Mariemont Town Crier, December 2025, Vol. L, No. 4
Meet Your Junior Couriers!
BY SUZY WEINLAND
As we wrap up another calendar year, we’d like to give a shout out and huge THANK YOU to our junior couriers. These fine young ladies and gentlemen work hard each month, to keep alive the 50-year tradition of delivering the newest issue of the Mariemont Town Crier directly to your doorstep! Be sure to thank them next time you see them out and about!
Charlotte Caudill, 12 — Charlotte has been delivering the Crier for four years — the first year with her older brother and then has had her own route the past three years. She likes delivering the Crier “so I can earn my own money. I also enjoy walking around the neighborhood.”
Cody Ching, 13 Cody has been a courier for six years. He likes delivering “because it is nice to just be outside and not really have to think about anything and just like listen to music or unwind.”
Eli Ching, 17 — Eli has been a courier for six years. He enjoys being able to get local news to the community.
Ben Jevic, 8 — This is Ben’s second year delivering the Crier. He says “It helps me get money and I like having a couple helpers with me (little sisters Ella and Chloe).”
In This Issue
Volunteers Make the Vision Happen.............................................5
Architect Series: Clinton Mackenzie, Continued..............8
Meet Mariemont Alumnus & Artist Tim Harrier......................................10
End-of-Year Financial Tips...................20
50 Years Ago in Mariemont....................24
(Not pictured: James Lepa, Michael Lepa, Alexis Clark, Olivia Clark, Mac Clark, Ben Jevic, Ella Jevic, Sam Rouse, Daxton Vaughan, Laura Queen, Eli Ching, Cody Ching.)
Ella Jevic, 5 — Ella has helped brother Ben for about a year, and now they split a route. She likes that “I get to ride my bike or scooter or run or walk to deliver the Criers. And I like to get some fresh air, and I like putting Criers on people’s porches.”
Levi lawson, 7 — This is Levi’s second year delivering the Crier. His favorite part is “delivering on nice days.”
Jane Lawson, 11 — Jane has been delivering the Crier for five years. Her favorite thing about delivering is “earning money.”
Max Madl, 15 — Max had delivered for five years. His favorite thing about delivering the Town Crier “is the ability to get to see the town from a new perspective.”
Zach Maier, 18 — Zach has been a cou-
rier for 13 years! He likes seeing people he knows when he’s out delivering the papers.
Alex Rohal, 11 — Alex has been a Crier courier for three years. His favorite thing about delivering is “It’s my first paying job that I can do on my own.”
Daxton Vaughan, 8 — Daxton helped sister Clara deliver for four years and just took over her route last year. He loves walking the neighborhood with his family.
Ford Willis, 9 — Ford has been a junior courier since this September. He likes “getting money.”
Twyla Willis, 7 ½ — Twyla has been delivering the Crier with her brother Ford, since September. She also likes making money “so I can get a bunny.”
Mariemont Town Crier Junior Couriers: Front row (L-R) — Levi Lawson, Jane Lawson, Ford Willis, Twyla Willis. Back row (L-R) — Charlotte Caudill, Alex Rohal, Max Madl, and Zach Maier.
BY SUZY WEINLAND CO-PUBLISHER & EDITOR
Publisher’s Note
Happy Holidays to all! I want to thank those who have reached out with appreciation and support for what our Town Crier staff and junior couriers do each month to bring current Mariemont events and news, history, area business spotlights and advertising, fun stories and puzzles, and more to each resident and business patron in the community.
This is our last issue of the 2025 calendar year. A reminder that we do not publish in January, so that our amazing volunteer staff and couriers can take a well-deserved break to rest and enjoy their families and friends. We’ll see you again in February!
Call For Story Items
We are still looking for cute, funny or unique pet photos and tips for February’s National Responsible Pet Owner’s Month article. Carol Sanger is putting together a piece full of advice from a local vet and Cincinnati Animal CARE, and we’d love to share photos of your furry (or not-so-furry) friend! Send a pic, along with your and your pet’s name, your favorite thing about them, or something adorable/funny/weird they like to do to mariemonttowncrier@gmail.com by December 15
In March, we hope to spotlight Mariemont residents who’ve lived in the ‘Mont for 50+ years. We’ve already received several names — thank you! — and will be reaching out to them soon! If you know a
neighbor or resident we should spotlight, please send us their name and contact info by December 30
Have a wonderful holiday season!
The Club
THANK YOU to the following individuals and organizations for your support! Funding for delivery of the Town Crier to your doorstep by our junior couriers comes solely from your contributions! Individuals and organizations who contribute will have their names included in our Crier Club section for one calendar year following your donation. To donate, please write a check payable to Mariemont Town Crier and mail it to 3914 Miami Rd., #207, Cincinnati OH 45227, or drop it off in the door mail slot. We share space with Sanderson Insurance, just off the Square.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Mariemont Town Crier, we invite you to show your support with a donation of $50 or more. Those donating at least $50 will have their names appear in bold and italics.
Clare Ackerman
Brenda & Paul Allen
Marty & Tom Allman
Anonymous
Stan & Bobbie Bahler
Rob & Linda Bartlett
Denis & Marianne
Beausejour
Phil Bender & Janet Cleary
Helene Bentley
Ed & Karen Berkich
Rex Bevis
Editor / Co-Publisher
Suzy Weinland mariemonttowncrier@gmail.com
Advertising Manager / Co-Publisher
Matt Weinland mariemonttowncrier@gmail.com
Production Designer Zachary Weinland mariemonttowncrier@gmail.com
Distribution Manager / Editorial Assistant Margaret Jevic margaret101@gmail.com
Biff & Janet Black
Jeff Bloomer & Beth Brubacher
Anne & Bill Burleigh
Susan Davis-Ali
Sam & Nancy Duran
Natalie Eisert & Andrew Fickas
Catherine & Art Evans
Kate & Peter Fenner
Mary Ann Fieler & Robert Faelten
Garden Club of Mariemont
Kathy Graeter
Andrew M. Grant
Jim, John & Helen Gray
Dean & Valerie Hanley
DAR Mariemont Chapter / Sarah Hartkemeier
Drew & Taryn Hastings
Chuck & Tara Hatch
Marianne Jenkins
Janet Kalas
Tom & Dana Kauffmann
Claire Kupferle
STAFF
Photographer Steve Spooner me@mariemontstuff.com
Contributors
Matt Ayer matt@ayerquality.com
Kim Beach kimbeach13@gmail.com
Aileen Beatty aileen.beatty@gmail.com
Betsy Bybee betsy.bybee@gmail.com
Peter McBride pete0948@gmail.com
Carol Sanger csanger1@me.com
Randy York ryork@mariemont.org
Junior Couriers
Charlotte Caudill
Cody Ching
Eli Ching
Alexis Clark
Mac Clark
Olivia Clark
Ben Jevic
Ella Jevic
Peggy & Charles Landes
Max Madl
MaryLou & John McIlwraith
Noble-Basora Family
Julie Northrop
The Qin Family
Jan Timothy Riker
Jan Ring
Beth Ruggles
Janet & Bill Sarran
Mike Schoeny
Jane Lawson
Levi Lawson
James Lepa
Michael Lepa
Max Madl
Zach Maier
Laura Queen
Alex Rohal
Sam Rouse
Daxton Vaughan
Ford Willis Twyla Willis
Carl Stich & Amy Banister
Kathy & John Stineman
Janet Stollmaier
Wendy & Gary Tomczak
Steve & Ruth Varner
Kurt & Nancy Vonder Ahe
Jim & Rachel Votaw
Suzy & Matt Weinland
Doug & Ellen Zemke
Sue & Bob Zepf
FEBRUARY DEADLINE
The editorial and advertising deadline for the next Town Crier is January 1, 2025
All articles, photos and camera-ready ads must be submitted by 5 p.m. to mariemonttowncrier@ gmail.com.
Non-profit inserts are due by the Monday before distribution. For more information, see below.
The Mariemont Town Crier, LLC “The Voice of the Village of Mariemont,” is published monthly from September through December and February through May as a service to residents and organizations of the Village of Mariemont. Our junior couriers deliver to your doorstep or business the first full weekend of those months. If you do not receive your issue by the end of delivery week, please reach out to Distribution Manager Margaret Jevic at margaret101@gmail.com
Editorial deadlines are the 1st of the month prior to publication. News, story ideas, photos, and Letters to the Editor can be directed to Suzy Weinland at mariemonttowncrier@gmail.com. Full guidelines are available upon request
Non-Profit Inserts: Please confirm with us at mariemonttowncrier@gmail.com by the 1st of the month prior to publication. You will need to print 2,000 inserts, collated into groups of 50, and deliver to Margaret Jevic, 6951 Nolen Circle by the Monday prior to the first full weekend of the month. A $75 flat fee is due with your insert drop-off. Payments can be made via check made out to Mariemont Town Crier.
Advertising: Advertising helps fund production of the Mariemont Town Crier and is a targeted way for area businesses to reach over 2,000 homes and businesses in Mariemont, Spring Hill, Williams Meadow, and Mariemont Landing. In addition to a hard-copy edition delivered to doorsteps, each issue is digitally archived for public viewing on Issuu and posted monthly on our Facebook page. For ad rates, deadlines, forms, and payments, or if you have any further questions, please contact Matt Weinland at mariemonttowncrier@gmail.com
I quickly learned in my tenure on Village Council that it is impossible to overestimate the contributions of our volunteers and volunteer organizations to the Village of Mariemont. These organizations are the driving force behind many of the enhancements and improvements we have made to the Village. These organizations manage the events and activities that we all enjoy. Put simply, the Village would simply not be the special place that it is without the service and dedication of our volunteers.
This year alone, our Village volunteers:
• planted over 70 new street trees and pruned 136 street trees
• built a new wading pool
• are building four new pickleball courts
• are rehabilitating Dogwood Park
• created a new landscape plan for Livingood Park
• cleaned all our park benches
• installed a new drinking fountain at Dogwood Park
• converted all streetlights to LED (this project was initiated by volunteers)
• updated Patriot Park, including planting new trees
• maintained and improved Murray Path
• maintained and updated with seasonal plantings all planters throughout the Village
• built and installed new posting boards
• installed new trail signage along the south 80 trails.
There were also dozens of community activities sponsored by our volunteer organizations this year.
• The Mariemont Preservation Foundation provided key funding for the 4th of July Fireworks, organized and conducted the “Taste of Mariemont,” and completed infrastructure upgrades and added exhibits to the historic Ferris House.
• Sustainable Mariemont organized a community recycling drive and maintains a recycling center at the municipal building.
• The Pool Commission responded to member surveys and prioritized annual repairs and upgrades, sponsored events, and oversaw swim lessons and swim team activities.
• The Park Advisory Board organized seven community park clean-up days in the spring and early summer and oversaw the development of revitalization plans for Ann Buntin Becker Park and the Concourse.
• The Mariemont Racquet Club managed a Memorial Day event as well as open play, lessons, and instruction throughout the season.
• The Mariemont Flag Walk Committee placed 3,000 flags along the streets and parks for 4th of July weekend.
• Mariemont Preschool Parents Group presented the magical Luminaria Night, the Family Picnic in the Park, Fall Festival, Breakfast with Santa, Valentine’s Day Dance, Easter Egg Hunt, and other activities. The Preschool Parents Group directed their fundraising towards donations to the Dogwood Park Project, the Wading Pool Campaign, and others.
• The Garden Club of Mariemont conducted the plant sale in May and continued their stewardship of Hopkins Park and the butterfly garden at the pool.
• Mariemont Kiwanis presented the Arts and Crafts Fair in September.
• The Mariemont Recreation Association Board, volunteers, and coaches donated over 6,000 hours in 2025 toward youth sports in the Village, and they oversaw the maintenance and management of our recreational facilities.
All these activities were initiated, organized and executed principally by volunteers.
It is especially impressive when you quantify the impact of these volunteers. In 2025, it is estimated that volunteers in the Village contributed over 6,000 hours, excluding the coaches of youth sports. The estimated value of this volunteerism to the Village is $200,000.
There were also direct financial contributions to the Village from Village residents and other donors. The wading pool (aka
Continued on next page
Mariemont Racquet Club board and volunteers break ground for new pickleball courts.
VILLAGE
Volunteers (from previous page)
“Toddler Aquatic Center”) was led by the Pool Commission, the pickleball courts led by the Racquet Club, the drinking fountain and other improvements led by Preschool Parents Group, the fireworks display and other projects with financial assistance from the Mariemont Preservation Foundation.
The Mariemont Legacy Foundation served as a conduit in fundraising for these and other Village projects. Collectively, these groups donated $340,000 directly to the Village from their fundraising campaigns to complete the projects list above.
Thank you volunteers and volunteer organizations for your vision, dedication, and service in making Mariemont a better place to live. I am confident that I speak for all of Village government and our residents when I say, “We honor, appreciate, and respect your contributions. Thank you!”
Mariemont Preschool Parents Group members present a check to the Village for $5,500 for the installation of a new water fountain at Dogwood Park near the Clarence Erickson shelter. The new drinking fountain features a bottle filling station, drinking fountain, and pet fountain.
Mariemont
Here is a contact list of our wonderful Village organizations, for more information, to get involved, or just to say thanks!
Garden Club of Mariemont
Facebook: Garden Club of Mariemont mariemont.org/mariemont-garden-club
Linda Bartlett mariemont.org/lifestyle/racquet-club
Mariemont Recreation Association Board
Jordan Gaietto mariemontsports.org
Mariemont Scouts
Mike Wood troop149.com/welcome-to-scouting
Sustainable Mariemont
Alicia Stock instagram.com/sustainablemariemont
Mariemont Tree Advisory Board
Kristin Van Scoy mariemont.org/tree-advisory-board
South 80 Trails, Gardens & Park Advisory Board
Steve Spooner mariemont.org/lifestyle/south-80-trailsand-community-gardens
Park Board volunteers clean up and beautify Livingood Park.
Architects of Mariemont: Clinton Mackenzie, Continued
BY MATTHEW AYER
Historian Millard Rogers described the “dream team” of Mariemont’s founders Mary Emery, John Nolen and Charles Livingood as: “a wealthy financial backer, America’s preeminent town planner and a visionary impresario, forming an impressive triumvirate.”
Last month’s feature in this series introduced architect and industrial town planner Clinton Mackenzie and described his collaboration with John Nolen on the noteworthy Kingsport, Tennessee project.
Nolen and Mackenzie each had extensive experience in designing industrial towns. They shared a vision for working class families to enjoy not only affordable, sanitary, well-constructed housing but, equally important, to provide an environment and amenities to meet the societal and physical needs of a community by careful master planning. Based on the successful Kingsport
Mariemont project. Livingood selected both of them, with Mackenzie to design a group of residences on the northwest corner of the Dale Park district.
Clinton Mackenzie designed one of our Village’s iconic buildings, which at the time was our largest single housing structure. The Mackenzie Building is located at the corner of Murray Avenue and Beech Street, fronted by a triangular green space. Today, twin, mature honey locust trees provide a pleasant, dappled shade to this entryway in summer. Three stories tall, the building has a center section and two symmetrical, projecting wings. Each section has nine apartment units. Six of the units located in the central block have two bedrooms, with all the remaining units one bedroom, plus living room, galley kitchen, and bathroom. Six units come with covered porches or balconies.
experience, Nolen recommended architect/ planner Mackenzie (along with Grosvenor Atterbury, who would design the Sheldon Place homes) to Livingood for the
rail” — a decorative molding just below the ceiling from which to suspend pictures or other décor items without damaging the
plaster walls. Tenants enjoy a large, original, glazed cast iron tub, later outfitted with a shower and curtain ring. Each galley-style kitchen features a modern gas range. The comfort of radiant heat is provided for each tenant, along with instantaneous hot water, as a separate, circulating hot water line feeds each apartment from the central boiler.
The Mackenzie exemplifies the Tudor Revival style, with ashlar stone masonry on the first level, stucco accented with dark brown half timbers and window trim above. Symmetrical, front-facing gables provide a decorative effect, and match the steep slope of the slate roof.
Inside, each apartment retains its 1920s character with original, refinished wood floors, double-hung windows, and a “picture
The Mackenzie primarily serves singles and couples, in many cases as a tenant’s first rental. Asked about her experience, a 20-something tenant explained: “I liked living there. The building is older but well maintained and has character. My one-bedroom apartment had four closets and a porch. Heat was provided and a window A/C unit worked well enough in summer. A storage locker and onsite laundry facilities were really convenient. The best part — living in the Village of Mariemont.”
A sense of pride in ownership and appreciation for the building’s historical significance became readily apparent in an interview. Chad and Steve Osgood have served as “hands-on” property owners and
The Mackenzie, as built. Photo from Mariemont Preservation Archives.
Bookend townhomes that complement the anchor Mackenzie Building. Photo from Mariemont Preservation Archives.
managers for 31 years, learning the maintenance and repair ins and outs of the historic building’s infrastructure, as well as how to care for individual units. You might even see Chad personally trimming the privet hedge that surrounds the front triangle.
They appreciate the soundness of the building itself, built to last in its design, materials of construction and craftsmanship. As one example, the building’s slate roof, 100 years old, is expected to last many more decades with routine inspections and repairs. Chad noted, “If there were ever a tornado in Mariemont, I would want to be in this building.” Their property management company serves as a model of historical preservation, including cooperation with the Village of Mariemont. They clearly understand and follow the Village historical code for exterior modifications and comply with our rental inspection program.
VILLAGE
In addition to this anchor building, Mackenzie designed “bookend” multi-unit
townhomes, three each on Murray Avenue and Beech Street, plus one across the street on Beech. All complementary in scale, some echo the Mackenzie’s Tudor Revival style in stone/stucco/half-timbers/slate, while others combine brick and wood siding facades with a roof across the front that provides a front porch for each individual entrance. In this manner, the architect met Livingood’s
desire to have variety but harmony among classically styled structures. Today, we can appreciate the vision of our founders and the collaboration with Clinton Mackenzie and other outstanding architects of the day for this exciting, unique American project. In his visit last year to our Village, biographer Professor Bruce Stephenson described Mariemont as the most intact example of John Nolen’s vision for a model town in the American garden city movement. Looking forward, this plan and its buildings deserve preservation for generations to come, with the care of conscientious owners as well as a mindful eye by residents and our Village government.
Suggested reading: Stephenson, Bruce, John Nolen, Landscape Architect & City Planner, 2021, Library of American Land scape History.
The large, glazed cast iron tub remains a popular feature for Mackenzie Building tenants. Photo by M. Ayer.
COMMUNITY
Mariemont Alumnus & Artist
Timothy Harrier Expands International Footprint
BY DAVID SMITH EISELE GALLERY
In November, multidisciplinary artist and Mariemont High School alumnus Timothy Harrier — whose practice moved with equal fluency across painting, photography, drawing, and sculpture — presented new works in the independent ART-ICON Exhibition held in conjunction with Paris Photo Days 2025 in the Bastille district.
The show, which opened in Paris on November 13 and ran through November 16, gathered artists probing the intersections of desire, power, and visual culture with a candor that felt both urgent and unsparing.
Harrier’s inclusion placed his work alongside Joel-Peter Witkin, Mark Seliger, Roger Ballen, Antoine d’Agata, and Nadia Tolokonnikova (Pussy Riot) — with a text by Slavoj Žižek anchoring the exhibition’s conceptual frame. It was a context that underscored the seriousness of Harrier’s moment — one shaped not by spectacle, but by a steadily sharpening, tactile vision.
Where many artists settled comfortably into a single medium, Harrier routinely collapsed those borders. His paintings bled into graphite-driven drawings; photographic surfaces appeared less printed than excavated; charcoal behaved like both pigment and residue. His marks operated like scar tissue — painterly, yes, but equally archaeological, registering thought, friction, and endurance.
These photographic works in Paris extended that trajectory. They affirmed the physicality of
drawings — surface as skin, pigment as memory — while never relinquishing photography’s cool, observational rigor. The images did not feel composed so much as exhumed, as if lifted from lived strata rather than laid onto a surface. They read less like pictures made in a studio than artifacts recovered from thought, time, and touch.
The exhibition capped a year in which Harrier accumulated momentum — twelve institutional and gallery presentations, expanding critical attention, and accelerating collector interest. His presence in Paris confirmed what the work had already insisted: that Harrier was operating within a widening global conversation, one that rewarded not only ambition but depth, persistence, and a refusal to simplify the complexity of looking.
About the Artist
Timothy Harrier lives and works between Santa Fe and Cincinnati. Trained at the Herron School of Art, Indiana University, Purdue University, and the Tamarind Institute, Harrier builds work with a rigor and material sensitivity that has earned the attention of collectors in the U.S. and abroad. His practice moves fluidly across painting, photography, drawing, and sculpture — often merging processes so thoroughly that traditional medium boundaries collapse. Working with elemental materials such as ash, soot, charcoal, and graphite, Harrier creates surfaces that feel unearthed rather than made,
Tim Harrier
Harrier’s “Cocoon of Despair” in wood frame
holding the residue of time, memory, and transformation.
Harrier’s photographic works share this intensity and craftsmanship. Rooted in traditional lens-based methods and advanced contemporary technique, his images often layer up to thirty exposures into a single composition, producing a depth and tonal resonance that feels excavated, almost archeological, rather than digitally constructed.
His work is held in private and institutional collections internationally, recognized for its conceptual strength, technical mastery, and enduring material presence.
Recent and Upcoming Exhibitions
The Contemporary Arts Center
Cincinnati, OH
Nov. 28, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026
Zonta Exhibition — Journey of Healing: The Trauma-Informed Power
Contemporary Dayton Biennial Dayton, OH
Recipient: Mike Goheen Memorial Award
LINNcinnati Gallery Cincinnati, OH
The Figure in Monochrome
FHLB Gallery Indianapolis, IN Reclaimed Roots
Cincy Nice Gallery Cincinnati, OH
As Told By Humans
Santa Fe International Film Festival
Santa Fe, NM
Screening of Harrier’s documentary NMSA — The Story About a School’s Becoming
This sequence of exhibitions reinforces Harrier’s growing stature as an artist whose approach to painting, photographic intervention, and mixed media carries emotional gravitas and technical acuity.
Mariemont Theatre Expands Programming
BY JULIANNE REISENFELD
The Mariemont Theatre recently reworked our programming model to be able to offer more of what the community has asked us to show. We will now be using four screens for new releases, and one screen will be utilized for repertory movies and special events, including Themed Film Series, Partner-Curated Cult Fare, Interactive Cinema, and Timeless Classic Favorites. Check the marquee, visit the event page on our website at marieonttheatre.com, or stop in to find out more about…
Popcorn & Pajamas: Every Saturday features a family film showing in two auditoriums. One standard showing and one sensory-friendly showing, for any guest preferring lights a little brighter, volume a little lower, and the flexibility to move around the auditorium. This was suggested by a local mom with an autistic child - we already scheduled the film in one auditorium and after her suggestion, decided we would add a second auditorium of the same film each Saturday so families could have a choice.
Themed Series: In November, we showed a multi-decade lineup of seven films — entitled “Mariemont Mysteries” —
that shifted genres and styles from noir to the supernatural. We also showed a week of films starring Diane Keaton.
Join us throughout December for “Merry Movies at Mariemont”. These will include holiday favorites you won’t see at other theaters, including the original Home Alone, Disney’s Frozen and Frozen 2, The Santa Clause, Die Hard and Die Hard 2 (we consider them Christmas movies), Miracle on 34th Street, The Muppets Christmas Carol, and more!
Expanded Community Partners Showings: Outer Cinema Cincinnati (cult, fringe and esoteric film screenings), Wisenheimers (because every movie deserves a laugh track), Leontine Cinema (some of the best women-directed cult films of the past) and Secret Base Cinema (cinephiles and programmers of repertory film).
Special Events: Our annual interactive White Christmas returns on Dec. 14.
Flexible Rental Times: For movie parties, filmmaker showings, presentations, video gaming and more.
Christmas Traditions: Mariemont Christmas Tree Lighting
BY AUDREY ROSENAU
One of my favorite ways to start the Christmas season is going to the Mariemont Christmas Tree Lighting in the Old Town Square. Each year, my family and I go and have so much fun. We put on our hats, coats, and mittens if it’s cold outside. We always see lots of friends from school and you can even take a carriage ride.
It’s always hard to wait for the countdown to start. When the countdown finally begins, I can’t wait for the tree to light up. Then, when the huge tree lights up, it’s thrilling! The tree looks so beautiful. I always think, “Woah, that’s really cool!”
After the tree is lit, we like to get hot cocoa and go through Candy Cane Lane, which is across from the elementary school. It looks like giant candy canes covered in lights over your head and you can get a candy cane at the end. Then, we usually walk around and see all the great Christmas lights, inflatables,
and decorations around the neighborhood. We usually see Santa Claus when we’re walking, and we say hi to him. Even though it’s cold out, I always feel happy and warm
inside when we’re walking around, seeing the lights, our friends, and Santa, too. When we head home, I feel happy and filled with the Christmas spirit. That’s why I love going to the Mariemont Christmas Tree Lighting.
The Next Generation of Mariemont
Introducing our new kids’ column, Next Gen News & Views, where the youngest in our community are invited to share their opinions, musings, news, learnings, interviews, photos, artwork and more! If you have a kiddo in grades 1-8 interested in submitting a piece for consideration, please connect with Betsy Bybee at betsy.bybee@gmail. com or Margaret Jevic at margaret101@ gmail.com.
Audrey and her brother are ready for the holidays!
Mariemont School Foundation Annual Fund Drive Underway
BY TRACIE WICHMAN MSF PRESIDENT
In this season of Thanksgiving, the Mariemont School Foundation (MSF) extends our heartfelt gratitude to our community. Each year, through your generosity, MSF ensures that every student in our district benefits from experiences, opportunities, and resources that go far beyond what public funding alone can provide.
What is MSF?
MSF is the only organization associated with the District that touches the educational experiences of every student each year.
What Your Gifts Make Possible
• Warriors Beyond: MSF provides 80% of the funding for this experiential learning program, bringing hands-on, real-world
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Now owned by third-generation, Deanne Fisher, our independent agency has an office right off the Square in Mariemont. Whether you are looking for home, auto, life, or business insurance coverage, we represent multiple insurance companies, so we can find the best fit for you!
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opportunities to students K–12.
• Warriors BeWell: We fund onsite mental health services and sensory room upgrades to promote student well-being.
• Classroom Innovation: From 3D printers to virtual reality goggles and collaborative learning spaces, MSF helps bring future-focused tools into our classrooms.
• College & Career Readiness: We support ACT prep, master classes, and the Life & Leadership Series.
• Scholarships & Special Funds: MSF supports travel-based learning experiences like Camp Kern, the Washington D.C. trip, and the Global Leaders Summit, as well as basic needs and enrichment opportunities.
• Distinguished Alumni Program: We celebrate Mariemont graduates whose stories of leadership and impact inspire current students. These experiences help our students grow, explore, and thrive. And they are only possible because of community support.
How Can You Help?
As we close out the calendar year, we invite you to make a gift to the MSF Annual Fund Drive. Your donation is more than a contribution—it’s a commitment to sustaining the programs and experiences that shape our students’ futures and uphold the legacy of excellence that defines Mariemont City Schools.
Donations can be made via our website at www.mariemontschoolfoundation.org/ annual-fund-drive or you can mail a check to MSF at 2 Warrior Way, Cincinnati, OH 45227.
The Mariemont School Foundation is an independent, non-profit organization exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, whose mission is to support the long-term success of our students and community through initiatives that preserve, enhance and sustain educational excellence.
Try These Yummy Holiday Recipes!
Whether you need something quick and simple to take to a holiday gathering, or want to go all out “from scratch,” here are two delectable recipes just in time for the December rush! THANK YOU to the Town Crier’s Carol Sanger and Honey Designs Jewelry’s Chelsea Mead for sharing their family recipes with our readers!
Easy & Delicious Spinach Dip
From Carol Sanger Town Crier Staff Writer
Ingredients
• 2 pkgs. frozen chopped spinach
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 pkg. Lipton onion soup mix
• 8 oz. shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Grease 13” x 9” casserole dish.
• Cook spinach as directed and drain.
• Mix in sour cream and onion soup mix.
• Add the mixture to the baking dish and spread evenly.
• Sprinkle cheese on top.
• Bake uncovered for 30 min.
“My
Grandma’s Famous German Sweet Chocolate Cake”
From Chelsea Mead Owner, Honey Designs Jewelry
Cake Ingredients
• 1 pkg. (4 oz.) Baker’s German Sweet Chocolate
• ½ cup boiling water
• 1 cup butter or mayonnaise
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 ½ cups sifted Swans Down Cake Flour (“America’s favorite cake flour since 1894!”)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 4 egg whites, stiffly beaten
pixabay.com
Coconut Pecan Frosting Ingredients (makes 2 ½ cups frosting)
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 slightly beaten egg yolks
• ½ cup butter
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 ¹⁄₃ cups shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
• Melt chocolate in boiling water and then cool.
• In separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each. (Hold aside egg whites in separate bowl.)
• Blend in vanilla and chocolate to the butter/sugar/yolk mixture.
• In another separate bowl, sift flour with baking soda and salt.
• Alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk to the chocolate mixture, a little at a time, beating after each addition until smooth.
• Beat egg whites and fold into batter.
• Pour into three 8” or 9” layer pans, lined on bottoms with wax paper.
• Bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes. Let cool.
• While cakes cool, make frosting by combining all but the coconut and pecans in a saucepan and cooking over medium heat, stirring until thickened — about 12 minutes. Stir in shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Remove from heat and cool until thick enough to spread.
• When cakes and frosting are completely cool, frost tops of cakes only and layer. Enjoy!
Ferris House Receives New Shutters
BY BIFF BLACK MPF PRESIDENT
The most recent restoration project by the Mariemont Preservation Foundation (MPF) to the historic Ferris House on Plainville Road is the addition of the style of shutters that are appropriate for the period of the earliest years of the house, which was built by Eliphalet Ferris from 1802-1813.
Historically, shutters existed even before glass windows. Shutters provided security from animals and intruders, created privacy, improved insulation in the cold seasons, and provided protection from rain and snow. Solid shutters with raised panels were typical in the early 1800s in America when the Ferris House was built. The solid raised panel version that is on the Ferris House now are called “shutters” while those with louvered slats are called “blinds.” Either black or dark green shutters were the preferred colors of shutters in the 1800s because they helped provide darkness for daytime napping.
While there will be fewer noticeable changes to the outside of the Ferris House as winter arrives, the work going on inside will continue. This includes creating exhibits that will tell the unique stories of Mariemont: the life and philanthropy of Mary Emery; the planning and building of Mariemont; the history of the Ferris House; and the indigenous peoples of this area.
MPF’s mission is to preserve, protect, and promote the integrity and character of Mariemont.
If you love living in Mariemont as much as we do, become a member of MPF. Use the QR code (right) or go to the website to learn more at mariemontpreservation.org
Publisher’s Note: For a fun historical backstory about the original and former Ferris House owners, visit the December 1979 issue of the Mariemont Town Crier in our digital archives at issuu.com/mariemonttc/ docs/1979_12_vol5_no3, and flip to page 3.
The Ferris House before adding shutters.
The Ferris House dons new, period-appropriate shutters.
VILLAGE
Denise Scholtz’ mother got her started collecting Byer’s Choice Carolers. Every Christmas, she displays them on the mantle and in a bay window. She also lovingly wraps the stair rail with a garland of ornaments hand-made by her mother-in-law.
Julie Yasaki’s parents started a crystal ornament collection when she was born and passed it on to her when she got her own Christmas tree. The ornaments are proudly displayed on her tree and around her house.
Where the Magic Happens: The Story of Boris Litwin Jewelers
BY KIM BEACH
When you walk into Boris Litwin Jewelers, you’re immediately struck by a perfect blend of sophistication and fun. The inviting sparkle of the showroom mirrors the personality of BJ Foreman, the president and fourth-generation jeweler carrying forward her family’s remarkable legacy.
BJ’s path to the jewelry business wasn’t a straight line. A Walnut Hills High School
graduate, she went on to earn a degree in Art History from the University of Cincinnati. Her early career took her into journalism, where she spent years at the Cincinnati Post and Enquirer as a fashion editor, society editor,
and art critic—roles that perfectly honed her eye for beauty, design, and storytelling.
The family tradition began with Boris Litwin, BJ’s grandfather, who opened the original downtown Cincinnati location
many decades ago. Boris learned the craft from his father, Akim Litwin, who introduced him to jewelry design and production at just 13 years old. Over time, the business was passed down to Boris’s son and son-inlaw, and when both men passed away, the
Provide
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Custom stacking diamond bands
Custom necklace
SCAN ME:
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Kenwood, above Trio Restaurant. Today, customers love the boutique’s easy accessibility and front-door parking. What keeps them coming back, however, is the jewelry itself: quality pieces at every price point, along with a growing selection of lab-created diamonds, which have been met with great enthusiasm.
So, what makes Boris Litwin Jewelers different? The team will tell you right away: “This is where the magic happens.” Every piece of jewelry has a story, and the Litwin team delights in helping clients repurpose cherished heirlooms or create custom designs that capture special moments. They collaborate with talented custom designers across the U.S. and around the world to bring each client’s vision to life.
When asked about the key to their success, BJ doesn’t hesitate. “Personal relationships. We’ve served generations of families who trust us with life’s most meaningful gifts,” she says. “That trust means everything. We listen carefully, offer thoughtful options, and always aim to surprise and delight.”
BJ’s deep roots run through Amberley Village, where she has lived in the same home for 53 years. Her daughter, Liz Foreman, followed her journalistic path and now
works for the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library. Outside the shop, BJ enjoys baking, water aerobics, and attending the Tucson Gem Show, where she scouts trends and treasures for her clients. (Insider tip: next year’s standout color is chocolate brown!)
As for her connection to Mariemont, BJ has long admired its charming architecture and vibrant community. She’s a regular at local favorites like The Dilly Deli and The National Exemplar, and she never misses a visit to the neighborhood movie theater. A loyal reader of the Mariemont Town Crier,
she’s proud to serve many clients from the area.
Her guiding philosophy? “If it’s not fun, I’m done.” And perhaps her favorite saying best sums up the heart of the business: “Sometimes, you just need something beautiful in your life.”
At Boris Litwin Jewelers, BJ and her team are dedicated to making that happen for every client who walks through their doors. For more information, call 513-621-1123 or visit www.litwins.com
Boris Litwin President BJ Foreman and Assistant Manager Andy Garman
End-of-Year Financial Tips for Individuals, Self-Employed
BY SUZY WEINLAND
Mariemont is an age-diverse community, chock full of self-employed residents. As we approach the end of the year, we thought we’d take the opportunity to share some financial planning and tax-saving tips from three residents who are professionals in the financial industry.
Judd Eberhart, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, starts us off by saying, “It’s a great time to take stock of your financial picture and make strategic decisions that can help reduce your tax liability, strengthen your financial foundation and set yourself up for success in 2026. Whether you’re managing retirement accounts, reviewing insurance policies or planning charitable contributions, proper planning can help you wrap up the year with clarity and confidence.”
Max Out Your HSA/FSA Contributions and Spending: The first thing Eberhart sug-
istockphoto.com
gests is maximizing your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) benefits. For FSAs, he advises checking your balance and spending remaining funds on qualified medical expenses before December 31. “Most plans follow a ‘use it or lose it’ rule, though some offer limited carryovers or grace periods.” For HSAs, “Consider maxing out your contributions (the 2025 limit is $4,300 for individuals and $8,550 for families, with an additional $1,000 catchup if you’re 55 or older),” says Eberhart. “If
both you and your spouse are 55 or older, opening a second HSA can allow for an extra catch-up contribution.”
Longtime resident Rob Bartlett, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, agrees. “If you are in a high-deductible health care plan, consider contributing to an HSA. Usually, companies will contribute to an HSA. If the company contribution is less than the maximum, you can contribute your own money as well, and your contribution reduces your taxable income dollar for dollar.” Bartlett adds that what makes the HSA so appealing is all the contributions grow tax free and can be withdrawn tax free for the rest of your life if they are used for medical expenses.
In considering your potential health care needs and medical expenses down the road, Tom Walsh, CHARTERED FINANCIAL ANALYST®, suggests, “If you are over age 50, investigate buying long-term care insurance. Long-term care facilities can charge as much as $10,000 per month and more. You don’t need to fund the entire amount with insurance, but just the gap between what your assets and fixed payments (i.e. social security) will cover and the overall cost of a long-term care facility.”
Choosing The Right Retirement Savings for You: Whether at the beginning of your career or wrapping it up, it’s never too early to plan for retirement savings. Bartlett advises, “For anyone who is a sole proprietor and the only employee, you might consider opening a Solo 401(k). This allows you to make an employee contribution up to $23,500 if you are under age 50, $31,000 if you are age 50-59 or age 64 and older, and $34,750 if you are age 60-63, reducing your taxable income. In addition, you can also make a tax-deductible employer contribution. The employer contribution can be up to 25 percent of your company’s net income, subject to a maximum employee plus employer contribution limit. Calculating the employer contribution can be tricky, so it’s recommended to use a CPA for this.”
Walsh adds that those who are self-employed or who receive any consulting / 1099 income, consider establishing a SEP
IRA plan. “The amount you can contribute is significantly higher than a traditional IRA and is not subject to a deduction phase-out based on your income.” There are differences between a Solo 401K and a SEP IRA regarding who contributes and how they work. Again, work with a CFA or CPA to define what is best for your situation.
Lowering Your RMDs: Starting at age 73, there are Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from your IRA to consider. Before you hit that point, Bartlett and Eberhart both suggest that if your current tax bracket is lower than your tax bracket will be when you start collecting Social Security and taking RMDs, you might want to consider converting from a Traditional to a Roth IRA
“It could lock in a lower tax rate or reduce future RMDs,” according to Eberhart.
“[Converting] takes money from your traditional IRA account and moves it to your Roth IRA, and you pay ordinary income tax on the conversion amount,” says Bartlett. “The money in the Roth IRA then grows tax free and can be withdrawn tax free for the rest of your life. And that tax free status is passed on to your heirs as well.”
Eberhart adds, “Keep in mind that Roth conversions: 1) Are taxable events; 2) May affect your Medicare premiums or other benefits; 3) Must be completed by Dec. 31.”
And no matter how young you are, Walsh recommends signing up for the Social Security Administration website (www. ssa.gov). “It will show your lifetime annual earnings and tell you your expected benefit at full retirement age, plus the amount you are expected to receive if you claim early (as young as age 62), or delay receiving benefits (as late as age 70).
Consider Charitable Giving Strategies: Bartlett and Eberhart offer an alternative to Roth conversion. “At age 70.5, you can have money sent directly from your IRA to a charity. This is called a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD)* and it can count against your RMD requirements. Also, if the money goes directly to a charity, the withdrawal is not taxable. For those 70.5 and above, QCDs can be a good way to proactively reduce your IRA balance, which in turn can reduce your future RMDs,” explains Bartlett. Eberhart adds that for 2025 you can donate up to $108,000.
A couple of other charitable giving strategies Eberhart says to consider are:
Appreciated Assets*: Donating stocks or mutual funds with gains can help you avoid capital gains taxes while receiving a deduction for the full market value.
Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs)*: Contribute now, decide later. DAFs offer immediate tax deductions and allow you to distribute gifts over time. Plus, if you don’t itemize your taxes, consider bunching multiple years’ worth of contributions into one tax year and using a DAF to maintain flexibility while maximizing deductions.
*Charitable contributions must be made by December 31 to be tax-deductible for 2025.
Tax Planning Opportunities
Following are several tax planning strategies Eberhart says to consider, if applicable to your financial situation.
Tax-Loss Harvesting: This is the process of offsetting gains by selling investments at a loss.
Strategic Gains: This is the process of realizing gains at the 0% capital gains rate if you’re in a low tax bracket.
Gifting Appreciated Assets: This is when you give to family members in lower tax brackets to reduce your estate size and help minimize taxes.
Prepaying Deductible Expenses: If you itemize, consider prepaying mortgage interest, property taxes and/or medical expenses.
End-of-Year Reminders
For those who need to make estimated tax payments, the fourth quarter estimated tax payment is due by January 15, 2026.
Review Your Beneficiary Designations: Make sure your retirement accounts, life insurance policies and other financial instruments reflect your current intentions. These designations override your will.
Evaluate Your Insurance Coverage: Life changes (such as a new dependent, a home purchase or a new job) may require updates to your home, auto, life or disability insurance policies.
Plan for a Fun Purchase: Financial planning should also support your lifestyle goals. Consider setting aside funds for a vacation, home renovation or other special purchase. Planning ahead can help you avoid dipping into emergency savings.
Eberhart shares some final thoughts. “Year-end planning is about aligning your financial life with your values and goals.
By reviewing your accounts, updating documents and making strategic decisions now, you can enter 2026 with clarity and confidence.”
This commentary is provided for general information purposes only, should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice, and does not constitute an attorney/ client relationship. Past performance of any market results is no assurance of future performance. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed.
For disclosures for Tom Walsh, visit walshassetmgt.com
About Our Contributors
Judd Eberhart is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®. He moved to Mariemont in 2019 and his family includes his wife Heather and kids Blake (8), Theo (5), and Cameron (23 mos.). They all like walking or riding bikes to school and the park as well as enjoy the strong sense of community that Mariemont offers.
Rob Bartlett is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®. He was born and raised in Mariemont, graduating from Mariemont High School. He has three children, two of whom graduated from Mariemont. He says, “I never really appreciated Mariemont until I moved away and lived in North Carolina for five years. That’s when I found out how rare it is to live in a community where everything you need is within walking distance, or worst case, you can ride your bike to. And, how special the Village is with all its different historic designations.”
Tom Walsh, a CHARTERED FINANCIAL ANALYST®, is a lifelong Cincinnatian who grew up in Mt. Lookout and moved to Mariemont in 2006. Walsh Asset Management just celebrated 25 years in business, and 15 years on Mariemont Square. His family includes wife Holly, stepsons Max and Quinn Budig, and dog Bizzy. The Walsh family’s favorite Mariemont things to do are walking in the Village, brunch at The Exemplar, and dinner on the patio at The Quarter. Walsh co-founded the Mariemont Flag Project in 2020, placing flags in yards and public spaces every July Fourth weekend. His hobbies include golf, travel, and playing piano.
SCHOOLS
Mariemont Boosters Golf & Pickleball Classic Sees Largest Turnout
BY KEVIN FRYE BOOSTERS PRESIDENT
The Mariemont Athletic Boosters extend our heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, players, and volunteers who made the Annual Golf Classic at Terrace Park Country Club on October 2 a resounding success.
This year, we saw our largest turnout ever with 130 golfers and 34 pickleball players, and over 50 company and family sponsors— all of which were record numbers.
The golf portion of the event featured a four-man scramble format, complete with various games to enhance scoring. Two teams shot an impressive 56, with the team of Jon Morgan, Craig Rassi, Mike Theye, and Todd Straley (picture above left) winning in a scorecard tiebreaker over the 2024 winning team of Jordan Gaitto, Sam Pate, Garrett Gebhardt, and Hunter Freeman (pictured on next page, top left). In its second year, we had 34 pickleball players, up from 8 last year, as we continue to grow the event.
We would like to recognize our major sponsors, especially Andrew Peters with Silent Partners, as our title sponsor. Other major sponsors included: Jersey Mike’s, Energy Alliance, Magnum Surgical, Cindy Crilley, Peter Gaietto and Associates, Man-
ufacturers Supplies Company, Michaelson Homes, Miller Insurance, Deeter Advisory Group, and United Dairy Farmers.
Thanks to your generous support, the money we raised was up over 40 percent from the prior year. The funds raised are vital to:
• Supporting Our Athletes: Ensuring our student-athletes have the equipment, training, and opportunities they need to compete at their best.
• Upgrading Facilities: Helping to maintain and improve the fields and spaces where our athletes practice and play.
• Fostering Community: Uniting our students, families, and local businesses
in a shared commitment to the spirit and success of Mariemont Athletics.
Your commitment to our programs, as highlighted by your support for this event, is a powerful endorsement of the values we strive to instill: teamwork, dedication, and excellence. We are proud to partner with organizations like yours that actively champion the well-being and future of our young people.
Did You Get Your Tree?
There are only a couple of weeks left to get your perfect Christmas Tree and Holiday Wreaths!
Stop by the Troop 149 tree lot at the Mariemont Municipal Building, 6907 Wooster Pike for a freshly cut Fraser fir, thick, fresh pine roping to decorate inside and outside your home, quality tree stands to securely display your tree, and tree disposal bags — all at Santa-friendly prices.
The local Girl Scouts also have their popular, fresh, hand-decorated pine wreaths for sale.
The lot is open daily through mid-December (or until we run out of trees!) For more info visit Facebook.com/ScoutChristmasTree or the troop’s website at troop149. com/tree-sales
Hours and Location
Mariemont Municipal Building 6907 Wooster Pike
FIFTY YEARS OF THE TOWN CRIER
A Hearty Toast to Five Decades of the Town Crier
BY PETE MCBRIDE
Five decades of dedicated, devoted, and determined public service by any institution for a worthy cause deserves abundant praise and recognition. Which is why a year-long tribute and celebration of the Mariemont Town Crier’s 50th anniversary has earned some well-deserved plaudits, “way-ta’-gos,” and remembrances.
So, let’s start this 50th anniversary recognition by recalling and remembering some noteworthy Mariemont events that happened when the Town Crier’s very first issue (Volume 1, No. 1) was published waaaay back in October 1975.
• The Mariemont Village Assembly invited residents to a panel discussion about “Operation Greenbelt Recreation” to be held October 21 at the middle school to discuss future development plans and the use of the land purchased by Hamilton County Park District and Little Miami Inc., noting that “refreshments would be served” following.
• The Village Assembly also solicited voluntary contributions from attendees and existing members to empower that body to “Provide service to the citizens and bylaws for that newly formed organization, whose purpose was to encourage, support, and develop the educational, cultural, civic, historical, and social welfare activities of the Village.”
• The chosen name for a new Village publication was “The Town Crier,” so as to honor the memory of those important and prestigious figures in America’s early history who, before newspapers, radio, television (or even Facebook), brought news to the citizens of small communities, many of whom lacked reading skills. Those local “news reporters” might also alert community members to the pending arrivals of traveling itinerant peddlers and merchants carrying hardto-get supplies and wares that the locals could not otherwise obtain - not even from Kroger. In 1975, Ralph Smith served as the elected town crier.
• Among the earliest advertisers in the Town Crier were Comey & Shepherd, Horton’s Pharmacy, Ritze Texaco, and Howard’s Hardware (“With low discount prices”) on Plainville Road. The Town Crier’s first co-editors were Marty Bartlett and Ellen Brook, who chose to include an early “Letter to the Editor” from Helen Cantrell expressing Little Miami Inc.’s opposition to “any relocation of US-50 along the Little Miami River.”
• Nov. 22, 1975, marked the 10-year anniversary of the Mariemont Kiwanis Club, which among other worthy service projects, has sponsored Mariemont High School’s student “Key Club.”
• Dale Park School’s PTA declared “Parent-Teacher Conference Week.”
• Also of note that year was an ordinance by which “the South 80” was officially annexed by the Village, after a generous donation (supposedly by Marie Emery’s legacy trustees, but the exact source of the gift could not be verified by this writer). And that 75-acre greenspace has remained to this day a truly “growing” part of Mariemont, with the abundant South 80 garden plots tended by residents and even nearby neighbors.
The original Town Crier icon, 1976
FIFTY YEARS OF THE TOWN CRIER
• A major judicial decision was handed down in 1975 when Judge Robert Wood gave Mariemont 30 days to settle outof-court its dispute with what was then Our Lady of Mercy Hospital over (wait for it) the placing of a toll gate erected by the hospital in 1974 to “control traffic” (supposedly on Rowan Hills Drive). However, per a witty sidebar comment in the Town Crier at the time (NOTE: not another annoying pun from yours truly), Judge Wood did not rule that relocating the structure would constitute a “moving violation.” The dispute had to be eventually settled by Ohio’s Supreme Court in 1977.
Also making the Town Crier’s news updates in 1975:
• Council approved a $3,779 purchase of a new police cruiser, a Chevelle from Economy Chevrolet; following reportedly “confrontational” meetings with state highway officials, Mayor Charles Straley repeated the Village Council’s “irrevocably opposed” stance against the widening of Route 50, recommending instead the relocation of same per “Scheme1-A” (as stipulated in John Nolan’s original layout design for Mariemont).
• The December 4 “caravan” holiday trip to Lebanon (the Ohio one, not the one in the Near East) would include the “hospitality and excellence” of The Golden Lamb (at 171 years, “Ohio’s oldest restaurant”) as well as a visit to the Warren County Museum and Railway Station, “stocked with local arts and crafts”.
• The annual Village Christmas Tree lighting ceremony for that same day, but for 7:00 p.m. at the Municipal Building; a second lighting event was also announced for Christmas Eve at the Community Church.
• The “Mariemont Pre-school Mothers” met Dec. 7 at the Parish Center at 8:00 p.m. (probably after they did the dishes, cleaned up the kitchen, and put the kids to bed).
• And lastly, the Town Crier’s first ever “errata” statement was included in the second issue of the fledgling publication — an apology for omitting a mention of “a very important contribution” to the Town Crier’s successful launch; thanks were given to The Villager and “the Rutherford’s for their generous assistance.”
Kudos to everyone who has contributed their time and talents to the successful and truly impressive 50-plus year run in the service of Mariemont and its citizens! Proud to have been even a small part of it.
Check Your 1975 Knowledge
Now that we’re done with the heavy lifting for this article, time to test your memory with a quick quiz. How well do you remember the top headlines and happenings from 1975? (Answers on pg. 31)
1. In 1975, Paul Allen and someone named “Bill Gates” founded a company called
How Times (and Prices) Have Changed...
If you are still feeling nostalgic about 1975, here’s what your typical shopping list might have looked like:
• a dozen eggs: $0.77
• bread: $0.37/loaf
• butter: $1.03/lb
• ground beef: $0.79/lb
• one pound of coffee: $1.20
• 6-pack of Budweiser: $1.79
And if you stopped for gas on your way to get a Big Mac with cheese ($0.77) or hamburger ($0.28), you might have “filled up” for only $0.57/gallon!
2. Wheel of _________ debuted on NBC. “A Chorus _________” and “The _________” (Hint: Toto) opened on Broadway.
3. People feared going “back in the water” after Spielberg’s movie “_________” opened in theaters.
4. Heavyweight champ Mohammed Ali defeated Joe _________ in “The Thrilla’ in _________”.
5. And, speaking of boxers, Cincinnati’s Ezzard _________ passed away at age 53 from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, aka __________ disease.
6. ________ Ford was named Woman of the Year.
7. _________ Rose was selected Sportsman of the Year. “You betcha.”
8. Pittsburgh’s Steel Curtain crushed some “Purple People Eaters” in _________ IX.
9. Canada’s Gordon Lightfoot eulogized in song the “Wreck of the _________ _________”.
10. The Masters Tournament green jacket was presented to _________ _________.
11. The Best Movie Oscar was the only one that flew over “the Cuckoo’s _________”.
12. “_________ Miller,” “Welcome Back _________,” and the Lorne Michaelsdirected _________ _________ _________ debuted.
13. 1975’s Billboard Top Single by Captain and _________ knew love would keep them together.
Continued on next page
Five Decades (from previous page)
14. The World Series was won 4-3 games over the Boston Red Sox by the _________ _________.
15. The “_________ _________ Picture Show” began history’s longest-running “theatrical event”.
16. 1975’s TV’s top show was: _________ _________ _________ Family.
17. The AMA officially endorsed the _________ Maneuver.
18. _________ _________ was ranked the world’s No.1 women’s singles player by the WTA.
19. Hungarian sculptor Erno Rubik applied for a patent on his “magic _________”.
20. Michael and Jennifer were the year’s most popular _________ _________.
For more Mariemont historical stories, photos, ads and whatnot, visit the Mariemont Town Crier’s digital archives at issuu.com/ mariemonttc
SOURCES: Thanks to Linda Bartlett, Archivist, Mariemont Preservation Foundation; SAH Archepedia; Gail Cooley; Mariemont Town Crier archives; Cincinnati Enquirer; Wikipedia; NYTimes; subshinehouse.com; onthisday.com; gorp.org (“Pop Culture Classics”); aarp.org; history.com; National Park Service (via Google AI).
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this article, but corrections and comments are encouraged and welcome.
Be a Part of the Inn’s 100-Year Story
As the Mariemont Inn prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary in April 2026, they are collecting, recording, and preserving their shared history.
If you have stories, memories, documents, photographs, or memorabilia related to the Inn that you’d like to share, please email history@ mariemontinn.com. If you have physical originals, they will be happy to scan and promptly return them to you.
More news to come about the Inn’s year-long centennial celebration beginning January 2026!
COMMUNITY
Happy Holidays from the Garden Club
The Garden Club of Mariemont was founded in 1940 and is the longest consecutive running club in the Village. The purpose of this club is to stimulate a knowledge and love of gardening among amateurs, to aid in the protection of native trees, plants, and birds, as well as to encourage civic planting.
Mark your calendars for our 2026 meetings, which are on the first Wednesday of March, April, and June at 1 p.m. in the Emery Room at the Parish Center on Plainville Road. We look forward to seeing you! Contact Denise Scholtz at dscholtz84@yahoo.com for more info.
Mariemont Youth Football Dominates the Season
BY RUSSELL DETWILER
The Mariemont Gold Football Team, comprised of third and fourth grade players (and a couple of fifth graders) from the Mariemont School District, capped off a successful 4-2 season with a stirring 26-20 come-from-behind victory against Wyo-
ming. Late in the 4th quarter, Mariemont’s David Tedford caught the game-winning 30-yard touchdown pass (his second of the game) on 4th down to lead the team to victory. The team closed the season on a three-game winning streak with an average scoring margin of 24-9.
Pictured are players from Mariemont: 1st Row – Hudson Vianello (9), Matt Brodhag (21), Noah Hlad (36). 2nd Row – Jude Brock (52), David Tedford (24), Maddux Jerdon (also 24), Teddy Shulkers (10), Sam Rouse (4). Coaches – Russell Detwiler, Craig Compton, Kenny Holocher. Not Pictured - Adrian Van Haren (13), Rob Rouse (Director of Youth Football).
A beautiful and festive holiday arrangement by the Garden Club of Mariemont!
Mariemont Area Chamber News COMMUNITY
Happy Holidays from the Mariemont Area Business Chamber! Save these dates and give your business the gift of a Chamber membership for the new year. Learn more at mariemontareachamber.com or email us at mariemontareachamber@gmail.com
December 3 – Morning Mixer: 9-10 a.m. at Madison Place Coffee, 4200 Plainville Rd. Anyone is welcome to stop by and bring a friend!
January 7 – Members Only Meeting: 5:30-6:30 p.m. at The National Exemplar. Featuring a panel-style discussion with Krista Watkins from Thrive Wellness, B12 shots from IV Rejuve, and lite bites provided by Rune Juicery.
February 4 - Evening Mixer: 6-8 p.m. at Magnolia Rose. Anyone is welcome to stop by and bring a friend!
February 2026: Village Valentines and Mrs. Mahj!
BY ERIN ROTHFUSS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The spirit of the season is alive and well at MariElders this December! Our members, who are from any neighborhood, are embracing the holidays with a wonderful array of festive activities and cherished traditions that bring members together in celebration.
The month kicks off with special holiday Bake Sale where members will offer our baked goods for sale at the Scout’s Tree Sale on Saturday, Dec. 6. Our culinary enthusiasm continues with Tech Talks focused on cooking websites, helping everyone discover new holiday recipes and kitchen inspiration. On Dec. 11, the Holiday Market will return for Mariemont Elementary Kindergarteners, a delightful time for all!
The highlight of our December celebrations is undoubtedly our Holiday Party on Dec. 18 at the Fairfax Recreation Center from 12-3 p.m. This festive gathering prom-
ises great food, wonderful company, and plenty of holiday cheer.
December also features exciting excursions, including “The Nutcracker,” performed by the Cincinnati Ballet on Dec. 19, and the magical musical “Hamilton” at the Aronoff on Dec. 30. For those seeking spiritual reflection, we’re offering “Miracle at the Overlook at Overlook Lodge” on Dec. 26.
MONDAYS at 11:00am
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Learn to
STARTING JANUARY 7, 2025
MONDAYS at 11:00am TUESDAYS at 5:30pm
MONDAYS at 11:00am TUESDAYS at 5:30pm
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STARTING JANUARY 7, 2025
Holiday Happenings at MariElders
Our regular activities continue throughout the month, including Balance & Strength classes, Bridge games, Chair Yoga, and our ever-popular Mah Jongg sessions, ensuring that holiday joy is balanced with wellness and social connection.
Join us in making this December truly memorable at MariElders! Connect with us a marielders.org or call 513-271-5588.
DAR Honors Vietnam Vets at Area ‘Pinning’
BY SARAH HARTKEMEIER HISTORIAN/LIBRARIAN MARIEMONT DAR CHAPTER
On November 6, the Mariemont Chapter of the National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) accepted an invite to participate in the Twin Lakes Annual Veterans Day Program in Montgomery. The Mariemont Chapter is a partner of the Vietnam War 50th Commemorative Program sponsored by the US Congress.
Veterans who served during the Vietnam War between 1955 to 1975, were presented pins as a “lasting memento of the Nation’s thanks.” Twenty-one Veterans and three surviving spouses were pinned. Following and the role(s) women played in all aspects veteran or a living spouse of a deceased qual
Front row, L-R: Maxine Mace, Sherri Smithson (VW 50th Commemorative Chair), Mary Jo Holohan (Regent), Debbie Himmel, Mary Ellen Cain, Shelley Jensen, Ellen Camm (Cincinnati Chapter). Back row, L-R: Joy Albi, Christy Nagy, Sarah Hartkemeier, Carol Cole.
Eisele Gallery, Framers Guild Announce Move
BY DAVID SMITH EISELE GALLERY
Eisele Gallery and Framers Guild are pleased to announce their move to a larger shared retail space in the heart of Hyde Park, opening December 2025. This exciting new chapter continues the gallery’s long tradition of evolution and excellence—from its founding by Patricia and Chuck Weiner in Montgomery, to Doug Eisele’s iconic Fine Art Gallery in Fairfax, and most recently under the direction of David Smith in Mariemont.
Due to planned renovations in their current Mariemont building, the gallery will no longer be able to occupy its Madisonville Road location. Taking this as an opportunity for growth, Eisele Gallery and Framers Guild look forward to expanding their services and clientele in a vibrant new neighborhood.
Building on its legacy of representing early 20th-century American art, important estates, and both local and national contemporary artists, the move will allow for expanded 2026 programming, including group and solo exhibitions as well as curated historical exhibitions.
The gallery will begin previewing the space in December, with the grand opening slated for after the new year. Together, the gallery and framing will continue their partnership, providing a one-stop retail destination for art, framing, and creative collaboration in Cincinnati’s community and beyond.
Eisele Gallery and Framers Guild extend heartfelt thanks to the Mariemont community for its years of support and look forward to welcoming visitors to their new Hyde Park location soon.
Our NEW Address is 2838 Observatory Ave, Cincinnati OH 45208. You can also reach us by email at info@eiselefineart.com or call (513) 791-7717.
VILLAGE
Village News
Village of Mariemont Luminaria Festival and Annual Tree Lighting: Saturday, December 6, 5:30-8 p.m. at the Old Town Square, with luminaria viewing throughout the streets of Mariemont.
Village offices will be closed December 24 and 25.
Leaf collection continues through Dec. 26, 2025: Brush/limb collection and Christmas tree pick-up by the Service Department will resume Jan. 6, 2026. Reminders:
• Rake leaves to the front of your lawn near the curb (but not into the street).
Please keep other debris out of the leaf piles.
• If you’re able to park in a driveway, it would make it easier for the truck to collect leaves.
• Prior to mid-October and/or after the 4th week of December, leaves must be bagged for pick up.
• We are unable to tell you when your leaves will be collected due to unpredictable factors such as weather conditions, equipment and staff availability, and other unforeseen emergencies throughout the Village.
• If you do not wish to wait for the leaf vacuum, bag the leaves in brown paper yard waste bags (bags available at most hardware stores and Kroger) and place them at the curb after 6 p.m. the day before your pickup. They’ll be picked up by Rumpke on the same day your trash is collected.
Council Representatives
Mayor Bill Brown mayor@mariemont.org
Rob Bartlett rbartlett@mariemont.org
Susan Brownknight sbrownknight@mariemont.org
Matthew Ayer mayer@mariemont.org
Marcy Lewis mlewis@mariemont.org
Robert Van Stone rvanstone@mariemont.org
Randy York ryork@mariemont.org
Village Worship Services
Village Church of Mariemont
villagechurchofmariemont.org
Mariemont Memorial Chapel Offices at 3920 Oak Street
Todd Keyes, Pastor
Jamie Keyes, Children’s Ministries
Remember that Christ is the reason for the season! We invite you to worship with us on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. in the Mariemont Memorial Stone Chapel. We also livestream all our services at facebook.com/VCMChurch
We are a small church with a big heart. We strive to be a Christ-centered caring community providing relevant teaching from the Bible and authentic relationships In today’s fast-paced world, we offer a place to slow down, connect, and build lasting friendships.
Our Kidz Connection program is a fun way for children (Nursery to 5th Grade) to learn about the birth of Jesus at Christmas time during our Sunday morning worship services from 9:30-10:30 a.m.
December Sunday Series: The Advent of Christmas. This Advent season we will focus on the HOPE, PEACE, JOY and LOVE of Jesus at Christmas. Sunday, December 21, we will perform a Nativity play (the kids love it!) during our 9:30 a.m. service. See our website for more information.
VCM Christmas Eve Service will begin at 4 p.m. Step back in time for a celebration of Christmas with carols by candlelight surrounded by the old-world elegance of the Memorial Chapel.
Holiday Canned Food Drive: We will be collecting dry/canned goods in the entryway of the Chapel on Sunday mornings during the holiday season and distributing them to families in need.
Christmas Giving Tree: This tree will be in the Chapel entryway on Sundays and during luminaria night. Take an ornament from the tree and give a gift to needy families and children. Be a blessing to others this Christmas!
For more information about these and other events or to learn more about our church, visit our website at villagechurchofmariemont.org or contact Pastor Todd Keyes.
Mariemont Church
mariemontchurch.org
facebook.com/MariemontChurch
YouTube: @MariemontChurch The Clocktower Building at 3908 Plainville Rd.
Jamie Moore, Lead Pastor
Paul Rasmussen, Worship Pastor Katie Smith, Next Gen Director
Renee Brownfield, Preschool Director Mike Brownfield, Director of Operations
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service: You’re invited to a peaceful, joy-filled Christmas Eve candlelight service at Mariemont Church in the Clocktower building. Come as you are, bring your family and friends, and enjoy carols, candles, and community as we celebrate the wonder of Jesus’ birth. Services at 4 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Sunday Morning Services take place at 9 and 11 a.m. Livestream services at our website, www.mariemontchurch.org, or on YouTube, @MariemontChurch
Current Sunday Series: “Your Story: Encountering God the Father from Genesis to Revelation.” Join us for a 15-month journey of reading chronologically through the Bible and experiencing God together!
Kingdom Kids Sunday School takes place for babies through grade 6 during both Sunday morning services. Contact katie@ mariemontchurch.org
Next Chapter Youth Group for Middle and High Schoolers (Grades 7-12) meets Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. Contact katie@ mariemontchurch.org
Weekday Prayer and Meditation: All are welcome to enter a quiet space for prayer and meditation — a time to connect with God, bring your praise, pain, prayers, and concerns, or simply rest in His presence. Tuesday – Thursday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come and go as you wish.
Women’s Ministry: Grow closer to God and in relationship with other women. All are welcome! Check the website for details. Joy in the Morning meets Tuesdays 9:1511:15 a.m. in the Clocktower Building. Evening Joy meets on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of the month, 7:30-8 p.m. in the Clocktower Building.
Men’s Friday Morning Bible Study: Starting at 6:30 a.m. every Friday. All are welcome! More men’s studies are available. Check out info on the website.
Small Groups are available for all stages of life. Contact paul@mariemontchurch.org
Mariemont Church Preschool: Contact our Preschool Director, Renee Brownfield, at preschool@mariemontchurch.org
All events are held at the Clocktower Building unless otherwise noted. To learn more, visit mariemontchurch.org or contact info@mariemontchurch.org. We’d love to hear from you!
1975 Quiz Answers
(from quiz on page 25)
1. Microsoft 2. Fortune / Line / Wiz 3. Jaws 4. Manila 5. Charles / Lou Gehrig 6. Betty 7. Pete 8. Super Bowl 9. Edmund Fitzgerald 10. Jack Nicklaus 11. Nest 12. Barney / Kotter / SNL 13. Tennille 14. Cincinnati Reds 15. Rocky Horror 16. All in the 17. Heimlich 18. Chris Evert 19. Cube 20. baby names
