Care, Culture, Connection
Dr. Saurabh Rajpal and Dr. Taru Saigal
Community
Charles Dankworth, CFP® , CIMA®, CPWA® Senior Vice President–Wealth Management
Patrick Clark, CFP® Team Administrator
New Albany Wealth Partners UBS Financial Services Inc. 180 Market Street, Suite 200 New Albany, OH 43054 614-939-2202 newalbanywealthpartners@ubs.com
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Kevin Snead, CFA Account Vice President
Amy Baker Client Associate
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.
MAGAZINE
Phil Heit Executive Editor
Kathleen K. Gill
Gianna Barrett
Dave Prosser
Kerrie Geckeler
Gary Hoffman
Megan Brokamp, Maisie Fitzmaurice, Ella Jay, Rachel Karas
Katie Allen, Jane Dimel, Cassie Kelly
Korrigan Craddock, Frances Denman, Maggie Fipps, Grace Heberling
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Jim Miller, Rae Moro, Laura Pappas
CEO
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Business Manager
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Dr. Saurabh Rajpal and Dr. Taru Saigal
Photo courtesy of Dr. Saurabh Rajpal and Dr. Taru Saigal
To be great is to be misunderstood. April 12 - Sept. 1, 2025
Harmony for Health
Each new day begins with a ritual that has defined my approach to well-being. Whether it is a weekend or weekday, the alarm clock embedded in my brain signals that it’s time to get this body moving, literally.
Some individuals prepare their office attire the prior evening for their morning commute. As such, my evenings are focused on my next morning’s workout attire – long-or short-sleeve wicking tees, shorts or sweatpants and which pair of Hokas to lace up before engaging the treadmill and weight equipment.
It’s not until I arrive at my workout destination that my most revered pieces of equipment are set in place – my Apple AirPods and iPhone. Just the thought of placing these little white earbuds into my external auditory canals and syncing them to my iPhone brings music to my ears.
Reading Megan Brokamp’s article, Music is Medicine, instilled thoughts of the importance of music to positive mental health outcomes. With this in mind, I began to more deeply explore the relationship of exercise and health and how music combined with exercise enhances well-being.
The formula is simple. Listening to music during exercise enhances the quality of a workout and as a result improves mental well-being. The exercise literature is replete with study after study reinforcing this concept.
It’s important not to overlook the specific benefits of music while exercising. Music while exercising can:
Increase endurance. Research confirms that music can make exercise feel less difficult and thus improve endurance. Elevate mood. Why is it that upbeat music reverberates through speakers in many, if not most workout facilities? For most people, upbeat music elevates workout intensity and promotes an uplifting mood.
Improve performance. Yes, music can motivate you to walk or run faster, swim better and bike uphill easier.
The advantage of listening to music during exercise is easy to adapt. You can select the genre of music you prefer. You can also create a lengthy playlist to get you through an entire workout.
When music is integrated with exercise, the physical and mental impact is notable.
Brain health. Research shows that cognitive function improves. Reduce anxiety. The combination of music and exercise enables one to relax more easily both during and after working out. Reduced pain. The discomfort of many physical ailments such as arthritis is reduced.
Cardiovascular health. Whether immersed in listening to hip-hop or Beethoven during a workout, the results on the cardiovascular system are similar. Heart function is improved and blood pressure is reduced.
In summary, Confucius was correct in saying that, “Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without.”
If Confucius were alive today, I would send him an email asking that his quote be modified to include “exercise” at its beginning. The synergistic effects of music and exercise to health cannot be denied.
Healthfully,
Phil Heit Executive Editor
Photo by Ray LaVoie
Note: Keep an eye out for virtual options for these events!
Sat., March 1
Healthy New Albany Farmers Market
9 a.m.-Noon., Philip Heit Center for Healthy New Albany, 150 W. Main St. www.healthynewalbany.org
Tues., March 4
A National Security Discussion with Ambassador Susan Rice and Admiral James Stavridis USN (Ret.), moderated by David Sanger presented by The New Albany Community Foundation
7-9 p.m., Jeanne B. McCoy Community Center for the Arts, 100 E. Dublin Granville Rd. www.newalbanyfoundation.org
Fri., March 7
The Well Workplace Summit 2025: Work & Life - Better Together
9 a.m.-4 p.m., Town Hall, 4400 Easton Commons, Columbus www.wellnesscollective.com
Sat., March 8
Let the Music Sing
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Jeanne B. McCoy Community Center for the Arts, 100 E. Dublin Granville Rd. www.newalbanysymphony.com
Sat., March 8
Columbus Cookie Run and Walk
10 a.m., Scioto Audubon Metro Park, 400 W. Whittier St., Columbus www.usaracetiming.com
Sun., March 9
Choral Fantasy
3-4:30 p.m., Jeanne B. McCoy Community Center for the Arts, 100 E. Dublin Granville Rd. www.newalbanysymphony.com
Sun., March 9
Art of Rest
11 a.m.-1 p.m., Columbus Museum of Art 480 E. Broad St., Columbus www.columbusmuseum.org
12-4 p.m., Philip Heit Center for Healthy New Albany, 150 W. Main St. www.healthynewalbany.org Healthful events happening in and out
New Albany Walking Club meets Sundays at 7:30 a.m. inside the Philip Heit Center. www.newalbanywalkingclub.com
Sat., March 15
Crooked Shillelagh 4 Miler
5 p.m., Crooked Can Brewing Co., 5354 Center St., Hilliard www.m3ssports.com
Sat., April 5
Franklinton 10 Miler & 5K
9 a.m., Genoa Park, 303 W. Broad St., Columbus www.runsignup.com
Sat., April 5
The Columbus Fitness Sampler
10 a.m.-2 p.m., The Kee, 225 Neilston St., Columbus www.thebeautyboost.net
Fri., April 11
Blood Drive
Photos courtesy of James DeCamp and Oliver Thwaite
Choral Fantasy
Columbus Cookie Run and Walk
Sun., April 13
Ohio State 4 Miler
10 a.m., Ohio Stadium, 411 Woody Hayes Dr., Columbus www.ohiostatefourmiler.com
Thurs.-Sun., April 24-27 & May 1-3
New Albany High School Theatre presents Little Women New Albany High School, 7600 Fodor Rd. www.napls.us
Do you have an event you would like to submit to our calendar? Send details and photos to rkaras@cityscenemediagroup.com
Sat., April 26
MILOŠ - Great Artist Gala presented by the New Albany Symphony Orchestra
7:30-9:30 p.m., Jeanne B. McCoy Community Center for the Arts, 100 E. Dublin Granville Rd. www.newalbanysymphony.com
Sat., April 26
OhioHealth Capital City Half & Quarter Marathon
8 a.m., Downtown Columbus www.capitalcityhalfmarathon.com
Wed., April 30
A Conversation on Environmental Sustainability presented by The New Albany Community Foundation
7-9 p.m., Jeanne B. McCoy Community Center for the Arts, 100 E. Dublin Granville Rd. www.newalbanyfoundation.org
By Ella Jay personalities
More Than Medicine
Dr. Saurabh Rajpal and Dr. Taru Saigal serving their community
As doctors, board members of multiple community organizations and parents of three boys, New Albany residents Dr. Saurabh Rajpal and Dr. Taru Saigal spend most of their time caring for others.
Both from India, the two met and fell in love during their residencies in Louisiana and soon after married. They eventually moved to Boston but didn’t stay long.
“Boston was a lot of fun… but to raise a family, we wanted a Midwest city with all the amenities but the conveniences of a mid-sized town,” Saigal says.
In line with their familial priorities, New Albany won the pair over seven years ago with its health-conscious atmosphere, diversity and proximity to Columbus and The Ohio State University. With their passions in medicine and education, OSU offered the perfect combination of their interests and careers.
“We saw the opportunities here were not just abundant, they were unmatched,” Saigal says. “We knew that Ohio State was shaping the future of medicine, so we wanted to be here.”
Caring for patients
Rajpal, a specialist in cardiology and Congenital Heart Disease (CHD), always knew he wanted to be a cardiologist. His passion for those with CHD didn’t manifest until later in his career, however.
“I noticed that there were very few physicians who were taking care of these patients who were born with heart dis-
Rajpal and Saigal with their three sons, Arjan, Angad and Tegh
Photo courtesy of Saurabh Rajpal and Taru Saigal
ease,” Rajpal says. “It’s a very unique set of patients, which I like taking care of.”
Home to one of the largest CHD programs in the country, OSU provides Rajpal the opportunity to work with many patients.
Alongside caring for patients, he is continuing his research on CHD and cardiac imaging, specifically cardiac MRI findings in athletes.
“Being able to make a difference in the lives of people who were born with CHD is what drives me the most,” Rajpal says.
Similarly, Saigal was always intrigued by medicine. Growing up with parents who were both physicians, she spent the majority of her childhood observing their work and how they were able to help their community.
For 10 years, Saigal focused on hospital medicine, however the COVID-19 pandemic – and a bit of friendly nagging from her husband – pushed her toward a different area of medicine: primary care.
“When I decided that I wanted to be a physician, I liked doing everything. I wanted to take care of the patients as a
whole… I wanted to develop long-term relationships with my patients, that’s why I transitioned to primary care,” Saigal says.
As part of her specialization in LGBTQIA+ gender-affirming care, Saigal is currently researching hormone therapy and its effects on heart health. She’s also passionate about minority health and health disparities, serving on the Department of Internal Medicine’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Council, as well as serving as the director of the Language Concordant Care Program and the chair of Health and Wellness of Bhutanese Community of Central Ohio.
Saigal finds fulfillment in working on initiatives embedded in diversity and equity because she wants to make sure everyone has access to resources and good outcomes.
Rajpal and Saigal are also educators at OSU’s medical center, serving as an associate professor of Internal Medicine and a clinical assistant professor of Internal Medicine, respectively.
Caring for the community
Outside of their work in the medical and educational fields, Rajpal and Saigal believe in staying involved within their community.
They are members of New Albany boards and commissions; Rajpal is the secretary of the Healthy New Albany Board and a member of the U.S. 62 Interchange Focus Area Plan’s Steering Committee, and Saigal is a member of the IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility) Panel.
Fun Facts
In their free time, Rajpal and Saigal enjoy trying new foods at local restaurants and cafes. They also like to travel as a family. They try to visit at least one national park per year; this past summer’s adventure took them to Yellowstone National Park.
Saigal at last year’s Diwali festival
Courtesy of Sam Fahmi, photographer for the City of New Albany
“Communities need to have diverse voices, because progress happens in collaborative exchanges, not in silence. I think it drives growth and satisfaction,” Saigal says.
Rajpal has also enjoyed helping coach soccer for his sons over the years, while Saigal still enjoys being the director of OSU’s Community Health Education program. In that role, Saigal is able to serve not just people in her community, she is also able to help people in the broader area of Columbus as well.
“It’s very fulfilling to be a part of a community where everyone cares about everyone,” Saigal says. “They want to take initiatives that represent (the people) and they want to hear each voice.”
Festival of Lights
One of their proudest accomplishments includes their roles, alongside the IDEA Panel, in bringing the popular Diwali festival to New Albany.
The festival typically consists of music, art, dancing, food and fireworks and is a fun event for all ages and backgrounds. Not only does it offer a good time, it is also an all-inclusive, participatory and charitable event.
Local residents and students help run the show, while others perform during the festival, including New Albany High School’s acapella group which performed last year. Additionally, the celebration collects donations for New Albany Bridges and the Healthy New Albany Food Pantry.
“(This past year) we doubled our attendees since (2023),” Saigal says. “Everyone coming out and celebrating together just doubled the joy of the celebration. It instilled a sense of belonging.”
Whether you are someone who has celebrated before or are looking for the opportunity to learn about other cultures and experience something new, this event is open to everyone.
“Everybody can spread cultural awareness, acknowledge the contributions of the South Asian community –which is 10 percent of our community –and at the same time, we can inspire the community to come out and participate in community engagement and other initiatives as well,” Saigal says.
While Diwali is something that gives Rajpal and Saigal joy because they’re giving back to the community, it’s also a
Save the Date
This year, New Albany will celebrate Diwali on Oct. 18, so mark your calendars and keep your eyes peeled for more information as the celebration gets closer!
great way to encourage and cultivate diversity in New Albany. Those who traditionally celebrate get the opportunity to feel closer to home, and those who don’t usually partake, get the opportunity to learn about other cultures and experience something new.
Importance of connection
Although they already have quite full plates, Rajpal and Saigal hope to become even more involved with the community in the near future.
Rajpal hopes to work more with other New Albany initiatives, such as its health and summer programs as well as increase his support for the food pantry. He is also helping plan this year’s New Albany Walking Classic.
Saigal says they are both passionate about continuing to get more involved with the IDEA Panel’s efforts, and are enthusiastic about starting the panel’s Neighborhood Ambassadors Program.
“We want to plan initiatives which are more tangible and longitudinal for people with different abilities,” Saigal says. “So that is our next focus… we want to make New Albany more accessible for every family.”
Though many may wonder how Rajpal and Saigal find the time for everything they do, for them, the joy they get from their work in medicine and in the community is worth every second they put into it.
“As physicians, we see individual patients in the clinics and hospitals, but coming out into the community allows us to connect with people on a broader level,” Rajpal says. “(We) take care of individual patients in the clinic, but after hours, (we) want to contribute to the health of the community.”
Ella Jay is an assistant editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at ejay@cityscenemediagroup.com.
By Megan Brokamp
Music is Medicine
Musicians weigh in on the impacts of music on mental health
Music is a powerful force regardless of genre, instrument or artist. A simple melody can exercise, heal and transform the brain all at once.
Why are humans drawn to simple sound vibrations? According to The Magazine of Harvard Medicine, its effects date back to the Stone Age.
Harvard Medical School lecturer Patrick Whelan believes listening to live music comes from early mammals’ need for sharp hearing to survive.
In a concert, the brain sorts through a variety of sounds, similar to how it once detected danger. This process affects the nervous system, influencing emotions, body responses and the perception of music’s emotional tone.
Today, music typically doesn’t signal impending danger, however, music can have a profound impact on human health,
from emotional stimulation to therapeutic powers.
Mood booster
One of the most noticeable impacts of music is its ability to influence mood. An upbeat melody can uplift your mood, while soothing music helps with relaxation. This is due to music’s ability to stimulate the release of dopamine, resulting in an increased overall state of well-being.
While some songs sooth the mind, others stimulate it. Classical music can be used as a calming tool, however, its ability to unlock deeper emotions is a power that remains timeless.
Miloš Karadagli´c, or MILOŠ, is a classical guitarist who will perform with the New Albany Symphony Orchestra this April.
He has been known as one of the most influential classical guitarists in the world since his rise to fame in 2011. He started playing the guitar at just 8 years old, and as he developed his craft, he was drawn to classical music.
“Classical music remains one of those rare things where we can just allow ourselves to be vulnerable and to be in touch with our emotions,” MILOŠ says. “Music is a universal language of the world, because it is the language of human emotions.”
Despite endless travel days and the psychological pressure that comes from life in the limelight, his mind stays sound through music.
“(Music) has extreme mental health benefits because of the fact that it speaks so directly to you,” MILOŠ says. “These emotions are the purpose of life itself, be-
Courtesy of James DeCamp
cause, what is a life unless it’s filled with every color and every emotion that we have the capability to feel, experience and give to others?”
Stress reliever
Music can also be a powerful tool for stress relief. Listening to calming sounds, such as classical music, can directly lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
Since sound processing starts in the brain stem, it can lower heart rate, breathing and blood pressure, according to Harvard Health Publishing Orchestra members often find the same stress relief onstage.
Save the Date
MILOŠ takes the stage at the Jeanne B. McCoy Community Center for the Arts on April 26 at 7:30 p.m. He has played a strong hand in the revival of classical guitar and looks forward to bringing his groundbreaking music to New Albany for the first time.
“I’m playing a beautiful concerto, the famous Rodrigo concerto de Aranjuez, which I have played so many times in my life,” MILOŠ says, “but I look forward to this collaboration because, for me, every time I play this piece, it’s as if I’m playing it for the first time.”
Tickets for his performance can be purchased at www.newalbanysymphony.com
Don’t be afraid of a zero-entry or doorless shower! Some people worry about water splashing out or feeling cold, but even showers with doors can have some water escape. Installing a glass panel helps reduce splashes, and the warm water keeps you comfortable. This design also improves accessibility and gives your bathroom a sleek, modern look.
MILOŠ
As the founder and executive director of the New Albany Symphony Orchestra as well as its principal viola, Heather Garner’s calendar is always booked. However, she finds peace in her profession.
“I think the thing I love most about music is its ability to drown out the revolving to-do list of life. When I’m performing on stage it requires complete focus, and the distractions all just have to take a back seat,” Garner says. “In a way, performing allows my mind to rest.”
Total brain workout
When you want to improve your physique, you head to the gym. But where do you turn to keep your mind in shape? Music-making can act as a workout for the brain, engaging multiple cognitive functions at once.
When a musician picks up the viola or cello, the brain’s executive function, which controls the ability to make higherlevel decisions, springs into action. While the executive function is firing, the brain is also being stimulated through sound, sight and emotions.
“Listening to music is more passive, whereas music-making fires all the synop-
ses in the brain and is quite active,” Garner says.
Therapeutic use
Music therapy has been recognized as an effective form of treatment to improve mental health. Therapists use music to address emotional, cognitive and social needs through tailored interventions based on an individual’s preferences and goals.
Alesha Hahn is a music therapist and her father, Craig Hahn, is a percussionist with the New Albany Symphony Orchestra. She turned to music therapy after reading Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain, a novel by Oliver Sacks, that explores the healing power of music.
Hahn uses a technique called the iso principle, which involves using music to guide a patient toward a desired emotional state. She applies the isoprinciple by initially selecting music that mirrors the person’s current mood, then gradually transitioning to tunes that uplift and improve their emotional state.
“If a person is feeling somber, a soft song in a minor key might match this state best. Then over time, I’ll chain together
several songs and alter different aspects of the music gradually making it brighter and more upbeat,” Hahn says. “The idea is that a person’s mood will usually mirror the music and become elevated.”
While music therapy is powerful in aiding emotional and psychological healing, it can also provide cognitive, neurological and physical benefits.
“Stroke patients are rediscovering their ability to speak through song therapy, while cardiac rehab patients are being encouraged to join choirs to help strengthen their lungs and lower blood pressure,” Garner says. “Those with chronic pain and PTSD are finding relief through carefully curated playlists. Doctors are even documenting the changes in dopamine and the effects music has when played during chemotherapy treatments, tracheotomy tube insertions and just before anesthesia administration.”
Emotional gratification
No matter what medium – playing, singing or composing – music allows for self-expression all while providing an outlet for emotions that can be difficult to put into words. For centuries, artists
Courtesy of James DeCamp
have used music to convey pain and express passion.
Playing can also lead to a sense of achievement and fulfillment. Garner, for example, has played the viola since she was a child.
After her initial desire to play the cello was thwarted by her parents’ doubt that she’d be able to carry it on the school bus, she settled on a slightly smaller option, and has been playing the instrument ever since.
Over the years of playing the instrument, Garner also has grown an emotional connection to it.
“I really love the mellow sound of the instrument and getting to play the harmony lines within the string sections,” Garner says. “Playing the viola reminds me of the satisfaction one gets from putting together a jigsaw puzzle. We are the glue that makes all the other sections fit together.”
With its large size, wide string spacing and difficult bow technique, the viola can be hard to learn, let alone master. However, becoming an expert in such a challenging art comes with an immense sense of achievement, a feeling that only intensifies when playing live.
“Playing as a soloist offers high risk and higher reward,” Garner says. “It can be stressful to be in the spotlight, but (it can be) also very rewarding to accomplish this level of musicianship.”
Finally, music is used to connect. The art creates a shared experience, spurring emotions and generating a sense of belonging.
“Whether through making music or enjoying it together, music unites people across race, age, gender and so-
cioeconomic backgrounds,” Garner says. “For mental health, this shared sense of connection is vital. It reduces feelings of isolation, boosts mood and strengthens emotional resilience, all of which play a significant role in overall well-being.”
Megan Brokamp is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mbrokamp@cityscenemediagroup.com.
Courtesy of James DeCamp
initiatives by Katie Allen, New Albany Communications & Marketing Specialist
A New Era of Community Gardening at Taylor Farm Park
This year marks the beginning of a new chapter for community gardening in New Albany with the official opening of the Dr. Glyde Marsh Memorial Garden at Taylor Farm Park. Operated by Healthy New Albany, this beautifully designed space is much more than a garden – it’s a place where residents can connect with nature, nurture their health and cultivate a true sense of community.
Community gardening in New Albany began well over a decade ago in a small and quiet space behind Village Hall, offering residents a place to grow their own fresh produce and flowers.
This year, the Dr. Glyde Marsh Memorial Garden ushers in a new era, bringing this cherished tradition to the scenic and historic setting of Taylor Farm Park.
Grand Opening Celebration at the new community garden
Photos courtesy of City of New Albany
Residents exploring the new community garden
Gardening season runs March through October Pricing for 2025:
1 – 4’x4’ ground or raised plot is $50
2 – 4’x4’ ground or raised plots are $70
3 – 4’x4’ ground or raised plots are $90
enne Joly. “What I love most is how this park offers something for everyone at different times of the day, attracting people for a variety of reasons, and I hope it keeps bringing people back again and again.”
What is a community garden?
With its thoughtful design and picturesque layout, the new garden serves as a testament to New Albany’s commitment to fostering a healthier, more connected community.
“Drawing inspiration from the Franklin Park Conservatory gardens, we really aimed to blend a beautiful garden into the larger park space,” says New Albany Director of Administrative Services Adri-
Interested in renting a plot? Learn more at healthynewalbany.org/community-garden Questions? E-mail: communitygarden@healthynewalbany.org Volunteer opportunities available
A community garden is a public space shared by individuals and families who rent plots to grow their own fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers. These gardens are designed to bring people together through a love of gardening by helping to provide a sense of purpose and joy to those who choose to participate.
At the Dr. Glyde Marsh Memorial Garden, the produce grown in each rented plot is for the personal use of each gardener. While the garden is open for everyone to explore and enjoy, please respect the individual plots and the hard work of your neighbors. Simply put, the harvest is not for public picking: come and admire the beauty of the space but leave the fruits of the gardeners’ labor untouched.
Residents enjoying the new garden
New features at the Dr. Glyde Marsh Memorial Garden
The new garden offers 86 rentable plots, including three accessible raised beds, all with water access and ample sunlight. Nearby beehives, maintained by local beekeepers, will help support plant growth.
Renters will also have access to a sink and community tools stored in a newly designed shed. This structure, inspired by Taylor Farm’s history, is a replica of the original chicken coop that once stood on the property. It now serves as a multi-purpose facility with public restrooms, an eco-friendly water refill station and storage for gardeners, blending charm while also providing practical amenities.
one has their own opportunity for space,” says Rick Goldhardt, a New Albany public service team member who shared a test plot with his grandchildren at the garden last season.
A garden for a growing community
Visitors will also find plenty of seating options, open pathways and shaded areas to relax and take in the garden’s beauty. However, if you’re exploring with your pets, please be mindful and ensure they stay clear of the garden plots to help protect the delicate plants.
“I love giving people the chance to garden,” says Jennifer Cohen, Healthy New Albany’s community garden program coordinator. “My dad grew up on a farm, so I’ve always had a garden. I’ve seen firsthand how gardening improves health and happiness. It’s about fresh air, getting your hands dirty and growing what makes you happy.”
“What I love most about this project is that it offers a true sense of escape. There’s a peaceful tranquility that fills the space, and even at its busiest times, you rarely notice other people because every-
As New Albany continues to grow, the Dr. Glyde Marsh Memorial Garden is a wonderful addition where neighbors can meet, and the joy of gardening can be shared. So, whether you’re a lifelong gardener or new to the hobby, the Dr. Glyde Marsh Memorial Garden invites you to become part of a community that values growth, sustainability and respect for all nature. Come explore this beautiful new space. Together, we can continue to grow a community rooted in kindness, connection and care.
Katie Allen is a Communications & Marketing Specialist for the City of New Albany.
A young resident enjoying the Grand Opening of the community garden
Courtesy of City of New Albany
Just Keep Swimming
Masters swim club makes waves on a national level
By Megan Brokamp
Every weekday, dozens of adults flock to the New Albany High School pool for 5:30 a.m. practice. What motivates these early birds to plunge into a pool before the sun rises each morning?
The answer is quite simple: they love to swim, and they love to do it with a community that shares their passion.
In 2004, Chris Birnbrich was looking for a masters team to join after his previous club disbanded. Swimming had always been a part of his life. He began swimming at the age of five, and he even met his wife while swimming in college at Bowling Green State University.
Birnbrich reached out to Brad Burget, who was then a coach at the high school, and together they started both the New Albany Aquatics Swim Club and a middle school program.
The club started in 2005 with about five members and now welcomes roughly 60-70 swimmers to practice every day. Over 20 years, the club has welcomed more than 600 members and taken on competitions, including Nationals last year.
Courtesy of Chris Birnbrich
Swimming never ages
The club is made up of multiple generations. Some members are still in high school, while the club’s oldest member, Birnbrich’s mother-in-law, competes at the age of 84.
“What’s nice is, when we go to coffee after practice, there are 60-year-olds, 40-year-olds, 20-year-olds,” Birnbrich says. “There’s no difference, because we all have the same thoughts and ideas, and swimming is our common bond.”
The club competes in three to four meets each year. Individual events are broken into age groups of five years, with relays being age groups of 10 years.
After 20 years of competing against teams across the country, Birnbrich is still in awe of the talent he sees at each competition.
“Seeing people who are 95 years old, it’s awesome,” Birnbrich says. “There are not many people at 95 that do the 200 (meter) Butterfly.”
For veteran swimmers, these events provide a space to compete and continue to enjoy a sport they love. The meets also show young adults that they can still enjoy and compete in the sport outside of school.
“These kids, I think, are really enjoying coming to Nationals and seeing that there’s life after high school and college and that there are some fast people,” Birnbrich says. “I think it humbles them a little bit.”
Going for gold
In 2024, the New Albany Aquatics Swim Club traveled to Indianapolis to compete in the U.S. Masters Swimming Spring Nationals. The meet took place during the final weekend of the U.S. Olympic Team Trials, allowing swimmers to watch the trials afterward and meet Olympic athletes.
U.S. Masters Swimming is divided into two categories: regional and local. The New Albany Aquatics Swim Club competes in the local club category, and were up against 307 other clubs last year.
Birnbrich traveled with 75 club members to Indianapolis for the fourday event, and after a long weekend of racing, they were crowned USMS National Champions.
Birnbrich was healing from back surgery when the team competed, so he spent his time on the sidelines
Swimming is a full-body workout that can be used to strengthen a variety of muscles across the body, with certain groups being emphasized depending on the stroke. According to the U.S. Masters Swimming, here are the key muscle groups used:
Upper Body: The latissimus dorsi, deltoids, pectorals, triceps and biceps are used to pull and propel the body through the water. Freestyle and backstroke engage these muscles for arm rotation and forward propulsion. Butterfly relies on them for arm sweeps, and breaststroke’s sweeping motions engage the chest and shoulders.
Lower Body: The glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings and calves provide the driving force for kicks. Freestyle and backstroke use flutter kicks, the butterfly implements a dolphin kick, and breaststroke uses a frog kick.
Core: The abdominals, obliques and lower back muscles stabilize the body, support rotational movements and contribute to balance. A strong core is essential for proper execution and efficiency in each stroke.
Courtesy of Chris Birnbrich
crafting relays, organizing the team and cheering on swimmers.
“It was gratifying,” Birnbrich says. “The one championship I don’t swim in, they win… but it was fun being a coach.”
Holistic health
Although winning shiny medals and placing at meets is certainly a plus, for many, swimming is an opportunity to decompress and stay healthy mentally and physically.
Swimming is a low-impact workout that is easy on joints, making it a form of exercise that can be enjoyed through every stage of life.
Although it may be easier on the joints than other high-intensity exercises, it is still an extremely effective form of cardio. According to the Cleveland Clinic, swimming has numerous cardiovascular benefits, such as improving cholesterol levels, reducing blood pressure and lowering the risk of heart disease.
Water resistance also effectively builds strength and muscle. With greater density than air, water enables swimming to enhance fitness faster than land-based activities such as run ning or cycling.
Beyond its physical health benefits, swimming is a great way to disconnect and destress.
“It’s a way of just closing out every thing,” Birnbrich says. “It’s just you and the water. It gives you time to escape from reality.”
There are several reasons the mem bers of New Albany Aquatics Swim Club jump in the water each morn ing at 5:30 a.m. They come for a good workout, for a mental reset, and to be with family. Birnbrich’s wife and three boys compete on the team, however, he considers the whole team to be an ex tended family.
“I think people just need family in their lives,” Birnbrich says. “Family is everything.”
Megan Brokamp is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mbrokamp@cityscenemediagroup.com.
Sugar Overload
Researchers caution against overconsumption of popular sweetening agent
By Grace Heberling
Because overconsumption of added sugars can bring on numerous health problems, sugar substitutes have become a popular dietary choice in recent years. Food and drink products containing sugar substitutes are often labeled as ‘diet,’ however, sugar substitutes may come with their own health risks.
Artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols are often used as substitutes for sugar. Sugar alcohols occur naturally in our bodies and some produce items, but most sugar alcohols found in processed foods are manmade.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other health resources approved various sugar substitutes after randomized controlled trials. Unfortunately, due to trial constraints, the results
reveal more about the potential shortterm effects than the long-term.
Various studies linked artificial sweeteners to obesity, including a publication by the Quarterly Journal of Medicine.
Despite this, the disclosure policies of authorities like the FDA and EU don’t require the quantities of specific sweeteners to be included on food labels, and many people don’t realize they’re consuming high levels of artificial sweeteners.
Hazen has investigated other sweeteners in the past, and overall, their findings on the effects of xylitol greatly resemble the effects of another sugar substitute, erythritol, which they documented in 2023.
As a part of his research on risk factors for cardiovascular health, Hazen looked for common variables among patients at risk of serious cardiovascular problems. He and his team found a potential link between heart disease and the consumption of erythritol. The substance has been loosely linked to heart disease in the past, due to increased platelet reactivity after exposure, accelerating dangerous blood clot formation.
Examining xylitol
Last year, researchers at the Cleveland Clinic conducted a study regarding one of the most commonly used substitutes: the zero-calorie sweetener, xylitol. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol often used in candies, beverages, gum and even toothpaste.
Stanley Hazen M.D., Ph.D. and a team of researchers examined more than 3,000 people who drank a beverage sweetened with either xylitol or glucose (sugar). After 30 minutes, participants who drank the xylitol-sweetened beverage experienced an increase in platelet levels 1,000 times their baseline, returning to their original level after four to six hours. An analysis of platelet activity showed that xylitol causes clotting much more than glucose.
The results concluded that onethird of those people with high amounts of xylitol in their systems were more at risk of cardiovascular issues. The study’s findings were published in the European Heart Journal.
The team conducted another study on platelet clotting — this time with mice — which revealed that ingestion of xylitol in either water or food causes clot formation at an accelerated rate. The research team also noticed differences between species in their reactions to sugar alcohols. It’s difficult to deduce how this data would carry over to people, which shows the importance of conducting human clinical studies.
Further research is necessary to verify the investigation’s findings, which Hazen’s team acknowledges. The study leaves many questions unanswered, so further investigation is necessary in order to fully understand xylitol’s effects. For example, it’s unknown how the effects noted in Dr. Hazen’s study compare to the larger population since study participants were predisposed to cardiovascular issues.
Discourse
Low-calorie sweeteners are often sold to consumers as prevention aids against diabetes, obesity and other health problems. But, Hazen’s study showing that these sweeteners may be creating other health problems are a concern.
However, Hazen assures consumers that there is no need to panic over a limited consumption of xylitol products; rather, consumers should be cautious
about consuming products with high levels of xylitol.
Since the Cleveland Clinic publicized their study, many health authorities have cautioned people about the potential risks, but no new information has been discovered. There have also been conversations surrounding the sweetener with some health organizations, like the American Council on Science and Health, which maintains its stance that xylitol remains a much safer alternative to sugar.
As far as what to substitute for sugar substitutes, Cleveland Clinic emphasizes
the value of fruit. Both fresh and frozen fruits are full of nutrients and sweet flavor. They can be used to sweeten oatmeal, yogurt, baked goods, water and much more.
For more direction on healthful eating, it is recommended to talk with one’s doctor.
Grace Heberling is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.
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Dr. Jeffery Milks Board certified in family medicine, geriatrics and hospice/palliative care
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Fipps
The Benedict Bond
Twins Austin and Kyla Benedict dominate in cross country
Sundays are the perfect time to relax, sip a cup of coffee and enjoy a slow morning. But that’s not how the Benedict family rolls.
Each Sunday, Lyndsi Parks slips on her running shoes and prepares for a several-mile run around the neighborhood. Running beside her are her twins, Austin and Kyla Benedict, both freshmen at New Albany High School. Although they look nothing alike, one thing is unmistakably the same – they can both run.
Competitors by nature
On the Move
Here are just some of the achievements of the Benedict twins:
• Austin placed 57th in the OHSAA State Cross Country Championships and was the second-fastest freshman in the race.
• Austin ended the 2024 season with the 4th fastest time on the New Albany XC all-time list.
• Kyla placed 9th in individuals to qualify for regionals with a time of 18:55.
The twins won the genetic lottery. Parks excelled at tennis and cross country, and Randy Benedict, their dad, also ran in college, gaining five All-American honors. Given the couple’s athletic background, it’s no surprise their kids naturally gravitated to sports. However, from the moment they began playing sports, Parks and Randy recognized something different in their children.
“At a very very young age, you would sit in the observation deck and watch them in gymnastics class, and you were like, ‘Yeah, there’s something there,’” Randy says.
Even as toddlers, the twins had a competitive spirit.
“Everything from eating to potty training, to which one was going to walk first,” Randy says. “Their ability to push themselves and play off of each other, it’s been there literally since day one.”
The twins love healthy competition, but they are also each other’s biggest cheerleaders.
Austin and Kyla as toddlers
Photos courtesy of Lyndsi Parks and Randy Benedict
“We know each other like the back of our hands,” Austin says. “She always knows what to say, whether it’s like, ‘I know it hurts, but keep pushing,’ or ‘You’re looking great.’”
Unbreakable bond
They’re not just teammates, they’re best friends. Before they were on the cross country course, they were in their cribs, babbling to each other until they fell asleep.
“To this day, they share a wall, and a lot of times, I’ll go in and Austin is sitting on Kyla’s bed and they’re talking,” Parks says. “They’re definitely each other’s comfort.”
The two have an unmistakable bond both on and off the track. Kyla says she can hum a song in her head and look over to hear Austin singing it. They couldn’t even break school records alone; their record times were both written in the New Albany history books.
The twins also share a relentless competitive energy, no matter who is the one racing.
“It gives me goosebumps sometimes, I’m not going to lie,” Austin says. “I’m more nervous for her race than I am my race… But if she crosses the finish line and she does amazing, it gives me goosebumps.”
As they’ve grown, their personalities differentiate. Kyla is a social butterfly, while Austin maintains a strict schedule, with his bedtime no later than 9:30 p.m.
“They’re good for each other in that way, because sometimes him being so regimented helps her,” Parks says. “But then her just sometimes being a little bit more laid back about training and stuff is like, ‘Oh, it’s really not that big of a deal.’”
Together through it all
The Benedict’s are empowered by the support of their community and their teammates.
“When they’re proud of me, it makes me feel on top of the world,” Kyla says.
Despite their unwavering commitment to running, the Benedict twins maintain straight-A’s and are involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and church. And they never miss their younger sister’s soccer matches.
Randy encourages Kyla and Austin to not let their sport become their identity, which can be counterproductive to their goals.
“If you allow it to become its own beast, things like mental burnout and fatigue and resentment and frustration, those actually accelerate,” Randy says.
Both twins hope to run through college, but they worry about moving to different colleges. But even from miles away, the Benedict bond will stay strong.
“We’re best friends,” Austin says. “We joke around with each other, but at the end of the day, we’ll always have each other’s backs. No matter what happens, we’ll always be there for one another.”
Maggie Fipps is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.
Austin and Kyla have been there with and for each other every step of the way.
Photos courtesy of Lyndsi Parks and Randy Benedict
Get to Know Your City Council
Marlene Brisk
How long have you been a New Albany resident?
I have lived in New Albany for 21 years. My favorite place to be is the Independence Day parade. It reminds me of why my husband and I chose to raise our three daughters here. When so many of our friends from all over the city gather together in celebration, the sense of community makes me incredibly proud to call New Albany home.
What’s one thing people don’t know about you?
My parents were both immigrants to this country after having survived the concentration camps of Nazi Germany. I had no grandparents nor almost any other family that survived the holocaust; and my sister, 12 years older than me, was blind from birth. So I grew up knowing the importance of treating all people with dignity and respect and knowing what a difference everyone can make in helping others overcome life's challenges. But my family also taught me to find joy in life no matter what the circumstances. I loved being the entertainer as a child, performing in plays, school skits, or just being the class clown. I played guitar and piano and even sang in a youth choir that toured the US, Israel, Canada and Europe. I was never the top talent in any of those activities, but I had a lot of fun doing it!
Why did you initially get involved with serving on Council?
Growing up, I was always involved in school and community programs. After taking a break to focus on family and work after my daughters were born, I saw an ad in 2009 seeking volunteers for New Albany Boards and Commissions and was eager to give back to the community I called home. With a decade of experience in commercial real estate, I felt I had something to offer and once I started
To learn more, visit: newalbanyohio.org/city-council-mayor
participating, I was hooked! I joined the Board of Zoning Appeals, later became the first woman appointed to the Planning Commission and joined City Council in 2016.
What are you most proud of?
Making our motto "Community Connects Us" a real priority. In 2019, we began senior programming with 15 members and one weekly meeting. Today, we have over 200 Senior Connections members and programming nearly every day of the week. This past summer, we had free concerts and movies that were family friendly and open to the public in our amphitheater. We sponsored a sold-out women's empowerment event along with our second annual Juneteenth and Diwali celebrations. We offered several sold-out tours of our business park and other parts of the community. We've begun a neighborhood outreach program called Community Connectors, and we are already planning for an even more exciting 2025. New Albany has excelled in City services and infrastructure projects for many years, but helping bring our community out to enjoy what we have to offer has been a real passion project for me.
What is an important project you see the City working on that residents can watch for in the coming months?
I’m excited to see Brick House Blue at Innovate New Albany come to life. This project blends our City's incubator for startup businesses with the need for unique office space that’s open to everyone. There will be lots of free programming offered (no need to lease space to participate) and a Barry Bagels that is open to the public! It’s been a rewarding journey working with the Community Improvement Corporation, and I’m honored to be part of helping bring this to New Albany.
By Jane Dimel
Wash Your Palate
The soap and suds of the produce you eat
Each year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases its annual Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce. This guide evaluates the quality of the produce based on testing data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and helps inform shoppers on what they should buy or avoid at the grocery store.
For the past 30 years, the EWG has played a pivotal role in educating consumers on pesticide consumption in the U.S., with one of its landmark achievements being its first report Pesticides in Children’s Food, which ultimately helped back the Food Quality Protection Act passed by Congress in 1996.
Even with current government limits and regulations, fresh produce that is marked legal for the market does not always mean that its levels of pesticide residue are safe for human consumption. According to the EWG, there are some pesticides used in the U.S. that have been banned in other countries due to the effects they have been shown to have on people and wildlife.
The EWG’s Shopper’s Guide includes two lists, called the Dirty Dozen and the
The Dirty Dozen of 2024*
1. Strawberries
2. Spinach
3. Kale, collard and mustard greens
4. Grapes
5. Peaches
6. Pears
7. Nectarines
8. Apples
9. Bell and hot peppers
10. Cherries
11. Blueberries
12. Green beans
Source: EWG’s 2024 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce | Dirty Dozen.
* Check the CityScene website, www.cityscenecolumbus.com, next month for the updated 2025 list.
The full list of the 46 foods tested by the USDA and FDA can be found at www.ewg.org/foodnews/full-list.php.
Clean Fifteen. These lists are created from the 46 crops tested for pesticide contamination by the USDA and FDA.
According to the EWG’s data report for the 2024 Dirty Dozen, 209 pesticides were found in total, with more than 50 pesticides detected on almost every crop.
Anywhere from 13-23 pesticides were found in at least one sample of each product.
The Clean Fifteen of 2024
1. Avocado
2. Sweet corn
3. Pineapple
4. Onions
5. Papaya
6. Sweet peas (frozen)
7. Asparagus
8. Honeydew melon
9. Kiwi
10. Cabbage
11. Mushrooms
12. Mangoes
13. Sweet potatoes
14. Watermelon
15. Carrots
Source: EWG’s 2024 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce | Clean Fifteen
Unfortunately, strawberries continue to be at the top of the Dirty Dozen list after several years and are number one on the 2024 list.
From the most recent years of data collection, 2015 and 2016, the EWG cites that USDA scientists tested more than 1,000 batches of non-organic strawberries and found that 99 percent of samples had at least one detectable pesticide, with 30 percent having residue of 10 or more pesticides. The most contaminated samples had 23 different pesticides and breakdown products.
In total, the USDA tests found residues of 82 different pesticides, with some of them being linked to cancer, hormone disruption, reproductive and developmental damage as well as neurological problems.
As the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states on its website, “there is ‘reasonable certainty of no harm’ posed by pesticide residues allowed to remain on food.”
The agency says this is due to a strict approval process and set limits on how a pesticide is used, how much and how often it is used and more designed to protect human health and the environment. Often times, people are not exposed to
How to Wash Produce
No method is 100 percent effective, but these are some good ways to wash lingering dirt, germs and pesticides from your produce.
• Wash your hands before and after handling the produce.
• Run fruits and vegetables under running water, even when you don’t plan to eat the skin.
• Avoid using soap, detergent or any commercial wash. Soap products can get trapped in the pores of produce, and even soaps designed for produce have not proven more effective than water.
• Heating may help, but can also deplete nutrients as well.
Tips for Specific Foods
• Melons, potatoes and firm produce: Scrub with a clean brush.
• Grapes and soft produce: Rub while holding under running water.
• Berries, fragile fruits and vegetables: Put in colander and turn over while spraying with water.
• Lettuce and cabbage: Remove outer leaves.
• Peaches, apples and other peelable fruits: Peel the skin off produce.
Source: National Pesticide Information Center
cados, pineapples, papayas, mangoes, kiwis and honeydew melon, is a thicker skin or peel.
After they were rinsed and rid of their peels, these foods lost a lot of pesticides that may have resided on their surfaces. But, for the produce on the Clean Fifteen list without thick skin, they have to rely on another method of protection.
As Healthline notes, produce such as cabbage self-produce compounds that help deter insects, which in turn allows them to need less pesticide spraying. These compounds, called glucosinolates, are also found in broccoli and other cruciferous
pesticides enough to be at risk, however there can be potential health issues or effects depending on the type of pesticide and level of exposure.
In contrast to the Dirty Dozen, the Clean Fifteen data showed that 65 percent of the samples of the produce had zero detectable pesticides, with only 10 percent containing two or more pesticides.
The first six on the list – avocado, sweet corn, pineapple, onions, papaya and sweet peas – had no more than three pesticides appear in any samples. As the cleanest produce on the list, avocado and sweet corn had less than two percent of samples show any detectable pesticides at all.
One common thread between many of these types of produce, including avo-
vegetables and have also been found to help reduce the risk of cancer. It is important to consider what you might be putting in your body due to the potential risks of pesticide exposure. Whether you choose organic options or opt for rinsing your produce, there are ways to decrease your pesticide intake and ensure that your plate stays healthy for you.
Jane Dimel is a contributing writer at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.
A PLACE where our beloved local arts groups enthrall audiences with musicals, concerts, recitals, and more.
A STAGE for world-renowned performers and speakers to create thrilling art and deliver thought-provoking lectures.
A STATE-OF-THE-ART HOME for New Albany’s young artists to learn from industry professionals and to participate in their school productions, connecting them to performing arts appreciation and unparalleled opportunity.
A CLASSROOM for students to learn from and perform with top-notch artists, like Itzhak Perlman, Sogbety Diomande, and Simply Three, through the McCoy Board Educational Grant program.
By Jane Dimel
New Neuroprotective Treatment
CBD oil offers new options for neuropsychiatric disorders vaccine trial
The Greater Cannabis Company, also known as GCANRx, is a publicly-traded biopharmaceutical company based in Baltimore, Maryland. The company has sought to develop and commercialize a new therapy for neuro-
psychiatric disorders that reduces disruptive symptoms without the side effects of existing medications.
In 2021, GCANRx announced its license and research agreement with Shaare Zedek Scientific, the technology transfer
arm of the Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem and home to prominent cannabinoid researcher, Adi Aran.
Aran, the director of pediatric neurology at Shaare Zedek Medical Center, is known for his study on cannabinoids in autistic children and is believed to be the inventor of cannabinoid neuropsychiatric therapy. He was also appointed as strategic advisor and lead of the clinical research for GCANRx.
The preclinical trials, announced in late 2021, were led by Tal BurstynCohen, a prominent brain cancer researcher at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem. The trials were a follow-up to previous studies on the effects of CBD oil on children with autism.
As GCANRx notes, Aran conducted his original study in 2017, which is believed to be the world’s most comprehensive study on these effects and the first double-blind placebo-controlled trial of its kind. His study, and a similar study conducted in 2019, showed a positive correlation between CBD and reduced behavioral disturbances.
GCANRx took this data and decided to study the effects further with its own proprietary compounds for autism and other neuropsychiatric disorders, such as Parkinson’s Disease, Alzeheimer’s Disease, schizophrenia and epilepsy.
Separately, the compounds had a limited efficacy as treatment, when combined with CBD however, they showed the potential to significantly reduce disruptive behavior and some symptoms without the side effects of current treatments on the market.
Phase II of the clinical trial was approved by the Israeli Ministry of Health in July 2023, and was followed by the official press release to Globe Newswire announcing the completion and promising results of the preclinical trial in February 2024.
Fun Fact
GCANRx released its first cannabidiol (CBD) product, a CBD patch, to the market in 2020 after completing clinical trials the previous year. In a Globe Newswire press release, it is cited as “a safe, accurate and effective way to deliver lower doses of pharmaceutical actives, while achieving high levels of bioavailability.”
The press release of the trial approval from 2023 details that the primary objective of the clinical trial is “to evaluate safety and tolerability of GCANRx’s proprietary therapeutic (between 4 and 13 years of age) using a daily oral treatment.”
The trial will have a double blind, placebo-controlled study to help assess the change in behavior and monitor reactions in the CBD treatment and placebo group over the course of 12 weeks.
Behavior change will be assessed using the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC), a standardized rating scale developed in early 1980s to assess the treatment effects in people with intellectual disabilities, and more specifically using the Irritability Subscale (ABC-I) to focus on behaviors including temper outbursts, negative mood, aggression and self-harm.
The clinical trials will also assess the effects using the third edition of the Vineland™ Adaptive Behavior Scales and the second edition of the Social Responsiveness Scale to assess other baselines of behavior changes as well.
Evidence will continue to be collected as clinical trials proceed over the next year, however, the positive results from the preclinical study show that the therapy has a neuroprotective effect, so there are high hopes for success in finding a minimal side effect treatment for neuropsychiatric disorders.
Jane Dimel is a contributing writer at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.
Crafting Cleaner Kitchens
Tips for keeping your kitchen clean, sanitary and healthy
The place in your home that accumulates the most germs isn’t your bathroom, it’s your kitchen.
Kitchen appliances, sinks and countertops can harbor bacteria that make us ill, including Listeria, Salmonella, fecal matter, E. coli and S. aureus. Furthermore, some kitchen appliances could leak dangerous gases into the air and microplastics into your food.
Thankfully, there are ways to be proactive and avoid health hazards in your kitchen.
Time for an upgrade
If you’re in the market for a new sink, consider copper. Not only is the metal durable, but it has advanced antimicrobial properties that prevent bacteria from growing.
Installing a smart non-touch sink faucet can also help limit the spread of germs from hands. You can even pair your touchless sink faucet with a touchless soap dispenser.
To limit toxic fumes in your kitchen, it’s important to have a working range hood. Some high-end hood installations include advanced filtering systems to extract airborne grease and smoke quickly as well as heat sensors that automatically adjust cooling power. There are also germresistant copper and touchless range hood options on the market. Upgrading your hood is especially important for those with skin conditions, asthma and other breathing challenges.
When choosing other new appliances such as dishwashers, coffee makers, rice cookers and air fryers, you’ll want to choose those made of, or mostly made of, metals such as steel and iron or ceramic materials. Appliances with plastic elements may be safe, however you still risk microplastic and chemical contamination, especially as plastics break down over time when exposed to heat.
Over time, your kitchen countertops can erode and become porous. Cracks and crevices can offer a space for bacteria to
Deep cleaning
Some of the most important, yet often overlooked areas when cleaning your kitchen include:
• Inside of the fridge, including drawers and coils
• Behind and under appliances
• Salt and pepper shakers
• Spice jars
• Knife block
• Silverware drawer
grow, so it is worth considering updating your well-loved countertop with a new one made of materials that naturally repel bacteria growth such as quartz, quartzite and soapstone.
Maisie Fitzmaurice is an editor at CityScene Media Group.
Feedback welcome at mfitzmaurice@cityscenemediagroup.com.
Use this, not that!
Use glass or silicone reusable food storage containers, not plastic: Plastic storage containers can release chemicals and microplastics into your food when heated or frozen, and some chemicals found in plastic containers can react with foods, affecting the smell and taste.
Uncracked glass is nonporous, while plastic can warp and texturize over time from silverware use and washing, allowing bacteria to grow in small crevices.
You can wash and reuse old jars that once held products such as pickles, jam and sauce to limit waste and environmental impact.
If you frequently use plastic sealable bags, try swapping with reusable sealable, silicone bags to limit your plastic use and waste.
Use under-sink water filtration systems, not refrigerator systems: According to a survey conducted by Aquasana, as of 2023, 91 percent of Americans use a water filter. Pitchers, reservoirs and refrigerator door dispensers with carbonbased filters are widely used and cost-effective.
While they do filter out dirt and chlorine, heavy undissolved metals and other potentially harmful compounds can still slip through. To take filtration further, consider installing a reverse osmosis water system designed to remove potential bacteria, viruses, dissolved metals, mercury, fluoride, nitrates and parasites in your water.
Reverse osmosis systems that filter the water circulating throughout your home can cost upwards of $3,000, however, a single mechanism attached to only one water source in your home can be added for only a couple of hundred dollars.
Use an induction stove, not gas: A gas stove, even while not in use, can release carbon monoxide, methane, benzene and nitrogen dioxides, among other harmful emissions, into your home.
While electric stoves don’t release harmful gases, they differ from induction heating plates as they use heated coils to heat pots and pans. Induction stoves do not use flames or heated coils, resulting in faster cook times and easier temperature control. These cooktops are also more energy-efficient and easier to clean than traditional stovetops.
Because these stovetops concentrate and deliver heat directly to the pot or pan through electromagnetics, they won’t raise the temperature in your home and are a safer option for children (with adult supervision) or older adults who may be at risk of burning themselves on traditional stovetops.
Induction stoves cost more than traditional stovetops, carrying a starting price tag ranging from $1,000-5,500 compared to $600-1,200 for a gas or electric stove.
By Cassie Kelly
NAHS Football Team Tackles Community Service with Volunteering
The New Albany High School football team is making a significant impact on the community beyond the gridiron. Players are actively volunteering their time through Healthy New Albany, demonstrating a commitment to service that extends far beyond the field.
“We believe in being a part of the community,” says Coach Brian Finn. “We want the team to understand that
you can make an impact with your life and it doesn’t just have to be with sports. You can make a difference in a variety of different ways. We hope it sets them on a path of service and giving back to the community.”
This community service initiative aligns perfectly with the school district’s focus on developing well-rounded individuals. As part of their graduation requirements, students are expected
to engage in community service, and the football team’s involvement with Healthy New Albany provides a valuable opportunity to fulfill this requirement while making a tangible difference.
“It’s all about helping them see the value in giving back and being a part of something bigger than themselves,” Finn says. “The most successful teams that you have on the field are the ones
Members of the New Albany High School football team assisting at the New Albany Walking Classic in 2024.
Photo courtesy of Healthy New Albany
that emulate the qualities and skills of community service.”
The players assist with the New Albany Walking Classic ® and have helped with the Food Pantry. This hands-on experience allows them to witness firsthand the needs of their community and the impact of their efforts.
“Healthy New Albany has been so grateful for the ongoing volunteer support from the New Albany High School football team, especially at the New Albany Walking Classic ®,” says Denise Dahl, development director at Healthy New Albany. “We couldn’t make our biggest fundraising event of the year happen without volunteer support. These athletes can be counted on rain or shine, year after year, to help us set up, hand out water, and bananas to participants, and then tear it all down following the race. Not only are they willing to serve their community, they are an incredibly polite group of young men. Through their FINISH program, Coach Finn instills the importance of giving back to the community through service.”
Beyond their work at Healthy New Albany, the team actively participates in other community events, such as the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s and the New Albany Special Olympics. These initiatives further emphasize the team’s commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.
“We want them to be the best versions of themselves,” Finn says.
By engaging in community service, the football players are not only fulfilling their civic duty, they are also developing valuable life skills such as teamwork, empathy and a sense of responsibility. These experiences will undoubtedly benefit them both on and off the field, shaping them into wellrounded individuals who are prepared to make a positive impact on the world.
If you’re interested in volunteering with Healthy New Albany visit healthynewalbany.org/volunteer to get started.
Cassie Kelly is the Marketing Manager at Healthy New Albany.
Photos
courtesy of Healthy New Albany
Finding Your Wild: Why Outdoor Skills Matter
In a world increasingly dominated by screens and indoor spaces, many people have lost touch with the natural world. For Sandy Reed, a retired educator and passionate advocate for outdoor learning, reconnecting with the natural world is not just about leisure – it’s about reclaiming our humanity.
“This is your birthright,” Reed emphasizes, “This is your planet. You belong here.”
Reed spent years emphasizing STEM in schools during her time as a teacher, while also leading outdoor programs through Original Wisdom for 20 years.
She believes developing outdoor skills is essential for physical and mental well-being.
The Healthy New Albany Nature Team (from left to right): Jennifer Cohen, Kelli Pence and Sandy Reed.
Sandy Reed teaches people how to find fresh water sources in the Adventure Eagles Survival Series.
Photos courtesy of Healthy New Albany
“When you don’t have that connection,” she says, “I would go as far as saying you’re being denied your humanity.”
With Reed’s expertise at Healthy New Albany, the organization will be able to offer new nature programs for youth and adults that will foster a deep connection and understanding of the natural world.
From learning to build a fire using traditional methods such as flint and steel to navigating the wilderness and identifying edible plants, Reed emphasizes experiential learning and handson skills.
“It’s not about survival in the traditional sense,” she says, “it’s about cultivating a sense of wonder, confidence and a deep respect for nature.”
Reed encourages everyone, regardless of age or experience, to find ways to engage with the outdoors, especially in the winter. Even small steps, such as observing birds in your backyard or simply spending time in a local park, can significantly impact your well-being in the colder, darker months.
“It’s about getting over that fear,” Reed says. “Fear of the cold, or getting wet… you don’t have to worry about that. You can still go outside and you can enjoy it at any age.”
New Executive Director
At the end of January, the Healthy New Albany team welcomed its new Executive Director Rachel Haugk. Read more about her and her story in a future issue of Healthy New Albany Magazine!
Quality USDA Beef Products
Saturday, March 1st
Reed’s work with young people through programs such as Adventure Eagles exemplifies the importance of early exposure to nature. By introducing children to basic outdoor skills and fostering a sense of wonder and exploration, she is cultivating a new generation of environmental stewards.
“This knowledge used to be passed on, but that has been broken,” Reed says. By rekindling this connection to the natural world, people not only enrich
their own lives, they can also ensure the health and well-being of the planet for generations to come.
If you are interested in taking one of Healthy New Albany’s nature classes, visit www.healthynewalbany.org.
Cassie Kelly is the Marketing Manager at Healthy New Albany.
Sandy Reed teaches primitive hunting skills in the Adventure Eagles Survival Series.
Photo courtesy of Healthy New Albany
ADULTS
UPCOMING PROGRAMS
CHAIR YOGA
Mondays | 10:00 - 11:00 AM March 17 - April 21 (6-week series)
TAI CHI
Wednesdays | 10:30 - 11:30 AM April 16 - May 21 (6-week series)
NOURISH: PIE DAY
Thursday, March 13 | 6:00 - 8:00 PM
NOURISH: SANDWICHES
Sunday, April 6 | 2:00 - 4:00 pm
MUSIC TOGETHER (INFANT - 5 YRS)
Tuesdays | 10:30 - 11:15 AM March 8 - May 20 (9-week series)
LIFT LIKE A GIRL (GRADES VARY)
Dates and times vary See website for more info
ADVENTURE EAGLES (GRADES 4-6)
Monday, March 10 - Friday, March 14
Monday, May 5 - Friday, May 9
TINY TRAILBLAZERS (18 MO - 4 YRS)
Fridays | 10:00 - 11:00 AM April 4 - May 9
NOURISH JR.: EASY AS PIE
Friday, March 14 | 3:30 - 5:00 PM
3:15 - 5:00 PM Register for our programs by visiting: healthynewalbany.org/programs Follow us on social media @HealthyNewAlbany
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Lecture Series continues with AI discussion
The 12th season of the New Albany Lecture Series continued on Jan. 23 including discussions about artificial intelligence and a visit from Tom Gruber, an innovator in technologies and co-founder of the company that created SIRI, and Molly Wood, an accomplished journalist and climate tech investor. The sold-out program was held at the McCoy Community Center following a reception at the New Albany Country Club.
Photos by James DeCamp, courtesy of The New Albany Community Foundation
Molly Wood and Loren Wold
Jason Ridgeway and Laura Czuba
Molly Wood, Tom Gruber and Craig Mohre
Jennifer Lachey and Luke Chandler
Doug, Mary and Neil Collins
Jeff Maass and John Shaw
Marcie Gabor, Roome Hartman and Gina Stelluti
Phil Derrow, Michael Triplett and David Richards
Sanjay Patel, Emily Smith, Tom Gruber and Tim Henson
Don’t miss the next lecture
The next lecture on March 4 will feature Ambassador Susan Rice and U.S. Navy Admiral James Stavridis as they discussion national security with moderator and Pulitzer Prize winner David Sanger.
Jennifer Keyes and Ness Shroff
Tauana and Frederick McDonald
Lisa Orsinelli and Cherie Nelson
Olivia Claire Obrokta
By Maggie Fipps
Looking for Your Book Recommendations!
Healthy New Albany Magazine wants to know what books you are reading. Whether you are into biographies, sci-fi or self-help books, reach out to rkaras@cityscenemediagroup.com to share the healthful titles you are enjoying. In the meantime, check out these award-winning books for your “must read” list.
Healthy New Albany Bookshelf Reviews
Good Energy: The Surprising Connection between Metabolism and Limitless Health
By Dr. Casey Means, 2024
The last time you heard about metabolic function, it may have been in high school biology, however, this book points to metabolism as the key to full-body health. Dr. Casey Means unpacks how to fuel your body to create good energy, and how small symptoms can point to illness down the road. Unlock the key to what some believe is the most misunderstood part of your body.
Forever
Strong: A New Science-Based Strategy for Aging
Well
By Dr. Gabrielle Lyons, 2023
Building muscle is not just for bodybuilders or bikini models, it is the body’s primary tool to age well. In her book, Dr. Gabrielle Lyons lays out the case for staying strong for life. She also provides an easyto-follow protocol for diet and exercise to optimize muscle growth.
Gut Check: Unleash the Power of Your Microbiome to Reverse Disease and Transform your Mental, Physical, and Emotional Health
By Dr. Steven Gundry, 2024
Inside your gut, there is a whole kingdom of microbes that have power over the way the systems of your body in-
teract. When the gut microbiome is off, it can affect everything from the immune system to mental health. Dr. Steven Gundry explores how to heal the gut microbiome for a healthier life through cutting edge studies and step by step plans.
Cleaning
up
Your Mental Mess: 5 Simple, Scientifically Proven Steps to Reduce Anxiety, Stress, and Toxic Thinking
By Dr. Caroline Leaf, 2021
The brain is incredible, however, it can easily become cluttered with intrusive thoughts and negative spirals. Combine this with a busy schedule with no room for silence and it is easy to settle into a mental mess. Instead of labeling it as a mental illness, Dr. Caroline Leaf gives practical steps to ditch the clutter and clean your brain for better processing.
1,000 Hours Outside: Activities to Match Screen Time with Green Time
By Ginny Urich, 2022
Challenge your kids to ditch the screens and spend 1,000 hours outside, rain or shine. This book is full of activities to boost children’s development by getting out in nature. This book is the perfect resource with activities from hot chocolate hikes to leaf pile games.
The Science of Nutrition: Debunk the Diet Myth and Learn How to Eat Responsibly
By Rhiannon
Lambert, 2022
This book takes a scientific approach to food and nutrition to help make sense of the noise of diet culture. Author Rhiannon Lambert uses Q&As and infographics to make this topic easily accessible and research based.
Make It Easy: A Healthy Meal Prep and Menu Planning Guide
By
Danielle Walker, 2024
Danielle Walker, author of the “Against All Grain” series, takes the guesswork out of meal prep by laying out 125 recipes to make ahead of time. These gluten-free, grain-free and paleo recipes are easy to
Looking for additional copies of Health New Albany magazine?
Food Hall
Albany Branch of Columbus Metropolitan Library Philip Heit Center for Healthy New Albany
make and use pantry staples. Walker also includes what she called different meal prep personas to help with portioning for different sized families.
Health-Nut: A FeelGood Cookbook
By Jess Damuck
Jess Damuck pushes against traditional health food by creating a cookbook full of recipes that look good, taste good and are good for you. Her recipes are beautiful enough for a dinner party, while also simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Damuck’s sense of humor also adds great asides to each recipe alongside the beautiful visuals.
Top homes sold in New Albany
New Albany home prices were up 36.7 percent in December 2024 compared to the previous year. Homes sold for a median price of $815,000. On average, New Albany homes sold after 78 days on the market, a month more than the previous year. A total of 19 homes were sold in December 2024. (Data from Redfin)
All information is collected from the Franklin County Auditor’s Office.
7547 Ehret Round
4 beds, 5 baths
$2,850,000
Sold 12/18/24
4615 Yantis Dr.
5 beds, 5 baths
$2,300,000
Sold 1/21/25
7414 Milton Ct. 4 beds, 6 baths
$2,250,000
Sold 12/17/24
7605 Steeplechase Ln.
6 beds, 5.5 baths
$1,450,000
Sold 12/30/24
7714 Ogden Woods Blvd. 4 beds, 4.5 baths
$1,431,000
Sold 12/02/24
3774 E. Pembrooke Green 4 beds, 4.5 baths
$1,409,900
Sold 12/05/24
7660 N. Goodrich Sq.
4 beds, 5 baths
$1,400,000
Sold 1/17/25
7557 N. Goodrich Sq. 4 beds, 3.5 baths
$1,335,000
Sold 12/17/24
4028 W. Chelsea Green 4 beds, 5 baths
$1,300,000
Sold 12/26/24
7859 Calverton Sq. 4 beds, 4.5 baths
$1,150,000
Sold 12/24/24
3973 Farber Ct. 4 beds, 4.5 baths
$1,100,000
Sold 1/30/25
7200 Oxford Loop N. 4 beds, 3.5 baths
$1,100,000
Sold 12/16/24
Nth Degree Team (614) 332-1563
nthdegree@nthliving.com
375 Buena
COLDWELL BANKER REALTY ThePowellBuehlerGroup.com The Nth Degree Team (614) 332-1563 nthdegree@nthliving.com
www.nthliving.com 128 Academy Woods Drive | A wooded, private lot. Contemporary floor plan w/ luxury vinyl floors throughout the 1st flr. The eat-in kitchen w/bay window, island, SS appliances, granite counters & walk-in pantry w/organizers and is open to the GR w/
Monday May19th 2025
CHARITY GOLF CLASSICBenefiting
CANCER SUPPORT COMMUNITY CENTRAL OHIO
Join us on Monday, May 19, 2025, at the prestigious Medallion Club for a day of golf, camaraderie, and giving back. Whether you’re an avid golfer or a
casual enthusiast, this event promises a fantastic experience on a world-class course, all while supporting programs & services that bring community and connection to anyone impacted by cancer. Don’t miss your chance to make a difference—register today and help us drive change in our community!
KELLOGG Honorary Chair
Low Wait Times. Expert Care.
