Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS) is pleased to present our new Taste and Tour series at historic Memorial Hall, with generous support from the Friends of Memorial Hall. Join us Tuesday, July 7, 2026, for a one-hour tour hosted by CMHS Trustee Colonel Todd Mayer. Learn about the building's storied past while enjoying complimentary, artfully crafted charcuterie from Taste of Boujie. In addition to exploring the Hall’s stunning 1908 Beaux Arts architecture and rich cultural legacy, guests will learn about its deep connections to Cincinnati veterans and military history. Memorial Hall stands today as both a premier performing arts venue and a lasting monument to those who served.
CHARCUTERIE & SELF-PAY BAR (21+): 5:30-6 p.m.
TOUR: 6-7 p.m.
FREE | 18+ | MAXIMUM CAPACITY 50
REGISTER HERE
This Historic Preservation Month, Help Memorial Hall "Shine On!"
This Historic Preservation Month, help Memorial Hall “shine on” with a fresh, clean façade for its tenth anniversary post-renovation! Our goal is $15,000 to support a specialty chemical pressure wash of the sandstone and granite comprising the historic venue’s remarkable front entrance.
"Shine On!” is the latest stage in Memorial Hall’s $1.5 million capital campaign, a collaboration of the Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society, 3CDC, and Hamilton County. To date, $1.1 million has been raised from individual giving, private foundations, and the building’s owner, Hamilton County. Those funds have been used to start or complete critical preservation efforts, including:
Roof Replacement ✔️
Skyward-Facing Masonry Repairs ✔️
Copper Box Gutter Replacement ✔️
Rewiring of Proscenium Arches ✔️
Resurfacing Wood Floors ✔️
Restoration of Historic Wood Doors – In process
Restoration of Historic Wood Windows – In process
Interior Plaster Repair & Decorative Painting – In process
Please consider a donation in any amount to help Memorial Hall Shine On! Even a small gift will go a long way toward ensuring that our treasured venue looks as fantastic as the day it opened nearly 120 years ago.
Donations to non-profit Memorial Hall are fully tax-deductible.
To make a contribution:
Online: CLICK HERE and make a donation via credit card
Phone: Call the Memorial Hall box office at (513) 977-8838 (Tuesday through Friday, 1-6pm)
Mail: Mail a check payable to “Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society” with memo "Shine On!" to 1225 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
5+ Questions with LAS Advisory Committee Member Jennifer Marco
The Longworth-Anderson Series (LAS) has always been shaped by people who bring both a love of music and a genuine investment in community, creativity, and connection. Jennifer Marco is a wonderful example of that spirit. Since becoming involved with LAS, she has been a thoughtful presence behind the scenes—bringing fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and a willingness to support the series however she can.
Jennifer’s background spans both the technical and creative worlds. Professionally, she works in digital health and technology, while her earlier experiences in live music production at Riverbend Music Center gave her a firsthand appreciation for the work that goes into creating memorable concert experiences. Beyond her professional life, she has also dedicated time to fundraising, volunteer coordination, and community-focused events throughout Cincinnati.
In this week’s Q&A, Jennifer shares more about her experiences, her connection to live music, and what excites her most about being part of the LAS community.
What first drew you to get involved with Memorial Hall and LAS?
It was really a combination of community, music, and wanting to give back locally in a meaningful way. I have always felt enthusiastic about supporting and staying connected to the local arts scene. The more I learned about the organization and its mission, the more it genuinely felt like the perfect fit for me personally. As an avid supporter of music, I felt I could bring a unique perspective and fresh lens to the LAS committee.
I am currently a healthcare IT professional, but I also had a background working at Riverbend Music Center in production support many years ago, and that experience deepened my appreciation for live music and the impact it can have on people and communities. I value the opportunity to serve and contribute to Cincinnati’s cultural landscape while helping to create an experience that brings people together.
What LAS concert(s) have you attended? Which did you enjoy most and why?
I’ve attended Christian McBride, esperanza spalding, and, most recently, Madison Cunningham. I enjoyed esperanza’s show the most because it felt healing and immersive. I resonate with how she blends jazz, storytelling, and experimentation in a way that evokes deeper feelings. She took me on an unforgettable sonic journey!
What makes the Memorial Hall experience different from other venues in the city?
Memorial Hall offers a unique experience: an intimate concert with exceptional acoustics set within an architecturally and culturally rich historic gem that exudes its own charm.
As someone with a strong marketing lens, what do you think more people should know about LAS?
The series offers a trifecta experience: a beautifully curated evening showcasing Grammy-nominated and winning performers and bands, spotlighting local musicians at our pre-concert reception, and the opportunity to support the local restaurant community.
What album would you take to a desert island?
Thievery Corporation - “The Temple of I&I”
What song makes you want to dance?
Idris Muhammad - “Could Heaven Ever Be Like This (Chris Lorenzo, Walker & Royce Remix)”
Who is the most underrated musician, in your opinion?
Hiatus Kaiyote—their artistic vision deserves a much brighter spotlight than it currently receives.
Meet Bill Thompson: A Voice Behind the Longworth-Anderson Series
Behind every unforgettable Longworth-Anderson Series (LAS) evening at Memorial Hall, there are people whose passion for music makes it all possible—and Bill Thompson is certainly one of them. A Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society Advisory Board member, LAS Advisory Committee member, and concert sponsor, Bill has been part of our story for several years. Whether he’s championing artists, hosting Blue Snakes & Banjos on WAIF, or conducting thoughtful interviews with musicians who take our stage, Bill brings a deep love of music—and a genuine curiosity—to everything he does.
We’re excited to provide a glimpse into the musical influences, memories, and moments that have shaped his connection to LAS and Memorial Hall.
What has been most meaningful to you about watching LAS grow over the years?
The return of people who could fill a much larger space: Rhiannon Giddens, Marty Stuart, and Mavis Staples. Rhiannon came here last year from Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, where she had sold out the 2,362-seat room (for comparison, the Taft Theatre holds 2,261). The series and the venue have built a reputation among artists who aren’t interested in squeezing every dollar from the audience.
What do you love most about Memorial Hall, both as a historic building and as a place for live music?
I appreciate the building as an architectural gem. However, if it didn’t have the Annie W. and Elizabeth M. Anderson Theater, I would have visited it once after the renovation was complete. I return again and again for the music. The intimate theater is the best listening room in the Tri-State.
What’s the first concert you ever attended?
I’m an old man, but I have been going to concerts since I was in junior high school in Piqua, OH. I can’t swear that this was the first show I saw, but my dad drove me to Hara Arena in Dayton to see the Rolling Stones. Here’s the AI description: “The band played a notoriously poorly attended concert on November 13, 1964, during their second U.S. tour. Only 300 to 650 fans attended the 6,000-seat venue, resulting in a short, roughly 20-minute set. The show was criticized by locals and considered a commercial flop.” I was not one of the locals who criticized the event; I was mesmerized. It might have only been 20 minutes, but it seemed like hours to me. I was already music mad, but this convinced me I was onto something special.
What’s a song that instantly takes you back to childhood?
There are many because AM radio was filled with great music in the mid-1960s—Motown, British Invasion, the Beach Boys, one-hit wonders, etc.—but when I hear “Satisfaction” by the Rolling Stones, I head straight to the Rec, a teen club in Troy, about 8 miles south of Piqua. They had after-school events and dances on weekend evenings, so whenever I could catch a ride with a friend’s older sibling, I was there. In retrospect, as much as I liked looking at the local girls, it’s the music that I remember most.
What are you listening to right now?
I co-host Blue Snakes & Banjos on WAIF-FM 88.3 with Bob Hust (also a Founder of LAS). We have been on the air since 2014. I spend my time trying to keep up with new music from artists I like and searching for new artists that sound intriguing. I subscribe to multiple newsletters for tips about people I should give a listen to. It would be silly to say who I’m listening to now, but I’ll tell you who I have seen and who I have tickets for this year: Amythyst Kiah; Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill of the Continental Drifters; Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit; Silkroad Ensemble with Rhiannon Giddens; the Montvales; Madison Cunningham; Bob Dylan; St. Paul & the Broken Bones; Shawn Mullins; Paul Thorn and Scott Miller; Bruce Springsteen; the local honeys; Paul Simon; Daniel Donato and Marty Stuart; Drivin N Cryin; Wilco; Graham Nash; Watchhouse; Yacht Rock Revue; and Duane Betts. I have my eye on some others as well.
If your life had a soundtrack, what’s one song that would have to be on it?
“Gimme Shelter” by the Rolling Stones. The Let It Bleed album came out in the fall of 1969, two months into my freshman year of college, which was the most formative time in my life.
How has music impacted your life?
I was watching the Ed Sullivan Show on February 9, 1964, when the Beatles played for the first time. After it was finished, I went into the bathroom and combed what little bit of hair I had into bangs for school on Monday. When I arrived, I wasn’t the only boy in the seventh grade who did the same thing that day. My friends and I had always enjoyed music, but after that, it became all-encompassing. My only regret is that I didn’t have the discipline to learn to play an instrument. But I could not have chosen a more rewarding obsession.
Memorial Hall and Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society present The 122nd Army Band - America 250: Music of, by, and for the People
The 122nd Army Band of the Ohio Army National Guard brings their exciting America 250 show to Memorial Hall in Cincinnati's historic Over-the-Rhine on Friday, July 3, 2026, at 7 p.m., with generous support from Jim & Marilyn Wellinghoff. This live performance celebrates the 250th birthday of the United States with music from across the nation, performed by the Guard’s finest musicians. It will be an evening of dynamic performances, exciting music, and celebration. From revolutionary fife and drum to modern country, from classic Sousa marches to hard-charging rock-and-roll, the 122nd Army Band will cover a breadth of American music and offers something for everyone. And, of course, patriotic favorites that pay tribute to America and the veterans that secured and defended the last 250 years of independence!
Reserve your FREE tickets here.
ABOUT THE 122ND ARMY BAND
Based in Columbus, The 122nd Army Band performs across Ohio and beyond, serving as musical ambassadors for the Army National Guard. Their concerts feature a variety of ensembles and music styles, making every performance memorable and meaningful. We hope you'll join us for this one-of-a-kind event! Bring your family, invite your friends, and join the 122nd's Soldier-Musicians to celebrate 250 years of American freedom and independence! For more information, visit our website. We look forward to seeing you at Hamilton County Memorial Hall for a night of music and community spirit!
Memorial Hall Voted "Best Concert Venue" by Cincinnati Magazine!
We're thrilled to announce that Hamilton County Memorial Hall, “home” of the Longworth-Anderson Series, was recently voted our region's "Best Concert Venue" by Cincinnati Magazine readers.
To be voted as such in a city bursting with excellent venues is an incredible honor. There's also some poetry in receiving this recognition as we prepare to celebrate the building's 10th anniversary post-renovation.
Thanks to the collaboration of Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS—our nonprofit helping to guide and preserve Memorial Hall since 2004), Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation (3CDC—operations and programs manager), and Hamilton County (Memorial Hall's owner), this historic building underwent an $11.2-million comprehensive renovation and modernization in 2015-16, resulting in the first-class performance and event space it is today. Over the past three years, we partnered on a building assessment study and capital campaign to raise an additional $1.1 million from the Friends of Memorial Hall, including $500,000 from Hamilton County, for high-priority projects including: roof system replacement; proscenium lighting upgrades; restoration of historic doors, windows, and decorative painting; and safety improvements.
Preservation of this 1908 Beaux Arts treasure is ongoing, and each of Memorial Hall's partners (CMHS, 3CDC, and Hamilton County) plays a pivotal role in its continued success. CMHS’s leadership in advocacy, fundraising, and our popular Longworth-Anderson Series undoubtedly contributed to this award.
As patrons and supporters of Memorial Hall, this recognition belongs to YOU, our community, as much as it does to us. Thank you for your investment in the venue we all love, and for trusting our team to protect this "perfect gem" of a theater for generations to come.
Memorial Hall “Taste and Tour” with Bill Baumann
Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS) is pleased to present our new Taste and Tour series at historic Memorial Hall, with generous support from the Friends of Memorial Hall. Join us Tuesday, May 26, 2026, for a one-hour tour hosted by Bill Baumann, Chair Emeritus of the CMHS and Longworth-Anderson Series. Learn about Memorial Hall's storied past and stunning 1908 Beaux Arts architecture while enjoying complimentary, artfully crafted charcuterie from Taste of Boujie.
CHARCUTERIE & SELF-PAY BAR (21+): 5:30-6 p.m.
TOUR: 6-7 p.m. starting at the Memorial Hall front steps and moving inside
FREE | 18+ | MAXIMUM CAPACITY 50
REGISTER HERE
Melvin Grier and Jim Wellinghoff Named Trustees Emeriti of Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society
CMHS & LAS Chair Maggie Brennan with Trustees Emeriti Jim Wellinghoff & Melvin Grier and Cori Wolff, Executive Director of the CMHS and LAS
Memorial Hall was built to honor service and strengthen community—so it’s especially fitting to recognize two individuals whose dedication has helped secure its future. After more than a decade of steady guidance and hands-on leadership, Melvin Grier and Jim Wellinghoff are transitioning from active board service to the honorary advisory role of Trustee Emeritus.
Their contributions helped shape Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS)’s long-term direction and strengthen our foundation of preservation, programming, and partnerships today.
Jim Wellinghoff
Jim’s connection to Memorial Hall is deeply aligned with the building’s purpose. A Vietnam War veteran, he has brought a perspective rooted in service, responsibility, and commitment.
Throughout his tenure with CMHS, Jim offered strategic guidance informed by decades of civic involvement, including his presidency of the Mercantile Library. Within CMHS, he served as Treasurer and drew on his background in investment management to support financial stewardship and long-range planning.
A defining part of Jim’s legacy is preservation. He helped shape the vision behind Memorial Hall’s Second Century Fund, ensuring long-term care of this treasured venue for generations to come. He contributed to major preservation milestones, including advancing the $1-million Annie W. and Elizabeth M. Anderson Foundation gift tied to the 2015 renovation and naming of the Longworth Anderson Stage. Jim also helped create the philanthropic backbone of the Longworth-Anderson Series, leveraging key relationships such as The George and Margaret McLane Foundation annual matching grant.
Melvin Grier
Melvin has served CMHS with a distinctive Cincinnati lens—one rooted in a career dedicated to documenting the city. A U.S. Air Force veteran, his experience naturally aligns with Memorial Hall’s mission and history.
Over nearly ten years on the board, Melvin became a key voice in shaping CMHS as both a preservation organization and cultural institution. A Greater Cincinnati Journalism Hall of Fame inductee and respected photojournalist, he offered invaluable insight into how Memorial Hall communicates, builds trust, and represents itself to the broader community. His nonprofit work with arts organizations such as FotoFocus helped connect CMHS to Cincinnati’s creative ecosystem.
Melvin’s impact is especially visible in programming. His advocacy helped sustain a vibrant jazz thread within the Longworth-Anderson Series, reflecting Cincinnati’s musical history while welcoming world-class artists. He also encouraged thoughtful board growth and leadership that better reflects the full diversity of our city.
Honoring the past, strengthening the future
Trustee Emeritus is a recognition of service that has meaningfully shaped an organization’s trajectory. We are grateful for Melvin Grier and Jim Wellinghoff—their leadership, their belief in Memorial Hall, and the lasting impact of their work.
Cincinnati Gives 2025 Challenge
The Cincinnati Gives Challenge is a friendly fundraising competition whereby local nonprofits compete to raise the most money, with the top teams winning cash prizes from Cincinnati Magazine. We’re back at it this year and looking for your support! The 2025 challenge runs from December 1 at 5 p.m. through December 11 at 5 p.m.
In the spirit of Giving Tuesday, we invite you to join the “Friends & Founders of the Longworth-Anderson Series” and be part of the exciting story of Cincinnati’s multi-genre, contemporary music series featuring Grammy Award-winning talent at beautiful, historic Memorial Hall.
Memorial Hall “Taste and Tour” with Bill Baumann
Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS) is pleased to present our new Taste and Tour series at historic Memorial Hall, with generous support from the Friends of Memorial Hall. Join us Tuesday, January 6, 2025, for a one-hour tour hosted by Bill Baumann, Chair Emeritus of the CMHS and Longworth-Anderson Series. Learn about Memorial Hall's storied past and stunning 1908 Beaux Arts architecture while enjoying complimentary, artfully crafted charcuterie from Taste of Boujie.
CHARCUTERIE & SELF-PAY BAR (21+): 5:30-6 p.m.
TOUR: 6-7 p.m. starting at the Memorial Hall front steps and moving inside
FREE | 18+ | MAXIMUM CAPACITY 50
REGISTER HERE
Community Nights at Findlay Market
Enjoy the arts at Findlay Market!
Community Nights at Findlay Market is a series aimed at bringing the community together and strengthening the bond between the historic Over-the-Rhine market and its neighbors. The events will take place at Jane’s (corner of Elm and Elder Streets) every second and fourth Wednesday of the month from April to October 2025. Each iteration will feature a unique theme, with local nonprofits invited to set up tables, offer fun activities, and share helpful information.
The initiative is all about creating a welcoming space where people of all ages can come together, learn about valuable community resources, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the market. It also supports cultural and income diversity by making the market more accessible to all community members and promoting a diverse range of organizations. Whether you’re interested in music, film, theater, or visual arts, there’s something for you. Mix and mingle with fellow creatives, try something new, and grab a drink or two!
Visit our Longworth-Anderson Series information table on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Learn about our contemporary music series, participate in an interactive activity, and win exciting prizes like Friends & Founders membership, complimentary concert tickets, and Memorial Hall swag.
Participating Organizations
Memorial Hall and Wm. H. Lytle Post No. 47, Grand Army of the Republic
1909 Memorial Service at Memorial Hall: Wm. H. Lytle Post No. 47, G.A.R.
On Sunday, December 26, 1909, the Wm. H. Lytle Post No. 47 of the Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) held its annual memorial service at the newly completed Memorial Hall auditorium in Cincinnati. The preserved program from this event offers valuable insight into how Civil War veterans continued to honor their fallen comrades well into the 20th century.
The Grand Army of the Republic and Post 47
The G.A.R. was a national fraternal organization composed of Union veterans of the American Civil War. Founded in 1866, it played a significant role in shaping post-war public memory, advocating for veterans’ rights, and establishing Memorial Day as a national holiday. Posts were organized across the country by state departments. Post No. 47, based in Cincinnati, was one of several in the area and named in honor of General William Haines Lytle.
About General William H. Lytle
William Haines Lytle (1826–1863) was a Cincinnati-born lawyer, state legislator, and Union brigadier general. He was also a well-known poet, remembered especially for his work “Antony and Cleopatra.” Lytle died in battle at Chickamauga, and his funeral in Cincinnati became a city-wide event. Thousands gathered as his riderless horse, Fallaballaugh, led the procession—boots reversed in the stirrups, a time-honored military symbol of loss. He was laid to rest at Spring Grove Cemetery, and his legacy endures in Cincinnati landmarks like Lytle Park and Memorial Hall.
Memorial Hall and Its Purpose
Memorial Hall was constructed between 1908 and 1909 as a dedicated space to honor veterans of the Civil War and to host civic and commemorative events. Wm. H. Lytle Post No. 47 was among the organizations that regularly held meetings and ceremonies there.
Overview of the 1909 Program
The printed memorial program includes several key sections:
Roll of Deceased Members — The front page lists members of Post 47 who died in 1909, along with their Civil War units, dates of death, and ages. These records are particularly useful for researchers and genealogists, offering details such as “Co. D, 28th O.V.I.” (Company D, 28th Ohio Volunteer Infantry).
Order of Service — The memorial program included a structured sequence of musical and spoken elements, such as:
Patriotic hymns including “America”
Recitations including “The Battle Hymn of the Republic”
Vocal and piano performances
A memorial address by Mr. Harley V. Speelman
Bugle taps by Mr. Jacob Hoos
Participation by students from the 27th District School
Post Officers for 1909 — The program also lists the officers of Post 47, including:
Commander John Brinkman
Senior Vice Commander Fred Rullkoetter
Other officers such as the adjutant, chaplain, and quartermaster
The G.A.R. insignia—a five-pointed star with Union imagery—is featured prominently on the program. The piano used for the event was provided by the Wm. H. Lytle Post No. 47 , then located at 222–224 West Fourth Street in Cincinnati.
Historical Significance
This document provides a detailed example of how G.A.R. posts commemorated their members and maintained civic visibility. Organizations like Post 47 often participated in public observances, parades, and political events tied to Union veteran identity. Archival references also note that the Wm. H. Lytle Post had an active drum corps in the 1890s.
These materials are valuable for historians studying post-war veteran culture, public memory, and community organization in the early 20th century. They also serve as a resource for those researching family history or the activities of specific Civil War units.
—Kyle Fugate
Special thanks to Colonel Todd Mayer of John R. Little Post Inc. VFW No. 3186 for providing these historical images
Capturing Legacy: Photographer J. Miles Wolf on His Work with Memorial Hall
When Cincinnati-based photographer J. Miles Wolf was asked to photograph Memorial Hall, it was an opportunity to connect his finely honed craft with a space rich in history, architecture, and emotion.
Miles first discovered photography in college, where a single course set him on a path that would span decades. In the early years of his career, he traveled extensively—capturing the landscapes of the American Southwest and the charm of European cities. His work was exhibited in galleries across the country, but eventually, Miles sought to focus closer to home. Through workshops and collaborative efforts, he refined his ability to photograph architecture with a deep understanding of structure and space.
What sets Miles apart is not just his eye for detail but his process. For the first 30 years of his career, he developed his own film, meticulously preparing every shot with the precision required before the age of editing software. Shooting with large-format 4x5 film taught him patience and attention to detail—skills that would become foundational as he worked alongside interior designers and began reverse-engineering spaces to showcase their most striking qualities. His early focus on art deco architecture fostered a deep appreciation for the intricacies of design, which remains evident in his work today.
Miles' connection to Memorial Hall began when longtime supporter Bill Baumann saw his work displayed at a FotoFocus event and invited him to photograph the building. For Miles, it was the perfect alignment of opportunity and intention. He approached the project with a desire to create images that felt both warm and welcoming—photos that could invite newcomers in and also resonate with those who already know and love the Hall.
“I want to make the interior so inviting that people want to go see it,” Miles shared. “It shows people how beautiful these spaces are. To see that auditorium is very eye-opening.”
He emphasized the challenge and reward of architectural photography:
“You can’t just go to a location and think you’re gonna get it,” he said. “It’s not always bright blue skies, with fluffy white clouds. You’re knocking on doors, climbing on roofs to get the shot—all while balancing the lighting, time of day, and countless other factors.”
Technology has expanded what’s possible. Miles spoke enthusiastically about how drone photography has opened new creative perspectives, particularly for a building like Memorial Hall. Even with decades of experience, these tools allow him to rediscover spaces and compose images in ways previously unimaginable.
Looking ahead, Miles is turning his lens toward nature and landscapes, including an upcoming project with the Behringer-Crawford Museum. While he will always hold a deep connection to architectural subjects, he’s eager to explore storytelling through more personal and environmental imagery.
In all his work, Miles encourages viewers to slow down, look closer, and appreciate the quiet beauty in the details—something Memorial Hall offers in abundance.
—Kyle Fugate
Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Linda Heldman Greenberg
Honorary Co-Chairs of the Longworth-Anderson Series: Linda Heldman Greenberg, Jerry Kathman, and Amy Goodwin
The Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS) mourns the loss of Linda Heldman Greenberg, a cherished friend, passionate arts advocate, and foundational force behind the creation of our Longworth-Anderson Series (LAS). Linda passed away peacefully on June 18, 2025, at the age of 71, leaving behind a legacy of service, vision, and generosity that will long be remembered.
A native Cincinnatian raised in Bond Hill and a longtime resident of Hyde Park, Linda brought grace, warmth, and insight to every role she embraced—whether as a mother, grandmother, counselor, volunteer, or arts leader. After earning her master’s degree in mental health counseling from Wright State University, she worked as a behavioral specialist at Jewish Hospital, where she was known for her empathy and dedication to others. Her philanthropic impact reached across the city, supporting institutions such as Playhouse in the Park, the Cincinnati Ballet, and the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati.
In 2017, Linda joined the CMHS board of trustees, serving with distinction, including a term as vice president. But her involvement began well before then. Linda was instrumental in the founding and early growth of the LAS. Her deep love of music—especially Americana, folk, bluegrass, and country—made her a trusted voice in artist selection and series direction.
She also helped form the LAS’s essential support group, the “Founders of the Longworth-Anderson Series,” serving as one of its honorary co-chairs for eight seasons. Her leadership helped shape not only the music we present, but the community we’ve built.
“Memorial Hall, the CMHS, and the LAS all benefited greatly from Linda’s valuable advice, service, and generosity,” said Bill Baumann, Chair Emeritus of the CMHS and Chair of the LAS. “It was a distinct pleasure to work alongside her for the betterment of these organizations.”
Linda will be remembered not only for what she gave, but for how she gave it: with heart, elegance, and joy.
—Kyle Fugate
Honoring a Cincinnati Treasure: Marvin Smith Way
There’s a new street in Cincinnati with a name that carries the flavor, spirit, and heart of the community—Marvin Smith Way.
For those who know Marvin, the honor comes as no surprise. The man behind Ollie’s Trolley, Marvin Smith is more than a restaurateur—he’s a host with a steady, smiling presence in the lives of so many in Cincinnati. Now, his contributions have been permanently recognized with a street named in his honor.
“When I heard the news that there would be a street dedicated in his name, I teared up—what a befitting honor to be bestowed upon someone who’s done so much for his community,” said Cori Wolff, Executive Director of the Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society and Longworth-Anderson Series (LAS), at the recent unveiling ceremony held by the City of Cincinnati.
Over the past seven years, Marvin and his team have been an essential partner to our series—not just as caterers, but as collaborators who elevate each event. Every performance night, Marvin brings decades of experience and compassion to the table.
“If you know Marvin, what we advertise as complimentary ‘light’ bites are actually a gourmet buffet dinner, thoughtfully curated for each occasion.”
Ask anyone who’s attended one of the LAS shows, and they’ll tell you: the food is unforgettable—not just for its quality, but for the warmth Marvin brings to each dish. He doesn’t just feed people. He welcomes them, cares for them, and makes every guest feel like they’re family.
“This is because Marvin extends the same pride, creativity, generosity, and hospitality at our events as you'll find at Ollie's Trolley.”
And that’s the magic of Marvin Smith.
“As he will tell you, the key to success is more than hard work and amazing food—but knowing how to treat people right.”
Marvin has made his mark on this city. And now, thanks to Marvin Smith Way, that legacy is carved into the streets of Cincinnati for generations to come.
Thank you, Marvin—for the meals, the memories, and always showing us what true service looks like. This is a recognition that couldn’t be more deserved.
—Kyle Fugate
Mavis Staples Returns to Memorial Hall: A Living Legend Reconnects with Cincinnati on July 22
Photograph by Myriam Santos
On July 22, 2025, the Longworth-Anderson Series at Memorial Hall will welcome back one of America’s most celebrated musical icons: Mavis Staples. The Grammy-winning vocalist, Civil Rights icon, and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee returns to Cincinnati for a legendary performance that promises to be both soul-stirring and unforgettable.
At 84, Staples continues to tour and record with a spirit that defies expectation. Her unmistakable voice—gritty, warm, and powerful—still carries the weight of a lifetime spent singing for justice, joy, and connection. From her early days with The Staple Singers to her critically acclaimed solo career, Staples has stood at the crossroads of gospel, soul, and protest music, giving voice to the struggles and hopes of multiple generations.
This is not her first time gracing the Memorial Hall stage. Staples last performed in Cincinnati as part of the Longworth-Anderson Series in April 2018.
Her return this summer is more than just an encore. It’s a cultural reminder for Cincinnati—a city with its own deep roots in Black musical tradition and activism. It’s also a continuation of the Longworth-Anderson Series’ mission to present artists whose work pushes boundaries and resonates far beyond the stage.
Staples’ influence is boundless. With hits like “I’ll Take You There,” “Respect Yourself,” and “Freedom Highway,” her music has long been a rallying cry for progress. In recent years, she has recorded with artists like Jeff Tweedy, Ben Harper, and Hozier, bringing her message and sound to new generations. While the world has changed dramatically since she first began performing in the 1950s, her commitment to truth, joy, and resistance through music has never wavered.
Her upcoming show at Memorial Hall offers Cincinnati audiences a rare opportunity to witness that legacy in real time. Her powerful message transcends generations, and continues to shape the future.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering her work for the first time, July 22 is your chance to hear a voice that helped shape American history—and still refuses to be silenced.
Join us for an unforgettable night with Mavis Staples—a voice of the past, the present, and the future! Tickets available now at www.memorialhallotr.com.
—Kyle Fugate
Get to Know Kyle Fugate, Our Marketing & Development Coordinator!
Join us as we shine a spotlight on Kyle Fugate, Marketing & Development Coordinator for the Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS) and Longworth-Anderson Series (LAS). A proud Cincinnati native and University of Cincinnati alumnus with a degree in Marketing and International Business, Kyle is deeply committed to contributing to the cultural vibrancy of his hometown. From his passion for the unique intimacy of Memorial Hall to his creative approach to marketing and love for music and adventure, let's learn more about what makes Kyle an invaluable part of our team.
1. What do you love about Memorial Hall?
Memorial Hall is not only architecturally stunning, but it also offers an unparalleled, intimate performance experience. I still remember the first time I saw Pink Martini perform there—it truly felt as though they were playing just for me. The venue has a rare ability to create a personal connection between artists and audience, which makes it very special.
2. How did you get into marketing?
I've always been drawn to creative expression, building relationships, and storytelling. Marketing felt like a natural extension of those passions. I knew early on that I wanted a career that allowed me to think creatively while also making a meaningful impact. I find it incredibly rewarding to blend creativity with purpose.
3. What are you most proud of accomplishing so far?
Several of my current videos have been incredibly rewarding to produce from start to finish, but I am especially proud of the poster I produced to promote LAS! I was able to hand-draw Memorial Hall in my own creative way and the result is something I am truly proud of. Take a peek at your favorite local shops and see it for yourself!
4. What do you see as our biggest marketing opportunities?
Personally, I see amazing potential and growth in the future. After some detailed analysis of customer trends, I see the opportunity to expand our efforts in all 52 neighborhoods. Despite the quality and uniqueness of our events, many people simply don’t know we exist. Increasing visibility—both within the city and beyond—is essential. By leveraging digital platforms, community partnerships, and targeted campaigns, we can amplify our message and ensure that more people have the chance to experience what makes Memorial Hall and our series so special.
5. Do you have any favorite Longworth-Anderson Series concerts?
So far, Pink Martini takes the cake for me! As my first concert at Memorial Hall, it holds a very special place in my heart. With some exciting potential performances in the pipeline, it will be interesting to see if this statement changes by the end of the season!
6. You're a musician yourself! What kind of music do you enjoy playing and listening to?
Personally, I have been playing guitar for as long as I can remember! Over the years, I have focused mainly on fingerstyle guitar. Currently, some of my favorite songs to play are songs like “What Once Was” by Hers, or any and all indie and classic rock!
7. Fun facts, or anything else we should know?
I’m definitely an adrenaline junkie at heart! Over the past few years, I’ve trained and competed in downhill longboarding races across the country! Additionally, I was fortunate to study abroad during college, spending time in both Santiago, Chile, and Barcelona, Spain. I can’t wait for my next adventure!
Cincinnati Gives 2024 Challenge
The Cincinnati Gives Challenge is a friendly fundraising competition whereby local charities compete to raise the most money, with the top teams winning cash prizes from Cincinnati Magazine. We’re back at it this year and looking for your support! The 2024 challenge runs from December 2 at 5 p.m. through December 12 at 5 p.m.
In the spirit of Giving Tuesday, we invite you to join the “Friends & Founders of the Longworth-Anderson Series” and be part of the exciting story of Cincinnati’s multi-genre, contemporary music series featuring Grammy Award-winning talent at beautiful, historic Memorial Hall.
LAS is Gold Star Rock Star of the Week at Rockin' the Roebling
The Longworth-Anderson Series is the Gold Star Rock Star at the Rockin’ the Roebling summer concert series tonight at Moerlein Lager House (115 Joe Nuxhall Way). Noah Wotherspoon is performing—LAS fans might remember Noah from his past performance at our Jimmie Vaughan pre-concert reception. Split-the-pot tickets will be sold, with profits benefiting the Longworth-Anderson Series and Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society. Hear some great music and support future Memorial Hall concerts tonight, Thursday, June 20, 2024, at 6 p.m. RSVP here.
Lighting Up Memorial Hall
In 2012, the Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS) led the revitalization of Memorial Hall, resulting in its comprehensive renovation completed in 2016 by the Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation (3CDC), CMHS, and Hamilton County.
Extensive improvements were made to increase audience and performer comfort, modernize amenities, and enhance performances. The renovation included new, larger restroom facilities, a new HVAC system, new and more comfortable seating, the addition of a contemporary catering kitchen, and backstage crossover space for performers.
But there’s always more to be done to preserve this gem of a theater! Although $11.2 million was spent on the renovation, it was not enough to address every aspect of the building. When a structure is more than 110 years old, maintenance must be an ongoing process.
You may have noticed that the light bulbs on the proscenium arch above the stage and the beautiful Tiffany glass chandeliers have been increasingly going dark. Changing these bulbs is not as easy as it may look.
This is a complicated issue with many dimensions:
• Theatrical Tech and Bulbs – Because the theater uses sophisticated technology to dim all of the lights in the theater, it requires a special kind of bulb. Unfortunately, the bulbs that were specified when the renovation was completed have been discontinued. The company Memorial Hall uses for theatrical technology, ETC, has recommended a new combination of lighting dimming system and bulb to maintain high standards.
• Plaster and Sockets – The sockets and wiring inside the proscenium arches are largely the same wiring from 1908. Moreover, the shape of light bulbs was different when they were first installed. The socket depth and plaster rosettes (decorative rings) around each bulb were suited to an elongated bulb. Put simply, modern bulbs can’t reach the recessed obsolete sockets.
• Access to Chandeliers – When the building opened in 1908, a pulley system was used to lower the four Tiffany glass chandeliers to the floor for the light bulbs to be changed. That system disintegrated over time. When the building was renovated, floor-to-ceiling scaffolding was installed to give access to the chandeliers. Without the scaffold, no bulb-changing extension or lift is able to reach these bulbs.
In order to fully light up Memorial Hall:
1) The theater must replace the dimming system for the proscenium and house lighting.
2) Memorial Hall must buy new bulbs that will perform effectively with that system.
3) Scaffolding must be built to access the proscenium.
4) A plasterer must remove the rosettes to allow access to electrical components.
5) An electrician will then install contemporary wiring and light sockets with appropriate depth.
6) The plasterer will reinstall the rosettes.
7) A painter will touch up the areas around the rosettes.
8) A rigger will install a new pulley system to lower the front two chandeliers to the ground to allow them to be changed. An electrician will install a long “tail” of cable to allow the chandeliers to travel.
It is projected that this two-week project will cost approximately $60,000 with the following budget:
Proscenium Arches
New Dimming System: $10,000
New Bulbs: $4,500
Scaffolding: $6,800
Plaster Work: $13,500
Electrical Work: $20,000
Painter: $2,000
Chandeliers
Pulley System: $2,500
Electrical Work: $500
TOTAL: $59,800
Please consider a donation to help keep the proscenium Lights On at Memorial Hall! Even a small gift will go a long way toward ensuring that our treasured venue looks as fantastic as the day it opened nearly 120 years ago.
Donations to nonprofit Memorial Hall are also fully tax-deductible.
Click here to donate online, call the Memorial Hall box office at (513) 977-8838 (Tuesday – Friday, 1-6 p.m.), or mail a check payable to “Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society” to 1225 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202.