Pickerington Magazine December 2015/January 2016

T h e O f f i c i a l M a g a z i n e o f t h e C i t y o f P i c k e r i n g t o n a n d V i o l e t To w n s h i p

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

Holy Trinity Triathlete and pastor Gary Fowler

ALSO INSIDE Holiday Gift Guide Christmas Angels program Fairfield County Job Fusion

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inside

December 2015/January 2016

6 Calendar 9

News and Information from the City of Pickerington

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News and Information from Violet Township

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p.14

faces

Running on Faith Pastor uses triathlons to help grow his church

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in focus

Holiday Gift Guide Pickerington Magazine’s annual present suggestion smorgasbord

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p.24

Guardian Angels Female business leaders spend the holidays collecting toys for those in need

A New Twist on an “Olde” Favorite Holiday Gathering adds a marketplace to its line-up

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student spotlight Rising High

Central’s Aubrey Gray is involved in teaching while still a student

on the table

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Twisted Sister Many-siblinged hospitality consultant bakes up unique pretzels

p.30 On the cover Photo of Gary Fowler

by Wes Kroninger

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Empathetic Employment Job Fusion program helps find employment for people with developmental disabilities

Columbus Driving Academy We Offer: Flexible Scheduling Professional Instruction 1 on 1 Driving Home Pick-up Evening Classes (Every Night except Friday)

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bookmarks

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781 Northwest Blvd., Suite 202 Columbus, Ohio 43212 614-572-1240 • Fax 614-572-1241 www.cityscenecolumbus.com Kathleen K. Gill

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Chief Creative Officer

Gary Hoffman

Creative Director

Garth Bishop

Managing Editor

Sarah Sole Hannah Bealer

Editor Assistant Editor

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Contributing Writers

Amber Young

Advertising Director

Julie Camp Pam Henricks-Claxton Robin Weitzel Jamie Armistead Circulation

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Accounting Manager 614-572-1240

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com CityScene Media Group also publishes: CityScene Magazine www.CitySceneColumbus.com Dublin Life Magazine www.DublinLifeMagazine.com Westerville Magazine www.WestervilleMagazine.com Tri-Village Magazine www.TriVillageMagazine.com Healthy New Albany Magazine www.HealthyNewAlbanyMagazine.com The Publisher welcomes contributions in the form of manuscripts, drawings, photographs or story ideas to consider for possible publication. Enclose a SASE with each submission or email gbishop@ cityscenemediagroup.com. Publisher does not assume responsibility for loss or damage.

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Pickerington Magazine is published in June, August, October, December, February and April. Subscriptions are free for households within the city limits of Pickerington, Ohio. For advertising information or bulk purchases, email Amber Young at ayoung@cityscenemediagroup.com.

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

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community calendar

Mark your calendar for these community events

December 2015/January 2016 Through Dec. 11

Dec. 4

Santa’s Mailbox

Olde Pickerington Village Holiday Gathering

Photos courtesy of Pickerington Parks & Recreation Department

Through Dec. 19 Christmas Past

Pickerington-Violet Township Historical Society, 15 E. Columbus St., www.pickeringtonhistoricalsociety.com The Historical Society’s exhibition for the holiday season features memories of Christmases past.

Violet Township Fire Department Toy Drive Donation boxes throughout Pickerington, www.violet.oh.us The fire department seeks new, unwrapped toys and gift cards for the less fortunate as part of its annual drive. Donation boxes can be found around Violet Township. Girl Scout Troop #2140 will hold a drive-through donation event 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 12 at Fire Station 592, 8700 Refugee Rd.

Through Dec. 31

Early Visions of Ohio: 1765-1865 Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster, www.decartsohio.org This exhibition features paintings, drawings, maps and other items depicting Ohio that were created between 1765 and 1865.

Dec. 3

Write Now! 6:30-7 p.m., Pickerington Public Library, 201 Opportunity Way, www.pickeringtonlibrary.org The library finishes out its teen writing series with a discussion with science fiction author Melissa Landers.

Dec. 3-5

Dinner Theatre: A Christmas Spectacular Pickerington High School North, 7800 Refugee Rd., www.pickerington.k12.oh.us North theater students present a line-up of favorite holiday tunes at this dinner show.

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Photo courtesy of Peggy Portier

Through Dec. 22

5-8:30 p.m., Olde Pickerington Village, www.pickerington.net The holiday season in Pickerington kicks off with children’s activities, a visit from Santa, carriage rides, carolers, the Merry Mile run, the official city tree lighting and the PCMA Food Pantry of Pickerington’s Plaza of Lights.

Photo courtesy of Jason Diehl

Pickerington City Hall, 100 Lockville Rd., www.pickerington.net A North Pole Express mailbox is in front of City Hall for children to send Santa Claus and his helpers their holiday wishes. Including the child’s name and return address will guarantee a response from Santa.

Dec. 4-13

Pickerington Community Theatre presents The Little Princess Pickerington Christian Church, 575 Diley Rd., www. pickeringtoncommunitytheatre.org The theater troupe’s holiday play tells the story of the kind-hearted daughter of a wealthy man who must find a way to regain her happiness when her father dies unexpectedly. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Dec. 8-18

Dec. 10

The library’s main book club discusses Lila by Marilynne Robinson.

Pickerington High School North, 7800 Refugee Rd., www.pickerington.k12.oh.us Concerts in the Pickerington Local School District include the Ridgeview Junior High and Diley Middle school orchestras on Dec. 8; the Lakeview Junior High, Harmon Middle and Toll Gate Elementary school bands on Dec. 9; North’s Musical Celebration, featuring the school’s orchestra, jazz band and choirs, on Dec. 10; the Lakeview choir on Dec. 14; the North band on Dec. 15; and the Lakeview, Harmon and Toll Gate orchestras on Dec. 16. All take place at North, except the Ridgeview/Diley orchestra concert, which is at Pickerington High School Central.

1 p.m., Pickerington Public Library, 201 Opportunity Way, www.pickeringtonlibrary.org Pack your lunch and your thoughts on this month’s book, At the Water’s Edge

by Sara Gruen.

Dec. 16

Holiday Concerts

Brown Bag Book Club

Dec. 10

Festival of Trees 6 p.m., Toll Gate Elementary School, 12183 Toll Gate Rd., www.pickerington.k12.oh.us This annual Toll Gate event featuring laughter, lights and holiday cheer raises money for charity.

Dec. 15

PPL Book Club 7 p.m., Pickerington Public Library, 201 Opportunity Way, www.pickeringtonlibrary.org

Book to Reel Book Club 7 p.m., Pickerington Public Library, 201 Opportunity Way, www.pickeringtonlibrary.org This book club, which discusses works that have been made into films, discusses The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg.

Dec. 18-Jan. 3 Winter Break

Pickerington Local Schools, www.pickerington.k12.oh.us

Jan. 9

Lego-Palooza 1-3 p.m., Pickerington Public Library, 201 Opportunity Way, www.pickeringtonlibrary.org The library holds its first Lego-Palooza building challenge of 2016.

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Dec. 4-18

Pickerington City Hall, 100 Lockville Rd., www.pickerington.net Donate new or gently used coats, gloves, hats and other winter clothes and necessities to those in need. Donations will be accepted during office hours at City Hall.

Dec. 5

Breakfast with Santa 8 a.m.-noon, Pickerington Senior Center, 150 Hereford Dr., www. pickerington.net Join Santa and Mrs. Claus for breakfast, crafts and a bake sale. Tickets are available through the Pickerington Parks and Recreation Department.

Photos courtesy of Pickerington Parks & Recreation Department

Dorothy Steiger Mitten Tree

Serving locally sourced farm to table modern cuisine including Grass Fed Beef, Cage Free Chicken and Wild Caught Fish.

Dec. 5

Pickerington Community Chorus presents Messiah Selections

Photos courtesy of Pickerington Parks & Recreation Department

4 p.m., Peace United Methodist Church, 235 Diley Rd. NW, www. pickeringtoncommunitychorus.com The chorus’ annual holiday concert features songs from Haydn’s Messiah, featuring strings.

Dec. 8

1252 Hill Rd N. Pickerington, OH 43147 614-845-8150 Hours: Tue, Wed, Thurs 11:00 am to 9:00 pm Fri and Sat 11:00 am to 10:00 pm Sunday Brunch 9:00 am to 3:00 pm Monday Closed www.herbn-cafe.com

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Game of Tomes

Dec. 5

7 p.m., Pickerington Public Library, 201 Opportunity Way, www. pickeringtonlibrary.org The library’s new fantasy book club discusses Gardens of the Moon by Steven Erikson.

Santa Saturday 2-4 p.m., Pickerington Public Library, 201 Opportunity Way, www. pickeringtonlibrary.org Crafts, games, a raffle and music from the One More Time String Band highlight the library’s annual Santa visit.

The Jolly Old Elf himself will be present until 3:30 p.m.

Live music Wednesdays, Fridays, and saturdays Extensive whiskey and bourbon selection including 15 Irish whiskies, and 15 Scotch whiskies.

Wide selection of domestic, import and craft beers with over 50 different beers available and 18 craft and domestic beers on tap.

Do you have an event you would like to submit to our calendar?

Send details and photos to gbishop@cityscenemediagroup. com.

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Photo courtesy of Jason Diehl

Submit Your Event

Pool tables, steel tip dart boards, Keno and pull tabs.

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841 Hill Rd N, Pickerington, OH 43147 (614) 834-7010 www.FinnegansWake-OH.com Check us out on Facebook

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INSIDE

PICKERINGTON

N E W S & I N F OR M ATI O N F R O M T H E C I T Y O F P I C K E R I NGT ON

Building Basics

City’s Building Department keeps property work responsible The City of Pickerington Building Department serves as a watchdog for responsible building in the City to protect residents from unsafe and bad practices.

The building department meets with property owners and businesses to help them understand the requirements of Ohio building codes. It also issues permits, reviews construction plans and provides the required inspections to make sure that work is done correctly and safely.

These permits are designed to protect residents, said City Manager Bill Vance.

“These customerfriendly and responsibly provided City of Pickerington building permit approvals and inspections serve as unofficial insurance policies that protect our public’s safety and eliminate potentially dangerous and unpermitted construction activities completed by unlicensed and uninsured contractors,” Vance said.

Contractors are required to register their current state license with the City and provide proof of liability insurance, workers’ compensation and a copy of their current state license.

Vance said a building permit is required for most work that involves new construction or remodeling, such as sunrooms, basement finishes, decks, roofs and window and door replacements. Though most storage sheds and fences don’t require building permits, they do require quick approval from the www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

City Zoning Department located at 51 E. Columbus St. Most interior replacement work and finishes – paint, carpet, countertops, cabinets – do not require permits.

Residential plan reviews and permits usually take five to seven business days to obtain. Commercial plan review is about two weeks. If a contractor tells you the City has delayed the project, the City recommends you check to see that the permit application has actually been submitted.

“When City property owners ensure that their contractors successfully attain a City building permit, City property owners are guaranteeing that they are dealing with a certified and licensed

contractor responsibly registered with the City of Pickerington,” Vance said.

“Property owners making sure their individual or contracted projects are legally permitted will provide City building inspectors the opportunity to inspect on their behalf and make sure building related efforts are safely done, in accordance with state building codes, and Pickerington’s property owners are getting their money’s worth.”

“The City of Pickerington’s Building Department provides some of our City’s most timely and essential services to City residents and outside investors coordinating annual construction improvements of many varieties,” Vance said.

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News and information from the City of Pickerington

Hometown Holidays

Seasonal events in Olde Pickerington Village and throughout the City Pickerington residents may be hoofing it with Rudolph and jogging with Jolly Old Saint Nick at the Merry Mile on Friday, Dec. 4.

The annual fun run, which began in 2012, started as a way to get people out and moving at a time of year when we usually do the opposite. It was also designed to bring residents out to enjoy the charm of the Olde Village during the holidays.

Over the years, the race has attracted as many as 200 people. Some runners are serious about winning one of the four age categories. Other participants are out to enjoy some fun with family and friends.

Many racers come costumed in hopes of winning the “best individual” or the “best group” holiday attire.

“It is the only race in town where you’ll see a person dressed as Santa running past a person dressed like Rudolph,” said Tammy Sawyer, executive assistant to Mayor Lee Gray. “It’s also held at night, so that’s different from most races.”

The race begins at 6 p.m. at City Hall and runs through the holiday lighted streets of the Olde Village before ending at the entrance of Victory Park.

Proceeds from the event – sponsored by the City of Pickerington, Reynoldsburg-Pickerington Rotary Club and the Olde Pickerington Village Business Association – benefit the PCMA Food Pantry of Pickerington.

“Costumes are definitely encouraged,” said Sawyer. “It’s the Merry Mile, so dressing up adds to the merriment.

We’ve had a lot of people dressed as Santa, elves, reindeers, Frosty the Snowman and even walking Christmas trees.”

The cost of the race is $10 per person or $30 for a family. T-shirts are included in the race fee. Registration can be done online at www.pickerington.net or by stopping at the Pickerington Parks and Recreation Department, located at 100 Lockville Rd. “We hope people enjoy a fun night with friends and neighbors, that they 10

A pair of jolly elves cross the finish line at the 2014 Merry Mile.

participate in the Olde Village Holiday event and that they walk away in the holiday spirit – feeling more connected to their community,” Sawyer said.

Pickerington milers and residents can enjoy an old-fashioned holiday gathering in the Village on Friday, Dec. 4.

To add to the festivities, there will be carriage rides, strolling carolers, holiday gift ideas, free children’s activities and even a visit from Santa, all from 5-8:30 p.m. The lighting of Pickerington’s holiday tree will take place at 7 p.m.

The holiday events are sponsored by the Olde Pickerington Village Business Association and the City Parks and Recreation Department.

Residents can also warm the holiday heads, hands and spirits of children in need on Dec. 4 by decorating the Dorothy Steiger Memorial Mitten Tree in City Hall with mittens, gloves, hats and other warm gear. Donations will be accepted through Thursday, Dec. 18.

Children can also give Santa their holiday wish lists. The North Pole Express mailbox is in front of City Hall through Friday, Dec. 11.

Please provide Santa and his elves with the child’s name and a return address in the letter.

citydirectory Pickerington City Hall, 100 Lockville Rd.

(All numbers prefixed with the 614 area code)

Building Services ..................... 833-2221 City Clerk/Council..................... 837-3974 City Manager........................... 837-3974 Development Services.............. 833-2204 Engineering Services ............... 833-2221 Finance Services...................... 837-3974 Human Resources.................... 837-3974 Income Tax Division.................. 837-4116 Mayor’s Office (Lee A. Gray)............................ 837-3974 Mayor’s Court.......................... 837-3974 Parks and Recreation............... 833-2211 Police Services......................... 575-6911 Service Department Streets.................................... 833-2292 Utility Billing............................. 833-2289 Utility Maintenance................... 833-2292 Water Plant.............................. 833-2290 Waste Water Plant.................... 837-6490 Water Reclamation.................. 837-6470 www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

News and Information From

Violet Township

By Greg Butcher, PE, MPA Violet Township Engineer

Violet Township at a Crossroads with Infrastructure Investment Some of this article has been excerpted from a prior Pickerington Magazine issue. However, much of the information is new and presented to reflect the growing concern the Violet Township Board of Trustees has in our ability to preserve and protect the township’s biggest investment: its infrastructure.

3. Submit for grants and interest-free loans. Since 2002, Violet Township has secured nearly $6.3 million in grants or low-interest loans to maintain or upgrade its infrastructure.

4. Consider a single trash hauler contract. Now, there are multiple trash companies driving Violet Township roads. One trash hauler would reduce the wear and tear on our road network.

5. Consider a road levy.

Currently, Violet Township receives no voted millage to

T

he United States has an infrastructure problem. The deteriorating condition of infrastructure, especially our highway system, trickles down to state and local governments as well. And Violet Township’s roadway network is no exception.

Currently, Violet Township maintains 105 lane miles of roadway in one direction – the distance from downtown Columbus to downtown Cincinnati.

While revenues – township funds to provide services – from gasoline taxes, motor vehicle license taxes and a portion of real estate taxes have remained stagnant, the cost of materials to repave our streets has increased nearly 300 percent within the past 10 years. This fact, coupled with losses of revenue from elimination of the estate tax and reduction of the Local Government Fund by the Ohio legislature, provides us no other funds to maintain roadways.

Above: Deteriorated curb Right: Recently rebuilt street

1. Utilize remedial measures such as crack filling or pavement patching instead of resurfacing.

The cumulative effect of this 2. Evaluate alternate, is simple: The township resurcost-effective technolofaces about one-third as many gies to keep our roads safe lane miles as it did 10 years ago: and maintained, such as about 2 to 3 miles per year. alternate strategies to the traditional hot mix asphalt What has Violet Township done to that was employed for years counter the negative impact of declin- and that our residents have ing or stagnant revenues combined become accustomed to with increasing costs? driving on. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

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From the Violet Township Fire Department

By Assistant Chief Jim Paxton

Toy Drive 2015 Donations are being accepted for Violet Township Fire Department’s annual endeavor

P

reparations for the annual Violet Township Fire Department Holiday Toy Drive are well underway.

Once again, the fire department is partnering with the Pickerington Local School District to identify and assist local children and families during the holiday season. Thanks to the several local businesses that support this opera-

Crack fill remedial measure

maintain its infrastructure. Additionally, townships are not permitted to impose income taxes or utilize many other financing options that municipalities are permitted to employ under the provisions of the Ohio Revised Code.

This levy will be for a period of five years, and allow the voters to renew at those intervals. The cost to the owner of a $100,000 home is $52.50 per year, or just under $0.15 per day. Approval of this levy restricts the funds for use to maintain the roadways, and will provide Violet Township the vital resources to maintain your roadways over a scheduled cycle of years, which will preserve our transportation network, property values and quality of life.

Thank you for your time and attention to this article, and may your holidays be merry and bright!

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www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

tion, the fire department is able to assist hundreds of families in the Pickerington and Fairfield County area.

The toy drive collects new, unwrapped toys; gift cards; and donations for children of all ages. Those who wish to support this effort may drop off toys to any of the three Violet Township Fire Stations.

Girl Scout Troop #2140 will host a “Toy Drive-Thru” event on Saturday, Dec. 12 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Violet Fire Station 592, 8700 Refugee Rd. Cars may drive through the fire station bays and simply drop off toys to our Girl Scout volunteers.

There are also numerous red toy boxes in the community that serve as collection sites. These boxes may be found at Pickerington schools, local businesses, restaurants, physician offices and dental offices. It is amazing how successful this event has become thanks to the generous donations of the community and local businesses. Last year, the toy drive assisted nearly 1,000 families in the Fairfield County area.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Firefighter Jim Barber or Firefighter Liz Pfeifer at 614-837-4123 www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

or email elizabeth.pfeifer@violet.oh.us.

Follow us on Facebook at the “Violet Township Firefighters Toy Drive” page for updates. Thank you in advance for your support!

How to Reach Us Violet Township Administrative Offices 12970 Rustic Dr. Pickerington, OH 43147 614-575-5556 www.violet.oh.us Violet Township Fire Stations Phone 614-837-4123 Fire Chief: Michael Little #592: 8700 Refugee Rd. #591: 21 Lockville Rd. #593: 2365 Taylor Park Dr. (behind hhgregg) Violet Township Service Center Phone: 614-382-5979 490 Center St. Pickerington, OH 43147 13

faces

By Sarah Sole

Running on Faith

Pickerington veteran forever carries the memory of his time in an Axis prison camp

Pastor uses triathlons to help grow his church

A

fter Gary Fowler finished his first triathlon, he asked his wife to slap him and remind him how difficult it was should he ever consider doing another.

That was in 2012.

In October, Fowler ran his first officially sanctioned Ironman triathlon in Maryland.

The biking, swimming and running has helped him raise $17,000 toward starting new churches in Ohio. In August, he’ll compete in a Half Ironman in Delaware.

Previously an executive pastor at Pickerington’s C3 Church, part of the Assemblies of God, in May, Fowler became Ohio Church Multiplication Network director, in charge of growing churches under the Assemblies of God organization. Come 2016, he’ll be traveling around Ohio to raise money and gain support.

Fowler’s own entrance to the church came when he was an adult. While he attended church with his grandmother, he never went willingly. The experience was more ritualistic than spiritual.

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www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photo by Wes Kroninger

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

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Photo courtesy of Gary Fowler

Clockwise from top left: Gary Fowler with daughters Shayna, Hannah and Raegan, and wife Deni

Once his daughter, Shayna, was 2 years old, Fowler realized he wanted to help her grow up with morals and Christian values. Intending to put her in day care, he visited the Harbor of Hope church in St. Clairsville and inquired about the institution’s belief system.

That’s when he met Konan Stephens, the church’s youth pastor, who would become a best friend to him.

The joy and peace that Stephens radiated impressed him.

“I remember walking away thinking, ‘Whatever he’s got, I want it,’” Fowler says.

Fowler had spent four years in the U.S. Air Force, and at that time, postbachelor’s degree, he was trying to obtain his Cisco computer certification. He realized he wanted a godly relationship.

After Stephens became district youth pastor for Ohio, Fowler ended up taking his old position as church youth pastor at Harbor of Hope.

Fowler credits the church with turning his life around when he was focused on making money via a career path in technology. He also found support from the organization when his second daughter, Megan, died about 11 years ago.

The prognosis for Megan wasn’t good: hypoplastic left heart syndrome.

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Fowler and his wife, Deni, already knew that she might die in the womb. They were told that if Deni were to give birth, Megan would die after her umbilical cord was cut. Though she was born with a heart that was missing a chamber, Megan ended up living for four days. Stephens performed the funeral ceremony.

“That was the hardest time in my life,” Fowler says.

Megan’s death led him to question his faith, but Fowler ultimately persevered. He believes his experience has helped him to be more compassionate than he was before. He recently led a funeral for a stillborn baby, and he says he was able to connect with the family in a way that wouldn’t have been possible had he not had his own experience to draw upon.

“God has used that over and over and over,” he says.

Fowler and Deni now have three daughters: Shayna, 19; Hannah, 10; and Raegan, 8.

And while his family has grown, Fowler has also worked to help grow his parish community, which started with the C3 Church in Pickerington that he and Stephens founded about nine years ago. Since then, they have started several new churches. Most are in the Columbus and Pickerington areas, and one is

in Youngstown. They’ve also partnered with a handful of churches overseas over the last six or seven years.

“This church was started to help other churches,” Fowler says.

Fowler and Stephens’ involvement in triathlons has also helped their parishioners in Pickerington pursue their own 5Ks and even the Columbus Marathon.

“They’re really starting to focus on their physical health,” he says.

Fowler’s own introduction to the triathlon began when he agreed to participate in one with Stephens in 2012.

“I had no earthly idea what it was,” Fowler says.

Training for the event was rough.

Fowler compares it to a part-time job.

After that first race, Fowler decided he didn’t want to do another race unless it was a sanctioned Ironman event.

He decided he wouldn’t compete again unless he was going to race with someone who hadn’t done a triathlon before. He wanted to race for a good cause.

Enter a new church member, down on his luck, who wanted to become more physically fit. He began biking.

Last October, Fowler asked the parishioner if he wanted to do an Ironman triathlon together. In January, the two began seriously considering the idea.

Fowler says the church member stopped smoking and quit drinking as part of his preparation.

“His marriage is doing so much better,” he says. “He’s probably in the best shape of his life.”

Sarah Sole is an editor.

Feedback welcome at gbishop@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

RELATED READS www.pickeringtonmagazine.com • C3 Church member Holly Hollopeter • St. Brigid of Kildare pastor Joseph Hendricks • Westerville pastor’s poetic children • Historic home once owned by a Westerville pastor • Ironman participant and sports medicine doctor www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Leading

by Example Pickerington pastor inspires focus on health in those around him

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K

onan Stephens started running in high school, where he found some success in track and cross country.

A lung collapse during college forced him to take some time off, but his passion for the sport drew him back when, about 15 years ago, he and his brother participated in a sprint duathlon comprised of a run, a bike and another run. Stephens ended up winning in his age group.

In 2007, Stephens completed his first Ironman triathlon, an experience he found to be incredible.

“You wonder if you’re actually going to finish,” he says.

When Stephens was readying for his second triathlon, he asked Gary Fowler to participate.

“He’s a very disciplined guy,” Stephens says.

Stephens, who is one of the executive presbyters in Ohio with Assemblies of God Church and lead pastor of C3 Church in Pickerington, says the process of starting the Pickerington church with Fowler brought the two closer together.

“We took a step of faith,” he says.

The Pickerington church is now nine years old, and Stephens says the he has seen the fitness level of his congregants increase over the past couple of years. For the month of September, the church participated in a life change challenge designed to create healthy habits physically, financially and spiritually.

“You create your habits, and then your habits create you,” Stephens says.

Sarah Sole is an editor.

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

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17

in focus

Holiday Gift Guide

Pickerington Magazine’s annual present suggestion smorgasbord

Fresh Fare An emphasis on fresh and local ingredients has made Herb’n Café a popular option for dining in Pickerington. The farm-to-table restaurant offers gift cards in any denomination. Prices vary. www.herbn-cafe.com

Pottery Power Festive servingware such as this snowman bowl is just one of the options at Flutterby Ceramics. For the shopper with a little more time to spare, Flutterby also offers paint-your-own pottery. $25. www.flutterbyceramics.com

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Wild West Antiques, collectibles and vintage items are the name of the game at 27 West & Co. in Olde Pickerington Village. Though all items are one-of-a-kind, the shop promises plenty of holiday merchandise for the Christmas season. Prices vary. www.27westandco.com

Let’s Do the Twist With seven flavors to choose from, including newcomers ChipotleQue and Harvest Pumpkin, Pretzels with a Twist could be a prime stocking stuffer for the gift recipient with a yen for snacking. In addition to online, the pretzels are sold at a number of central Ohio businesses, including 5 Bean Coffee in Reynoldsburg and Quilt Store Next Door in Pataskala. $2 for 2 oz., $5 for 6 oz. www.nayscreativeways.com

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Wind Down From facials and manicures to hot stone massages and chemical peels, Monroe’s Salon and Spa has plenty of options for anyone in need of a break. Gift cards are available in all denominations and are 10 percent off Dec. 1-24. Prices vary. www.monroesbeautyspa.com

Mega Minis Avon isn’t just for door-to-door sales anymore; Avon Calling has a tremendous assortment of the company’s products.

Popular during this time of year is Merry Little Minis, a ninepiece set of lip balms, hand creams and a nail file. $6.99. www.fmaqsood.avonrepresentative.com

Hog Heaven If you know what the motorcycle enthusiast on your list needs, you can likely find it at Bandit Choppers, which offers a variety of repair and fabrication services. If you don’t, pick up a T-shirt and let that person know where to find the rest. $18.75. www.banditchoppers.net

Wear Local One of the newest businesses to open in Olde Pickerington Village is Myers Custom Design, which specializes in custom apparel – particularly of the Pickerington-centric variety. You can’t go wrong with one of the high school T-shirts to help a neighbor show school spirit. $20. www.myerscustomdesign.com

Taken for Granite Scrap granite is reborn as split stones, pavers, cheese trays, mirrors, jewelry and more at Pickerington newcomer Reclaimed Granite of Columbus. These wine stoppers are unique and, like all the company’s products, 100 percent granite made from countertop industry remnants. $10, or two for $18. www.reclaimedgranitecolumbus.com

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

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Runner’s Relief For the athlete on your list, relief from sore muscles would be a welcome gift, and Columbus Running Company has just the thing. The GRID STK foam roller is wrapped in a patentpending three-dimensional surface to deliver nutrients directly to tissue. $34.99. www.columbusrunning.com

Quite possibly the coolest store ever

Specializing in Vintage, Antique and Upcycled Home Decor Open Tues-Sat 10-5

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The Ugly Truth For a sweet treat unlike any other, pick up some Ugly Bars from Sweet Persuasions to delight a friend or family member with a sweet tooth. The bars – essentially, big chocolate chip cookies containing layers of caramel and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup and topped with peanut butter crumbs and chocolate ganache – come from an old family recipe. $4.50 each. www.sweetpersuasions.com

Bandit Choppers

Motorcycle Repair and Fabrication for Harley, Choppers, Bobbers Engine Overhaul Cam Intake Exhaust Tires Oil Custom Fabrication

Santa Paws High-quality natural pet foods are the main draw at PetPeople, but even if you don’t know what your – or a friend’s – dog or cat might want to eat, the store offers items that can appeal to any animal or owner. These paw print Christmas stockings from Outward Hound ensure Fido and Fifi have a presence on the mantle, too. $6.99-$8.99. www.petpeoplestores.com

1190 Hill Rd. Pickerington, OH 43147 614-556-4416 www.banditchoppers.net facebook BanditChoppers 20

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Come Dancing A friend on the hunt for a new fitness regimen might appreciate the Zumba & Ballet Body Fit classes at ML Dance Academy. The sessions – taught by studio owners and professional dancers Joe and Yulia Moriarty – are available in 10and 20-class packages. $80-$130. www.themldanceacademy.com

Flavors: Spicy Twist, Fiesta Taco Cinnamon Twist, Peppermint Cocoa, Zesty Ranch ChipotleQue Great as customized favors for weddings, birthday parties and more!

Contented Cuticles Any of the wealth of nail services at Studio M Salon & Spa, which also offers hair services, may appeal to someone on your list. For a unique option, you might consider buying that someone the hot stone spa pedicure, a foot-focused variation on the more familiar hot stone massage. $40. www.studiompickerington.com

Book our Pretzel Bar for your next party or event.

Pretzels With a Twist by Nay's Creative Ways 614-332-3534

nay@nayscreativeways.com www.nayscreativeways.com Facebook - Pretzels With a Twist

• Paint your own pottery • Walk-ins Welcome • Create handpainted gifts • Classes and events for all ages

Fine Furnishings Resale Furniture in Olde Pickerington Village specializes in high-quality, name-brand furniture, most of it pre-owned. A good example is this William Switzer china cabinet; the price tag, while nothing to sneeze at, is a fraction of its $35,000 cost new. $4,995. www.facebook.com/resalefurniture

10701 Blacklick Eastern Road Suite 200A Pickerington OH 43147

614-861-1500 www.FlutterByCeramics.com Like us on Facebook and Instagram

$5.00 off any size bisque.

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Shutterbugs 2!

More submissions from Pickerington and Violet Township residents

Start collecting your photos now for next year’s Pickerington Magazine Shutterbugs feature!

Rosalyn Guzman

Kim Mayhan

Janice Thomas

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Andie Myers

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Guardian Angels Photos courtesy of Michele McTeague

Female business leaders spend the holidays collecting toys for those in need

By Jaya Pillai

O

n the first Friday of every month, members of the Women’s Leadership Coalition gather to talk, listen to a guest speaker or take a field trip to a local business.

This holiday season, several members of the coalition will meet the community’s needs in a different way: by giving to the Salvation Army Christmas Angels program.

“We’re taking a big chunk of kids and families and having all of our clients bring gifts to the Christmas party on Dec. 3,” says Michele Cook, coalition member and owner of Body Ache Escape.

The coalition, established by the Pickerington Area Chamber of Commerce, was formed to offer local female executives the chance to network and build relationships in the community. Members are encouraged to support area nonprofits, and Christmas Angels fits the bill for a number of them.

Much of the connection to the Salvation Army is due to the work of coalition member Michele McTeague, resource development manager at the Salvation Army’s Lancaster branch and owner of Allvera Body Wrap & Wellness Center in Pickerington. McTeague and her husband have served for 20 years with the Christ-

mas Angels program, through which families in need can create wish lists of household items or toys to be purchased by well-wishing strangers.

“Some adopt one child, and some adopt a whole family,” McTeague says.

“On the kids’ wish lists, we include age, gender, favorite color and favorite sports team. The kids can ask for one big item like a bike or video game, and we list their clothing sizes for anything from socks to coats.”

The day the presents are distributed, the Salvation Army rents out and decorates a warehouse at the Fairfield County Fairgrounds, where a SWAT team helps hand out gifts to parents.

“It’s fun to see these big burly guys brought to tears when someone hugs them and thanks them,” McTeague says.

Last year, the organization added a new dimension, allowing the individuals coming to collect gifts the opportunity to give their thanks.

“There was this woman who is raising her 16- or 17-year-old grandson. He wanted to work with law enforcement and help people in recovery from drug abuse,” McTeague says. “I happen to know

the person who adopted them; it was my neighbor. Her husband owns a recovery house. With permission of both parties, we were able to connect them. It was so meaningful to both of them.”

McTeague views the program as both an eye-opener and a way to give to those in need.

“When you have your own child and you think about the children that won’t experience that joy on Christmas morning, if you have an empathetic bone in your body it will break your heart,” she says. “I felt we needed to do something for these kids who wouldn’t know that if not for the Salvation Army. It’s a charity that has people’s best interest in heart, regardless of their beliefs. Need has no boundaries for the Salvation Army.”

Individuals interested in contributing to Christmas Angels can learn more via the program’s website, www. sachristmasangels.com.

Jaya Pillai is a contributing writer.

Feedback welcome at gbishop@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

For all your Holiday shopping!!!

RELATED READS THE AVON STORE IN PICKERINGTON www.pickeringtonmagazine.com 539 Hill Road N Pickerington, Ohio 43147

• Salvation Army donor Sophisticated Systems, Inc. 614-595-0442 • United Way of Central Ohio CEO Janet Jackson waseyhaseeb@hotmail.com • Huntington CEO and United Way campaign co-chairman www.youravon.com/FMAQSOOD Steve Steinour • Charity black-tie events • Pickerington Chamber’s ATHENA Awards www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

For all your Holiday shopping!!!

THE AVON STORE IN PICKERINGTON - Avon Calling, One Stop Shop!

539 Hill Road N Pickerington, Ohio 43147 614-595-0442 waseyhaseeb@hotmail.com www.youravon.com/FMAQSOOD

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A New Twist on an “Olde” Favorite Holiday Gathering adds a marketplace to its line-up

By William Kosileski

T

his year’s Olde Pickerington Village Holiday Gathering is offering vendors without their own storefronts an easy way to make themselves part of the shopping season.

One highlight of the annual event is the marketplace, which will be hosted by Romeo’s Pizza.

The Holiday Gathering is slated for 5-8:30 p.m. on Dec. 4 at the center of Olde Pickerington Village.

“This marketplace will serve as an opportunity for people in Pickerington to promote their products,” says Jason Diehl, president of the Olde Pickerington Village Business Association.

Diehl is also the owner of two businesses, Ritzy Rose and Vintage Diehls, that will be part of the marketplace.

“I didn’t have a space, and I know there are a number of different people that don’t have a space,” he says. “I wanted to give others the opportunity to sell and promote their products for the holiday season.”

Jennifer’s Custom Designs, which sells handmade and repurposed jewelry and accessories, will also be included.

“I use a lot of vintage stuff,” owner Jennifer Sheehan says. “I enjoy dirty things that I can turn from trash to treasure.”

Another vendor, Pretzels with a Twist, glad that it is being put together, not just will offer a variety of flavored pretzels, in- for us, but for everyone involved.” cluding Fiesta Taco and Harvest Pumpkin.

Sponsored by OPVBA and the Picker“(The marketplace) helps people to ington Parks and Recreation Department, have a one-stop shopping place for ChristRitzy Rose mas,” says owner Nay Dismore. “I am so Jennifer’s Custom Designs

Marketplace Vendors

Jennifer’s Custom Designs: handcrafted jewelry, accessories and home décor Mama Wehn Imaginings: upcycled, handcrafted items such as candles and coasters Pretzels with a Twist: gourmet pretzels, sold in packages and gift baskets Team Spirit Sports: hand-crafted flags and banners Ritzy Rose: Homemade jewelry and accessories, such as necklaces and headpieces Vintage Diehls: Vintage apparel and accessories, such as sweaters, rings and bracelets 24

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Mama Wehn Imaginings

Photo courtesy of David Beckham

Vintage Diehls

Vintage Diehls

Vintage Diehls

Photo courtesy of David Beckham

Photo courtesy of David Beckham

Jennifer’s Custom Designs

the Holiday Gathering is a free, family-friendly event.

Guests can take pictures with Santa, shop, ride a carriage, make crafts and more.

The City of Pickerington’s Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place at Gazebo Park at 7:30 p.m.

“There are a lot of different components that should boast for a very fun evening,” Diehl says. “Adding the marketplace is just one more step into evolving this event into a larger event.”

William Kosileski is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com.

RELATED READS www.pickeringtonmagazine.com • Crafters throughout central Ohio communities • Ceramicist Carol Snyder • Central Ohio gift guide www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

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student spotlight

By Jaya Pillai

Student Spotlight features a student from a different area high school in every issue.

Rising High Central’s Aubrey Gray is involved in teaching while still a student

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Her goal is to attain both a teaching certification for grades 7-12 and a reading endorsement.

“I could specialize and really help students who have trouble,” says Gray. “I want to work with kids who struggle and have issues reading.”

She hopes to attend Capital University in the fall.

“I’m just waiting on my acceptance letter,” says Gray. “I love the small campus atmosphere, and Bexley is an amazing small town.”

Gray has worked hard to turn her dreams into reality. She first became involved with Educators Rising, a network of students and teacher-leaders committed to improving education, through Eastland-Fairfield Career and Technical Schools.

Now, as vice president,

Aubrey Gray traveled to Washington, D.C. this past summer for a White House program on education.

she works with local and national chapters to promote the organization’s values and lead service projects.

The highlight of her experience as VP? Hearing First Lady Michelle Obama speak at the White House this past summer. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photos courtesy of Aubrey Gray

S

he may be only 18, but Aubrey Gray knows what she wants – to teach – and she knows how to get there.

In fact, as vice president of the statewide Educators Rising organization, she’s already got a head start.

Multiple factors have guided the decision of the Pickerington High School Central senior, several connected to her deep involvement at her school. These efforts include three years in Chorale, an elite choir; two years as the leader of Lighthouse Christian club; co-founder of Chain Reaction, a silent service club promoting random acts of kindness; the principal’s academic advisory committee; National Honor Society; and three years in Sunnyside Up, a teacher-nominated leadership program.

Through it all, Gray’s passion and drive have always been education.

“I want to teach high school English,” she says. “I love reading and writing. I blog, I journal; I have so many journals. I think that love of reading and writing pours into my schoolwork. I think I could teach it really well.”

“Besides my mother, she’s my main role model,” Gray says.

Gray credits her family for teaching her compassion. Her father, Arthur, is a pastor at Linden Life Fellowship in Columbus, and her mother, Leigh Ann, serves with the church. Her older brothers, Taelor and Chris, are a pastor and recording artist, respectively.

“My dad is a really compassionate person who knows how to see other people’s pain and tries to help. Being a part of the church has really influenced that in me,” she says. “My family is a really tightknit crew. I wouldn’t be where I am today if they weren’t there for me.”

About her mom, Gray adds, “She’s a rock star.”

In a roundabout way, her family also inspired her interest in education. Growing up, her father had his own choir, and her brothers formed a rap group. Education seemed like the perfect way for Aubrey to break away from the family mold while doing something meaningful.

“I come from a very musical family,” she says. “I wanted to do something normal because everyone was doing extravagant things.”

So when someone had to work with kids at the church, Gray volunteered.

“I fell in love with being with the kids,” she says. “The more time I spent with them I realized this is where I need to be.”

Gray hopes to work with students from the inner city, especially students of color, she says.

“They don’t have a lot of people standing in front of them who look like them,” she says. “A lot of those kids have a lot of needs. I used to hate hearing how much they hate school and how their teachers don’t understand. Those are the kids I have a heart for. I want to help them reach their potential.”

Jaya Pillai is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com.

RELATED READS www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photo courtesy of Sen Bai

• Westerville student’s work with charity • Columbus authors’ literacy efforts • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Fairfield County • Previous Student Spotlight subject Alan Waterhouse • Pickerington resident Dwight Carter, principal at NAHS 27

on the table

By William Kosileski

Photos courtesy of Nay Dismore

Twisted Sister

Many-siblinged hospitality consultant bakes up unique pretzels

N

o doubt, you’ve seen some of the variations on pretzel flavors put out by the big companies: garlic, black pepper, honey mustard, etc.

But what about zesty ranch or fiesta taco? What about peppermint cocoa or cinnamon? Maybe barbecue or spicy?

That’s what’s on the menu baked up

by Pickerington resident Nay Dismore.

Dismore is owner of hospitality consulting company Nay’s Creative Ways, and part of that company is Pretzels with a Twist, launched in 2014.

“We put a new twist on a classic snack,” Dismore says. “We didn’t try to improve the pretzel itself; we try to take it to a new level.”

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The Official Magazine of Pickerington and Violet Township

Having grown up in New Albany, Ind. as the 10th of 16 children, Dismore has spent about 30 years hosting parties, meetings, tea parties and other events through her company, leading her friends to nickname her “The Hospitality Queen,” she says.

“I teach hospitality and I teach manners,” she says. “It’s amazing what a lost art manners are.”

Dismore still hosts specialty tea parties on a smaller scale, but she decided to go a different direction with her business and eventually landed on gourmet pretzels, she says. She chose pretzels because they are low in calories and easy to make, and she got good feedback whenever she served them at events.

After experimenting with other flavors at the commercial kitchen at Food Fort Columbus through central Ohio nonprofit the Economic & Community Development Institute, she held tastings around the area.

“I saw that people were indeed interested and liked the pretzels that I’ve come up with,” says Dismore.

When she realized she needed more help, she began contracting with ARC Industries’ Sunapple Co., which offers three kitchen facilities throughout central Ohio, where she and her team make the pretzels. They are sold online and at 10 Ohio storefronts.

Each pretzel has a different recipe and seasoning blend that must be mixed extensively both before and after baking. www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

“One of the secrets of the flavoring of these pretzels is the stirring,” Dismore says. “You’ve got to stir them to get the seasonings and everything mixed in there very well before you bake them.”

She avoids online research and the common chocolate-covered and yogurtcovered pretzels, preferring to stick to her less common flavors.

“I know I can take my pretzels anywhere,” she says. “I love seeing people happy when they eat them.”

Nay says that she couldn’t have done anything without the love and support of her husband, Terry, who helps her come up with creative ideas for her business.

When not making pretzels or engaging in her consulting business, Dismore takes the occasional side gig as a standup comedian, often as part of Xtreme Gospel Comedy.

William Kosileski is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at gbishop@ cityscenemediagroup.com.

RELATED READS www.pickeringtonmagazine.com • North Market pretzel purveyor Brezel • Chocolate Café’s Buckeye Pretzel • Healthful vending machines • Soft pretzels at Grandview’s Hofbrauhaus • Pickerington’s cupcake scene

Mailed to EVERY homeowner and business in Pickerington and Violet Township

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Empathetic Employment

By William Kosileski

Job Fusion program helps find employment for people with developmental disabilities

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www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

Photos courtesy of Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities

F

inding a new job is always a trying task, and it can be even tougher for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Fortunately, in Pickerington – and throughout Fairfield County – there is a resource in place to make that process easier.

The Job Fusion program, the community employment division of the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities, serves as an employment agency for people with developmental disabilities.

“For every individual that wants to work, we are going to do our best to find them employment,” says Temple Montanez, director of marketing and community relations.

Housed at the board’s Pickerington Center, the program helps individuals with disabilities find jobs based on their personal needs and abilities. Job Fusion meets with job-seekers and comes up with a plan to help them succeed, says Doug Mitchell, program manager.

“We are really tryJohn Hamilton works at the Fairfield County Dog Shelter and Adoption Center ing to achieve what we thanks to Job Fusion. call a person-centered focus,” Mitchell says. ple are involved with the Since 1985, the board has offered em“We aren’t deciding or program, Montanez says. ployment services, and has recently modisuggesting what an inJohn Hamilton is an fied its service to make it easier to condividual should do as employee at the Fairfield nect workers to employment services. It an occupation; we are County Dog Shelter and adopted the name Job Fusion a few years taking more time to Adoption Center thanks ago to be more identifiable to businesses, hear what their interests to Job Fusion. To Ham- Mitchell says. are, and we are providilton, the most impor“Everybody has a right to work,” ing them with skills and tant thing about work- Montanez says. “A disability is just one education to help suping is being able to help part of who they are.” port the individual to contribute to his family, achieve their goal.”

Montanez says.

William Kosileski is a contributing These skills are Another person that writer. Feedback welcome at gbishop@ taught through on-site Brittany Cain works at the Board of DD has found employment cityscenemediagroup.com. in Pickerington through the program. job training, employthrough Job Fusion is ability skills training, inBrittany Cain, a recepternships and working with job coaches to tionist at the Fairfield County Board of RELATED READS improve job performance.

DD in Pickerington. Before obtaining this “We put so much effort into prepar- job, Cain had a few internships through www.pickeringtonmagazine.com ing and helping the person to be success- Job Fusion, which made her familiar with • Civitan Club’s work with developmental ful before they are referred to a business,” the program. disabilities Mitchell says. “It’s a win-win situation in “It is nice to be in a working environboth ways: helping a business obtain a ment where people don’t treat you differ- • Westerville business owners who work good employee, and helping the individ- ently because of your disability,” Cain says. with seniors and the disabled ual to be a successful worker.”

Other establishments that have hired • Columbus artist who works with the Job Fusion has helped more than 60 workers through Job Fusion include Gidisabled people find employment throughout Fair- ant Eagle, Kroger, Wesley Ridge Retire• Brain Injury Association of Ohio CEO field County, including Pickerington, in ment Community and Abbington Asabout 40 businesses. More than 100 peo- sisted Living.

• Library’s Outreach Services program

bookmarks

By Colleen C. Bauman, Pickerington Public Library Community Services Coordinator

Southern Soups & Stews: More than 75 Recipes from Burgoo and Gumbo to Etoufee and Fricassee

and Isabelle have a new baby. Of course, the baby’s baptism brings all the Quinns and their issues together. Mitzi shows back up full of anguish, suffering from the disappearance of their son Bart, who has gone missing in the war. Nantucket is in turmoil again.

from the Classic American General Store

Auggie & Me: Three Wonder Stories

By Nancie McDermott Ladle up steaming soups A Shiloh Christmas and stews from recipes handBy Phyllis Reynolds Naylor ed down through the generaOur favorite rescued beagle and tions. Regional favorites such his boy, Marty, are back with a holiday as Brunswick stew or buraddition to the Shiloh series. This story goo from Kentucky and even is set a year after Marty saved Shiloh Charleston-style she-crab soup from Judd. The town is learning to acrecipes have been adapted cept the new Judd as he works to imfrom feeding a few to a big famprove his reputation. New in town is a ily gathering. So gather your family and friends to taste minister who preaches sermons full of southern cooking with a glimpse into how food has been fire and brimstone. Missing is the holfarmed, cooked and celebrated. iday joy and brotherly love that should come with the season. Then a fire sweeps through the woods claiming many homes, including Judd’s. Who set the fire? What The Vermont Country Store happened to Judd’s dogs? Though the story is full of heartCookbook: Recipes, stopping suspense and lots of questions, a holiday miracle is History, and Lore certainly needed to come up with all the answers.

By Ellen Ecker Ogden and Andrea Diehl This cookbook captures the nostalgia and happy memories of our childhoods with mouth-watering recipes that will soon become family favorites, such as warm and satisfying cheddar popovers (did you know the trick to these is heating the muffin pan before adding the batter?), spicy ginger snaps that are yummy stuffed with ice cream, and a blueberry pie recipe that will work just fine in a store-bought crust because it is all about the berries.

Winter Stroll

By Elin Hilderbrand The Quinn family has returned for another busy holiday season at the Winter Street Inn. Readers who enjoyed last year’s Winter Street will be happy to know that Kelley has reunited with his first wife, and Kevin

By R.J. Palacio Picking up where Wonder left off, this trio of new chapters is thoughtprovoking and touching. Told from the point of view of Julian, Christopher and Charlotte, the book tells the reader their backstories and how Auggie impacted their lives.

Click, Clack, Ho! Ho! Ho!

By Doreen Cronin and Betsy Levin It’s the night before Christmas, and Duck is at it again. While Farmer Brown decorates his tree and awaits Santa, Duck dons goggles and climbing spurs to zipline to the farm house. Click Clack, oh no! Duck is stuck in the chimney, and Santa is on his way. What happens next is classic Click Clack humor that is laugh-out-loud funny.

The Pickerington Public Library has been serving the Pickerington Local School District since 1915.

The Library’s Mission statement: Inspire Library Hours: Knowledge, Connect Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Community, Enrich our Friday & Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sunday 1-5 p.m.

World, Read! www.pickeringtonmagazine.com

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