Pickerington Magazine April/May 2024

Making Faces

Local artist Shiree Houf competes in global costume competition

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

1335

614-572-1240

Kathleen

Gianna

Jamie

Dave

Gary Hoffman

Maisie

Tyler

Ria

Jane

Mary

Amber

Aaron Gilliam

Laura

The

614-572-1240

The

pickerington community calendar april/may 2024

Ongoing Events

Sundays

Spring Wildflower Walks

1 p.m., Wahkeena Nature Preserve www.fairfieldcountyparks.org

Explore the new wildflowers and their history during this journey through the woods.

May

Rock Mill Days 2024

11 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesdays & Saturdays, 1-4 p.m. Sundays Stebelton Park at Rock Mill www.fairfieldcountyparks.org

Take this opportunity to learn about the history of corn milling with live demonstration.

April 2

Small Business Development

Advising Hours

10 a.m.-3 p.m., Pickerington Area Chamber, 21 Lockville Rd., Ste. 100 www.pickeringtonchamber.com

Get free consulting and support from the Ohio Small Business Development Centers every other Tuesday at the Chamber office.

April 3

Wednesday Connects

8:15-9:30 a.m., Redbud Commons, 602 Redbud Rd.

www.pickeringtonchamber.com

Come join the Pickerington Area Chamber and grow professional relationships through this networking event.

April 6

Bursting Buds Hike

1 p.m., Smeck Park, 7395 Basil Rd., Baltimore

www.fairfieldcountyparks.org

Observe the blooming trees on this nature hike.

April 6

Home & Garden Expo

10 a.m.-1 p.m., Combustion Brewery & Taproom, 80 W. Church St.

www.pickeringtonchamber. com

The Second Annual Pickerington Area Home & Garden Expo features more than 30 vendors, a kiddie garden with activities, live music, a food truck and giveaways.

April 7

Historical Museum Open House

April 19, May 17

Women’s Leadership Coalition

2-4 p.m., Pickerington-Violet Township Historical Museum, 15 E. Columbus St. www.pickhistory.org

This free event features an artifact collection and live dueling 1860 Melodeon and 1960 Magnus organs playing classic and modern music. Name the tunes, win a prize!

April 8

Vital Essentials Cooking Class

3:30-5 p.m., Sycamore Plaza, 7861 Refugee Rd.

www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

Register for this exciting cooking class featuring beef empanadas and led by Culinary Chef Makia Hagans.

April 8

Arbor Day Celebration

6 p.m., Sycamore Creek Park Arboretum www.ci.pickerington.oh.us

Celebrate Arbor Day with the Parks and Recreation Board as it’s recognized with the Tree City USA Award for the 31st year in a row.

April 13

Super Seasons

10:30 a.m., Fairfield County District Library Main, 219 N. Broad St., Lancaster www.fairfieldcountyparks.org

Enjoy a fun short story and crafts during discussions about the seasons.

April 15

Toddler Time: Bugs

10-10:30 a.m., Pickerington Public Library Main, 209 Opportunity Way www.pickeringtonlibrary.libnet.info Sing, dance, and listen to stories at this interactive early literacy class for toddlers and their caregivers.

8-9:30 a.m., Redbud Commons, 602 Redbud Rd.

www.pickeringtonchamber.com

Take this opportunity to learn about women empowerment and hear from inspiring guest speakers.

April 20

Pickerington Earth Day Cleanup

7 a.m.-3 p.m., Combustion Brewery & Taproom, 80 W Church St.

www.combustionbrewing.com

Help make Violet Township a better place by participating in this litter cleanup.

April 20

Wildflower Hike

1 p.m., Coyote Run

www.fairfieldcountyparks.org

Participate in this rare chance to go off-trail of the nature preserve and look for blooming wildflowers. Registration is required.

April 20

Pickerington Community Chorus Concert

4 p.m., Epiphany Lutheran Church, 268 Hill Rd. N.

www.pickeringtoncommunitychorus.com

Join your friends and neighbors, the Pickerington Community Chorus, for its Spring Concert. Check the group’s Facebook page for updates as the event gets closer.

April 22

City Earth Day Clean-up

City Hall, 100 Lockville Rd.

www.ci.pickerington.oh.us

Looking to help out? Contact City Hall and join volunteers and city employees cleaning up our community.

Would you like to submit an event for our calendar? Send details and photos to tkirkendall@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Joyce Cleary

Pickerington Community Chorus

Violet Township Women’s League

Courtesy of Violet Township Women’s League

April 23, May 15

Violet Township Women’s League Monthly Meeting

6:15 p.m., American Legion Post 283, 7725 Refugee Rd. www.vtwl.org

Learn more about the organization at this monthly meeting.

April 24

NEATure Craft: Watercolor Butterflies

1 p.m., Zeller Park

www.fairfieldcountyparks.org

Create colorful butterflies and participate in the chance to catch live bugs.

May 4

Touch-A-Truck

10 a.m.-12 p.m., Pickerington Community Pool, 11330 Stonecreek Dr. www.ci.pickerington.oh.us

Stop by the Pickerington Community Pool parking lot for the chance to see the best trucks and equipment for the kids to enjoy.

May 4

May the Stream Be with You

1 p.m., Zeller Park

www.fairfieldcountyparks.org

Explore the secrets hidden where Sycamore and Walnut Creeks meet.

May 5

Historical Museum Open House

2-4 p.m., Pickerington-Violet Township Historical Museum, 15 E. Columbus St. www.pickhistory.org

See the PHSN Student Art exhibit and honor our local veterans for Armed Forces and Memorial Days. Admission is free.

May 16

PACC Awards and ATHENA Celebration

5-8:30 p.m., Wigwam Event Center www.pickeringtonchamber.com

Celebrate your local business community with a night of recognition, networking and celebration.

May 19

Wildflowers & Ferns

1 p.m., Wahkeena Nature Preserve, 2200 Pump Station Rd. SE, Sugar Grove www.fairfieldcountyparks.org

Walk on the trails with a naturalist and identify wildflowers, learn their folklore, and discuss their history.

May 20

Monday Makers - Miniature Garden

6-8 p.m., Pickerington Public Library Main, 209 Opportunity Way www.pickeringtonlibrary.libnet.info

Upcycle containers and create miniature

May 21

Wellness Hike: 55 and Up!

10 a.m., Cross Mound Park, 11615 16th Rd. SW, Stoutsville www.fairfieldcountyparks.org

Exercise at your own pace and make new friends during this mile-long hike.

May 29

Last Day of School, Pickerington School District

www.pickerington.k12.oh.us

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

INSIDE

PICKERINGTON

Facility Reservations

Volunteers Needed

Looking for a way to give back to your community? Volunteers are needed for the 4th Annual Earth Day cleanup on Friday, April 19th. Pickerington City leaders, staff and community volunteers will come together to pick up litter at multiple locations around the city. Email hmaynard@ pickerington.net if you’re interested in volunteering.

Are you hosting a graduation party, birthday party or family reunion this summer? The Parks and Recreation Department offers more than a dozen facilities and park spaces to host your event. Shelters, gazebos, basketball courts and even the skate park are available for rent. Reservations are being accepted now for events April 1-October 31. All reservations must be made at least 72 hours in advance and are firstcome, first-served. Below is a list of park rules that must be observed in order to rent from the City of Pickerington.

Park Rules

1. Park open from dawn to dusk.

2. Damaging or removing park property, natural features and wildlife is prohibited.

3. No littering or dumping.

4. Loud and disruptive behavior is prohibited.

5. Advertising or commercial enterprise requires permission from the City Manager.

6. No camping without a written permit from the City Manager.

7. No fires except in designated areas.

8. Hunting and trapping is prohibited.

9. Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times and owners must pick up after their pets.

10. No swimming, wading, or boating.

11. Catch and release fishing only.

12. No motorized vehicles except in designated areas.

13. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Violation of any park rule may lead to ejection from the park or prosecution under the laws of the City of Pickerington. For a complete list of facilities available to rent, visit www.pickerington.net.

Last year’s Earth Day volunteers gathered in front of City Hall

Congratulations to the newest member of the Pickerington Police Department. Officer Daniel Kaltenegger was recently sworn in by Mayor Gray. Officer Kaltenegger was previously with the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Department. Welcome to Pickerington!

Tax Time

It’s tax time and the Pickerington Tax Department is answering some of the most frequently asked questions about City income taxes:

Why do we collect city income tax?

To provide support for City programs and services including 24-hour police protection, annual street resurfacing and other roadway improvements, snow removal, park programs and facilities, etc.

What is the City of Pickerington’s tax rate?

The tax rate is 1%, one of the lowest in Central Ohio.

Does Pickerington give credit for taxes paid to another city?

Yes, Pickerington gives a partial credit for taxes paid to another city.  The credit is up to one-half of one percent (.005) of the wages taxed.

Who is required to file a Pickerington tax return?

If you have travel plans this summer and need a passport, the City of Pickerington can help. The City is a licensed agency and can process passports, but by appointment only. No walk-ins are accepted. Appointments can be made by calling 614-837-3974. Applicants need a completed application, proof of citizenship (and photocopy), proof of identity (and photocopy), a recent color photograph which must meet passport requirements and a check or money for fees. Credit cards are not an accepted form of payment. For more information on obtaining a passport, visit: https:// travel.state.gov.

All Pickerington residents 18 years of age or older are required to file returns annually.

Yes. If you maintain Pickerington as your permanent legal residence, you are required to file a return even though much of your time may be spent out of the City.

Can you assist me in preparing my Pickerington tax return?

We would be happy to assist you.  You may visit our office without an appointment Monday – Friday between 8 am and 5 pm.  You are welcome to drop off your documentation and pick it up from us after the return is completed.  Please note that if you stop by in April, your wait will be longer due to the high volume of taxpayers we assist.

I am retired.  Do I have to pay tax?

Social Security income and pension income are not taxable by Pickerington; however, as a resident of Pickerington, you are still required to file a return.  If you are retired, but receive other types of income, such as part-time wages or rental income, you are required to file a return and pay tax on that income.

I am a college student and live away from Pickerington while attending school.  Do I have to file a return?

What documents do I have to attach to my return?

Documentation is required to support all income, credits, and adjustments shown on your City return.  Examples of necessary forms, if applicable:

W-2s (showing Federal, Medicare and Local wage amounts, and amount of local tax withheld for all cities); 1099s, Federal Schedules C, E, K or K-1; Form 2106 and Schedule A; Federal Form 1065, 1120 or 1120-S and supporting schedules; documentation to support partyear residency.

What if I need an extension?

The federal extension can be applied to your city taxes but you need to provide a copy.

If you have any further questions about your city income taxes, please visit www.pickerington.net and click Income Tax Department or call 614837-4116.

News and Information From Violet Township

Let’s Talk Mulch

By Lauren Vires, Wildlife & Education Specialist at Fairfield SWCD

The addition of mulch to your flowerbeds or landscaping can have many benefits if done correctly. When placed over the soil’s surface it can create an aesthetically pleasing display by adding color and definition to the edges of the landscaping area while improving the condition of the soil, reducing watering needs, and suppressing weeds that compete for available water and nutrients. Soils in your flowerbed or landscaping can benefit from the additional organic material. This extra layer of protection can retain moisture, moderate temperature fluctuations, and prevent erosion of the soil.

When should I apply mulch?

Determining the best time to apply mulch requires consideration of both the soil’s temperature and current moisture levels. Plants can be sensitive to extreme fluctuations in soil temperature and mulch can help moderate that. It is best to wait until the soil has naturally warmed due to increasing spring temperatures. This allows it to reach optimal conditions for root growth to begin. Applying mulch before this point can lock in cold temperatures making it more difficult for the soil to warm and plants to grow. Mulch also conserves soil moisture levels by slowing the evaporation process and increasing water infiltration, thus reducing the frequency in which you need to water the area. This is a great benefit in the hot summer months, but it can become problematic if applied too early in the spring when the soil is

already wet. Applying mulch to wet, waterlogged soil locks in an overabundance of moisture that can lead to root rot. Checking the forecast in advance of mulch application is also beneficial so as not to apply it right before a heavy rainfall that might wash it away from the site.

How thick of a mulch layer should I apply?

The more the merrier does not apply here. Only a few inches of mulch, somewhere in the range of 1-4 inches, are beneficial. Exactly how much should be applied is dependent on your goals and the current conditions. Consider whether this is your first time applying mulch to the site or if there is remaining mulch from the previous year. Consider what you are trying to grow and what soil conditions are ideal for that plant or flower. Applying too much mulch can be a waste of time and money and have a negative impact on plant growth. An overly thick layer of mulch can retain too much moisture year-round causing root rot and even suffocation of the plant. If applying mulch around trees and shrubs, be weary of creating what is known as the “mulch volcano.” This occurs when mulch is piled high around the base of the tree covering up the flare of the trunk. This can cause a buildup of moisture on the bark that leads to decay of the protective layer and sprouting of a secondary root system that has the potential to grow back towards the trunk and girdle the tree. These stressors can make the tree more susceptible to other pests and diseases.

of mulch options available, so be sure to choose the one that will best help you achieve your goals. If you would like more guidance and information about applying mulch to your flowerbeds and landscaping or choosing the right kind of mulch, reach out to Fairfield County’s Ohio State University Extension office at 740-653-5419.

How to Reach Us

Violet Township Administrative Offices

10190 Blacklick-Eastern Rd. 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

Keeping these considerations for mulch application in mind will set you up for success in attaining all the benefits mulch has to offer while avoiding common mistakes. There are a variety

Phone: 614-382-5979

490 Center St. Pickerington, OH 43147

Wigwam Event Center

The Wigwam Event Center is available for your next upcoming event. Whether it’s a traditional event/celebration or a corporate meeting/retreat, we can accommodate your needs.

Here are some past events that we have booked:

• State of Pickerington, March 8

• Food Pantry Gala, March 9

• PCT (Pickerington Community Theater), March 8, 9, 10 and 15, 16, 17 presented Junie B. Jones Jr. (the musical)

• Virtual Testing Site for Ohio Virtual Academy, a statewide online school, March

We have openings available for your next special occasion. Call our Events Manager to book your next meeting at 614-206-1066.

We have small and large meeting rooms that can accommodate your group.

Book your Corporate Meeting / Event / Party Now!

From the Fire Department

TORNADO WATCH AND WARNING DO YOU KNOW THE DIFFERENCE?

WATCH:

A Tornado Watch is issued to alert people to the possibility of tornado development in your area

WARNING:

A Tornado Warning is issued when a tornado has actually been sighted or is indicated by radar

Get alerts on your wireless device An droid iPhone

1. Go to the “Settings” app.

2. Go to “Notifications.”

3. Select “Advanced Settings.”

4. Choose “Wireless emergency alerts.”

5. Toggle on “Allow Alerts.”

6. Turn on all the alert options below.

1. Go to your “Settings” app.

2. Tap “Notifications.”

3. Scroll to the bottom of the page to “Government Alerts.”

4. Turn “AMBER Alerts” on.

5. Select “Emergency Alerts.”

6. Turn “Emergency Alerts” and “Always Play Sound” on.

7. Go back and turn “Public Safety Alerts” on

Where Should I take Shelter?

In A Home: A basement provides the greatest safety. Seek shelter under sturdy furniture if possible. In homes without basements, take cover in the center part of the house, on the lowest floor, in a small room such as a closet or bathroom, or under sturdy furniture. Keep away from windows.

In a Mobile Home: The home should be evacuated, and shelter taken in a pre-arranged shelter. If there is no shelter nearby, leave the trailer and lie flat in a ditch or ravine. Protect your head by placing your arms over it. Do not take shelter under the home.

Driving a vehicle: Get out of the vehicle and take shelter in a nearby ditch or ravine. Do not get under the vehicle. Lie flat and put your arms over your head.

At School or at Work: Follow advanced plans to move into interior hallways or small rooms on the lowest floor. Avoid areas with glass and wide, free span roofs. (Schools, factories, and office buildings should designate someone to look out for severe weather and initiate an alarm)

In Open Country: lie in a gully, ditch or low spot in the ground and hold on to something on the ground if possible. Do not seek shelter in damaged buildings.

Fact vs. Myth

Myth Areas near rivers, lakes, mountains and big cities are safe from tornadoes

Fact No place is safe from tornadoes

Myth The low pressure with a tornado causes building to “explode” as the tornado passes over

Fact

Violent winds and debris slamming into buildings cause the most structural damage

Myth Windows should be opened before a tornado approaches to equalize pressure and minimize damage

Fact Opening windows allows damaging winds to enter the structure. Leave the windows alone; instead, immediately go to a safe place

Myth Tornadoes are always visible from a great distance

Fact Tornadoes can be hidden in heavy rainfall or nearby low hanging clouds

Be Prepared!

Receive an alert if severe weather is in your area over your phone! Sign up for Alert Fairfield County at:

http://www.fairfieldema.com/alerts/index.html

No access to wireless alerts?

Get a weather alert radio

Our local tornado sirens are designed to alert you when you are outside to an emergency situation. But what about when you are inside your snug, airtight house, or if a siren fails to sound? Chief Mike Little urges all citizens to have at least one Weather Alert radio inside their homes and businesses so you can be immediately alerted to a weather emergency. These type of radios are available for purchase at our Refugee Road location, or at most major electronics retailers

News

Grant Funds Allow Major Security Upgrades for Pickerington Schools

By Preston Tartt, Director of Safety and Security

In late Spring of 2023, Pickerington Local Schools received 1.5 million dollars from the State of Ohio to make physical security improvements across the district. The grant was administered by the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission (OFCC) in conjunction with the Ohio School Safety Center. The program was funded through Ohio’s operating budget and with allocations from the American Rescue Plan Act.

Our Safety and Security Department, in conjunction with several stakeholders from the district, reviewed data collected from recent assessments that focused on physical security to plan for our expenditures. The assessment was provided by the Ohio School Safety Center and Partners Alliance for School Safety. Through the use of the assessment tool, and in consultation with the building leaders and public safety partners, funds were allocated in the following areas to enhance, modify, or update the physical security profile of the district:

• Visitor Management

• Signage and Wayfinding

• Electronic Access Control

• First Aid Response

• Perimeter Protection and Monitoring

• Cyber Security

• Communications

• Closed Circuit Television Systems

Each upgrade or enhancement helps check off a physical security best practice for our district. While there is still more

work to be done, and a lot of the specifics can’t be shared for safety and security reasons, the work that we are on track to complete enhances the physical security footprint for students, staff and the community that encompasses PLSD.

CommUNITY Cultural Festival was a Feast for the Eyes and Spirit

Our annual CommUNITY Cultural Festival lived up to its name on Sat., March 16, as a large crowd came together to celebrate the various cultures and diversity of the Pickerington area. The event featured free food, music demonstrations and performances, a cultural exposition area, and more at Toll Gate Middle School. Scan the QR code to view pictures from this popular event, or visit http://tinyurl.com/CommUNITYFest24

A newly purchased, strategically placed security camera watches over the back corner of Heritage Elementary.

faces

By Rachel Karas

Creature Creator

Costume

Shiree Houf’s workspace is far from your typical office.

Upon entering you’ll notice a table in the corner holding fabric scraps and a sewing machine with every color of thread imaginable on a nearby shelf. Mannequins stand shoulder-to-shoulder wearing patterned, sequined and crocheted clothing.

The space showcases the creativity and hard work Houf has put into her craft as a costume designer over the years. Every wall is covered with items for inspiration, pictures of her work and awards she has won.

In 2023, Houf was a finalist in an international costume design competition known as World of Wearable Art.

With big hopes of returning to the competition, Houf is excited about where her work takes her and what projects she will pursue in the future.

Finding the art within

She moved a few times when she was younger – from Oklahoma to Cincinnati,

then east of Newark and out to Frazeysburg – and finally to Pickerington.

“I always wanted to make things every time I was sick,” Houf says. “And, because I had asthma and was sick all the time my mom would get me a new coloring book and a new pack of crayons and so that is what I did for hours and hours.”

She carried her love of the arts into middle and high school, leading her to get

Photo by Jerri Shafer, courtesy of Shiree Houf

designer earns international recognition for her work

Photo by Jeffrey S. Hall Photography

involved with theatre and choir, where she met her husband, Donald.

Although she started her college career pursuing the performance side of theater, she realized how much she loved the costuming side and shifted her focus junior year to design.

“I don’t know why it took me so long to figure it out because once I did I was like, ‘Why have I not done this?’” Houf says.

After she graduated in 2008 from Miami University with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre, Houf immediately went on to get her Master of Fine Arts in Design from The Ohio State University, graduating in 2011.

After college Houf was ready to jump into the creative world, but took a step back while her husband went back to school. For about two years she worked various jobs while caring for their oldest daughter, Ara. She made smaller projects on the side until she dove deeper into her art again in 2013.

Having previously competed in Columbus’ Highball Halloween costume competition in 2009 as a student, Houf finally had the time to re-enter as her career began to pick up.

Breaking out and settling down

In 2014, she and Ashley Wills, a designer she partnered with, won first place in the Highball Halloween competition for their series, Dolled Up, which was made up of four doll-inspired costumes.

Two years later, Houf applied on her own and won with her Painted series which included four pairs of performers, each featuring an artist from a different time and one of their famous creations, such as Vincent van Gogh and The Starry Night

Houf continued to compete in Highball for years and slowly took on other projects, creating pieces for groups such as the New Vision Dance Co. and New Albany Middle School Theatre Department. She was also asked to teach at the Columbus College of Art & Design and The Contemporary Theatre of Ohio.

While she was excited to take part in so many great opportunities, Houf began to struggle with her mental health as everything began to overlap.

“I had postpartum anxiety with my second (daughter, Eme,) and things just got really weird – panic attacks, it was no bueno,” she says.

Some of the stress she and her family faced was also due, in part, to the number of times they moved. It wasn’t until 2018, when their realtor found a house in Pickerington for sale, that they finally made roots.

Photo by Larry Hamill, courtesy of Shiree Houf

Photo by Jeffrey S. Hall Photography

“I joke that we are never leaving this house. Somebody would have to forcibly remove me from the property,” Houf says. “We moved eight times in nine years chasing cheaper rents, so I am done. Unless, I don’t know, Broadway or Hollywood calls, I am here.”

Earning Accolades

Since settling down in Pickerington, Houf has been able to refocus her work and compete in an event she has dreamed about for years.

The World of Wearable Art, WOW, hosts an annual international costume and design competition in Wellington, New Zealand. Each year, thousands of artists apply to compete for prize money and awards. Houf was hoping to be one of them.

“I was over the moon that I got past round one because that was the goal for year one,” she says. “I had one garment out of three go, then I found out that it made the (final) show and that was wonderful.”

The support of her family, friends and community helped Houf raise enough money so she could travel to see the show in person. While there, she was not only able to see her piece, Captain King Midas, on stage, but also learned a lot and connected with new artists from all over the world.

With that experience under her belt, Houf plans to compete in Highball again this year. She’s entered two categories of WOW with hopes of seeing at least one of her entries make it to New Zealand.

No matter how she places at WOW and Highball, in the end, Houf is excited to continue growing her craft and sharing it with people.

“My favorite thing about making things is when I can create an audience reaction and you just feel it,” she says.

Rachel Karas is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at rkaras@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Photo by Ian C. Powell, courtesy of Shiree Houf

Courtesy of Shiree Houf

Columbus Makes Art is a project of:

By Tyler Kirkendall

School Houses Rock

Pickerington grows from one-room schoolhouses to thriving district

What do light bulbs, traffic lights, gas masks, cash registers, sweeper vacuums and airplanes all have in common? They were all invented by Ohioans. In the decades leading up to WWI, Ohio was known as a hotbed of innovation. The birthplace of some of the nation’s greatest minds, cities from Cleveland to Dayton were the perfect place to meet educated, like-minded inventors.

This focus on educating the next generation was not lost on the people of Pickerington. Starting in 1812, one-room schoolhouses popped up around Pickerington – Peru on Stemen Road, Ricketts on Busey Road, and Bowen Schools are all standing today. Some have been renovated into comfortable living spaces, and others have been left in disrepair. Many were torn down and have been replaced entirely.

The construction of Violet Township High School in 1907 was a big step for local learners since it had a whopping six rooms and a basement. Over the course of about 15 years, all of Pickerington’s oneor two-room schoolhouses closed and incorporated into this new school, which now houses district offices. On Sunday nights, a horse and wagon would pick up students from Pickerington to take them to a home in Pleasantville, where they’d stay all week.

In 1909, Violet Township High School’s first graduating class consisted

of four students, all of whom went on to higher education. One of these graduates, Pearlie Milnor, served on the local library board years later. For more on our library’s history, check out the last issue of Pickerington Magazine.

Now the 13th largest school district in Ohio, PLSD has 14 separate campuses across all grade levels. Two high schools

now educate the area’s students, with Pickerington Central graduating 520 students in 2023, and North with 410. PLSD students come from 73 countries and speak 61 languages.

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

Photos courtesy of PickeringtonViolet Township Historical Society and Joyce Cleary

Violet Township High school opening, 1907 (left), now district offices (right)

Peru School has been overcome by the elements since its construction

Pickerington students take a horse and wagon to school, approx. 1907

Violet Township’s first graduating class – Pearlie Milnor, Guy Fishbaugh, Amy Lyons and Rue Fishbaugh

By Maisie Fitzmaurice

Setting Up to Save Higher education scholarships available to Pickerington students

Let’s face it – college is expensive, and trade schools aren’t free either. Luckily, scholarships can help soften the blow to the bank account and applying has never been easier.

Fairfield County Foundation

Over the last 14 years, Fairfield County Foundation has awarded an estimated $8 million in scholarship funds and is one of the best resources for scholarship seekers of all ages living in Pickerington.

Using a software program from Foundant Technologies, applicants can complete an online questionnaire that will filter through more than 130 Fairfield County area offerings to find specific scholarships the applicant is eligible for.

Much like the Common Application, this software also allows the students to apply for multiple scholarships at once. Many scholarships, however, will still request a short essay that pertains to the specific scholarship, and there are a few scholarships that only accept written applications.

Behind the scenes

Most of the scholarships offered through the foundation –and many others outside of the foundation – have a volunteer committee that works together to choose scholarship winners. Folks on these committees typically value candidates with high academic achievement, part-time employment and amicable community service hours. This is important for underclassmen to note so that they can prepare to be a top applicant for their desired scholarship.

There are also many scholarships offered to students who fit a committee’s desired niche. For example, the Brian Stoner Memorial Scholarship looks predominantly for candidates on the autism spectrum who plan to pursue a career in culinary arts or special education.

Even if you don’t seem to meet the characteristics of a preferred applicant, committees will often consider applicants who don’t meet all their preferences, so it is still worth applying.

“If they put in an hour and get $1,000, that seems like a pretty good return on investment,” says Andrea Spires, program director at Fairfield County Foundation. “Even if they don’t think they have the best grades or they think their family makes too much money, or whatever the case may be, just remember you don’t know what everybody else is like.”

From community service to Carmen Ohio

Many community organizations collect funds throughout the year to award scholarships to students who share the groups’ values.

The Violet Township Women’s League (VTWL) Community Service Scholarship and Ohio State Alumni Club of Fairfield County Scholarship are just two scholarships offered annually through local organizations.

The Ohio State Alumni Club of Fairfield County Scholarship is only available for students accepted into or currently attending Ohio State who live in or are from Fairfield County. The club receives most of its funds through Ohio State football watch parties, where they raffle off baskets of prizes.

(Left to right) Drake, Drew, Ashley and Tessa, VTWL scholarship recipients

Courtesy of Violet Township Women’s League

Fairfield County scholarship winners Riley (left) and Peyton (right)

Courtesy of Jonathan Jackson

Planning and hosting fundraiser events isn’t easy but Jonathan Jackson, the club’s president, finds it rewarding. For Jackson, affording college was an uphill battle and he feels empathy for future Buckeyes who also struggle financially.

“If I had had someone offer me a $1,000 scholarship, I would have just been so joyous that my heart probably would have burst,” he says. “So now that I have been semi-successful my entire life, I feel good personally trying to help out people that may be in need.”

Here are some of the scholarships that are specifically available to Pickerington students through the Fairfield County Foundation, including scholarships offered through The Rotary Club of Reynoldsburg-Pickerington. You can find these scholarships and many, many more on its website www.fairfieldcountyfoundation. org/scholarships.

Scholarship Names

• Ann Chess Fund

• Bess H. Floyd Music

• Hannah E. Thrash

• James Caple

• Lancaster Community Chorus Scholarship

• Mindi Wendel Memorial

• Dr. Martha Gesling Weber

• Dr. Phil Floyd Dentistry

• Fairfield County Medical Alliance Healthcare Scholarship

• Fairfield County Tuberculosis and Respiratory Disease

• Fannie M. Howe Nursing

• George & Marilyn Finnen Education Scholarship

• Glenn R. Burns Dental Education Scholarship

• Hocking Valley Dental Society

• Jim and Sarah Miller

• Lorelei Owen Gibbs

• Robert E. and Marion A. Carr

• Wilfred L. and Una H. Fosnaugh Scholarship

• Bud Goodman Memorial

• Keith Kumler Vocational

• Pickerington Area Chamber of Commerce

• Robert Knisley Fire Service

• Violet Grange #1949 Scholarship

• James & Viola Wayland Accounting & Computer Science

• Charles C. and Barbara Claypool

• Edgar A. Work, Sr.

• George Sakas Memorial

• Jack and Carol Burton Drugan Engineering

• R. Brian Cline

• Officer Brett Markwood

• Jim and Sarah Miller

• Deputy Ethan Collins

• Chad Edwards Memorial

• Wilfred L. and Una H. Fosnaugh Scholarship

• Shannon Family

• Roger Pedigo Memorial

• Paul D. Beck

• Mt. Pleasant Kiwanis

Consideration Factors

Studying Music, Art or Theater

Studying Education, Nursing or Dentistry

The VTWL Community Service Scholarship has donated more than $130,000 in funds throughout its 23 years of existence. As the name would suggest, the volunteer committee puts the greatest emphasis on an applicant’s community service hours.

“Community service can be a lot of different things,” VTWL President Mary Larson says. “It can be like the Boy Scouts and Eagle Scouts, it can be going and helping out at the school for a fundraiser, it can be fundraising or doing things at church. It doesn’t have to be a specific community service, but it has to be community service that helps somebody.”

Pickerington Education Association’s Susan W. Hughes Memorial Scholarship and Pickerington PTO Scholarship are two scholarships rewarded only to Pickerington high school seniors. To learn more about available scholarships through Pickerington Schools contact your guidance counselor’s office.

Maisie Fitzmaurice is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mfitzmaurice@ cityscenemediagroup.com

Involved with studying Agriculture and/or Attending Vocational/ Technical/Trade schools

Studying Computer Science and/or Engineering

Pursuing a Career in Law Enforcement

Financially Need-Based

Lifetime of Wrestling

Nick Burgess reminisces about 50 years of coaching

By Amber Phipps

When Nick Burgess was offered the position to be Pickerington High School’s first wrestling coach in 1974, he never expected to be a National Wrestling Hall of Fame member 50 years later.

After a nomination for Hall of Fame accolades a year prior, Burgess was astonished when he was selected among so many influential coaches.

Burgess retired in 2009 and has been reminiscing about his years of success as one of the greatest wrestling coaches in the state of Ohio. The MSL and OCC league titles that span his career demonstrate his passion for the sport, and the experience of coaching thousands of athletes over the years has earned him honorable recognition.

Posing alongside his countless trophies and plaques surrounded by a handful of his former students is a memory that will remain with Burgess forever.

“Looking back, it’s freaking amazing!” Burgess says.

Humble beginnings

Before becoming a wrestling coach, Burgess participated in football and track at Canal Winchester High School. When he was in high school – from 1961-1965 – wrestling wasn’t a varsity sport, so his toughness manifested through other sports.

After graduating from Capitol University, Burgess started his first job at Strongsville City Schools in 1971. His job titles ranged from eighth-grade football, track, and wrestling coach to biology and P.E. teacher.

Burgess coached and taught for Strongsville City Schools until he was offered a position at Pickerington High School to start the wrestling program. He made a name for himself as the first head wrestling coach at Pickerington in 1974.

“And so I went in, set up an appointment … and before I left the meeting, I was hired to teach biology, life science and a subject called conservation. And I was selected as the head wrestling coach to start the program,” Burgess says.

Wrestling had been part of his college experience and he was drawn to the feeling of toughness the sport provided,

so starting the Pickerington High School wrestling program seemed like destiny.

With a career lasting from 1974 to 2009, Burgess coached some of the team’s most memorable victories. The 2002 wrestling season stands above the rest since his team won the most team points in Division I state wrestling.

“We had 64 and a half points and we ended up fifth and we were the best public school that year in the state of Ohio,” Burgess says.

Greatest of all time

Each season victory is a result of Burgess understanding his students as individuals. For him, coaching means identifying the physical attributes and personalities of each kid.

“I really concentrated on the average wrestler and really encouraged them because in the end, what I created was depth,” says Burgess. “If someone would get ringworm and have to sit out on me, or someone would get injured, I would have a second guy who was pretty close to being as good as the first guy.”

Nick Burgess ended his coaching career with 379 all-time wins, placing him seventh on Ohio High School Athletic Association’s rankings. Not only are his regular season figures impressive, but his teams also won 33 District Champion- Photos courtesy

of Nick Burgess

Burgess with Assistant Coach John McNeely

Burgess with his family, (left to right) Mike Mackessy, Christy Burgess Mackessy, Nick, Blaine and Pamela Burgess

Career accolades

1995, 2002 Division 1 Ohio Wrestling Coach of the Year

2000 Mid-State League Hall of Fame

2000 Medina Invitational Tour nament Hall of Fame

2001 Ohio High School Wres tling Coaches Hall of Fame

2014 Pickerington High School Central Hall of Fame

2023 National Wrestling Hall of Fame Lifetime Service Award

ships and were State Champions seven times.

Throughout his career, Burgess earned six Hall of Fame awards for divi sion coaching before winning the 2023 National Wrestling Hall of Fame Lifetime Service Award.

Despite the impressive rankings, Burgess remains humble and shocked at times when thinking back on his ca reer wins. His mantras, “try different things” and “keep what works out” kept him motivated to continuously work his strategies.

During the regular season MSL championships at the beginning of his career, Burgess and his team earned third place the first year, as well as three firstplace wins and one second-place in subsequent years.

In 1981, the team entered the OCC and took home a total of 151 individual wins between MSL and OCC championships throughout his career, with the help of Pickerington residents along the way.

“Many community members helped with the administration and timing, and scoring of the matches,” Burgess says.

Burgess-led groups earned 13 OCC and four MSL titles throughout his career as head coach.

“The title obviously was lifetime service wrestling so the first thing you’ve got to do is spend your whole lifetime doing it. And then you’ve got to be successful,” says Burgess.

Amber Phipps is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@ cityscenemediagroup.com

Ro ck Mill Days

Sundays, 4PM

May through October

Wednesdays & Saturdays, 11AM 2PM

Milling Demonstration last Sunday of each month

Stebelton Park at Rock Mill 1429 Rockmill Place NW Lancaster, OH 43130

fairfieldcountyparks.org

By Amber Phipps

Students Overcome Employment Barriers

TeenWorks helps students find suitable career paths

At 17 years old, Winter Scott feels she is fully prepared for the workforce. After finishing the TeenWorks program in December 2023, Scott was armed with the knowledge she needs to accomplish her goal of working with kids.

TeenWorks is a non-profit organization in Fairfield County that focuses on assisting individuals aged 14-24. TeenWorks strives to prepare participants for real-world jobs with proper training and education in a classroom setting. Its mission is to provide employment skills and opportunities for individuals with unique barriers between them and their goals.

Tiffany Pelfrey joined TeenWorks in 2005 – when she was in ninth grade – and stayed in the program throughout high school. The organization has undergone a few changes over the years since Pelfrey was a participant, but the mission has stayed the same.

“It helped prepare me when it came to interviewing or resume skills (for) college applications,” Pelfrey says. “And even now when it’s come to not being in college, like being able to know what’s available when we started to pay student loans and whatnot.”

As a resident of Fairfield County, Scott qualified for the program after her principal recommended her for TeenWorks. After jumping around between public school and homeschooling, Scott was open to participating in the program.

“I was going through a really rough patch but trying to find a good school, switching between home school and public school and jumping around,” says Scott. “And I think it was my public-school principal who may have suggested it, and he’s the one who signed off on me to go there.”

From February to December 2023, Scott immersed herself in the TeenWorks program and everything it had to offer. Scott currently works in retail, and she feels TeenWorks provided her with the skillset needed for real-world work experience.

Scott connected with many of the students in her program, which allowed her to ask questions in a judgment-free learning environment. She was able to complete multiple years of public school with the help and support of people she worked alongside at TeenWorks.

“I was still in a school environment but doing the work online and it was really, really helpful,” Scott says. “Like it put the work in a much shorter and efficient way to make it to where you get it done quicker which was really beneficial.”

TeenWorks’ programs and course options opened the opportunity for Scott to learn resumebuilding skills and gain office work experience. She learned better ways to communicate and cooperate in an office setting.

As a 33-year-old mom, Pelfrey applied the skills she learned through TeenWorks in her career. Its programs taught Pelfrey how to build a useful resume, which opened job opportunities for her after graduating college.

“I recommend TeenWorks to somebody because they provide a lot of information that many people don’t know,” Pelfrey says.

TeenWorks has divided its operation into three separate programs. Each program’s students must meet a set of qualifications to participate. Information about Opportunity Works, No Kidding Ohio and Subsidized Youth Employment Program can be found on its website. teenworks.biz/about-us/

Amber Phipps is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@ cityscenemediagroup. com.

Photos courtesy of TeenWorks

Student Odyssey earned certification for dental assistance with TeenWorks.

Students gain real-world work experience.

Hop into quality time for special occasions at Wesley Ridge!

“Our yearly Easter egg hunt is a campus-wide event with locations for younger and older kids to collect eggs, and the Easter Bunny takes pictures with families. The combination of a loving and supporting community, special events, and the presence of family makes Easter here at Wesley Ridge an unforgettable and truly wonderful experience. The families are always looking forward to coming each year.”

-Dionna, Director of Resident Services

Scan the QR code to learn more about opportunities for family fun at Wesley Ridge, a senior living community.

By Ria Akhilesh

Salt of the Earth

Celebrating Earth Day with hands-on initiatives

The City of Pickerington is known for keeping the area clean, healthy and safe for its residents. When Earth Day comes around, the people of Pickerington make sure to give back to their community.

For the city’s Earth Day celebration on Apr. 22, residents and city employees meet at 100 Lockville Rd. for a full day of cleaning up natural spaces around town.

Local organizations such as Combustion Brewery & Taproom get in on the fun as well. Combustion is hosting a clean-up of its own from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Apr. 20 at 80 W. Church St. for other cleanearth initiatives, such as removing invasive species from local parks.

You can bring the Earth Day spirit into your home with small, practical steps such as monitoring water and electricity use at home and keeping your lawn free of unnatural debris. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Midwest homeowners use more electricity than homeowners from any other region, with Midwestern single-family detached homes using 30 percent more energy than their Northeastern neighbors annually.

The kitchen is a great place to start being a greener homeowner. Being mindful of water use, recycling, avoiding single-use plastics and plastic bags, and

RECIPE

Chickpea and Tomato Stew

Ingredients:

• 2 15-oz. cans of chickpeas

• 2 cups of crushed peeled tomatoes

• 2 Tbsp. olive oil

• 2 bell peppers, diced

Did you know?

Last year, Pickerington was honored by Tree City USA for 30 years of achievement protecting our natural canopy. Pictured is Mayor Lee Gray accepting the award from the organization.

• 4 cups of your choice of leafy greens – spinach or kale

• 1 yellow onion, diced

• 9 cloves of garlic, crushed

• 1 Tbsp. vinegar

• ½ cup your choice of nuts – almonds or peanuts, sliced or roughly chopped

• 4 tsp. paprika

• 1 tsp. coriander

• 1 tsp. cumin

• 1 tsp. turmeric

Steps:

• Preheat the pan and toss in your choice of nuts until roasted, and leave aside for garnish.

• In the pan, add oil, garlic and onion, and saute until translucent. Add peppers mid-way and let them roast alongside the rest of the base.

• Add spices – cumin, paprika, coriander and turmeric –generously, or enough to cover each of the ingredients.

• Stir until peppers, garlic and onion are entirely coated with spices.

• Add crushed tomatoes and a dash of vinegar. Stir.

• Add chickpeas and stir until they are tender.

• Bring the stew to a simmer and cover the pan. Keep simmering over low heat for 15 minutes and then add greens. Cover again until they are wilted.

• When serving, sprinkle toasted nuts over each bowl. Enjoy with a slice of sourdough toast, rice or flatbread.

• Yields about two servings.

Photo by Joyce Cleary

composting food scraps are all ways to make your mark with a sustainable mindset.

Making one-pot meals is a meaningful way to integrate these efforts into your daily routine. One-pot meals produce less waste and use less water, which can make an impact on your household’s carbon footprint over time. Many are also easy to store and reheat, which makes them a convenient way to share a hot meal with your family at any time.

Chickpea and Tomato Stew is one of these easy, environmentally conscious one-pot dishes which is sure to be a hit at the dinner table. This stew is an easy 35to 40-minute recipe packed with protein and veggies.

Ria Akhilesh is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

Top homes sold in Pickerington

In January 2024, home prices in Pickerington increased by 12.3% compared to last year with a median price of $382,000. On average, Pickerington homes sold after 43 days on the market, compared to selling after 68 days on the market last year. This January, 26 homes were sold, less than the 28 homes sold last year. (Data from Redfin)

All information is collected from the Fairfield and Franklin County auditors’ offices.

124 Kohler St.

4 beds, 3.5 baths

$537,746

Sold 2/9/24

643 Cherry Hill Dr. 3 beds, 3 baths $470,000

Sold 2/9/24

148 Cinnamon Teal St. 4 beds, 3.5 baths $483,000

Sold 2/2/24

129 Kohler St. 4 beds, 2.5 baths $541,962

Sold 1/22/24

720 Bretforton St. 4 beds, 3.5 baths $725,000

Sold 1/17/24

774 Manchester Cir. N. 4 beds, 2.5 baths $481,000

Sold 1/12/24

“The only reason we would give Sam 5 stars would be because we can’t give him more.”

253 Arlington Dr.

4 beds, 3.5 baths $450,000

Sold 1/4/24

190 Pruden Dr. 4 beds, 2.5 baths $425,000 Sold 2/9/24

210 Carson Ct. 4 beds, 4.5 baths $410,000 Sold 2/12/24

37 Grisby Ln. 4 beds, 2.5 baths $410,000

Sold 2/5/24

137 Highland Ridge Dr. 4 beds, 2.5 baths $395,000

Sold 1/10/24

902 Melrose Blvd. 3 beds, 2 baths $395,000

Sold 1/10/24

13870 Sunladen Dr., Pickerington | $587,400

Extraordinary two-story home on large half acre plus lot, incredible garage with tandem shop addition behind 3rd car bay! Large floor plan with vaulted entry, 2 Primary Suites w/ one on the 1st floor with adjacent laundry room and one on the Second floor. Big bedrooms, awesome finished lower-level rec room with surround sound. New carpeting throughout, Pickerington North Schools.

SAM COOPER – HOWARD HANNA

13987 Nantucket Dr., Pickerington | $344,000

Remodeled one story home, new roof (2021), new high-end Pella Windows (2023), new HVAC w/ Humidifier (2023), Remodeled Kitchen in 2023, new pantry conversion, new 1st floor laundry conversion (2022), new split rail fencing (2022), 1st floor owners bedroom w/ full remodeled

760 McCleod Parc, Pickerington | $475,900

Outstanding home with 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, 2 half bathrooms, and a finished basement. Upgraded cabinets, new flooring, renovated bathrooms and reverse osmosis system. Open concept kitchen, eating space, and living room. Beautiful backyard around the fire pit, cooking on the large deck, or relaxing under the gazebo. The finished basement with second gas fire place and extra space..

SAM COOPER – HOWARD HANNA

bookmarks

What Will I Discover

Submitted by Colleen Bauman, Executive Manager-Community Engagement at the Pickerington Public Library

15 Secrets to Survival

by Tanya Lloyd Kyi, Art by Rachel Qiuqi

Sometimes it seems like scientists know everything about the world. This book is for young readers who are curious about the sights and sounds around them. Open a world of possibilities!

Cars, Signs and Porcupines!

By Ethan Long

by Natalie D. Richards

When classmates

Rise and shine for another bustling day in Happy Country, where everyone is in full motion. This primer compendium is bursting with charming characters and educational content about maps, geography, signage, counting, measurements, underground systems and transportation vehicles. There are plenty of clever scenarios to keep little ones curious and engaged!

The Camping and Hiking Encyclopedia

by Kathryn Hulick

Baxter, Abigail, Turner and Emerson break a school rule, they’re forced to travel to the middle of nowhere for an extra credit project. They think things can’t get much worse. After all, how will learning to survive in the wilderness help them stay out of trouble in school? What starts off as a weekend of team building takes a scary turn when their instructor goes missing and they are given nothing but pages of a survival guide to complete a series of challenges.

A British Girl’s Guide to Hurricanes and Heartbreak

by Laura Taylor Namey

to dogs around the world. Organized by season, each section features photos with various types of dogs, hikes, terrain, and activities. Camping With Dogs has partnered with rescue shelters to help adoptable dogs find their forever home, so your purchase will support rescue dogs.

Cabin Tripping: Where to Go to Get Away from it All

by J.J. Eggers

The Camping and Hiking Encyclopedia allows young readers to explore outdoor opportunities. Alongside information that ranges from RV camping to backcountry hikes, readers learn about ways to prepare for a camping or hiking trip as well as ways to safely enjoy time in nature. Part of the Outdoor Encyclopedia series.

Winchester, England, has always been home for Flora, but when her mother dies after a long illness, Flora feels untethered. Her family expects her to apply to university and take a larger role in their tea shop business, but Flora isn’t so sure. More than ever, she’s the chaotic “hurricane” in her household, and she doesn’t always know how to manage her stormy emotions.

Every Dog Deserves an Adventure

by L.J. Tracosas (Camping

With Dogs)

With stunning photography and heartwarming stories of how people got into camping with their dogs, this book is a love letter

Library hours:

Whether readers seek a once-ina-lifetime adventure or a quiet retreat, a cozy night around a firepit or a summery lakefront sojourn, Cabin Tripping delivers! Divided into six chapters based on different climates, the book features a curated collection of more than 80 incredible cabins available to rent all over the globe. Each cabin profile includes information on how to get there, activities to enjoy in the area and tips of when to plan your visit.

Trekking the National Parks –The Board Game

In this new entry to the world of board gaming, players “trek” through the National Parks, earning points by collecting cards, playing certain card combinations and amassing stones. In the process, players learn about the parks while engaging in fun competition. Created by a family of National Park trekkers, this award-winning board game manages to be entertaining as well as educational, making it a fun activity for both kids and adults. Try before you buy at the library!

COMMUNITY POOL

Season Passes on Sale starting April 1

• Family members include one set of parents or legal guardians, and their immediate children (26 years of age and under) residing in the same household. If more than one family resides in the same household, each family must puchase separate Season Passes. Grandparents, extended family members and others are not included in the Season Pass.

• Babysitter passes are available for Family of 2 or more. Babysitters must be at least 18 years old and be with child on the Season Pass. There is a limit of one babysitter pass per family, although you can list multiple babysitters if necessary.

• Children 11 years old and under MUST be accompanied by an adult (18 years and above) at all times.

• Individuals purchasing day passes MUST MEET ONE of the following criteria:

1. Be 18 years of age

2. Have a Pickerington, OH mailing address,

3. Be accompanied by a Season Pass holder or adult (18 years or older) at the pool.

Pool Hours - Open Daily

Open Swim: 12:00-5:00pm

Swim Lessons: 5:00-6:00pm*

* Pool closed for group and/or private swim lessons

Family Swim: 6:00-8:00pm

First Day: Saturday, May 25

Last Day: Monday, September 2

Closed Days: May 28-31, August 12-16, 19-23, and 26-30*

*Pool Operations subject to change

2024 Pool Season Pass Registration Forms available online at www.pickerington.net. *as of May 25, 2024

Stay up to date on pool updates and weather closures. Text @pickpool to 81010 or download the remind APP.

Registration Information

Three separate 2-week swim sessions will be held beginning June 3. All swim classes meet Monday-Friday for 30 minutes. The second Friday of a 2-week class will be used in case of inclement weather and a make-up class must be held. One week classes will meet Monday-Friday and will not have a make-up day. This is a progressive swim program. Child must prove competency from previous level they attended. The pool administration reserves the right to test the swimming ability of all individuals for proper class placement. Because of the structure of the program, all classes and schedules are subject to change and/or cancellation by the Pool Manager as required by demand or weather. All children must be 3 years old by May 25, and potty trained.

Manatee - Level 3 Class Maximum 8

Flying Fish - Level 6 Class Maximum 8

This is a progressive swim program. Child must prove competency from previous level they attended.

Pre-requisite: Child must be potty trained and willing to get into shallow water without a parent or any floatation device.

Introduction to Swim Lessons (Recommended 3-5 years) 1 week only*

*Jelly Fish - Level 1 Class Maximum 6

Skills to pass: 2 foot depth

• Blow bubbles

• Submerge face under water

• Kick on marshmallow with assistance

• Kick on steps with straight legs and pointed toes

• Submerge whole body under water

• Bobbing motion by putting eyes, chin, ears and nose under water each time

• Optional - go down slide with assistance

*Frog - Level 2 Class Maximum 6

Skills to pass: 2 foot depth

• Kick on marshmallow

• Front and back float with assistance

• Front crawl arms with assistance

• Optional - go down slide with assistance

Skills to pass: 2-5 foot depth

• 10 bobs in chest deep water

• Front and back float

• Front and back crawl arms with assistance

• Front and back kick with assistance

• Front and back glide with assistance

• Retrieve object in chest deep water

• Jump in chest deep water and recover

• Go down slide with assistance

Penguin - Level 4 Class Maximum 8

Skills to pass: 2-5 foot depth

• Front and back crawl arms

• Front and back kick

• Front and back glide

• Jump in water over head and recover

• Float in water over head while wearing lifejacket

• Jump off diving board with assistance

Alligator - Level 5 Class Maximum 8

Skills to pass: 3-5 foot depth

• 10 bobs in water over head

• Front and back crawl for 12.5 meters

• Elementary backstroke for 12.5 meters with assistance

• Retrieve object in water over head

• Tread water for 30 seconds

• Kneeling and standing front dive with assistance

• Go down slide

• Jump off diving board

Skills to pass: 5 foot depth

• Front and back crawl for 25 meters

• Elementary backstroke for 25 meters

• Breaststroke kick for 12.5 meters with

• assistance

• Sidestroke for 12.5 meters with assistance

• Tread water for 1 minute

• Standing front dive

Dolphin - Level 7 Class Maximum 8

Skills to pass: 5 foot depth

• Front and back crawl for 50 meters

• Elementary backstroke for 50 meters

• Breaststroke for 25 meters

• Sidestroke for 25 meters

• Tread water for 2 minutes

• Front dive off diving board

Private Swim Lessons

Private Swim Lessons can be arranged by turning in a Private Swim Lesson Request Form found on our website or available for pickup at the pool during operating hours. Private swim lessons are 30 minutes in length and will be available starting Monday, June 3 and must be completed by July 26.

FEE: $25 per person, per 30 minute lesson Maximum 4 private swim lessons per participant

10:00-

4:50-

5:25-

JumpBunch Sports, Fitness & Fun

Your little one needs to get out moving and you need a program just right for their size. Search no more!

Weekly JumpBunch classes begin with kid-friendly warm-ups and exercises. The class “Coach” will then introduce participants to individual skills, equipment and simple rules of a different sports/fitness activity each week. Coaches praise and encourage children while helping them develop coordination, teamwork and confidence. Each session concludes with games, obstacle courses and cool downs to keep kids engaged and moving throughout the session. Participants should dress to be very active. Adult/parent participation is required for all children under 3. For more information, go to JumpBunch.com

SFF-01

PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS

Soccer Shots

Bally Little Sluggers T-Ball

18-36 Months

Apr 15-May 20 Mo 6 Weeks 6-6:30pm

Fee: $87 City Resident Discount Fee: $69

SFF-02

18-36 Months

Jun 10-Jul 22* Mo 6 Weeks 6-6:30pm

*No class Jul 1

Fee: $87 City Resident Discount Fee: $69

SFF-03

3-5 Years

Apr 15-May 20 Mo 6 Weeks 6:30-7pm

Fee: $87 City Resident Discount Fee: $69

SFF-04 3-5 Years

Jun 10-Jul 22* Mo 6 Weeks 6:30-7pm

*No class Jul 1

Fee: $87 City Resident Discount Fee: $69

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Pickering Shelter 300 Covered Bridge Ln

Bally Mini Soccer Stars

Bally Sports Group leads an age appropriate program that utilizes fun games and activities to teach the fundamentals to beginning soccer players. Coaches focus on teaching the basics of dribbling, passing, scoring and the concept of game play. Proper sportsmanship is emphasized in a positive and encouraging atmosphere enabling children to enjoy learning soccer while also having fun being physically active. Each week will include both developmentally appropriate instruction as well as recreational, non-competitive game play. Each player receives a team shirt. Shin guards required. Optional: cleats and soccer ball (size 3).

MSS-01

3-4 Years

Apr 4-May 9 Th 6 Weeks 5:30-6:30pm

Fee: $100 City Resident Discount Fee: $80

MSS-02 5-6 Years

Apr 4-May 9 Th 6 Weeks 6:30-7:30pm

Fee: $100 City Resident Discount Fee: $80

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Soccer Field 1 300 Covered Bridge Ln

Soccer Shots is an engaging children’s soccer program with a focus on character development. We positively impact children’s lives on and off the field through our best-in-class coaching, communication and curriculum. Each session focuses on basic soccer skills and incorporates those skills in a fun, non-competitive environment. All equipment is provided.

SHOT-01 2-3 Years

Apr 2-May 21 Tu 8 Weeks 5:30-6pm

Fee: $129 City Resident Discount Fee: $104

SHOT-02 2-3 Years

Apr 6-Jun 1* Sa 8 Weeks 3-3:30pm

*No class May 25

Fee: $129 City Resident Discount Fee: $104

SHOT-03 2-3 Years

Jun 18-Aug 13* Tu 8 Weeks 5:30-6pm

*No class Jul 2

Fee: $129 City Resident Discount Fee: $104

SHOT-04 2-3 Years

Jun 22-Aug 17* Sa 8 Weeks 3-3:30pm

*No class Jul 6

Fee: $129 City Resident Discount Fee: $104

SHOT-05 4-5 Years

Apr 2-May 21 Tu 8 Weeks 6:15-6:45pm

Fee: $129 City Resident Discount Fee: $104

SHOT-06 4-5 Years

Apr 6-Jun 1* Sa 8 Weeks 3:45-4:15pm

*No class May 25

Fee: $129 City Resident Discount Fee: $104

SHOT-07 4-5 Years

Jun 18-Aug 13* Tu 8 Weeks 6:15-6:45pm

*No class Jul 2

Fee: $129 City Resident Discount Fee: $104

SHOT-08 4-5 Years

Jun 22-Aug 17* Sa 8 Weeks 3:45-4:15pm

*No class Jul 6

Fee: $129 City Resident Discount Fee: $104

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Soccer Field 3

300 Covered Bridge Ln

Mini Kickers Soccer Camp

Former collegiate soccer player and coach, Eric Mialky, will direct the camp which is designed to teach 3-5 year olds the basic fundamentals of soccer. Through exciting soccer related games and activities, campers will learn to love the game of soccer in a fun and positive environment. Each participant will receive a camp shirt.

MK-01 3-5 Years

Jun 24-27 Mo-Th 4 Days 10-10:30am

Fee: $58 City Resident Discount Fee: $46

MK-02 3-5 Years

Jul 29-Aug 1 Mo-Th 4 Days 10-10:30am

Fee: $58 City Resident Discount Fee: $46

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Soccer Field 3

300 Covered Bridge Ln

Bally Sports Group’s Little Sluggers is a great introduction to the game of baseball for young children. Using age appropriate activities, players will be introduced to fundamentals of baseball in an atmosphere that is supportive, fun and prevents children from feeling pressured. Each week, the program will include an instructional portion that will introduce players to batting, base running, fielding, throwing and catching. A modified game will also be played each week. Parent participation is strongly encouraged to allow the program to run smoothly. The Little Sluggers TBall program will provide your child with a fun and positive t-ball experience, encouraging future participation. Each player receives a team shirt and hat. Glove is required. Optional: cleats and bat.

LS-01

3-4 Years

Apr 24-May 22 We 5 Weeks 4:30-5:30pm

Fee: $107 City Resident Discount Fee: $85

LS-02

3-4 Years

Apr 24-May 22 We 5 Weeks 5:30-6:30pm

Fee: $107 City Resident Discount Fee: $85

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Softball Fields 500 Hereford Dr

Lil Kik

Directed by Grandmaster Stephens of Free Spirit Karate Clubs. Tae Kwon Do skills help build strength, agility and coordination. Students will learn at their own pace, and most importantly, will have fun. Social skills and coordination drills are wrapped together with our unique self-defense techniques.

LK-01

3-7 Years

Mar 21-May 2* Th 6 Weeks 5:30-6pm

*No class Mar 28

Fee: $104 City Resident Discount Fee: $83

LK-02

3-7 Years

May 9-Jun 13 Th 6 Weeks 5:30-6pm

Fee: $104 City Resident Discount Fee: $83

LK-03

3-7 Years

Jun 20-Aug 1* Th 6 Weeks 5:30-6pm

*No class Jul 4

Fee: $104 City Resident Discount Fee: $83

LK-04 3-7 Years

Aug 8-Sep 12 Th 6 Weeks 5:30-6pm

Fee: $104 City Resident Discount Fee: $83

Location: American Free Spirit Karate 5953 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43232

Classroom Antics: STEM Club

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Kidz Home Alone

LEGOs Engineering Camp

In STEM Club, kids learn what it means to be an Architectural Engineer. Through hands-on activities, students develop a city, build skyscrapers, model suspension bridges, and environmentally-friendly cars. Projects will model different structures, all the way from ancient Egyptian pyramids to modern houses. Then, kids take to the skies and learn about planes – how they work, how they’re designed, and how to make them fly faster and longer.

STC-01 3rd-5th Grade

Mar 7-Apr 18* Th 6 Weeks 5:15-6:30pm

*No class Mar 28

Fee: $238 City Resident Discount Fee: $213

STC-02 6th-8th Grade

Mar 7-Apr 18* Th 6 Weeks 6:45-8pm

*No class Mar 28

Fee: $238 City Resident Discount Fee: $213

Location: Violet Baptist Church 8345 Blacklick Eastern Rd NW

Classroom Antics: STEM Camp

In STEM Camp, kids learn what it means to be an Architectural Engineer. Through hands-on activities, students develop a city, build skyscrapers, model suspension bridges, and environmentally-friendly cars. Projects will model different structures, all the way from ancient Egyptian pyramids to modern houses. Then, kids take to the skies and learn about planes – how they work, how they’re designed, and how to make them fly faster and longer.

STA-01 Entering 3rd-5th Grade (Fall 2024)

Jul 22-26 Mo-Fr 5 Days 9am-12pm

Fee: $323 City Resident Discount Fee: $298

STA-02 Entering 6th-8th Grade (Fall 2024)

Jul 22-26 Mo-Fr 5 Days 1-4pm

Fee: $323 City Resident Discount Fee: $298

Location: Violet Baptist Church 8345 Blacklick Eastern Rd NW

Pickerington Safety City

The City of Pickerington is excited to Present this popular program for incoming kindergarteners. Learn from police, fire and other local organizations to learn what it takes to be safe in your city! Children will learn about important safety information in a fun format covering topics from how to ride a school bus, playground safety, water safety, what to do in case of a fire and poison prevention. Of course, children will get to pedal around on a small scale safety city to learn about traffic and pedestrian safety as well. The last day of the program will be a graduation ceremony. All participants will receive a t-shirt, bag and bike helmet with registration. This program is limited to 70 children. Please register early to guarantee your spot in the program. Registration for this program is open now through April 26 for all households in the Pickerington Local School District. Registration is not available online during this early enrollment period. Online registration will open to everyone on April 29.

PSC-01

Entering Kindergarten (Fall 2024)

Jul 22-26 Mo-Fr 5 Days 9-11am

Fee: $38 PLSD Fee: $30

Location: Victory Park, Terry O’Brien Shelter 75 Lockville Rd

Would your child know what to do if they have forgotten their house key? What if they are home alone and they are choking? Our Kidz Home Alone class will give you and your child peace of mind when home alone. As creators of this class, we thought of every home alone scenario possible, and provide solutions for all of those “what-if’s”. This course is designed to teach your child about being home alone safely. An information parent guide is included in the student manual and provides an avenue for discussion between parent and child. This engaging and interactive class is fun and includes guest speakers from the local Police and fire departments (when available). It is appropriate for boys and girls ages 9-12 years old. Students will learn reasons to call 911, answering the door and phone, why it’s necessary to have house rules, first aid, self-Heimlich maneuver, fire escape and severe weather planning.

KHA-01 4th-6th Grade

Jun 4 & 6 Tu, Th 2 Days 5:30-7:30pm

Fee: $97 City Resident Discount Fee: $77

KHA-02 4th-6th Grade

Jun 11 & 13 Tu, Th 2 Days 12-2pm

Fee: $97 City Resident Discount Fee: $77

Location: Pickerington Library, Sycamore Plaza 7861 Refugee Rd

Better Babysitter

Would your child know what to do if the child they were babysitting were choking? Does your child babysit their younger siblings? Your child will learn the skills needed to be a Better Babysitter. All students will receive their own first aid kit to take home. This class is appropriate for boys and girls in 5th-8th grade and is interactive and fun with role play and hands on instruction. Students will learn: first aid and safety; infant and child CPR with mannequin instruction; care of the choking child and infant; how to handle emergencies; creative problem solving; job professionalism and how to create a marketing flyer; hands on practice with diapering, bottle feeding, infant care and creative age appropriate activities. Need to attend both days.

BBS-01 Entering 5th-8th Grade (Fall 2024)

Jun 3 & 5 Mo, We 2 Days 12-4pm

Fee: $137 City Resident Discount Fee: $112

Location: Pickerington Public Library, Room C 201 Opportunity Way

Special thanks to our partners in putting on this wonderful program for the community:

• Pickerington Police Department

• Violet Township Fire Department

• Petermann School Buses

• Ohio Department of Natural Resources

• South Central Power Company

Are you passionate about creativity, problem-solving, and building? Fun4All’s LEGO Engineering Program is a week-long journey into the exciting world of engineering and innovation through the lens of LEGO bricks! Designed for young engineers, this immersive program offers a unique blend of fun and hands-on learning. Our instructors will foster creativity as students use LEGOs to design mazes, cars, and design solutions to challenges.

FLC-01

6-12 Years

Jun 17-20 Mo-Th 4 Days 9am-1pm

Fee: $198 City Resident Discount Fee: $173

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Hilltop Shelter 280 Hilltop Dr

Slime Camp

It’s slime time as we spend a week with students to create new slime recipes that are only limited to your imagination! Our popular Slime Week teaches students the basics of how to make their own slime, and then shows students some of the most popular and trending recipes. Some the slime is even edible! Students can customize their own slime by adding colors, scents, and textures. Once the slime is made, students can mold and play with their new creations.

FSC-01

6-12 Years

Jul 15-18 Mo-Th 4 Days 9am-1pm

Fee: $198 City Resident Discount Fee: $173

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Hilltop Shelter 280 Hilltop Dr

Science Camp

Join us as we ignite the spark of curiosity in the next generation of young scientists during Fun4All’s Science Sleuth program. Instructors will guide students through fun projects and challenges like creating the highest rocket, making colorful elephant toothpaste, and designing and racing balloon powered cars.

FSI-01

6-12 Years

Aug 5-8 Mo-Th 4 Days 9am-1pm

Fee: $198 City Resident Discount Fee: $173

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Pickering Shelter 300 Covered Bridge Ln

Kidz Arts and Crafts

Kidz love to make crafts! Interested in a fun hands-on experience for your child? This class will help your child build fine motor skills along with developing their creativity and self-expression. Arts and Crafts allows them to try out new ideas or new ways of thinking and problem solving. This class will be filled with new and enjoyable out of the ordinary crafts that they can take home and be proud to show you!

KAC-01 Entering 1st-2nd Grade (Fall 2024)

Jun 4 & 6 Tu, Th 2 Days 12-3pm

Fee: $123 City Resident Discount Fee: $98

Location: Pickerington Public Library, Room C 201 Opportunity Way

Kids Tennis Camp

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Skyhawks Mini Hawk Camp

Skyhawks Cheerleading Camp

Keep the kids moving while they learn the great game of tennis. Boys and girls will be taught the basic strokes of tennis in the Beginner’s class and we will improve their strokes and game in the Intermediate class. Must be able to rally in the Intermediate class. Fun games and prizes every day. Bring your own racquet.

KTC-01 Beginner 5-18 Years

Jun 4-6 Tu-Th 3 Days 8:30-9:45am

Fee: $65 City Resident Discount Fee: $52

KTC-02 Beginner 5-18 Years

Jun 11-13 Tu-Th 3 Days 8:30-9:45am

Fee: $65 City Resident Discount Fee: $52

KTC-03 Beginner 5-18 Years

Jun 18-20 Tu-Th 3 Days 8:30-9:45am

Fee: $65 City Resident Discount Fee: $52

KTC-04 Beginner 5-18 Years

Jun 25-27 Tu-Th 3 Days 8:30-9:45am

Fee: $65 City Resident Discount Fee: $52

KTC-05 Intermediate 5-18 Years

Jun 4-6 Tu-Th 3 Days 9:45-11am

Fee: $65 City Resident Discount Fee: $52

KTC-06 Intermediate 5-18 Years

Jun 11-13 Tu-Th 3 Days 9:45-11am

Fee: $65 City Resident Discount Fee: $52

KTC-07 Intermediate 5-18 Years

Jun 18-20 Tu-Th 3 Days 9:45-11am

Fee: $65 City Resident Discount Fee: $52

KTC-08 Intermediate 5-18 Years

Jun 25-27 Tu-Th 3 Days 9:45-11am

Fee: $65 City Resident Discount Fee: $52

Location: Pickerington High School Central, Tennis Courts, 300 Opportunity Way

Skyhawks Basketball

This fun, skill-intensive program is designed for beginning to intermediate players. Using our progressional curriculum, we focus on the whole player - teaching sportsmanship and teamwork. Boys and girls will learn the fundamentals of passing, shooting, ball handling, rebounding and defense through skillbased instruction and small-sided scrimmages.

SB-01 6-8 Years

Apr 25-May 30 Th 6 Weeks 5-6pm

Fee: $94 City Resident Discount Fee: $75

SB-02 9-12 Years

Apr 25-May 30 Th 6 Weeks 6:15-7:30pm

Fee: $94 City Resident Discount Fee: $75

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Basketball Court 500 Hereford Dr

Skyhawks Multi Sport Camp

Multi-Sport programs are designed to introduce young athletes to a variety of different sports in one setting. Athletes will learn the rules and essential skills of each sport, along with vital life lessons such as sportsmanship and teamwork.

SMC-01

8-12 Years

Jun 17-21* Mo-Fr 4 Days 9am-1pm

*No class Jun 19

Fee: $164 City Resident Discount Fee: $139

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Soccer Field 3 300 Covered Bridge Ln

This multi-sport program was developed to give children a positive first step into athletics. Sports are taught in a safe, structured environment filled with encouragement and fun. Through exciting games and activities, campers explore balance, hand/eye coordination and skill development at their own pace.

SMH-01

5-8 Years

Jun 24-28 Mo-Fr 5 Days 9am-12pm

Fee: $164 City Resident Discount Fee: $139

Location: Victory Park, Basketball Court 75 Lockville Rd

Skyhawks Beginning Golf

Skyhawks Beginning Golf is powered by Payne Stewart Golf Experiences, the recommended entry-level golf program for PGA Junior Golf Camps. The unique, games-based play program and modified learning equipment make it easier for kids to hit the ball and experience early success. Putting, chipping, pitching and full swing, are all taught through games, simple repetitive motions and learning rhymes that make it easy for young kids to remember and repeat. Specially designed, age appropriate golf equipment is provided.

SBG-01 6-7 Years

Apr 24-May 29 We 6 Weeks 5-6pm

Fee: $94 City Resident Discount Fee: $75

SBG-02 8-10 Years

Apr 24-May 29 We 6 Weeks 6:15-7:30pm

Fee: $94 City Resident Discount Fee: $75

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Soccer Field 3 300 Covered Bridge Ln

Skyhawks Basketball Camp

This fun, skill-intensive program is designed for beginning to intermediate players. Using our progressional curriculum, we focus on the whole player - teaching sportsmanship and teamwork. Boys and girls will learn the fundamentals of passing, shooting, ball handling, rebounding and defense through skillbased instruction and small-sided scrimmages.

SBC-01

6-12 Years

Jun 3-7 Mo-Fr 5 Days 1-4pm

Fee: $164 City Resident Discount Fee: $139

Location: Victory Park, Basketball Court 1 75 Lockville Rd

SBC-02

6-12 Years

Jul 22-26 Mo-Fr 5 Days 9am-12pm

Fee: $164 City Resident Discount Fee: $139

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Basketball Court 500 Hereford Dr

This class teaches young athletes the essential skills to lead the crowd and support the home team! Each participant will learn cheers, proper hand/body movements and jumping techniques. There is no stunting, just a big focus on fun while each cheerleader learns important life skills such as teamwork and leadership. The program concludes with a final cheer performance.

SCL-01

6-12 Years

Jul 8-12 Mo-Fr 5 Days 9am-12pm

Fee: $164 City Resident Discount Fee: $139

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Soccer Field 3 300 Covered Bridge Ln

Skyhawks Flag Football Camp

Experience the excitement of football with Skyhawks Flag Football Fueled by USA Football. Using a curriculum developed by the experts from USA Football, coaches will teach skills like passing, receiving, kicking and flag pulling. Participants will gain confidence and learn important life lessons in a fun, positive environment.

FFC-01

6-8 Years

Jun 10-14 Mo-Fr 5 Days 9am-12pm

Fee: $164 City Resident Discount Fee: $139

FFC-02

9-12 Years

Jun 10-14 Mo-Fr 5 Days 1-4pm

Fee: $164 City Resident Discount Fee: $139

FFC-03

6-12 Years

Jul 8-12 Mo-Fr 5 Days 9am-12pm

Fee: $164 City Resident Discount Fee: $139

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Soccer Field 3

300 Covered Bridge Ln

Skyhawks Beginning Golf Camp

Skyhawks Beginning Golf is powered by Payne Stewart Golf Experiences, the recommended entry-level golf program for PGA Junior Golf Camps. The unique, games-based play program and modified learning equipment make it easier for kids to hit the ball and experience early success. Putting, chipping, pitching and full swing, are all taught through games, simple repetitive motions and learning rhymes that make it easy for young kids to remember and repeat. Specially designed, age appropriate golf equipment is provided.

SGC-01

5-8 Years

Jul 15-19 Mo-Fr 5 Days 9am-12pm

Fee: $164 City Resident Discount Fee: $139

SGC-02

9-12 Years

Jul 15-19 Mo-Fr 5 Days 1-4pm

Fee: $164 City Resident Discount Fee: $139

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Soccer Field 3 300 Covered Bridge Ln

AR Workshop Youth Camp

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Cardinal Soccer Camp

Join us at AR Workshop Pickerington for a one day Youth Camp! AR Workshop is kicking off the summer with tons of artistic and creative projects kids will love. Each participant will make one youth wood project and a name plate. Kids are encouraged to bring a snack and drink to enjoy during break hours.

ARC-01 6-14 Years

Jun 10 Mo 1 Day 9:30am-12:30pm

Fee: $65 City Resident Discount Fee: $52

ARC-02 6-14 Years

Jun 24 Mo 1 Day 9:30am-12:30pm

Fee: $65 City Resident Discount Fee: $52

ARC-03 6-14 Years

Jul 15 Mo 1 Day 9:30am-12:30pm

Fee: $65 City Resident Discount Fee: $52

ARC-04 6-14 Years

Jul 22 Mo 1 Day 9:30am-12:30pm

Fee: $65 City Resident Discount Fee: $52

Location: AR Workshop Pickerington, 1039 Hill Rd N

AR Workshop Mother’s Day Class

Create a one of a kind candle this upcoming Mother’s Day weekend. Enjoy picking from a variety of scents while crafting the perfect candle. Craft instructors will be present to assist with the project.

ARL-01 12 Years and Older

May 11 Sa 1 Day 10am-12pm

Fee: $33 City Resident Discount Fee: $26

Location: AR Workshop Pickerington, 1039 Hill Rd N

AR Workshop Summer Mini Class

Kick off the Summer at AR Workshop Pickerington by creating a summer project! Join us as we create 3 mini wooden crafts to kick off the end of the school year and beginning of Summer. Craft instructors will be present to assist with the project.

ARS-01

5 Years and Older

Jun 8 Sa 1 Day 10am-12pm

Fee: $29 City Resident Discount Fee: $23

Location: AR Workshop Pickerington, 1039 Hill Rd N

Cardinal Soccer Camp is back for its 22nd year. Former collegiate soccer player and coach, Eric Mialky, will direct this popular camp, which is designed for all levels of players. Campers will work on footskills, passing, shooting and defending in a positive environment. Innovative games, drills and training will be accomplished in a fun manner. Sportsmanship and teamwork are emphasized. All participants will receive a camp shirt.

CSC-01

Bally Minor League Baseball

Bally Sports Minor League Baseball is a great introduction to coachpitch baseball for beginning baseball players. The program utilizes instruction including batting, fielding, throwing and catching. The program will also include a modified, non-competitive game each week.

5-12 Years

Jun 24-27 Mo-Th 4 Days 10:30am-12pm

Fee: $94 City Resident Discount Fee: $75

CSC-02

5-12 Years

Jul 29-Aug 1 Mo-Th 4 Days 10:30am-12pm

Fee: $94 City Resident Discount Fee: $75

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Soccer Field 3 300 Covered Bridge Ln

Summer Math Fun

Eric Mialky, certified math teacher, will instruct the class aimed at keeping math skills sharp over the summer. Individualized instruction and focus will be offered to increase math skills. Whether your child is seeking enrichment opportunities or a review of last year’s material, this math camp will benefit students of all abilities. Through a nurturing and positive environment, students will enjoy a wide range of math games which will make summer learning fun. Students will be grouped by ability and age. Each session will focus on new skills, games and content, so sign up for all 3 sessions.

SMF-01

7-12 Years

Jun 24-27 Mo-Th 4 Days 1:30-2:45pm

Fee: $94 City Resident Discount Fee: $75

SMF-02

7-12 Years

Jul 29-Aug 1 Mo-Th 4 Days 1:30-2:45pm

Fee: $94 City Resident Discount Fee: $75

SMF-03

7-12 Years

Aug 5-8 Mo-Th 4 Days 9:30-10:45am

Fee: $94 City Resident Discount Fee: $75

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Hilltop Shelter 280 Hilltop Dr

Youth Speed and Agility

Pickerington Youth Speed and Agility is a program designed for the young athlete to improve speed, quickness, coordination and reaction time. The workouts in this class will focus on using speed ladders, mini-hurdles, jump ropes and more. All athletes will benefit from improved balance, flexibility and quicker feet in a positive and nurturing enviornment. This camp will provide a fun way for kids to exercise over the summer while also becoming more physically fit. Campers of all abilities and sports backgrounds are encouraged to register.

SA-01

7-14 Years

Jun 24-27 Mo-Th 4 Days 3-4pm

Fee: $58 City Resident Discount Fee: $46

SA-02

7-14 Years

Jul 29-Aug 1 Mo-Th 4 Days 3-4pm

Fee: $58 City Resident Discount Fee: $46

SA-03

7-14 Years

Aug 5-8 Mo-Th 4 Days 11am-12pm

Fee: $58 City Resident Discount Fee: $46

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Basketball Court 500 Hereford Dr

Bally Sports staff will lead each team’s instruction, although parent participation is syrongly encouraged. Bally Sports strives to emphasize the importance of great sportsmanship by creating an encouraging atmosphere that helps players build self-esteem and encourage future participation. Each player receives a team shirt and hat. Glove is required. Optional: cleats and bat.

CPB-01 5-7 Years

Apr 24-May 22 We 5 Weeks 6:30-7:45pm

Fee: $107 City Resident Discount Fee: $85

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Softball Fields 1 & 2 500 Hereford Dr

Kids in Karate–Adults too!

Directed by Grandmaster Stephens of Free Spirit Karate Clubs. Tae Kwon Do skills help build strength, agility and coordination. The mental aspects builds self-confidence, self-control and mental-discipline. From kids to adults, it is great for the whole family. Everyone can benefit from this class.

KIK-01

6 Years and Up

Feb 22-Apr 18* Th 8 Weeks 6-7:30pm

*No class Mar 28

Fee: $87 City Resident Discount Fee: $69

KIK-02

6 Years and Up

Apr 25-Jun 13 Th 8 Weeks 6-7:30pm

Fee: $87 City Resident Discount Fee: $69

KIK-03

6 Years and Up

Jun 20-Aug 15* Th 8 Weeks 6-7:30pm

*No class Jul 4

Fee: $87 City Resident Discount Fee: $69

KIK-04

6 Years and Up

Aug 22-Oct 10 Th 8 Weeks 6-7:30pm

Fee: $87 City Resident Discount Fee: $69

Location: American Free Spirit Karate 5953 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43232

Self Defense/Kung Fu

Led by Don Prozy, a 6th level blackbelt in Poekoelan Kung Fu with 30 years experience, you will learn the foundations of basic self-defense including self-defense holds, strikes, and kicks. Strength training, balance, and flexibility conditioning will also be a key factor in this exciting class! Come learn self defense and bring the whole family!

SDK-01

7 Years and Older

Apr 11-May 16 Th 6 Weeks 5:30-6:30pm

Fee: $115 City Resident Discount Fee: $92

SDK-02 7 Years and Older

Jun 12-27 We, Th 6 Days 5:30-6:30pm

Fee: $115 City Resident Discount Fee: $92

Location: Violet Baptist Church 8345 Blacklick Eastern Rd NW

ADULT PROGRAMS YOUTH PROGRAMS

Cardio Kickboxing

Zumba Fitness

Pickleball League: Doubles

Looking for a great workout that combines strength training, flexibility, and cardio? Then try out cardio kickboxing! In this session led by Don Prozy, 6th level black belt in Poekoelan Kung Fu, you will work on flexibility and balance, learn kicks and strikes and combine them all for a great workout! Bring a towel and water bottle, you will need them!

CDK-01

14 Years and Older

Apr 11-May 16 Th 6 Weeks 6:45-7:45pm

Fee: $100 City Resident Discount Fee: $80

CDK-02

14 Years and Older

Jun 12-27 We, Th 6 Days 6:45-7:45pm

Fee: $100 City Resident Discount Fee: $80

Location: Violet Baptist Church 8345 Blacklick Eastern Rd NW

Bally Sports Camp

Join Bally Sports Group this summer for an active and fun summer camp experience! Campers will be introduced to a different sport each week, where instruction will be delivered in a positive and encouraging way. Instruction will be tailored to each child’s skill level based on their experience in the sport. Camp will also feature traditional games and activities, including camp games, nature walks, trivia and more. Bally Sports will put an emphasis on a certain life virtue relating to sports each week. Bally Sports employs coaches with strong educational background, experience in a wide variety of sports and a passion for working with children. All day camps are staffed at an appropriate counselor to camper ratio. Join in on the fun this summer!

BSG-01 Lacrosse and Volleyball 6-12 Years

Jun 3-7 Mo-Fr 5 Days 9am-3pm

Fee: $180 City Resident Discount Fee: $155

BSG-02 Ninja Training Camp 6-12 Years

Jun 10-14 Mo-Fr 5 Days 9am-3pm

Fee: $180 City Resident Discount Fee: $155

BSG-03 Shooting Stars Basketball 6-12 Years

Jun 17-21 Mo-Fr 5 Days 9am-3pm

Fee: $180 City Resident Discount Fee: $155

BSG-04 Sticks & Flips Hockey & Gymnastics 6-12 Years

Jun 24-28 Mo-Fr 5 Days 9am-3pm

Fee: $180 City Resident Discount Fee: $155

BSG-05 Five Tool Baseball & Softball 6-12 Years

Jul 8-12 Mo-Fr 5 Days 9am-3pm

Fee: $180 City Resident Discount Fee: $155

BSG-06 Foot Skills Soccer 6-12 Years

Jul 15-19 Mo-Fr 5 Days 9am-3pm

Fee: $180 City Resident Discount Fee: $155

BSG-07 First and Ten Football & Cheer 6-12 Years

Jul 22-26 Mo-Fr 5 Days 9am-3pm

Fee: $180 City Resident Discount Fee: $155

BSG-08 Olympics 6-12 Years

Jul 29-Aug 2 Mo-Fr 5 Days 9am-3pm

Fee: $180 City Resident Discount Fee: $155

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Pickering Shelter 300 Covered Bridge Ln

Zumba® is a latin based dance fitness program. We “visit” cultures all around the world through the magic of dance. This is a judgement free zone, and no dance experience is needed. Bring water along with you, and be prepared to work, laugh and have fun; all while making those calories cry (sweat). Tammy is a licensed Zumba® instructor and current ZIN™ member. For more information, please visit www.facebook.com/ZumbaWithTammyTyler.

ZF-01

18 Years and Older

Apr 1-Jun 17* Mo 11 Weeks 6-7pm

*No class Apr 15 and May 27

Fee: $80 City Resident Discount Fee: $64

ZF-02

18 Years and Older

Jul 1-Sep 16* Mo 11 Weeks 6-7pm

*No class Sep 2

Fee: $80 City Resident Discount Fee: $64

Location: Pickerington Senior Center 150 Hereford Dr

ZF-03

18 Years and Older

Mar 28-Jun 27* Th 11 Weeks 6-7pm

*No class Apr 4 and May 9 & 16

Fee: $80 City Resident Discount Fee: $64

ZF-04

18 Years and Older

Jul 11-Sep 26* Th 11 Weeks 6-7pm

*No class Jul 18

Fee: $80 City Resident Discount Fee: $64

Location: Violet Baptist Church 8345 Blacklick Eastern Rd NW

Doubles Tennis

Come one, come all! You don’t need a partner for this doubles league. You will be on the court with players at your level having a ball while getting a great workout and meeting some great people too.

DT-01

18 Years and Older

May 23-Jun 27 Th 6 Weeks 6:30-8:30pm

Fee: $102 City Resident Discount Fee: $81

Location: Pickerington High School Central, Tennis Courts, 300 Opportunity Way

Community Gardens

The Parks and Recreation Department has 71 garden plots that may be reserved for the growing season in addition to 6 raised beds. Garden plots are tilled around April 1 and are open through October. Families are able to register for up to two plots. Register now while plots are still available. Online registration opens February 19 or stop by City Hall to pick a garden plot out.

Registration begins:

• Returning Gardeners Feb 1-9

• Returning Gardeners wanting a new plot Feb 12-16

(register in person to pick new garden plot)

• New Gardeners and Online Registration Feb 20

Come compete this upcoming season in the Pickerington Pickleball Doubles League. The league will be self-officiated and self-scored with 8 teams max. Each team is guaranteed 14 games with the top 4 teams advancing to a season finale tournament. Teams can consist of 2 males or females or co-ed. Sign up one person per team; price is per team, not per person. Participants will need to bring their own paddles and ball.

The 3.0 and Below League is not a league intended for players to learn the sport for the first time. Players in this league must understand the rules and game settings.

The 3.5 & Above League is designed for intermediate and advanced pickleball players. Please register to the correct league according to your skill level.

18 years and older

Spring Leagues

3.0 & Below Division-Doubles

Games Begin: Wednesday, Apr 10

8 Weeks 6-8pm

Fee: $60 per team

3.5 & Above Division-Doubles

Games Begin: Tuesday, Apr 9

8 Weeks 6-8pm

Fee: $60 per team

Summer Leagues

Registration Deadline: Jun 17

3.0 & Below Division-Doubles

Games Begin: Wednesday, Jun 19

8 Weeks 6-8pm

Fee: $60 per team

3.5 & Above Division-Doubles

Games Begin: Tuesday, Jun 18

8 Weeks 6-8pm

Fee: $60 per team

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Taylor Tennis Courts 281 Hilltop Dr

Pickleball Classes

Come join the Pickleball fun as Instructor D’Andrea provides the skills to become a pickleballer. Beginners will learn how to score, serve, and understand the basic fundamentals of the game. Advanced participants will dive deeper into game strategy, returning, and third shots. Bring your paddle and come join in on the fun!

PB-01- Beginner 16 Years and Older

Jun 6-27 Th 4 Weeks 5:30-6:30pm

Fee: $73 City Resident Discount Fee: $58

PB-02- Advanced 16 Years and Older

Jun 6-27 Th 4 Weeks 6:45-7:45pm

Fee: $73 City Resident Discount Fee: $58

Taylor Tennis Courts, 281 Hilltop Dr

Free Agents accepted for all Adult Sports Leagues!

Location: Shawnee Crossing Park, 860

The department maintains a free agent list for individuals who would like to join a team. If there are enough free agents, a new team will be formed. If not, free agent’s contact information will be distributed to team managers, however, placement on a team is not guaranteed. To be added as a free agent, call 614-833-2211 or sign-up online at www.pickerington.net.

Adult Softball Leagues

The Parks and Recreation Department offers Spring/Summer Softball Leagues. One Nation Slowpitch sanctioned leagues include an 8 game regular season and a tournament for the top 4 teams. Each league will have a minimum of five teams. Team applications are available online at www.pickerington.net.

Registration Begins: March 1

Registration Deadline: March 31

League Fee: $350

8 Weeks + 2 Weeks of Playoffs for the top 4 teams

SPECIAL EVENTS

Arbor Day

Monday, April 8, 6:00pm

Celebrate with the City of Pickerington as we receive the Tree City USA award for 31 consecutive years and plant a tree in honor of Arbor Day. Sycamore Creek Park, Arboretum

Questions: Contact Parks and Recreation at 614-833-2211 or visit www.pickerington.net.

Touch-A-Truck

Saturday, May 4, 10:00am-12:00pm

Youth Fishing Derby

Saturday, July 27, 9:30-11am

Come out to the 17th Annual City of Pickerington Youth Fishing Derby. Enjoy a morning fishing on the pond with your friends and family. Prizes in all age groups for most fish and biggest fish caught. Bring your own fishing pole, secret bail and pail. Everything is free, although preregistration is required by Thursday, July 25.

Fee: Free

YFD-01 6 years and under

YFD-02 7-8 years

YFD-03 9-10 years

YFD-04 11-14 years

* Age as of July 27, 2024

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Pond 500 Hereford Dr

Youth Adventure Challenge

Saturday, August 10

Heats Starting at 9:00am-12:00pm*

Do you think you are up to the challenge?

Pickerington Parks and Recreation Department is excited to challenge youth in a variety of fitness obstacles. This is not a mud run. This untimed “race” will have obstacles of varying difficulty so many ages can participate and can skip obstacles if they don’t wish to complete without penalty. This approximately 3/4 mile course will end by climbing a warped wall! Pre-register by August 2.

YAC-01

Age: 3-12 years

*Heat times will be emailed week of August 5

Fee: $5

Location: Sycamore Creek Park, Pickering Shelter 300 Covered Bridge Lane

Bring your kids to enjoy a variety of big trucks, construction equipment, emergency response vehicles and more! This year’s TouchA-Truck may have a slightly different setup from prior years, but kids’ eyes will still light up when they see and hear their favorite trucks. Please check the website for additional information as the event approaches.

Location: Pickerington Community Pool 11330 Stonecreek Dr South

Earth Day

Monday,

April 22

Registration is complete with full payment. Accepted methods of payment include: Cash, Checks made payable to City of Pickerington, and VISA and MasterCard. City of Pickerington charges a $35 returned check fee.

ONLINE

Register for select Parks and Recreation activities 24/7 with online registration at www.pickerington.net or on your smart phone by scanning the code.

IN PERSON

Join us in celebrating Earth Day by taking a few minutes to pickup litter around your home, neighborhood, school and business to keep Pickerington looking great!

Register in person from 8:00am-5:00pm Monday-Friday at the Parks and Recreation Department located at City Hall, 100 Lockville Road across from Victory Park.

EMAIL

Email a copy of the Registration form found at www.pickerington.net to recreation@pickerington.net.

BY MAIL

Send completed registration form and full payment to: City of Pickerington, 100 Lockville Road, Pickerington, OH 43147

DROP BOX

Drop off your registration form and full payment after normal operating hours in the secure drop box located at City Hall and your registration will be processed the next business day.

and Open Space Pickerington, Ohio

Pictures Wanted

Send scenic or pictures out enjoying one of the parks or programs to pics@pickerington.net. Pictures may be posted on the City’s Facebook page or be used in future Program Guides.

Park Watch

Please be alert to safety hazards, vandalism and other crimes in our parks. Report crimes to Pickerington Police Department at 614-575-6911.

Park Rules

1. Park open from dawn to dusk.

2. Damaging or removing park property, natural features and wildlife is prohibited.

3. No littering or dumping.

4. Loud and disruptive behavior is prohibited.

5. Advertising or commercial enterprise requires permission from the City Manager.

6. No camping without a written permit from the City Manager.

7. No fires except in designated areas.

8. Hunting and trapping is prohibited.

9. Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times and owners must pick up after their pets.

10. No swimming, wading, or boating.

11. Catch and release fishing only.

12. No motorized vehicles except in designated areas.

13. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Violation of any park rule may lead to ejection from the park or prosecution under the laws of the City of Pickerington.

PARK / FACILITY RESERVATIONS

Reservations accepted beginning March 1!

Reserve space for your family reunion, birthday party, or graduation party beginning March 1 for April 1-October 31, 2024.

Facility Reservations

1. Facilities may be reserved throughout the year from April 1 - October 31. Reservations will be accepted after March 1 of each year. Restroom facilities are not available from November 1 - April. Reservations must be made at least 72 hours in advance. Additional information available at www. pickerington.net.

2. Full payment is required when submitting reservation applications.

3. Any person or organization holding an approved application shall receive a refund only if the Parks and Recreation Department is given proper notice to cancel prior to two (2) weeks from the scheduled date of use. A Refund Request Form must be submitted, and there is a $15 processing fee to cancel a reservation.

4. In the event of rain or extreme weather conditions, as determined by the Parks and Recreation Department, reservations will be rescheduled if possible.

5. The group or organization using the facilities shall assure that:

a. All park rules are followed.

b. Damages made to the facilities or equipment during their time of use shall be their financial responsibility.

c. Facilities shall be left clean and neat.

Facility amenities for all park spaces available for reservation can be accessed online at www. pickerington.net.

2024 Facility Reservation Fees

$80 Fee

$40 City Resident/Non-Profit Discount Fee *Fees are charged per time slot for each reserved space.

Diley Road Softball Fields Shelter 2

Sycamore Creek Park Pickering Shelter

Sycamore Creek Park Hilltop Shelter

Willow Pond Shelter

Victory Park Terry O’Brien Shelter

Road (Seats approx. 95)

Simsbury Disc Golf Course Shelter 625 East Columbus Street (Seats approx. 50)

Sycamore Creek Park Moorhead Shelter 481 Hereford Drive (Seats approx. 50) (no electricity available)