SUMMER 2020 VOL. 2
NEWS AND ACTIVITIES FOR MASON AND DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP MASON COVID-19 INCIDENT COMMANDERS CHIEF CARTER AND CHIEF BRUMAGEN.
COMMUNITY CENTER IMPROVEMENTS CITY OF MASON
CORONAVIRUS UPDATES & RESOURCES CITY OF MASON, DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP, MASON CITY SCHOOLS, & TRIHEALTH
CONTINUING CARE TRIHEALTH
FIRE & EMERGENCY SERVICES DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP
COVID- Based upon the Governor’s order in effect at the time of publication all programs and activities have been canceled/postponed until further notice. Stay Connected for the most up-to-date information: Website imaginemason.org Facebook City of Mason, Ohio - Government Twi er @ImagineMason Sign up for E-newsle er imaginemason.org/subscribe/
event postponed • event postponed • event postponed
MASON HELPING YOU THROUGH THE CRISIS As Mason comes together during this pandemic the City continues to offer resources for safety and ways to stay connected in the community
Reaching out to Mason’s Senior Community Center members and Veterans to check on wellbeing
Offering Virtual Online work-outs to keep members engaged
Hosting a Pandemic Childcare to TriHealth and first responders
COM MAS E TOGET ON HE
R
Fixing hundreds of masks for the City and making masks for others
Introducing community programs including an Easter Egg Hunt Virtual K and Shop Local – Online
Beginning the Ni y Yi ee Mason Come Together e-gi card program
Relieving stress and providing a sense of normalcy through The City of Mason Golf Course
Placing flags and patriotic banners throughout the community
Providing business recovery videos for guidance on financial assistance and programs
Stay Connected • ImagineMason org
6000 Mason-Montgomery Road • Mason, Ohio 45040 Office Hours: 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Monday–Friday 513.229.8500 • www.imaginemason.org
Mayor Kathy Grossmann
Tony Bradburn Council Member
4900 Parkway Dr., Suite 150 • Deerfield Township, Ohio 45040 Office Hours: 7:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Monday–Friday 513.701.6958 • www.choosedeerfield.com
Vice Mayor Michael Gilb
Ashley Chance Council Member
Diana K. Nelson Council Member
Main Number 513.229.8500 City Hotlines 513.229.8502 Administration 513.229.8510 Community Center 513.229.8555 Emergency 911 Engineering & Building 513.229.8520 Finance 513.229.8530 Fire Department Administration 513.229.8540 Parks & Recreation 513.229.8555 Police Department Administration 513.229.8560 Public Utilities 513.229.8570
TJ Honerlaw Council Member
Joshua Styrcula Council Member
Public Works 513.229.8580 Tax Office 513.229.8535 Utility Customer Service 513.229.8533 Utility Billing Questions: Greater Cincinnati Water Works 513.591.7700 Utility Service Questions: Sewer Service and Emergencies 513.229.8570 (nights, holidays & weekends, emergencies only)
513.925.2525 Stormwater 513.229.8570 Waste Collection and Recycling 513.229.8533 Water Service and Emergencies - Greater Cincinnati Water Works 513.591.7700
Lelle Lutts Hedding President
Kristin Malhotra Vice President
Jim Siciliano Trustee
Dan Corey Fiscal Officer
Administrator Eric Reiners 513.701.6974 erein@deerfieldtwp.com Planning & Zoning Director Samuel Hill 513.701.6964 shill@deerfieldtwp.com Parks and Recreation Director Joel Smiddy 513.701.6975 jsmiddy@deerfieldtwp.com Public Works Director Billy Highfill 513-701-6978 bhigh@deerfieldtwp.com
Fiscal Officer Dan Corey 513.701.6971 dcorey@deerfieldtwp.com President Lelle Hedding 513.770.2381 lhedding@deerfieldtwp.com Vice President Kristin Malhotra 513.770.2382 kmalhotra@deerfieldtwp.com Trustee Jim Siciliano 513.760.4058 jsiciliano@deerfieldtwp.com
A joint publication of the City of Mason and Deerfield Township, Ohio, in partnership with TriHealth and Mason City Schools. City of Mason Administrative Offices 6000 Mason-Montgomery Road, Mason, OH 45040 513.229.8510 | administration@masonoh.org www.imaginemason.org
Deerfield Township Administrative Offices 4900 Parkway Drive, Suite 150, Deerfield Township, Ohio 45040 513.701.6958 l info@deerfieldtwp.com www.choosedeerfield.com
PRODUCED BY
C U S T O M P U B L I C AT I O N S
Publisher Ivy Bayer
Design Director Brittany Dexter
Summer 2020, vol. 2
CenterPoint 3
Eric Hansen City of Mason Manager
Crisis Creates Opportunity
O
n January 31, 2020, the COVID-19 outbreak was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. On March 1, President Trump proclaimed the COVID-19 outbreak in the United States constituted a national emergency. On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization announced the COVID-19 outbreak could be characterized as a pandemic. On Sunday, March 22, under the direction of Governor Mike DeWine, Ohio Department of Health Director Amy Acton, M.D., issued a director’s order to require all Ohioans to stay in their homes to prevent the further spread of COVID-19. Schools closed, businesses closed, families returned home, and our lives were forever changed. While our children were cheering, many parents scrambled to obtain toilet paper, paper towels, milk, eggs, meat, and other items that quickly began vanishing from grocery store shelves, and the arguments at home over available Wi-Fi began. This was the critical point at which events turn for the better or for the worse. A mishandled opportunity becomes a crisis, and a well-managed crisis can become an opportunity. The most important factor was not the challenge itself, but how we would handle it. Within just days, we discovered new ways to continue learning, working, socializing, exercising, and having fun. Some took up old hobbies and others started new ones. Ten year old “honey do” lists suddenly became “honey done.” And after a few weeks, the kids managed to become bored
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with video games (even if only for a few minutes) leading them to seek us out, actually wanting to do something with us—even if that meant speaking to us. Wow, for a brief period I think I may have been cool again! All around us there has been some good change. The new projects, ideas, concepts, and technological advances are just one piece; our ability to adapt, learn, and utilize these new tools is another. Crisis acts as the forcing mechanism to compel expeditious innovation, leading to rapid advances in technology, policy, and procedures. Growth and fundamental levels of change only tend to occur when we are far from equilibrium where certainty and predictability no longer reign supreme. We have seen countless ways our residents, businesses, and employees stepped up to find ways to resolve the challenges faced with the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 challenged many interests and equities and pulled together diverse partners—even rivals. In the midst of a crisis, there have been many who rose up to meet the challenge—creating a dynamic that has enabled the entire community to grow closer and work better together. The measures taken to survive and eventually end the COVID-19 crisis have made us all stronger and more resilient for future events. I am proud of our efforts and the strength of the Mason community during these challenging times. #ComeTogetherMason
Eric Reiners Township Administrator
To all those in the Deerfield Township Community
I
want to take this opportunity to thank the residents of Deerfield Township for their patience and understanding during these unprecedented times. The support you have continued to give to our local small businesses though online exercise classes, food carry out/delivery, gift cards, and more has helped them to maintain operations. The volunteerism and commitment to helping others you showed when we partnered with the United Way and Warren County Community Services to ask for donations for seniors was absolutely incredible. We truly appreciate everything you have done and are continuing to do to maintain social distancing and help others/businesses in the community while slowing the spread of the coronavirus. I also want to thank the entire staff and Board of Trustees of Deerfield Township, especially the first responders and the parks and public works employees out in the field. The flexibility they have all shown and their commitment to service delivery has enabled the Township to maintain as close to normal operations as possible. In particular, I want to thank Chief Chris Eisele, Battalion Chief Doug Wehmeyer and those in the Deerfield Township Fire and EMS Department who have lead our Emergency Command Operations during this time. Their leadership and guidance has been instrumental in our ability to handle this pandemic and make the necessary decisions to move the
Township forward. Finally, to the front line workers in the Township’s medical offices, our retail establishments, and more. Thank you. You have been some of the most vital assets to our community, ensuring that our residents have the food, necessary supplies, and care they have needed to get through the last couple of months. Looking ahead, we know the tough times are not over. We are in the midst of taking a measured and thoughtful approach to reopening the Township following the lead of Warren County and the State of Ohio. We ask that you continue to be patient through this process as it will take time. We will continue to monitor the situation with the COVID-19 pandemic and recovery. In doing so we will communicate as much as possible. I encourage you to check out the news section of our website (www.choosedeerfield. com) periodically for new or existing resources such as small business assistance, upcoming meetings, and other important information from around the county and state.
Summer 2020, vol. 2
CenterPoint 5
Mason Community Center Improvements On a daily basis, Mason Community Center is usually buzzing with activity and visitors. Often peaking at 2,000 visitors per day, the facility has felt vacant since closing temporarily on March 15 due to COVID-19. Just like residents at home focusing on family and home projects, staff has used a similar model to focus on priorities difficult to complete when the facility is operating at full capacity. The ability to have maintenance completed during normal business hours has provided substantial cost savings and will not require another disruption to member experience later this year. Many significant projects are being completed during the temporary closure, including: • Both the Competition and Leisure pools were drained and annual maintenance, like tile repair, heavy cleaning, and underwater light replacement, was performed. • The Gymnasium, which features two regulation size basketball courts, has been resurfaced with new hardwood floors. • The second level walking track was resurfaced and features a new color.
What color do you think it is? Submit your answer to surveymonkey.com/r/6Y2WSNJ • Significant water valve repairs were completed in all of the showers in the Men’s, Women’s, and Family Locker Rooms. These valve repairs will allow for consistent temperatures in the locker room showers. • Mason Senior Center renovations are nearing completion and include a new covered entrance and vestibule as well as two new restrooms. Staff is excited to showcase the work to our members when the Community Center reopens. As a reopening plan is constructed for the facility, cleanliness and social distancing practices will be top priorities. Please continue to check imaginemason.org, subscribe to Mason’s e-newsletters, and stay connected on Facebook - City of Mason Recreation and Twitter - @MasonOHRec for updates.
COVID-19 OHIO RESOURCE GUIDE
You may have questions pertaining to certain issues regarding COVID-19 resources. Below is a list of potential websites and hotlines.
HEALTH
Ohio Department Of Health 1-833-4-ASK-ODH or Hotline: 614-466-2319 www.coronavirus.ohio.gov
EMPLOYMENT
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services www.jfs.ohio.gov
CORONAVIRUS AND UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE BENEFITS
Hotline: 614-466-2319 www.jfs.ohio.gov
UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE BENEFITS
614-387-8408 www.unemployment.ohio.go
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CHILDCARE
Chamber member 4C for Children is helping Essential Workers figure out how to access and enroll for Pandemic Care Programs or alternative childcare solutions. Staff is available to answer calls M–F 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Southwest Ohio | 513-758-1330
MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
If you or a loved one are experiencing anxiety related to the coronavirus pandemic, help is available. Call the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 (1-800-846-8517 TTY); connect with a trained counselor through the Ohio Crisis Text Line by texting the keyword “4HOPE” to 741 741; or call the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services help line at 1-877-275-6364 to find resources in your community. Coronavirus Hotline/Emotional Support: 1-833-4275636 between 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. Call center 8:00 p.m.–8:00 a.m.. please call hotline 833-427-5634.
Thank you FC Cincinnati Foundation
Township’s Community Gardens are Good to Grow!
Interested in growing your own vegetables in one of the Township’s community gardens? This is the time to secure your space for your own 4 x 4 space at either Carter Park or Kingswood Park. Gardeners may reserve more than one plot. GOOD to Grow in Ohio! Load up your community gardens with those veggies that grow well here! Enjoy beets, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, lettuce, onions, parsley, parsnips, peas, radishes, spinach, and turnips. For more information about securing your space, please visit www.deerfieldrec.com.
THE ARTS ALLIANCE In light of the continued uncertainties caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and in the interest of safety for all campers, staff, and volunteers, The Arts Alliance has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 summer camp season. All summer sessions, starting June 8, 2020, through August 3, 2020, have been cancelled. The Arts Alliance encourages the public to continue to check the Camp’s website at www.the-arts-alliance.org for further updates and information.
All registrants will receive a full refund. Those with questions or in need of assistance regarding a camp-related matter can visit info@the-arts-alliance.org to send us a message. Continue to stay connected with The Arts Alliance on Facebook and Instagram. (artallianceohio). The Arts Alliance loves serving our community and are looking forward to bringing our programming back to you soon.
DEERFIELD FARMERS’ MARKET IS OPEN! Kingswood Park 4188 Irwin Simpson Rd. Mason, OH 45040
Saturdays 9:00 a.m.–noon
While at market you may notice our vendors set up farther apart than normal in order to practice social distancing. We ask our customers to practice proper social distancing protocol also. If you are waiting in line at a vendor’s booth please keep your distance (six feet) from other customers and vendors. For more information and pre-order please visit: www. deerfieldfarmersmarket.com
C
onstruction of the all-inclusive Common Ground playground at Makino Park continues to move forward. As part of the park’s master plan, opportunities to include future recreational amenities such as soccer and baseball fields were identified as future phases of the park once the playground was complete. The Mason Parks and Recreation Foundation (MPRF) and City staff have been working diligently to not only fine tune remaining items related to the playground phase but also explore partnership and grant opportunities in pursuit of beginning the next phase of the park. In 2019, the MPRF board connected with representatives of the FC Cincinnati Foundation to discuss opportunities to partner with the organization to potentially build a mini-pitch soccer field at Makino Park. The FC Cincinnati Foundation was established in December 2018 prior to FC Cincinnati’s first Major League Soccer (MLS) season. The Foundation supports the philanthropic goals of the FC organization with a vision to improve lives of children in the greater Cincinnati area through the game of soccer. The Foundation’s goal is to build 10 artificial turf miniature soccer fields, also known as mini-pitches, throughout the Cincinnati region by 2024. The Foundation was successful in building two of these mini-pitches in the Cincinnati region in 2019. The FC Cincinnati Foundation, with their key partner The Motz Group, has offered to partner with the City to construct and donate a minipitch soccer field at Makino Park. This proposed mini-pitch will be unique compared to the two previously built by the Foundation as it will be designed to be accessible with larger doors and special surfaces so wheelchairs can move freely. This inclusive mini-pitch field includes walls and netting to provide a contained environment for children to safely enjoy the game of soccer. Thank you FC Cincinnati Foundation for your generous gift to build a mini-pitch soccer field at Makino Park. The City of Mason’s Makino Park is a one-of-a-kind asset for Mason and the entire Greater Cincinnati Region. This park encourages interaction and recreation opportunities that span multi-generational users of all abilities in a peaceful and welcoming setting. The inclusion of the FC Cincinnati Foundation mini-pitch project further emphasizes the uniqueness of Makino Park as well as the City’s ability to develop valuable partnerships that enhance the culture of wellness that contributes to the quality of life here in Mason.
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Mason Comes Together
W
ith so many unknowns, the coronavirus has ignited the Mason community to come together even more now than ever before through retooling companies and common acts of kindness among neighbors. Below are a just some of the ways local residents and businesses are coming together amid the COVID-19 crisis. • Several residents have paid for carry out meals from their home for public safety personnel. These residents have usually called local restaurants and supplied their credit card number to the restaurant and then had the public safety personnel place their order (or vice versa). This has been an outstanding show of respect for the City’s public safety staff—and has helped support our local restaurants as well. • Kings Island has curated experiences for thrill seekers to enjoy the park from your couch. • AtriCure delivered 100 faceshields to Fire Station 51. These faceshields were designed and made by AtriCure, shifting their resources to assist in PPE manufacturing. • Biotechnology, CardioFlux from Genetisis, helps triage chest pain patients in emergency departments, leaving precious resources
available to treat COVID-19 patients. • The Western & Southern Open offers new backgrounds for the community to utilize during Zoom meetings. • Mason City Schools sent decorated buses wearing masks past the homes of students who were celebrating birthdays. • Tide Cleaners on Mason Montgomery Road is offering free laundry services to medical personnel and police and fire fighters during the pandemic. • The MADE Chamber started the United to Support Movement and sold shirts with proceeds going to the local CDC. • City staff continues to place calls to our Senior Community Center members and Veterans to check on well-being and see if there is anything staff could help them with. • The City offers a Pandemic Childcare for TriHealth and first responders, including City emergency service staff. • City employees are helping the community by making masks for others, including fixing hundreds of masks for the City. • Mason Police and Fire participated in two separate drive-bys for children celebrating their birthdays. • Mauser Packaging Solutions is operating as a
COME TOGETHER MASON GIFT THE NIFTY YIFTEE!
critical supply chain partner to Dow Chemical. Their 55-gallon steel drum specifications were modified to support Dow’s production of hand sanitizer. The drums were produced in Mason.
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR FIRST RESPONDERS
Support Local Mason Businesses
COME TOGETHER MASON
can be redeemed at multiple Mason businesses
8 CenterPoint Summer 2020, vol. 2
PHOTOGRAPH BY JANNA/STOCK.ADOBE.COM
Returning to Work As processes and the common ways to connect and be involved have changed and continue to evolve, stay tuned with Mason happenings at Imaginemason.org. • At the time of publication and in accordance with the Governor’s orders and new public meeting guidelines in effect until December 31, 2020, all Council and Board meetings will be held via video conference and live streamed through ICRC. You can access these meetings by visiting the City of Mason’s website at imaginemason.org or ICRC’s website at icrctv.com. • Pending Governor’s orders, the Community Garden anticipates plots to be ready for residents beginning June 1. • Residents may see more City staff in the community as different phases of adjusted shifts are implemented to offer City services. • Brush pick-up is anticipated to resume in incremental phases beginning in May. • The tax filing deadline has been extended to July 15. Tax preparation has been discontinued and tax refunds will be delayed. • As of publication, the Mason Community Center is closed and memberships have been placed on an automatic hold and will not be billed while the Community Center is closed. There is no action needed by members at this time. • At the time of publication, City customer service counters remain closed with hopes to reopen in phases beginning in May.
Social Distancing Brings Community Together Deerfield Township’s trustee Lelle Lutts Hedding knows the generous spirit of the community that she serves. When she reached out to her friend, Aaron Reid, President and CEO of the Warren County United Way, in hopes of offering help to the community, the “Adopt a Senior” program was born. In keeping with the stay-at-home order, seniors were having an especially difficult time getting out to purchase their day-to-day supplies, including hand sanitizer, soap, toothpaste, disinfectant wipes, toiletry items, and even hard candy. “I was thrilled by the response of our neighborhood captains who rallied for the cause,” Hedding says. Neighbors were encouraged to drop off items on the front porches of the neighborhood captains. Hundreds and hundreds of items were donated. The items were then taken to the Warren County Community Services and distributed through the Meals on Wheels program. This program was born of kindness and serving Warren County’s most vulnerable community during the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Generosity and warmth filled the room with donated items to help those during a time of need,” says Hedding. “I’m so proud of the overwhelming response of this community,” she added. For more information about the United Way of Warren County, please visit www.uwwcoh.org.
City staff will be wearing protective face masks when interacting with residents. The City encourages residents to share in this initiative.
COACH OF EXCELLENCE AWARD The American Swim Coaches Association recognized Mason Manta Rays Head Coach Ken Heis as a Coach of Excellence for 2019. Each year the American Swimming Coaches Association honors the coaches who guide swimmer(s) to a Top 8 finish at the USA Swimming National Championships. The Manta Rays had three swimmers place in the Top 8 at the USA National Championships in 2019. Less than 100 coaches out of 21,000 were recognized with this honor.
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Continuing Care for Orthopedic Patients During COVID-19 The spread of COVID-19 has left many who are seeking orthopedic treatment scared and unsure about how to pursue the care they need. The team at TriHealth Orthopedic & Sports Institute is still open and caring for patients. The visits may or may not be what patients are used to. Andrew Islam, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon with the TriHealth Orthopedic & Sports Institute, says his patients are being screened for risk when they call to schedule an appointment. “Our team meets daily to look at the days ahead to see who needs to be seen in person and who can be seen over video or even have an appointment over the phone,” says Islam. “We call patients who we think can be seen remotely.” Islam adds that patients are receptive to this approach to care. Some are even calling his office asking for video visits.
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WHAT IF MY SURGERY HAS BEEN POSTPONED? TriHealth, like systems all over the country, is currently only performing surgeries that save life and limb. This has left many patients with questions about what they can do in the interim. Islam suggests patients use a stretching or exercise program along with overthe-counter medicines such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help them until their procedure gets rescheduled. “We have a list of patients affected and will call them as soon as we are ready to reschedule,” Islam says. Some waiting on surgery may be concerned with worsening pain and may need more than over-the-counter medication. Islam says some of those patients have been brought to the office for injections to help them through while they wait. Islam says some patients are worried about having to get new scans before their procedure can be rescheduled. “Most cases won’t
require a patient to repeat tests and scans,” says Islam. “We are working on processes and procedures for patients to be cleared for surgery. We expect it to affect a minimal amount of our patients. We are looking at every case individually.”
WHAT IF I HAVE A NEW INJURY? Warmer temperatures mean more people being out and active. This also means more injuries related to being out while maintaining appropriate distancing from others. Islam says potential new patients don’t need to worry. “Even in normal times we start with exercise and rehabilitation programs and move to surgery later,” says Islam. “We want people with new injuries to know we are there for them.” If it is recommended that you have an in-person appointment, please visit TriHealth. com to view the most up to date information about patient guidelines. All TriHealth locations follow these guidelines.
Andrew Islam, M.D., sees patients at the TriHealth Orthopedic & Sports Institute office at 7423 South Mason Montgomery Rd., Suite A, Mason, OH 45040 Call 513.24ORTHO (513.246.7846) for an appointment
PHOTOGRAPHS BY (TOP) JPC-PROD/STOCK.ADOBE.COM / (BOTTOM) IPOPBA/STOCK.ADOBE.COM
Deerfield Township Fire and EMS Funding Update
T
he Deerfield Township Fire & EMS Department prides itself on meeting and exceeding industry standards for service. The National Fire Protection Association has set the standard for response time at six minutes. By adhering to this standard, Fire & EMS staff are able to have the greatest possible impact on preserving property through reductions in fire damage and potentially save lives. It has been 10 years since the Township has asked voters to approve a Fire & Emergency Services levy. Since then the growth the Township has experienced, especially in the northwest portion of Deerfield, has pushed the department’s average response time above that six-minute standard. This has caused the immediate need for a new station to be constructed in the northwest portion of Deerfield.
To address this issue, the Deerfield Township Board of Trustees had previously discussed the possibility of running a new levy to support our Fire & EMS Department. However, in an effort to promote fiscal responsibility and to ease the burden of taxpayers to fund the services the Township provides, they have decided it is not prudent to pursue a levy at this time. What’s changed? The efforts of the Board of Trustees and administration to make the Township debt free has resulted in reserve fund balances that, after further analysis, can be focused on Fire & EMS Department operations in order to ensure that the department is capable of responding to all incidents, throughout the four different quadrants of the Township, at or under that six-minute standard. Instead of pursuing a levy, these funds
will be utilized until they have been exhausted. Finally, as the Township progresses forward with the construction of Station 59 to serve the northwest quadrant and bring the average response time at or under the six-minute standard across the Township, we will be publicly discussing the long-term details and the future projections for the fire fund. Please look for an announcement this summer regarding an update on the status of the construction and fire fund finances; which will be discussed at a public work session.
MEMORIAL DAY
THANK YOU VETERANS! ION OF YOUR DEDICATION IN APPRECIAT
Saturday May through
Monday May ONE FREE GAME The Golf Center
View local restaurants open for takeout, delivery, or gi cards madechamber.org/takeout-blitz
MASON COME TOGETHER GIFT CARD Email pio@masonoh org for an opportunity to receive a Nifty Yiftee gift card
VALID IDENTIFICATION REQUIRED Summer 2020, vol. 2
CenterPoint 11
MASON CITY SCHOOLS
Dear Mason City Schools Community,
O
n April 28th, Mason City Schools voters overwhelmingly approved the critical operating levy to Keep Quality. We are extremely humbled by the voting results, and the commitment that our community has shown to Mason City Schools’ children. We are grateful to our parents, residents, staff, and business leaders for the countless hours worked to help our community understand the need to fund our schools. This levy maintains Mason Quality, and our district’s commitment to personalized learning, inclusive excellence, and safety and mental wellness investments. We also understand that this was a difficult decision for voters— particularly in the middle of a global pandemic. We do not take this sacred trust lightly. We anticipate state funding reductions spurred by the coronavirus. Just like other organizations and companies throughout the country, we will continue to look for ways to respond to the changing economic climate. We will remain diligent with the investment and tax dollars from this community by continuing to contain costs, and transparently sharing our efforts. Thank you for your faith in us, and all that you have taken on during this challenging time in our world. We recognize that our families are juggling many responsibilities during this time of remote learning while school buildings remain closed. We are moved by our staff who are working so hard during this challenging time. We look forward to continuing to serve you, and to finishing the year strong. We commit to creating moments of connection for all of our students—particularly our 887 Class of 2020 grads who deserve a graduation ceremony that honors all their accomplishments and lets them say goodbye to their childhood as they enter the next phase of their bright futures. These are not easy times, but we truly are stronger together. And we could not do this without you. With deep gratitude,
Jonathan Cooper Superintendent
Building Codes and Inspections
B
oth the Ohio Department of Health Stay-at-Home order and the Governor’s Executive Orders specifically allowed construction to continue as essential infrastructure. However, neither addressed relaxing requirements of the Ohio Building Code. Building codes and inspections are in place to assure the safety of the public. Two code requirements have been a challenge for the City as efforts were placed on redirecting resources to first responders and critical services. Ohio Building Code requires all building departments to provide inspections within four days and plan reviews must occur within 30 days. Mason’s failure to meet these requirements meant that work could continue creating the potential for an unsafe situation for residents and businesses in the future.
Keeping resources safe is important to the long-term continuity of operations. As such, the Building Department has been performing inspections with minimum staffing by rotating staff and limiting same surface contact. Inspections requested for new buildings and houses under construction are done either in person or by remote means such as live video, videos, or pictures. In addition, the City has limited contact by accepting only electronic plans and permit applications. Staff also remotely enters new permits, performs residential and commercial plan review, and processes approved permits. Business activity in Mason remains robust and keeping Mason’s residents and businesses safe even during these challenging times is important to the City.
MASON GOLF CENTER The CourseView Restaurant offers Carry-out. Call today!
MEETING UPDATES
The Grizzly Golf Course is still open for play. Hole cups have been raised and golfers are encouraged to hit the cup in lieu of removing balls from the cup.
Board of Trustee Meetings are held on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month. Please visit our site for updates on meeting location, times, and the schedule for our other public meetings including Regional Storm Water Board, Board of Zoning Appeals, Zoning Commission, and more.
TK AD —
www.choosedeerfield.com THE GOLF CENTER
Summer 2020, vol. 2
CenterPoint 13
S
Kings School Designated A Purple Star School
tate Superintendent of Public Instruction Paolo DeMaria announced on Wednesday, January 15, 2020, that 94 schools across Ohio received the coveted Purple Star Award this school year. The Kings Local School District is proud to announce that South Lebanon Elementary School was designated a Purple Star School. The Purple Star designation recognizes schools that demonstrate a major commitment to serving students and families connected to the United States armed forces. “Ohio’s military members and their families embody the ideals of service, sacrifice, and community. But they can’t do their jobs alone. The Purple Star Schools awarded today recognize the sacrifices military members and their loved ones make. These school communities have made a commitment to support them inside and outside the classroom,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “Purple Star Schools are shining examples of Ohioans working together, encouraging one another, caring for one another and, ultimately, creating a brighter future for our state.” “We are grateful for the individuals who serve in our nation’s armed forces, and we recognize the unique challenges
FACT:
There are valuable lessons involved in learning how to use a microscope.
students of military families face during their learning journeys. Our school communities are in a unique position to offer essential supports to ensure these students are prepared for success and their families are cared for and appreciated,” said DeMaria. “Today we recognize the schools showcasing these supports and inspiring all of us by their commitment to our military families.” Approximately 35,000 Ohio students, including the children of active duty, reserve and Ohio National Guard families, have one or more parents serving in the military. Some of these students will attend six to nine different schools from kindergarten through high school. Among the requirements, a school must meet to receive the Purple Star Award are designating a liaison between military-connected students and their families and the school and making certain the liaison informs teachers of the military-connected students in their classrooms and the special considerations military families and students should receive. The Purple Star Advisory Board—formed by the Ohio departments of Education, Higher Education, Veterans Services and Adjutant General—helps determine school eligibility. Congratulations to South Lebanon Elementary third grade teacher Mrs. Rachel Manley for her work in receiving the designation! SLE joins J.F. Burns Elementary School with this designation!
Mason Swim Academy Guests registered for swim lessons and other similar programs that did not take place will be provided with the choice to either transfer their registration to the next session, receive a household credit for future use, or receive a check refund. Staff will initiate this process with guests. There is no action needed by guests at this time. Please email communitycenter@masonoh.org with questions.
BALANCED LEARNING® WAY:
Including how to share.
SEE BALANCED LEARNING IN ACTION. CALL FOR A TOUR TODAY! Infants – Private Kindergarten & After School
Primrose School of Mason 5888 Snider Road | Mason, OH 45040 513.336.6756 | PrimroseMason.com
Primrose School of South Lebanon 719 Corwin Nixon Blvd | South Lebanon, OH 45065 513.770.0048 | PrimroseSouthLebanon.com Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools® and Balanced Learning® are registered trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2016 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. See primroseschools.com for ‘fact’ source and curriculum detail.
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REGIONAL GROWTH AWARDS RECOGNIZE IMPACTFUL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENT IN SOUTHWEST OHIO Mason’s Announcement this past December of Precision Castpart Corporation Project Wins One of Top Four 2019 Growth Award as the Largest Regional Aerospace Investment in 2019
VETERANS RELIEF PROGRAM With the evolving COVID-19 pandemic, the Warren County Veterans Services has developed a relief program to assist veteran households. If approved through this program, veterans may be able to receive assistance with rent or mortgage payments, utility payments (electric and gas only), and food and gas vouchers. Please visit warrencountyveterans.com for more information and to apply.
R EDI Cincinnati is the regional economic development organization that represents JobOhio and partners closely with the City of Mason to attract and grow companies. On March 12th REDI celebrated its annual meeting and paid tribute to the most significant economic development projects across the Tri-State. The James A. Wuenker Growth Awards recognize impactful corporate investment and job creation. Representing the largest aerospace investment for the region in 2019, the City of Mason was proud to participate in welcoming and recognizing new corporate partners PCC & SPS Technologies (both part of the Berkshire Hathaway Family of companies). With few exceptions, every aircraft in the sky flies with parts made by PCC. The two companies announced Mason as the finalist location for a $128 million state of the art aerospace campus development. The projects are important to Mason because they shine a national spotlight on the City and region’s growing aerospace hub. Their decision is a true testament to the City of Mason.
MASON’S BUSINESS COMMUNITY RESOURCES Support for Local Business IMAGINEMASON ORG Check out Mason’s video series for guidance on various financial assistance opportunities and programs available during the pandemic
Mason Deerfield Chamber Toolkit https //www madechamber org/covid- -toolkit
SBA Business Guidance and Loan Assistance https //www sba gov/disaster-assistance/coronavirus-covid-
REDI Cincinnati https //redicincinnati com/covid- -resources
JobsOhio COVID- Support for Ohio Companies https //www jobsohio com/covid- -resources
U S Department of Labor Preparing Workplaces https //www dol gov
PHOTOGRAPH BY WEYO/STOCK.ADOBE.COM
Summer 2020, vol. 2
CenterPoint 15
Achieving Lifelong Wellness Through Swimming Swimming is a great way for the entire family to get active and is a sport that brings fitness and enjoyment for life. Swimming provides health benefits such as reducing blood pressure, relieving joint pain, increasing flexibility, as well as building endurance, muscle strength, and cardiovascular fitness. Swimming does a better job than any other sport in proportional muscular development as it uses all of the body’s major muscle groups.
Swimming burns almost 40% more calories than biking per hour and almost 30% more calories than running per hour. Next time you want to get a great workout in, consider swimming! Below is a brief guide to each swimming stroke. Try one or all of them out next time you put your goggles on and dive in!
FREESTYLE
BREASTSTROKE
The freestyle stroke is swum in a horizontal position with your body facing down. Your body rolls from one side to the other while alternating arms pull the water and legs perform a flutter kick. Your head turns to the side for breath.
The breaststroke is swum in a prone position (meaning face down in the water) with both arms moving synchronously in half-circular movements underwater. Your legs also perform synchronously and execute a whip kick.
BUTTERFLY
BACKSTROKE Backstroke is swum on your back with your arms executing alternating movements with one sweeping underwater while the other overhead and vice versa. Your legs perform a flutter kick.
Butterfly is known to be the hardest to learn. Your arms move synchronously outwards while executing a similar stroke to freestyle. Your body moves in a wave-like movement with a dolphin kick, where your feet and legs are together.
Swimming is the most injury free sport of all children’s sports. LEARN HOW TO SWIM AT MASON COMMUNITY CENTER! Whether you want to learn to swim for safety and to feel comfortable in the water or are looking to join a competitive swim team and further your swimming skills, the Mason Swim America program offers what you need. At the time of publication, the Community Center is currently closed. Visit imaginemason.org for updates.
Swimming Safety Swimming is an outstanding wellness activity that provides countless social and health benefits. The City of Mason is committed to helping enhance a culture of swimming safety. Although swimming is great for overall health, it can also present a hazardous and potentially dangerous environment for some. Did you know that most drownings occur in backyard swimming pools? While no age group is exempt, young children ages 1–14 are especially prone to the risk of drowning. The Mason Fire Department encourages you to follow a few tips to have fun in the sun, safely. • Make sure everyone in your family learns how to swim. While this does not eliminate the need for supervision, knowing how to swim can help protect your child from drowning. Swim lessons are available through the Mason Community Center. Please visit ImagineMason.org for more information. • Be the lifeguard for your own party by being actively engaged and putting phones or other distractions away. Drowning can be a silent act and it is important stay vigilant. • If a child is missing, always check the water first. • Use pool flotation devices for fun, not as life jackets. While these are enjoyable toys, they do not offer the same protection or safety as a life jacket. It’s best to keep U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets available for use.
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• Teach children to ask permission to get in the water. • Stay out of the water when you are very tired, cold, or overheated. • Drink plenty of water regularly, even if you’re not thirsty. And refrain from using alcohol. Alcohol use is involved in up to 70% of deaths associated with water recreation for adolescents and adults. • Learn CPR. CPR saves lives and can be an integral part in treating a drowning victim. The City of Mason offers CPR classes taught by Mason Firefighter/Paramedics. You can register for a CPR class through the Mason Community Center at ImagineMason.org.
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To find the right care when and where you need it, visit TriHealth.com/CareNow
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