Healthy New Albany Magazine July/August 2024

Down to Earth

Environmentalist Matthew May fights for greener future

Companionship & Socialization

Personal Grooming/Dressing

MAGAZINE

www.healthynewalbanymagazine.com

Phil Heit Executive Editor 1335 Dublin Rd. Suite 101C Columbus, OH 43215 614.572.1240 www.cityscenecolumbus.com

Kathleen K. Gill

Dave Prosser

Gianna Barrett

Jamie Armistead

Gary Hoffman

Maisie Fitzmaurice, Rachel Karas, Tyler Kirkendall

Katie Allen, Denise Dahl, Jane Dimel, Ava Huelskamp, Cassie Kelly, Mary Nader, Amber Phipps, Darryl Robbins

Kyle Quinlan, Jake Ruffer

Aaron Gilliam

Megan Brokamp, Rae Moro, Laura Pappas

Dementia & Alzheimer’s Care

Transportation

Doctors Appointments

Shopping & Errands

Meal Prep & More!

President/CEO

Chief Creative Officer

Vice President, Sales

Vice President, Operations

Creative Director

Editors

Contributing Writers

Editorial Assistants

Social Media Coordinator

Advertising Sales Healthy

Darrin Bright, M.D.

Michael Sawyers

Lisa Hinson

Benita Jackson, M.D., M.P.H.

Craig Mohre

David Sabgir, M.D.

OhioHealth

New Albany-Plain Local Schools

Hinson Ltd. Public Relations

Humana

New Albany Community Foundation

OhioHealth

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Healthy New Albany Magazine is published in January, March, May, July, September and November. Subscriptions are free for households within New Albany-Plain Local Schools. For advertising information or bulk purchases, contact Gianna Barrett at 614-572-1255 or gbarrett@cityscenemediagroup.com.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. Healthy New Albany Magazine is a registered trademark of CityScene Media Group. Printed in the U.S.A. ©2024

We’ve Come a Long Way

Ibegan my competitive running career when I participated in my first marathon in August, 1971 in Central Park. I remember the experience as if it happened yesterday. It was 90 degrees, hu mid, and I had very little to drink during the entire 26.2 miles. Only 13 runners took their places at the starting line. Around three hours and 45 minutes hours after the start of the race, I approached the final yards and sprinted across the finish line ahead of the runner catching up to me. My competitive nature led to my resolve that I would not succumb to another run ner. Upon finishing, the person I just beat yelled to the small group at the finish line to get me water and summoned another volunteer to wrap a cold towel around my neck to help me cool down. This good samaritan turned out to be Fred Lebow, the Father of the NYC Marathon. Fortunately I did not suffer any serious health consequences from running 26 miles in 90 degree temperature while drinking less than a few cups of water. After all, stopping to drink during competition would cause my finish time to suffer. To this day, I do not know how my ignorance regarding the importance of hydration did not result in dire consequences.

When I read Jane Dimel’s story, “Health or High Water,” the importance of hydration, especially my experience of 53 years ago came to light. We certainly have come a long way since my early days, albeit naivety about the importance of consuming adequate amounts of fluids. Today, practice based upon science dictates that endurance events not be conducted under certain climate conditions such as unusually elevated temperatures. But more importantly, our knowledge about the significance of hydration to everyday living has been markedly elevated. Dimel’s article highlights the health impli cations of consuming adequate amounts of fluids.

While so much has been evident lately about the health benefits of keeping hydrated, another trend has evolved over the years, and a positive one at that. Water bottles have gone through an evolution from simple containers to functional and fashionable accessories that reflect individuality. They have also gone from single-use to reusable. Environmental concerns, such as plastic pollution, have factored into this change. Bottles made from stainless steel and BPA-free plastics have also trended and thus promote materials that are more sustainable and safer for health.

As one who has a lifelong commitment to promoting well-being, I have been so pleased to see that water bottle technology is playing a significant role in promot ing and maintaining health. We now have water bottles that are self-cleaning and have built-in filtration systems that help purify water while on the go. For those who are fans of the latest technology, smart water bottles are available that can sync with smartphones to track water intake. If you’re like me, often times I forget that it’s time to drink. No problem. We now have water bottles that glow to remind you to take your sips.

Bottom line, keeping hydrated is easier than ever. We certainly have come a long way.

Healthfully,

Phil Heit Executive Editor

Photo by Ray LaVoie

Thursday, July 4

Note: Keep an eye out for virtual options for these events!

Independence Day Parade & Festival 5K: 7:45 a.m., Market Square Parade: 11 a.m., Primary School to Church of the Resurrection Festival: 6-9:45 p.m., New Albany Middle School Fireworks: 10 p.m. www.newalbanyohio.org

Friday, July 5

Red, White & Blues featuring Columbus Jazz Orchestra and Byron Stripling presented by Jazz Arts Group

8 p.m., Charleen & Charles Hinson Amphitheater, 170 E. Dublin Granville Rd. www.hinson-amphitheater.com

Sunday, July 7

Run Wild 5K presented by OhioHealth

8 a.m., Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, 4850 W. Powell Rd., Powell www.columbuszoo.org

Thursdays, July 11-Aug. 29

Healthy New Albany Farmers Market

4-7 p.m., Market Square www.healthynewalbany.org

Thursday, July 11

2024 Summer Concert Series: Epic Eagles

7-8:30 p.m., Charleen & Charles Hinson Amphitheater, 170 E. Dublin Granville Rd. www.newalbanychamber.com

Thursday, July 11

Artist Opening Reception for Adam Kolp and Robert Coomer - Beautiful Moments Of Imperfection

5-8 p.m., Hayley Gallery, 260 Market St. www.localohioart.com

Friday, July 12-Sunday, July 14

Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr. presented by the New Albany Youth Theatre

7 p.m. (matinees 2 p.m.), Jeanne B. McCoy Community Center for the Arts, 100 E. Dublin Granville Rd. www.newalbanyyouththeatre.org

Sunday, July 14

AMP UP the ARTS Benefit featuring Jason Mraz presented by The New Albany Community Foundation

8 p.m., Charleen & Charles Hinson Amphitheater, 170 E. Dublin Granville Rd. www.newalbanyfoundation.org

Thursdays, July 18, Aug. 1 and Aug. 15

Compassionate Addiction Recovery Experience

6-7 p.m., Philip Heit Center first floor meeting room, 140 W. Main St. www.healthynewalbany.org

Saturday, July 20

The Lemon Trails 5K Run/Walk

8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., Hilliard Station Sixth Grade School, 5600 Scioto Darby Rd., Hilliard www.runsignup.com

Saturday, July 20-Sunday, July 21

Summer Slam Pickleball Tournament

New Albany Pickleball Complex, 7300 Walnut St. www.newalbanychamber.com

Moon Trail Runs

Thursday, July 25

2024 Summer Concert Series: Battle of the DJs

7-9 p.m., Charleen & Charles Hinson Amphitheater, 170 E. Dublin Granville Rd. www.newalbanychamber.com

Friday-Sunday, July 26-28

New Albany Dance Festival

Charleen & Charles Hinson Amphitheater, 170 E. Dublin Granville Rd. www.newvisiondanceco.org

Saturday, July 27

Barre3 in the park

9-11 a.m., Bevelhymer Park, 7860 Bevelhymer Rd. www.barre3.com

Saturday, July 27

Candy Race 5K

8 a.m., Glacier Ridge Metro Park, 9801 Hyland-Croy Rd., Plain City www.thecandyrace.com

Sunday, July 28

Taste of New Albany presented by the New Albany Chamber of Commerce

5-10 p.m., Rose Run Park www.newalbanychamber.com

Saturday Aug. 3- Sunday, Aug. 4

New Albany Walking Club meets Sundays at 7:30 a.m. inside the Philip Heit Center. www.newalbanywalkingclub.com

Pelotonia Ride Weekend www.pelotonia.org

Buckeye

Submit Your Event

Do you have an event you would like to submit to our calendar? Send details and photos to rkaras@cityscenemediagroup.com

Thursday, Aug. 8

2024 Summer Concert Series: The British Invasion

7-8:30 p.m., Charleen & Charles Hinson Amphitheater, 170 E. Dublin Granville Rd. www.newalbanychamber.com

Saturday, Aug. 10

The New Albany Community Foundation presents Summer Movie Series and Family Fun Day - Barbie

6-11 p.m., Bevelhymer Park, 7860 Bevelhymer Rd. www.naparks.org

Saturday, Aug. 10

Buckeye Moon Trail Runs

8 p.m., Alum Creek State Park Hiking Trail, Africa Rd., Galena www.greenswell.com

Saturday, Aug.17

Artist Opening Reception for Carolyn Demaggio and Pat Howard - Curious Obsessions

5-8 p.m., Hayley Gallery, 260 Market St. www.localohioart.com

Sunday, Aug. 18

OhioHealth Grandview Yard Half & Quarter Marathon

7 a.m., Grandview Yard, 850 First Ave., Grandview Heights www.rungrandviewyard.com

Tuesday, Aug. 27

Dancing In The Street: The Music of Motown with the New Albany Symphony Orchestra

8 p.m., Charleen & Charles Hinson Amphitheater, 170 E. Dublin Granville Rd. www.newalbanyfoundation.org

Friday, Aug. 30

The Rolling Stones Project featuring Bernard Fowler and Tim Ries

8 p.m., Charleen & Charles Hinson Amphitheater, 170 E. Dublin Granville Rd. www.hinson-amphitheater.com

Adam Kolp and Robert Coomer

By Mary Nader personalities

Green Compost Champion

An environmental and health-focused life

Being from Greenville, South Carolina isn’t the only green thing about Matthew May.

His environmentally conscious journey began during his undergraduate years at Clemson University, where he earned a B.S. in Forest Resource Management. Later, he pursued a master’s in Business Administration from East Carolina University.

While studying at Clemson, May met his future wife, Maria Campolo May, a woman who shares his core values including cheering on the Clemson Tigers and leading a health-focused lifestyle.

“My core values are mind, body, faith. And then another way of putting it is faith, family and business, in that order,” May says. “My dad told me that from a young age: faith, family, business. Don’t ever forget the order.”

Four years ago, May and his wife moved to New Albany so she could complete her residency and, eventually, take over the medical practice that her family began in the 1980s.

May not only raves about his wife’s delicious meals, but her impact on those she serves in Licking County. As a partner in an outpatient private practice, she helps thousands of people in the area through a personal approach to medicine.

With their interest in health, New Albany has been the perfect community for the entire May family. The May family, including their children Clara Cate and Beau, have found their place in the community. Staying active, eating clean and gardening are just a few of the activities they take part in daily.

Passionate about their faith, the Mays have also found a community within the church they attend.

“Church is really important to us. We go to New Albany Presbyterian. That’s just been a wonderful piece of community for us,” May says. “We participate in community outreach for underserved communities here in Columbus through the church. My wife loves cooking meals for people in need through the church.”

Growing greener

There’s an intersectionality with May’s interests and beliefs. He loves to give back to the community, whether independently with his family, through the church or at work. Having worked in the wood products industry for the past twelve years,

May is well-versed in the environmental impacts humans have on the world.

May is a founder and board member of EarthPeak Solutions, a food waste collections and processing company. EarthPeak converts food waste to fertilizer in a 24-hour period, locking in the green-

Matthew May (left) and his wife, Maria Compolo May share their love for their Alma Mater, Clemson University, with their children Clara Cate and Beau.

Photos courtesy of Matthew May

Faith, Family and Fun Facts

Matthew May has been involved a number of organizations throughout his life:

• He served as a volunteer firefighter in South Carolina

• He was a founding member of the first high school chapter of Ducks Unlimited, an environmental conservation organization

• He served as Head of Finance for Central Ohio Ducks Unlimited

• He serves on the Advisory Board of FRESH at Clemson University

house gasses, the carbon in the methane into the fertilizer and creating a nutrientrich fertilizer with a high carbon content.

“What we’re doing is removing food waste from the landfill and we are producing a fertilizer for regenerative agriculture,” May says.

May connects some of his biggest core values, such as mind, body and business, into his day-to-day operations with EarthPeak. Being one of the company’s strategic advisors, he’s one of a few organizers behind the project that ensures the company continues in its success.

“Our agricultural fields all across America are depleted of nutrients and our fertilizer reintroduces carbon content, micro and macro nutrients back into the soil and creates an environment in the soil for plants to grow in a healthy way without synthetic fertilizers,” May says.

This process, similar to May’s pathways of thinking, is intertwined with the health of those around him. If plants are grown and treated in soils with natural fertilizer, they’re more likely to contain a denser nutrient content. Healthier soils mean healthier plants for consumers.

“Environmental health is just as important as physical health. And that is the focus of our company, EarthPeak Solutions,” May says.

One of Matthew’s ongoing goals is to help his community with the processes offered by EarthPeak. After piquing the interest of some community

members including New Albany City Council Member Kasey Kist, May was able to find ways to offer EarthPeak’s services in New Albany.

“EarthPS provides food waste collections here in New Albany, and EarthPeak Solutions is going to be providing the regenerative agriculture fertilizer, ReNourish, to the community gardens,” May says.

Work aside, spending time with family and friends is integral to May. If he isn’t taking a stroll around the city, he’s most likely going down South to reconnect with his roots.

“We love traveling,” May says. “The beach is one of our favorite places. We go to South Carolina all the time to visit my family that’s still down there.”

And with a little girl on the way in the coming months, May continues to priori-

tize the importance of family and health. His environmental involvement is ever growing and changing in hopes to create a healthier, cleaner earth for his children.

“I can’t stress enough how environmental health is important for ourselves and for future generations to come,” May says. “What we’re doing is removing food and other organic waste streams from the landfill, reducing greenhouse gases and we are producing a fertilizer for regenerative agriculture and how that helps the environment.”

Mary Nader is a contributing writer at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mnader@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

May and his family stay active in their community by participating in outreach efforts through their church.

Vibrant Business Environment

Health and Life Science cluster continues to grow

The New Albany International Business Park is one of the largest, strategically planned business parks in the nation. And, its evolution to cover more than 9,000 acres has been carefully cultivated by the city.

In 1996 the Business Park was established while New Albany was still a village. Growth came quickly and the City of New Albany developed a plan in 2006 to organize the influx of companies into clusters. That plan still works to this day.

There are six industry clusters, which are all focused on supporting a healthy community and expanding engagement with New Albany residents. The six groupings include: Corporate Office and R&D, Personal Care and Beauty, Information Technology and Mission Critical, Health and Life Sciences, HighTech Manufacturing and Logistics and Semiconductor.

There have been 10 major projects added to the Health and Life Sciences cluster since its inception in 2003. With a focus on the city’s overall wellbeing, the Health and Life Sciences cluster has opened up job opportunities and community volunteer boards.

After purchasing the New Albany Surgical Hospital in 2003, Mount Carmel became the first business in the Health and Life Sciences cluster. The expansion of the hospital in 2011 and the introduction of the new emergency department furthers the industry’s commitment to New Albany’s residents.

Pharmavite groundbreaking April 2023

Photos courtesy of City of New Albany.

The Beauty of Nature and Retirement

At Wesley Woods, you can find simple and extraordinary ways to enjoy your best life in nature!

“I’m able to live a very independent lifestyle at Wesley Woods. The back patio has nice seating areas and a fire pit, which we all enjoy so much during summer evenings. The landscaping is beautiful and full of ponds and gardening spaces.”

-Nancy, Wesley Woods resident

Scan the QR code to schedule a tour at Wesley Woods today!

Amgen employees spell O-H-I-O during the company’s February ribbon cutting event.

Earlier this year, Amgen became the most recent addition to the Health and Life Sciences cluster when it celebrated the opening of its New Albany manufacturing site. The nearly 300,000-square-foot facility will employ 400 full-time staff.

A biotechnology pioneer since 1980, Amgen has grown to become one of the world’s leading independent biotechnology companies, reaching millions of patients around the world with safe and reliable medicines.

“A vibrant business environment, a highly educated talent pool, favorable operating costs and a central location are attracting multinational companies like Amgen to New Albany’s Health and Life Sciences cluster,” says Sara Zeigler, the economic development manager for the City of New Albany.

The businesses in the Health and Life Sciences cluster are introducing new research, pharmaceuticals, medical solutions and wellness options. Income tax revenues from these businesses support New Albany’s general funds that go towards improved parks, roads, trails and infrastructure.

Health and Life Sciences Projects

Mount Carmel

Surgical Hospital 2003

Central Ohio

Surgical Institute 2003

Medical Office Building 2005

Smith’s Mill Health Campus 2005

American Regent 2020 Hims 2020

research has strengthened the city’s focus on health and wellness.

“Pharmavite has already contributed to the health and wellness of our community before the doors of their manufacturing facility have opened,” says Zeigler.

With a reputation in both trust and professionalism, Pharmavite partnered with Healthy New Albany as a sponsor for the 19th annual New Albany Walking Classic® in 2023. Known for providing amazing race perks, each NAWC participant received a goodie bag that included Pharmavite-manufactured vitamins.

Pharmavite will be officially joining the Health and Life Sciences cluster after its facility construction is completed at the end of 2024. The company focuses on developing supplements and vitamins while providing job opportunities. The company’s investment into supplement

Pharmavite is investing more than $200 million into the new processing facility in New Albany, which is scheduled to be completed by the end of the year. While the company manufactures brands such as Nature Made, MegaFood and Uqora, the hope is to continue expanding both in New Albany and across the country.

Amber Phipps is a contributing writer at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at aphipps@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

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By Katie Allen

Queens of Composting

Young environmentalists inspire New Albany community

In the heart of New Albany, two young students – Noelle Griffith and Noelle Foreman – are on a mission to prove that going green is easier than you think. Armed with big personalities, a clear passion for the environment, and a determination to make a real difference, this dynamic duo is proving that one person’s trash is another person’s composting treasure.

Last year, Griffith and Foreman became two of the first recipients of the City of New Albany’s Student Leaders in Sustainability grant, awarded by the City’s Sustainability Advisory Board (SAB).

“We were choosing between recycling and composting, and we were thinking we could reach more people with composting,” Griffith says. “I don’t think we could have done it as much without (the SAB grant). We couldn’t have bought the

Photos courtesy of the Griffith family

Noelle Griffith and Noelle Foreman teach the younger generation the importance of composting.

buckets or the lids... It would have been a lot harder without their help.”

In a little less than a year, their impact has been nothing

If you want to know more about the City of New Albany’s composting program, read more at newalbanyohio. org/waste-and-recycling.

short of incredible. The two teenage girl scouts have increased the City’s composting efforts by more than 23 percent, adding 70 new signups. At home, they practice what they preach, and it’s shown significant reductions in their own household waste.

“We’ve halved our trash just from composting,” Griffith says.

At the recommendation of the SAB, New Albany City Council implemented a food composting program in April 2022. To date, the City’s program has collected over 100,000 pounds of food waste that otherwise would be taking up space in the landfill.

“New Albany makes it really easy. Like two steps. Compost, then take it to a drop-off location. I’m lazy and even I can do it! Anyone can do it!”  Foreman says.

By diverting organic waste from landfills, they are not only minimizing environmental impact but also extending the lifespan of these waste disposal sites.

“Trash places have a lifetime just like humans do. They die eventually. So, when we compost, we increase the life of the trash places,” Foreman says.

And that is more important than you might think.

“SWACO states that for each Franklin County resident, five pounds of food waste is landfilled every week. Composting is

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Noelle Griffith and Noelle Foreman read to kids at composting storytime.

one way the New Albany community can help,” says Adrienne Joly, the City of New Albany’s Director of Administrative Services. “I think the thing that surprised me most was just how much is compostable. New Albany’s program accepts all food waste, including eggs, dairy, meat and bones. Coffee filters, tea bags and non-coated paper and products can be composted too.”

But where does all that compost go? The two Noelle’s say the compost generated from the City’s efforts is directed to local farmers, enriching soil quality and supporting agricultural sustainability, ultimately benefiting the broader community.

Are you ready to begin your own composting journey or are you still feeling a bit hesitant? Griffith and Foreman have some pointers for successful composting.

“Make sure you know what is and what is not compostable (just google it!),” they say. “If it stinks, put baking soda in the bottom of your composting bin – it will limit the stink – and always make sure to keep your lid on. We keep a bowl near our sink to add items in throughout

Noelle Griffith explains composting to resident at the indoor farmers market.

Noelle Griffith working with kids at composting storytime.

the day, and then we just dump the bowl every night.”

So, what’s next for these composting queens?

“(We hope to) keep trying to influence, make a change (and) have a lasting impact,” Foreman says. “We’re not trying for this to be a one-week thing. So, more composting!”

Their commitment to the cause is evident, as is their enthusiasm to effect meaningful change within the community.

In a world where every plastic bottle and disposable fork seems destined for a landfill, Griffith and Foreman are leading the charge towards a greener, cleaner future. Their message is clear: Anyone can make a difference, one compost bin at a time.

So grab your green thumb, roll up your sleeves and consider joining their compost revolution. The planet – and your trash can – will thank you.

Katie Allen is a Communications and Marketing Specialist for the City of New Albany.

Welcoming Dr. James Wellbaum to Personal MD

Personal MD is excited to welcome Dr. James Wellbaum to our practice! Dr. Wellbaum is a board-certified family physician who has been providing primary care to patients in central Ohio for over a decade.

Joining our team of concierge

• 24/7 direct access to your physician

• Same-day or next-day appointments

Compost drop off location outside Village Hall

Noelle Griffith and Noelle Foreman

The Uncertain Book Club

By Darryl Robbins

When I retired in mid-2020 following 45 years of general pediatric practice, my wife strongly urged me to have a plan for my retirement so that I would not drive her crazy at home.

My plan involved developing and implementing a children’s book club, although I had never participated in any book club. Thus, the Uncertain Book Club was born, with initial participants including my grandchildren and the grandchildren of good friends. Social infrastructure for this endeavor was enhanced by home schooling during the early pandemic as well as the popularization of Zoom.

Preparation

To pull this book club off, I needed assistance to discover excellent children’s literature appropriate for 8 to 14-yearolds. I turned to two experts: Karen Sherman, a retired gifted-student teacher in the Columbus public school system; and Lexi Walters Wright, owner of High Five Books, a children’s bookstore in Florence, Massachusetts.

The process

Starting with a clean slate, I developed and refined a method to create a one-hour Zoom experience, employ -

About the Author

ing 20 to 30 questions for discussion, avoiding a “right or wrong” answer approach, and utilizing some content questions but mostly questions focused on values. During each Zoom experience, I had the children rotate who would respond first, and then the other

South Jersey native Darryl Robbins spent 45 years as a private practice pediatrician in Central Ohio, primarily in Gahanna, before retiring from practice four years ago.

He graduated from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1971, then interned at Doctors Hospital in Columbus, followed by a pediatric residency at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital before returning to Columbus to begin his practice.

In addition to his clinical practice, Robbins enjoyed teaching, especially annually attending on one of the inpatient pediatric infectious disease wards at Nationwide Children’s Hospital during the first half of his career. His career morphed over into several leadership responsibili -

children added input when they were called upon. Parents and grandparents have been welcome to sit in on the entire session and to actively participate in the last five to 10 minutes. The maximum number of children on our Zoom call has been six.

ties, primarily at Nationwide, including as medical staff president in 1996.

Other leadership opportunities include being made the president of Columbus Practicing Pediatricians in 2001, a position he would remain in for the next 15 years, that was made to support the private practice pediatricians in central Ohio.

Robbins and his wife, Harriette, have three grown, married daughters who each work with children: one as a pediatric occupational therapist, one as a private practice pediatrician and one as a pediatric endocrinologist. They have five grandchildren (see above).

Robbins states that he never felt that pediatrics was a job for him, and he always felt that he was “the lucky person in the room” to be able to serve in this capacity.

And, as you will see, he has always enjoyed reading.

Jude (12) and Tula (15) Saville

Photo courtesy of Yve Saville

Get to Know Your City Council

Edward (Chip) Fellows

How long have you been a New Albany resident?

I’ve lived in New Albany for 24 years in the New Albany Links community. I enjoy walking in our parks, including Rocky Fork Metro Park, Rose Run Park, and Taylor Farm Park. As a City Council member, it’s rewarding to have been part of their planning and see them be so well received by the City residents and their pets. I also appreciate driving through our growing New Albany International Business Park and witnessing the economic impact it’s having on New Albany, Central Ohio, and the entire state.

What’s one thing people don’t know about you?

Council. It’s been a great experience, and it all began with the simple step of getting involved. I encourage everyone to take that first step—you never know where it may lead.

I was born and raised in Hopedale, a small town in eastern Ohio and the childhood home of Clark Gable. Fun fact: my maternal grandmother, Rose, grew up with Clark! I left Hopedale to attend The Ohio State University. After two years, I took a hiatus to explore the world, using my little savings to live and study in southern France at the University of Nice. I then worked in St. Tropez. For a 20-year-old from the Ohio Valley, it was the best learning experience of my life. Eventually, I returned to Ohio to complete my degree and enter the corporate world. Sometimes, I think staying in France would have been a good life plan, enjoying the beaches and charm of St. Tropez. C’est la vie!

Why did you initially get involved with serving on City Council?

In my early 40s, I wanted to give back to the community. After reading about volunteer opportunities in the local newspaper, I joined the newly created Community Events Board. This led to my appointment to the Architectural Review Board. A year later, when a City Council seat opened, I took a leap of faith,

What are you most proud of?

My two daughters, Maddie and Anna. They are kind, loving, and intelligent, with bright futures ahead. Also, my wonderful wife, Teresa, is always incredibly supportive, standing firmly by my side through good times and bad.

What is an important project you see the City working on that residents can watch for in the coming months?

I am excited about the developments in our business park. While Intel's project is transformative, it's just one part of the investment in bringing high-tech, clean, well-paying jobs to New Albany. This growth will create more opportunities for residents, including jobs, parks, infrastructure improvements, enhanced City services, and more dining, shopping, entertainment, and housing. Despite the challenges of rapid growth, New Albany's future is incredibly bright.

To learn more, visit: newalbanyohio.org/city-council-mayor

While I selected the books for the earliest sessions, a point came when the children declared they wanted to select the books themselves. We arrived at a compromise: They would each take a turn selecting three books from which I would choose one for the group to review. This has been working well and is still the mechanism used for book selection.

Goals

My goals evolved through the early sessions:

1. Promote age-appropriate, enjoyable and sometimes challenging reading experiences as part of lifelong learning.

2. Discover the values of each of the key characters in each book (both positive and negative) through their reading experience.

3. Learn what each of the children appreciated from each book, as well as each child’s critique of what they read.

4. Enhance learning of useful vocabulary. Recent example from The Giver by Lois Lowry: ambiguous; euphemism; dystopia; corporal punishment.

The Q&A approach

I worked on the questions as I read through each book and invited the participants and their parents to submit questions. Content questions were used to see how well the children comprehended what they were reading and to maintain

Listing of Books Read (in order)

The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963 by Paul Curtis

*Bud, not Buddy by Paul Curtis

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

*New Kid (a graphic novel) by Jerry Craft

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy

Home of the Brave by Katherine Applegate

Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt

*The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin

Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

*Holes by Louis Sachar

Train I Ride by Paul Mosier

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin

A Mango-Shaped Space by Wendy Mass

The Secret River by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings

Jake and Lily by Jerry Spinelli

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser

*The Giver by Lois Lowry

Resistance by Jennifer A. Nielsen

focus on the content. Value questions created discussion for reflecting upon how different characters thought and behaved in certain situations. One of my key ongoing value questions was to provide a list of attributes and have each child respond to what fits a given character. My last several questions for each book would be to have each participant rate the book from one to 10 (highest), share why they chose that number, and whether they would read another book by the same author.

What have I learned?

1. The joy of working with children has extended for me from being an overnight camp counselor to having a career in pediatrics to running a children’s book club.

2. There are many terrific children’s books, comparable to excellent adult literature.

3. Getting assistance from content experts was key.

4. Each book should be an enjoyable and yet challenging read.

5. Not to expect children, whose brains

Best Friends or Not? (unpublished graphic novel) by Sydney Miller

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

Max Robbins Kim

Photo courtesy of Julie Robbins Kim

Key:*John Newberry Medal recipients

are in the process of developing to necessarily pattern themselves on the positive values that were repeatedly inculcated within our one-hour Zoom meeting.

Why uncertain?

I initially picked this title because I had no idea where this experience would lead. It has recently gone in several unexpected directions.

First, last year I read The Secret River, written by Pulitzer Prize Winner Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings and illustrated by two-time Caldecott Medalists Leo and Diane Dillon, to my then 8-year-old and 5-year-old grandchildren. The 8-yearold was a seasoned member of the book club. When we completed reading and reviewing the book, I told the 5-year-old she was now a member of the Uncertain Book Club. You would have thought she had just won a Grammy!

In another recent detour, one of my granddaughters wrote and illustrated a graphic novel for an eighth-grade English class project. I really enjoyed reading it and found it pertinent for ethical discussion. Entitled Best Friends, or Not? it became the book club’s 18th reviewed book – an unpublished hit and our first participating author.

Where are we now?

To date, we have read and discussed 20 books, almost half during the early part of the pandemic. Not one of the books was a disappointment to any of the participants. One member, through age and maturity, is likely to graduate out; and one, much younger, is matriculating in.

Scheduling has become a greater challenge as the pandemic has subsided; the children are all back in school and involved in various extracurricular activities. Although our future is uncertain, I am pleased that all the children would like it to continue.

Dr. Darryl A. Robbins is a retired pediatrician with 45 years of experience in the field.

Note: Much of this material was recently published in the quarterly Senior Section of the American Academy of Pediatrics online general interest magazine.

Health or High Water

Looking at the health factors of hydration and types of water bottles

By Jane Dimel

We all know that water is a crucial part of health, as it is responsible for regulating and maintaining several body functions. There’s no doubt about the importance of water and hydration, but what factors influence how much water we need? Do the containers we use stainless steel, plastic, or others – alter the quality of the water? What else should we consider when it comes to hydration?

Drips and drops

The amount of water we need varies daily depending on a variety of factors including everything from medications and activity level to overall temperature and nutrient intake.

Typically, men need 15.5 cups of water each day while women need 11.5 cups, according to Harvard Health Publishing. However, consider the other factors that can change the amount of water you need each day.

Food and other beverages consumed can greatly impact this. In combination with coffee, tea, juice, fruits and vegetables, you might only need 4-to-5 cups of water to be properly hydrated.

There are several medical conditions and medicines that may also reduce your necessary water intake. Some of these include thyroid disease, kidney disease and heart problems, nonsteroidal anti-

inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opiate pain medication and antidepressants. Conversely, exercise, outdoor temperature and age are all factors that might increase the necessary amount of water needed to reach full hydration levels.

Harvard Health Publishing notes there are other drinks that contribute to hydration, such as milk, sugary drinks and beverages with water. Caffeinated drinks can be hydrating; though they can dehydrate over a longer period of the day, they will ultimately be a net positive for your daily hydration. Sugary drinks should be sparingly used for hydration because they are correlated with weight

Trending Brands

Hydro Flask uses 18/8 foodgrade stainless steel. It has excellent cold retention, a straw lid, fits in most car cup holders, is lead free and most importantly the splashproof lid doesn’t spill when tipped over. Dishwasher safe.

YETI, the stainless-steel drinkware, is designed with doublewall vacuum insulation, and a No Sweat™ Design. Ramblers feature an optional MAGSLIDER™ lid, are dishwasher safe and offer a fiveyear warranty on most products.

STANLEY is known for its signature Quencher line of oversized tumblers with handles, although the company offers a multitude of shapes and sizes. Stanley cups use a tiny bead of lead to seal their layers of steel and create double-wall vacuum insulation. This bead has no contact with your beverage, but other companies offer lead free options. Not dishwasher safe.

Several companies offer products that are 18/8 stainless steel, spill proof, lead free, dishwasher safe and offer cold retention that matches or beats, the top promoted brands. For a more cost friendly option check out:

Maars Drinkware which offers a Charger tumbler with handle (Stanley design) and even a specialty sublimation line to customize your bottle at home. Charger style starts at $15.93 on Amazon.

Powder bathrooms: small spaces that can have a big style! I think powder bathrooms are fun spaces to choose more trendy products or a fun wallpaper. These are spaces that our guests typically see, so don’t hold back! Embrace bold colors and unique fixtures to make a lasting impression and let your creativity shine in these often-overlooked areas.

Cleaning Tips

The Cleveland Clinic advises that, no matter what kind of bottle you use, the most important thing is making sure you thoroughly clean the bottle. Bottles, with their nooks, crannies and different removable parts, have a lot of spaces for bacteria to grow.

Since bacteria is transferable by contact, any and every type of bottle can pick things up from any surface or object it touches and can cause illnesses. To combat this, the Cleveland Clinic recommends using soap and water after every use, not just rinsing, to ensure it is clean. Using a wire brush is a great option for this.

gain, increased inflammation and more cases of diabetes.

Bottled up

It is advised to always have water with you, and choosing the right container for your water is essential.

From plastic to stainless steel bottles, there are countless choices.

It is commonly known that plastic bottles are not considered the healthiest option for drinking water because the bottles can be easily altered by external factors, such as heat. According to The New York Times, there are 10-to-100 times more nanoplastic particles in bottled water than was previously thought.

In fact, the article cites a new research study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences showing that a liter of bottled water contains nearly 250,000 pieces of nanoplastics on average. However, there is no strong, conclusive evidence to suggest how nanoplastic, or its larger form, microplastics, affect our health.

Regardless, it is generally better to be cautious about using plastic bottles to minimize exposure to these particles, which may prove to be harmful to our health.

Hackensack Meridian Health’s HealthU Magazine notes that stainless steel that is 18/8 or 18/10 are the best bottles, as they are high quality. The numbers 18/8 and 18/10 refer to percentages of the materials making up the stainless steel, with 18 percent of chromium and the eight and 10 percent respectively of nickel in the bottle’s composition.

This source refers to stainless steel as “the gold standard water bottle material” because they are durable against different circumstances such as dropping or temperature changes, non-reactive to the drinks you put inside, and easy to clean and maintain with a good, thorough cleaning. The 18/8 composition, also known as 304 grade stainless steel, is used in equipment for food processing because it does not need lining, does not leech chemicals or flavor into your drink.

TheRound.org, a website dedicated to environmental issues and sustainability, agrees that stainless steel bottles are the best, and safest, option. It is important however to watch out for the potential traces of lead that TheRoundup.org says “is usually found as a lead sealing dot around the base of cheaper double-walled water bottles.” Do research on your specific bottle brand before purchasing.

Some metal bottles are aluminum, not stainless steel, which is bad because this material is reactive to acidic drinks, making it necessary to put a plastic lining in the bottle. This plastic liner is not great, because it can leach chemicals into your water or become damaged and expose your water to aluminum. Aluminum is also not dishwasher safe or heat resistant.

Jane Dimel is a contributing writer at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

Did You Know?

Stainless steel bottles are great for beverages of any temperature, from ice water to coffee and more. Double-walled bottles do the best job of keeping these drinks at their optimum temperature. Make sure that you do not freeze stainless-steel bottles, as this can make them contract or expand and lead to cracking the bottle or breaking off the cap and making a mess. Glass bottles can be another good alternative to plastic – just don’t drop them!

Did you know stainless steel bottles aren’t recyclable by most curbside recycling programs? Hydro Flask has a recycle program. Customers can ship used tumblers back to the company for recycling and receive a $5 trade in credit.

Claire McCaskill U.S. Senator (2007-2018)

America Ferrera Award-Winning Actor, Director and Producer

Interviewed by Mandalit del Barco Correspondent, Arts Desk, NPR West

Health

Tom Gruber Co-Founder, CTO and VP Design of Siri

Zack Kass Former Head of Go-To-Market for OpenAI

Ben Sasse U.S. Senator (2015-2023)

Moderated by Linsey Davis Host and Radio Correspondent, ‘World News Tonight Sunday’ and ‘ABC News Live Prime’

Ambassador Susan Rice Domestic Policy Advisor (2021-2023), U.S. National Security Advisor (2013-2017), and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations (2009-2013)

Adm. James Stavridis USN (Ret.) 16th Supreme Allied Commander, NATO, Bestselling Author, NBC News Analyst

Moderated by David Sanger Three-time Pulitzer Prize winner, NYT White House and National Security Correspondent, Bestselling Author Artificial Intelligence JANUARY 23

IT’S GOING TO BE A SENSATIONAL SUMMER

with The New Albany Community Foundation

BENEFIT

July 14

The Foundation is pleased to continue the tradition of presenting GRAMMY or TONY Award-winning artists at its annual Amp Up the Arts Benefit. See newalbanyfoundation.org for details.

open at 6:30 p.m. Movies start at 7:30 p.m.

with the New Albany Symphony Orchestra

August 27

p.m.

The Redgrave Family

The Olivia Claire Obrokta Foundation

Healing Harmonies

Musical theater helps students’ mental health

By Mary Nader

The Addams Family, Mamma Mia! and Into the Woods. If these titles sound familiar, it may be because they are, according to Playbill, the top three most-produced shows at high schools around the country.

But what do these seemingly opposite musicals all have in common? The students who participate in these shows are exposed to daily, moderate exercise, gain a sense of community and are at a lower risk of mental health issues.

In 2023, The Columbus School for Girls (CSG) was one of 16 recipients in the first round of winners of The Unsinkable Molly Brown Grant, receiving $10,000 to perform an updated revival of the musical.

“The music is the same, but the plot is different. It’s much more historically accurate and it ties in all of those themes that Molly Brown was really passionate about: the rights of workers, and the rights of people and the rights of women to vote. She was a suffragette,” says CSG theater faculty member Elizabeth Bishara.

CSG students are no strangers to theater, as drama classes are incorporated into the curriculum as early as middle school. Exposing younger students to musical theater helps enhance the creative foundations and builds healthy vocal practices not just for performances but daily speaking and projecting as well.

A normal rehearsal schedule for CSG students in the theater program is about 15 hours a week. On top of their normal school schedules and any other extracurricular activities, students rehearse after school, taking precautions as needed.

“I have students who take one day off a week that they’ve decided, ‘This is my mental health day.’ And they’re allowed to do that,” Bishara says. “I have students who sometimes just come to me and say, ‘I’m really overwhelmed and I need to work on this other stuff.’ And then, I let them have a pass for the day.”

Save the Date

Catch the CSG production of The Unsinkable Molly Brown next school year.

A survey published by the Mental Health Foundation found that 31 percent of teenagers suffered with issues in relation to body image. Forty percent of teenagers were responded that images on social media were the root of their insecurities.

Middle and high school years are when young adults are most susceptible

Photos courtesy of Jessi Wright

Columbus School for Girls freshman Gaby Papadakis (right) in the school’s spring performance of Into the Woods JR.

to unrealistic standards, both in body and mind. Although most activities have stressors, theater can offer an escape and supportive place.

“The theater can be scary. It can even be stressful sometimes, like if you keep messing up your lines. So, it’s great to have your friends with you, especially when you’re messing up. You’ve got that extra support system. It’s really great,” CSG junior Gabby Clarke says.

Theater is not only an outlet that engages students creatively and actively, but socially as well. Like any other club or sport, students have the opportunity to create bonds with their peers in the hours of rehearsal and beyond. The shared interest of theater helps harbor a welcoming and fun community for students at an age where it can be especially difficult to put themselves out there.

According to a WHO Health Evidence Network Synthesis Report by Daisy Fancourt and Saoirse Finn, “(a)rts engagement can also help to reduce the risk of developing mental illness such as depression in adolescence and in older age. Participating in arts activities can build self-esteem, self-acceptance, confidence and self-worth, which all help to protect against mental illness.”

Moving and Grooving

Arts activities uplift students, encouraging them to explore the ways in which they are unique and can best express themselves. An act as simple as getting cast in their school’s musical can reassure students that they are worth more than their anxieties.

Warmups are an integral part of the rehearsal process. Think of an actor’s voice like a muscle, you wouldn’t want to start a highintensity workout before warming up. In addition to the basic stretches that should be performed at the beginning of rehearsal, actors should run through music scales to stretch their vocal cords. Warmups can be anything from humming, tongue-twisters, neck stretches, yawning and breathing exercises.

“Sometimes I get intimidated because the kids that are older than me have more experience,” CSG freshman Gaby Papadakis says. “It’s a challenge figuring out where I stand. I think just telling myself that there’s a reason why I’m here and that I got the part for a reason.”

And while it may be a time commitment, rehearsal might be the perfect activity to end the school day with. After hours of diligence, students can take advantage of the creative space that is theater to create characters, learn to tell stories and end the day with like-minded individuals.

“Mentally, it gives me a really good creative outlet,” Clarke says. “It’s nice to have something to focus on that’s productive and I love doing.”

Mary Nader is a contributing writer at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mnader@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

CSG Junior Gabby Clarke (left) performs one of her two roles for the school’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Gabby Clarke narrating Into the Woods JR.

Uncomplicating Composting

The health benefits of composting

Although they are filled with excitement for the recess that awaits after lunch, students at New Albany Intermediate School pause before going outside to toss any leftover food in the compost bin and stack their composable trays. Students take time to determine what is trash and what should be composted, a habit encouraged by the newly established composting program.

Compost has proven benefits for both the environment and the health of humans. According to the US Composting Council, composting cuts down on both trash and greenhouse gasses making it sustainable and green in more than one way. Preventing the rise of greenhouse gas emissions directly impacts people’s health

as humans are met with rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns.

Peter Barnes has taught in New Albany-Plain Local Schools for 20 years and has always emphasized the importance of environmental education.

To help combat his school’s carbon footprint, Barnes started a composting program at the Intermediate school. As members of the Sustainability Board at the City of New Albany, Barnes along with Educational Assistant and Math Instructor Laura Gallo were in charge of compost until students volunteered to monitor the stations.

“The biggest thing is just diverting food waste from the landfill,” Barnes says. “Keeping that out of there, we’re reducing greenhouse gasses by not putting that waste in the landfill.”

When the students took charge of the program during the 2023-24 school year, the program diverted almost 10 tons of food, according to Gallo.

Food scraps and paper products are among the items discarded in the compost, which is then taken to the GoZERO facility for processing each week. While the compost process does benefit the environment, there are also many emotional and physical impacts composting has on human health.

Physical health is encouraged through the extra steps students take to monitor and sort the compost bins. Every day, student volunteers schedule time to sort through the compost bins using tongs to ensure proper compost actions have been taken.

Studies conducted by the Pacific College of Health and Science show a correlation between improved human digestion and composting. Compost offers useful nutrients for the soil which then provides better resources for the plants humans ingest.

Barnes has seen some of these benefits first hand, watching as the general sense of positivity grows, among the students engaged with the composting.

“It really makes me happier and more encouraged about the world’s future,” says Annabelle Allen, a 6th grader at New Albany Intermediate. “Just composting our food actually gives a little bit back to the earth and makes me feel a bit better.”

Gallo has experienced similar impacts on both her emotional and physical wellbeing. Her self-image and emotional contentment have improved as a result of helping the environment.

Since becoming a part of the compost program at the Intermediate, Gallo and her hus-

Photo courtesy of Amber Phipps

NAPLS fifth-grader Xander Zierh helps sort his leftover food from lunch into the composting bin.

band have incorporated compost and recycling within their personal lives.

“I feel better about myself since I’ve started composting at home,” Gallo says. “I think (my husband and I) both feel better about what we’re doing or not doing. So mental health wise, I think it’s a huge plus.”

Similar to Gallo and the students, Barnes has experienced the benefits of composting within his personal and work life. The positivity that radiates from the volunteers has confirmed for him the significance of this program and its impact on student health.

“We’ve got a lot of good feedback from kids and parents who’ve heard about it,” Barnes says. “We’ve had interest from students and other buildings. …So we’re hoping that we can keep that going especially in connection with the City of New Albany.”

Amber Phipps is a contributing writer at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at aphipps@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

By Ava Huelskamp

Preserve your Produce

Best practices for lengthening the life of your fresh fruit

Food waste is an epidemic that can be reduced with better produce storage practices. According to data published by Seattle Public Utilities, Americans throw away a quarter of the food they buy. Of the roughly 150,000 tons of food thrown away daily, fruits and vegetables account for 39 percent according to Real Simple.

What is the best way to store produce for the maximum amount of time without spoiling? Some of the methods might surprise you.

Starting fresh

The most important step when appropriately storing fruit starts in the grocery store. Select items without any limp or yellowing leaves that are free of blemishes and soft spots.

General tips

Keep in mind that most foods end up spoiling because they are placed too close to other produce that release ethylene gas.

Some fruits that produce ethylene gas include apples, melons, apricots, bananas, peaches, pears, nectarines, plums and figs. Be wary of how you store these items so they don’t ruin other produce in your fridge.

As a general practice, the American Heart Association recommends that no matter what type of produce you’re storing, cut and peeled produce should always be kept in the refrigerator.

Apples

While apples are commonly seen on the counter, that isn’t

the best way to preserve their crispness and flavor. Ideally, apples should be stored in a tightly sealed plastic bag in your refrigerator’s crisper drawer, according to The New York Times.

Tip from Real Simple to preserve apples for up to six weeks: wrap whole apples in damp paper towels before placing them in a plastic bag.

Citrus

Citrus storage is hybrid. It’s recommended to leave citrus on the counter for the first week, followed by refrigeration if it lingers longer.

Lemons and limes shouldn’t be stored with ethylene producers like apples, but oranges and grapefruits are not sensitive to the gas and can be stored together

without spoiling. Always refrigerate any leftover citrus once you cut into it.

Grapes

It turns out you probably shouldn’t leave your grapes in the plastic bag they come in that never seems to zip. According to Real Simple, once your grapes are thoroughly washed and patted dry, they should be stored in a ventilated container in your crisper drawer. This will ensure freshness for up to three weeks.

If you’ve never tried frozen grapes, you’re missing out on a fun snack. To most effectively freeze grapes, rinse and dry them, then spread them on a baking sheet and leave it in the freezer for a few hours or overnight, until they are fully frozen so they don’t stick together. Transfer them to a container for storage.

One rotten grape can ruin the rest of the bunch, according to Seattle Public Utilities. Check your grapes every time you eat some to remove any that appear close to rotting.

Bananas

Buy bananas while they’re still green if you’re not going to eat them right away. They can be left on the counter in a fruit bowl or a banana tree which is especially helpful to minimize bruising.

Since bananas release high amounts of ethylene gas, don’t put them in a bowl with other produce, and make sure they don’t receive a lot of direct sunlight, as this causes them to ripen and brown quickly.

Mangoes

Mangoes are another fruit that can be left unrefrigerated and they often need time to ripen once bought. Don’t stress if it’s been a while and your mango still isn’t soft to the touch. Some mangoes take a few days to ripen while others can take a few weeks.

Ava Huelskamp is a contributing writer at Cityscene Magazine. Feedback welcome at feedback@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

By Mary Nader

Cool, Calm and Decluttered

Tips from a design consultant

In a project completed by Dave Fox Remodeling in 2023, a New Albany family of five was looking to expand their tight mudroom and laundry room for better functionality.

“It was a larger family… they just needed more space and all of the clutter was causing a lot of stress. Trying to be more organized to reduce that stress was a big part of this project,” Design Consultant Jennifer Zipfel says.

Working with Zipfel, the family made deliberate changes to their home to optimize organization and functionality, while creating a cozy interior.

Colors

Choosing a paint color may warrant more deliberation than just personal

preference. According to Mental Health America, “color theory suggests that specific colors and their frequencies have a physiological and psychological impact on your feelings and behavior. For example, a stressed or angry person might expose themselves to the color blue to calm down and lower their heart rate, while a person with depression may look at reds and yellows to increase their energy.”

Shades of cool blues, greens and purples are often interpreted as calming, and are typically used in spaces meant for relaxation, such as bedrooms or athome offices. Accenting your home with cool tones in spaces such as kitchens or living rooms can help tie in grounding surroundings to busy spaces, especially against white or gray walls.

Photo courtesy of Dave Fox Remodeling

Photo courtesy of Jeff Johnson, JL Johnson Photography, LLC.

Photo courtesy of Jeff Johnson,

Johnson Photography, LLC.

Photo courtesy of Jeff Johnson, JL Johnson Photography, LLC.

Lighting

Since storage is a major focus for most pantries, lighting is not always the first thought, which Zipfel says can be a missed opportunity.

“A lot of people believe that pantries don’t need windows, like there’s just no point where they are seen like closets. But, as a designer, I’m a big advocate for that natural light in those spaces. Even if it’s just a 12 by 12-inch window,” Zipfel says.

A window can make the difference between a stuffy and a comfortable room. Brightening a space up with a window can be the small decision that uplifts your mood and helps bring in more Vitamin D.

Photo courtesy of Dave Fox Remodeling Photo

Photo courtesy of Jeff Johnson, JL Johnson Photography, LLC.

Researchers at The Polytechnic University of Milan found that, “exposure to natural light also contributed to better mental health. Examining the depression outcomes, negative impacts were produced by circadian misalignment, irrespective of total time spent asleep.”

Mindfulness

A house full of clutter can be overwhelming and taking on a full-home renovation to get rid of clutter can temporarily make things worse. By taking time before the remodeling begins to make conscious choices about what to keep and what to discard can help the process go smoothly.

If you have trouble letting go of the memories associated with items, pick them up. Hold them and, for a moment, think about what purpose they serve in your home. Or, simply take a picture of the item before letting it go.

Decluttering doesn’t always have to mean throwing things away. Donating clothes and items to second-hand stores can be an easy way to clean up your space. Knowing that your discarded items are going to another home may also bring peace of mind.

Air and Dust

A safe remodel is a good remodel. Renovations rarely end with aesthetics, and many projects create dust.

“We make sure we’re doing things like using HEPA vacuum filters and lead paint containment,” Zipfel says. “We are a remodeler that’s big on (health safety standards) for the client’s wellbeing while we’re doing remodels.”

According to the nonprofit organization Mental Health America, “good air quality can raise oxygen levels in your brain, boosting mood and focus. It’s also associated with reducing the effect of stress hormones and promoting better sleep.”

If you’re taking embarking on a home renovation, be sure to take appropriate precautions such as utilizing an air purification system, keeping windows open and using ventilator masks.

Mary Nader is a contributing writer at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mnader@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

impact By Cassie Kelly

Mind Your Mental Health

While summer may remind you of carefree days, it can also present challenges. Disrupted sleep patterns, changes in diet and a lack of structure can all contribute to feelings of anxiety and loss of routine.

To maintain your mental health as well as your physical health, Healthy New Albany has released several summer programs that offer a way to keep your mind and body balanced and at ease throughout the season.

Energized by Movement

A 2024 study published by the National Library of Medicine reported, “Tai Chi exercise may not only improve sleep, but also improve coordination, muscle strength, balance, and reduce stress and anxiety in older adults.”

Learning this inspired the Healthy New Albany team to bring back its Tai Chi Tour this summer. The tour will be held

at outdoor locations throughout New Albany including Rose Run Park, the Philip Heit Center for Healthy New Albany, Rocky Fork Park and Taylor Farm Park.

The classes will be taught by Christopher Jansen who has taught Tai Chi, dance and other movement modalities for 25 years.

Take some time to recharge your mind and your body with the Mindful Movement classes, including Summer of Zen. These UZIT (Urban Zen Integrative Therapy) classes will introduce other wellness practices like acupuncture to get you feeling the balance you might be craving during these busy months.

Fueled Nourishby

Nourishing your body during long summer days is critical, but sugar is a

near constant in summer favorites like ice cream and lemonade.

Nourish Program Coordinator Sharon Dunn will show participants how to enjoy fruits and make delicious desserts, such as tarts, cobbler and mousse, with them. Guests will also make a chia fruit jam and a not-your-typical fruit salad.

Check out the Healthy New Albany website for a full list of Nourish classes available this summer.

Guided by Knowledge

During an HNA Health Talk on July 10, Director of Corporate Engagement

Pamela Conn will guide guests through the principles and practices that underpin the powerful relationship between what we eat and how it affects our body’s inflammatory responses.

Inflammation is a natural process that helps our body defend itself against harmful agents and facilitate healing. However, chronic inflammation can lead to a host of health issues, including heart disease, diabetes and autoimmune conditions.

In this program, guests will learn how nutrition choices can influence the body’s inflammatory processes by promoting optimal health and wellness or prolonging and aggravating chronic disease.

On Aug. 17, dads and their daughters, ranging from fourth to fifth grade, will have an opportunity to take part in a special workshop hosted by Ruling Our eXperiences (ROX) called Strengthening the Dad/Daughter Relationship.

When girls have fathers who encourage their creative, athletic and academic pursuits, they are likely to be happier, more well-adjusted and more confident.

At this workshop, girls will talk about how to find their voice and their father’s will learn simple strategies for communicating with their daughters. Then, together, guests will get a safe archery lesson and target practice from the Ohio Division of Wildlife.

Rooted in Nature

Consider nature your grounding force this summer as you hustle through the fun and business of the season. HNA’s Family Nature Adventures are all about getting kids and families exploring the outdoors with a new and deeper appreciation.

On July 18, take part in the Creek Crawl where guests will walk and wade through Rose Run Park to see what they can find. You can observe plants and wildlife that inhabit the area with the opportunity to search for hidden treasures like fossils and interesting rocks. During the creek exploration session there will be activities stationed along the creek for the whole family.

Cassie

Kelly is the Marketing Manager at Healthy New Albany.

By Denise Dahl

Worksite Wellness Champions

Which team will take home the Corporate Chamber Cup?

Abrand-new initiative engaging workplaces and their associates brings a fresh twist to the 20th anniversary of the New Albany Walking Classic® on Sept. 15. Healthy New Albany and the New Albany Chamber of Commerce have united to present the Corporate Chamber Cup to the corporate teams who register the greatest number of race participants in each of these four categories:

• 1-9 employees

• 10-49 employees

• 50-249 employees

• 250+ employees

Each winning team will receive the Corporate Chamber Cup trophy to display at their company headquarters and recognition on The New Albany Walking Classic® website.

Cherie Nelson, executive director of the chamber, was very receptive to the idea of a partnership with Healthy New Albany.

Understanding the needs of businesses in the area and their desire to create more wellness-based offerings for their employees, Nelson says it seemed natural for these two organizations to collaborate

and provide a unique wellness and teambuilding opportunity as a part of this year’s event.

“Businesses recognize the value of workplace wellness programs because not

For more information about registration instructions for the challenge, visit www.newalbanywalkingclassic.com/worksite-wellness-champions.

To learn more about how your workplace can join the Wellness Works movement, visit www.hnawellnessworks.org.

The Walking Classic has thousands of participants each year, many or whom are from New Albany. Some people come after hearing about the event from neighbors or colleagues.

Photos courtesy of Healthy New Albany

only do they increase employee satisfaction and productivity, but they have longterm implications for employee recruiting and retention,” Nelson says. “The Chamber’s mission is to promote and support a healthy business climate where businesses can prosper. Partnering with Healthy New Albany on this initiative is a good business decision.”

First Financial Bank was quick to create a Worksite Wellness Champions team after learning about the Corporate Chamber Cup initiative. Erica Green Portnoy, a private banker with First Financial Bank and a New Albany resident, was happy to hear about the opportunity.

“Healthy New Albany is such a great organization supporting health and wellness in New Albany,” Portnoy says. “At First Financial Bank, we wanted our employees to have the opportunity to experience and participate in a fitnessoriented event that would allow for team building within our organization. Who doesn’t love a little healthy competition with the opportunity to win the Corporate Chamber Cup?”

Team participants are not limited to employees. Companies are encouraged

to invite their family and friends to walk alongside them in this special community event.

In addition to providing an experience that will enhance employee camaraderie, other team benefits include a company’s logo on the Walk website, a locked in registration rate with no processing fees, a long-sleeve fleece hoodie, race medal, custom bib and access to the post-race celebration with food and drink options.

The Worksite Wellness Champions initiative is an extension of Healthy New Albany’s larger mission of growing workplace wellness opportunities through its Wellness Works program. By offering curated events, including cooking classes, lunch and learns, movement practices, nature experiences and more for businesses of all sizes in the community, Wellness Works has helped some businesses reduce staff turnover and increase wellbeing in the workplace.

Denise Dahl is the Corporate Partnership Coordinator at Healthy New Albany.

This event wouldn’t be possible without the volunteers who step up to help with set up, tear down and as motivators along the path. No matter if you walk or volunteer, there are plenty of ways to get involved with the Walking Classic.

Community Programs

July & August, 2024

KNOWLEDGE

Community Health Talk: Managing Inflammation through Nutrition

July 10 | 6:00 - 7:00 pm

Community Health Talk: Staying Safe in a Digital World

August 29 | 6:00 - 7:00 pm

Girl Dad Workshop - Strengthening the Dad/Daughter

Relationship

August 17 | 9:30 am - 12:00 pm

MOVEMENT

Lift Like a Girl: Summer Fit Camp (7th - 10th Grades)

Wednesdays, July 10 & July 24 | 9:30 - 11:30 am

Lift Like a Girl: Summer Fit Camp (5th - 7th Grades)

Fridays, July 12 & July 26 | 9:30 - 11:30 am

Fitness as a Family

Thursdays, July 18 & August 15 | 4:30 - 5:15 pm

Foundations for Full Body Fitness

Mondays, July 22 - August 5 | 5:30 - 6:20 pm

Outdoor Tai Chi

July 17 | 10:30 - 11:30 am | Rose Run Park

July 31 | 10:30 - 11:30 am | Heit Center Patio

August 14 | 10:30 - 11:30 am | Rocky Fork Park

August 28 | 10:30 - 11:30 am | Taylor Farm Park

It’s a Dance Party: Zumba, Hip-Hop, & Choreo

June 29 & July 6 | 10:00 - 11:00 am

MINDFUL MOVEMENT

Outdoor Chair Yoga

Tuesdays, July 9 - July 30 | 10:00 - 11:00 am

Tuesdays, August 5 - August 27 | 10:00 - 11:00 am

Restorative Meditation

July 22 & August 12, | 11:30 am - 12:30 pm

UZIT & Acupuncture

July 9 | 6:30 - 8:00 pm

UZIT & Nature

August 6 | 6:30 - 8:00 pm

Yoga In the Park

Mondays, July 8 - July 29 | 10:00 - 11:00 am Mondays, August 5 - August 26 | 10:00 - 11:00 am

CARE (Compassionate Addiction Recovery Experience)

July 18, August 1, August 15 | 6:00 - 7:00 pm

NATURE

Summer Foraging Walk & Meal with James Mann

August 9 | 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Summer Family Adventure: Creek Crawl

July 18 | 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Summer Family Adventure: Bug Fest!

August 13 | 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

NOURISH

Cooking on Your Own: It’s Your Kitchen Now! July 31 | 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Fruit Desserts: Delighting in Nature’s Candy August 11 | 2:00 - 4:00 pm

Register for programs online at healthynewalbany.org

Questions? Email us at programs@healthynewalbany.org

Nourish Jr: Sushi Rollers

July 14 | 2:00 - 4:00 pm

Nourish Jr. Mini-Camp | Cooking 101 July 8-11 | 2:00 - 4:00 pm

By Elizabeth Cullinan, Librarian at

Healthy New Albany Bookshelf Reviews

Wild Girls: How the Outdoors Shaped the Women Who Challenged a Nation

By Tiya Miles, 2023

From Sacagawea to Harriet Tubman and Lousia May Alcott, history fans will find a new appreciation for the power of nature through the real-life stories of heroic women. These stories reveal how the freedom of the outdoors affected each woman’s independence, resourcefulness and vision for her life. The author uses this framework to advocate for equal access to outdoor space for all girls today.

A Life on Our Planet: My Witness Statement and A Vision for the Future

By David Attenborough, 2020

The award winning naturalist and filmmaker brings readers a memoir of his experiences in nature and a statement of how vital the protection of Earth’s natural resources is. Attenborough explains how our planet’s biodiversity is slowly breaking down to the point of extinction because of human-caused choices. His writing calls to action the need for people to be aware of what they can do to combat this environmental destruction.

Protecting Your Child’s Health: Expert Answers to Urgent Environmental Questions

By Ruth A. Etzel, MD, PhD, FAAP and Sophie J Balk,

MD, FAAP, 2021

From the American Academy of Pediatrics comes a question-and-answer guide for caregivers on how to minimize children’s exposure and risks to environmental hazards. While many products claim to be “natural” or “organic”, these environmental dangers are often unavoidable, but the proven, scientific knowledge found in this book can be a trusted resource. Readers will find information covering topics such as food and water safety, air pollution, radiation, pesticides and more.

Will To Wild: Adventures Great and Small to Change Your Life

By Shelby Stanger, 2023

The host of REI Co-op’s podcast, Wild Ideas Worth Living, brings stories that will inspire readers to embrace life-changing moments. Outdoor enthusiasts, share tips on how experiencing adventures in nature has led them to a more fulfilling life. This guidance also focuses on overcoming when things go wrong because they will according to the author. However, with persistence, readers can get out of their comfort zones, get outside and have adventures of a lifetime.

Losing Eden: Our Fundamental Need for the Natural World and Its Ability to Heal Body and Soul

By Lucy Jones, 2021

Both a memoir and a scientific study of nature, the author uses her own story of drug and alcohol addiction and recovery to explore the impact nature can have on one’s mind, body and soul. The scientific evidence shared explains how being surrounded by nature affects the brain’s neurological and parasympathetic nervous systems responses. Readers will feel a deeper connection to the sights, sounds and textures of nature the next time they step outdoors.

The Earth Transformed: An untold history

By Peter Frankopan, 2023

The environment has always shaped cultures, landscapes and history. This author offers a new perspective on global warming by looking at what the effects of temperature changes, rising sea levels and escalating natural disasters have on human experience. We continually try to make sense of the natural world, and through the author’s study of both scientific and historical records, readers can be inspired to find a new way of looking at solving environmental disasters for future generations.

New Albany Branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library 200 Market St., Hours: Mon-Thurs: 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat.: 1-5 p.m. Visit www.columbuslibrary.org or call 614-645-2275 for library services.

Top homes sold in New Albany

In April 2024, New Albany home prices were down 18.5 percent compared to last year, selling for a median price of $815,000. On average, homes in New Albany sell after 29 days on the market compared to 40 days last year. There were 12 homes sold in April this year, which is down from 14 last year. (Data from Redfin)

All information is collected from the Franklin County Auditor’s Office.

3954 Baughman Grant

6 beds, 6.5 baths

$2,600,000

Sold 5/6/24

7101 Armscote End 4 beds, 4.5 baths

$2,200,000

Sold 4/3/24

15 S. Ealy Crossing Dr. 4 beds, 4.5 baths

$2,125,000

Sold 4/19/24

14 Edge of Woods Rd. 3 beds, 4.5 baths

$1,625,000

Sold 5/8/24

6880 Oxford Lp. S. 4 beds, 4.5 baths

$1,550,000

Sold 4/2/24

4611 Goodheart Ct. 4 beds, 5.5 baths

$1,500,000

Sold 4/8/24

117 Keswick Dr. 4 beds, 3.5 baths

$1,300,000

Sold 5/7/24

7257 S. Berkley Sq. 4 beds, 3.5 baths

$1,195,000

Sold 5/6/24

7762 Pembrooke Pass 4 beds, 4.5 baths

$1,112,000

Sold 4/5/24

36 Keswick Dr. 4 beds, 4 baths

$1,100,000

Sold 5/24/24

55 Keswick Dr. 3 beds, 2.5 baths

$1,060,000

Sold 4/26/24

6796 Rosewell Ln. 4 beds, 3.5 baths

$1,020,000

Sold 5/7/24

7171 Talanth Place, New Albany | $899,900 | 4 Bed | 4 Bath | 4,055 sq ft | Welcome to this exceptional home in The New Albany Links community. With a 5-level split design, it offers 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, and a first-floor office/guest space with a full bath. The owner’s suite occupies its own level, providing privacy and luxury. The gourmet kitchen is a chef’s dream, with high-end appliances, granite countertops, and a spacious pantry.

NTH DEGREE TEAM AT COLDWELL BANKER www.nthliving.com

1209 Jackson Hole, Blacklick | $948,000 | 4 Bed | 5 Bath | 5,000 sq ft | Beautifully updated R & H built home w/ W/O lower level! The main flr features a private Office, Dining Rm, Great Rm, Kitchen w/ new Wolf & Thermador appliances and Casual Dining leading out to screened Porch, Deck, and Patio. The spacious Primary Suite has an updated Bath and features a bonus space that could be an Office or glam Closet!

NTH DEGREE TEAM AT COLDWELL BANKER www.nthliving.com

8109 Griswold

sq ft main house plus an additional 3,600 sq ft Party Barn! The fully updated main house w/5 car attached garage features a spacious and open first floor plan.

NTH DEGREE TEAM AT COLDWELL BANKER www.nthliving.com

Scene in New Albany

Ernie and his owner Bonnie Cram, the HNA volunteer coordinator, enjoy walking around the community.

by Jake Rutter

Photo

Maggie’s

Orthopedic Practice MOST TRUSTED

“I was really active in college, but began experiencing hip and back pain. Doctors said I had hip dysplasia – but offered no next step. I thought this was just how my life was going to be. After searching for solutions online, I found experts at Orthopedic ONE who could fix my problem. I got off crutches and never looked back. Orthopedic ONE absolutely changed my life.”

– Maggie James, Military wife, Bartlet’s mom and Orthopedic ONE patient

For two decades, extraordinary patient experiences have been the standard at Mount Carmel New Albany. In fact, we’ve won the prestigious Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award for patient satisfaction 17 times. You can count on more of the same when we open our brand-new Emergency Department this fall.