(614) February 2021

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FEBRUARY 2021 (614) MAGAZINE

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BIG PICTURE The new Crew Stadium, photographed Monday, January 11, 2021 in its Confluence Village home, is in its 17th month of construction and is expected to be completed by July 2021 with a game day capacity of 20,000. Further construction of the Confluence Village area will include a 2 acre park, 440 apartment units and a commercial development sector along the Olentangy River.

PHOTO BY JAMES D. DECAMP

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Contents

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(614) MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021 614NOW.COM

C O V E R PA C K A G E 2021 HARD RESET

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MAKERS SPACE: POTTER'S CLAY

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CURRY & GLITTER

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HARD RESET

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THE BIG DAY

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FROM THE GROUND UP

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HOMEWARD BOUND

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ON THE COVER:

Collage by Paul Barton

Opening Volley PUBLISHER Wayne T. Lewis

STEPHANIE WEST Editor-In-Chief

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Lindsay Press EDITOR IN CHIEF Stephanie West

Love of all kinds this February

ASSISTANT / DIGITAL EDITOR Sarah Sole 614 CAMPUS EDITOR Caroline Cunningham

Y

ep, it’s February. The month of love. The month of Valentine’s Day that gets couples fired up into a tizzy about what to get, what not to get, what they’re supposed to get, what they’re not supposed to get….. questions about the “rules” of engagement emerge and some actual engagements make their way into the lovefilled day of Feb. 14.

But really, if you love someone, shouldn’t you be celebrating that love every day?

For me, the chocolates and the flowers are a facade that pale in comparison to the way a partner loves you by doing little things every day—starts the car for you when it snows, takes the dog out when you’re tired, picks up Chinese because you had a bad day, rubs your back when your tense, gets your favorite drink from the gas station soda machine just because (maybe that last one’s just me?).

And all of that really pales in comparison to the things you do for yourself—take a bath and a time out when you need it, put exercise on your calendar and actually do it, adopting yourself a pandemic pet, buying yourself chocolate just because, being comfortable in your body, digging deep into your career until it’s exactly what you want, spending time with your Mom, investing in your kids.

I have been fortunate to experience many types of love in my life—good and bad; sweet and painful; friendly and passionate. The one thing that persists through all of it is my relationship to myself and the way I love the world and the people who are entrusted to my care—my family, my child, my pets, my charities, and my neighbors. Sometimes I do very well giving love—sometimes I fail miserably, but always, I inherently understand that romantic love isn’t the end-all, be-all of love. It is a happy bonus. An extra. A thing you hope for, but are not always able to successfully get and keep forever. And because of that, you must expand your definition of love and how you give it, who gets it, and how much of it you’re willing to dole out while still taking care of yourself.

In this month’s issue, we offer you plenty of outlets to explore celebrating many kinds of love at a time when

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we all need a bit of reset after the hardships 2020 created for so many people and their relationships.

Writer Melinda Green talks about pandemic pets, finding a side hustle you love, reconnecting with family, celebrating your friends, and trying to mend the bridges of humanity after a tough year of political unrest. It’s a section dedicated to the beauty of every kind of love.

And for those couples lucky enough to find a love for a lifetime, we give a heart-y (get it? heart?) nod to you and say, “Congratulations.” It’s so special to find someone who gets you, who loves you, who wants to rub your feet and buy you ice cream, amiright? To those couples, we offer you “The Big Day” wedding section that features the courtship and marriage of five Columbus couples. Some knew after a few months; others a decade—all of them ended up in the same place. Happily wed and willing to share their love story.

And for those of you who enjoy celebrating your love of food, we’ve got a cool new food for you to try—Zelnik! Plus, sweet treats at Coco Cat and a bit on cheese—did you know Ohio is a top producer of cheese? We also have the stylings of Lolly Lolly Ceramics and a wonderful story on Aussie dogs that were rescued from an overcrowding situation—and two owners who adopted two of them. Read on to see these and so much more in this issue.

But most important, readers, it’s time for us to express how much we love YOU. We couldn’t do what we do without you and we’re so grateful to have you around.

So what are you waiting for Columbus? Celebrate love.

And make sure it's all the love you've got in your life. We know we will.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Alex Lefebvre, Leonardo Carrizo, Sarah Pfeifer James D. DeCamp

CONTRIBUTORS Jaelani Turner-Williams Jack Mclaughlin Melinda Green

Melissa Braithwaite DESIGN TEAM LEAD Paul Barton SENIOR CREATIVE DESIGNER Justin Remotap GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jaime North VIDEO PRODUCER / EDITOR Maddy Van Buren DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Jayci Haase ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Meggin Weimerskirch SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Nikki Harris ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Mindy Wilhite

(614) Magazine 458 E Main St., Columbus, OH 43215 Office: (614) 488-4400 | Fax: (614) 488-4402 Email submissions to: editor@614columbus.com www.614now.com

#AsSeenInColumbus � S TA F F P I C K S ( LET TER to the EDITOR )

All the love In (614)’s February issue, we recognize and celebrate the season of love—all kinds of love. From pets and family, to romance and "Galentine's" Day—we’ve got the love bug covered. So we asked our staff, what love (or loves) will you be celebrating this month?

My daughter, my dog, and my cats. Though, the cats, depending on their general Dr. Jeckyll/Mr. Hyde moods, could easily be taken off this list.

— Stephanie West, Editor-In-Chief

Edward Cullen.

— Justin Remotap, Senior Creative Designer

Bernie Sanders' inauguration mittens.

— Maddy Van Buren, Video Producer + Editor

We want to hear from you, Columbus. And Letter to the Editor is just the place to do it.

Like something? Hate something? It’s fair game. Send us your thoughts (no profanity or name calling—let’s keep it clean) to editor@614now.com and sound off on the good and bad about us, Columbus, or what you’re seeing in your area of Central Ohio.

01. On the 614now story "Celebrate National Soup Month with these favorites" “All of us at Zoup! are pretty bummed that your article about National Soup Month didn't mention the only all-soup restaurant in Columbus.”

— Tom Dailey EDITOR’S NOTE: How could we forget? Added to the story that includes several great places to get soup in Columbus!”

Wine & my besties Kels, Jordi, & Hannah!!

@hudson29upperarlington

02. On the 614now story "Soft opening for TownHall planned Jan. 20, Mandrake to follow in April" “I'm really disgusted and disappointed that after all of the racism and complete non-compliance of covid safety precautions that you have decided to promote the opening of town hall by that horrible man. I think everyone deserves to know that you support the hatred and lack of responsibility that man proudly represents. Disgusting.”

—Penny Kitner

@mellamoesjae

ON the WEB

Reuniting with my one true love—foods containing gluten.

— Sarah Sole, Asst./Digital Editor

It’s difficult for us here at (614) to catch it all.

That’s where you come in: while you’re out there capturing the city, you might as well slide some of your best shots our way. We’ll throw a few of ours in the mix, too. There’s plenty to see in Columbus, so there’s no reason ot to share.

Do you check your news and entertainment updates on 614now.com? You should.

Every day we’re posting Columbus’s top news, entertainment, and sports stories from throughout Central Ohio. Check out all the Columbus news online, including the new ones below at 614now.com and suscribe to our daily email!

— Jaime North, Graphic Designer

@nailpatrickharris

My husband and the fact that there is now a First, Second Gentleman!

— Mindy Wilhite, Account Executive

The three men in my life - Mick, Sammy& Aycie — Meggin Weimerskirch, Advertising Director

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→ White Castle Love The 30th anniversary of the White Castle Valentine’s Day is still going strong! Adapting for COVID regulations, the WC has gotten creative with 2021’s day of love.

Scan the QR Code to see how you can have your White Castle and your love on Feb. 14.

@kismetvisuals 614NOW.COM

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61 4 V I D E O Did you know that (614) launched a new YouTube channel with some very shareable video content? It’s true. We’re expanding our ever-growing content to include video across our web and magazine stories. Keep an eye out for more on our (614) Columbus account and on social media. In the meantime, check out the newest videos on our channel:

SO CIA L CO M M ENTARY Columbus, you are a social-ing bunch, and we couldn’t love it anymore than we already do—unless YOU had a giveaway for US! Still, your quirky, witty, commentary, sometimes full of love... sometimes not so much, gives us much to talk about during the day.

So, have @ it Central Ohio—we’re listening!

fa ceb oo k Sad news from Broad Street: a longstanding familyrun pizza shop has closed.

KIM: Best pizza in Columbus...Been eating there since the late 70s. Sad to see them go.

now playing...

Rumor has it a Taco John's could be coming to the Columbus area.

TODD: I have no clue why anyone would be excited for this.

It's (the 10 p.m. statewide curfew) not going anywhere soon.

ROBBI: I feel safer going to some restaurants that I've been going to than my workplace. At least they are following all safety measures. Does Covid only come out after 10 p.m.?

inst a g r am In response to photo of Katy the Koala. @THERYANBICKFORD: Lol posing like the pregnant moms

doing maternity photos

In response to "food-tastic Friday roundup" photos. @AUDRA0412: Thanks for sharing all of these great Cbus loca-

tion - so much food...so little time!

Tasting Columbus Have you checked out our new TV show “Tasting Columbus?” Join OSU food scientist Matt Teegarden as he eats his way through Columbus’ food scene.

Episode 1 drops Feb. 1. Make sure to tune in at tastingcolumbus.com or scan the QR code here.

t wit t er Cajun Boil Bar has been so unexpectedly busy since opening that they're looking to open a second location in the near future @WALL_CARES: Can't wait to get my vaccine so I can start living again-restaurants first in line!

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MAKER'S SPACE

← Lalese Stamps, Owner of Lolly Lolly Ceramics

Local artist uses 100 days to find inspiration for her distinct designs

→ Stamps created 100 unique handles over the course of 100 days

By Jaelani Turner-Williams Photos by Leonardo Carrizo

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ttuned to botanical plants and abstract design, ceramist Lalese Stamps of Lolly Lolly Ceramics brings her tactile works to life with jubilance and awareness of her dedicated following.

“There are qualities that still make my ceramics feel like me, but I appreciate that I’ve been able to refine my methods and final products,” Stamps shared. “My work is definitely more dignified, intentional and polished.”

Launching her handmade ceramic practice into an established profession, Lolly Lolly Ceramics became distinct for offering functional, modern pieces that could also serve as displayed artwork.

With a whimsical, monochromatic execution behind Stamps’ works, the Milwaukee transplant jumpstarted the “100 Day Project,” a mug-design venture that lasted from September to December of 2019, jolting Stamps out of her creative comfort zone.

“Before the 100 Day Project, I didn't really give myself the time to explore clay. I made things that felt safe and comfortable to me, but this project really pushed me to see objects in my day-to-day life that inspired new ideas,” Stamps said. “I would see something like a door handle, for example, and reimagine it as a handle for a mug. Now I'm always looking for inspiration in my daily life instead of solely on the internet.”

As the sales of homegoods have increased drastically since the beginning of the pandemic, quarantine was initially a challenge for Stamps whose online presence became exceedingly visible through Black-owned art directories. Optimizing the increase in her customer base, Stamps pivoted from the creative side into restrategizing Lolly Lolly Ceramics’ business model.

“It was super unexpected that my audience would grow tenfold during one of the hardest years ever. 2020 was tough, but it was also one of the best years for Lolly Lolly Ceramics,” she said of her exclusive line of products that are only offered in small batches and not always ready for immediate purchase. “I’m still figuring out a lot, but it’s →

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↓ 100 Day Project

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← Stamps in studio creating a unique mug handle

"I’m still figuring out a lot, but it’s coming together. I’ve received so much support in so many different ways; it’s been a game changer."

↓ Spiral-handled mug from the 100 Day Project

There are qualities that still make my ceramics feel like me, but I appreciate that I’ve been able to refine my methods and final products. My work is definitely more dignified, intentional and polished."

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coming together. I’ve received so much support in so many different ways; it’s been a game changer.”

Stamps still allows herself time to breathe between creating and interacting with consumers, of which her audience is primarily women. A self-care enthusiast, Stamps connects with her social media following to unwind, while simultaneously making time for herself. “[For those who] follow me on Instagram, you might see me in the bathtub on my Instagram stories.

Taking baths is my only real form of self-care at the moment. I love reading, so I tend to read more when I’m in the bath so that I’m not distracted by my computer or television,” Stamps said.

Looking to other ceramists for reference, like Helen Levi, Mimi Likey and Haley Ann Bradley, it was during a by-chance interaction with Alex and Connie Matisse, co-founders of Asheville-based durable ceramic brand East Fork that Stamps found like-minded people who could offer support and inspiration.

“Connie and Alex have been supportive of me in my journey of being a ceramicist and business owner. They’ve even chatted with me on the phone to talk through pain points,” Stamps said. “It’s that

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kind of camaraderie in the clay community that I appreciate so much.”

As one of the few Black women in the clay industry, Stamps admits to feeling pressure, especially as growing up in America has shaped her identity as an artist in a myriad of ways. Constantly looking to provide resources and aid to grassroot organizations that are dedicated to fighting for equality through direct action, Stamps acknowledges the revitalized support of Black-owned businesses during a time of social unrest.

“I feel as if every decision I make isn’t just about me or my business, but a representation of Black people in general, which can be hard sometimes,” she said. “I’m proud to be Black, though, and I’m especially proud to know that Lolly Lolly Ceramics can have a major impact by investing in other Black businesses and Black communities. It’s very exciting and it inspires me to get up and go into work every day.”

Cultivating space to advocate for creatives in the early stages of their career, Stamps encourages new artists to be their own fans first, because not everyone will understand their intent. In becoming self-sufficient and building an artist network,

Stamps hasn’t been idle in her progress—gaining viral momentum has been a reminder of Lolly Lolly Ceramics’ staying power.

“Over the years I’ve realized that art is literally whatever you want it to be,” Stamps said.

“I’ve always known that, but sometimes when you’re young, you’re heavily influenced by your surroundings, but there is a much bigger world out there.” ♦ Learn more at lollylollyceramics.com, though the exclusive art pieces are released only in small batches and not always available for immediate purchase. See the FAQ section for more details.

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a saga by the

One man’s quest to share the history of Columbus Pizza

By Sarah Sole / Photos by Sarah Pfeifer

J

im Ellison was five when he had his first piece of pizza. The slice was from Dante’s, still in operation at 3586 Indianola Ave., in Clintonville. Ellison distinctly remembers looking at it and asking what it was. There was pepperoni on it—also something new—and a strong oregano flavor.

“It was a little bit of a sensory overload for me,” Ellison said.

Since then, Ellison has become, as he describes it, a gourmand—somewhere in between a glutton and a gourmet—about food in general. So much so, he built a career around it, writing for local weeklies and magazines and later for his own blog, cmhgourmand.com. He even parlayed his passion for good grub into a local tour service, Columbus Brew Adventures, which a year ago merged with Columbus Food Adventures.

But pizza has taken Ellison on his own adventure—the writer released 1,000 copies of his first book, Columbus Pizza: A Slice of History, on Nov. 9, of which the Columbus Metropolitan Library alone ordered over 30 copies. Ellison said they’re pretty close to being sold out of the first printing, which was published by American Palate.

The sell-out is no surprise to Ellison, who believes most Columbus residents talk about three things: The weather, the Buckeyes, and pizza. While some of those folks may have impassioned debates about their favorite slices, Ellison is a team player of all the different types of pies Columbus has to offer.

“I appreciate the history of the styles, and why they are the way they are,” he said.

While Ellison features about 60 pizza places in his book, his first experiences with the saucy pie were largely relegated to Clintonville, where he spent his childhood and lived for many years following—that meant Dante’s, but also Pizza House, the defunct Franko’s, Villa Nova, and a little bit later, Iacono’s.

Each of them, Ellison said, made a pizza that was distinctly Columbus-style. That is, square- or rectangle-cut with a thin crust, and provolone →

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↓ Jim Ellison, author of Columbus Pizza: A Slice of History

"I appreciate the history of the styles, and why they are the way they are"

instead of mozzarella, or a blend of the two. The sauce is on the sweeter side, with a decent oregano component.

Ellison believes that the square cut (or party-cut) pizza that’s ubiquitous here was inspired by a similar trend in Chicago.

Specifically, one of the founders of the original pizzeria in Columbus had previously lived in Chicago and worked as a baker there.

Pizza arrived in Chicago a bit before it came to Columbus, he said, and it was a bar-style rather than the deep dish we associate with the city today. Bar owners needed a snack for their guests—it was a way to get them to stay longer. So pizzas were thin, and chopped into squares so everyone could get a piece.

In Columbus, this new trend was likely enjoyed mostly by high school students, who came in packs to eat the party-style pieces at the first pizzeria located at Fifth and Northstar—right between Upper Arlington and Grandview high schools.

“There’s all these things that drove this to be the way that it is,” Ellison said.

Ellison found he wasn’t the only one curious about the history and origins of Columbus-style pizza. An early post about the topic on his blog delivered the largest number of page views he ever had. People are still leaving comments on his post years later, he said.

The public’s interest in local pizza history is evident in other ways as well. When Ellison created a pizza and beer tour for Columbus Brew Adventures, which ran from 2013 through the end of 2019, people told him to write a book about his pizza knowledge.

It was something he had previously attempted.

In 2005, he was contracted to write a world history of pizza. He began researching and outlining, only for the company to choose a different editor and writing team based in Chicago.

Shortly after, in 2006, he got the greenlight from a different company to write another book, this one about regional sandwiches across the country. He got the first chapter done, and then the company promptly went out of business.

When he talked to his friend and former employee, Curt Schieber, about Schieber’s own struggles completing a book about the history of Columbus beer, Ellison began considering something similar with pizza. “That had planted a little bit of the seed in my mind,” he said.

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December 2018. Ellison focused on mom-and-pop pizzerias owned by generations of family members in Columbus and, in talking to them, he began noticing similar themes.

First, he discovered almost all the original pizzeria owners played golf together at the American Italian Golf Club in Columbus.

“They’re competitors, but they’re also collaborators in some ways, too,” he said.

Second, he kept hearing about a man named Ritchie DiPaolo who began a food distribution company that took off in 1957. DiPaolo’s company supplied pizza chains here in their infancy, and did much to support and grow the businesses, Ellison said.

DiPaolo’s influence can still be seen in the type of pepperoni used in Columbus pizza. He’s the reason pizza here typically has provolone instead of mozzarella, and he’s also behind the popularity of banana peppers as a topping.

Last, he found that many pizzerias had their roots in small, tightly knit Italian neighborhoods that grew in Columbus from the 1920s to 1950s.

When he finally published his book, he found the interest in local pizza expanded beyond the city limits. While Columbus residents were the majority of those who purchased his book, Ellison said it’s also been popular statewide, as well as in Florida. At least a couple purchases have been made in about two thirds of states across the country.

And perhaps most notable, Ellison’s book is now being sold via the Pizza Resource Center, a website run by Scott’s Pizza Tours in New York City.

Over the course of his book research, Ellison ended up discovering a couple of pizza places he never knew existed.

One was Terita’s on Cleveland Avenue, located not far from where he grew up; it’s now one of the most popular pizzas in the city. The other was Josie’s Pizza, whose original location in Franklinton dates to 1959.

As Ellison began working with more and more small pizzerias for his book, he recognized the threat the pandemic represented to the preservation of small pizza shops. He realized his book could create some visibility that might help drive business they otherwise wouldn’t get.

“This could help some of the businesses stay in business,” he said. ♦ You can order the book on Amazon.com as well as Barnes & Noble.

Follow Ellison on his blog, cmhgourmand.com.

A memorable experience, with excellent food and drinks.

2400 E. Main St., Bexley, OH 43209 Phone (614) 237-5500 • KhaabofColumbus.com 614NOW.COM

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↓ Valentine Fruit Bouquet chocolate-covered strawberries, gold-dusted berries, real roses

CURRY & GLITTER Coco Cat has what you need for the sweetest month

By Jack McLaughlin / Photos by Sarah Pfeifer

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OK

, listen, Valentine’s Day is this month, we know. But what we’re about to tell you is good for any day, any month, of any year—and that’s chocolate.

More specifically, Coco Cat Bakery & Chocolates.

This Columbus confectionery has been around since 2013 and its voluminous list of offerings just keeps growing. From spiced and infused chocolates to a speciality product called Glitter Berries, the diverse "It was inventory is bound to help you never part find the perfect treat for your of the plan, special someone. but we For example, white chocolate infused with Jamaican decided to curry or dark chocolate infused take it on, with smoky paprika and and thank garlic—talk about savory and goodness sweet. Then there are the truffles we did." featuring Jameson Irish Whiskey and ginger and the Honey lavender caramels dipped in white chocolate.

And just what about those Glitter Berries? For chocolate dipped fruit lovers, you can’t go wrong with these strawberries bedecked in different colors of a dazzlingly-bright, sugar-based glitter.

According to Coco Cat founder and owner Melissa Camp, it was a familiarity with cooking and her proclivity for robust seasoning and bold flavors instilled at a young age that led her to the wild, bold creations for which the business is known.

“When I was growing up my parents both cooked, did gourmet club, and had fancy parties where they’d make Baked Alaska and all of that stuff,” said Camp, who speaks with all of the passion and effervescence one would expect from the mind behind Coco Cat. “So my siblings and I just had full "A lot of reign of the kitchen; as early as what I do I remember we were cooking is definitely pies, trying to make hamburgers by sense taste like Mcdonald’s more than hamburgers.”

These instincts eventually anything." led to the first-ever Coco Cat creation, the now-iconic herb infused truffles. These were first sold at a farmer’s market the better part of a decade ago and quickly launched the company into prominence.

And it’s Camp’s deeply culinary approach to chocolate, her willingness to daringly combine flavors until something fantastic and wholly unique happens, that truly makes Coco Cat stand out. → 614NOW.COM

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It’s about just continuing to develop new ideas, ← Chocolate-covered Dried Orange Slices

↑ Herbed Berries Jamaican Curry (L), Hibiscus Citrus (R)

↑ Chocolate Truffles

← White Chocolate Jamaican Curry Cocodream Bar

↑ White Chocolate Jamaican Curry Cocodream Bar

↑ Glitter Berries

to pivot and bring new things to customers."

“Having a rigid knowledge of which flavors work together can limit things. When I’m cooking, that’s when the creativity comes in, and having a trained chef looking over your shoulder can be a bad thing,” she said. “A lot of what I do is definitely by sense more than anything. Opening up those spice jars and smelling them together, I just know sometimes what’s going to work.”

So once her herbed truffles became a smash hit, they opened the door to volumes of other creations, each as original and delicious as the last.

“Once I started making [the herb-infused truffles], all of a sudden everything sort of clicked. Art and chemistry came together, and it was almost reckless abandon going forward,” said Camp, who has used mustard, smoke, and tarragon in her chocolate. “Once I had perfected those I started bringing truffles to art openings and other events, and people sort of started flipping out over them. ‘These are flavors we’ve never even thought about before,’ a lot of people would say.”

But Coco Cat works with more than just chocolate and caramels.

In 2019, Camp was approached by the nationallypopular Shari’s Berries to serve as a fulfiller for the brand.

“It was never part of the plan, but we decided to take it on, and thank goodness we did,” she said.

Not only does this work help keep Coco Cat afloat (they transitioned from their North Market location last year to a Food Fort 2.0 kitchen to focus more on their online sales, which have been an increasingly larger portion of their revenue in recent years), it also allowed Camp and company to take on what is arguably the Holy Grail of Valentine’s Day treats: chocolate-dipped fruit.

“These strawberries just came to our brain; I said ‘we can make these so beautiful and artful,’” Camp said. “I started doing berries dipped in white chocolate with candied oranges and hibiscus.”

And thus berries done Coco Cat-style were born. The confectioners now sell a wide variety of dipped and adorned fruit, as well as the aforementioned Glitter Berries.

And while not officially on the menu yet, Camp has some other potential game-changers on the docket, with the potential inclusion of dipped raspberries and cherries.

“It’s about just continuing to develop new ideas, to pivot and bring new things to customers,” she said. “But my brain is so full, I have these ideas lined up like they’re in a parking lot.

There are still so many things I want to do.” ♦ Learn more at cococatconfections.com

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→ Louie Cattlet of Stone Wall Dairy

Buckeyes are a powerhouse in the cheesemaking world

By Jack McLaughlin / Photos by Leonardo Carrizo

"There’s no such thing as industrial in Ohio cheese.

The artisanal pride and the quality is all still there even in the largest of them."

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A

s we walk across one of the sweeping pasture that makes up Stonewall Dairy in Cambridge, the ground frozen on a chilly midJanuary morning, fifth-generation farmer Louie Cattlet and I navigate a path through his herd of nearly 40 cattle.

The cows have just been milked and now they’re hungry, but they’re still cautious enough about me, a newcomer, to not approach right away.

And then I feel it: Warm, wet, and surprisingly abrasive on the back of my coat. I turn around to find a particularly large (and curious) brown Holstein less than a foot from my face. And even though by now she’s lost the element of surprise, she keeps licking, leaving a massive, sticky trail across my sleeve.

“That’s Monster; that's her name. My Dad started calling her that because she’s so big, and it just kind of stuck. But she’s also super friendly; she’s always getting into everyone’s business,” said Catlett (a vegetarian himself), who can recall the names and personality quirks of each one of his 40 animals without hesitation.

Monster and the rest of the cows are given space to roam, fresh spring water, and even a barn to

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sleep in on the coldest nights. Life for a cow doesn’t get much better than Stonewall Dairy.

The farm has been in Catlett’s family for five generations now, although his father only made the switch to dairy farming in the 90s.

And he’s hoping to keep it in the family for at least a generation longer. Helping Louie milk with a confidence and poise that belies her age is his daughter, Luci, 10.

She even finds time to bottle-feed a calf born only four days before my visit.

“She’s grown up around this and knows how to do everything; it’s just second nature to her at this point,” he said.

All of the milk Catlett’s produces here goes to one cheesemaker: Black Radish Creamery. And Stonewall is the only milk the cheesemaker uses.

This is a unique setup, but Louie

wouldn’t have it any other way.

Fluctuating milk prices drove him in and out of dairy farming before, but now John and Anne Reese of Black Radish pay him a flat rate.

The setup affords Catlett stability and provides the Reeses with a consistent, stellar milk source.

“Artisan cheese is the only way to do things right now. And I

↑ Luci, daughter

think it’s the future for dairy farmers,” Catlett said. “You see, a lot of people try to make as much milk as they can, and it really just drives prices down. Why not make less of something and let it become more valuable?”

But there are still other ways to make a living as a dairy farmer in Ohio. As the state has over 1,700 dairy farms but only 31 cow milk cheesemakers, the majority of milk goes to a handful of large-scale producers. One of these, Pearl Valley Cheese in Coshocton, turns out 20,000 pounds of cheese daily from roughly 250,000 pounds of milk.

One of Pearl Valley’s many milk suppliers is Lee Kohler of Marodore Farm in Baltimore, Ohio. Kohler, who grew up on a dairy farm, has been at Marodore now for nearly 40 years. He’s now in the process of handing the operation → 614NOW.COM

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The important thing for me is that we’re respecting the ingredients.

We’ve been exposed to artisan cheesemakers for a decade now, and I really think that our milk source is one of the best that I’ve ever seen." ↑ John Reese, Co-Owner of Black Radish Creamery

down to his son, Jeremy. The Kohlers milk Guernseys, which produce a coveted milk that’s high in protein and butterfat, something they receive a premium for.

The biggest cheesemakers in Ohio, though, are the state’s swiss producers. The state is responsible for 61% of U.S. Swiss. Brewster Cheese, located in Stark County, is the largest producer of Swiss cheese in the country, drawing milk from 400 different farms.

According to Tracy Enslen, vice president of business development at the American Dairy Association Mideast, even though some of these farms turn out—quite literally—tons

of cheese each day, all of the large Ohio cheese producers are still family owned.

“There’s no such thing as industrial in Ohio cheese,” she said. “The artisanal pride and the quality is all still there even in the largest of them.”

The Buckeye State is home to more than just cheese produced from cow milk. There are several dedicated goat milk cheesemakers, such as Mackenzie Creamery in Hiram and Osage Lane Creamery in Pataskala.

Ohio is even home to a sheep milk creamery, Kokoborrego Cheese Company. This Mount Gilead business has been making sheep cheese since 2011, and their award-winning Owl

Creek Tomme is a must try.

Here in the (614), we’re lucky enough to be situated near outstanding creameries like Blue Jacket Dairy (Bellafontaine) and Osage Lane Creamery (Pataskala).

In fact, cheese is even being crafted in Columbus proper. While Black Radish Creamery technically makes and ages their products in nearby Alexandria, they've operated a North Market food stand since 2016 (with a second location in North Market Bridge Park), offering not only their own cheeses, but also an eclectic spread from Ohio and beyond.

According to John Reese, who owns Black Radish with his wife Anne,

while the pair have always considered themselves lifelong foodies, it wasn’t until John started working for a cheesemaker fresh out of culinary school that things really fell into place.

“It involved science, it involved food; it had that physical component I need to stay focused, so at the end of the day it just encompassed everything, and I fell in love instantly,” Reese said.

Twice a week—using as much as 4,000 pounds of milk delivered

by Catlett—Reese will make cheese.

The style depends on the qualities and content of the milk, which varies daily. Turning out roughly 30,000 pounds of cheese a year, Black Radish makes everything from cheddar, to the aromatic raclette, to a new washedrind cheese called Pious Eddy that features bready notes, a creamy texture, and a light funk.

But no matter what he’s making on a given day, Reese is grateful to be paired with Stonewall, and to be in the Buckeye state making cheese.

“The important thing for me is that we’re respecting the ingredients.

We’ve been exposed to artisan cheesemakers for a decade now, and I really think that our milk source is one of the best that I’ve ever seen,” he said. “I’m proud of what we’re doing, and I’m proud that it’s happening here in Ohio.” ♦ Learn more at blackradishcreamery.com

← John Reese, in the process of aking cheese

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↓ Chips: Hen of the Woods; Mikesell’s → Chili: Dirty Frank’s (Chili Dog)

→ Cheese: Black Radish Creamery (Cheese Curds)

→ Charcuterie : North Country Charcuterie (No. 1 Salami)

↑ Salsa: Nada (Habanero Kreeper)

↑ Chicken Wings: Squeek’s Bar and Grill

↑ Guacamole: La Michoacana Market

↑ Sausage: Smoked on High

→ Beer: Wolf’s Ridge (Pup IPA)

→ Sandwiches: Carfagna’s

How to build the ultimate Super Bowl spread

By Jack McLaughlin / Photos by Alex Lefebvre

I

t’s been a tough year for professional sports.

Fortunately for football fans, however, the NFL is one organization that actually managed a season of relative normality.

And now, as playoff brackets continue to thin out, the Super Bowl is almost here. While it’s likely your go-to gameday party spot may be 36

closed or limited this year, you can still have a blast on a smaller scale, or even at home with family. To do that, you’ll need food—lots of food.

So, we’ve curated the ultimate Super Bowl spread, featuring speciality items from a number of different local restaurants and markets to get the job done. So whoever’s playing, wherever

(614) MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021 614NOW.COM

you're watching, and whomever you’re rooting for, you and your tastebuds will be the real winners with these fine Columbus eats. ♦ Learn more about each product at 614now.com

→ Zelnik served with Ajvar from Ryan Miller of Zelnik614

Know what Zelnik is? Most people don't.

T

Columbus, meet your new favorite food

By Jack McLaughlin / Photos by James D. DeCamp

@z

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elnik

614 on Instag ram

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his savory Macedonian pastry is making its way into the (614) thanks to a new Columbus eatery named after the dish—and it’s this delightful mesh of cheese and phyllo dough that gave the owner a sense of identity as a child.

“Zelnik was always my favorite food growing up, and it was always fun for me to share that with my friends,” said Zelnik founder Ryan Miller of his delivery-only operation. Orders for the dish are taken through Instagram DM at @zelnik614 and are due the day before deliveries, which are currently Tuesday and Friday by Miller himself.

“When I was a kid, nobody else ever really knew what it was, but this always gave me a little bit of an identity that’s different from everyone else,” he said. “So I’ve always kind of liked it for that purpose, in addition to what it does for my taste buds.”

Traditionally made of egg, soft Bulagarian cheeses, and sautéed leek stuffed into a rich, flaky crust, Zelnik takes a hot second to make. Which is probably why, as far as Miller knows, there aren’t any other Columbus spots slinging his Eastern European pastry.

And if they are, perhaps not with as much love and history as Miller.

For Miller, food has always been a passion—a form of self-expression, even—and zelnik has always been a part of this. He believes strongly in the power of food to maintain and even preserve important aspects of family life as well.

In his food blog, “Dining with DiMiller,” Miller wrote about how his children’s ethnic identities will be even more diverse than that of he and his wife, who have heritages composed of many countries. →

"I have hopes that someday Zelnik will not only be something that foodies seek out, but be a household name for everyone."

↓ Traditional ingredients

“In time what is left of those ethnic identities?

What part of each distinct culture is passed on? What is forgotten? Things that we can be sure will carry on—culinary traditions, heirloom ingredients, cooking methods, recipes. All things food,” MIller wrote.

True to his blog, the recipe for zelnik was passed down from Miller's great-grandmother, (“Baba”) on his mother’s side (the Macedonian side of his family), even if it took an unusual path through his family tree to him.

Neither his grandmother nor his mother learned how to make zelnik; in fact, Miller’s father—who isn’t Macedonian at all—was the one who took the time to annotate the recipe. And not without a little trouble.

“My great-grandmother never used traditional measuring devices, so [Miller’s father] had to jot down and approximate things. But that’s how a lot of old world cooks are; they just kind of eyeball things. My Dad would stop her, grab the mug she was using to portion ingredients, and measure how much it held.

And that’s how we have the recipe now.”

And as Miller worked to perfect the zelnik recipe for commercial sale over the last year, he also incorporated his own set of tweaks and polishes.

“It’s traditionally made in this big sheet, but not everybody’s going to buy a big sheet of something they don’t know,” he said. “ So I shrunk it down to an 8-by-8 square and kind of experimented with the ingredient amounts to get everything right.”

Zelnik offers two permanent menu items: Baba’s Original Zelnik, featuring eggs, Eastern European cheeses, and fried leek; plus the deeply savory Spiced Beef Zelnik, complete with seasoned ground beef, fireroasted tomato, and a similarly enticing cheese blend.

In addition to these mainstays, Zelnik seasonally cooks up some inventive variations that are far from traditional, but most definitely still delicious. These include a recent pork and sauerkraut pastry for New Year’s Eve and a variant with smoked turkey offered around Thanksgiving. What’s more, Miller—an avid fan of Mexican food—plans to experiment with a Zelnik highlighted by Mexican flavors in the near future.

Every Zelnik is paired with a unique and delicious complimentary

sauce. Miller’s permanent menu items come with the sharp, fruity, and subtly spicy ajvar. A relish made from roasted ajvarski pepper (native to Macedonia) and eggplant combined with vinegar, oil, and a robust blend of spices, Ajvar’s kick of bright acidity is a perfect compliment for a rich and hearty zelnik.

“A lot goes into Ajvar, and it's a delicacy; it’s known as the vegan caviar of Eastern Europe,” Miller said.

Previous pastry pairings have included a homemade gravy for the smoked turkey pastry, and a créme fraîche and mustard sauce for the pork and sauerkraut pastry.

While Zelnik has received serious local interest after its late October launch this year, the Ohio University grad and former engineer is taking a measured approach.

“I don’t ever think this will be an on-demand kind of thing,” he said. “It takes a lot of time to make, and they’re traditionally prepared for special occasions, for holidays.”

But that doesn’t mean Zelink isn’t on a path to bigger and better things. As Miller plans his next move—be it a permanent spot, a cloud kitchen, or a shared location—it’s clear he’s doing what moves him, and sharing a huge part of himself along the way.

“I have hopes that someday Zelnik will not only be something that foodies seek out, but be a household name for everyone,” Miller said. “I'm excited to continue challenging myself to come up with fun, unique combinations that people love.” ♦

↑ Miller prepares a traditional Zelnik using eggs, soft cheese, and sauteed leek.

Learn more about Zelnik at instagram.com/zelnik614

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Shop + Support Local Nocterra

Family Practice

www.nocterrabrewing.com (614) 896-8000 41 Depot St, Powell, OH 43065

www.familypracticewestcarellc.com (614) 878-7285 3421 Farm Bank Way, Grove City, OH 43123

Located in historic downtown Powell, Nocterra’s brewers have been perfecting their recipes & crafting high-quality ales & lagers since they opened in 2019. They offer a wide array of beers including traditional styles like dunkels, pilsners & porters, but have pushed the boundaries with fruited sours that truly expand the definition of beer. And IPAs? Yep! …everything from citrusy Beta Flash NE IPA to the big bold flavors of Scioto Coast Double IPA w/ honey.

Sarah Perlman, CNP, started Family Practice WestCare in 2018 to ensure our community has access to an independent, locally-owned Primary Care that puts priority on our patients. Services include Tele-Health, Covid-19 testing, sports physicals, knee injections and treating anxiety and depression with compassion. Every patient is treated with respect which is why we accept most public and private insurance plans, offer affordable Self Pay for those without insurance, have Spanish speaking staff, welcome everyone from the LGBTQ+ community and offer Saturday and same-day appointments.

Brewing Co.

Nocterra’s canning line has been pumping out 6-packs for Central Ohio so there are plenty of ways to get their beer. Find a complete list of stores on their website, or, stop by the taproom for a pint & take home a 6-pack to share.

Better yet, try Nocterra’s free local home delivery service and get delicious craft beer dropped off at your house.

Moretti s

Telhio Credit

www.jenningsjava.com (614) 935-8348 1193 S. Front Street, Columbus, OH 43206

www.telhio.org

On the hilly campus of Muskingum University, Jennings Java was born from a college dorm room in the Spring of 2016. Jennings Java highlights coffee’s unique flavors by sourcing quality beans from various regions around the world. Wholesale or home brew, Jennings Java roasts to order, promising the freshest flavor and an authentic experience with each sip. This is how we remain “True to the Origin” in every cup that you enjoy. Jennings Java provides amazing coffee and a smile to everyone that comes through our doors.

For more than 80 years, Telhio Credit Union has been serving central Ohio as a not-for-profit, full-service financial cooperative. We offer the same financial products and services as a bank –but with a small, important twist; since we are a cooperative, our members are our owners. This means that our members come first and foremost. As an organization, we also believe in our core values of caring, commitment and integrity and being an active presence in the communities we serve. That is why we offer programs to help our members live easier lives, like our Checking that Protects account that gives members the added benefits of local discounts. As Telhio Credit Union grows and expands, we continue to develop new financial solutions for our members and maintain an active presence in the communities we serve.

614now.com/shop Parsons North

Back by popular demand. Be prepared to tell people where you snagged this comfy tee.

Even better? Shipping is free!

www.morettisofarlington.com (614) 486-2333 2124 Tremont Center, Upper Arlington, OH 43221

www.parsonsnorth.com (614) 824-4208 685 Parsons Ave, Columbus, OH 43206

Available in Charcoal, Royal, Red, and White.

Moretti’s has been preparing handmade Italian cuisine for Columbus diners for more than two decades. Join us in the heart of Upper Arlington for drinks, dinner, and a selection of fine wines.

Parsons North Brewing Co. wants your beer experience to be straight-forward and help you take the guesswork out of deciding on your beers. We call it what it is. We put three simple, easy-tounderstand descriptors on the side of each can and bottle, so you know what to expect. We have numerous styles to choose from and are sure you’ll find something for everyone to enjoy.

(614) MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021 614NOW.COM

Union

Get Your 614 T-Shirts Now!

Brewing Co.

A meal at Moretti’s of Arlington is all about the celebration of great food and the people who enjoy it.

We cultivate an atmosphere of relaxation as guests leisurely taste and sip through a meal. Expect for everything to be made by hand with quality ingredients. Delight in our fresh pasta, ravioli, sausages, and bread as you experience a fusion of flavors that excite the palate. You’ll be treated like family with impeccable service as you dine on food made with love, integrity, and fresh ingredients. Visit us, order carryout, or let us cater your next event - no matter what you’re here for, you’ll be more than satisfied.

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WestCare

Jennings Java

Printed right here in Columbus, Ohio!

Carryout, Curbside Pick-up, and Delivery for all our offerings. See website for current hours of operation. Visit parsonsnorth.com to place your order for Beer, Merchandise, Gift Cards, and other items from local vendors.

Don’t forget to follow us!

Instagram @parsons_north Facebook @ParsonsNorthBeer

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HITTING THE REDO BUTTON ON ALL KINDS OF IN 2021

By Melinda Green

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If we’ve learned anything, Columbus, it’s that 2020 was hard on relationships of every kind. From romance to pets, kids to parents, and even neighborly love—things hit a bit of a rough patch for most everyone in one way or another. So during the month of love, we figure it’s time to recognize all the types of relationships we can reboot and get back on track as 2021 gets rolling.

So, grab a warm mug of something delightful, snuggle with that new pandemic pet of yours, and read how to hit reset, and restart, all the love in your life. →

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CtrlAlt Del

Right click to open:

X

GALENTINE'S

X

>> ctrl+alt+del << YOUR FAMILY

Yeah, we get it. You’re going to implode if you have to spend one more minute teaching algebra (though you’re not a teacher), staring at your significant other from opposite ends of the office during Zoom calls, or missing all important holidays with the people you love.

Let’s face it, family time—or lack of it—has been hard this past year. So, how do we reboot our love for family after endless zoom meetups, game nights, and arguments about distancing vs. isolation?

The National Center for PTSD recommends creating new family rituals that promote connection. If you have kids, helpguide.org suggests spending one-on-one time with each of them, doing an activity they enjoy, to forge a closer bond.

Or plan and cook meals as a family. As Sarah-Jane Bedwell wrote on self.com, “True, the food doesn't always turn out perfectly, but no matter what the outcome, there is always a great memory or story to tell.”

The relationships between mothers and daughters living in the same household often flourished during 2020

But probably the most important part of that reboot is remembering that things (and you) don’t have to be perfect.

“It’s better for your child if you’re not perfect,” says a 2013 Psychology Today article. “The goal is expanding your heart and creating more love in the world. Trying to be perfect doesn't get you closer to perfect. It pushes you away from love.”

Carolyn Carle, Activities Director of The Ashford on Broad, says there are ways to connect with older adults as well. If Mom or Grandpa isn’t technologically savvy, invest in a smart frame with calling features, upload the latest family photos, and let them answer your video calls with a single button press. Kindling love with older relatives often means changing your approach, though. Carle notes that, as memory begins to wane, seniors can get stressed and defensive. Instead of “quizzing” older family members, prompt them to share thoughts. “Instead of asking ‘What did you have for dinner?’, say ‘I see you had turkey on the menu. Did you like it?’” she explained.

Or, even better, Carle continued, ask them to tell stories from their earlier life. Not only will they enjoy it; you’ll be able to lovingly respond to changes in cognition as details fade over time. And face it—downloading an app and saving a recording of those stories right now will let you feel an amazing connection with your loved ones long after they’re gone.

>AARP Reports

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A 2019 synthesio.com report found that Galentineʼs Day had almost the same number of social media mentions as Valentineʼs Day.

Most of us would agree that blood isn’t always thicker than water. Family ties can be strong, but often, we find family to be a source of stress, whereas our friends—the family we choose—can actually lower stress and build confidence. The Harvard Study of Adult Development found that the biggest key to well-being was— you guessed it—having friends.

Whether or not you’re feeling burned out or lonely, “Solid friendships provide needed validation that a person is valuable and of interest to other people” reports usnews.com.

This sentiment is particularly potent for the ladies around this time of year given Valentine’s Day, an oft-romantic holiday for “couples only,” traditionally leaves the singles in the crowd feeling excluded. But that tradition has been turned on its head to celebrate female friendships instead.

Galentine’s Day. Parks and Recreation may have ended in 2015, but its influence on American culture has not. Galentine’s Day—Leslie Knope’s waffle-and-frittata-filled, over-the-top tribute to the women in her life—is celebrated on Feb.13 every year, and it’s growing in popularity. A 2019 synthesio.com report found that Galentine’s Day had almost the same number of social media mentions as Valentine’s Day. Waffles, frittatas, and boozy drinks were Leslie’s foods of choice, but there are no real rules. You get to be you. Brunch itself might be fancy or casual. Go keto and alcohol free, if you want. Or replace it with other activities, in person or virtual. Spa day? Zoom crafting hour? Masking up for a winter hike? It’s up to you! Leslie’s legacy is paying homage to each other, to shared histories, and to the friendships that can survive good times and bad.

We’re definitely raising a toast to that. There are few better ways to bond with your besties.

E’S VALENTIN .

WEEKEND FRI SAT SUN

WOODBURYCBUS.COM. 614.824.5042. RESERVATION ONLY. 4 COURSE DINNER FOR 2.

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Hey Siri, run the

Pandemic

Pets

Program

When times get tough, we often turn to animals for comfort, perspective, and joy. That’s because pets are good for our mental and physical health, bringing beneficial effects on mood, longevity, heart rate and blood pressure, according to Rae Gandolf, DVM, DACVM. So it makes sense that, after The Year That Shall Not Be Named, we might want to connect with our pets more than ever.

And we definitely have deep bonds with our animals. As the joke goes, if you want to know who truly loves you, lock your spouse and your dog in the trunk of a car. Then, see which one runs to give you kisses when you let them out.

Regarding our relationships with pets, Gandolf, a veterinarian with Shelter Outreach Services and Granville Veterinary Clinic, said, “It’s so much about quality time.”

She takes her dog hiking and mountain biking, and actually prescribes extra walks for some of her lonely or depressed patients. “A special walk, where they can run with you or smell new things, is really fun for a lot of pets.”

In 2020, pet fostering and adoptions surged, as reported by the Associated Press, and “pandemic ponies” became a buzzword among horsewomen everywhere.

Even birdwatching started attracting new followers.

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Another way to bond is playing dress-up. “I used to think it was silly, and then I found that there really are pets that like to be dressed up,” she continued. “Maybe the owner has a ritual where they lay outfits out on the floor and let their dog pick one. For those pets, that’s quality time.” Obviously, she pointed out, you probably don’t want to try this with a cat.

Training also is a great way to bond, she said, and, with modifications, can be engaging even for dogs recovering from injury.

But what about the rest of the animal kingdom? Cats want to be petted on their own schedule, Gandolf admitted. But laser pointers, or toys on fishing poles, are good for fostering interaction. Iguanas love gentle forehead rubs. Or, she suggests, invest in your pets’ habitat: set up a new basking spot for your reptiles, upgrade a cage, or build a perch for your cats.

You can also throw your pets a “pawty.”

Yep, you read that right.

“Because people are home more often, pets have become more of a centerpiece to the family,” said Teresa Jacques, Owner and “Pawstry” Chef at The Cakehound in Bexley (thecakehound.com). Is your best friend spoiled rotten?

Maybe he or she should be.

The Cakehound creates all kinds of handmade treats for pups, including bone shaped cakes, cupcakes, cutout cookies, and even buckeyes. Ingredients and colorings are all-natural and dog-safe and include peanut butter, wheat flour, carob, and applesauce. The Cakehound will even make custom cakes in the shape of a favorite toy. Any of this will bring huge smiles to both you and your dog.

Or really treat them like one of the family. Since parties are often being reduced to drive-by parades and virtual gatherings, families are beginning to throw parties for their dogs, complete with “pawty” hats for the very good girls and boys.

“People are saying, ‘We want our kids to have fun, so we’re getting a cake for the dog, and then we’ll get cupcakes for the kids,’” Jacques said. “It’s really becoming a family affair.” No kids? No judgment here if you still want to throw a howl-iday bash. Your dog—and you—deserve to have a fantastic time together!

While the United States has long since crowned Feb. 14 the day of romantic love for couples, the truth is, love is love—no matter who or what or where you celebrate it. So forget the classic V-Day of American yore and check out 6 ways love of all kinds is celebrated internationally.

Since Valentine’s Day often falls during Carnival, June 12 is Dia dos Namorados in Brazil. Like Valentine’s Day, romantic gifts are exchanged and meals are shared.

Feb. 14 in the Philippines brings the usual gifts and messagin g, plus... mass weddings. Yep, in public spaces, couples gather in droves to tie the knot or renew their vows.

To celebrate Dragobete, the traditional Romanian god of love and cheer, boys and girls would wander in search of the first spring flowers for incantations, or even take blood oaths of loyalty and friendship.

Friends, couples, and professional colleagues in the Catalonia region of Spain celebrate love and appreciation for each other on St. George’s Day, April 23, with roses for women and books for men.

Ghana gets straight to th e point: Since 2005, Feb. 14 is National Chocolate Day. And as one of the world’s largest producer s of cocoa, they know their produc t.

South Korea takes the cake for love celebrations, with one on the 14th of every month. Valentine’s Day, White Day, Black Day (when singles eat black noodles), Photo Day, Wine Day, Rose Day, Movie Day, even Hug Day and Kiss Day. Love wins it all here.

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Google

Search

NEW CAREER OR SIDE HUSTLE? When you think of rebooting your love for life, your career might be the last thing you think of. After all, for many of us, our job is just that—a job. It’s our security. It’s what we’re trained to do. It often seems like a lucky few find fulfillment on an everyday basis, and the rest of us have a love-hate relationship with our careers.

Given the economic climate, maybe this isn’t the right time for big, risky changes, but maybe it is the time to start expanding your skill set, capitalizing on new connections, or discovering a side gig that fulfills the dream you left behind long ago. Maybe a job isn’t just a job, after all. Maybe you can find love for who you are by focusing on what you do.

For the ladies who identify as a “boss babe,” there’s an event just for you. Gina Molinari and Heather Moran present an annual Galentine’s Day for Boss Babes [bit.ly/ galentines2021], a charity event geared toward female entrepreneurs.

“Women are notorious for always putting other people first,” Molinari said. “They work really, really hard. This is an opportunity to network, but we’re also gonna have a good time.” And did we mention there might be mimosas? What a great way to treat yourself!

But if you don’t identify as a boss babe, don’t despair.

Meetup.com lists over 40 professional networking groups in the Columbus area, and a quick internet search turns up many local professional development and skill building programs.

Or, take some advice from a 2019 businessnewsdaily post: Take on a passion project, explore cross-functional tasks, or pair up with a mentor for feedback But let’s face it. Sometimes, your career just isn’t all that.

You need something that fulfills your passions. In 2018, Harvard Business Review reported that about 44 million Americans had side hustles, and in 2020, addicted2success. com reported that 50% of millennials did. If you don’t have a side hustle, maybe it’s time. Why just have a hobby when you can make money doing what feeds your soul?

Mark Brennan, of Westerville, has a full-time IT career and also works professionally in the music industry, both as a musician and on the business side.

Brennan enjoys his career, but his side gig allows him to connect with other facets of his personality. “It benefits me in a lot of ways, not just monetarily. My being gets wrapped up in the creative element of making music, versus the intellectual side.”

A 2020 study published by the Academy of Management concluded that psychological empowerment from side hustles enriches full-time work performance. Brennan agrees. “I get the opportunity to step away from my primary job. I can focus on me, what I want to do, how I want to drive this business. I get that mental break a couple times a week, so when I come back to work, I’m not burned out.”

So maybe your job isn’t your everything. But maybe you can pick up work that excites you and rejuvenates your love for life, and maybe that’s exactly what you need.

In 2018, Harvard Business Review reported that about 44 million Americans had side hustles, and in 2020, addicted2success.com reported that 50% of millennials did.

Im feeling lucky

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Well, it’s official—if you’re currently unattached, Columbus is the place to be. According to the 2020 US Census data, Columbus has a singles’ population of 62%, compared to the national average of 50%, making a prime place to meet someone. But don’t believe us—check out these facts and figures for why Columbus is a singles dream. We sense a love connection!

Columbus is No.1 for single women, according to DatingAdvice in 2014, based on the ratio of single men to single women.

Columbus is No. 15 in the nation for singles in 2021, according to Wallethub, based on economics, fun & recreation, and dating opportunities.

Short North + German Village, best neighborhoods for the recently divorced, according to Movato.com, based on their diversity, robust dining scenes, and artsy attitudes

Single & Young, Columbus outranks the nation in residents aged 25-34 AND in singles, according to bestplaces.net LGBTQ+ Love, Columbus ranked by 2015 Gallup poll in top 15 of the nation’s 50 largest gay-friendly metropolitan areas, with 4.3 percent of its adults identifying as LGBT. 614NOW.COM

FEBRUARY 2021 (614) MAGAZINE

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Enter Admin Password:

X

REBUILD THE BRIDGES OF

Check

out

this

philanthropy!

Showing love for strangers does your soul good.

Rebooting relationships with our fellow humans, especially those who may be really, really in search of empathy in a time of uncertainty and loneliness, is part of the human experience we all need right now—and there are plenty of ways to do it, from a philanthropic standpoint.

So this month, if your finances allow, re-dedicate yourself to doing good. Commission an artist friend for a new piece (big or small). Subscribe to local arts organizations on social media and mark your calendar to attend or stream their performances. Or put “agape” love into action and make a commitment to volunteer or donate time, resources, or money—the latter of which has seen a surprise boost over the last year.

Despite concern that the pandemic’s economic impact would cause people to entrench financially, the local philanthropic community has seen quite the opposite over the last 11 months, according to Emily Savors, Director of Grants Management at The Columbus Foundation.

“This is something we never would have expected, when so many people were either hurting or really worried about their future,” Savors said.

“People are aware that they are very fortunate, in a way that they haven’t been aware of in past years. Even people who have been sick or had their hours cut back—they’re seeing people in the community who really have lost so much more. So people are stepping up and giving what they can.”

Check out The Columbus Foundation for opportunities to donate to more than 1,200 charitable organizations, nonprofits, and critical need funds with local impact. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, there are roughly 1.5 million nonprofits in the United States, according to the National Center for Charitable Statistics, so there’s bound to be at least one that helps you feel great about helping others. Give it a shot.

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X

Madison Mikhail Bush, founder and CEO of Point, a free, local volunteer-matching service, likes to point out opportunity in the midst of challenge, and how volunteering benefits the volunteer as much as the recipient.

“We’re all very tired, and I think we’re all feeling a little bit hopeless. And I think that the way that we can feel powerful and enact change is by actually doing something physically.

It’s not only good for the community, but it’s good for ourselves.

“Posting on social media is great; giving money is great; but at the end of the day, some of us just need to do something,” she said.

And volunteers are needed now more than ever, she explained. “Many organizations rely on older volunteers, but the 65-plus crowd that has become the backbone of local agencies is now high risk for COVID-19. We need low risk, younger volunteers that can go and volunteer safely, right now.”

So consider stepping in to offer that love and hope to others this month, either with the Point app or by contacting your favorite agency. You’ll find that spreading the love lets you reap the benefits, too.

A study published by the University of British Columbia and Harvard Business School found that spending just $5 on someoneelse creates more happiness than spending on yourself.

It only takes a quick glance at social networking sites like Facebook to see people on both sides of the aisle (and those in the middle, too) name calling, mudslinging, and generally behaving badly. Turn on the news, and you’ll see them doing it in real life, too.

But instead of burning bridges of friendship and launching attacks against those whose ideologies you can’t live with, make a commitment this month to reset your approach.

“The essence of compassionate, or nonviolent, communication (NVC) is a focus on the needs that we all share,” says Susanna Warren, Director and Lead Trainer of the Compassionate Communication Center of Ohio. “The way that I find a way forward, in challenging conversations, is to look at the things we have in common and separate those from the strategies we take.”

Warren points to a conflict she recently had with a close family member. “I had to look underneath the anger and the outlandish thoughts and the ranting. We both deeply value people having jobs and being able to work. He has a different strategy than I do.”

NVC invites us to suspend right and wrong, she continues. “If you stay in the focus of ‘what I need and value’, and look for that in others, versus ‘what I don’t like and what I don’t want,’ there lies the holy grail. And that’s what takes a lot of work.”

Another practice of NVC, Warren says, is the difference between reaction and response. “When you feel threatened, that response of fight, flight, or freeze, you get into this very narrow viewpoint—‘protect the core at all costs.’ You get into a frenzy, a reactive mode.” That, in turn, can have lasting consequences, she notes.

“Sometimes, we want to grow, and grow, and change things, and we forget to accept,” she continued. “There’s a piece of nonviolence that teaches us to accept what is, and long for more.”

So make a commitment to love your neighbor in whatever way you can, even if you hate their yard signs. And, in the moments that’s not possible, approaching with compassionate communication might at least help you be a little more at peace with yourself.

No matter the love you’re looking for this February, the love that you need is right in front of you. So take a deep breath, take stock of (all) the love in your life, and hit reboot. Now is the perfect time to reset your love(s) life and take another step forward in 2021. We love you, Columbus!

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Every wedding – like every couple– is a little bit different. Couples combine personalities and interests developed over their lifetimes with family traditions passed down through generations to celebrate in a way that's truly unique.

Five Columbus couples were kind enough to give us backstage access to their wedding days – the highlights, the mishaps, and most of all, the stories of love and commitment.

Congratulations to our featured couples. Thank you for sharing your specal day with us.

← Mandy & Rebecca (p. 56) Photo by Amy Ann Photography

←M andy (L) and Rebecca (R) on their way to be married at Gahanna Sanctuary

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the Big Day

Mandy & Rebecca Photos by Amy Ann Photography

"For me, it just felt like home, I guess you could say, pretty early on. I could be myself, and I was comfortable with Mandy. I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see my life without her."

Rebecca and Mandy Levings took their time with each other, living together for more than three years before deciding to move forward with marriage. But when they began planning their celebration for November 2020, they had to pivot because of COVID. Still, they say the resulting small ceremony they had was a relaxing way to celebrate their union.

Read more from writer Melinda Green at 614now.com

â&#x2020;&#x2018; Mandy (L): hair by Olivia Duck at Oak + Olive Salon; Rebecca (R): hair by Kacie Amlin of JMAC Hair Studio

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the Big Day

↓ Married at Gahanna Sanctuary

by Officient Ruth Sternberg

↑ Dress from Wendy's Bridal; suit from The Groomsman Suit

↑ Cake by Capital City Cakes

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↑ Mandy's ring is from Farriah Jewelers; Rebecca's ring is a family heirloom 614NOW.COM

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the Big Day

Sunrita & Jinit Photos by Vermillion Diaries (India)

"I couldn’t see a reason I wouldn’t want to be with him."

Sunrita Sen and Jinit Haria started out as friends before deciding they wanted more. Both pursuing their own career goals, they ended up embarking on a long-distance relationship. But after a wedding celebration that represented both traditional and nontraditional aspects of their Indian ancestry, the two are now living happily in Columbus together.

Read more from writer Melinda Green at 614now.com

↑ Sunrita's dresses wore provided by Indian Silk House and Chamee & Palak; The groom were Agnimitra Paul

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the Big Day

↓ Rings from Kay Jewelers

↓ Married at Gahanna Sanctuary

by Officient Ruth Sternberg

↓ Additional accessories for the wedding were provided by B.C. Sen Jewelers & P.C. Jain Jewelers ↑ The couple was married during a multi-day celebration in Kolkata, India

↑ The couple dated for 6 years before marrying in 2019

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the Big Day

Shanelle & Gareth Photos by Addison Jones Photography

"All my classes for my senior year were scheduled after 2 p.m., so I could stay up until the most ungodly hours talking to her."

What happens when you realize you have a crush on your foreign exchange student friend? If you’re Shanelle Lewis-Ward, you date that friend (Gareth Ward) in a longdistance relationship and eventually marry him—first with a tiny civil ceremony, and eventually with weddings in Ireland and the U.S.

Read more from writer Melinda Green at 614now.com

↑ After 10 years of dating, Shanelle & Gareth were married in 2018 in Wicklow, Ireland

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the Big Day ↑ Tinakilly Country House, Wicklow, Ireland

↑ The couple was married by the bride's brother; engagement ring from HeidiGibson.com

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↑ Invitations by the bride, Shanelle, shopvignetterie.com

↑ Bride's dress by BHLDN 614NOW.COM

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Our Services

Devoted Columbus

Wedding Resale Shoppe Resale Markets The Experience Wedding Show

Wedding planning can be stressful and, without dedicated help, you can be left scrambling.

Wedding Day Assistants & Planning Online Wedding Directory Wedding Planning Guide Magazine

D

evoted Columbus CEO Jamie M. Rapavy has spent more than 20 years in the wedding industry figuring it all out so you don’t have to. Her business serves engaged couples in many capacities throughout the wedding process, from wedding planning to wedding inventory resale events.

“I love helping engaged couples with their planning and I know it's such an expensive ordeal for them,” Rapavy said.

Her 20+ years of wedding service allowed her to see a gap in the local wedding market—wedding resale. So Rapavy recently opened Ohio’s only wedding consignment shop, Wedding Resale Shoppe. It is located in Old Hilliard at 5251 Norwich Street and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

No appointment is required.

Rapavy said the Devoted Columbus team typically take up to 48 hours to go through your gently used wedding items and make you a cash offer on the spot.

Items accepted include signage, votives, centerpieces, decor, table numbers, cake stands, toasting glasses, bridesmaid accessories, placecard holders, gift items, jewelry, and more.

Another easy way to save money and the planet while wedding planning is to attend a Devoted Columbus’ Wedding Resale Market. These long-standing events feature up to 50+ vendors and host 200600 shoppers. At these events, engaged couples sell anything from their wedding, including dresses. All of the proceeds from the sales go directly to the seller.

The next Wedding Resale Market will be held from 11 to 2 p.m. on March 14 at the Makoy Center, 5462 Center St., Hilliard. VIP tickets are $12 and allow you to shop 30 minutes before the doors open

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Use the code 614DVT for 50% off your ticket purchases! ↑ Photo by Jamie M. Rapavy

“I want my clients to put the most money toward the things they want the most.

I always find ways to save them money,” Rapavy said of her Wedding Resale Shoppe. ↑ Jamie M. Rapavy with Assistant Lauren Felty

to everyone else; general admission tickets are $6 in advance and $8 at the door.

Register at devotedcolumbus.com.

Rapavy says a fun way to see all of the latest wedding fashions and wedding decor is at Devoted Columbus’ Wedding Experience. The Spring 2021 wedding show event will be held on April 18th from 12:30 to 4 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Columbus North. Each room will showcase a mini mock wedding reception themed for each season of the year. This wedding show will offer phenomenal prizes to attendees, including the grand prize giveaway of $1,000 shopping spree at Worthington Jewelers and so much more.

“It’s a great place to shop for vendors and get out there and have fun planning weddings again,” said Rapavy. Use the code 614DVT for 50% off your ticket purchases.

In addition to the Wedding Resale Shoppe and annual events, Devoted Columbus has multiple other free resources for engaged couples to take

Jamie M. Rapavy

5251 Norwich Street Hilliard, OH 46026

advantage of. Their services include an online wedding directory featuring the top vendors in Columbus, digital coupons with thousands of dollars in savings towards vendors, and a wedding planning guide to help engaged couples through their planning journey.

Raavy also helps couples in the planning stages, Devoted Columbus offers full-service wedding planning and wedding day assistants to provide an extra set of hands to help your wedding day come together perfectly at an affordable price.

“I want my clients to put the most money toward the things they want the most,” Rapavy said. “I always find ways to save them money. We also do the legwork of searching for the best prices on the best professionals we can find.

“By saving money and time, our clients experience less stress while being connected to the best professionals in the industry. This has been my focus for the last 20+ years.” ♦

614-717-7526 info@devotedcolumbus.com www.devotedcolumbus.com 614NOW.COM

Visit our website for more details!

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the Big Day

Jessica & Pete Photos by Dennis Crider Photography

"Every time we were together, it was important for us to know the next time we were gonna see each other. We needed countdowns, something to look forward to."

Jessica and Pete Ryan met as preschoolers, became childhood best friends, and finally high school sweethearts before weathering a long-distance relationship for over five years. And when their longdeserved nuptials threatened to be upended by COVID-19, the couple overcame that challenge too, finding the perfect way to celebrate their love with those who meant the most to them.

Read more from writer Melinda Green at 614now.com

â&#x2020;&#x2018; Jessica & Pete started dating Oct. 16, 2010, and were married in Columbus Oct. 17, 2020

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the Big Day

↓ The bride wore Miss Stella York from Twirl Bridal; the groom wore a custom suit by BALANI on High St.

↓ The reception was held at The Westin Great Sotuhern Columbus, who also catered the event.

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↓ Flowers by Rose & Jane Floral

↓ The couple was married by Deacon Byron Phillips at St. Christophers in Grandview

↓ Cake and cookies provided by Dairy Queen & Schneider's Bakery

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the Big Day

Indoor and outdoor options available

Abigail & Mike Photos by Jessica Love Photography

"He challenges me intellectually. I have someone who’s super fun, and cool, and actually makes me better."

Read more from writer Melinda Green at 614now.com

↑ Abigail & Mike dated for 9 months before marrying in 2020

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Photo: Style and Story Creative

Volleyball and a half-marathon brought the Valentines together, and they dated for less than a year before Mike’s proposal at the Columbus Park of Roses. But even though the pandemic made their celebration smaller than they originally planned, the two focused on sharing their special day with the people who mattered most to them.

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the Big Day

↓ The couple was married by Officiant Brooks Talbot

↑ The bride wore a custom design by Anomalie; the groom & groomsmen wore The Black Tux & Nordstrom

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↓ Flowers were provided by The Flowerman; tables by Club at Corazon

↑ Rings provided by Worthington Jewelers; dogs provided by the couple

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↑ The food was catered by Club at Corazon 614NOW.COM

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“I d o! ”

Say to the home of your dreams.

Our first-time home buyers enjoy a low down payment and no Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI).

Contact us today.

614.707.4000 | www.bmifcu.org BMI FCU® is open to everyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Franklin, Licking, Fairfield, Pickaway, Madison, Union, Delaware or Morrow County. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change and may vary based on creditworthiness, qualifications and collateral conditions. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS ID #410831

Let's face it, when you need a professional, whether it's a doctor, a Real Estate agent, or some other service-related field, you want to know what services they offer, but you also want to know who they are and what they're about. (614) is going to help you with that!

We will feature some of Columbus' top professionals in this special advertising section that helps you learn not just what they do, but how they do it and what their story is. From social enterprises that work to better their communities to highly skilled medical professionals who can better your health, we've got the story behind the storefrontâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and we're excited for you to meet them. Columbus, meet The Professionals. â&#x2020;&#x2019;

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Ved Pyakurel Revolution Mortgage 6400 E. Main St. Suite 101 Reynoldsburg, Ohio

C

olumbus’s housing market is on fire right now, which can make home buying a challenge for even the most qualified buyers.

Most buyers must be pre-qualified by a lender to even make an offer on a home. For folks who are ready to buy, but have barriers due to language or culture, the mortgage industry can be especially difficult to navigate.

That’s where Revolution Mortgage comes in. Ved Pyakurel, Reynoldsburg branch manager (NMLS# 1481598) , knows the many difficulties refugees and immigrants face when buying a home. As a Bhutanese refugee who fled Bhutan with his parents in the 1990s, he is now building his business around helping people become homeowners.

During the turmoil of the 1990s, Pyakurel’s family and many others fled Bhutan and were placed in refugee camps in eastern Nepal .

“Despite the many hardships that I faced growing up in the camps, I enjoyed my childhood,” he said. “Looking back at it now, I realize that I learned at a young age to appreciate the little things in life.”

Pyakurel’s family was relocated to the U.S. in June 2009 as part of the Refugee Resettlement Program.

Pyakurel said he finds great joy in helping refugees, immigrants, and everyone else find their home.

“At the end of the day, we are helping people, with dignity and respect, to fulfill their dreams of home ownership.”

Pyakurel opened his branch in Reynoldsburg on the first of the year.

“The Reynoldsburg area is a great place to live. It is really diverse and growing, and there are a lot of opportunities here,” he said.

It’s with great passion that Pyakurel serves the community.

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↑ Ved (L) & Laxmi (R)

"My goal is to help the community that has helped pave my way to success."

“The mortgage industry has become home to me,” he said. “My goal is to help the community that has helped pave my way to success. I would like to use this platform to transform the concept of home buying into a possibility for everyone. Now that I own my own branch, I am one step closer to this vision.”

Mortgage lending is much more than just a transaction for the Revolution Mortgage Reynoldsburg Branch team. Pyakurel said his customers become part of the Revolution family.

Most of his clients come from word-of-mouth of referrals from other happy customers. “What’s most

important to me is that we always give our best, and that we treat people as best we can,” he said. “My entire business is based on making sure our name is good.”

When you work with one of the four loan officers at the Reynoldsburg branch of Revolution Mortgage, you can rest assured that you will receive all the information you need up front.

“Anytime someone comes to me, I am always transparent up front,” Pyakurel said. “I don’t like surprises. I am proactive and work extremely hard so that at the end of the day, my customers leave happy.” ♦

Our Services → Mortgage Lending

6400 E. Main St. Suite 101 Reynoldsburg, OH 43068

Revolution Reynoldsburg – Let’s Make Moves.

→ Refinancing Revolution Mortgage (Company NMLS#1686046) Reynoldsburg Branch (Branch NMLS# 2081481) Branch Manager (NMLS# 1481598) Ved Pyakurel

614-354-5000 vpyakurel@revolutionmortgage.com www.revolutionmortgage.com/vpyakurel 83

Learn more about how Home Central Realty can help you!

Marci Press Home Central Realty 897 Eastwind Dr. Westerville, Ohio

If

you walk around the Home Central Realty office, you’ll notice exclamation marks hanging on the walls throughout.

Realtor and Co-Owner Marci Press said that her team, Marci Press & Pros of Home Central Realty, knows that every task they do daily to help clients sell or buy their next home is URGENT. In one of the hottest housing markets in the nation, it pays to have a professional on your side who treats every matter as a pressing one.

Press says that regardless of the market, buyers are in a position to make a good investment.

That’s one of the reasons that Marci Press & Pros are consistently ranked in the top 200 Realtors in Central Ohio, based on production, dollar volume, and units sold.

Her professional Realtors include Paige Golding, Alex Press, Lisa Halpert, Agnes Guzik, Brittany McQuay and Maggie Mescher.

Press said that in this “complete seller’s market,” many sellers are very happy right now. Still, buyers are taking extreme measures to secure their dream homes.

“In my nearly 17 years of experience in the real estate industry, I’ve never seen anything like it,” she said. “If a buyer wants to make a competitive offer on a home, the buyer may need to waive otherwise common contingencies such as a satisfactory home inspection, requesting items to be remedied, etc.”

For buyers, the incredibly low interest rates continue to propel the seller’s market.

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"I love what I do.

It’s insane because it doesn’t even feel like work."

The challenging housing market in Columbus is not forecasted to change this year, according to Press.

It’s important for potential homebuyers not to despair because of the market challenges. The key is hiring the right professional for the job. “In this market, it is extremely important to align yourself with experienced professionals, and that’s who we are.”

Always one step ahead of her competitors, Press says her team is highly trained, highly efficient and fast-acting. “You cannot delay in this market if you are a buyer or a buyer’s agent.”

Press knows a bit about acting quickly on a deal. She and her business partner purchased Home Central Realty in 2006 for $1, while also assuming the company’s massive debt. Press has since used

her impressive business acumen to transform the near-bankrupt business into the successful company it is today.

The key to her company’s success? Press says it’s the passion she has for helping her clients.

“I love what I do. It’s insane because it doesn’t even feel like work,” she said.

Her dedication to ensuring that all details are tended to professionally, urgently, and ethically is what differentiates her and her team, she said.

Press said she is fortunate that most of her clients are previous clients or referrals.

“I did something right if they are telling their friends and coming back,” she said. “You cannot put a value on that.” ♦

Service Areas → Gahanna → Westerville → Blacklick → Galena → New Albany → Dublin → Worthington

→ Powell → Downtown → Grandview Heights → Upper Arlington → Sunbury → Bexley → Pickerington

→ Hilliard → Reynoldsburg → Canal Winchester → Grove City → Groveport → Columbus

M P & P Marci Press & Pros

897 Eastwind Dr. Westerville, Ohio 43081 614-216-0426 MPress@HomeCentralRealty.com www.homecentralrealty.com 85

↑ Brett Thomas

↑ Sam Martin

Thomas and Martin use their many industry connections to their customers’ benefit. “Columbus is one of the hottest housing markets in the country, which has caused a feeding frenzy when it comes to accepted offers,” Martin said. “We add value for Realtors. We can contact the listing agent and tell them with confidence that the offer is vetted. It eliminates some anxiety for an agent writing an offer with 10 to 12 offers on a listing. More often than not, those contracts are accepted.”

In addition to exceptional speed, Revolution Mortgage also provides customers with a great experience and competitive pricing. “With the

R Brett Thomas & Sam Martin Revolution Mortgage 240 N. Fifth St., Suite 300 Columbus, OH 43215 86

evolution Mortgage Branch Managers Brett Thomas (NMLS# 444398) and Sam Martin (NMLS# 406770) have a combined total of 40+ years in the mortgage industry, and in a hot housing market like Columbus’s, it’s imperative to have a lender that will make you a priority and close your loan fast. Revolution Mortgage knows that and has made speed its key differentiator in their mortgage lending and refinancing business.

In 2018, Thomas and Martin said they had it with corporate lending, and it was time to do something for the people. “The way that big banks were treating clients—the regulations, the overlays and guidelines and the things they were making customers do was

uncomfortable for both the Realtors and the buyers,” said Thomas. “Revolution allowed us to open our own branch, hire the people we want to work with and deliver a quality product at warp speed.”

And it’s not just lip service; Thomas and Martin extensively train all of their own loan processors to use special workflows and technology that can shave weeks off the closing process.

“Our technology is top-notch, and allows us to close a loan in as little as 15 days,” says Thomas.

“Because we are small and nimble, loan officers and processors are more efficient and that’s how we get the speed advantage. Because purchases are our priority, we are able to move paper fast.

We can offer the lowest cost while also treating our customers as a true partner.”

training and management experience we have under our belt, the pricing and product flexibility allows us to be very competitive in the marketplace,” Martin said.

The Revolution Team is proud of its local roots and reputation in the community as a homegrown mortgage company. “There is power to that,” says Thomas. When a house in, say, Clintonville, closes, the money all stays in the local economy. “Because a lot of consumers are into supporting small local businesses, we see this as an advantage, and we are glad we can bring homeownership to more people in Central Ohio.” ♦

"We can offer the lowest cost while also treating our customers as a true partner."

Our Services → Mortgage Lending

240 N. Fifth St., Suite 300 Columbus, OH 43215

Revolution Columbus – Let’s Make Moves.

Revolution Mortgage (Company NMLS# 1686046) Downtown Columbus Branch (Branch NMLS# 1906914)

614-407-8524 www.revolutionmortgage.com/downtown-columbus

→ Refinancing

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Visit DekaLash - Grandview to book today!

Krista Guagenti Deka Lash 1017 W 5th Ave Columbus, OH

K

rista Guagenti worked in the healthcare field for almost 12 years before deciding the 90-plus hours per week she was logging in weren’t worth it.

“It was just never ending,” she said.

She had always wanted to own her own business, so she decided to leave healthcare and do just that! Though Guagenti holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry and a Master’s Degree in Business, she had dreamed of owning a high-end luxury day spa that focuses on oncology therapeutics, since she was in high school. When she left the healthcare field in 2010, she immediately began preparing her plans to open the spa. She visited consultants across the country and started learning everything she could about the industry. But when she approached the banks for funding, they weren’t willing to fund the project because she had never owned a business, and times were tough for banks having just come off the recession, so they advised her to scale back her plans and/or open a different, smaller business.

So Guagenti pivoted. She chose to exercise her love for interior design and open a business that would give her that ownership experience. After a very successful 8-year stint of owning a Budget Blinds franchise, she finally began her beauty-industry journey with Deka Lash.

Guagenti immediately fell in love with the transformation eyelash extensions can make in peoples’ lives, and she had to be a part of this hot, emerging concept! Now a 88

↑ Lora Hayne working on Guangenti's lashes

"It’s incredibly rewarding to see the difference something as simple as lash extensions can make in a person’s overall wellbeing and beliefs about themselves."

franchise owner of Deka Lash Columbus Grandview, Guagenti has rapidly gained a foothold in the fastest growing sector of the beauty industry. She chose Deka Lash because she wanted to be part of a brand that was founded on the belief that all women should feel empowered, beautiful and confident...and a brand that is dedicated to protecting the health of its clients’ natural lashes, while also prolonging the life of the lash extensions.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see the difference something as simple as lash extensions can make in a person’s overall well-being and beliefs about themselves,” Guagenti said.

Deka Lash Columbus Grandview opened in October 2019. The chic and trendy studio features super comfortable lash beds, an exclusive product line, and an endless option of lash styles. Guests can

even get a full set of TrueXpress lashes in just one hour (most other places take 2-4 hours).

Once the lashes are on, they can be worn indefinitely, Guagenti said. Customers just need to get their lashes filled every two to three weeks, to mitigate the shedding process of their natural lashes, and keep their lashes looking nice and full.

And, Deka Lash has an incredible membership program that allows clients to continue to get lashes affordably.

The service is also accessible to those who have lost lashes due to chemotherapy and other medications, stress, anxiety, or illnesses that cause hair loss. That’s because Deka Lash has a range of incredible products and growth serums that can help return customers’ lashes to the length needed for applying lash extensions.

“My heart becomes so full when a client who has lost their lashes due to something like cancer, tells me the lash extensions make them feel the way they felt before they had cancer,” Guagenti said.

Now, her dreams are truly being realized.

Guagenti’s very own spa, Panacea Luxury Spa Boutique, is under construction on Trabue Road near Riverside Drive, in the new Quarry Trails health and wellness development. It’s set to open June 1, 2022.

This high-end luxury day spa will be a health and wellness retreat for everyone, with massages, facials, body treatments, skincare, nails and other exciting services! They will also offer oncology therapeutics and focus on couples’ connections, as well as men’s treatments.

Guagenti said she’s excited about the services she is going to be offering Columbus residents, and the difference she knows the spa is going to make in their lives.

“This is a dream that’s been 30 years in the making, so it’s overwhelmingly exciting to see it finally come to fruition,” she said. ♦

Our Services → TrueXpress: This new lash application method creates a naturally full set of lashes in half the time of traditional services, without sacrificing quality.

→ Lash Lift: For those with naturally straight lashes, this service was designed to lift and curl even the most stubborn of natural eyelashes.

→ TrueVolume: Perfect for anyone with naturally thin lashes, this method adds as much fullness, length, and curl as you want.

→ Natural, Wispy, Cat Eye, Doll Eye: Deka Lash designs can be customized by length, curl, and density, giving customers the ability to create looks that are wholly their own.

→ Classic: For anyone who wants to add length without adding fullness, this method is applied to one natural lash to give it that mascara look... without mascara.

→ Brow Lamination: This newest service creates the illusion of a fuller, thicker brow line, without any invasive treatment or techniques. It is the perfect complement to a full, voluminous lash line.

1017 W 5th Ave. Columbus, OH 43212 614-454-3109 www.dekalash.com

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Learn more about how Tandem builds relationships!

Olivia Weinstock Tandem www.join-tandem.com

A

s a teen, Olivia Weinstock ran summer camps for children in her backyard. Her roster grew and grew, and by the time she was in college, families were clamouring for her childcare services.

“I grew up here in Columbus, in Bexley, and I’ve always loved kids. I realized too that I love building relationships in the community with families,” Weinstock said.

When she went away at college, Weinstock said that her babysitting contacts continued calling her, asking if she could recommend a local sitter. “I realized there needed to be a seamless place to start these connections, and that’s why we created Tandem.”

Along with her two co-founders, Natalie Amling and McKenzie Kennelly, Weinstock formed what she calls “a local connection platform,” that is completely online and 100 percent free. The concept gained momentum with families, but also with local investors interested in growing the company.

Having raised seed-round funding in September 2020, the technology start-up has focused on automating its free service.

“When we started Tandem, we knew that to compete in this market, we needed to be 100 percent free,” said Weinstock. “Our service is free, without fees, to families. And providers do not see any sort of cut removed,” she said.

How do they do it? They make money through the platform’s banking system.

Providers are paid as soon as they complete jobs through the system and may save, transfer or spend their earnings within the platform or with their Tandem debit card.

Weinstock said her goal is to expand beyond childcare and enter into other hourly paid markets within the gig economy. For now, she will stick with solving the problem of childcare for many local families.

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↑ McKenzie Kennelly, Olivia Weinstock, Natalie Amling (L to R)

"We try to be super understanding that each family’s needs are different, instead of telling them what they need."

“Using our platform saves families time and money. It’s set up in a way to benefit both families and providers,” said Weinstock. “Because providers are paid through our platform, we take care of taxes as well, which takes a big weight off of our families.”

Tandem also vets the providers that they connect to families. All providers have had a background and reference check before they are eligible to be on the platform and enter a family home. Once eligible, that’s when the childcare “matchmaking” begins.

When a family enters its requirements into the Tandem platform, the back-end algorithm ensures all requirements are met when recommending a provider. Families set their own pay rates and Tandem sorts

through their pool and requests applications from qualified providers. “Families don’t need to sort through tons and tons of applications. They need to see people who are relevant to their job,” she said.

With advanced preference matching capabilities, Tandem can filter for provider qualifications, such as age range, availability, CPR certification and more. Then the family may conduct as many interviews as they like, participating in a vetting process that is their own. The goal of this hands-on approach is to ensure customer satisfaction.

“We want to form long-term connections,” said Weinstock. “We try to be super understanding that each family’s needs are different, instead of telling them what they need.” ♦

Our Services → Nannies, sitters, tutors → No fees, providers get all earnings → We match you with providers who fit your preferences

www.join-tandem.com support@join-tandem.com

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↓ A Carpenter's Son Workshop in Sunbury, Ohio

I

How A Carpenter’s Son is creating community

By Jack McLaughlin / Photos by Leonardo Carrizo

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t all started with a cutting board in 2015. Or, to be more exact, a whole lot of them. What started as a small side business crafting cutting boards in his spare time, soon became one of Columbus’ premier wood design businesses, serving clients from the Columbus Crew to the North Market.

“It’s just an unbelievable opportunity I could never have imagined five years ago when we were making cutting boards,” said Josh Scheutzow, owner of A Carpenter’s Son, a Columbus-based furniture business that crafted seating for 400 in the North Market mezzanine, as well as furniture for Hot Chicken Takeover, COhatch and Rockmill Brewing.

Recently, A Carpenter’s Son was contracted by none other than the Haslam family and the Columbus Crew to complete the woodworking needed at the new Crew stadium. The deal is for 244 different custom pieces ranging from food court tables to box office seating and more.

But before A Carpenter’s Son was

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providing woodworking expertise to many of our city’s hottest spots, Scheutzow was just a one-man band trying to start a fledgling business.

“Nights, weekends, I’m cranking out cutting boards in my garage. And through the power of [Instagram], through the power of news media and storytelling, people hear about this, and we start selling cutting boards all over the country. Hundreds of them,” Scheutzow said.

With three generations of carpenters preceding him, it’s safe to say Scheutzow knew his way around a woodshop. Very quickly his handmade cutting boards enjoyed a meteoric rise in popularity.

“It was amazing...there was interest in what we were doing, and people started asking me, ‘can you build anything else?’”

The answer was yes.

After teaching himself to make furniture (a task he has now ceded to the world-class craftsmen he employs), Scheutzow decided

"It’s just an unbelievable opportunity I could never have imagined five years ago when we were making cutting boards."

in 2016 to quit his full-time job and dedicate himself fully to his appropriately named business, A Carpenter’s Son. “You make that terrifying jump into not having any paycheck, not having any health insurance. I’m just trusting that people believe in the work that we’re doing and why we’re doing it,” he said.

But Scheutzow’s early efforts paid off.

Years of growth finally saw the business (which relocated from downtown Columbus to an expansive workshop in rural Delaware → 614NOW.COM

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← Jack “Cain” Lackey, wood worker

"It was amazing.

There was interest in what we were doing, and people started asking me, ‘can you build anything else?"

↑ Josh Scheutzow, Founder and Owner

County) become the 11-employee team it is today.

And as the company grew, so did its customer base. From speciality domestic pieces for single homes to large-scale commercial work with droves of Columbus businesses. And some of these pieces are truly one of a kind.

“We’re getting ready to send a $15,000 table to Florida soon. It’s made from the single largest piece of walnut I’ve ever seen,” Scheutzow said.

The price of an item is predicated on the price of materials, which are incredibly workintensive to produce, Scheutzow said. Wood is often dried and treated by a supplier years before the builder ever even sees it.

But no matter what he’s building, Scheutzow approaches each piece with the same mindset.

“There are a lot of companies that build great furniture; the thing that sets us apart is our niche,” he said. “We build pieces of furniture that bring people together. It’s community focused, whether it’s a kitchen table or a dining table or an island, the pieces that we build people gather around. That has been kind of our entire mission.” ♦ Learn more at acarpenterssondesignco.com

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↑ Sean Dundar & Rachael Reichley walking Panda

"She hopped right into my lap, and that was just kind of it."

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hen you and your partner both work at Columbus Humane, it can be difficult to avoid bringing home a rescue dog.

Sean Dundar, a Humane Agent, had been clear with his wife, Rachael Reichley—they weren’t going to be adopting one of the Australian Shepherds he helped rescue from an overcrowding situation in Reynoldsburg. “(I said to her) under no circumstances is one of these dogs entering our house,” he explained. A few days later, the couple had a new dog.

“She hopped right into my lap,” Dundar said of “Panda,” a female Aussie around three years old, whom he’d shared an instant connection with. “That was just kind of it.”

Panda was one of over 40 Australian Shepherds rescued Dec. 6 by Franklin County Dog Wardens, Reynoldsburg Police Department, and Columbus Humane from a home with overcrowded, unhealthy living conditions.

The Franklin County Dog Shelter took 16 of the dogs,

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By Sarah Sole / Photos by James D. DeCamp

died, leaving the wife as the sole person responsible for over 40 dogs. She had placed all the dogs in carriers and, while some looked well-fed, others looked a little malnourished.

“You could tell that essentially they were just getting group fed,” Dundar said.

The dogs ranged from roughly about 10 months to six years in age. Panda, who was around three years old, earned her name after staff saw her playing with a squeaky toy of the same name. It was then that Dundar’s wife was instantly won over. Especially after Panda sat in her lap, and put her head under her chin.

“It was adorable,” Reichley said.

The couple decided to adopt her at the beginning of December, but the dogs’ quarantine meant they couldn’t officially take her home until Jan. 1.

Since then, Panda has been very attached to him and his wife, Dundar said. She’s much more social than they anticipated, running up and greeting all visitors to the home. Panda also knows how to sit, spin, stay, and is becoming familiar with her other roommates, Fifi, a female senior pit bull mix, and Mous, a male four-year-old beagle mix.

Panda is obsessed in particular with Fifi, Dundar said. They spend a lot of time together, and Mous isn’t permitted to join in on the girl time.

“They’re doing really well,” Dundar said.

While Panda is acclimating to her new doggie siblings, Rue, another recently adopted Aussie, is bringing new life to a family that was grieving the loss of their previous shepherd. →

while Columbus Humane took the remaining 29.

The dogs initially needed to be quarantined after one of them exhibited respiratory infection symptoms likely related to the Canine Distemper Virus. Once quarantine ended, Panda and the other dogs at Columbus Humane and the Franklin County Dog Shelter have all found loving homes—all except for one that’s in foster care because she gave birth to three puppies.

Mom and the three puppies will be available for adoption via Franklin County Dog Shelter in the coming weeks.

Dundar was one of the agents on-site to rescue the shepherds after Columbus Humane received a call the morning of Dec. 6 from another agency already on scene.

Dundar was familiar with the address. Columbus Humane had visited the home before when it was teetering on the edge of being overwhelmed with the dogs. This time, they learned that the dog owner had 614NOW.COM

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It felt like something kind of came alive in my heart.

There could be room for new love."

Fifteen years ago, Jennifer and her family adopted Foster, or “Fozzy Bear” from the Franklin County Dog Shelter.

The Aussie mix, Jennifer said, “was just an amazing dog,” and great with her kids, now 12, 10, 8, and 5.

But recently, Foster had needed a lot of palliative care, and had gone deaf and blind. The family lost him in October. Soon after that, her kids started asking about getting another dog, Jennifer said.

“I was not ready at all,” she said.

Just before Christmas, she reconsidered, and began keeping an eye on shelter websites in Delaware and Franklin counties.

That month, she saw the story about the large group of Aussies that had been rescued. Still missing Foster, the story moved her.

“It felt like something kind of came alive in my heart,” she said. “There could be room for new love.”

Toward the end of December, Jennifer was able to get an appointment with Columbus Humane.

When Rue, a female Aussie just over a year old, came into the room to meet Jennifer and her kids, the children’s faces lit up, Jennifer said.

Friendly, curious, and a bit cautious, Rue walked up to each one of the kids.

“It was almost like she chose us,” Jennifer said.

Jennifer talked it over with her husband, and they decided to make Rue part of the family.

Now in her new home, Rue is very affectionate, and plays with all four kids, Jennifer said. She fetches, and walks well on a leash. She’s not totally house trained yet, but she’s learning. Every morning, she wakes up the kids by climbing on them and kissing them.

“She’s unbelievably good,” Jennifer said.

Since November, the family has been quarantining out of concern for the greater public health during the pandemic, Jennifer said. She and her husband pulled their kids from activities, and put them in virtual schooling. Bringing in new life during this slow period has been amazing, she said.

“I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect dog for our family,” she said. ♦ ↑ Jennifer and family with Rue

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