Uniquely Gahanna | Summer 2023

A 10-YEAR-OLD GAHANNA GIRL SHINES ON THE WORLD STAGE, A FAMILY-OWNED RESTAURANT GROWS WITH NEW BAKERY + UPCOMING EVENTS IN THE CITY

Cover: Maria Magnacca and Karissa Jenkins at all R friends

Inside Gahanna

From the Mayor

Numbers to Know

If you have any questions, or if we can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact us directly:

City Hall (Front Desk): (614) 342-4000

Code Enforcement: (614) 342-4022

Engineering: (614) 342-4050

Mayor's Court: (614) 342-4080

Mayor's Office: (614) 342-4045

Parks & Recreation: (614) 342-4250

Police (non-emergency): (614) 342-4240

Public Service (general): (614) 342-4005

Trash, Recycling, and Water Bills: (614) 342-4440

Streets, Streetlights, and Potholes: (614) 342-4425

Senior Center: (614) 342-4265

Side Notes

For the past year, the City has been developing its first-ever Capital Improvement Plan. Consider this a “roadmap” that will guide the investment of taxpayer dollars for both short-term and long-term needs such as streets, bridges, trails, sidewalks, playgrounds, parks and more. The City will use this roadmap for sustaining and improving Gahanna’s infrastructure, allowing the

One of the things I value most about being a Gahanna resident is the way members of our community come together. Whether it is in celebration of annual holidays, connecting with family and friends at local events or in our parks, or supporting one another when help is needed, these gatherings always remind us of all that we have in common and all that we share as one community. In this edition of Uniquely Gahanna, we feature stories of how members of our community work together to help Gahanna – and one another. Our cover story highlights the work of two Gahanna businesses that are dedicated to prioritizing the inclusion of residents with disabilities, encouraging their growth and forming strong friendships in the process. Be introduced to a Gahanna resident and new business owner, who is finding support within our local small business community as she pursues her dream of launching her own artisan retail shop in the City’s downtown area. As we wind up our celebration of National Parks & Recreation Month, learn more about the work that happens behind the scenes in the City’s Department of Parks & Recreation to make our parks, trails, events and programs enjoyable for all of our residents and what motivates them to make our community better.

As we soak in the remaining warm days of summer, there are many more opportunities for us to come together to celebrate Gahanna and each other. From the Farmers Market to Supporting Gahanna Together Day, from the return of high school football to live music in the park, we look forward to connecting with you and invite you to explore all that is uniquely Gahanna.

-L aurie Jadwin

LAURIE JADWIN • MAYOR

City to anticipate needs rather than react to them. By planning ahead, the City will be able to determine the most economical way to approach projects and maximize the investment of your dollars. To take a very brief survey that will help inform the Capital Improvement Plan, scan this QR code.

Events Calendar

Every throughWednesdaySeptember

GAHANNA FARMERS MARKET

Gahanna Sanctuary and the lot at Town and High Streets, 4-7 p.m.

The Gahanna Farmers Market, presented by Make Gahanna Yours, is a great place to pick up some fresh produce, flowers, locally-sourced products and more! For vendor listings and market information, see MakeGahannaYours.com and the Gahanna Farmers Market Facebook page.

Friday, August 4 and 18

CREEKSIDE LIVE

Creekside Park and Plaza, 5-10 p.m.

Presented by Toyota Direct Groove out on Friday evenings with friends and family while listening to local bands and performers. For a list of performers and times, visit Gahanna.gov.

Saturday, August 5

VETTES, RODS & CLASSICS

Creekside District, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

The 21st annual charity car show, presented by the Capital City Corvette Club, will feature hundreds of vehicles as well as food trucks, door prizes, a silent auction and live entertainment. Net proceeds will benefit Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Additional information can be found at CapCityCorvette.com.

Saturday, August 5

THE COLUMBUS SYMPHONY: LIVE AT HEADLEY PARK

Headley Park, 7 p.m.

Gather your friends, family and neighbors to see The Columbus Symphony perform live on the Headley Park lawn. This event, presented by the Gahanna Area Arts Council, will also include food trucks and refreshing beverages from local breweries. For tickets visit GahannaArts.org/ tickets, and for more information, contact tickets@ GahannaArts.org.

A Special Thanks To Our Sponsors

Saturday, August 12

FOUNDER’S DAY CELEBRATION

Gahanna Historical Society, 11 a.m-2 p.m. Join your friends, neighbors and the Gahanna Historical Society and celebrate the founding of Gahanna in 1849 by John Clark. Bring blankets or lawn chairs for the Celebration which will include music, stories, games, vendors and more! Additional information can be found at GahannaHistory.com.

Sunday, August 20

MUDDY MILER

Gahanna Swimming Pool, 1-4 p.m.

Presented by Tina Wedebrook, RE/MAX Connection

This themed adventure run is filled with fun challenges, obstacles and of course, MUD! Registration fills quickly! Sign up at Gahanna.gov/parks-recreation/.

Friday, August 25

CINEMA UNDER THE STARS

Friendship Park, 7-11 p.m.

Presented by Tina Wedebrook, RE/MAX Connection

This movie series will wrap up for the season with yard games, crafts and other great activities! Don’t forget your blankets and lawn chairs so you can comfortably enjoy The Incredibles (PG) on the big screen. More information can be found at Gahanna.gov.

Saturday,

August 26

SUPPORTING GAHANNA TOGETHER DAY

Gather your family and friends for a day that celebrates our Gahanna community! Organize a clean-up event or a fun activity for your neighborhood. Volunteer for a service project to help a local nonprofit. Shop at a local business. No matter the activity, Supporting Gahanna Together Day is a time for every resident and every neighborhood to connect with one another. More information will be posted at Gahanna.gov.

These events are tentative and subject to change. Please confirm event details in advance.

Saturday, August 26

TOUCH-A-TRUCK

Hannah Park, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Touch-A-Truck is part of Supporting Gahanna Together Day, so bring the whole family to see, touch and sit on the big equipment that makes Gahanna run! Weather permitting, you may even get to see an Ohio State Highway Patrol helicopter land and take off from the Park. Gahanna Residents in Need (GRIN) will also be on site to accept donated canned goods, nonperishable food, toiletries, and monetary gifts.

Saturday, September 16

CREEKSIDE HOPS & VINES FESTIVAL

Creekside Park and Plaza, 6-11 p.m.

Presented by KEMBA Financial Credit Union This popular festival that benefits the Gahanna Parks & Recreation Foundation returns! Visit www. GahannaPRF.org for tickets to the tasting event where you can enjoy craft beers, wines, spirits, food and entertainment.

Sunday, September 24

MILL STREET MARKET

Mill Street, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

The Mill Street Market, also known as The Gahanna Flea Market, will return featuring local artists, small businesses and more! This annual event is presented by the Gahanna Historical Society and more information can be found at GahannaHistory.com.

Saturday, September 30

BASSETFEST

Pizzurro Dog Park, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Bring your dog, no matter the breed, to this fundraiser for Ohio Basset Hound Rescue, Inc. that will include raffle baskets, auctions, a costume contest, biggest paw and long ear contests, basset races and more! Information can be found at www.OhioBassetRescue.org.

In The Know

Answering the Call: Recent and Future Investments Improve the Community for All

By Brooke Ebersole

The Gahanna Division of Police plays a critical role in ensuring that Gahanna remains a safe place to live, work and play. Thanks to Issue 12 dollars, the City has been able to invest in the equipment, training, and staffing needed to guarantee that for residents.

One significant investment included the addition of body-worn cameras for Division members in July 2021. This solution also earned the endorsement of the NAACP for its system automation and ultimate transparency. By recording interactions between officers and those they serve, these systems provide a level of oversight and accountability.

“I think elevated transparency when you work with the public is always a good thing,” said Gahanna Police Officer Brian Turner. “These body-worn devices are another way to keep people accountable.”

Later that same year, the Gahanna Division of Police, together with Mifflin Township, celebrated the grand opening of a new Communications Center, which co-located dispatchers for police, fire and EMS. The new Center colocated the City’s 911 center with the Metropolitan Emergency

Communication Center (MECC). It is located at 400 W. Johnstown Rd. and equips dispatchers with state-of-the-art technology that increases our first responders’ ability to save lives.

“The operations of an emergency communications center are very complex, especially with emerging technologies,” said Gahanna Police Chief Jeff Spence. “This co-location allowed us to leverage our fiber infrastructure, our technology investments, and our human capital, to create a regional presence that otherwise is lacking on the east side of Columbus when it comes to emergency communications.”

The passing of Issue 12 also enabled the Division to establish a new position that is specifically focused on engaging with the Gahanna community and strengthening the relationship between the Division and the residents it serves. Created in 2022, the Community Liaison Officer position is dedicated to working directly with residents to identify longer-term needs and connect them with available resources that can provide the help they need.

↑ Officer Brian Turner

“As the City and Region began reopening on the heels of the pandemic, it became clear to me that we needed a single point of contact to help address certain issues that did not rise to the level of being criminal in nature,” said Chief Spence. “That is when I approached the Mayor and Council about this need and how it would benefit our residents, business owners and visitors.”

Among the issues identified by Spence were both a rise in homelessness as well as an increased need for mental health assistance. To help address some of those situations, Officer Kelie Moffitt was appointed as the Community Liaison Officer.

“Being the Division’s bridge to our community really allows me to positively impact Gahanna on a daily basis,” Moffitt said. “I know that my work truly makes a difference in the lives of not only those I directly interact with, but this entire community as well.”

In her role, Moffitt serves on the board of Gahanna Residents in Need (GRIN) and participates in various philanthropic organizations within the community. She often visits with young children to discuss what officers do and how they are always there to aid in the event of an emergency. At critical times, Moffitt also provides immediate support to the Division’s other uniformed officers by responding to calls where a resident may benefit from more individualized support.

Recognizing the increasing need for mental health assistance in the community and the increasing challenges in finding supportive resources, the Division is adding a new role in 2023 that will provide further support for residents. While not a traditional law enforcement officer, a Mental Health Clinician will work closely with the Community Liaison Officer, as well as with Mifflin Township’s Community Paramedic, to provide additional mental health resources that supplement the community’s first responders.

“We recognize that there is a gap in providing mental health services to those in Gahanna and beyond,” Spence explained. “As we are true first responders, having a qualified individual with the experience and training to fill that gap and provide such essential services benefits us all.”

In 2025, the Division of Police, along with the Gahanna Senior Center and City Hall, will move to a new facility at 825 Tech Center Drive. Less than 1.5 miles from the City’s current complex, the new location will meet the operational needs of the Division for decades to come.

Chief Spence, who has served the Gahanna community as a member of the Division for more than 30 years, believes that having a modern, state-of-the-art facility for police operations will only add to the Division’s ability to attract and retain highly qualified officers and provide a safe community for Gahanna residents, businesses and visitors.

“The Division’s soon-to-be new home at 825 Tech Center Drive will provide all the tools necessary to expand upon our delivery of public safety services to residents while ensuring that we continue to adhere to and provide best in class policing services in Gahanna,” Spence said.

As always, the Gahanna Division of Police stands ready to serve every member of our community. In the event of an emergency, call 9-1-1. The Division’s non-emergency line is (614) 342-4240. For additional resource assistance, Community Liaison Officer Moffitt can be reached at (614) 342-4217.

Residents and anyone interested can also sign up for Smart911, a free service that allows individuals and families to subscribe and provide important information to 9-1-1 call takers during an emergency. For more information, and to create a safety profile, visit Gahanna.gov or Smart911.com.

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Meet The City

The City’s Finance Department has been nationally recognized every year for the past decade for their excellence in transparent reporting of Gahanna’s finances. In last winter’s edition of Uniquely Gahanna, you met Finance Director Joann Bury. Now, meet the rest of the team that works every day to safeguard your taxpayer dollars.

By Laurel Bocka Finance Coordinator

CHRIS WRIGHT

One of the longest serving employees in the City, Chris has worked for the City of Gahanna for 33 years. As Finance Coordinator, she collects and reconciles deposits, ensures that all required paperwork is gathered and in order, and prepares deposits. Chris started with the City when she had a young family, and it was ideal to live, work, and have her kids go to school all in the same city. She says that both living and working in Gahanna has given her a true sense of community. ♦

APRIL KINCAID

Budget Analyst

CYNTHIA LAMPKINS

Payroll Analyst

RACHEL OTTAVI

Finance Manager

April is the newest member of the City’s award-winning Finance team, having joined the City as a Budget Analyst earlier this summer. A critical part of her job duties is to help with the development and implementation of the City’s annual budget. Before coming to Gahanna, April worked for the City of Westerville as a Budget Analyst, helping with all aspects of budget preparation and monthly financial analysis. She moved to the Columbus area from Northwest Ohio about three years ago, where she worked in accounting for a small village. April enjoys the friendliness and welcoming nature of Gahanna employees and looks forward to exploring the City and all it has to offer. ♦

Cynthia has worked for the City’s Finance Department since 2000 in various roles. She currently serves as the Payroll Analyst. She processes all payroll reporting and ensures that every city employee has an accurate bi-weekly or monthly paycheck. Cynthia enjoys the comradery and rapport that the City employees have with one another. She is proud to be a part of a team that works together to get a job done efficiently. ♦

Rachel joined the Gahanna team earlier this year as the Finance Manager for the City. She oversees the City’s accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll, and assists in budgeting. Her favorite part of working for the City is her coworkers, as they make coming to work everyday fun and exciting. Though she is new to working for the City, Gahanna has always held a special place in her heart, as she and her husband got married at The Gahanna Sanctuary. ♦

Development News

ADB Safegate: Lighting the Way for the Future

By Dan Pearlman

Rising majestically above the corner of Science Boulevard and Tech Center Drive sits the new North American headquarters of ADB Safegate – one of the latest businesses that has chosen to grow in Gahanna.

ADB Safegate is a leader in the aerospace industry. Founded and based in Belgium, the company makes the lights, signage, power equipment and many more technologies that can be found at nearly every airport across the United States and around the world. Approximately 150 employees currently work out of the North American headquarters in Gahanna, which now has ample room to expand both personnel and production.

“I take great pride in this,” said Joe Pokoj, ADB Safegate’s Local CEO and Global COO. “I feel like every time somebody lands at John Glenn International Airport, we’re part of that journey to bring them home. I think that's neat to know that somebody in this community is actually helping your family, friends and loved ones get home every night.”

ADB Safegate has been based in Gahanna since the 1980s, with its previous office located on Gahanna Parkway and a separate warehouse located nearby. Now, both are co-located in the new and modern state-of-the-art facility that opened in March 2023. The facility was intentionally designed to bring teams together in spaces meant for collaboration. It includes a fitness facility and a quiet room for employees who may need to step away from their work. The breakroom has free coffee and a café along with several seating areas for midday breaks. The building also includes second and third floor patios where employees can enjoy beautiful views of Gahanna and downtown Columbus while at the office.

“We went through three expansions on Gahanna Parkway, so we’ve gotten to know the City pretty well,” explained Mike Morrow, the company’s Director of Special Projects. “When we were looking to further expand, they specifically pointed out this property to us. It was at the top of our list right away, just given the proximity to the airport, the view of downtown, and being in a developing area here.”

According to Morrow, the City’s Department of Economic Development also identified incentives and grant opportunities to help with the project. Construction began in late 2021, with an official groundbreaking ceremony held in December 2021.

↑ Exterior of ADB Safegate’s new North American headquarters

“We’re trying to attract more talent,” Pokoj said. “The quicker we got into this building, the better we were going to be in attracting that talent.”

The new North American headquarters has already begun attracting more talent, as Pokoj and Nick Haines, ADB Safegate’s Vice President, Americas, both have their sights set on future expansion of their business.

“If you look at the aerospace industry altogether, we’re seeing continued growth coming out of COVID,” Haines said. “It’s caught back up faster than expected, so we look forward to capitalizing not only on that growth, but also driving innovation in the industry.”

As the company works to contribute to the ongoing advancements in the aerospace industry, their ideas and initiatives are being formed in The Joe Pokoj Center of Innovation – the new office space that is named after Pokoj for his many contributions to ADB Safegate and the aerospace industry as a whole. But the local CEO is not content to simply focus on industry initiatives, as he also is focused on contributing and giving back to both Gahanna and the Columbus Region. About a year ago, the company formed an employee engagement team to concentrate on getting employees more involved in the community.

“I feel really good about what we’re doing now,” said Pokoj. “We’ve got a nice facility. We’ve got a good team, and we’re augmenting that team with more talent. With what Nick is doing on the sales side – growing the business – I think the future is very bright for this organization, and I think this is a great place to be located here in Gahanna.”

↑ Inside ADB Safegate’s new North American headquarters ↓

By Dan Pearlman

Serving Up Sweets at Lola &Giuseppe’s New Bakery

Steve Fancelli and his family had always dreamed of owning a restaurant. Now, six years after purchasing Lola & Giuseppe’s Trattoria, their business has expanded, with the opening of Lola & Giuseppe’s Bakery.

↓ Judy Slattery

“The vision we have and what we’ll eventually grow in to is kind of like what you would find in a New York bakery, a Little Italy bakery in Cleveland, New York or Chicago,” said Fancelli. “All of these places that have little Italian bakeries, that’s what we’ll end up being.”

The bakery opened in March and, like the restaurant, it too is owned by Fancelli, his wife Elaine, and their two sons Anthony and Nick. It is located two doors down from their restaurant at 104 Granville Street, and when asked what inspired the family to open it, Fancelli’s answer is clear.

“Judy’s desserts,” he said.

Judy Slattery was a server at Lola & Giuseppe’s Trattoria and became the Head Baker when the Fancelli family purchased the restaurant, creating desserts for the past six years. Her legendary cannoli and tiramisu are now available at the bakery, along with cookies and a variety of cakes that are mostly sold by the slice, but can also be sold whole for special orders. Customers also may find whole cakes for sale in the case, made with the delicious precision of Slattery and her team.

“She’s amazing, and she’s built quite a reputation for us and our desserts,” Fancelli explained.

Slattery is flattered that the Fancelli’s opened the bakery because of how much customers love her desserts.

“There are times that I just find it hard to believe – not that I don’t have faith in myself, but baking is something that I’ve always loved to do,” she said. “To actually be here and have people come in and say ‘oh my gosh, your cheesecakes, your cakes’ – it’s wonderful. I never thought I would have a bakery, so this is the next best thing, and I get paid to do what I love to do, which is baking.”

The bakery is still in its infancy, but as Fancelli explained, it is growing with new and different items each week. Even the look inside will change over time. However, one thing that Fancelli feels confident will never change is the support he has seen from the community, since investing and growing in Gahanna.

“I can’t begin to tell you how warm the community is to us and to small businesses in general,” he said. “Gahanna is just that place. If you don’t live here, you may not see it all the same, but the community support is truly felt and people love it. People love supporting small businesses.”

↑ Steve Fancelli

↑ Tiramisu and cannoli at Lola & Giuseppe’s Bakery

A World of Achievements

A 10-year-old Gahanna girl competes against the best and is named one of the world’s top Irish dancers

By Dan Pearlman

↑ Mila Weitz

Irish dancing – or dancing in general – does not run in Mila Weitz’s family, but it has become the 10-year-old Gahanna girl’s favorite sport.

Now, she is one of the best in the world, placing 37th for her age group in the 2023 Oireachtas Rince na Cruinne (World Irish Dancing Championships), which were held in Montreal.

“It’s a lot of hard work to get where I am,” Weitz said. “You have to be really passionate about it, and most importantly, you have to have fun with it. It was really exciting to realize that all my hard work has really paid off.”

The soon-to-be fifth grader at Jefferson Elementary got her first taste of Irish dancing about six years ago when her mother signed her up for a summer camp focused on Irish dance. The camp eventually ended, but Mila’s passion was born.

“It was just really fun, and I got to meet new friends,” she said.

Irish dancers must keep their arms from moving. Weitz said that when she started out, she moved her arms a lot, but she credits her teachers, Byron Tuttle and Edward Searle, with helping her improve. Now, she attends dance classes and practices about four times a week.

Tuttle is not surprised by her success.

"Mila has been with us right from the very beginning, from a very young age,” he said. “Early on, we spotted her talent and drive and knew she would quickly start to accomplish great things in Irish dancing.”

Weitz qualified for the World Championships through regional and national championships. She spent nearly a week in Montreal, and while she was there, she performed three dances for her solo competition. After placing 37th for the under 11 age group, which included more than 100 dancers, her team finished first in its competition – two major accomplishments for a young dancer on the rise.

“I just want to thank everyone who’s helped me - like my parents - for taking me everywhere, my teachers, Edward and Byron, and my sister who watches all of my competitions either there in person or on a video,” said Weitz.

Among her biggest fans are, of course, her parents Natalie and Joe Weitz.

“It is very cool,” said Natalie Weitz. “I will say, I had no idea what I was getting in to when we started, but it’s pretty awesome! She does put in a lot of work, a lot of time, and a lot of dedication, but it is exciting.”

Natalie Weitz describes her daughter as someone who has always been a performer and someone who never gets nervous in front of a crowd.

Mila, meanwhile, said she is hoping she will be able to compete in next year’s World Championships in Scotland, as she shared a message for other children who have a passion and a goal.

“You just need to keep trying,” she said. “It’s hard, but you just need to have a lot of fun with it.”

WHERE COLLECTING MEETS COMMUNITY

By Brooke Ebersole

When Tracey Girard moved to Gahanna more than 30 years ago, she wasn’t planning on starting her business here. In fact, she wasn’t planning on starting a business at all.

“I knew I would love to have my own business, but for years I struggled to put all the pieces together” said Tracy Girard, owner of Collective Home Supply Co., Gahanna’s newest retail addition. “I would casually look at places all over. But after meeting the community of people and other business owners here, it was so easy to snowball it from there. I knew then I wouldn’t have a store unless it could be in Gahanna.”

When a space finally opened in Gahanna that met her vision, Collective Home Supply Co. was born. The shop features a variety of crafted products made by local artisans such as pottery, jewelry, clothing and artwork, as well as custom furniture that is handmade locally by Girard’s husband. Her husband Jeff owns a furniture shop called Left Hand Wood Company, and many pieces he has crafted are on display on the shop floor. While Girard supplies a lot of the plants and vintage items, other local artists work is also on display and for sale within the shop. Several local vintage dealers also sell and display their finds within the store.

Due to space confinement, Girard has to be mindful of the number of artists and amount of art she can display at once. However, in just a few weeks, she already has developed a catalog of vendors to feature in the coming months.

“I never thought I’d have a waiting list for vendors,” Girard said. “The connection of the business community in Gahanna, and the way people pass information along, really has been such a help to me.”

One of the other fun and surprising features of the store is the collection of unique plants that are available for sale, along with a variety of do-it-yourself plant stations, where patrons can do everything from pot a plant to make their own terrariums.

“I didn’t necessarily plan those stations with kids in mind,” Girard explained. “But it makes the kids so happy to do it, so I keep stocking them.”

In addition to advertising with a sandwich board and balloons on the front lawn, Girard has taken to social media to generate engagement about her new home goods store.

“This is often how it goes!” Girard wrote in an Instagram caption of a timelapse video of her organizing the shop floor. “Styling a store can take more time in a week than any other part of running the business. But what fun (and backbreaking) it is!”

Even with the use of social media, videos and photos to highlight her brand, Girard cited the network of other shops and small businesses in Gahanna as the biggest aid to her growth.

“Living [in Gahanna] allowed me to call other shop owners up and ask questions,” Girard said. “It helps me shape ideas for potential classes to offer, and idea-share within the community. I can ask ‘do you think people would like it if…’ and plan it that way.”

Girard also credited the connectivity of small businesses within the Gahanna community for supporting her and prompting new customers to visit her store.

“I ask everyone [in Gahanna] for their advice and I’ve found that they always give it,” Girard said. “They’ve all been so helpful, and they’re always happy to refer customers to a neighboring shop!”

Collective Home Supply is located at 166 Granville St. They can also be found online at www.CollectiveHomeSupplyCo.Info, on Facebook @Collective Home Supply Co and on Instagram @CollectiveHomeSupplyCo.

↓ Collective Home Supply’s vintage display

↓ Tracey Girard organizes plant display

Where Friends are Family

Two Gahanna businesses enrich the lives of those they assist and the greater community

By Dan Pearlman

“S pread some love around.”

That is Andy Arnold’s motto – four words that he lives by every day. It’s what he does when he is out in the community, or participating in activities at the new Creative Options facility, in Gahanna, which provides services for adults with disabilities.

“God put me on Earth to spread some love around, and I’m doing that,” he said. “I want to make everybody happy, cheer them up, and go out in the community and make new friends.”

In recent weeks, Arnold has made friends at the Gahanna Senior Center, by playing bocce and bingo with some of the members. He’s cheered up a senior citizen, by helping her with her garden. These, just two of the many activities he has done with the help of Creative Options.

Danielle Abel is the owner of Creative Options. Prior to the pandemic, she and her team ran a program that largely focused on the behavioral needs of individuals with disabilities. Recognizing the need for services that benefit adults with any type of disability, however, they opened Creative Options’ first brick and mortar facility in May on Officenter Place.

“That’s where we were before, in the Gahanna area, and so it was where people knew us and where we knew a lot of people,” she said. “It felt like the right place for us to be.”

The Creative Options building includes a computer lab, art room, greenhouse, fitness area, learning center, sensory room and much more, all of which are used for the onsite programming that is offered. The team also offers a community inclusion program.

“Onsite, we’re focused more on building goals, doing different activities, learning skills and motivating our participants to be independent," said Fallon Kline, the Onsite Program Director.

Shoko Yoshitake is the Community Inclusion Program Director for Creative Options, focused on making connections between program participants, local businesses and the greater community.

“I’m extremely excited because as I started reaching out to different organizations, it [Gahanna] has been such a warm and welcoming community,” Yoshitake said. “I feel like it is truly a place where we can collaborate, really advocate for inclusion, and really work with society as well.”

While the center’s programming continues to evolve, Yoshitake notes that the diversity of activities help participants discover different interests and opportunities to which they had not been previously exposed.

“I love going out to different places and meeting a bunch of new friends,” Arnold explained. “They are so awesome. We help them out. They love it and we love it.”

While Arnold is a participant at Creative Options, he is also a Friend at all R friends, which has its Gahanna location on Science Boulevard.

A family run business, all R friends started in 2009 out of the Westerville Church of the Nazarene. It has since grown to six locations, including the Gahanna facility, which opened in 2013. Their business name, which highlights the “R,” pays loving homage to Ralph “Ralphie” Joseph George, the younger brother of CEO and Founder, Kathy Cook. Ralphie had multiple disabilities and spent most of his life in a wheelchair before passing away in 2001.

“I love going out to different places and meeting a bunch of new friends,” Arnold explained. “They are so awesome. We help them out. They love it and we love it.”

↑ Creative Options ↓

“He was a very social guy, and the Special Olympics was his big thing,” said all R friends Executive Director Ryan Cook. “He got to meet a lot of friends while bowling and swimming, so when we started all R friends, it was in memory of Ralphie, and the crayon drawing in our logo was the last picture he drew for my mother before he passed.”

all r friends supports adults with developmental disabilities, and participants are referred to as “friends” rather than clients. The growing business offers day support out of its Gahanna facility, which includes a gym with a full-size basketball hoop, kitchen, computer room, sensory room, workout space, activities room and more. Additionally, all R friends offers a Supported Living Division where staff members travel to the friends’ homes and assist with different tasks, such as taking them to doctor appointments and the grocery store, or lending a hand with cleaning and laundry.

“We also have a Supported Employment Division, which is our third division, and that is where we help individuals get jobs either out in the community or in one of our facilities, depending on where they’re at with their employment skills,” Cook explained.

Among the Gahanna businesses that employs friends is 104.9 The River. “Friend” DaVaughn Browder and some of his fellow friends perform janitorial work for the station, which helps to foster independence. When he’s not working, Browder can sometimes be found working on his comic books or playing basketball at all R friends.

“I enjoy basketball a lot because it’s the best activity,” he said. “Sometimes I do bowling. I do a little bit of fitness work like the coaches do too, like arm circles and jumping jacks. We do butterflies, leg stretches, pushups and everything.”

Similar to Creative Options, community outings are a big part of the all R friends’ programming.

“A lot of our individuals are working on being more social and getting out there and meeting new people,” said Cook. “Left to their own devices, a lot of them would just choose to stay at home, watch TV and not go out, so we’re trying to show them that there’s more to life. You can go to Clippers games and go to COSI to learn about science. You can go horseback riding, swimming and to movie theaters, so we take them to all those fun places.”

In addition to providing fun and educational opportunities for those who are part of their programs, both all R friends and Creative Options are looking to add staff as they grow in Gahanna and beyond.

Those interested in joining their teams are urged to apply for the opportunity to spread some love around, giving them a chance to form lasting relationships with participants like Arnold.

“The staff is awesome,” he said. “They treat me with respect and I like it. Shoko and them are not just my staff and my friends, but all of the participants are my family. All of them are my family and I love them all.”

A PASSION FOR PARKS & RECREATION

↑ Woodside Green Park

Imagine the sounds of basketballs bouncing on the courts at Hannah Park. Envision the sights of children playing on the swings at Friendship Park. Close your eyes and smell the freshly mowed grass on the soccer fields at Shull Park.

The City of Gahanna Department of Parks & Recreation works hard to provide outdoor spaces and recreational activities that contribute greatly to Gahanna’s overall quality of life, encourage residents to come together, and create opportunities for children and adults alike that both educate and entertain.

“It’s a job we take seriously,” said Parks and Recreation Director Stephania Ferrell. “Our residents depend on us to create and sustain spaces and programs where their families can make memories for years to come.”

When most residents think of Parks and Recreation, the City’s trails, playgrounds, pools and community events typically are first to come to mind. Yet, the work of the Department extends far beyond what most residents see.

This dedicated and passionate team of professionals maintain more than 750 acres of parkland and open spaces that include 42 city parks, 17 playgrounds, a municipal golf course, and a Level 1 Arboretum. In addition to taking care of more than 20 miles of trails, the Parks & Rec staff operates and maintains two aquatic facilities, and provide youth and adult programming through the Gahanna Senior Center, summer camps, and year-round programs and classes.

For the members of the City’s Department of Parks & Recreation – many of whom are Gahanna residents themselves, their responsibilities are more than a job –they are a passion.

A resident of Gahanna for more than 20 years, Parks Foreman Jim Ferguson has worked in the City’s Parks & Recreation Department for 17 years. In his role, he oversees all of the parks ground crews in mowing and trimming the City’s parks and open spaces, as well as special event planning and set up. He views his job as an opportunity to combine his loves. “Besides getting to work outside, I get to make a difference every day in my community,” he noted.

As Forestry Supervisor for the City, Julie Predieri’s passion for nature and the outdoors eventually led her to pursue a career in forestry and wildlife. Being able to improve her community in the process was an added bonus.

Growing up in Gahanna, Predieri loved to be outside and in Gahanna’s parks. “I’ve always loved nature, animals, and trees,” she said. “Gahanna’s parks wouldn’t be the same without trees. Many residents even have their own personal favorite tree. They’ve got a special connection with our woodlands and it’s important to them and to me that we keep the trees healthy.”

↑ Gahanna pools staff

↓ Lauren Gregory

For other members of the City’s Parks & Rec Department, participating in recreational programs as kids growing up in the community helped to shape their eventual career paths.

Nichole Butler similarly has fond memories of exploring Gahanna Parks as a kid. She grew up in the Woodside Green neighborhood and often visited Woodside Green Park, where she and her friends would build forts in the woods, play on the playground, climb trees, and fish in the pond. Her first job was with the Department as a camp counselor, which later grew into a role as a seasonal camp coordinator. Butler now supports the Department as Administrative Coordinator, where her love of Parks & Recreation motivates her every day.

Like Butler, Lauren Gregory initially was hired by the City as a camp counselor. She was drawn to that position because she loves working with youth and always loved summer camps. “When I was at camp,

I witnessed firsthand how we provided an amazing summer experience for the campers.” Her success in that role led her to become the Recreation Coordinator over Senior and Adult Programs for the City, where she sees firsthand the impact of her Department’s work. “Now I get to see how our programs help build a sense of community to a lot of seniors who may have lost someone… It is very rewarding to help them make those connections.”

The passion for Parks and Recreation even extends beyond the men and women who work within the department. Ruthie Elgin is a dedicated member of the Senior Center who looks forward to participating in events . At 90 years young, she plays bridge, Wii bowling, and participates in various game days and special events.

“I have a ball! The Senior Center is a blessing,” Elgin said. “Just come to Gahanna. Live in Gahanna and you will not regret it.”

↑ Nichole Butler, her daughter Claire and husband James

Parks & Rec Resources

Aquatics

Hunters Ridge Pool & Gahanna Swimming Pool

Summer Hours

Open daily, through Wednesday, August 16, from 12 – 8 p.m.

Back to School Hours

Hunters Ridge Pool will be open from August 20 through September 4, from 12 - 7 p.m., on Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day.

*Gahanna Swimming Pool will not hold Back to School Hours.

2023 Membership Rates

Pool memberships grant you unlimited access to both the Gahanna Swimming Pool and the Hunters Ridge Pool, discounted programs, and discounted or free admission to all pool special events! Visit Gahanna.gov for more information.

Splash Pad

Open daily from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., through Saturday, September 30.

The Splash Pad is an amenity of the pool. It is open and free to the public from 8 a.m. - 12 p.m., before the Gahanna Swimming Pool opens each day during the season. During pool operating hours, the Splash Pad is available to members and those who purchase a day pass. It is open to the public, from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., on days the pool is closed.

Golf Course

Memberships are good for one year from the date of purchase. Memberships include unlimited play, pending weather and course conditions, and excluding league play or other scheduled events. Carts and other rental equipment are not included in membership rates.

SNAG Golf Lessons

SNAG (Starting New at Golf) lessons are perfect for anyone ages 5+, who wants to learn how to play golf but doesn’t know where to start. SNAG golf equipment is used to teach people of all ages and abilities the fundamentals of golf and how to play the game in a fun and efficient way. Please contact krista.johnston@gahanna.gov to set up lesson times and for more information. Group lessons may also be available.