October 30Winton Woods Parky's FarmWednesdays through Sundays 6 p.m.- 10 p.m.

Come join us for this non-scary,family-oriented Halloween event!See tens of thousands of lightsincluding animated, decorativeHalloween light displays of pump-kins, corn stalks, ghosts bats andwitches. Take part in the manyactivities offered for the whole fam-ily. Cost: $6 per person (under 23months free) Halloween NightsHotline: (513) 728-3551 ext. 355

NORTHERN HILLS UNITEDMETHODIST PUMPKIN PATCHThru October 31, Noon to 7:00p.m.

The NHUMC Pumpkin Patch,located at 6700 Winton Road, willbe open from noon to 7 p.m. dailythrough October 31. The pumpkinswere grown in New Mexico and area self-help program with the NativeAmerican community. All themoney that is earned from thepumpkins support NHUMC mis-sions!

“WICKED WINDOWS ALONGWINTON” HALLOWEEN WINDOWPAINTING CONTESTOctober 24-31

Finneytown High School stu-dents have painted Halloweenthemes on business windows alongWinton Road. Call the WickedWindows hotline at 522-2108 tovote for your favorite Halloweenwindow. The student who paintsthe window with the most votes willwin a cash award! A full list of par-ticipating windows can be found onspringfieldtwp.org. Voting is free.

“STOP…YOU'RE KILLING ME” November 6 at 8 p.m., November 7at 2:30 & 8 p.m., November 8 at 6:30 p.m.

Overflow Ministries CovenantChurch - 10870 Hamilton Avenue

STOP...You're Killing Me! bringsto life the story of a salon owner inOver-the-Rhine who has made aname for herself through somerather unconventional methods.And, now she's full of regret. She'smarried to the son of a greedy,scheming and conniving womanwho is bent on controlling his lifeand others. This woman knows noboundaries. Be prepared to laughand cry while this show takes youon an unforgettable journey full ofcomedic twists, corruption, deceitand hidden secrets. Tickets are $15and can be purchased at OverflowMinistries Covenant Church

HOLIDAY GREETING CARDSNovember 5 & 12, 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.Springfield TownshipSenior/Community Center - 9158Winton Road

Discover the joy of making andsharing handcrafted holiday greet-ing cards during a special two-partworkshop being offered at TheSpringfield Township SeniorCommunity Center. Each 1-hourclass is packed with instruction,inspiration and fun, and all sup-plies for the cards, reference cards,and Technique Toolbox book areincluded. $30 for SpringfieldTownship residents and $40 fornon-residents. Register by calling522-1154

NORTH COLLEGE HILL CRAFT SHOWNovember 7, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.NCH Senior Center - 1586 GoodmanAvenue

Jewelry, copper art, holiday spe-cialties and more. Refreshmentsavailable. Benefits North CollegeHill Recreation Commission. Formore information call 521-7413

POWEL CROSLEY JR. YMCA HEALTH FAIRNovember 11, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.YMCA- 9601 Winton Road

Drop in, anytime between 9:00a.m. - 3:00 p.m. to visit the manybooths offering blood pressurechecks, body fat testing, hearingscreenings and much more. Formore information call 521-7112.

HOLIDAY BAZAARNovember 14, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.Greenhills Presbyterian Church - 21 Cromwell Drive

Find all your Holiday gifts! TheBazaar will be open 9:00 a.m. to3:00 p.m. Call 825-8400 for moreinformation.

SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP SENIORS,INC. THANKSGIVING DINNERNovember 22, 5 p.m.Springfield TownshipSenior/Community Center - 9158Winton Road

Social hour: 5-6p.m. Dinner at6p.m. Turkey & all the trimmings,plus pumpkin pie catered bySchmidts. $15 per person. Ticketsin advance. Payable to Seniors, Inc.522-1154

THANKSGIVING DAY BREAKFASTNovember 26, 8 a.m/FREE / First Baptist Church of Mt.Healthy - 1210 Compton Road

Start your day off right with ourannual Thanksgiving Day breakfast!After a brief devotion, we'll enjoythe fresh breakfast goodies cookedby the men of our church. Bringyour appetite for eggs, bacon, bis-cuits, grits and more! There is NOCOST to attend, but we do need toknow you're coming so we can besure to cook enough food! Pleasemake your reservation at 931-0477or [email protected]. Theevent begins at 8:00 a.m. Call 931-0477 or visit www.firstmthealthy.orgfor more information.

HOLIDAY GREETING CARDSDecember 3 & 10, 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.Springfield TownshipSenior/Community Center - 9158Winton Road

Discover the joy of making andsharing handcrafted holiday greet-ing cards during a special two-partworkshop being offered at TheSpringfield Township SeniorCommunity Center. Each 1 hourclass is packed with instruction,inspiration and fun, and all sup-plies for the cards, reference cards,and Technique Toolbox book areincluded. $30 for Springfield

EVENTS CALENDAR

CALENDAR | CONTINUED 26

To advertise in the nextSpringfield Townshipmagazine call 923-3111.


HAPPENINGS

Township residents and $40 fornon-residents. Register by calling522-1154

WINTERFEST, SPONSORED BY TARGETDecember 5, 1 p.m.FREE / The Grove Banquet Hall -9158 Winton Road

Bring the entire family to aSpringfield Township tradition.WinterFest starts off with a per-formance by the Cincinnatifavorite, Frisch Marionettes! TheVariety Show will begin at 1:00p.m.Afterwards, Santa makes his grandappearance. Bring your camerasand take as many pictures as youwish. Stay for crafts, cookies andfree wagon rides! At 3:30 TheCincinnati Dance and MovementCompany will perform their holi-day recital. Doors open at 12:30p.m., no earlier. For more informa-tion call 522-1410.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AND CHRISTMAS SHOPPINGDecember 5, 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.

FREE / Northern Hills UnitedMethodist Church - 6700 WintonRoad, Cincinnati

Bring the children and join usfrom 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. for ahearty breakfast (eggs, sausage,toast) and to meet Santa. Bringyour cameras and take as manypictures as you wish. This event isfree and open to the public. Call513-542-4010.

MAKE A KALEIDOSCOPE December 6, 1 - 4 p.m.Springfield TownshipSenior/Community Center - 9158Winton Road

Make you own one-of -a-kindstained glass kaleidoscope. Thiswould be the perfect gift to give alittle one or even a grandparent!You will cut your own glass, sauderyour pieces and created a piece ofart like no other in this three-hourprogram. For those 18 and over.$40 residents; $50 non-residents.All materials included, Call 522-1154 to register.

CHRISTMAS GIFT SHOP &CRAFT SHOW AT MOUNTHEALTHY CHRISTIAN HOMEDecember 12, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

MHCH - 8097 Hamilton Ave.Local crafters, entertainment,

food and even carriage rides topthe afternoons activities. 10 a.m. -3 p.m. For more information call931-5000

ONE KINGDecember 12, 6 p.m.December 13, 10:30 a.m.

FREE / First Baptist Church ofMt. Healthy - 1210 Compton Road

Enjoy a musical celebration ofChristmas as our worship ministrypresents “One King” created byRobert Sterling, Lowell Alexander &Deborah Craig-Claar. In a daywhen so many kings vie for ourallegiance, come hear the truththat only one King was born togrant us abundant and eternal life.Come ready to be challenged tolive beyond your day-to-day expe-riences and to experience what theOne King has to offer for your life.No cost and no reservationrequired. Call 931-0477 or visitwww.firstmthealthy.org for moreinformation.

“AN AMERICAN CHRISTMAS” BY THE CINCINNATI CIVICORCHESTRADecember 13, 3 p.m.FREE - Donations accepted /TheGrove Banquet Hall - 9158 WintonRoad

The Cincinnati Civic Orchestrawill be performing their annualholiday concert at SpringfieldTownship's Grove Banquet Hall onSunday, December 13, beginningat 3 p.m. This year's performanceis entitled An American Christmasand will feature many of yourfavorite classics including “WhiteChristmas”, “The Christmas Song”and Leroy Anderson's “Sleigh Ride”mixed in with more modern holi-day hits, including “A CharlieBrown Christmas”, “I Want aHippopotamus for Christmas” andsongs from the “Polar Express”.The concert is a free family friendlyevent. For more information call522-1154.

OUR LADY OF GRACE LIVING NATIVITYDecember 14, 6 p.m.-8 p.m.Our lady of Grace School / St. AnnChurch Campus

Drive through and see the sta-tions of the Nativity. Each stationwill have students and live animalsdepicting the selected scenes.

CAROLING AND COCOADecember 24, 6 p.m.FREE / First Baptist Church of Mt.Healthy - 1210 Compton Road

Spread some Christmas cheer toemployees “stuck” at work andsenior citizens “stuck” inside. We'llsing some carols and pass outcandy canes before ending thenight at a hot cocoa buffet. Nocost and no reservations required,but please bring a box of candycanes to share! Call 931-0477 orvisit www.firstmthealthy.org formore information.

SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP'S FAMILYENTERTAINMENT SERIES PRESENTSZAK MORGAN SPONSORED BYTARGETJanuary 8, 7 p.m.FREE / The Grove Banquet Hall -9158 Winton Road

Children's songwriter and televi-sion performer, Zach Morgan, willhave kids of all ages on their feetclapping and singing at SpringfieldTownship's first ever FamilyEntertainment Series. Zak Morganperforms over 200 shows a year,using music, magic, theater andcomedy to encourage children toread books and exercise theirimaginations. His unrestrainedstage presence always leaves a last-ing impression. The show willbegin at 7:00 p.m. With a grantfrom Target, this event is free to thecommunity! Stay for a snack andquestion/answer session with ZachMorgan. Maximum 350 people.Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. Moreinformation onspringfieldtwp.org.or call 522-1410.

Springfield Township CitizenPolice AcademyJanuary 11 - March 22 (Mondays),6:30 - 9:30 p.m.Springfield Township PoliceDepartment - 1130 Compton Road

The Springfield Township PoliceDepartment will be holding thenext Citizens Police Academyclasses on Monday evenings, 6:30 -9:30 p.m. beginning January 11.The classes are ten weeks long andare open to residents of SpringfieldTownship with limited registration.Participants will have the opportu-nity to learn about patrol func-tions, domestic violence, K-9 oper-ations and investigation practices.Graduates will have opportunitiesfor additional training and canbecome a member of the Citizenson Patrol. An application is avail-able online at www.springfield-twp.org. For additional informa-tion, call Lt. Rick Bley at 729-1300.

ANTSY MCCLAIN AND THETRAILER PARK TROUBADOURSJanuary 30, 8 p.m. St. Xavier HighSchool - 600 West North Bend

The Greater CincinnatiPerforming Arts Society presentsthe music of Antsy McClain & TheTrailer Park Troubadours. The showwill begin at 8:00 p.m. in thePerformance Center. Tickets cost$25. Visit www.gcparts.org or call484-0157.

DADDY DAUGHTER DINNER DANCEFebruary 20, 7 - 9 p.m. – The GroveBanquet Hall - 9158 Winton Road

Dads can enjoy a special eveningwith their little princesses! Theevening's theme will be“Hollywood”. (Grandfathers,Uncles, Caregivers are all welcometo bring their special little girl(s)!)The room will be decorated with aHollywood style theme. The formaldance will be highlighted withpizza and salad, a keepsake photo-graph, and a make your own sun-dae bar. This will be an evening ofunforgettable fun for dads anddaughters both! Residents: $25 percouple, Additional daughters $6each.__Non-residents: $28 percouple, Additional daughters $6each.__*Visa and Master Card pay-ments can be accepted with a 3%fee. Call 522-1410 to register, ormail payment in to 9150 WintonRoad, Cincinnati, OH 45231 C/ODaddy Daughter Dance.

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