Pickerington Magazine October/November 2017

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 2017

Bark of Excellence Debbie Wilson and her well-seasoned therapy dog, Reese

INSIDE Animals at the library ATHENA Awards Sit and Be Fit

Š OhioHealth Inc. 2017. All rights reserved. FY16-139-2-7803. 02/17.

OhioHealth Pickerington Medical Campus

More expert care than you expected, closer than you ever imagined.

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Monday, October 16, 2017 St. Charles Preparatory School’s Walter Commons 2010 E. Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43209 5:30pm — 9:00pm Help us give every baby a fighting chance!

The Signature Chef Auction pays tribute to the culinary excellence of local chefs as you taste a sampling of their signature dishes and bid on exciting packages during a live and silent auction. Mingle with friends and family while raising funds to support the March of Dimes mission of improving the health of babies by preventing premature birth, birth defects, and infant mortality!

For tickets & more information visit: www.signaturechefs.org/event/Columbus

or contact Paulette Burks (614)392-6041

pickerington magazine TM

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

Walter L. Bernacki, MD Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

We specialize in a full range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures for the body, breast and face, as well as laser skin treatments, injectables and skin care products. We can help you look and feel your very best.

Now Accepting Patients in Pickerington!

To learn more call 614.682.5095 or visit ohioplasticsurgeryspecialists.com.

Pickerington: 1030 Refugee Road, Suite 260 Pickerington, OH 43147

Re-Elect TERRY DUNLAP VIOLET TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE

Kathleen K. Gill

President/CEO

Gianna Barrett

Vice President, Sales

Dave Prosser

Chief Creative Officer

Gary Hoffman

Creative Director

Garth Bishop

Managing Editor

Amanda DePerro Jenny Wise

Assistant Editors

Lydia Freudenberg

Contributing Editor

Isabelle Brown Emily Hetterscheidt Emily Real

Contributing Writers

Rocky Falleti Tessa Flattum Mikayla Klein

Editorial Assistants

Sheila Rossiter

Advertising Director

Andrea Gerdeman Barry Holland Timothy McKelly Jamie Armistead Circulation

Advertising Sales

Accounting Manager 614-572-1240

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com CityScene Media Group also publishes: CityScene Magazine www.CitySceneColumbus.com Dublin Life Magazine www.DublinLifeMagazine.com Westerville Magazine www.WestervilleMagazine.com Tri-Village Magazine www.TriVillageMagazine.com Healthy New Albany Magazine www.HealthyNewAlbanyMagazine.com HealthScene Ohio www.HealthSceneOhio.com

PROVEN • EFFECTIVE • lEadERshIP • 24 years of Balanced Township Budgets • Maintain Safe Roadways • Support Efficient & Updated Fire and EMS Services Paid for by Candidate Terry Dunlap 4

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 gbishop@ cityscenemediagroup.com. Publisher does not assume responsibility for loss or damage.

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

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

No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. Pickerington Magazine is a registered trademark of CityScene Media Group. Printed in the U.S.A. © 2017.

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

pickerington magazine volume 10, number 2 october/november 2017

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News and Information from the City of Pickerington News and Information from Violet Township

NOW IS YOUR TIME to choose health, wellness and happiness and make your home in Bishop Place at Wesley Ridge!

Call Amy

614-501-1304 or email ashaffer@mecsrc.com to set up your personal tour of our beautiful campus and to learn about Assisted Living at Wesley Ridge!

faces

Working Like a Dog Local woman and her therapy dog bring emotional support to the community

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in focus

Sche Priva dule a te TOD Tour AY!

Animal Magnetism Hedgehogs, raptors, wolves and more draw visitors to the Pickerington Public Library

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Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)

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Wonder Women

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Please Remain Seated

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Pickerington women are recognized for their contributions to the community

Pickerington Senior Center promotes good health with Sit and Be Fit class

student spotlight Compassion to Spare

North senior serves the underprivileged through art and volunteerism

on the table

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Sold!

Charity auction and dinner raise money for Pickerington schools

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The Official Magazine of Pickerington and Violet Township

Mailed to EVERY homeowner and business in Pickerington and Violet Township

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GET NOTICED.

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Contact Sheila Rossiter today for great rates!

around pickerington

Photos from the community

bookmarks

On the cover: Debbie Wilson and Reese. Photo by Jeffrey S. Hall Photography

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com PickeringtonMagazine

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

magazine

614-329-6557

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pickerington community calendar october/november 2017 Oct. 6 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Hickory Lakes Event Facilities & Hospitality, 12495 Ault Rd., www.pickeringtonchamber.com Women making a difference in the Pickerington community speak on a variety of topics before the Pickerington Area Chamber of Commerce presents its 2017 ATHENA Awards.

Mark you r calendar for these commun ity events

Oct. 8-14 Fairfield County Fair Fairfield County Fairgrounds, 157 E. Fair Ave., Lancaster, www.fairfieldcountyfair.org The last county fair of the year is sure to please with rides, food and more.

Oct. 13-21 Pickerington Community Theatre presents Schoolhouse Rock Live Heritage Theatre, 100 N. East St., www.pickeringtoncommunitytheatre.org A family favorite comes to life on stage in this musical, with favorites such as “Conjunction Junction,” “Interplanet Janet” and “Three is a Magic Number.”

Oct. 14 Indie Author Day 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Pickerington Public Library, 201 Opportunity Way, www.pickeringtonlibrary.org The Pickerington Public Library presents an all-day celebration of local and self-published authors.

Oct. 15

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Brown Bag Book Club 1-2 p.m., Pickerington Public Library, 201 Opportunity Way, www.pickeringtonlibrary.org The library’s lunchtime book club discusses Gwendy’s Button Box by Stephen King.

Oct. 26 Pickerington Education Foundation Annual Charity Auction

6-9 p.m., Hickory Lakes Event Facilities & Hospitality, 12495 Ault Rd., www.pickeringtoneducationfoundation.com This annual charity auction benefits Pickerington Local Schools by providing grants to teachers.

Oct. 26-29 Pickerington High School North presents The Addams Family Pickerington High School North, 7800 Refugee Rd., www.pickerington.k12.oh.us TV’s creepy, kooky, mysterious and spooky family comes to the stage as Pickerington North’s theater department puts on this Broadway musical.

Oct. 30 Haunted Village 6-8 p.m., Olde Pickerington Village, www. pickeringtonvillage.com A Halloween celebration for all ages. Enjoy ghost tours, storytelling and hay rides with the whole family.

Violet Township Fire Department Open House

Oct. 31

1-3 p.m., Fire Station 592, 8700 Refugee Rd., www.violet.oh.us The fire department’s annual Fire Prevention Week open house features a variety of kid-friendly educational activities, including opportunities to dress up in firefighter garb for photos and spray a fire hose.

Library Trick or Treat Day, 1-3 p.m., Pickerington Public Library, 201 Opportunity Way, www.pickeringtonlibrary.org; Tots Trick or Treat, 1:30-2:30 p.m., Pickerington City Hall, 100 Lockville Rd.; Community Trick or Treat, 6-8 p.m., www.pickerington.net The Pickerington Public Library’s event offers crafts and treat stations for costumed children. The event at City Hall is for children aged 2-5 to trick or treat through the facility. Finally, the citywide trick or treat event takes place in the evening.

Trick or Treat Events

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photos courtesy of Violet Township, Pickerington-Violet Township Historical Society, City of Pickerington and Pickerington Public Library

A Day of ATHENA Workshop & Awards Celebration

Oct. 19

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Nov. 1-5 Friends of the Pickerington Public Library Book Sale Wednesday, 5-8 p.m.; Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 1-3 p.m.; Pickerington Public Library, 201 Opportunity Way, www.pickeringtonlibrary.org A variety of books, DVDs, CDs and vinyl records are for sale, with proceeds going to support Pickerington Public Library programs.

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Nov. 2

Pickerington High School Central, Nov. 16 300 Opportunity Way, www.

James Jeffries, 1899 Brown Bag Book Club pickerington.k12.oh.us 1 p.m., Pickerington Public Library, World Heavyweight Boxing The 1991 Steve Martin comedy comes 201 Opportunity Way, www.

Champion to the stage.

7:30-9 p.m., Violet Township Hall, pickeringtonlibrary.org 12970 Rustic Dr., The library’s lunchtime book club www.pickeringtonhistoricalsociety.com Nov. 11 discusses Dreamland: The True Tale United Way 5K Run The Pickerington-Violet Township Hisof America’s Opiate Epidemic by Sam 8:30 a.m., Fairfield County torical Society presents a program on Quinones. one-time boxing champion – and Violet Fairgrounds, 157 E. Fair Ave., www. uwayfairfieldco.org Township native – Jim Jeffries.

Nov. 21 The United Way of Fairfield County PPL Book Club celebrates Veterans Day with a 5K run Nov. 4 7 p.m., Pickerington Public Library, Pickerington Antique and Craft and 2-mile walk.

201 Opportunity Way, www. pickeringtonlibrary.org Show 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Pickerington High The library’s main book club discusses School Central, 300 Opportunity Way, News of the World by Paulette Jiles. www.pickacshow.com This longtime Pickerington tradition, Nov. 22-Dec. 15 sponsored by the high school PTOs, Santa’s Mailbox features a vast assortment of antiques Pickerington City Hall, 100 Lockville and crafts, with proceeds benefiting Rd., www.pickerington.net the two schools.

Children can mail their letters to Santa Claus via the North Pole Express mailbox in front of City Hall. Those who include their names and return addresses will receive responses from St. Nick himself.

Nov. 9-12 Pickerington High School Central presents Father of the Bride

FAIRFIELD COUNTY FAIR October 8 – 14, 2017

Nov. 22-Dec. 24 Violet Township Fire Department Holiday Toy Drive Locations throughout Violet Township, www.violet.oh.us Fire stations, schools, restaurants, churches, businesses and the Pickerington Police Department will all be accepting new, unwrapped toys and gift cards for the Violet Township Fire Department’s annual charitable drive. A drive-through donation event will run 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Fire Station 592 on Dec. 2.

Save the Dates!

Pickerington Village Holiday Gathering: Dec. 1 Breakfast with Santa: Dec. 2 Pickerington Community Chorus Christmas Concert: Dec. 2

Submit Your Event

T: (740) 653-3041 | F: (740) 653-6204 www.fairfieldcountyfair.org

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

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

INSIDE

PICKERINGTON

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

Building Momentum

Pickerington leaders work to bring business to the City Pickerington is one of the hottest cities in central Ohio for residential and commercial building.

While it is important to attract new residents, developers and businesses to the Violet City, Pickerington City leaders continue to manage the significant population and development growth to ensure the City provides all residents and businesses high-quality services and a family-friendly place to live and work.

City Manager Bill Vance said many of the vacant commercial lots on State Rt. 256, Refugee Road and Diley Road are filling up with new “job-creating restaurants, retail shops, medical offices and independent living opportunities.” Platted residential subdivisions along Refugee, Milnor and Diley roads and in Preston Trails and Willow Pond continue to change the City landscape.

Pickerington’s six employees in the Development Services Department administrated the applications for more than $272 million successful construction projects since Jan. 1, 2012, Vance said.

“The growing population within the Pickerington and Violet Township community fuels the rise of Pickerington’s local economy, which remains one of the fastest-growing in central Ohio,” Vance said.

All of this development work is reviewed by the City engineer, a planning director, an economic development director, a development services specialist and two full-time building department employees to make sure that growth is responsibly managed. Full-time and contracted building, engineerPickerington’s tax base receives a boost before any of the ing support and plan review services are all paid for by the homes or businesses open their doors because construction developers investing in the City. workers pay the City’s 1 percent income tax

Infrastructure Improvement

Paving, road widening, bike path expansion and dam removal among City’s capital projects Pickerington’s progressive capital improvement plan supports the existing infrastructure and allows the City to strategically grow.

Construction is slated to begin late next summer on the $13 million Refugee Road project, which will widen and improve 1.3 miles of Refugee Road from the east to the west corporation limits.

City Engineer Scott Tourville said the project will include new turn and through lanes at the State Rt. 256 intersection, two lanes of travel in both directions www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

from the intersection to Fullers Way, paving, curbs and gutters, sidewalks, and paths in areas. Financing for the project is provided through a $3.5 million Ohio Department of Transportation grant, a $7 million Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission award and Tax Increment Financing funds from the OhioHealth building project.

It would have been nearly impossible for the City to undertake these projects without the federal transportation grants, said Pickerington City Manager Bill

Vance. Since 2016, the City has also budgeted about $1 million to maintain its streets.

Tourville said the allocation allows the City to increase its paving of the streets.

“The leadership exhibiting from both Mayor Lee Gray and council has helped place a priority on maintaining our roadway network, which will enable us to continue to provide good service in relation to pavement maintenance,” Tourville said. “By keeping up on preventive maintenance, we reduce our 9

News and information from the City of Pickerington

long-term costs by using our funding more efficiently.”

In 2017, the City paved about four miles of roadway, mostly in subdivisions.

The rest was on Long Road between Columbus Street and Diley Road. Recently completed infrastructure projects include the $45,000 restoration of the Sycamore Creek Park covered bridge and the expansion and widening of the park’s bike path to Victory Park.

In the near future, the City will be studying the water plant’s capacity and Pickerington’s future needs.

“As development continues, we need to make sure we can continue to provide services to existing and new users,” Tourville said. “This is simply a review of the projected growth in the area, the plant’s operations and what, if anything, we need to do to continue to provide quality service to our residents.”

Another project underway is the removal of the old Windmiller Dam, which is just south of Refugee Road and in need of repairs. Removing the dam is projected to cost less than constantly making repairs to it, and it will

be designed to ensure there are no adverse downstream issues from rainfall, Tourville said.

Last year, the City reviewed more than 150 projects, Tourville said, and added a few more to its list to continually evaluate.

“We work very hard to balance the short- and long-term needs with the funding we have,” Tourville said. “We are constantly reviewing our priorities and goals to make sure that we serve the citizens as best we can.”

Halloween Happenings

Haunted Village, trick or treat, and more Village Association, Pickerington Lions The community-wide Trick or Treat Club, and H.O.P.E. Ministry of Violet throughout the City of Pickerington will Baptist Church. be held Oct. 31 from 6-8 p.m.

Pickerington City Hall is the place for little goblins to experience a fun and safe Halloween. On Tuesday, Oct. 31, children ages 2-5 can Pickerington City Hall, 100 Lockville Rd. wear their (All numbers prefixed with the 614 area code) costumes and trick-or-treat with Building Services ..................... 833-2221 an adult through City Clerk/Council..................... 837-3974 a decorated City Hall, located at City Manager........................... 837-3974 100 Lockville Development Services.............. 833-2204 Rd., from 1:30Engineering Services ............... 833-2221 2:30 p.m.

Finance Services...................... 837-3974

citydirectory

The City of Pickerington is an enchanting place for children and adults this Halloween.

On Monday, Oct. 30, Olde Pickerington Village will become the Haunted Village from 6-8 p.m.

The young and young at heart can trick-or-treat at various Olde Village businesses, go on hayrides, take a ghostly tour, listen to music and even hear a frightful tale by ghost storytellers. Children will also be able to stop

by KIDSTOWN by H.O.P.E. Ministry of Violet Baptist Church.

The City tries to provide a variety of events to bring the community together, said Pickerington Parks and Recreation Direction Rebecca Medinger.

“We like to provide a fun and safe environment for the community to partake in Halloween activities with their families,” Medinger said.

The howling good time is sponsored by the City of Pickerington Parks and Recreation Department, Pickerington 10

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 Waste Water Plant.................... 837-6490 Water Reclamation.................. 837-6470 www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

News and Information From

Violet Township Under Construction

Fire Station 591 updates and sneak peeks Good news: It’s looking amazing.

Bad news: none. Everything is positive and on schedule for one of the biggest Olde Pickerington Village construction projects in decades.

We know everyone has been watching with delighted interest the rebuilding of Station 591. What you may not know is the time and care that was spent in the planning stage to make every part of that building, right down to the siding, have a dual purpose or an honored meaning.

For example, the siding and balcony on the Center Street-facing side was designed to mirror the old BJ’s Bouquets – built in 1817, formerly Cyrus Smith and Newlon’s Grocery stores – across the street at 18 W. Columbus St. The brick was picked to complement the Pickerington-Violet Township Historical Society in the old Carnegie Library building, and the tower portion of the building closest to the historical society is designed to dry hose, and to perform aerial and

rescue training. The turn-out gear room is designed to house gear, of course, and also afford a confined space rescue training function.

And yes, there will be a brass fire pole from the third level to the first level – something everyone will get to see when we open up the building during a public event in early 2018.

We are also partnering with the Pickerington Area Chamber of Commerce to provide office space, as we purchased the Chamber’s building for demolition to accommodate the footprint of our new facility.

And to honor the old station, the bay area view was specifically designed to have the square look and feel of the old building.

We will also memorialize the old fire station by placing the mason’s signature, which we preserved from old Station 591, in a place of honor in the new building. The second fire engine the department ever owned will be housed in and on view inside our new facility.

Keep watching our Facebook page for updates. Search for Violet Township Fire Department and “Like” our page to be the first to see alerts and progress reports.

Holiday Toy Drive

Generous residents help the Violet Township Fire Department provide for children in need The Violet Township Fire Department and Pickerington Local Schools are once again teaming up to provide holiday assistance for children and families throughout the Pickerington and Fairfield County areas.

This partnership has proven to be particularly successful in the past years.

In 2016, we assisted approximately 752 families with more than 2,000 children.

Thanks to the generosity of local schools, businesses and churches, our red toy collection boxes will be located at 50 sites throughout Canal Winchester, Pickerington and Reynoldsburg. The toy drive officially www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

kicks off Nov. 22 and runs through Dec. 24.

If you would like to contribute, drop off a new, unwrapped toy in any Violet Township Fire Department toy drive box.

You may also donate at any of the three Violet fire stations. Items of particular need are always gifts for older children, such as gift cards, electronics, cologne and perfume.

Girl Scout troops from the Pickerington area will host the annual Toy Drive-Thru at Violet Fire Station 592 at 8700 Refugee Rd. This event will be on Saturday, Dec. 2 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Donations may be dropped off as you

drive through the fire station, where the fire trucks typically sit, without even getting out of your car. Violet Township firefighters will also attend various school events to promote the toy drive.

Due to the dedication of generous community members and leaders, Violet Township Fire Department and Pickerington Local Schools are able to make a difference in the lives of children and families during the holiday season. Thank you in advance for your continued support, and we hope you and your family have a safe and happy holiday season.

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Save the Date: Saturday, Oct. 28

Drug Collection/Electronics Recycling/Paper Shred Event Scheduled

By Chad Lucht, CPESC, Senior Urban Specialist, Fairfield SWCD The Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day has been scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Violet Township Service Center at 490 N. Center St. Participants are asked to enter the event from the North Center Street entrance.

The Fairfield Soil and Water Conservation District – in cooperation with Violet Township, Fairfield County Sheriff’s office and Lancaster-Fairfield County Recycling & Litter Prevention – will be participating in the event.

This event marks an ongoing effort to rid the Pickerington community’s medicine cabinets of potentially dangerous drugs, particularly controlled substances. Only prescription pills and capsules will be collected. No aerosols, inhalers, liquids, creams, gels, ointments, powders, patches, suppositories, syringes or IVs will be accepted. We ask that you black out all personal information or remove labels before bringing containers to the disposal site.

Rain did not keep the residents away at the spring event, at which nearly 75 pounds of pills were collected. That was another 75 pounds that were not

discarded in the trash or flushed down the sink or toilet, leading to potential contamination of groundwater and wastewater treatment plants and causing harm to aquatic life and the human water supply.

Electronic recycling is also available at this event.

The following electronic items may be dropped off at no cost: computers, laptops, printers, cables, mouses, keyboards, discs, electronic clocks, VHS/DVD players, radios and cell phones.

Over 8,300 pounds of electronics were recycled at the spring event.

We will be offering free document shredding at this event. We ask that participants wishing to shred documents observe a limit of three legal size boxes per car.

No items containing chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), commonly utilized as a refrigerant or as a propellant in aerosol cans, will be accepted. A certified facility, such as the Lancaster Transfer Station on Ewing Street in Lancaster, must handle the disposal of this compound.

Computer monitors will be accepted at no additional cost if they are included as part of an entire computer system.

However, there will be a $3 disposal fee for computer monitors delivered without a processor tower. Televisions will be accepted at the event at a cost of

$1 per diagonal inch. Only cash and checks will be accepted as payment for disposal fees.

Call the Fairfield Soil and Water Conservation District office at 740-6538154 or the Fairfield County Sheriff’s office at 740-652-7900 for more information about prescription drug disposal.

Call Chad Reed of Litter Prevention and Recycling at 740-681-4423 with any electronic recycling questions.

For those unable to attend this event, a drop-off box for prescription drugs is available at the Pickerington Police Department located at 1311 Refugee Rd. Needles and liquids are not permitted for disposal.

We look forward to seeing everyone on Saturday, Oct. 28 as we continue to rid Pickerington and Violet Township of unused medications.

Fire Prevention Week: Oct. 8-14, 2017 Violet Township Fire Annual Open House: Oct. 15, 2017 Fire Prevention Week is Oct. 8-14.

This year’s campaign, “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out!” illustrates that seconds can mean the difference between residents of our community escaping safely from a fire or having their lives end in tragedy.

That’s why this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme, “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out!” is so important. It 12

reinforces why everyone needs to have an escape plan. Here’s this year’s key campaign messages: • Draw a map of your home with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.

• Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

home, and practice using different ways out.

• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.

• Make sure your address is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.

• Close doors behind you as you leave. This may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.

• Once you get outside, stay outside.

Never go back inside a burning building.

Many people think fire is something that happens to other people. Unfortunately, this common misperception continues to put Americans at risk to fire each year, particularly at home, where people think they’re safest from fire but are actually at the greatest risk. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), a home structure fire was reported every 86 seconds in 2015, with about 80 percent of all U.S. fire deaths annually occurring at home.

In fact, today’s home fires present increased risks to occupants. Newer homes are built with lightweight materials that burn faster than older home constructions. They also tend to be designed with open floor plans that enable

practicing it. The Violet Township Fire Department is working in coordination with NFPA, the official sponsor of the Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years, to reinforce those potentially lifesaving messages.

Education will continue to be one of our best allies in our efforts to combat the dangers of fire. To aid in this mission, the Violet Township Fire Departfire to spread rapidly. Meanwhile, many ment will host its annual Open House of the products and furnishings in toon Sunday, Oct. 15, from 1-3 p.m. at day’s homes are produced with materi- Station 592, located at 8700 Refugee als that generate dark, toxic gases when Rd. The day will feature: burned, making it impossible to breathe • A Fire Safety House, which permits or see within moments. In short, home children to escape from a nonfires present a real risk that Violet Townhazardous smoke-filled environment. ship residents need to take seriously.

This allows them to learn how to get One of the most basic but vital eleout of their home in case of fire. ments of home fire safety is having a • Demonstrations on how to crawl home escape plan that everyone in the under smoke. household has practiced. In a fire situ• Fire extinguisher service and ination, when the smoke alarm sounds, spection. a practiced home escape plan ensures • Opportunities for kids to dress up in that everyone knows how to use the fire gear and get a picture taken. precious minutes wisely.

• Opportunities for kids to take a turn This year’s Fire Prevention Week using a real fire hose to spray water. theme, “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 There will be a host of fun, kid-friendly Ways Out!” works to better educate the educational activities for the entire family. public about the critical importance of Please come and join us for this comdeveloping a home escape plan and munity event.

2017 Infrastructure Update

By Greg Butcher, PE, MPA, Violet Township Engineer This year represents the first year of increased revenues from Violet Township’s road levy that was passed in 2016.

The levy has allowed the township to invest over $1 million into our roadways and infrastructure in 2017. This year, 7.4 miles of township roadways were resurfaced. Additionally, approximately 10,000 lineal feet of curb were removed and replaced.

We have taken a strategic approach to determining how revenues are invested in our infrastructure network.

Last year, we contracted with a pavement management company to provide a Pavement Condition Index for every road segment in Violet Township.

This methodology is important, as the township is responsible for over 106 miles (one way) of roads. Utilizing this data, we are able to identify and repair the worst roadways first. Furthermore, this data allows us to predict, plan and budget future pavement needs. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

How to Reach Us Violet Township Administrative Offices 12970 Rustic Dr. Pickerington, OH 43147 614-575-5556 www.violet.oh.us

Violet Township’s 2018 capital improvements program is being developed. Early next year, we will once again be poised to bid and complete our future projects using our strategic planning tools.

Thank you for your continued support. As we promised you, our residents, we will invest these road levy funds in your infrastructure to prioritize safety, maintain our property values and improve the quality of life for all.

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. (behind hhgregg) Violet Township Service Center Phone: 614-382-5979 490 Center St. Pickerington, OH 43147 13

faces

By Jenny Wise

Working Like a Dog 14

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photos courtesy of Debbie Wilson

Local woman and her therapy dog bring emotional support to the community

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hat do motorcycles and therapy animals have in common? They both hold a special place in this Pickerington resident’s heart.

Debbie Wilson has called Pickerington home since she and her husband, Wally, and their children, Kyle (23) and Heather (24), moved from Reynoldsburg in 1997. She works in sales, accounting and marketing at the family’s motorcycle dealership, Wheelsports Inc., but above all else, she is an animal lover.

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Wilson grew up in a motorcyclecentric family and has spent the majority of her life around the sport, riding dirt bikes and eventually obtaining her street bike license. She even met her husband at a racing event.

Though they may have two biological children, Wilson is also a mother to three four-legged children: golden retriever Reese and tuxedo cats Piggy and Minnie.

“Way back when (in 2008), I started (working with animals) with 4-H,” says Wilson. “My daughter was in 4-H and she showed our older dog (Sheba). … At the end of her career, they came up with a program called Pickerington PetPALS.” Wilson was excited to play a bigger role in the club and help bring emotional support to the community through her passion for animals and, eventually, training.

“I thought, ‘Ah, I can do that. I like doing that kind of stuff,’” Wilson says. “So I became certified and became an adviser … and started taking the kids (and their dogs) to the nursing home.”

The PALS in the club’s name stands for People and Animals Linking Successfully. The 4-H club, headed by co-advisers Wilson and Jenn Newell, works to connect Pickerington’s youth and their certified therapy pets with seniors and other members of the community to bring emotional support.

Every pet that participates in the club must pass either a Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test, an American Kennel Club (AKC) title or a Socialized PetPALS test (for pets other than dogs) before being able to participate in 4-H events or visPhoto by Jeffrey S. Hall Photography its to local nursing homes, assisted living centers, hospitals and elementary schools.

In 2008, Wilson began taking her children and their pets on monthly visits to Pickerington Nursing and Rehab with the PetPALS. Inspired by her mother’s passion for animals, Heather began fostering a dog named Gracie in 2010 through the Pilot Dogs organization. Wilson helped her daughter through her first fostering experience, and when it was time to give Gracie back, Wilson knew she needed a furry friend of her own.

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Above: Reese visits with students at Pickerington Elementary School.

Left: When visiting nursing homes and assisted living facilities, Reese gives personal attention to many.

In 2011, three years after joining and advising the PetPALS club, Wilson adopted Reese from Circle Tail, a training facility near Cincinnati that trains service and hearing dogs for people with disabilities at no cost to the individual.

“I got her at 8 months old. She was being trained to be a service dog, (but) didn’t make the program, so I adopted her,” says Wilson. “Within 10 months, she already had (passed) her CGC test to become a therapy dog. We took some training, additionally, which she passed with flying colors, and then I started taking her on visits by myself and with my kids. That’s basically how we started working with our therapy dog.”

Wilson and Heather began fostering dogs in 2014 through a program called 4 Paws for Ability. The Xenia-based organization trains service dogs for children with seizures, diabetes, autism and other disabilities. That same year, Wilson and the PetPALS added Amber Park Assisted Living and Wesley Ridge Nursing and Rehab to their monthly circuit, as well as weekly visits to Pickerington Elementary School.

This year, Reese celebrated her 200th visit to Pickerington Elementary, where she sits with the kids and gives them the emotional support and confidence to read aloud to the class.

Though therapy dogs such as Reese serve a different purpose than service dogs, both require extensive training. Therapy dogs provide psychological or physiological therapy to many individuals 16

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Reese has earned the highest-level award in agility: the C-ATCH. Photo by Jeffrey S. Hall Photography

other than their handlers. Unlike with service dogs, interaction is serves as more of a babysitter, taking care of dogs in the program encouraged while these dogs are on duty. when their foster families go on vacation.

“During the (early Outside of their therapy dog work, years of) training, we enDebbie and Reese compete in agility and courage people to pet trick training. Now in her third year of them. The fosters during competitive agility and trick training, that period (with 4 Paws Reese just earned one of the highestfor Ability) are not trainlevel awards in agility: the C-ATCH. The ing them to be service AKC also recognized Reese with novice, dogs,” says Wilson. “We intermediate and advanced trick training are socializing them so certifications, leaving only the expert that by the time they are certification unattained. old enough to go to for“She does all the tricks to qualify (for mal training, they’ve been the expert certification),” Wilson says. “I exposed to hundreds of just haven’t taken her to get the last test.” people and settings. When Wilson and Reese have no intenthey go to advanced traintion of slowing down any time soon. In ing, a facility doesn’t have fact, Wilson says the two have recently time to expose them to evadded dog parkour to their list of reguerything like that.” lar activities.

Emotional support “When Reese and I go out hiking, we dogs are not required to go do the things together,” Wilson says. “It’s through any training. They climbing up on trees and walking planks, simply provide support and then they also go to playgrounds.” to their handlers through companionship.

Jenny Wise is an assistant editor.

Wilson continues to Feedback welcome at gbishop@ work with PetPALS, taking cityscenemediagroup.com. the club on weekly visits to the elementary school RELATED READS and monthly visits to the various senior facilities in www.pickeringtonmagazine.com the community. In 2016, • Pet loss support group it added senior housing in Pickfair Square to its list • Another therapy dog of monthly visits. Though • Working dogs Wilson still fosters with 4 • Listening dogs Paws for Ability, she now • Horse therapy www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

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in focus

By Lydia Freudenberg

Animal Magnetism

Hedgehogs, raptors, wolves and more draw visitors to the Pickerington Public Library

S

ince the mid-1400s, the classic, bound books we know and love have been a valuable source of information for every age group.

But sometimes seeing, feeling and listening can be concrete methods for educating people on interesting topics.

The Pickerington Public Library is going beyond the books. For a few years now, this hub of knowledge has hosted events where experts bring in wild or housebound animals to educate visitors on the qualities of these magnificent creatures.

“We have had different animal programs for many years,” says Kenton Daniels, the library’s assistant director. “There are a lot of great organizations and individuals who love animals and love sharing the work they do with various species.”

These entertaining and educational events fit right into the library’s interest in providing dynamic ways of learning.

Reptiles and baby chicks were among the early animals featured.

September at the library was highlighted by the first-ever visit from Lori Keller of the Hedge Welfare Society. At

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the two Sept. 6 Mighty Hedgehog Sessions, Keller worked to educate the public on misconceptions related to these tiny animals.

“They need a lot of space. … Each individual needs about a minimum of six square feet of living space,” says Keller.

“They also have a specialized diet. They need a variety of foods so they can grow

Owls are not intelligent birds, nor can they rotate their head 360 degrees. Vultures, on the other hand, are rather intelligent, though their methods of survival may be a bit gruesome.

all their teeth and grow all their quills, and are healthy for as long as possible.”

About 80 percent of the hedgehogs Keller finds through the Welfare Society are surrendered by owners who can no longer foster the animals. But she has hope for these www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photos courtesy of Pickerington Public Library and Hedge Welfare Society

Hedgehogs eat mostly insects, and need a lot of holding and nurturing.

They require weekly baths along with a cleaning of their ears and nails, and can contract mites, infections and diseases such as cancer. This may sound extensive, but it makes sense; hedgehogs have never been classified as wild animals, as they are actually bred for the pet trade.

little pets, and is always striving to thoroughly explain the proper methods of owning a hedgehog to families and children.

“Until people get to handle them and get exposed to them, it’s hard to know how much work the little guys are going to take,” says Keller. “I’m trying to fill … an information gap between the cute pictures we might see on the Internet and the reality of what it’s like to own a hedgehog, so that maybe the families or the children will think twice or seek more information before they get one as a pet.”

The library’s creature programs are intended to be open to the public for the benefit of everyone interested in nature and a variety of Ohio-based animals.

“Our amazing presenters are accustomed to working with a wide range of age groups,” says Daniels. “In this fastpaced world, sometimes, it’s easy to lose track of the natural beauty all around us.

Animals have something to teach all of us … and the library is a community-based place of learning.”

More fuzzy and feathery friends are slated to make appearances in October.

Returning this year will be the Ironwood Wolves on Oct. 19 and the Ohio Bird Sanctuary on Oct. 25. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Gail Laux, founder and director of Ohio Bird Sanctuary, says the organization will bring owls and vultures to its day at the library.

“Often, these species are misunderstood,” says Laux. “Many of the things we believe about owls are untrue … and vultures are an important element for the health of our environment.”

The birds that will visit the library have suffered injury and are no longer able to survive in the wild, though they will be no less fascinating for it.

Knowledgeable sanctuary staff members will provide interesting facts and walk through the audience for closer looks at these winged animals.

Ironwood Wolves is a USDA-licensed educational facility that houses four wolves

and three red foxes, using them to teach about wolves and foxes and, like the Hedge Welfare Society and Ohio Bird Sanctuary, dispel misconceptions.

Both Ironwood Wolves and Ohio Bird Sanctuary have made appearances at the library prior to 2017.

“Seeing the animals up close is fascinating,” says Daniels. “But more fun is seeing the reaction of the children that attend.”

Because these animal events are popular, the library requires advance registration and suggests interested parties register early, as spots go fast. Registration can be completed at www.pickeringtonlibrary.org.

Lydia Freudenberg is a contributing editor. Feedback welcome at gbishop@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

RELATED READS www.pickeringtonmagazine.com • Ohio wildlife attractions • Attracting urban wildlife • County wildlife officer 19

By Emily Hetterscheidt

Wonder Women T

his fall, for the 20th year, the Pickerington Area Chamber of Commerce will recognize some of the stellar women in the local business community.

The Chamber’s Day of ATHENA Workshop & Awards Luncheon is Oct. 6 – anchored, as always, by the ATHENA Awards.

“From a local level, it’s going to honor individuals who demonstrate excellence, creativity and innovation in their profes-

sional endeavors,” says Theresa Byers, Chamber president. “They contribute valuable service to improve the quality of life.”

The awards are part of the international nonprofit organization ATHENA, which seeks to support, develop and honor female leaders. The program was started by Martha Mertz in 1982 when she realized she was the only female member of the Lansing, Mich. chamber of com-

merce’s board of directors. The Pickerington Chamber has been presenting the awards since 1998.

“It was an opportunity to recognize business women and leaders within the community,” Byers says. “It’s an award that not a lot of communities present, and it gives us an opportunity to really highlight Pickerington and the leaders that we have here.”

Not only does ATHENA honor women who contribute to the community, it also recognizes those who support other women and encourage their success.

The workshop and luncheon comprises a half-day program that will include speakers on leadership and business development. The workshop is open to men and women, with the recognition of nominees and announcement of award winners following.

The Chamber gives out three awards as part of the program: the ATHENA Leadership Award, the Emerging ATHENA Award and the Youth ATHENA Award.

Nominees are: • Leadership: Andrea Watros of Cold Stone Creamery and Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory; Alison Forche of Kristal & Forche Orthodontics; Tracy

RELATED READS www.pickeringtonmagazine.com • Previous ATHENA winners • Past ATHENA winner Suellen Goldsberry • Past ATHENA winner Rita Ricketts Emma Newell receives the Youth ATHENA Award at the 2016 Awards Luncheon.

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www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photos courtesy of Pickerington Area Chamber of Commerce

Pickerington women are recognized for their contributions to the community

Above: Guests make their way into the 2016 Awards luncheon.

Right: Kristy Good-Bath (top) and Dr. Afshan Sultan (bottom) receive the 2016 ATHENA Leadership Award and Emerging ATHENA Award, respectively.

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

including decision-making, values and priorities.

The ATHENA awards will take place Oct. 6 from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Hickory Lakes Events, Facilities and Hospitality. Registration and more information on the event can be found at www.pickeringtonchamber.com.

Emily Hetterscheidt is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com.

The most important thing Brandon Anderson has learned in his journey as a performer is to go big every time—to pick a character and commit to bringing them to life. For Brandon, being an artist in Columbus means that he is part of a community that has the freedom to produce great work in a livable city. As in artist in Columbus, Brandon feels in demand.

Learn more about Brandon’s story and other Columbus artists and events at ColumbusMakesArt.com.

Additional support from: The Crane Group and The Sol Morton and Dorothy Isaac, Rebecca J. Wickersham and Lewis K. Osborne funds at The Columbus Foundation.

Design: Formation Studio

Heitmeyer of 5 Bean Coffee; Darlene Kuzmic of the Kuzmic Realtor Team, Coldwell Banker King Thompson; Vanessa Niekamp of Park National Bank and the Pickerington Board of Education; and Cheryl Ricketts of Competitive Edge HR, Inc. • Emerging: Michele Cook of Body Ache Escape Massage Center; Amanda Davis of Kent Smith Photography; and Jessica Ayres of Pickerington Pharmacy.

Speakers at this year’s workshop are: • 2016 ATHENA Leadership Award winner Kristy Good-Bath, co-owner of Bella Cosmedica. Good-Bath spent 10 years working in radio and television before moving on to a marketing position, followed by a stint at a pharmaceutical company before she joined her husband’s oral and maxillofacial surgery practice in 2006. She and her husband, Dr. Manraj Bath, opened custom aesthetics company Bella Cosmedica in 2009. Good-Bath is also the founder of Second Life Saris, a nonprofit organization that accepts donations of gently used ethnic garments that are used to create artwork, proceeds from which support growth opportunities for at-risk girls and young women.

• Diana Long, author and co-author of books aimed at helping people pursue and achieve their professional goals. She also works directly with clients and has created professional coaching programs, earning her the nickname “The Results Expert.”

• Mary McCarthy, president and CEO of Your Management Team, Inc. and co-founder of the Women’s Small Business Accelerator. McCarthy has 20-plus years of business experience here in central Ohio.

All of the speakers will address paths to success, with specific topics

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PLEASE REMAIN SEATED Pickerington Senior Center promotes good health with Sit and Be Fit class Story and photos by Isabelle Brown

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n a Wednesday morning, Pickerington residents gather at the Pickerington Senior Center for one of its most popular exercise classes.

The participants chat amongst themselves until one woman begins announcements, publicizing future events and offering a free lunch ticket to anyone who is interested. After the instructor leads participants through their stretches, she begins the workout by asking everyone to sit. The class then proceeds with all participants seated squarely in their chairs.

The class follows a concept called Sit and Be Fit. The method promotes strength training with exercise that can be performed while seated. The Senior Center has picked up on the trend and incorporated seated exercises into its strength class.

“The strength class focuses on building upper- and lower-body strength, in22

creasing flexibility and improving your balance,” says Nancy Lee, center director.

Exercises that are performed while seated allow for workouts that put less stress on the joints. The method is ideal for seniors or those who are less abled but would like to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. Members of the senior center who participate in the class are testament to the success of the method.

“We have had several members that were using walkers that now come in just using a cane,” says Lee. The class is popular among Pickerington locals. As one of the center’s longestrunning programs, the strength class has a heavy following.

“We have had this class for several years, and approximately 50 people attend the class,” says Lee. The strength class also promotes a sense of community by bringing residents together in large numbers twice a week.

During their stretches, the instructor en-

courages conversation by asking members of the class about their weekends, or if “anything interesting has happened since Monday,” Lee says.

The strength class, along with the other exercise classes offered by the Senior Center, helps incorporate a social aspect into a healthy physical lifestyle.

The class is every Monday and Wednesday from 10-11 a.m. The class is free to members of the center, annual dues for which are $12.50.

Isabelle Brown is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at gbishop@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

RELATED READS www.pickeringtonmagazine.com • Senior Center travel • Center President Ted Hackworth • Senior Center noodlemakers www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Better lives

ONE story at a time.

“I’ve been a firefighter for a little over 16 years. I feel so grateful… grateful that I survived that day on the motorcycle. They got me from the hospital bed to where I’m at today. There’s no limitations physical, mental, any of those things.

I’m Anthony Torres, Orthopedic ONE gave me my life back.”

– Anthony Torres, Firefighter

Visit orthopedicONE.com for all of Anthony’s story.

This is where you go to get better.

student spotlight

by Emily Real Student Spotlight features a student from a different area high school in every issue.

Compassion to Spare

A

t 17 years old, Pickerington High School North senior Morgan McDonald has a pretty good idea of what she wants to do when she grows up.

Throughout her high school career, McDonald has immersed herself in art and volunteering in equal parts, doing a great deal of volunteer work with her church, participating in mission work in Cincinnati, working in suicide prevention and education, playing in her school’s touring chamber orchestra, and painting a mural honoring veterans for the American Legion.

After graduating, McDonald plans to study art education at either The Ohio State University or the University of South Carolina. Eventually, she hopes to become an art teacher. In parRELATED READS ticular, she wants to teach art in innerwww.pickeringtonmagazine.com city high schools.

“A lot of people in (the) inner city go through rough stuff,” McDonald says. “I • More on arts education feel like art would be a more positive op• North grad Lauren Conley portunity to put that energy into.”

• North grad Jackson Brandstaetter 24

One of the major factors influencing her goals is her involvement in SURGE Columbus, an art-based after-school program facilitated through the Columbus Museum of Art. Because of the museum’s proximity to some of Columbus’ own urban areas, McDonald has had the opportunity to make art with urban students who are her age.

Her involvement with SURGE has helped McDonald come up with ideas on how to approach urban arts education.

“I have a lot of conversations with this one kid,” McDonald says. “Because he lives in the inner city, I’m like, ‘OK, how does this and this affect you?’ so I can know when I go into that field.”

McDonald has seen firsthand through SURGE that high school students in underprivileged areas are just as driven and passionate as students in affluent areas. “(They) really (work) hard at it,” McDonald says. “It’s just insane to see that somebody who comes from … that www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photos courtesy of Morgan McDonald

North senior serves the underprivileged through art and volunteerism

Photo courtesy of Makayla Craft

Photo courtesy of Makayla Craft

sort of area wants to do so much more with their lives … and not be held back.”

McDonald has also seen that manifest through her involvement in the Summer of Service Cincinnati mission trip with Vineyard Community Church over the summer, which would often involve doing volunteer work in low-income areas of Cincinnati.

“It kind of makes me mad that people are so quick to judge,” McDonald says. “A lot of people in this area … just had a bad string of luck and … their house was foreclosed on or something. They just got in that situation, and it’s not necessarily their fault.”

While in Cincinnati, McDonald and her youth group held a block party for the Children’s Home of Cincinnati, packed 41,000 meals for people in Swaziland, packaged sanitary napkins and paint for people in Haiti, and passed out bags full of food to people in impoverished areas of Cincinnati.

With all of this on her plate, a schedule as intense as McDonald’s can get difficult to juggle, but this isn’t a problem for her.

“I involve myself with things that I would want to be involved with anyways … and it doesn’t feel like it’s taking up all my time,” McDonald says. “It’s something that I can put my time and effort to, rather than Morgan McDonald (clockwise from bottom left) poses with her just sitting at home, and it helps other people along the way.”

Emily Real is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

youth group, poses for a senior photo, paints a wheelchair ramp for a disabled veteran, packs high-protein meals for the hungry in Swaziland, sorts supplies for the needy in Haiti and talks to area children during her Cincinnati mission trip.

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on the table

By Jenny Wise

Sold!

Charity auction and dinner raise money for Pickerington schools

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top-notch catered dinner and some 50 themed prize baskets are the highlights of a charity auction benefiting Pickerington Local Schools.

The Pickerington Education Foundation holds its third annual charity auction Oct. 26 at Hickory Lakes Event Facilities & Hospitality.

Pickerington Local is the 15th largest school district in Ohio, educating more than 10,000 students a year. With a vision to improve the community and society by opening doors and providing opportunities for every child, the district is dedicated to empowering its students, and the foundation works to pursue that goal as well.

Formed in 2004 by a group of community members who were passionate about education and the school district, the foundation is able to provide grants to educators through charity fundraising.

“The foundation awards approximately $15,000 in classroom and building grants annually,” says Lori Sanders, a member of the foundation’s board of directors and a longtime Pickerington Board of Education member.

The auction allows the foundation to raise the money it needs to provide these grants. Extensive planning and sponsor support make it possible for the foundation to keep bringing attendees a night of entertainment, food and fundraising.

“We have a great event team that began working in the spring to bring the community a top-notch event,” Sanders says.

“This could not happen without our sponsors.”

This year’s sponsors include Diley Ridge Medical Center, EPS Ohio and SHP Leading Design.

Ingredients 2 lbs. ground beef ¼ cup rosemary, dried or fresh, chopped 2 tsp. salt 2 tsp. pepper 2 tsp. garlic powder 1 to 2 boxes pasta sheets, fresh or dried 5 cups tomato sauce 1 ½ cups pecorino Romano cheese 1 ½ pounds ricotta cheese 4 lbs. shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese Instructions Heat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

Place ground beef in a large skillet. Season with rosemary, salt, pepper and garlic. Add a little water. Cook over medium heat until well-browned, breaking up into crumbles as it cooks.

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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions. Put the noodles into an ice-water bath when cooked, then lay them out to dry on paper towels.

Coat the bottom of a very large, deep pan with nonstick cooking spray. Half a commercial-sized sheet pan or two 9-by-13-inch cake pans will be enough space.

Line bottom of the pan with noodles. Spread 1 cup of sauce over top of the noodles. Sprinkle with ¼ of the Romano, then ¼ of the ricotta, ¼ of the ground beef and ¼ of the mozzarella. Repeat with noodles, sauce, cheeses and beef until four layers are completed.

Place a final layer of noodles on top. Top with last cup of sauce and sprinkle additional Romano cheese on top.

Cover with parchment paper, then cover with foil. Bake for 1 hour or until the center is hot, reaching 165 degrees on a thermometer. Serves 20.

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photos courtesy of Pickerington Education Foundation

Grandma Maria’s Lasagna

“The businesses in our community have been very generous in their donations to this event, and we thank everyone for their support,” says Sanders.

In addition to about 50 themed baskets, the auction always has a special travel package for the grand prize. Thanks to this year’s trip sponsor, EPS Ohio, the grand prize is a weeklong trip for two at an all-inclusive resort in Cancun.

By purchasing a ticket to the auction, guests are not only treated to dinner catered by Berwick Manor and an evening of fun, they are also automatically entered into the drawing for the grand prize trip.

Courtesy of Berwick Manor

70 Years of Quality Collision Repairs by People You Know

Attendees at the 2016 Charity Auction enjoy prizes and good company.

601 Commerce Drive Pickerington, Ohio 43147 614-837-0902 Monday-Friday 7am-6pm

“The auction will typically raise $15,000 to $18,000,” says Sanders. “We would like to get to the $20,000 level in the next few years.”

The 2017 auction is 6-9 p.m. Oct. 26. Tickets may be purchased at www. pickeringtoneducationfoundation. com or by contacting Lori Sanders at lorisanders5@yahoo.com.

Jenny Wise is an assistant editor.

Feedback welcome at gbishop@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

RELATED READS www.pickeringtonmagazine.com • Pickerington Antique & Craft Show • Local lasagna purveyor Omezzo • New Pickerington restaurants www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

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Around Pickerington Want your snapshots to appear in print? Send your high-resolution photos to pickeringtonmag@gmail.com along with your name and a caption!

Youth Fishing Derby July 22 Photos courtesy of John Ford

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www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Tyler’s Light Golf Outing Aug. 25 Photos courtesy of Tyler’s Light

Extractions on the House at Ohio Center for Jaw and Facial Surgery and Implant Dentistry Sept. 9 Photos courtesy of Dr. M. Bath

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

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bookmarks

By Colleen C. Bauman, Community Relations Coordinator, Pickerington Public Library

Getting the Job You Want After 50 for Dummies

By Kerry Hannon Change of career in order to pursue a passion? Downsized? This book contains all the tools and resources needed to search for the right job. Start with a selfassessment for direction. Learn how to build an online presence and revitalize your resume. Learn how to present yourself as an experienced worker and negotiate for the best salary to land that dream job.

My Digital Travel for Seniors

By Jason R. Rich and AARP The digital world is at our fingertips, and our friends at AARP/AARP TEK provide guidance that accommodates different learning styles, levels of experience and interests. With step-by-step instructions, find out what you need to get started to plan a trip. Now put that newly discovered travel technology to work: research travel opportunities, get to know popular travel tools, find and book the best airfares and accommodations, learn what to consider when selecting a rental car company. Determine what will fit your travel style best to manage itineraries while traveling. Discover how to connect your computer, smartphone or tablet while traveling.

Easy to read with large, full-color photos and screenshots, this book offers common-sense answers to make travel easier.

Good to Be Grand: Making the Most of Your Grandchild’s First Year

By Cheryl Harbour What’s essential for parents isn’t the same as what’s useful for grandparents.

This time around, we are not in the driver’s seat, but riding in the sidecar. There are practical differences in the two roles. The parents choose the doctor, the grandparents need to know how to reach the doctor; the parents choose the car seat, the grandparents need to know how it works; the parents decide how and when to introduce foods, the grandparents need to know in order to prepare for a grandchild’s visit. Learn how best to support the well-being of your grandchild and make the best of the experience.

You Don’t Look Your Age … and Other Fairy Tales

By Sheila Nevins Finally stepping out from behind the camera, famed documentary producer Sheila Nevins shares real-life challenges faced by women in a man’s world. Written and presented from the “been there, done that; learn from my mistakes” angle, this book illustrates that time in life when you can say what you want and be who you want to be; no holding back.

These stories are engaging and funny, and show aging as the next great frontier.

Zinio Magazines: Download, read and keep. Current and back issues are all free with your library card. Visit www. pickeringtonlibrary.org/resources and download the Zinio app.

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Library Hours: Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Friday & Saturday 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sunday 1-5 p.m. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

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U.S. News & World Report has recognized the exceptional care provided by Mount Carmel’s physicians, nurses and staff in its 2017-18 ranking of U.S hospitals. Mount Carmel East was named as a Best Regional Hospital, earning the highest-possible ratings for heart failure, colon cancer, COPD and knee replacement procedures. And as proud as we are to receive these honors, we’re even prouder of the hard work, dedication and extraordinary skill of the people who made them possible. Because of YOU.

mountcarmelhealth.com/awards