Westerville Magazine March/April 2019

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Westerville

TM

magazine

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

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Kathleen K. Gill President/CEO

Gianna Barrett Vice President, Sales

Dave Prosser Chief Creative Officer

Nathan Collins Managing Editor

Mallory Arnold Assistant Editors Rocco Falleti

Amanda DePerro Contributing Editor

Liz Anastasiadis Contributing Writers Laura Baird Emily Hetterscheidt Taylor Woodhouse

Lydia Freudenberg Brand Loyalty Specialist

Diane Trotta Advertising Director

Laurie Adams Advertising Sales

Jamie Armistead Accounting Manager

Circulation 614-572-1240

City of Westerville Christa Dickey Community Affairs

Administrator

www.wester villemagazine.com CityScene Media Group also publishes:

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CityScene Magazine www.CitySceneColumbus.com Dublin Life Magazine www.DublinLifeMagazine.com Tri-Village Magazine www.TriVillageMagazine.com Healthy New Albany Magazine www.HealthyNewAlbanyMagazine.com Pickerington Magazine www.PickeringtonMagazine.com HealthScene Ohio www.HealthSceneOhio.com 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 ncollins@ cityscenemediagroup.com. Publisher does not assume responsibility for loss or damage.

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Westerville Magazine is published bimonthly in January, March, May, July, September and November. For advertising information or bulk purchases, contact Diane Trotta at dtrotta@cityscenemediagroup.com.

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Inside

MARCH/APRIL 2019 VOL. 18 NO. 4

09

CityReporter

06 community calendar

News and Information from the City of Westerville

09 city reporter

News and Information from the City of Westerville

Schedule a Private Tour Today!

15 faces

A Stronger Community

(614) 888-7492

Westerville native works to better the lives of others

www.wesleyglen.com 5155 North High Street • Columbus, Ohio 43214

18 in focus

15

Educator Encouragement

Westerville teacher is celebrated for leading a thriving band program

20 Turning Interest into Action

First-of-its-kind aquarium program now available via Otterbein University’s Zoo and Conservation Science Program

26 living

28

A Labor of Love

Historical preservation key to renovation of 110-year-old structure

28 on the table

A Wheely Delicious Time

Community event raises hunger awareness

30 Bookmarks

@westervillemagazine Read more online at WestervilleMagazine.com www.westervillemagazine.com

Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)

How piper Glenn Mackie uses his talent to educate and entertain

22 Around Westerville 24 Aquatic Adventures

Know. Understand. Care.

Managed by:

’s yo H ere

ur k

ey

nie Con ski ow Sad

search for homes www.conniesadowski.com Westerville Expert YOUR DREAM REALTOR® Connie Sadowski, REALTOR® RE/MAX Premierchoice #1 Mobile 614-943-0025 Office 614-436-0330 Connie@conniesadowski.com

On the Cover Photo courtesy of Cyril Scott Pipe Band Story on page 20

March/April 2019

5

2019

SAT FRI THU 4 3 2 11 10 9 8 18 7 17 6 16 5 15 25 14 24 13 23 12 22 21 31 20 30 19 29 28 27 26

WED TUE MON 1 SUN

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

March

Through March 22

Tour De Ville - Winter Warm Up Throughout Westerville, www.westervillechamber.com

March 1

American Red Cross Blood Drive 10 a.m., Westerville Public Library, 126 S. State St., www.westervillelibrary.org

March 1-3

Arnold Sports Festival Throughout Columbus, www. arnoldsportsfestival.com

March 2-3

Arnolds SportsWorld Kids & Teens EXPO 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday Ohio Expo Center, Bricker Building, www.arnoldsports festival.com

RISE TO YOUR POTENTIAL ™ Decrease Stress, Reduce Pain, Improve Sleep, Increase Mindfulness

Enjoy Your First Float For ONLY $45 – 50% OFF 675 Worthington Rd Westerville, OH 43082 614-392-9300 www.urbanfloat.com

March 6

Pancake Breakfast 7 a.m., Westerville Senior Center, 310 W. Main St., www.westerville.org

March 15

Guests Artists: Duo Montagnard 8 p.m., Riley Auditorium, Battelle Fine Arts Center, 170 W. Park St., www.otterbein.edu

V.E. Schwab

March 20

Meet the Author: V.E. Schwab 7 p.m., www.westerville library.org

March 22-April 7

Curtain Player Theatre presents Doubt, a parable 8 p.m., March 22, 23, 29, 30, April 5 and 7; 2 p.m.

March 31 and April 7 Curtain Players Theatre, 5691 Halem Rd., Galena, www.curtainplayers.org

March 28-April 6

Otterbein University presents West Side Story 7:30 p.m. March 28; 8 p.m.

March 29 and 30, April 4, 5 and 6; 2 p.m. March 31; Fritsche Theatre, Cowan Hall, 30 S. Grove St., www.otterbein.edu

March 29

Composer Kent Holliday 8 p.m., Riley Auditorium, Battelle Fine Arts Center, 170 W. Park St., www.otterbein.edu

March 31

Underwater Egg Hunt 10:30 a.m., Westerville Community Center, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., www.westerville.org

March 17

Westerville Symphony at Otterbein University presents Vienna and the Symphony 5 p.m., Riley Auditorium at Battelle Hall, Otterbein University 1 S. Grove St., www.westervillesymphony.org

March 18-April 26 Senior Art Exhibitions Miller Gallery, Art and Communication Building, 33 Collegeview Rd., www.otterbein.edu

Sponsored by the Westerville Visitors & Convention Bureau For more events, visit www.visitwesterville.org

6 March/April 2019

www.westervillemagazine.com

April April 7

Choo Choo 9 Miler and 5K 8:45 a.m. Kids Fun Run, 9 a.m. 9 Mile Run/Walk and 5K Run/Walk, Alum Creek Park, 221 W. Main St., www.runsignup.com

April 7

2019 Spring Concert 4 p.m. Westerville Central High School, 7118 Mt. Royal Ave., www.westervillebands.org

April 12

Tenor Daniel Neer 8 p.m. Riley Auditorium, Battelle Fine Arts Center, 170 W. Park St., www.otterbein.edu

April 13

Taking Tea with George Cluster 10 a.m.-noon, Hanby House, 160 W. Main St., www.hanbyhouse.org

April 14

Friends Stutter-Step 5K Run/Walk 9 a.m., McNamara Park, 7049 Big Walnut Rd., Galena, www.friendswhostutter.org

April 14

String Orchestra 2 p.m., Grace Lutheran Church, 100 E. Schrock Rd., www.otterbein.edu

April 20

Westerville Bunny Hop 5K 8 a.m., Westerville Sports Complex, 325 N. Cleveland Ave., www.westerville.org

Photos courtesy of Jenna Maurice and Ruth McDermott

April 20

Spring Eggstravaganza 9 a.m., Westerville Sports Complex, 325 N. Cleveland Ave., www.westerville.org

April 20

Westerville Civitan Club Easter Egg Hunt 11 a.m., Westerville Community Center, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., www.westervillecivitan.org www.westervillemagazine.com

April 26

Mount Carmel St. Ann’s 4th Friday: Spring Into The Arts 6-9 p.m., Uptown Westerville, www.visitwesterville.org

April 27

Katie Dunning Spring Dance 6-8:30 p.m., Whetstone Community Center, 3923 N. High St., www.westervillecivitan.org

WESTERVILLE -DENTAL HEALTH-

April 26-28

Westerville South High School presents Catch Me If You Can 7 p.m. April 26 and 27, 2 p.m. April 28, Westerville South High School, 303 S. Otterbein Ave., www.westerville.k12.oh.us

Friends Stutter-Step 5K Run/Walk

We’re Just a Smile Away!

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7

New. Modern. Amish Crafted.

38 North State Street

Anniversary Sale March 7, 8 and 9 Westerville, Ohio 43081 38 North State Street

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*some restrictions apply 8 March/April 2019

HTCO0518.039 HTCO0518.039 HTCO0518.039

614.891.6257 www.amishoriginals.com 38 North State Street www.amishoriginals.com

www.westervillemagazine.com

NEWS FROM THE CITY OF WESTERVILLE • MARCH/APRIL 2019

CityReporter www.westerville.org

New Recycling Carts Arrive This Spring Recycle Recycle

Not NotAccepted Accepted

The City of Westerville is joining other Paper Paper&& Plastic PlasticBottles Bottles Glass GlassBottles Bottles No NoTanglers Tanglers No NoPlastic Plasticor orFoam Foam central Ohio comHoses, Hoses,wires, wires,chains, chains, Cardboard Cardboard &&Jugs Jugs &&Jars Jars Food FoodContainers Containers clothing, clothing,ororelectronics electronics munities in deploying Please Pleaseflatten flatten Lids Lidsand andlabels labelsaccepted accepted All Allcolors colorsaccepted accepted larger, easier-to-move recycling carts to all households. Delivery to participating communities is expected to begin in April and be complete by the No NoCups Cups No NoPlastic PlasticBags Bags Metal MetalCans Cans Cartons Cartons Keep Keepthem themloose loose Coffee, Coffee,Yogurt, Yogurt,ororParty Party Return Returntotoretailer retailer Remove Removeaerosol aerosoltips tips Rinse Rinseand andremove removelids lids Don’t Don’tbag bagitems items end of May. Purchased through For Forquestions, questions,resources, resources,and andinfo infoon onhow howand andwhere wheretotorecycle, recycle,donate, donate, a grant and costorordispose disposeofofitems, items,visit visitSWACO.org/RecycleRight.

SWACO.org/RecycleRight. sharing program with the Solid Waste Authority of central The educational postcard above was sent to residents before the new recycling carts are delivered.

Ohio, the 64-gallon carts are expected to increase recy- cannot be recycled and how to recycle ment recycling efforts in the home or garage. However, once the new recycling cling participation in the City due to materials properly.”

Before the carts arrive, Westerville carts arrive, red bins taken to the curb their size.

“This gives the community a fresh households will receive a postcard will be taken as recycling by Rumpke.

This program is managed by the start to ‘recycle right,’ to borrow the from SWACO letting them know the phrase from SWACO,” says Kevin new receptacles are on the way, tips on Westerville Public Service Department.

Weaver, director of the Westerville how to best utilize the cart and answers Have questions? Contact City staff at (614) 901-6740 or publicservice@ Public Service Department. “Recy- to frequently asked questions.

As for the red bins that have been in westerville.org. cling now really is easier than ever.

Find more information on the Each cart will come with educational use, residents will not be required to give materials that point out what can and them up. They can be used to supple- City’s website at www.westerville.org. www.westervillemagazine.com

March/April 2019

9

CityReporter

Staff Profile

Acting, Departing Chiefs of Police Reflect on Careers, Life in Westerville

Meet Assistant Chief Charles Chandler, who wraps up a threemonth interim period as Acting Chief of Police for the Westerville Division of Police in April.

Assistant Chief For more than Charles Chandler 20 years, Chandler worked with Chief Joseph Morbitzer, who left Westerville in January to lead the Bureau of Criminal Investigation for the State of Ohio. Chandler and Morbitzer offered some coming and going perspectives on life at WPD, as they both transition into new roles.

Chief Chandler

Why did you decide to enter law enforcement?

My father was in the field before I was born. He always spoke highly of his time as a police officer and deputy sheriff. He was also an avid outdoorsman and former Marine, so he kept me involved in marksmanship and organized activities. Law enforcement was a natural progression for me.

What has been the proudest moment of your career thus far?

The first day I put on a badge in December 1994. Over the years, if I start to feel cynical, I think back to that day and how proud I was to start my career.

What goals did you set to accomplish acting chief of the Westerville Division of Police? (Assistant Chief Holly Murchland begins a threemonth interim term as Acting Chief in late April. See the January/ February 2019 issue of Westerville Magazine for her staff profile.)

10 March/April 2019

My first goal was to maintain our current programs and level of service to the community. Another is to continue our hiring process. Many of our veteran officers are retiring.

The hiring we do now will affect the service provided to our citizens for the next 25-30 years. So, it is very important to me that we recruit the best and brightest and mold them into Westerville’s finest.

What else should Westerville residents know about you?

I’m Ohio born and raised. I’m from Morrow County, around the Marengo area. Westerville was my parent’s city of choice to go shopping or out to eat.

Back when there was only one traffic signal between Sunbury and Westville, it was only about a 15-minute drive for us to get here. Some of my fondest memories include going to the AMC movie theater on Huber Village Boulevard and to G.D. Ritzy’s on South State Street with my father.

A Lighthearted Lookback with Chief Morbitzer

After 33 years serving the Westerville community, Chief Joseph Morbitzer was appointed

by Attorney General Dave Yost to be the Superintendent of the Bureau of CrimiChief Joseph Morbitzer nal Investigation.

Those who interacted with Morbitzer know of his wit and sense of humor. Before he left in January, Morbitzer took a light-hearted look back at his time with the City.

You talk about how the kindness of a neighborhood police officer influenced your life when you were young. Tell us how that shaped the last nearly 40 years of your life.

When you treat people fairly, with dignity and respect you build relationships and trust. While I did not understand while this was happening as a child, over the years I realized what an impact the officer had on so many through his actions. This truly was service above self.

You often say Westerville is like nowhere else in America. What do you mean by that?

Our town is so accepting and caring.

No matter what the need, our citizens pay it forward and lend a hand up.

Westerville is one of the most remarkable towns in our great country!

Only a few hundred people know about your legacy as a rib and hotdog eating champion? Tell us how you have refined this special skill.

A few hundred?! I think these events were broadcast live in a number of countries, and, by the way, I won both contests. It’s all about soaking the bread in water to reduce mass. (See how I used science there?) I must say the 100-yard sprint at the end of the rib eating contest made it touch and go.

There was also the added incentive of competing against firefighters.

You are a known connoisseur of aromatherapy and funky socks.

Say you have to give one up, which would you choose?

Aromatherapy, hands down. If ya gotta be known for something, it might as well be cool socks.

Thank you, Chief Morbitzer, for more than 32 years of service! www.westervillemagazine.com

CityReporter

Public Safety Profile

Call if You Can, Text if You Can’t

Franklin County residents can now send text messages to 911 dispatchers.

This service is intended for individuals unable to make a voice call to 911 due to situational or medical conditions.

The County says that voice calling is still important because it allows emergency dispatchers the ability to get immediate answers and listen for important cues about the nature of the situation.

The program, which emphasizes the message “Call If you Can, Text If You Can’t,” made its debut in January with a joint announcement made with the cities of Gahanna, Columbus, Grove City and the Franklin County Office of Homeland Security and Regional Communications.

Using this service is as easy as opening a mobile text message service and entering “911” in the “to”

field. As with any interaction with emergency communications, the first piece of information needed will be the location and nature of the emergency.

According to the National Emergency Number Association, residents using this service need to be aware of a few key caveats: • Text messages to 911 communication centers may take longer to transmit and can fail to send • Location technology through text messaging is not considered “equal” to current location technology • The service is not available when roaming Find more information about this service at text911.franklincounty ohio.gov.

1Pass All Access Begins at Community Center March 1 Westerville Community Center patrons renewing their passes after March 1 will gain access to the full facility thanks to the City’s new simplified pricing structure.

Before the Community Center honored five pass types, there were four limited options with one all-inclusive pass. Now, there is just one Westerville Community Center Pass. Patrons may choose from a monthly or daily pass, and individual and household options, which gets them full access to the gymnasium, track, fitness area, indoor pool and climbing wall. Classes are not included with the new pass.

The change will take effect when a patron’s pass is up for renewal. Find details about Westerville Community Center passes at www.westerville.org/ centerpass.

www.westervillemagazine.com

March/April 2019

11

CityReporter

Economic Development Profile

Uptown Merchants Open for Business During Construction

The City will launch the Uptown Improvement Project along State Street, between Walnut and Home Streets, this spring. The project will bring much-needed upgrades to the heart of Westerville: pavement resurfacing and sidewalk replacements that will result in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Uptown is where history and modern amenities converge in Westerville.

While orange cones may cause tempo12 March/April 2019

rary inconveniences, there is still much fun to be had as the doors of local merchants and restaurants will remain open and ready to serve. Only a few on-street parking spots and patches of sidewalk are expected to be temporarily unavailable during construction, and the City’s ample off-street parking options will remain available and alternative walkways will be marked.

“The merchants and visitors in Uptown contribute to the charm our en-

tire community embraces, and the City is committed to its long-term accessibility and overall success,” says Jason Bechtold, economic development director for the City of Westerville.

“Sidewalk and intersection improvements alone will contribute to keeping Uptown Westerville one of the region’s most appealing destinations.”

Find details about the Uptown Improvement Project at www.westerville. org/construction. www.westervillemagazine.com

CityReporter

Updates Align Westerville Zoning Code with Community Vision This spring, the Westerville Planning Commission will receive a complete draft of a new zoning code for thorough review. The proposed new zoning code is a result of thousands of hours of review and comment by City staff, Planning Commission and various users of the code.

The goal is to create a more modern, straightforward zoning code that will serve the modern development needs of the community. The proposed draft code will include updated measures to preserve open space and greenways, further protect historic places of interest, accommodate potential new varieties of housing options and mixed-use development, while still protecting Uptown and our existing residential developments well loved by our community.

The City's Zoning Code is a legal document prescribing how land is used and developed with the intent to protect public health, safety, property values and historic sites. Originally adopted in 1973, the current Code does not reflect the City's vision as set forth in the Westerville Community Plan (also known as the Comprehensive Plan) nor does it provide the flexibility to permit new growth utilizing best practices in land use development occurring in communities across the country. This plan was created with input from the extensive community input and ultimately approved by City Council in 2016. Learn more at www. westerville.org/compplan.

A Mobility Plan is also being developed to meet the goals set forth in the Community Plan; this document will work in concert with the updated Zoning Code for the next generation of public and private development. Learn more at www.westerville.org/mobility.

For more information about the zoning code, including information about opportunities for public comment, visit www.westerville.org/zoning codeupdate. www.westervillemagazine.com

Mark Your Calendars Severe Weather Awareness Ohio’s Spring Severe Weather Awareness Week: March 17-23 Statewide Tornado Drill: Wednesday, March 20 at 9:50 a.m.

For more information, visit www.weathersafety.ohio.gov.

Serving Our Seniors Day Saturday, March 23 9 a.m.-noon Westerville South High School, FREE Older adults, caregivers and crime prevention professionals come together to discuss strategies and resources for older adults to enjoy a safe, healthy environment. The Westerville Division of Police will overview topics including insurance fraud and scams, identity theft protection, personal safety and security solutions, caregiving aid, and estate planning. For more information, including transportation availability, visit www.westerville.org/sos.

Income Tax Filing Tuesday, April 15 Income tax forms are available on the City of Westerville website for 2018 income tax, due Tuesday, April 15, 2019. Visit www.westerville.org/incometax or look for links from the front page of the site to access forms and helpful information. The Income Tax Department offers assistance to all filers, including form preparation, expanded office hours and e-filing services. Extended office hours will be offered Saturday, April 6, 8 a.m.-noon and then Friday, April 12 and Monday, April 15 from 7 a.m.- 6 p.m. For more information, contact the department or stop by the office to speak with a representative.

64 E. Walnut St. Westerville, Ohio 43081 Phone: (614) 901-6420 Fax: (614) 901-6820 Email: incometax@westerville.org Regular Office Hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hydrant Flushing Begins Sunday, April 21 The City of Westerville, Department of Public Service will start their annual hydrant flushing program beginning Sunday, April 21. The program will run around the clock in order to flush the more than 2445 hydrants in the City’s system. All hydrants are flushed once a year to help clear the water lines of particulates that may build up over time. For more information, visit www. westerville.org/publicservice.

March/April 2019

13

CityReporter This Day in History

Cleveland Avenue Name “Harbored” Negative Perceptions As safe as Westerville is today, it is strange to think of the earliest days of the community when parts of the then village were more like the wild west.

Such was the case 100 years ago when the portion of what we now know as Cleveland Avenue was named “Harbor Road.” According to the Westerville Public Opinion, “Harbor” was a nick-

name that stuck for its reputation as a harbor for “thieves and ruffians.”

According to the publication, many robberies and nearby crimes were attributed to “an undesirable class” that gathered at a saloon along the road.

At the time Hugh Rowland, a farmer, advocated changing the road’s name to Cleveland Avenue because the

Westerville Community Contacts FIRE/MEDICAL/POLICE EMERGENCY. 9-1-1 Gas/Carbon Monoxide Leaks. . . . . . . . . . . 9-1-1 Mental Health Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1-1 Fire, non-life threatening emergency. 882-2213 Police, non-life threatening emergency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 882-7444 City Website. . . . . . . . . . . . . www.westerville.org Community Affairs .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 901-6400 Animal Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6863 Animal Removal (dead at roadside). . . 901-6740 Cemeteries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6740 City Manager’s Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6400 TDD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6413 Clerk of Council. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6410 Digging (Ohio Utilities Protection Service). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-362-2764 Economic Development. . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6403 Electric Division . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6700 Electrical Outages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6700 Street Lights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6700 Tree Trimming Near Electric Lines. . 901-6700 Finance Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6440 Fire Division Headquarters. . . . . . . . . 901-6600 CPR/First Aid Training. . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6600 Human Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6406 Income Tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6420 Leaf Collection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6740 Mayor’s Court. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6419 TDD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6418 Parks & Recreation Department. . . . 901-6500 Inclement Weather Hotline . . . . . . . 901-6888 Administration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6530 Community Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6500 Everal Barn & Homestead . . . . . . . . 901-6570 Parks Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6591 Highlands Park Aquatic Center. . . . 901-7665 Recreation Program Center. . . . . . . 901-6531 Senior Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6560 Shelter Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6515 Urban Forestry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6598 Permits Building . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6650 Burning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6600 Parade/Block Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6410 Security Alarm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6482 Zoning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6650 14 March/April 2019

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road was a continuation of the same roadway in Columbus and Linden. As they say, the rest is history. This and hundreds of other fascinating facts, materials and artifacts are on display at the local history center. Hours are Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., closed Sunday. Visit www.westerville library.org/local-history to learn more.

All area codes are 614 unless otherwise noted.

Westerville City Council (Front left-right) Mayor Craig Treneff, Chair Mike Heyeck, Vice Chair Diane Fosselman (Back left-right) Alex Heckman, Valerie Cumming, Tim Davey, Vice Mayor Kathy Cocuzzi

City Manager Dave Collinsworth Like us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/cityofwesterville Follow us on Twitter: All-City news and information: @tellwesterville Westerville Electric Division: @WvilleElectric Westerville Parks & Recreation: @WestervillePark Westerville Division of Police: @WestervillePD Westerville Division of Fire: @WestervilleFire

www.westerville.org www.westervillemagazine.com

faces

By Taylor Woodhouse

“I’ve been encouraged by how engaged the community is, and how much they want to work with the foundation and the district to create opportunities, and solve problems and challenges.”

A Stronger Community Photo courtesy of Lynne Maslowski

Westerville native works to better the lives of others

www.westervillemagazine.com

C

olleen Moidu is driven by people. The Westerville native has made a career of working to better the lives of others, working for non-profits such as Habitat for Humanity and the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Now, she’s applying her passion and experience to the Westerville Education Foundation as their very first executive director.

The Westerville Education Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides grants and funding to projects throughout the Westerville school district. They work with other community organizations and businesses such as Education First Credit Union and Mount Carmel St. Ann’s to bolster the school district, empower students and teachers to make a difference in the community. In her first year with the foundation, Moidu has been inspired by the Westerville community.

March/April 2019

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“The thing I’ve been really excited about is the way the community is excited about education,” Moidu says. “I’ve been encouraged by how engaged the community is, and how much they want to work with the foundation and the district to create opportunities, and solve problems and challenges.”

One of Moidu’s driving goals for the foundation to be a champion for the students in the Westerville school district.

The district is the 11th most diverse school district in Ohio, and currently supports almost 1,400 students representing 63 different countries and speaking 55 different languages.

Moidu has recognized the necessity of giving all students a voice, ensuring their stories are told and their experiences are shared. She has heard first hand their perspectives on race, diversity and the issues they face both in school and in society – and wants to provide a platform for students to express themselves and take action.

“These kids can do something now – they don’t need to wait to make a change,” Moidu says. “So, we have to ask, ‘how can we support them to make changes in their schools and fix things now?’ I think we could benefit from listening to our students.’”

One of her core beliefs is that diversity makes a community stronger. The school district includes many students who are first- or second-generation immigrants, and she maintains that it is imperative to have honest and open discussions to increase understanding and appreciation of www.westervillemagazine.com

Photos courtesy of Kenneth L. Wright

Moidu want to ensure that all students have a voice so their story can be told.

what those diverse life experiences bring to the community. And, she hopes the foundation can help facilitate that dialogue in positive ways.

Tangibly, she is already putting the wheels in motion on a number of initiatives for the foundation. In keeping with her goal of empowering students, she is piloting a program that will pull together a council of students from all three high schools to participate in ongoing discourse with the foundation about how they can help the schools better support the diverse student body.

Outside of the schools, Moidu is focused on cementing the foundation as a connector between the district and the community. She is excited for the prospect of working together with the other non-profits in the school district. Moidu and the Westerville Education Foundation are already actively meeting with leadership from the Westerville Parent Council, the Westerville Education Challenge and Westerville Partners for Education to discuss how they can pool their resources to work towards common goals.

The organizations already worked together in conjunction with the Community Culture Committee to bring the Columbus Crossing Borders project to Westerville.

The traveling exhibit features 34 artists who created installations based on the stories of refugees. Each piece then flows into the next – highlighting the shared nature of the human experience.

The exhibit came to Westerville for the annual Community Culture Day. During its time in Westerville, nearly 1,500 students went through the exhibit. Moidu was struck by the conversations she heard occurring as a result, and the stories students shared with their peers about their own life experiences. Afterwards, the students had the opportunity to create similar art in their schools.

She is quick to highlight the importance of the families in the Westerville School District. She has been humbled and excited by the willingness of the Westerville community to step up to support their schools.

For those in the community who aren’t sure how to best support their students and schools, she encourages them to simply get involved.

“People can make a difference in our schools. If there’s something you see you wish was different, get involved” Moidu says. “What I’ve seen so far is a community that is willing to solve issues and problems in the schools. I’m excited to see it continue, and see what we can do for our kids.”

Taylor Woodhouse is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com. www.westervillemagazine.com

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1/24/18 9:40 AM

in focus

By Emily Hetterscheidt

Educator Encouragement Westerville teacher is celebrated for leading a thriving band program

J

ohn Laswell, the director of bands for Westerville South High School, is motivated by his love of teaching music to children. However, an award every now and then doesn’t hurt.

The Columbus Symphony Orchestra presented Laswell with a Music Educator Award in spring of 2018. Laswell has about 140 students at Westerville South and has been teaching for just over 10 years.

Laswell was familiar with the award before his nomination, but he didn’t expect to be considered.

“I was shocked,” he says. “I had no idea whatsoever.”

This surprise came at quite a busy time for Laswell and his wife, Emily. Laswell was just a few days into his paternity leave when he got the call from his principal that he won the award.

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“It was really hectic because my daughter had just been born,” Laswell says. “She was only a few weeks old when we went to the awards ceremony.”

The Columbus Symphony Orchestra went all-out to celebrate the Music Educator award winners by presenting their awards at the annual dinner fundraiser at the Sheraton Hotel. Laswell was able to invite his parents and his nominators, and afterwards they attended a Columbus Symphony Orchestra concert, where the award winners were presented on-stage.

Laswell’s nomination for the award came from two band parents, Rob Wesley and Larry Jenkins. Jenkins is the president of the Westerville South Instrumental Music Boosters, and Wesley held this position before him.

These Music Educator Awards support music teachers by praising their hard work and dedication. They also provide support in the form of award money. Laswell was given a $2500 grant to use for his band program. This money was split between www.westervillemagazine.com

Photo courtesy of John Laswell

“We’re just really lucky here,” he says. “I know a lot of school districts are not as fortunate. It’s really the community.”

hiring staff and creating scholarships for students whose financial troubles would normally keep them from participating in band.

“That was really helpful,” Laswell says.

“There’s a few kids in our band, I’d say 10 to 12 out of the hundred, that probably couldn’t do it if they didn’t have some kind of assistance.”

The money supplemented a program that Laswell is proud to be a part of, and he adds that he’s happy with the music department and the support it receives from boosters. Even during difficult times, these supportive parents were able to get the band members everything they needed.

“This district in particular went through some rifts and they let a lot of teachers go and we failed a levy, but since then we’ve been gradually building things back up,” Laswell says.

The love of teaching music pushes Laswell to make this a great program for his students. He most enjoys the relationships he can create with his students over the years since he may teach them from middle school up through their graduation.

“I understand 95 percent of my students don’t become music majors, but some of the values and disciplines we teach them are very valuable, I think, for the real world,” Laswell says.

For this reason, Laswell has always found it vital to advocate for the arts in schools. Because band is not a core tested subject, it can be hard for the program to get the funding it needs. While this has only become more difficult over the years, Laswell has received great support.

“We’re just really lucky here,” he says.

“I know a lot of school districts are not as fortunate. It’s really the community.”

When Laswell isn’t teaching students or taking care of his daughter, he gets the opportunity to show off his percussionist skills in the Westerville Concert Band, which plays about once a week at Westerville Central High School. The band also makes occasional appearances at the Westerville High School band concerts to show students that music can be a lifelong passion.

Laswell’s hard work and dedication to his students will be showcased at these upcoming Westerville South Band Concerts: March 8-9: Ohio Music Education Association Large Group Contest May 9: Spring Band Concert Emily Hetterscheidt is a contributing writer.

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

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Turning Interest into Action How piper Glenn Mackie uses his talent to educate and entertain

studied bagpiping over the years across the world.

“I went to the College of Piping, which, at the time, was the only piping school in Scotland,” says Mackie. “This was the experience of a lifetime and, even though I was only there for one intense week, I came back playing better and wanted to keep going.”

In the states, Mackie has attended numerous seminars at organizations such as The Ohio Scottish Art School, The Balmoral School and The North American Academy of Piping and Drumming where he learned different disciplines within the Scottish bagpipe genre.

With this education in hand, Mackie has traveled the world participating in multiple pipe band competitions, with different organizations such as Capital City Pipes and Drums, and currently, the Cyril Scott Pipe Band.

“I’ve participated in both regional and international competitions where there are different grades for either solo or band piping,” says Mackie. “You always know what grade you’re in before competing and the goal is to always try and move up.”

With multiple victories both as a solo performer and band member, Mackie finds comradery as his favorite aspect when performing in piping competitions.

By Laura Baird

20 March/April 2019

as the Celtic New Year. Afterwards, Mackie reached out to one of the members, who helped turn his interest into opportunity.

After 35 years, Mackie has forged quite a name for himself in the Columbus community and beyond.

However, he is a firm believer that your skill set always has room for improvement.

“When speaking in terms of learning how to play the bagpipes, it’s just like a professional golfe – they all get to the point where they’re very good, but they’re always trying to learn how to do better,” says Mackie. “Therefore, I’m always learning, rehearsing or practicing.”

Experiences Galore Mackie’s success in playing the bagpipes didn’t emerge overnight. He has

Mackie educates those who have a passion for bagpipes.

“I could be the best piper in my given grade but the only people who know me are those that I beat,” says Mackie. “However, if I’m in a winning band, they look at my uniform or my kilt and know I’m with ‘that’ band, so there is a little more notoriety.”

Marching On Whether he is performing solo or with his beloved band members, Mackie has an immense passion for sharing the sounds of the bagpipes with community members. www.westervillemagazine.com

Photos courtesy of Cyril Scott Pipe Band

F

rom a young age, New Jersey native Glenn Mackie knew heritage was an important aspect of his life. A television show he would watch with his father provided insight on a musical genre that would later become his success story.

“One rainy Saturday afternoon, I was sitting around with my dad watching Shirley Temple in Wee Willie Winkie, a show about this girl whose dad is in the Scottish Regimen,” says Mackie.

“There were bagpipes and kilts, and once I expressed Glenn Mackie my interest, my dad informed me this was our heritage.”

Mackie didn’t pursue this interest until the age of 32 when he moved to Columbus, now a Westerville resident, and encountered a pipe band at an Irish celebration known

This passion has led him to perform at numerous events, both large and small.

“Weddings and funerals are typically solo performances while the whole band performs at St. Patrick Day events, large golf outings and the Dublin Irish Festival,” says Mackie.

With four to five alternating arrangements in his playbook, Mackie is always prepared with a a song no matter what event. As some events are more serious than others, he is always grateful for the opportunity to incorporate his Scottish heritage.

“When preforming at funerals, I always tell the family I’m honored to be there, and to me, the tunes are helping to bring closure,” says Mackie. “The same goes for weddings – it’s never about me, as I want the event to be about the folks hosting it and what they want.”

Aside from the more intimate performances, Mackie and his band also have the pleasure of sharing Scottish heritage with large crowds, playing with both The Chieftains and The Ohio State University Marching Band at the 2004 Fiesta Bowl. For these larger events, he finds excitement in nailing the perfect performance.

“Playing in front of a large group of people without making a mistake is thrilling,” says Mackie. “When you walk away knowing you killed it, you’re on cloud nine.”

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The Future is in the Kilt When Mackie isn’t practicing for his next performance or pipe band competition, he educates those who hold a similar passion for the bagpipes. From children to adults, he believes that pursuing a musical passion can be done at any age.

“With the younger ones, I love watching them become excited and go from uncertainty to instantly wanting more music,” says Mackie. “For adults, it tends to be a lifelong dream they have more time for, and I love seeing people accomplish that dream.”

Regardless of the setting, Mackie hopes his passion for the bagpipes will spark the interests of many generations to come while also opening their eyes to a unique music style.

“I enjoy the heck out of it,” says Mackie. “I used to play guitar and if I played the guitar ten times better than I play the bagpipes, I wouldn’t have been able to do half the things I’ve done with the bagpipes because it’s such a unique instrument.”

Laura Baird is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com. www.westervillemagazine.com

March/April 2019

21

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March/April 2019

23

Aquatic Adventures First-of-its-kind aquarium program now available via Otterbein University’s Zoo and Conservation Science Program

By Nathan Collins

O

tterbein University’s zoo and conservation science major grew in a novel way in late 2018. One of only five universities in the country to offer a bachelor’s degree in this field, the program expanded to include a specialized path for students interested in aquariums, and marine and freshwater conservation.

The new aquarium track – a unique opportunity to learn about aquatic life and troubleshoot the reoccurring problems in aquarium environments – is a partnership that includes the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and Reef Systems Coral Farm.

“Each year we have a booth at the annual Association of Zoos and Aquariums conference and many people from the aquarium side of the industry approached us to see if we had students that knew about aquariums,” says Hal Lescinsky, professor in the department of biology and earth science at Otterbein University. “Although I assumed I would need to work to make contacts, it turned out that Otterbein’s reputation and name recognition preceded me and I was approached by many people seeking to build aquarium ties.”

The two partners bring different areas of expertise to the table. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has been a partner in the zoo program from its inception, and will continue to be a place for students to experience large-scale and diverse aquarium systems.

“While the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium does have a large reef fish exhibit, it also has many other lesser-appreciated aquariums for penguins, reptiles and other organisms,” Lescinsky says. “It will provide the full gamut of aquarium experiences needed to train our students.”

Central core courses to the zoo and conservation science program are, of course, offered in addition to:

24 March/April 2019

• Comprehensive introductory courses in marine science and zoos and aquariums • Open water scuba diver certification • Visitation to local aquariums, freshwater conservation and aquaculture facilities in addition to a junior practicum where students provide upkeep for a saltwater tank • Upper-level biology courses in coral reef ecology, aquatic biology and invertebrate biology • Internship at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium or at Reef Systems Coral Farm • Undergraduate research with professors in ongoing projects on tadpoles, freshwater mussels and coral reef ecology • Compete to win the Sea Life Award, sponsored by Sea Life, a large chain of aquariums, for the best senior research project each year • Journey with faculty to conduct research in Central America at the Belize Barrier Reef “Aquarium graduates will be qualified for the various careers associated with zoos and aquariums,” Lescinsky says. “In addition to specialized knowledge of species that live in fresh and saltwater, they will possess expertise in ‘life support,’ the know-how to keep pumps running and to maintain sea water within its narrow parameters.”

Otterbein’s zoo and conservation science major has sent more students to national meetings than any other institution, and the program supports students in internships with animals worldwide. In addition to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and Reef Systems Coral Farm, other partners include the Ohio Wildlife Center.

“I grew up by the shore in New Jersey, and have always loved the ocean and its many marine environments,” Lescinsky says. “Teaching about these environments and the weird and wonderful organisms

that live in them is necessary and rewarding, particularly at this time when so many ocean environments, such as reefs, are in dire straits.”

Learn more at www.otterbein.edu/ zooandconservationscience.com.

Nathan Collins is a managing editor. Feedback welcome at ncollins@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Threats to freshwater ecosystems • Water diversion systems • Human water consumption • Agricultural and urban area runoff • Loss of habitat • Overexploitation and pollution to groundwater supplies • Invasion of exotic species • Climate change Threats to saltwater ecosystems • Climate change • Industrial, agricultural and urban area runoff • Oil spills • Air pollution • Invasive species like poisonous algae and cholera www.westervillemagazine.com

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living

By Nathan Collins

A Labor of Love Historical preservation key to renovation of 110-year-old structure

N

icole Harrison isn’t a fan of traditional office space. As the broker and owner of The Harrison Co. Real Estate Group, her goal is to have a space that reflects her business style, which is a little unconventional but always professional.

The Harrison Co. Real Estate Group’s first office, located in downtown Powell, was a triple-sided glass garage door building; a space she enjoyed, but there was no opportunity to own the building on the horizon.

So, when a 110-year-old church in Uptown Westerville came on the market, she jumped at the chance to own a piece of history.

An Amish wood-working company created the replica front doors and Franklin Art Glass installed the glass.

After closing on the property, Harrison then spent the next 10 months renovating the former church and one-time lodge of the International Order of Odd Fellows.

26 March/April 2019

“I wasn’t necessarily anticipating a move, it’s just when you have a property like this come on the market, it just doesn’t happen very often,” says Harrison.

After walking through the building, it was apparent that there was some deferred maintenance and work needed to bring the church back to life.

Even though the renovation was going to be an undertaking, Harrison ended up going to contract August 2017 and closed on the building November of the same year.

“I was meant to own this church building and be its caretaker,” says Harrison. “I am honored at the privilege. It’s on Home Street, how much more fitting could it be for a real estate office?”

Nathan Collins is a managing editor. Feedback welcome at ncollins@cityscenemediagroup.com.

“The goal of the renovation was to preserve as much as possible and keep the integrity of the building ... the materials we chose to be in the same era and of the same quality,” says Harrison. “So, ultimately, the original windows we didn’t touch other than cleaning them. At some point we’ll have plans to have Franklin Art Glass to have them restored, but that’s a pretty significant cost.” www.westervillemagazine.com

Weighing in at approximately 300 pounds, the original cast-iron bell still rests in the bell tower and is fully functional.

Photos courtesy of Dan Brokaw, Nicole Harrison, New Horizon Media Group and Kent Smith Photography

Harrison has been in real estate for 19 years and opened The Harrison Co. in 2016.

“We ripped out an old kitchen that had previously stood where the church alter was,” Harrison says. “It had hidden one of the really pretty stained-glass windows that was in the back of the building that I don’t think most people saw for a good 20 years because of the way the ceiling had been done for the old kitchen.”

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March/April 2019

27

on the table By Liz Anastasiadis

A Wheely Delicious Time Community event raises hunger awareness

S

eptember 2018 was Hunger Action Month, and the Westerville community took action to the feed the local area, regardless of the weather.

In 2013, the Great Westerville Food Truck Fest, a community-based event that benefits the Westerville Area Resource Ministry, began. But this past September, the event was canceled due to weather conditions. Instead, it turned into online orders for food, enabling the festival to continue on the web.

The festival was going to include a kid’s area, where children and families could spend time with police officers from the Westerville and Columbus areas. Originally scheduled to dress as superheroes, the police officers’ purpose was to educate kids about safety, help with arts and crafts, play games and do Taekwondo demonstrations.

Typically, the event features 32 food trucks, including Steamroller Bagel sandwiches, Tortilla Street Food trucks, Schmidt’s Sausage Haus Und Restaurant, and Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream &

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28 March/April 2019

www.westervillemagazine.com

Creamy Cilantro Sauce by Tortilla Food Trucks This recipe combines two of our favorite Mexican staples, cilantro and avocado!

This mild sauce adds a fresh finish to any plate and provides a great balance to spicy dishes.

• 10 tomatillos • ¼ avocado • ½ fresh jalapeno • ½ fresh cilantro

• ¼ cup mayonnaise • 1 clove of garlic • 1 Tbsp. salt • ½ lime, juiced

Prep ingredients by removing the skins for the tomatillos, seeds from the jalapeno and stems from the cilantro. Add all ingredients into a blender and mix on a medium to high setting until smooth. Refrigerate and store in an airtight container up to five days.

Photos courtesy of WARM and Tortilla Street Food

Originating in central Ohio, Tortilla Food Trucks creates Mexican street food for the community to enjoy. At Tortilla, you can get a customized meal from one of their three food trucks or from its full-time restaurant in downtown Columbus.

Yogurt. The annual event is a gathering place for family and friends in the community to experience different street food from local businesses.

Other than laughs and fun, the overall purpose of the Great Westerville Food Truck Fest is to raise awareness, and educate patrons on the issues of poverty and hunger in the greater Columbus area. Even though the 2018 event was still a success, hopefully 2019 will see clear skies.

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Liz Anastasiadis is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

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Pet Friendly March/April 2019

29

bookmarks

From the Westerville Public Library

Recommended Reads

from Annamarie Carlson, Youth Services Librarian

Mr. Wolf’s Class

Yasmin the Builder

Nikki & Deja

One of Us Is Lying

By Aron Nels Steinke (juvenile graphic novel)

By Saadia Faruqi (reader)

By Karen English (first chapter)

By Karen M. McManus (teen fiction)

Yasmin’s class is working together to build a city filled with homes, businesses and a school. Yasmin is stumped—there can’t possibly be anything else this city needs. Or is there?

Neighbors Nikki and Deja do everything together until a bossy new girl in their 3rd grade class starts an exclusive club that turns best friends into members of rival playground clubs.

Five teens enter detention. Four make it out alive. All are suspects, and all have secrets. This breakfast-club-style whodunit will keep readers on the edge of their seat.

New teacher Mr. Wolf tries to keep track of his 4th graders who are busy with first day activities: making new friends, falling asleep while reading and quizzing classmates on whether they prefer ice cream or farts.

Recommended Reads

Rethinking School: How to Take Charge of Your Child’s Education

By Susan Wise Bauer This book serves as a valuable resource for parents of children struggling to succeed in the traditional K-12 public education system.

from Megan Chrusciel, Adult Services Librarian

The Lost Education of Horace Tate: Uncovering the Hidden Heroes Who Fought for Justice in Schools

“You Can’t Fire the Bad Ones!”: And 18 Other Myths about Teachers, Teachers’ Unions, and Public Education

A Girl Stands at the Door: The Generation of Young Women Who Desegregated America’s Schools

By Vanessa Siddle Walker

By William Ayers

By Rachel Devlin

The authors encourage readers to rethink deeply entrenched assumptions about educators, teachers’ unions and the education system.

Discover the grassroots movement largely led by young women in the fight to desegregate schools in the U.S.

After Dr. Tate passed in 2002, a friend and colleague discovered countless documents detailing the hidden struggle of southern educators behind the monumental Brown v. Board of Education decision.

The Westerville Public Library

126 S. State St. • Phone: 614-882-7277 • www.westervillelibrary.org Mon.-Thurs.: 9 a.m.- 9 p.m.; Fri. & Sat.: 9 a.m.- 6 p.m.; Sun.: 1- 6 p.m.

30 March/April 2019

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