Winter 2022
DEVELOPMENT NEWS, FORM 5 PROSTHETICS’ INSPIRING STORY + PARKS AND REC EVENTS Cover: Owen + founder Aaron Westbrook
This quarterly publication is provided by The City of Gahanna UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
1
BOSS GALS KNOW
Mention this ad for a FREE Dermaplane add-on with any facial 2
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
3
Contents
16 10 14
C OV E R S T O RY GAHANNA NONPROFIT IS REIMAGINING THE WORLD OF PROSTHETICS
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
8
IN THE KNOW
9
DEVELOPMENT NEWS
10
MIKE FAIST
12
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
14
DESIGNING THEIR FUTURE (SWAG)
22
PARKS & RECREATION
25
ON THE COVER:
Owen and founder of Form 5 Aaron Westbrook Photo by Sarah Pfeifer
25 4
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
16
Published by of the City of Gahanna.
, Inc. on behalf
Ads in this publication are sold by 614 Media Group, Inc. Ads are not necessarily endorsed by the City of Gahanna.
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
5
FROM THE MAYOR
E
ach new year presents a new chapter in the story of Gahanna, and there is much ahead of us as we collectively write our city’s story for 2022. The year began with four Councilmembers being sworn into office, bringing new voices along with valuable returning experience to city leadership. Boards and commissions welcomed new residents as volunteer members who will serve our city. New staff members are being added, including several police officers, to ensure that we are able to provide the best service possible for residents. Moving ahead in 2022, our projects at the City focus on three themes: Rebuilding, Reinforcing and Reimaging. Rebuilding: We have discussed rebuilding at length over the last two years and that is unlikely to change soon. While we have been working aggressively to catch up on longdeferred projects, there is much to be done and it will not be done overnight. 2022 will see another record-breaking street program, a new sidewalk maintenance program, and many other capital projects that will both catch us up and move us forward.
Reinforcing: Much can be accomplished when we work together. In 2020, we launched the Creekside Outdoor Refreshment Area in partnership with the Creekside District Alliance. In 2021, the City’s collaboration with Mifflin Township led to the opening of a state-of-the-art regional Communications Center that is a leader in communications and technology. Our partnerships with One Columbus, Ohio Department of Transportation and Ohio Department of Development have been fruitful, as we continue to bring needed jobs to Gahanna and garner outside funding for related infrastructure projects that help to ease the burden on our city budget. Our work in 2022 will reinforce our existing valuable partnerships and forge new relationships with community stakeholders and collaborators.
Reimagining: At this point in our City’s history, after the passage of Issue 12 and after sustaining operations through nearly two years of COVID, it is critical that we re-evaluate where we are headed and how we are going to get there. Moving forward without having a full understanding of our community needs, and without having a strategy to fulfill those needs, would be irresponsible. Among other things, 2022 will see the finalization of an overall re-development plan for the Creekside District, a refresh of the Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan, and most importantly, the creation of the City’s first-ever Long Term Capital Improvement Plan, which will prioritize projects and guide us in our future capital investments. All of these initiatives will require much public input as we work together to reimagine Gahanna’s future and set the roadmap that will guide us in years ahead.
There is much work ahead of us in 2022, and that is precisely why we are here. I look forward to working alongside you to make sure that we do the work that needs to be done, for the right reasons, for our residents and community of today and tomorrow.
- La urie Ja dw in L AU RIE JADWIN • MAYOR
SIDE NOTES Blue Jackets Partner with Gahanna Parks & Rec Are you a Columbus Blue Jacket fan? So are we! Support Gahanna Parks & Rec while attending the Blue Jackets Family Night game at 7 pm Friday, March 4 – simply by buying your tickets online at: BLUEJACKETS.COM/PARKSANDREC (Make sure to select Gahanna in the drop down menu)
6
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
Public Service: 2021 in Review Our Public Service and Engineering team is always hard at work – for YOU! With roughly 40 employees, this skilled crew manages 10 million dollars in capital maintenance projects and 20 million in utility operations. Here are a few highlights, courtesy of our #PublicServiceAllStars
CALENDAR These events are tentative and subject to change. Please confirm event details in advance.
February 13
February 16
February 19
CREEKSIDE COCKTAIL AND CHOCOLATE WALK Creekside Gahanna 3-6 pm Presented by Visit Gahanna, in partnership with Tina Wedebrook, realtor. Celebrate your valentine with a romantic stroll, sampling cocktails and chocolate.
WINTER FARMERS MARKET Gahanna Sanctuary 4-7pm Presented by Make Gahanna Yours. gahannafarmersmarket.com
GJEF VIRTUAL SILENT AUCTION Online, week-long event Registration: GJEF.org
February 26 GJEF GALA IN-PERSON AUCTION Jefferson Country Club, 6-10pm Food, fun and live music! Registration: Tickets: GJEF.org
March 16 WINTER FARMERS MARKET Gahanna Sanctuary 4-7pm Presented by Make Gahanna Yours. gahannafarmersmarket.com
April 2 GAHANNA’S EGGSHILARATING EGG HUNT Hannah Park 11am-1pm With thousands of eggs hidden throughout Hannah Park, this kid-friendly event will offer plenty of opportunities for little ones to search-and-find. Activities include face painting, the Easter Bunny and more. Free. No registration required. ExploreGahannaParks.com
GJEF GALA
April 20
April 25-29
WINTER FARMERS MARKET Gahanna Sanctuary 4-7pm Presented by Make Gahanna Yours. gahannafarmersmarket.com
EARTH DAY/ ARBOR DAY TREE GIVEAWAY City Hall In celebration of both Earth Day (April 22) and Arbor Day (April 29), the City of Gahanna will offer free trees for planting during this week, while supplies last. Gahanna.gov 614-342-4000
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
7
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT "Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun." ~ Mary Lou Cook Art Garden Academy This inspiring quote could well be Juli Hess’ personal motto. Hess is the owner of Gahanna’s Art Garden Academy (172 Granville St.), an artistic hub that has been encouraging creativity from children to adult students since 2009. A longtime resident of Gahanna, Hess raised her children here and loved the community. But she noticed that it had very little arts presence. “I thought I could help with that. It’s important for a community to have someplace for every member to call home. For some, it’s a field or a court or a stage, for us it's a studio,” she said. Working with a private art instructor from an early age, Hess said she was gifted with a creative, can-do spirit. The fact that her teacher brought her dog to work was a bonus. “Although we don’t have a studio dog, we do have the ability to bring into the studio everything a child needs to nurture that creative spirit,” she said. “That ability and awareness continues to inspire me today.”
In the 12 years since her business has been in operation, it has changed in more ways than one. Hess opened the studio in her home, but it didn’t take long until she needed more space. The Academy is now located in an older home, offering several studio spaces. It hasn't all been easy, however, as the Academy is still recovering from the pandemic. “Currently we are still recovering from the way the world ‘went home’ nearly two years ago. The studio contributed to the pre-pandemic hustle and bustle of getting your child into everything. Since then, our families have learned to be home,” she said. “We are still here with an amazing base of students who come weekly to spread their creative wings. That shows the kind of tenacity and perseverance we teach. Luckily, change is embedded in the artmaking process.” The thrill of teaching new students never wanes with Hess. “I love the opportunity to be available for our diverse community. Sometimes the importance of the arts is taught inside the home from an early age, where the expectations are already set,” she said. “I love teaching from scratch, letting the art process itself sort of tickle the creative spirit inside.” A dozen years into this venture, Hess is seeing her impact come full circle. “It took several years to know that my business was a success, but when the early students graduated and continued to come back to be a part of our studio community—then went on to make art elsewhere, I knew we were successful. Is there any greater success than to make an indelible impression on a being in the name of creativity? “We care less about the outcome of your work of art, but instead care deeply about what it takes inside you to get you there,” she said.
To learn more about Art Garden Academy, visit artgardenacademy.com
↑ Juli Hess and Team at Art Garden Academy
8
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
City Council Welcomes New Faces, Four Take the Oath of Office On Monday, January 3, four City Council members took the oath of office for the term commencing January 2022, through December 2025. Ward 1 representative, Stephen Renner, was sworn in for the 4th time alongside his wife and two sons. Stephen has served a total of 10 years, beginning in 2012. He is currently employed as the Director of Franklin County Department of Sanitary Engineering. Stephen was voted Council President for 2022, a role he also filled in 2013 and 2016. Ward 2 representative, Michael Schnetzer, took the oath of office for the 3rd time alongside his wife and two sons. He has served on City Council since January 2014. Michael currently works full time in the public finance industry. Michael was appointed Chair of the Finance Committee for 2022, a role he has served in for 8 of his 9 years on City Council. Ward 3 representative, Kaylee Padova, took the oath of office for the first time last month with her husband and daughter at her side. Kaylee is currently employed with GRIN, as a Pantry Manager. Ward 4 representative, Trenton Weaver, was also sworn in for the first time. Trenton is currently employed as the Supervisor of the Board of Revision in the Franklin County Auditor’s Office.
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
9
DEVELOPMENT NEWS
ADB SAFEGATE: Center of Innovation Breaks Ground in G-town ADB SAFEGATE (ADB), a leading provider of solutions that boost efficiency, safety and environmental sustainability for airports and airlines, has announced plans to establish a new Center of Innovation on Science Boulevard. A groundbreaking ceremony was held on the future site of the Center on December 7, with many leaders from ADB and the city in attendance. The company, who has called Gahanna home since 1983, will expand its presence and invest a total of $22.5 million in the entire project. Hiring for engineering, production and other roles will begin in 2022. Founded in Belgium in 1920, ADB has grown into a global brand with a significant business footprint in Ohio, Belgium, Sweden and China. With intelligent solutions spanning the airside for gate, airfield, tower and service, the company partners with airports and airlines worldwide to increase airport performance, from approach to departure. It began operations in Gahanna almost 40 years ago, and their current operations in the Columbus region employ 202 full-time employees.
10
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
↑ ADB Rendering of the project
↓ Joe Pokoj and Mayor Laurie Jadwin with the plans for the space
"
GAHANNA HAS ALWAYS BEEN HOME FOR US. IT'S RIGHT HERE NEXT TO THE AIRPORT, THAT'S IMPORTANT TO US.
"
- Joe Pokoj CEO Americas for ADB ↑ Moehring, Angelou, McGregor, Mayor Laurie Jadwin, Bowers, and Mularski break ground
ADB has been a premier employer and valued partner in the City of Gahanna for nearly four decades. Joe Pokoj, CEO Americas for ADB said Gahanna is more than a place to call home. “Gahanna has always been home for us. It’s right here next to the airport, that’s important to us. But it's more the relationship with Gahanna.” City of Gahanna Mayor Laurie Jadwin is thankful for ADB’s continued trust and investment in our City. “Their investment in the new Center of Innovation not only strengthens ADB’s presence in the aerospace industry, but also solidifies Gahanna’s support of ongoing regional growth in the valued research and development sector. As our city grows, and employers choose to grow in Gahanna, we will look to drive opportunities in STEM-focused careers through our partnerships
with both Gahanna Jefferson Schools and ADB Safegate to support these critical workforce opportunities.” Gahanna’s Economic Development Director Nate Strum said this is a significant expansion for our City. “As an international company, Belgiumbased, locating their North American headquarters and Center of Innovation here in our community, it really represents the ability for Gahanna to attract those pinnacle companies". For more information about ADB SAFEGATE, including their Center of Innovation, which is expected to open Fall 2022, visit adbsafegate.com
Watch the groundbreaking video here →
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
11
GAHANNA’S
MIKE FAIST ''West Side Story" Standout Mike Faist. Maybe you’ve heard of this guy. Actor. Dancer. Singer. Currently starring on the big screen in Steven Spielberg’s spectacular remake of "West Side Story". Nominated for a Tony Award for his role as Connor Murphy in the Broadway production of Dear Evan Hansen. Raised in Gahanna. (Yep. You read that correctly.) We caught up with Mike—who has been living in New York since he was 17 years old—to learn more about his journey from Gahanna to Broadway.
We know that you were inspired by musicals/theatre/movies early on. At what age did you KNOW you wanted to pursue acting as a career? “It was pretty early on. I remember watching "Singing in the Rain" as a kid and knowing I wanted to be like Gene Kelly. I asked my parents to get me in dance classes maybe when I was around 4 or 5. That led to children's theater and community theater and really anything I could get my hands on.”
Who were your personal mentors growing up, and why? Who taught you the most? “I was fortunate to have a lot of supportive adults in my youth, the majority of whom were women, and all very different women. My mother is a more grounded, (stubborn and relentless) person who knows how to get the job done. She is determined. She was a positive role model for me in showing how to take agency in your life. Things happen to all of us, but it's the choices we make that define who we are.”
What was it like growing up in Gahanna— with a determination to appear in theater/ movies? Did you feel that Gahanna/ Columbus offered good educational training options to help develop your skills to pursue a career in theatre? Which schools/ organizations/programs offered the most support? “I was relatively a normal kid growing up in Gahanna. I played baseball and took dance classes, and in my spare time would wear camo and roll around in dirt and go sludging through the creek pretending I was a soldier. I always liked playing pretend. Columbus had a lot to offer in the sense of opportunities for youngsters to perform. Columbus Children’s Theater , BalletMet ...These are a few. There are many community theaters. At the collegiate level there is Otterbein, CCM Baldwin Wallace, Oberlin. Honestly, I wish I knew more as to what was available to me but truthfully school never interested me as much as just moving to New York and getting started. At the end of the day, you just simply have to want it.”
What was your favorite role in high school theatre productions? My favorite role that I played while in High School was Simon in Jesus Christ Superstar. That show has always been a favorite of mine. Now that you’ve seen the finished movie, what’s your favorite scene in West Side Story and why? “America! It's just so joyous.” What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you? “I'll never tell.” Aside from your family, what do you miss about Gahanna? “The people are pretty great. Good midwestern folks with grounded sensibilities.” What advice would you give to your younger self? “Relax.” Finish this sentence: “Gahanna is …” “Gahanna was home. Gahanna was a place for me to feel safe while I explored who I was. I worked in Gahanna, it helped shape who I am.”
12
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
NOBLE CUT DISTILLERY
A Cut Above the Rest
↑ Miranda Lambert, whose bar, Casa Rosa, will be carrying Noble Cut
↓ Owner, Tony Guilfoy
"
We are doing more programming and working with restaurants and bars in Nashville, WHICH HELPS EXPAND OUR REACH AS A BRAND.
"
Whether you’re planning on hopping on the Ohio Distillery Trail, heading to Nashville for a weekend getaway, or heading out and about in Gahanna, you’re likely to run into Noble Cut Distillery and their unique, handcrafted spirits. Tony Guilfoy, Founder and Head Distiller at Noble Cut, turned this once hobby into a Gahanna distillery in 2015, later committing to it full time in 2017. Since then, good news and vibrant partnerships have been the norm. Guilfoy stated well-made, non-traditional products are a key component to the company’s success. “We focus on flavor profiles, great whiskey, ‘cello, and even vodka lines at Noble Cut,” he said. “In our whiskey production, we use real bourbon, and allnatural flavors, that taste like whiskey and the flavor that we added. Industry-wide, you often see these flavored whiskeys go through a very industrialized process.” These skillfully curated products –including their Limoncello and Orangecello – recently caught the eye of some well-known names in Music City. Beginning in October of 2021, Noble Cut’s spirits have been showcased at Miranda Lambert’s Casa Rosa, the Nashville bar and restaurant named for the country music singer. Florida Georgia Line, Jason Aldean and Luke Bryan-branded bars also feature drinks made with Noble Cut’s spirits.
- Tony Guilfoy, Founder of Noble Cut
Guilfoy said working with restaurants is crucial in expansion. “We are doing more programming and working with restaurants and bars in Nashville, which helps expand our reach as a brand.” Consumers outside of Ohio can also purchase Noble Cut products online, at barrelstation.com. When the Gahanna distillery started making its own products in 2018, it was Guilfoy running the operations and sales of the business. In the spring of 2021, it was clear that changes needed to be made to keep up with demand. Guilfoy brought in a group of investors and added full-time employees to prepare for higher demand. “We are in full expansion mode. We are purchasing bigger equipment. We are learning as we go,” he said. According to Guilfoy, some of Noble Cut’s more unique offerings have given them
an edge in the highly competitive industry. “We really kind of built the high-proof ‘cello category: Limoncello, Orangecello, Limecello, and Grapefruitcello.” And Guilfoy isn’t resting on his laurels, either. With a peach whiskey set to be released in April 2022 and two recently released vodka products, we’re likely to keep hearing about the little Gahanna distillery that could. Customers can book a tour through the Noble Cut website, and the Gahanna business has been added as a stop on the Central Ohio Distillery Trail. Noble Cut welcomes walk-in customers to tastings Wednesday through Friday, 12 – 5 pm and Saturdays, 11 am– 4 pm.
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
13
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
↓ Co-founders, Greg Bixler and Abe Wright
Design Outreach For local nonprofit Design Outreach, located on Johnstown Road, it all started halfway around the globe from Gahanna. When CEO and Co-founder Greg Bixler returned from a mission trip in Central Asia 15 years ago, he was determined to use his engineering skills to create a solution for one of the biggest challenges facing the world right now: water poverty. Recognizing that existing water pumps in developing countries often last only 6 months before breaking down, Bixler knew there had to be a better way. “If we can send a man to the moon, then I knew creating durable water pumps was doable,” he said. Collaborating with other engineers, he and Co-founder Abe Wright formed Design Outreach with the mission of creating lifesustaining technologies that alleviate global poverty. Their first goal: invent a new pump that could reach deeper into the ground than traditional hand pumps and last for decades without failure, providing rural communities with safe, reliable water. LifePump was created, and today, 161 installed LifePumps are providing communities with life-changing water in 10 countries across Africa, Central America and the Caribbean. Bixler, who is both a professional engineer and has his PhD from The Ohio State University, currently teaches at his alma mater in the College of Engineering, in addition to overseeing the day-to-day operations of
↑ Children with Design Outreach's life changing product
14
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
this growing organization. His worldview certainly impacted the overall direction of Design Outreach. “We’re really motivated by our Christian faith,” he said. “I was born in a country that isn’t facing these huge problems. This is where a nonprofit organization can step in and make a difference. Before, a lot of well-meaning nonprofits were failing to meet the water needs of communities in these developing countries. The water pumps kept breaking, and it was a severe problem that no one could ignore. Our team was determined to solve this problem, and it’s been critical to partner with both other nonprofits and corporations.” Design Outreach relies on volunteers who want to make a difference and values building relationships with people who have highly sought-after skill sets. They’ve attracted engineers and individuals in other important trades, including accounting, law, project management and business development. Some volunteers came from large, well-known corporations like Johnson & Johnson. It has proven to be an opportunity for people to continue to do what they love while making a real difference to solve a survival problem. “People are making a real impact, and it’s something to take a lot of pride in,” Bixler said. The organization is a great outlet for those with technical skills who want to make a visible, tangible difference by developing technologies to improve the lives of those living in poverty. In 2021, Design Outreach benefitted from dozens of subject matter experts giving over 6,000 professional hours to help create and scale the appropriate technologies. The Design Outreach employee base is
also growing. The current staff of 19 will soon grow to 23, according to Bixler. During the pandemic, Design Outreach’s work continued as many supporters collaborated virtually from all over the country, including Florida, Texas, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Indiana. No matter how far-reaching their influence, Bixler says Gahanna is home. “Coming from Battelle, I know that Gahanna is a great middle ground to access volunteers across Central Ohio, especially with the access points to I-270. Because we work with companies from all over the country and internationally, it’s so great to have the airport nearby, too. Gahanna is really great…it’s the best little town in America.”
↓ Clean water flowing into the Design Outreach cup
Learn more at doutreach.org More here! →
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
15
↓ Aaron Westbrook, founder of Form 5
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
16
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
How a Gahanna nonprofit launched by a high school student is reimagining the world of prosthetics, boosting those with limb differences. By Jack McLaughlin Photos by James DeCamp
A
aron Westbrook was born with a right arm that ends shortly after his elbow. And while many see his limb difference as a hindrance, it’s helped him—an Ohio State senior on the cusp of much bigger things—achieve more than many do in a lifetime. The New Albany High School alum is not only an accomplished photographer and on track to complete a business degree from OSU’s business school this spring, he also happens to be the founder and CEO of an impactful, Gahanna-based nonprofit that uses 3D printers to craft customizable prosthetics for those in need. For Westbrook, it all started—both his budding nonprofit and a personal hunger to grow himself and help others in the process—when he began his high school career. “It was in high school when I joined a group called the Nub Club, a support group for parents and kids which connected me to other people with limb differences,” he said. “I had gone my whole life up until (then) not knowing anyone like me, and so I did everything I could to plug into the whole experience.” And one of the ways he did so was by opting to try a prosthesis, something that was a first for the high schooler. But Westbrook wasn’t impressed with his prosthetic limb. It felt clumsy, uncomfortable, and seemed to only hide his limb difference, not actually offer any new functionality. And at such a high price point, he felt they should have offered much more.
↑ 3-D printed prosthetics
“I was exposed to what’s available and affordable, what’s accessible, and so many of those devices were very static and simple, they just didn’t have a lot of function,” he said. “I didn’t just want a mannequin hand that might help me blend in better.” It was around this time when New Albany High School launched a grantfunded program for students to work in a technology lab setting, and Westbrook saw an opportunity: If no one else was going to make a change in the industry, he would do so himself. After an inordinate amount of hard work, determination, and good oldfashioned research, Westbrook began creating his own fully-customized prosthetics with cutting-edge technology. “I mean, I never thought I would see a 3D printer in my life,” he said. “There was only one teacher in the school who knew how to use the printer, and I remember knocking on his door for help when he didn’t even know who I was.” As his confidence and technical skill grew, Westbrook purchased his own 3D printer (after raising the $2,400 needed through a kickstarter campaign), and launched Form 5, at the age of 16. The very first Form 5 prosthetic recipient was a child by the name of Maddie whose mother was a member of The Nub Club, as well as someone Westbrook will never forget. →
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
17
↑ Aaron Westbrook working the 3-D printer
“It was really important, not only in terms of getting her unique perspective, but also to understand my role in the process better,” he said. “We had a back and forth where I understood what she was asking in terms of where her device needed padding; where it was uncomfortable, because I had been there myself.” Another Form 5 recipient was a Lincoln High School graduate named Jodie, who also stands out in Westbrook's mind. “She told me she hadn’t been on a bike since she was a kid, and once she got her prosthetic she wanted to ride in the Pelotonia,” Westbrook said, noting that Jodie’s resolve inspired him to take on the ride for himself. “The next thing I knew, August came around and I rode the furthest I ever have on a bike.” Entering its fifth year as an entity, Form 5 is now ready to expand its reach. Previously, the group typically helped five individuals secure custom prosthetics each year, and Westbrook hopes to see that number growing in 2022, especially since Form 5 is also pairing with Nationwide Children’s Hospital to expand its reach in Greater Columbus.
And if you ask Westbrook how he was able to create a technology-based nonprofit from the ground up while in high school, or how he’s able to navigate the twists and turns of operating a complex organization all while juggling a fulltime course load, he’ll give you the same answer. “All of this really, it happened through the process of figuring out how things work, and how to make things happen,” he said. “As a person with a limb difference, that’s my experience; that’s what I have to do every day, often with tasks others take for granted. And when I applied that to something bigger, when I worked my way through these processes, I was able to make important things happen, and I don’t plan on slowing down.”♦
↑ A sticker showcased on Aaron's printer
18
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
↓ Aaron Westbrook demonstrates the prothetics
"
...I WAS ABLE TO MAKE IMPORTANT THINGS HAPPEN, AND I DON’T PLAN ON SLOWING DOWN.
"
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
19
The Gahanna Parks and Recreation Department is pushing forward into the future with the formulation of a refreshed master plan.
↑ Photo courtesy of Tim Courlasn
By Jack McLaughlin
From buttonbush swamps to a bevy of spring wildflowers, the City of Gahanna oversees a sweeping 750 acres of parkland and reserve (including the venerable Gahanna Woods State Nature Preserve), the most per capita in Central Ohio. And now, with a new comprehensive master plan taking shape, Gahanna’s Parks & Recreation Department is looking toward the future. According to Gahanna Parks and Recreation Director Stephania BernardFerrell, the city has had the desire to implement the Department’s 2006 comprehensive plan for some time. But now, Gahanna also has the financial ability to do so.
20
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • NOVEMBER 2021
The passage of Issue 12 in 2019, which shifted the income tax rate from 1.5 to 2.5 percent (with 75 percent of the additional 1% collected earmarked for capital projects), has opened the door to future progress, and will continue to do so. “The Gahanna Parks and Recreation Department had been challenged financially for many years,” BernardFerrell said. “Issue 12 created a funding mechanism to address years of deferred maintenance as well as aging and outdated facilities and playgrounds.” According to Gahanna Mayor Laurie Jadwin, financial limitations were one of the reasons that many of the city’s plans– practical and efficient as they may have been–were never put into motion.
“Issue 12 has significantly changed the landscape for what we are financially able to do for the community.” The funds from Issue 12 will be used for capital development, in addition to operational costs and regular upkeep of facilities. “We need to balance the desire for new amenities and the need to maintain what we currently have,” Bernard-Ferrell said. “We have a maintenance program now that was never able to run efficiently before due in large part to funding.” The Parks comprehensive master plan will include an evaluation of existing parks facilities, which will later be incorporated into the City’s first-ever long term capital improvement plan, added Mayor Jadwin.
"
WE WANT TO EMPHASIZE CONNECTING EVERYTHING TOGETHER...
"
- Stephania Bernard- Ferrell, Gahanna Parks and Recreation Director
And while it’s too soon to know all of the capital projects Gahanna has slated for 2022, there are several impactful projects for parks already on the agenda. One of them will be an expansion of the city’s trail system that connects to a larger portion of the existing trails. “We want to emphasize connecting everything together; we want to make the entire community walkable and bikeable,” Bernard-Ferrell said. Mayor Jadwin agreed that the city’s trails are a priority and believes the continued expansion of our trail system will not only benefit local residents, but also impact Gahanna’s regional connectivity. “It would connect us to other trails, and would better connect us to the region overall,” she said. The city is also making sure to include resident voices in the process of crafting the Parks master plan. “There will be many public engagement opportunities, including focus group meetings, community stakeholder meetings, input from the parks and recreation board, and resident surveys,” Bernard-Ferrell said. “Our focus as a city for 2022 is rebuilding, reinforcing and reimagining. Refreshing the parks master plan is one of several initiatives underway where we will reimagine and plan for the future of our community,” Mayor Jadwin said. “Having an achievable, realistic strategy for how we move forward is critical to ensuring that our residents know we are investing taxpayer dollars effectively and responsibly.” ♦
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • NOVEMBER 2021
21
↓ The SWAG program team at work
DESIGNING THEIR SWAG Program at GLHS FUTURE Unique delivers graphic arts expertise within educational platform.
↑ A completed piece from the team's campaign
By Mary Szymkowiak
T
heir team may be small, but they are mighty. Tapping into both their unique creativity skills and a talent for design, the students in the Schoolto-Work Advanced Graphics (SWAG) program at Gahanna Lincoln High school are creating realworld digital graphics and products that rival most design studios, and all while in an educational environment. What started as an innovative program to appeal to students interested in graphic design has resulted in something much more ambitious. After participating in SWAG, students gain the skills necessary to produce top-notch products now, and have the tools to pursue a career in the design field later, according to Ashley Lawson, GLHS Teacher and SWAG director. “SWAG was originally created a number of years before I started teaching at GLHS by my predecessor and a former principal. However, in 2013, when I started teaching at GLHS, SWAG was no longer being offered,” she said. “As the only Computer Art teacher at GLHS, I was inundated during my first year with requests from faculty and administrators for designs: t-shirts, certificates, posters, flyers, banners, you name it! I tried to complete as many as I could, but
22
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
there are only 24 hours in each day. So, during conversations with my colleagues about filling this need, I learned that there used to be this course called SWAG. And the rest is history.” SWAG students offer free graphic design services to district faculty and staff, community members, entrepreneurs, and local business owners. Their process includes working directly with clients, researching design topics related to each job, brainstorming ideas for meeting client goals, sketching drafts of initial thoughts, working cooperatively with other team members to get feedback, and submitting work to the client for final approval. Projects have included everything from business cards to murals. One of the largest SWAG initiatives created was a mural for the high school band room. Additionally, the program created a sensory obstacle course for Goshen Lane Elementary, and utility box wraps throughout the Gahanna community. The team has also worked with the school district on a wellness campaign creating “Got Fruit?", “Got Veggies?” and “Water First for Thirst” posters in a style similar to the “Got Milk?” campaign from the 1990s.
"SWAG DESIGNERS VERY CLOSELY MIRROR REAL-WORLD DESIGN WORK DURING THE COMPLETION OF
"
THIS PROJECT.
“Our work completed for the City of Gahanna Parks & Rec. Department’s seasonal hiring campaign is the most extensive job SWAG completes annually,” Lawson said. “With 30-50 individual images created in a typical year, SWAG designers very closely mirror real-world design work during the completion of this project. Student designers need to remain true to the “brand” as they create designs, and are responsible for crafting a variety of materials that will be seen by the community on social media and in printed form. They gain a wealth of knowledge on this one job alone!” That knowledge—in addition to the bevy of other skills and experience SWAG students glean during their time with the course— provides an outstanding foundation for a career in graphic arts, should they find their calling in the field. “I have former SWAG students who are currently in college working toward degrees in graphic design or visual communications. I also have had a handful of former SWAG students who left high school and went straight into the workforce,” Lawson said. “Those students who take both SWAG and Fab Lab [a GLHS fabrication program that is a chartered member of the MIT Global Fab Lab Network] have the skills some employers are looking for straight out of high school. So college is not always a necessity!” In addition to honing their creativity and design skills, Lawson sees students gaining the ability to think outside the box while developing stronger collaborative abilities. “Personally, my favorite aspect of SWAG is the relationships we build with each other and with our clients,” Lawson said. “Because the course is so specialized and requires a specific skillset, the design team is typically pretty small, 15 or so students. We spend a lot of time together immersed in creative experiences and, as a result, deep and lasting relationships are built. We truly become a family.” ♦ ↓ A utility box wrap at Creekside, created by the SWAG team
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
23
24
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
PARKS & RECREATION
These events are tentative and subject to change. Please confirm event details in advance. For additional program information and registration links, visit ExploreGahannaParks.com or call 614-342-4250.
AQUATICS
GOLF
Visit ExploreGahannaParks.com for updated pool hours, membership info, swim lessons, special events, and more!
Pool Memberships are on sale now! Take advantage of the 2022 EARLY BIRD SPECIAL (February 1-April 30, 2022) and receive 10% off regular rates. (Membership Key Tags, Pool Passes, and 2022 Seasonal Pool Information will be mailed out starting in April 2022.) Early Bird Rates (Through April 30, 2022)
Gahanna Resident
Non-Resident
2022 Membership Rates & Fees As the weather begins to change, our crews will be hard at work to prepare the course for another great season at the Gahanna Municipal Golf Course. Check online for more information about our operating hours, membership details, and to book a tee time!
RATES (R=resident, NR=Nonresident)
ADULT (AGES 18-54)
JUNIOR (UNDER 18) SENIOR (55+)
Single: ages 3 – 54
$144
$167
9 Holes
12R/14NR
10R/ 12NR
Couple: 2 people, same household
$225
$248
18 Holes
17R/19NR
15R/17NR
Family: 3 people, same household
$270
$293
WEEKEND/HOLIDAY
Family: 4 people, same household
$293
$315
9 Holes
14R/16NR
12R/14NR
Family: 5+ people, same household
$315
$338
18 Holes
19R/21NR
17R/19NR
Senior: ages 55+
$90
$113
ADDITIONAL 9 HOLES
5R/7NR
5R/7NR
Sitter Add-On*
$81*
$81* STANDARD RATE
*Must be purchased with another membership.
REGULAR RATES (BEGIN MAY 1, 2022)
MEMBERSHIP RATES
RESIDENT
Adult
$375
$427
Couple
$535
$640
Single: ages 3 – 54
$160
$185
Junior (under 18)
$268
$320
Couple: 2 people, same household
$250
$275
Senior (55+)
$268
$320
Family: 3 people, same household
$300
$325
Senior Couple
$428
$533
Family: 4 people, same household
$325
$350
Family: 5+ people, same household
$350
$375
Senior: ages 55+
$100
$125
Sitter Add-On*
$90*
$90*
*Must be purchased with another membership. To register for these programs, go to webtrac.gahanna.gov
GENERAL RECREATION PROGRAMMING
*Participants registered for both sessions will be provided with a supervised lunch break for continual care.
NEW! Spring Break Camps with Minds in Motion
Cyber Crawler Robot Camp 9 am – 12 pm | Mon Mar 28 – Fri Apr 1
Chemical Creations Camp 12:30 – 3:30 pm | Mon Mar 28 – Fri Apr 1
Gahanna Golf Course Clubhouse Calling all future robotic engineers! Learn the basics of coding and build and take home your very own CyberCrawler Robot with internal gear link, all-terrain wheel legs, LED lights, and programmable buttons. Design obstacles and maze courses with other participants and navigate your robot through the challenges! For 7 – 11 year olds. Cost (R/NR) $186/$232.50
Gahanna Golf Course Clubhouse Conduct a variety of scientific experiments and make and take home a wide assortment of doodads and formations that you create. Learn and discover many different scientific concepts through an entertaining and innovative approach. Learn about energy and molecules while creating some scary green slime, see a soda explode, experience a really powerful magnet, make a UV bracelet, and more! For 6 – 11 year olds
Cost (R/NR) $193/$241.25 UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
25
PARKS & RECREATION 26
OUTDOOR EXPLORATION Registration is required for most of these programs (even if they are free). Please visit webtrac.gahanna.gov to learn more.
Spring Wildflower Walk 10 -11:30am | Sat Apr 9
Free Tree Giveaway 9 am-5 pm | Mon Apr 25 – Fri Apr 29
Gahanna Woods Join Parks Horticulture staff on a frolic through the forest. We’ll observe an array of unique spring ephemerals, trees and wildlife. Wear comfortable shoes or boots that can get dirty and bring a camera, as these spring beauties are quite photogenic! Cost: Free
City Hall Stop by City Hall during normal business hours the week between Earth Day and Arbor Day to pick up a free tree seedling while supplies last. Proper planting instructions will be provided. Cost: Free
Spring Into Volunteering 8-10 am | Sat May 14
Kayak Float 5-7pm | May 16, 2022
Location TBD Celebrate Earth Day, Arbor Day, and the arrival of spring by volunteering with the Parks Division. We will be planting trees, so be sure to bring gloves, water, and appropriate footwear. All participants will be entered into a raffle to win free trees! Cost: Free
Friendship Park to Pizzurro Park Join us on an evening paddling adventure on the water! Explore Gahanna’s beautiful waterways and learn a bit about our local ecosystem from the Parks and Recreation guides! Certified instructors will provide a Paddling SmartStart introduction to kayaking. Kayaks (solo or tandem), life vests, and paddles will be provided and guides will assist participants along the float. Participants must transport themselves to the launch location (Friendship Park) and from the ending location (Pizzurro Park). More information will be sent via email prior to the program. Level 1 paddling program. Participants must meet essential eligibility requirements. Participants 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. $15 per person
PADDLE GAHANNA
Paddle Gahanna Hours vary by location and day of the week Friendship Park and Creekside Park Marina Friendship Park to Pizzurro Park Gahanna Parks & Recreation’s Paddle Gahanna program returns for the 2022 season! Kayak rentals at Friendship Park and kayak or paddleboat rentals at Creekside Park must be made through paddlegahanna.com. Rentals must have an adult present (age 18+). Reservations are non-refundable. If weather or water conditions are unsafe, reservations will be either refunded or credited towards another day. For additional information, email paddle@gahanna.gov or call 614-342-4250. The schedule for the 2022 season will be announced in the spring! $10 per boat for a 30-minute rental. Paddlegahanna.com or Gahanna.gov/outdoor-experiences
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
Intro to Kayaking 101 3-5pm | June 1, 2022 Friendship Park Become a better kayaker! Whether this is your first time on the water or you have some prior kayaking experience, learn from certified instructors as they provide a Paddling SmartStart introduction to kayaking, including how and when use certain paddling equipment, paddling techniques and strokes, and plenty of on-water practice time. Kayaks (solo or tandem), life vests, and paddles will be provided. Prepare to get wet! More information will be sent via email prior to the program. Level 1 paddling program. Participants must meet essential eligibility requirements. Participants 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. $15 per person
SPECIAL EVENTS
Gahanna’s Eggs-hilarating Egg Hunt 11 am – 1 pm | Date TBD Hannah Park Bring out your family to Gahanna’s Eggshilarating Egg Hunt! The event will include thousands of eggs hidden throughout Hannah Park, plus kid-friendly activities, face painting, clown entertainment, and more. Learn more: gahanna.gov
Herb Day Presented by the Gahanna Convention and Visitor’s Bureau 9 am – 2 pm | May 7 2022 Creekside District Join in the 50th celebration of Gahanna's greenest day of the year: Herb Day! Plant sale, speakers, garden/craft vendors/culinary treasures and more. Cost: Free. No registration required. Learn more: ohioherbcenter.org/herb-day-2022
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
27
PARKS & RECREATION 28
Registration is required for most of these programs (even if they are free). Please visit webtrac.gahanna.gov to learn more.
NEW! Insta Hike 1-3 pm | Wednesday, May 25 Big Walnut Trail Area Bring your phone on this hike to share worthy backgrounds on Instagram. Explore much of the Big Walnut Trail area as a Parks & Rec staff member leads you to interesting landscapes and offers pointers for new photo perspectives. Starting point determined closer to date. Time may be extended or shortened depending on participant numbers and allowing each to have adequate time to practice their photos. Ages 14+. Free. Registration required.
NEW! Lyrids Meteor Shower Viewing 10-11:30 pm Friday, April 22 Woodside Green Park Join us in Woodside Green Park to get a view of the Lyrids Meteor Shower. Bring a blanket, thermos with a warm beverage, telescope (but your naked eye is fine too), and energy to have a late night of sky watching. A Parks & Rec staff member will be on site to keep the park open for night viewing and provide information. Free. No registration required.
Yoga Breathe and Flow Mar 8 – Apr 19 | 6:30 – 7:45 pm Mar 9 – April 20 | 11 am – 12:15pm Gahanna Golf Course Clubhouse Instructor Kristi teaches yoga asana (movement) linked to breath for mind body awareness. This class is geared to replenish and support the modern journey. Learn more about the other eight limbs of yoga and the mind body spirit awareness that makes yoga so different from just exercise during the class. R/NR | $100 /$115 | No class: Mar 29, 30, Apr 5 + 6
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
NEW! Meditative Hike Fri Mar 4 | Friendship Park Wed Apr 6 | Gahanna Woods Park & Preserve Wed May 18 | Woodside Green Park Walking the trails of Gahanna, there are opportunities to practice mindfulness. This season, you can join us for an introduction, orientation, and instruction with a group on a meditative hike at 11 am or 3 pm, OR stop by any time during the hike day and follow prompts solo. Free. No registration required.
NEW! How to Train Your Dog Dog Training Basics 9 –10 am Sat, Apr 9 – May 14 A 6-week introductory course for dog owners regarding the basics of dog training. This is a group-style class open to dogs of all ages from 15 weeks and up. Dog aggressive or dogreactive dogs are NOT a good fit for this class. You will learn about training tools and techniques, as well as teaching your dog basic obedience commands such as Heel, Sit, Down, Stay, and Come. We will also cover a different "general manners" behavioral issue each week (such as walking nicely on leash, not jumping up on people, etc). THIS IS AN OUTDOOR CLASS SO DRESS FOR THE WEATHER. Cost: R/NR | $235/$282
RecTeens 4-5 pm | Third Thursday of the month (March 17 / April 21/ or May 19) This spring, RecTeens meets third Thursday of every month at 4 pm for 1 hour. Activities include but are not limited to outdoor education, exploration, life skills, games, and team building. Class minimum is 5 participants. Ages 14 – 18 years. R/NR | $8/$10 | Register for one or all sessions
SUMMER DAY CAMPS
It may still be winter, but we’re getting ready for some summer fun! Soon we’ll be in full swing with 2022 Gahanna Parks & Recreation day camps at Hannah Park and Friendship Park. Back by popular demand this year: a part-day introductory camp opportunity for children ages 4 – 6 years, as well as opportunities for teens. Additionally, Gahanna P&R partners with community programmers to offer camp experiences in specialty areas such as STEM, athletics, and the arts. For full details including session dates, themes, age/eligibility requirements, and cost, visit: exploregahannaparks.com.
Save the date for day camp registration! Registration opens for Gahanna residents on Thursday, March 10 and for non-residents on Monday, March 14.
GAHANNA SENIOR CENTER
The Gahanna Senior Center is a “second home” to more than 300 active members. This multi-purpose facility is open to all adults ages 55 & older, offering diverse programs in recreation, physical fitness, nature/outdoor programs, education, art, health and human services, community programs and volunteer opportunities. Most activities offered are exclusive to Senior Center members. A membership is valid for 12 months and costs $30 for Gahanna residents or $40 for non-residents. Prospective members are encouraged to visit the center or attend one of our “open house” events to learn more about what we have to offer. Visitors are welcome to audit one class, program, or activity of their choice, prior to joining membership. Please call us at 614-342-4265, for a calendar of events Open Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 4pm Closed major holidays and annually between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day.
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
29
PARKS & RECREATION 30
RECREATION + SPORTS Learn more about these programs including session dates, times, locations and registration information at Webtrac.Gahanna.gov ↓ Photos from each organization's Facebook pages
BALLY SPORTS GROUP Little Sluggers T-Ball Age: 3-4 years old
Minor League Coach Pitch Baseball Age: 5-6 years old
5 – 6 pm Thursdays | Apr 14 – May 19 (Second session from 6-7pm) Woodside Green Park Bally Sports Group’s Little Sluggers is a great introduction to the game of baseball for young children. Players will be introduced to fundamentals of baseball in an atmosphere that is supportive, fun, and encouraging. The program will include weekly instructional portions that introduce players to batting, base running, fielding, throwing, and catching. A modified game will also be played each week. Parent participation is welcomed, but Bally Sports staff will lead the program. All participants need is a baseball glove. Cost: R/NR | $85/$102
5 – 6 pm Tuesdays | Apr 12 – May 17 (Second session from 6-7pm) Woodside Green Park Bally Sports Group Minor League Baseball is a great introduction to coach-pitch baseball for beginning baseball players! Skills taught will include batting, fielding, throwing, and catching. The program will also include both practice and a modified, non-competitive game each week. Parent Participation is welcomed in this program. Coaches will emphasize the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship in a positive atmosphere. All participants need is a baseball glove. Cost: R/NR | $85/$102
Fitness with Shellie
Fit Kids 4-12 Year Olds
6–6:45 am, Mon, Tue, Wed, & Fri weekly Virtual This VIRTUAL fitness class is lead by Coach Shellie Edington. A master CrossFit Games World Champion, Shellie participated in the CrossFit Games 5x 2013-2017 placing 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 5th in the world. All you need is you and a backpack! If you have a barbell, dumbbells or kettlebells, you can definitely use them. Each workout is led by Coach Shellie, consists of joint mobilization, full body warm up, strength development and workout which is based on your relative intensity. All movements will be explained and demonstrated as well as modifications. No weights are recommended when learning new lifts and or movements. Cost: R/NR | $29/$35 Register for sessions in March, April and/or May
4:30 – 5 pm, Mon Weekly Virtual This VIRTUAL fitness class is lead by Coach Shellie Edington. A master CrossFit Games World Champion, Shellie participated in the CrossFit Games 5x 2013-2017 placing 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 5th in the world. She founded Tumblin4Kids in 2000 and has been investing in children’s fitness for over 20 years. Join coach Shellie Edington in a virtual athletics class with an all-inclusive physical preparedness program that is age-appropriate and fun! Cost: R/NR | $29/$35 Register for sessions in March, April and/or May
EDINGTON FAMILY FITNESS
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
31
32
UNIQUELY GAHANNA • FEBRUARY 2022
