Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow: Farewell to “Eugene” the Barber
By Pete McBride
For two decades, Eugene “Gene” Maxson has been an adept and popular provider of haircare services at the Village’s landmark Mariemont Barber Shop, located on the west side of Madisonville Road and structurally part of the venerable Mariemont Inn. Over the years, Gene has served hundreds of loyal customers of all ages - providing literally thousands of haircuts, beard trims, and shaves. And, oh yes... he has swept the shop floor a time or two!
After much forethought - and not without some mixed emotions - Gene recently decided to leave his Mariemont barber chair to pursue what has been his long-held dream: to own and operate his own barber shop. The catalyst that finally triggered his decision to move on was the unexpected availability of a highly-desirable, central storefront location in downtown Loveland - one that he has had his eye on for some time. And it is in the same community where Eugene and his wife, Barb, and their two young daughters, Hazel and Harlow, live. That coincidence was perhaps an omen that the time was ripe for him to pursue an enticing entrepreneurial opportunity, not to mention more time at home with his family, thanks to a much shorter commute to and from work.
The new barbering business, scheduled for a fall opening, will be christened “The Railway Barber Shop” in acknowledgement of the historical importance of railroads to the City of Loveland. In the mid-1800s, trains regularly steamed and streamed between Loveland and Cincinnati. Loveland was also a pass-through point for the Underground Railroad that provided “safe houses’’ to runaway slaves en route to free states and to Canada. (See: “The Railroads of Loveland, Ohio’’ at blogstationbay.
com ) And yes,
Mr. Maxson holds a degree in photography and psychology, as well as an Ohio Barbering License, earned after 12 months of training plus “Written and Practical Licensing Exams.” Eugene wants all of his Mariemont
customers and colleagues to know how much he has appreciated their friendship, trust, and loyal support over the years. Many patrons have, in fact, gone on to bring their sons to him for their first haircuts. In his own words: “It all means the world to me.”
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the new shop will sport a nifty railroad-motif decor.
2022 FAB Tickets on Sale
Tickets are on now on sale for the 2022 FAB Affair! This year’s event is back in person and takes place February 12, 2022
benefit our three district-wide support organizations:
at the historic Monastery in Mt Adams. The evening’s theme is “For the Love of the Schools” and will feature both a live and silent auction, raffle baskets, delicious food and drinks, and more! The event will begin at 6 p.m., and proceeds will
Mariemont School F oundation Mariemont A rts Association Mariemont B oosters
Join us! Please visit FABTix.org or scan the QR code to get your tickets now before the event fills up!
Note from the Publisher
Our apologies for a misprint of school board candidate Laura Organisciak’s email address in our October issue. Her correct email address is laura.k.organisciak@ gmail.com. We also did not have notice of Tyler Craig Martin’s Village Council candidacy, and apologize for the inadvertent omission in the Village Council Candidate bios. Last, but not least, the photo accompanying the article “Becca’s Book Box” was courtesy of photographer Ross Van Pelt and The Scout Guide Cincinnati.
The
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Community
Eugene the Barber (from page 1)
He recalls one memorable episode while cutting the hair of a very young lad, his mother watching from a nearby chair in the barber shop. The youngster must have been very relaxed under Gene’s attentive care and perhaps was also overdue for his daily nap.
The little fellow fell sound asleep on the booster seat in the barber chair, only to unexpectedly and alarmingly begin to slide head-first in a downward plummet toward the shop floor. Eugene, with his comb and clippers still in one hand, performed a swooping one-handed, diving catch of the young man’s torso that would have made a Bengals widereceiver proud. As well as ending one terrified and forever-grateful mom’s instant of sheer panic.
As any of his past and future customers will surely attest, Eugene brings high entertainment value to every haircut. Or as he likes to say, “Your haircut is free, but you have to pay for my jokes.”
And one lesser known fun fact: Eugene’s real first name is Brian! So as not to confuse patrons with the other Brian who was already in residence at Mariemont Barber Shop when “Gene” joined the team, he had all of his customers call him by his middle name. As he begins his new journey at his dream shop in Loveland, he now invites patrons to call him Brian.
Well, Brian, much continuing happiness, satisfaction, and success in your exciting new venture. Brian is reachable via email at Railwaybarbershopllc@gmail.com
Holiday Light Recycling is Back
By Margaret Jevic
As we settle into this season of cooler weather, the calendar continues to creep toward the holidays. Starting December 1, Sustainable Mariemont’s holiday light
collection at Ace will resume for the season.
Bring us your strands of broken holiday lights and we will recycle them for you! We typically have loads over 500 pounds - all of that material is kept out of the landfill
and stripped for usable parts by a recycling facility. A marked bin will be placed at Ace Hardware on Wooster Pike near the doors. All you do is drop them in and a Sustainable Mariemont volunteer will collect them and recycle them properly. Happy decorating!
photos credit Steve Spooner
Village
Village Spotlight on The Service Department
By John Scherpenberg, Village Service Department Superintendent
The Service Department has many roles within the Village of Mariemont. This year working on the improvements at the pool was one of the biggest challenges. The crew keeps busy with over fifteen parks and open spaces as well as maintaining the baseball and soccer fields. When Covid-19 spread throughout the Village, the department began spraying the playground equipment each morning to help kill any germs/viruses. We continue to spray the equipment daily unless it rains.
Along with the large limb brush route, which is collected on the first and third Monday and Tuesday of the month, the Service Department also empties 38 Village trash cans on Monday, Friday, and certain ones on Wednesday. The department maintains Village
streets, storm sewers, park/ street trees and sidewalks. When available, we provide street cleaning throughout the Village.
The department collects leaves from late October through the third week in December, decorates the Village for the holidays and tree lighting, and handles snow removal as needed. For the past four years, the Service Department has used liquid de -icer, which is 80 percent brine and 20 percent “magic salt” (the byproduct of gin and vodka). That’s right – alcohol! Mixed together, it creates a hot mix so the snow doesn’t stick to the pavement,
and it makes the roads easier to plow (alcohol does not freeze). This product can be sprayed 3-4 days prior to the snow event, cutting cost of overtime.
The department works with the Police and Fire Departments when emergencies arise. Likewise the Fire Department will help on our off-duty emergency calls relating to down trees, auto accident clean up, clogged sewers during heavy rains, and will assist in snow removal as needed.
The department works hard keeping the Village clean and beautiful along with the volunteers picking up trash on our streets and wooded areas. In the spring the volunteers and staff work together getting the parks, flower beds and pots ready to plant and mulch. This department continues to look at new ways to make jobs more efficient and keep costs down. The department has several outside contracts for mowing, dumping of large items, brush, leaves, debris, and tire disposal. Since 1999 the department has saved the Village over $ 1 million.
We are very grateful for all of our resident volunteers and the many hours they provide to assist us in keeping the Village beautiful. Our
Oyler Group
Mariemont Service Department team, L-R: Kevin Schmid, Michael Evanchyk, John Scherpenberg, Jamey Swader, and Ben James.
Service Department (from previous page)
community has the distinct honor of receiving the Tree City USA award for 30 years. Over the past few years, the Village and Mariemont Preservation Foundation (MPF) have worked closely together on the tree planting program. This year we created a new Tree Advisory Board to help continue making Village trees a priority. This group has work hard creating an inventory of trees by street to determine what type of tree works best on each street – aiming to keep with the John Nolen and Eleanor Christie plan where possible. To donate money for trees, contact the Mariemont Preservation Foundation at mariemontpreservation.org
The Mariemont Village Service Department is located at 5851 Mariemont Avenue. We can be reached at 513-272-5741.
Service Department Personnel
We currently have five full-time employees, along with many Village volunteers.
Village
John Scherpenberg, Superintendent
I was hired in 1990 as a police officer for Mariemont. In 1999, I transferred into the Service Department replacing Jack Schreckenhofer. I live in Miami Township (Clermont) with my wife Marilyn of 29 years. We have three children and four Grandchildren, ages 1-11. We enjoy the outdoors, fishing, camping and going on excursions in the RV with the family. We enjoy traveling to the Tennessee area the most, whether its Gatlinburg, Nashville or Graceland, and visiting with old friends.
Kevin Schmid, Mechanic
I started with the Village of Mariemont part time in 1997 and became full time in 1999. My wife Kim and I have three children, sons Kevin and Mike, and step-son Chris. I live in Brown County on a small farm and enjoy hunting, fishing and cars.
Abinadab (Ben) James, Service Worker
I have been married to my lovely wife LaToya James for 21 years. We have four beautiful children - three daughters and one son. Lauryn, the oldest, is studying nursing at UC. Jayden, the second, works for the Mariemont Pool and currently is studying psychology at Xavier. Both Kamryn and Bricyn are students in the Indian Hill School District. I enjoy family time, playing drums, and coaching basketball and football.
I have worked for the Village for 14 years, keeping it as beautiful as ever.
Michael Evanchyk, Service Worker
I was hired July 31, 2017. I have been married for 13 years and have three children. I enjoy fishing and exploring with my children.
Jeremy Swader, Service Worker
I started working for the Village of Mariemont in July 2019. I am single and have no children. I enjoy fishing and hunting on my off days.
Mariemont Scouts Christmas Tree and Girl Scouts Wreath Sales Start Nov. 26
The Scouts of Mariemont Troop 149 and local Girl Scout troops will return to the lawn of the Mariemont Municipal Building at 6907 Wooster Pike on Black Friday, Nov. 26, for their annual tree and wreath sales. This annual event is a holiday tradition for many families in the area. Black Friday extended hours will be noon to 8 p.m., so you can kick the season off right!
Immediately after being cut down, Fraser firs ranging from five feet to 12 feet tall are brought by truck from a family-owned farm. There are several shipments during the season so you know you’re getting a fresh tree. Thick, fresh pine roping, tree stands and tree disposal bags are also sold at a Santa-friendly price.
Purchased trees receive a fresh trunk cut to help with water absorption, branches trimmed following your instruction and mounting on
your car for no additional charge. The Scouts will happily take a photo of your family with your new tree.
Holiday tree sales are Troop 149’s only fundraiser. As such, every Scout will volunteer for a minimum of 24 hours at the tree lot – rain or shine – in addition to his or her other extracurriculars, sports and academics.
The local Girl Scouts will be on hand as well, selling fresh, handdecorated pine wreaths. Wreaths will be from 14-24 inches, in plain, standard, and deluxe designs starting at $20. All deluxe wreaths are hand-decorated by the Senior Troop 40829. All of the wreath proceeds will go to benefit the
Girl Scouts and the Senior Troop in their efforts to get to Europe in 2023!
The Girl Scouts will also be back at The Barn, 6980 Cambridge Ave., selling wreaths at
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Scouts of Mariemont Troop 149 provide fresh, Fraser Fir Christmas trees.
Tree sale (from previous page)
The Barn’s annual Showcase of Arts Holiday Pop Up Shop, December 4-5.There will be lots of hand-made art for sale by local artisans.
Be a part of a charming tradition, and start making special holiday season memories for your home. With twinkly lights overhead and holiday music playing throughout, shopping for that special tree and wreath is fun and easy.
The “tree lot” is open daily November 26 to mid-December (or until they run out of trees, so don’t put off your visit!). Learn more about the tree sales, including hours and events, at Troop 149’s Facebook page: Facebook. com/ScoutChristmasTree or on our website troop149.com/tree-sales.
Community
October an Active Month for Girl Scouts
By Ellie Haynes, 10th Grade Troop 40829
Mariemont Girl Scouts Troops are ready for another month of fun! In October, the 4th grade troop 41238 had their first meeting of the month at Dale Park where they talked about which organization they would make their annual donation to. They also bridged from Brownies to Juniors, a very exciting transition to a new level of Girl Scouts!
The 10th grade troop had a lot going on last month. They volunteered at the food booths for the Warrior Run, they helped a local family by painting faces for the Warriors for Grace fundraiser for Juvenile Arthritis, and they went to Findlay Market to find local produce to use for a dish they made at their meeting; this is part of their Locavore badge (they love helping their community and volunteering - please contact Julie Aiello at hertenja@gmail.com if you are ever interested in our volunteer services).
ank you to the Mariemont families who supported local businesses last year. ese local companies, both retail and service, invest in our community with their time, their money and their hearts. e owners of these Mariemont companies are vital to the life of the village; they sponsor school events, are involved in local churches, volunteer for village organizations and much more. ank you for your business! I appreciate being a part of this wonderful village and look forward to serving your family!
- Kim Beach
Girl Scouts paint young fans faces at the Warrior Run.
Girls Scouts will sell hand-made holiday wreaths at the Scout tree sale starting November 26 at the Village offices.
By Matt Ayer
Community Timeless Beauty: The Chapel’s Metalwork
Metalwork is the theme in this third in a series of four articles describing the artistry, materials and craftsmanship found in the gemstone of our Village, the Mariemont Memorial Church building.
Architect Louis Jallade designed the Chapel to look centuries old, as though it were beamed out of the English countryside into the then-new town of Mariemont. Copper, iron, lead, and tin were formed by artisans of the period to create a number of noteworthy elements.
Carefully planned to look ancient from the day it opened, the Chapel was also “cutting edge” in some ways for the 1920s. Heat was temporarily provided via a coal-fired boiler in the basement until it could be fed by a central steam plant that served the entire town. Advances in lighting – tungsten filaments in an inert gas mixture under vacuum – had drastically increased life and brightness of incandescent lighting just in time for the building of Mariemont. The architect and builders adapted these new technologies for comfort and function but carefully retained the quaint, pre-industrial age aesthetics in their interpretation of the Norman Gothic Revival style.
To greet the worshipper, a likely local but unknown artisan formed metal copper and tin sheets with hand tools and rivets to create substantial hanging “lanterns” at each door,
electrified with their wires camouflaged via a decorative chain or hook. The patina from weathering on the outdoor lanterns contrast with another lantern located just inside the main entrance. Each has its own unique shape and style.
Fixtures in the sanctuary were designed to resemble candle lighting. An unknown smith custom-forged iron “candelabras” that hang from hand-forged iron hooks, with each lamp inside a candleholder complete with faux drip pan. Wires are carefully concealed in metal channel. Smaller versions of these fixtures include iron spikes as though they were made to hold a wax candle. For an even more realistic feeling of yesteryear, beautiful candlelit services are held
each Christmas Eve by Mariemont Community Church.
On the building’s exterior, one remarkable example of period metalwork can be seen only via drone or a trip through the hatchway to the tower’s roof. The “flatlock” roof is made from tiles cut from heavy copper sheet that are hammer-seamed, fluxed and soldered for watertightness. This roof was restored in 1991 by Imbus Roofing Company, and remains in excellent condition.
The building’s gutters and downspouts are lead-coated copper and have been replaced only one time as the 100-year anniversary approaches. Near the vestry door (facing Oak Street) beneath
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A rare look at the tower’s roof, thanks to drone photography.
where three roof facets meet, a gutter box is an amazing work of art in itself. This artisanal work is testament to the thought and care that went into the construction details. On a tour of the Chapel, this corner view is highlighted – a unique door, a lantern, ornate gutter box, complex roof angles, beautifully arched windows, the tower and fleche all come together in one photo.
Mr. Jallade drew hardware on each of the uniquely shaped exterior doors for interpretation by a local artisan. These copper pieces were not cut or stamped. Look carefully and the chisel marks by the artisan are evident, as are the hand-punched designs.
The architect’s vision and the artisan’s interpretation. Note that this door was also hung in the opposite direction. It’s likely the builder had a good reason.
Finally, the building’s spire (far right) is a remarkable piece of 1920s craftsmanship. The frame was constructed from wood, with its exterior clad with seamed sheets of lead. The weathered patina blends beautifully with the embellishments, including the copper-alloy elements that culminate in the tip of the fleche (French for “arrow”). The sharp metal tip also serves as lightning protection for the building, with a heavy-gauge copper wire connected to an earth ground.
Community
The ornate features of the fleche are evident in this drone shot, which also has the carillon in the background, and the cemetery wall and path the Lich Gate below.
The vision of Mary Emery and Charles Livingood and the unique design by Louis Jallade led to a work of timeless beauty, made possible by the expert skills of apprenticed trades and artisans.
Thank you to Jordan Graff of Iron Belle Metal Design for technical assistance and for restoration work on one of the lanterns. Photos by Ron Adair. Drone photography by Imbus Roofing.
Don’t miss the “gutter box” as you stroll around the Chapel.
Chapel (from previous page)
Mariemont Tree Plan Under Way
By Margaret Jevic
When you look outside your window, what do you see? The trunk of a mature shade tree? The leaves of a newly planted tree? Or nothing at all? Many residents are wondering where the trees are, and rightfully so.
Trees lining Mariemont streets are generally planted and maintained by the Village, but they’re still an important part of what homeowners view as “their yard.” Perhaps the Village tree in front of your house was taken down recently. Or maybe it came out a few years ago and you’re still waiting on a replacement. The Tree Advisory Board (TAB) has been receiving many inquiries from residents wondering where their tree is.
When the Tree Advisory Board (TAB) formed in January 2021, on our short list of high priority tasks was creating a tree plan for the Village. We are currently working through each district and prioritizing planting efforts based on number of open planting sites. The result of this effort will be a master plan for the whole Village - one that will take into account biodiversity (of tree species as well as wildlife supported), planting site size, soil type and condition, power lines, underground utilities, historical plans for Mariemont, and other variables specific to each
site. That way, when a tree needs to be replaced, the Village and homeowners know what to expect.
While creating a master tree plan for the Village sounds straightforward, the job is far more complex. Many streets in our community have a distinct street tree area where trees are planted in the strip of grass between a sidewalk and the street (called the tree lawn), while other streets have no sidewalks at all but a definitive line of street trees. The legalities of who owns what are often not well understood by residents. The area of road, sidewalks, and some portion of people’s front yards are part of the public right of way, meaning they are legally government property. It is space reserved for things like public passage, utilities, roads, infrastructure, and trees planted by a city or town.
In the urban forestry realm, trees are considered vital living infrastructure due to the services they provide. The Village of Mariemont uses right of way space to plant trees that are then owned and maintained by the Village since they are legally on Village property. So even though a tree may visually be in your yard, if planted in the right-of-way, the tree belongs to the Village and is maintained as such.
The size of the right-of-way varies from street to street and home to home around the
Village. Some right- of-ways extend only a few feet into someone’s front yard, while others take up a sizable portion of the yard. This, along with several other variables are what cause this straightforward project to become timeconsuming.
Thankful for all of my clients!
“Malia was very attentive and attuned to our needs and desires. She told us what needed to be done and helped us execute it effectively and efficiently. Our home sold for more and in less time than I anticipated. The details of the closing were communicated well making this the easiest and least stressful home sale we have ever experienced. We are so thankful to have had Malia as our Realtor. She is very knowledgeable, professional, and personal in every aspect of her job!”
- Gina C
“Malia enjoys her work, this is evident in her dedication to her clients.” - Cathy P
“Malia was rock solid in helping us with finding our new home. She was critical in providing options and documentation to push the process along. We would not be where we are today without her! I initially did not want an agent, but Meg convinced me to use her family friend and I couldn’t be happier for it! As stated prior, Malia is excellent and I would recommend her to anyone.” - Jacob H
“I’ve never sold a home before but Malia made it the easiest thing in the world! She was amazing throughout the entire process and I can’t thank her enough.” - Megan C
“Malia was great to work with! She is very knowledgeable and was helpful throughout the whole process of buying a home!”
- Michael A
Once individual right-of-ways are determined, the site is then assessed for size. The size of a site or tree lawn determines what “size at maturity” tree can be planted. Then the area is assessed for underground utilities, power lines, soil, etc. Once those things are determined, the TAB consults a list of trees and makes selections that will fit the site, maximize shade, provide beauty, and contribute to a diverse treescape in the Village. One of our goals
Trees on Chestnut Street include both mature trees and open areas that will receive new Yellow Chestnut Oak trees.
Tree plan (from previous page)
is to diversify each district well to protect our trees from disease, as well as provide different habitats and aesthetics.
Chestnut Street is about to get its first installment of trees selected in this way by the TAB. Fifteen open planting sites are going to receive Yellow Chestnut Oaks (Quercus muehlenbergii). Also called Chinkapin Oak or Chinquapin Oak, Yellow Chestnut Oak is a medium-sized tree that will grow to be 40-50 feet tall at maturity, though it can reach heights of up to 80 feet in less urban environments. With white bark and leaves that turn yellow in the fall, this oak will not only provide shade for the street but pleasing fall color1. The tree is native from New England to Mexico and produces acorns that are important winter food for wildlife like deer, turkey, and squirrels2.
Oaks in general are important host plants for hundreds of species of caterpillars, which in turn provide food for broods of baby birds in the spring. They also host pollinators and birds on their migrations. When planted in close proximity, these tall trees provide a wildlife “highway” for squirrels and birds to travel off the ground. For us, these beautiful oaks help provide shade to decrease the heat island effect found in many urban environments. They also absorb rain water with their roots and disperse droplets with their leaf canopy, which helps with stormwater management and flood prevention. Cincinnati’s air quality isn’t always the highest, and these large trees are great at carbon
Village
sequestration and filtering air pollution.
Obvious benefits to humans and wildlife aside, the Yellow Chestnut Oak was not chosen at random. The Tree Board has taken into consideration John Nolen’s plan for Mariemont, as well as the current realities, and will choose trees that give us the best of both worlds. Most trees along Chestnut St. are oaks, including Northern Pin Oaks (Quercus palustris) and Northern Red Oaks (Quercus rubra), so Yellow Chestnut Oaks will blend in well with the current trees, and are slated to be part of the master plan for Chestnut St. when the time comes for other trees to be replaced.
Chestnut St. has a 6-7 foot wide tree lawn, which will support a medium-at-maturity tree. If a large-at-maturity tree is planted in an area that is too small for its final size, problems like sidewalk lifting can occur as the roots try to scour for resources and the trunk expands. Additionally, in an urban environment, some trees are more sensitive to the stressors of frequent soil compaction by walkers, pollution, and potentially lower quality soil. Yellow Chestnut Oaks are adapted to a wide range of environmental conditions and perform well as street trees when they are planted and maintained properly.
Our new oaks have been ordered and will make their debut in the Village soon. They will be a little taller than the average adult, their young trunks will be protected from deer,
and they’ll be watered regularly by the Village Service Department. This kind of early attention will give these new trees the best possible start. Coupled with proper maintenance and pruning, they will be set up for a full life.
Due to an aging tree population in the Village, residents will be seeing more trees needing to be removed. It is the Tree Board’s hope that we will be able to replace those trees in a thoughtful way to ensure a long life well lived by the tree, and generations of benefits to both the humans and animals who depend on these trees.
For anyone interested in donating to Mariemont’s tree fund, contributions can be made on their website (https:// mariemontpreservation.org/make-a-donation/) under the “Tree Planting Project” section.
Special thanks to Jason Brownknight and Barb Whittaker for lending their knowledge to this article.
Community
November Happenings with MariElders
Submitted by Stephanie Crellin, MariElders Director
The American Sign Museum
The American Sign Museum is dedicated to the art and history of commercial signs and sign making. It is proud to be the largest public museum dedicated to signs in the United States! Covering more than 100 years of American sign history, the museum is a walk through the ages of technology and design. Over 200 signs and other objects are on display at the museum, and over 3,800 items are catalogued. The collection ranges from the late nineteenth century to the 1970s. Lunch to follow at Camp Washington Chili. Come join us for a blast to the past!
Non Fiction Book Club: Crying in H Mart
Crying in H Mart is a 2021 memoir by Korean American author and musician Michelle Zauner, who is the lead singer of the indie rock band Japanese Breakfast. It provides an unflinching look at her mother’s death from cancer and celebrates Zauner’s connection to her mother through Korean food and culture. This book is a candid, moving tribute to her mother, to her identity and to our collective desire for connection.
Crafting with Linda
Each month we will make a different seasonal craft. You DON’T have to be a crafty, creative, artist to participate. The crafts will be easy to do and fun to make, and you’ll leave with a masterpiece for your home or a gift for a loved one or friend. This month we will be making a fall burlap banner.
Movie and Ice Cream Sundaes
We will be watching the movie Las Vegas, a 2013 comedy. Aging pals Billy (Michael Douglas), Paddy (Robert De Niro), Archie (Morgan Freeman) and Sam (Kevin Kline) have been best friends since childhood. When Billy finally proposes to his muchyounger girlfriend, all four friends go to Las Vegas to celebrate the end of Billy’s longtime bachelorhood, relive their glory days, and send him off in style. But Vegas has changed since the last time they prowled the Strip, and
once the party gets started, there’s no telling how it will end!
Muffins with the Mayor
Mayor Brown wants to stay in touch with our members. Please bring questions, concerns, or just curiosity, and he will bring the muffins!
Tour of the Waldschmidt House and Camp Dennison Civil War Museum
In 1794, Christian Waldschmidt, a veteran of the American Revolution, moved his family to a site on the Little Miami River and built a new community called New Germany. In 1804, he built his home, which included a store. Waldschmidt was a businessman and encouraged new settlement, staffing a church and helping to found a school, and beginning industries vital to the survival of his new home, such as Ohio’s first paper mill, a cooperative distillery, woolen mill, sawmill, and a blacksmith shop.
During the Civil War, the house and surrounding grounds were part of Camp Dennison, used primarily as a general training center, recruiting depot, and hospital post, and named in honor of Governor William Dennison. The main house, now known as Waldschmidt House, served as the headquarters for General Joshua Bates. The
adjacent Camp Dennison Civil War Museum tells the history of Camp Dennison. As many as 50,000 Union soldiers were mustered in or out of service at Camp Dennison, with as many as 12,000 occupying the camp at any one time. This is a must see for all history buffs or anyone who loves historical places! Lunch to follow at O’Charley’s.
Fiction Book Club: The Four Winds
The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah is a historical novel about the Dust Bowl in the years after the Great Depression and subsequent westward migration by droughtstricken farmers. The Four Winds centers on one family caught up in the epic sweep of history, and, in the process, it addresses themes of hardship, discrimination, economic inequality, and the American dream.
The Last Night of Ballyhoo by the Mariemont Players
Play Synopsis: In December 1939, Gone with the Wind is having its world premiere and Hitler’s invading Poland, but members of Atlanta’s Jewish-German elite are more concerned with who’s going to Ballyhoo, the social event of the season. Amidst comedy, romance, and unexpected turns, the Freitag family is forced to face where they come from and deal with who they really are. Winner of the 1997 Tony Award for Best Play.
Mariemont Mayor Bill Brown (L) sits down for "Muffins with the Mayor" at Marielders.
(from previous page)
Tour of The New England Club (Anderson Township)
New England Club is an award-winning, independent senior living community. Residents appreciate the freedom
Community
and flexibility our independent living communities offer as needs around personal care and medical assistance change. Choosing a la carte from third-party health care and personal care providers - many with offices right inside the community - gives them the power to choose their providers and obtain similar services as they would in a higher level of care like assisted living, but without giving up the independence, warm community of friends, and fun-loving atmosphere they enjoy so much. Lunch is included!
Self-Defense Class by True Defense
Paul Korchak from TrueDefense SelfDefense Training (located here in Mariemont) teaches various self-defense systems, including many Asian martial arts and modern combative systems. They teach truth, practicality, and enjoyment in learning how to survive the fight you did not ask for, and how to be safe and defend yourself.
Marielders
Lunch at Oakley Hall (pictured L-R): Hilde Tomblin, Diane Sabo (Mariemont), Sandra Garland (Mariemont), Bonnie Kleimeyer, JoJo Brumbaugh (Mariemont), Ann Marie Wendler (Mariemont), Rita Zimmerman, Sue Roberts
Flo Carroll went ziplining!!
Community Remember to Give Thanks for Wisdom
By Kimberly Flick, MariElders Transportation Coordinator
It seems we are living in a time where fast information and quick knowledge are expected. We’re becoming increasingly accomplished at quantifying data about trends, climate change, diseases, and gathering statistics on all sorts of things. But we rarely take a moment to consider all of the wisdom around us. If we want to fix things and make life better for everyone and everything on this good old Earth, maybe we should listen more closely to the ones who have been here the longest.
Wisdom is one thing in life that you just
to make prudent decisions. Our trials and hardships lead to sapience. Scientists agree that older people’s brains slow down, but experience and intuitive understanding more than make up for that. “Wisdom involves an integration of knowledge, experience and deep understanding, as well as a tolerance for the uncertainties of life.” https://www. psychologytoday.com › basics › wisdom.
Becoming wise is a very personal pursuit. Wisdom sprouts from the power of patience and takes root in determination and diligence. It is associated with empathy and compassion for our fellow humans. The older we get, the less self-centered we become. In indigenous communities, elders are respected
healers and advisors. Eastern cultures tend to highly value age and wisdom. Western cultures tend to value youth.
Your wisdom may not often be accepted by others when offered. But at the right times, it’s a beautiful thing to share. It doesn’t have to be spoken. You demonstrate it through how you live and treat others. Each new day brings a chance to gather fresh experiences and reap more sage wisdom. Add a sprinkle of perseverance, a dash of optimism, and you have the recipe for many golden years ahead.
In this season of giving thanks, may we all gain a deeper understanding of our purpose and be grateful for the gift of wisdom. Happy
Warrior Run Raises $130k for Mental Health Education
By Beth Dulle
After last year’s virtual Warrior Run, we were so excited to be able to gather safely and enjoy a beautiful late summer evening. The smiles, laughter and fun we witnessed on the field and on the course reflected the true nature of the Warrior Run...saving lives through positivity and hope.
1N5 raised over $130,000 for mental health education in our schools and community. The need for our services is increasing rapidly and the success of the Warrior Run gives us the resources to meet these needs. We are so grateful for over 1500 runners, walkers and volunteers; food and beverage donors; fun music; the residents of Mariemont - and Mother Nature - whose participation and generosity enable 1N5 to make an impact on the mental wellness of Greater Cincinnati’s youth.
Established in 2010, the race honors 1N5 founder and executive director Nancy EigelMiller’s late husband, Jim Miller, who died by suicide in 2008. The name 1N5 reflects the statistic that one in five teens and adults suffer from mental illness. 1N5 is a non-profit organization with a mission to prevent suicide by erasing the stigma of mental illness and promoting optimal metal wellness.
Money raised through the Warrior Run helps 1N5 support Cincinnati Children’s Hospital’s Adapt for Life, a mental health and wellbeing program designed for students, grades K-12. In addition, 1N5 is working directly with 85 local schools and 6 universities to provide customized, evidence-
based mental health education programs. Working with community partners allows 1N5 to reach even more people across the area to reduce stigma and provide mental health education.
For more information about 1N5, visit www.1N5.org. For information about Adapt for Life, visit www.adaptforlife.org.
Community
Mariemont Says Goodbye to Garden Club "Queen Bee"
Nancy (nee Lane) Becker
January 17, 1931- September 11, 2021
Submitted in memory of sweet Nancy Becker by Mary Beth York, The Garden Club of Mariemont
It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of longtime Mariemont resident Nancy Becker (nee Lane) on September 11, 2021. Surrounded by her children, Nancy passed away peacefully after a four-year fight with Lymphoma.
Nancy was born January 17, 1931 in Harriman, Tenn. (near Knoxville) to parents Hope (nee Hackney) and John Lane. She was a graduate of Walnut Hills High School Class of 1949. Nancy and the late Robert (Bob) Becker, DDS enjoyed 44 years of marriage in his family home in Mariemont. Together they reared six children, cultivated a beautiful garden, and served the dental needs of the community. For many years, Nancy assisted Bob in his dentistry practice from the office located in the outbuilding on their Mariemont property.
Nancy shared her love of gardening as an active member of the Garden Club of Mariemont for 22 years! From her very first year in the club, she “dug in” (pun intended) by joining the annual Plant Sale Committee. She quickly found her niche as a “worker bee,”
Always a “worker bee” for the Garden Club of Mariemont, Nancy mailed invites for the 80th Anniversary Celebration held March 4, 2020.
collecting the plants from member’s gardens (or basically any free plants from anyone’s garden). Nancy offered her energy and her famous driveway (complete with shelving and pots galore) for dividing, potting, labeling, and organizing plants.
Nancy achieved “queen bee” status for leading the highly profitable perennial sales at the Parish Center, at the Strand Patio, and in most recent years, at the Municipal Building
lawn. A reliable source shared, “Nancy even put up the Plant Sale signs in the Village for the event! And she always treated her helper to a Dunkin Donut and coffee when the work was done.”
During the winter months, Nancy provided a welcoming work area in the old dentist office turned “clubhouse” for the
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“Queen Bee” Nancy and the Delightful Dahlias at the Perennial Sale.
Nancy Becker (from previous page)
“Nancy Becker Day” January 17, 2021 - On Nancy’s 90th Birthday, Mariemont Mayor Bill Brown presented a Certificate of Recognition to Nancy on her front stoop while 35 “Covid safe” neighbors filled her front lawn to sing Happy Birthday and to celebrate her! Nancy had “goody bags” for the neighborhood children and they had handmade cards for her! It was really a GOOD DAY!
garden club ladies to paint birdhouses and decorate pots to be sold at the plant sale.
Additionally, as an officer in the Garden Club of Mariemont, Nancy served eight years as the recording secretary and three years on the nominating committee. And she has contributed to the Butterfly Garden project at the swimming pool.
Nancy’s love of the arts continued through her life. In recent years, Nancy enjoyed taking art classes at The Barn, including Long-Pose Figure Drawing under the direction of Charlie Berger and Creative Drawing with Dave Laug. And she loved classical music streaming from her kitchen radio!
Nancy’s favorite Mariemont view was simply from her living room window. She loved to watch the children, parents, and dogs coming and going to school each day….and to see generations of children that simply could not pass the “climbing tree” without giving it a try!
Nancy leaves behind her two brothers, Tom (Donna) Lane and Dennis (Dixie) Lane,
Community
her three children: Cathey (Randy) Ralph, John (Corrine) Becker, Charlie (Genevieve) Becker; her three stepchildren: George (Heather) Becker, Jim (Dee Bell) Becker, Robert (Yoko) Becker; her nine grandchildren Austin Ralph, Brooks Ralph, Audrey Becker,
Anni Becker, Willie Becker, Alan James Becker, Alan Robert Becker, Grace Becker, and Harmony Becker.
Nancy lived fully with the simplicities of family life, friendships, and nature.
Community
‘Running Changes Everything’
By Kim Beach
The grand opening of the newest Fleet Feet location at 50 West (7667 Wooster Pike) was July 13, with families, friends and an official ribboncutting with representatives from the Mariemont Area Chamber of Commerce.
Fleet Feet Cincinnati’s fourth location was an easy decision for owners Frank DeJulius and his wife Stacey. The local community, ideal location adjacent to the Little Miami Scenic Trail, the partnership with 50 West and his friend Bobby Slattery, made it a no-brainer. Their first three locations in Cincinnati include Blue Ash (their first store), West Chester, and Oakley.
Frank and Stacey both grew up near Akron, went to the same high school and even dated their senior year. Life took them in different directions after high school (Frank went to John Carroll and studied Business/Entrepreneurship and Stacey attended OU and became a meteorologist), but they eventually met again (at a triathlon, of course) and started planning their dream of building a business together. Their family now includes their five-year-old daughter and twoyear-old son.
Post-college, Frank had learned the running shoe business in jobs in Akron and Nashville. He is an avid runner/triathlete, and the business was in his blood. He and Stacey are very involved in the business daily and attribute their success to the close-knit team they have created with their employees. Their 45 employees are fiercely loyal because they are treated like family. Frank and Stacey think the same of their customers…they are part of the Fleet Feet family!
They are looking forward to adding to their tribe from the local Mariemont area and are working hard to make people aware of the new store. They have been busy getting involved with local organizations to get the Fleet Feet name out on the east side of Cincinnati.
As Frank’s favorite quote says, “Running changes everything.” He has helped many people achieve goals and dreams they never thought possible. The store hosts training groups (https:// www.fleetfeet.com/training) and special events, including races and running paired with other
activities (can you say Drink and Dash?) If you’re thinking about doing your first race, training groups are a great way to have instant community and support as you train.
If you are looking for running shoes, they provide a precise fitting (The Fleet Feet “fit id” Outfitting Process) that focuses on providing you with running shoes that fit properly. They also have all the latest running apparel and gear to make sure you look good and are comfortable while you are out on the trail!
When asked about the most favorite place he has run, Frank immediately mentioned the Boston Marathon. He has done a total of eight marathons, multiple triathlons, and four Ironman Triathlons (2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike, and 26.2-mile run).
When not running, Frank is an avid cook, with his specialty dish being broccolini. He also enjoys travel and mentioned a recent memorable trip to Majorca, Spain, where he biked with a friend. Spending time with his wife and kids is his number one priority, and their favorite spot for family dinner in Mariemont is at the Dilly Bistro. His sister, Katie, also lives in Cincy and enjoys
helping out with local Fleet Feet events.
When asked about the craziest running trend he has seen, Frank immediately responded with “barefoot running!” He continued, “Having wellfitted, supportive shoes is the best way to extend your running journey without any injuries.” As a past runner, this writer can attest to Frank’s viewpoint and encourages anyone running or walking to make sure they have the best shoes possible (socks are important too).
Welcome to the neighborhood Fleet Feet, and best of luck to Frank and Stacey with their newest location at 50 West!
Fleet Feet opened its newest location on July 13 next to 50 West.
Community
Meet Mariemont’s Newest Eagle Scouts!
By Rob Curran
At a recent Eagle Court of Honor, Troops 149 and 1149 welcomed their newest Eagle Scouts. This group of Eagle Scouts included the first female Eagle Scouts from Troop 1149. Each of these Scouts earned at least 21 merit badges (13 of which were required to earn the Eagle Rank), and each led a community service project that gave back to their school, church, or community.
Troop 1149
Troop 1149 was established in 2019, and some of these girls, through hard work and determination, completed their Eagle rank in a short period of time before they aged out.
Laura Moser – Assembled comfort and activities bags for Pro Kids.
Molly Moser – Created an astronomy shed at Camp Ernst.
Ella Willett – Built a blessing box for nonperishable food items at Inter Parish Ministry in Newtown.
Troop 149
The boys began their scouting journey with Pack 1 in Fairfax and joined Troop 149 as crossovers.
Matt Gilbertson – Built a covered seating area at Spring Grove Cemetery.
Simon Jadeed –Did landscaping and beautification around St. Monica / St. George Church.
Daniel Brackett – Built a flag box to retire the American Flag in the Village of Fairfax offices.
Robbie Curran – Built a handrail and installed landscaping at the Mariemont High School baseball field in Fairfax.
Please welcome Troops 149 and 1149’s newest Eagle Scouts. From L-R Laura Moser, Robbie Curran, Daniel Brackett, Simon Jadeed, Ella Willett, Matt Gilbertson, Molly Moser
Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center
Happy Thanksgiving from The Barn
A Glimpse of Nature
Internationally-recognized artist Virginia Martinez invites the public to attend the opening of her latest show at The Barn, entitled A Glimpse of Nature. The opening reception occurs on Nov. 19 from 6-9 p.m. The show runs through Dec. 1.
Martinez is an Impressionist and abstract painter who uses a variety of mixed media and gleans her ideas from nature because of the the freedom of shapes and colors, as well as the sense of life it transmits.
Martinez has participated in exhibitions in Italy, Mexico, Venezuela, and the U.S.
Gallery hours include: Weekends, 1-4 p.m. and Tuesdays-Fridays, 10 a.m- 2 p.m.
Intrinsic: Recent Paintings by Ruthe Wyman
Northern Kentucky resident Ruthe Wyman invites the community to her reception of Intrinsic on Nov. 6 from 1-4 p.m. The show runs Nov. 5-17.
“It’s a visual representation of my innermost thoughts, disposition and character. With so many events being cancelled in 2020 and 2021, the majority of these acrylic paintings have not been out of the studio,” said Wyman, who is an active
member of numerous art associations in the Tri-State region, including the Boone County Arts Association, The Cincinnati Art Museum, and The Woman’s Art Club of Cincinnati.
"As you explore ‘Intrinsic’ please check out the titles. Some are funny; some are serious. They all have something to do with what I see and how I interpret it."
As a professional artist, Wyman has always had an additional interest in mixed media. Her most recent works exhibit a continual exploration of color, texture and emotion. Besides creating and selling her art, she has donated art to benefit local charities within the community. Her work has been exhibited at numerous places including: The Kentucky Capitol Rotunda, Art Academy of Cincinnati, Carnegie Art Center in Covington, Northern Kentucky University, Nordheim Gallery, Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center (The Barn), Art on the Levee Gallery, and other galleries, art fairs, and businesses.
For more information, please visit her website at www.rwymanart.com
Showcase of Arts
Showcase of Arts, a sale of fine art and crafts, returns to The Barn on Dec. 4 and 5. This annual holiday sale will feature the work of forty venders, whose work organizers have carefully curated. Hand-made items include soaps, pottery, knits, honey, paintings, jewelry, mosaic works, original oil paintings and more.
New vendors this year include metal artists Kevin and Karen Houchens, and Ivanka Lempitskiy, a painter who creates Ukranian Style decorated eggs. Shoppers can finish off their holiday decorating with fresh pine wreaths from the local Girl Scouts. Food service will be provided by Fire on High food truck.
Hours are Saturday, December 4, 10 a.m. –5 p.m. and Sunday, December 5, noon-4 p.m.
Snow White: A free streaming show
Once Upon a Time is a wild, hilarious two-person play featuring the talents of two extraordinary, whip-smart, super-fast actors
who play Snow White, the Huntsman, the prince and all seven dwarves. Join the fun and expect the unexpected in this fabulous fairy tale with a you-won’t-see-it-coming twist adapted by Greg Banks. Recommended for ages 6 and older. The Barn extends a huge HI-HO to the good folks at the Mariemont Preservation Foundation for making this virtual event possible.
Register for this professionally filmed performance at https://cincyplay.com/ productions/snow-white. The stream runs from Nov. 12-14.
Fall Classes
Please contact the instructors or The Barn at 513-272-3700 to confirm times and dates.
Mondays
Creative Ikebana (Japanese Flower Arranging): Nov. 15, 10 a.m.-Noon. Contact terukonesbitt@gmail.com.
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The Barn (from previous page)
Tuesdays
Mosaics with Sandy Caruso: Through Dec. 7 from 1- 4 p.m. Also offered 6-9 p.m. Sandylou1031@gmail.com. (Also offered Thursdays.)
Intro to Drawing and Painting with Dave Laug: Through Nov. 9 from 9:30 a.m.Noon.
Wednesdays
Oil Painting with Jan Boone: Ongoing, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. janwrites@fuse.net
Watercolors with Bruce Neville: Ongoing, 6-8 p.m bnneville@aol.com
Japanese Flower Arranging: Nov. 11, Dec. 8, 6-8 p.m.
Thursdays
Ukulele For Kidz with Kelly James: Through Nov. 18 from 4:30-5 p.m. $150 per semester. Any level for second through sixthgrade students. Call 513-272-3700.
Mosaics with Sandy Caruso: Oct. 14Dec.2 from 6-9 p.m. Sandylou1031@gmail. com. No class on Thanksgiving.
Fundamentals of Painting and Drawing with Mary Lou Holt: Through Nov. 18. 2-4 p.m.
Watercolors with Chris Campbell: Through Dec. 2 from 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. mmlvsu2@comcast.net.
The Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center is located at 6980 Cambridge Avenue in Mariemont, Ohio. Contact us at 513-272-3700 or visit Artatthebarn.org.
“Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.”
~ F. Scott Fitzgerald
Community
Open Letter to the Mariemont School District Community:
Thank You for Your Support!
Mariemont Athletic Boosters hosted the Annual John Hubbard Memorial Golf Outing on September 30th, 2021. Twentysix foursomes participated in scramble play and fundraising side games at Clovernook Country Club. The event also drew overwhelming support from volunteers, participants and donors on one of the most beautiful days of the month!
We are incredibly grateful for everyone involved with the event. Each year, the success of this fun day provides vital resources to our Junior and Senior High School student athletes as they develop skills on and off the field. We would like to give additional shoutouts to our many sponsors:
Chip Turner, ARP Neuro
Kevin Frye, Merrill Lynch
Miller Insurance
Dan & Patty Shick
Burke & Kelli Neville
Dan & Shawn Tully
Mariemont Capital
Tri-State Running
Wnek Orthodontics
Michaelson Homes
Cincinnati Floor
Orchard
Alex Doty & Golf Exchange
The Soller Family
Peterman Bus Service
Village Insurance
KPMG
Harlyn Properties
Flight Outfitters
ESD Interiors
Reminger Law Firm
Gilmore Branding
YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ORTHODONTIST
Dr Edward J Wnek… extensive experience and education… a personal approach to each and every patient… and outstanding outcomes! For a beautiful healthy smile, contact us for your personal consultation at 513-271-5265, or visit us at www.wnekorthodontics.com.
Edward J Wnek DDS,MS • Mariemont Square
Hatton Foundation
Lange Orthodontics
McCloskey Law Firm
Forward Edge
Seichter & Steven Families, On behalf of MJHS & MHS gold teams
Rob O'Brien, Merril Lynch
Doug Pfingstag, Coldwell Banker
Carriage House Car Wash
MSA Design
Mac’s Pizza
Jeff & Beth Drum
Scott & Cristina Billups
Trey & Laura Whitmore
Dave & Dina Wilder
Greg Wells, Albach, Wells and Dauer
Heidelberg Distribution
Scarlet & Gray
UC Football, John Widecan
We couldn’t have done it without you and look forward to partnering with each of you again next year!
With Gratitude, Mariemont Athletic Boosters Golf Committee, 2021
Village Government
Village News
News from the Village Administration Office
Fire/EMS: The Village has been looking at potentially developing shared services for Fire and EMS between Mariemont and the Little Miami Fire Department (LMFD). A resident committee was selected by Council to help review Fire/EMS proposals, work directly with the consultant company, Kramer & Associates, and provide resident input as to how the Village should proceed with our Fire/EMS Department. More information, including the recommendations from the Fire/EMS Resident Committee, can be found at https://mariemont.org/fire-ems-residentcommittee/
Pool Manager: After years of dedicated service to the Village, Jordan Schad has decided to step down as manager of the Mariemont Pool. Jordan’s tenure at the pool spanned 30 years! She started working at the pool as a lifeguard when she was just a teenager. She went on to serve as a swim instructor and swim coach and then as assistant pool manager and finally pool manager. Her vast knowledge of the operation of the pool has been invaluable, particularly as we navigated brand new waters with COVID. Jordan has nothing but positive things to say about the families and employees that she has gotten to know and worked with over the years. We thank Jordan for her many years of service and dedication. She will truly be missed at the pool by the staff, pool members, and the many swimmers she has worked with in the last few decades. We wish Jordan all the best in her future endeavors!
New Police Officer: Officer Rachel Hays was sworn in by Mayor Brown on October 11. We are extremely happy to have Officer Hays join our Mariemont Police family and look forward to her serving this great community for many years to come. Please say hello to Officer Hays if you see her around the Village! A little bit about Officer Hays:
• Officer Hays grew up in Amelia and graduated from Amelia High School,
• Attended UC Clermont College (earned an associate degree in criminal justice),
• Was an All-American Volleyball player at
UC Clermont,
• Graduated from the UC Clermont Police Academy in 2013,
• Served as a Bailiff in the Hamilton County Clerk of Courts office for one year,
• Served with the Colerain Police Department from October 2016 until she accepted the position of Patrol Officer with the Mariemont Police Department.
Muffins with the Mayor: Mayor Brown will meet with MariElders members on November 17 at 10 a.m. to discuss Village issues and answer questions. Refreshments will be served. MariElders members should check with activities coordinator, Becky Ventura, for more information.
Leaf Pick-up: Village-wide leaf collection started the week of October 25 and will run through the week of December 20. The service department makes every effort to service each address in a timely manner. Your patience and cooperation is greatly appreciated! Leaf collection directions:
• From Oct. 25-Dec. 20, rake leaves to the front of your lawn near the curb and the Village will collect them. Do NOT rake leaves into the street, and PLEASE make sure your lawn company knows to keep leaves out of the street as this becomes a safety hazard for drivers, pedestrians, and our service department.
• Prior to October 25 and after December 20, leaves must be bagged for pick up by Rumpke. Bag the leaves in brown paper yard waste bags or a can marked “Yard Waste”(bags available at most hardware stores and Kroger) and place them at the curb after 6 p.m. the day before your
Council Representatives
Rob Bartlett robbartlettcouncil@gmail.com
Avia Graves aviagraves@gmail.com
Marcy Lewis marcylewiscouncil@gmail.com
Randy York ryork@mariemont.org
Kelly Rankin kellrankincouncil@gmail.com
Joe Stelzer joestelzercouncil@gmail.com
Mayor: Bill Brown mayor@mariemont.org
trash/recycling pick up. They’ll be picked up by Rumpke on the same day your trash is collected.
• If you are concerned about the grass under your leaves, you are strongly encouraged to bag your leaves rather than waiting for them to be collected by the Village.
• ONLY leaves may be collected by the Village’s leaf vacuum trucks. Pumpkins, branches, and sticks are unable to go through the leaf vacuum and will damage the equipment. Repairs are costly and will slow the crew down.
• Do NOT dump leaves in the swimming pool area.
• The week of Thanksgiving and the week before Luminaria leaf pick-up will be light as the department prepares for Luminaria/ tree lighting.
From Our Service Department
Stormwater Pollution and Yard Waste: Tips for stormwater management on your property, from Hamilton County Public Health
Did you know:
• Yard debris, including leaves and other organic plant material like shrubbery trimming and grass clippings, are a significant source of stormwater pollution. This debris can clog culverts, storm drains, and pipes, causing flooding.
• Debris can carry fertilizers and pesticides from your yard and deposit them in streams and ponds.
• Piles of leaves and grass clippings will
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Children
What’s Happening at the Mariemont Branch Library
November 2021
Library Babies 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays
Fun for you and your baby with songs, rhymes, stories, and movement. Ages 0-18 months. Registration is required for both babies and adults.
Outdoor Storytime: Movers & Shakers — 11 a.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays
You and your child will shake it together! Sing, dance, and enjoy music, movement, and fun. Ages 1-4. Registration is required.
Outdoor Storytime: Preschool — 1 p.m. Wednesdays
Enjoy books, songs, activities, and more while building early literacy skills. Storytime includes an early literacy craft or activity. Ages 3-6. Registration is required.
Adults
Book Club — 6:45 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 18
We are discussing Vinegar Girl by Anne Tyler. Copies are available at the branch.
Library hours are 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. Monday and Tuesday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday; closed Thursday, Nov. 28, for Thanksgiving.
Village News (from previous page)
overload a stream’s ability to process litter, causing pollution and oxygen depletion.
It is easy to do your part to protect our stream and drainage systems leading to our waterways:
• Do not pile leaves or other yard waste near streams or drainage channels where they can blow or wash into creeks. Use designated leaf collection bags for curbside leaf recycling.
• Do not blow leaves or grass clippings off your property into streets, streams, ponds, or drainage swales.
• Recycle grass clippings and their nutrients on your lawn. Use a mulching lawnmower to recycle remaining leaves into your lawn in the fall!
• Compost leaves and grass clippings along with yard waste. Select a location removed from steams, ponds, and wetlands.
Library Gets New Skylight, Patio Cover
By Eric Pennington, Manager, Mariemont Branch Library
The Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library is pleased to report that construction of a new skylight over our Mariemont Branch Library is underway. The addition of a skylight will transform the patio area into a threeseason patio, complete with comfortable furniture and a ramp ensuring access to all members of the community. When complete, visitors will be able to read, relax, and access the Internet outdoors, rain or shine.
Construction should be completed in early 2022, and open for use late winter. In the meantime, we invite you to visit the library to see a rendering of the branch with the skylight and take advantage of the many services we offer, including books, movies, story times, printing, faxing and Internet access.
This exciting project is made possible through the generosity of the David N. and Ann Early Foundation.
Community Vintage Makes a Comeback in Holiday Décor
By Jaclyn Dunn, Award Winning Interior Designer for Ethan Allen
Summer is long gone, fall is upon us, and before we know it Christmas will be here. Not to worry, I have done my research and have some updates for you on holiday décor for 2021. One of my most surprising discoveries is not all the new trends are new, and vintage is making a comeback!
Every fall, mums typically dot front porches in warm palettes of reds, oranges and yellow, but this year there are bright purples and pinks from which to choose. Ornamental cabbages and kale combine well in containers with these fresh, bright colors. Cornstalks tied on columns are not new, but they are classic.
Moving inside, now that we will be spending more time indoors than out, dining tables often become the focus of a lot of fall decorating. Julie Blanner, whose DIY blog I enjoy, had a great idea for a natural centerpiece to take you from the beginning of November straight through the holidays (https:// julieblanner.com/fall-centerpieces/). Using whole apples and white faux candles of various sizes, she interwove different sizes and types of natural greenery around them to create a lovely table runner. Substitute the apples with miniature pumpkins and gourds and you have a natural centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table.
Popular this year is an old Thanksgiving classic, the traditional cornucopia. Originally known as a Horn of Plenty, the cornucopia symbolizes wealth, prosperity and abundance. Pottery Barn has a great one available in two sizes, but my favorite one is from Teleflora. com and features bright sunflowers and orange roses. In reference to florals, a word of advice… like nearly every other industry, there is an all-time high demand and shorter supply of flowers, so place your orders well ahead of time.
Moving on to December decor, Christmas is all about the tree. The debate for real vs.
fake continues; both have their merits and in researching, even Greenpeace did not land on one side or the other. If you decide on a real tree, Mariemont’s Scout Troop 149 will be selling trees and greenery – and the Girl Scouts will be selling custom-decorated wreaths - on the lawn of the Mariemont Municipal Building (6907 Wooster Pike) beginning Nov. 26 (see page 8 in this issue for more details).
If you decide a fake tree best fits your lifestyle, the Balsam Hill Fraser Fir with Candlelight Clear LED lighting tops the list on Reviewed.com. The same species, Fraser Fir, tops the list on Architectural Digest but from Hammacher Schlemmer, which boasts 25,000 hours of life for its white lights.
Now to the decorations! Classic Christmas
colors will forever be red, green and gold. However, for those with a more adventurous nature, there are newer options for color combinations as bold colors will be a big 2021 trend. Pink ornaments combine beautifully with gold, especially pretty on a white flocked tree. Blue and white is a classic interior design color scheme and it translates well onto the tree; add silver and gold for elegance.
One of the prettiest new palettes I saw was “Frosted Nights,” from Frontgate. The collection features soft seafoam greens and shimmering silvers. The online catalog confirmed every
color trend I had found elsewhere. The Noel Bleu collection is classic blue and white, the Jeweled Peacock collection in teal greens and blues, the Champagne Holidays collection features the pinks. All are so lovely it is hard to pick a favorite.
The Christmas ornament trend that is not new at all comes by way of Grandma’s house. Do you remember the Shiny Brites? Shiny Brites were originally created by Max Eckardt in the late 1930s in Germany. After Eckardt moved his company to the states at the onset of World War II, they became incredibly popular. Prices now range for a single ornament from $5 to $10 apiece, with rare figural ornaments going into the hundreds of dollars. Shiny Brites look great on the silver or pink metal trees regaining popularity, even better if you add a color wheel.
Outside the front door it’s all about the lights! Here the conflict is white vs. coloredSpy.com gives the best choice for each. Rated highest in 2021 for white lights is the Pretex Christmas White Wire Light Set (100); white does have an advantage in that they can be used year-round. Rated best in the colored light category are Holiday Essence Multicolored Christmas Lights, in five colors promising if one goes out the others stay on.
Speaking of outdoor lights, don’t forget the Luminaria and Tree Lighting on Saturday December 4th from 5:30 to 7 p.m. You can purchase a set of Luminaria (while supplies last) and register for the House Decorating Contest at mariemontppg.com/luminaria/.
Don’t forget the front yard! Julie Renner, our local purveyor of Card My Yard signs, offers joyous holiday greetings, if fake reindeer, sleighs and Santas are not to your taste (contact Julie at Cincinnati-east@cardmyyard.com).
Wishing you the happiest of holidays, full of family and friends. Next issue: kitchen remodeling.
Julie Renner spreads “Joy” through her Card My Yard displays.
Community Village Worship Services
Village Church of Mariemont
Villagechurchofmariemont.org
Todd Keyes, Pastor
Jamie Keyes, Children’s Ministries
Come worship with us. We love to see new faces. We are a small church on a mission to make an impact. Join us at 10 a.m. every Sunday at our Oak Street location (corner of Oak and Maple) or, if you prefer, watch online at facebook.com/VCMChurch.
New and Continuing
Women’s Bible Study continues the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month from 7-8:30 p.m. We are two weeks into Priscilla Shirer’s study of Elijah, but it’s never too late to jump in. Visit our website to learn more.
Kids Connection continues Sunday evenings from 5-6:30 p.m. for elementary age kids. We are looking at heroes of the
Bible and what makes an ordinary person become a hero. One way is to look beyond ourselves to help those in need. Kids in our program will be packing boxes for Operation Christmas Child. Youth Connection for junior high students is still forming. If you have or know a child who is looking for excitement on Sunday evenings, contact Pastor Todd.
Operation Christmas Child is a great way for children to learn the joy of unconditional love. It’s a fun, easy project with huge impact to underprivileged children in the world. To pack a box of toys and hygiene items and begin a new family tradition, stop by our Oak Street building during any Sunday service or visit the events section of our website to receive a box.
MariElders Thanksgiving Dinner is a new opportunity for seniors without family. We don’t want any senior to miss out on this important day of fellowship and food, so we are partnering with MariElders to provide and serve a meal on Friday, November 26. If you would like to help serve, visit the events section of our website. If you are a senior without family to celebrate Thanksgiving, contact MariElders.
For more information about these events or to learn more about our church, visit our website at www.villagechurchofmariemont. org or contact Pastor Todd Keyes at toddkeyes@villagechurchofmariemont. org
Mariemont Community Church
Mariemontchurch.org
Denis Beausejour, Co-senior Pastor
Jamie Moore, Co-senior Pastor
Paul Rasmussen, Worship Pastor
Katie Smith, Interim Children’s Director
Sunday Services 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. We are having in-person services! Masks are optional. Kingdom Kids Ministry at 9:00 a.m. during the first service and Youth at 12:30 p.m. just after the second service. Livestream is at 9:00 a.m. on Facebook: Mariemont Church; our website: mariemontchurch.org; and YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ MariemontChurch.
Worship Every Wednesday in the Parish Center auditorium. 7:00-8:30 p.m. All are welcome!
Fall/Winter Activities
Women’s Ministries JOY in the Morning: Tuesdays from 9:15-11:30 a.m. at the Parish Center. Fall studies are: A Study of Exodus; Surprise the World by Michael Frost and Walk With Me: Simple Principles for Everyday Disciple-making, by Bill Mowry; God of Deliverance: A Study of Exodus 1-18, by Jen Wilken
Evening JOY: 1st/3rd Mondays 7-8:30 p.m. at the Parish Center. Study is: The Women of the Bible Speak: The Wisdom of 16 Women and their Lessons for Today, by Shannon Bream
Save the Date: Women’s Retreat, February 4-5, 2022 at the Jesuit Retreat
Current Sermon Series on Spiritual Gifts: Gifted and Going for It!
Special Christmas Concert by Recording Artist Revivaltown Music, featuring Anna Moderwell of “Anna and the Deeper Well” at the Tree Lighting on Saturday, December 4, at the Parish Center.
Christmas Eve Services at the Parish Center on Friday, December 24, 3:00, 4:00, and 5:00 p.m.
