We Are Grateful for You! Meet Your Mariemont Town Crier Team
By Suzy Weinland
We all know Mariemont is a special community for myriad reasons. One of the many ongoing traditions that makes it stand out from other communities, locally and nationally, is the almost 50-year-old community publication that is printed eight times a year and hand-delivered to resident’s doorsteps by our Village’s own young couriers. The Mariemont Town Crier is a beloved and anticipated news piece, with informational and timely content gathered, written, edited, laid out, and organized for distribution by a committed team of residents.
As publishers of this community gem for the past seven years, Matt and I are grateful for the opportunity to work with such a wonderful team of committed volunteers who help us continue to steward this unique tradition. We want to take this time, as we approach Thanksgiving, to introduce you to everyone and to publicly say, “We appreciate every one of you! THANK YOU!!”
Matt Ayer
Matt and his wife Paula moved to Mariemont in 1987 as their first son was entering second grade. Attracted by the community and its schools, the Ayers raised their family here and still reside in their “hidden jewel” of a house on Pocahontas. As they approach their 50th anniversary and adapt to their first full year of retirement, Matt says, “We are thankful for our Mariemont friends, new and old, and for the quaintness and beauty of our planned community.” In addition
to serving as the “architectural historian” for the Town Crier, Matt serves on Village Council and the Architectural Review Board and collaborates on various Village projects. Shifting his focus from operating a consulting business for 19 years, he thoroughly enjoys helping the Village look to the future while preserving its heritage. His favorite hangout is Mariemont Memorial Chapel where he enjoys maintaining the building and its grounds and giving tours. Matt enjoys a number of hobbies but says “grandparenting is the best” job around.
Kim Beach
Kim and Ted, like many in Mariemont, met at Mariemont High School. Kim attended MHS through her junior year and Ted graduated in 1979. After college and marriage, they bought their first house in Mariemont in 1989, where they raised their sons Chase and Jimmy. Kim has written for the Town Crier for more than 20 years and loves getting to know new residents and business owners in our community, regularly writing our Business Spotlight column. Kim and Ted have both been very active in the Village and our schools over the years. Kim most recently ran an independent insurance agency (Village Insurance) and launched a femalefocused company for women in insurance (InsureWomen). She also revitalized Mariemont Area Chamber of Commerce and is excited to see it grow. In the past two years, the Beaches have welcomed two new daughters-in-law, Lauren (Jimmy) and Sarah (Chase). On September 21st, they
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L-R: Laura, Hannah and Daniel Ayer; Paula and Matt Ayer; Merey and Brendan Ayer. (Not pictured are Merey and Brendan’s children, Emilia and Owen).
Ted and Kim Beach hold their new grandson, Ben.
A Call for Help From Your Police Chief
The Village and numerous other communities in Hamilton County are experiencing an increase in auto thefts and thefts from autos. While Mariemont is one of the safest communities in the tri-state area, we are not immune to any type of crime within our Village.
I am very proud of our officers as they work hard every day to stay visible and work to keep our community safe and minimize crime within the Village.
appears to be trying to get into cars or casing
will always go the extra mile to do so. We are honored to serve you and are determined to keep the Village as one of the safest communities within the tri-state.
Please follow us on our Mariemont Police Department Facebook page for alerts as well as exciting things happening within our Village.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation and assistance in this important matter.
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 in each remaining issue. Your contribution can be mailed to: Mariemont Town Crier c/o Matt Weinland, 3914 Miami Rd. #207 Mariemont, Ohio, 45227
Anonymous
Denise & Marianne Beausejour
Ed & Karen Berkich
David Davis
Sam & Nancy Duran
Kate & Peter Fenner
Publisher / Editor
Suzy Weinland mariemonttowncrier@gmail.com
Advertising Manager Matt Weinland mariemonttowncrier@gmail.com
Production Designer Zachary Weinland mariemonttowncrier@gmail.com
Editorial Assistant / Distribution Manager Margaret Jevic amjevic@gmail.com
Garden Club of Mariemont
Jim, John & Helen Gray
Judith Kagrise
Brenda & Patrick
Mitchell
Julie Northrop
Jan Timothy Riker
Thank You for Supporting The Town Crier!
Staff
Contributors
Matthew Ayer matt@ayerquality.com
Kim Beach kimbeach13@gmail.com
Aileen Beatty aileen.beatty@gmail.com
Peter McBride pete0948@gmail.com
Carol Sanger csanger1@me.com
Photographer Steve Spooner me@mariemontstuff.com
Junior Couriers
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Janet & William Sarran
Wendy & Gary Tomczak
Suzy & Matt Weinland
Women's Art Club of Cincinnati Foundation
December deadline: The deadline for the next Town Crier is November 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
The Mariemont Town Crier, LLC, "The Voice of the Village of Mariemont," is published monthly from Sept. through Dec. and Feb. through May as a service to residents and organizations of the Village of Mariemont.
EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS: Press releases, photographs and event calendars are welcomed. Please contact Suzy Weinland at MariemontTownCrier@gmail.com to discuss article ideas. All submissions are due by the 10th of the month prior to publication. The editorial staff reserves the right to select and edit articles for both content and space. Photos sent as .jpg files via email are preferred, but originals also will be accepted and returned upon request. Signed letters to the editor are accepted and will be published as space allows. The Town Crier reserves the right to edit letters for length. Letters to the Editor reflect the opinions of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Town Crier Staff.
INSERTS: As a public service to the non-profit organizations of Mariemont, the Town Crier accepts inserts for a flat fee of $75, due at the time of delivery (check made out to Mariemont Town Crier). Inserts must be pre-approved and scheduled with the editor, printed and separated into stacks of 50, and delivered to Margaret Jevic, 6951 Nolen Circle by the 20th of the month prior to publication. Please contact Margaret ahead of delivery at 513-687-3224. Inserts and ads of a political nature are not accepted.
ADS: All camera-ready ads must be submitted by 5 p.m. on the 10th of the month prior to publication to Matt Weinland at MariemontTownCrier@gmail.com. Payment and advertising contracts should be delivered to Matt Weinland, 3914 Miami Rd. #207, Mariemont, Ohio, 45227, and must be received prior to publication.
The Mariemont Town Crier, LLC. 2018 (c)
welcomed their first grandson, Ben, who was born to son Jimmy and his wife Lauren. They love riding their bikes (and scooter) around the Village and enjoy walking the tree-lined streets with their dog, Lucky. They look forward to the day when they can take Ben for a walk. “We are in love! I’m Kiki and Ted is Pops,” says Kim. “We can’t wait to take him to Graeter’s!”
Aileen Beatty
Aileen grew up in Mariemont and graduated from Ursuline Academy. Her mom, Chris, still lives on Hammerstone and was named Mariemont Citizen of the Year in 2023 for all her contributions to the Village. Aileen has followed in her mom’s footsteps as a long-time Mariemont Preservation Foundation trustee. In 2004, Aileen purchased one of the buildings in the rental area of the Historic District in the Gilchrist grouping. As it is a free-standing single-family building, instead of renting
Support Our Junior Couriers!
The Mariemont Town Crier is proud to present news and information about the activites, people, organizations, and schools that make Mariemont great.
Our wonderful staff is mostly volunteer, however our young couriers do receive a small stipend for their hard work sorting, stuffing inserts, and delivering your monthly issue.
Donations to the Crier Club go towards that stipend and help ensure our couriers get the Mariemont Town Crier to your doorstep eight times a year. Crier Club members are featured prominently for their support at the beginning of every issue for one year after their donation.
To join the club, send your donation to:
Mariemont Town Crier
3914 Miami Rd. #207
Mariemont, OH 45227
Community
it, she chose to make it her home and is renovating and restoring it. Aileen has a penchant for creating crossword puzzles and word searches. Two years ago, she began contributing her themed creations to our Town Crier pages for the fun of children and adults alike! Aileen’s enjoys going to our fun restaurants in the Square, tending to her herb garden, and working on her home.
Margaret Jevic
Margaret and Alex Jevic have been residents of Mariemont since they both attended Mariemont Community Church Preschool years ago. It wasn’t until 2009 that they discovered being more than just classmates and friends was a great idea! They married in 2015 and settled into their sweet home on Nolen Circle the same summer. Margaret jumped on board with the Town Crier as our distribution manager in 2019 and has contributed articles and news from MPPG, Sustainable Mariemont, and the Mariemont Tree Advisory Board – of which she is also a founding board member. She recently accepted the additional role of Town Crier editorial assistant, attending and writing about various events and activities throughout the year. But her busiest and most loved job is that of “full time mom of 3.” Margaret says her family’s favorite things to do in Mariemont include: walking and biking around town (especially in the fall), playing at the Belltower playground and fields, getting ice cream at Graeter’s then sitting by the fountain, and enjoying the pool all summer.
Peter McBride
Pete is a longtime Town Crier contributor and our resident comedian. From holiday riddles and Q&As, to tonguein-cheek interjections and observations sprinkled throughout his articles, his writings are certain to put a smile on your face and make you feel like you’re sharing a good read with an old friend. Pete and his wife Gail Cooley moved to Hammerstone from Toronto in 1991, where they raised their son David. Fun fact (that Pete says we’ll get a “kick” out of): Pete served as the voice of the MHS senior boys soccer Warriors at Kusel Stadium for almost a
Town Crier Staff (from front page)
Aileen Beatty stands in the bright corner of her mother’s sunroom looking out onto the cottage garden.
L-R: Margaret, Chloe, Alex, Ben, and Ella Jevic
L-R: Gail Cooley (Pete’s wife), granddaughter Maxine, son (and MHS graduate) David McBride, Pete, David’s wife Samantha, grandson Hank
decade! “We enjoy all of the local eateries and parks, love taking our grandson to the Tot Lot, and, with MPF’s guidance, marvel at our Village’s history and beauty,” says Pete. As a final note, these lovely Canucks achieved their citizenship this past May. Congrats, Pete and Gail!
Carol Sanger
Carol is our newest Town Crier contributor but comes to us with a long career in journalism. She was a reporter for the Cincinnati Post and, after a fiveyear stint as speechwriter and press secretary in Washington, D.C., returned to Cincinnati in 1980 as a columnist and then business editor at the Enquirer before joining Federated Dept. Stores as VP/communications & govt. relations. After Carol moved to Mariemont from her renovated horse barn in Indian Hill five years ago, she was ready to jump into serving and becoming an integral part of our community. She reached out to see if we needed any writers. And of course, we said “YES!” Carol is a natural at research and interviews and delves into some of our larger feature articles. She enjoys movies at the Mariemont Theater, reading, working with animal nonprofits, walking her dogs and befriending new neighbors, and meeting friends for lunch at Dilly or dinner at our other great restaurants — The Emery, The Quarter, and National Exemplar. She also loves sitting on the porch of her Hampstead Park condo and watching the world go by.
Steve Spooner
Steve and Terri Spooner put down roots in Mariemont in 1988, where they have raised their five children – all MHS alums – and are now enjoying several grandchildren. Steve has been actively involved in the schools and the community in a variety of roles. As a volunteer photographer (me@mariemontstuff.com), he is the face behind most of the school and Village event photos you see – school sports and arts events, parades, Warrior Run, Taste of Mariemont, and many more! For the past five years Steve has been a part of the Town Crier staff, grabbing photos throughout Mariemont to accompany a wide range of articles and photo collage pages. Steve
Community
is an active member and past president of the Mariemont Kiwanis Club. He leads the South 80 Committee that manages the community gardens and organizes the maintenance and cleanup of the gardens and the trails throughout the year. It makes sense that one of his family’s favorite things to do in Mariemont is to go to the South 80 and walk the trails. Steve says, “Our grandsons love the South 80, and our dogs and our kids’ dogs love it as well. We spend lots of time in the South 80!”
Suzy, Matt & Zachary Weinland
Matt and Suzy returned to Mariemont in 2005, after meeting at The Ohio State University and living in the Columbus area for many years. Suzy (née Stollmaier) grew up in Terrace Park and is an MHS alum, and Matt hails from Urbana. With journalism/PR and advertising degrees, the Weinlands have had careers in various sectors of marketing, broadcasting, content writing and editing, advertising, PR, event promotions, and the arts. When Indianview neighbor and then Town Crier publisher (for 13 years!) Claire Kupferle decided to pass the torch in 2016, she knew their unique combination of skills would make a perfect fit. “This publication is such a gem. It’s rare in today’s digital world to see a hard-copy, community paper, let alone one that is created by a group of devoted volunteers, and hand-delivered to doorsteps of residents and businesses,” says Suzy, who manages the editorial side of things while Matt oversees business relations and advertising. Son Zachary joined the Town Crier team two years ago, handling layout. The Weinlands most enjoy any time they can grab with their adult children Zach and Megan – who are also MHS alums – especially traveling and exploring new places and adding pins to the large world map in their basement. They have enjoyed many hours at the Mariemont Pool and Dogwood Park ball fields, walking the neighborhood and watching the seasons change, living in walking/biking distance to the elementary and high schools, enjoying the various restaurants and quaint shops, and being a part of all the traditions and annual events that regularly bring residents together.
Carol with her rescue dogs Teddy Tebow, a brown terrier mix, and Abby, a white little poodle mix.
L-R: Michael Spooner and his wife Nicole; Steve and wife Terri; daughter Jane (Spooner) Smith peeking through in the hat; Brian and Mary (Spooner) Ragano with their son, Braden; Eddie Smith (Jane’s husband); Chris Spooner; David Spooner, holding his son Colin, with wife Emily (kneeling) and their dog Bodie. Mary is due in January with Braden’s little brother.
L-R: Zach, Matt, Suzy, and Megan Weinland.
Schools
Mariemont High School Presents
When Dorothy drops into the Land of Oz, only one thing is certain: she’s got to find a way back to Kansas. A funny and fast-paced journey down the yellow brick road ensues, as Dorothy and her new friends travel to the fabled Emerald City to meet the Great Oz. When Oz demands a steep price for sending her home, a perilous new adventure begins.
This play version of a classic show is full of ensemble possibilities and captures the heart of L. Frank Baum’s classic tale.
Friday, November 15 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, November 16 at 7 p.m.
Sunday, November 17 at 1 p.m.
Mariemont Scouts Christmas Tree Sales Return for 32nd Year
By Erika Turan
The Scouts of Mariemont Troop 149 will return for their 32nd consecutive year of Christmas tree sales on Black Friday, November 29. Located on the lawn of the Mariemont Municipal Building at 6907 Wooster Pike, the Scouts’ Christmas tree lot is an annual tradition for many in the area. We offer extended Black Friday hours: noon to 8 p.m., so you can kick the season off right!
Immediately after being cut down, Fraser firs ranging from five feet to 12 feet tall are brought by truck from a family-owned farm, so you know you’re getting a fresh tree. Also available: thick, fresh pine roping to decorate inside and outside your home, quality tree stands to securely display your tree, and tree disposal bags sold at Santa-friendly prices. The local Girl Scouts will also have their popular, fresh, hand-decorated pine wreaths for sale.
With twinkly lights overhead and holiday music playing throughout, shopping for your tree is fun and easy. Plus, the Scouts carefully
place every tree on a stand in the tree lot, making it easy to inspect from all angles so you can make sure you’re getting the perfect tree for your home.
“We’re very thankful for the ongoing support of the community. By including us in their holiday traditions, those who shop with us have helped hundreds of Scouts learn life skills in leadership, responsibility, and character over the past three decades. We’re thrilled to welcome people back for our 32nd year of sales – but don’t wait too long to shop with us. We always sell out!” says Mike Wood, Scoutmaster for BSA Troop 149.
The tree sales are Troop 149’s primary fundraiser. As such, every Scout will volunteer
for a minimum of 24 hours at the tree lot – rain or shine – in addition to his or her other extracurriculars, sports and academics. Purchased trees receive a fresh cut to the trunk to help with water absorption, branches trimmed following your instructions, and mounting on your car for no additional charge. We’ll even happily take a photo of your family with your new tree. Credit cards, cash and check are accepted, making payment quick and easy.
Be a part of a charming tradition and start making special holiday season memories for your home. The lot is open daily November 29 to mid-December (or until we run out of trees, so don’t put off coming to see us!) Learn more about the tree sales, including hours and events, at Troop 149’s Facebook page: Facebook.com/ScoutChristmasTree or on our website: www.troop149.com/tree-sales
Hours and Location:
Mariemont Municipal Building
6907 Wooster Pike
Open Daily Starting November 29
Black Friday: Noon – 8 p.m.
Weeknights: 5 – 8 p.m.
Saturdays: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sundays: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Scouts of Mariemont Troop 149 provide fresh, Fraser Christmas trees.
Village Mariemont Connector Next Steps: Should We Modify the Miami Road Intersection?
By Matt Ayer
In the October Town Crier, we described the newly completed Phase 1 of the Mariemont Connector (from Miami Road to the Library). A Q&A concerning that new path segment is also available on the main page of the Village website, www.mariemont. org
For background, last year the Village commissioned an independent, third-party study by experienced engineers to recommend a preferred route for a shared use path through Mariemont. Village Council and its engineer tasked the consultants to consider every and any possible alignment. The former transportation corridor (now utility corridor) was the clear choice among survey respondents, recommended by the engineers, and selected by Village Council. The path will be built on Village property; no right-of-way acquisition is needed.
The newly completed segment runs from Miami Road to behind the Library where ODOT will connect, in a fully funded project under final design. Then the path will connect to the Little Miami Scenic Trail, the Lunken Airport loop, and points beyond.
The next step in Mariemont’s planning process is to evaluate what, if any, modifications the Village should pursue for the Miami Road intersection at and near where the path will cross. We have an opportunity to simplify this intersection, its traffic flow and patterns. The present “design” (or more accurately, lack thereof) dates to when a traction railway ran east-west through Mariemont. Builders fit homes and streets around the railway, in some cases in a tightfitting, congested manner. Should we make intersection improvements now while we are planning the path?
The photo above presents the current intersection condition. Miami Road is intersected in five places in a somewhat convoluted manner – Lytle Woods, two spurs from “Short” Murray, Indianview, and Rembold.
Areas of Potential Improvement
One recognized concern is that cars coming southbound on Miami but cutting through Madison Place for eastern
destinations have an easy 45-degree transition onto Short Murray, often observed by residents at undesirable speeds for this quiet, narrow street. This intersection could be modified to a 90-degree turn to calm traffic.
The Village and public also have concerns beyond the intersection, more specifically about cut-through traffic that utilizes Short Murray/Rowan Hill to bypass downtown Mariemont. Traffic counts indicate an average of 75 vehicles per hour on this roadway during the peak hour. Village officials see these volumes, combined with the 90-degree curve at Rowan Hill, cars parked on the street, delivery trucks, lack of sidewalks and of rightof-way to add sidewalks, pedestrians in the street, and the narrowness of the street (20feet wide), as a liability and potential safety matter for the residents on Murray Avenue and Rowan Hill. It would be desirable in this congested area to reduce or eliminate cutthrough traffic.
The complicated intersection at Miami Road is currently under review.
Additionally, drivers turning right from northbound Indianview onto Miami have an awkward angle, needing to turn their head approximately 135 degrees to check for oncoming traffic. This turn could be normalized to something closer to 90 degrees. This improvement would also serve as a traffic calming measure.
Another traffic calming measure could be employed for cars driving straight up or down Miami. The traffic engineers selected a road-narrowing approach in this area, but other possibilities include a “bump-out,” a raised crosswalk, and others.
Access to and from Miami via Rembold could also be eliminated to improve safety at the crosswalk.
Mariemont commissioned the traffic engineers from Choice One Engineering to present multiple concepts that address these concerns. The report also provides traffic count information for each street and its turns. Choice One also considered whether a stop sign would be justified on Miami Road at or near the path crossing.
We Want to Hear From You!
Mariemont Council’s Safety Committee is tasked with making a recommendation to the full Council and seeks resident input as to what option would be best for Mariemont. The Committee established the following principles at its public meeting on September 27, 2024:
1. The primary objective is SAFETY –for path users, pedestrians, cyclists, and for drivers – at the intersection and associated streets/traffic.
2. A PREFERRED OPTION has not been suggested. There are no “leading candidates.” The evaluation involves public engagement in a transparent, stepwise manner. Suggestions are encouraged and will be carefully considered.
3. The Safety Committee will conduct a PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE to consider options and seek input. Residents can stay informed as Village email subscribers (please sign up at https://mariemont.org/registration-2 if you do not currently receive these updates); via
Village
the Village website; in the Town Crier; and via door-to-door flyers delivered to residents near the impacted area.
4. Interim steps, schedules and milestones will be developed at upcoming Safety Committee meetings. Public input is encouraged.
5. Attendance at an Open House is not necessary to provide input. There will be opportunities to receive information, complete a survey, and submit individual comments. These comments will be compiled and published.
6. If one or more options are selected for final consideration that involve changes in traffic patterns, the Village will first set up an experiment using temporary signage and barriers coordinated with MPD to evaluate impacts.
7. A second Open House will be held to discuss results of any experiments and to seek input for a PREERRED OPTION From there, the Safety Committee will make a recommendation to full Council and seek public and private funding for a project.
The Choice One report can be accessed via the Village website on the main page at www. mariemont.org. If you would like a pdf copy of the report emailed to you, please contact the Safety Committee, c/o Chair Matthew Ayer at Mayer@mariemont.org. Please do not hesitate to provide comments concerning this upcoming process.
Watch for updates on the Village website. Please sign up to receive Village email updates by registering at https://mariemont.org/ registration-2
Village
Tree Dormancy: An Exciting Time
By Margaret Jevic Mariemont Tree Board
The 2024 dormant season is upon us, and while the glitz and glamour of fall will soon fade away, the sleepy winter months are actually a very exciting time in the tree world. Fall is a great time to plant new trees, and it’s prime season for tree pruning as well.
This fall, Tree District 3 (see map), will be receiving 55-60 new street trees, with planting focusing on the highest priority areas first. High-priority locations are streets that currently have the lowest percentage of tree canopy coverage. Fieldhouse Way, Hammerstone Way, Miami Road, and West Street are among the highest priority streets in this year’s planting area. The 2024 planting season will take these areas from an average of 60% planted to an average of 88% planted.
area through September 30, which make up 40% of the total trees we are planting. Interestingly, though not terribly surprisingly, most requests for trees came from residents in these low canopy areas – a great sign that we the people notice when our tree canopy is low and desire to fix it.
tree with fun fan-shaped leaves that turn a brilliant yellow in the fall. Hammerstone Way will receive the single stem River Birch with beautiful exfoliating bark and toothed leaves. Miami Road will get the Thornless Honeylocust with small compound leaves that offer dappled summer shade and turn a lovely yellow in the fall. It can also withstand road salt and traffic spray, making it a solid choice for one of our more heavily travelled roads. The unique vaseshaped Zelkova tree will find a home on West Street and will add a pleasant red fall color to the palette.
Resident requests within Tree District 3 make up the remainder of our planting locations. While we initially set aside 25% of our total planting budget to meet resident requests, this year we are able to fill all the requests we received for this year’s planting
In addition to increasing total number of trees, one of the Tree Board’s goals is to boost the diversity of trees to help prevent mass loss from insects or disease, slow transmission of said diseases, and support many kinds of wildlife. There are many species of trees with their own personalities and strengths that will add welcome interest to the Village. Fieldhouse Way will be receiving the Ginkgo
Once fall planting is complete, next in the lineup is my personal favorite winter tree activity – young tree training, aka pruning trees less than 15 years old. I love nothing more than to gather up my gloves, safety glasses, neon vest, and pole saw, and stroll around town on a gorgeous winter day to give our young trees a little attention. Our goal is to have each planting district on a consistent pruning and planting schedule to make sure they are getting the care and shaping they need to grow strong and live long. You may see us out on your street this winter - if you do, come on out and say hi! We love to talk about what we are doing and why it’s so important. We have been extensively trained by ODNR and approved by the Village to do the work we are doing – a little bit of art, a little bit of science. After a good pruning session, I love to come home to a roaring fire, a cup of tea, and my kids informing me of who pulled whose hair while I was gone. Ah, winter.
If you would like to request a street tree for when it’s time to plant your area, fill out our time-stamped form and get on the list! https://shorturl.at/qTtIV
Tree Board planting district map
If you would like to volunteer with the Tree Board, please reach out to mariemonttreeboard@gmail.com. No prior experience or knowledge required – only a love of trees! Everything else is teachable.
If you would like to make a donation to the street tree fund through MPF, please visit https://mariemontpreservation.org/make-adonation/ or scan the QR code.
Village Cub Scouts Enjoy Annual Peterloon Campout
By Mandy Rohal
Mariemont Scouts Pack 1 enjoyed a picture-perfect weekend at a camping event called Peterloon, Oct 4-5. Peterloon is the Dan Beard Council’s large-scale bi-annual encampment for Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA members. This event attracts over 6,500 participants, visitors, and staff to Camp Friedlander & Cub World.
A number of outdoor activities were offered such as rock climbing, archery, hiking, yard games, and even a silent disco! The weekend focuses on Leadership in Action, which emphasizes leadership, teamwork, and cooperation, and how these essential skills can be used to impact the world positively.
Jay Mallon, current rank Wolf, learns how to properly shoot an arrow during an archery activity.
Schools
Annual Boosters Golf Outing Raises $30K for Student Athletics
By Kevin Frye Boosters President
The Mariemont Athletic Boosters extends our heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, players, and volunteers who made the Annual Golf Classic at Terrace Park Country Club on October 3rd a resounding success. This year, we saw our largest turnout ever with 120 golfers, 8 pickleball players, 15 volunteers, and over 45 company and family sponsors.
The event featured a fourman scramble format, complete with various games to enhance scoring. The winning team, consisting of Jordan Gaietto, Sam Pate, Garrett Gebhardt, and Hunter Freeman, achieved an impressive 15 under par with a score of 59. They triumphed over Coach Ty Harris, Brett
committee planning members and volunteers, L-R: Danielle Deja, Danielle Haugh, Lisa Miller, Gina Kaplan, and Erin Goellner.
L-R: “Hit it to Win it” hole volunteer Kim Seichter, and sponsor Michaelson Homes’ team members, Dan McConnaughey (PM), Marc Michaelson (Owner), Joe Stubblefield (PM), and Francesca Padjen (Design Architect).
Renzenbrink, Cale Ort, and Kyle Frye, who also scored 59 but lost in a tiebreaker. This year, we introduced a round-robin pickleball component, which we hope to expand upon in the future.
We would like to recognize our major sponsors, especially fenbury, our first-ever title sponsor. Other major sponsors include: Jersey Mike’s, Energy Alliance, The Byrne Group, Magnum Surgical, Peter Gaietto and Associates, Manufacturers Supplies Company, Michaelson Homes, Miller Insurance, Sam Adams, TriState Capital, and United Dairy Farmers. There are many more sponsors, and you can see them all at Kusel Stadium, where they are proudly displayed along Warrior Way!
Thanks to your generous support, we raised over $30,000 for Mariemont Athletics. These funds will help us continue to provide our student-athletes with excellent facilities, training, and experiences throughout their high school and junior high careers!
Golf
Attention Incoming Kindergarten Parents!
Please join us Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 6:30 p.m. for our 2025-26 Kindergarten Parent Information Night. This event is specifically designed for our incoming kindergarten parents/guardians and future kindergarteners!
We will begin with a short presentation in the dining hall about our kindergarten experience. Families will participate in a fun scavenger hunt so parents and children can see the kindergarten classrooms and other parts of the building. We look forward to seeing you there!
For detailed information about the registration process, documentation needed to complete the registration process, and helpful kindergarten and district information, please visit this link:
www.mariemontschools.org/ KindergartenRegistration.aspx
If you have additional questions about kindergarten registration, please contact the Central Registration office:
Location: 2 Warrior Way, Cincinnati, Ohio 45227
Email: centralregistration@ mariemontschools.org
Call:
Emma Meinking: 513-272-7500
Rita Burke: 513-272-7514
Should you have any questions about Mariemont Elementary, please contact our school office or you can email principal Courtney Miller:
Call: 513-272-7400
Email:
CMiller@mariemontschools.org.
Thanksgiving Word Search by Aileen Beatty
All Ages
What’s Happening at the Mariemont Branch Library — November 2024
Delightful Diwali Festival: Dances & Culture of India — Saturday, Nov. 2 from 2-3 p.m.
Dancers dressed in colorful costumes, intricate jewelry and theatrical makeup will entertain you with breathtaking footwork and ancient storytelling techniques.
Youth — It’s Dinovember at the Library!
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.
Legos @ the Library — Saturday, Nov. 9 from 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Show us what you can build and connect with other LEGO enthusiasts.
Stem Discovery Day — Wednesday, Nov. 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.
Pokémon Trading Card Game Club — Saturday, Nov. 16 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 7-15.
Digging for Dinos! — Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 2 p.m.
Bring budding paleontologists to interact with dinosaur fossils! Presented by the Cincinnati Museum Center. Ages 3-12. Registration required.
Adults
Which Craft: Knitting and Crocheting Group — Saturday, Nov. 2 and Nov. 16 from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Bring the knitting or crocheting project you're working on to the library and work with others.
Mystery Book Club — Tuesday, Nov. 12 at 6:30 p.m.
Join us to discuss The ABC Murders by Agatha Christie. Copies available at the branch.
Handmade Holiday Cards — Saturday, Nov. 16 at 2 p.m.
Join us to make fun holiday cards for the upcoming season! Registration required.
Book Club — Monday, Nov. 25 at 6:30 p.m.
Join us to discuss West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge. Copies available at the branch.
Coming Soon!
CSI Science — Wednesday, Dec. 4 at 4 p.m.
Suitable for tweens and teens. Registration required.
Library hours are 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. Monday and Tuesday; 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Mariemont Branch Library, 3810 Pocahontas Ave. 513-369-4467
Community
Live Your Best Life Through Katie Burchenal Counseling
By Kim Beach
We can thank Miami University for bringing Katie Burchenal to the Cincinnati area. As a Virginia high school soccer player, she contemplated playing at the next level and Denison University was interested in recruiting her. Since she was looking at the Midwest, her neighbors (two sets of Miami mergers) suggested she look at Miami University. It was love at first sight, and she enjoyed her four years in Oxford, gaining a bachelor’s degree in mass communication in 1994.
Fast forward to 2020 and Katie was finishing her master’s degree in clinical mental health to focus on her true calling: assisting people as they work through life’s transitions. Katie has always enjoyed helping individuals and has been described as a “very good listener.” She considers it a privilege to provide emotional support for her patients and sees a growing need for mental health counseling. Her current patients range in age from 10 to 76.
As a “more mature” counselor, Katie considers her age to be a blessing. Her life
experiences give her the ability to connect with her patients and have sympathy for their situations. She is a huge fan of the Mariemont community and chose to locate her office here because of the generous support she received when she first came to the school district.
She moved her family to Terrace Park as a single mother and was immediately welcomed into the neighborhood. She was overwhelmed by the kindness she and her children received from fellow moms, dads, and new friends. Her children had an incredible experience in the Mariemont schools and she is interested in giving back with her new practice.
Of her four children, three are Mariemont High School graduates: Madeline (‘16), Wally (‘19), and Henry (‘21). Her daughter Lawson took another path and graduated from Cincinnati Country Day in 2020. Eventually, Katie met Jamie Burchenal (also from Terrace Park) and they combined their two families in a wedding over six years ago. Katie and Jamie
Katie Burchenal
now live in Indian Hill and their children are spread across Cincinnati and the United States.
Katie Burchenal Counseling officially opened in August 2024 and is located in Suite 301 in the Mariemont Center Building (3914 Miami Rd). It is a carefully thoughtout sanctuary for her sessions, using calming colors and comfortable furniture. She looks forward to becoming part of the fabric of the local Mariemont community. She is also invested in creating opportunities for a positive mental health environment in the school district and beyond.
A high degree of empathy enables Katie to find success in her business. She notes that “Unconditional Positive Regard” (or no judgment) helps her create a safe space for her clients to share their feelings. Her sense of humor also provides levity in the sessions.
In her free time, Katie enjoys watching college sports. Her daughter, Lawson, is completing her master’s degree at Georgetown University and using up her last year of eligibility to play women’s soccer. She played for the University of Tennessee for her undergraduate years, red shirting her freshman year. Lawson won many athletic and academic awards at UT and topped it off as a team Captain in 2023. Katie also spent time previously following her son Wally’s career. Wally was a Mariemont Warrior’s quarterback and continued his career at Depauw University in Greencastle, Indiana.
Katie also enjoys traveling and shares, “Iceland is my all-time favorite place. I would love to go back!” She continues, “When you are in Iceland, it is like being in an alternate universe.” In the Village, Katie’s favorite spots include Southerby’s and the Quarter Bistro. Her sons Wally and Henry worked at the Quarter for years, and as she shares,
“The Quarter staff was so kind. It’s the first restaurant my kids want to visit when they are home.” Hiking is another hobby of Katie’s and her office walls are lined with impressive hikes she has conquered.
Katie is now interested in helping people conquer their mental health challenges and relationship issues. She is excited to grow her practice and “connect with other families who love the Mariemont area as much as I do.” To contact Katie, please call her at 513-520-3712 or find more information at www.katieburchenalcounseling.com
513.271.3200 4113 Plainville Road Cincinnati, OH 45227
Eisele Gallery Showcases Some of Its Finest Still Life Artists Community
By David C. Smith
Art Consultant / Owner
Eisele Gallery presents the group exhibition “Still Alive,” showcasing the exceptional works of three Eisele Artists: Nicole Klassen, Kenneth Cadwallader, and Hadley Rodebeck.
talent early on, using drawing as an escape from life’s pressures. After briefly exploring business school, he realized that art was his true calling and enrolled at Kendall College of Art and Design, where he earned a fine arts degree. His journey took him to the Royal College of Arts in London, where he found inspiration in representational impressionism.
Each artist brings a distinct perspective to still life painting, ranging from traditional styles to innovative subjects and captivating color palettes. This rich diversity not only offers viewers a variety of interpretations but also aims to engage a broad audience, all while paying homage to the timeless tradition of still life art.
Dates: November 1-28
Opening Reception: Friday, November 1 from 6-9 p.m. The exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.
About the Artists
Kenneth Cadwallader was born and raised in Michigan. Ken discovered his artistic
After graduating with honors, Ken moved to Chicago and furthered his studies at the Palette and Chisel Academy, quickly catching the attention of a local gallery that launched his professional career. He later studied with renowned master Richard Schmid at the Loveland Academy of Fine Art, refining his skills.
Nicole Klassen, born in Los Gatos, California, showed an early passion for art, winning her first award at just four years old. Throughout her childhood, she illustrated class projects and was captivated by Old Masters, sparking a lifelong desire to understand their techniques. Her formal training began at San Jose State University
The Framer’s Guild Relocates Inside Eisele Gallery
As of October 1, The Framer’s Guild has moved its custom-framing services inside The Eisele Gallery, just across the street. The two businesses are now one, providing a seamless service of fine art and custom framing consultation, all under one roof.
For 44 years, The Framer’s Guild has been providing custom framing in Mariemont. The tradition continues under new ownership, while maintaining the Mariemont tradition. (See “Framers’ Guild Owners Pass the Torch on a Mariemont Institution” on the front page of The Mariemont Town Crier, October 2024 edition.)
The Guild provides custom framing and matting for paintings, prints, photographs, and items of sentimental value, as well as custom mirrors. Conservation, quality, and service are three characteristics upheld at The Framer’s Guild.
Eisele Gallery & Framer’s Guild Information
Website: www.eiselefineart.com
Phone: 513-561-6003
Location: 6936 Madisonville Rd.
Admission: Eisele Gallery is free and open to the public. Free parking is available behind the building.
Gallery Hours:
• Tuesday - Friday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Monday: By Appointment
under Maynard Dixon “Dick” Stewart, where she refined her skills with Robert K. Semans and traveled to Europe to study masterpieces in renowned museums. In 1994, she had her first solo show in California and has since
B. Nicole Klassen, Turquoise and Silver, Oil on linen, 18 x 24”
exhibited at various prestigious venues, including the Cahoon Museum of Art and Triton Museum of Art.
Hadley Rodebeck enjoys creating with bright colors and uses acrylic, oil, and oil pastel in her work. Her paintings often depict animals, fish or birds in space. She also creates abstract paintings with complementary colors and lines. These works are often painted on a large scale to further emphasize the subjects’ personalities. The character of these creatures is emphasized by the size and scale of the work. In these works, she inverts colors in areas of the paintings to create a sense of tension. For example, a fish may be in both blue water and magenta water simultaneously. The materials that she paints with creates different effects. Acrylic paint creates transparency and movement. Oil paint creates depth and luminosity. The final mark on the canvas is the oil pastel mark. The oil pastel mark is a mark that, once made, cannot be taken back. That becomes the final punctuation mark of a painting.
About Eisele Gallery
Eisele Gallery has long been recognized as one of the most respected fine art galleries in the Midwest. The gallery features a large selection of Traditional and Contemporary artwork. They also work with museum quality estates and collections. Eisele Gallery’s renowned exhibition program fosters excellence within artistic practice, while promoting both emerging established nationally and internationally recognized artists.
Community Fairfax Community Offerings in November, December
Free Financial Wellness Classes Hosted by 5/3rd Bank
The Village of Fairfax is excited to work with 5/3rd Bank to host free Financial Wellness classes in the Fairfax Rec Center, 5903 Hawthorne Ave.
Classes are 6:30-7:30 p.m. on the following dates:
• October 23: Debt Consolidation - with Jeanette Trujillo and Tracy Gazar
• November 20: Considering Home Ownership - with Michael Tracy
• December 18: Retirement Planningwith Jeremy Gates
• January 22: Budgeting - with Jeanette Trujillo and Tracy Gazar
Please register by the Friday before each presentation by emailing Financial Center Manager Jeanette Trujillo at jeanette. trujillo@53.com. Each class is limited to 50 participants. Please indicate in your email which class(es) you are signing up for.
Village Craft Connection December: Perfume and Sugar Scrub Workshop
Alison Peters, founder and owner of The Lavender Sachet, will take participants through the step-by-step process of creating
a beautiful rollerball perfume and a sugar scrub. Rollerball perfumes are great to keep at your bedside, your desk at work, or to carry in your purse for a quick pick-me-up. And sugar scrubs are a fantastic way to keep your skin super soft.
Workshop guests will get to sample and pick their own scents to customize one rollerball perfume and one sugar scrub per person. Alison will guide everyone on the best scents to blend together. You will also be able to add dried local flowers to the perfume vessel.
Once scents are selected, you’ll choose base oils: sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, and avocado oil.* Workshop guests will receive labels and name their custom-made perfume rollerballs.
At the end of the workshop, you will take home one custom created perfume rollerball and one sugar scrub! The workshop takes place Tuesday, Dec. 3, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Fairfax Rec Center. It is open to the public. For information and to sign up, email villageoffairfax@gmail.com
*Note: Please do not use these base oils (sweet almond, jojoba, grapeseed, avocado) if you are allergic to their ingredients. Alison can plan in advance for you to make a perfume spray using witch hazel and distilled water. Please email thelavendersachet@gmail.com in advance of the workshop to discuss. Thank you!
FREE CPR and AED Training
Hosted by the Little Miami Fire Department and the Fairfax Civic Association and taught by certified instructors. Learn hands-on skills for saving lives.
For ages 12 and older, class limited to 30. Sign up today for the class on Thursday, November 7 at 6:30 p.m., held at the Fairfax Rec Center.
Email your name, address, and how many attending the class to tracynatch@msn.com.
DAR Presents Plaque to Ferris House Museum Village
By Sarah E. Hartkemeier, Mariemont DAR Chapter Historian/Librarian
On November 16 at 11:30 a.m., the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Mariemont Chapter will dedicate an America 250! Celebration Marker to the Ferris House Museum, 3915 Plainville Road.
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) established a project to raise public awareness of the men and women who achieved American independence. The National Society’s goal is to place at least one marker in every state in advance of the nation’s upcoming 250th Anniversary. The Mariemont DAR Chapter received grant money to purchase the plaque to honor chapter members’ patriots through their lineage.
There is a special connection between the Mariemont DAR and the Ferris House. Our DAR Chapter had its first meeting at the Ferris House on February 2, 1930, to form a chapter and then held subsequent chapter meetings. Our chapter purchased this marker to carry out the NSDAR mission, which is threefold:
to educate, promote patriotism, and historical preservation. The Mariemont Preservation Foundation (MPF) approved this project and chose the placement of the plaque.
The Mariemont DAR wants to welcome visitors to this museum site with this marker to inform them about Revolutionary patriots remembered by our chapter members. Our chapter wants to share and preserve our patriot ancestors’ history through this museum. We want to spark interest in
patriotism, encourage the NSDAR mission, and keep American history alive.
Historical note: Jeduthan Ferris – the father of Eliphalet Ferris, who built this homestead - served in the Revolutionary War as a private in the 9th Company Connecticut Militia under Captain George Peck and Lieutenant Colonel Mead in 1776.
Please come celebrate on November 16th towards this achievement on presenting an America 250! plaque to the Ferris House Museum. Refreshments will be served.
For more information on the Daughters of the American Revolution Mariemont Chapter, please contact regent@mariemontdar.com or mary.s.holohan@gmail.com
DAR Honors Vietnam Veterans at Waldschmidt House
The Mariemont DAR Chapter honored Vietnam War Veterans on Saturday, September 22, at the Christian Waldschmidt Homestead in Camp Dennison during the Johnny Appleseed Family Fall Fest. There was a pinning ceremony for the veterans, which is a part of the National Commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. This pinning event was to thank Vietnam Vets as well as family members of deceased vets. Our
The Ferris House Museum (left) and its new commemorative plaque (right).
chapter pinned eleven veterans and two family members, posthumously, for their veterans who served.
Mariemont DAR Regent Mary Jo Holohan welcomed all who attended, and Commemorative Events Chair Sherri Smithson introduced each veteran and their branch of service. Chapter member Kay Pope pinned each veteran/family member. Other Mariemont chapter members who assisted with this event include Sharon Conrad, Sarah Hartkemeier, Maxine Mace, Barb Boyd, and Jean Morrison.
Vietnam Veterans and their families toured the Waldschmidt Home and Civil War Museum. DAR members were available to provide historical information concerning the artifacts within the house and museum.
If you know of a Vietnam Veteran or family member of a vet who should be recognized for their service, please contact Sherri Smithson at (513) 312-3169 or sherrismithson@yahoo.com.
Community
Fall Fun in Mariemont
While the annual Warrior Run was cancelled due to storms from Hurricane Helene, there were still plenty of fall festivities around Mariemont during October. Here are a couple of photos, courtesy of Steve Spooner, me@mariemontstuff.com
Kris Soller drives Anna Breen and JP Widecan during the MHS Homecoming Parade. Anna and JP were announced the Homecoming Monarchs at halftime of the football game.
As part of the Mariemont PreSchool Parents Group Fall Fest at the Concourse, Mark Glassmeyer gave tractor hayrides around the Village. Pictured here is Mark, letting Colin Spooner “help” him drive the tractor.
DAR member Kay Pope pins Veteran Jerry Vianello of Mariemont.
Luminaria: A Village of Light
By Becca Vianello Hlad Luminaria Chair
Luminaria is one of my favorite nights as our Village transforms into a glowing winter wonderland. This year will be my last year leading the event alongside many other amazing moms of the Mariemont Preschool Parents Group (MPPG).
Luminaria has been a constant tradition in my life while growing up here. Some of my first memories are waiting to get a glimpse of Santa as he arrived in the Old Towne Square. As a teen, I enjoyed singing carols with my family and friends. Later in life, Luminaria was where my husband, Lorne, and I would have our first date. My middle child, Noah, was born on Luminaria night in 2016.
The most special Luminaria I have experienced so far, however, was in 2020. Despite going through a rough year with Covid, MPPG and our Village persevered and continued the tradition. I had given birth to our youngest child, Luke, two weeks prior to Luminaria that year. We knew in utero Luke would have some complications, and he needed surgery after birth for his kidneys. After spending two weeks at Children’s
Hospital, Luke was doing well enough to be discharged. When we left to drive home, it was dusk. As we drove into Mariemont, we realized that this night was Luminaria. It was the best welcoming home our family could ever have. Seeing our Village all lit up gave us hope, peace, and joy through a difficult time.
Our son’s name (Luke) means “Light,” and we decided early in the pregnancy to name him Luke as he would be our light through any darkness we may face ahead. Little did we know, Luke’s light would shine throughout our Village when he would finally come home to Mariemont.
I hope this year’s Luminaria gives everyone a sense of peace and joy as we experience the beauty of light all around us. We will celebrate in this light as we gather on Saturday, Dec. 7th from 5:30-8 p.m. in the Old Towne Square. Grab a free hot chocolate and donut while taking in the beautiful decorations, listen to glorious music at the Chapel, and stroll down our lovely streets on foot or in a horse drawn carriage. It is a magical experience for young and old.
Please be a part of lighting up our community. If you have not ordered luminaria kits yet,
YOU ARE INVITED TO THE RE-GRAND OPENING WITH A PURPOSE
The UPS Store
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SATURDAY
NOVEMBER 16TH, 2024 12PM - 3PM
COME MEET THE TEAM & ENJOY LITE REFRESHMENTS, RAFFLES, 50% OFF OF SHREDDING ON SITE, CHILDREN ACTIVITIES, AND MORE.
PLEASE JOIN US BY DONATING CANNED GOODS OR DRY FOODS TO THOSE IN NEED FOR THE HOLIDAY
Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive at the Old Towne Square.
a limited number will be available at the Boy Scout Christmas Tree Sale (located at the Mariemont Municipal Building) on November 29-Dec. 1 and on Dec. 7th from 12-4 p.m. Carriage ride tickets will be available Luminaria evening as well (cash only).
On behalf of MPPG and myself, thank you for supporting this wonderful tradition over the years that allows us to donate profits to local charities and Village projects to let us share the light with others. Let’s light up the night!
Luminaria Old Town Square Schedule
Saturday, December 7, 2024
• 5:30-8 p.m.: Carriage rides, free hot chocolate provided by Biggby Coffee, free donuts provided by Golden Hands Bakery, activity tables provided by our generous sponsors
• 5:50: MHS Choir sings carols in the Old Towne Square
• 6:00: Pastor Todd Keyes, Town Crier, Mayor Bill Brown, and MPPG President Alicia Stock kick off further events
• 6:10: Tree lighting with countdown by raffle winner
• 6:15: Estimated time of arrival for Santa and Mrs. Claus
• 6:30: The Dance Coalition performs on Cherry Lane
• 6:30: MHS Strings Orchestra performs in the Chapel
• 7:00: MHS Choir performs in the Chapel
• 7:30: MHS Strings Orchestra performs in the Chapel
• 8:00: Conclusion of carriage rides and all events
Community
Celebrate 47 Years of MariElders!
Erin Rothfuss Executive Director
Join us at the MariElders Senior Center on Monday, November 4, between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. as we commemorate our 47th Anniversary with a “Thanks for the Memories” celebration!
We’ll take a nostalgic journey through the decades, starting with the vibrant 1970s and continuing through the 2020s. Enjoy a day filled with music, games, and delicious snacks that reflect each era’s unique spirit.
Whether you’re a long-time supporter or new to our community, we invite you to stop by for all or part of the festivities. Relive cherished memories and create new ones with friends and neighbors. Let’s celebrate the rich history of MariElders together!
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, reminisce, and have fun. We look forward to seeing you there! Location: 6923 Madisonville Road in Mariemont. Questions? Call us at 513-271-5588 or find us online at www. marielders.org
By Kym Kuenning
Woman’s Art Club Cultural Center
Fall in Love with The Barn
From the Director
Hi! For those I have not yet met, my name is Christine Moore, and I am the director at The Barn. It has been an exciting nine months. Since becoming the director in January 2024, we have worked tirelessly to bring more events, activities, classes, workshops, and exhibits to our wonderful, historic home. The Barn will be welcoming more wedding parties and private functions in 2024 and 2025 than any current Board member can remember. Classes and workshops are also at record levels, and our shows and exhibits have been unmatched in variety and quality.
Of special note was our inclusion in the 2024 FotoFocus Biennial. The Barn was one of 86 venues in three cities chosen to exhibit lens-based, art unified by the theme of backstories. Cincinnati artist-photographer Nina Wells produced a new iteration of her continuing King Me series. This unique show was comprised of images printed not on traditional paper, but on silk.
Join us in November to explore two very different exhibits at the same time. Downstairs in our Gallery will be a beautiful Japanese Calligraphy exhibit from Saturday the 9th through the 12th. Upstairs in the Loft you’ll find the Cherrywood Quilt exhibit that travels internationally, bringing artistry to
fabrics in clever craftsmanship (more on that, below). Thousands compete to have their work chosen, and you’ll see the winners here from the Saturday the 9th through the 16th. Both exhibitions are free to attend.
Visit our website, www.artatthebarn. org for all the news of our activities and opportunities.
Just in Time for Cold Winter Nights
Every year, Cherrywood Hand Dyed Fabrics chooses a theme and creates a color palette of their fabrics to challenge fiber artists and quilters world-wide to compete for a place in its juried exhibition.
The Monarch Art Quilt Challenge in 2023 was the company’s eighth juried competition. After the call for entry, artists and quilters had about six months to design and create 20-inch square art quilts. The Monarch Challenge color palette consists of three greens and three oranges plus black and white in Cherrywood’s hand dyed fabric.
There were 472 submissions. Jurors chose 225 entries and separated them into three traveling collections — Caterpillar (90 quilts), Chrysalis (90 quilts), and Milkweed (45 quilts).
The Barn is delighted to be one of two locations for exhibition for both the Caterpillar and Chrysalis Collections and the last stop of the traveling show.
Tri-state artists selected for the Caterpillar and Chrysalis Collections include: Jean Bailey, Columbia, Ohio; Reyne Davis, Cincinnati,
Ohio; Karen Hostetler, Sunbury, Ohio; Melanie Kemble, Lafayette, Indiana; Dianna Kenneally, Mason, Ohio; Constance Mitchell, Chardon, Ohio; Lynn Ticotsky, Cincinnati, Ohio; Julie Wells, Cadiz, Kentucky.
Please visit tinyurl.com/See-Monarchs for information.
Join us at The Barn for the Cherrywood Challenge Monarch Exhibition: Caterpillar and Chrysalis Collections, comprising 180 beautiful creations.
Exhibition Dates:
• Friday, Nov. 8 – Sunday, Nov. 17
Gallery Hours:
• Tuesday – Friday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Saturday – Sunday 1-4 p.m. Admission is free.
Feast Your Eyes on These Delicious Thanksgiving Riddles
By Pete McBride
Q. When does Christmas come before Thanksgiving?
A. In a dictionary.
Q. What smells best at Thanksgiving dinner?
A. Your nose.
Q. If April flowers bring May showers, what do May flowers bring?
A. Pilgrims.
Q. What has ears but no head?
A. Corn.
Q. What kind of music did the Pilgrims listen to?
A. Plymouth rock.
Q. What do you get if you cross a turkey with a ghost?
A. A poultry-geist.
Q. Which side of a turkey has the most feathers?
A. The outside.
Q. Why was the turkey arrested by the police?
A. They suspected fowl play.
Q. Can a turkey fly higher than a tree?
A. Yes, because a tree can’t fly.
Happy Thanksgiving to all! May you “feast” your eyes on your turkey, enjoy your “thyme” with your stuffing, gobble ‘til you wobble, and be thankful for your family and friends.
By Allison Uhrig
Ted Brown
Mayor Bill Brown presented his son, Ted, with a proclamation to honor his 25th anniversary of service in the Village. Ted started helping with parking at the MHS football games when he was 15 years old.
He continues to improve and modify traffic plans each year to make the events more efficient for motorists and participants. His involvement has allowed for fewer police officers to be assigned to event details, allowing them to remain on patrol.
From his humble beginnings at Mariemont High School to the thousands of cones, signs, and barricades placed and retrieved over the past 25 years, Ted has been honored to serve the Village he so dearly loves. You may spot him around the Village to this day, working at events or replacing signs, sometimes with his two sons. Thank you, Ted!
Parks Advisory Board
The Mariemont Parks Advisory Board is seeking new members! The mission of the Parks Advisory Board is to oversee, plan, and make recommendations to the Mayor and Village Council regarding conservation, management, and development as necessary of the numerous parks and green spaces for the benefit of the entire Village, except for the South 80 Acres, which has its own committee. If you are interested in being
Village Village News
considered, please contact Allison at info@ mariemont.org to get more information about joining the Parks Advisory Board.
Thanksgiving
The Village offices will be closed on November 28 and 29 for the Thanksgiving holiday.
Leaf Collection
Leaves will be collected by the Village from October 21 through December 30. The week of Thanksgiving and the week before Luminaria, leaf pick-up will be light as the department prepares for Luminaria/tree lighting.
DO NOT rake leaves into the street
— this is a safety issue for our employees and creates parking problems. Please follow these leaf vacuum collection directions. Thank you for your cooperation!
• Rake leaves to the front of your lawn near the curb, but NOT INTO THE STREET, and the Village will collect these leaves.
• Please be sure your lawn company knows to keep the leaves out of the street.
• Park your cars in your driveway during the day and make sure ONLY LEAVES are in piles at the curb. Sticks and other debris will damage the leaf vacuums.
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
Prior to October 21 and after December 30, leaves must be bagged for pickup in brown paper yard waste bags, available at most hardware stores and Kroger, or put in a can marked “Yard Waste” and placed at the curb after 6 p.m. the day before your RUMPKE pick up. Leaves in brown yard waste bags or marked “yard waste” cans will be picked up by Rumpke on the same day your trash is collected. Bagging your leaves is the best option if you are concerned about leaves sitting on your grass, as the leaf vacuum schedule can change frequently. Your patience is appreciated!
A New Business in Mariemont!
The Village is excited to announce a new business in our Industrial ParkPease Doors. Pease Doors is a longtime, Cincinnati-based, family-owned business that recently consolidated its operations at 5801 Mariemont Avenue in our Industrial Park. Please look for a detailed article in the December issue of the Town Crier.
Ted Brown is pictured with his wife, children, and father, Bill Brown.
Community
Village Worship Services
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, Kingdom Kids Director
Renee Brownfield, Preschool Director
Mike Brownfield, Director of Operations
Nancy Clausen, Office Manager/Communications
Join Mariemont Church on December 7 after the Luminaria Tree Lighting for our annual Party on the Porch! Enjoy free yummy treats, family photo opportunities with the winter sleigh, activities for kids, hot chocolate, and live music — all free!
Sunday Morning Services take place at 9 and 11 a.m. Livestream services at our website, www.mariemontchurch.org.
Current Sunday Series: “...With Him”: Living life with Jesus daily.
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 starts September 17 and meets Tuesdays from 9:15-11:30 a.m. Evening JOY Bible Study starts September 16 and meets 1st/3rd Mondays of the month from 7-8:30 p.m.
Weekly Worship, Prayer, and Meditation Opportunities: Every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10-11 a.m. in the Clocktower Building Auditorium. Join us for worship, prayer, and ministry time. 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 contact Nancy Clausen at nancy@mariemontchurch. org.
Village Church of Mariemont villagechurchofmariemont.org facebook.com/VCMChurch 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 just off the Old Towne Square at the corner of Oak and Maple Streets (3920 Oak Street). We also livestream all our services at www.facebook.com/VCMChurch
We are a small church with a big heart. We strive to be a Christ-centered caring community, providing relevent teaching from the Bible and authentic relationships In today’s fast-paced world, we offer a place to slow down, connect, and build lasting friendships.
Our Kidz Connection program is a fun way for children (Nursery to 6th Grade) to learn about God and the Bible during our Sunday morning worship services.
Hurricane Relief: On Sundays, we will have a collection box in the back of the Chapel for Hurricane relief. We are collecting items for Matthew 25 ministries who take them directly to those in need.
On Tuesday, October 31st from 6-8 p.m., we will host Fall season treats and games at our 3920 Oak St. building. Bring your kids by while they are trick-or-treating.
Operation Christmas Child: Pick-up a shoebox beginning November 1st. Fill it with toys and necessities for impoverished children around the world (we will provide you with an easy list to follow). Register your box online at Samaritan’s Purse and return it to the VCM building at 3920 Oak Street by Sunday, November 17th. It is an easy way to impact a child’s life at Christmas.
Trail Life USA (OH-1199) is a ChristCentered mentoring and discipleship journey for boys ages 5 to 18 to grow in character and leadership. Meetings will be 7-8:15 p.m. every other Thursday at 3920 Oak St. Sign up at www.TrailLifeUSA.com – click the button “Find a Troop.”
American Heritage Girls (OH-1346) is a Christ-centered character and leadership development program for girls 5 to 18 years of age. Meetings will be 5:30-6:30 p.m. every other Thursday at 3920 Oak St. Sign up at www.AmericanHeritageGirls.org – scroll down and click the button “Find a Troop.”
Women’s Bible Study meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month from 4-5:30 p.m. in our Oak Street Fellowship Hall. Check our website for more information.
Men’s Lunch Discussion meets weekly. 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 www. villagechurchofmariemont.org or contact Pastor Todd Keyes.
