T h e O f f i c i a l M a g a z i n e o f t h e C i t y o f P i c k e r i n g t o n a n d V i o l e t To w n s h i p
DECEMBER 2018/JANUARY 2019
Continental Escapades Couple lives the dream of world travel INSIDE Holiday Gift Guide Tournament of Roses Blessing Boxes
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OhioHealth Pickerington Medical Campus 1010 Refugee Road | Pickerington, Ohio 43147 Find a physician at OhioHealth.com/Pickerington Š OhioHealth Inc. 2018. All rights reserved. FY18-139-4-50897. 03/18.
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1335 Dublin Rd., Ste. 101C Columbus, Ohio 43215 614-572-1240 • Fax 614-572-1241 www.cityscenecolumbus.com Kathleen K. Gill
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Jenny Wise
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Lydia Freudenberg Emily Chen Kendall Lindstrom Maggie Ash Brenda Layman Laurie Adams Casey Fair Diane Trotta Jamie Armistead Circulation
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www.pickeringtonmagazine.com CityScene Media Group also publishes: CityScene Magazine www.CitySceneColumbus.com Dublin Life Magazine www.DublinLifeMagazine.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 HealthScene Ohio www.HealthSceneOhio.com The Publisher welcomes contributions in the form of manuscripts, drawings, photographs or story ideas to consider for possible publication. Enclose a SASE with each submission or email ncollins@cityscenemediagroup. com. Publisher does not assume responsibility for loss or damage. The appearance of advertising in Pickerington Magazine does not constitute an endorsement of the advertiser’s product or service by the City of Pickerington. Pickerington Magazine is published in June, August, October, December, February and April. Subscriptions are free for households within the city limits of Pickerington, Ohio. For advertising information or bulk purchases, call 614-572-1240. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. Pickerington Magazine is a registered trademark of CityScene Media Group. Printed in the U.S.A. © 2018.
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pickerington magazine volume 11, number 2 december 2018/january 2019
6 Calendar 8
News and Information from the City of Pickerington
10 News and Information from
Violet Township
14
faces
Continent Hopping
14
Native Pickerington woman and her husband reflect on world travels
in focus
18
Plenty of Sole Altruism is a pillar of local parish
20 Wintry Wishlist
2018 Holiday Gift Guide
on the table
24
Bold BBQ
Local chef brings home cooking and spectacular flavors to many across Columbus
20 26
student spotlight Feeling Rosy
Pickerington High School students will perform in 2019 Tournament of Roses Parade
28 Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Blessing Boxes are a pleasant surprise
around pickerington
29
26
30
Photos from the community
bookmarks
On the cover: Photo by Grant and Megan Baird
www.pickeringtonmagazine.com PickeringtonMagazine
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magazine The Official Magazine of Pickerington and Violet Township
Mailed to EVERY homeowner and business in Pickerington and Violet Township
GET NOTICED. Contact Gianna Barrett today for great rates!
614-572-1255
gbarrett@cityscenemediagroup.com 5
pickerington community calendar december 2018/january 2019 Through Dec. 14
Dec. 1
Dec. 2
Santa’s Mailbox
Breakfast with Santa
8, 9:30 and 11 a.m.; Pickerington Senior Center, 150 Hereford Dr., www.pickerington.net Come eat breakfast, make crafts, check out a holiday bake sale and meet Santa at this annual Pickerington community event. All proceeds benefit the Pickerington Senior Center.
Holiday Card Maker Station
Through Dec. 24 Violet Township Fire Department Holiday Toy Drive
Locations throughout Violet Township, www.violet.oh.us Fire stations, schools, restaurants, churches, businesses and the Pickerington Police Department will all be accepting new, unwrapped toys and gift cards for the Violet Township Fire Department’s annual charitable drive. Local Girl Scout troops host a drive-through drop-off 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 2 at Fire Station 592.
Through Dec. 30
Dec. 1 Santa Saturday Slime!
2-4 p.m., Pickerington Public Library, 201 Opportunity Way, www.pickeringtonlibrary.org This is a free class for tweens and teens. Participants will learn how to make their very own slime by using only three ingredients, with a holiday-themed mix-in at the end. Note: slime ingredients include glue and liquid starch.
Dec. 1 Pickerington-Violet Township Historical Society Museum Open House 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Pickerington-Violet
Decorative Arts Center of Ohio Township Historical Society, 15 E. Columbus St., presents Imagining a Better World: The Artwork of Nelly Toll www.pickeringtonhistoricalsociety.com 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 1-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster This exhibit features the work of Nelly Toll, who was only 8 years old when she and her mother went into hiding from Nazis occupying Lwów, Poland, in 1943. For nearly two decades, she hid in a small, bare room armed with only a set of watercolors.
Dec. 1 Annual Santa Saturday Event
2-4 p.m., Pickerington Public Library, 201 Opportunity Way, www.pickeringtonpubliclibrary.org Holiday fun for all ages. Music, crafts and of course a visit with Santa himself!
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See Pickerington’s Carnegie Library (now Historical Museum) which contains local artifacts ranging from Adena weapons/ tools to Pickerington’s first town pump to present-day historical items. New this year is a wheelchair lift located at the museum’s rear entrance which allows handicap-accessibility to the museum’s main level.
Dec. 6 Meet the Authors! Romance writers Lori Foster and Sophie Jordan
7 p.m., Pickerington Public Library, 201 Opportunity Way Lori Foster is a best-selling writer of over 70 romance novels. Sophie Jordan grew up on a pecan farm in Texas. Both are accomplished authors who are eager to meet their fans.
Dec. 7 Pickerington Village Holiday Gathering
5-8:30 p.m., Olde Pickerington Village, www.pickeringtonvillage.com A Pickerington tradition, this family-friendly event features horse-drawn wagon rides, a trolley, ice carving demonstrations, children’s games and a visit with Santa. The event will culminate with the official lighting of the city tree and the Festival of Lights at the Pickerington Food Pantry.
Dec. 7-15 Pickerington Community Theatre presents Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol
Fridays 9 p.m., Saturdays 2 and 8 p.m., Epiphany Lutheran Church, 268 Hill Rd. N., www.pctshows.com Pickerington Community Theatre recreDec. 1 ates a theatrical and spirited version of A Free Yoga in The Loft Christmas Carol full of swirling and danc10-11 a.m., Combustion Brewery ing choruses of ghosts. This holiday story Taproom, 80 W. Church St., of redemption, magic and hope has been www.combustionbrewing.com performed for almost a million people Increased muscle strength and tone, over the years at Houston’s Alley Theatre, flexibility, improved respiration and vitality Hartford Stage and Washington D.C.’s are just some of the benefits of yoga. This historic Ford’s Theatre. yoga class is absolutely free, with food pantry donations highly encouraged.
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Photo courtesy of Pickerington Public Library
Pickerington City Hall, 100 Lockville Rd., www. pickerington.net Santa needs everyone’s letters, or else how can he deliver appropriate gifts to all the little children? Kids who include their names and return addresses will receive responses from old Kris Kringle himself.
1-3 p.m., Pickerington Public Library, 201 Opportunity Way, www.pickeringtonlibrary.org This free program gives teens and adults a crafty start to their season during Santa Saturday at Pickerington Public Library’s card-making station. Supplies are limited, and registration is required.
Dorothy Steiger Memorial Mitten Tree
8-5 p.m., Pickerington City Hall, 100 Lockville Rd., www.pickerington.net Stop by City Hall and donate mittens, gloves, hats and other warm gear for those in need by decorating the annual mitten tree. Donations for all ages are greatly appreciated.
Dec. 8 Pickerington Community Chorus presents Handel’s Messiah
In this hilarious Christmas classic, a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant is faced with casting the Herdman kids… probably the most inventively awful kids in history. You won’t believe the mayhem – and the fun – when the Herdmans collide with the Christmas story head on!
3 p.m., Peace United Methodist Church, 235 Diley Rd. Ticket prices: $10 Adults; Dec. 15 $8 Children/Seniors Toy Drive-Thru www.pickeringtoncommunitychorus.com 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Violet Township Fire Station 592, 8700 Refugee Rd., Dec. 11 www.violet.oh.us Many children may not receive gifts this Stitching N’ the Stacks: holiday season without everyone’s help. Needlecraft Group Violet Township Fire Station 592 is lead6:30-7:30 p.m., Pickerington Public ing the effort to collect new, unwrapped Library, 201 Opportunity Way, toys for area children. New unwrapped www.pickeringtonpubliclibrary.org toys, cash or gift cards are accepted. This program is open to teens and Those who wish to donate can simply adults. For those who already love crodrive through the fire station bays and chet or knitting, as well as those with a desire to learn. This group meets monthly drop off a donation without even getting out of their car! to work on projects, chat and learn from one another.
Dec. 24-Jan.5
Dec. 6-8
Winter Break
Holly Jolly Follies
Thursday-Saturday 6:30 p.m., Saturday 1 p.m., Pickerington High School North, 7800 Refugee Rd., www.pickerington.k12.oh.us North’s student actors present their holiday dinner theater production.
Dec. 14-15 The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
Friday-Saturday, 7 p.m., Pickerington High School North, 7800 Refugee Rd., www.pickerington.k12.oh.us
Pickerington Local Schools, www.pickerington.k12.oh.us
Jan. 11 First Drafts Book Club
7-8 p.m., Combustion Brewery & Taproom, 80 W. Church St., www. pickeringtonlibrary,org The Pickerington Public Library’s new book club, hosted by Combustion Brewery & Taproom, discusses Redshirts by John Scalzi.
Submit Your Event
Do you have an event you would like to submit to our calendar? Send details and photos to ncollins@cityscenemediagroup.com. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com
Lisa Stoklosa, Owner
Pickerington Senior Helper We provide in-home help with: • Companionship • Meal preparation • Light housekeeping • Grooming and personal care • Shopping/appointments
Call us today! (614) 971-0893
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weekendscene
Dec. 7-18
Mark you calendar r for these commun ity events
Are you a Senior in need of a little help?
Looking for something to do? See what’s on the menu this weekend and beyond!
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INSIDE
PICKERINGTON
N E W S & I N F OR M AT I O N F R O M T H E C I T Y O F P I C K E R I NGT ON
Winter is Coming
City offers tips to aid workers in snow removal As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, most people tend to slow down. Winter is a quieter season for many, except those working in the Pickerington Service Department. Snow removal is the tallest part of the department’s seasonal order. A staff of less than a dozen streets and maintenance employees is responsible for the clearing of all city streets, and they’re basically on standby for call-in 24/7. “If a storm is projected we have guys on site before it even hits, pre-treating the roads. We try and be proactive,” says Service Director Ed Drobina. “It doesn’t matter if it’s Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve. If there’s a weather event, the guys are here.” Last year the City used approximately 950 tons of road salt but was quick to replenish its supply. Drobina says planning is the key. “Our salt barn is full. We try to keep it that way at all times. If we use 100 ton, we order 100 ton,” Drobina says. A fleet of 6-7 trucks with spreaders tackles the snow removal, with priority given to the main roads, then side streets and then subdivisions. The City says plow drivers make every effort to keep from plowing snow into driveways, but in many instances it can’t be avoided. Drobina recommends shoveling the snow and ice to the left side of your driveway (as looking at your house
from the street) to minimize the amount of snow and ice that gets pushed back into your driveway from the plows. Snow being pushed into the street by residents clearing their driveways is not only dangerous, it’s also illegal. The City also asks that, if possible, residents refrain from parking their vehicles on the streets during periods of heavy, continued snowfall. This will help plow drivers clear the streets and also avoid your car being snowed in. “Our guys take a lot of pride in having Pickerington’s roads clear and we appreciate anything our residents can do to help make their jobs safer and easier,” says Drobina.
Police Department Offers Training to Local Businesses Businesses are encouraged to be prepared for extraordinary circumstances Five minutes or less. That’s how long the average active shooting lasts. But as seen time and time again, five minutes is long enough for mass casualties and devastation. Active shooter training has increasingly become a priority for schools and businesses across the country and Pickerington is no exception. As one of the many services it offers, the Pickerington Police Department will go to a business or school and provide training on what to do should a gunman enter the building. Commander Tod Cheney says officers can provide anything from a Power Point presentation to a full drill 8
with pistol blanks. Cheney estimates the Pickerington PD has done 40-50 of these types of trainings. “An FBI study on active shooter situations showed that approximately 160 incidents occurred annually in the United States over a 14-year period. Approximately 70 percent of those incidents took place in businesses, commercial locations or school-type environments. Additionally, 60 percent of the incidents ended before law enforcement arrived on the scene,” says Cheney. “The trends indicate the importance of active shooter incident training. Those present at the time the event is taking
The average active-shooter incident lasts 12 minutes, with 37 percent of them lasting less than five minutes, according to the FBI.
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place are the true ‘first responders’ to the situation. Being properly trained in knowing how to respond to an active shooter situation has absolutely saved lives in the past.” The Pickerington Surgery Center is one of several businesses that has taken advantage of the program. Manager Geoffrey Minor says he had heard that the police department offered training and it was a no-brainer. “This is a national problem and we want to be proactive in making sure our staff is educated on how to respond in the event
of an actual active shooter situation.” “It was a great program. Having the officers take our employees through an actual scenario was extremely beneficial. The officers offered great recommendations,” says Minor. Several officers at the Pickerington Police Department are instructors through entities like OPOTA, FBI, Run-Hide-Fight, Avoid-Deny-Defend, Ohio State Highway Patrol and Texas State University. All officers in the department undergo active shooter training several times a year. In addition to active shooter training,
the PPD offers Pickerington businesses an assessment of their security. Commander Cheney believes increased lighting, alarm system installations, surveillance systems and reporting suspicious people are all ways businesses can improve safety for employees and patrons. For more information on the security and training services provided by the Pickerington Police Department, please contact Cmdr. Tod Cheney via email at tcheney@pickerington.net or by phone at 614-575-6911.
Residents Invited to Holiday Gathering Olde Pickerington Village is decked out and ready for an old-fashioned holiday gathering on Friday, Dec. 7. Residents are invited to celebrate the holidays with some fun-filled adventures in the village from 5-8 p.m. Carriage rides, strolling carolers, free children’s activities, holiday gift ideas and shopping, and even a visit from that jolly old elf from the North Pole will make everyone merry. At 7 p.m., Mayor Lee Gray will officially usher in the holidays with the lighting of the tree at the gazebo. The Holiday Gathering is sponsored by the Pickerington Village Association and the City of Pickerington. “The Pickerington Village Association is the organizer of the event, and the
Tree in City Hall and help those in need of warm mittens, gloves, hats, and other warm apparel by placing their donations of items for all ages on the tree. The tree will be decorated through Tuesday, Dec. 18. All donations will be given to families through Fairfield County Job and Family Services.
citydirectory Pickerington City Hall, 100 Lockville Rd.
(All numbers prefixed with the 614 area code)
Building Services ..................... 833-2221 City Clerk/Council..................... 837-3974 City Manager........................... 837-3974 Development Services.............. 833-2204 Engineering Services ............... 833-2221 Finance Services...................... 837-3974 Human Resources.................... 837-3974 Income Tax Division.................. 837-4116 City participates with the tree lighting portion of the gathering,” Pickerington Parks and Recreation Director Rebecca Medinger says. “The purpose of the gathering is to spread holiday cheer in the community.” Children can drop off their wish lists to Santa that night. The North Pole Express mailbox is located in front of City Hall. Since it is such a busy time of year for Santa, please include the child’s name and return address so that he can write back. Santa’s special postal service is available through Friday, Dec. 14. Children and adults can help decorate the Dorothy Steiger Memorial Mitten
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Mayor’s Office (Lee A. Gray)............................ 837-3974 Mayor’s Court.......................... 837-3974 Parks and Recreation............... 833-2211 Police Services......................... 575-6911 Service Department Streets.................................... 833-2292 Utility Billing............................. 833-2289 Utility Maintenance................... 833-2292 Water Plant.............................. 833-2290 Waste Water Plant.................... 837-6490 Water Reclamation.................. 837-6470 9
News and Information From
Violet Township wish to donate can simply drive through the fire station bays and drop off a toy or donation without even getting out of the car. A variety of events have also been planned at the Pickerington Schools to raise money and toys for the toy drive.
Thank you in advance for supporting this community cause. We hope that you have a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season.
The Violet Township Fire Department, along with Pickerington Local Schools, make an amazing team to brighten the lives of local families during the holiday season. The effort provides toys to local children and families in the Pickerington, Canal Winchester, and Reynoldsburg areas. The toy drive also assists the remainder of Fairfield County. The toy drive officially kicks off November 22nd and runs through December 23rd. If you would like to support this cause, drop off a new, unwrapped toy to any Violet Township Fire Station or Pickerington Local School. You can also find our big, red toy boxes throughout the community at various locations such as retailers, restaurants, or businesses that support the toy drive. Items of particular need are always gifts or gift cards for older children, often middle to high school age. Monetary donations may also be accepted at any of the three Violet Township Fire Stations. Our stations are located at: • 21 Lockville Road in Olde Pickerington • 8700 Refugee Road in Pickerington • 2365 Taylor Park Drive in Reynoldsburg (Behind Ashley Furniture) In 2017, this wonderful community effort assisted nearly 650 families with 2,000 children. A few fun events have been planned to help make 2018 another successful year. For example, a local Girl Scout troop will host the annual Toy Drive-Thru Event at Violet Township Fire Station 592 located at 8700 Refugee Road on Saturday, December 15th from 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Those who 10
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Candle Safety Candles may be pretty to look at but they are a cause of home fires – and home fire deaths. Remember, a candle is an open flame, which means that it can easily ignite anything that can burn. “CANDLE WITH CARE” •
Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep. • Keep candles at least 1 foot (30 centimeters) away from anything that can burn.
Candles and Kids
Never leave a child alone in a room with a burning candle. Keep matches and lighters up high and out of children’s reach, in a locked cabinet.
Think about using flameless candles in your home. They look and smell like real candles. If you Do buRN CANDLEs, make sure that you... •
Use candle holders that are sturdy, and won’t tip over easily. • Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface. • Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame. • Don’t burn a candle all the way down – put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container. • Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home. • Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles. NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION
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The leading information and knowledge resource on fire, electrical and related hazards
• • •
FACTS
! December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. ! Roughly one-third of home candle fires started in the bedroom. ! More than half of all candle fires start when things that can burn are too close to the candle.
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Home Christmas Tree Fires U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated annual average of 200 home structure fires that began with Christmas trees in 2011–2015. These fires caused an annual average of six civilian deaths, 16 civilian injuries, and $14.8 million in direct property damage. Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are much more likely to be deadly than most other fires. On average, one out of every 32 reported home Christmas tree fires resulted in a death, compared to an
Decorative lights were involved in 18%. • Wiring or related equipment was involved in 13%. • Cords or plugs were involved in 6%. Electrical failures or malfunctions were factors in one-quarter (25%) of Christmas tree fires. Any type of equipment that uses electricity can have an Leading causes of Christmas electrical failure. tree fires One-quarter (24%) of Christmas Electrical distribution or lighting equiptree fires were intentional. Almost half ment was involved in two of every five (48%) of these intentional fires oc(40%) home Christmas tree fires. curred in January. Heating equipment was involved in 15% of the Christmas tree fires. Six percent of Christmas tree fires were started by someone playing with fire. Candles started 8% of home Christmas tree structure fires. In one-quarter (26%) of the Christmas tree fires and in 80% of the deaths, a type of heat source, such as a candle or equipment, was too close to the tree. average of one death per 143 reported home fires. Four of every five Christmas tree fires occurred in December or January. More than two of every five Christmas tree fires (42%) happened in December. More than one-third (37%) were in January.
•
Leading areas of origin More than one-third (37%) of home Christmas tree fires started in a living room, family room, or den. All of the fatalities and roughly three-quarters (72%) of the injuries resulted from fires started in these areas. Six percent were chimney or flue fires.
How to Reach Us Violet Township Administrative Offices 12970 Rustic Dr. Pickerington, OH 43147 614-575-5556 www.violet.oh.us Violet Township Fire Stations Phone 614-837-4123 Fire Chief: Michael Little #592: 8700 Refugee Rd. #591: 21 Lockville Rd. #593: 2365 Taylor Park Dr. Violet Township Service Center Phone: 614-382-5979 490 Center St. Pickerington, OH 43147 12
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faces
By Emily Chen Photos courtesy of Grant and Megan Baird
Continent Hopping Native Pickerington woman and her husband reflect on world travels
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W
hile most people only dream of ditching the nine-to-five grind to explore new, fascinating places, one native Pickerington woman and her husband are actually doing it. Megan Baird, a 33-year-old Pickerington native, and her husband, Grant, are currently traveling the world. Their journey began in June 2017 and is still ongoing. Their travels have taken them to Peru, Japan, China and dozens of other destinations. To date, they have visited more than 62 countries.
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“I wanted to gain perspective about how others live and therefore have a better appreciation of what I have,” Baird says. “We are on a mission to experience as much of the world as possible.” Before embarking on this worldwide journey, Baird qualified for the NCAA Nationals in swimming, earned a master’s in health science, worked as a U.S. Air Force physician assistant and served in Afghanistan for a year. She became a trauma and general surgery physician assistant in 2013, a position she held until the decision was made to see the world. The couple has a travel blog, www.careerbreakadventures.com, where they share their experiences.
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How It All Began “My inspiration for this long-term travel came from the daughter of one of the surgeons with whom I worked,” Baird says. “She and her fiancé decided to take six months off from work to travel, splitting time between backpacking through Patagonia and road-tripping across the U.S.” The Bairds saved, planned and made sure they were in a good financial position before taking this leap. “This idea was so foreign to me. No one I had ever known had done anything
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so bold as to leave the security blanket of a steady job and a home,” Baird says. The process of planning such a journey was time intensive, with various facets and logistics to iron out. Their research involved costs of living, transportation and entry requirements. The couple sold their house, created wills, invested in life insurance and poured money into savings accounts. Naturally, the Bairds have experienced some frightening events to date, such as being caught in a snowstorm at 15,700 feet of elevation in Colombia. Despite these events, traveling has afforded
them the opportunity to witness some amazing things, such as a crash of rhinos chasing away a pride of lions in South Africa and a pod of whales breaching next to their boat in Ecuador. Baird credits this journey as helping her to grow as a person. Meeting so many new people has caused her to view life through a different lens. “You learn patience, flexibility, spontaneity, multitasking and resiliency,” Baird says. “Most of all you learn how fortunate you are in your own life and realize that your world views are so narrow.”
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No Place Like Home
“I had many swim coaches who pushed me athletically but also taught me so much about life,” Baird says. Breaking out of her shell has proved valuable on this global journey. They’ve survived a 6.3 magnitude earthquake in Ecuador as well as a precarious situation when their camper van died in a remote corner of Tasmania. “No matter how frustrating planning can be, surprisingly, it always works out,” Baird says.
Baird acknowledges how her Pickerington neighborhood influenced her early, formative years. “Pickerington was a fantastic place to grow up,” Baird says. “In fact, we lived right behind Violet Elementary School so my brothers and I would spend lots of time playing in those fields behind the school. Pickerington offered me a great education, one that I continued to build on after graduation.” She also looks back fondly on the decision to join the Huntington Hill Froggers swim team as a Emily Chen is a contributing writer. child, a decision that allowed her to break out of Feedback welcome at feedback@ her shell. cityscenemediagroup.com.
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By Kendall Lindstrom
Plenty of Sole
O
ver the last 23 years, the Seton Parish Youth Group has donated thousands of shoes to the children of Cranks Creek in Harlan County, Kentucky. Each fall, 50 of Seton’s youth, along with their chaperones, board a bus for the six-hour trip down to Cranks Creek. Upon arrival, they pass out shoes donated by parishioners to students in three of the county’s schools, from preschool to eighth grade. “Cranks Creek was chosen because it was the site of a former Diocesan summer work camp through the Diocesan Youth Council in the early ’90s,” says Barbara Serrano, director of youth ministry and religious education at Seton Parish. “At the camp, the lack of shoes was observed, and the donation evolved from there.” With more than 30 percent of its population living below the poverty line, Harlan County has languished in severe economic crisis ever since the decline of the coal mining industry. Many 18
Altruism is a pillar of local parish
The interpersonal connections are what continue to make this event integral to this inter-generational ministry.
parents are unable to provide new shoes for their children. “For many of the young people, these are the only pair of shoes they get a year,” Serrano says. In preparation for the drive, parishioner Ted Harrison visits the three Harlan County schools to record measurements of each child’s shoe size to ensure they receive well-fitting shoes. From there, Tracey Middendorf and her father, Don Miller, who have overseen the program since its inception, organize a “shoe sheet party,” where a group of the parish’s youth gather to fill out slips for the Harlan County children. Once each child’s shoe slip is recorded, they distribute them throughout the parish so that each family can select a child for which to buy shoes. Serrano credits many parishioners with going above and beyond.
“We have several families who buy multiple pairs of shoes; one woman picked up 13 shoe sheets so that she could buy a pair of shoes to represent each of her babies in heaven.” This yearly event is something people look forward to within the community. Payless Shoes has provided donations for the drive in the past and continues to offer parishioners a discount on shoes purchased for the program. “As an inter-generational ministry, we have many different volunteers fill out the shoe sheets, from those who are older and homebound to the youth of the parish,” Serrano says. On the morning of the trip volunteers load the shoes onto a truck, donated by Byers Imports, and leave for Harlan County promptly after the 8 a.m. mass. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com
Photos courtesy of Barbara Serrano
in focus
Once they arrive at the Harlan County schools, the volunteers distribute the shoes, along with two to three pairs of socks per child, and help each child try on their pair to ensure proper fitting. This year, Seton Parish collected 1,317 pairs of shoes and nearly 3,600 pairs of socks. “For any student whose shoes do not fit, we take them to the gym and have a shoe storetype atmosphere where we go through other exchanges to find the perfect pair for the child,” Serrano says. “If we are not able to find the pair that fits just right with what we have, we have a team who remeasures and then goes to the closest Payless Shoe Store and exchanges or buys a pair that will fit.” The interstate and interpersonal connections are what continue to make this event so integral to Seton Parish. “A large part is that each pair of shoes bought are for a specific child, so this is very personal for our community. It is a person-to-person ministry; the people on the trip take down the shoes and give them personally to the child,” Serrano says. “For our larger community who do
• Orthopedic Surgery • Spine Surgery • Neurology
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portation, there are still major obstacles in putting together the drive each year, including the amount of funds available to cover expenses. “Our parish donates money for the expenses which includes bus transportation and shoes, and they also provide the food that we eat while we are there,” Serrano says. “This year, we also had to charge a slight fee to those riding the bus to help offset the cost of transportation.” Scholarships are offered to any student who cannot afford the cost of the trip, as the ministry feels that services like the shoe donation are vital in carrying out its mission, particularly for the parish’s youth. “As Catholics, we serve others, and we believe this is a great way to teach our young people the importance of service and helping others in need,” Serrano says. “Our young people are not the church of tomorrow; they are the church of today. It is inspiring to see how much they care and how willing they are to serve others.”
not go on the trip, even though they do not get to see the actual person, they are buying shoes for a specific child, and that means a lot.” Seton Parish encourages its members to engage in the wide variety of offered service opportunities, from its Portsmouth Christmas Food Drive to serving meals to transitional residents through the Inter Faith Hospitality Network in Columbus. “We are a pretty charity-driven parish,” says Serrano. “Regardless of whether those we serve attend mass, are Catholic or are even Christian.” Kendall Lindstrom is a contributing Despite help from companies like writer. Feedback welcome at feedback@ Byers Imports, Payless and Cardinal Trans- cityscenemediagroup.com.
• Podiatry • Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
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8 1 0 2 ay d e i l o H Guid Gift
Wintry Wishlist By Nathan Collins
Fantastic Furnishings
Holiday Handmades
Resale Furniture in Olde Pickerington Village specializes in high-quality, name-brand furniture, most of it pre-owned. The dog lover in the family will cherish the collection of dog figurines in their stocking. $50-$150. www.facebook.com/resalefurniture
Allow loved ones to express their state, hometown or college town spirit with locally handmade wood decorations from Ohio Made. Find that perfect office decoration and support local artists and craftsmen at the same time! $16-$32. www.ohiomade.com
Buckeye Gold Coin & Jewelry For the precious metal-lover in the family, Buckeye Gold Coin & Jewelry offers a selection of precious metal jewelry at affordable prices. Avoid the big chain stores with the big prices and find that perfect piece to go with your significant other’s favorite outfit. $70 and up. www.buckeyegoldcompany.com
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Running in Style Did you know that your eyes can be sunburnt? Columbus Running Company has them covered with its line of stylish eyewear because a runner’s feet aren’t the only thing that requires protection. $25 and up. www.columbusrunning.com
Goin’ West Though all items are unique, 27 West & Co. always has myriad holiday merchandise for the holiday season. Prices vary. www.27westandco.com
It’s A Doggy Dog Holiday Don’t forget the four-legged loved one in the family this holiday season. For those who want to show love to the furry family members, Karen’s Doggie Day Spa only uses the highest-quality shampoos, crème rinses and colognes. Prices vary. www.karensdoggiedayspa.com www.pickeringtonmagazine.com
A Feather In Your Cap Open for one long weekend per month and offering new, vintage and handmade home goods and clothing, Feather Your Nest is for the loved one who appreciates locally made products. Or, you can make your own! In the Stepstool Workshop, learn all about how to paint, glaze and distressing techniques. $85. fyn.bigcartel.com 21
Tied Up In Knots Don’t forget to stuff loved ones’ stockings with delicious treats this year. With flavors including ChipotleQue and Peppermint Coco Twist, Pretzels with a Twist has the snacker in the family covered. $4-$5 per 6 oz. www.pwat.myshopify.com Rock Art Scrap granite is reborn as split stones, pavers, cheese trays, mirrors, jewelry and more at Reclaimed Granite of Columbus. These wine stoppers are unique and, like all products, 100 percent reclaimed granite. $10 or two for $18. www.reclaimedgranitecolumbus.com
Holiday Basket(case) These festive baskets from Aunt Deanna’s Basket of Goodies are each filled with holidays tasties that are perfect for the loved one with a sweet tooth. Baskets also come with a wooden ornament and wrapped with a festive bow. $10. www.adgiftbaskets-centerpieces.com.
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For the Outlaw If you have a motorcycle enthusiast on your list, you likely already know they’re a different breed. Help them keep their hog in tip-top shape with a winter tune-up. Bandit Choppers offers a variety of repair and fabrication services. Prices vary. www.banditchoppers.net www.pickeringtonmagazine.com
Stressed Santa
Holiday Spirit One of the newer businesses to open in Olde Pickerington Village is Myers Custom Design, which specializes in custom apparel – particularly of the Pickerington-centric variety. Get in the holiday, or community, spirit with local school gear. Prices vary. www.myerscustomdesign.com
From facials and manicures to hotstone massages and chemical peels, Monroe’s Salon and Spa has a wealth of treatments for those who are stressed out by the holidays. Gift cards are available in all denominations. Prices vary. www.monroesbeautyspa.com
Achy Breaky Holiday Although the holidays are what everyone looks forward to, it can be a stressful time. Body Ache Escape Massage Center knows how to melt the stress away with its list of alternative treatment options including hot stone, sports and fertility massages, as well as lymphatic drainage therapy. $75$130. www.bodyacheescape.com
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on the table
By Maggie Ash
Bold BBQ I
f there’s one thing Columbus isn’t lacking, it’s quality and ground-breaking cuisine. Jason Smith is one of the reasons why. An insurance agent-turned-bartenderturned-master cook, Smith was inspired by perfect portions and homestyle barbecue to create his business, Meatery BBQ. Specializing in custom spice rubs, wood-fired meats and homemade barbecue sides, Smith has created more than 24
just a typical restaurant. Although Smith’s culinary journey began as experimentation in his back yard and barbecue competitions, he now works in a commercial kitchen with the highest-quality ingredients to prepare catered food for special events and as many as 12-15 different establishments around Columbus. Along with his catering and delivery services, Smith works with local fitness entrepre-
Personalized rubs add to intense flavoring.
neurs and gyms to create Perfectly Portioned Meals. These pre-cooked and pre-packaged meals provide even the busiest healthconscious individuals an avenue to eat right. “The biggest issue that I think everyone has is not only eating healthy but getting healthy food that tastes good,” Smith says. By using high-quality ingredients and an expert combination of proteins, starchwww.pickeringtonmagazine.com
Photos courtesy of MeateryBBQ
Local chef brings home cooking and spectacular flavors to many across Columbus
While most establishments are focused on promoting themselves, all Smith really cares about is that people enjoy his creations.
es and vegetables, Smith is transforming barbecue from a guilty pleasure to an enjoyably balanced meal. As Smith explains, the key to fresh and flavorful barbecue begins with woodfiring the meats. Instead of traditional grilling, this method includes cooking meat on an open flame with basic charcoal and the addition of specialized chunks of wood with a variety of vegetables to create smokiness and flavor. Add a variety of intense spices via Smith’s personalized rubs, and you have mouthwatering meats that can be frozen and eaten weeks later. Although it’s best to experience Smith’s recipes straight from the master himself, his rubs and sauces are also available at select retail locations in Columbus
Mac and Cheese Ingredients 16 oz. cavatappi pasta 3 Tbsp. butter 3 Tbsp. flour 2 cups milk 10 oz. mild cheddar cheese 8 oz. Vermont white cheddar cheese Salt Pepper Additional seasoning to taste
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about is that people enjoy what I make,” says Smith. It was through his relationship with Combustion, as well as his core desire to bring good food and happiness to the people of central Ohio, that led to his collaboration with the Pickerington high school bands. A fundraising event served around 110 guests with a personalized meal designed and cooked by Smith in an effort to raise funds for the band’s trip to the Tournament of Roses Parade in January. The menu consisted of a meat, cheese and smoked vegetable appetizer, three different meats including brisket, pulled pork and smoked bone-in chicken breast, as well as arugula salad, white cheddar mashed potatoes, and mac and cheese. Barbecue fans themselves, the Pickerington band directors expressed their excitement for Smith’s high-quality presentation. In fact, interacting with individuals, including getting to speak to guests at the fundraiser, is one of Smith’s most cherished aspects of his job. “I enjoy the interaction with people. Just talking and seeing what they need. Because whether it’s a restaurant, a group like the Pickerington high school bands or just someone having a birthday party, they have certain things in mind. It’s just good to talk with people and figure out what they like, what they want and see how I can help them out,” says Smith. While Smith says the process of smoking meat is as relaxing as sitting around a campfire, he works tirelessly to create simple dishes that everyone knows and loves in a unique, rich way that highlights flavors most people don’t expect. For more information about Jason Smith and Meatery BBQ, visit www.meaterybbq.com.
such as North Market Spice Ltd., to allow novice cooks the opportunity to create their own fabulous barbecue at home. Partnering with Columbus restaurants is one way that Smith continues to grow and expand his business. If you’ve ever eaten at Combustion Brewery & Taproom, you’ve probably already tasted some of his work. Combustion Brewery doesn’t have a full-service kitchen, which is where Smith and his team come into play. His smoked and steamed meats are easily reheatable, and he delivers to multiple restaurants to enthrall as many taste buds possible. This slightly untraditional business model may seem strange to some, but it’s exactly how Smith likes it. “Most restaurants are very big on Maggie Ash is a contributing writer. promoting themselves and their name Feedback welcome at feedback@ needs to be all over it. All I really care cityscenemediagroup.com. Directions Start by cooking 16 ounces of Cavatappi pasta and preheating an oven to 350 degrees. In a separate pan melt 3 tablespoons of butter and add flour. Mix butter in pan with flour until it becomes brown. Once browned, add milk and a pinch of salt, pepper and any other seasonings you would like. Once the seasoned butter and milk mixture thickens, add Vermont
white cheddar cheese and mild cheddar cheese. Stir the mixture to help blend the cheeses. After everything is completely mixed, pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta in a 9-by-13-inch. Add additional shredded cheese to the top of pan if you would like. Place pan in the oven for 30 minutes or until the top is browned.
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By Emily Chen
Student Spotlight features a student from a different area high school in every issue.
Feeling Rosy Pickerington high school students will perform in 2019 Tournament of Roses Parade 26
T
his year, the two Pickerington high school bands unite as one to perform in the world-famous Tournament of Roses Parade. This honor reflects well on both Robbie Hammond and Camden Martin, opposing Pickerington high school band members who will march side by side on Jan. 1 in Pasadena, California. The 2019 parade is a milestone in the event’s history. Well-known for its rosecovered floats, equestrians and bands, the prestigious event celebrates its 130th year. The parade is paired with the famous Rose Bowl Game collegiate football game, which is played every year on New Year’s Day. Together, these two events make up the Tournament of Roses, a cherished New Year’s Day tradition. Hammond and Martin are both excited to explore California and march in the parade. Plans for Pasadena Hammond and Martin are already looking forward to the new experiences www.pickeringtonmagazine.com
Photos courtesy of Tracy Fox Martin, Ryan Martin and Robbie Hammond
student spotlight
they expect to have in the Golden State. Neither student has yet to spend significant time on the West Coast. “I’m really most excited to just have some quality time to spend with friends,” Hammond says. “Though I can have fun with friends anywhere, there will be lots of different, fun things to do in California that simply aren’t available in Pickerington.” Martin’s excitement revolves around the cuisine. “Usually my most notable memories when I remember trips involve something like, ‘that pizza I ate when we went to...’ or ‘that restaurant in…’ I hear the burgers are life changing, so eating one is at the top of my priority list,” Martin says. A Man of Many Instruments Hammond is a 17-year-old senior at Pickerington High School Central, and he’s been playing drums since he was 9. His love for music expanded until he could play the snare drum, bass guitar, several percussion instruments and even the basics of piano. He plays the snare drum for the school’s marching band, and many different percussion instruments for concert band. “My current reasoning for liking drums and percussion instruments is because they lay the foundation of the music in the form of rhythm,” Hammond says. “Arguably the most fundamental characteristic of music that distinguishes it from random noise is rhythm and tempo, which percussion instruments provide.” Hammond aims to attend the University of Chicago next fall. He plans to ma-
Hammond has been playing drums since age 9.
Martin plays both alto and soprano saxophones.
jor in physics or computer science, and is considering music as a minor. “Even though I don’t plan to major in a music-related field in college, I definitely would like to march for a Drum Corps International during college, in addition to participating in orchestras and other ensembles,” Hammond says.
wanted to be a jazz player. Martin also plays the guitar as a hobby. Martin’s passion lies in overcoming obstacles in music. Challenging solo pieces or other difficult songs don’t faze him. Instead, he practices the song until he can play it perfectly. “The sense of accomplishment when I show off my hard work in front of an audience is unmatched by anything else I’ve done,” Martin says. The Tournament of Roses Parade isn’t the first parade in which Martin has marched. He also marched in the 2018 London New Year’s Day Parade with the Pickerington North band. Martin plans to attend Capital University, where he wants to join the film and media production program. His goal is to become a voice actor. Though he decided against a career in music, he has no intention of abandoning it altogether. “I want to carry on playing in whatever bands will take me in college. And even if they don’t, I still want to continue playing the sax and learning new music,” Martin says. Don’t forget to tune in on New Year’s Day for the festivities, the football and to witness the performance of a lifetime for local students.
No Challenge Too Great Martin, an 18-year-old senior at Pickerington High School North, plays both the alto and soprano saxophones. He chose saxophone because he originally
Emily Chen is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at feedback@ cityscenemediagroup.com.
Martin has also marched in the London New Year’s Day Parade. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com
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Neighbors Helping Neighbors Blessing Boxes are a pleasant surprise By Brenda Layman
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Food insecurity affects more Pickerington residents than one might think.
“We recently installed a motionactivated light above the Blessing Box so that people can see what they are getting if they stop by after dark,” Williams says. “We want them to be able to get what they need quickly.” Popular items stocked in the boxes include peanut butter and crackers, granola bars, macaroni and cheese, ramen noodles, and canned or packaged meals. Items that are easy to prepare and don’t require extra ingredients are the most popular. The Blessing Box at Kindercare is also stocked with diapers. Visits to the Blessing Boxes vary in frequency. Sometimes the items will disappear quickly, other times they may sit for several days. “People’s circumstances change,” Williams says. “They may have an unexpected expense and just need a little help for a week or two.” This is commonly referred to as gap food. “A few extras that fill the gap between the end of the money and the next paycheck,” Williams says. “People also leave prayer requests in the box, and we honor those requests.” Donations are always welcome at all Blessing Box locations, and all three are open for use 24 hours a day.
to respect those who visit the boxes and ensure that no stigma is attached to receiving the items. “Food insecurity affects many more people in the Pickerington community than you might think,” says Davis. “One in six children in the United States lives in a food-insecure household, where family members cannot be certain of the availability of enough nutritionally adequate foods. I wanted my children to be aware of this, and involved with me in an opportunity to give back and help others.” Father Paul Williams, of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, indicates the church began its Blessing Box project, the first in Pickerington, in summer 2017. Parishioner Brenda Cessna brought the idea to him, and another parishioner, John Redhorn, built the sturdy box affixed to a tree in front of the church. Accessibility is key to the success of projects like these and an effort is made to situate the free pantries so that individuals Brenda Layman is a contributing can drive through and drop off or pick up writer. Feedback welcome at feedback@ items in a quick and easy fashion. cityscenemediagroup.com.
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Photos courtesy of Mark Layman, Gretchen Davis
B
lessing Boxes, also known as little free pantries, are popping up in Pickerington and the surrounding area. These community pantries are weatherproof containers that hold donations of non-perishable foods, baby supplies and toiletry items. Contents of the boxes are free to anyone who needs a helping hand, and the community is encouraged to donate as often as possible. No questions are asked, and recipients may visit the boxes as often as required. One is located in front of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 8630 Refugee Rd., another near Pickerington Kindercare, 1545 Cross Creeks Blvd., and yet another situated in the 7000 block of Basil Western Road NW, Canal Winchester, just east of Pickerington Animal Hospital. Gretchen Davis is the organizer of the Columbus Blessing Boxes Project. After moving to Pickerington from West Virginia, she started the local project, inspired by the Low Country Blessing Boxes Project of South Carolina. Property owners host and maintain the boxes. Every effort is made
Around Pickerington Want your snapshots to appear in print? Send your high-resolution photos to pickeringtonmag@gmail.com along with your name and a caption! Athena Awards
Photos courtesy of Pickerington Area Chamber of Commerce
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Haunted Village
Photos courtesy of City of Pickerington
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bookmarks
Submitted by Colleen Bauman, Community Relations Coordinator, Pickerington Public Library
Pickerington Public Library staff book picks that will appeal to every book lover on your holiday shopping list! Mark your calendars! December 1 – Annual Santa Saturday Event, 2-4 p.m. December 6 – Meet the Authors! Romance writers Lori Foster and Sophie Jordan in conversation, 7 p.m. January 16 – Meet the Author! Janet Beard, Atomic City Girls, 7 p.m. Adult The Read-Aloud Family: Making Meaningful and Lasting Connections with Your Kids by Sarah Mackenzie The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters by Priya Parker The Best of America’s Test Kitchen 2019: Best Recipes, Equipment Reviews, and Tastings by America’s Test Kitchen Board Books (Babies/Toddlers) Holi Colors by Rina Singh (teaches colors) Touch the Brightest Star by Christie Matheson (interactive bedtime story) Picture Books A Parade of Elephants by Kevin Henkes (teaches numbers and shapes. For toddler/preschool) Perfectly Norman by Tom Percival (teaches self-acceptance/individuality. For school age) Nonfiction Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls by Francesca Cavallo (for school age/middle school) Chapter Books Amal Unbound by Aisha Saeed (for middle school) Mac Undercover: Mac B. Kid Spy by Mac Barnett (for school age)
Pickerington Public Library Main 201 Opportunity Way Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday/Sunday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday 1-5 p.m. Sycamore Plaza Library 7861 Refugee Rd. Monday-Thursday noon-7 p.m. Saturday/Sunday noon-6 p.m. Sunday closed www.pickeringtonlibrary.org 30
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