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We are so grateful to have found Lorie! We recently moved across the country from Texas to Ohio and relied heavily on her expertise and knowledge of the area to help us find the right location and home. We were only in the area for three days, and she dedicated the entire time to us and our home search, even picking us up when an unexpected snowstorm came through that we weren't comfortable driving in!
During the many weeks and months before our visit, she spent time understanding our needs, so we only focused on the right locations and homes during our short visit. Thanks to Lorie, we were able to find our home, submit an offer, and have our offer accepted in this competitive housing market.
She was very proactive and responsive throughout the entire process, making the buying experience as stress-free as possible. We knew we were in good hands, which allowed us to focus on the long-distance sale of our home. Even after we closed on our new home, Lorie has continued to check on us and helped us numerous times while navigating a new area.
We would not hesitate to recommend Lorie to anyone looking for a realtor and will always choose her for our future needs!
-Stacy G
Dublin
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Columbus, Ohio 43215 614-572-1240 • Fax 614-572-1241 www.cityscenecolumbus.com
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When planning your bathroom layout, consider placing the shower controls near the door. This small adjustment can significantly improve your showering experience. By positioning the controls within easy reach from outside the shower area, you can conveniently turn on the water without stepping into the stream and risking an unwelcome encounter with cold water.
With this issue of Dublin Life focusing on food and tness, it is pertinent to recognize that Dublin has an abundance in both categories! I think you’ll agree that if you are going to have dozens of world-class restaurants, it’s certainly important to have an array of tness amenities, too. Life is, after all, about balance.
In Dublin, we are constantly balancing the many priorities of our community members to ensure the highest quality of life. We inform this balancing act through a variety of studies and surveys that ensure we understand what residents want and need. Wellness is always going to be a top priority, and many community assets speak to that.
First and foremost, the beloved Dublin Community Recreation Center (DCRC) has been used by tens of thousands of users over its 25 years of service and remains the City’s most signi cant investment in the health and well-being of our community. This year, we are beginning a phased refresh for the facility. This renovation, guided by extensive public input, re ects our commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities that cater to the evolving needs of our community. City Council will be reviewing proposals and determining the next steps soon. Look for updates this summer on the City’s website and social media platforms.
Furthermore, as part of our ongoing e orts to promote wellness, we are conducting a comprehensive Community Health Needs Assessment. This valuable
initiative informs our strategies for enhancing public health and tness resources across the city. We have established several working groups to address the four priority health needs: health care navigation, transportation, youth behavioral health and substance abuse, and community connections.
We have also launched the Riverside Crossing Park Master Plan update, which aims to build on the success of this park and re ne future phases. This collaborative process will ensure that our facilities continue to serve as dynamic centers for health and recreation while further incorporating the Scioto River.
Another community-wide initiative on the horizon is the Dublin Chamber's annual Corporate Charity Cup, which brings together businesses and organizations in competition and camaraderie. Throughout this two-day event, teams come together to compete in a variety of challenges as a way to promote employee wellness and community involvement while raising money for local charities. This year’s Charity Cup is June 20-21, and Team Dublin will be well-represented.
One of our City beliefs is that we are better together. So, no matter where you are on your tness journey, know that you are not on your own. Dublin is dedicated to providing the resources and opportunities for all residents to thrive.
Megan O’Callaghan Dublin City Manager
Megan O’Callaghan
Available on Amazon
All events are subject to change. Visit websites for more information.
THROUGH SEPT.
Bridge Park Summer Music Series
Third Thursday of every month, 5-7 p.m.
Bridge Park 6634 Riverside Dr. www.visitdublinohio.com
THROUGH SEPT.
Dublin Market at Bridge Park Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon
Bridge Park 6568 Longshore St. www.thedublinmarket.com
THROUGH NOV.
Food Truck Wednesdays Wednesdays, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
City of Dublin 5200 Emerald Pkwy. www.visitdublinohio.com
JUNE 3-9
the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday
Muirfield Village Golf Club 5750 Memorial Dr. www.thememorialtournament.com
JUNE 6
Summer Reading Challenge Kickoff Party
3-5 p.m.
Dublin Branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library
75 N. High St. www.columbuslibrary.org
JUNE 7-8
Fore!Fest
5-10 p.m.
Bridge Park Longshore St. and Bridge Park Ave. www.forefest.com
JUNE 6, JULY 10
Tell Us Your Story – Oral History Program
6:30-8 p.m.
Dublin Branch Columbus Metropolitan Library
75 N. High St. www.columbuslibrary.org
JUNE 19
Juneteenth Bridge Lighting
Evening
The Dublin Link will glow red, white, blue, green and yellow to represent both the American and Pan-African flags.
JUNE 18
Teens Connect 4-5 p.m.
Dublin Branch Columbus Metropolitan Library
75 N. High St. www.columbuslibrary.org
JUNE 20-21
Dublin Corporate Charity Cup 2024 www.dublinchamber.org
Thursday, June 20
4-8 p.m.
Marriott Columbus Northwest 5605 Blazer Pkwy.
Friday, June 21
8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Dublin Coffman High School 6780 Coffman Rd.
JUNE 28-30
The Abbey Theater presents Jungle Jim KIDZ: A Musical Wildlife Adventure
June 28-29, 7 p.m.
June 30, 2 and 4 p.m. Coffman Park Amphitheater 5200 Emerald Pkwy. www.dublinohiousa.gov
JUNE 30
Columbus Wuyue Arts Foundation presents 2nd Asian Dance Performance
6 p.m.
Abbey Theater 5600 Post Rd. www.tinyurl.com/WUYUE
JULY 4
Dublin’s Independence Day Celebration www.dublinohiousa.gov
Sherm Sheldon Fishing Derby
8 a.m.
Avery Park
7401 Avery Rd.
Parade
11 a.m.
Metro Center-Historic Dublin
Evening Celebration with live entertainment from Grammy nominee Martina McBride
4:30 p.m.
Dublin Coffman High School 6780 Coffman Rd.
Fireworks
9:50 p.m.
Dublin Coffman High School 6780 Coffman Rd.
JULY 18-20
Arthritis Foundation 41st Charity Auto Show
Metro Center Business Park
555 Metro Pl. N. www.arthritis.org
JULY 18-21
The Abbey Theater presents James and the Giant Peach Jr.
July 18-19, 7 p.m.
July 20, 1, 4 and 7 p.m.
July 21, 1 and 4 p.m.
Abbey Theater 5600 Post Rd. www.dublinohiousa.gov
JULY 20
Columbus Duck Race hosted by The Development Board of Nationwide Children's Hospital Noon
Riverside Crossing Park 6625 Riverside Dr. www.nationwidechildrens.org
JULY 29
Jazz Arts Group of Columbus presents Jazz Academy on Tour 2-3 p.m.
Dublin Branch Columbus Metropolitan Library
75 N. High St. www.columbuslibrary.org
AUG. 2-4
Dublin Irish Festival
Ignite your Irish spirit at the annual Dublin Irish Festival, a three-day festival filled with Irish food, music, and more.
www.dublinirishfestival.org
AUG. 16-17
North Market Wine Fest at Bridge Park presented by Heartland Bank Enjoy wine from distributors from all over the world and bites from North Market favorites. www.northmarket.org
Famous author Stephen King once said, “Talent is cheaper than table salt. What separates the talented individual from the successful one is a lot of hard work.”
There may be no better example of this sentiment than track star Abby Steiner. By the time Steiner started her freshman year at Dublin Coffman High School, she was already the top competitor in the state. While she was undoubtedly born with immense talent, her focus and unwavering dedication to the sport has helped her go on to become a world champion.
During her early years, Steiner focused on soccer. She began playing the sport at 5 years old and later played on the Ohio Premier Soccer Club and the Coffman girls’ varsity team.
She began running track in eighth grade at John Sells Middle School, where she still holds the school record for the 100m sprint. This was when Steiner found her love for the individual-focused sport.
“You really get out what you put in,” Steiner says. “You are just competing against yourself every single day. With track and field, the results are going to show if you do the work.”
As a student at Coffman, she participated in both soccer and track, only missing one soccer season during her junior year due to tearing her ACL, an injury that her high school coach Greg King says she handled with grace and sportsmanship.
“She was never somebody to throw a temper tantrum or anything,” he says. “Her sort of calm (demeanor) and ability to accept what happened and just working from there was really remarkable. I mean, it’s one of the things that has made her such a great athlete.”
During Steiner’s recovery, she worked closely with athletic trainer Selena Budge. This time with Budge proved to influence her more than just athletically.
“She’s just a badass woman,” Steiner says. “She’s amazing and she’s helped me so much just recovering from that injury and becoming the woman I am today.”
Finishing out her high school career, Steiner had collected 16 Division I state meet wins, winning the indoor and outdoor state 200m events all four years, as well as many 55m, 60m, and 100m state
race wins. She repeatedly placed top 10 in events at the New Balance Nationals from her sophomore through senior year.
During her senior year in 2018, she broke the state record in the Division I high school girls 100m and 200m dash and still held both titles at the end of the 2023 spring season.
In addition to the support she received on the track, Steiner’s family was also embraced by the community when her sister, Riley, was diagnosed with leukemia in 2014.
During a Coffman football game, a crowd of students sported orange ‘Steiner Strong Fight Leukemia’ t-shirts and multiple sports teams raised money for the cause. Riley has since recovered.
“Seeing how Dublin rallied around her and our family really gave me a special insight into the people that I was around and what they would do to help you succeed and be there for you,” Steiner says.
These days Steiner is a hometown hero, keeping her humility even as the people who have seen her grow firsthand praise her unceasingly, as she has brought so much pride to Dublin and the Coffman program.
“It’s really hard to describe how amazing (she is),” King says. “From the first time she won an NCAA title up through being a world champion, just getting to watch and be like, ‘Wow, I coached her.’”
She donates her old spikes to the very track program she went through, so students who need them in a pinch or can’t afford to buy their own can have a pair.
“When they find out these were Abby Steiner’s spikes they are just starstruck,” King says. “I had a girl who was like, ‘I don’t want to run in these now coach. Abby Steiner wore these? I don’t want to run in them. She ran in these? These are amazing.’”
Last Spring, Coffman unveiled a mural on the side of its stadium bleachers commemorating Steiner, an event that Steiner says made everything come full circle for her.
“Seeing how I’ve been able to impact younger girls and younger kids, that’s been amazing,” Steiner says. “Hopefully one day (I can) help sponsor meets and try to give back in that type of way but, I think that mural and getting to meet everyone was one of the most special moments.”
After high school, Steiner began her career as a two-sport student-athlete at the University of Kentucky. She retired from
the soccer team after freshman year to focus all her efforts on track.
“I had literally two days of track practice and I was like, ‘I love this so much, I never want to go to soccer again’ and I walked in the coach’s office and told him right then and there,” she says.
During her sophomore year, she set a new U.S. collegiate record for the women’s 200m. After missing the outdoor season while recovering from an Achilles injury, she broke that record in 2022 despite her injury, a title she still holds with a time of 21.8 seconds.
That same year, Steiner became a U.S. champion with a time of 21.77 seconds. She achieved all of this along with dozens of other wins and accolades during her college career.
“(When you recover from an injury) you’re like, ‘Oh, I’m not sure if I’m going to be the same athlete when I come back.’ And I think that race really just solidified for me that I was back and I was ready to have a really good year,” Steiner says.
Soon after college graduation, Steiner placed fifth at the world championships in 2023, and won gold with her 4x100m and 4x400m relay teams.
Her U.S. championship time led to a $2 million sponsorship from PUMA. It was the largest contract ever signed by a female track athlete out of college.
Last fall, Steiner underwent surgery on both of her feet, which delayed her training by roughly two months. She currently is working on building up strength, training with her former collegiate coach at the University of South Carolina for the Olympic trials starting on June 21.
This journey hasn’t been easy for Steiner, but it has led her to compete on the world stage and earned her the opportunity to compete for a spot on Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
“Coming out of the other side of that [injury], I feel like gave me a really big perspective on just focusing on all the little day-to-day details, and one day you’ll look back and realize how far you came from where you started,” she says.
Maisie Fitzmaurice is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mfitzmaurice@ cityscenemediagroup.com.
Picture mischievous squirrels hunting for snacks and graceful deer adding a touch of wonder to Dublin’s cityscape. While nature is an integral part of our community’s identity and charm, it’s important to remember that wildlife is best admired from a distance and not as dinner guests.
While it might be tempting to scatter scraps for squirrels or saltlicks for deer, what seems like a harmless act of kindness can quickly cause problems. Wildlife has the tools to survive on its own, so supplying food could lead to not only harming the animals but putting humans in danger, too.
Due to a quickly growing deer population and concerns from Dublin residents about wildlife traveling into residential areas, Dublin City Council adopted an outdoor feed ordinance in November 2023.
The ordinance prohibits feeding any wild animals or animals running at large on private property. City of Dublin Management Analyst Emily Goliver, who worked closely on researching those wildlife issues to support the ordinance, says it came about through a purposeful process that balanced the City’s love for its native creatures while protecting local critters.
in regional conversations on management options.
“In the past couple of years, we have received a higher number of concerns regarding deer in residential areas,” Goliver says. “So, we looked into the industry standard for deer population in a suburban setting and found that Dublin was exceeding that standard.”
“We love wildlife in Dublin,” Goliver says. “This is an emotional topic, but it’s what’s best for the animal.”
The growing population of deer is not unique to Dublin. This topic is being discussed statewide, and Dublin is engaging
The outdoor feed ordinance also seeks to protect residents, as the number one reason for wildlife to bite humans is people feeding that wildlife.
“It’s important for the residents and the deer,” Goliver says. “Deer should be relying on the natural resources available to them, not food that humans are leaving for them. When you have food left in your yard, you are encouraging the deer to come onto your property into residential areas.”
As the increase in white-tailed deer was a key reason for the rule change, the nofeed ordinance also supports the variety of wildlife within the City’s limits. Residents should not feed squirrels, chipmunks, groundhogs, raccoons, skunks, waterfowl, opossums, muskrats, foxes, black bears, wild turkeys, bobcats or coyotes.
The frequent feeding of wildlife can lead to many negative consequences:
• A higher concentration of wildlife in residential areas
• Animals become comfortable in an area and frequently return, knowing food is easily accessible
• Animals become desensitized to humans when they are close to them, leading to aggression toward people and pets
• Interference with animals’ natural processes
• Spread of disease
• Increase of vehicle-deer crashes
As part of its research phase for the ordinance, the City of Dublin collaborated
with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) to create a solution to reduce wildlife in residential areas. Dublin’s own Nature Coordinator Barbara Ray hosted workshops alongside ODNR, and the City collaborated with The Ohio State University School of Environment and Natural Resources students to complete a study centered on Dublin’s deer population.
A group of students from an OSU capstone class completed a weeklong study in May 2023 consisting of different types of assessments, such as “camera trapping” surveys. The class placed food in front of cameras to lure deer to count the herd. Students also gathered information about wildlife habits through a survey that received about 300 responses from Dublin residents.
So far, Goliver reflects, the ordinance has seen improvement for residents.
“It has been successful as far as a tool for education. We are encouraging neighbors to talk to each other and inform them about the harmful impacts of feeding wildlife,” Goliver says. “We have also had very positive conversations with residents who have expressed appreciation that we are working with them and helping them understand the ‘why’ behind the ‘what’ with an emphasis on care for the animals.”
Jackie Adler is an intern for the City of Dublin. Feedback welcome at cpi@dublin.oh.us.
Q: Why is the ordinance so important?
A: A successful method for most wildlife control is to not feed them. Wildlife is perfectly designed to find the proper types of foods for optimal nutrition and the highest survival potential. Feeding some wild animals invariably draws in others, and those could be animals a resident may not want, like skunks and coyotes. Any outdoor food will attract mice and rats. Rodents have an amazing sense of smell and will come in at night to raid a feeding station or clean up spilled seed or seed hulls – anything!
Q: Why can feeding wildlife be dangerous?
A: When deer become comfortable being close to humans and pets, they can behave defensively when rearing their fawns. They may use their hooves to strike to drive away a threat like a dog, instead of moving away when they see or hear a person interacting with a dog. People like to “help” deer by putting out corn, but this is bad for the deer, too. Their ruminant stomachs cannot digest the sugars and starches in grains properly, as deer are instead designed to digest leaves, bark and other plant material.
Q: What is some common animal activity we can look forward to this summer?
A: Dublin residents usually enjoy many wildlife viewing opportunities in their yards and parks without a need to offer food. Deer will have fawns up and running and playing by June 1. Osprey chicks will fly out later in June and be visible hunting the Scioto River, and their favorite parks are Amberleigh and Kiwanis. Red fox kits will be out of the dens in July as will skunk kits. Baby turtles will hatch in late summer from the nests their moms secretly dug in mulch beds, often far from water, and they will begin their trek to a pond or stream in the city. (If you see a baby turtle stuck along a curb unable to climb it, you can help it up over the curb!)
Songbirds nest all through summer with goldfinches being our last nesters in August, as native thistle and sunflower seeds start to be available. Many butterflies, moths and other insects, and frogs and toads, all are active in periods through the summer and might be seen or heard.
Photos courtesy of City of Dublin
As the sunny days become longer, the old Irish itch will start to creep in, and the only cure can be found at the annual Dublin CityScene Magazine’s 2024 Best of the ‘Bus Best Suburban Festival category.
Known for its fun and fascinating food, drinks, entertainment and celebrations of all things Irish, this three-day festival – held Aug. 2-4 –is expected to draw in roughly 100,000 visitors
The Dublin Irish Festival is well-known for the musical acts it brings to the seven stages throughout the 38 acres of festival grounds.
Guests can enjoy hours of music and entertainment ranging from traditional Irish dancing and performances by bagpipers and drummers to appearances by award-winning groups such as Gaelic Storm and Skerryvore City of Dublin’s Director of Events, Alison LeRoy, says the adult feis dance competition, held at the Ceili Dance Stage Friday night, has been a part of the festival for many years, and with some of the best dancers from around the world facing off, it is an event not to be missed.
Catch more action as the winners of the kid’s feis competition take the Ceili Stage Saturday.
For those kiddos who can’t help but get up and dance along, they may get the chance to learn a bit of an Irish jig.
“Several dance companies bring their older kids to the stage and they teach any kid that wants to learn how to do a little Irish dance essentially,” says City of Dublin Events Coordinator Erin Santa. “The kids from the crowd can come up and learn which is really cute to watch.”
The Irish cultural experiences don’t stop there, as countless stands offering historical and educational experiences are set up for visitors to explore. These themed activities include the Author’s Corner and Genealogy tents, as well as family-focused offerings including the Viking Village and Celtic Canines, sponsored by Riverside Bank of Dublin.
One new experience to look forward to this year is live demonstrations from Virginia-based blacksmith Carson Sams. Check out cityscenecolumbus.com to read more about how Sams and other new vendors and acts came to join the festivities.
There will be more than 120 different food, drink and vendor stands for visitors to stop by and grab a quick bite or a souvenir to take home.
With 50 different food and drink spots, there are plenty of good options to choose from. Looking for some hearty Irish stew? It’s there. Want festival fan favorites like funnel cakes, fries and lemonade? It’s there too.
“We do know our people come and stay for the weekend, so it gives them different options that they can go to and try out,” LeRoy says.
For the seasoned festival-goers looking for something unique, keep an eye out for these new offerings: fresh coffee from BrootLegg Extracts, German-style sausages and food from HillGarten, mouthwatering pretzels from Philly Pretzel Factory, refreshing tea from Shannon’s Sweet Tea and fish and chips from The Salt Pot Kitchen
Kilts, art, woodwork and more can be found at the roughly 70 different pop-up shops around the festival, with some new vendors joining the fun.
Check out Harp & Hound Jewelry for beautiful, handmade pendants, earrings and rings. For a great selection of leather goods – ranging from belts and watches to unique purse shapes (see if you can spot one shaped like Nessie!) – stop by The Irish Scott stand. Looking for a spot to get something for everyone in the family? Celtic Seasons has you covered with a wide variety of Irish gifts and goods.
With help from the Dublin Community Recreation Center Adaptive Coordinator Meaghan Campbell, the Autism Society of Central Ohio (ASCO) and others, LeRoy and Santa say their team has increased accessibility throughout the festival grounds.
“We have a new accessibility committee that we created this year,” LeRoy says. “We brought in a consultant last year and we’re implementing some of those things that we learned, but we know there’s more we can learn so we’re really open to hearing from people.”
The sensory tent, which offers a quiet space for those with light and sound sensitivities, will be moved into the Development Building near the east entrance to offer a quieter and more removed space.
Raised platforms will also be in stalled in the bigger tents, includ ing the Dublin and Celtic Rock stages, so those who have mo bility aids can have a more en joyable experience watching performances.
Rachel Karas is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at rkaras@ cityscenemediagroup.com
Looking to experience some Irish theater and get out of the hot August sun? Stop by the Dublin Community Recreation Center on Saturday and Sunday to catch a showing of “Moby Dick’s Gone Missing” at the Abbey Theater. This one-act play was written by Irish play wright and friend of the Abbey Theater, Sean Cooney, and will make its first appearance at the festival following its world premiere at the Abbey Theater this past fall. Check out www.dublin irishfestival.org for more information about the performance and showtimes.
Here are some tips to make the most of your time at the festival: Download the app. organize your day with everything from an interactive map to reminders of when your favorite band is about to take the stage.
Park for free. Avoid traffic around the festival grounds by parking near the Metro Center and taking a short, free shuttle ride over to Coff man Park. Many people who live nearby bike over and park their vehicles in designated safe areas. Get VIP access. Check out deals and packages available through Visit Dublin to get access to certain areas. A new package, the Ultimate Music Plus, offers access to the Dub, Emerald and Celtic Rock Clubs as well as parking at the DCRC.
Looking for something fun for the whole family this summer? The Dublin Historical Society offers guided walking tours that span only a few blocks and highlight the tightly packed history of the City. Tours are offered from May through August, making it the perfect summertime activity for history buffs and those looking to learn more about their community.
From the Scioto River to the Sells brothers, these tours remind guests of what came before the Dublin they know and love today. With each tour being different from the last, visitors can get as many new facts as they do steps every time they book a tour.
“If I’m leading it, I change it up based on who my audience is. Before we even start, I say, ‘Here’s what I’m looking at doing. Is there anything specific you want to go see and talk about?’” Treasurer of the Dublin Historical Society, Clayton Rose III says. “I have the luxury of having grown up in Dublin, so I can shift gears pretty quickly to cover different topics.”
While no two tours are the same, visitors can expect to walk downhill from South High Street to South Riverview Street, seeing everything from old city water pumps and outhouses to some of the first homes that were built in Dublin. Each of the talented tour guides puts their own spin on the hidden gems, catering to their audiences and their preexisting knowledge.
If you just can’t get enough of Dublin’s history, the DHS also offers tours of the Fletcher Coffman Homestead. This home, located near the Dublin Municipal Building, brings visitors into a slice of what life was like in the 1800s.
The Coffman Homestead offers a closer look into the personal lives of American farmers during the Civil War era. Housing authentic furniture, amenities and a fresh vegetable garden currently tended to by DHS members, the Coffman Homestead is the perfect pair to one of Historic Dublin’s walking tours.
“I like to talk about the spirit of collaboration and volunteerism that took place in Dublin leading up to when we really started to expand, and how that led to the well-controlled growth and quality of growth that we’ve experienced in Dublin over the last 60 or 70 years. That spirit of cooperation and collaboration was critical,” Rose says.
Revisiting this history takes participants down memory lane, spotlighting the habits of residents from years ago. Meeting close friends for coffee at a cafe to catch up may seem commonplace now, but you’d be surprised to find out where Dubliners 60 years ago met up to chat.
“(The Community Church) was a gathering place for the community members,” Rose says. “It was not just so much for church, but it was a place where everybody got together to talk about anything.”
At the very heart of every tour is the community it highlights.
“Those of us that grew up here together feel a strong bond to one another,” Rose says. “When I was growing up here, everybody knew everybody.”
These walking tours uphold some of the core values of Dublin by offering an opportunity for citizens and visitors alike to fa-
miliarize themselves with the rich history of the City. This history, recalled by many who have lived in Dublin for most of their lives, is full of stories of community and friendship, which hold firm in modern Dublin. Taking this stroll through the past helps current citizens connect more with their neighborhood and the people in it.
Luckily, with the 50th anniversary of the Dublin Historical Society quickly approaching, new stops will soon be added to the walking tours. For this momentous occasion, the DHS will be
hosting the grand opening of its new museum, located at 35 S. High St., for the public on Oct. 19.
The DHS aims to elevate the walking tours by adding the museum as a landmark, as well as hosting various historical attractions that can be enjoyed alongside tours.
“I think (the Dublin Historical Society) has done a really good job of maintaining collections and artifacts… We can now tell the story,” President of the Dublin Historical Society, Mike Jewell, says. “I think that’s what’s going to make the museum speak for itself. To tell that story, because it’s amazing how they had the foresight of protecting that.”
If you just can’t get enough of Dublin’s history, the DHS also offers tours of the Fletcher Coffman Homestead. Located near the Dublin Municipal Building, this homestead shows visitors a glimpse into the personal lives of American farmers during the Civil War era. Housing authentic furniture, amenities, and even a fresh vegetable garden tended to by DHS members, the Coffman Homestead is the perfect pairing to one of Historic Dublin’s walking tours.
Mary Nader is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.
Spanning more than 25 square miles and a growing population of nearly 50,000 residents, Dublin’s metropolitan scene is robust and growing. Alongside this exciting urban growth, the City is committed to the natural amenities that help residents stay active outdoors.
The City boasts more than 150 miles of biking trails, more than 60 parks, two outdoor pools, plus two indoor pools at the Dublin Community Recreation Center (DCRC). These amenities are specifically designed and have been updated to reflect the needs of the community.
With so many opportunities available, it’s easy to find a way to stay active and healthy in Dublin. The programming and activities offered by the City are also fresh ways to personalize any experience.
Dublin’s biking scene runs throughout the miles of trails as well as several neigh-
borhoods and parks, offering both a trusted scenic route or a refreshing biking challenge.
The Dublin Bicycle Ambassadors (DBAs) add a personal touch to the already bike-friendly atmosphere of the city. Keep an eye out for one of the 40 DBAs, who can help with directions, biking equipment and general best practices for individual safety as well as the community’s.
Bike repair and tire-pump stations are also available at parks throughout the city.
Dublin is designated as a silver-level Bicycle Friendly Community by The League of American Bicyclists. This designation was awarded to the City out of a pool of more than 860 applicants, for its ongoing improvement of bicycling conditions in the community and for the City’s partnership with local schools to increase bikesafety awareness.
In efforts to expand pro-bike infra-structure, the City also plans to work with local businesses to increase bike parking quality. Dublin’s “Slow Down Dublin” campaign is a community partnership to create safe and comfortable streets for all residents and road users across Dublin, including people walking and rolling.
You can map out your bike route with the City’s bike path map available at City buildings or online at DublinOhioUSA. gov/bike.
With more than 60 parks open from dusk ‘til dawn, there are multiple resources and spaces available to design a perfect route. Runners can go through neighborhoods or green parks, and can stop at any of the roughly 20 shelters and gazebos for a quick break.
The picnic areas and 11 public artworks spread throughout the City are perfect spaces to catch your breath and a fun way to personalize the running experience.
Dublin also hosts races year-round. The FORE! Miler race, held in conjunction with the Memorial Tournament, that benefits Nationwide Children’s Hospital and the Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation.
IGS Energy’s Dublin Irish Festival 5K & Kids Dash is an iconic race that kicks off the Dublin Irish Festival. The race is one of the first experiences festival-goers can witness or participate in, and boosts the energy of the festival from its start. This year’s Dublin Irish Festival 5K is Aug. 1. Read more about the Dublin Irish Festival on page 16.
The Flying Feather Four-Miler, presented by OhioHealth, is a traditional Thanksgiving race serving a good cause. The race benefits the 2nd & 7 Foundation, which strives to expand access to books and positive role models for local children. On race day, the organization accepts new and gently-used kindergarten through sixth grade reading level books that are distributed to central Ohio classrooms. The 2024 Flying Feather Four-Miler is Nov. 28 at 9 a.m.
Dublin has four pools throughout the city, two of which are outdoor community pools: the Dublin Community Pool North and Dublin Community Pool South.
The DCRC is home to two indoor pools – the Multi-Purpose Pool and the Leisure Pool. The Multi-Purpose Pool is 25 yards by 25 meters, with two onemeter diving boards and bleachers nearby making it the perfect space for swim
meets. The Leisure Pool, which houses a lazy river and double-helix slide, has a 3.5-foot maximum depth, making it a safe and enjoyable space for younger and older swimmers alike.
Emily Brown is a testament to the im portance of community access to swim ming. Brown is a senior at Dublin Coff man High School, read more about her swimming career and hopes of attending the Olympic Trials on page 34.
With a decorated high school career, she has become an important part of Dub lin’s sports scene, and is a frequent user of Dublin’s local amenities.
“The Rec is a great place to get into swimming. The water isn’t too cold, so it wouldn’t scare off people who are new to swimming,” Brown says. “The pool has a shallow end, which is safer for swimmers who are starting out, and it progressively gets deeper where you can practice more.”
Ria Akhilesh is an editorial assistant for CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com
Award-winning Community
After holding the bronze-level since 2016, Dublin was named a silverlevel Bicycle Friendly Community by The League of American Bicyclists in 2022.
The City has also earned a gold-level Healthy Worksite Award from the Healthy Business Council of Ohio and the Placemaking Award for its remarkable work on Riverside Crossing Park.
Same day appointments! **morning and evenings available**
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The City of Dublin has gone above and beyond when it comes to implementing sustainable practices. Since the early 2000s, the City has introduced changes to create an environmentally friendly community. From native gardening practices to recycling and sustainability focused events, Dublin continues to develop energy efficient solutions.
“The Dublin Strategic Framework is the overarching document that guides everything we do, so all of our plans, all of our policies kind of feed up through this umbrella framework,” Emily Goliver says. “It’s the City’s vision to be the most sustainable, connected and resilient global city of choice. Everything that we do is to achieve these things.”
Goliver is a management analyst for the City of Dublin and previously interned with the City of Dublin, working closely with the sustainability programs.
Dublin has four plans it hopes to use to make change and educate the community: the Envision Dublin Plan, the Dublin Sustainability Plan, the Electric Vehicle Comprehensive Plan, and the Parks and Rec Master Plan.
Each plan has clear guidelines, whether it is to establish better land use or lower carbon emissions, and has received positive feedback from the community. Goliver says many
residents are happy after encouraging the City to become more green and as ecofriendly as possible.
“We have an incredible community of very, very dedicated and passionate people that really care about sustainability,” Goliver says. “And we wouldn’t be able to do the things that we do without our community getting behind it.”
Dublin has made an effort to convert lighting fixtures in City buildings to LED’s. This 100 percent renewable energy partnership with IGS, which extends to streetlights, traffic signals and city facilities. Along with the change in lighting, there have been updates to the Dublin Community Recreation Center that rely on combining heating and cooling to reduce costs and energy consumption.
The goal to achieve zero waste and carbon neutrality has led to various partnerships with companies such as the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO) and Rumpke to name a few. Many of these partnerships help with more than just reducing carbon emissions.
Aside from the economic and environmental benefits, the contract with Rumpke allows the City to help educate the community.
“Rumpke and SWACO will send out things like a mailer to every home in Dublin, reminding them what’s recyclable and what’s not,” Goliver says.
For nonrecyclables and hazardous waste, Dublin offers events where people can properly dispose of household items such as prescription drugs or chemicals. Community events such as Sustainable Saturday occur once every spring and fall, providing an opportunity for people to dispose of anything from clothes to Styrofoam.
Dublin has implemented native gardening and natural grasses throughout the city. There are countless paths and walkways which encourage community members to walk and enjoy nature rather than drive. Read more about these trails on page 24.
Alternate modes of transportation, such as public transport, is highly encouraged over single occupancy vehicles.
The Electric Vehicle Comprehensive Plan, introduced in early 2024, encourages the use of more electric vehicles in Dublin. This plan is supported by installing electric car charging stations throughout the city.
According to the plan, City consultants will help establish and identify the investments behind the electric vehicle industry. They will identify the future of electric car infrastructure and use their understanding to set reasonable goals. These goals include additional electric city cars in relation to the size of the city.
Along with greener land use and increasing the use of electric vehicles, the goal to improve sustainability includes the installation of more solar panels.
“Sometime this year we’re going to be entering a contract to install solar on one of our City buildings, which will help us further reduce our carbon footprint as a city and as an organization,” Goliver says.
Dublin has been recognized by SolSmart Bronze as a solar friendly community. This entails the use of solar panels throughout the City to help with building infrastructure and traffic operations.
The goal to further reduce the City’s carbon footprint has presented opportunities to enter contracts with solar panel installation companies.
“Our (building) code enables our residents to install solar, and we are working to provide public education on solar,” Goliver says. “So (the solar friendly designation) is a great recognition of something that says, ‘We are dedicated to being a sustainable community and providing our residents opportunities to be sustainable.’”
Amber Phipps is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com
Dublin Arts Council has two new spaces to explore this summer: A Sensory Garden, coming early summer, contains a new Riverbox sculpture; and the Art Lounge, a new space to relax and create artwork based on current exhibitions.
Both spaces align with the philosophy: Interacting with art should be fun and welcoming.
“One of the things that makes experiencing art at Dublin Arts Council feel approachable is that the building was once a residential home,” says DAC’s Communications Manager Raygan
Barrett. “The staff felt the Art Lounge and the Sensory Garden should be extensions of that by creating spaces where you can pause and take in the surroundings of this beautiful place.”
When you walk towards the front door of DAC this summer, meander to the right and you’ll soon find Dublin’s very own “secret garden.” The DAC Sensory Garden was conceptualized by Dublin Arts Council staff and realized through the help and hard work of the City of Dublin.
Sensory Gardens are outdoor spaces designed to ignite all five senses and Dublin Arts Council’s garden offers a variety of ways for visitors to explore.
• Smell plants and flowers known for their aromas, including lavender
• Touch soft and interesting plants such as lamb’s ear
• See the many colors and shapes of different blooms and plants such as sunflowers
• Hear the birds that call the DAC grounds home and the wind that rustles the leaves
• We don’t recommend you taste any of the plants - but there are some edible plants, including Thai basil and other herbs Stationed in the middle of the garden will be a new Riverbox sculpture created by local artist, Andrew Lundberg.
Riverboxes™ are artist-created vessels scattered around the parks and green spaces of Dublin. This one is special as it memorializes an old friend of DAC: D’Art the gallery cat. A cat figure stretches on the sculpture to form a functional sundial.
The Sensory Garden was born out of a desire to create another way for visitors to connect with Dublin Arts Council and it also offers a place for visitors to simply connect with themselves and their environment.
“Engaging our senses with the sights, sounds and scents of the garden can influence our mood, memory and overall health,” Barrett says. “Experiencing nature in this way releases endorphins and lowers cortisol levels, which reduces stress and creates a sense of calm. It’s about slowing down and connecting with your surroundings – that’s actually the really lovely part.”
Art Lounge
Head into the galleries at Dublin Arts Council. At the end of the first and largest
gallery room, you’ll find the Art Lounge: A cozy room that welcomes visitors to spend time together making art.
Museums across the country have spaces with artmaking activities that focus on themes found in exhibitions. For instance, the Columbus Museum of Art has informal, artmaking activities lining the educational wing, encouraging visitors to create twist tie sculptures or crayon portraits.
Some of these artmaking spaces are geared towards children, but the DAC Art Lounge is meant for all ages.
Poke around inside and you’ll find a comfortable couch and chairs, and a small beverage station to make tea or coffee. Across the room is a place to make art; tables and chairs set up in front of shelves stocked with art supplies.
The Art Lounge features art activities that align with the exhibitions that are
in the gallery. Here are some past examples:
• Found object or collaged spirals, to mimic the spiral of a snail shell for the exhibition
Dwelling: A Snail’s Journey
• Torn paper landscapes and paintings of nature reflecting the Echoes of Memory exhibition
These activities change with every exhibition, however general art supplies are always stocked, including patterned paper, oil pastels, markers and more. The shelves in the Art Lounge are packed with donated art books ranging in subject from Abstract Expressionism to Vincent Van Gogh.
The Art Lounge and the Sensory Garden are expressions of the same sentiment from DAC: Visitors are welcome to explore the artwork and grounds in a relaxed, fun and unique way.
Visiting an art gallery is not just about looking passively at a painting. A visit can ignite all of the senses with curiosity.
Dublin Arts Council is located at 7125 Riverside Dr.
Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdayFriday, and 11 a.m.-2 p.m. every second Saturday of the month
Stay curious with us at www.dublinarts.org
school connection
by Cassie DietrichPhotos courtesy of Dublin City Schools
As the central Ohio region experiences rapid housing development, Dublin City Schools faces a unique set of challenges, including increased pressure on resources and, inevitably, the tax burden on homeowners. The narrow passage of the district’s combined levy-andbond issue last fall, combined with forecasted deficit spending, has compelled the district to ask for a seat at the housing table.
Under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. John Marschhausen, Dublin City Schools is taking proactive steps to address the complexities of housing development in central Ohio while advocating for the interests of our community.
The ninth largest district in the state, Dublin City Schools spans three counties, five municipalities and six townships. Because planning and zoning regulations vary from community to community, keeping track of development plans is arduous.
One of the first initiatives undertaken by Dublin City Schools was the formation of a Housing Committee within the Board of Education. The
committee, which met for the first time in February, enables district leaders and Board members to engage directly with developers to gain insights into the potential impact of future growth plans on our schools and community. Marschhausen’s commitment to collaboration has extended beyond the school district. He has personally met with executives from five major housing developers, including Schottenstein Realty and Epcon Homes, to establish an open-door policy. These discussions have provided an opportunity to address concerns and ensure that the impact of housing plans on Dublin City Schools is thoroughly considered.
Marschhausen has also actively engaged with municipal leaders and elected officials to advocate for greater consideration of schools in the development process. By encouraging municipalities to consult with schools before granting planning and zoning approvals, he has emphasized the importance of holistic community planning that takes into account the needs of Ohio’s schools and homeowners.
A recent meeting with City of Dublin Mayor Chris Amorose Groomes, City Manager Megan O’Callaghan, and City of Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther highlighted the complexities surrounding housing abatements and the Community Reinvestment Area (CRA) program. Marschhausen emphasized the district’s recognition of the need for affordable housing in central Ohio and expressed concerns about the impact of development incentivization.
“Our discussions with city leaders highlight the importance of balancing the need for affordable housing with the fiscal implications for suburban schools,” Marschhausen says. “While we recognize
the necessity of affordable housing in central Ohio, we must also ensure that taxpayer dollars are used responsibly.”
Also integral to the district’s housing engagement efforts is the involvement of Dr. Jennifer Schwanke, Deputy Superintendent, on the Envision Dublin Steering Committee.
“Having a seat at the Envision Dublin Steering Committee allows us to actively participate in discussions shaping the future development of Dublin,” Schwanke says. “We are grateful for the City of Dublin’s consideration of our schools in these important conversations.”
Participation in forums outside of Dublin and Franklin County, including meetings with the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC), has further amplified Dublin City Schools’ advocacy efforts. By engaging in broader discussions on regional development, Marschhausen hopes the district’s interests are represented and safeguarded at all levels.
Dr. Marschhausen, Superintendent, speaks at a roundtable discussion hosted by Governor Mike DeWine and Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted. Entering his twentieth year as a school superintendent, Dr. Marschhausen’s knowledge and expertise has made an impact on state and national education issues.
In addition to institutional engagement, Dublin City Schools has also been working to prioritize community involvement. The district has implemented initiatives to facilitate communication between parents, community members and civic leaders through e-newsletters and blogs.
Union County has been a source of much of the enrollment growth in Dublin City Schools. In 2014, Union County accounted for 9.2 percent of the district’s students, whereas today it hosts 20.2 percent. Recognizing this, Marschhausen and Dublin City School Treasurer and CFO Brian Kern are actively involved in the newly-formed Union County Housing Taskforce Committee.
As Union County’s student population within the district continues to rise, this committee examines the challenges posed by rapid housing growth in rural areas.
“Balancing economic development with rising costs and student needs is paramount in ensuring the long-term prosperity of our communities,” Marschhausen says. “While we welcome growth and opportunity, we must remain vigilant in safeguarding the resources necessary to provide a quality education to every student within our district.”
Examples include promoting Jerome Township’s Comprehensive Planning Open House and providing information about a proposed residential development in Concord Township. By connecting community members with opportunities to provide feedback on topics such as housing growth and school funding, the district aims to empower the community to play an active role in shaping policy and legislation.
Ultimately, Dublin City Schools is committed to educating every student that moves into the district.
“It is our purpose to educate every student within our district. But we must recognize and be transparent about the financial implications associated with housing and enrollment growth,” Marschhausen says. “As tax incentives for developers redirect critical funds, the burden to fund education falls disproportionately on established neighborhoods. By advocating for equitable development practices and fostering community engagement, we hope to navigate the challenges of housing more openly than we have before.”
Cassie Dietrich is a Public Information Officer at Dublin City Schools.
For many, the Olympics are a far-off event that they watch with athletes from around the world competing. For Coffman High School senior Emily Brown however, she sees herself competing one day.
Brown is an accomplished swimmer, having broken several records and currently holding state records in the 200m individual medley and 100m butterfly for girls. She had a hand in changing the landscape of state- and national-level swimming by pushing those benchmarks to a new level of competitiveness.
“Someone might look at swimming from the outside and think that it is an individual sport, but it’s very much a team sport, with relays, earning points for your team and training together, it’s a very family-oriented sport, which is what I like about it,” Brown says.
Brown’s journey started when she was six years old after her mother signed her up for swim lessons. With a lake house in Michigan, her mom wanted to ensure Brown knew how to swim. Little did she know they would quickly find Brown was a natural in the water.
As her swim career expanded, Brown ran into her first big challenge at just 10 years old when her coach passed away.
“He had a heart attack after swim practice one day. That was really, really tough to get through,” Katy Brown,
Brown’s mother, says. “And without him, the kids were kind of lost on direction. At 10, this is hard to comprehend.”
Several years later, Brown faced more challenges as the COVID-19 pandemic added uncertainty towhat could happen with her local pools.
“Dublin wasn’t sure if they would keep the pool open, and with Emily having some big goals, we made the decision to switch over and she swam for Westerville for a year,” Katy says. “With a new coaching staff and a new team, she came through with flying colors.”
A persistent issue for not only Brown but many high school swimmers in central Ohio is finding practice times. With few pool options and limited practice times to work around, getting enough time to practice can be a bit of a challenge.
Throughout many of the challenges she has faced, Brown has been able to work with Mark Birnbrich who is the head coach of the swim team at Coffman.
Brown comes from a long line of swimmers. Her mom, Katy, swam at the club level in high school, two of Brown’s cousins swam in college and her mom’s uncle competed in the Olympic trials for the 1968 Mexico City Olympic Games. In her final season at Coffman, Brown was able to swim with her younger sister, Jessica, passing on her swim cap as she moves on to swim at the University of Tennessee.
Birnbrich has had a great impact on her career through his novel take on coaching and the connections he has been able to build with the team over the years.
“I’ve built a relationship with the kids where they know they can be honest with me about how they’re feeling. I say, ‘I don’t expect everyone to have a perfect workout every day, but I’m expecting all of you to be truthful about where you’re at,’” Birnbrich says.
Together, they have fond memories they share of pre-meet rituals.
“Every big swim meet, I bring her (Brown) a bag of gummy bears, no matter what,” Birnbrich says. “Maybe a small bag or maybe a big bag, but there is a pack of gummy bears at our meets.”
Birnbrich started doing this after Brown shared how much she liked the gummy snack and he wanted to help remind her to relax and have fun at the meets.
With a rigorous schedule of lifting three times a week in the mornings and practicing every day after school, it’s important to Brown that she maintain a positive attitude.
“Some swimmers tend to be very serious and intimidating behind the blocks, but I’ve learned that I tend to relax and talk to people behind the blocks,” Brown says. “But when it’s go-time, I really focus. It’s like a switch; I just know when to turn on my focus.”
This competitive spirit translates to Brown’s life out of the pool as well. In school, she is a four-time Scholastic AllAmerican, and has taken several A.P. courses including U.S. Government and Politics, English Language and Composition and American Studies.
She also loves reading, especially dystopian and fantasy novels such as the Red Rising series by Pierce Brown that she is currently reading.
“Ever since elementary school, I have been a big reader,” Brown says. “Reading and writing are definitely my passions. I’ve also been writing stories ever since I can remember.”
This fall, Brown is poised to take her talents to the University of Tennessee, where she plans to major in Psychology.
Birnbrich believes Brown will do well with her new team in Tennessee as he feels she is equipped for the world of professional college athletics, even with the new challenges it brings.
Brown hopes she can make the Olympic team while in college and is looking forward to continuing to swim for a very long time.
“After college, I would love to live in Tennessee and swim Masters,” Brown says. “I want to keep swimming because I love it so much.”
Ria Akhilesh
dublin dishes
by Tyler Kirkendall Photos courtesy of Dell’s Ice Cream, Jeni’s Ice Cream and KilwinsGreen tree canopies, butterflies, pool visits and an abundance of festivals are all inevitabilities of summertime in Dublin. One particular food stands above the rest as a staple of summer: ice cream.
If you’ve stopped at Dairy Queen or UDF after enough Little League games this summer, here’s a breakdown of several options in and around Dublin worth a visit for a fresh frozen fix:
Jeni’s Ice Cream and Graeter’s Ice
favorite ice cream. Part of what makes Graeter’s special is its “French pot” style of ice cream-making.
French ice cream involves using a large drum that stays frozen, and spinning cream within the drum quickly to make it freeze while it mixes. This style results in a creamy texture that can only be achieved with a specific speed and temperature. Graeter’s black raspberry chip is famous across the nation, with Food Network naming it one of the five best ice cream flavors in the U.S.
Jeni’s Ice Cream, a homegrown company started by Upper Arlington graduate Jeni Britton, is all about the flavor. Novel collaborations including Ted Lasso biscuit-flavored ice cream and flavors have helped Jeni’s popularity skyrocket in recent years.
Jeni’s won Best Hometown Product five CityScene Magazine’s annual Best of the ‘Bus readers’ poll. Interestingly, Graeter’s beat Jeni’s for Best Ice in 2023. Check out the July/August issue of CityScene Magazine to see who takes home each award this year.
Dell’s Ice Cream and was originally left off the Dublin Facebook poll for favorite ice cream since it’s technically in Powell, but some Dubliners listed it as their preferred spot. Dell’s offers classic and seasonal ice cream and sorbet flavors, and is known for its massive ice cream cookie sandwiches.
With banana splits, dellogato sundaes with espresso and ice cream, and hot chocolate freezes, there are plenty of special treats for those thinking outside the cone.
Kilwins and Johnson’s Real Ice Cream are longtime, family-owned staples for Dubliners, and their classic recipes have a special place in many ice cream fans’ hearts. Kilwins candy-making efforts have informed its ice cream flavor crafting, which makes it a dangerous place for chocolate lovers’ wallets. With specialties such as “Muirfield Mud” flavored ice cream and Irish-inspired chocolates, Kilwins oozes Dublin pride.
Johnson’s Real Ice Cream is one of central Ohio’s favorite ways to experience a
culinary blast from the past, with its recipes going back as far as 1950. Simple scoops, sundaes, cones, malts and shakes make up Johnson’s menu. keeping things simple and classic. If you are looking for some fun seasonal ice cream treats – like a turkey or an easter egg – make sure you put your order in early since they are very popular.
Diamonds Ice Cream is also not technically within city limits, but if you haven’t tried its icy Mexican-style treats, know that it’s well worth the drive. From refreshing lemon pie, to Ferrero hazelnut and pinenut with pecan, you will find flavors here that you won’t see at your typical ice cream shop. To make the deal even sweeter, its creamy texture is uniquely refreshing and complementary of a blistering hot August afternoon. Across town and also just off Sawmill, Dulce Vida Ice Cream offers a similar style of frozen delights.
Tyler Kirkendall is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at tkirkendall@cityscenemediagroup.com.
Velvet Ice Cream, founded in Ohio in 1914, is celebrating 110 years of service with four new flavors. Take a road trip to Ye Olde Mill in Utica for a picturesque ice cream experience.
May 26th - June 15th
Photos courtesy of J.S. Brown & Co.
River Forest homeowners renovate kitchen and covered patio
When Terry and Eric Schmitt were ready to move out of their Brandon subdivision house, they decided to invest in a fixer-upper.
In 2002, the Schmitts found their project home in River Forest, the first platted subdivision in Dublin. Built by well-known builder Raymond Berry in 1973 the ranch-style home was a tribute to the 80s with layers of wallpaper and carpeted bathrooms.
Yet, the Schmitts knew that this home had potential and was where they wanted to be.
“We were looking for a fixer-upper and we loved the idea of a ranch and land and property. A lot of our friends thought we were nuts for two things: a ranch, and doing a fixer-upper, but we loved it, and hopefully this is our forever house,” Terry says.
In 2022, the Schmitts decided it was time to give the kitchen a new look, as its
2003 revamping was nearly 20 years old and outdated.. They wanted to make their cramped- u-shaped kitchen a more functional space..
That January they turned to J.S. Brown.
Clare Love, one of the co-designers for J.S. Brown’s team, says the key features of the remodel were making the space livable and easy to care for, as well as choosing a simple, transitional style: the timeless farmhouse.
One of the most drastic changes to the space was the addition of a hidden beam that allowed the kitchen to open to the sunroom. This change alone brought more light and space into the room and allowed the kitchen to take a new shape.
This project won a National Contractor of the Year (CotY) award from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) in one of the Residential Interior categories.
“When the wall came down, we realized this is going to be great – it’s opening up,” Eric says.
The kitchen’s new look is fitted with warm tones in the leathered natural stone granite countertops, a natural stone backsplash and a brand-new island. There are also some smaller, personalized design choices such as the under-cabinet lighting and soft-close cabinets that Terry and Eric say made the eight-month-long design process worth it.
“It sounds so silly, but it’s just made everything easier. It’s easier to entertain, it’s
nthdegreeinteriors.com
easy to take care of. It’s effortless. Everything from the appliances and the materials used and the space layout,” Terry says.
During this process, the Schmitts also decided to add on a covered patio. This 238 square foot addition, with brick pavers and landscaping done by Flores Landscaping, has changed how they live. The Schmitts can now sit outside and enjoy their backyard view, as well as host outdoor gatherings such as game days and parties.
Terry and Eric chose to live at home during the eight-month renovation, using a makeshift kitchen set up in the front half of the house. While it was a time of a lot of paper plates and plastic wear, the couple enjoyed their time getting to know the crew and seeing their house transform into their vision.
“We got to know the crews, we got to watch the detail progress of the house,” Eric says. “(Terry’s) degree is in interior design. Her dad was a home builder –building and construction is her history. I love woodworking and building and I asked these guys questions everyday so I learned a lot from them. It was fun.”
Now, the house has marks of its history, from the original handmade tile in the foyer to the pocket doors lining the kitchen, alongside new elements unique to the couple who call the space home.
Jane Dimel is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.
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6040 Dublin Rd., Delaware – Opportunities await in this spacious 5 bedroom & 3 full bath country home. With just over 2 acres surrounded by picturesque farmland, this property provides you with a serene & idyllic setting to call home. Over 5,000 sq. ft. of living space featuring a soaring two-story double-sided stone fireplace, serving as the heart of this magnificent residence. $579,900.
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your style?
681 Eagle Ridge, Powell – Welcome to your dream home nestled in the distinguished Retreat Subdivision of Powell! This impressive custom-built home was designed for both comfort & elegance. Situated on a 1.23 acre lot at the end of a cul-de-sac, this property offers privacy & natural beauty. Wood floors, crown molding, high-end appliances, beautiful updates & finished walk-out basement. $999,000.
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5531 Fawnbrook Ct. – This Classic 4br house with a 3 car side load garage, 2 full baths and 2 half baths also includes a loft and a finished basement. The updated Kitchen has hidden gems for organization and the wood floors have been beautifully refinished. A vaulted GR and 1st Floor primary are amazing features, but the backyard setting with both a deck and patio is breathtaking!
KELLER WILLIAMS CONSULTANTS REALTY
In March 2024, the prices of Dublin homes were up 3.6 percent compared to last year and sold for a median price of $510,000. Homes in Dublin sold after 33 days on average, five days later than last year. A total of 37 homes were sold in March this year, seven less than last year. (Data from Redfin)
43016
5713 Cosgray Rd. 3 beds, 2 baths
$5,500,000
Sold 3/12/24
6464 Scarlett Ln. 4 beds, 3.5 baths
$1,016,950
Sold 4/16/24
8172 Campden Lakes Blvd. 4 beds, 4.5 baths
$925,000
Sold 4/23/24
3841 Tonti Dr. 4 beds, 3.5 baths
$900,000
Sold 3/21/24
8235 Chippenham Ct. 4 beds, 4 baths
$899,900
Sold 3/19/24
6599 Baronscourt Lp. 3 beds, 4.5 baths
$895,000
Sold 3/13/24
43017
105 N. Riverview St., Unit 717 3 beds, 3 baths
$1,562,500
Sold 4/25/24
8553 Stonechat Lp. 4 beds, 5 baths
$1,315,000
Sold 4/19/24
3240 Wolf Ridge Dr. 4 beds, 3.5 baths
$1,228,650
Sold 4/26/24
8018 Balmoral Ct. 4 beds, 4.5 baths
$1,118,000
Sold 5/6/24
7430 Kilbrittain Ln. 4 beds, 2.5 baths
$860,000
Sold 3/19/24
6176 Karrer Pl. 5 beds, 4 baths
$850,000
Sold 4/12/24
Information is collected from the Franklin County Auditor.
write next door
with columnist Colleen D’Angelo
Photos by Colleen D’AngeloCheers to beers and all the breweries producing a large variety of types and tastes throughout Ohio. Brewers experiment with barley for sweetness, hops for bitterness, yeast, fruits, spices, nuts and chocolate.
Yet while most people drink red wine with meat and white wine with fish, I had not heard much about changing your beer choice depending on the meal. This led me to a deep, difficult research dive and inviting a crew, aged 23 to 84, for a food and beer tasting extravaganza!
My daughter, Catie, invited three of her friends from medical school, Lilly, Thap and Sidney, to join my husband Tony, friends Stacy and Amy, and my mom whom we affectionately call Gummy.
I planned the order of beers from light to dark, knowing we would start with appetizers and finish with desserts.
We began with a pilsner by Immigrant Son Brewery in Lakewood, called American Pilsner (4.5% ABV), knowing pilsners pair well with lighter fare. The starter course was Monterey Jack cheese, almond flour crackers and blue cheese-covered potato chips from Cap City Diner.
fried and spicy foods, so we chose Rusty Bucket sliders.
Tasters were divided on this one. Gummy felt the ale had a strong aroma while Amy thought it had a mild, sweet smell with more of a buttery flavor after the burger.
Some found it bitter.
“It tastes like a light, outside mid-day beer,” Catie says.
Everyone enjoyed the golden-colored beer, describing it as light, sparkly and crisp. They felt it was balanced with the food and intensified the sharpness of the blue cheese. Thap added that it was easy to chug and Gummy gave it a smiley face.
Next up was a hazy pale ale called Pan Am, 5.5% ABV, from Nocterra Brewing Co. in Powell.
Traditionally, American pale ales have a hoppy bite with citrus overtones and pair well with hamburgers and steaks as well as
“It tastes like a frat party at Alabama.” Sidney says.
“It’s easier to chug,” Thap says.
Gummy gave it a sad face.
We moved on to Tuk Tuk Lager, made by Gateway Brewing Co. in Dublin and Seventh Son Brewing Co. in Columbus. Lagers tend to be crisp, dry, and thirstquenching – perfectly paired with pizza.
We tasted Tuk Tuk with a pepperoni flatbread and found the lager to be light, refreshing and perfect for summer. Sidney thought it was smooth and calmed down the spice of the pepperoni. Lily felt it was perfectly balanced and Thap believed it would be the easiest of all to chug. Gummy gave it a smiley face.
Moving right along, we tried a 5% Hefeweizen beer called Hefe, from Wolf’s Ridge Brewing in Columbus. Hefeweizens, originating in Germany, are wheat beers with a silky texture and foamy head. They pair well with white creamy sauces, sushi, soups and sweet Asian dishes.
We drank our Hefe alongside Cap City Diner’s spicy shrimp pasta with chorizo, caramelized onion, spinach and red pepper cream sauce. I’m usually a fan of wheat beers, but felt this one was not for me. It tasted citrus-like and fragrant but too sour for me.
Stacy thought it smelled boldly of spices and malts. Sidney thought it tasted like fall;
it was fragrant and fermented like kombucha. Lily loved the spice of the pasta but felt the Hefe didn’t hit the right notes. Catie was harsh on this one saying it tasted like nail polish remover. Gummy didn’t like the aftertaste and gave it a sad face.
Next up was Falutin, a hazy IPA from North High Brewing Co. in Dublin. India pale ales originated in England during the 19th century and were made extra strong and hoppy to survive the long ocean journey to India. The strong and sometimes bitter taste of IPAs blends well with foods that feature any combination of fat, fruit, and spiciness, like lamb and curry.
I chose tamarind barbecue and Joe’s regular spice wings from Rusty Bucket for this course. No one in our group likes IPAs so we were dreading this pairing, but most of us were pleasantly surprised.
Sidney tasted a bit of lemon and grapefruit and said it cooled down the spicy wigs. Catie liked the IPA but thought it should be icy cold next time. Lily enjoyed the combination with the wings and tasted a surprise sweetness from the IPA. Gummy still gave it a sad face.
Our final beer was Jackie O’s, Dark Ap parition Imperial Stout, 10% ABV from Co lumbus. Stouts are known for their roasted flavors of coffee and chocolate, and while great in the winter, they are also amazing during backyard grilling season. They also perfectly pair with many desserts.
Our dessert course combined this dark stout with four different Whole Foods tarts. The stout was hearty yet mild on its own, but exploded when paired with the desserts.
Sidney felt it tasted like gold with the chocolate mousse. Catie and Thap loved it with the crème fraiche and raspberry tart, and thought it was like a smooth mocha. Gummy said she didn’t think she’d like it but happily gave it a smiley face!
Colleen D’Angelo is a Dublin Life columnist and freelance writer. She and her husband, Tony, raised three children in Dublin over the last 25 years.
Colleen enjoys playing and teaching pickleball; walking her pup, Mason; and traveling internationally. You can reach her at colleendangelo1@gmail.com.
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From the Dublin Branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library
By Hannah Burkhard, Librarian Supervisor at theDublin
Branch ofthe Columbus Metropolitan
Library
The Swans of Harlem: Five Black Ballerinas, Fifty Years of Sisterhood, and the Reclamation of a Groundbreaking History by
Karen ValbyThis captivating book tells the story of five pioneering ballerinas whose accomplishments dancing during the height of the Civil Rights movement have been hidden for too long. With talented women such as Lydia Abarca, a Black prima ballerina, Dance Theatre of Harlem performed for the biggest names in the world: the Queen of England, Mick Jagger and Stevie Wonder. Their successes were left out of the history books, until now.
Health Nut: A Feel-Good Cookbook by Jess
DamuckJess Damuck shares more than 100 of her favorite recipes that feel good to eat and look good on a plate. Her down-to-earth eats are doable for busy weeknights and may challenge your expectations of how craveable healthy food can be. You’ll want to make recipes like zucchini and pistachio pesto pizza and vegan baklava ice cream again and again.
Off-White by Astrid Roemer, Lucy Scott (Translator), David McKay (Translator)
Astrid Roemer, winner of the prestigious Dutch Literature Award, has returned from a nearly 20-year publishing break with a moving story about the legacy you leave behind through your family. Set in Suriname,
South America in 1966, Off-White asks the questions: What is a family? What binds people who share nothing in common but blood? This sweeping saga exposes the complexities of race and relationships.
Wellness: A Novel by Nathan Hill
A New York Times Bestseller, Wellness is a funny and heartbreaking satire about modern society and marriage, perfect for readers of character driven stories and nostalgia. After meeting in Chicago’s gritty art scene during college in the ‘90s, Jack and Elizabeth plan the future of their dreams together. But 20 years later while living a life they never expected as parents in the suburbs, the couple must reckon with unfilled ambitions and memories of familial dysfunction.
Anything’s Pastable: 81 Inventive Pasta Recipes for Saucy People by Dan Pashman
James Beard Award-winner and host of the podcast Sporkful, Dan Pashman, brings his inventive spirit to a new cookbook all about pasta sauces. After realizing how repetitive pasta dishes can be, Pashman traversed Italy and teamed up with all-star recipe developers in the U.S. to create the least boring meals possible. With creative recipes such as kimchi carbonara and smoked cheddar and chicken manicotti “enchiladas,” Pashman shows that Anything’s Pastable with a little inspiration.
Editor’s note: To be added to the Dublin Life Book Club mailing list or for more information, email kgill@cityscenemediagroup.com. The club will meet Wednesday, June 26 at 7 p.m. Location TBD.
The Seven Year Slip
By Ashley Poston
While trying to figure out what to do with her late aunt’s apartment, Clementine finds out she wasn’t the only one living there. A sweet man with a Southern drawl and a love of lemon pies also lives there, but thanks to the pinch in time the apartment exists in, he is seven years in Clementine’s past. With an aching heart, she isn’t sure she can handle falling for someone, especially a doomed romance, but will she be able to hold back?
