The Eye of the Beholder
By: Daniel Applegate, President
January 24, 2009

Even with ample evidence of the past few weeks - cold temperatures, snow, freezing rain and ice - to the contrary, the calendar tells us that we are nearing the end of winter and will soon be embarking on yet another spring.  As further proof that winter is winding-down, daylight is, delightfully, longer now than it was just a few short weeks ago.

With the passage of winter and the coming of spring, experience tells us here at Arlington that not far behind will be the annual deluge of visitors and callers to the Administrative Center to comment on our grave decoration policies.  Some will argue, vociferiously, that our policies are far too restrictive and limits their individuality; others will lobby just as passionately for policies that are even more restrictive.  The subject of grave decorations, it seems, is akin to beauty in that it's all in the eye of the beholder.

Based on the input we receive from both sides of this issue, we understand that satisfying a majority, let alone everyone, is about as likely as, well...the sun rising in the west and setting in the east.  Therefore, as stewards of the cemetery, we have focused our efforts on developing reasonable policies that emphasize fairness for all of our constituients (lot owners, family, friends, visitors).  Fairness, as we define it, means that we permit some limited grave decorations for limited periods of time; it does not mean that anything goes.  A further goal, however, is our vision to maintain the original intent of a "memorial garden" cemetery.  A "memorial garden" is dedicated to the principal that the grounds will retain a park-like setting unencumbered by large granite monuments and other vestiges of the tradtional cemetery (for more on "memorial garden" cemeteries, follow this link).

We understand that some cemeteries permit unlimited amounts and types of decorations.  While that may be good for some lot owners, it is a bitter pill for others.  We here at Arlington happen to believe that it generally leads to an unkept, haphazard and chaotic appearance - eventually offends many and ultimately results in a certain tawdriness.  Furthermore, it can often lead to a decline in the maintenance capabilities of the cemetery, which obviously, has a negative impact on everyone.  Rather than follow that path, we believe our constituients would prefer for us to follow the higher-standard path.

As we approach spring, I will offer two practical suggestions which might forestall an agitated visit or call to our office.  First, before complaining that Arlington's policies are less fair and more restrcitive than those of other cemeteries, please take the time to investigate those other policies.  It has been my experience that, upon review, the other large, well-kept cemeteries in Cincinnati are every bit as restrictive, if not more so.  Second, follow the wisdom of "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" by taking a few minutes to become familiar with our policies: what is and what is not permitted as well as the timing for placement and removal.  Doing so will certainly limit the potential for frustration and friction between you and Arlington.  To learn more about our policies, click on this link.

Finally, I'm always glad to hear your comments regarding this matter so please feel free to contact me.  Happy end-of-winter!