Dublin Life October/November 2022

dublinlife

1335 Dublin Rd., Suite 101C Columbus, Ohio 43215 614-572-1240 • Fax 614-572-1241 www.cityscenecolumbus.com

Kathleen K. Gill President/CEO

Gianna Barrett Vice President, Sales

Jamie Armistead Vice President, Operations

Dave Prosser Chief Creative Officer

Tyler Kirkendall Editors

Claire Miller

Megan Roth

Amanda DePerro Contributing Editor

Brandon Klein Digital Editor

Janet Cooper Contributing Writers

Colleen D’Angelo

Rebecca Myers

Claire McLean Editorial Assistants

Lauren Serge

Laura Pappas Advertising Director

Dan Nase Advertising Sales

Circulation 614-572-1240

www.dublinlifemagazine.com

CityScene Media Group also publishes:

CityScene Magazine www.CitySceneColumbus.com

Pickerington Magazine www.PickeringtonMagazine.com

Westerville Magazine

www.WestervilleMagazine.com

Tri-Village Magazine www.TriVillageMagazine.com

Healthy New Albany Magazine

www.HealthyNewAlbanyMagazine.com

Discover Grove City Magazine

www.DiscoverGroveCity.com

The Publisher welcomes contributions in the form of manuscripts, drawings, photographs or story ideas to consider for possible pub lication. Enclose a SASE with each submission or email editor@ cityscenemediagroup.com. Publisher does not assume responsibility for loss or damage.

The appearance of advertising in Dublin Life does not consti tute an endorsement of the advertiser’s product or service by the City of Dublin.

Dublin Life is published in June, August, October, December, February and April. Subscriptions are free for households within the city limits of Dublin, Ohio. For advertising information or bulk pur chases, call 614-572-1240.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. Dublin Life is a registered trademark of CityScene Media Group. Printed in the U.S.A. ©2022

Trisha DeLong, CISR

October/November 2022

6 City of Dublin

8 Community Calendar

10 faces

Decorated in Dublin

Dublin resident receives esteemed National Guard award

14 city of Buildingdublin

a Safe Space

Dublin program creates community-based safe havens

16 in focus

Encouraging Emerald Excellence

Dublin City Schools’ four Es to postgraduation success

20 Baskets That Give Back

Jerome students host basketball tournament to raise money for medical research

22 Paras’ Pumpkinizing

Dublin resident shows off massive pumpkins with celebrity paintings

26 Plethora of Parks

Dublin’s 60 parks offer a range of yearround activities

30 good Fundingideasfor our Future

Dublin-based nonprofit supports philanthropic organizations throughout central Ohio

32 ARTifacts

Student Public Artists

Dublin City Schools Public Art –Challenge Accepted

34 student Emeraldspotlight Energy

Jerome becomes first public school to convert food waste into energy with Grind2Energy

36 dublin dishes

Food, Farm and Fun

The Orchard and Co. offers apple picking, wagon rides, pumpkins and more

38 living

A Growing Home for a Growing Family

Dublin couple renovates home for the new bundle of joy

42 luxury living real estate guide

43 top homes sold in dublin

44 write next door

White Coats/Big Hearts

A look at the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine in Dublin

46 bookmarks

p38

p32

On the Cover Deena Ratliff

Photo by Ray LaVoie

PUBLIC SERVICE: LIFE’S GREATEST LEARNING EXPERIENCE

PUBLIC SERVICE: LIFE’S GREATEST LEARNING EXPERIENCE

Throughout this issue of Dublin Life, you will nd many stories focused on education. It is a tting topic as I wrap up my career in the City of Dublin. Public service is perhaps the greatest learning experience of all.

Throughout this issue of Dublin Life, you will nd many stories focused on education. It is a tting topic as I wrap up my career in the City of Dublin. Public service is perhaps the greatest learning experience of all.

During my 34 years with the City, I have learned much more than could ever t on one page. I’ve learned about scal stewardship, service delivery, high expectations, negotiations, problem-solving, personal sacri ce and dozens of other local government fundamentals that keep our democracy functioning and our community thriving.

During my 34 years with the City, I have learned much more than could ever t on one page. I’ve learned about scal stewardship, service delivery, high expectations, negotiations, problem-solving, personal sacri ce and dozens of other local government fundamentals that keep our democracy functioning and our community thriving.

Most importantly, I have learned about relationships: with our committed City Council members, passionate residents, our expansive business community and our professional, dedicated, hard-working sta . I can say rst-hand that when looking back over a three-plus-decade career, you measure your success by the people you’ve known, those who’ve helped guide you, those you’ve mentored and watched go on to do incredible things, and those who’ve been by your side along the way.

Most importantly, I have learned about relationships: with our committed City Council members, passionate residents, our expansive business community and our professional, dedicated, hard-working sta . I can say rst-hand that when looking back over a three-plus-decade career, you measure your success by the people you’ve known, those who’ve helped guide you, those you’ve mentored and watched go on to do incredible things, and those who’ve been by your side along the way.

I want to thank Dublin’s City Council members, present and past, for their support, partnership and vision. I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with so many smart, talented and aspirational individuals over the years, and not just as city manager. My career began as a management assistant to the city manager in 1988, followed by director of service, director of economic development and then deputy city manager/director of development. Through the strategic direction and visionary planning of Dublin’s elected leadership over the years, we have built something truly extraordinary together.

I want to thank Dublin’s City Council members, present and past, for their support, partnership and vision. I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with so many smart, talented and aspirational individuals over the years, and not just as city manager. My career began as a management assistant to the city manager in 1988, followed by director of service, director of economic development and then deputy city manager/director of development. Through the strategic direction and visionary planning of Dublin’s elected leadership over the years, we have built something truly extraordinary together.

I am most proud of our local form of democracy: the Council-Manager Plan, as established by our City Charter. The Council-Manager system combines the rich political leadership of our elected City Council members with the strong professional experience of an appointed local government manager or administrator. Under this form, power is concentrated in the elected City Council, which hires a professional administrator to implement its policies. The city manager serves at the pleasure of City Council.

I am most proud of our local form of democracy: the Council-Manager Plan, as established by our City Charter. The Council-Manager system combines the rich political leadership of our elected City Council members with the strong professional experience of an appointed local government manager or administrator. Under this form, power is concentrated in the elected City Council, which hires a professional administrator to implement its policies. The city manager serves at the pleasure of City Council.

I could not have been more proud to have served as Dublin’s fth city manager. It has been an honor and a privilege to follow Sherman Sheldon (1980-1987), Timothy Hansley (1987-2001), Jane Brautigam (2002-2008), Terry Foegler (2009-2010) and Marsha Grigsby (2010-2015) as our previous village and city managers. They all set a high standard. I had the pleasure of serving with and learning from most of them. I have stood on all their shoulders.

I could not have been more proud to have served as Dublin’s fth city manager. It has been an honor and a privilege to follow Sherman Sheldon (1980-1987), Timothy Hansley (1987-2001), Jane Brautigam (2002-2008), Terry Foegler (2009-2010) and Marsha Grigsby (2010-2015) as our previous village and city managers. They all set a high standard. I had the pleasure of serving with and learning from most of them. I have stood on all their shoulders.

You should also be con dent in the ability of your next city manager, Megan O’Callaghan. She brings extensive education, skills, experience and vision to the position. Megan has been serving the City of Dublin since 2014 when she was hired as the City’s director of public service. She has served as your deputy city manager/chief nance and development o cer for the past two years and is uniquely positioned to advance Dublin’s economic development strategies and further our traditions of scal stewardship and responsive service. Megan has a history of collaborative leadership and community engagement. She is also a Dublin resident and is profoundly committed to this community. I am very proud of her and this community for appointing her as your next city manager. Her appointment is e ective Oct. 1.

You should also be con dent in the ability of your next city manager, Megan O’Callaghan. She brings extensive education, skills, experience and vision to the position. Megan has been serving the City of Dublin since 2014 when she was hired as the City’s director of public service. She has served as your deputy city manager/chief nance and development o cer for the past two years and is uniquely positioned to advance Dublin’s economic development strategies and further our traditions of scal stewardship and responsive service. Megan has a history of collaborative leadership and community engagement. She is also a Dublin resident and is profoundly committed to this community. I am very proud of her and this community for appointing her as your next city manager. Her appointment is e ective Oct. 1.

Since becoming city manager in 2015, my motto with our employees has been, “All in, all the time.” As I transition toward retirement, I look forward to phasing out the “all the time” part. But rest assured, I am still “all in” when it comes to this community. Thank you for letting me serve you for these past 34 years. It has been the learning experience of a lifetime.

Since becoming city manager in 2015, my motto with our employees has been, “All in, all the time.” As I transition toward retirement, I look forward to phasing out the “all the time” part. But rest assured, I am still “all in” when it comes to this community. Thank you for letting me serve you for these past 34 years. It has been the learning experience of a lifetime.

Sincerely,

Sincerely, Dana McDaniel, City Manager

Dana McDaniel, City Manager

Want to report an issue on the go?

Want to report an issue on the go?

Download the GoDublin app.

Download the GoDublin app.

Submit your service request.

Submit your service request.

Here’s the deal.

combine.

save.

When you combine home and auto, you save an average of $1,127*. I can help you get the right coverage at the right price. Call me for a quote.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

Is your furry family member protected?

With Pet Medical

Chad D. Harris, Agent 6151 Avery Rd., Ste. A Dublin, OH 43016 Bus: 614-889-2778 chad@chadharrisinsurance.com

CommunityCalendar

October/November

All events are subject to change. Visit websites for more information.

FACT:

Our proprietary Balanced Learning® curriculum emphasizes creative, social, emotional, physical, cognitive and character development.

OCT. 2

Founders Day

Noon-6 p.m.

Darby Street Parking Lot, W. North St. www.historicdublin.org

OCT. 7

Dublin Jerome High School

Homecoming Parade

5-6 p.m.

Brand Road between Avery and Hyland-Croy roads www.dublinschools.net/Jerome

OCT. 8

Ohio International Kung Fu Tai Chi Day & Chinese Culture Festival

Noon-5 p.m. Riverside Crossing Park, 6635 Riverside Dr. www.ohwushu.com

Dublin Arts Council 7125 Riverside Dr. www.dublinarts.org

OCT. 9

Sundays at Scioto – The Wildflowers

5:30-7 p.m.

THROUGH OCT. 27

Stacy Leeman: A Room of One’s Own

Food Truck Wednesdays

11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Coffman Park, 5200 Emerald Pkwy. www.dublinohiousa.gov

OCT. 8-9

Oakland Nursery 42nd Annual Fall Festival Times vary Oakland Nursery 4261 W. Dublin-Granville Rd. www.oaklandnursery.com

OCT. 9

We Love the 80s to Death Mystery Dinner

6 p.m. 1487 Brewery, 7620 Industrial Pkwy., Plain City www.visitdublinohio.com

OCT. 13-14

Halloween Spooktacular Thursday, 4-8 p.m.; Friday, 1-5 p.m. Coffman Park, 5200 Emerald Pkwy. www.dublinohiousa.gov

PRIMROSE WAY:

That’s

CALL

sink.

Oct. 5 – Zapata’s Food Truck

Oct. 12 – Zone 5 BBQ, LLC

Oct. 19 – Tortilla Street Food

Oct. 26 – Ninja Bowl

Nov. 2 – Taquitos

Nov. 9 – Roadster

Nov. 16 – Holy Taco

Nov. 23 – M & S Grub Hub

Nov. 30 – Hogback BBQ Pit

OCT. 13-22

I’ll Take Romance, The Musical Times vary Abbey Theater of Dublin, 5600 Post Rd. www.dublinohiousa.gov

OCT. 15

Running of the Bullies 5K & Bulldog Derby

9 a.m. Coffman Park, 5200 Emerald Pkwy. www.buckeyebulldogrescue.org

Halloween Spooktacular

OCT. 21, NOV. 11 & NOV. 25

WNCI Friday Night Tailgate

6-9 p.m.

Urban Meyer’s Pint House 6632 Longshore St. www.wnci.iheart.com

OCT. 29

Haunted Halloween Candy Trail

Historic Dublin www.historicdublin.org

OCT. 31

Trick-or-Treat Night 6-8 p.m. Dublin Neighborhoods www.dublinohiousa.gov

NOV. 11

Veterans Day Ceremony

11 a.m. Dublin Veterans Park, 77 N. High St. www.dublinveterans.com

NOV. 11-13

City Jail – World Premiere Times vary Abbey Theater of Dublin, 5600 Post Rd. www.dublinohiousa.gov

NOV. 12

The Harvest Market

9 a.m.-12 p.m. Bridge Park, 6504 Riverside Dr. www.thedublinmarket.com

NOV. 19-20

Disney Descendants: The Musical Times vary Abbey Theater of Dublin, 5600 Post Rd. www.dublinohiousa.gov

NOV. 24

Flying Feather Four Miler

9 a.m.

The Club at Corazon, 7155 Corazon Dr. www.theflyingfeather.com

NOV. 25

Leftover 5K Coffman Park, 5200 Emerald Pkwy. www.columbusrunning.com

NOV. 24-25

Dublin City Schools Thanksgiving Break www.dublinschools.net

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

4850 W. Powell Rd. www.columbuszoo.org

FRIDAYS, SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER Boo at the Zoo Hours vary by day

FRIDAYS, SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER

ZOMBIEzi Bay

Hours vary by day

OCT. 9

Fall Quiet Hours

10 a.m.-5 p.m.

OCT. 9

Sensory-Friendly Halloween Character Meet and Treat Experience

10 a.m.-2 p.m.

OCT. 14

Fall Safari at the Wilds 4-8:30 p.m.

NOV. 5-6 Slothvasana: Yoga with Sloths

9 a.m.-4 p.m.

NOV. 15

Sensory Friendly Light Stroll 5:30-8:30 p.m.

SAVE THE DATE!

DEC. 1

Tree Lighting

5-7 p.m. Riverside Crossing Park www.dublinohiousa.gov

Decorated in Dublin

Dublin resident receives esteemed National Guard award

Photos by Ray LaVoie

faces by Megan Roth

After meeting with a local recruiter at her high school outside of Cincinnati, Deena Ratliff knew the National Guard was a fit for her.

“I really wasn’t interested in the military before that,” she says. “(The recruiter) explained the benefits of the guard. I didn’t know anyone else doing it, and that kind of attracted me to it. It was challenging, and he told me about the free college tuition.”

Having just watched her older sister leave to attend The Ohio State University, the free tuition was especially appealing to Ratliff.

From there, she met with the recruiter once more and, upon turning 18, enlisted in the Guard.

Her original plan was to serve six years, go to college and get a job. But now, 19 years later, Ratliff continues to serve.

“Once I got into the Guard and started working full time, I just really started enjoying what I was doing and the people I was meeting.”

Today, Chief Officer Ratliff serves as a human resources technician in the 16th Engineer Brigade.

NGAUS Award

In August 2021, at the 143rd annual National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) General Conference & Exhibition in Las Vegas, Ratliff was awarded the Eagle Rising Award for Army National Guard warrant officers. Selected by the National Guard, the award is given to warrant officers who demonstrate dedicated service, outstanding leadership and technical skills.

“I was really honored and appreciative that people in Ohio thought my service was worthy of (the award),” Ratliff says. “I was honored to represent Ohio in a positive manner.”

Representatives from all 54 states and territories attended the conference, and Ratliff felt honored to accept the award on Ohio’s behalf.

She credits her NGAUS mentors for her success in the Guard.

“When I first started, if I asked a question, my mentors would never give me the answer,” Ratliff says. “They made me go research the regulations and policies, and I think that really helped my technical skills in my specialty now.”

Ratliff works in personnel, ensuring that close to 1,600 soldiers have the best possible experience in the Guard.

She’s always striving to do better, too.

DESIGN

Luxury Space Alterations and Renovations

7079 Huntley Rd. Columbus, OH 43229

Monday Friday by Appt Only 614-449-7200

www.kitchenkraftinc.com

“I’m huge on process improvement,” Ratliff says. “Any position I work in, I try to find an area to be improved. That’s my goal.”

When she worked in recruiting, Ratliff started a mentorship program to attract aspiring warrant officers. The mentors worked one-on-one with the trainees to help them become officers.

Ratliff’s responsiveness also made her a clear candidate for the award. She was notified about deployment to Kuwait and told that she could have 120 days to report. Ratliff waived the 120 days and deployed immediately in 2020, serving until May 2021.

“I thought it was important to be (in Kuwait) and start forming those relationships,” she says.

Under the Camo

Outside of her service, Ratliff has a decorated family life in Dublin. She has two daughters, ages 8 and 10, whose lives

she remains very involved in despite the demands of her career.

“Before my deployment, I was a leader for my daughter’s Girl Scout Troop,” she says. “I was their treasurer, which took up a lot of time, especially around cookie sale season.”

She also served as the warrant officer trustee on the Ohio National Guard Association, which functions under NGAUS.

Her daughters attend Scottish Corners Elementary, where Ratliff enjoys volunteering and helping out in whatever way she can.

Both of Ratliff’s daughters are involved in the Dublin soccer scene, and Ratliff assists with coaching for the Dublin Soccer League.

Keeping her career in mind, Ratliff says she takes on small volunteer roles in multiple organizations so no group is at a major loss if she has to suddenly deploy.

To her daughters, though, Ratliff’s volunteering is anything but small.

With Veterans Day upon us, a visit to Dublin’s Ground of Remem brance, located in the Veterans Park, is a special way to honor our fallen soldiers.

Founded on Memorial Day in 2009, the Grounds of Remem brance is a space specifically dedicated to recognizing veterans, current members of the armed forces and their families.

Within the grounds is The Memory Wall, which features brass inserts where guests are invited to leave personal messages,

“My kids love it when they see me at the school or helping out,” she says.

Ratliff’s “small” roles are a testament to the value volunteers can bring to a community. She recommends that anyone, even if they don’t think they have the time for it, volunteers in some capacity, no matter how big or small.

Ratliff is grateful for the life she and her family have in Dublin.

“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gone to the grocery store in my uniform and people come up to me to thank me for my service,” she says. “I don’t think people realize how much that means to me, especially if I take my kids in…When they see people come up to me and thank me for my service, it really tells them how important my job is.”

Megan Roth is an editor for CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mroth@cityscenemediagroup.com

as well as The Dedication Wall, where members of the Armed Forces with bronze medallions of the five branches of service are honored, among many other informative and commemora tive installations.

The City of Dublin will hold its annual Veterans Day Ceremony at the grounds on Friday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m.

For more information, visit www.dublinveterans.com.

“I was really honored and appreciative that people in Ohio thought my service was worthy of (the award).”

city of dublin

by Rebecca Myers

Photo courtesy of City of Dublin

Building a Safe Space

Dublin program creates community-based safe havens

As we navigate the world, there can be times when we question our safety and security.

Others might intimidate or threaten us; we might be having a personal crisis and need a helping hand. And in any of those instances, everyone should be reassured that support exists from their local government, police force and neighbors. There is always a safe space.

“No resident, community member or visitor to Dublin should live in fear or have to endure a situation without the resources they need to be protected where they are,” Dublin Chief of Police Justin Páez says.

Starting this November, all City of Dublin buildings, including the Dublin Justice Center, and all Washington Township Fire Department stations will operate as Safe Space Dublin locations. That means anyone entering those buildings in a time of need will receive compassionate instruc tions from trained staff members about what steps they can take to get support when their safety is in jeopardy.

Led by the Dublin Police Department, Safe Space Dublin is designed to promote havens of safety, security and resources that

anyone can use. Dublin Police adapted the program from Seattle Police Department’s Safe Place model to ensure there are community-based sanctuaries where people can feel comfortable to visit should they be in personal crisis or have experienced hate crimes, threats or intimidation.

Chief Páez notes the safety initiative is an overt demonstration of the City’s commitment to providing everyone with a sense of belonging and security in Dublin.

“What stands out about this program is that the community is involved,” Páez explains. “Someone walks into a shop or building and doesn’t know what to do. It might be as simple as calling 911 for them or letting that person know what their options are in that moment. Fear can be powerful, but having others serving as the guardians of their neighbors is its own kind of power.”

The City also seeks to extend the program to private businesses, advocacy organizations and other stakeholders to further the reach of the project. Groups that are local to Dublin will be able to sign on to serve as Safe Space Dublin locations or as resource contributors, and regional groups have the option to provide their wellness resources, too.

Safety, Security and Support

What can a Safe Space user expect if they find themselves in need while at one of the locations? They should know:

• I’m now in a safe area. Someone at this location will help explain the next steps I can take toward safety.

• Someone can help me call 911 to report any incidents that may have happened to me.

• To use a Safe Space, I don’t have to speak to the police, but I’m encouraged to report threats or anything criminal to Dublin Police.

• Someone will help me connect with the most appropriate resources for my situation.

There are also a few questions anyone using a Safe Space would need to answer, with the assistance of trained allies at the locations.

Safety – Did you experience a bias or hate crime?

Safe Space Dublin allies can call 911 to help a person report a crime to the Dublin Police.

Security – Did you feel threatened or intimidated?

Allies can call 911 to help a person file a police report or they can connect a person with community resources and the right people to help support them.

Support – Are you in a crisis?

Allies can link people with local mental health and behavioral services and resources, both for the short and long terms.

“These questions help our community’s trained allies find the right next steps for the person in need,” Chief Páez notes. “The safety, security and support categories really speak to the areas in our lives where we need constant attention, and that’s what Safe Space Dublin seeks to bolster.”

Intrinsically Important

A fundamental component of Safe Space Dublin is that it aims to empower victims to report any bias or hate crime so incidents can be properly investigated by police. However, an intentional part of the program is that when there is no crime or threat, police do not have to be in volved for a person to use a Safe Space. It’s about making people feel secure enough to ask for help — with the backing of the police department — but without pressuring someone to interact with an officer.

“Our goal as a City is for people to feel welcome and included in Dublin, but we must go one step further to be a place where everyone can also truly feel protected and respected,” Chief Páez shares.

As institutions, the City of Dublin and Dublin Police revere the inherent worth of all people. Chief Páez points out that the City acknowledges the injustices that diverse and marginalized communities have continuously faced — a key factor behind Safe Spaces.

“Not everyone has familiarity with law enforcement. Part of the City’s strategic focus is on resiliency and safety for residents, visitors and businesses. And with that comes building public trust in the Dublin Police by working behind the scenes on programs like Safe Space,” he says. “So, even if people don’t know it, their police department is constantly working for them to have equitable entry points to safety.”

With any budding initiative, the project is only as strong as its partners. The City of Dublin is proud to have dedicated allies in the community’s diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) space. Niki Lombardo, vice chair of the Community Inclusion Advisory Committee, explains why the resident-led group she helps lead has signed on as a sponsor of Safe Space Dublin.

“Part of having a diverse and inclusive community means ensuring that everyone feels safe and valued,” Lombardo says. “The initiative will provide nonjudgmental, safe places to obtain access to necessary resourc es when in crisis. We are pleased to provide everyone who lives, works and visits Dublin a safe and welcoming community.”

The Chief’s Advisory Committee, an other DEI-focused body that recommends community-policing ideas to Chief Páez, agrees. Ajmeri Hoque, the committee’s vice chair, shares that the committee unanimously voted in July to support Safe Space Dublin.

“By starting this program, the City has shown they are listening to voices with lived experiences. We are thankful to be in partnership with our multicultural and inclusive community,” Hoque says. “It’s critical to have safe spaces within communities, so our neighbors, friends and visitors know they are welcome and wanted here.”

Finding and Becoming a Safe Space

So, where can someone find one? Safe Spaces are marked with window decals that sport the program’s logo along with a QR code that leads users to more information:

City Hall and Council Chamber, Dublin Justice Center, Dublin Community Recreation Center and Abbey Theater, Dublin Development Building, Dublin Service Center, Fleet Maintenance, Washington Township Administration Building, and Stations 91, 92, 93 and 95.

To become a Safe Space Dublin location, groups and businesses can partner

with Dublin Police Community Liaison Officers, who will train employees to best support and interact with a person using the space. CLOs have already educated staff members at City buildings on the pro gram and will work in tandem with busi nesses enrolling as new locations.

Expanding through Partnerships

One of the City’s original partnerships for Safe Space Dublin came through the everpresent support of Washington Township Fire Department, a staple for emergency medical and fire services in the community.

Washington Township Fire Chief Alec O’Connell signed on the four fire stations and administration building as Safe Spaces, understanding the importance of uniting public safety services under one umbrella of support.

“Anytime we can partner with the Dublin Police, to make our community and our residents feel safe, is a project we are proud to be part of,” O’Connell says. “Our fire stations will always provide a safe space for anyone who needs them.”

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, greater recognition of the discussion on mental health care swelled. Part of that acknowledgment is how people’s mental health intersects with public safety providers and what the future of effective service provision will look like.

With that in mind, Syntero became the first private business to join Safe Space Dublin as a local care provider focused on mental health care needs. Syntero’s extensive wellness network will serve the program as a resource hub, as well as a physical location, that users of a Safe Space can connect with.

Syntero CEO Julie Erwin Rinaldi indi cates how the intent and purpose of the City’s initiative closely align with Syn tero’s own values of integrity, empower ment, inclusivity and innovation.

“We are eager to continue our partner ship with the City of Dublin and the Dublin Police Department in efforts to create a community in which all individuals feel safe and secure,” Rinaldi says. “Serving Dublin as a leader in behavioral health for more than 40 years, Syntero is committed to supporting programs such as Safe Space Dublin in order to support and empower marginalized and underrepresented individuals and families throughout this community.”

As Safe Space Dublin continues to make the topic of personal and community safety even more visible, Chief Páez says that has always been a deeply held principle in Dublin.

“While our program might be in its in fancy, the City’s core values and devotion to public safety are not,” he shares. “We invite the community to embrace Safe Space Dublin and grow in our efforts to make this the most welcoming city for all.”

Please remember, call 911 to report a crime or if you are in immediate danger. Safe Space locations are meant to offer additional support in instances when the person affected might not be able to call 911 or seek appropriate resources themselves. Calling the Dublin Police’s non-emergency line at 614.889.1112 can also connect you with a police officer for non-life-threatening situations.

Rebecca Myers is a public information officer for the City of Dublin. Feedback welcome at rrmyers@dublin.oh.us.

The Dublin Police’s Safe Space Dublin program focuses on the principals of safety, secu rity and support for everyone.

in focus

by Tyler Kirkendall

Photos by Tyler Kirkendall

Encouraging EmeraldExcellence

Dublin City Schools’ four Es to post-graduation success

Graduating high school is a tur bulent time in any teen’s life. For many students, it can be intimi dating to suddenly have a world of possibilities at their fingertips. While that post-graduation life is exciting, it doesn’t come without unprecedented anxieties and deci sions. Dublin City Schools (DCS) has been working hard to mitigate these anxieties for all of its high school students through a system called the 4 Es.

The Es, which each represent a different potential route to embark on post-graduation, stand for Education, Employment, Enlistment and Entrepreneurship.

The Emerald Campus, located on Emerald Parkway, is a testament to DCS’s commitment to encouraging students to explore their post-graduation options. The campus offers personalized educational opportunities, which strive to prepare students for the real world. Its offerings include International Baccalaureate (IB) programs and courses, College Credit Plus (CCP) classes and 12 specialized academies including IT Academy and Engineering Academy.

Education

Fittingly, education has always gotten the strongest push from DCS. Nearly 85 percent of students go on to pursue higher education after graduating from a Dublin

Dublin’s Emerald Campus is well-equipped to fulfill students’ unique needs to find their passions.

high school, according to Kristy Venne, director of community engagement and partnerships. Venne says that Dublin students’ college graduation is impressive, with 66 percent of DCS students graduating within four to six years.

DCS administrators’ goal is to give students the pathway to fully gauge their strengths and passions before leaving the district. The dynamic curriculum aims to eliminate the feeling of going to college without a plan. Through electives and meaningful courses, such as Future Proof and Designing Your Life, as well as options at the Tolles Career & Technical Center, Venne says DCS graduates enter their post-graduation life with a greater understanding and plan for themselves.

That education begins at a young age. DCS offers programs that allow younger students to forge relationships with older students, creating a culture of cohesion across ages and allowing younger students to familiarize themselves with their options long before they even enroll in a class.

“We want all of our students to have a path,” Venne says, “and even though that plan can change, we still want them to know all of their options. ... Preparing them for success is our job.”

Employment

At the Emerald Campus, traditional “textbook style” learning is anything but the norm. Its faculty hopes to teach skills, passion and work ethic that will broaden its students’ horizons and possible career endeavors.

Venne says that with an everchanging workforce, employers are always considering different criteria from candidates. Through feedback from companies and local entrepreneurs, DCS is constantly exploring what characteristics are of value and which are becoming obsolete.

Consistent with its findings, DCS offers programs where students can participate in a residency or put in hours learning ca reer skills through real-world experience.

Entrepreneurship

Practical experience is where the entrepreneurship category truly shines for DCS: It has a Shark Tank-style program where younger students pitch their business ideas to high schoolers. The

district connects high school students with local entrepreneurs, after whom high school students model their approach.

Venne says many Dublin graduates and active students alike already have their own side hustles.

“I talked to a group of middle schoolers last week,” she says, “and I asked, ‘How many of you have a little side hustle?’ And out of a group of 30, I think six hands went up. … Babysitting, mowing lawns, selling art. We know now more than ever that students are interested in entrepreneurship.”

One of the most impressive installations at the Emerald Campus is the room that holds the district’s screenprinting

machines, which can print any text or design onto a T-shirt. DCS students use the machines to run a T-shirt business.

From the moment an order is placed until the T-shirt is sent for delivery, students handle every step. This gives them real experience in team work and time management.

Enlistment

After the Ohio Department of Education released the standard upon which the 4 Es were based, DCS realized that enlistment was its most neglected category.

The district has made a quick turnaround on this deficit, though. DCS now puts on special evening events where students can

Venne assembled this diagram to help guide students’ priorities when they are considering different career pathways. Venne says the diagram has really connected with students and staff. As DCS continues to improve its messaging and prerogatives districtwide, it is important to consider everyone’s priorities.

meet with recruiters and learn to differentiate prospective paths to military enlistment and JROTC, ROTC’s student branch.

The class of 2022 boasted a large number of students committing to officer academies. More and more students are showing interest in the path, and DCS has received support from the community to expand efforts to promote this option.

Dublin Scioto High School was awarded a Purple Star Award from the Ohio Department of Education in 2022 for its support and recognition of military families.

Community

Venne and Lori Mesi, coordinator of secondary pathways and partnerships at the Emerald Campus, both say they are grateful for the consistent support DCS receives from the community.

“(The community is) always willing to help and support our students,” Mesi says. “I was shocked at how much people want to give back.”

She says that local professionals who hear word of what the school is up to always seem to reach out to help.

In years past, DCS has sought feedback from community members of all ages on what they would like to see the district focus on.

“We know families are our partners in helping support our students and their choices,” Venne says. “This school year we are engaging in strategic planning, and a really big part of that process is engaging our community and the voices of our collective citizens.”

Tyler Kirkendall is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at tkirkendall@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Baskets That Give Back

Jerome students host basketball tournament to raise money for medical research

By Claire McLean

Founded by five Dublin Jerome students, Crossovers for Cures has raised more than $20,000 for medical research. Avid basketball players Henry Guerrera, Dustin He, Drew Gunnoe, Aidan Eber hardt and Peter Hollern knew they could harness their passion for the sport to make a positive impact on the community.

The students, who have all played basketball at Jerome, knew a basketball tournament would engage the entire community. The only task they were left with was deciding which charity to support.

Gunnoe, a senior at Jerome, says he was inspired by his little brother Reid’s journey with epilepsy.

So, in July, Crossovers for Cures hosted its Elevate 4 Epilepsy event, which supports

epilepsy research through a series of threeon-three basketball games. All proceeds from the tournament went toward Finding a Cure for Epilepsy and Seizures (FACES) and epilepsy research. In addition to the games, the event also featured guest speaker Doug Worthington, a former NFL and The Ohio State University defensive tackle.

The event was a smashing success, as 70 teams and 266 players total signed up to play. Elevate 4 Epilepsy raised more than $20,000 for FACES, which strives to foster a supportive community for those affected by epilepsy. It attracted the attention of WSYX and was featured on ABC 6 and FOX 28.

“We did so well,” Guerrera says. “We had such a huge crowd of people that came out to support and watch, and people were so excited to participate. We also got a bunch of people who were

disappointed that they missed out or couldn’t make it.”

Participants came from as close as Dublin to as far as Pickerington, all with the drive to support Crossovers for Cures.

“A very pleasant byproduct of Elevate 4 Epilepsy was the camaraderie and just coming together as a community to participate in such a great cause,” he says.

The students hope to expand Crossovers for Cures’ reach to other cities around the United States once they leave Dublin for college. Several of the students will graduate in the next few years, and they plan to pass their leadership roles down to their younger siblings, who will continue to host tournaments and foster community engagement.

“In the future, we’re looking at running smaller clinics for kids, again donating the funds to charity,” Guerrera says. “We are still going to try to stay engaged for as long as possible.”

Crossovers for Cures will be hosting more events in the future to support FACES. Event updates are available at www.crossoversforcures.org.

Claire McLean is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com

Pumpkinizing

Dublin resident shows off massive pumpkins with celebrity paintings Pumpkinizing

By Lauren Serge Photos courtesy of Paras Pumpkins

For many, Halloween is a holiday of costumes, candy and scares. For Jeanette Paras, though, Hal loween is the time to display her hundred plus-pound pumpkins on her Dublin front porch.

Owner of Paras Pumpkins, Paras has been “pumpkinizing,” a term she affectionately uses to describe her pumpkin painting process, celebrities since 1988 when she carved Mike Dukakis and George H.W. Bush, the presidential candidates of the time, into pumpkins.

“Basically, after that, and every year afterwards, (I’ve had) the pumpkin

displays,” she says. “I pumpkinize whoever is the hot topic of conversation.”

Paras has pumpkinized a variety of no table figures, from politicians to rappers, each of whom was particularly popular in the year that she depicts them. She has cre ated more than 80 large celebrity pumpkins since ’88, with recent projects including Ted Lasso, Baby Yoda, Rudy Giuliani and Kanye West, among many others.

Her 2015 pumpkinized Donald Trump made headlines around the world, with media outlets showcasing her 374-pound “Trumpkin,” as she dubbed it.

A mother of three, comedian and now famous pumpkin artist, Paras has adapted her initial carving style into acrylic painting for signature details such as large

ears and hair pieces. It’s all in the name of preservation, she says.

“I started out cutting all the way through the pumpkin and the major features,” she says, “and once you compromise the skin and the cavity of the pumpkin, it really speeds up the decaying process very quickly.”

She says that working with acrylics ex tends the pumpkins’ longevity.

Because of the greater longevity, Paras can unveil a second round of costuming for the pumpkins in the winter, when she adds Christmas-themed decorations and accessories to the original pumpkin artwork.

Each pumpkin can take 50 to 70 hours to complete between researching, sketching and painting the pumpkins, which

After deciding on whom to carve, Paras then sketches an outline.

over the years have ranged from 150 to 750 pounds.

The diligent process begins toward the end September as Paras begins to research who will be the most relevant figure to carve.

In anticipation of her reveal each Halloween, Paras posts teasers online and places a sign on her driveway that reads, “Who Will It Be?” to drum up excitement for its unveiling and encourage neighbors and fans to take their guesses.

Barb Birdsall has been Paras’ neighbor for 17 years, and each year she looks forward to seeing Paras’ latest creation.

“(Paras) goes into lockdown mode over there when the pumpkin arrives, and it goes into her garage,” Birdsall says. “Probably a week prior she preps her garage, and we know it’s coming.”

The surrounding neighbors look forward to Paras’ big reveal as well.

“It’s been so fun watching families just pull up and kids jump out to get pictures on her porch,” Birdsall says. “It’s crazy. We love it.”

One of Birdsall’s favorite creations of was Paras’ Ted Lasso-kin last year, a 705-pound pumpkin formed into Jason Sudeikis’ titular character from the 2020 Apple TV show Ted Lasso. The pumpkin even caught the attention of Sudeikis and his mother, who each liked Paras’ tweet of the pumpkin in October and its winter attire in December.

While her pumpkins have generated a great deal of attention, Paras says it’s the intimate moments she’s shared with people who admire her work that make it all worthwhile.

“In 2020, when I did Baby Yoda-kin, there were a couple of people that came to my house crying that they were so happy I

did a pumpkin,” Paras says. “We were all in this tricky time; it was so difficult and scary, so I’m glad (my pumpkin) brought a smile on people’s faces.”

For Paras personally, the month of October holds a lot of significance: it’s the month of her pumpkin unveiling, her birthday, her anniversary and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Paras is a twotime breast cancer survivor, or as she likes to call herself, thriver.

In 2015, she had her second bout with cancer. Just a few short weeks after a ninehour surgery, she was already working on the Trump-kin. The pumpkins aren’t just for artistic expression and the enjoyment of others; over the years, Paras has raised $6,500 in donations, which she puts toward breast cancer funds.

“If I can help bring any attention to the fight and bring awareness, then I will feel fulfilled,” she says.

Though she has been pumpkinizing for 34 years, every year still brings Paras the same joy seeing all of her neighbors’ reactions.

“There are people that were kids that would come by my house that are now bringing their kids. How crazy is that?” Paras says. “I get thanked by people that I don’t even know that have come to the house and they look forward to it each year. It’s really rewarding to do something that a lot of people really enjoy.”

Keep an eye on www.paraspumpkins. com and @paras_pumpkins on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter around the few days before Halloween to find out who receives the honor of being pumpkinized this year.

Lauren Serge is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Plethora of Parks

Dublin’s 60 parks offer a range of year-round activities

By Megan Roth Photos courtesy of Robb McCormick and Visit Dublin Ohio

Within Dublin’s 15,870 acres of land, more than 1,000 are dedi cated to parks and recreation.

Featuring 60 acres of developed parks, athletic facilities and more than 100 miles of recreational paths, the city’s recreational offer ings aren’t just worth experiencing – they’re nearly impossible to miss.

But with so many parks, the question looms: How do I experience them all?

Visit Dublin Ohio has planned accordingly with its Park Pass, helping residents take full advantage of all 60 parks in the community.

Created in partnership with OhioHealth, the pass for mobile devices takes three simple steps to use. First, register for a pass online by providing your name, postal code, email and phone number. Parks are not limited to just Dublin residents, so bring your extended family or

long-distance friends. Shortly after registering, you’ll receive a text and email that your Park Pass is ready to use. You can even save the pass to your phone’s home screen for easy one-tap access. Finally, redeem your pass. When visiting a park, simply make sure your location services are turned on and check in via GPS.

The idea for the pass was born out of Visit Dublin Ohio’s experiential trails, which offer immersive experiences throughout the city. The idea began with the Irish Fairy Door Trail and after widespread success, inspired the Celtic Cocktail Trail.

After another successful experiential trail, Visit Dublin began to look at how they could use the immersive experience concept to promote Dublin’s parks.

“People know that we have parks,” Sara Blatnik, marketing director for Visit Dublin Ohio says, “but they don’t understand how much there is to do with one of them.”

With so many options, including public art, historical assets, play -

grounds, river access, sports courts and many more, the pass makes the large realm smaller by allowing users to filter the park options.

“We have so many things here, and we want to make it as easy as possible to find those,” Blatnik says.

Some users view the app as a challenge to see how many parks they can visit, while others see it as a fun way to explore the area, Blatnik says.

As of August, more than 700 people have accessed the pass and parks across Dublin have been checked in to more than 2,798 times. The top parks visited were Coffman Park, Indian Run Falls, Veterans Park, Riverside Crossing Park and M.L. “Red” Trabue.

Ferris-Wright Park

Many of Dublin’s parks offer education as well as recre ation. Ferris-Wright Park, located on Emerald Parkway, is a preservation site for ancient earth works and holds vast historical significance.

The land the park is set on has been home to many over the years, from indigenous people to some of Dublin’s first settlers in the early 1800s.

The ancient earthworks and other precise geometric shapes were constructed by

the Hopewell people when they were liv ing in eastern North America around 100 B.C. to A.D. 400. The park contains three earthworks – two circles and a square –and five burial mounds.

With so much history within the parks, the city offers free open house tours with Dublin Heritage Interpreters. These free guided tours take guests through the historic parkland, showcasing the earthworks and what is said to be the first framed house in the area. The next open houses take place Oct. 9 and Nov. 6 from 1-3 p.m.

Year-round Fun

Though summer has come to an end, the parks’ recreational options surely have not.

Riverside Crossing Park offers breath taking views of the Dublin Link Bridge on a bike/multi-use path. Sunrise Kayak ing also offers a downtown neon-lit view under the famous bridge and a two-hour paddle from Amberleigh Park to Dublin Spring Park. In the winter, the park will be home to the Riverside Crossing Park Ice Rink. The rink is slated to open in late November.

Coffman Park, home of the beloved Dublin Irish Festival, has everything from public art to pickleball courts. Its covered shelters, gazebos and grills make for the perfect fall picnic.

Another fan favorite, Indian Run Falls, offers breathtaking waterfalls just five minutes from Bridge Park and Historic Dublin.

“We say (you can go from) nature trails to cocktail trails,” Blatnik says. “You can be in Indian Run Falls and come out and go to dinner and get a drink on a patio. It’s the best of both worlds.”

Scioto Park is another popular option, and features the revered 12-foot Chief Leatherlips stone memorial. Home to the Sundays at Scioto Concert series, river views, a picnic shelter, nature trails, amphitheater and sledding hill, the park offers year-round activities for the whole family.

28 • October/November 2022 www.dublinlifemagazine.com Megan Roth is an editor for CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mroth@cityscenemediagroup.com

FOUNDATIONS

Dedicated entirely to building, remodeling, home buying and designing, this consumer magazine and resource guide includes the BIA membership directory as a BUYER’S GUIDE!

Focusing on consumer readership, FOUNDATIONS includes engaging editorial, images and information that homeowners need to select a professional BIA builder or associate. From Building Myth Busters, Trends & Styles to High Performance Appliances, Sustainability and Green Building, FOUNDATIONS will be a 2023 favorite resource.

• Mailed distribution to more than 30,000 top homes in Central Ohio plus BIA members.

• Additional exposure through strategi cally positioned magazine racks PLUS at major central Ohio events including the Parade of Homes, New Albany Walking Classic, Dublin Irish Festival and more.

• Readership 60,000+ homeowners

For advertising information call 614-572-1240

CityScene Media Group

good ideas

by Claire McLean Photos courtesy of Michelle Cramer

Funding for our Future

Dublin-based nonprofit supports philanthropic organizations throughout central Ohio

Michelle Cramer has had a pas sion for philanthropy since elemen tary school when one of her class mate’s home burnt down. That day, Cramer felt an insatiable calling to help the classmate’s family, and be gan to think about what she, and her community, could do to help. The next day, she brought a shoe box to school with a slit cut through the top and walked from classroom to classroom asking for donations from students and teachers.

“I couldn’t stop thinking about the loss and the pain…” Cramer says. “I never forget going to the classrooms, and the

change being dropped, and the teachers putting in money, and just that feeling of helping someone. It’s a feeling I never got over, and that’s why I say it’s my calling.”

With a clear goal in mind, Cramer embarked on a career to give back.

After earning a degree in Broadcast Journalism from The Ohio State University Cramer began working as a community affairs coordinator at NBC4. While there she worked with nonprofits throughout central Ohio, served on committees for public relations and marketing and cre ated public service announcements.

Cramer realized her passion and talent in fundraising could be harnessed to help others, which led her to start her own business, Cramer & Associates in 1988.

“At the time I was very young, and I was the only female minority-owned fundraising consulting firm in the country. Today we are the single largest female minority-

owned consulting firm in the country,” Cramer says.

Throughout her years as president and CEO of the business, Cramer and her team have helped nonprofits raise close to $1.4 billion, and have worked with hundreds

“Dublin is the most philanthropic city in America. I will say that every single day.”

of organizations, including the YWCA Columbus and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Ohio.

Two of Cramer’s most memorable proj ects: the $110 million construction proj ect for The Ohio Union at The Ohio State University and the Dublin Library project. For OSU, the company conducted the Ohio Union’s first feasibility study and fundraising campaign to construct a new student union. And for the Dublin Library project, Cramer partnered with the Dublin Community Foundation, supporting them financially and helping them to raise money.

“The children and the teachers, and people from all over come to use our library,” Cramer says. “It’s just iconic.”

Additionally, for the last five years, Cramer has provided funds to bring nearly 30 Latina Girl Scouts and their families to a day camp that they wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford. Throughout the day, the girls experience many popu lar camp activities such as participat ing in a campout, exploring a creek and roasting marshmallows.

“It is my favorite day of the year,” Cramer says. “I am very proud to say that this is something we fund every year. My dream is that we can have this all-day Latina camp throughout the state of Ohio.”

Cramer is proud to call the Dublin community home, to both herself and her business.

“The needs in our community are addressed, our city leaders care about philanthropy, they care about helping those in need,” she says. “I’m going to claim it: (Dublin) is the most philanthropic city in America. I will say that every single day.”

Located in the heart of Historic Dublin, Cramer says Cramer & Associates is proud to embrace Dublin’s strong sense of community to create the perfect collab orative environment.

“One of the cool things about the front of our building is that we have little tables and chairs set up and folks will stop by, have a seat, eat an ice cream, do whatever and just chat,” says Mike Schmidt, executive vice president and a partner at Cramer & Associates. “There’s just something real ‘community’ about it.”

The Dublin Community Foundation Celebrating 40 Years of Philanthropy

Your Generosity Directly Benefits Dublin Neighbors in Need.

Please scan to make a tax deductible donation via our website.

The Dublin Community Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit entity established in 1982.

October/November 2022 • 31www.dublinlifemagazine.com Claire McLean is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com

ART ifacts

Dublin City Schools Public Art – Challenge Accepted

By Janet Cooper

Student Public Artists Photos courtesy of Dublin Arts Council

Dublin Arts Council worked with students from three Dublin City Schools middle and high schools earlier this year to create temporary public artwork inspired by Dublin’s Scioto Park.

Working collaboratively, nearly 200 students created two- and three-dimensional public artworks embracing nature, environmental awareness and Indigenous history as part of the Dublin City Schools Public Art Challenge.

Students interpreted elements of the community’s spirit through their creative

process. The project encompassed an accompanying fieldbook and virtual tour experience to encourage visitor interaction and discovery.

The Fishingtons’ Day at the Park

Davis Middle School Art Club, led by teacher Eric Cacioppo, created The Fishingtons’ Day at the Park, clay sculptures along the Scioto riverbank inspired by the recreation habits of early settlers and present-day visitors

“Our artwork is inspired by the local history of Dublin,” the students say. “We researched settler Ludwig Sells and his sons, who made their home in what is now historic downtown Dublin. We imagined the Sells family would fish together along the shores of the Scioto River. We combined this research with what is going on in our lives in present-day Dublin during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are tired of the restrictions on how we can socialize and spend time with friends. Because of this, we wanted to create artwork that made people smile and be happy. We hope the fish bring humor, surprise and opportunities to interact in new ways.”

Lady by the Water

Emerald Campus IB Art, Period 7 students created Lady by the Water, a collaborative metal sculpture incorporating wire, cement, clay, wood, fabric and paint. Guided by teacher Sarah Rothwell, the sculpture recognizes Indigenous Wyandotte history, folklore and environmental care-taking.

“Dublin is rich with Native American history and culture, many of whose myths center around water and its purity,” the students say. “We pay tribute to the previous occupants of Dublin through Lady by the Water, a water spirit symbolizing the river and its pollution. The figure’s kneeling position demonstrates the pain and weakness she has been caused by pollution, while the flowers growing from her hands symbolize growth and hope for a cleaner, healthier future. We hope this sculpture raises awareness of pollution of the Scioto River and encourages visitors to pick up trash while visiting the park.”

Murkclops, Fungi and Woodland Twig

Emerald Campus IB Art, Period 8 students Sam Bansal and Josie Miller, also working with Rothwell, created three figurative clay and wire sculptures, Murkclops, Fungi and Woodland Twig, to inspire connection to the park’s terrain: trees, river and playground.

“This whimsical trio of creatures encourages exploration and wonder for visitors of all ages,” the students say. “Each figure personifies an element of the natural world including wood, water and earth, and (features accompanying) riddles with clues to their hidden locations. Win their

Emerald Campus students Josie Miller (left) and Sam Bansal install their sculpture, Fungi, in Scioto Park.

Emerald Campus students put the finishing touches on Lady by the Water in Scioto Park.

friendship by collecting their desired natural tokens.”

More than Man-Made

Art teacher Marlo Brown supported Karrer Middle School students in the creation of individually-painted cement tiles that emerged as a colorful pathway along the river and around a legacy tree in the park. The installation was titled More than Man-Made.

“We were inspired by this Osage orange tree and how it has become a unique landmark in Scioto Park,” the students say. “What makes it so special is that it was cre ated naturally, with no influence of man in its creation. To draw visitors to this natural wonder, we used art to extend the existing concrete path toward and around the tree. Each tile was created by an individual art ist depicting scenes of nature in Ohio. We invite you to walk the path to enjoy our artwork and the beauty of the tree.”

The project is part of Dublin Arts Council’s multi-year Art & Wellness initiative, realized with support from Dublin City Schools, City of Dublin, Cardinal Health, Ohio Arts Council and The National Endowment for the Arts. Additional collaborators include Washington Township EMS, Syntero Counseling Centers, Dublin Chamber of Commerce, OhioDance, Japan-America Society of Central Ohio, Dublin Bridges/One Dub lin and several City of Dublin departments, in cluding Police, Human Resources, Recreation Services and Parks and Recreation.

Murkclops rests beside the bridge across a stream in Scioto Park.

The artwork was on view until early fall. The project and virtual tour remain online as a temporary public art project at www.dublinarts.org. The success of the project has encouraged Dublin Arts Council and Dublin City Schools’ art teachers to consider additional collaborations, including future public art and gallery exhibition projects.

Janet Cooper is director of engagement, Dublin Arts Council. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com

UPCOMING STUDENT ARTWORK OPPORTUNITIES

Emerging: An exhibition of student artwork on view Jan. 10-Feb. 24, 2023.  Applications accepted mid-October through early December. Details posted mid-October at: www.dublinarts.org/community/exhibit-your-work/.

Fractals: Patterns in Nature project, an Art & Wellness exhibition, on view March 7-June 2, 2023. Participating middle and high school students respond aesthetically to repeating patterns in nature and their affect on personal and community well-being.

Individually painted tiles by Karrer Middle School students create a new pathway in the park.

student spotlight

by Tyler Kirkendall

Photos courtesy of Ashley Dulin-Smith

Emerald Energy

Dublin Jerome becomes first public school in the world to convert food waste into energy with Grind2Energy

When two students, one teacher, the EPA, Dublin City Schools and countless administrators come together in an effort to conserve energy, innovation happens. This was exactly the case almost one year ago at Dublin Jerome High School when it became the first public high school in the world to utilize a Grind2Energy waste disposal system.

This groundbreaking system recycles natural food waste into energy that the school can use for power. Then, the leftover scraps that can’t be recycled

are sent off to be used as nutrient-dense fertilizer for farms around Ohio.

The project’s roots date back to 2017 in a class taught by Jerome biology and environmental sci- ence teacher Ashley Dulin-Smith. Dulin-Smith assigned the class its “legacy project,” in which students must implement a plan that will last in their school and benefit future students. Past legacy projects have included pioneering efforts to install water bottle fill ing stations, building gardens and working out irrigation systems.

Dulin-Smith had recently at tended a presentation show-cas ing the Grind2Energy system in Cleveland, and offered it as a possibility to any interested students. Inspired, then senior Megan Bartsch and junior Kyra Hanes got to work.

Student volunteers help sort through waste to fill the Grind2Energy tank.

“We knew we wanted to tackle the food waste issue in the cafeteria,” Bartsch says. “I can still remember back to a time when I watched a student throw away five perfectly fine whole apples. From that point on, I knew we had a waste problem.”

Throughout the school year, Bartsch and Hanes researched Grind2Energy to see if it was a viable option for Dublin Jerome. They reached out to the company through a series of phone calls and emails.

Reaching out was a major undertaking in itself as the company had never sent its equipment to a school; they’d previously focused on larger venues such as convention centers and stadiums.

Though apprehensive, the amount of waste Dulin-Smith and her students were

able to gather ultimately led the company to approve the project.

From there, Bartsh, Hanes and DulinSmith proposed the project to Dublin City Schools administration and were approved in 2018.

Though the project was progressing with flying colors, another four years would pass before the school would begin use of this new waste management plan.

After Bartsh and Hanes graduated, the project was left in the hands of Dulin-Smith. She continued to work with students and administrators to secure funding, and when students found an Ohio EPA grant perfect for the project, they got to work on a proposal.

Securing the funding was no easy undertaking, but after three years and

The Grind2Energy machine converts food scraps into usable energy.

several cycles of rejected submissions, the EPA awarded its grant to the project, which Jerome was required to match in order to meet eligibility.

The system was installed at the end of October 2021, and although it functions from a technical standpoint, the Jerome community is continuing to work together to properly utilize it.

Dulin-Smith works with a group of student volunteers each day to find waste they can turn into energy, and Dublin students are working together to figure out proper ways to dispose of their trash.

“It’s great that our students are so willing to help,” Dulin-Smith says. “I can vouch for the fact that it’s not glamorous: We wear aprons and gloves up to our elbows, and we’re digging through people’s waste. The kids that have helped actually see a benefit.”

She commends her students for always striving to make a difference.

“If people waste their food, (other students) are seeing it,” she says. “They’re the leaders that can go out there and say, ‘Hey, what are you doing with that?’ So it’s been great having these conversations and light bulb moments.”

The process has benefited the school across the board. Lunch staff even helped sort waste and are able to see what students finish and what they seem to discard.

Since October 2021, the intercepted waste has generated 1.1 kilowatt hours, which is more than enough to power an average home for a month. They have also saved the amount of carbon dioxide emissions that a car would generate by driving 9,300 miles.

Tyler Kirkendall is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at tkirkendall@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Dulin-Smith

When e Time Is Right For You

-Proven Track Record

-Results Oriented

-Responsive to Your Needs

-Focused on Acheiving Your Objectives

-Committed to Saving You Time, E ort & Money

We Are Ready To Help

CRB- Certi ed Real Estate Brokerage Manager

CRS- Certi ed Residential Specialist

GRI- Graduate, REALTOR® Institute

ABR- Accredited Buyer Representative

PSA- Pricing Strategy Advisor

CSD- Commercial Specialist Designation

SRES- Seniors Real Estate Specialist

SRS- Seller Representation Specialist

AHWD- At Home with Diversity

MRP- Military Relocation Professional

FSIM- Feng Shui Certi cation

dublin dishes

by Claire McLean Photo courtesy of Kacie Winn-Skelley

Food, Farm and Fun

The Orchard and Co. offers apple picking, wagon rides, pumpkins and more

The Orchard & Company in Plain City is open for the season and ready to satisfy any and all fall cravings. Family-owned and -op erated, the farm offers apple and pumpkin picking, wagon rides, zip-lining and more.

What sets the farm apart is its emphasis on activities outside of apple and pumpkin picking including an animal barn, corn pit, hay barn, pedal car track and tire climb. Guests can also mine for gems and fish in the orchard’s pond.

“(The farm) gets kids to experience things that, if they don’t live in a rural area, they might not otherwise get to experience,” says Kacie Winn-Skelley, owner of The Orchard & Co., alongside her family.

The farm’s Pigadeli Café offers jumbo beef hot dogs, sloppy Joes, soups and pulled pork sandwiches smoked onsite. The dessert menu features pumpkin donuts, pies and cider – all freshly made using ingredients from the farm.

The U-pick apple orchard features a wide array of apple varieties including

Try out one of Pigadeli Café’s dessert offerings.

Recipe courtesy of Kacie Winn-Skelley

• 1 can crescent rolls

• 1 apple peeled and wedged

• ½ stick butter

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ½ tsp. cinnamon

• ¾ cup Mountain Dew

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Peel and wedge apples.

the No. 1 selling Honey Crisp, the rich and crisp Jonamac, the famous Red Deli cious, and many, many more. Apples can be picked and purchased by the 10-pound peck for $25 or the 20-pound half bushel for $35.

The Orchard & Co. is open Saturdays and Sundays 11 a.m.-6 p.m. through Oct. 30. For more information, visit www. theorchardandcompany.com.

Claire McLean is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com

Quick Apple Dumplings

Place an apple wedge on the wide edge of each triangle crescent and roll up. Place in a baking dish.

In a saucepan, melt the butter with the sugar and cinnamon over medium heat.

Stir in the Mountain Dew.

Pour the mixture over the dumplings.

Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake 15 minutes longer, or until golden brown on top.

Serve with vanilla ice cream.

living by Megan Roth

A Growing Home for a Growing Family

Dublin couple renovates home for the new bundle of joy

After purchasing a home mere blocks from Historic Dublin and Bridge Park, Jared and Charlotte Morello got to work fulfilling their dream – living in the perfect home in the perfect location. And while the location was right, the home needed some work.

“The location was key and the lot was beautiful, but the house was mediocre,” Charlotte says.

The couple began planning the remodel while the home was still in escrow in July 2021. With a then 1-year-old boy and a second baby boy on the way, it became a race against the clock to ensure the family of four could live comfortably in their new home.

Together, Jared and Charlotte planned the entire remodel, completed the interior

remodel and then contacted NME Builders to carry out their vision for an addition.

“NME Builders was critical for obtaining all the necessary permits and approvals,” Charlotte says. “As our builder said, we were the brainpower and he was the manpower.”

The remodel, which began in August 2021, included an entire interior remodel that included opening up the floor plan and bringing in more natural light through an expansive living room, screen porch and deck addition. The Morellos also expanded the basement and made it into a functional, usable space.

Charlotte says the screen porch and open layout completely changed the dynamic and function of the house, allowing for more space for both daily living and entertaining.

Photos courtesy of Charlotte Morello

The open living room brings in natural light and offers a dynamic entertaining space.

In its entirety, the remodel and addition took nine months to complete. Supply chain stalls created lags in the remodel, Charlotte says. The windows that were supposed to be delivered within six to eight weeks took six months to arrive. Finally, the remodel and addition were completed in April 2022.

“I was pregnant for the entire nine months it took to renovate,” Charlotte says. “(The painters) finished two days before I delivered. When my contractions started, I told them the time had run out.”

After welcoming their second child, the Morellos were able to begin settling into what has become their dream home.

“We have the space we need to live comfortably on a beautiful lot, in an incredibly friendly neighborhood,” Morello says.

Located in Waterford Village, Charlotte enjoys being able to raise her children so close to the heart of the Dublin community. The home is a

5 Branches Serving Central Ohio

There’s plenty of room for the fifth member of the Morello family, Dax.

The screened porch offers another space for the family to enjoy their dream home.

two-minute walk to Historic Dublin and a 10-minute walk to Bridge Park.

Charlotte says she enjoys walking around the community with her family.

“We walk everywhere,” she says. “From groceries to school, daycare, brunch, happy hour, the library, the ravine. We have it all and we couldn’t be happier.”

Megan Roth is an editor for CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mroth@cityscenemediagroup.com

40 • October/November 2022 www.dublinlifemagazine.com WWW.DAVEFOX.COM

“We’re in thebusiness ofchanging lives”

- GARY DEMOS PRESIDENT, DAVE FOX

(614) 459-7211

Luxury

SOLD

what’s your style?

5969 Dublin Rd., Delaware – Just inside see the bridal staircase, charming & cozy living room with fireplace & formal dining room. This complete home makeover boasts a chef's kitchen that will delight you with upgraded appliances, granite countertops & wood cabinetry, huge custom pantry & laundry room. Incredible tranquil backyard space with bar & grill.

KELLER WILLIAMS CONSULTANTS REALTY www.SteveSmithAssociates.com

NEWPRICE!

Alli Close (614) 726-9070

4340 Manor Ct. E. – RIVERFRONT – Architectural dream with views from almost every room!

waterfall to the entrance. Soaring ceilings & mahogany floors.

floor

Entertaining outside

studio

loft. Every bedroom has a

kitchen off the rear deck. $1,299,000.

CORCORAN GLOBAL LIVING www.dublinhomes.com

Neil Mathias (614) 580-1662

Tucked

6705 Meadow Creek Drive #101, Columbu

Main floor plan with secure entry conveniently located near Bridge Park, Sawmill Pkwy and Linworth. 2 Beds 2 full baths. 1 car garage designated parking. Quiet community with clubhouse, fitness facility, swimming pool, tennis courts and much more. Dublin Schools. This one won't last long! $189,900.

KELLER WILLIAMS CONSULTANTS REALTY www.SteveSmithAssociates.com

Mike & Lorie Strange (614) 361-8853

Stately Custom Colonial home in Hawk's Nest! This home has a FOUR car tandem garage. Built by Fiori, this one owner home has been maintained beautifully. The Primary BR is huge with tray ceiling, WIC and private bath. One Extra Bedroom has full bathcould be MIL suite. Full bsmt with bath rough-in. ATFLS is from builder blueprints. Call today to schedule a showing!

KELLER WILLIAMS CONSULTANTS REALTY www.StrangeHomeTeam.com

Featuring HGTV UPDATES!

BR,

Carolyn Redinger (614) 679-1274

ready to go

fenced

INFINITY LIVING

Real Estate,

Mgt.

Shui CRB,

GRI, ABR, PSA, CSD, SRES, SRS, AHWD, MRP, FSIM

www.InfinityLiving.org

dublinlifemagazine.com

Steve Smith (614) 205-3394

Steve Smith (614) 205-3394

Top Homes Sold in Dublin

According to Redfin, home prices are up 1.2 percent compared to last year. The average sales price in August was $595,000, which is up 20.8 percent from last year. Since last year, the average sale price per square foot has gone up 8.4 percent, now selling for $180 on average.

43016

444 Tuller Rd. 3 beds 3 baths $1,500,000 Sold on 8/16/22

6932 Ballantrae Pl. 5 beds 5 baths $1,020,000 Sold on 7/25/22

5252 Ashford Rd. 4 beds 3 baths $940,000 Sold on 7/25/22

7180 Coventry Woods Ct. 4 beds 4.5 baths $900,000 Sold on 7/26/22

4580 Lytfield Dr. 4 beds 2.5 baths $875,000 Sold on 8/2/22

7329 Roycroft Ct. 4 beds 3 baths $850,000 Sold on 7/25/22

43017

7803 Boylston Ct. 4 beds 3.5 baths $810,000 Sold on 8/1/22

6082 Quin Abbey Ct. 4 beds 3.5 baths $800,000 Sold on 9/1/22

8543 Gatto Ln. 5 beds 4.5 baths $795,000 Sold on 8/17/22

8536 Cartney Ct. 3 beds 3.5 baths $775,000 Sold on 7/25/22

6259 Memorial Dr. 5 beds 4 baths $760,000 Sold on 8/22/22

7811 Boylston Ct. 4 beds 3 baths $750,000 Sold on 8/30/22

Information gathered from Franklin, Delaware and Union County Auditors

write next door

with columnist Colleen D’Angelo Photos courtesy of Colleen D’Angelo

White Coats/Big Hearts

A look at the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine in Dublin

Our youngest daughter, Catie, has been taking temperatures and put ting bandages on stuffed animals since she was a little girl. On her eighth birthday, Catie declared that she would someday be a doctor, and she never wavered. Fast forward through the Biomedical Research Academy in high school, getting accepted into Ohio University’s Early Assurance Program (EAP) as a 17-year-old, majoring in biology with a minor in nutrition as an undergrad, and we arrive at the beginning of medical school. In a way, the years have been a blur, but in reality, they have been carefully planned and beautifully executed.

Recently we celebrated Catie’s white coat ceremony for the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine (OU-HCOM). The convocation marks the transition from the study of preclinical to clinical health sciences and the start of medical school. A white coat with the OU-HCOM patch was placed on each stu-

dent as their name was read and then to gether they recited the physician’s oath, pledging their commitment to the hu manitarian goals of medicine. The white coat reminds students to always display high levels of professionalism and empathy. The ceremony reminds parents and friends that their student is engaging in a difficult rite of passage and needs support and understanding.

Out of the class of 2026, Catie and 71 other first years are at the Dublin location, 64 attend the Cleveland Campus and 124 are in Athens. All three locations receive the same teachings as students have virtual instruction and sit in assigned pods of eight. They will become doctors of osteopathy (DO) which is slightly different from doctors of allopathy (MD). Both de grees meet the same standards for practic ing medicine in all 50 states, but the DOs also have 200-300 extra hours of osteo pathic manipulative medicine (OMM). They focus on how the bones, nerves and muscles work together and various handson methods to relieve pain and prevent illness or injury.

OU-HCOM’s first Dublin class was in 2014 after a $105 million gift from the

The white coat ceremony in Athens. (Left to right) Catie D’Angelo, Matt Magro, Ian Weiland, Grace Counts

OU-HCOM students gathering on the Dublin campus for the Club and Organization Fair

Osteopathic Heritage Foundation (OHF) funded the Dublin campus. The need for primary care physicians in Ohio is great, especially in underserved rural and urban areas. The goal of the OHF’s large donation was to train primary care physicians and other high-need specialists for areas of greatest need in Ohio and beyond.

Dr. William Burke has been dean of OU-HCOM’s Dublin campus since 2013.

“OhioHealth is the preeminent educa tion partner for the Dublin campus,” says Burke. “Students benefit by obtaining out standing clinical rotations and residencies through OhioHealth. The physicians ben efit by working with bright students who ask tough questions, keeping docs at the top of their games. Ohioans benefit because every collaboration between OhioHealth and Heritage College is aimed at improving care for our communities.”

Burke also raves about their part-nership with the City of Dublin, which had the vision and leadership to collaborate and create a hub of education right in our backyard. Now, OU-HCOM is the largest medical school in the state of Ohio, yet set on retaining its friendly sense of community and desire to be of service to others.

urke and the other instructors and administrators strive to help their students achieve a balance. The amount of infor mation that medical students need to absorb is akin to trying to take a sip of water from a fire hydrant. It is important that the scholars take breaks from study ing for recreation, exercise and healthy

meals. All students are given a pass to the Dublin Recreation Center and frequently join leagues for soccer, basketball and sand volleyball. Catie and I are working to add pickleball to that list!

Serving others and giving back to the community are also emphasized with regular partnerships involving the Dublin Food Pantry, Columbus Health Fairs, and the medical academy for science-oriented high schoolers. Rising juniors and seniors can apply for the medical academy sum mer camp where they work alongside med students and professionals to learn about careers in care. The program is in its eighth year and 60 students from 30 high schools attended in 2022 at no charge.

“We are actually seeing some of our medical academy students applying to OU-HCOM so we know the program has been successful,” says Burke.

Treating the whole patient – mind, body and spirit – is the core of osteopathy.

“We started learning how to talk and listen to patients from day one of orientation,” says Catie. “The very first speaker was a patient who described her experience with a medical issue and how her DO treated her with respect, asking caring questions instead of just treating the disease. Then we began seeing ‘patients’ the first week in our school exam rooms where our interactions were recorded and then reviewed with us in detail.”

Actors or local people playing a role help the students by pretending to be pa tients with specific symptoms. Anyone interested in this paid assignment can contact the university for more information. The medical students learn the protocol of asking the proper questions while being good listeners and respectful of their patient’s emotional and physical condition. Should the students forget the reason that they are studying to become doctors of osteopathy, they just need to glance down at the pin decorating their new white coats. All first years receive one and Burke still proudly wears his green and white pin every day. It simply says IATP; “It’s About The Patient.”

Colleen D’Angelo is a Dublin Life columnist and freelance writer. She and her husband, Tony, raised three children in Dublin over the last 25 years. Colleen enjoys playing and teaching pickleball; walking her pup, Mason; and traveling internationally.

You can reach her at colleendangelo1@gmail.com.

Burke, dean of OU-HCOM’s Dublin Cam pus, and Catie D’Angelo, after receiving her official white coat

bookmarks

From the Dublin Branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library

By Guiseppe Fricano, Youth Learning Specialist

I Know What’s Best for You: Stories on Reproductive Freedom by Shelly Oria

Filled with the insights of 28 contributors, I Know What’s Best for You examines reproductive rights issues and their impact on biological women and people who can bear children. This intersectional collection comprises fiction, poetry, essays and plays to explore the harsh reality of reproductive health access.

The Last Karankawas by Kimberly Garza

Carly Castillo returns every morning from her nursing shifts to a home she shares with her grandmother on Albacore Avenue, the only place she’s ever known. When her grandmother’s health deteriorates, Carly starts to imagine a life outside of Galveston, Texas. As palm trees die and water is soiled with oil, a near-hurricane gathers strength off the coast, and Carly is faced with the earth-shattering decision to hunker down and weather the storm or flee inland to a new life.

My Life by CAPE and SuChin Pak

“Asian American” is an umbrella term that simply cannot capture the unique experiences of the 23 million people that

fall under the banner. Unique languages, cultures and histories create rich diversity in the Asian American community despite the overt racism, erasure and fetishization of its people. My Life presents poems, comics and essays from 30 voices to shed light on their experiences and the complexity of the Asian American experience.

How to Raise an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi

When New York Times No. 1 bestselling author Ibram X. Kendi was asked, “How do I raise an antiracist child?” he wasn’t sure he even wanted an answer to the ques tion. Though at first, he wanted to shield his child from racism entirely, research taught him that the best way to teach antiracism to children is to teach and model it as early as possible. Children must be armored and equipped to endure the existing racism in the world, but caregivers and parents must also assist in building a more just future for all. Following his model from How to Be an Antiracist and joining it with contemporary research and his own experience as a parent, Kendi offers an essential guide for raising antiracist children who can support the construction of an antiracist world.

Dublin Life Book Club Selection

Editor’s note: To be added to the Dublin Life Book Club mailing list or for more information, email editor@cityscenemediagroup.com. The next meeting is at Napa Kitchen + Bar Tuesday, Oct. 25 at 7 p.m. Reservation required, please email editor@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

The Authenticity Project by Clare Pooley

A cast of characters embarks on a social experiment to be their most authentic selves. It begins with Julian Jessop, who writes his personal truth in a journal which he leaves in public for others to find and contribute. Eventually, the brave souls who add their own stories find each other in real life.