Westerville Magazine March/April 2013

INSIDE

Unique educational initiatives

Musical Insight Bagpipe Lessons

B

Civic Scholarships

KEYE BLIT C U

Z

Education Foundation

City Reporter Westerville News and Information

S I N I E B R E T OT ING UP TEAM E R BACH U O Y N R YOU EA P L E H TO

LOR’S

OTTERBEIN+ CSCC 2+2 TRANSFER PROGRAM

Once you complete your associate degree at Columbus State Community College, transfer to Otterbein to earn a bachelor’s degree.* *select degrees offered

Adult and Transfer Admission (614) 823-1356 www.otterbein.edu/earndegree

2+2 Transfer Program

©2012 OhioHealth

OhioHealth Westerville Medical Campus

New Heart & Vascular Center.

New Lab. 24/7 Emergency Care.

OhioHealth Westerville Medical Campus

+ Over 120 physicians including central Ohio’s largest, most experienced emergency physician group. + New Heart & Vascular Center with physicians from Riverside and Grant.

Now offering prevention and wellness programs, heart failure clinic, cardiac imaging and rehabilitation. + Free childcare, free Wi-Fi, free valet, a greeter to guide you, and more.

A FAITH-BASED, NOT-FOR-PROFIT HEALTHCARE SYSTEM + RIVERSIDE METHODIST HOSPITAL + GRANT MEDICAL CENTER + DOCTORS HOSPITAL GRADY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL + DUBLIN METHODIST HOSPITAL + DOCTORS HOSPITAL – NELSONVILLE + HARDIN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL MARION GENERAL HOSPITAL + WESTERVILLE MEDICAL CAMPUS + 20 HEALTH AND SURGERY CENTERS + WELLNESS PRIMARY AND SPECIALTY CARE + URGENT CARE + HOSPICE + HOME HEALTH + 21,000 PHYSICIANS, ASSOCIATES AND VOLUNTEERS

OhioHealth.com/Westerville

Westerville

TM

TM

magazine Your source for arts and entertainment in Central Ohio Get daily updates at cityscenecolumbus.com Prizes, ticket packages, deal alerts & more!

Supporting central Ohio’s visual and performing arts since 1999

Follow us on

To advertise call 614.572.1240

magazine

CityScene Media Group 781 Northwest Blvd., Suite 202 Columbus, Ohio 43212 614-572-1240 • Fax 614-572-1241 www.cityscenecolumbus.com Charles L. Stein Kathleen K. Gill Dave Prosser Lynn Leitch Christa Smothers Garth Bishop Lisa Aurand Duane St. Clair

Condominium Board Members are not paid, not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless!

We Do OneThing And Do It Well.

Condominium/Homeowner Association Law We provide comprehensive information, education, and communication with the board.

Kaman & CUSIMANO, LLC 470 Olde Worthington Road, Suite 460 • Columbus, Ohio 43082 614-882-3100 • Toll-Free 888-800-1042 ohiocondolaw.com • ohiohoalaw.com

4

Holly Butcher Allison Dalrymple Andrea Frazier Sarah Sole

Chief Executive Officer President/Publisher Chief Creative Officer Controller Creative Director Editor Contributing Editors Contributing Writers

Amanda King Morgan Montgomery

Editorial Assistants

Nick Lannan

Advertising Director

Gianna Barrett Julie Camp Pam Henricks Molly Pensyl Sadie Bauer Circulation

Advertising Sales

Marketing/Promotions Manager 614-572-1240

City of Westerville Christa Dickey

Community Affairs Administrator

www.wester villemagazine.com CityScene Media Group also publishes: 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 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 Westerville Magazine does not constitute an endorsement of the advertiser’s product or service by the City of Westerville.

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

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

www.westervillemagazine.com

Inside 09

MARCH/APRIL 2013 VOL. 12 NO. 4

06 community calendar 09 city reporter

City Reporter

News and Information from the City of Westerville

News and Information from the City of Westerville

16 faces

Playing by Ear Blind band hones its musical style

18 in focus

16

Grant Me Strength Unique educational initiatives are still target of revamped foundation

22 Pipe Dreams

Local lessons help Westerville residents learn the bagpipes

25 Civic Scholarships

College scholarships offer Westerville students a boost

26 living

A Tale of Two Stories Multi-level addition transforms century-old house

28 on the table

22

Scrumdiddlyumptious Family tradition goes into candy-maker’s every creation

30 bookmarks

Recommendations from the Westerville Public Library

The photos of the Chilly Open that appeared on pages 5, 15, 22, 23 and 24 of the January/February edition of Westerville Magazine were taken by Kathy Wagner.

On the Cover:

Find Westerville Magazine on Facebook and Twitter Read more online at WestervilleMagazine.com www.westervillemagazine.com

Students at Westerville North High School work on a radish garden funded by a grant from the Westerville Education Foundation.

Story, Page 18.

5

2013

SAT FRI THU 4 3 2 11 10 9 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

8

March 2

Lions Club Pancake Breakfast 8-10:30 a.m., American Legion Post 171, 393 E. College Ave., www.westervillelions.org The proceeds from this annual breakfast help provide eye exams and glasses for children in need.

St., www.westervillelibrary.org Travel expert Rick Steves, known for his European travel guidebooks and his shows on public television and radio, offers a wealth of tips on making the most of every travel excursion.

March 16

Half Pint Hullabaloo 9:30 a.m.-noon, Westerville Community Center, Accessible Expressions 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Ohio 2013 Westerville Community Center, www.westerville.org Parents and preschoolers 350 N. Cleveland Ave., are welcome to this event fowww.vsao.org cused on fun, family-friendly VSA Arts of Ohio, an organization dedicated to empower- and budget-friendly activities. ing people with disabilities March 17 through the arts, puts its 90-plus piece 2013 art exhi- Fish Fry and Chicken Bake bition on display. A Day of the 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Otterbein Campus Center, Arts for All, the exhibition’s 100 W. Home St., opening ceremony featuring www.westervillerotary.com awards presentations and The Rotary Club of Westerville performances, runs from 11 hosts an all-you-can-eat fish, a.m. to 2 p.m. March 2. chicken and hot dogs meal to support its high school March 2 scholarships.

Children’s Concert

March 2-29

We’re Just a Smile Away!

STEPHEN R. MALIK, D.D.S. GENERAL DENTISTRY

Dr. Malik has more than 20 years of experience.

OFFERING: Gentle Caring Staff Same Day Crowns Botox® Juvéderm® Lumineers® Nitrous Oxide Saturday Appts.

24 hr. Emergency Care

Accepting New Patients!

(614) 882-6741 180 Commerce Park Drive Westerville, Ohio 43082

Located in office complex, last building on the left by the bike path.

westervilledentalhealth.com 6

3 p.m., Westerville Central High School, 7118 Mount Royal Ave., www.westervillebands.org The Westerville Concert Band’s show features kidfriendly music and an instrument petting zoo.

March 7-16

Otterbein Department of Theatre and Dance presents After the Fall 8 p.m., Fritsche Theatre at Cowan Hall, 30 S. Grove St., www.otterbein.edu Arthur Miller’s play After the Fall features a man trying to make peace with his own history and re-examining his life as he attempts to decide what future to follow.

March 15

Rick Steves 7:30-9 p.m., Westerville Public Library, 126 S. State

March 24

Otterbein University Concert Choir 7:30 p.m., Grace Lutheran Church, 100 E. Schrock Rd., 614-882-7968 The Otterbein University Concert Choir performs as part of the A Joyful Noise concert series.

March 25-29

Spring Break www.westerville.k12.oh.us Westerville City School District students are out for spring break.

March 25-April 4

Juried Student Art Exhibition Miller Gallery, 33 Collegeview Rd., www.otterbein.edu The 16th annual juried exhibition of Otterbein University students’ art features a reception and awards ceremony at 3 p.m. March 28.

March 30

Jerrie Mock and Other Women in Flight 7:30 p.m., Westerville Public Library, 126 S. State St., 614-882-7277 ext. 2160 Susan Reid is the featured presenter in the Westerville Historical Society’s program on the first woman to fly solo around the world – who hailed from central Ohio – and her contemporaries.

Bunny Hop 5K and Spring Eggstravaganza 8 a.m., Hoff Wood Park, 556 McCorkle Blvd., www.westerville.org Westerville’s Easter celebration begins with the Bunny Hop 5K Run/Walk in and around Hoff Woods Park. The adult race starts at 8 a.m. and the youth race follows at 9 a.m. Following the races is the Spring Eggstravaganza egg hunt, sponsored by the Westerville Lions Club, at 11 a.m.

March 22-April 7

March 30

March 22

Curtain Players Theatre presents All My Sons 8 p.m., Curtain Players Theatre, 5691 Harlem Rd., Galena, www.curtainplayers.org The Curtain Players perform Arthur Miller’s award-winning play criticizing the “American Dream” as a family deals with a mysterious disappearance.

Special Needs Easter Egg Hunt 11 a.m.-noon, Westerville Community Center, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., www.westervillecivitan.webs.com The Westerville Civitan Club’s Easter egg hunt is organized specifically for special needs children.

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

www.westervillemagazine.com

APRIL April 7

Westerville Symphony presents Poetic Landscapes 7 p.m., Fritsche Theatre at Cowan Hall, 30 S. Grove St., www.westervillesymphony.org Performing pieces by Brahms and Chopin, the Westerville Symphony puts on the second show in this season’s Masterworks series, featuring Nick Ross, Otterbein University’s new associate professor of piano.

April 8-May 17

Senior Art Exhibitions Miller Gallery, Art and Communication Building, 33 Collegeview Rd., www.otterbein.edu Weekly exhibitions by graduating art majors from Otterbein University are open to the public.

April 13

Katie Dunning Spring Dance 7-9 p.m., Westerville Community Center, 350 N. Cleveland Ave.,

www.westervillecivitan.webs.com The Westerville Civitan Club’s spring event is a dance for special needs children designed to help them enjoy social interaction.

April 18-20

Westerville North High School presents Harvey Westerville North High School, 950 County Line Rd., 614-797-6200 The award-winning comedy by Mary Chase is about a man and his friend: a 6’3” invisible rabbit.

April 19

Taste of Westerville 7-10 p.m., The Lakes Golf and Country Club, 6740 Worthington Rd., www.westervillechamber.com The Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce presents its annual smorgasbord of local dining options, also featuring a beer and wine tasting and a silent auction.

April 21

Children’s Garden Day: Sunflower Power 2-4 p.m., Inniswood Metro Gardens, 940 S. Hempstead Rd., www.inniswood.org Enjoy family-friendly activities, make garden art, meet baby animals and learn about the benefits of growing sunflowers.

April 25-28

April 26

OhioHealth 4th Friday: Uptown Alive!

6-9 p.m., Historic Uptown Westerville, 614-794-0401 Come explore the vibrant retail district in historic Uptown Westerville and enjoy free community events, including art, entertainment, children’s activities and business vendors.

Westerville South High School presents Legally Blonde Westerville South High School, 303 S. Otterbein Ave., 614-797-6000 South’s theater department presents the story of Elle Woods, a sorority girl who enrolls at Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend but soon finds merit in her new legal skills.

A HOUSE “SOLD” NAME www.KurtMcCurdy.com

614-818-7676

Kurt McCurdy

The McCurdy Team

Serving Central Ohio and Surrounding Areas since 1975

NOW TAKING LISTINGS AND REPRESENTING BUYERS Olentangy First Ad

Windemere in Westerville

Westerville First Ad

Westerville College Ave.

Amazing Mint Condition 4/5 Bedroom 4 Bath with motherin-law suite. Gourmet with stainless package, eating/work island, granite amd more. Finished lower level, stainless bar fully equipped, natural light window, game area and more.

Huge lot with paver patio. Price Low $400s

Charming Cape Cod is Situated on Quiet Cul-de-sac with Ravine Lot. This Custom Quality Home has Exceptional Woodworking Package with Many Built-ins. The 2 Woodburning Fireplaces Accent the Spacious Family Room and Mammoth Master Complex. Value Priced $324,400

Professional Renovated Westerville

Absolutely Mint Condition. Contractor’s Own Personal Project for Family. Updated Inside and Out Including… New Roof 2009… New Windows 2008… New Gutters 2012…

New Tile 2012… New Carpet 2012… New French Drain 2012… Wood Floors Refinished 2012… Updated Baths…Appliances Included… 4 BR, 2.5 BA, Mid $170s.

Mint-condition 2 Story in Wonderful Windemere Location. Includes Gourmet Kitchen, Double Staircase, 2 Story Foyer and Family Room with Wood-burning Fireplace. Fabulous 30x30 Paver Patio, Finished Lower Level and Professionally Landscaped. Includes Formal Living & Dining Rooms. Deluxe Master with Tub & Shower and Vaulted Ceilings.

Value priced $240s.

Quaint Cape Cod Situated on Acre Lot in Tranquil, Park-like Setting.

Interior Includes Gourmet Kitchen with Granite Countertops and New Cabinets. Totally Updated Bathrooms. Oversized 1st Floor Master Suite.

Lots of Hardwood Floors. Outdoor Entertainment with Decks, Pool and More. Two Bedrooms with Updated Baths and Dormers, Ideal for Guests or the Growing Family. Mid $230s.

Smothers Road Estate

Remarkable Home Custom Built by Don Gates on a Stunning 6 Acre Lot! Open Floor Plan Features center Island Kitchen with Custom Hickory Miller Built Cabinets, Breakfast Bar, Walk-in Pantry and Planning Desk. 2 Story Foyer & Vaulted Ceilings with Skylights in the Great Room.

French Doors Lead to Gorgeous Cedar Sun Room. Insulated Pool Barn with Separate Elec & Insulation – Ideal Workshop or Storage. Low $400s.

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED IN: “Uptown” Westerville at 42 N. State Street www.westervillemagazine.com

7

casual luxury

Let Bel Lago indulge your culinary desires

Josh Kayser

executive chef

170 N Sunbury Rd. Westerville, OH 614.891.0200 bellagorestaurant.com

Sunday Brunch: 11am-3pm Dinner: 4pm-9pm | Monday-Thursday: 4pm-10pm | Friday-Saturday: 11am-11pm

CityReporter News & Information from the City of Wester ville

Westerville Utilities Launch Commercial Advanced Metering

www.westervillemagazine.com

than a century, the City of Westerville has remained among the few central Ohio municipalities to own and maintain their own utilities, which includes the water and electric service,” he said. “This allows the City to provide our own support as well as maintain the quality and cost control that have historically been among the most competitive in the region.”

The Westerville Electric Division and Water Division serve more than 36,000 residents and a daytime/business population nearly double that. With advancements in technology, electric and water systems have been moving toward advanced metering systems that measure and report data directly to the utility.

The technology, having evolved from the manual to automated process, has expanded utility providers’ capability for providing near real-time information for business owners so that they can monitor and control their own usage of electricity and water.

In Westerville, the current program is limited to commercial accounts.* The replacement schedule continues through June, with a new online Customer Care portal available by the end of the year.

This program will give customers direct access to their usage, along with a variety

of tools to modify, adapt or change usage patterns.

The meter replacement effort is focused on pairing business services and technology to best serve Westerville businesses.

“It’s those kinds of people and service that make Westerville an excellent place to do business,” says Rogers.

For more information on the Commercial Advanced Metering Program, please visit www. westerville.org. *The Westerville Electric and Water Divisions are accepting residential volunteers for meter replacements. There is no charge to the resident, and users will be enrolled in the Customer Care portal on the same timeline as commercial accounts. To place your name on a wait list, please contact the Westerville Electric Division at 614-901-6700.

“

For more than a century, the City of Westerville w ww. w es t er vil l e. or g

Kriss Rogers, owner of the specialty home and garden store Outside Envy in Uptown Westerville, says she would not have paid much attention to the installation of an updated utility meter in her shop. That is, until the meter alerted the City of Westerville to a water problem.

The new digital meter system in Rogers’ shop is part of the City’s Commercial Advanced Metering program. As one of the replacements in the commercial Uptown district, the automated device alerted staff to a water flow issue in the building that may have otherwise gone undetected.

“The installation and presence of the meter almost goes unnoticed until you have a situation like mine where it detected the issue,” said Rogers. “Then, the ‘people’ part comes into play. The Water Division came in first to be sure that the water supply was not being jeopardized by my issue, but then went the extra mile and help solve the problem that I was experiencing in-store.”

The commercial advanced metering program is now nearly 1,000 meters, or approximately halfway, into the project.

A significant portion of commercial/industrial locations in Westerville have had utility meters replaced and updated from the analog meters, which required manual readings. With new digital meters, businesses in Westerville have access to new features provided by this technology, including improved customer service, immediate alerts of outages and flags that indicate potential problems.

It’s another key advantage to doing business in Westerville, according to City Manager David Collinsworth. “For more

has remained among the few central Ohio municipalities to own and maintain their own utilities.

” 9

News & Information from the City of Wester ville What stands out as one of the most challenging experiences, and how did you overcome it?

We only have three full-time employees, one part-time employee and my supervisor in our department. Last year, we lost one full-time and our part-time employees.

We are also deploying new meters to our commercial accounts. I learned to work with co-workers more closely, and prioritize daily tasks to make the day go more smoothly.

Staff Profile

What is something about the programs you manage that people may not know?

We bill more than 16,000 accounts each and every month.

Ed Townsend Named 2012 Employee of the Year City Manager David Collinsworth presents the Employee of the Year award to Ed Townsend.

Each December, the City of Westerville recognizes outstanding employees who have demonstrated excellent performance, productivity, loyalty, pride and responsibility. “Employee of the Year” candidates are nominated by their peers and/or supervisors. A committee comprised of City staff reviews the applications, selecting recipients of the Excellence in Service Award and one Employee of the Year. The City of Westerville is pleased to announce Ed Townsend, Customer Service Representative from the Finance Department/Utility Billing Services, was named the 2012 Employee of the Year.

Congratulations on this achievement.

What does this award mean to you?

It’s such an honor. I know many of the past award recipients and have the utmost respect for them. It is unbelievable that I am mentioned in the same group as them.

And I greatly appreciate that my hard work has been recognized. I would like to thank Dave Collinsworth; Lee Ann Shortland; Gina Love; my immediate supervisor who nominated me, Caryn Dachner; the committee that selected me and all my co-workers.

Where are you from originally?

I was born and raised in Westerville. I have seen a lot of changes since the early year of 1959.

10

How long have you worked for Westerville? When did you get started?

I have worked for Westerville for 14 years. I started as a part-time meter reader in February 1999.

What is a typical day for you in the Utility Billing division?

I basically go over all the meter reads from the residents and businesses of Westerville that come in to the office every day to make sure they are accurate. I also answer the phones and help customers with their questions and problems. I also enter exchanged meters into the computer, so I work closely with the zoning, electric and water departments.

What is the most rewarding experience you have had in nearly 14 years with the City?

I remember that I helped a customer whose mother had passed away. She had sold her mother’s house and I helped her with what she needed to accomplish.

She wrote a letter saying that I helped her through a very rough and difficult period. What was so special about that letter was that she took time to praise my actions. Usually, people only write letters to complain. That was very nice of her to acknowledge someone doing the right thing.

What do you do in your leisure time?

I have adopted one special needs child and I’m in the process of adopting another special needs child, so there is not much leisure time. I do love to play and watch sports, and I love to go to Disney World as I am a Disney Vacation Club member.

Congratulations to the 2012 Excellence in Service Award Winners Joe Bargdill, Planning & Development Aaron Dickison, Division of Police Nick Jones, Division of Fire Sandy Kitzmiller, Division of Fire Dan Koch, Westerville Electric Division Nancy Mattiello, Mayor’s Court Margi Rundio, Parks & Recreation Rebecca Stalnaker, Finance James Tharp, Division of Fire The 2012 Safety Matters Award was presented to the Westerville Electric Division. The criteria for the award are not limited to actual accident or incident occurrences over this year, but accumulated points for safety trainings, institution of safe practices and policies, safety-related staff meetings, and adherence to the City’s injury reporting procedures. Consistently high marks in these areas are evidence of a strong culture of safety within the Electric Division. Congratulations!

www.westervillemagazine.com

Income Tax Forms Available Online

Forms are available on the City of Westerville website for 2012 income tax, due Monday, April 15. Visit www.westerville.org/incometax or look for links from the front page of the site to access forms and helpful links. The Income Tax Department offers assistance to all filers, including form preparation, expanded office hours and e-filing services. For more information, contact the department or stop by the office to speak with a representative.

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

Plan Uptown There’s still time to tell Westerville what you want to see in Uptown. Visit www. planuptown.com today and submit your idea or comment.

Westerville Citizen’s Academy Goes Behind the Scenes The City of Westerville has launched a new program that offers participants behind-the-scenes access to known and little-known City services and programs. The Westerville Citizen’s Academy (WCA), a citizen-oriented experience, is based on the concept of Westerville’s successful academy programs from the Westerville Divisions of Police and Fire. The model is also popular in other cities as a CITIZEN’S ACADEMY community engagement program to give residents an opportunity to interact with City departments, staff and services.

WCA is a seven-week program that takes place two times a year, in the spring and fall. Participants take part in a two-hour class one night a week during the term of the course. Each week is focused on interactive features, such as exploring equipment, tours, demonstrations and hands-on activities.

“Any question from what happens during a power outage to how our community water is sourced and treated will be answered during this experience,” said David Collinsworth, City Manager. “This program is designed for the Westerville resident, to show them every aspect of how their community services are put to work.”

All residents are invited to participate, especially those who have an interest in serving the community on a Board or Commission.

For more information, or to access the WCA application, please visit www. westerville.org/WCA or contact us at 614-901-6400.

WEEK ONE: Tour Westerville. Tour Westerville by bus with the Economic Development team and learn more about Westerville history and the City’s form of government.

WEEK TWO: Westerville Division of Fire and Westerville Water Department.

Tour the Water Plant and use and explore equipment while seeing the community fire safety and protection service in action.

WEEK THREE: Westerville Electric Division and WˉeConnect Community Data Center. Tour the City’s municipal power system and learn how the City is using technology to serve Westerville businesses.

w ww. we s t er vil l e. or g

WEEK FOUR: Westerville Planning and Development and Public Service Departments. Focus on construction projects and city planning, and get hands-on with equipment used in your neighborhood.

WEEK FIVE: Westerville Division of Police and Mayor’s Court. Tour the station, and interact with our public safety officers to learn more about community policing.

WEEK SIX: Westerville Parks and Recreation. See the Westerville Community Center like never before, with a close look at our recreational programming and land use priorities.

WEEK SEVEN: Graduation. Recognition at a Westerville City Council meeting for successful completion of the program.

www.westervillemagazine.com

11

News & Information from the City of Wester ville

Mobile App for City Services Now Available Your guide to City services is now just a download away on your smartphone. The City of Westerville mobile application, or “app,” is now available for Android devices and iPhone through Google Play and the Apple App Store, respectively.

The app is an extension of the City’s mobile website, which has been available since 2010 when the City launched a new public website. The platforms work together to keep information, alerts and news from the City up-to-date, consistent and user-friendly.

“Cities have done applications on large and small scales,” said Todd Jackson, Chief Information Officer for the City of Westerville. “Our objective for this app was to package the most intuitive options to City services that people want to launch from their phones. We used the technology in which we’ve already invested and created functionality that works easily on the go, when and where most users may be accessing it.”

Users of the app can quickly find City contacts and building locations, as well as maps and sites of parks and trails. Shortcuts to news, events and social media networks are also included.

The app offers quick access to permits and forms, as well as a link to submit a service request. Local information, including weather and local gas prices, are also buttons accessible from the welcome screen.

The City featured two areas of town for special emphasis, particularly for the benefit of visitors or new residents. The Uptown district, known for unique shopping, entertainment and dining, is featured in a directory-style format, along with tips for parking. Westerville’s high-profile access to health care along the Cleveland Avenue corridor, dubbed the “Medical Mile,” is included with a listing of the major medical and health providers in that region.

The app is in its first version, and will be regularly reviewed to expand and enhance its functionality. For more information, or to send feedback to staff, please email communityaffairs@westerville.org.

Leadership Westerville presented the eighth annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast Celebration on Monday, Jan. 21. Recipients of the Miriam Alston Award were Myron and Linda Ware, owners of the McDonald’s restaurant on Cleveland Avenue near West Main Street. Westerville City Schools recognized three students with the William Fouse Award: Kennedy Dixon, Desmond Fernandez and Kristen Sellan.

Janet E. Jackson served as the keynote speaker. Learn more about the event and the award winners at www.leader shipwesterville.com.

Pictured left to right: Sellan, Dixon, Fernandez, Jackson, Linda Ware, Myron Ware Photo courtesy of William Bretthauer 12

www.westervillemagazine.com

5,940 Number of students in the Westerville City School district impacted in 2012 by the Westerville Energy Education Partnership.*

Hop to it for Popular Spring Events

*The Ohio Energy Project, City of Westerville Electric Division and Westerville City Schools make up the Westerville Energy Education Partnership. Their programs promote energy efficiency in the Westerville community.

For more information, call the Westerville Electric Division at 614-901-6700.

Half Pint Hullabaloo March 16, 9:30 a.m.-noon $3 per child at the door Westerville Community Center Keep your little ones entertained in a budget-friendly way. Half-Pint Hullabaloo is for parents and children ages 1 to 5. This award-winning event features activities and games.

Home Landscape Seminar Tree Care and Home Gardening March 23, 9 a.m.-noon Westerville Community Center, Maple Room A Learn more about tree care, storm preparedness, organic fertilizers, application methods and invasive plants. For more information or to register, call 614-901-6500.

The Bunny Hop benefits the Westerville Parks Foundation Scholarship Program, which provides financial assistance to Westerville residents in need for Parks and Recreation programs and activities. The event is presented by the Westerville Parks Foundation and Premier Sports and sponsored by Mt. Carmel St. Ann’s Hospital.

After the race, head over to the ball fields for the annual Spring Eggstravaganza egg hunt, sponsored by the Westerville Lions Club. Colored eggs and special prizes are spread throughout the fields for an 11 a.m.sharp dash. Arrive early to find the right field (kids line up according to age) and bring a basket. The event is held rain or shine, so dress for the weather.

FOLLOW YOUR CITY OF WESTERVILLE ACCOUNTS ON TWITTER All-City news and information @tellwesterville Westerville Parks & Recreation News, events and announcements (cancellations and updates) @WestervillePark

Westerville Electric Division Outages, alerts and energy tips @WvilleElectric Westerville Division of Police Information, alerts and public safety information @WestervillePD

Like us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/cityofwesterville www.westervillemagazine.com

13

w ww. we s t er vil l e. or g

Mark Your Calendars

Two of spring’s most popular community events are just ahead. Mark your calendars now to participate in the Bunny Hop 5K Run/Walk and Spring Eggstravaganza on Saturday, March 30 at Hoff Woods Park.

The second annual Bunny Hop 5K goes in and around the park, including portions of the leisure/bike paths. The scenic route is good for walkers and runners alike. And the event is familyfriendly, so participants may bring jogging/walking strollers.

The adult race begins at 8 a.m. and the youth race starts at 9 a.m. Registration fees are $30 in advance and $35 the day of the race. Each participant receives a tech T-shirt, a finisher’s medal, prizes, coupons and refreshments. The top five male and female finishers will win gift cards to Fleet Feet.

News & Information from the City of Wester ville

Civic Organizations

By Morgan Montgomery

All for One, Fun for All

Civitan club provides new experiences for special needs community Now might be the time to get involved with the Westerville Civitan Club – if you like dancing, pizza or Easter egg hunts, that is.

In March and April, the club, which is just one year away from its 50th anniversary, sponsors and hosts three fun and popular events in Westerville.

All three support the club’s overall mission: to serve the local community

with an emphasis on helping people with developmental disabilities.

The 31-member club meets twice a month.

While some people join the club with a few reservations, club President Ken Adkins suspects, they choose to stick around thanks to the autonomy they have within the club.

Members pick which events they get involved

in, and the club ensures they have plenty of opportunities from which to choose.

“I feel my responsibility as president is to ensure that my members have plenty of opportunities to serve and volunteer,” Adkins says.

Adkins’ favorite part of the club is the fellowship among members – he looks at them as extended family.

Westerville Community Contacts

All area codes are 614 unless otherwise noted.

FIRE/MEDICAL/POLICE EMERGENCY . . . . 9-1-1 Gas/Carbon Monoxide Leaks. . . . . . . . . 9-1-1 Fire, non-life threatening emergency. . 882-2213 Police, non-life threatening emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 882-7444 City Website. . . . . . . . . . . www.westerville.org Community Affairs ... . . . . . . . . . . ... 901-6411 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. . . . . . . . . . . .

Highlands Park Aquatic Center. . . .

Recreation Program Center. . . . . . .

Senior Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Shelter Information . . . . . . . . . . . .

Urban Forestry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Permits Building . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Burning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Parade/Block Party. . . . . . . . . . . .

Security Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Zoning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Planning & Development Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Planning, Engineering & Zoning . . .

Traffic Engineering . . . . . . . . . . . .

Zoning Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . .

Police Division Headquarters. . . . . . .

Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Detectives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Patrol. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Recorded Information Line. . . . . . . .

Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Service Department. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sewer Emergencies. . . . . . . . . . . .

Sewer Line Maintenance . . . . . . . .

Stormwater Hotline. . . . . . . . . . . .

Street Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . .

Street Maintenance Repairs . . . . . .

901-6591 901-7665 901-6531 901-6560 901-6515 901-6598 901-6650 901-6600 901-6410 901-6482 901-6650.

901-6650 901-6650 901-6670 901-6660 901-6450 901-6470 901-6475 901-6482 901-6879 901-6450 901-6740 901-6740 901-6740 901-6740 901-6740 901-6740

Ci t y M a n a g e r Dave Collinsworth

www.wester ville.org 14

Trash/Recycling Collection. . . . . . . 901-6740 Water Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6740 Water Line Maintenance . . . . . . . . 901-6740 Traffic Violations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6419 Tree/Storm Damage (in right of way) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6591 After hours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6790 Tree Trimming (in right of way). . . . . . . 901-6598 Utility Billing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6430 Water Plant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6770 Other Community Service Contacts Airport—Port Columbus. . . . . . . . . . . 239-4083 Concord Counseling Services. . . . . . . 882-9338 COTA Bus Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228-1776 Delaware County General Information . . . . . . . 740-548-7313 Franklin County Board of Health. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 525-3160 Property Taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 525-3696 Voter Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . 525-3100 Mount Carmel St. Ann’s Hospital. . . . . 898-4000 Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 882-8917 Westerville Area Resource Ministry . . . 899-0196 Westerville City Schools . . . . . . . . . . 797-5700 Westerville Historical Society . . . . . . . 891-0821 Westerville Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 882-7277 Westerville Visitors & Convention Bureau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 794-0401

We st e r v i l l e Ci t y Co u n cil

(Back Left-Right) Craig Treneff, L. Pete Otteson, Vice Chair Larry Jenkins, Vice Mayor Diane Fosselman (Front Left-Right) Chairman Michael Heyeck, Mayor Kathy Cocuzzi, Jenifer French

“We all come from different backgrounds, but you would never know it,” he says. “I am a better man just from being around them.”

The club’s springtime happenings include the Special Needs Easter Egg Hunt and the Katie Dunning Spring Dance.

These two events will be held at the Westerville Community Center and are organized in partnership with the Westerville Parks and Recreation Department.

The Easter egg hunt, set for March 30, is geared specifically toward children with physical and developmental disabilities, giving them the opportunity to hunt for eggs in a safe environment. There are audio sounding eggs for children with visual impairments, and each pre-registered child receives an Easter basket filled with candy, toys and stuffed animals.

On April 13, the club sponsors the Katie Dunning Spring Dance, which celebrates its 10th year in 2013. This dance allows special needs teens and adults to experience the type of dance they might not have the opportunity to attend in school.

More than 200 guests attend, and volunteers from Civitan clubs around central Ohio help out.

As a fundraiser, the club sells pizzas and subs twice a year, and the first chance to buy is approaching. With the help of their Cub and Boy Scout troops, volunteers make about 200 pizzas and 230 subs from scratch. The order form is officially posted on March 10, and the day to pick up orders is March 20.

Orders can be called in at 614-899-2491 or submitted online at the Westerville Civitan Club’s website, www.westervillecivitan. webs.com.

Westerville Civitan Club Meetings: 7:15 p.m. second and fourth Thursday each month Location: Westerville Community Center, 350 N. Cleveland Ave. Website: www.westervillecivitan. webs.com

Morgan Montgomery is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at gbishop@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

Love, Learn and Live ...Together!

• • • • •

15 spacious floor plans, including two bedroom/two bath options 24-hour on-site nurses and staff Chef-designed meals and fine dining Scheduled transportation The Glen’s outstanding memory care program

w ww. we s t er vil l e. or g

Whether you have been a couple for six months or six decades, quality living is defined by being together. Parkside Village was mindfully designed to meet your needs now and in the future.

We believe in bringing personalized services to you.

No unnecessary moves or separations. Home is where you are...together!

730 N. Spring Rd. • Westerville, Ohio 43082 614.794.9300

www.parksideseniorliving.com

To learn more about our independent, assisted or memory care options call 614.794.9300.

A caring collaboration with Lutheran Social Services of Central Ohio www.westervillemagazine.com

15

faces

By Sarah Sole

Playing by Ear Blind band hones its musical style The members of InnerVision will never get to see the adoration in audience members’ faces, but that doesn’t stop them from playing the best music they can.

All three members of the Westervillebased cover band are blind.

“We’re trying to inspire others,” says member Sam Shepherd.

Westerville residents Sam, Andy Love and Genene Blackwell started performing together in 2009. All perform vocals, often singing three-part harmonies during shows.

Andy, 26, plays bass guitar; Genene, 22, plays keyboard; and Sam, 22, plays trombone, harmonica and some guitar.

Tailoring their song selections to their audience, the three have put their unique spin on oldies, patriotic, gospel, country and contemporary Christian music. While they typically perform around the Columbus area, the band also has visited such northeast Ohio locations as Youngstown, Canton and Canfield.

“We’ve been all over the place,” says Paula Shepherd, Sam’s mother and InnerVision’s musical adviser.

The trio met at the Ohio State School for the Blind, where they played in the school’s marching band: Genene played bells, Andy played sousaphone and Sam played trombone and upright bass. For six

InnerVision performs at the Schottenstein Center during Walk Now for Autism Speaks.

16

InnerVision members, from left, Sam Shepherd, Genene Blackwell and Andy Love

or seven years, the three would sit together during the hour-long bus ride to school singing songs playing on the radio.

“Just because you have a disability doesn’t mean you can’t try stuff,” Paula says.

InnerVision showed an affinity for music early in life. At only age 3, Genene began playing piano after she heard it at church. Sam started taking piano lessons when he was 4. Andy, who was always singing as a child, started taking formal singing lessons at age 14 or 15.

Genene, Sam and Andy all had complications as a result of premature birth, each weighing less than three pounds upon arrival. Genene and Andy were born blind, while Sam lost his vision at 4 months old.

Andy has pervasive developmental disorder, a form of autism, while Genene has a touch of cerebral palsy.

Despite these challenges, all found they had musical gifts.

“When they lose one of their senses, another one seems to be heightened,” says Patti Love, Andy’s mother.

Their memories seem particularly uncanny. Andy, for example, memorizes whole stories and movies. Because music is not available in Braille, the three instead have memorized more than 125 songs just by listening to them.

“I just start picking things up,” Sam says.

If his mother gives him a 16- or 17song set list, Sam memorizes the titles in five minutes.

Paula feels fulfilled helping the trio develop their musical skills, she says, and the “sometimes tricky social skills of being blind in a mostly sighted world.”

“This adventure has shown them that hard work and lots of practice pays off,” she says.

That adventure started with Genene, who, as a student at the School for the Blind, often performed for retirement centers. In the summer of 2009, she recruited Andy as a backup singer. When Patti asked Sam if he wanted to sit in on a rehearsal, the trio was complete. www.westervillemagazine.com

Now, Paula receives booking calls almost daily. InnerVision had 15 shows in December, seven planned for January and five for February.

“In the beginning, they would tend to get frustrated, but now they are confident that they can learn and arrange and memorize any song and any style of music,” Paula says. “The biggest area of growth that I’ve seen is that they all now really enjoy stretching themselves musically.”

InnerVision had the opportunity to expand its horizons when the band participated in the Columbus Jazz Council Jazz Academy Workshop last summer.

The environment gave them the chance to hear new music styles, Genene says.

“We can all learn from each other,” she says.

Even prior to the workshop, Genene enjoyed putting her own creative flair into her performances, playing, for example, the guitar solo in Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters” on the piano. At the workshop, though, she learned to incorporate jazz chords into her routine, playing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” in a completely different way.

Similarly, Andy expanded his vocal abilities, learning a bit of improvisational singing, or scatting. Sam, who was used to the more traditional trombone style used in marching band, was exposed to a variety of complex notes.

“I’m already starting to play it differently,” he says.

“I think it really sparked their creativity,” Paula says.

As the parent of a child with a disability, Paula says she often grieves that her now adult son cannot be as independent as he would like to be.

“But when I hear him sing and play, and I see the reaction on the faces of his audience, the grief gets swallowed up in joy,” she says.

Sarah Sole is a contributing writer.

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

Jolene Hostal, B.S. ’07, MBA ’10 HR Business Partner Stanley Steemer International, Inc.

Change Your Life, Not Your Routine.

Ohio Dominican University allows you to pursue your advanced degree around your tight schedule.

Discover how a degree from Ohio Dominican can enhance your career.

Attend an upcoming open house.

Undergraduate Adult Accelerated (LEAD) Tuesday, March 12 614.473.9003 • Ohiodominican.edu/LeadEvents Adult Accelerated Degrees Available (LEAD) • Certificate in Accounting • Associate of Science in Business Administration • Bachelor of Science in Accounting • Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Graduate Degree Programs • Master of Business Administration • Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies • Master of Science in Sport Management • Master of Education • Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) • Master of Arts in Liberal Studies • Master of Arts in Theology

1216 Sunbury Road | Columbus, OH 43219 | 614.473.9003 | ohiodominican.edu 17

in focus

By Garth Bishop

Grant Me Streng Unique educational initiatives are still target of revamped foundation What do hydroponic gardening, composting, waste reduction, video editing and mobile blackboard technology have in common?

They’re all part of ongoing educational programs in Westerville City Schools, and they’ve all been supported by grants from the Westerville Education Foundation.

The nonprofit, all-volunteer group provides funds outside traditional district budgets for worthwhile initiatives in the schools with grants of up to $1,000.

The foundation typically awards about $5,000 per year and has given out about $118,500 over its two-decade existence, $30,000 of it over the last four years as efforts have ramped up.

The foundation was formed in 1993.

Though its membership roster was short, what it lacked in manpower it made up for in dedication, says Dave Kotary, a foundation board member since 1994.

“The reason for the success is the attitude,” Kotary says. “There’s an underly-

ing sense of purpose at each meeting, but there’s an overlying sense of fun.”

Board members come from all walks of life and rarely leave, Kotary says. All members are volunteers.

“A lot of organizations have a paid executive director,” says board President Jeff Tubaugh. “We have no paid employees.”

The foundation recently underwent some significant structural changes aimed at raising more money to give out more grants. After a retreat last year, the board was reorganized into a set of committees intended to increase members’ participation.

Each of the 26 board members must serve on at least one committee.

The new committees are Marketing, which focuses on branding and awareness; Development, which is focused on corporate and individual solicitation; Grants, which is revamping the foundation’s grant process and also seeking grants from other organizations; Finance, which deals with budgeting and keeps financial records; and Events, which is responsible

Westerville North High School students prepare to work on their rain garden, another program that has received a foundation grant.

18

The robotics program at Westerville Central High School is one recipient of a Westerville Education Foundation grant.

for such annual foundation events as the Community Bowl-a-thon each February and the Community Mini Golf Outing each May, as well as public appearances such as those at OhioHealth 4th Fridays in Uptown Westerville.

Among the major changes is a switch in the foundation’s main method of fundraising away from events. They will continue, but the goal is to use a capital campaign as the primary means of fundraising – a cornerstone of the most successful such foundations, says Tubaugh. Work has already begun on the campaign.

“We’re trying to do our homework on companies ahead of time,” he says.

A new mission statement, logo, website and promotional video are also part of the revamp plans.

The foundation solicits grant applications in March, usually receiving 20 to 30 per year.

One program that received a $500 foundation grant is the Zero Waste at Home Plate initiative at Westerville North www.westervillemagazine.com

gth

EMPIRE OPEN CLINICS Join us as we prepare for next season!

Join us for our Open Clinics and find out what the Empire is all about. These structured tumble, stunt & jump clinics are a great way to get to know our program & coaches. They also allow us to help place your athlete on appropriate teams for next season. Our programs are designed for athletes ages 3-18 and range in skill level and competitive commitment.

3/16 Stunting Clinic

2:00PM-4:00PM - $10

John P. Sotos, M.D. Omolara Y. Dairo, M.D. Michele V. Mahoney, M.D.

4/17 Parent’s Meeting

100 N. High St, Ste. A Dublin, OH 43017

7:00PM-8:00PM

4/27 Open Clinic

2:00PM-4:00PM - $10

4/29 Open Call

444 N. Cleveland Ave, Ste. 210 Westerville, OH 43082

614-889-7772

5:00PM-8:00PM

New students will be evaluated & placed on teams.

Located at the AmeriCheer National Training Facility 20 Collegeview Rd. Westerville, OH 43081 (614) 271-8416 | www.empirecheeranddance.com

High School. The program, spearheaded by science teacher Lyndsey Manzo’s AP Environmental Science students, seeks to reduce and, eventually, eliminate trash from concessions at sports games.

“You try to move as much material as possible to composting facilities or recycling facilities (as opposed to) landfills,” says class member Shane Coulter, a senior.

A quilting project at Whittier Elementary School has also received a grant.

www.repkids.net Follow us on Facebook!

Remember...

Family.

614 839-9163 portraitsbywes.com  East College Ave., Westerville, Ohio 

www.westervillemagazine.com

19

The North students spearheading the Zero Waste at Home Plate initiative, another grant recipient, work in the school’s compost pile. Photo by North junior Andrew Sullivan

20

It has first set its sight on baseball games. When North’s baseball season begins on April 2 with a game against Columbus’ Centennial High School, the class will send a handful of students to each game to promote the program.

Some will stand by new containers for compostables and recyclables near existing trash cans, give directions as to which items go where and encourage attendees to use them. Each can will have graphics on it showing what can to put in it in case any are unattended. Other students will speak to fans in the stands about the initiative.

“We’re going to make it as easy as possible,” says senior Jacob Dumford.

If the program is successful at baseball games, the goal is for it to branch out to football and other sports.

The students have also worked with the concessions crew to encourage them to buy cups, plates and other materials that can be recycled, and with Athletic Director Vicki Saunders to arrange for signage.

They even wrote the grant that was sent to the foundation.

The program was inspired by a similar program at Ohio State Buckeye football games.

Another beneficiary of the foundation’s funding is the hydroponic gardening program at North, which received a $1,000 grant – along with four high-pressure sodium grow lights donated by the Westerville Division of Police – in 2007. Not only has the program educated students on hydroponic gardening and produced produce for local restaurants and charities, it has branched off into other endeavors, including composting, raised planting bed gardening, recycling and even sale of worm castings, worm excrement from the composting process that is useful as a soil amendment – all further educational opportunities.

“That project is really the embodiment of what the foundation hopes to do with the funds it provides,” says Greg Viebranz, executive director of communications and www.westervillemagazine.com

BABYSITTING!

GREAT RATES!

HUR

RY!

MEMBERSHIPS AS LOW AS

5

$

First 49 Mem New be Only rs !

per Month!

*one time initiation/dues lock in fee. Check club for details.

Now Offering Classes!

WESTERVILLE Corner of Rt. 3 and Schrock Rd. (Next to Kroger)

1 WEEK FREE GUEST PASS

BUY ONE MEMBERSHIP GET ONE FREE

Not valid with any other offer or discount. Must be local resident and present valid I.D. or Driver’s License.

One Free Pass per person. First-time guest only. Expires 4/25/2013

Purchase one membership, get a second Family Add On for FREE and only $5 per month. Not valid with any other offer or discount. Must be local resident and present valid I.D. or Driver’s License.

One Free Pass per person. First-time guest only. Expires 4/25/2013

614-899-1919 www.fitness19.com

Family Learning Night at Hawthorne Elementary School is yet another foundation grant recipient.

technology for the school district and a member of the foundation’s Marketing Committee.

Other foundation grants have gone toward such causes as: • Anti-bullying initiatives;

Book by Abe Burrows, Jack Weinstock and Willie Gilbert

• High school robotics programs;

Music & Lyrics by Frank Loesser

• Note-recording smart pens in special education classrooms so students can play back what the teacher is saying;

Based on the book by Shepherd Mead

Directed by Christina Kirk

Fritsche theatre at Cowan Hall

• Video equipment and green screen technology for Genoa Middle School’s morning announcements;

30 S Grove St., WeSterville

Call or CliCk to order today!

• Apple TV units that allow students to use an iPad carried around by the teacher to work problems on a projector screen without leaving their desks; and • Inflatable exercise balls to replace classroom chairs, which help students focus in class.

614-823-1109 M-F 10am-4pm

www.otterbein.edu/drama

april 25 – 28 & May 2–4

2012-13 SeaSon SponSored by

Garth Bishop is editor of Westerville Magazine. Feedback welcome at gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com. www.westervillemagazine.com

21

Local lessons help Westerville residents learn the bagpipes

Pipe Dreams

By Duane St. Clair

Each Wednesday evening, the hectic hubbub in Central College Presbyterian Church includes a handful of teenagers huddled to quietly learn to play a loud instrument.

Wednesdays mark the weekly rehearsal sessions of the Cyril Scott Pipe Band, and each rehearsal is preceded by a class for young and aspiring bagpipers.

As they meet for a 45-minute session with teacher Glenn Mackie, the students

use a chanter, a flute-like instrument, to learn the finger moves involved in making music on a bagpipe. Their sounds are muted in contrast to the band’s bombastic bagpipes and drums, which will fill the church for the next two hours. The band music wafts in the hallways and backdrops the voices of kids playing basketball and meeting-goers coming and going.

Mackie, a bagpiper for at least 20 years, is pipe major of the band, which was formed

Lining up for their weekly lesson are Cyril Scott Pipe Band students, from left, Gabbi Gualtieri, Charley Goodwin, Robbie Gualtieri and Gabbie Bird.

22

in January 1997 as a competition group.

In 2002, as he was preparing to take over the band, Mackie surveyed the membership and thought, “Holy cow. We’re all 50 years old. This band is going to die.”

The solution: find younger players by giving free lessons and, eventually, organize a pipe band not targeted at national and international competition, as was the original group. Hence, the beginning of the free weekly lessons, the only ones for teenagers in central Ohio.

Mackie backs those with private lessons at his home for $20 an hour, “a bargain for music lessons,” he notes.

Because the band played at Central College’s functions, the former pastor, Richard Ellsworth, invited it to practice at the church. It has since become the band’s unofficial headquarters.

The idea is for students to spend several months learning, gradually increasing their skill on the chanter before playing a bagpipe. Mackie tells new students they don’t need to practice the chanter more than five minutes a day. He’s “old school,” he says, believing that bagpipes should be fun.

“I don’t want you to feel like you have to practice an hour a day,” says Mackie.

“Five minutes will turn into 10, and 10 to 20, and pretty soon it will be an hour.”

It can take up to a year until Mackie feels a student is ready for his or her parents to invest $1,200 in a bagpipe, an instrument that’s not available in this area to rent for lessons, Mackie says. He believes that’s enough time for a student to memorize five tunes, also important for a piper who doesn’t use sheet music when playing. Often, students are anxious and get their instrument sooner.

Gabbi Gualtieri, 10, a Westerville resident who is a student at Clintonville www.westervillemagazine.com

We’re here to help you make the right decision about senior living.

Our Family is Committed to Yours.

®

Emeritus Senior Living Emeritus Senior Living offers a wide range of services from retirement living, assisted living, and memory care. Whether you are looking for a new place to call home without the hassles of daily living or you have a loved one who requires a little extra care such as dressing, bathing and medication management, Emeritus Senior Living is committed to helping you and your family find the right fit.

Call today to learn more about the many options we have to offer you or your loved one!

(614) 794-2499

My grandfather

Assisted Living, Alzheimer’s & Memory Care 690 Cooper Road, Westerville • www.Emeritus.com

wanted one of his family members to play the bagpipe.

Charley Goodwin

Academy, is already playing her bagpipe, though she briefly took the free chanter lessons.

“She started at a really young age (beginning at 8 ½),” Mackie says, largely because her brother, Robbie, a St. Francis DeSales High School junior, had been a student and piper since the sixth grade. He enrolled because his mother wanted him to.

“I didn’t like it at first, but I got to like it,” says Robbie. He’s now a piper and a member of the band, which is Mackie’s goal for his students.

Gabbie Bird, 12, a student at Genoa Middle School, is just beginning lessons at the urging of her mother (who) “wanted me to take bagpipe.”

Charley Goodwin, a bubbly Westerville South High School sophomore, turns 16 in www.westervillemagazine.com

23

Join fences. Join forces.

by

Communicate easily and securely with your neighbors to share instant updates about news and safety on your street.

Join for free at

Get Something Special for Your Someone Special!

and see what your neighbors are saying.

Wedding Sets, Remounts, Colored Gemstone Rings, Pendants, Earrings and More!

BandofNeighbors.

AngiesList.com

12 W. Main Street Uptown Westerville www.MorgansTreasure.com 614.882.4401

SPRING FORWARD WITH A ...

General, Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

538 Polaris Parkway

Corner of Polaris Pkwy & Cleveland Ave.(Formerly Camille’s)

614-682-6214 NorthstarFamilyDental.com

Christina M. Kulesa, DDS

24

• State-of-the-Art Equipment • Botox® and Juvederm® Treatments • Evening and Saturday Appointments • Invisalign Preferred Provider • Most PPO Insurance plans accepted • Oral Sedation, Nitrous Oxide Available

FREE

Whitening with New Patient exam, cleaning, and x-rays

March and is an enthusiastic piper – like Robbie, she takes private lessons from Mackie once a week. She has been part of the band’s 20-22 piper line-up for two years. She took Mackie’s lessons for six months before getting a bagpipe.

She aspired to be a piper because “I’m really Scottish. My grandfather wanted one of his family members to play the bagpipe.”

As a pastime and hobby, “I love this,” she says. In high school, she has lettered in soccer, bowling and academics. Next year, she will enroll in the school’s two-year international baccalaureate program to earn a year of college credit before graduation.

She and Robbie expect to keep playing the bagpipe in college should they choose a school that has an active group, as some do.

For public appearances – for which the band is paid $400 to $800 to cover expenses, such as travel, kilts and uniform parts – Mackie expects 12 to 18 pipers to appear along with many of the nine drummers. To teach up-and-comers in the corps, Mackie found a volunteer, Alex Harper, a music and percussion major at Otterbein University, whom he met on a weekly trip to play in a Cleveland pipe and drum corps. His lessons are given weekly as the band practices.

Charley happily describes the band’s busy time. During this year’s St. Patrick’s Day observances – prolonged because March 17 is a Sunday – the band will be in the parade in downtown Columbus. It will split in two, and groups will visit various establishments in Columbus and environs on St. Paddy’s, some more than once.

The band will be quite busy during the July 4 observance period, too, with appearances in parades in Portsmouth, Lancaster and Worthington Hills on the schedule.

Mackie expects the band to perform at a bicentennial celebration in Johnstown and to make its annual appearance at the Dublin Irish Festival. And the band likely will go to a half-dozen competitions for similar groups. “They’re like mini-vacations,” Mackie says, because many members take their families for those weekends.

The Cyril Scott Pipe Band, one of four central Ohio pipe bands and probably the largest in the Columbus area, occasionally adds to its roster with audience members who become interested after seeing a performance. Still, Mackie relies on the younger students to help fill the ranks. Five former students have gone to college, and Mackie hopes someday they’ll come back.

For more information on the band, visit www.cyrilscottpipeband.com.

Duane St. Clair is a contributing editor.

Feedback welcome at gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com.

www.westervillemagazine.com

By Allison Dalrymple

Civic Scholarships

It’s more than just a room...

College scholarships offer Westerville students a boost As everyone knows, paying for college is a trying task, so Westerville civic organizations are doing what they can to ease the burden.

Five of the city’s main civic organizations – the Westerville Lions Club, Westerville Sertoma, Westerville Kiwanis Club, Rotary Club of Westerville and Rotary Club of Westerville Sunrise – offer scholarships to local students looking to make a dent in intimidating tuition costs. Academic strength, extracurricular activities and commitment to community service are among the values the clubs seek to reward.

“Since Westerville is such a large school district, (we) wanted to help and do what we could,” says Ray Bertelson, a Kiwanis board member.

“Westerville deserves this,” says John Olivieri, a member of Sertoma’s board of directors. “There is a sense that this is a community that tends to help itself.”

Each club has a specific process for applicants to go through, but most ask the students to provide information on their service activities, academic success and extracurricular activities, as well as letters of recommendation and a short personal statement.

Scholarships Awarded Kiwanis Club Robert Hughes Scholarship: one-time, $1,200 award to a Westerville South High School senior Robert Hawk Scholarship: one-time, $1,200 award to a Westerville North High School graduate

Make it uniquely you!

Kitchen & Bathroom Showroom to Serve You

614-794-9222 www.KresgeContracting.com

Reno’s

Floral & Fine Gifts

Visit Us this Spring For All Your Floral Needs

Westerville Central Kiwanis Scholarship: one-time, $1,200 award to a Westerville Central High School student Rotary Clubs (both Noon and Sunrise) Otterbein Scholarship: $2,000, renewable for up to four years, to an Otterbein University student Westerville Rotary Club Scholarships: Three $750 scholarships, renewable for up to four years, for students to attend Ohio colleges or universities Lions Club Lions Memorial Scholarships: One-time, $1,000 awards to six students, two from each Westerville high school Sertoma Westerville Sertoma Scholarship: One-time, $1,000 scholarships to three students, one from each Westerville high school Allison Dalrymple is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com. www.westervillemagazine.com

Bring ad in to receive

20% OFF

off in-store giftware purchase or fresh floral arrangement. Expires 4/30/2013

588 W. Schrock Rd.

On the corner of Cleveland Ave. & Schrock Rd.

614.899-9189 www.renosfloral.com

25

living

By Andrea Frazier

A Tale of Two Stories Multi-level addition transforms century-old house

– carpenters, electricians, masons, plumbers – as the area that had once housed the “rickety” back porch was transformed into the new addition.

The Metzgers embarked on the project with some goals in mind. Specifically, they wanted their home to be cohesive: to create a bigger kitchen that opened into the new family When Suzanne and Kevin Metzger room, as well as a master suite with a full decided to upgrade their living situation bathroom. They also scoped out a builder about two years ago, they planned to move. who could retain integrity of the home, During the house hunt, though, the which was built in 1914. couple found themselves noticing not what “For us, it was about matching what we they liked about the prospective homes, but were working with rather than trying to what they would change. Eventually, they create something new,” Suzanne says. realized that in order to stay in Uptown WMB Builders owner Walt Morrow, who Westerville and to finally worked closely with the make their dream home a Metzgers in remodeling reality, they would have to the space, preser ved tailor it themselves. the existing trim in the So instead of packing house while replacing all up and moving, the couple windows, matched the began the task of planning old style oak plank floors the renovations and addiof the existing kitchen to tions that would culminate its addition and generally in a more open, spacious “freshened up” the exterior living area for themselves with paint and new siding. and their family of two “It’s an older house, sons and one dog. so the owner wanted to “We wanted to have preserve its character more space for our family while doing these modern Kevin and Suzanne Metzger to get together, for when additions,” Morrow says. our kids start having kids,” Suzanne says.

The modern additions in the kitchen In the end, the two-story addition added include a convection oven, a deep freeze up to about 1,000 square feet, including a refrigerator, a pantry and an island adorned new master suite, family room and gourmet with granite countertops and a five-burner kitchen, as well as some exterior renova- cook top, which has two hanging aluminum tions, one demolished back porch and two lights on either side. All appliances are removed chimneys. stainless steel.

From February to July of 2012, the The kitchen opens into the new family sealed-off work zone, which included the room, which claims 500 of the 1,000 square entire old kitchen, hosted a slew of crews feet. For the Metzgers, this open family area 26

was key. Transforming the formerly closedoff kitchen into a continuous space allows the cook, or the after-dinner cleaner, to be part of the action in the family room.

“Before, when my husband would cook dinner, he’d want someone to come in and talk to him, but we’d all be in the living room, watching TV or doing homework,” Suzanne says. “Now, the chores don’t seem like chores because we are all together.”

Above the kitchen, the second story of the addition consists of the master suite, wholly tailored to the tastes of the owners.

Their preferences started with the closet.

“Our old bedroom had a nice size closet, but really it was a nice size closet for 1914,” Suzanne says. “I kept my clothes in the utility room downstairs.”

So the walk-in closet’s two doors, one for him and one for her, became the basis for the furniture arrangement in the room. The bed is nestled between the two doors amid the blue bedspread and décor.

www.westervillemagazine.com

presents...

Meet the Authors Mystery Writer Cara Black Wednesday, March 20

7-8:30pm

Contemporary noir mystery writer Cara Black will speak about her series set in Paris, featuring spunky and stylish P.I. Aimee Leduc, and her newest installment Murder Below Montparnasse. Enter for a chance to win a trip to Paris.

Registration required.

The new family room opens directly into the kitchen, allowing the cook and after-dinner cleaner(s) to interact with the rest of the family.

Across from the bed, a two-sided fireplace straddles the bedroom and the connecting bathroom. The bathroom boasts a pedestal tub, two sinks, a shower, a makeup area and some shelving.

While designing their renovations and additions, the Merzgers shopped around for inspiration by attending National Association of the Remodeling Industry home shows. When their home was finished, it appeared in the Home Improvement

Showcase put on in September by NARI’s local chapter.

Pulizer Prize Winner Deborah Blum Thursday, April 4

7-8:30pm

Pulizer Prize winner and author of five books, Deborah Blum shares the untold story of how poison rocked Jazz Age New York City in her March 5th release The Poisoner’s Handbook. Registration required.

Book signings will follow each event.

To register, visit westervillelibrary.org or call (614) 882-7277 ext. 5004

Andrea Frazier is a contributing writer.

Feedback welcome at gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Authentic, NEW Mexican Food

4852 Sawmill Road Left: An island with granite countertops and a five-burner cook top is the centerpiece of the modernized kitchen. Above: The all-new bathroom features a shower, a pedestal tub, a make-up area and two sinks. Top: A two-sided fireplace is on either side of the door from the master bedroom to the bathroom. www.westervillemagazine.com

(614) 442-6630

1522 Gemini Place In Front of Costco

(614) 846-8773

www.chileverdecafe.com 27

on the table By Holly Butcher

Scrumdiddlyum Family tradition goes into candy-maker’s every creation JAVA CENTRAL COFFEE HOUSE & GIFTS Java Central is a music and arts café featuring our own custom roasted coffee and espresso drinks, a variety of food, unique gifts and jewelry.

Visit the Java Art Gallery, featuring diverse visual art from prominent central Ohio artists for display and sale.

Live music every Fri. & Sat. Free WiFi

20 South State St. (614) 839-0698

Polio still cripples thousands of children around the world. With your help, we can wipe this disease off the face of the earth forever.

Visit rotary.org/endpolio or contact the Rotary Clubs of Westerville: www.westervillerotary.com www.westervillerotary.org to help.

28

“Doe eyes” – caramels dipped in chocolate – from Hondel Haus.

Kimberly Hondel didn’t need a chocolate river, a great glass elevator or an army of Oompa-Loompas to open her own candy factory.

She just needed the right experience, the right determination and a king-sized drive to succeed.

The Westerville resident is a single mother with a full-time job at the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, but she still found the time to found home-based Hondel Haus in 2004. She developed the plan that would eventually become Hondel Haus while working to earn her MBA from the Keller Graduate School of Management at DeVry University.

The desire to make the company a reality was driven by a desire to gain entrepreneurial experience and by Hondel’s deep, abiding love for cooking and baking.

“Every year for Christmas, I made a variety of candies for my family and friends,” she says.

Hondel hails from Kentucky where she “grew up helping (her) mother and grandmother make regional treats like pulled cream candy, molasses taffy and potato candy,” she says. She’s continuing the family tradition with her two sons, who

are often involved in production – not to mention taste-testing.

Because all of the products are made in the Hondels’ kitchen, the boys are learning all about time management and responsibility. Keeping the company close to home is important to Hondel, so she purchases the ingredients from independent stores such as Weiland’s Gourmet Market, Hills Market, Cake Craft Co. and Happy Hostess House Cake Decorators.

“I’m a proud ‘Ohio Proud’ member, so I support my fellow Ohio companies as much as possible,” Hondel says.

Don’t miss the Taste of Westerville, presented by the Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce, on April 19 at The Lakes Golf and Country Club.

More than 18 restaurants and other food vendors are on the roster this year, as are beer and wine offerings from around the world. www.westervillemagazine.com

mptious

Peace of Mind Enjoy the security of a true life-care senior living community, with a full continuum of on-site care, including: independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing and memory care.

Hondel Haus goodies include Deer Candy (buckeyes), Doe Eyes (caramel dipped in chocolate), Fawn Eyes (chocolate-covered marshmallows), Squirrel Eyes (chocolate-covered espresso beans), Choco Cherries (chocolate-covered cherries) and gourmet buckeyes, which are similar to peanut butter truffles. All are sold individually or as holiday and special event packages, and are popular party favors at weddings and tailgates, Hondel says.

While the company does not have a storefront, its treats are available at Celebrate Local at Easton Town Center, the Ohio Statehouse and the Ohio Historical Society. Goods can also be ordered by emailing Hondel at kimberly@hondel haus.com.

Call (614) 890-8282 today to schedule a personal tour of Friendship Village of Columbus – named 2010 “Best of Business ” among retirement communities in Central Ohio.

Ready. Set. Go.

5800 Forest Hills Blvd • Columbus, OH 43231 (614) 890-8282 • www.friendshipvillageoh.com Friendship Village of Columbus is a not-for-profit life-care retirement community managed by Life Care Services LLC

48163

Holly Butcher is a contributing writer.

Feedback welcome at gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Hondel Haus Buckeyes Ingredients

• • • • • •

2 lbs. peanut butter ½ lb. butter 1 Tbsp. vanilla 1 lb. flour 1 ¼ lbs. confectioner’s sugar 2-3 lbs. chocolate

Instructions

Soften peanut butter and butter at room temperature until workable.

Mix peanut butter, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until thoroughly blended. Mixture will be very thick, with the consistency of clay.

Chill peanut butter mixture at least two hours or until firm.

Form peanut butter mixture into balls about the size of a walnut and dip into melted chocolate. Set on wax paper until chocolate sets, then place in sealed container.

Yields approximately 160 buckeyes. www.westervillemagazine.com

29

bookmarks

From the Westerville Public Library

Recommended Reads from Becky O’Neil, Youth Librarian

cityscenecolumbus.com

Make your voice heard—nominate Columbus’ best arts, entertainment, food and events for CityScene Magazine’s 2nd annual Best of the ‘Bus Nominations are open through March 31, then start voting for your favorites! Winners will be featured in the July issue of CityScene. cityscenecolumbus.com

30

School Days Around the World (juvenile nonfiction reader)

By Catherine Chambers Color photographs and chapters highlighting children in different countries enliven this “reading alone” leveled reader from DK Publishing.

50 Early Childhood Literacy Strategies (juvenile parent teacher)

By Janice J. Beaty Pre-service and in-service teachers alike get practical, up-to-date strategies and activities in this guide to teaching literacy to 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds.

Little White Duck: A Childhood in China (juvenile fiction)

By Andrés Vera Martínez and Na Liu In this graphic novel memoir, the author uses eight short stories to recall growing up with her sister in 1970s Wuhan.

Code Name Verity (teen fiction)

By Elizabeth Wein In 1943, a British fighter plane crashes in Nazi-occupied France and the survivor tells a tale of friendship, war, espionage and great courage.

Recommended Reads from Nieca Nowels, Adult Librarian

How To: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know Fully Illustrated

By Jennifer McKnight-Trontz Graphics and very little text show you how to do a variety of both silly and serious things, from using chopsticks to parallel parking.

A Jane Austen Education: How Six Novels Taught Me about Love, Friendship, and the Things That Really Matter

By William Deresiewicz Share in the life lessons hidden within Jane Austen’s works as you hear one man’s story of discovering himself and the world around him.

1001 Ways to Pay for College: Practical Strategies to Make Any College Affordable

By Gen and Kelly Tenabe Financing higher education can be daunting. Learn both the basics and some creative strategies in the new edition being released later this year.

The Ultimate Scholarship Book: Billions of Dollars in Scholarships, Grants and Prizes

By Gen and Kelly Tanabe High school, college, graduate and adult students will find 700 new award listings and tips on how to conduct the most effective search, write a winning application and avoid scams.

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.. www.westervillemagazine.com

Why hang out with your laundry when you have better things to do?

Let SunLight do it for you!

Drop off all of your laundry at SunLight Cleaners, and we’ll have it ready for you, usually in less than 24 hours.

Wash-Dry-Fold Service • Dry Cleaning • Laundromat

Professional cleaning at everyday low prices Westerville Square Shopping Center • S. State Street & Schrock Road • (614) 891-7187 Columbus Square Shopping Center • Cleveland Avenue & Rt. 161 • (614) 890-4738

www.SunlightCleaners.net SpeCiAL DiSCountS onLine

youare the reason for everything we do.

at Mount Carmel, you are the most important patient we could possibly have. your health and well-being are at the center of everything we do. you are the reason why we assemble the best medical teams. and why we invest in the best equipment. at every moment, in every decision, we work closely with you and your family to deliver the care that’s best for your unique situation. so you can get better. so you can heal. so you can live, work, play, love.

mountcarmelhealth.com