Message from Mayor Richard L. “Ike” Stage

Food for Thought

Here’s some food for thought: We break bread together.

In addition to its biblical reference, this expression means more than simply dining at the same table. It’s a sharing of brotherhood that fosters a meaningful connection with another individual or group.

Our community is blessed to have countless opportunities to share a meal with neighbors including many wonderful local eateries and specialty dining experiences. This includes, of course, Grove City’s love for pizza highlighted as this issue’s cover story.

The breaking bread idiom can also have a fairly literal meaning of sharing a loaf to ensure everyone is fed. This reminds me of Grove City churches offering free community meals at least once per month; and the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, Grove City Food Pantry and M.A.S.H. Pantry (for Veterans, active duty and surviving spouses) helping to provide meals and essentials for families in need.

You will read later in this issue about a young lady named Maggie who breaks bread with the community in her own way. She started a small baked goods business last spring that caught on quickly. Adapting to the needs of her patrons, she offers pick-up and delivery; and it’s clear she cares about those around her. Each of her social media posts begins with a quick caring message such as, “I hope you are all safe and warm this week.”

Here’s more food for thought: We’re all full of beans!

OK, not literally. The phrase originated in Europe in the 14th century (yes, I looked it up) to describe the energetic and lively state owners found their horses in after they were fed a meal of beans.

Maybe that energetic, “full of beans” state is our body’s way of telling us to get out and be active – to embrace fitness. Fortunately Grove City is full of fun ways to spill those beans (see what I did there?).

Whether you’re rolling along with friends and family at Skate America, enjoying a game of pickleball at Windsor Park or dancing in the streets of Town Center during our Summer Sizzle Concert Series, you’ll have a great time without realizing you’re staying fit. Be sure to check out The Source section of this magazine, beginning on page 33 to find information on the multitude of events and activities offered by Grove City Parks and Recreation for every age, ability and activity level. We’re looking forward to reestablishing some activities that were halted due to the pandemic. Spring is a great time to get out and explore our City parks and playgrounds. Take a walk along the creek in Gantz Park, drop a fishing line in Rotary Lake at Fryer Park or join in a game of tag at one of the amazing playgrounds. We’re planning for and looking forward to The Big Splash family aquatic center and the Splash Pad at Fryer Park opening soon, giving everyone a fun opportunity to squelch the coming summer heat.

Then, there’s my personal favorite way to get out and about while staying fit – a leisurely bicycle ride along Grove City’s nearly 30 miles of paved, multiuse trails, which will soon link all corners of the city when the connection to Scioto Grove is complete. In fact, Saturdays beginning May 15 (8 a.m. to noon) I’ll be riding along those trails to the Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce Farmers’ Market in Town Center to get some locally grown fruit, vegetables and fresh-baked bread.

Whether you’re looking for a way to enjoy a meal with friends and family or weighing your options for family activities, it’s certain you can find a way to go bananas in Grove City (see what I did there?).

Mayor Richard L. “Ike” Stage

Find information on all the activities and amenities mentioned here in The Source section of Discover Grove City magazine or by clicking the Parks and Recreation tab of the City’s website at www.GroveCityOhio.gov. Directly access the Remain Active & Engaged During Stay-at-Home page at bit.ly/GCHomeSource.

Connect with us!

Subscribe to our eNewsletter — From the Grove — at GroveCityOhio.gov. We’re Social @GroveCityOhio

Looking for something to do this summer?

With the weather getting warmer, visit THE HEART OF GROVE CITY! Park your car and enjoy retail shopping with woman’s fashion and home decor at The Farm Table and athletic apparel at Mojo. Plan on spending the whole day shopping and enjoying great food at local restaurants like Grove City Brewing Company and Plum Run Winery, where you can enjoy a locally brewed craft beer and locally made wine. The Heart of Grove City is also proud to introduce you to The Tree of Life Chiropractic a short walk to an easy adjustment and home of Spoonful of Elderberry.

Events to Mark on Your Calendar

The Farm Table Market Days

(Every third Saturday) Meet our vendors, taste local foods and even have a chance to be artistic with Dixie Belle Paints. Don’t be surprised if you find a local food truck in our parking lot! On May 8, meet the owners of Off the Beaten Path Greenhouse as they host a pop-up for all your planting needs, and Bellisaris Sauces, Dips and Spreads will provide appetizers. Plum Run Winery Bottle Release (May 5) Our 1st ever, Iced Cider, “Appley Ever After” available by the bottle or glass! American Craft Beer Week (May 10-16) As part of this national celebration, Grove City Brewing Company will release Project Altogether “Adventure Ale” Kolsch on May 11th. “From the Heart” Pale Ale collaboration with OCBA will be released on May 13th. Grove City Farmer’s Market Begins (May 15) Stop by and visit local vendors like Spoonful of Elderberry for the best of the spring and summer harvest. Food Truck Nights (May 14, 28 and June 11, 25) Some of Columbus’ best food trucks along with Grove City favorites visit Town Center to satisfy all your cravings. Wine and Arts Festival (June 18-19) The Farm Table Paint Off (June 19) You are challenged to be the fastest, quality painter. Earn your title by entering our PAINT OFF CHALLENGE. Each person will tackle painting a dresser with others to see who is the fastest painter in the land. Painted Pieces will be raffled off for Charity. Mojos on Broadway (All of May and June) Get all of your local apparel at Mojos this summer. Mention this ad and receive 20% off your entire purchase. The Farm Table Vendor’s Fair (July 17) Visit thefarmtableon62.com to register and to see if your craft/products qualify for this event.

@heartofgrovecity

Patrons of Grove City Town Center are able to purchase an alcoholic beverage from an approved, liquor-permitted establishment and sip, stroll, shop and explore within the DORA boundaries.

Your proud sponsors:

thefarmtableon62.com grovecitybrewery.com facebook.com/MojoOnBroadway plumrunwinery.com spoonfulofelderberry.com treeoflifefamilychiro.com