Memorial Day draws attention to Ohio’s cemeteries

COLUMBUS – Memorial Day is a holiday established for the purpose of remembering and honoring those Americans who died while serving in the military and, as a result, is often the only time many Ohioans visit a cemetery.

If they arrive to find a cemetery they feel has been poorly maintained, the state agency that oversees those burial sites encourages them to report any issues they observe to cemetery management.

“For many Ohioans, Memorial Day is more than a time to barbecue or a day off from work…We encourage those who visit their loved ones and heroes to report any issues to the cemetery property owners. If issues cannot be resolved locally, do not hesitate to contact our agency,” said Sherry Maxfield said, director of the Ohio Department of Commerce, which includes the Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing, the agency charged with ensuring proper maintenance and operation of cemeteries.

The division’s regulations require cemeteries to be kept “clean and inviting.”

Guidelines include cutting the grass at least once a month, removing trash and funeral flowers monthly, along with maintaining and repairing roads, buildings, and fencing as necessary.

If visitors think those guidelines are not being met, Maxfield says they should bring it to the attention of the cemetery’s management and, if the issue remains unresolved, file a complaint with the Ohio Cemetery Dispute Resolution Commission.

Museums and Parades

The National Veterans Memorial and Museum has planned a series of special exhibits and events throughout Memorial Day weekend.

Exhibits and events include the USAA Poppy Exhibit, Rooftop CrossFit Hero Workout, The “Eyes of Freedom” Exhibition, Veterans Jiu Jitsu Seminar and the museum’s Memorial Day Ceremony Monday.

Admission to the museum and all Memorial Day events are free, Saturday through Monday.

The Worthington Memorial Day Parade, organized and sponsored each year by the American Legion Leasure-Blackston Post 239 in Worthington, will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Monday on E. Dublin-Granville Rd. and proceed south on High Street to Cemetery Drive, where a ceremony will begin at the conclusion of the parade at Walnut Grove Cemetery in the Circle of Honor.