OC TO B E R 2026 • MA RI EMONT, OHI O • VOLUME LI • NO. 2
Goin’ to the Chapel
BY MATTHEW AYER Previous articles about the Mariemont Memorial Church building have described its history, architecture, beauty, craftsmanship, and unique features. The “crown jewel” of the Village, today the “Chapel” serves as one of the region’s most charming, beautiful, intimate settings for a wedding. Here are
some grateful couples who married at the Chapel this past year. Madija and Kenny (bottom right) kicked off the year with a New Years’ Eve candlelight service. “Our wedding at the Mariemont Chapel was everything we had hoped for and more. The chapel provided such a beautiful, intimate setting for one of the most importContinued on page 4
In This Issue Dilly Celebrates 30 at The Strand.........6 Scout Adventures.......................................8 Honey Designs: Rings & Podcasts.......12 Pet-A-Tudes: Pet Help & Rescue........16 Kindness Just Around the Corner.....22
SCHOOLS
Fall Fun with the Mariemont Arts Association BY SUZY WEINLAND Help support fine and performing arts programming and activities in Mariemont schools by participating in these fun fall events. Proceeds for both events go to the Mariemont Arts Association (MAA). Halloween Music Bingo Tuesday, October 27, 7 p.m. Mac’s Pizza Pub, 6309 Wooster Pike MAA Music Bingo nights at Mac’s Pizza Pub have been a hit! Have some spooky fun this fall while supporting
the Mariemont Arts Association. Costumes encouraged! All donations support the MAA. Mariemont Makers Market Sunday, November 15, 12–4 p.m. Mariemont High School Gymnasium 1 Warrior Way
Vendor applications are still being accepted. To become a vendor or for general inquiries, please email mariemontartspresident@gmail.com.
This fall’s Mariemont Makers Market features over 30 local artists and crafters and makes for great holiday gift shopping! New this year: 50 West Food Truck will be on hand for some great grub. Grab some friends, stop by for fun and shopping, all while supporting the arts in our schools.
THINKING OF SELLING IN 2026 OR 2027?
Reed & Roe helped 13 sellers and 9 buyers in Mariemont so far this year.
We are currently working with many active buyers that specifically want to buy in Mariemont. If you are thinking of selling, give us a call. You may be surprised at the current value of your home.
SOLD in 2026 in Mariemont by Reed & Roe
3845 Indianview
Represented Buyer & Seller
3863 Homewood
Represented Buyer & Seller
6576 Wooster
Represented the Seller
3846 Beech
Represented Buyer & Seller
3818 Pocahontas
Represented Buyer & Seller
6640 Elm
Represented the Seller
6966 Miami Bluff
Represented Buyer & Seller
3604 Center
Represented the Buyer
3730 Pleasant
Represented the Seller
SHELLEY MILLER REED 513-476-8266 SHELLEY.REED@CBREALTY.COM 25 YEAR MARIEMONT RESIDENT #1 AGENT IN MARIEMONT SINCE 2012
6710 Miami Bluff
6617 Mariemont
Represented Buyer & Seller
Represented Buyer & Seller
3942 Miami
3840 Beech
6509 Mariemont
7050 Mt Vernon
Represented the Buyer
Represented the Seller
Pending
Pending
AMY ROE 513-379-5445 AMY.ROE@CBREALTY.COM 15 YEAR TERRACE PARK RESIDENT #1 AGENT IN TERRACE PARK
#1 IN MARIEMONT FOR THE LAST 15 YEARS! PAG E 2
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The
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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) or Zelle (see QR code, above). 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.
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Goin’ to the Chapel (from front page) ant days of our lives. The staff was incredibly kind, organized, and supportive throughout the entire process, making everything feel seamless and allowing us to simply enjoy the moment. We are so thankful we chose the Mariemont Chapel for our wedding. It gave us memories that we will cherish for a lifetime, and we couldn’t have imagined a more perfect place to begin our marriage.” From Mary Kate and David (top right): “Getting married at Mariemont Chapel made our special day feel even more meaningful, since David’s parents were married there
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over three decades earlier and we loved following in their footsteps. It may have been a cold February day, but the love from our family and friends in the Chapel made our hearts so warm.” For Kimberly and Caleb (front page, top left), the groom’s dad officiated. “The Chapel is a nostalgic place to us and lived up to all we could hope for in our wedding venue. Not only was it gorgeous and picturesque, but we also felt God’s presence during the ceremony. Our friends and family said they could feel something special.” Kim and Steve (front page, top right)
remarked, “The historic Mariemont Chapel with its enchanting thirteenth century Medieval English countryside architecture immediately attracted [us] as an ideal wedding site. Ringing the church bell at the
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VI LLAGE ceremony recessional added to the magic of my wedding as a send-off to mark the beginning of our new life together!” Clare and Ashton (top middle) traveled from the Greensburg, Ind., area for a Mariemont “destination” wedding. “The Mariemont Chapel is a hidden gem. We couldn’t have imagined a better venue to showcase our love for each other and to celebrate with our families!” From Audra and Markus (front page, bottom left): “Choosing Mariemont Chapel for our wedding ceremony was the quickest—and best—decision we made throughout the wedding planning process. From the moment we toured the Chapel, we knew it was the perfect place to begin our marriage. Its beauty and reverence created a meaningful setting to exchange vows that will shape the rest of our lives. After visiting in the winter, we were excited to see the Chapel grounds in June, and they exceeded every expectation. Beyond the beauty of the space,
the kindness, responsiveness, and flexibility of the Chapel team made the entire experience seamless. We are incredibly grateful for the care they showed us and for the role they played in making our wedding day so meaningful. Emily and Aaron (bottom right) echoed: “The Chapel was the perfect location for our wedding ceremony. The beautiful architecture with the unique and historic charm made our wedding feel timeless and intimate. We could not have dreamt of a more beautiful place.” Chloe and Corben (top left) commented, “Mariemont Chapel is built to last, beautiful, and a collision of culture as you stare into the ceiling. You feel safe, like nothing in the world matters except where your two feet are. It’s everything we want in our marriage, so there was no better launching pad than the Chapel!” With family coming from her native Kenya, Lilian and Cody (front page, bot-
tom middle) benefitted from Cody’s sister personally going “all out” on décor. “We will forever cherish saying our vows and becoming one in this historic Chapel, which truly felt like our own rare, hidden gem. The incredibly unique interior and stunning architectural details created such an intimate, romantic backdrop, making the ceremony feel like a magical sanctuary shared with God, our beloved family and friends, and the angels watching over us. We feel beyond blessed to have started our forever together in such a charming, timeless space.” For more information about a wedding at Mariemont Chapel, email info@mariemontchurch.org. The Thomas J. Emery Memorial owns this landmark building. Mariemont Church stewards the building and grounds. Matthew Ayer serves as a volunteer building coordinator.
Dwell Pilates is a boutique Pilates studio in Old Town Mariemont, thoughtfully designed to help you build strength, improve mobility, and feel more connected to your body. GROUP REFORMER • MAT • PRIVATE SESSIONS Discover our new client offers, including Group Reformer packages and Intro to Private Session specials on our website. DWELLPILATES.COM
3913 OAK STREET OLD TOWN MARIEMONT | 45227
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Dilly: 30 Years at the Strand BY KIM BEACH Editor’s Note: Congratulations to the Dilly for 30 years at The Strand and 44 years in business! There is so much great stuff to share, that we had to make this a two-parter. So, read on to learn about Dilly’s beginnings and changes over the years, and come back next month for more on all the great food, music, and people that have made the Dilly Bistro, Bar & Bottle Shop what it is today! If you ask Owner Chuck Warinner how Dilly has lasted this long, he’ll tell you the same thing he’s been saying for decades: “Evolution not Revolution.” It’s a philosophy that has quietly guided one of Mariemont’s most beloved gathering spots from a modest sandwich counter in the Old Town Center to the Bistro, Bar & Bottle Shop that anchors the Mariemont Strand today.
From a Sandwich Shop to “Just Dilly” The Dilly story doesn’t actually start with Chuck. Nobody is entirely sure who founded Dilly Deli or where the name came from—dill pickles, maybe, or a nod to Piccadilly—but the shop opened in the Old Town Center in the summer of 1982. It didn’t survive its first winter and was sold to Hans and Pam Nolte in February 1983. Bob and Jinny Richard bought it from the Noltes in 1985. That’s where Chuck comes in. He’d been dating the Richards’ daughter, Robbie, for five years and working in foodservice when Bob asked if he’d help Jinny run the sandwich shop. “Sure,” Chuck told him. “But it’s not like it’s going to be my career.” He purchased the business from Bob in 1989. By the early ‘90s, Dilly had outgrown its Old Town Center space. Chuck was angling to expand into the building next door when the Spinnenwebers bought the old Kroger building on Wooster Pike and offered Dilly a prime spot in the soon-to-be Mariemont Strand…with a patio, and as an anchor tenant. Dilly moved to its current location in the summer of 1996. The name evolved right along with the menu. As the wine and beer programs grew
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and the deli case gave way to a full-service kitchen, “Dilly Deli” started to feel like the wrong fit, a point driven home one evening around 2010 when Chuck overheard a group of women deciding against Dilly for a glass of wine because, as one put it, “I don’t want to drink at a deli.” A brief run as “Dilly Cafe” didn’t quite stick either. In 2014, it was Brendan “Bee” Hague who suggested dropping the qualifier altogether. Not Deli, not Cafe, not Kitchen or Tavern. Just Dilly. Period. It’s been that way on the sign and the logo ever since, including Bistro, Bar & Bottle Shop, the three pillars of the operation today.
The First Year at the Strand Chuck describes the first year in the new space as “the tail wagging the dog”—seventy-hour weeks as the business tried to catch up to its own growth. Table service, now central to the Dilly experience, wasn’t part of the original plan; it was an employee with serving experience who suggested adding it during dinner hours. It caught on fast, and lunch table service followed soon after. Even the building’s quirks have a story. Longtime customers have asked Chuck for years why the front doors off the patio enter on the left instead of the right. The answer traces back to a trip to England in 1993, when Chuck decided Dilly’s doors should be “English,” fitting for a Tudor-inspired village. What started as a whim turned out to solve a real problem: back when customers lined up at the counter to order, entering and exiting on the left kept the line moving without a pedestrian pileup at the door.
TOP: The “Dilly Deli” originally operated from a small, tudor building on Oak Street in Old Town. BOTTOM: Since 1996, Dilly Bistro, Bar & Bottle Shop has been a staple at The Strand.
Building a Beer and Wine Identity Dilly’s reputation for craft beer and wine didn’t happen by accident, and both Chuck and Manager of Marketing & Hospitality Jim Botti credit much of it to one name: James “Peanut” Kahles. Peanut started part-time at Dilly and eventually left his other job to chase his love of beer full-time. When he started, there was essentially no craft beer presence on Cincinnati’s east side, just Oldenburg Brewing out in Ft. Mitchell. Peanut brought in authentic Trappist Abbey Ales and rode the wave of craft breweries like Stone, Bell’s and New Holland as they broke out in the late ‘90s. Dilly’s reward: a spot on Draft Magazine’s Top Ten Craft Beer Bars in
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TOP: Dilly General Manager Beth Ward, Manager of Marketing and Hospitality Jim Botti, and Owner Chuck Warinner. BOTTOM: Brendan “Bee” Hague, Dilly’s nomenclator and longtime chef.
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America, despite having fewer taps than almost anyone else on the list. Mariemont almost had its own brewery, too. Chuck’s friend Mike Cromer was in the early planning stages of Barrelhouse Brewing Co. in 1994, right as Dilly was planning its move to the Strand; there was even a proposal to house Barrelhouse in The Strand’s expansion wing, in the space now shared by Pomegranate & Lime and Trevor Furbay. Barrelhouse ended up opening downtown in 1995 instead. The wine side has its own history. Hans Nolte pulled the retail liquor license back in 1983, and Chuck, who grew up in a wine household, steered the shop away from selling what the grocery stores carried and toward a specialty selection. In the mid-2000s, that list earned an Award of Excellence, including a two-
glass Best of Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator. The Bottle Shop has quietly hummed along ever since and got a refresh over the past year with better displays and a curated selection of local and regional gourmet goods to go with the bottles. These days, Chuck says, great craft beer is everywhere, grocery aisles and convenience stores included, so the wine program and Bottle Shop have become a bigger piece of Dilly’s identity, even as the beer program keeps supporting great local and regional breweries. As Jim puts it, the products have changed, but the philosophy hasn’t: find interesting things, offer good value, and introduce customers to something they won’t find just anywhere. Check back in November for the continuation of Dilly’s story.
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Local Mariemont Scout Troop 149 Embarks on High Adventure in the Black Hills BY DONNA MORABITO Adventure, fellowship, and unforgettable memories were at the heart of a week-long High Adventure trip in July for local Scout Troop 149. The troop traveled to South Dakota for a week of camping and exploration, bringing together 28 participants—17 scouts and 11 adult leaders and volunteers. The trip gave the Scouts an opportunity to experience the outdoors, learn new skills, and explore some of the most iconic landmarks in the American West. The group made its home for the week at Medicine Mountain Scout Ranch, where the Scouts participated in a High Adventure program offered by the camp. The program challenged the Scouts through outdoor activities, teamwork and hands-on experiences designed to build confidence, leadership, and self-reliance. In addition to their activities at Medicine Mountain, the troop took advantage of the opportunity to explore the surrounding Black Hills and beyond. One of the highlights was a visit to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where the Scouts stood beneath the massive granite faces of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. The group also toured Crazy Horse Memorial, learning about the history and significance of the enormous mountain carving. The adventure continued into neighboring Wyoming with a visit to Devils Tower National Monument, the nation’s first national monument. The Scouts had the opportunity to see the impressive geological formation up close and take in the surrounding landscape. While the famous landmarks provided
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plenty of memorable moments, the heart of the trip was the time spent together. Camping for an entire week gave the Scouts opportunities to practice teamwork, take responsibility, and experience the camaraderie that comes with working together in the outdoors. For many of the Scouts, the trip was more than simply a vacation. It was a chance to step outside their comfort zones, experience new challenges, and create memories that will last long after the tents were packed away. The success of the trip was made possible by the dedication of the 11 adult leaders and volunteers who helped organize, supervise, and support the Scouts throughout the week. With 28 Scouts and adults traveling together, the July High Adventure trip proved to be a week filled with adventure, learning, and fellowship—and another memorable chapter in the troop’s Scouting journey.
Troop 149 at the Medicine Mountain Scout Ranch entrance, near the Black Hills in South Dakota.
Scouts from Troop 149 stand at the foot of Devils Tower in Wyoming. Left to right: Connor, Owen, Jacob, and Noah. MARIE MO NT T OWN C R I ER
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Adventure Awaits with Mariemont Cub Scout Pack 1 BY JAIMIE ROBINSON PACK 1 CUBMASTER Looking for a fun way for your child to make friends, try new things, and experience adventure? Mariemont Cub Scout Pack 1 welcomes boys and girls in kindergarten through 5th grade to join us for a year filled with friendship, fun, and learning. Cub Scouts gives kids the opportunity to spend time with friends their own age while building confidence and learning new skills through hands-on activities. The pack meets once a month for a group activity or adventure, with additional fun events sprinkled throughout the year. From camping, fishing, and hiking to volunteering, games, and special activities, there is always something to look forward to. Each grade level has its own den, which meets one to two times a month. Den meetings give Scouts the chance to work together, advance through the Cub Scout program, and learn new skills in a fun, age-appropriate setting. This year, Pack 1 has exciting adventures planned, including bowling, the Pinewood Derby, and learning about the stars. At our May camp out, Scouts with their families get to put their creativity and curiosity to work, like the Cub Scout pictured here, designing a rocket to launch with the pack! Whether your child loves the outdoors, enjoys building and creating, or simply wants to make new friends, there’s a place for them in Cub Scouts. Come join the adventure! For more information about Mariemont Cub Scout Pack 1 or to learn how to join, email mariemontcubscouts@gmail.com or go to beascout.scouting.org.
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Good Neighbor Series Presents ‘Kindling a Fire’ BY KAREN KOCH The community is invited to hear from educational leader Rob Zimmerman at a complimentary event at Indian Hill Church on Sunday, October 18, 4–6 p.m. The talk, “Kindling a Fire,” delves into tech, schools, and what parents need to know now. It is part of Indian Hill Church’s Good Neighbor Series and is open to all. Zimmerman is starting his sixth year
as Head of School at Cincinnati Country Day School and many may have read his regular column “Kindling a Fire” in Indian Hill Living. A former lawyer with Dinsmore, he has increased the school’s focus on teaching techniques grounded in the science of learning, advocated for a more cautious approach to educational technology (including the region’s first bellto-bell smartphone ban), and prioritized civil discourse and institutional neutrality. Parents and community members with students in any grade or school system are
encouraged to attend and bring questions for discussion. Light refreshments provided. Childcare will be available with a reservation. For more information, see indianhillchurch.org. To RSVP or ask questions, email RSVP-IHC@indianhillchurch.org. The Good Neighbor Series is an initiative of Indian Hill Church focused on building community through shared learning, discussion, and social engagement.
Come Check Out the Garden Club of Mariemont! BY DENISE SCHOLTZ PROGRAM CHAIR Do you like getting your hands dirty in the garden? Or would you like to learn more about plants in general? Come join the Garden Club of Mariemont and learn more about Ohio gardening. We meet at 1 p.m. in the Emery Room at the Parish Center, 3908 Plainville Rd. Meeting dates and topics for 2026-27 are: • September 2, 2026: Hopkins Park Discussion • October 7, 2026: James Schenk: Sustainable Living • November 4, 2026: Max Winkeljohn: Plant Conservation • December 2, 2026: Annual Holiday Party (location TBA) • March 3, 2027: Rothenberg Rooftop Garden • April 7, 2027: TBA • May 8, 2027: Annual Plant Sale, on the Mariemont Municipal Building lawn • June 2, 2027: Sharlyn and Barry Stare: Interactive talk on tea types, history, and how tea has changed our lives
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Safety Village Teaches Independence
Student volunteer leads campers in “Learning to Lead, Learning to Follow.” BY HANNAH DONNELLY This summer, my daughter didn’t tell people she was going to Safety Village. Every morning she announced, “I’m going to kindergarten.” As both a parent and a teacher at camp this summer, I smiled every time she said it. Looking back now, what struck me most was how real it already felt to her. After spending the week with our incoming kindergarteners, I realized she wasn’t the only one who felt that way. For many children, Mariemont Preschool Parents Group (MPPG) Safety Village was their first chance to imagine themselves as students. They spent the week in the kindergarten hallway, passed the classrooms they would soon call their own, and ran on the playground that, for many of them, already felt a little more familiar. Along the way, they practiced some very big skills for very little people: crossing a street, riding a school bus, speaking up when they need help, making safe choices, and learning to trust the community helpers who are there to support them. But what I loved most about Safety Village wasn’t just the safety lessons. It was all the little moments in between: the future kindergartener who discovered they could navigate a new hallway, bravely answer a question, try something unfamiliar, and find their place in a world that suddenly felt a little less big. M AR IE M O N T TO W N CR IE R
As the school year settles into its rhythm, I’m reminded that we spend a lot of time preparing children for what’s next. Safety Village reminds us that there is value in where they are right now. Being little is important work. Learning to be independent doesn’t happen all at once; it happens one small experience at a time. One of my favorite parts of the week was seeing the arc of childhood all in one place. Incoming kindergarteners spent the week taking their first steps toward independence, while sixth grade and high school volunteers stepped into leadership roles of their own. There was something meaningful about watching children who once walked these same hallways return to help the next group of kindergarteners feel welcome. Whether helping a camper find their group, cheering them on during an activity, or simply walking beside them between stations, they reminded me that growing up happens in stages and that each stage has something to learn and something to give. It felt like a snapshot of what makes Mariemont special: children learning through experience, older students stepping into leadership, and an entire community showing up for our youngest learners as they began their school journey. A favorite moment each year is Friday’s graduation ceremony. As campers walked forward to receive their Safety Licenses, you could see every version of kindergarten readiness in the room. Some confidently
Firefighter Lieutenant Tim Peeker guides campers through an exercise on fire safety. bounded to the front of the gym. Others glanced toward their grown-ups before stepping forward. Some waved. Some grinned from ear to ear. Others offered a quiet smile, took a deep breath, or moved a little more cautiously, but with just as much pride. Safety Village isn’t about making every child the same. It’s about helping each child leave a little more confident than when they arrived. It’s a week made possible by volunteers, school staff, older student leaders, and community partners who invest their time and energy into Mariemont’s youngest learners. In a community that values connection, leadership, and belonging, Safety Village has become more than a camp. For many children, it’s the beginning of their Mariemont story. My daughter may have been onto something when she said she was “going to kindergarten.” By the time school officially began a few weeks later, many of the places and faces that once felt new already felt familiar. Looking back, it’s easy to see why Safety Village has become such a cherished part of our community. It gives children a chance to build confidence in a place that once felt new while preparing for the adventures ahead. And that’s what makes MPPG Safety Village special. It gives children a chance to practice being little while taking one small step toward something big. P AGE 1 1
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Honey Designs Jewelry: Custom and Visionary BY SUZY WEINLAND There’s a particular kind of shop that becomes part of a neighborhood’s story—not just a place where you buy something, but rather a place that offers more personal, customized experiences and celebrations alongside clients. For Chelsea Mead, owner and designer behind Honey Designs Jewelry, that’s always been the goal. And this year, two milestones are landing at once: the debut of a new signature piece, and the launch of a podcast that’s been months in the making.
The Shop Behind the Gems Honey Designs Jewelry has built its name on custom engagement rings, reimagined heirlooms, permanent fine jewelry, and pop-up retail events that bring the shop directly to the community. Chelsea’s path into the industry started early: her father built a career as a gemologist, and she followed that thread to the Gemological Institute of America before opening her own custom jewelry business. What sets Honey Designs apart isn’t just Chelsea’s unique upbringing, it’s a refusal to treat jewelry as a transaction. Every piece, from a custom engagement ring to a permanent bracelet customized at a popup, comes with the same level of personal attention.
Chelsea Mead, Honey Designs Jewelry owner and designer.
A Honey custom engagement and wedding ring stack, using a mix of new and heirloom gems.
The Honey Designs 14kt solid gold and natural diamond Queen City Ring Stack is as delicious as this Graeter’s mango and strawberry sorbet!
Welcome to the jungle… of custom fine jewelry.
Introducing the Queen City Ring Stack For the city babe who wears their heart, and their hometown, on their hand. Dreamed up and handcrafted right here in Cincinnati, this one-of-a-kind set is a love letter to the city we call home. Designed alongside Chelsea’s Lead Creative Megan Weinland, a Mariemont High School graduate and fashion design student at the University of Cincinnati’s DAAP College, the Queen City Ring is made of 14kt solid gold and features a stunning architectural cluster of natural diamonds (.50 CTW), evoking the PAG E 12
beloved silhouette of our city’s skyline that includes the Bengal’s Stadium, Great American Tower, and nod to the bridges. Nestled beneath it, the Ohio River Ring flows in a graceful wave of 14kt solid gold, emulating the winding waterway that defines our city’s edge. “The Queen City Ring Stack is available in yellow, white, or rose gold and makes the
perfect fine-jewelry gift—for yourself or the Cincinnati lover in your life,” adds Chelsea.
‘Til Death, Honey’ Podcast Launches Oct. 30 Over the summer, Chelsea began the creative journey in front of a microphone with “Til Death, Honey,” a new podcast built around three ideas: real talk about the jewelry industry, candid conversations with MARIE MO NT T OWN C R I ER
B USI NESS SPOTLI GHT the people who work in it, and the stories behind the proposals and engagement rings that started it all. The show’s identity is as distinctive as the shop’s: romantic yet with some twisted fun. The first guest episode features someone who knows the industry better than almost anyone in Chelsea’s life: her own father, a professional gemologist and certified appraiser, who first got her hooked on all things gold. “I’ve wanted to host a podcast for years and have finally found the perfect timing to share info about the jewelry industry that I want all clients to feel empowered knowing, especially when it comes to engagement ring education,” explains Chelsea. “I partnered with an amazing production team and friends of mine, Sean and Liz with Valley Creative Co. (valleycreativeco.com), to bring this important vision to life.” “Til Death, Honey” officially launches on Spotify Friday, October 30. Meanwhile, in the shop, Brody from Archetype will be on hand to offer fine jewelry piercing from 12–4 p.m.
What’s Next Between the Queen City Ring Stack launch this past spring (on 5/13—another Cincy nod) and the podcast debut, it’s a big season for Honey Designs. But longtime customers won’t be surprised. Growth here has never looked like scaling up and losing the personal touch; it has always been about finding new ways to bring people into the story. Keep an eye out for Honey Bestie Bashes throughout the year, where Chelsea collaborates with other woman-owned small businesses to offer a fun night out for all ages and genders to experience permanent jewelry, tattoo artists, custom beverage services, local food creators, and more! The best way to keep up with Honey Designs is through Instagram @honeydesignsjewelry. Stop by the shop at 6814 Wooster Pike, in The Mariemont Strand, to see the Queen City Ring Stack in person or to bring your next creative jewelry vision to life.
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!
(513) 831-0179 • Info.Cincinnati@SandersonInsurance.com 3914 Miami Rd., Suite 207, Cincinnati, OH 45227 • www.sandersonagency.com M AR IE M O N T TO W N CR IE R
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What’s Happening at the Mariemont Branch Library October ‘26 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. • Pokémon Trading Card Game Club — Saturday, October 10 from 10:30 a.m. to 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. No registration required. • Library League Book Club — Wednesday, October 21 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This book club is designed to give tweens and their adults a shared space to read and explore stories together. Ask for this month’s book at the branch. Recommended for ages 9–12. Registration required. • LEGO @ the Library — Saturday, October 24 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Bring the ideas, we’ll bring the LEGO! Each month features an optional challenge or theme for builders who want an extra spark of inspiration. Ages 7–14. • Chemistry Under Construction — Saturday, October 24 at 2 p.m. Celebrate National Chemistry Week by taking part in chemistry demonstrations! For grades K–6. Registration required.
Adults • How to Establish a New Habit — Wednesday, October 7 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. In this class, we’ll learn some strategies to develop new, helpful habits, and to diminish current, unhelpful ones. Registration is encouraged but not required. • Mystery Book Club — Tuesday, October 13 at 6:30 p.m. Join us to discuss books from the mystery subgenre. This month’s selection available at the branch. • Sit and Stitch — Saturday, October 3 and Saturday, October 17 at 10 a.m. Bring your own 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. • Historic Hauntings — Monday, October 19 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This program presented by the Cincinnati Museum Center examines the history of ghost stories and hauntings in the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area from the founding of the city right up to the present time. • Open Play Mahjong — Tuesday, October 6 and Tuesday, October 20 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned player, this is a low-pressure evening to play with others. • Book Club — Monday, October 26 at 6:30 p.m. Please join us for a lively discussion of a variety of books throughout the year. Stop by the branch to pick up this month’s selection. Mariemont Branch Library 3810 Pocahontas Ave. | 513-369-4467 10 a.m.– 8 p.m. Monday – Tuesday 10 a.m.– 6 p.m. Wednesday – Saturday. https://chpl.org/locations/mm/
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Taste of Mariemont 2026
Photos by Steve Spooner. M AR IE M O N T TO W N CR IE R
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PET-A-TUDES
Pet Care, Rescue Groups Abound in Hamilton County Family-Friendly Shelter Dog Adoption & Treat-Prep Party
Here’s a sneak peek at preliminary plans for a new, modern, and desperately needed Hamilton County Animal Shelter for which commissioners approved land acquisition this summer. Planning is in early stages, with a tentative opening in 2029 to replace the outdated Colerain facility currently in use. Stay tuned! BY CAROL SANGER On any given day, Mariemont’s love for its four-legged companions is on full display. From dogs of all sizes being walked along streets and sidewalks to contented cats observing the world go by from sunny windows, pets and their people are part of what makes living here so special. In truth, pets are pretty lucky to live most anywhere in Hamilton County, where a full range of rescue groups and nonprofit organizations stand ready to help pet owners and animal lovers whatever the situation. Here are just a few:
Cincinnati Animal CARE cincycare.org By far the largest and most active of the region’s animal welfare organizations, CincyCARE has served as our county’s official animal services provider since 2020, when it introduced no-kill and foster programming to municipal sheltering in Hamilton County. CARE not only runs the county’s animal shelter out of two locations in Northside, where it takes in and provides medical care for more than 9,000 homeless, stray, orphaned or injured animals each year, but offers free vaccine clinics and spay/neuter
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services to the community in addition to resources that help people keep pets in their homes. CARE’s official role as Dog Warden for the county means its deputies respond to reports of animal cruelty and neglect and assist local police and county prosecutors in bringing charges and pursuing court cases. CARE was in the news this summer when it rescued more than 150 animals from a hoarding situation in Westwood and received international media attention when a kitten without the use of its rear legs was fitted with an ingenious DIY device made with Hot Wheels! CARE offers a wide range of adoption, foster and volunteer opportunities.
SPCA Cincinnati spcacincinnati.org The oldest and most well-known among local animal organizations, SPCA Cincinnati relinquished its official role with Hamilton County six years ago. It now operates as a private nonprofit out of its managed-intake shelter in Sharonville. It plans to open a new Over-the-Rhine adoption center later this month and will be building a new $3 million medical facility at its main Sharonville location to serve its
Looking for a fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon while helping dogs in need? The Benny Fund, a local charity, will host a free, family-friendly dog adoption and treat-prep event on Sunday, October 18, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the new Columbia Township Community Center. Attendees can meet adoptable dogs and volunteers from Cincinnati Animal CARE, learn more about adoption and take part in preparing enrichment treats for shelter dogs. CincyCARE staff will then distribute the treats in the dogs’ kennels, providing mental stimulation, easing boredom and helping reduce the stress of shelter life while dogs wait for permanent homes. Whether you are considering adoption, looking for a hands-on volunteer opportunity or simply want to support local animals, this event offers a meaningful activity for the whole family. The event is free and open to the public. shelter animals while freeing up shelter space for an expanded foster program. SPCA Cincinnati provides a range of programs and services, including an extensive humane education program and others aimed at introducing animals into the lives of people in hospitals, care and community-based victim support facilities.
UCAN ucancincinnati.org The United Coalition for Animals opened the region’s first low-cost spay/ neuter clinic in 2007 with the aim of reducing pet overpopulation and the burden it places on communities across the Tri-State.
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PET-A-TUDES Since then, UCAN has completed more than 200,000 spay/neuter surgeries and expanded its range of low-cost services to include vaccine and pet wellness clinics. UCAN focuses on affordable veterinary care to help dogs and cats stay healthy, in their homes and out of shelters.
Pets In Need (PIN) pincincinnati.org Located in Lockland and serving the Greater Cincinnati community since 2013, PIN provides affordable veterinary care for pet owners with limited incomes, including seniors, veterans, and people experiencing homelessness. More than 4,000 pets each year receive services ranging from spay/ neuter and general surgeries to disease treatments, dental care and compassionate end-of-life care. PIN also partners with local food banks for pet food assistance.
Ohio Alleycat Resource Center (OAR)
League For Animal Welfare (LFAW)
ohioalleycat.org Founded in 1998 as a small neighborhood effort to help stray and feral cats in O’Bryonville, OAR has grown into a regional resource that provides low-cost spay neuter, shelter, TNR (trap-neuter-return), and adoption services aimed at supporting cats and their people. Now located next door in Madisonville, OAR has spayed/neutered more than 150,000 cats since 2009 and expanded its TNR program to include colony management and population control across the area. Rather than taking in cats directly from the public, OAR partners with other shelters to pull cats and help expand a regional safety net for cats in need.
lfaw.org Although located outside of Hamilton County in Batavia, LFAW stands as the region’s original no-kill animal shelter, founded in 1949. Today, it operates as a managed-intake shelter that serves an average of 1,500 dogs and cats annually, and provides assistance to local pet owners through its veterinary program, pet wellness and vaccine clinics, pet food pantry, and spay/neuter voucher program.
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Mariemont Racquet Club to Host “Perfect 10” Pickleball Tourney
BY KIM BEACH MRC BOARD MEMBER
Mariemont’s pickleball community is gearing up for a big fall showdown. The Mariemont Racquet Club is sponsoring the Perfect 10 Pickleball Tourney, set for Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 10 a.m. at the Mariemont Courts, 3912 Plainville Rd. The tournament promises a full morning of competitive play, along with prizes, food, and drinks for participants. Entry is free for MRC members, while non-members can join for $10, payable by cash or check at the club.
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Organizers are encouraging players of all skill levels to sign up early, with registration available by scanning the QR code. Whether you’re a seasoned pickleball veteran or just starting out, the Perfect 10 Tourney offers a fun, community-driven way to spend a Saturday morning on the courts. Mark your calendars and get ready to serve up some friendly competition in Mariemont. If you have questions, please email kimbeach13@gmail.com or text/call 513-252-4262.
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Family, Friends Say Goodbye to Brian Mikesell SUBMITTED BY THE MIKESELL FAMILY Surrounded by an abundance of love, Brian Gregory Mikesell peacefully passed away in his home on September 2, 2026, at age 57. Brian’s zest for sharing all the goodness in life will be missed by those who knew and loved him. After graduating from Ansonia High School, Brian went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Wright State University in Human Factors Engineering. He then received a research fellowship from SUNY Buffalo in New York to collaborate with NASA while earning his master’s degree. Throughout his formative years, Brian leaned into his curious personality and cultivated habits that pushed him beyond just asking questions and into the space of learning, experimenting, mastering, and sharing. Brian’s curiosity led him to be an early adopter of many things: computer science, the internet, Apple products, Uber, artisan coffee, Golden Tee, craft beer, underground music, and more. Brian’s deep curiosity was matched by his ability to learn, create and share. In the early days of the World Wide Web, Brian created a website for his favorite band, Guided by Voices. His curiosity, learning, and sharing brought together many fans far
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Brian Gregory Mikesell from Dayton, Ohio, where Brian lived at the time. While music was a life-long passion of Brian’s, he was also known for his deep research into making the perfect pizza. It’s true that Brian has a Bakers Pride pizza oven in his basement and that he asked a work colleague to mail water from New York in order to study and elevate his crust recipe. Brian shared his pizza making mastery, hosting pizza nights with friends and creating community with traditional team dinners for his sons’ swim teams. Pizza was not Brian’s only food obsession; he loved exploring new restaurants throughout Cincinnati as well as seeking
out the hidden gems anywhere he traveled for work or pleasure. Brian was always the person to ask where to go and what to do. Even when he could not enjoy food in the hospital, he joyfully shared where to get the best eats in the area. That same fire and curiosity carried over to his professional life. Brian spent over the last two decades of his career working in educational spaces that support student needs. It meant so much to Brian to work for companies whose main goals were/are to help both high school students (Hobsons) and college students (Stellic) navigate successful paths in their respectful journeys. Brian had a rare gift of turning data into a story that others could comprehend. His incredible use of analogies always hit the bullseye in application, making complicated processes easy to understand. Brian was able to bring tech progress to so many because his curiosity and love for his company’s products led him to take the time to fully learn how they worked and then share them with those who would most benefit. Brian gave complete love and companionship to Teresa, his wife of 28 years, and was a proud, involved father to his sons Ian, Jonah, and Colin. The legacy of Brian’s curiosity, passion, and spirit for friendship lives on in all of them. He is also survived by his mother Joyce, sister Janelle, and in-laws Roger and Diane. He is preceded in death by his father Tom. Services to remember and celebrate Brian include a 10 a.m. visitation and 11 a.m. memorial held Saturday, October 3rd in the Crossroads Church Oakley chapel located at 3500 Madison Rd., Cinti., Ohio. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his honor to the people, places and causes important to him. Brian volunteered for WAIF Public Radio in Cincinnati (waifradio.org), found a home in Crossroads Church Oakley (Crossroads Church, Attn: Finance/Giving Department, 3500 Madison Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45209) and was fearless in his courageous fight against pancreatic cancer (donate.cancer. org/?campaign=pancreaticcancer). P AGE 1 9
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From Partnership to Progress: A Summer of Sustainability in Mariemont BY ALICIA STOCK, SUSTAINABLE MARIEMONT PRESIDENT This summer, the Village of Mariemont partnered with Sustainable Mariemont and greater Cincinnati’s regional climate collaborative Green Umbrella to host a Climate Action Fellow. The Green Umbrella fellowship program launched in 2024 and has grown to support two regional fellows and six fellows working directly with municipalities across the greater Cincinnati area. Participating municipalities for the 2026 summer program included the City of Cincinnati, City of Covington, City of Oxford, Hamilton County, Anderson Township, and the Village of Mariemont. Anna Wabler, an incoming senior at the Ohio State University studying Environmental Policy, joined the Village for the 10-week full-time fellowship that began in June and ended in August. As a small municipality, leveraging a full-time fellow enabled the Village to accelerate progress on complex environmental challenges that would otherwise be difficult to address with current staffing and budget restrictions. Anna researched solutions and funding for several projects chosen by Village Council, including: Hillside stabilization: Anna met with experts from Hamilton County Conservation District and Hillside Trust, as well as local resident and ecologist Steve Pipkin, to research hillside best practices. Anna documented her research on tree canopy preservation, invasive species removal, and native plantings in a formal policy brief to help guide the Village’s future hillside decisions. Waste reduction: Anna worked with the Village Health and Recreation Committee to research park recycling receptacle options and funding. Anna drafted and submitted
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a grant application for funding through the Hamilton County Resource Waste Innovation Reduction Grant program. The Village was notified in August that $15,000 in grant funding was approved by Hamilton County Resource for 13 new metal recycling receptacles that will match existing park trash
house gas emissions. The restaurant award program is being finalized and is expected to launch in 2027. Anna also researched energy benchmarking and climate migration action planning as part of Green Umbrella requirements. At the conclusion of her fellowship, Mayor Brown and the Village of Mariemont recognized Anna’s hard work and dedication with an official proclamation declaring August 7 “Anna Wabler Day.” Follow Sustainable Mariemont on Facebook and Instagram for more information on these exciting initiatives!
Pumpkin Composting: Turn or Toss Skip the landfill! Pumpkins break down quickly and can be easily returned to the soil.
Anna Wabler, Summer 2026 Climate Action Fellow bins. The new recycling receptacles will be ordered and placed in Dogwood Park, Dale Park, Ann Buntin Becker Park, Mariemont Concourse, Mariemont Tennis Courts, as well as the Mariemont Strand, and are estimated to divert up to 10 tons of landfill per year. Public sustainability education and outreach: Anna partnered with Sustainable Mariemont to help advance plans for a Restaurant Sustainability Program that will incentivize local businesses to make greener choices. The point-based award program encourages local sourcing, food waste reduction, energy efficiency, recycling, biodegradable take-out options, and more plant-based menu options to reduce green-
• Remove candles, paint, glitter, and decorations that are not organic/compostable. • Smash or cut into smaller pieces to break down faster. • Balance with “browns” pumpkin is high in moisture, so make sure to add dry leaves to keep compost balanced. And to add some fun to the mix, Stanbery Park hosts the 20th annual Pumpkin Chuck Festival in Mt. Washington on Saturday, November 7, noon–5 p.m. The event literally launches pumpkins using medieval-style trebuchets. Admission is free, with pumpkin launches available for a fee. If you don’t compost at home, consider joining Sustainable Mariemont’s GoZero program! For $85 per year, Mariemont Residents can drop off compost at our community bins (yes, even those pumpkins). Questions, comments, or want to get involved? Email us at sustainablemariemont@ gmail.com.
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Staying “Street Smart” in Mariemont 5. At the intersection of which two streets is the Cincinnati Bicentennial panel (erected in 1990) located? 6. On which “Lane” was the first building begun in Mariemont back in November 1923? (No, not “Penny Lane,” Ringo.) 7. In what “Place” is “the group of fieldstone houses” that was designed by two women architects?
BY PETE MCBRIDE
8. On what street were the Dana Group townhouses, in which the first residents lived?
A trivia “pathway” to the Village’s roadways, highways, and bi-ways.
9. On what street was the combination Dale Park Fire and Police Station originally located?
2. Which streets celebrate Mariemont’s honorific as a “Tree City”?
10. On what road would you find a brick house built in 1802 that was adjacent to the site of the ground-breaking ceremony for Mariemont where Mrs. Emery sunk a silver spade into the ground?
3. Which street bears the name of an ancient artifact from the archaeological digs of the Late Fort Ancient Native-American site?
11. On what road was John Nolen’s planned Thomas J. Emery Recreation Building originally constructed? (Heads up… trick question.)
4. On what street did Harvard archaeologists excavate between 1882 and 1911? (Hint: across from where you can now “take a dip”.)
12. What two-street intersection is involved in the highly-picturesque outlook with a view of the Little Miami River? (Hint: This is not a south-Floridian “fakery.”)
1. What two streets are named after Mary Emery’s two sons?
13. What “delightfully soothing” street is a worthy setting, off of which is located the 100–foot Carillon donated by Mary Emery’s sister, Isabella F. Hopkins, and dedicated in 1929 with 49 different bells weighing up to 4800 pounds? (To clarify: the bells, not Ms. Hopkins.) 14. What “arterial” roadway that ran through Mariemont originated as a toll road in the 19th century, used for transport and as a stagecoach line from/to Cincinnati? Also known as an early Underground Railroad route. 15. On what street can you go to “get booked”? Now it’s your turn to have some fun researching the names of some Mariemont roadways, such as: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Plainville Road Mt. Vernon Avenue Crystal Springs Road Cache Pit Way and Flintpoint Way Fieldhouse Way (this was especially puzzling for yours truly) Answers on page 24.
Help Shape MariElders’ Next 50 Years BY ERIN ROTHFUSS, MARIELDERS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MariElders is preparing to celebrate a major milestone: 50 years of serving older adults in our community. As we mark this anniversary, we’re looking ahead—and we want you to be part of that vision. We’re launching a strategic planning process to guide MariElders through its next chapter, and community input is at the heart of it. Whether you’re a longtime member, a volunteer, a family member, or simply someone who cares about the wellbeing of older adults in the Village, your voice matters.
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Over the coming months, we’ll be gathering ideas, feedback, and priorities to shape the programs, services, and partnerships that define MariElders’ future. This is a chance to help ensure the organization continues to meet the evolving needs of our aging population for years to come. There’s also a more immediate way to support MariElders right now: our building’s roof is due for replacement, and we’re asking the community to help fund this essential repair. Every donation, large or small, helps us keep our doors open and our programs running. Forty-nine years strong; let’s build
what’s next, together. To donate or get involved, call MariElders at 513-271-5588 or email director@marielders.org.
MariElders members tour the GE Aerospace Facility.
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Kindness Is Right Around the Corner BY SHARON BOYLES Life can sometimes be disheartening, difficult, and unkind, but did you know that kindness is right around the corner, right here in Mariemont? If you walk or drive past 10 Albert Place, you’ll see a simple wooden box on a post next to the sidewalk. This is the Kindness Corner, and it’s quietly helping spread kindness in our community, thanks to Kim Beach. Kim (married to Ted) is a longtime Mariemont resident, retired Village business owner, mom of two sons, and “Kiki” to one-year-old Annie and almost two-year-old Ben. “The Kindness Corner is something I came up with,” Kim explains. “I’ve often wondered how I could help spread kindness. I know people want to be kind, but they don’t know what to do, and they need a place where they can get ideas.” That’s where the Kindness Corner comes in. At the start of each week, Kim comes up with a new idea for offering kindness, prints it out, and puts the slips of paper into the box, which is similar in setup to a Little Free Library. You simply open the door and pick up your weekly kindness challenge. Challenges from previous weeks include paying for the person behind you in line or at the drive-thru, making a donation to the Mariemont Theatre, giving water to outdoor workers, and complimenting a complete stranger. Once Kim made the decision to create the Kindness Corner, the rest was easy. “A tree fell over on our hedge and left a space that was just the right size for the Kindness Corner box,” she says. “I ordered the box on Amazon and put it together myself. I knew I would dedicate it to my mother-in-law, who was one of the kindest people I ever knew. I never heard her say a bad word about anyone, so it made sense to dedicate it to her. It all came together very well, and if I help even one person, I’m good.” The Kindness Corner is already making a positive impact on neighbors in our community. One of the challenges earlier this summer was to take a treat to a neighbor, and Kim recalls that a friend texted her and
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said that her neighbor brought her cookies and left a note. “It really made her day,” she says. This opportunity to share kindness is free and available to everyone. It’s a great thing for families to do together and a wonderful way for people to connect and make a difference in someone’s day. Kim hopes the idea will expand to other communities, as well. “I would love it if someone from another place would see this and want to do it, too,” she says. “It would be a good project for an elementary school, or a Girl Scout troop, or a church.” Spread kindness. It typically costs nothing more than a little time and effort, and it makes the world a brighter place for everyone. If you have any ideas or suggestions for Kim to put into the box as a kindness challenge, you can email her at kimbeach13@gmail.com.
The Kindness Corner, at 10 Albert Place, includes a weekly kindness challenge. The Kindness Corner is dedicated to Ann Beach, who lived kindness out loud.
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October 10 is World Mental Health Day BY ASHTON ROACH, LPCC THERAPIST & FOUNDER, BLACKWATER WOODS CENTER FOR GRIEF THERAPY
Each October, communities across the world observe World Mental Health Day. While mental health matters daily, beyond just one day in October, World Mental Health Day serves as a time to reflect upon and re-evaluate how we prioritize our mental wellbeing. It is also time to advocate that it plays a vital role in overall health throughout our lifespan. The overarching field of mental health comprises a variety of topics. Yet there is one sub-field that impacts our mental health that all of us face regardless of genetic predisposition, regardless of socioeconomic status, regardless of age. It is a branch of mental health that often does not warrant a diagnosis, and it is a branch of mental health that all of us will come to know as we live, as we love, as we grow, and as we form attachments of any kind. This sub-field of mental health is known as “grief and loss.”
Grief and Loss It is a range of experiences we all share and can make us feel profoundly alone. This paradox is one of the reasons why seeking a specialized grief therapist can be necessary for so many. It is also the argument towards normalizing the fact that grief and loss can make you feel untethered when you thought of yourself as centered or bleak when you knew yourself to be hopeful.
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Grief and loss are extremely heterogeneous. They can look like a relocation. The confirmation of a medical diagnosis – chronic and/or terminal. A job loss, a divorce, an 8-year-old that moved schools and must single-handedly form a new group of friends. The death of a loved one, the death of a family pet. A traumatic event that changed one’s worldview. Grief and loss can invoke feelings of sadness, happiness, relief, hopelessness, hopefulness, anger, frustration, acceptance. Grief can be defined, and there are frameworks to help us understand the many forms it can take. Grief can also be understood through the lens of metaphors. As someone who enjoys throwing herself into challenging situations in the outdoors, and for anyone else who can relate to an adventure metaphor – grief is like an adventure race or rock climbing. Not all segments of a race or route are the same. You may navigate successfully through some areas while unexpectedly needing to rest during others. You may feel strong in your techniques here and fall a bit longer there. But none of this needs to be done alone. In some instances, it can even be reckless to do so.
even when you’re not “that type of person.” Maybe you are someone who has suffered great losses. Perhaps you are one of the rare humans walking around who have not. Still, mental health affects all of us and grief is universal. So… consider how you can help others navigate their own trials or help them stay safe in their personal storms as they encounter grief and its’ impact on their mental health. After all, any journey becomes more manageable when walked together. You’re not alone. Support is here. bwcgrieftherapy. com
Sharing the Journey
About World Mental Health Day
Thus, the famous saying rings true for grief and loss, too… “It takes a village.” Curating your support system matters. Integrating grief into your life and shaping your life around your loss-related experiences are anything but a linear process. Quite literally, loss rewires our brains. It necessitates pacing and self-awareness in a way we did not know before. It demands self-compassion, rather than self-judgment. It demands you stop and look again at the map in front of you. It will require you to ask for directions,
Established in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health, World Mental Health Day provides a global platform for advocates, governments, organizations, and individuals to discuss the progress and ongoing challenges in mental health care. The core mission is to promote public education, improve access to services, and ensure that mental health care is treated with the same priority and urgency as physical health. who.int/campaigns/world-mental-healthday
About Blackwater Woods Center for Grief Therapy Based at 3914 Miami Rd. in Mariemont, Blackwater Woods Center for Grief Therapy provides empathic support to help you move through grief at your own pace, using self-compassion and personal values as your guide. Whether you’re coping with a loss, a major life transition, or the strain of shifting relationships, we offer evidence-based techniques and personalized care to meet your unique needs.
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Luminaria Kit Orders Due This Month BY MAGGIE KENNER LUMINARIA CO-CHAIR Autumn is such a beautiful time in Mariemont, and the falling leaves mean Mariemont’s Luminaria will be here before we know it. The favorite holiday tradition is scheduled for Saturday, December 5 from 5:30–8 p.m. This annual fundraiser is coordinated by the Mariemont Preschool Parents Group (MPPG), bringing together the community for a good cause. 2025 was a record-breaking year with $19,000 raised for local charities. We are proud to have donated prior years’ proceeds to local organizations such as ProKids, A Kid Again, The Ronald McDonald House, Dogwood Park Tot Lot, and the Mariemont Library.
“A fun, old-fashioned, family Christmas” * Join neighbors, family and friends for a festive evening, beginning at 5:30 p.m. in Old Town Square. The evening kicks off with a welcome by our official Town Crier, Dr. Bob Keyes, and MPPG President Molly Tanner, followed by holiday carols by the Mariemont High School Chorus and the annual tree lighting countdown with Mayor Bill Brown. Once again, one lucky raffle winner will have the honor of flipping the switch for the community tree lighting with their entire family. It could be yours!
“Santy Claus!” * Following the kickoff activities, enjoy a festive winter wonderland, musical performances, and holiday magic, including Santa Claus! The jolly old elf will arrive at Old Town Square at 6:15 p.m. and will be there to meet with families until 8 p.m. Enjoy hot chocolate, generously provided by Biggby Coffee, and sweet treats. Take in the festive glow of the luminarias with a charming carriage ride through our neighborhood. Carriage ride tickets can be purchased when you buy your Luminaria Kits or with cash the night of the event.
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Your house is “a Beaut!” * Holiday decorations make our neighborhood magical at this time of year. We welcome you to register for the House Decorating Contest by November 28, with a chance to win gift cards to favorite local establishments! You don’t need 25,000 imported Italian twinkle lights to enter, just the enjoyment of holiday decorating.
Don’t miss out: Order forms due soon! December may sound far away, but the time to register is now. You can purchase your Luminaria kits, tree lighting raffle tickets, and carriage ride tickets, as well as register for the House Decorating Contest online at mariemontppg.com/luminaria. Alternatively, you’ll find paper order forms inserted in this Town Crier issue, and you can drop those off or mail them with payment to Cassidy Beals at 3608 Flintpoint Way. The deadline to order your luminaria kits for convenient delivery to your home is Friday, October 23. A limited number of kits will be available for an additional charge at the Boy Scout Christmas Tree Sale, located at the Mariemont Municipal Building/Firehouse, on November 27–29, and on the day of Luminaria on December 5 from 12–4 p.m. We look forward to celebrating the holiday season with you at this favorite Village event. Please contact Cassidy Beals or Maggie Kenner at mariemontluminaria@gmail. com with any questions. Thank you for supporting MPPG and the Village of Mariemont,
LEFT: Tree lighting and luminarias at the Old Town Square, 2025 (Photo: Will Hill). RIGHT: 2025 House Decorating Contest Winner (Photo: Molly Tanner) and we wish you the “hap-hap-happiest”* holiday season! *Quotes from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, 1989
Trivia Answer Key (from page 21)
1. Albert Place and Sheldon Close 2. Beech, Chestnut, Maple, Oak, Linden, and maybe (if you insist… perhaps: Grove and Cherry Lane) 3. Hammerstone Way, Flintpoint Way and Cachepit Way 4. Mariemont Ave. 5. Oak and Chestnut Streets 6. Cherry Lane, The Mariemont Community Church (Chapel), began in 1923. 7. Denny Place 8. Chestnut St. 9. Oak Street 10. Plainville Road 11. Also Plainville Road. 12. Miami Bluff and Center St. 13. Pleasant Street 14. Wooster Pike (aka “Route 50”) 15. Pocahontas Ave. (the library). Every effort has been made to ensure historical and geographical accuracy in this article, but readers’ corrections are gratefully welcomed. MARIE MO NT T OWN C R I ER
WO MA N ’ S A RT CLUB CULTURAL CENTER
Mariemont Paint Out: October 16 & 17, 2026 The Barn in Mariemont and the Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center are excited to announce the 2026 Mariemont Paint Out. Once again, artists will take to the streets, parks, and gardens of Mariemont in a Plein Air competition that highlights the charm of this little village and the talents of Tri-state artists. This year’s event begins at 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16, when artists can start checking in and having their canvases stamped.
The Barn in Mariemont
Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center 6980 Cambridge Ave. www.thebarninmariemont.org 513-272-3700 info@thebarninmariemont.org
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The check-in will take place at Fifty West Brewing Company, 7605 Wooster Pike. After check-in, artists can start painting. This gives artists a chance to capture a sunset or nocturne painting. Another check-in will be held from 7–9:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17 at The Barn on Cambridge Avenue. Artists must return to The Barn by 4 p.m. to frame and prepare their art for hanging. Volunteers will be available to assist artists with preparing art and filling out tags. The evening reception and awards presentation is Saturday, Oct. 17 from 6–8:30 p.m. in the Loft of The Barn. Refreshments will be served and the public is invited to view and purchase some very fresh art. Artist registration is online at thebarninmariemont.org. Registration price is $40 online or $45 at the door.
Chris Taulbee, “Best of Show,” 2025 Mariemont Paint Out
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VI LLAGE
Village News Upcoming Events October 2 MHS Homecoming Parade
• DO NOT BLOW YOUR LEAVES IN PARKS OR PUBLIC SPACES. THEY WILL NOT BE PICKED UP ON A WEEKLY BASIS.
October 12 Village offices will be closed in observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
• Please park in your driveway if possible. It makes it much easier for the truck to collect leaves.
October 17 Warrior Run
• If you do not wish to wait for the leaf vacuum, bag the leaves in brown paper yard waste 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.
October 31 Trick or Treat, 6–8 p.m., rain or shine. October–December Leaf collection will begin mid-October. We will suspend the brush route on the same day and will continue leaf collection until the end of December. Brush/limb collection and Christmas tree pick-up by the Service Department will resume in January. Check the Village website at mariemont.org for exact dates.
Village Leaf Policy • 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 as it can damage our equipment and cause delays for the rest of your neighbors. • The contractor who blows/rakes YOUR leaves is responsible for picking them up.
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• Prior to mid-October and 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. For more information on leaf and limb collection, tree care, street sweeping, and ice/snow removal ordinances, please visit mariemont.org/departments/service-department. For emergencies or other questions, please call the Village Service Department at 513-271-3246, ext. 7.
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
MARIE MO NT T OWN C R I ER
WORSHI P
Village Worship Services
mariemontchurch.org facebook.com/MariemontChurch YouTube: @MariemontChurch The Clocktower Building at 3908 Plainville Rd. Sunday Morning Services: 9 and 11 a.m. Join us for worship, prayer, teaching, and community as we follow Jesus together. Livestream services on our website, www. mariemontchurch.org, or on YouTube, @MariemontChurch. Our current series is “Your Story: Encountering God the Father from Genesis to Revelation.” Kingdom Kids Sunday School: Encounter Jesus, experience His love, and grow in faith through Kingdom Kids. Available during both Sunday morning services for infants through 6th grade. Contact katie@ mariemontchurch.org. Next Chapter Youth Group: Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. Meet other middle and high school students (Grades 7–12) for community, discipleship, and fun! Contact katie@ mariemontchurch.org. Weekday Worship: Tuesday–Thursday,
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10 a.m.–2 p.m. Come and go as you wish. Pause and spend time with God in a quiet space to pray, praise, or simply rest in His presence. Women’s Bible Studies: Grow closer to God while building meaningful relationships with other women. Joy in the Morning: Tuesdays, 9:15–11:15 a.m. (during the school year). Evening Joy: 1st and 3rd Mondays, 7–8:30 p.m. (September–June). Men’s Bible Studies: Starting at 6:30 a.m. every Friday. Connect with other men through Bible study, prayer, and encouragement. All are welcome!. Men’s Midrash Bible Study: Every other Wednesday at 6:15 a.m. Friday Morning Bible Study: Fridays at 6:30 a.m. Small Groups: Experience the joy of doing life together. Small groups are available for every age and stage of life. Contact paul@ mariemontchurch.org. …with Him Podcast: Listen in as Jamie and Raz explore what it means to live freely and lightly with Jesus. New episodes weekly! Available on all major podcast platforms. Mariemont Church Preschool: Discover a nurturing, Jesus-centered preschool where children can learn and thrive. 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!
Village Church of Mariemont villagechurchofmariemont.org facebook.com/VCMChurch Mariemont Memorial Chapel Offices at 3920 Oak Street
We invite you to worship with us on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. in the Mariemont Memorial Stone Chapel. Our children’s classes and office are located at 3920 Oak Street, just off the Old Village Square on the corner of Oak and Maple Streets. 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. Fall Fun: Saturday, October 31 from 6–8 p.m. Bring the kids by while trick or treating for fall season treats and games at our 3920 Oak Street building. Kidz Connection: A fun way for children (Nursery to 5th Grade) to learn about God and the Bible during our Sunday morning worship services. 9:30–10:30 a.m. Women’s Bible Study: Meets every other Thursday of the month from 6:30–8 p.m. Check the website for more information. Men’s Lunch Discussion: Meets weekly at 1 p.m. on Fridays. Contact Pastor Todd if you have interest in this study at toddkeyes@ villagechurchofmariemont.org. 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. P AGE 27