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The Perfect Cast Past and present bone fracture immobilization
By Maisie Fitzmaurice
A LOT OF people associate a broken bone with an awkward, uncomfortable cast that puts a strain on day-to-day activities. As orthopedic innovation progresses, though, so do cast options, helping limit the inconveniences that the healing process can create.
The power of plaster
The earliest evidence of bone fracture immobilization dates to
coulé, entailed pouring gypsum-based plaster on the injured extremity and encasing it in wood. However, these casts were very heavy and not breathable, often tethering the individual to their bed during recovery.
In the 1850s, a Dutch military surgeon, Anthonius Mathijsen, found that soaking linen strip bandages in a water and plaster mix created a cast that dried much more quickly and was sig
first look at the overall condition and placement of the fracture, as well as the patient’s age. Pediatric patients generally heal faster than adults, and certain bones heal faster than others.
Some fractures require surgery to install a metal plate or screws to help hold the injured bones in place as a cast is applied. Conversely, some fractures or sprains can be protected by a thermoplastic molded splint that usually only covers some or most of the circumference of the extrem
Photos courtesy of Othopedic One, fotojog and Hispanolistic/iStock
Dr. Michael Rerko
“There’s a complication called Compartment Syndrome where you can get so much swelling in a cast or a splint that it could lead to nerve and muscle damage,” says Dr. Michael Rerko, an orthopedic surgeon at Orthopedic One. “High-energy trauma, like a motor vehicle accident or a fall from a height, can create more swelling.”
Another factor to consider is the patient’s activity level. For example, someone who enjoys swimming or playing sports often would benefit from a waterproof cast.
Additionally, a physician will consider the risk of creating sores, which could become infected on the extremity while it is in a cast. Rerko says this is particularly important for older adults who may have thinner skin.
“If it’s not padded in the correct place, you can get skin breakdown, so it’s good to have an experienced cast tech that will apply the cast,” he says. “If people have a skin tear at the same time as their injury, oftentimes, we will do something removable, where they could check on the wound.”
While a removable cast could be convenient for some, it may not be the best option for all patients.
“For a lot of kids, we don’t want them to remove it,” Rerko says. “So that’s a reason kids get casts oftentimes, when adults with a similar fracture get a removable split.”
In the works
The fastest-growing trend in cast development is the 3D-printed cast. 3D-printed casts are a relatively new concept and are thermoplastic-based
and porous, making them light and breathable. Many are also removable.
To create these casts, the physician takes measurements of the affected extremity and sends them to the manufacturer, which then prints a custom-fitted cast. Like all casts, 3D-printed casts have drawbacks, the most significant being its lack of flexibility.
“3D-printed casts are pretty rigid, so they don’t always allow a lot of room for soft tissue swelling, and most of them get shipped two or three days after the measurements,” Rerko says. “So, if the swelling changes in two or three days, then the cast may not fit correctly.”
Another modern cast is the Exos cast. Like 3D-printed casts, these are removable, lighter and less obstructive than traditional fiberglass and plaster casts. What sets them apart from their 3D-printed cousins is the Exos’ foam interior and easy adjustability.
The cast, which has a slit running through it, is first heated to be molded to the patient’s extremity before cooling and hardening. The slit is then laced up, crisscrossed like shoelaces, and can be loosened or tightened with a knob. The foam interior is easier to remove and clean, and may
reduce the odors associated with wearing a cast for several weeks.
“That’s what the 3D-printed casts are trying to replace, but they need to get to the point where the 3D printer is in the actual (physician’s) office so the doctor can print it right at that time, and then find some sort of 3D-printed material that you can adjust later on, instead of
reprinting a new cast each time,” Rerko says. “This is why you see a bunch of different companies, but none of them have taken over the market and become widely adopted.” CS
Maisie Fitzmaurice is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mfitzmaurice@cityscenemediagroup.com
A NEW CATEGORY – Best Rooftop Dining – was introduced to this year’s reader poll, and the winner came down to just a handful of votes.
Located on the top floor of the AC Marriott Hotel in Dublin, the winning VASO Rooftop Lounge boasts sweeping views of the scenic Scioto River and the city’s lush greenery, all set against the backdrop of a bustling Bridge Park.
To access the suburban oasis, guests enter a glass elevator and travel to the eighth floor of the AC Marriott. Doors open to a panoramic view of the city, which can be enjoyed from inside the restaurant or on the patio.
Even on a rainy weekday evening, the restaurant is brimming with lively guests. Visitors take seats at tables, along the curved bartop or – in cooler weather – igloos, and are greeted with a thick booklet of cocktail options.
“Our cocktails are very culinary-driven,” says Food and Beverage Manager Alicia Mehl. “It all starts in the kitchen.”
The cocktail menu is comprised of both seasonal and signature cocktails, and a bar team member crafts each recipe. The team is given inspiration packets months ahead of each season, helping them design cocktail combinations based on seasonal flavors and trends. The team then participates in a retreat, where they spend the night crafting and presenting different cocktails for the upcoming seasonal menu.
Within the cocktail menu is the message, “Sometimes, an idea comes to you that at first seems crazy. Those are the ideas you should pursue.”
The bold and indulgent Was it Krispy? proves this to be true. The cocktail combines Krispy Kreme-infused Plantation Overproof Rum with raspberry tea, Velvet
Views and Brews VASO takes gold for Best Rooftop Dining
By Megan Brokamp
Photos courtesy of Megan Brokamp and Jordan Gulley
Falernum and zesty lemon for a sweet and spirited twist on a tropical classic.
Another seasonal offering, Don’t Make Me Blush, blends raspberry-infused Deep Eddy Vodka with strawberry lemon oleo, Maggie’s Farm Velvet Falernum, fresh lemon and a splash of Cava for a refreshing sip with a hint of sparkle.
The food menu specializes in small plates suitable for splitting.
“We are a tapas restaurant, so all of our plates come out in small, shareable portions,” Mehl says. “We encourage conversation. We encourage you to share food.”
VASO’s food offerings were almost exclusively Spanish-inspired in the restaurant’s early years, but the menu has since expanded to include tastes from around the world.
“We have an internship program here where we bring people from all over the world to work in our kitchen and train with us,” Mehl says. “Since then, it’s become more international.”
Guests can choose among light bites such as Cilantro Lime Hummus, along with
An Igloo Escape
You can still indulge in an elegant rooftop dining experience at VASO when the winter weather rolls in. Each winter, VASO’s patio offers heated rooftop igloos, allowing guests to enjoy panoramic views alongside their dinner in a cozy atmosphere. Each igloo welcomes up to eight guests into a snow globe-like retreat, complete with twinkling lights, plush fur-covered chairs and cozy blankets. Be sure to secure a reservation before you embark on your winter escape, as igloos book up fast.
shareable plates such as Truffled Crunchy Smashed Potatoes and Ginger Scallion Crab Cakes. Entrées such as the signature VASO Seafood Paella and Grilled Ribeye offer a more substantial meal.
The Volcano Deviled Eggs are a VASO staple. This season’s rendition is comprised of tamari, tempura flakes, crab and sriracha, offering a crunchy texture with a subtly spicy finish.
Another small plate, the Brussels Caesar Salad, offers a fresh take on the classic appetizer. The sprouts are cooked two ways: fried on one side, cold and tossed in house Caesar dressing on the other.
Far from ordinary, the Spanish Grilled Cheese redefines the humble sandwich with bold, elevated flavors. The restaurant’s interpretation is made of three different cheeses and topped with truffle aioli and spiced honey.
VASO’s take on Ropa Vieja, a classic Cuban dish, includes the signature shredded beef and tomato-based sauce, but it offers a creative twist with crispy rice, plantains and tomatillo. The plantains provide a sweet balance to the spiced centerpiece, while the crispy rice adds crunchy texture.
Although the food and drinks are topnotch, Mehl notes that VASO’s spark comes from within.
“Our culture really sets us apart,” Mehl says. “It’s a beautiful atmosphere with great food and drinks, but really what makes people’s experience here is the people.” CS
Megan Brokamp is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mbrokamp@cityscenemediagroup.com
Runners-Up
RH Rooftop Restaurant
The runner-up for Best Rooftop Dining, RH Rooftop Restaurant, sits in the heart of Easton Town Center. The thirdfloor dining space offers a stunning atmosphere, with chandeliers, greenery surrounding the tables and a glass rooftop. The menu leans toward refined American classics such as lobster rolls and ribeye sandwiches.
Lincoln Social Rooftop
In a down-to-the-wire competition, third place is claimed by Lincoln Social Rooftop, a signature Short North destination known for its sweeping city views. The urban lounge features a retractable roof and a fire pit, allowing guests to enjoy specialty cocktails and shareable plates year-round.
•
Best
‘Bus
The Thurman Café
Brutus Buckeye
VASO Rooftop Lounge
Butcher & Rose
Who’s That?
Best Face of Columbus
Having won the title three years in a row, Ryan Day was chosen to take the honors and keeps the title with the Buckeyes for a fourth year.
1 Ryan Day (The Ohio State University Buckeyes head football coach)
2 Cameron Mitchell (CEO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants)
3 Jim Tressel (Lieutenant Governor of Ohio)
Best Local Musician
1 Joey & Jessica
2 Bobby Floyd
3 LDNL (Lt. Dan’s New Legs)
Best Hometown Mascot
Born in 1965 out of papier-mâché and spirit, Brutus has been cheering on his Buckeyes for decades. This marks the fourth year in a row he has taken this award home.
1 Brutus Buckeye from The Ohio State University
2 Stinger from the Columbus Blue Jackets
3 Crew Cat from the Columbus Crew
Grab a Bite
Best New Restaurant
Located at the corner of Lazelle and Broad streets in front of the PNC building, Butcher & Rose is one of Cameron Mitchell’s newest creations. It offers modern presentations to steakhouse classics and cuts from around the world, including Australia and Japan.
1 Butcher & Rose
2 Del Mar
3 Hank’s Low Country Seafood & Raw Bar
Best Outdoor Dining
1 Lindey’s Restaurant & Bar
2 Grove City Brewing Company
3 Cento
Best Rooftop Dining
New Category Alert! This is the first year this category is being featured. Check out page 10 to read more about the winners.
1 VASO Rooftop Lounge
2 RH Rooftop Restaurant (Restoration Hardware)
3 Lincoln Social Rooftop
Best Barbecue
1 City Barbeque
2 Ray Ray’s Hog Pit
3 Legacy Smokehouse
Best Ice Cream
1 Graeter’s Ice Cream
2 Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
3 Johnson’s Real Ice Cream
Best Wings
Whether you come for the wings, pizza or piled-high Roosters Nest, Roosters has a range of options that will fulfill all your game day needs.
1 Roosters
2 Shakers Public House
3 Koble Grill
Best Local Pizza
1 Tommy’s Pizza
2 Harvest Pizzeria
3 Massey’s Pizza
Best Steakhouse
1 Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse
2 The Capital Grille
3 Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse
READER’S CHOICE: Best Tacos
their bakery in 1954 out of the basement of a grocery store before moving it to its current location on South State Street in Westerville three years later. Now owned by Westerville native Shaun Stonerook, the bakery still makes the same goods.
1 Schneider’s Bakery
New Category Alert! This category was suggested by you, our readers. What categories do you want next year? Let us know at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com
1 Condado Tacos
2 Dos Hermanos
3 Cuco’s Taqueria
Best Burgers
Home of the Thurmanator, a burger stacked with two 12-ounce burgers and countless toppings, The Thurman Café has been flipping patties for Columbus since 1942.
1 The Thurman Café
2 The Dublin Village Tavern
3 Johnnie’s Tavern
Best Bakery
Brothers Carl and Floyd Schneider started
2 Mrs. Goodman’s Baking Co.
3 The Cheesecake Girl
Take a Sip
Best Coffee
1 Fox in the Snow Café
2 Stauf’s Coffee Roasters
3 Java Central Café and Roaster
Best Place to Drink Your Brunch
Voted the Best New Restaurant just three years ago, Kitchen Social has been dazzling tastebuds with its brunch menu, which includes a plethora of options ranging from savory breakfast tacos to sweet crème brûlée French toast. Don’t miss out on its specialty brunch drinks, which include a mimosa sampler and cocktail named Brunch Bliss.
1 Kitchen Social
2 Lindey’s Restaurant & Bar
3 Cap City Fine Diner and Bar
Best Brewery Experience
1 BrewDog
2 Land-Grant Brewing Company
3 Grove City Brewing Company
Best Winery
Offering a range of dine-in menu options as well as wine tastings, a wine club and deliveries, Cooper’s Hawk is ready to wine and dine you and your guests in whatever way you need.
1 Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant
2 Buckeye Lake Winery
3 Plum Run Winery
Lindey’s Restaurant & Bar
Ryan Day
Best TV Binge
In its third season, this dark-comedy social satire follows the lives of a host of wealthy and privileged characters as they are faced with life and the effects of their choices.
1 The White Lotus
1 Market District/Giant Eagle
2 Carfagna’s Italian Market
3 The Hills Market
Best Retail Beer Selection
See the Sights
Best New Exhibit
1 Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at COSI
2 Indigenous Wonders of Our World - The Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks at the Ohio History Center
3 T. rex: The Ultimate Predator at COSI
Best Art Gallery
Located just two minutes from downtown Worthington, the McConnell hosts a variety of ticketed and free exhibitions, performances, and cultural opportunities in its roughly 110-year-old building.
1 McConnell Arts Center
2 Dublin Arts Council
2 Bridgerton
3 Reacher
Enjoy the Fun
Best Arts Performance
(Since March 2024)
A collaboration the likes of Columbus has never seen before, West Side Story brought together four major arts groups and hundreds of viewers to create a show for the ages.
1 West Side Story by the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, Opera Columbus, BalletMet and CAPA
2 Sleepy Hollow by Shadowbox Live
3 MJ the Musical by Broadway in Columbus
Best Summer Concert Series
1 Picnic with the Pops by the Columbus Symphony Orchestra
2 Summer Concert Series in Grove City (previously the GC Summer Sizzle Concert Series)
3 Sundays at Scioto in Dublin
Best Concert (Since March 2024)
When The Clancy World Tour came to Columbus last fall, the musical duo extended their tour an additional two days, making their Columbus stop a total of three days, so more fans could see the central Ohio natives in person. The group is also releasing a new album, Breach, this September.
1 twenty one piløts at Ohio Stadium
2 P!NK at The Schottenstein Center
3 Windborne The Music of Led Zeppelin at Picnic with the Pops
Best Downtown Festival
1 Columbus Arts Festival
2 The Columbus Italian Festival
3 Columbus Oktoberfest
Best Suburban Festival
Put on your best kilt and green clothing when you head over to Dublin this August for this three-day Irish festival that brings in artists, dancers, craftsmen and visitors from all over the world.
1 Dublin Irish Festival
2 Westerville Area Chamber Music & Arts Festival
3 Grove City Area Chamber Arts in the Alley
Best Food-Themed Festival
1 Jazz & Rib Fest
2 The Columbus Italian Festival
3 Columbus Food Truck Festival
High Bank Distillery Co.
Shadowbox Live
Dublin Irish Festival
Jazz & Rib Fest
Best Hometown Product
Best Fitness Event
Every August, cyclists flock to the start line not just to get their miles in, but to raise money for cancer research. Over the past 16 years, the organization has raised more than $309 million with 100 percent of the proceeds going toward The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute.
Spots
to Stop at Best
Fourth
With a rich history stretching back nearly 140 years, Schmidt’s has long been a household name. Its signature ginormous cream puffs made their debut in the 1960s thanks to Betty Tresselt, who brought them, along with other treats, with her from northern Germany when she began working with the family.
1 Cream puffs from Schmidt’s Sausage Haus
2 Gourmet nuts from Krema Nut Co.
3 Cheesecake from The Cheesecake Girl
Best Farmers’ Market
The team is doing something right as the Worthington Farmers Market also won the 2024 USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Farmers Market and is vying for the spot again this year.
1 Worthington Farmers Market
2 Dublin Market at Bridge Park
3 Healthy New Albany Farmers Market
Best Jewelry Store
1 Worthington Jewelers
2 Meyers Jewelers
3 Diamond Cellar
Best Spa Day Out
Starting out with just two stylists and a $500 bank loan, PENZONE now has six locations and offers a wide range of services, including everything from makeup and hair to massages and nail services.
1 PENZONE Salons + Spas
2 Woodhouse Spas
3 Panacea Luxury Spa
Best Gym/Fitness Center
1 LIT Life + Yoga
2 Dublin Community Recreation Center
3 MAX Fitness & Wellness Center
Best Weekend Getaway
Check out page 36 to read more about the history and spooky stories surrounding this year’s winner.
1 Hocking Hills
2 Kelleys Island
3 Amish Country
LIT Life + Yoga
For Your Home Needs
Best Home Builder
Check out page 32 to read more about this year’s winner!
3 Pillar Homes
Bob Webb Homes
Romanelli & Hughes
Best Remodeling Company
Check out page 32 to read more about this year’s winner!
Dave Fox Design Build Remodelers
Nth Degree Interiors
The Cleary Company
Best Landscape Company
GreenScapes Landscape Co.
Ciminello’s Landscaping
Hidden Creek Landscaping
Best Senior Living Community
1 Westerwood
2 Grove City Senior Living by Traditions
3 The Coventry Senior Living
Best Roofing Company
1 Newman Roofing
2 Feazel
3 Regency Roofing - ShakeMasters
Editor’s Picks
Best Local Female-Founded Company
Bake Me Happy
Owned and run by Letha and Wendy Pugh, this bakery has changed the world of gluten-free snacks in Columbus. Made with ingredients from other local businesses such as Krema Nut Company, the company’s cookies, scones, muffins and more can be found at its two brick-andmortar locations, as well as several partnership locations such as The Ohio State University campus and Core Café at the Bob Crane Community Center.
Best Local Athlete
Jack Sawyer
Growing up in Pickerington playing for Pickerington High School North, the 6’5” defensive end joined the Buckeyes in 2021 and helped bring home the National Championship title to close out his senior year. During the 2025 NFL draft, he was picked by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fourth round and will start his NFL career as linebacker this fall.
Best Street Mural
Bloom Where You Are Planted by OG Millie
Created by Queens-based muralist and artist Kamille OG Ejerta, known as “OG Millie,” this floral mural sits on South McDowell Street around the corner from Idea Foundry. OG Millie collaborated with Oakland Green Interiors to create the piece for the housing community Gravity.
Best Nature Trails
Blendon Woods Metro Park
Just off state Rt. 161 near New Albany sits a wooded oasis that transports visitors to a piece of the forest not far from the city. Made up of miles of trails and family-friendly spaces such as a playground and shelters, Blendon Woods is a great spot to get out and be one with nature.
Bake Me Happy
Bloom Where You Are Planted
Jack Sawyer
Best HVAC Company
1 Atlas Butler 2 Columbus Worthington Air 3 Air Quality Solutions
Best Moving Company 1 Two Men and a Truck 2 Leaders Moving & Storage Co. 3 Black Tie Moving
Best Window Company 1 Rosati Windows 2 Pella Windows & Doors 3 Andersen Windows
Best Plumbing Company 1 Eco Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC Technicians
2 Jack L. Woods Plumbing Co., Inc. 3 The Waterworks Plumbing, Drain, Heating & Cooling
Best Local Bank 1 Telhio Credit Union 2 KEMBA Financial Credit Union 3 Heartland Bank
Best Realty Team
1 TIE: The Nth Degree Team (Coldwell Banker Realty) and The Mathias Team (Cutler Real Estate)
2 Sam Cooper (Howard Hanna)
3 The Powell Buehler Group (Coldwell Banker Realty)
Best Cabinets
1 Amish Originals Furniture Co. 2 Miller Cabinet Company 3 Signature Cabinetry
Best Hardscaping Company 1 GreenScapes Landscape Co. 2 Hidden Creek Landscaping 3 Omni Pools & Scapes
Best Pools and Hot Tubs 1 Scioto Valley 2 Omni Pools & Scapes 3 Chevron Pools & Spas
It’s 1971 and I am focused on being competitive in both finish time and place for the NYC Marathon, held in Central Park. At that time, and for a number of years after, the course consisted of four loops, each six miles long, plus a 2.2mile loop for a total of 26.2 miles. Sounds simple enough. Just do your warmup; wait until Fred Lebow, the race director at that time, gets on his bullhorn to summon the few hundred runners to approach the starting line; and begin to run at the sound of the starter’s pistol.
And for many of my competitive races, the routine would be constant. Register for the event, focus on my training regimen and approach race day with the same verve as always. On race day, I’d approach the starting line and manage to squeeze past the queue of runners standing shoulder-toshoulder as I worked my way toward the front. And off I went.
In 1978, I had an epiphany. I am going to create and conduct a large-scale race. Thus, the Olentangy Run became a reality and, in its first year, became one of the premier races in central Ohio, attracting thousands of runners.
At that time, I did not realize nor have an appreciation of the complexities involved in conducting a race, whether for runners or walkers. ‘Don’t you just show up, do the race, enjoy the post-race activities and go home?’ I thought.
I venture to say that such is the thinking of almost every walker who participates in the New Albany Walking Classic®, hereinafter referred to as the Walk. Just show up, partake in the Walk and all it has to offer without giving thought to the hundreds of details and length of time invested in the planning and execution of the event.
It takes a community. The City of New Albany works closely with Walk personnel to make sure that city services and law enforcement are unified and coordinated in protecting all participants. Hundreds of volunteers, a good number of whom are students in the New Albany-Plain Local Schools, gather to perform various tasks on race day well before the sun rises. Equipment must be ordered, giveaways for participants such as medals and garments are to be determined and purchased months in advance, paying close attention to expenditures.
The expenses incurred in order to conduct the Walk are significant. Enoughcannot be said about the corporate and individual sponsors whose generosity supports this first-class event. Participant registration fees play a significant role as these fees are donated to Healthy New Albany, a nonprofit organization that provides health programs and services to the community in support of entities such
as the farmers market, food pantry, community garden, education programs to people across all ages and so much more.
When you step up to the starting line on Sept. 7, think about the effort undertaken for the Walk to take place. Additionally, thank a volunteer. Support a corporate sponsor. Say hello to the police officer monitoring an intersection on the course. Show your appreciation to Healthy New Albany by participating in its many program offerings. Visit www. healthynewalbany.org and support this community gem with a donation. Have an awesome Walk experience.
Healthfully,
Phil Heit
Connected. Inclusive. Engaged.
As a strategically planned community, New Albany collaborates with residents and businesses to create a shared vision for the future that brings people together. It’s a friendly, inclusive community that makes you feel at home, encourages a healthy lifestyle, nurtures the creative spirit, invests in lifelong learning, supports business and protects the environment for future generations. It’s more than a place to live, it’s a way of life.
Indoors or Outoors?
How your walking environment impacts your mind and body
By Elise Conrad SPECIAL SECTION
Walking is one of the most accessible forms of exercise, but where you choose to walk can shape the experience. From treadmills to tree-lined trails, each option offers its benefits and drawbacks.
Get outside
Walking in nature offers a range of physical and mental health benefits beyond what a treadmill can provide. A 2016 review published by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Health found a significant decrease in cortisol levels when participants were exposed to natural environments. Cortisol is a hormone that is released when we’re stressed, and consis-
tently high levels can take a toll on both physical and mental health. In other words, choosing a nature walk doesn’t just benefit your body, it can also help calm your mind.
The environment you choose to walk in also plays an important role. In a 2015 study published in Landsacape and Urban Planning, 60 participants were randomly assigned to a nature walk or a walk in an urban neighborhood. Those who went on the nature walk reported a more significant decrease in anxiety and rumination, as well as an increase in working memory, compared to those who walked in the urban environment.
Because walking outdoors entails walking on different terrains, it can be more
challenging than walking on a flat surface indoors, even if that surface is an inclined treadmill. This strengthens different muscles – such as the core, quads and glutes – increasing stability and overall strength. Here’s another tip: Try walking without headphones or staring at your phone. Studies show that mindfulness, or mindful walking, further lowers cortisol production in the body and improves attention and concentration. It also boosts selfawareness and emotional regulation, helping you feel more grounded and in tune with your surroundings. By walking without distractions, you allow your mind to rest and reset, turning an everyday walk into a moment of calmness and clarity.
Staying indoors
If you’re prone to injury or recovering from one, it may be a better idea to walk inside. Walking outside can come with stray rocks, curb drops and loose gravel. While outdoor and treadmill walking both come with injury risks, doctors suggest that outdoor walking has a slightly higher risk of injury due to environmental factors and terrain.
Additionally, when you’re indoors, the weather doesn’t matter. Unless a storm knocks out the power while you’re on the treadmill, rain or shine, you can hop on a treadmill to get a few miles in.
Though walking indoors is more predictable and safer, it still doesn’t have the same mood-boosting benefits that walking in nature does.
Photos courtesy of City of New Albany
Additionally, being outside under the sun significantly boosts vitamin D production, which further regulates mood and supports the immune system.
And the verdict is…
So, which is better? There is no right or wrong answer. Ultimately, the best option is the one you’ll stick with. But considering how nature can uplift your mood in ways indoor walking can’t, outdoor walking may offer more unique advantages. CS
Elise Conrad is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com
Find your perfect path
With more than 230 miles of trails and more than 150 parks choosing where to walk in central Ohio can feel overwhelming, so we’ve made it easier by matching trail suggestions to what you’re looking for.
If you’re seeking…
Reflection: Go on a meditative walk at Blendon Woods, with more than four miles of walking trails.
Routine: Meander on down to German Village for a mindless stroll through this urban neighborhood.
Energy: Walk through the Short North and absorb the lively atmosphere, stopping by local stores and restaurants on East Market Street.
Stress relief: Take a stroll through the Hayden Falls Nature Preserve, enjoying the vibrant greenery and a 30-foot waterfall.
Presented by The New Albany Community Foundation
Presented by e New Albany Community Foundation
Sunday, September 28
Activities for Children at 2pm
Performance at 3pm
Nationwide Children’s Hospital Meet and Greet with Tim at 4pm
KID’S TICKETS ARE FREE!
Adult tickets $20. Children under 18 require a free ticket. Scan this QR code for tickets or visit newalbanyfoundation.org for more information.
Educational Partner
Luis Biava - Music Director
SPECIAL SECTION
Walk Smarter
A guide to the wearable tech made for every stride
By Maxwell Knauer
Tired of getting passed by your cul-desac rivals on your morning stroll?
Then you’ve come to the right place. This guide will help you become a faster, more motivated walker.
From step trackers to smart shoes, today’s gadgets go beyond counting steps. They offer insight into your body’s patterns, provide motivation and even help improve posture and mobility.
Tech to walk better
You don’t need fancy gear to start walking with purpose, just clear goals. Smartphones already come equipped with pedometers available through programs such as Apple Health and Google Fit, which track your steps in the background. Open the app, check your trends, set a daily goal and you’re off.
Walking isn’t just about burning calories or reaching a daily step goal. For many, it’s a way to recover, improve balance or relieve stress. Tech can support those goals, too.
Apps such as Pacer go beyond simple background tracking, offering nudges, guided walking plans and encouragement throughout the day. It’s free and beginnerfriendly, but its customizable programming allows it to grow with you.
On the more advanced end, wearable tech is now being used in rehabilitation and mobility support, especially for individuals recover-
ing from injury or managing chronic conditions.
The ReLOAD system (Rehabilitation Lower Limb Orthopedic Assistive Device) is one such tool. Designed for veterans and others with mobility challenges, ReLOAD uses body-worn sensors to track stride, balance and joint movement in real time. The data is sent to a mobile device, offering instant feedback and customized exercises.
Another is the Cionic Neural Sleeve, named one of TIME’s Best Inventions in 2023. This FDA-approved sleeve uses artificial intelligence and electrical stimulation to help individuals with foot drop or multiple sclerosis walk more naturally. Worn around the upper and lower leg, it detects the wearer’s gait in real time and activates muscles to improve stride and control.
High-end picks that perform
If you’re ready to invest in something more advanced and elegant, there are smartwatches and shoes that combine performance with polish.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is built for the outdoors and also works well in your daily routine. It tracks everything from walking and running to ECG data and fall detection. The Garmin Venu 3 offers excellent sleep tracking, respiration data and wellness insights with a more understated look.
For footwear, try the NURVV Run Smart Insoles, pressure-sensitive inserts that slide into your existing shoes and track foot strike pattern, balance and cadence. They pair with a smartphone app and give real-time coaching to help improve posture and walking efficiency. CS
Maxwell Knauer is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.
Did you know? A 2022 Lancet study found that people who monitor their physical activity take, on average, 1,800 more steps per day. Visual feedback such as seeing your step count climb or hitting a daily streak really does boost motivation. And if you need a little community motivation, try an app such as Strava, where you can log walks, share photos and even get a bit competitive with friends (or friendly neighborhood rivals).
Pacer
Apple Ultra 2
Strengthening Your Stride
How core strength can transform your movement
By Elise Conrad
Have you ever been walking or running and felt a little unsteady?
Core exercises can help with that.
A 2021 review published by Crimson Publishers found that core strength training improves functional mobility and balance in those 65 and older. According to Mayo Clinic, having strong core muscles impacts nearly every facet of our lives. These muscles make it easier to do everyday activities, leading to fewer injuries, and prevent poor posture and lower back pain, which affects approximately 80 percent of Americans.
Meet your core: more than just abs
Stability starts with your core, the group of muscles in your midsection that provide support and control for your spine and pelvis. When these muscles are weak, it can result in pain and movement issues throughout the body.
Core and stride
The core also impacts stride length, which is important for any avid walker or fitness fan. Optimizing stride length can improve walking efficiency, reduce fatigue and potentially lower the risk of certain injuries.
Improving core strength also stabilizes the body, resulting in a smoother, more powerful stride. A strong core allows the pelvis, hips and lower back to work together, leading to less energy expenditure and a lower chance of getting hurt from poor form.
Core strength reduces the overall risk of falls by helping the nervous system maintain balance and better coordinate movement.
In a 2013 mega-analysis published in Sports Medicine, researchers concluded that core strength training can increase strength by 30 percent and balance by 23 percent.
Because various core exercises engage different muscle groups, it’s essential to strengthen all of them to get the most out of your core training. To reap the full bene fits, the core only needs to be trained two to three times a week for 15 minutes at a time.
To build a well-rounded core, aim to include a mix of exercises that target the front, sides (obliques) and back. Here are a few effective, beginner-friendly core ex ercises to get started:
• Plank: Hold a strong, straight position on your forearms and toes to engage your entire core. Start with 20-30 sec onds and build up.
• Bird-Dog: From a hands-and-knees position, extend opposite arm and leg, then switch. This boosts balance and coordination.
• Leg Lifts: Lie on your back with your arms by your side. Slowly raise and low er your legs, keeping your core engaged.
• Glute Bridge: Lie on your back, knees bent, feet flat. Lift your hips to strength en your glutes and lower back.
• Side Plank: Support yourself on one forearm and the side of one foot to work your obliques. Hold for 15-30 seconds per side. CS
Elise Conrad is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com
Photo courtesy of Healthy New Albany
SPECIAL SECTION
Maximize Your Miles
How to master your miles and keep walking interesting
By Avery Gillis
Tired of the same walking playlist and looking for a new way to make the miles fly by? Try interval training, a dynamic workout that will increase your endurance and speed.
Interval training alternates periods of brisk walking followed by a slower recovery period. For those lacing up their sneakers for their first interval walk, each period of higher-intensity walking should only be about one minute for every five minutes walked at a moderate pace. As the walker’s stamina improves, their periods of rest get shorter.
The workout is designed to allow walkers to get more bang for their buck, completing a less time-consuming workout while still enjoying the fitness benefits of a longer, more moderately-paced workout.
Healthy heart
According to Canadian Science Publishing, by getting their hearts pumping, walkers can expect improved physical fitness, with reductions in blood pressure and BMI lowering the overall risk of lifestyle-related disease.
Hopping on the treadmill for an incline workout combines muscle building with the health benefits of high-intensity walking. In addition to being another lowimpact way to work out, incline training targets the quads and glutes to build strength and improve flexibility in the legs, according to the faith-based, non-profit health system Texas Health Resources
Building muscular strength isn’t only important for bodybuilders and gym rats. As
stated by News in Health, it offers a whole host of health benefits, from preventing diabetes to maintaining bone health.
In fact, according to Runner’s World, walking on an incline has similar benefits to running. The inclined terrain provides resistance that pushes the heart and lungs to work harder.
Implementing intervals
For those who enjoy their daily walks outdoors, let certain landmarks on your route dictate your intervals. Pick up the pace until you pass a dog walker or slow it down for the length of three houses. Take in your surroundings while getting fit.
Can’t find an outdoor route? Using the treadmill for incline workouts allows walk-
ers to introduce interval training to their walk in a different way by controlling the level and duration of their incline.
There are different ways to approach an incline interval workout, such as Runner’s World’s Pyramid Scheme workout. This exercise involves increasing the speed and intensity of the incline for four intervals, then decreasing for four intervals. The Pyramid Scheme focuses on increasing intensity gradually, providing a starting point that can be adjusted as walkers gain experience with incline training. CS
Avery Gillis is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com
Photo courtesy of Healthy New Albany
Awe-Inspiring Abodes
Prominent projects by Best of the ’Bus-winning builders and remodelers
By Garth Bishop
Best Home Builder
3 Pillar Homes
Point to any standout feature in a home designed by 3 Pillar Homes, no matter how exceptional, and someone at the company will be able to explain how its process made that feature possible.
Keeping much of its team in-house, rather than relying on outside contractors, is a key part of 3 Pillar’s approach to homebuilding. An in-house architectural designer puts together a plan, and an inhouse interior designer keeps the process on track, with both serving as checks on the project’s budget and ensuring everything keeps moving at a good pace.
“We make a complicated process an easy one,” says Rachael Durant, 3 Pillar’s vice president of sales, marketing and design. “Trying to make the process as streamlined and easy (as possible) for the client is what sets us apart.”
The company has built communities and developed its own properties, but will also work in multi-builder developments and locked-in site developments, beginning work with clients as early as the vacant lot stage of the process if that’s what they want, Durant says. 3 Pillar’s goal is to provide a premium product that can be customized to the client’s preferences, she says.
“Every client gets that same level of customer service and process,” Durant says.
A dedicated construction services team is responsible for building out custom features. The customizations the company has built in recent years include:
• Sauna spaces, in response to a recent increase in demand
• Specialized foundations with dropdowns to accommodate golf simulators
• Hidden vaults for storage or security
• Two-story walk-in closets
• Multigenerational living features such as main-floor in-law suites
• Combination indoor-outdoor spaces
• Wine and bourbon rooms
Though 3 Pillar does not build pools, it partners with pool contractors so clients can have their pools built at the same times as their houses.
“Pretty much anything that they can dream of, we can create,” says Durant.
The company builds maintenance-free living and patio homes, and is working
Photos courtesy of Ashton Onesko/Prestige Pro Photo and 3 Pillar Homes
to add townhomes to its repertoire in the near future.
Evans Farm
The company’s current work is most exemplified by its presence in Evans Farm. 3 Pillar is the main builder for the southern Delaware County community designed in the New Urbanism style, which emphasizes patio living and walkability.
“That’s really the vision of what Evans Farm is: a walkable, livable community where you can have (all) the conveniences right outside your doorstep,” says Durant.
Every Evans Farm home is required to have a large front porch, and the builder has put together some impressive ones
Best Remodeling Company
Dave Fox Design Build Remodelers
The work that put Dave Fox Design Build Remodelers in the No. 1 spot this year can be seen in a pair of kitchen remodel projects the company recently completed around central Ohio.
Project No. 1: Powell
This project, completed in late 2023, focused primarily on the kitchen, along with work on the nearby stairs, and a refinish with some custom stain for the floor.
The homeowners did not care for the old kitchen’s layout, says Andrea Conley, a Dave Fox senior interior designer who worked on the project.
The long island did not leave much room to work or maneuver in the narrow kitchen space, so Dave Fox removed it, installing a more functional U-shaped counter instead. While seating at the island once made it difficult to navigate the kitchen, the minimal counter seating suits the space just right, Conley says.
“Everybody wants an island and is getting rid of the (counter) peninsula, but … it really works better to design the kitchen to the space that you have,” she says.
The company took advantage of the long wall opposite the counter to relocate
there, many of which can be easily spotted during a drive through the neighborhood, Durant says. 3 Pillar’s design studio
is on-site there, which means Evans Farm clients have immediate access to the inhouse interior designer.
the refrigerator and freezer, and added a coffee station with retractable doors.
Also capturing attention in the newand-improved kitchen are a full-height granite backsplash, a new range hood and quartzite countertops that meet the owners’ aesthetic expectations.
“We looked high and low for that stone,” Conley says. “It took a long time to find the right material.”
Other highlights of the project include:
• Quarter-sawed white oak cabinets, with a custom combination stain, to replace a set that was showing its age
• A large lazy Susan in one of the corners to improve function
• A pantry cabinet on the long wall to add more storage
• A unique LED light fixture
Project No. 2: Hilliard
This kitchen had been adequate for the homeowners’ needs, but as their family grew to include grandchildren, it no longer got the job done, says Courtney Maher, a Dave Fox design consultant who oversaw the 2025-completed project.
“It was the traditional Columbus, Ohio kitchen from the ’80s, where you have
the drop-down ceiling and the fluorescent lighting,” Maher says.
The new pendant lights didn’t just change the lighting situation; they shaped the design of the entire kitchen, says Dave Fox Interior Designer Rachel Broadstone.
The company also added can lighting, as well as dimmer switches for all the lights.
Though the clients originally wanted a more standard black-and-white color scheme, the palette they eventually chose has a lot more green, giving the space a unique look.
Dave Fox also gave the kitchen’s functionality a significant boost, adding accessories and drawer storage, as well as some space for shallow cabinets under the window, without ever having to reframe the window space. The company removed the soffits above the cabinets, making it possible for the cabinets to reach all the way to the ceiling.
Other highlights of the renovation include:
• A new buffet area that improves the flow of the kitchen and prevents bottlenecks
• Full-depth shelving in the pantry to add more space for storage and appliances, including the microwave and toaster
• A new island with detailed wainscoting and deep drawer storage for mixing bowls – an important element for one of the homeowners, an avid baker
• A full-height backsplash utilizing tiles that are designed to look handmade, with minor imperfections
“We wanted to have a nice focal feature,” Broadstone says. CS
Garth Bishop is a contributing editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.
Hocking Hills History
The stories behind this beloved weekend getaway
By Ella Jay
Photos courtesy of hockinghills.com and Bud Shrader
REIGNING SUPREME AMONGST
voters as the Best Weekend Getaway, Hocking Hills has once again claimed the top spot in CityScene’s 2025 Best of the ‘Bus readers’ poll. With astonishing waterfalls, winding trails, cozy cabins and an abundance of outdoor activities, it’s no surprise this southeastern Ohio gem continues to captivate travelers. However, its stunning natural beauty is only part of what makes Hocking Hills such an intriguing destination.
Beneath its towering hemlock canopy and imposing sandstone cliffs lie thousands of years of history and folklore, from hidden caves once used as hideouts to swirling rock formations carved by ancient waters. Long before it became an idyllic weekend escape, Hocking Hills experienced incredible geological events and was home to Indigenous communities as well as early settlers whose marks remain etched into the land.
Sculpted by time
More than 330 million years ago, the Hocking Hills region was covered by the Atlantic Ocean. Over the years, the ocean deposited sand and gravel that would eventually form the Black Hand Sandstone synonymous with the area.
Once the ocean receded, millions of years of uplift and erosion from streams and groundwater cut into the soft middle layer of the sandstone, resulting in many of the region’s iconic present-day land formations. While glaciers never physically reached the region, years of glacial runoff also contributed to the landscape of Hocking Hills, bringing to the area vegetation not found elsewhere in Ohio, such as eastern hemlock, Canada yew, and yellow and black birch trees.
Cedar Falls
Cultural crossroads
Indigenous people and early settlers long utilized Hocking Hills’ copious natural resources. Shawnee, Delaware and Wyandot tribes frequented the region during the 1600s and 1700s, though archaeologists believe Indigenous peoples inhabited the area as early as 7,000 years ago.
These tribes gave the region its namesake, referring to the Hocking River as the “Hockhocking,” or “bottle neck river.”
Archeological evidence suggests Indigenous peoples used popular sites in the area for varying reasons. For example, massive piles of ashes found in Ash Cave indicate it was used as a shelter, while stories passed down by word of mouth suggest tribes utilized the cave for its natural acoustics.
It’s believed Old Man’s Cave and Rock House were used as additional shelters for Indigenous travelers, and turpentine stills in Rock House suggest the area was used for medicinal and crafting purposes.
Later on, early settlers took advantage of the region as well. A 19th century hermit, Richard Rowe, allegedly lived in Old Man’s Cave – hence the name – while Rock House was used by local farmer William Reynolds as a livestock barn.
The region’s iron was also used to manufacture ammunition and cannons during the Civil War, while its abundance of timber was used to make charcoal.
Haunted hills
With an extensive history comes ample folklore, making Hocking Hills home to a plethora of ghost stories. While the area’s most famous ghost remains Old Man Rowe, who supposedly haunts his cave
alongside a white wolfhound, other legends exist within the area, too.
Ash Cave is rumored to be haunted by a mysterious Pale Lady, while another ghostly woman, Mary, is said to prowl the grounds near Rock House, searching for her lost lover.
Local legends also surround Conkle’s Hollow, where it’s rumored that robbed treasures lie hidden within the area’s ledges and caverns. The ghosts of the robbers, who were hanged for their crimes, are said to haunt the Hollow.
Even before these tales existed, Indigenous people recognized the magic of the mountains – sharing stories of spirits hidden inside its caves, mystical powers within its waterfalls and shape-shifting creatures roaming its forests.
The longevity of its legends and its fascinating history prove that Hocking Hills holds far more than just picturesque scenery – it also holds soul. CS
Ella Jay is an assistant editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at ejay@cityscenemediagroup.com
Explore unique geological features at these spots:
• Ash Cave
• Cantwell Cliffs
• Cedar Falls
• Conkle’s Hollow
• The Devil’s Bathtub
• Old Man’s Cave
• Rock Bridge
• Rock House
• Whispering Cave
Hocking Hills by the Numbers
• 12,171 acres
• 3 million annual visitors
• 24 hiking trails (76-plus miles)
• 300 - plus plant, wildflower and tree species
• 600 animal species
• 60 - plus ziplines
• One of only 12 rock bridges in Ohio
• Largest recess cave in Ohio (Ash Cave)
• Deepest gorge in Ohio (Conkle’s Hollow)
• Clearest stargazing spot in Ohio (John Glenn Astronomy Park)
• Most powerful waterfall in the region (Cedar Falls)
Data combined from Hocking Hills State Park and Hocking Hills State Forest
Close Contenders
Kelleys Island – beloved for its coastal vibes, scenic shorelines, outdoor recreation and small-town feel – took second place this year. In third came Ohio’s Amish Country, with its charming country-side appeal, handcrafted goods and delicious homemade food.
The Devil’s Bathtub
Rock House Ash Cave
Art Evolution
Art Access Gallery celebrates 25 years of supporting diverse artists
By Frances Denman
Photos courtesy of Michael McEwan
IN 2000, BARBARA Unverferth established Art Access Gallery to display and share the work of committed artists. Now, 25 years later, Unverferth’s artistic judgment continues to bring loyal customers into the space to support local creators.
“The gallery has been just steadily moving forward,” Unverferth says. “Some of my artists have been with me since I started.”
Realist painter Michael McEwan, for example, has worked with Unverferth since before the gallery was established. The former Columbus College of Art and Design professor says his work is strongly motivated by color and light.
“I’ve studied it for years,” McEwan says. “I want to have a sense of light coming from the painting, so that people see it and feel … the sun or the space, the atmosphere.”
During his 40-year career as a Columbusbased artist, much of McEwan’s artistic process has been reminiscent of traditional practices and techniques. He’ll begin with a sketch, sometimes drawing from real landscapes, before working with his oil paints, he says.
“On occasion, I will grind my own color to get a certain tone,” McEwan says. “People think I’m crazy, but I probably spend as much time setting up the palette as I do (making) the painting.”
McEwan also uses a special kind of linseed oil in his paints.
“It doesn’t yellow, and it dries faster than regular linseed oil,” he says. “That, when mixed with marble dust and beeswax, gets thicker paints that aren’t going to crack.”
As Columbus buyers become increasingly interested in more abstract aesthetics, McEwan says he’s shifting his work to
serve new markets. He switched his focus from smaller, more classic landscapes to larger-scale pieces.
“The latest work that I’m doing is actually going all in on abstraction,” McEwan says. “It’ll probably freak everybody out, but I don’t care, I’m almost 70 years old.”
Over the years, Unverferth has also shifted Art Access Gallery toward abstraction, hosting a greater variety of artists with diverse, unique mediums.
One such artist is Amanda Love, a former bookbinder and letterpress printer. Love’s medium involves disassembling and reconstructing old books to form sculptures, installations or other flat-lying pieces.
Occasionally incorporating inks and other elements, each of Love’s timeintensive pieces tells a unique story rooted either in history or today’s society.
“When I started specifically making book work, the beginning of book suppression was starting to rise,” Love says. “A lot of the work has come from that.”
Love’s work intentionally starts conversations around book suppression – institutions banning certain books from libraries – as well as conservation, environmentalism and other movements that engage her.
Love says her textural artwork is minimal yet powerful, and centered around her appreciation for books.
“It’s more (about having) a deep love of the book and a reverence for the book … so that I can make something with those pieces with respect,” Love says. “There’s also something that’s really captivating to me, to make something that is beautiful that is also showing the opposite beauty, this terrible destruction and loss.”
Whether realist or conceptual, Unverferth says her only criterion for carrying an artist’s work in the gallery is that she loves it herself.
“I love to expand somebody’s knowledge and make them feel like they’re getting something that’s maybe a little bit outside their comfort zone,” Unverferth says. “I just love it. That’s the best.” CS
Denman is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com
Frances
Field Study by Michael McEwan
Words Matter by Amanda Love
ON VIEW Dates and shows are subject to change. Visit the websites for more information.
Gallery Exhibits
934 Gallery: Relics of Residence. Todd Jones is a contemporary artist and educator whose work explores memory, reclamation and identity. Open July 18-Aug. 9. Featuring: Aaron Burleson, Hannah Mosley, Christine Gaffney. Open Aug. 15-Sept. 6. www.934gallery.org
Art Access Gallery: INSPIRATION Queen Brooks and Nicholas Hill. Open through July 25. www.artaccessgallery.com
Brandt Gallery: Interior Spaces: Beyond the surface. Richard Lillash depicts modernist still-lifes of items from his everyday life alongside patterns and motifs found in his international travels, from floor tiles to table textiles to drapery. Open through July 31. www.brandt-gallery.com
Chaos Contemporary Craft: Fragmented –A Solo Exhibition by Rob Strati. This deeply personal collection explores the poetics of loss and transformation through broken
porcelain plates and intricate ink drawings. Open through July 20. www.chaos contemporarycraft.com
Columbus Glass Art Center: Stained Glass Memorial Portrat of Carla Fountaine. Portrait of community leader Carla Fountaine, created by local artist Suzanne Shea Gallagher, will have an opening reception hosted by the Columbus Southeast Lions Club and will feature special guest Lavonda Fountaine, Carla’s mother. Open Aug. 1517. www.columbusglassartcenter.org
Columbus Museum of Art: Wild Earth: JB Blunk and Toshiko Takaezu. Takaezu and Blunk’s parallel creation of handmade worlds as expressed through objects ranging in scale from monumental ceramics and woodcarvings to tea bowls and jewelry. Open through Aug. 3. Maya Jeffereis: Fields Fallen from Distant Songs. In this evocative video, Maya Jeffereis probes the legacy of indentured labor on Hawaiian sugarcane
plantations, where her maternal greatgrandparents worked after immigrating from Japan in the early 1900s. Open through Aug. 17. Louise Nevelson: Dawn to Dusk. Featuring more than 50 works, this exhibition traces Nevelson’s artistic evolution, from her early figurative paintings to her abstract wood constructions, collages and unique handcrafted jewelry. Open through Aug. 24. www.columbusmuseum.org
Columbus Museum of Art at The Pizzuti: Las Vegas Ikebana: Maren Hassinger and Senga Nengudi. This exhibition is the first museum retrospective on the pioneering collective and cross-disciplinary practices of artists Maren Hassinger and Senga Nengudi. Open July 19-Jan. 11. www. columbusmuseum.org/columbus-museumof-art-at-the-pizzuti
Dublin Arts Council: The Earth Up Close: Notice the Changes. A collection of quilts by local fiber artists Marty Kotter and Deb Baillieul depicting their interactions with nature near and far from home. Open July 13-Aug. 30. The Corridors of Memory. Sculptural artworks by Jan and Mark
McConnell Arts Center
Art Access Gallery
Wiesner that weave together narratives; a flow of organic forms or a world shaped by ceramic figures each suspended in a moment of emotional reflection. Open July 12-Aug. 29. www.dublinarts.org
Hayley Gallery: Vibrant Impressions. Mary Ann Sedivy and Nazli Brush. Open Aug. 16-Sept. 8. www.localartohio.com
Mac Worthington: Art Isn’t Just for Walls sculpture park tours. Open July 1-31. Abstraction early to present works paintings. Open Aug. 1-31. www.macworthington.com
Marcia Evans Gallery: TEXTURE. Bev Goldie and Zachary Dean Jones work with natural elements: Goldie with wax encaustic and Dean with materials from the earth, both creating a blend of interesting texture and colors. Open through July 27. I Like What You Do. This is a collaboration between Cameron MacPhail and Agathe Guttuhaugen, a husband-and-wife duo based in Oslo, Norway. Blending different disciplines in the creative arts, the work blurs the definition of medium and concept, photograph and painting. Open Aug. 2-31. www.marciaevansgallery.com
McConnell Arts Center: My Voice and Dance. Nigerian artist Said Oladejo-Lawal enriches the senses with his pursuit and colorful presentation of music and dance on a two-dimensional surface. In Good Company. Human figures painted from life that hold an aura of ‘What’s right with this world’ for artist Linda Hutchinson. Both open July 10Aug. 28. www.mcconnellarts.org
OSU Faculty Club Gallery: Parallel Visions - Interpreting the Real. Ohio-based oil painters
OSU Faculty Club Gallery
Kathy Ludlam and Pat Howard bring their distinct yet complementary styles to interpret the world around them. Open through Aug. 7. www.ohio-statefacultyclub.com
Riffe Gallery: A Common Thread. The exhibition features 16 Ohio artists and is curated by Caren Petersen and Char Norman. Open July 26-Oct. 3. www.oac.ohio.gov
Sharon Weiss Gallery: Salon-style showcase. Discover bold styles, unexpected subjects and the work that makes this collection unforgettable. Open July 1-31. Studio
Tabletop. Brian Ballenger’s solo exhibit of artworks based on yearly images painted on the table in his studio. Open Aug. 1-31. www.sharonweissgallery.com
Studios on High: A Tale of Two Siblings Tracy Greenwalt and her brother, Chuck Greenwalt, present their latest work side-byside to compare through the lens of family and heredity. Open July 5-31. Memory Lane Experience a nostalgic journey with this collection of paintings by Amanda McGee, inspired by classic road trip adventures. Open Aug. 2-Sept. 4. www.studiosonhigh.com
The Arts Castle: Senior Showcase: Art after 55. Multiple mediums of original artwork created by Delaware County residents ages 55 and up. Open July 21-Oct. 11. www.artscastle.org
Urban Arts Space: Cartography. Artists of diverse descents share stories of imperialism, racism and occupation, exploring new vistas of identity, connection and resilience. Open July 22-Aug. 16. Fragmented-Recaptured. Interrogating histories and modalities of marginalization and the systemic minoritizing of the Kurds, the largest stateless nation within the
sociopolitical borders of the states that rule over a part of their homeland Kurdistan. Open July 22-Aug. 16. www.uas.osu.edu
Wexner Center for the Arts: Eric N. Mack Mack’s visual vocabulary of painting, textiles and fashion converge and expand the notion of sculpture and painting as a medium. Nanette Carter: Sentinels Brings together key works from the Columbusborn artist’s nearly 50-year career. Veronica Ryan: Unruly Objects. Ryan’s abstract and multifaceted sculptures present a network of connections influenced by transatlantic exchanges, global histories of travel and narratives of healing and belonging. All open Aug. 23-Jan. 11. www.wexarts.org
Wild Goose Creative: The Space Between Lance Johnson and Alex Schultze showcase their unique and blended styles including sculptural, acrylic etching and graffitiinspired pieces. Open July 11-29. Zach Van Horn and Blake Miller showcase wild and vibrant artworks to show how there is beauty amidst chaos. Open Aug. 8-Sept. 3. www.wildgoosecreative.com
Find additional listings at www.cityscenecolumbus.com
Urban Arts Space
Picks&Previews
Keep your eyes peeled for these events!
Shadowbox Live presents Millennium: A 2000’s Musical Through Aug. 29
Shadowbox Live, 503 S. Front St.
With humor, drama and a bold original soundtrack featuring the 2000s’ biggest hits, this dynamic musical is a heartfelt tribute to pop culture and the spirit of an entire generation. www.shadowboxlive.org
Red, White & BOOM!
July 3
Downtown Columbus and Genoa Park
Enjoy a day full of activities, such as a parade and musical entertainment, followed by the biggest fireworks show in the Midwest at Genoa Park at 10 p.m. www.redwhiteandboom.org
Picnic with the Pops
Through July 26, 8 p.m.
• Tower of Power – July 5
• Dolly Parton’s Threads: My Songs in Symphony – July 12
• Windborne: The Music of Journey –July 19
• The Ohio State University Marching Band – July 25-26 Columbus Commons, 160 S. High St. Nationwide and Columbus Symphony Orchestra’s Picnic with the Pops continues, bringing amazing musicians and guest artists to central Ohio all summer long. www.columbussymphony.com
Sounds of Summer Concert Series
July 6-Aug. 31, 6:30-8 p.m. Alum Creek Park North Amphitheater, 221 W. Main St., Westerville
Spend your Sunday evenings enjoying fresh air, good music and fun all summer with Westerville’s concert series. www.visit westerville.org
Red, White & BOOM!
Photos courtesy of CAPA, CBUS Soul Fest, Columbus Air Show, Experience Columbus, Jazz & Rib Fest, Joan Marcus
Hamilton
PNC Broadway in Columbus presents Hamilton July 8-20
Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St. Broadway in Columbus brings back this ever-popular, award-winning saga that follows Alexander Hamilton and a revolutionary story of passion, ambition and the dawn of America. www.columbus.broadway.com
Short North Stage presents Waitress July 10-Aug. 10
Short North Stage, 1187 N. High St.
This musical follows a talented pie maker stuck in a loveless marriage and a smalltown job, exploring themes of friendship, dreams, courage and unexpected romance. www.shortnorthstage.org
Abbey Theater of Dublin and Evolution Theatre Company present A Real Boy July 10-13
Abbey Theater of Dublin, 5600 Post Rd., Dublin
Written by established playwright Jeff Downing, this play retells the classic fairy tale of Pinocchio, exploring themes of adventure, joy, parenthood and the importance of being true to oneself. www. evolutiontheatre.org
Pickerington Community Theatre presents Shrek the Musical July 11-20
Pickerington Community Theatre, 10190 Blacklick-Eastern Rd., Pickerington
Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, this Tony Award-winning musical brings the movie’s classic characters and fairy tale adventures to the stage, alongside original musical pieces. www. pickeringtoncommunitytheatre.org
Westerville Area Chamber
Music & Arts Festival
July 12-13, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Heritage Park, 60 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville
This beloved community event features 125 artists, 30 musical performances, 20-plus
food vendors, an art show, a silent auction and more. www.westervillechamber.com
Jazz & Rib Fest
July 18-20, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Bicentennial Park, 233 S. Civic Center Dr.
This highly-anticipated summertime tradition is back, offering jazz and rib connoisseurs the finest in music and barbecue. www.hotribscooljazz.org
Creed
July 20, 7 p.m.
Schottenstein Center, 555 Borror Dr.
After an 11-year hiatus, late 1990s/ early 2000s rock radio stalwarts Creed (“Higher,” “With Arms Wide Open”) perform alongside Daughtry and Mammoth. www.schottensteincenter.com
Ohio State Fair
July 23-Aug. 3
Ohio Expo Center and State Fairgrounds, 717 E. 17th Ave.
A tradition since 1850, the Ohio State Fair features a large variety of exhibits, activities, live music and entertainment, as well as more than 200 food vendors, 60-plus fun rides and more. www.ohiostatefair.com
Lancaster Festival
July 24-Aug. 2
Downtown Lancaster
Celebrating art, music and community since 1984, this festival offers live performances, interactive art installations and more – plus a grand-finale fireworks display. www.lancasterfestival.org
CAPA presents An Evening with Vince Gill
July 25, 7:30 p.m.
Palace Theatre, 34 W. Broad St.
Spend an evening with the awardwinning Vince Gill, one of the most popular artists in modern country music, renowned for his world-class songwriting, guitar playing and tenor. www.capa.com
Dublin Irish Festival
Aug. 1-3
Coffman Park, 5200 Emerald Pkwy., Dublin
Experience this highly-anticipated, nationally acclaimed cultural festival with Irish music, performances, dance, games and more. www.dublinirishfestival.org
CAPA presents Demola Live!
Aug. 3, 7 p.m.
Lincoln Theatre, 769 E. Long St.
Join internationally acclaimed artist Demola the Violinist as he blends classical violin, Afrobeats, hip-hop, pop, R&B and soul into one electrifying performance. www.capa.com
¡Festival Latino!
Aug. 9-10, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Genoa Park, 303 W. Broad St.
Celebrate heritage and culture at this longstanding local festival with music, dance, fashion, art, food and more. www. festivallatino.net
Heart of Grove City Bourbon & Spirits Festival
Aug. 9, 1-10 p.m.
Town Center Park, 3359 Park St., Grove City
Enjoy an afternoon of bourbon and spirit tastings, live music, food trucks, local vendors and learning the tricks of the trade first-hand from bourbon craftsmen. www.heartofgrovecity.org
Matt Rife
Aug. 9, 8 p.m.
Nationwide Arena, 200 W. Nationwide Blvd.
Comedian, actor, producer and author Matt Rife has quickly become one of the biggest names in stand-up. www.nationwide arena.com
Waitress
Vince Gill
Jazz & Rib Fest
Disney Descendants/Zombies: World’s Collide Tour
Aug. 12, 7 p.m.
Schottenstein Center, 555 Borror Dr.
This interactive live concert highlights the chart-topping music from Disney’s Descendants and Zombies movie franchises, allowing fans of all ages to dance, sing and connect with their favorite characters. www.schottensteincenter.com
Maxwell
Aug. 15, 8 p.m.
Schottenstein Center, 555 Borror Dr.
This neo-soul icon returns with his smooth vocals, evergreen hits and enchanting stage presence to share both his timeless classics and newer music. www.schottensteincenter.com
CBUS Soul® Fest
Aug. 15-16, 4-10 p.m.
Bicentennial Park, 233 S. Civic Center Dr.
This downtown summer festival celebrates Black culture with live music, great food and lots of soul. www.cbussoulfest.com
Columbus Food Truck Festival
Aug. 16-17
Franklin County Fairgrounds, 4100 Columbia St., Hilliard
This annual festival features a delectable array of cuisines from 50 of the best gourmet food trucks across the Midwest, alongside live music and local vendors. www.columbusfoodtruckfest.com
Columbus Air Show
Aug. 22-24, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Rickenbacker International Airport, 2241 John Circle Dr.
The Columbus Air Show offers a weekend of exhilarating air performances and familyfun activities. www.columbusairshow.com
Nate Bargatze
Aug. 23-24, 7 p.m.
Schottenstein Center, 555 Borror Dr.
Known as the “Nicest Man in StandUp” and currently the No. 1 earning
comedian in the world, Grammy nominated Nate Bargatze’s clean and relatable comedy is sure to make anyone laugh. www.schottensteincenter.com
Columbus Greek Festival
Aug. 29-Sept. 1
The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 555 N. High St. Celebrate the culture of Greece with music, dance, food, shopping and more at this festival’s 52nd celebration. www.columbus greekfestival.com
Find additional listings at www.cityscenecolumbus.com
