The Village Bookworm Opens in Mariemont
Local Family Turns a Dream into Reality
By Kim Beach
For years, Joe and Andrea Kramer wished there was an independent bookstore in Mariemont. Thanks to their vision, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit, that dream has finally come to life. The Village Bookworm officially opened its doors on Saturday, April 12th, marked by a ribboncutting ceremony with Mayor Bill Brown and a crowd of enthusiastic residents in attendance.
The Kramers have called Homewood Road home since 2011, where they are raising three daughters—Alyssa (22), Frannie (13), and Brynn (11). Joe grew up just north of Cincinnati in the Hamilton/Fairfield area, while Andrea hails from Ross, Ohio. Both are
proud graduates of Miami University, class of 2006, and are part of the university’s tradition of “Miami Mergers.”
The couple first met while working at Schaeffer's Investment Research in Blue Ash. Craving a more family-focused community, they discovered and fell in love with Mariemont, where their dream began to take root.
After more than 15 years in the financial publishing industry, the Kramers decided it was time for a new chapter. Andrea, who had already written a mystery novel (tentatively titled Death and Axes), was ready to dive headfirst into her lifelong dream of owning a bookstore. In early 2024, the couple pitched the idea to the Spinnenwebers, and by
November, they were touring potential spaces. The lease was signed in January 2025, and just a few months later, The Village Bookworm became a reality.
The bookstore offers both new and gently used books, along with unique gifts, décor, and more. A highlight of the store is its vibrant children’s section located at the front, designed to invite curiosity and imagination. The Kramers are also working with Mariemont schools to feature local school spirit gear in-store—adding a personalized touch for Village residents.
When asked what they believe will make the store successful, Joe and Andrea point to the store’s ideal location and their shared cont'd on page 4
Mayor Bill Brown (C) was on hand, Saturday, April 12, to help Joe (L) and Andrea (R) Kramer cut the ribbon on their new indie bookstore, The Village Bookworm.
Community Summertime, and the Livin’ is Easy
Welcome to the final issue of our 49th publishing season. We’ve been so delighted to bring you the current and historic news, celebrations, and goings on in Mariemont this past year! Thank you for all the positive feedback and to our readers who support us through the Crier Club.
Did you know you can access digital, color copies of each issue and keep up on the latest Village news by following us on Facebook at Mariemont Town Crier? Please see pages 16-17 in this issue for a “clip and save” community group list and summer activities calendar.
September begins our 50th publishing season, which we will celebrate with several updates as well as fun and historic stories. Come visit us at this year’s Taste of Mariemont in August to find out more!
To keep YOUR Town Crier informative and fun, we welcome all types of stories, photos, and news from all of our neighbors
and organizations. Please reach out to me at mariemonttowncrier@gmail.com with any queries or just to share your thoughts and feedback. I look forward to hearing from you!
If you would like to support our “doorstep delivery,” please consider becoming a Crier Club member. See page 3 for details. Community grups interested in inserts and businesses interested in advertising can also find “how-to” info on page 3.
Have a relaxing and fun-filled summer. See you in the fall.
Suzy Weinland Editor and Co-Publisher
The
Club
THANK YOU for your support! Funding for production of the Town Crier comes solely from our advertisers and your contributions. Individuals contributing throughout the publishing year will have their names included for one year following their donation. Your contribution can be mailed to:
Mariemont Town Crier c/o Matt Weinland, 3914 Miami Rd. #207 Mariemont, Ohio, 45227
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September deadline:
The deadline for the next Town Crier is August 10, 2024 All camera-ready ads and articles must be submitted by 5p.m. to MariemontTownCrier@ gmail.com. Articles should be sent via email in Microsoft® Word, with photos sent as .jpg files of at least 350KB. Payment and advertising contracts should be submitted to: Matt Weinland, 3914 Miami Rd. #207, Mariemont, Ohio, 45227
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Village Bookworm (from front page)
passion for reading and writing. They also understand the demographics of the area— high levels of education, available time, and disposable income—all of which contribute to a strong base of potential customers.
The name The Village Bookworm emerged from a family brainstorm session, where all five Kramers gave it a unanimous thumb-up. Andrea enjoys reading biographies and war histories, while Joe favors fiction—especially the works of Cormac McCarthy. Their favorite bookstore? A charming little spot they visited together in New York years ago. When asked about their favorite words in the English language, Andrea chose the whimsical “betwixt” and Joe, fittingly, chose “volatility.”
For the Kramers, success isn’t just about sales—it’s about community. “Meeting our obligations, being part of the neighborhood, and creating a space where kids, friends, parents, and grandparents all feel welcome— that’s what matters,” Andrea shared. They’re especially excited about one simple dream come true: being able to walk to work.
Grateful and hopeful, Joe and Andrea are embracing the challenge and joy of small business ownership. “Risks are worth taking— YOLO,” Joe said with a smile. The Kramers are thrilled to be part of Mariemont’s growing retail scene and invite everyone to stop in, browse the shelves, and support this new chapter in the Village's story.
Please join us in welcoming The Village Bookworm—your neighborhood bookstore! Check out their website at www.villagebookworm.com and follow on Facebook at Mariemont Village Bookworm.
Community
Residents from Mariemont and nearby communities perused the hand-selected books and unique gifts at the opening of the new Village Bookworm bookstore.
Village
Dale Park Clean Up Day
Garden Club Plant Sale May 10th
By Mary Alice Maze
Sunshine, blue skies, and warm weather- many gardeners feel that we are heading into the most wonderful time of the year!
The Garden Club of Mariemont invites you to our Annual Plant Sale on Saturday, May 10th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Just in time for your Mother’s Day shopping, there will be annuals, perennials, herbs, hanging baskets and the Garden Market providing gently used garden items for sale. We will turn the Village Lawn in front of the Municipal Building on Wooster Pike into a gardener’s shopping paradise!
New for this year, we will be able to accept Venmo in addition to cash or checks.
Looking forward to seeing you there!
The Mariemont Park Board sponsored a volunteer clean-up day at Dale Park on Saturday, April 12. Around 25 residents participated, including a large group from
Mariemont Scouts. Thank you to all who volunteered to clean up and keep one of our many historic parks beautiful!
Photos courtesy of Frank Marzullo
Council for potential approval. If approved, work will begin in the park based upon contractor availability and available funds.
You may have noticed the SORTA sign along Wooster Pike at Pleasant Avenue announcing an additional $92,903 grant for the completion of the sidewalk from Wooster Pike along Pleasant Avenue to Mariemont Avenue. The first phase of this project will be the construction of the sidewalks on the north and south end of the park.
It is likely that the renovation project will be phased with execution in 2025 and 2026. Specifics on the planned phasing will be available once a timeline is established.
Look for updates this summer at https:// mariemont.org/village-ongoing-projects/.
The Hamilton County Board of County Commissioners applied for and received federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Hamilton County established the 2024-2026 Community Request Program using HUD CDBG funds that was administered through its Community Development Division of the Department of Planning & Development. The Village was awarded these funds as part of that program.
Hamilton County supports 43 jurisdictions with CDBG funding on a wide range of projects that improve the quality of life for all residents including: park and playground improvements, senior center improvements, ADA accessibility infrastructure, façade improvement programs among other community-centered projects. To find out more about Hamilton County Community Development, please visit: https://www. hamiltoncountyohio.gov/government/ departments/community_development/.
The Village of Mariemont appreciates the support of the Hamilton County Board of County Commissioners Denise Driehaus, Stephanie Summerow Dumas, and Alicia Reece, and the Community Development Division of the Department of Planning & Development, including April Gallelli, senior program manager and Steve Johns, assistant director.
Village Finances Remain Strong Five Years Running
By Mayor Bill Brown, Councilman Rob Bartlett, & Fiscal Officer Kelly Rankin
In the March, 2025 Town Crier, we shared some of the accomplishments of the Village in 2024. This article focuses on the Village’s finances.
The key takeaway is Mariemont continues to strengthen its overall financial position. As seen in the table at the bottom of the page, the Village has run a surplus for five years in a row (all amounts are in thousands of dollars and exclude any internal transfers or advances).
As a result of these surpluses, Mariemont’s cash balance at the end of the year has reached record highs. A good financial practice is to maintain at least six to nine months of spending in cash, which for Mariemont equates to $2.7 million to $4.0 million, so we are now in that range.
The first 2024 column includes the impact of two one-time events, whereas the 2024 column with the asterisk excludes these events, which reduces our surplus to +$214,000. The first event is the Village building up cash in preparation for completing the new wading pool and the Dogwood Park project in 2025. Once we complete these two projects, we would expect our cash balance to go down by roughly $600,000.
The second event is the fact that, in 2024, taxes collected from businesses based in Mariemont increased by ~$500,000 versus 2023. This increase was almost all driven by a one-time collection, which we likely cannot count on going forward. Also, Haney Graphics recently left our Industrial Zone for a larger facility outside the Village, so we will be losing their employee and employer income tax until another company moves into that building. While the Village’s financials are strong, attracting and retaining businesses will continue to be a significant focus area for the Village going forward.
~15% of total spending. Additionally, looking across all departments, salary and benefits for Village employees made up 62% of the total spending in 2024.
In reviewing the Village’s finances, we would be remiss not to call out the great job Randy York, Matt Ayer and our Village Engineer Chris Ertel have done getting grant money and partnering with other organizations to support many of the larger projects in the Village. For example, we are targeting for all of the cost for the Dogwood Park project to be covered via grants and donations. Also, the Mariemont Connector between the library and Miami Road was paid for via grants and donations, as was the Murray Path. Note: in 2025 and 2026, Columbia Township is supposed to start work to tie the Connector in with the Little Miami path behind 50 West.
The graph above shows where your tax dollars are spent by department. Police (30%) and Fire (19%) are the two largest departments, followed by the Maintenance Department (12%) and Trash/Recycling (5%). Capital related spending (Permanent Improvement and Streets) accounted for
The residents of our wonderful Village have also stepped forward to make many projects possible via private donations. Specifically, the new wading pool that will be available this summer is being funded by $167,000 in private funds and $84,000 from the Village. And later this year we will likely be adding four new dedicated pickleball courts at Mary Emery Park, with $100,000 coming from private donations and $44,000 from the Village.
Finally, we would like to recognize all of the organizations that help with the upkeep
of so many parts of the Village, freeing up our Maintenance Department to tackle other matters. Specifically, we would like to thank the Tree Board, the Parks Board, the South 80 Committee, the Swim Pool Commission, the Mariemont Racquet Committee, the Garden Club, the Mariemont Recreation Association, and Mariemont Preservation Foundation. The time and effort these organizations put into supporting the Village help to keep our costs down and our community vibrant and beautiful.
Village
MPF Receives Funding from Ohio History Fund
By Biff Black MPF Board President
The Mariemont Preservation Foundation (MPF) has received a $5,000 grant from the Ohio History Fund to help repair the masonry of the exterior of the Ferris House. Megan Wood, the Executive Director & CEO of the Ohio History Connection, visited the Ferris House on April 8th to present MPF with the “big check.” Mayor Bill Brown joined members of the MPF board of trustees at the ceremony.
The Ferris House is located on Plainville Road across the street from the tennis courts. Construction to build this historic house was begun by the Stites family in 1802 and completed in 1813. The Ferris House is the oldest brick building that is still standing in its original location in Hamilton County.
In 1915 it was the very first building that was purchased by the Mariemont Company as property was being acquired for the site of the Village of Mariemont. The building was used for the Company’s field engineering office, its first sales office, and its building and loan.
The Mariemont Company always intended for the Ferris House to be the home of a Mariemont “Municipal Museum”
Pictured, front row, L-R: Ohio History Connection Executive Director/CEO Megan Wood presents a “big check” to MPF Board of Trustees Vice President Doug Zemke, Director of Development Rosie Polter, and President Biff Black. Behind them, Mayor Bill Brown is joined by several other MPF board members.
eventually. But the Great Depression in the 1930s changed a lot of plans around the country, and the museum was never created the way it was intended. Almost 100 years later the MPF is starting work now to make that museum a reality in the Ferris House.
MPF depends heavily on annual memberships from individuals (like you!) and memberships by our local merchants to continue its work to keep Mariemont the unique village that it has been since its founding.
The current work to preserve the Ferris House and stand up the new museum is also being funded by grants from both public and private foundations. The money that was available for MPF’s grant came from the generosity of Ohioans who donated a part of their income tax refunds to the Ohio History Fund on line 26 of their tax returns.
The Ferris House Museum Masonry Repair Project is funded in part by the Ohio History Fund, a grant program of the Ohio History Connection. Your donations to the Ohio History Fund make this program possible. www.ohiohistory. org/historyfund
Community
47th Concours d’Elegance to Showcase Over 250 Collector Vehicles
By Ann Keeling
The Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance, in its 47th year, announces its 2025 featured theme ‘Icons of British Motoring’, and weekend of events schedule, with proceeds benefiting Juvenile Arthritis.
With over 250 pristine vehicles on display in the gardens of Cincinnati’s Ault Park on Sunday, June 8, 2025, the internationally recognized automotive event will feature twenty-one classes of classic, vintage, and exotic automobiles and motorcycles. The show will also feature special display classes: 100th anniversary of Chrysler, Indian Motorcycles and Automotive Oddities: The Strange and Wonderful.
“Our event gets bigger and better yearover-year with something for everyone from car enthusiasts to families with young children – from supercars to classic cars and motorcycles,” noted Julie Wyte, executive director, Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance Foundation. “Ault Park is one of the most beautiful public parks in our country and is the perfect backdrop to display such glorious automotive beauty,” Ms. Wyte continued.
Cincinnati Concours Weekend of Events
Saturday, June 7
Noon – Countryside Tour. Participants will meet at Mariemont Square for a scenic tour of the Cincinnati region.
5 p.m. to 9 p.m. – Hangar Party at Executive Jet Management’s Hangar at Lunken
Airport. Exotic cars, motorcycles, private jets. Advance-purchase tickets now available.
Sunday, June 8, Ault Park
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance. Open to the public. Parking will be at Fifth Third Bank Madisonville Operations Center with free shuttle to the show. Advance tickets now available.
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Craft Beer Garden & Bourbon Tasting. Tickets are available day of show at the Beer Garden.
10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance VIP Brunch. At the Ault Park Pavilion. Advance tickets now available.
For additional details and online ticket purchases for all weekend events, visit https:// ohioconcours.com, or call 513-321-1951
Advance-purchase discounted car show tickets are available online through May 25, 2025; adult tickets are $40 each and $15 for each
student ticket (with valid school ID). After May 25, tickets are available online or at the gate day-of-show are $45 each for adults and $15 for each student ticket (with valid school ID); children under 12 admitted free.
About the Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance
The Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance is one of the most anticipated classic car show events in the United States—a world class exhibition in motoring excellence. The Concours consists of a weekend of events for car lovers and culminates in the Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance. Cars are displayed in the formal gardens of historic Ault Park, with a classic pavilion overlooking the show field, hosting a brunch and beer garden. The Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, manages the event with all proceeds benefiting the Arthritis Foundation, with a special focus on Juvenile Arthritis (JA). For more information about the Arthritis Foundation, go to https:// arthritis.org.
Photo credit: Gary Kessler
Community
Seeking Youth Judges for Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance
The “Partnership for Youth”, in its fourteenth year, is a program between Hagerty, an automotive enthusiast brand, and the Cincinnati Concours, designed to engage more young people, ensuring future generations of car enthusiasts.
During the June 8, 2025, Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance, Youth Judges, ages 8-15, will have the opportunity to participate in an informative session on basic car judging skills and interact with the Chief Concours Judge. The Hagerty Youth Judges will put their skills to the test, awarding three top finishers from a preselected group of display automobiles.
“The Youth Judging Program brings a kid-friendly view to the world of classics. They will have the opportunity to talk with car owners to learn about the details and history about each vehicle and make their determination based on the scoring criteria,” noted Michael Kelly, long-time Cincinnati Concours volunteer who co-leads the Hagerty Youth Judging program. “As a result of being involved in our program, two prior Youth Judges have graduated to adult judging and have been active in car restoration,” Mr. Kelly continued.
Youth applications are open now with 25 Youth Judges being accepted; the application deadline is May 23, 2025 Each Youth Judge will receive two tickets to the 2025 Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance (the parent or guardian bringing the Youth Judge may, but is not required to, accompany the Youth Judge during the judging process), as well as official Hagerty Youth Judging hat, t-shirt and scorecard; refreshments will also be provided for all Youth Judges.
For more information on the Youth Judging program, visit https:// ohioconcours.com/contact/hagertyyouth-judges. To be considered for Hagerty Youth Judging, contact Michael Kelly at mkelly11@cinci.rr.com or John Mereness at johnmereness@gmail.com.
Photo Credit: Donny Wang
Sustainable Mariemont First Recycling Event a Success
By Alicia Stock Sustainable Mariemont Volunteer
Sustainable Mariemont hosted a successful Community Recycling Event on the morning of Saturday, April 5th, in the Village Municipal parking lot. The Mariemont community showed up to support the event despite rainy weather conditions that brought widespread flooding to the Cincinnati region. Residents dropped off hard-to-recycle plastics, metals, electronics, textiles, and donations by the carload. The Village Fire Department cleared the bays at the Fire Station so that Sustainable Mariemont could set up operations indoors to accept and sort the large volume of recyclable material.
Over 25 volunteers helped sort materials, including eight members of the national honor society, several families, and Mayor Brown himself. Five volunteers helped transport plastics and Styrofoam to the Hub, and the Mariemont Service Department helped transport a large truckload of metals and electronics. Several phones and iPads were also taken to the Cincinnati Zoo Eco-Cell e-waste collection to support gorilla conservation.
In total, over 55 vehicles brought materials to be recycled and donated. A Goodwill truck was on site and collected eight large bins full of donations for resale and reuse as well as several large bags of textiles for recycling. Over 250 pounds of plastic material was collected to take to the Cincinnati Recycling & Reuse Hub, including Styrofoam, plastic clamshell containers, pill bottles, contact lens blister packs, plastic bags, and more. Five hundred pounds of metal and electronics were taken to Cohen recycling, including small kitchen appliances, electronics, cords and strand lights, and scrap metal.
Sustainable Mariemont hopes to make this an annual event, but residents don’t
have to wait until next year to recycle their items that are not accepted in curbside recycling. See below for where to take your hard-to-recycle items that can’t be accepted curbside!
Plastics, Old Tennis Shoes, Denim (90%-100% cotton only): The Cincinnati Recycling & Reuse Hub is located at 911 Evans Street and accepts items on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and on Thursdays from 12-6 p.m. Make sure your items are clean and dry, and sort items by type for a quicker drop off, as you will need to place each item in sorted bins. For more information on what the Hub accepts, please visit www. cincinnatirecyclingandreusehub.org.
Metals & Electronics: Cohen recycling has a drop off facility located at 5038 Beech Street. They are open from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Friday. They accept scrap metal and electronics (anything that plugs in or has batteries). Cohen will pay out for some items and charge fees for others. For more information on accepted items and pricing/fees, visit www.cohenusa.com
Phones, iPads, iPods, earbuds, charging blocks: Donate to the Cincinnati Zoo to help support Gorilla Conservation! There is a drop box for these items in the gorilla habitat.
Textile Recycling: Goodwill and St. Vincent de Paul both currently accept items for textile recycling. Textiles should be in non-donatable condition and have stains, holes, rips, etc. Simply place in a bag and label “Textile Recycling” for drop off. Towels, sheets and blankets are in high demand at animal shelters, and they don’t care about the stains or condition. Consider donating these to Cincinnati Animal CARE, a no-kill animal shelter for Hamilton County located at 3949 Colerain Ave and open daily from 1-6 p.m.
Members of the MHS National Honor Society pictured with Mayor Brown and Sustainable Mariemont leaders Alicia Stock and Mandy Rohal. The NHS members helped sort and prepare materials for transport.
Mariemont residents dropped off large quantities of plastics and styrofoam that were sorted and transported to the Cincinnati Recycling & Reuse Hub.
Back (L-R): Olivia Zurek, Assistant Fire Chief Dan Copeland, Alicia Stock, Mayor Brown, and Mandy Rohal Front (L-R): Stella and Jack Zurek
Sustainable Mariemont also used the Community Recycling Event to help educate the public about items that are accepted in the current Rumpke Curbside recycling program, the new Hefty ReNew recycling program, and the Mariemont Go-Zero composting program. Many residents didn’t realize that Rumpke now accepts clear plastic cups (including lids if attached) and #5 plastic tubs (yogurt/ butter/soup containers and even the large dishwasher pod containers). Residents were also surprised to find out that they could recycle other materials such as plastic straws and utensils, Styrofoam, and plastic bags through the Hefty ReNew curbside program. Simply purchase the orange Hefty ReNew bags (located at local grocery stores) and place the orange bag on top or next to your curbside recycling bin to save these items and more from the landfill.
Mariemont also participates in the Go-Zero composting program. For
Village
an annual fee of $85, residents can locally compost food scraps, pizza boxes (which can’t be recycled curbside due to grease and food contamination), paper products, and more. Contact sustainablemariemont@gmail.com for more information, or Venmo @mandy-rohal to sign up. Checks also accepted (email for more details).
Back (L-R): Alicia , Riley, and Brandon Stock. Front (L-R): Addie and Annabelle Stock.
L-R: Arden Rohal, Luca Van Haren, Alex Rohal, Mandy Rohal, Quinn Van Haren, Adrian Van Haren
What’s Happening at the Mariemont Branch Library
May 2025
All Ages
Crafternoons: Woven Bookmarks — Tuesday, May 6 from 3:30-5 p.m.
Learn how to make your own mini loom and weave a one-of-a-kind bookmark—perfect for marking your next great read. All ages welcome.
Youth
Movers & 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 9:30 a.m.
Fun for you and your baby with songs, rhymes, stories, and movement. Ages birth to 18 months.
Toddler Storytime — Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.
Encourage emerging language skills with books, rhymes, music and fun. Ages 18–36 months.
KinderBridge Storytime — Thursdays from 2-3 p.m.
Get ready for kindergarten with stories, songs, and hands-on activities. Recommended for ages 4-6 years.
Stem Discovery Day — Tuesday, May 13 from 4-5:30 p.m.
We offer a variety of hands-on STEM activities designed to inspire and educate. Drop in any time between 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Recommended for grades K-8.
Legos @ the Library — Saturday, May 10 from 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Show us what you can build and connect with other LEGO enthusiasts.
Pokémon Trading Card Game Club — Saturday, May 24 from 11 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.
Adults
Which Craft: Knitting and Crocheting Group — Saturday, May 3 and May 17 from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Bring the knitting or crocheting project you're working on to the library and work with others.
Shodo Japanese Calligraphy Workshop — Monday, May 5 from 6-7 p.m.
In this Shodo workshop presented by the Japan America Society, you will explore the art of Japanese calligraphy. From mastering brushstrokes to learning artistic techniques, the instructor will guide you through the fundamentals of this timeless and beautiful art form. Registration required.
Mariemont Non-fiction Book Club — Wednesday, May 7 at 6:30 p.m.
Join us in discussing The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson. Copies available at the branch.
Mystery Book Club — Tuesday, May 13 at 6:30 p.m.
Join us to discuss The Square of Sevens by Laura Shepherd-Robinson. Copies available at the branch. Book Club — Monday, May 19 at 6:30 p.m.
Join us to discuss The Six by Loren Grush. Copies available at the branch.
Mariemont Branch Library | 3810 Pocahontas Ave. | 513-369-4467
10 a.m.- 8 p.m. Monday and Tuesday 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday
Community
Mariemont Area Chamber of Commerce Updates
Welcome to the Village Bookworm, Mariemont's new indie bookstore on the square. For more information: www.villagebookworm.com
The next Chamber meeting for members and prospective members will be Wednesday, May 2, 5:30-7 p.m. in the Tudor room at the National Exemplar. Please RSVP to mariemontareachamber@gmail.com
Mark your calendars for Friday, May 30th for the Village “Sip and Shop” event from 5-8 p.m. Join local shops and restaurants for sales, special treats and more!
Visit mariemontchamber.com to stay up-to-date with meeting notices and community business district events.
Community Groups and Organizations
The Barn | Woman’s Art Club
Cultural Center
6980 Cambridge Ave. contact@artatthebarn.org 513-272-3700 artatthebarn.org
Mariemont Care Center
7010 Rowan Hill Dr. LeRae Hector, Activity Director lhector@thmariemontcc.com 513-271-7010 Ext. 1300 olera.care/provider/ the-mariemont-care-center
Garden Club of Mariemont mariemont.org/mariemont-garden-club
Facebook: Garden Club of Mariemont
Mariemont Girl Scouts
Senior Troop 45334
Shar Moore, Troop Leader sharlibby@gmail.com Troop 4162
Jaclyn Poltorak & Katy Mallon, Troop Leaders jnpoltorak@gmail.com katy.mallon@gmail.com
Kiwanis of Mariemont mariemontkiwanis.org
Facebook: Mariemont Kiwanis
Mariemont Branch Library
3810 Pocahontas Ave. Mandi Beecroft, Manager mariemont@chpl.org 513-369-4467 chpl.org/locations/mm
The MariElders, Inc. 6923 Madisonville Rd. Erin Rothfuss, Executive Director mariedlers@yahoo.com 513-271-5588 marielders.org
Mariemont Pool
Mike Lockhart, Manager pool@mariemont.org 513-272-0593 mariemont.org/lifestyle/swimming
Mariemont Preschool Parents Group info@mariemontppg.com mariemontppg.com
Mariemont Preservation Foundation
3919 Plainville Rd.
Biff Black, President, Board of Trustees administration@mariemontpreservation.org 513-272-1166 mariemontpreservation.org
Mariemont Racquet Club 3912 Plainville Rd. (Mary Emery Park) mrcmembers27@gmail.com mariemont.org/lifestyle/racquet-club
Mariemont Scouts BSA Troops 149 & 1149 6907 Wooster Pike scoutmaster@mcc149.com troop149.com
Mariemont South 80 Gardens
Steve Spooner, Garden Director mariemontgardens@gmail.com mariemont.org/lifestyle/south-80-trailsand-community-gardens
Facebook: Mariemont Community Gardens
Community
2025 Summer Activities Calendar
May
Garden Club Annual Plant Sale: Saturday, May 10, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Village Municipal Building lawn. Join the Garden Club of Mariemont to peruse and purchase perennials, annuals, herbs, hanging baskets, and the Garden Market with gently used garden items. NEW in 2025: accepting Venmo in addition to cash and checks.
MariElders: Programs are held at MariElders, 6923 Madisonville Road, unless stated otherwise. RSVP at 513-271-5588 or director@marielders.org. Visit www. marielders.org for more information.
May 2, 10:30 a.m. Brain Matters with Patricia Faust: Sleep Performs Magic in Our Brains. Free to Members, $10 for the community.
May 13, 1-3 p.m. MariElders Open House. Stop by and see how you can Stay Vibrant, Be Engaged by connecting with MariElders.
May 16, 10:30 a.m. Brain Matters with Patricia Faust: How We Make Memories. Free to Members, $10 for the community.
May 23, 10:30 a.m. Brain Matters with Patricia Faust: Tools and Strategies for Memory. Free to Members, $10 for the community.
June
Library: For current hours and events, visit https://chpl.org/locations/MM/
MariElders: Programs are held at MariElders, 6923 Madisonville Road, unless stated otherwise. RSVP at 513-271-5588 or director@marielders.org. Visit www. marielders.org for more information.
June 6-11, online: MariElders Online Auction. Support MariElders by bidding on treasures, experiences and local favorites.
June 10, 10:30 a.m. Activity vs. Activation with Chris Sipes, exercise coach. Free to Members, $10 for the community.
July
Village Fireworks: July 4, beginning at dark. At Dogwood Park. Bring your own blankets/lawn chairs. Please consider donating to the fireworks fund. Checks made payable to Village of Mariemont may be dropped off or sent to the Admin Office at 6907 Wooster Pike. Thank you for your support!
MariElders: Programs are held at MariElders, 6923 Madisonville Road, unless stated otherwise. RSVP at 513-271-5588 or director@marielders.org. Visit www. marielders.org for more information.
July 31, 11:15 a.m. Energy
Aggregation information with Kathryn Metz from Ohio Consumer's Council. Energy prices are increasing in Ohio because we are adding energy needs in Ohio and have not increased production. Kathryn will be able to discuss questions and concerns with the community.
St. Gertrude Treasure Mart: Saturday, July 19 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. St. Gertrude’s Parish Center, 6543 Miami Avenue, Madeira. All funds raised provide much needed support to the very poorest of our neighbors. Buyers will find great bargains – just in time for
outfitting college housing! If you are ready to say goodbye to household and yard items, small appliances, clothing, toys, and sports equipment, the group will gladly accept your donations! Please contact Moira Grainger at 513-886-9582 or grafam@aol.com for more information.
Womans Art Club Cultural Center
Summer Camps: The Barn offers three week-long art-making camps for ages 7-11, with morning (10 a.m.-noon) and afternoon (1-3 p.m.) options. A “Stay all Day” option welcomes campers 8+ to bring their lunch and have a “lunch and create” hour in between sessions, for an additional fee. For session dates and themes, go to www.artatthebarn. org.
August
MPF’s Taste of Mariemont: August 24, from 5 to 7 p.m. This fun family event takes place at Dogwood Park and includes food tastings from local area restaurants, tables with information from Village organizations, music, and children’s activities.
September
Mariemont Preschool Parents Group Opening Meeting: Thursday, September 4, 7:30 p.m. Location TBD, please visit www. mariemontppg.com closer to September for updated information. Meeting open to all Mariemont families with children ages 0-5.
Kiwanis of Mariemont Art & Craft Market: Sunday, September 7, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. This annual event is the largest fundraiser of the year for the Kiwanis Club of Mariemont. Shop vendors from across the state with unique, one-of-a-kind crafts and goods. Interested in being a vendor? Download an exhibitor form at www. mariemontkiwanis.org/artfair. Questions? Contact Don Venderbush at 513-319-4499 or MariemontACMarket@gmail.com.
Village
Thomas J Emery Memorial Sponsors Carillon Summer Concerts
By Randy York
The Thomas J. Emery Memorial will again be sponsoring a Summer Carillon Concert Series in Dogwood Park. The series, featuring carillonneur Alan Bowman, will begin on Memorial Day, Monday May 26th, at 2 p.m.
The summer series will include 17 carillon concerts on Sunday evenings at 7 p.m. from June through Labor Day. The special events for 2025 include the Memorial Day Concert, the 4th of July Concert, a concert during Taste of Mariemont, and a Labor Day concert. A complete schedule that includes the carillonneur and evening program can be found at www.mariemont.org.
Alan Bowman is a Carillonneur Member of the Guild of Carillonneurs in North America and was a 2024 and 2025 Carillon Fellow at Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, Florida, performing winter concerts and work in the carillon archives through the GCNA's Ronald Barnes Memorial Grant.
Following Larry Weinstein’s retirement in March 2024, Alan was appointed Carillonneur of the Deeds Carillon and looks forward to playing again this summer at the Mary M. Emery Memorial Carillon in Mariemont.
The weekly concerts consist of a wide variety of early music, classical arrangements, and popular music for all ages. In addition to the patriotic-themed holiday concerts, there will also be a children's concert scheduled for late July.
The Mary M. Emery Memorial Carillon was dedicated on November 16, 1929.
The Carillon was a gift from Miss Isabella F. Hopkins in memory of her sister, who founded the Village of Mariemont.
The original 23 bells and the tower were dedicated in 1929 to the youth of the Village. These original heavy bells, at the lower end of the musical scale, came from the foundry of Gillett & Johnston in Croydon, England.
In 1969, an additional 26 bells were added to create a full concert instrument of 49 bells in a chromatic arrangement, spanning just over four octaves. These 26 additional bells were cast by Petit & Fritsen in Aarle-Rixtel, Netherlands and installed by The Verdin Company of Cincinnati. The largest bell in the combined group weighs nearly 4,800 pounds and the lightest is 19 pounds. The bell composition is approximately 80 percent copper and 20 percent tin, an alloy that has been known as “bell bronze” for hundreds of years.
Renovations in 2008 included the addition of a new playing keyboard, a new sealed ball bearing playing action and new cast iron ball clappers throughout. There is now also a practice keyboard, permitting the carillonneurs to practice privately.
No electrical assistance or amplification of any kind is used during regular concerts. The bells compose a true carillon that is completely touch responsive to give the carillonneur full capability for every musical expression from a gentle whisper to a thundering fortissimo. The carillonneur plays at a keyboard located in a small room below the bells. Each key is a strong wooden lever connected to its bell clapper above by a wire linkage and ‘bell crank’ transmission action. The bells are rigidly mounted on the steel framework and the clappers are pulled against the inner bell surface to create the musical tones. Return springs are used behind the clappers of the smaller bells to return the keys to the up position after striking, while for the larger bells, counter springs (helpers) are used to lighten the touch.
There are just over 180 such true carillons on the entire North American continent. The
Emery instrument is one of the very few that is housed in a free-standing tower surrounded by a park area. Ideal listening conditions are found in the park at a distance of three to five hundred feet from the tower base.
Fourteen of the 49 bells are provided with external electric strikers operated from a computer which automatically plays a vesper hymn at 9 p.m. each evening. Four bells are automatically struck with externally mounted gravity hammers to play the Westminster Chime melody at 8 a.m., noon, and 6 p.m. every day throughout the year.
The administration and maintenance of the bell tower is administered by the Thomas J. Emery Memorial. Thank you to Lee Carter, President of the Thomas J. Emery Memorial, for all his efforts in managing the maintenance and operation of the Mariemont Carillon and arranging for carillonneurs. Thank you to Michael Singer
By Liz Alter, MSF Trustee
Do you know of an outstanding alumnus of Mariemont High School? The Mariemont School Foundation is now seeking nominations for its Distinguished Alumni Award. A nomination form and guidelines are available on the School Foundation website (mariemontschoolfoundation.org, under “Alumni”) or by calling the Mariemont School Foundation at 513-272-7509. Nominations are due July 15, 2025.
The Distinguished Alumni Award will recognize Mariemont High School alumni
trade, or business; in civic duties; in military service; in philanthropy; in volunteerism; in the arts; in the sciences; in education; in religion, OR any other field, endeavor, or pursuit, excluding athletics. Nominees may be living or deceased. Nominations will be considered by a committee comprised of Mariemont School Foundation trustees and district officials. The number of recipients each year is at the discretion of the committee. Nominations will remain on file for five (5) years. Distinguished Alumni Award recipients will be recognized during Mariemont’s Homecoming, 2025. A permanent, dedicated space at Mariemont
Mariemont DAR Chapter Turns 95
By Sarah Hartkemeier Historian/Librarian
On May 17, the Mariemont Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Chapter will celebrate their 95th Anniversary. This Chapter was organized on May 27, 1930 and was officially recognized by the National Society of DAR (NSDAR) on June 5, 1930. During their May meeting, members will have a program titled “Ancestor, Antique, Anecdote” that will include a segment discussing their history and progress throughout their 95 years of service.
Charles J. Livingood, whose wife was a DAR member of the Cincinnati Chapter, asked Mary Louise Mullikin-Donley to start a DAR Chapter in the eastern part of Cincinnati known as Mariemont, Ohio. Mrs. Donley moved to Mariemont with her husband from Marietta, Ohio. She had joined the Marietta DAR in 1918 and was in “good standing” with the NSDAR. In 1930, she started the process of organizing ladies to join a society in Mariemont that promotes historical preservation, patriotism, and education.
Mary Louise conducted her first meeting to form a DAR Chapter on February 3, 1930. She recruited eight eligible ladies of neighboring Newtown, Ohio, who endeavored to organize in 1928 but failed. The next meeting, February 22, was at the Old Ferris Homestead and produced 35 prospective members. By April 12, the forum of ladies had enough members (12 or more) accepted by lineage paperwork, to form a chapter. There were three choices to name the chapter, Mariemont-Anthony Wayne, Anthony Wayne, and Mariemont. Since there was a chapter in Minnesota with the name Anthony Wayne (established in 1890) Mariemont was chosen for the new DAR Chapter.
Thanks to the efforts of Mrs. Donley, our Mariemont DAR Chapter will be 95 years strong. For more information on Daughters of the American Revolution Mariemont Chapter, please contact regent@mariemontdar.com or mary.s.holohan@gmail.com
Founding members of Mariemont Ohio Chapter DAR (1930)
By Kim Beach
Community Mariemont Pickleball Courts Fundraising Exceeds Goal
We are thrilled to announce that our recent fundraising campaign for the Mariemont Pickleball Courts was a tremendous success — we surpassed our goal of $100,000! Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, the Village of Mariemont will be constructing four brandnew, dedicated pickleball courts this fall
A huge thank you to Mariemont Village Council, for their enthusiastic support of this initiative; Mayor Bill Brown, for his continued support and initial investment in a pickleball consultant; Mariemont Racquet Club (MRC), for overseeing pickleball court construction and tennis court repairs. Special thanks to Linda Bartlett, MRC President, for leading this project.
Our Amazing Fundraising Team
Led by Chair Kim Beach, this group made it all happen:
Stan Bahler
Ted Beach
Delta Crabtree
Patrick Dolle
Jeff Hinebaugh
Carter Kemper
Dave & Ellie Maxwell
Marylou McIlwraith
Holly Walsh
Megan Govert Willis
Cy Zack
Mitch Dunn (PickleOptics) – who brought his invaluable expertise to the effort
What’s Next
Membership in the Mariemont Racquet Club is open! Register at mariemont.org/ lifestyle/racquet-club.
We're thrilled to introduce Shannon Tully, our new Pickleball Coach! Programming for all levels of play is currently in development.
Stay connected by joining the Mariemont Pickleball group on Facebook for updates on open play times, events, and to meet fellow players.
For questions or more information, please reach out to Kim Beach at kimbeach13@gmail. com. Let’s play, Mariemont!
Healthy Aging with MariElders
By Erin Rothfuss Executive Director
MariElders is excited to host a series of expert-led wellness events this spring!
In May, we’re partnering with Barrington of Oakley to offer a special three-part series on brain health with Patricia Faust, MGS. The series kicks off May 2 with Sleep Performs Magic in Our Brains, followed by How to Make Memories on May 16 and Tools and Strategies for Memory on May 23.
These engaging sessions are designed to empower you with knowledge to support healthy aging. All events are free for MariElders members and just $10 for non-members. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from experienced professionals in a welcoming and supportive environment!
For more details or to register, contact MariElders director@marielders. org or call 513-271-5588.
Don’t Sweat It: Have a Sun-sational Summer!
By Pete McBride
Grab some shade and perhaps a cool beverage, and enjoy this summary of some somewhat summery somethings that sometimes surprise some readers…
The phrase Dog Days of Summer (typically July 7-August 11) refers to the Latin words dies canulares, when the star Sirius, the ‘dog star’ in the constellation Canis Minor (lesser dog), appears before sunrise in early July. The Romans thus attributed to Sirius’s appearance a period of increased heat and sweltery days.
Today, our summer (applying here to only the Northern Hemisphere) is more or less informally defined in two different ways:
Meteorological summer, based on the average annual temperature cycles from June 1 to August 31, a timeframe that allows those weather forecasters on local TV to more easily make year-over-year comparisons using the same three months.
Astronomical summer, based on earth’s position in its elliptical orbit, starting on June 21 – the summer solstice – when, due to the 23.5 degree “tilt” of the earth’s axis relative to the sun, the Northern hemisphere recieves the longest period of sunlight (insolation) on one day in the year, after which the days start getting shorter. All based on 365 and 1/4 days per year with a leap year every 4 years.
Informally, summer in the US is considered to run from Memorial Day to Labor Day Weekend, which ends the first Monday in September.
In some parts of the US, July is typically the hottest month and the month with the most lightning storms. The Atlantic hurricane season, however, runs from June 1 to November 30. In Mediterranean climates, summer means drier weather, but in East Asia summer is monsoon season. Go figure.
vecteezy.com
Where we live, July 17 through August 24 is when the Perseid Meteor Shower brings its nightly extravaganza, showcasing up to 100 shooting stars per hour on the nights of August 12-13.
Summer also brings the Summer Olympics every four years, the most
recent being held in Paris in 2024; the next scheduled for Los Angeles in 2028.
But the weather isn’t the only reminder of summer. Summer is also the season of many summertime events, festivities, and holidays, including:
• Independence Day (July 4) in the US
• Canada Day (July 1) in Canada
• Bastille Day (July 14) in France
• Summer Bank Holiday (varies) in the U.K. and Ireland
• Juneteenth (June 19) in the U.S.
• Victoria Day (varies) in Canada
• Memorial Day (varies) in the U.S.
• Labor Day (1st Monday in September) in Canada and the U.S. (although in Canada, it’s Labour Day, eh?)
And especially...
• Taste of Mariemont (August 24, 2025) in The Village of Mariemont
And don’t forget: summer also brings Sunday Carillon Concerts; swimming pool fun and events, plus Swim Team meets; pickleball; tennis; youth baseball and softball... not to mention grill-outs, fireworks, the “Flying Pig” and the “Warrior Run”.
Now its your turn:
1. Which US city has hosted baseball's Midnight Sun Game from 10:30 p.m. to (approx) 1:00 a.m. – originally in 1906, but now every year since 1960?
Community
2. What iron structural world landmark expands approximately six inches in the summertime heat?
3. What animal’s sounds can approximate the outside summertime temperature? (Count the number of chirps in a 25 second span, divide by 3, and add 4 to get the temperature in degrees Celsius)
4. What vitamin increases with the more sunlight you get?
5. Summer has been THE season for some great music tunes. What is your favorite summer song? Is it on the list at the end of the article? (No peeking.)
Wishing everyone a “sun-sational” summer!
Please let me know if you spot any errors or inaccuracies.
Gratefully-used sources include: ReadersDigest.com (rd.com); time.com; weathermetoffice.gov.uk; nova.gov; citybeat. com; en.m.wikipedia.com; summersongs.com; musicapple.com.
Answers to “Your Turn”
1. Fairbanks, Alaska.
2. Paris’ Eiffel Tower.
3. Cricket.
4. Vitamin D
5. So …? Was it: Summer Breeze (Seals and Croft); Hot Fun in the Summertime (Sly and the Family Stone); In The Summertime (Mongo Jerry); Summer In The City (Lovin’ Spoonful); Summertime (and the Livin’ Is Easy), composed by George Gershwin, 1935, and recorded by all-time greats including Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstong, Billie Halliday, etc.
The Barn to Offer Sewing & Fashion Design Camps, Classes
By Heather Burich Operations Manager
This summer, The Barn will be humming with kids and teens learning to sew and taking those skills to the next level with fashion design camps!
Beginner camps cover all the basics, including how to use a sewing machine and make a beautiful and useful tote bag from fabrics they will choose. By the end of the camp, they will be ready to graduate into our Sewing & Fashion Design summer camps as well as our after-school classes in the fall.
Our Sewing & Fashion Design camps allow campers to go through the entire design and construction process. They will be sketching, choosing fabrics, designing and sewing a garment for themselves to wear!
It’s incredibly fun and creative and they will be learning a very real skill. On the last day, we celebrate their success with a photo shoot in downtown Mariemont, followed by a Fashion Show for family and friends back at The Barn, in our Loft. Again, everything is
provided from fabrics to machines so that parents only need to drop them off and let them thrive in the creative environment. And, they leave with a new outfit!
Creativities Studio, originally in Madeira, runs these camps at The Barn and has been doing so since the pandemic. We hope your child can join us! The proceeds go back to The Barn, helping to support everything we do.
To enroll in Sewing & Fashion Design camps or classes, go to: www. artsandcreativities.com
In the Fall, we will kick off sewing classes for adults! Sewing is a timehonored skill; one that brings a lot of joy and fosters camaraderie with others. And keep your eyes out for a possible Ladies’ Night in August featuring a fun, easy project to get you started. No experience necessary.
If you’re not on The Barn’s email list, you may want to add yourself to our list, as that is the primary way we share upcoming class and event information. You can do so at www. artatthebarn.org.
Village
Know Your Codes: Rental Properties Inspections Update
By Rod Holloway Building Administrator
All rental units in the Village are required to have a current Rental Certificate issued by the Village as outlined in section 152 of the Code of Ordinance (https://codelibrary. amlegal.com/codes/mariemont/latest/ mariemont_oh/0-0-0-14594#JD_ Chapter152). Prior to the COVID pandemic, compliance to this ordinance was spotty at best. Rental inspections were suspended during the peak of COVID and then in early 2022, the Village decided to update this section of the code and resume inspections. The Village had a series of public meetings and solicited input from the owners themselves to help build a better inspection program.
Some of the improvements made to the inspection program include:
and not wait for sometimes 10-15 years to inspect a unit that has been occupied for a long time.
are discounted either 20% or 40% based on the number of units that can be done consecutively. The first inspection on a unit will not be subject to additional costs for re-inspection if issues are identified. Lastly, if less than 5 defects (or no lifesafety items) are identified, the time between inspections can be extended from every 3 years to every 5 years.
• A process for property owners to appeal any decision by, or issue raised by action of, the office of the Building Department to the Village Planning Commission.
• Moving to a time-based inspection, not just when a unit turns over. As rental maintenance conditions change over time, it is important to have a regular drumbeat
• Link the inspection to a current recognized maintenance standard. The International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) is the industry standard and as it is updated, the ordinance will as well. In addition, a standardized checklist is used and shared in advance so that the owner knows what to expect during the inspection.
• Created incentives to encourage compliance and improved results. Fees
Since inception on July 1, 2022, we have only completed inspections on 25% of the 400+ rental units in the Village. We are actively trying to address these compliance issues with the owners themselves and working a plan to get to 100 percent across the Village. The good news is that 95 percent of the units inspected to date have passed and moved to a 5-year duration as their results were exemplary, and several of the individual property owners are at the 100 percent compliance level.
We strongly believe that having a vibrant rental community is important to the character of the Village. It is estimated that 32 percent of all residents within the Village are renters. As many of these rental properties are closing in on 100 years, they require regular maintenance and investment to keep them safe to the occupants and neighbors, thus why the Village continues to drive awareness and compliance to section 152 and the need to have a current Rental Certificate.
As a renter, if you are unsure whether your unit has a current Rental Certificate, you can contact your owner directly or reach out to the Building Department at building@ mariemont.org or 513-271-3315, Option 4. If you are an owner, and do not have a current Rental Certificate, please contact the Building Department, as the deadline for compliance is June 30, 2025.
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Civil Ceremonies
Love is in the air…it is wedding season! Did you know that Mayor Bill Brown is able to officiate civil ceremonies? He has married dozens of couples since becoming mayor. Frequently asked questions:
What is a civil ceremony? A civil ceremony is a short, non-religious legal marriage ceremony performed by a government official or functionary. Like noncivil ceremonies, the formality and style of the ceremony depend entirely on the tastes of the couple. Couples have the option of writing their own vows or including additional readings in the ceremony.
Where are the civil ceremonies performed? Mayor Bill Brown officiates weddings on the second floor of the Municipal building, located at 6907 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45227. The ceremonies are performed in the Native American Cultural & Education Center, which adjoins Council Chambers, or in Council Chambers.
Can we invite guests to our civil ceremony? The room can accommodate around 30 standing guests (there are a few chairs available, if needed). Photographers are welcome as well.
Do we need witnesses? No.
Village Village News
What do we need to bring? Bring your marriage license/paperwork from the courthouse and the $75 fee. A marriage license must be obtained prior to the civil ceremony. Ohio residents wanting to marry in Ohio, must apply in the county where they reside. Out of state residents getting married in Ohio must apply in the county in which they are getting married.
Council Representatives
Mayor Bill Brown mayor@mariemont.org
Rob Bartlett rbartlett@mariemont.org
Susan Brownknight sbrownknight@mariemont.org
Matthew Ayer mayer@mariemont.org
Marcy Lewis mlewis@mariemont.org
Robert Van Stone rvanstone@mariemont.org
Randy York ryork@mariemont.org
May and Summer Happenings
Pool & Racquet Club Memberships are available for purchase! You can purchase online at www.mariemont.org or pick up a form in the lobby or admin office in the municipal building.
Memorial Day: Village offices will be closed on May 26 in observance of Memorial Day. Check www.mariemont.org for more information about the Memorial Day Parade and the Outstanding Citizen Award presentation.
July 4th Fireworks: Fireworks will be held on Friday, July 4th, 2025 at Dogwood Park after dark.
Summer: Please check the Village’s calendar online for other upcoming events.
Catherine Young and Ryan Pachuta were married by Mayor Bill Brown on March 14, 2025.
Community 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
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 a block from the Old Village Square at the corner of Oak and Maple Streets (3920 Oak Street). You can listen to podcasts of our messages on the Media page of our website at www. villagechurchofmariemont.org
We are a small church with a big heart. A place to learn, grow, be involved, and be known. 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.
Sunday Series in May: “Unashamed – A Study in the Book of Romans.” Many scholars say if you can only study one book of the Bible, choose the book of Romans. Come join us at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday as we study this pivotal book of the New Testament.
Our Kidz Connection program is a fun way for children (Nursery to 6th Grade) to learn about God and the Bible during our Sunday morning worship service from 9:3010:30 a.m.
Mother’s Day Worship Service: Come join us for a special Sunday celebration at 9:30 a.m. in the historic Memorial Chapel sanctuary.
Women’s Bible Study meets every other Wednesday of the month from 7–8:30 p.m. Check our website for more information.
Men’s Lunch Discussion meets weekly at Scramblers. Contact Pastor Todd if you have interest in this study at toddkeyes@ villagechurchofmariemont.org.
Mark your calendars! Labor Day Sunday (August 31st) we will have our Church in the Park event at the Mariemont Bell Tower Shelter to kick off the Fall. All are welcome. Join us for an outdoor worship celebration with lunch following the service!
For more information about these and other events or to learn more about our church, visit our website at www. villagechurchofmariemont.org or contact Pastor Todd Keyes.
Mariemont Church mariemontchurch.org facebook.com/MariemontChurch
The Clocktower Building at 3908 Plainville Rd. 513-271-4376
Jamie Moore, Lead Pastor Paul Rasmussen, Worship Pastor Katie Smith, Children's & Youth 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.
Current Sunday Series: “… First: Seeking the Kingdom, Monday through Saturday.”
Kingdom Kids Sunday School takes place for infants (nursery) through grade 5
during both Sunday morning services at 9 and 11 a.m. Contact Katie at katie@ mariemontchurch.org for more information.
Next Chapter Youth Group for Junior High and High School (Grades 6-12) meets Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. Contact Katie at katie@mariemontchurch.org for more information.
Women’s Ministry: Worship, prayer, connection and community. Grow closer to God and in relationship with other women at Mariemont Church. JOY in the Morning Bible Study meets Tuesdays from 9:15-11:30 a.m. Evening JOY Bible Study meets the 1st and 3rd Mondays of the month from 7-8:30 p.m.
Weekly Worship, Prayer, and Meditation Opportunities: Join us on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10-11 a.m. in the Clocktower Building Auditorium. Live worship and prayer on Tuesdays; worship and meditation on Wednesdays and Thursdays. All are welcome! Come for a few minutes or stay the whole time.
Men’s Friday Morning Bible Study: Starting at 6:30 a.m. every Friday.
Small Groups are available for adults including 20s-30s and seniors.
Mariemont Church Pre-School is in Session! To learn more, contact Renee Brownfield at preschool@mariemontchurch. org.
For more information about events at Mariemont Church or to learn more, visit www.mariemontchurch.org or email info@ mariemontchurch.org
