Cindependent to Operate the Historic Mariemont Theatre
BY JACK CRUMLEY CINDEPENDENT PRESS
Cindependent, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create a home for independent filmmaking in Cincinnati, Ohio, has assumed operations of the historic Mariemont Theatre.
Cindependent Founder and Executive Director Allyson West, along with Cindependent staff, met and consulted with Mariemont Village leaders, community partners, and various stakeholders over several months leading up to the February change of operations.
“This is about more than movies—it’s about preserving a community treasure,” said West. This shift in operational management will preserve the long-standing, historic theater and set up the first independent nonprofit movie theater in the Cincinnati area. “The Mariemont Theatre has always
been a place where people come together, and we’re thrilled to honor its legacy while creating a new home for independent film, local voices, and shared experiences,” West said.
Mariemont Theatre by Cindependent will expand the community’s access to independent, international, and locally produced films along with mainstream, family-friendly fare. “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Cindependent to Mariemont,” said Mariemont Mayor Bill Brown. “Their commitment to film, arts, and community makes them an ideal steward for the Mariemont Theater.”
Cindependent has been working with the Save the Mariemont Theatre Committee
volunteer group to keep the historic jewel in Mariemont Square operating locally. “This theater is the heartbeat of Mariemont. It is woven into the memories of families in our region and it is upon us to ensure it thrives,” said Committee Chair Cheryl Chapman. “We are confident in Allyson’s leadership with Cindependent and the plan that’s been developed.” The Committee has been coordinating with multiple arts organizations and foundations to raise the estimated hundreds of thousands of dollars needed in transition funding. Cindependent plans on retaining the theater’s current employees.
The Spinnenweber family owns the land on which the theater is located, and they’re expressing enthusiasm of their own. “Our family has always believed the Mariemont Theatre should remain a place for community and culture,” family members said in a joint statement. “We are pleased to see Cindependent bring new energy and purpose to this iconic space while respecting its history.”
Along with those organizations and foundations, Cindependent is launching a grassroots campaign in the community called Friends of the Mariemont Theatre to give Mariemont residents and film lovers an opportunity to become founding members
Continued on page 5
In This Issue
Police Unity Tour 2026............................6 50+ Years in the ‘Mont............................8 MPF Archive Collection........................16 Summer Camps at The Barn..............20
Spring4Life — April 18...............21
Correction To Our February Issue
In our February cover story for Responsible Pet Owners Month, under the section about Missy, her owners are actually Lili and John Glass, and they live on Fieldhouse Way. Thank you to their neighbor Barbara Hepp for the callout. She noted that Lili and John are “tireless fosterers” of dogs, and they—along with Missy—are in fact currently fostering three dogs and have been a “godsend” to Save the Animals Foundation on Red Bank Expressway.
Village News
Outstanding Citizen Award 2026 nomination forms are due by March 10, 2026. Nomination forms are available on mariemont.org
Council Representatives
Mayor Bill Brown mayor@mariemont.org
Matthew Ayer mayer@mariemont.org
Susan Brownknight sbrownknight@mariemont.org
Marcy Lewis mlewis@mariemont.org
Alicia Stock astock@mariemont.org
Robert Van Stone rvanstone@mariemont.org
Lila Wells lwells@mariemont.org
Mary Beth and Randy York hit a home run by decorating their fireplace mantle with a Cincinnati Reds theme for opening day! Go Reds!
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
Denis & Marianne Beausejour
Phil Bender & Janet Cleary
Ed & Karen Berkich
Rex Bevis
Biff & Janet Black
Jeff Bloomer & Beth Brubacher
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
Anne & Bill Burleigh
Bill & Maureen Coleman
David Davis
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
Sandra Garland
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
APRIL DEADLINE
The editorial and advertising deadline for the next Town Crier is March 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
of the new independent, nonprofit cinema. Membership will help sustain daily theater operations and give members early access to tickets, special screenings, and exclusive events. Learn more about membership at MariemontTheatre.org
The community is invited to take a survey and tell Cindependent what you’d love to see—anything from specific movies, events, concessions; you name it. Your voice matters! Go to https://tr.ee/_PvLLzVDFf to take the survey today.
“Cindependent is excited to bring a flood of people to this cinema to share in our love of storytelling together, to provide a new home for filmmakers and film lovers we’ve been developing for nearly ten years now, and to stimulate the economic community through stories and shared experiences,” said West.
VILLAGE
Cindependent is targeting roughly 16 weeks for the transition to be complete, but that is dependent on our fundraising goals.
About Cindependent
Cindependent is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create a home for independent filmmaking in Cincinnati, Ohio. Cindependent strives to bring professional resources to filmmakers so as to cultivate the entrepreneurial spirit of filmmaking. Cindependent will provide community camaraderie, drawing filmmakers from around Ohio, the US, and the world, educating the community in the art and craft of filmmaking. The 2026 Cindependent Film Festival is September 17, 18, and 19 at Memorial Hall in Over-the-Rhine. Find us on Facebook, X, Instagram and online at https://www. cindependentfilmfest.org/
Mariemont SRO Fred Romano Rides in Remembrance of Fallen Officers
BY SUZY WEINLAND
Mariemont Police Officer and School Resource Officer (SRO) Fred Romano is about to set off on his 15th Police Unity Tour bike ride. This year, his team is riding in remembrance of Mariemont High School graduate and Hamilton County Deputy Larry Henderson, who was killed while on traffic patrol during University of Cincinnati graduation ceremonies on May 2, 2025.
The Police Unity Tour is a 300-mile bike ride over four days, beginning in New Jersey
and ending at the Washington, DC, National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, which honors federal, state and local officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
The tour began in 1997 when Florham Park (NJ) Police Officer Patrick Montuore organized the ride to raise public awareness about law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty, and to ensure that their sacrifice is never forgotten.
Officer Romano rides annually with the Springdale Police Department team, where he retired in 2017 after 30 years of service.
Romano was part of Springdale’s bike patrol unit, and in 2011, he his unit put a bike team together to honor lost local law enforcement colleagues. In March 2020, they lost one of their own, Police Officer Kaia Grant, who was intentionally struck by a vehicle during pursuit.
This year there will be over 2,000 riders from across the nation. The Springdale Team will begin in and ride with Chapter 4 out of Richmond, Va. They will meet up with members of the Hamilton County Sheriff’s office, who will also ride in Henderson’s honor.
Romano explained the tour in further detail: “We ride 50 miles the first day, 100 the second, 100 the third, and 50 on the fourth day. We have police motorcycles that stop traffic for us all along the way…they watch us from behind as well. There are trailers that can come pick us up and fix our bike if it breaks down, so we can get back out there. And there are paramedics and life squads that join in.
“All along the route, communities come out to support us. Schools will even bring the kids out. We each wear a remembrance bracelet with the name and end-of-watch date of the officer we are riding for and present the bracelet to the family at the DC Memorial ceremony.”
Mariemont Police Officer Fred Romano, center, with his Unity Tour team.
More than 2,000 officers ride 300 miles over four days in remembrance of those killed in the line of duty.
The Police Unity Tour coincides with National Police Week, which occurs every May (this year’s is May 11–17) and includes ceremonies to honor fallen officers whose names have recently been added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. The 38th Annual Candlelight Vigil, which honors all fallen officers and includes the reading of newly engraved names, including Deputy Larry Henderson this year, will be held Wednesday, May 13 from 8–10 p.m. on the National Mall, and will be streamed on YouTube and Facebook.
Each officer on the tour is required to raise $2,000, which is donated to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund to support the National Law Enforcement Museum’s Hall of Remembrance, the Memorial Fund’s Officer of the Month Award, and other special programs. In May 2024, the Police Unity Tour donated $2.2 million to the fund, bringing their total donations to more than $37.5 million since its inception.
This year’s goal for Romano and his team of six is $12,000. They are a few thousand dollars short as of print time and welcome donations of any size. Please visit Romano’s Police Unity Tour page at https://www. pledgereg.com/5604/fredromano, as well as visit the link to the team’s page at https:// www.pledgereg.com/5604/Team/30490
Insurance should never feel confusing. That’s why at Sanderson Insurance, we take time to understand your needs, explain what you have and how it works, and personally shape coverage options we present.
Sanderson Insurance began near Dayton, Ohio, in 1957, and has been a steady presence in the lives of Ohio – and now Northern Kentucky – families and businesses ever since. We value our role in the community and aim to foster long-lasting, informed relationships built on trust and understanding. Our mission is to serve you with integrity, insight, and care – every step of the way.
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!
Give us a call today. We look forward to meeting you!
Mariemont Police Officer and School Resource Officer Fred Romano
VILLAGE
50 Years in the ‘Mont
BY SUZY WEINLAND
In celebration of 50 years of the Town Crier, we thought we’d reach out to some residents who have lived in “the ‘Mont” for 50 or more years. Over the next three issues, we will spotlight a few residents who responded and share their stories and memories of days gone by. First up, Syd and Diane Sabo
Syd Sabo’s story starts 77 years ago when he was born in Mercy Hospital “up on the hill.”
“I have called Mariemont home since then,” said Syd. “I lived at the corner of Grace and Grove for five years then moved to a house my father built at 3928 Petoskey.”
After college, Syd and wife Diane lived in an apartment on Beech St. for a couple of years, then a house on Settle Rd. for about 10 years, and finally landed on Indianview Ave., which they purchased in 1982 from the estate of former Mariemont Company Engineer and author of The Mariemont Story (1967) Warren W. Parks. The Sabos raised their three children there and for 53 years have called it home.
“I have a lot of memories of growing up here, some of which I was not allowed to share with my kids,” laughed Syd. “Some of my favorite memories are from roaming all over the Village to find something to do. Places I liked were the powerhouse, the train yard, picking up artifacts at the Indian burial ground and fossil hunting on the hill behind the high school. There was always something to do, and it didn’t involve computer devices.”
Diane agreed, “My favorite thing about living here with a family is how walkable the
thousand spectators,” shared Syd. “When the mortar round went off at 8 a.m. everyone headed for the parade. It was an honor and a responsibility to participate. WWII was still a fresh memory for a majority of residents.”
Syd said his other favorite spots were “the 5 and 10 on the square, the ball fields, and the UDF in Madison Place where ice cream was five cents a dip. It was a totally different and safer world back then, kind of like living in a Tom Sawyer novel.”
“Mariemont is uniquely attractive in that everything I might want is within a walkable distance. Or I can ride my bike safely on the streets. I have been taking advantage of this since my first road trip on my tricycle when I was two,” he added.
Village is. The kids could walk by themselves to school, ride their bikes to sports practice or friends’ houses.” As a teacher, Diane says she always looked forward to opening day at the pool, marking the beginning of summer.
“One memorable annual event I participated in back in the ‘50s and ‘60s was the Memorial Day Parade. Back then there were hundreds of marchers from all the clubs and groups in Mariemont and well over a
Diane concurred that Memorial Day was a big event while she and Syd were raising their children. “At that time ALL the kids in sports were in the parade, it was so much bigger than today. Many firetrucks from surrounding areas participated. And after the parade and ceremony at the Memorial Church cemetery, the whole Village would gather at Dale Park parking lot for coffee and donuts. It was a great time to see everyone after a long winter separation.”
She fondly recalled the annual Village Run on Sunday of Memorial Day weekend. “My kids and relatives would run, participate in the mini run for the younger group, then come to our house for brunch. More FUN!” And she loved when family was in town and they would gather at the Family Statuary for pictures.
And neither one could leave out the annual Tree Lighting. “That is always a fun activity each year to take the grandkids,” said Diane.
Over the years, Syd and Diane have been involved in many events and organizations and plan to continue to volunteer as long as they can. Diane has served on a variety of committees and in leadership roles in the schools and community. She was president of Pre-School Parents, president of the Elementary PTA, treasurer of the Junior High PTA, president and co-president of the High School PTA, and president of Mariemont Kindervelt. Diane is currently an active member and secretary for MariElders Board and is a member of Mariemont D.A.R.
Syd chimed in, “My personal favorites were coaching soccer, baseball and basketball, and watching my son wrestling. When you have lived in a village as long as I have, you feel like a rock in a stream. Everything flows slowly by.”
The Sabo Family at the Mariemont Pool, 2021
Syd Sabo and his tricycle, 1952
All About My Grandpa: My Interview with Peter Bronson
BY ROBBIE ROSENAU, AGE 7
My grandpa is a funny guy, likes to cook (you should try his Thanksgiving turkey), loves cars, and loves to read books. He is also a former editor of the Cincinnati Enquirer and now writes books about Cincinnati history. I also love to read books and write stories, so I decided to interview him to learn more about him.
What was it like writing for the newspaper?
It was very fun and also sometimes it was stressful because you always have to get your stories in on time. But it was always
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.
very interesting—everyone has a story to tell. I really enjoyed writing columns because I enjoyed when people would write to me and tell me what they thought about them.
What do you like about writing books?
I really enjoyed the research because it’s like a treasure hunt and being a detective. You end up finding all kinds of things you didn’t expect, and sometimes you end up finding something even more interesting than you expected. If you love to read, you’ll probably like to write, too.
Which book did you have the most fun writing? Why?
It always seems to be my latest one that I like best, but The Man Who Saved Cincinnati is my current favorite. It’s about the Civil War and I really like learning about the Civil War.
I’m seven years old. What do you remember from when you were seven?
I read all kinds of books—I really loved them. That’s when I was just discovering books. And the more I read, the more I wanted to write my own stories. So I started writing my own little books and that was really fun. When I got a little older, I started a school newspaper because we didn’t have one.
What’s great about being a grandpa?
You and your sister. Having fun with you guys is the greatest!
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Someday I think I’d like to be an author like you. What advice do you have for me? Read, read, read! The more you read, the more it soaks in and the better you get at telling stories. You get a sense for how authors
Robbie Rosenau with his grandpa, Peter Bronson
SCAN ME:
Local Author Will Hillenbrand to Visit Village Bookworm
BY JOE KRAMER, CO-OWNER OF VILLAGE BOOKWORM
On Saturday, March 28 at 2 p.m., soar into Spring at the Village Bookworm with acclaimed author and illustrator (and Terrace Park resident) Will Hillenbrand as he celebrates the release of his new book Light as a Feather. Experience an inspiring author talk, followed by a personal book signing and an in-store Easter egg hunt.
Why are feathers so light? Why do woodpeckers drum? What should you do if you find an injured bird? Will Hillenbrand will answer these questions and more, sharing insights that will make your imagination soar. Meet some of North America’s most intriguing birds—from the woodpecker, nature’s drummer; to the sandhill crane, our most dynamic dancer; and the blue jay, one of the flashiest fliers around.
Explore bird habitats, discover the secrets behind the bluebird’s brilliant color, and learn about the brown pelican’s impressive seven-foot wingspan. With vibrant illustrations and accessible infographics, Light as
a Feather opens up a world of wonder for readers of all ages.
Join us Saturday, March 28 starting at 2 p.m., at Village Bookworm, 6954 Madisonville Rd. in Mariemont. After the talk and book-signing, be sure to stay for the in-store egg hunt! One lucky person who finds the golden egg will receive a free signed copy of Light as a Feather
No registration necessary. We hope to see you there!
Sustainable Mariemont Spring Initiatives
BY ALICIA STOCK, SUSTAINABLE MARIEMONT PRESIDENT
Join ListMariemont
ListMariemont is a listserv for residents in the Mariemont School District to connect neighbors via a single email distribution list. Once approved, members can send a single email to ListMariemont@simplelists.com with curb alerts, personal services (babysitting, pet-sitting), lost/found pet alerts, and more! Users can choose to receive a daily digest summary of emails or receive emails individually. Preferences can be changed anytime by logging into your account at simplelists.com
Sustainable Mariemont Spring Community Recycling Drive
Saturday, May 9 from 9 a.m.–Noon
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for all the latest details, as we will make frequent updates as plans are finalized. Like last year, the event will be hosted at the Mariemont Municipal Building with drive-through and parking options. Items accepted will include electronic waste, scrap metal, textile recycling, donatable items, and more! Want to get involved?
GoZERO Composting
Now accepting new participants! Mariemont residents can join the composting program for $85 per year. Compost participants can drop off their food scraps and organic material at the municipal bins and can also recycle clamshell plastics through our program. Mariemont diverted 6.5 tons of organic material from the landfill in 2025 for a total of 27 tons since Mandy Rohal started the composting program in 2021.
Email us at sustainablemariemont@ gmail.com for more information on any of the above, and to be added to ListMariemont.
PUZZLES
Answers to crossword on page 22.
What’s Happening at the Mariemont Branch Library – March 2026
Youth
• Movers and Shakers — Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. You and your child will shake it together! Sing, dance, and enjoy music, movement, and fun. Ages 1–4.
• Library Babies — Thursdays at 10:15 a.m. Fun for you and your baby with songs, rhymes, stories and movement. Ages birth–18 months.
• Toddler Storytime — Thursdays at 11 a.m. Encourage emerging language skills with books, rhymes, music and fun. Ages 18–36 months.
• Becoming Bold: Girls Who Lead — Tuesday, March 10 from 4–5 p.m. Through fun activities and creative crafts, participants will build confidence, find their own voice, and explore leadership in a welcoming, supportive space. This dropin program is led by high school mentors from the Becoming Bold Project, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering girls. For school-aged kids.
• Pokémon Trading Card Game Club — Saturday, March 14 from 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m. Learn to play the Pokémon Trading Card Game, challenge other trainers,
trade cards, and make new friends. Bring your own cards or play with one of our decks. Ages 7–14.
• Pi Day at the Library! — Saturday, March 14 from 1:59–3 p.m. Celebrate Pi Day (3.14) with us at the library! Drop in between 1:59–3 p.m. for a fun, math-inspired afternoon honoring the most famous number that never ends. Whether you love math or pie, this event will be irrationally fun.
• Library League Book Club — Wednesday, March 18 at 6:30 p.m. Join us to discuss Book Scavengers by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman. Tweens (ages 9–12) and their grown-ups welcome. Copies available at the branch. Registration required.
• LEGO @ the Library — Saturday, March 28 from 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Bring the ideas, we’ll bring the LEGO! Build, create, and connect with other LEGO fans. Each month features an optional challenge or theme for builders who want an extra spark of inspiration. Creations will be proudly displayed at the Mariemont Library until next month’s meeting. Ages 7–14.
Adults
• Sit and Stitch — Saturday, March 7 & 21 from 10–11 a.m. Bring your knitting or crocheting project and supplies, work at your own pace, and get to know fellow stitchers. All experience levels are welcome! Recommended for ages 14+. No registration required.
• Mystery Book Club — Tuesday, March 10 at 6:30 p.m. Join us to discuss Mrs. Christie at the Mystery Guild Library by Amanda Chapman. Copies available at the branch.
• Book Club — Monday, March 23 at 6:30 p.m. Join us to discuss The Ghosts of Eden Park by Abbot Kahler (formerly known as Karen Abbot). Copies available at the branch.
Mariemont’s “Sister City” Celebrates Its Centennial with John Nolen Statue
BY MATTHEW AYER
On February 18 (the date of Nolen’s passing in 1937), Venice, Florida, Mariemont’s “Sister City,” celebrated its Centennial by unveiling a bronze statue of its city planner, John Nolen.
On this beautiful sunny day, the award-winning Venice High School Marching Band kicked off the event with an impressive repertoire as the crowd grew. Venice-area officials and key volunteers
described the statue project from concept to fundraising to creation to its expert installation by the city’s public works department. Nolen biographer Bruce Stephenson added some anecdotes about Nolen’s many contributions.
Making the ceremony even more special, descendants of John Nolen traveled from Oregon, Canada, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and northern Florida to witness this special occasion and unveil the statue. The Venice Area Historical Society (VAHS) and City Officials were amazing hosts and included my wife Paula and me in a luncheon reception, then showered us with Centennial mementos and local history
John Nolen holds his map of Venice in this beautiful bronze statue.
Former Jazzercize buddies Anne Schneider (now a Venetian) and Paula Ayer meet up with John Nolen.
COMMUNITY
books, now headed to the Mariemont Preservation Foundation’s library.
We plan to return to this beautifully planned city and encouraged VAHS come visit Mariemont anytime!
CELEBRATING 40 YEA R S OF FOOD&SERVICE 42 YEARS
What is in the MPF Archive Collection?
BY CLAIRE KUPFERLE FERRIS HOUSE COMMITTEE MEMBER
The Mariemont Preservation Foundation (MPF) has an extensive historical archive, which will form the basis of the Mariemont Museum being created in the venerable Ferris House. The archive is managed by Linda Bartlett, who began as assistant archivist in 2000, moving into her current position after Janet Setchell retired. She is responsible for all the artifacts that come into the building, whether by donation, purchase, or internal efforts.
When an item is obtained by MPF, the archives committee determines whether it fits the group’s mission. Linda then decides on a storage or display location, enters all the pertinent information into the database, and puts it in its new home. Much of the collec-
tion has also been scanned to create digital archives. She also helps people who come to MPF with questions or to see the collection and has been busy recently assisting the Museum Committee with their efforts.
Some notable items in the archives include the minutes from the Mariemont Company, which was tasked with construction and marketing of the new town of Mariemont. They date from about 1922–1931 and have been scanned so they are searchable. Mariemont High School graduate Trevor Mart spent his senior year volunteering to scan all 50 years of back issues of the Mariemont Town Crier for both the Town Crier and MPF digital archives.
The variety of items in the archives is impressive. There are many “rabbit holes” to explore! Linda recently spent time tracing the relocation of some of the original homes
that were inside the footprint John Nolen used for his original plan of the Village. Several houses were picked up and moved from their original locations to the Indianview Subdivision or Madison Place!
Linda especially enjoys old yearbooks from Plainville High School and Mariemont High School. There is a complete set up until 1972, and if anyone is willing to part with their copies from 1973 on, she would love to add them to the collection! Another item of interest is a Ferris family Bible from the mid1800s. Although it’s in poor condition, the birth, death, and marriage pages have been scanned into the archives.
Something as large and complex as the MPF archives requires lots of involvement, and Linda is aided by Amanda Connors, MPF executive assistant, as well as volunteers like Janet Setchell and Lisa Woodruff. Over the
summer a grant was obtained, enabling MPF to hire two interns. One spent the summer scanning several hundred slides into the database. A second intern prepared existing data in preparation for upgrading our museum software to a cloud-based platform. This
SCHOOLS
will ultimately allow the public to search the collection online.
If you are interested in looking at items in the archives, checking out a book from the MPF library, volunteering, or purchasing items from the gift shop, you are welcome
to visit MPF from 9–noon each Saturday, or you can check out the website, https:// mariemontpreservation.org. From there you may buy items online or send an email from the Contact tab and it will be routed to the proper person.
Mariemont High School Presents Newsies
“Step right up…” and get your tickets to the MHS production of Newsies today at www.seatyourself.biz/mariemonths!
The curtain goes up at Mariemont High School auditorium on Friday, March 13 at 7:30 p.m., and continues with shows on Saturday March 14 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday March 15 at 2 p.m.
Step into the late 1890s, featuring Jack Kelly, leader of a local group of newsboys in Manhattan, New York. As they struggle to make a living selling newspapers, Joseph Pulitzer, owner of The World, unfairly raises the prices.
Watch them “Seize the Day” in this dance-heavy show featuring iconic numbers such as “Santa Fe,” “King of New York,” and “The World Will Know.”
See you at the show!
Newsies cast members rehearse a dance scene.
Mulch Madness!
“Volcano” mulching vs. proper mulching
BY MARGARET JEVIC TREE ADVISORY BOARD
The sweet trickle melting of snow, the chirping of birds, the wild calls of children playing outside—spring is upon us! And with spring comes our favorite activity as homo sapiens—mulching!
When it comes to mulching, there are good practices and bad practices. We have a propensity to pile mulch up into the shape of a volcano around the trunk of a tree (see volcano mulching photo below). When this happens, the root flare (where the top roots are visible at the bottom of the trunk) becomes covered up. Mulch should not touch the tree trunk and should allow enough space to see the root flare. It should look more like a donut than a volcano. A mulch
layer does not need to be thick—a nice, light coating will do as buildup can alter the tree’s oxygen supply.
Burying the root flare with thick mulch can also cause excess moisture buildup which can soften and weaken the trunk wood. This excess moisture leads to root rot and growth of fungus and bacteria. Any compacted or thick mulch can cut off good water and oxygen supply to the roots and exacerbate root girdling, where the roots grow around in a tight circle, strangling the trunk.
If you poke your head into your yard and realize you can’t see the root flare on your trees, you are probably right. Many of our trees in the village are buried too deeply, either under mulch or under the soil grade. Digging them out so the flare is visible is one of the highest impact things we can do to help our trees stay healthy. The other highest impact thing we can do is learn to mulch well. Good tree base care is basically three easy steps:
1. Uncover the tree’s root flare using your hands or a garden shovel (see root flare photo below)
2. Light layer of compost style mulch in the shape of a donut
3. Enough mulch width to protect the base of the tree from lawnmowers and string trimmers
Just remember, we are in Ohio. We don’t have volcanos here, but we sure do love donuts.
Happy mulch season!
VILLAGE
Visible root flare with light, “donut” mulching
Summer Camps at The Barn Are Filling Quickly!
BY CHRISTINE, PARKER, DIRECTOR
Mariemont families have long enjoyed summer camps at The Barn, and that beloved tradition continues this year with even more offerings and expanded sessions!
For younger kids, we now offer three weeks of sessions, and older kids and teen sessions have expanded to seven weeks. Our camps magically mix fun with real skill building. Our staff are nothing short of exceptional, modeling all the things we try
to teach our children daily: kindness, perseverance, creativity and making new friends!
All of our camps run Monday–Friday, times varying based on the topic and age range.
Sign up soon before slots are filled, at www.thebarninmariemont.org!
Beginner Sewing
Every week in June & July!
9:30–11:30 a.m.
Ages 8–Teen, grouped by age
DIY Studio
June 6–12 and 15–19
July 13–17 and 20–24
9 a.m.–Noon
Ages 8–Teen, grouped by age
Garden, Cook & Create (Ages 7–9)
July 20–24
1:30–3:30 p.m.
Ages 7–9
Garden, Cook & Create (Ages 10+)
July 20–24
9 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Ages 10–Teen
Pets & Awesome Animals
July 13–17
10 a.m.–Noon or 1–3 p.m.
Ages 7–11
Sewing & Fashion Design
June 8–12, 15–19, 22–26
July 13–17, 20–24, 27–31
M–Th, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Fridays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Ages 9–Teen, grouped by age
Under the Sea
July 27–31
10 a.m.–Noon or 1–3 p.m.
Ages 7–11
1N5 Spring4Life Gala 2026
Tickets are now available for the 1N5 Spring4Life Gala 2026, taking place Saturday, April 18 from 6–10 p.m. at the Bacon Barn, 10890 Indeco Drive in Blue Ash.
Dust off your boots for a night of rustic charm and meaningful impact. Celebrate mental health champions and enjoy a lively, western-inspired evening featuring an inspiring story of lived experience with mental health from 1N5’s Youth Peer Support Specialist, Alyssa Lloyd.
This is one spring night you won’t want to miss, all in support of 1N5’s lifesaving mental health programming across Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
• Tables: $2,000 reserved tables of ten (limited number available).
• General Admission: $150 (festival seating)
• Dress Code: Western chic attire encouraged
• Cocktail Hour: From 6–7 p.m. with drinks, appetizers, vintage cars, and live acoustic music
• Silent Auction
• Live Auction
• Dinner: Elevated comfort food “by the bite”
• Formal Program: Begins at 8 p.m.
Go to https://shorturl.at/fxej6 to register and purchase tickets.
Visit 1N5.org for details about 1N5’s mission, initiatives, read personal stories of triumph over adversity, as well as peruse helpful monthly themed resources, including articles, videos, books, podcasts, toolkits/activities, and apps. March’s theme: Resilience.
Girl Scouts’ ‘Egg Your Yard’ Fundraiser is Back!
BY SHELBY SHORT
SENIOR GIRL SCOUT
Get ready for the most egg-cellent surprise of the season! Girl Scout Troop 4079’s 6th annual Egg Your Yard Fundraiser is underway. New troop number; same Easter Bunnies.
This Easter, let the eggs come to you! With the Egg Your Yard fundraiser, Troop
sun comes up. No stuffing, no hiding, no mess. Just pure joy, giggles, and unforgettable memories.
Imagine the look on your kids’ faces when they rush outside to discover their yard has been egg-napped by the Easter Bunny himself. Whether you’re planning a small family celebration or want to surprise the whole neighborhood, Egg Your Yard brings the fun without the stress. We use
Perfect for busy parents, grandparents, or anyone who wants to be the hero of Easter morning. You sleep; we hop to it!
Orders are now open and can be placed at https://shorturl.at/KVQ1w. Spots are limited, so don’t wait until the bunny is booked solid. Hop fast, spread joy, and let us egg your yard this Easter!
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
If you are currently searching for a church home, we invite you to worship with us on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. in the historic 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 caring community, providing Christ-centered teaching and authentic relationships. In today’s fast-paced world, we offer a place to slow down, connect, and build lasting friendships.
Sunday Morning Worship: 9:30 a.m. in the Mariemont Memorial Chapel.
Serving Others: We are continuing to collect winter clothes/blankets/gear for the homeless through Community Matters. Collection containers are at the back of the sanctuary on Sunday mornings.
Easter Events:
• March 29 — Palm Sunday Service at 9:30 a.m. at Mariemont Memorial Chapel.
• April 3 — Good Friday Service at Noon at Mariemont Memorial Chapel.
• April 4 — Easter Scramble (Pancake Breakfast) at 3920 Oak Street (check website for details).
• April 5 — Easter Sunrise Service at 7 a.m. at John Nolen Pavilion (Near the Mariemont Swim Club).
• April 5 — Easter Worship Service at 9:30 a.m. at Mariemont Memorial Chapel.
Fun children’s Easter activities during service.
Women’s Bible Study meets the first and third Thursdays of the month from 7–8:30 p.m. Check the website for more information.
Men’s Lunch Discussion meets weekly on Fridays at 1 p.m. Contact Pastor Todd if you have interest in this study at toddkeyes@ villagechurchofmariemont.org
For more information about these events or to learn more about our church, visit 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, Associate/Worship Pastor Katie Smith, Next Gen Director Renee Brownfield, Preschool Director Mike Brownfield, Director of Operations
Sunday Morning Services take place at 9 and 11 a.m. Livestream services at our website, www.mariemontchurch.org, or on YouTube, @MariemontChurch. Our current Sunday Series is “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 to 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 9:15–11:15 a.m. Evening Joy meets the first and third Mondays of the month, 7–8:30 p.m.
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 tact . We’d love to hear from you!
