Pickerington October/November 2021

T h e O f f i c i a l M a g a z i n e o f t h e C i t y o f P i c k e r i n g t o n a n d V i o l e t To w n s h i p

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

A Pumpkin Tradition INSIDE Library director’s journey Eagle Scout’s restoration Art teacher’s life lessons Terry Dunlap

Our Pickerington team is ready to serve you!

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The personal attention our bankers provide comes from a promise to serve you with respect and compassion. I’m Tiffany Ruckman and I invite you to visit me and my team today!

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pickerington magazine

volume 14, number 1 october/november 2021

4 Calendar

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

8 News and Information from

President/CEO

the City of Pickerington

10 News and Information from

Gianna Barrett

Vice President, Sales

Dave Prosser

Chief Creative Officer

12 News and Information from

Gary Hoffman

Senior Editor

Cameron Carr

Associate Editor

Amanda DePerro

Contributing Editor

Bre Offenberger Ellie Roberto Trevor Simpson Sarah Grace Smith

Editorial Assistants

Sarah Robinson

Contributing Writer

Tracy Douds Jamie Armistead Circulation

Creative Director

Brandon Klein

Violet Township

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Pickerington Schools

15

Library director’s journey from the Army to the library

Pumpkin in focus Palooza

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Pumpkin patch is a proud community tradition for more than 30 years

Pickerington sports spotlight Pigskin

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Advertising Sales

High school football teams revel in a return to near normalcy

Accounting Manager 614-572-1240

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www.pickeringtonmagazine.com CityScene Media Group also publishes: CityScene Magazine www.CitySceneColumbus.com

student spotlight

Earning His Wings

Local Boy Scout restores military museum to achieve Eagle Scout rank

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Dublin Life Magazine www.DublinLifeMagazine.com

artist spotlight

Confidence in Creativity

Pickerington art teacher on life lessons in art class

Westerville Magazine www.WestervilleMagazine.com

26 on

Tri-Village Magazine www.TriVillageMagazine.com

the table

Gourd Morning

Healthy New Albany Magazine www.HealthyNewAlbanyMagazine.com

Are you prepared for pumpkin season?

28 Top Homes Sold in Pickerington

Discover Grove City Magazine www.DiscoverGroveCity.com The Publisher welcomes contributions in the form of manuscripts, drawings, photographs or story ideas to consider for possible publication. Enclose a SASE with each submission or email bklein@cityscenemediagroup. com. Publisher does not assume responsibility for loss or damage.

The appearance of advertising in Pickerington Magazine does not constitute an endorsement of the advertiser’s product or service by the City of Pickerington.

Pickerington Magazine is published in February, April, June, August, October and December.

Subscriptions are free for households within the city limits of Pickerington, Ohio. For advertising information or bulk purchases, call 614-572-1240.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. Pickerington Magazine is a registered trademark of CityScene Media Group. Printed in the U.S.A. © 2021.

faces

Reading Between the Lines

29 Luxury Living Real Estate Guide 30 bookmarks

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Recommended reads from Pickerington Public Library

On the cover: Terry Dunlap of Sam’s Pumpkin Patch. Photo by John Nixon.

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com PickeringtonMagazine

pickerington community calendar october/november 2021 Through Oct. 31 ZOMBIEzi Bay

Oct. 12 Stitching ’N the Stacks

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium 4850 Powell Rd., Powell www.columbuszoo.org

6-7 p.m., digital classroom at Pickerington Main Library, 201 Opportunity Way www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

Fear has a new name. Because next fall the waves of Zoombezi Bay will be replaced by waves of terror. Introducing ZOMBIEzi Bay, where the undead rule the night. Explore a wicked new world with four haunted houses, two scare zones, the Sea Dragon roller coaster, other non-water rides and plenty of sinister surprises – if you dare.

A monthly meeting for beginner and experienced crafters.

Oct. 4 Book Chat – Into the Wild

First Drafts focuses on books with buzz.

Space is limited so advance registration is recommended.

Join the Pickerington Public Library for a book chat on Facebook Live as library representatives share personalized book suggestions. Can’t make it work with your schedule? An archive of the video is available to watch later.

7-8 p.m., barrel room at Combustion Brewery, 80 W. Church St., Ste. 101 www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

Oct. 16 Pickerington Comic Fest 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Pickerington Main Library, 201 Opportunity Way www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

Oct. 9 Fifth Annual Blue Ribbon Run

Meet local comic and graphic novel creators, pick up free comics, have fun with crafts and trivia, and take fun photos with your favorite characters.

9 a.m., Victory Park, 100 Lockville Rd. www.runsignup.com/ Race/OH/Pickerington/ RunforChildrenandtheElderly5k

Oct. 19 Pickerington Public Library Book Club

A 5K walk/run organized by Citizens to Protect Children and the Elderly from Abuse and Neglect.

Oct. 10 Open House: Kids Day at the Museum 1-3 p.m., Pickerington-Violet Township Historical Society, 15 E. Columbus St. www.pickhistory.org

Play games, hear stories, see photos and touch artifacts from Pickerington’s past.

Kids can try on vintage clothing and have a photo taken. Admission is free.

Oct. 12 Networking 4 the Paws 5-8:30 p.m., Combustion Brewery & Taproom, 80 W. Church St., Ste. 101 Contact Rick Wagner at 614-203-3158 or rickwagner@wagnerinsuranceagency.net

7-8 p.m., meeting room A, Pickerington Main Library, 201 Opportunity Way www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

Oct. 27 Haunted Village 6-8 p.m., Columbus and Center streets www.pickeringtonvillage.com

The Haunted Village typically includes free ghost tours, hayrides and trick-or-treating at local businesses with food vendors, restaurants and shops.

Oct. 28 Trick or Treat at the Library 1-3 p.m., atrium at Pickerington Main Library, 201 Opportunity Way

www.pickeringtonlibrary.org Dress up in your Halloween best and stop by Pickerington Library Main for some goodies and fun.

Oct. 28 Tots Trick or Treat

The Pickerington Public Library’s longestrunning and largest book club.

1:30-2:30 p.m., Pickerington City Hall, 100 Lockville Rd. www.ci.pickerington.oh.us

Oct. 21 Brown Bag Book Club – The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell

City Hall staff will be dressed up to hand out goodies and greet children ages 2-5 accompanied by adults. Costumes encouraged.

1-2 p.m., digital classroom at Pickerington Main Library, 201 Opportunity Way www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

Bring a meal or snack to this lunchtime book club meeting.

Oct. 26 Minute to Win It: Monster Mash Edition 6-7 p.m., meeting room A, Pickerington Main Library, 201 Opportunity Way www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

Combination vendor fair, speed networking Compete in a series of Halloweenand silent auction is moving to Combusthemed challenges. tion Brewery & Taproom this year. All proceeds go to local animal rescue group Forgotten 4-Paws.

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Pickerington Comic Fest, Oct. 16

Oct. 28 Community Trick or Treat 6-8 p.m., throughout Pickerington www.ci.pickerington.oh.us

The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Committee’s unified trick or treat night. Rain or shine, put on your costumes and set out for a night of trick-or-treating.

Submit Your Event

Do you have an event you would like to submit to our calendar?

Send details and photos to bklein@cityscenemediagroup.com. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photos courtesy of PIckerington Public Library staff

6-6:30 p.m., online www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

Oct. 14 First Drafts Book Club – Utopia Avenue

Due to health concerns, events are subject to change. Visit websites for additional information.

Nov. 13 Tiger Turkey Trot 5K

Nov. 22 Turkey Bouquet – Monday 9 a.m., Pickerington High School Central, Makers 300 Opportunity Way www.facebook.com/pickcentboyslax

5K run/walk organized by Pickerington Central Lacrosse and benefiting the Tiger Lacrosse Booster Club. The race is offered both in person and virtually this year.

Trick or Treat at the Library, Oct. 28

Oct. 30 Ghost Hunters: Library Edition Noon-2 p.m., atrium at Pickerington Main Library, 201 Opportunity Way www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

Learn about paranormal activity from the Tri-C Ghost Hunters’ investigation experiences and see if you can find evidence of a ghost in the library.

Nov. 1 Book Chat 6-6:30 p.m., online www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

Join the Pickerington Public Library for a book chat on Facebook Live as library representatives share personalized book suggestions. Can’t make it work with your schedule? An archive of the video is available to watch later on.

Nov. 9 Stitching ’N the Stacks 6-7 p.m., digital classroom at Pickerington Main Library, 201 Opportunity Way www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

A monthly meeting for beginner and experienced crafters.

Nov. 14 Open House: Train Stop Pickerington 1-3 p.m., Pickerington-Violet Township Historical Society, 15 E. Columbus St. www.pickhistory.org

Celebrate National Model Railroad Month with the sights and sounds of model trains displayed in by local railroad enthusiasts. Hear stories, see photos and touch artifacts from Pickerington’s railroad that began operation in 1879. Admission is free.

In this Thanksgiving-themed event you’ll learn how to turn artificial flowers into a turkey bouquet for your holiday gathering.

Nov. 24-Dec. 15 Santa’s Mailbox Pickerington City Hall, 100 Lockville Rd. www.ci.pickerington.oh.us

A North Pole Express mailbox will be placed in front of City Hall for children to write Santa and his helpers a letter for Christmas. Please include child’s name and return address so Santa can write back!

Nov. 16 Pickerington Public Library Book Club 7-8 p.m., meeting room A, Pickerington Main Library, 201 Opportunity Way www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

The Pickerington Public Library’s longestrunning and largest book club.

Nov. 18 Brown Bag Book Club – November Road 1-2 p.m., digital classroom at Pickerington Main Library, 201 Opportunity Way www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

Bring a meal or snack to this lunchtime book club meeting.

Nov. 11 First Drafts Book Club – Shuggie Bain

Good news.

Rates just got lower.

I’m excited to announce auto insurance rates just went down.

I can help you find coverage that works for you.

LET’S TALK TODAY. Keely Weaver, Agent 705 Hill Rd N Bus: 614-837-6700 Fax: 614-837-6401 www.keelyweaver.com keely.weaver.ichx@statefarm.com

7-8 p.m., barrel room at Combustion Brewery, 80 W. Church St., Ste. 101 www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

First Drafts focuses on books with buzz.

Space is limited so advance registration is recommended.

For the most recent information on events and hours, visit www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

6-7 p.m., meeting room A, Pickerington Main Library, 201 Opportunity Way www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas, Richardson, TX 1901155

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INSIDE

PICKERINGTON

N E W S & I N F OR M AT I O N F R O M T H E C I T Y O F P I C K E R I NGT ON

Text to 911 Now Active in Pickerington • If texting to 911 is not available in your area, or is temporarily unavailable, you will receive a message indicating that texting 911 is not available and to contact 911 by other means.

Residents of Pickerington are now able to text 911. Police Chief Tod Cheney said the new service is useful for those that are hard of hearing, deaf, or speech impaired, those unable to speak due to a medical emergency or those in situations where they want to remain quiet, like a home invasion or a domestic violence situation.

• At this time, photos and videos cannot be sent to 911

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Text to 911 is not available if your cellular device is roaming.

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Enter the numbers 911 in the ‘to’ field

•

•

The first text message to 911 should be brief and contain the location of the emergency and type of help needed

A text or data plan is required to place a Text to 911 message.

•

Push the send button

•

Be prepared to answer questions and follow instructions from the 911 Dispatcher

•

Text using simple words (do not use abbreviations or emoticons)

•

Keep text messages brief and concise

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A few things to remember about texting 911:

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Text to 911 location information is not as precise as voice calling 911, due to the enhanced 911 features available through voice call mapping technology.

•

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As with all text messages, 911 messages can take longer to receive, may get out of order, or may not be received at all.

Ralph and Peggy Portier were the Grand Marshals of the 2021 Pickerington Lions Club Labor Day Parade. Mayor Lee Gray (right) declared it ‘Ralph and Peggy Portier Day’ in the City of Pickerington and presented the couple with Keys to the City for their many years of community service.

Congratulations Ralph and Peggy! Well-deserved honor.

•

Do not text and drive.

Annette Echikunwoke, a 2014 PHSN graduate, was recently recognized for her achievements in the sport of women’s hammer throw.

Echikunwoke qualified to compete at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics and went to represent her parents’ home country of Nigeria. She is currently ranked #7 in the world in the sport.

Congratulations on all of your accomplishments, Annette! www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photos courtesy of City of Pickerington

How to text 911 in an emergency:

• Text to 911 cannot include more than one person. Do not send your emergency text message to anyone other than 911.

2021 Paving Project Completed “Good streets and a quality transportation network are vital to the success of our city and the quality of life for our residents.”

With those words, Pickerington City Manager Greg Butcher summarized why City leaders have prioritized spending more than $1 million in street improvements each year for nearly a decade.

There were 27 streets and six alleys included in the 2021 project, and the locations were selected based on pavement condition assessments and observations.

“Based on those assessments, we determine the level of repairs needed and determine the costs to make those repairs,” says Butcher. “The final selection of streets to receive improvement is determined by these estimated costs and how much of the work we can accomplish based on the amount of money in the city budget.”

Diley Road at the Hill Road intersection and Tussing Road at the State Route 256 intersection both received full-depth pavement repairs.

Other streets that saw improvement: Cedar Drive, Elmwood Street, Oak Tree Avenue, Poplar Street, Village Place, Brookside Drive, Elgin Circle, El-

gin Court, McLeod Parc, Melrose Boulevard, Paisley Court, Paisley Place, Scott Court, Umbleby Place, Florence Drive, Losey Drive, Pearl Lane, Pruden Drive, England Street, DeLong Drive, Ellis Drive, Gray Drive, Creekside Lane, Town Square Drive, Tussing Road, West Columbus Street and Winderly Lane.

Additionally, alleys that received work included an east-west alley between East Borland and Church streets, an east-west alley between Columbus and Church streets, Park Alley, a northsouth alley between Center and East streets, the Reynolds Avenue alley, and a north-south alley between East and Church streets.

The streets that were paved in the Colony Park subdivision had the majority of the curb work this year, and streets in the Melrose and Windmiller Ponds subdivisions had curb repair and replacement.

Pickerington Mayor Lee Gray says the annual street improvement will always be a top priority.

“It’s been a goal of mine and City Council for a number of years. Infrastructure has to be maintained,” Gray says. “If you’re trying to balance the budget, one of the easiest things to overlook is your streets. They’ll continue to perform, but if you go too long, they’ll cost a lot more to repair.”

citydirectory Pickerington City Hall, 100 Lockville Rd.

(All numbers prefixed with the 614 area code)

Building Services ..................... 833-2221 City Clerk/Council..................... 837-3974 City Manager........................... 837-3974 Development Services.............. 833-2204 Engineering Services ............... 833-2221 Finance Services...................... 837-3974 Human Resources.................... 837-3974 Income Tax Division.................. 837-4116 Mayor’s Office (Lee A. Gray)............................ 837-3974 Mayor’s Court.......................... 837-3974 Parks and Recreation............... 833-2211 Police Services......................... 575-6911 Service Department Streets.................................... 833-2292 Utility Billing............................. 833-2289 Utility Maintenance................... 833-2292 Water Plant.............................. 833-2290

Please join us in welcoming our newest full-time Pickerington Police Officer, Matthew Dalesio. Officer Dalesio is a 2018 graduate of Pickerington High School Central. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Waste Water Plant.................... 837-6490 Water Reclamation.................. 837-6470 7

News and Information From

Violet Township Violet Township Fire Department Annual Toy Drive November 22 through December 22, 2021 Obviously, Covid-19 has changed so much of how we do everything in our lives. We are approaching our second holiday season since the pandemic started. Some things feel a little like they used to, but a lot of our residents still have concerns.

Last year, we modified our annual toy drive. It was a little scary for us as it included some big changes.

Even so, we were overwhelmed with the support and generosity of our community.

The toy drive relies heavily on the administrators and teachers of Pickerington schools. The creativity and dedication coming from the schools has

been an enormous part of building the toy drive each year.

This year we can expect the same sorts of virtual ways to donate that

became available last year. We hope these contactless options will provide even more opportunities for people to give. You will also see our red toy boxes at the local businesses which have supported the toy drive throughout the years.

Giving for the Toy Drive begins the week of Nov. 22 and runs through the week of Dec 20. Please watch our Facebook page www.facebook.com/ VioletTownshipFireToyDrive for updates, contactless giving links, dates of Toy Drive-Thru events, and all opportunities to participate in our annual Toy Drive event this season! Any questions can be answered by calling 614-382-5952.

Engulfed in Leaves? 3 Options for Dealing with your Trees’ Autumn Offerings!

by Carrie Brown, Fairfield SWCD I don’t know about you, but one of the keystone autumn memories I cherish from my childhood is raking leaves into an enormous pile…only to wreck my efforts by diving into them. Of course, this would happen repeatedly until my father would declare the scattered mess off limits and hurry me inside to clean up. As I got older, the task of raking lost its allure and became more of a chore, so as an adult, I’ve become a bit more savvy when dealing with autumn’s leafy offerings. Engulfed in leaves? Here are some options for handling autumn’s most abundant crop.

1. Leave the Leaves Option one, and likely the easiest route, is to simply leave the leaves leaf species that have mostly smaller case of maple, oak, and other trees with where they fall! If your yard is scattered leaves, there may not be much action to larger foliage, a bit of mulching may be with black cherry, locust, or other broad- take after leaves drop. However, in the in order. Use a lawnmower to shred the 8

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

leaves into dime-sized pieces. There are several benefits to gracing your grass with this mulchy mixture: Provide habitat for wildlife such as frogs, turtles and salamanders. Additionally, many moths and butterfly caterpillars overwinter in fallen leaves before emerging in spring.

Increase your soil fertility and offer your lawn a nutrient boost! As the leaves decompose, nutrients such as carbon, nitrogen, and potassium are added to the soil.

Supply food for critters like earthworms and millipedes.

Suppress weeds in your lawn.

Decomposing leaves cover the soil in between individual grass plants where weeds are most likely to germinate.

Save your back! Mulching is far faster and much easier on the body than raking leaves.

2. Make Mulch Leaves make great mulch for both vegetable plots and flowerbeds! Here are some tips for putting these nutrientpacked remnants to work in your garden.

Shred your leaves before mulching, as whole leaves can form a mat impermeable to water.

Use leaves to cover bare soil and insulate tender plants, shielding them from the winter weather. A blanket of shredded leaves up to 6 inches can help to protect cold-hardy vegetables, potentially extending harvest into the winter.

When mulching trees and shrubs, ensure mulched leaves are not directly touching stems and trunks of plants.

Before planting vegetable gardens in the spring, balance the carbon provided by the decaying leaves with an organic nitrogen source such as composted animal manure.

Steer clear of black walnut leaves when mulching, as they contain a subwww.pickeringtonmagazine.com

stance that can inhibit plant growth.

3. Create Compost If your yard is rather arborous and fallen leaves are too thick to mulch with a lawn mower, it may be necessary to turn to Plan C: Collect and compost leaves in a designated location. Composting is a process in which microbes break down organic materials into a nutrientdense, soil-like material. This is a great option for gardeners with the desire to build their own rich planting medium.

When done correctly, leaves and other fall garden debris can be composted and ready to use by late spring.

In the case of leaf piles, size and location matter! A pile that is 3-by-3-by-3 feet is manageable and large enough to maintain the heat needed for the composting process. Make as many piles as necessary, choosing a shaded site with good air flow.

“Feed” your compost pile throughout the fall season by adding freshly fallen leaves to a batch of older leaves. You can also supplement by adding other natural materials you may have lying around such as grass clippings, garden debris and kitchen scraps. (It’s important to note that there are a number of materials that shouldn’t be added to backyard compost piles, such as animal

products, that will attract pests and take too long to compost.)

Maintain your compost by keeping it moist and oxygenated! Water is needed for the composting process, so it may be necessary to add water to your pile.

Additionally, compost requires aeration.

This can be accomplished by occasionally turning the pile with a spading fork or other garden tool.

Only Rain Down the Drain!

Whichever option you choose, remember to keep yard waste, including leaves, grass clippings and garden debris, out of drainage ditches and storm drains. Everything that enters a storm drain is ultimately let out, untreated, into a local water body. Leaves, in particular, can be very problematic for storm sewer systems, so never leave them in the path of stormwater. Even if leaves are left behind, water filtering through can become rich in nutrients. When this “leafy brew” makes its way to rivers and streams it can cause an overgrowth of algae and wreak havoc on water quality.

DEA Drug Take Back Day & Electronic Recycling Event Oct. 23 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

• • • •

Pills only, no liquids or syringes.

Electronic Recycling: televisions $1 per diagonal inch fee.

Violet Service Center, 490 N. Center St., Pickerington.

Visit www.fairfieldswcd.org for more information.

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www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

News Science Education in the U.S. and About 200 Earth and Space the Arthur C. Clarke Institute for Science Pickerington High School Space Education Internationally.

Central and North students are It is enabled through a strategic participating in a competition that partnership with NanoRacks, LLC, is literally out of this world! As part which is working with NASA under of the Student Spaceflight Experia Space Act Agreement as part of ments Program’s (SSEP) Mission the utilization of the ISS as a Na16 project, one student group will tional Laboratory. be selected to send experiment ma“One of the most exciting parts terials on a mission to the Internaof the program is that all K-12 stutional Space Station (ISS). Seconddents can participate in the Mission ary Science Instructional Coach Patch Design Competition,” said Carla Fultz is the project co-director Fultz. “Every mission has a patch, for the Pickerington Local School and one student’s design will repreDistrict (PLSD). sent PLSD on the ISS.” “Students will work in teams of Patch competition details, along two to three to conduct research, Some of the PLSD teachers leading the Mission 16 with Mission 16 updates, can be design experiments and submit project. Pictured left to right: Brian Hoff, Carla Fultz, Dan found at www.pickerington.k12. formal research proposals around McCullough and Adam Philpott. oh.us/mission-16-project. the essential driving question, ‘What Fultz says PLSD is the first Cenphysical, chemical or biological systral Ohio school district to join the tem would I like to explore with gravning experiment that astronauts will ity seemingly turned off for a period of perform in space in the spring. When SSEP program, with hopes it will be a recurring mission. time as a means of assessing the role the mission is over, students will “Our wish is that we can do it again of gravity in that system?’” said Fultz. study the data to determine if they next year and expand it to junior high About a dozen teachers and staff proved their hypothesis. and middle school science students.” will also help students work on the The SSEP is a program of the proposals. SSEP will select the winNational Center for Earth and Space

PLSD Needs YOU! PLSD has a critical need for substitute paraprofessionals, health care assistants, duty aides, custodians and food service employees! Apply at https://tinyurl.com/PLSDApplitrack.

Petermann Bus also needs bus drivers.

Candidates may fill out an application at https://careers.nellc.com and search “Pickerington,” or apply in person at 12475-A Achievement Way. Bus driving experience is not required.

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www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photo courtesy of Pickerington Local School District

PLSD Payload to Travel to International Space Station

Addressing Enrollment Growth in Pickerington Schools With all Pickerington Schools students back in our buildings this school year (except those in the Virtual Learning Academy), the reality of growth in our community, and subsequently our schools, is more evident than ever.

With the addition of more than 400 new students that have enrolled so far this school year alone, many of our schools are on track to be at capacity within four years. With hopes of solving the looming overcrowding issue, and acting on third-party expert projections combined with input from community stakeholders, District leaders placed an issue on the ballot during the last two elections. Because the bond issue did not pass, District leaders have now gone back to the drawing board to discuss possible ways to address overcrowding including redistricting, adding temporary classrooms and other options.

As new families continue to move into Pickerington nearly every day, we are continuing to listen to you, our community, as we have every step of the way, in myriad ways.

Beginning in fall 2018, the District began working on our Plan4Progress (P4P) strategic plan by seeking community input and feedback through spring 2019. Then, representatives from the P4P’s three pillars (Academics, Modern Facilities and Efficient Operations) met and created plans for the pillars. Representatives included PLSD staff, board members and community members. More info about the P4P, including the pillar plans, can be found at www.pickerington.k12.oh.us/p4p/.

In fall 2019, the District then began a “Listening Tour” focusing on the Modern Facilities pillar, which ultimately led to the decision to place a bond issue on the ballot to address growth.

During the Listening Tour, District leaders spoke at several community and school functions throughout early 2020 before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. After each presentation, a survey was disseminated digitally to attendees. Nearly 300 people responded to the surveys, which showed that before the pandemic, the P4P had a lot of momentum. The survey results can be viewed on the P4P webpage mentioned above.

After the bond issue failed in May 2021, District leaders commissioned a third-party survey which showed that the overarching reason why voters rejected the bond issue is because taxes would have been raised. The results of this www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

survey can also be found on the P4P webpage.

The community has been involved and engaged throughout the three-year-long process — from identifying the strategic direction of the District, to crafting the specifics of the P4P to molding the bond proposal placed on the ballot. Now, as we consider other options to address overcrowding, we want you to know that we are also working on new and additional ways to seek your feedback, which will be shared in the December issue of Pickerington Magazine. Thank you for supporting the Pickerington Schools and its students!

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Our New Administrative Team There are some exciting changes to PLSD’s administrative team this school year!

Please welcome Chief Academic Officer/Asst. Supt. Alesia Gillison, who comes to us from Columbus City Schools.

Dr. Heather Hedgepeth was promoted to Chief Administrative Officer/Asst. Supt., and Dr. Michael P. Jackson is our new Director of Diversity & Engagement. To read about more organizational changes to better serve you, visit https://www. pickerington.k12.oh.us/news/ admin-team/.

Pickerington Points of Pride Did you know that during the COVID-19 pandemic, PLSD staff: •

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as an option for families this school year.

Effectively implemented the hy• brid instructional model. PLSD’s educational model maintained consistency during uncertain times.

Purchased over $149,000 in • equipment to enhance our network capabilities; and made more digital tools available to students and teachers.

Managed the purchase of over

• Implemented programming to address the social-emotional needs of students. Although accommodations were made, PLSD offered a full continuum of service • of Special Education, English Learner, and gifted services.

Maintained systems and processes for continuous improvement, and made advancements • in diversity, equity and inclusion on our climate, culture, professional learning, and curricular resources, among others.

Organized staff and student COVID-19 vaccination clinics, handled PPE and districtwide COVID-19 P P ii c ck ke er r ii n ng gt to on n S Sc ch ho oo ol ls s p pu ur rc ch ha as se ed d procedures developo ov ve er r $ $4 46 62 2 ,, 0 00 00 0 ii n n p pe er rs so on na al l ment, contact tracing p pr ro ot te ec ct t ii v ve e s su up pp pl l ii e es s d du ur r ii n ng g t th he e and quarantining.

2 20 02 20 0-2 21 1 s sc ch ho oo ol l y ye ea ar r .. R Re ea ad d m mo or re e Quickly and successP P ii c ck ke er r ii n ng gt to on n P Po o ii n nt ts s o of f P Pr r ii d de e ii n n fully implemented our “Virtual Learning Acadt th h ii s s a ar rt t ii c cl le e !! emy,” which continues .

DID YOU

KNOW

$462,000 in personal protective supplies and over $156,000 in equipment.

Served 229,000 breakfasts and nearly 468,000 lunches. That’s nearly 697,000 meals served for free during the 2020-21 school year.

Cleaned our schools from top to bottom several times a day and are continuing enhanced cleaning protocols.

Together, our staff faced a myriad of unprecedented challenges but nimbly adapted, innovated, and kept our students safe, learning, engaged and on track. Our employees also accomplished many, many more milestones, breakthroughs and innovations during the pandemic, and all this hard work produced an end result that we are #PLSDProud of — a brighter, safer future for our students, staff and community. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

faces

By Trevor Simpson

Reading Between the Lines Library director’s journey from the Army to the library

Photos courtesy of Pickerington Public Library

T

ony Howard, director of the Pickerington Public Library, may not have the background one would expect from a librarian – but don’t judge a book by its cover.

Immediately after graduating from Grandview Heights High School, Howard, a history lover searching for a path to college, enlisted in the U.S. Army.

He served as a communications chief for a parachute infantry group in Georgia and Alaska. Tony Howard Howard says his time with the military had both positives and negament in their face, what you’re doing is tives, but he likes to focus on the good, selling that experience. As they read it, stressing the fun he had and the lifelong they’re escaping from the realities of the friendships he made. world into the experience of what the “I had a great experience in the mili- book has to offer.” tary,” Howard says. “It made me grow up, Eventually, after gaining library expeit really did. I went in as a kid and came rience around central Ohio, the opportuout a man.” nity to become the director of the PickAfter his time in the military, Howard erington Public Library arose. He says he went to The Ohio State University, where considered library positions all across the he earned his Bachelor of Arts in history. country before accepting this current role.

Despite fulfilling his dream of earning a Howard says the decision to stay in Ohio history degree, he still didn’t have a job in mind.

It was Howard’s grandmother that suggested he follow the path of his uncle, who used a history degree to start a career in libraries, and study to become a librarian. Howard researched more on his own and soon enrolled in Kent State University’s youth services and library management master’s program. He says it was one of the best decisions of his life.

In his first job after graduation, Howard was convinced he’d chosen the right path. As a teen services library assistant for Upper Arlington Public Library, he gained hands-on experience that he says was at least as important as his experience in the classroom. That position helped him realize his passion for contributing to the education of younger generations.

“We are fostering productive members of society, and we have an ability to get experiences into people’s hands,” Howard says. “When you can talk about a book to someone and see the excite-

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

was due in part to his close proximity to his family.

In his role as director, Howard takes the lead on strategic goals that the board of trustees sets for the library and creates tactical plans for his staff to accomplish those goals.

He says the overarching objective is to support the lifelong enjoyment and learning needs of Pickerington and Violet Township.

Howard says his favorite part about his role is working with the community and its leaders to ensure that the library is meeting their needs and is in line with what the city, businesses and other nonprofit services are doing.

Properly managing the finances that come with the position is the most challenging part about his role, he says.

“I have a lot of responsibility in making sure we are good stewards of taxpayer funds,” Howard says. “Managing my team to ensure that every decision … we are thinking about how this impacts funding and how it is in the best interest of the public so we’re not wasteful of public dollars.”

Outside of his duties at the library, Howard spends time with his family and works on a flourishing home garden and DIY woodworking projects.

He says he extends his core values of family to his job as well, working to ensure that his staff feels like their families are valued.

“When my staff comes to me with an issue going on with their family, I do what I can do to support their needs, and when we’re looking at policies, I really try to make sure staff needs are represented in those policies,” Howard says. “If you have supportive policies, you’re going to have a happier staff, which means they’re going to provide a better service to the public, which is very cyclical and makes for a stronger organization.”

Trevor Simpson is an editorial assistant.

Feedback welcome at feedback@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

15

in focus

By Brandon Klein

Pumpkin Palooza

Pumpkin patch is a proud community tradition for more than 30 years

F

or more than a quarter century, Sam’s Pumpkin Patch has offered a rich harvest that attracts visitors from Pickerington and beyond.

The tradition goes back to 1988 when the late Sam Patterson started selling pumpkins from his front yard. His longtime business partner, Terry Dunlap Sr., continues Sam’s Pumpkin Patch today.

For Dunlap, the spirit and quality of harvest are far more important than any quantity.

“I have no idea (how many pumpkins we grow),” says Dunlap of his 15-acre farm. “Hundreds and hundreds.”

Dunlap prizes the diversity the patch produces every year. Pumpkins in sunset oranges, creamy whites, earthy greens and spooky blacks. Round and tall, large and small, giant and tennis ball-sized. The patch also sells gourds, cornstalks and honey.

“We pride ourselves on having variety that people don’t have,” Dunlap says.

Planting the Seed

Terry’s Tip Terry Dunlap, owner of Sam’s Pumpkin Patch, says there’s a proper way to carve a pumpkin and it’s not the way most people do it. If you’re carving out the top where the stem is located, you’re doing it wrong. Dunlap suggests carving the hole on the bottom of the pumpkin to clean it out and insert the candle. This prevents the stem from falling into the pumpkin and hides any early rotting out of sight, all creating a better looking pumpkin come Halloween time.

Born in Pennsylvania in 1933, Patterson moved to Pickerington in 1961 and worked at the now-defunct Pickerington Creamery, a large employer in the area during the 20th century. Patterson also worked for Western Electric and Southfield Construction and spent time

Darla Berman, daughter of Sam’s Pumpkin Patch founder Sam Patterson, found a jar of pumpkin seeds when cleaning out her father’s house. This year, she decided to plant some of the seeds in her garden, yielding her first pumpkin this past summer.

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as the streets and maintenance supervisor King,” says Darla Berman, Patterson’s for the city. daughter.

Before he was known as “Sam the “Then he went into pumpkins,” Pumpkin Man” he was the “Sweet Corn she says. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photos courtesy of Terry Dunlap

Seeds from the Past

Erin Miller and her family were grateful to have the attractions of Sam’s Pumpkin Patch for some time away from home during the pandemic in October 2020.

Her father didn’t consider anyone who came to his pumpkin patch a stranger, Berman says. He enjoyed entertaining the children who came and gave babysize pumpkins to infants.

“He was like everybody’s grandpa,” Dunlap says. “He always talked to everybody. He cared about people.”

As Pickerington grew so did the demand for pumpkins. Patterson began looking for more land to produce the crop.

Photo courtesy of Sarah Gibson

Photo courtesy of Janet McVay

Photo courtesy of Sarah Gibson

Photo courtesy of Janet McVay

Photos courtesy of Erin Miller

Photo courtesy of Darla Berman

“We live a few streets over and took our son there to pick out his first pumpkin,” Miller says. “We love their variety and the kids love finding the bumpiest, strangest, most colorful and biggest pumpkins.”

Berman says the reception the family received in the aftermath of his death was humbling. People shared condolences on social media and gave the family songs and books that local children had written about their memories at the pumpkin patch.

When Patterson retired in 2016, Dunlap says he promised Patterson he would continue the tradition of Sam’s Pumpkin Patch. Sometimes he’s mistaken for Sam by new visitors to the patch. If they’re local, Dunlap fills in the details.

While it’s bittersweet for some members of Patterson’s family, Berman says she’s glad the tradition is still around.

“I’m just glad people are still able to get pumpkins here locally,” she says. “I hope it can continue for the families here in town and that people can just be provided a great experience just like they always had when they were coming to my dad’s front door.”

Enter Dunlap, who helped Patterson get the resources and land he needed to increase the number of pumpkins he could grow. The two worked together for 15 years before Patterson retired.

“Terry was a good friend of Dad,” Berman says.

Brandon Klein is the senior editor.

Patterson retired Feedback welcome at bklein@ in 2016 and died cityscenemediagroup.com. about two years later. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

19

sports spotlight

By Bre Offenberger

Pickerington Pigskin High school football teams revel in a return to near normalcy

M

ore than just another season, 2021 will give Pickerington football players a return to the support of live, cheering fans.

“Having the whole community out there on a Friday night, I think that’s what makes football Friday nights so special,” says Pickerington High School North head football coach Nate Hillerich. “It’s more than a football game. It’s almost a social event and a night for our community to celebrate being a part of the community.”

Despite the uncertainty COVID-19 caused during the past school year, football continued to be a pillar that people in Pickerington and beyond could lean on.

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PHSCs mascot gets ready to hype the team up before a game

Moving forward with a season during a pandemic came with obvious drawbacks and obstacles. North fans were unable to attend games and the players couldn’t use the locker room, but Hillerich, who’s in his fifth year as head coach of the Panthers, felt the community’s support every time his team took the field.

In a year full of obstacles, Hillerich says the community appreciated how hard the team worked just to be able to play – and how well the team managed to play.

The Panthers finished with a 6-2 season,

earning the title of Ohio Capital League Ohio Division champions.

If anything, the continued backing of fans through a challenging time reminded Hillerich why he wanted to become a football coach in the first place.

Eric Music, assistant athletic administrator of Pickerington High School Central, felt the same community resilience.

The Tigers could only play in front of a 25 percent capacity stadium for the 2020 season, he says, but they always felt support coursing through their veins. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photo courtesy of Eric Music

For kids who want to start playing football, the Pickerington Youth Athletic Association (PYAA) hosts three programs: mini, junior and senior.

The mini camp is comprised of players in first and second grade, while the junior group takes those in third and fourth grade. The senior camp takes players in fifth and sixth grade, with seventh-graders also eligible if they attend a private school with no football program.

The 2021 program cost $175 and included three days of conditioning. After conditioning, the camps participated in a draft run by the coaches. Practice was held at the PYAA Complex, 630 Hill Rd., four nights a week until the beginning of the school year, when it cut back to three a week.

All participants are provided with shoulder pads, a helmet, a mouthpiece and two jerseys, and they are asked to bring their own padded pants, chin strap and cleats. Players who want to keep their jerseys can purchase them for $25 at the end of camp.

Participants are asked not to partake in other sports at the same time as football camp due to potential conflicts with the time commitment.

There is also a flag football program available for kids in pre-K through seventh grade.

“I think the kids were appreciative because considering the year before, when the spring sports were going on, they didn’t even get a season,” Music says. “I think our kids were appreciative that we were able to get what we got.”

In fact, the team excelled during the difficult year. Central finished its season with an Ohio Capital League Buckeye Division title, a state runner-up finish and an 11-1 record.

Music says that, just like the Panthers, the Tigers are ready for a return to normalcy – especially a full stadium of fans again. Mostly, however, the team is looking forward to its scrimmages and high-profile games.

Both Hillerich and Music agree football in Pickerington is more than a game, a hobby or a pastime. While Pickerington players continue to excel in football and bring a statewide spotlight to their community, some reaching the collegiate level and beyond, the fans will continue to cheer for the team and remember how football can help to carry them through the hardest of times – even a pandemic.

“Football, traditionally, in Pickerington has always been important,” Music says. “I believe that tradition started a long time ago, but we have been with a

Notable Pickerington football alumni Jack Sawyer, freshman defensive end at The Ohio State University Ty Hamilton, sophomore defensive tackle at OSU OSU October/November schedule Oct. 2: at Rutgers Oct. 9: vs. Maryland Oct. 23: at Indiana Oct. 30: vs. Penn State Nov. 6: at Nebraska Nov. 13: vs. Purdue Nov. 20: vs. Michigan State Nov. 27: at Michigan

transition of having Pick North involved.

Now that both schools have high caliber Division I athletes, there’s no doubt that we have great football and tradition here.”

Bre Offenberger is an editorial assistant.

Feedback welcome at feedback@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

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21

student spotlight

By Ellie Roberto

Earning His Wings

Alexander Poth

S

ince the sandbox, Alexander Poth has been working his way up the Boy Scouts of America rankings to become an Eagle Scout, the highest rank a scout can earn.

The Pickerington High School Central student’s introduction to scout life began in kindergarten when Poth joined the area’s Cub Scouts. There, he enjoyed being around people, making new friends and learning beginner scout skills.

“It was fun to build the pinewood derby cars, things like that,” Poth says, “but once it got to the point where I transferred to Boy Scouts, that’s where it got more intriguing.”

Poth says being in Boy Scouts was more of an adventure. His troop went camping and traveled to New Mexico and Florida where they did treks and hiking.

In completing his 21 required merit badges, he gained skills such as first aid, personal fitness, personal management and environmental science.

“It teaches you how to not only do things, be prepared out in the wild, but it also teaches you leadership skills and people skills and how to communicate,” Poth says.

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To achieve the rank of Eagle Scout, among other requirements, Poth had to plan, develop and complete a service project in his community. For this, he chose to paint and restore one of the Motts Military Museum exhibits.

Located in Groveport, the Motts Military Museum teaches visitors the importance of American military history. Warren E. Motts of Groveport founded the museum in his family home in 1987 and since then the museum has moved and expanded to house its growing collection of military artifacts including a Higgins boat from World War II, a Civil War surgical kit and, the exhibit Poth chose to restore, a replica of Medal of Honor recipient Capt.

Eddie Rickenbacker’s childhood home.

“He was an ace pilot in World War I,” Poth says, “and I’m actually training at the moment to become a pilot, trying to get my private pilot’s license to eventually go to the airline (industry).”

Rickenbacker was born in Columbus in 1890. Like Poth, as a young man, he was hardworking and dedicated to his community. When his father died, Rickenbacker felt a responsibility to supplement

the family income and left school around the age of 13 to work.

Rickenbacker’s successful military service during World War I made him a national hero and he became known as America’s Ace of Aces. Later, he became a successful businessman and the president and chairman of one of the original commercial airlines in the U.S. Motts Military Museum is important to Poth for reasons beyond his interest with Rickenbacker. Poth, a trumpet player for PCHS, is also a member of Bugles Across America. With that organization, he performs taps for military funerals and special ceremonies at the museum for days such as 9/11, Memorial Day and Veterans Day. “Having rendered taps for many of their ceremonies, I care about Motts Military Museum and their goal to educate and honor the important history of the military in our country here in central Ohio,” Poth says. “My project will continue to further that goal.”

Ellie Roberto is an editorial assistant.

Feedback welcome at feedback@ cityscenemediagroup.com. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photo courtesy of kristi Poth

Local Boy Scout restores military museum to achieve Eagle Scout rank

Community Support When starting on the restoration project, Poth hoped his work would continue to help teach the community about Rickenbacker’s bravery and service, but to accomplish his goal, he needed money for materials, such as paint and tools.

In June, Poth created a GoFundMe page asking for donations to help “paint and restore the house to its once former look.”

That campaign raised $825 for his project with additional aid coming from donated supplies.

“Sherwin-Williams has donated paint, pretty much all that I needed, and I was really grateful for that,” Poth says. “One of my own hockey coaches gave me a bunch of paint supplies, so that was really nice.”

Even the museum itself helped Poth simply by allowing him to be there and providing him essential information needed to complete his project and finish his almost lifelong journey to becoming an Eagle Scout.

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

SAM’S – Pickerington’S originAl PUMPkin PAtcH Open Daily 10:00 am til Dusk

“We Have It All, Everything For Fall” South of Central H.S. at 455 Hill Rd South facebook.com/samspumpkinpatch/

23

artist spotlight

By Sarah Robinson

G

rowing up, school didn’t come easy for Alison Siewny.

“I wasn’t the best student.

School was hard for me,” she says. “I wasn’t the best reader, I wasn’t really good at math and it was stressful for me. But what I did do well was art.”

Siewny picked up drawing, painting and then took up ceramics in college.

Now, she tries her hand at any and every medium she feels like.

“My latest creative endeavor is photography, so I’ll be teaching photography at (Pickerington High School) North,”

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art. At least, not until they’ve seen what Siewny can do with it.

“There’s a project that I have done in the past with my middle school kids or upper elementary kids, which is printing on Jell-O,” says Siewny. “You put ink on gelatin and then you put found objects on it like leaves or flowers or lace, and then you lift that and then you put the paper down and you make a print with it. It’s really neat and the kids love it, so that’s fun to experiment with.”

Not all of Siewny’s creative projects are messy, but they’re all exciting to learn.

“When my kids were little, I needed something that was easy to clean up,” she says. “That’s when I got Alison Siewny into knitting. It was something really easy says Siewny. “I’m having a lot of fun get- and wasn’t messy and so that was a lot of ting reintroduced to photography. When fun. I’ve knitted sweaters and scarves and I went to school, it was all film and now digital has really exploded. I’ll be teaching both digital and film.”

This year is Siewny’s seventh year teaching in the Pickerington Local School District. Originally from Bridgeport, Ohio, Siewny got her start teaching elementary school art in Belpre, Ohio, and has now taught numerous grade levels and ages both inside and out of school.

“I’ve done a lot of those guided painting lessons with adults,” says Siewny. “Somebody approached me about doing a class like that, so that’s when I really got into acrylic painting. … Probably my all-time favorite (medium) lately is acrylic paint. It’s not unusual, but I really love it.”

Siewny mentions acrylic painting isn’t unusual because she dabbles in some extremely unusual art media – even some many wouldn’t typically consider to be www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photos courtesy of Allison Siewny

Confidence in Creativity Pickerington art teacher on life lessons in art class

a guinea pig sweater for my daughter’s guinea pigs.”

Whether she’s knitting a sweater for a guinea pig or painting a commissioned art piece, Siewny follows her own creative process.

“Typically, I have an idea, a basic idea of what I need to do, or what I want to do, whether it’s a drawing of an animal or if it’s a painting of something, and then it flows from there,” she says.

Even when she has an idea in mind, though, her artwork often takes her on an unexpected journey. She recalls a graduate level drawing class she took in which she was assigned a self-portrait.

“I had an idea of what I wanted to do and, basically, it is still a self-portrait, but the way it turned out was a little different than what I imagined,” she says, laughing.

Instead of just using a penciled-in grid in the planning stages of the piece, Siewny decided to incorporate the method into the masterpiece.

“It’s a method that you can use to teach students on drawing portraits,” she says, “so I still wanted (the grid) to be there. I used the watercolor to just kind of paint the grid in the background, and then my portrait is overlaid on the grid.”

As an art teacher, Siewny recognizes the benefits of art, especially for students.

“Everybody has stress in their life and I’m not saying that creating art can’t be stressful – it can be,” says Siewny. “A lot of times it’s not easy, but what it www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

does is it teaches students to walk through problems and to persevere through visual problems.”

She says art is good for the socialemotional wellness of students and allows them to succeed in a subject when perhaps they’re struggling in others. Above all, she says, creating art teaches life lessons.

“Bob Ross, he has the best advice ever,” she says, “which is, ‘There are no mistakes – only happy accidents.’ So, if you make a mistake, just keep going. If something doesn’t work, then you try it in a different way.”

Sarah Robinson is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at feedback@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

25

on the table

By Sarah Robinson

Gourd Morning Are you prepared for pumpkin season?

A

fter picking pumpkins from Sam’s Pumpkin Patch and carving a few Halloween masterpieces, you may find yourself inspired to make a tasty pumpkin treat.

To make the most of pumpkin season, try a delicious breakfast recipe that’ll keep the boos – or rather, the blues – away.

Plus, these scones pair perfectly with a piping hot chai latte from Porter’s Coffeehouse and Bakery.

It’s important to remember that not all pumpkins are best served baked, so be sure to pick up a pie pumpkin or some canned pumpkin for this recipe. Those leftovers from the jack-o’-lantern are often watery, bland and stringy – so they’re not the best to use for baking.

PRO TIP: Baking these scones will fill your home with a drool-worthy pumpkin spice scent for a few hours, which makes it a great recipe to try if you’re hosting guests later that day.

Sarah Robinson is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at feedback@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

PUMPKIN GINGER SCONES INGREDIENTS ¾ cup whole wheat flour 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 tsp. ground cinnamon ½ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. ground ginger 2 tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. baking soda 4 tbsp. unsalted butter, sliced into ½-inch thick pieces, cold ½ lb. fresh pumpkin, pureed (or ½ cup canned pumpkin puree) 1 large egg ¼ cup sour cream 2 tbsp. maple syrup 1 tsp. vanilla extract ½ cup candied ginger, chopped OPTIONAL: ¼ cup powdered sugar or raw cane sugar

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DIRECTIONS • If using fresh pumpkin, scoop insides out and remove seeds. Use a food processor to puree. Set aside in the refrigerator.

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• In a food processor, combine together flour, salt, cinnamon, ginger, baking powder and baking soda.

Process until no clumps remain, about 20-30 seconds.

• Add the butter to the food processor and use the pulse setting to gradually blend in the butter. Mixture will begin to resemble small, crumbly chunks.

• In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer to beat together pumpkin puree, egg, sour cream, maple syrup and vanilla extract until thoroughly combined. Scrape the mixture into

the food processor and blend until a dough begins to form.

• Add candied ginger pieces and mix a little longer, just enough to disperse.

• Lightly flour a cutting board or other surface and spread the dough from the food processor onto the surface.

Use hands or mixing spoon to mold into a rectangle about ¾ inch thick.

Cut into six squares, then cut each square diagonally across to create 12 equal-sized scones.

• Place scones on baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until bottoms become slightly browned.

• Remove and let cool briefly on baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling.

• OPTIONAL: Dust with powdered sugar or sprinkle raw cane sugar on top for a touch of added sweetness.

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photo courtesy of Sarah Robinson

Adapted from NYT Cooking recipe by Martha Rose Shulman

RE-ELECT TERRY DUNLAP Violet Township Trustee

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to EVERY homeowner and business in Pickerington and Violet Township

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Approve appropriate Commercial Growth

The Official Magazine of Pickerington and Violet Township

Contact Tracy Douds today for great rates!

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27

Top homes sold in Pickerington All information is collected from the Fairfield and Franklin County auditors’ offices.

8766 Hill Rd. 3 beds 4 baths $715,000 Sold on 7/2/2021

13079 Ashley Creek Dr. N.W. 4 beds 2.5 baths $465,000 Sold on 7/20/2021

7225 Drucilla St. N.W. 4 beds 4.5 baths $665,000 Sold on 7/15/2021

9310 Blacklick-Eastern Rd. N.W. 2 beds 1 bath $462,000 Sold on 7/9/2021

210 Cherokee Ct. 4 beds 3.5 baths $525,000 Sold on 7/14/2021

9703 Haaf Farm Dr. N.W. 4 beds 2.5 baths $455,000 Sold on 7/9/2021

13257 Waterton Dr. N.W. 4 beds 2.5 baths $492,000 Sold on 7/1/2021

13930 Sunladen Dr. N.W. 4 beds 2.5 baths $450,000 Sold on 8/13/2021

9132 Daysprings Ct. N.W. 4 beds 2.5 baths $480,000 Sold on 8/9/2021

202 Cherokee Ct. 4 beds 4 baths $475,000 Sold on 7/28/2021

13328 White Cross Dr. N.W. 4 beds 2.5 baths $475,000 Sold on 8/12/2021

708 Kelburn Ln. 4 beds 3.5 baths $549,900 Sold on 8/20/2021

8720 Birch Brook Loop N.W. 4 beds 2.5 baths $474,900 Sold on 8/13/2021

718 Bretforton 4 beds 2.5 baths $545,000 Sold on 7/15/2021

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

#1 (614) 56 1-3201

Selling Real Estate Team & Realtor® in Central Ohio 2017–2020 439 Transactions Closed in 2020

Source: Columbus MLS & Trendgraphix

All reports presented are based on data supplied by Columbus REALTORS. Report published January 21, 2021 based on sales data available from January 1, 2020 – December 31, 2020. All properties, all counties combined.

Neither the Association nor their MLS guarantee or are in any way responsible for the data accuracy. Data maintained by the Associations or their MLSs may not reflect all real estate activities in the market. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Top Producer - Market Share Report. Copyright Trendgraphix, Inc. Samuel Cooper DBA Sam Cooper Team

28

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

what’s your style?

Sam Cooper (614) 561-3201 sam.cooper@herrealtors.com

Sam Cooper (614) 561-3201 sam.cooper@herrealtors.com

8061 Garden Dr. | Sold $580,000 One of the largest lots in the neighborhood, finished lower level rec room, Bar & Theatre Rm Projector -possible 5th bedroom, 1st floor owners suite, luxurious custom shower, hardwood flooring throughout, formal dining, great room w/ fireplace, large kitchen with granite counters, junior suite upstairs, custom timber tech multi-level deck, partial lake view, neighborhood lake & park.

8188 Meadowmoore Blvd. | Sold $477,150 Impressive Donley Built home. Situated on large lot, backyard patio & firepit, hardwood flooring throughout, 1st floor home office, formal dining room, great room with fireplace, large kitchen, quartz counters, separate 1st floor laundry, mud room-built ins, owners’ bedroom with tray ceiling, walk in closet with built in organizers, full basement, neighborhood lake & park. Pickerington North Schools.

SOLD BY SAM COOPER – HER REALTORS

SOLD BY SAM COOPER – HER REALTORS

Sam Cooper (614) 561-3201 sam.cooper@herrealtors.com

Sam Cooper (614) 561-3201 sam.cooper@herrealtors.com

676 Theron Ct. | Sold $375,000 Remarkable two-story home tucked away in cul de sac, custom stamped patio, 3 car garage, new carpeting & fresh paint, second story loft, 1st floor owner’s bedroom with full bath featuring soaking tub & separate shower, walk in closet, 1st floor home office, great room with fireplace, kitchen with island, eating space & walk-in pantry, formal dining room, unfinished basement.

903 Carron Circle | Sold $386,001 Absolutely lovely 4BR, 3.5BA. Open and airy floor plan, 1st floor owner’s suite w/vaulted ceiling, standing shower, bath w/soaking tub and walk-in closet. Upstairs has flexible loft space, plus 2 additional bedrooms and full bath.

Finished lower-level w/bar, 4th bedroom w/egress window and full bath. 3-Car Garage!

View of Melrose Lake, large deck and paver patio with fire pit!

SOLD BY SAM COOPER – HER REALTORS

SOLD BY SAM COOPER – HER REALTORS

Sam Cooper (614) 561-3201 sam.cooper@herrealtors.com

Sam Cooper (614) 561-3201 sam.cooper@herrealtors.com

9690 Circle Dr. | Sold $300,000 Cape Cod Home in Mingo Estates, situated on large lot with backyard patio, pergola & storage shed, big 2 car garage with utility bump out, custom floors, hardwood entry, big living room, kitchen with breakfast bar and coffee/ liquor bar nook, family room with fireplace, vaulted three seasons room, owner’s bedroom with dual closets and full updated bath, full basement.

11833 Eddington Ave | Sold $370,000 Gorgeous home in Summerfield, vaulted three seasons room, deck & patio, 1st floor office, formal dining & living rooms, kitchen with new cabinetry, quartz counters, stainless steel appliances, breakfast bar & eating space, family room with fireplace, 1st floor laundry, hardwood floors throughout, owners bedroom with walk in closet, nig bedrooms upstairs, full basement with full bath.

SOLD BY SAM COOPER – HER REALTORS

SOLD BY SAM COOPER – HER REALTORS

Real Estate Section Sam Cooper (614) 561-3201 sam.cooper@herrealtors.com 148 Balsam Dr. | Sold $412,500 Ranch-style home, well-manicured landscaping, fenced in backyard with deck, vaulted florida room, dining room w/ tray ceiling, separate mud room & laundry, hdwd flring throughout, large kitchen w/ island & granite counters, walk in pantry, separate home office, owner’s bedroom with walk in closet, bath w/soaking tub & separate tiled shower, granite counters, double sink vanity, full basement

SOLD BY SAM COOPER – HER REALTORS www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Showcase your home listings to every homeowner in the Pickerington school district. Your listings will also appear in the digital edition of the magazine, hosted on the Pickerington Magazine home page: www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Contact Tracy Douds today for more information: 614-572-1250 tdouds@cityscenemediagroup.com Get a great response!

29

bookmarks

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

Pickerington Public Library staff picks Trick or Treat in Ohio

by Eric James Enjoy fun rhymes as this Halloween adventure weaves throughout the Buckeye State. See how many familiar cities and landmarks you find as you cruise along with our little alien visitor!

When Pumpkins Fly

by Margaret Lawrence Celebrate Halloween in the remote fly-in only Canadian territory of Nunavut. It’s the last supply plane of the year; they are delivering pumpkins for the school children to carve for the first time! There are many spirits in this land. When it gets dark the Tunnaat come out; what are those mischievous spirits going to do with a pumpkin? Enjoy as the author artfully weaves modern Halloween fun with more traditional Inuit folklore.

Dino-Thanksgiving

by Lisa Wheeler Your favorite dinosaurs are back! Stuffing turkeys, cheering on their favorite Redscales or Snacker football teams, playing games, eating yummy food and celebrating Thanksgiving the dino-way!

You Can Stop Bullying: Stand By or Stand Up?

by Connie Colwell Miller From the Making Good Choices series. Choose-your-ownending books lead young readers down multiple paths to allow them to choose different endings with various outcomes.

Football Fraud

by Jake Maddox When DeSean Mitchell makes an embarrassing mistake while showboating in the end zone, he ends up costing his football team the game. In the final play, he’s tackled and lies on the field in defeat. A teammate assumes he is hurt, and rather than face the shame of his mistake, DeSean fakes an injury. How long will DeSean let the deception go on?

Pumpkin Spice Peril

by Jenn McKinlay It’s pumpkin spice season in the Cupcake Bakery Mysteries series! Life isn’t all sugar and spice for the Fairy Tale Cupcake Bakers when one of their favorite customers is found poisoned and the last thing she ate was one of their signature pumpkin spice cupcakes!

The Book on Pie

by Erin Jeanne McDowell Everything you need to know about baking pies! Let’s talk doughs and crusts: all butter, brown butter, gluten-free, vegan, whole wheat, graham, roll out and press in, sweet and savory! Filled New temporary hours: with every fruit imaginable, plus Pickerington Public Library | pickeringtonlibrary.org custard, cream, chiffon and more.

Main – 201 Opportunity Way | 614-837-4104 Savory pies stuffed with chicken, Sunday 1-5 p.m. | Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-7 p.m. | mushrooms, roasted vegetables and Friday & Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. gooey cheeses. This book will take the beginner through basic recipes and seasoned bakers up a notch Sycamore Plaza – 7861 Refugee Rd. | 614-837-4383 to the next level.

Sunday 1-5 p.m. | Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. |

Friday closed | Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Hours are subject to change due to health concerns

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Central Ohio’s

Orthopedic Practice At Orthopedic ONE, you’ll find central Ohio’s most trusted and experienced group of orthopedic experts – ready to listen to your concerns and work with you toward the best possible outcome. In fact, more people trust us with their orthopedic care than any other practice in central Ohio. From neck injuries to foot pain, and everything in between, we know we’re only at our best when we’re helping you get better.

In Canal Winchester at Diley Ridge Medical Center Brian Davison, M.D. Hip & Knee Reconstruction + Fracture Care Canal Winchester | Gahanna/Reynoldsburg John Johansen, M.D. Shoulder Reconstruction & Sports Medicine Canal Winchester | Gahanna/Reynoldsburg

TO SCHEDULE, CALL (614) 545-7900 OR VISIT

Breast cancer isn’t always obvious.

The place to find it is.

That’s why it’s important to get your annual mammogram. Our conveniently located Mount Carmel Women’s Health Centers are dedicated to providing you with diagnostic testing and comprehensive services such as 2D and 3D mammography. And with all the safety measures we’ve put in place, you can get your mammogram in comfort and with confidence.

So don’t delay. Schedule yours today. Call 614-234-7400 or visit mountcarmelhealth.com.

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