No pews were empty at St. Clare Church on Martin Luther King Day, but some weren't full. "Next year," said Bishop Todd O'Neal, pastor of the House of Joy, "there should be standing room only!"

The second annual Community Martin Luther King Day Celebration, sponsored by the College Hill Ministerium, began with a unity march up Hamilton Avenue and ended with food and fellowship. In between, a multi-racial, multi-generational crowd prayed, sang, and listened to College Hill pastors and guests explore Dr. King's legacy. While television and newspaper accounts typically celebrate his achievements as a civil rights leader and national hero, the Ministerium reminded the crowd that Dr. King's passion for justice began with his Christian faith.

The College Hill Mass Choir, conducted alternately by Bishop O'Neal and Dr. Catherine Roma, had the crowd on their feet cheering. Dr. Eileen Cooper-Reed, newly elected to the Cincinnati Public School Board, spoke about what the principles Dr. King lived and died for mean for today's children. Rev. Mendle Adams, pastor of the First United Church of Christ in Pleasant Ridge, remembered how many clergy of his own denomination and others remained "lukewarm" to King's calls for justice, despite Scripture's warnings. The fight for justice, he said, still continues and must be won.

The highlight of the evening for College Hill residents was the awarding of the Ministerium's second annual Martin Luther King Jr. Service Award to Amos Robinson. Martin Weldishofer, a fellow College Hill volunteer, presented the award for Nathl Moore, director of Christ’s Community in College Hill, who could not attend. Weldishofer spoke about Mr. Robinson's tireless work with Citizens on Patrol, CPOP, and Courtwatch; as well as his years attending meetings of the College Hill Forum, Cincinnati City Council and the Hamilton County Commissioners; and his many meetings with the mayor and other government officials on behalf of the neighborhood.

Mr. Robinson urged the crowd to join him in working for the good of the neighborhood. "All of you who call on the name of Jesus Christ," he said, "get out of the pews, and onto the streets."

Rev. Harold Chapman, former pastor of the College Hill Presbyterian Church and last year's recipient of the service award, talked about the importance of a living wage and better housing in College Hill. Other area ministers led prayers, read Scripture and offered reflections.

Father George Jacquemin, pastor of St. Clare and current director of the Ministerium, said that the evening was just what the pastors wanted. "It's a good thing that the churches and the community come together to celebrate Martin Luther King and his dream," he said. "It’s a dream that we're trying to bring to life here in College Hill."

Article contributed by Gail Finke.

Aiken College & Career High School treated over 60 friends and supporters to a Community Breakfast on January 21 at Aiken.

In his opening remarks, Principal Eric Thomas talked about what every child needs to develop to full maturity. “We understand that it really does take a village to raise a child. Parents participate by supporting the school and school guidelines, ensuring their child does homework and encouraging daily attendance. Community partners contribute through their involvement as well.”

This breakfast was Mr. Thomas’ opportunity to honor and strengthen the partnerships with the community that are critical to our children’s development. Every attendee was asked to stand and be recognized.

Several people received special recognition for their support:

• Dr. Ted Zigler, UC professor in the Educational Administration Program, who has provided personal guidance to Mr. Thomas over the years.
• Joe Maas, owner of JTM Foods, who speaks regularly with students at Aiken C&C.
• Dr. Marianne Krismer, Director of Health & Human Services at Cincinnati State, who is help seniors earning dual high school & college credit.
• Dr. Mark Staples, Assistant Director of Gear Up, a federally-funded program at Aiken C&C which promotes college access and awareness.
• Betty Willingham, parent of an Aiken C&C student and president of the Aiken C&C LSDMC (Local School Decision Making Committee).
• Rick Schroer, member of the Aiken C&C LSDMC and Assistant Director of the College Hill Recreation Center.
• Laketa Cole, Aiken alumna and member of Cincinnati City Council, who is working to help establish a partnership between the city and Aiken C&C.
• Phyllis Schoenberger, member of the Aiken C&C LSDMC and College Hill community representative (see following article).
• Paula Kollstedt and Tim Kinne from General Electric, who is Aiken’s Partner in Education and funds and promotes College Bound initiatives.

Principal Thomas also thanked Drew McLandrich for his help leading Aiken C&C’s new promotional effort, one of whose products is a new Aiken C&C brochure, the cover of which is shown at the top of this article.

This is a summary of Phyllis Schoenberger’s remarks on receiving a plaque in honor of her support of Aiken College & Career High School from Principal Eric Thomas in January.

If schools are going to change:

• People in the schools must change.
• The organizational/operating systems must change.
• The community must change.

Eric Thomas and the dedicated staff of Aiken College & Career High School are doing their part. Eric has brought a new leadership based on vision, respect, and team building. Now it’s up to the community to do its part.

In May 2004, the College Hill Community Problem Oriented Policing Team (CPOP) began looking at the relationship of Aiken and the community. Because of that, on behalf of CPOP, I sent a community email with the subject: "Aiken, Whose School Is It Anyway?” I went on to say, “College Hill is making enormous strides at so many levels. As I have looked at the community over the last five years, I visualize it as a jig-saw puzzle. We have some pieces of that puzzle in place. However, there are two glaring pieces missing and those pieces are Youth and Education. College Hill will never be a healthy community until our schools are healthy and they are NOT.”

I have a sign on my desk that reads “Faith is the investment in what you believe.” Today, I believe there is hope. I believe there is hope as we see Principal Eric Thomas bringing new energy, being a role model, engaging the community of CH and the community of Cincinnati at large. I believe there is hope at the Cincinnati Public School Board with our newly elected representatives. I believe there is hope with the new City Council. What is missing? You are missing. The community is missing.

What is the Face of Aiken that you see? The Face of Aiken that you see depends on the extent of your involvement in Aiken. If you are not involved, the Face of Aiken may just be that school down in the pit, or young person on the street who is not living up to your expectations. You need to find a new Face of Aiken. This room today is filled with the Face of Aiken. Eric Thomas is the new Face of Aiken. Just one student who makes straight A's can become the Face of Aiken.

Amy Finnegan, Tom Strothers and I are working on a plan for a long term community commitment to Aiken High Schools. On February 24 College Hill will have its 2nd Annual Community Pot Luck (more below). This will be the kick off for community support for Aiken.

If you don't remember anything else about today, I ask that you remember to ask yourself this question: AIKEN, WHOSE SCHOOL IS IT? The answer is simple and clear: It is yours, it is mine, it is ours! Claim it by becoming a part of the Face of Aiken!

Aiken High School was College Hill's neighborhood high school when it was built in 1962, and it has built up an active alumni association. It later became a citywide school, and suffered a gradual decline resulting in high drop-out and low graduation rates.

Aiken was one of the first Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS) high schools to be redesigned in the new Schools of Choice model. Its staff have been spearheading CPS efforts to increase test scores and graduation rates and to prepare all Cincinnati students to become responsible citizens with rewarding careers.

The Aiken campus currently houses two separate schools: Aiken University High School and Aiken College and Career High School. Each has its own principal and staff. Both schools are part of the GE College Board and GE Scholars programs, which provide tutoring and rewards achievement. Both offer sports, student government and a variety of clubs and activities. Students wear uniforms at both schools. Both buildings will be completely renovated in 2009.

Aiken College and Career High School mixes service learning with academics. Students explore careers in public service in ninth and tenth grades, then choose a career "major" to investigate their final two years. The school offers monthly visits to colleges, three computer labs, opportunities to earn college credit at Cincinnati State and UC and other programs. For more information, call 513-363-6760 or see www.aikencollegecareer.cps-k12.org.

Aiken University High School helps students graduate with all the skills they need to succeed in college. AP English, a dual enrollment program at UC offering college credit in biology and sociology and intensive test preparation classes are among the school's offerings. For more information, call 513-363-6800 or see www.aikenuniversity.cps-k12.org.

Article contributed by Gail Finke.

This year, for the first time, Cincinnati Public School (CPS) eighth-grade students wanting to attend any CPS high school will not register at the school. Instead, the students will register on-line at any computer that is part of the CPS network.

Here's how: By February 3, CPS students entering ninth grade will apply on computers at their elementary schools. Students will rank their top five high schools or, in the case of high schools offering more than one program, their top five programs.

All 17 CPS high schools are now "schools of choice." This means that no student will be automatically assigned a school based on its location or program. CPS high schools offer 29 different programs, including Paideia and Montessori programs, college preparatory programs, and schools geared toward various professions, such as the School for Creative and Performing Arts and the unique Zoo Academy. Several schools have entrance requirements.

CPS schools are open to all children who live in the city. Students who attend private or parochial schools, or who are home-schooled, can register at the CPS Customer Help Center at 2651 Burnet Avenue in Corryville. Some other students will also need to register in person at their chosen school: Students entering one of the programs that begin in seventh grade, students registering for a CPS school beginning in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade, and high school students who want to change schools must all register at the school with their parents.

Article contributed by Gail Finke.

Mark your calendars now for the Second Annual College Hill Community Pot Luck at College Hill Presbyterian Church on February 24 from 5:30 to 8:00 pm.

This annual event is hosted by the Forum Community Events Team with the help of all of our friends and neighbors. There will be entertainment, good food and fun. Bring a casserole to feed 8 to 12.

As the community comes together to work with the Aiken High Schools, we ask that you join us in meeting personal needs of some of the students. When you shop, pick up some personal care extras such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, tampons, sanitary napkins, soap, dental floss and cotton swabs. Also needed is underwear for girls in S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL sizes, girl’s socks sizes 6-10 and boy’s socks size 13 and up. Money contributions will be accepted as well as gifts that could be used by the teachers to reward students who have made great strides in their achievements. Bring items to the pot luck and help make a difference.

If you have any questions or want to help out, please leave a message at 513-588-6465.

Article contributed by Phyllis Schoenberger.

College Hill Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation rolled out its Business Façade Program at the College Hill Business Association’s meeting in January.

The Façade Program will be a vital part of the rejuvenation of the College Hill Business District. At least ten improved facades will enhance the appearance of the business district to make it compatible with the new streetscape. They will help regain the business district’s historic character, increase market values and retain and assist local businesses in providing a charming and inviting atmosphere.

Marty Weldishofer, Director of Development, explained how business and property owners in the business district can apply for the 50/50 match. Eligible improvements to a building are those that can be seen from the public right-of-way, such as windows, doors, cornices, cleaned brick and flower boxes. Business owners must apply and receive approval for their grant from the Architectural Review Board, which is chaired by Don Cluxton, CHCURC Board member.

The funding for the program, $300,000, was allocated to CHCURC by Cincinnati Neighborhood Businesses United (CNBDU). When matched by the businesses, this will mean a total of more than half a million dollars worth of improvements on the Avenue.

For details, contact Mary Weldishofer, Program Director, at 513-681-4205 or email chcurc@collegehillohio.info.

Look for some new facades this summer!

Article contributed by Carol Lyon.

On Wednesday, February 7, College Hill Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation will review successes of 2005 and present projects to be accomplished in 2006. The CHCURC Annual Meeting will be held at Twin Towers’ Gulden Community Center.

Registration & mingling starts at 6:00 pm, dinner is at 6:30 pm and the meeting proper starts at 7:15 pm. If you want dinner, please reserve your meal with Karen Hartman at 681-5648 by January 31 (cost is $20)

Don't pay to get your own money back. You can claim your Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), have your returns prepared and e-filed for free and receive up to $4,400 additional cash back through the Make Work Pay in Cincinnati Program.

IRS-certified volunteers will prepare and E-file income tax returns to help low low-to-moderate-income workers claim Earned Income Tax Credits of up to $4,400. Last year, an estimated 14,000 Cincinnati residents who qualified for this credit did not claim it. That amounted to $9 million Cincinnati residents left on the table!

To find the free tax preparation site near where you work or live, call United Way 211 (dial 2-1-1).

In our January 8 issue's article "College Hill Wins Big at “Just Desserts” 26th Annual Clean & Beautiful Awards" we inadvertently omitted Councilman David Crowley's name as being among the people who presented the Neighborhood Awards. This was unfortunate, because councilman Crowley has long been a supporter of College Hill. He, as usual, was most gracious in his positive remarks about College Hill at the Awards Ceremony. He has been a frequent visitor to our neighborhood functions and fund raisers. We thank Councilman Crawley for his advocacy in our community's behalf and offer our sincere apology for our omission.

We have lost a dear friend and loyal supporter of College Hill Gardeners and Citizens on Patrol in the sudden passing of Norma Holt. We count the four short years she served with us as precious. She was a delightful person to talk with and to be around. Norma dearly loved the Farm Market, where she worked each late shift during the season.

Article by Beth McLean.

The Cincinnati Waldorf School will be moving to College Hill in two years. This private school invites prospective families to an open house to learn about its unique program. The open house offers guided tours, conversation with teachers, toddler program demonstrations, displays, and refreshments.

Come February 4 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm to 745 Derby Avenue, Winton Place. For information call 513-541-0220 or see www.cincinnatiwaldorfschool.org.

Hamilton County Park District’s 2006 Employment Open House will be held on Saturday, February 4 from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at four Park District locations – Winton Centre in Winton Woods, Sharon Centre in Sharon Woods, Miami Whitewater Forest Visitor Center and Sweetwine Banquet Center in Woodland Mound.

The Park District will be hiring over 125 new employees to fill seasonal positions for the 2006 season. Positions will be available in the following departments – Camping, Fishing & Boating, Food Service, Golf, Grounds Maintenance, Landscaping, Naturalists, Parky’s Farm, The Riding Center and Safety. Hiring begins at 16 years of age for some positions.

Applicants can stop by between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm and complete an Employment Application, talk with Department Supervisors and enjoy Free Refreshments!

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park presents "Anansi, Brer Rabbit and the Barking Mouse: Tales of Tricksters and Wise Fools" featuring LuAnn Adams on February 17 at 8:45 am at the College Hill Branch Library. There is no charge, but call Miss Arnice at 513-369-6036 for reservations.

Have you dreamed of owning your own home? Are you interested in home ownership? Come learn about:

• How to find the mortgage that’s right for you;
• Credit and how it affects your ability to buy a house;
• How to apply for a loan;
• The National City Mortgage Low Down Payment Program;
• What to look for in a home inspection;
• Working with a realtor;
• And much more.

This free class will be held Saturday, February 4, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Lunch is provided. Come to the WIN Economic Learning Center, 1814 Dreman Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45223 (Enter the building from the parking lot on Llewellyn Avenue).

Certificates of completion will be provided to participants who attend the entire session. As a special addition, those who participate will be part of a drawing for a valuable door prize.

For more information or to register please call 541-4109.

Sponsored by Working in Neighborhoods (WIN) and National City Home Mortgage.

Cincinnati artist Thomas Zink will be offering drawing and painting classes for area students at Eden Grove Academy beginning February 24. The Friday afternoon classes, open to students in all grades, will be held for seven weeks.

Classes will cover many subjects and techniques in drawing and painting, including pencil sketching, charcoal and pastel, figure and animal drawing, cartooning, watercolor painting, landscapes, still life, potraits, composition and color theory.

Mr. Zink is a graduate and former instructor at the Art School of William E. Gebhart and the Ohio Visual Art Institute.

Classes are from 4:00 to 5:30 pm. The course fee is $75 Students may bring their own supplies or purchase them from the instructor. To register, come to the school at 3:45 on February 24. If the class is not filled that day, late enrollment will be permitted.

Eden Grove Academy, a private Christian school operated by Pillar of Fire ministries, is located on Collegevue Place off North Bend Road. For information on other locations, registration, or continuing programs, call 859-431-7237.

The guest speaker at the next College Hill Business Association Meeting on February 21 will be Laurie Fitzgerald Althaus. Ms Fitzgerald Althaus helps businesses generate improved results through unique approaches to advertising, prospect-to-customer conversion, and team building. She has more than 30 years of both entrepreneurial and corporate experience. Her commitment is to help Cincinnati business owners increase their profits, improve their work/life balance, and teach new ways to look at their businesses.

The meeting starts at 8:00 am at Twin Towers’ Gulden Center. Coffee, juice & rolls are served.

Keep Cincinnati Beautiful is having its first Happy Hour Benefit on Thursday, February 2nd from 6:00 to 9:00 pm at McFadden's Restaurant and Saloon downtown. The cost is $10 at the door with a silent auction, raffle and door prizes. With drink specials and complimentary food, it's too good to pass up! All proceeds go to KCB.

McFadden's is at 19 East 7th Street. Some members of College Hill Gardeners will be attending, so call CHG at 513-681-1326 to carpool.

On February 12 the McAuley High School Vocal Ensemble is sponsoring a spaghetti dinner to raise funds for a competition trip to Nashville in April. This fund raising event includes an Italian dinner while the Vocal Ensemble entertains throughout the evening. Dinner, refreshments and entertainment are all included in the price.

Split-the-pot raffle chances will be available and in addition, the families of Vocal Ensemble have put together a variety of gift baskets full of great items to be raffled during the event.

Dinner is served from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm with show times at 4:30 pm, 5:30 pm and 6:30pm. Adults $7; Seniors and Students $5; under 5 $2.50 No advanced reservations required. Call 513-681-1800 Ext: 2228 for more information.