Westerville Magazine January/February 2019

A Will of Iron

Shannon Hall overcomes challenges to become an Iron Man competitor

Westerville’s MODEL Program Caring and Sharing WSMS Library Renovation www.westervillemagazine.com

Caring for Columbus families’ smiles for over 25 years

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At the Westerville Medical Campus, we deliver all of the care you need in one location. From primary and speciality care to 24/7 emergency care, we’re here to make care convenient in your community. + Heart and vascular care

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Westerville

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magazine

CityScene Media Group 1335 Dublin Rd., Suite 101C Columbus, Ohio 43215 614-572-1240 • Fax 614-572-1241 www.cityscenecolumbus.com

Kathleen K. Gill President/CEO

Gianna Barrett Vice President, Sales

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Nathan Collins Managing Editor

Jenny Wise Associate Editor

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Amanda DePerro Contributing Editor

Maggie Ash Contributing Writers Emily Chen Kendall Lindstrom

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Circulation 614-572-1240

City of Westerville

FIGHT YOUR BATTLES HERE

Christa Dickey Community Affairs

Administrator

www.wester villemagazine.com CityScene Media Group also publishes: CityScene Magazine www.CitySceneColumbus.com Dublin Life Magazine www.DublinLifeMagazine.com Tri-Village Magazine www.TriVillageMagazine.com Healthy New Albany Magazine www.HealthyNewAlbanyMagazine.com Pickerington Magazine www.PickeringtonMagazine.com HealthScene Ohio www.HealthSceneOhio.com Discover Grove City Magazine www.DiscoverGroveCity.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 ncollins@ cityscenemediagroup.com. Publisher does not assume responsibility for loss or damage.

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4 January/February 2019

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Inside

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2019 VOL. 18 NO. 3

09

CityReporter

06 community calendar

News and Information from the City of Westerville

09 city reporter

News and Information from the City of Westerville

Schedule a Private Tour Today!

15 faces

Do It for Yourself

(614) 888-7492

Westerville woman changes diet and lifestyle to become an Iron Man Participant

www.wesleyglen.com 5155 North High Street • Columbus, Ohio 43214

18 in focus

18

The Future is Female

Westerville’s MODEL program continues to inspire and nurture students

20 Helping Hands for the Holiday

Walnut Springs Middle School sees an impact with remodeled library

26 living

24

Turning it up a Notch

Westerville-based Financial Providence Group installs extravagant large-scale aquariums

28 on the table

A Growing Dream

Megan Ada, owner of Asterisk Supper Club, plans to open another restaurant

30 Bookmarks

@westervillemagazine Read more online at WestervilleMagazine.com www.westervillemagazine.com

Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)

Westerville Caring and Sharing lives up to its name

22 Around Westerville 24 Innovation Inspires

Know. Understand. Care.

Managed by:

’s yo H ere

ur k

ey

nie Con ski ow Sad

search for homes www.conniesadowski.com Westerville Expert YOUR DREAM REALTOR® Connie Sadowski, REALTOR® RE/MAX Premierchoice #1 Mobile 614-943-0025 Office 614-436-0330 Connie@conniesadowski.com

On the Cover Photo courtesy of Isiah Robinson Story on page 15

January/February 2019

5

2019

SAT FRI THU 4 3 2 11 10 9 8 18 7 17 6 16 5 15 25 14 24 13 23 12 22 21 31 20 30 19 29 28 27 26

WED TUE MON 1 SUN

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

Jan. 1

Jan. 9

Jan. 2- March 1

Jan. 12

OhioHealth First on the First 5K 11 a.m., Westerville Community Center, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., www.m3ssports.com Celebrate the Arts Writing Contest: Accepting Submissions Westerville Public Library, 126 S. State St., www.westervillelibrary.org

January

Preschool Open House 6:30-8 p.m. Westerville Community Center, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., www.westerville.org Sharon Woods: Winter Hike 10-11 a.m., Sharon Woods Metro Park, 6911 Cleveland Ave., www.metroparks.net

Jan. 21

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Breakfast Celebration Plane of Liberation: Dialectic 8 a.m., Villa Milano Banquet & Conference Center, 1630 of Social Space Schrock Rd., Columbus, Leslie H. and Ethyl Rose Miller Gallery, 33 Collegeview www.westervillechamber.com Rd., www.otterbein.edu

Jan. 7-Feb. 13

Jan. 7-May 1

Land in Flames Fisher Gallery, 27 S. Grove St., www.otterbein.edu

Jan. 16-April 27

Paraiso Tropical (Tropical Paradise) The Frank Museum of Art, 39 S. Vine St., www.otterbein.edu

Jan. 19-20

Festival: A Two-Day Celebration of StudentImagined Work 8 p.m., Campus Center Theatre, 100 W. Home St., www.otterbein.edu

Jan. 5

Paint the ‘Ville Teal 9 a.m.-noon, 285 N. State St., Ste. 200 Uptown Westerville, www.paintthevilleteal.org

Jan. 27

Inniswood: Winter Hike 2-4 p.m., Inniswood Metro Gardens, 940 S. Hempstead Rd., www.inniswood.org

Jan. 27

New Babylon (a silent film) 5 p.m., Riley Auditorium in Battelle Hall, 170 W. Park St., www.westervillesymphony.org

Paint the ‘Ville Teal

Sponsored by the Westerville Visitors & Convention Bureau For more events, visit www.visitwesterville.org

6 January/February 2019

www.westervillemagazine.com

February WESTERVILLE -DENTAL HEALTH-

We’re Just a Smile Away!

Feb. 2

Tunes & Tales 9:30-10 a.m., Westerville Public Library, 126 S. State St., www.westervillelibrary.org

Stephen R Malik, DDS –General Dentistry– Dr. Malik has more than 25 years of experience.

Feb. 2

Chilly Open Noon-5 p.m., Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, 4850 W. Powell Rd., Powell, www.chillyopen.org

OFFERING: Gentle Caring Staff

Feb. 14-17 and 21-23

Hay Fever Fritsche Theatre at Cowan Hall, 30 S. Grove St., www.otterbein.edu

Feb. 16

Westerville Community Bowl-A-thon 11:30 a.m.-3:45 p.m., Columbus Square Bowling Palace, 5707 Forest Hills Blvd., Columbus, www. westervillebowlathon.com

Feb. 22-March 14

22nd Annual Juried Student Exhibition – Public Reception 5-7 p.m., Leslie H. and Ethyl Rose Miller Gallery, 33 Collegeview Rd., www.otterbein.edu

Same Day Crowns

March 1-4

Arnold Sports Festival Throughout central Ohio, www.arnold sports festival.com

Westerville Community Bowl-a-thon

Botox® Juvéderm® Nitrous Oxide Saturday Appointments Accepting New Patients!

614.882.6741 180 Commerce Park Dr. Westerville, OH 43082 Located in office complex, last building on the left by the bike path. westervilledentalhealth.com

www.westervillemagazine.com

January/February 2019

7

Fitness in Retirement Are you physically fit enough to enjoy your retirement?

Do you want to:

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Increase energy? Combat depression?

Have fewer aches and pains? Skydive?

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Shannon offers one-on-one fitness sessions working with those who would like to enhance their lifestyle and maintain independence. She has experience with Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and recent rehabilitation clients.

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Looking for something to do?

Celebrating 40 years

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Named Best Retirement Community by Columbus CEO’s 2018 Best of Business Awards

See what’s on the menu this weekend and beyond!

Sign up for CityScene Magazine’s weekly event newsletter at cityscenecolumbus.com

2018

2018

2017

Are you ready to start living the Village life?

Call (614) 304-3915 or visit fvcolumbus.org to learn more.

8 January/February 2019

Check out cityscenecolumbus.com

www.westervillemagazine.com

NEWS FROM THE CITY OF WESTERVILLE • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2019

CityReporter www.westerville.org

One Year Later One year ago, on a cold, gray Saturday morning in February, Westerville Division of Police (WPD) Officers Anthony “Tony” Morelli and Eric Joering were killed in the line of duty while responding to a 9-1-1 hang-up call. Officer “Tony” Morelli served the community for 30 years as a patrol and school resource officer. Officer Joering, a 17-year officer with WPD had most recently worked as a detective before accepting a position as a K9 officer with Sam, a Belgian Malinois and WPD's newest dog at the time. Their deaths were a horrific tragedy for the City and inspired an unprecedented outpouring of community support, rallying behind the banner of #WestervilleStrong.

For many months, Westerville was cast in blue lights www.westervillemagazine.com

and ribbons. As business in the City resumed and the community found its new normal, it became clear that things would never be quite the same. February 10 will be a day forever etched into the history of the City.

In the spirit of continuing the supportive and caring momentum generated after the tragic event, community members banded together to spread kindness to honor Officers Morelli

and Joering. To name a few examples, groups were created to advocate for acts of kindness in their honor; the Westerville City School District dedicated Westerville South High School’s new victory bell to Westerville’s first responders; the Ohio Department of Transportation designated a portion of I-270 as, “Officers Anthony Morelli and Eric Joering Memorial Highway” and much more.

Work to honor the legacies of Westerville’s fallen officers will continue in 2019 with the expansion of First Responders Park, 374 W. Main St. The park, funded partially by an appropriation of $500,000 donation from the Ohio General Assembly, will be expanded to honor all first responders, with a special tribute to Officers Morelli and Joering.

A community memorial event is planned for Sunday, Feb. 10. More information will be available on the City’s website, www.westerville.org/ westervillestrong.

January/February 2019

9

CityReporter

Staff Profile

Welcome to Westerville, Assistant Chief Murchland

Describe your career experience thus far.

I retired from the Kettering Police Department after 25 years of service. I worked a variety of assignments and also participated in a variety of community outreach programs including selfdefense programs for women and children, as well as the development of the Kettering Police Department’s Junior Crime Scene Investigation Camp. I was promoted to Sergeant, where I served as the first line supervisor for both patrol officers and commander of the Hostage NegotiaChief Holly Murchland, pictured here in Uptown tion Team. Later, I took on the role Westerville, was sworn in as Westerville’s new of first line supervisor for the KetAssistant Police Chief in October. tering Communication Center. I In October 2018, the City of Wester- oversaw the successful consolidation ville Division of Police welcomed Holly of the police and fire centers into one Murchland as the newest Assistant cohesive communication center. After Chief of Police. A 25-year veteran the joint center was established, I led of the law enforcement field, Chief the process of obtaining an important Murchland holds a bachelor of arts in accreditation for the center. When I criminal justice from Anderson Univer- earned the rank of lieutenant, I became sity. She came to Westerville from the the Kettering Police Department’s first Kettering Police Department, where female command officer. I served as she had a robust career including the third-watch patrol commander, and assignments as a patrol officer, evi- lastly the commander of the Kettering dence technician, field training officer Investigations Section. and hostage negotiator. When she’s not serving the Westerville Commu- What has been the proudest nity, Chief Murchland enjoys spending moment in your career?

When I served as the third-watch time with her husband, Bob, and two commander in Kettering, we started daughters, Madeline and Morgan. the year with a shift goal of working on our ability to work together as a coheWelcome to Westerville! Why did sive team. We exceeded expectations you decide to enter the field?

Law enforcement was a profession I and really knocked this goal out of the knew I wanted to be a part of from the park. Working together as a team, we time I was a child. I had a fascination had over 100% increase in drug arrests with superheroes, especially Wonder and a 16% increase in overall arrests. I Woman, and this was the closest thing was very proud of all the work the offiI could think of to being a superhero. cers on my shift did to accomplish this.

I always found law enforcement as an honorable and noble profession and I What do you hope to accomplish during your time in Westerville? wanted to be a part of that.

10 January/February 2019

I hope to continue and build on what Chief Morbitzer has already accomplished regarding the various Community Outreach projects. The strong bond and relationship that has been established between the police and the community of Westerville is evident, and I would want to ensure it continues and grows.

What’s the best thing about your job?

I have been blessed with the opportunity to work, both at Kettering and now Westerville, with some of the very best people. They are hard-working, smart, funny and caring, and I’m proud to be a part of that.

What’s something about your job that might surprise people?

I think it would surprise people with how much fun the job can be.

People have a tendency to view police officers as always having to be stern and, obviously, there are plenty of those moments where we are dealing with very serious situations and issues. However, between those serious moments can be a lot of laughter.

It is really important to keep a sense of humor to help you through those challenging times.

Chandler Promoted to Assistant Chief In December, WPD Lt. Charles Chandler was promoted to Assistant Chief. Chief Chandler, who most recently served as a commander of the Detective Bureau, holds a Bachelors and a Masters degree in Criminal Justice. He is expected to take his ceremonial oath of office in early 2019. www.westervillemagazine.com

CityReporter

Public Safety Profile

Spend a Day in the Life of a Westerville Firefighter

It’s around 7:30 a.m. on a cold, snowy Tuesday morning in November at Westerville Fire Station 111, 400 W. Main St. The men and women of the Westerville Division of Fire (WFD) working out of the station this morning have no sooner lined up for their start-of-shift meeting before a loud tone peels through the surrounding speakers, followed by the voice of a calm communications technician dispatching a medic and a ladder truck to an accident on Schrock Road. In a matter of seconds, the team is off toward the call.

According to Battalion Chief Andy Hicks, it takes a lot of planning to be ready to jump into spontaneous action.

“The first thing they do at the beginning of each shift is to go through the trucks, front to back, to make sure they know where everything is,” Chief Westerville Division of Fire Batallion Chief Andy Hicks takes command of a crash scene along Schrock Road.

Hicks says. “It’s like muscle memory, they need to know where the would want to sit in a cubicle,” Hicks great importance on continuous eduequipment is when the pressure is on.” says. Action-driven indeed. In 2017, cation and training.

At the crash site, the Westerville WFD responded to 5,464 EMS and “We’re having to be better educated Division of Police secures the scene 2,064 fire-related calls. in everything we do. We have to underwhile the WFD crew makes quick Chief Hicks says the nature of the stand the science,” Chief Hicks says. work of assessing the victims. Emer- work has changed drastically during Westerville firefighters work 24-hour gency Medical Services (EMS) calls his 35-year career. On the firefighting shifts, so when they’re not responding make up a large share of WFD’s side, synthetic materials used in newer to calls and training, they take care of overall workload. As Chief Hicks will homes lead to fires that burn faster other tasks from installing free smoke tell you, Westerville firefighters are and hotter than before. The dangers detectors through the You Call, We’ll wired to help. for EMS work have increased as well, Install program to equipment mainte“You hear about the glamour of with more responses to people who nance, general housekeeping around firefighting, the excitement. But most have ingested fentanyl, a narcotic that the stations and more. of these professionals have a real can cause harm to first responders who Get a closer look at the Westerville sense of community. They’re action- come into contact with the smallest Division of Fire, visit www.westerville. driven. These aren’t the people who amount. To counter this, WFD places org/fire. www.westervillemagazine.com

January/February 2019

11

CityReporter

Economic Development Profile

South State Street Investments Continue to Pay Off

Nearly two years after the City celebrated the official end of the South State Street Improvements project, the commercial area continues to boom. The improvements, representing a $30 million investment from the City over eight years, have generated

approximately $75 million in private investment in the area.

“We worked strategically to revitalize the infrastructure of the City’s major gateway and now we’re seeing the fruits of our labor in real-time, with businesses choosing to invest

Primary Solutions, 707 Park Meadow Rd., is located less than a mile from the thriving South State Street area.

the area,” says Jason Bechtold, Economic Development director for the City of Westerville.

Case in point: Primary Solutions, which combined two locations into one facility at 707 Park Meadow Rd. in July. Owner Brian Marshall says the public investment in the area was a big draw.

“We chose Westerville because of its great mix of business-friendly amenities as well as having benefits for our employees. Our office is right on the Alum Creek bike trail and we have staff that enjoy it daily. The [South] State Street corridor is a big draw at lunchtime and Uptown is a great gathering spot after work,” Marshall says. “Our customers can now easily navigate the upgraded south corridor and find our offices. The proximity to I-270 makes it easy.”

Anchored by the Aloft Hotel, 32 Heatherdown Dr., the updates to the South State Street area today have set the stage for more growth with MidCity Electric moving to the area and Financial Providence Group's expansion.

Additionally, a First Watch restaurant expected to open in spring 2019.

Learn more about strides the City has taken to bolster economic development at business.westerville.org.

Keep Up on Snow Plowing Progress this Winter When snow falls in the City, the Westerville Public Service Department’s Road Warriors work day and night to keep streets safe and clear for first responders, residents and visitors.

You can track Westerville Road Warriors in two, six, 12 and 24-hour increments and find data about your specific street on the Westerville Road Warriors portal.

Access it on the My Westerville mobile app or on any device by visiting www. westerville.org/roadwarriors.

12 January/February 2019

www.westervillemagazine.com

CityReporter

Westerville Eyeing Spot on “Top7” Smart Communities The City of Westerville will soon learn if the community is included on the list of 2019 Top7 Intelligent Communities by the Intelligent Community Forum (ICF). Westerville was one of only four U.S. cities to be named to the 2019 Global Smart 21 Communities by ICF in October.

ICF officials define smart communities as those which have come to understand the challenges of a global economy and taken conscious steps to create an ecosystem capable of prospering within it. The ICF evaluates communities on the basis of their performance in six key indicators: broadband connectivity, knowledge workforce, innovation, digital equality, sustainability and advocacy. This year, the community’s performances were evaluated against the theme of Infinite Learning.

During the process, communities are evaluated based on collaborative efforts between city government, private business and education. The City has worked closely with representatives from The Point at Otterbein University, Westerville City Schools, Westerville Public Library and other key stakeholders to craft the nomination, which combines reporting data with narrative storytelling, demonstrating the community’s strengths as a hub of innovation and opportunity.

Initiatives like the City’s WeConnect data center and fiber network were representative elements of this innovative approach in the Westerville application which resulted in the Smart 21 designation.

The City of Hudson, Ohio was the other municipality in the state to be named to the Smart21 list. The cities of Columbus and Dublin have previously been recognized as Smart21 communities.

Top7 finalists will be announced on Feb. 11. Those who make the list will be in the running to be named the ICF Intelligent Community of the Year.

For more information about ICF, visit www.intelligentcommunity.org. www.westervillemagazine.com

Mark Your Calendars Westerville Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast Celebration Monday, Jan. 21 beginning at 8 a.m.

The Westerville community will celebrate the 14th-annual Westerville Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast Celebration at the Villa Milano Banquet & Conference Center (1630 Schrock Rd.) on Monday, Jan. 21.

Online registration for this event closes on Monday, Jan. 14. All are invited to join this morning of unity, song and celebration of community.

The morning’s theme is Remain Awake and will feature a presentation

by Reverend Dr. Gayle Fisher-Stewart, who served 20 years as a police officer and now serves at Calvary Episcopal Church. The celebration also includes the annual Fouse and Alston Awards, which recognize students and community members who have put the ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. into action. Registration prices are $30 per adult and $20 per student. Businesses may sponsor a table for $350, which includes 10 breakfast registrations and special recognition as a table sponsor.

Program advertising and sponsorship opportunities are also available. Find more information at www.westerville chamber.com.

Community Memorial Event Sunday, Feb. 10 from 6-8 p.m.

A community memorial event to honor Westerville Division of Police Officers Anthony Morelli and Eric Joering is planned for Sunday, Feb. 10 from 6-8 p.m. at Westerville South High School 303 S. Otterbein Ave. For more information, visit www. westerville.org/westervillestrong.

January/February 2019

13

CityReporter This Day in History

Uptown Hotel Owner Extends Hospitality to Plymouth Rock Chicks One hundred years ago, Westerville residents were chirping about the City’s newest arrivals, a brood of young chickens. According to the Public Opinion, the chicks belonged to Fred E. Smith, owner of the Hotel Blendon (also known as the Holmes Hotel, located at the southeast corner of Main and

Hotel Blendon, also known as the Holmes Hotel, in 1908.

State streets). These chicks were not intended for the average Joe. According to the paper, “If anyone wants to get on the right side of the genial proprietor of ye hostelry, they will have to treat those chickens with respect.” The birds, which were “nursed by day and cuddled by night,” were far from house pets. The

Westerville Community Contacts FIRE/MEDICAL/POLICE EMERGENCY. 9-1-1 Gas/Carbon Monoxide Leaks. . . . . . . . . . . 9-1-1 Mental Health Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1-1 Fire, non-life threatening emergency. 882-2213 Police, non-life threatening emergency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 882-7444 City Website. . . . . . . . . . . . . www.westerville.org Community Affairs .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 901-6400 Animal Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6863 Animal Removal (dead at roadside). . . 901-6740 Cemeteries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6740 City Manager’s Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6400 TDD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6413 Clerk of Council. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6410 Digging (Ohio Utilities Protection Service). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-362-2764 Economic Development. . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6403 Electric Division . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6700 Electrical Outages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6700 Street Lights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6700 Tree Trimming Near Electric Lines. . 901-6700 Finance Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6440 Fire Division Headquarters. . . . . . . . . 901-6600 CPR/First Aid Training. . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6600 Human Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6406 Income Tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6420 Leaf Collection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6740 Mayor’s Court. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6419 TDD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6418 Parks & Recreation Department. . . . 901-6500 Inclement Weather Hotline . . . . . . . 901-6888 Administration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6530 Community Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6500 Everal Barn & Homestead . . . . . . . . 901-6570 Parks Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6591 Highlands Park Aquatic Center. . . . 901-7665 Recreation Program Center. . . . . . . 901-6531 Senior Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6560 Shelter Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6515 Urban Forestry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6598 Permits Building . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6650 Burning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6600 Parade/Block Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6410 Security Alarm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6482 Zoning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6650 14 January/February 2019

Planning & Development Department. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6650 Planning, Engineering & Zoning. . . 901-6650 Traffic Engineering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6670 Code Enforcement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6816 Police Division Headquarters. . . . . . . 901-6450 Administration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6470 Detectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6475 Patrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6482 Recorded Information Line. . . . . . . . 901-6879 Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6450 Service Department. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6740 Sewer Emergencies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6740 Sewer Line Maintenance. . . . . . . . . 901-6740 Stormwater Hotline. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6740 Street Emergencies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6740 Street Maintenance Repairs. . . . . . . 901-6740 Trash/Recycling Collection. . . . . . . . 901-6740 Water Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6740 Water Line Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . 901-6740 Traffic Violations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6419 Tree/Storm Damage (in right of way). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6591 After hours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6790 Tree Trimming (in right of way). . . . . . . 901-6598 Utility Billing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6430 askutilitybilling@westerville.org Water Plant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901-6770 Other Community Service Contacts Airport—Port Columbus. . . . . . . . . . . . 239-4083 Concord Counseling Services . . . . . . . 882-9338 COTA Bus Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228-1776 Delaware County General Information. . . . . . . . . 740-548-7313 Franklin County Board of Health. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 525-3160 Property Taxes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 525-3696 Voter Registration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 525-3100 Mount Carmel St. Ann’s Hospital. . . . . 898-4000 Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 882-8917 Westerville Area Resource Ministry. . . 899-0196 Westerville City Schools. . . . . . . . . . . . 797-5700 Westerville Historical Society. . . . . . . . 891-0821 Westerville Library. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 882-7277 Westerville Visitors & Convention Bureau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 794-0401

publication stated that they were to be served at Fourth of July dinner. This and hundreds of other fascinating facts, materials and artifacts are on display at the local history center. Hours are Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., closed Sunday. Visit www.westervillelibrary. org/local-history to learn more.

All area codes are 614 unless otherwise noted.

Westerville City Council (Front left-right) Mayor Craig Treneff, Chair Mike Heyeck, Vice Chair Diane Fosselman (Back left-right) Alex Heckman, Valerie Cumming, Tim Davey, Vice Mayor Kathy Cocuzzi

City Manager Dave Collinsworth Like us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/cityofwesterville Follow us on Twitter: All-City news and information: @tellwesterville Westerville Electric Division: @WvilleElectric Westerville Parks & Recreation: @WestervillePark Westerville Division of Police: @WestervillePD Westerville Division of Fire: @WestervilleFire

www.westerville.org www.westervillemagazine.com

faces

By Rocco Falleti Photo courtesy of Isiah Robinson

Do It for Yourself

Westerville woman changes diet and lifestyle to become an Iron Man Participant

This past year, Hall finished her first Iron Man long-distance triathlon.

www.westervillemagazine.com

Shannon Hall knew something needed to change. The recent passing of her father, who was very ill with a number of health problems, was an eye opener for her own life and health habits. “I told my husband, now is the time. If I am going to make changes, I am going to do it now,� says Hall.

January/February 2019

15

Hall’s family has a history of diabetes, heart disease and various cancers. She admits that nutrition was never a priority growing up and that she now needs to supplement her lack of good nutritional habits.

“I was a big person, I could sit down and eat an entire bag of potato chips and not think anything of it,” Hall says. “The biggest thing for me was to know what was causing me to stress eat and how to not do things that would keep me from being successful with weight loss.”

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It Doesn’t Happen Overnight Hall bought a small plate to start eating smaller portions and changed her diet to have a focus on high protein with lowered carbohydrate intake. Sugar was another aspect she monitored closely.

“I started writing in a journal every time I ate,” Hall says. “I wrote what I ate, what I was feeling and what I was doing at the time. I got to know myself and did that for a good two months.”

While tweaking her diet was a huge step in Hall’s transformation, exercise was an essential step in her journey too.

“The only workout I was doing was on an elliptical that I picked up at a garage sale,” Hall says. “That seemed to be the only thing I could do because I was so big and that didn’t make me hurt all over.”

With a new diet and exercise regimen under her belt, Hall took on the intense task of long runs.

“I love to run super early in the morning,” Hall says. “No matter what time of year.

Rain, snow, sleet I am out there running.”

Hall is quick to admit that continuing this lifestyle is still a challenge – a challenge she welcomes with open arms and a devout sense of perseverance.

“I have those days when I don’t want to work out, I don’t want to pack my lunch with something that is healthy, it’s so easy to break your habits,” Hall says.

“I tell people all the time, ‘Even when you don’t feel like doing it, do it anyway and go through the motions of it,’ believe it or not, it makes a difference later in the day.”

Within five years Hall lost 204 pounds.

If that sounds like a success though, her recent success is monumental.

Iron Man This past year, Hall finished her first Iron Man, a famous long-distance triathlon. Plus, she completed the race with a torn meniscus and fractured elbow.

“For me, it was making myself do something more than running,” Hall recalls. “I was past the point of realizing that I wasn’t going to lose more weight than I had lost, and to keep myself focused I knew I had to set goals and seek out other challenges.” www.westervillemagazine.com

When she began to train for this race with a friend, Hall had very little experience swimming, which coincidentally is a large part of an Iron Man. “I literally had to teach myself to swim,” Hall says. “It wasn’t until I got into open water after training indoors the whole winter, that I realized I have a deep-water phobia, like really bad.”

Hall’s determination and fierce focus on completing the race allowed her to overcome her phobia of open water as she walked up to the starting line of the Iron Man. “I knew I had to overcome that phobia and swim in this. I got through it all, though I was the last one to make it in,” Hall says laughing, recalling race day. “Everyone was yelling, ‘You have one minute before they close you off,’ But, hey, I did it.”

Shortly after the race, Hall was having knee issues and problems with her elbow.

It wasn’t until a week after the race that Hall went to the doctor and discovered she had torn her meniscus during the race. “(The doctors) couldn’t even believe I ran on it,” Hall says.

Regardless of a small setback, Hall plans to compete in an Ultra Marathon, which is over 100 miles, in 2019.

LIVE LIFE WELL “Eateries, entertainment and fitness options all just outside my door.”

“Living at Wesley Woods at New Albany is more than a comfortably upscale apartment. The whole community feels like a part of my home. Just outside my door, I can take an exercise class, enjoy a walk along the woods, meet friends for lunch at Bistro 54, play bridge, and much more.”

• • • • • By the Numbers: The Iron Man Triathlon consists of a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bicycle ride and a marathon of 26.22 miles. With a limit of 16 to 17 hours to complete, the race is extremely difficult to finish and one of the most physically demanding events in the world.

• • • • • Staying Motivated Aside from her devotion to fitness and spending time with her husband and three children, Hall is actively working on a book, untitled as of yet, that focuses on her changing lifestyle within the last five years.

“It’s a book that I hope inspires everyone to be motivated,” Hall says.

Hall now advocates for healthy lifestyles and even offers advice to friends looking to increase exercise and have a more balanced diet.

Throughout the past five years, Hall credits her husband as a huge motivator in her transformation, and her employer Quantum Health since they have sponsored her in several races and the annual biking fundraiser, Pelotonia.

“Just do it for yourself,” Hall says. “If you don’t do it for yourself, you aren’t going to ever stay with it.”

Rocco Falleti is an assistant editor. Feedback welcomed at rfalleti@cityscenecolumbus.com. www.westervillemagazine.com

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17

in focus

By Maggie Ash

The Future is Female Westerville’s MODEL program continues to inspire and nurture students

18 January/February 2019

which is present in three of the city’s four middle school buildings.

Once a month, anywhere between 30 and 50 young women meet for pizza and good conversation. The program, led by Tami Santa, student assistant program facilitator for Westerville City Schools, and Cynthia DeVese, coordinator of minority student achievement for WCS, focuses on building up young women from a variety of angles. Whether they’re discussing high school class schedules and careers or topical political debates, there’s rarely a dull moment with these rising star students.

Intentionally constructed to represent Westerville schools, girls in the program are recommended by their counselors for various reasons. Levels of academic proficiency, socioeconomic status, activity involvement and more are taken into consideration to give cohort members the opportunity to interact with girls that they haven’t met before.

Besides the young women, MODEL mentors are the heartbeat of the organization. From philanthropists and engineers to business women and everything in between, around 20 adult women support the MODEL program by donating an hour of their time each month to spending lunch with middle school girls and investing in mentorship.

“The women that show up for us every month are all in for the groups,” says Santa.

“They really provide this kind, loving and awesome perspective for these seventhand eighth-grade gals.”

Women in STEM While all monthly meetings are a special event for the young women to make friends, discuss the challenges of growing up and learn from their mentors, there are some days that stand out as being particularily fruitful.

One such event was a celebration of women in STEM that taught girls to celebrate their analytical skills and develop their interests for future careers. The event was timely, as eighth-grade girls were beginning to schedule classes for high school.

Santa and DeVese both believe that education and awareness are the best way to empower young women to take rigorous STEM coursework in high school. Therefore, they’re able take full advantage of college classes and careers in fields they’re passionate about. Rather than students waking up their junior year and realizing they’ve missed a STEM opportunity, the program coordinators developed this event.

A panel was held with young women from a variety of STEM fields, including a www.westervillemagazine.com

Photos courtesy of Westerville Schools

F

or Westerville’s middle school girls, the potential for greatness is just a mentor away. What started out as multiple projects linked to student connectivity has developed into a thriving mentorship and leadership initiative,

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high school student, allowing girls to see the immediate benefits of STEM education.

Anne Baldwin, WCS’s career and college readiness coordinator, also sat on the panel, giving girls real-life tips on how to pursue their dreams.

After this discussion, the film Hidden Figures was shown. Santa and DeVese wanted to highlight the truth behind the movie: that women can be field pioneers and that individuals of diverse backgrounds and identities can succeed in STEM. With the success of the program, Santa and DeVese have big plans for this school year’s MODEL STEM event which will be held Jan. 17, 2019.

Preparing for the Future The MODEL program doesn’t just bring in inspiring adults, but inspiring girls too.

Recently, the Supporting the Girls charity organization stopped by to speak; a group was started by local young women when they were in middle school. It aims to provide quality, free bras to women in need, including girls of low socioeconomic status attending school, homeless women and survivors of human trafficking. Along with bras, Supporting the Girls works to emotionally support the recipients of their undergarments.

To do this, affirmational messages are handwritten on personalized tags to uplift and inspire. Messages include phrases such as “Let your light shine” and “You are braver than you think.” During their day with the organization, MODEL girls help write many of the tags, teaching them that even the smallest act of kindness can brighten someone’s day.

“What those young ladies did is they had a conversation about how it doesn’t matter how old you are, we can all contribute to our world. They can start things that matter to them as young women,” says DeVese.

By learning the importance of community and caring for each other at such a young age, MODEL participants are being prepared for the challenges of high school and beyond.

By learning about themselves, they are empowered to pursue their dream careers, and by learning about others, they contribute to making the world a better place.

“On any given day there’s this really encouraging female empowerment tone and reminder,” Santa says. “For students to hear about the importance of lifting each other up and not pulling each other down, (it’s) important.”

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Maggie Ash is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com. www.westervillemagazine.com

January/February 2019

19

✺ Westerville Caring and Sharing helps families who have run into unexpected roadblocks.

Helping Hands for the Holiday

Many of the students that WC&S helps come from hardworking families that live paycheck to paycheck and perhaps lack the necessary funds to make ends meet.

WC&S also helps families who have run into unexpected roadblocks, such as an illness or a sudden job loss. These families often don’t have enough in emergency savings to carry them through the crisis.

“We do not judge in any way as long as they qualify,” says Barbara McCoy, president of WC&S. The organization operates as a small group of volunteers, and was founded in 1988 by the Young Women’s Christian Association and members of the Westerville Chamber.

“We work out of our homes, volunteer our time and organize and implement fundraisers to cover our administrative expenses so that 100 percent of donations are used to provide assistance to the less fortunate Westerville students and their families,” McCoy says.

Thanks to the volunteers, WC&S celebrated its 30-year anniversary in October 2018 at the Westerville Public Library.

“WC&S is so truly blessed to serve those who simply need a little assistance

Westerville Caring and Sharing lives up to its name

By Emily Chen

M

Backpacks are a popular donation item.

any students don’t have the luxury of a hot meal, warm clothes and a comfortable home. It’s a harsh reality, and it can be difficult to believe such realities exist in Westerville. One local organization is working to support kids who do not have access to basic necessities like food.

Westerville Caring and Sharing is an organization dedicated to helping students who qualify for free or reduced priced lunch. The students benefiting from WC&S often don’t have enough money for supplies as well as food. WC&S helps these students by hosting two projects each year, the Holiday Project and the Back-to-School project. The organization has served students in the Westerville City School district for 30 years, and its last Back-to-School Project benefited approximately 340 students.

The organization often relies on word-of-mouth, social media, press releases and the school system to raise awareness for its two projects. Westerville City School counselors can also identify a student who might benefit from WC&S. 20 January/February 2019

www.westervillemagazine.com

and (need) to know that others care about them and their family,” McCoy says.

Photos courtesy of William Bretthauer and Westerville Caring and Sharing

The Holiday Project Every year, WC&S puts on a Holiday Project that is meant to help students and senior citizens. The project has been in existence for the 30 years that WC&S has been operating.

Parents interested in receiving help start by picking up application packets and blank wish lists for their children. The child populates the wish list with presents they would like and the parents deliver the packet and the wish list back to WC&S. Finally, WC&S seeks out people who want to sponsor the child and provide the gifts from the wish list.

“Our goal is to provide each child with items from their wish list and, when funds allow, a gift card to be used for any clothing needs not provided by their sponsor,” McCoy says.

The 2017 Holiday Project helped about 725 children.

The Back-to-School Project The Back-to-School project helps provide kids with new school supplies and outfits that they need for school.

“Our students are welcome to come during our Back-to-School Project to pick out that special bookbag or backpack and then fill (it) with their grade-appropriate school supplies, personal hygiene products and a gently used book or two,” McCoy says. “The smiles from our students and their families are so very awesome. We actually get to experience the gratefulness and thankfulness from ‘our kids’ and that is priceless.”

WC&S kindly requests donations of backpacks, books and other school supplies to help the project succeed. If there is extra money, students also receive a gift card.

WC&S helped about 340 students in the 2018 Back-to-School project.

“We know this program helps each student begin the school year with selfconfidence and a positive attitude,” McCoy says.

The Future The organization doesn’t plan to slow down anytime soon.

“We will be working on becoming more visible in the Westerville community and hopefully partner with more local businesses to ensure our sustainability,” McCoy says. “And, of course, to reach out to more of those in need who qualify for our two annual projects.”

Emily Chen is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com. www.westervillemagazine.com

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Evening of Elegance An annual event put on by the Westerville Area Chamber Photos courtesy of Matt Lofy

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January/February 2019

23

Innovation Inspires Walnut Springs Middle School sees an impact with remodeled library

By Lydia Freudenberg

Now called the Center for Inspiration, the school was ahead of the curve on creating an innovative library space.

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Photos courtesy of Jean Trimble

I

t’s a bit crazy to think about, but today’s middle schoolers have never known a life without the internet, digital devices or technological resources.

Thus, teaching and learning methods are shifting to adapt to a more technologyheavy society. Schools like Walnut Springs Middle School have embraced these advancements and have seen the positive impact on its students.

Back in 2015, WSMS received a grant which was used to update its library. The school was ahead of the curve on creating an innovative library space. Now called the Center for Inspiration, the library features comfortable café-style sitting areas, an outdoor learning area, a television studio, Chromebooks students can check-out, and a maker’s space where students can create models or projects with resources like a 3D printer or a Cricket vinyl cutter.

Amongst all of the new resources, though, the most valuable resource is the head librarian and media specialist, Jean Trimble.

“Kids can come in and I can help them basically realize their design challenge needs,” Trimble says. “A lot of our kids don’t have those materials (at home) that are in our maker’s space, and it’s reflected in their final projects. So, this actually brings more equity for our students – equity of materials and resources.”

Prior to the renovation, Trimble says an average of 33 students visited the library daily. Trimble now welcomes around 160 to 200 students every day.

And it’s clear why it’s called the Center of Inspiration; Trimble says she’s noticed positive behavioral changes amongst the students who interact with the updated library.

“It’s inspiring a lot of students to say, ‘Oh, I have to do a science fair project or a future city project, and I can use the maker’s space or the TV studio

Jean Trimble teaching WSMS staff how to use virtual reality goggles, so the teachers can then show students how to interact with the device.

and Mrs. Trimble could help ed to bring more programming According to a me,’” Trimble says. “Students 2013 American to the middle school because Association of know they have the tools and this is when students are really resources to be better learners, School Librarians figuring out who they are and and so I think it’s made a lot of report, schools what they’re interested in doing.” that have them more confident in their The goals for the Center of libraries with abilities to be better learners.” qualified school Inspiration range from continuTrimble adds that the area has librarians have ing creative and educational also been beneficial for the teachers. about 22 percent programs – like when astronaut “It’s helped teachers imagine Scott Kelly spoke to students more students more of what they can do and score proficient back in November 2018 – to or above on know that they have a resource in teaching students about the legal mandatory place to help achieve that goal,” and ethical criteria for sources. reading tests. she says.

“Just getting to know the kids But why a middle school? and helping the kids realize their Many tech-heavy resources have been pop- potential – whether that be what they’re ping up in high schools, aimed at helping reading or creating, or helping them find students prepare for college. Trimble says information about something they’re that middle schoolers can be particularly curious about – that’s my favorite part,” impressionable, though.

Trimble says. “(Middle schoolers) go through a lot of changes, not just academically but physi- Lydia Freudenberg is an assistant editor. Feedback cally and socially,” Trimble says. “We want- welcome at lfreudenberg@cityscenemediagroup.com

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January/February 2019

25

living

By Jenny Wise

Turning it up a Notch Westerville-based Financial Providence Group installs extravagant large-scale aquariums

F

Jenny Wise is an associate editor. Feedback welcome at ncollins@cityscenemediagroup.com.

26 January/February 2019

One of the first things clients see when they visit the FPG office – the reception desk is now home to more than a couple of smiling faces. This tank makes a great first impression, bearing the company’s logo.

One of the three tanks was installed as a divider between the conference room and the kitchen, breaking up the two spaces while still leaving an aquatic “window.” www.westervillemagazine.com

Photos courtesy of Lindzy Annis and Farid Nava

inancial Providence Group, owned

by Bradley Jennings and headquartered in Westerville, is home to more than just office space. The financial agency’s 14,000-square-foot facility is complete with a workout space, indoor pool, hot tub and even hotel suites for visitors.

What more could Jennings possibly add to this spectacular facility? How about three larger-than-life aquariums stocked with exotic fish from all over the world.

FPG worked with several local companies to create the magnificent space, including Romanelli & Hughes, Transform Construction and Davis Rogers Interiors.

In fact, the project was so extreme that the aquariums were featured on Animal Planet’s Tanked – a show dedicated to the high-profile projects completed by Las Vegas-based company Acrylic Tank Manufacturing.

“DRI thinks outside of the box and this corporate office had to be incredible,” says Deana Rogers, one of two principals at DRI. “We came up with the concept and renderings for the building and chose all of the interiors and exterior finishes, as well as all of the furnishings.”

Though the episode’s air time was only about an hour, according to Rogers, the construction and installation of the tanks took a total of about two years.

“Davis Rogers Interiors has been working with Jennings for the past seven years on their home and office projects. It was a natural fit to guide them on the FPG office as well,” says Rogers. “Romanelli & Hughes did the architectural drawings, was the project manager and handled all of the purchasing. They hired Transform (Construction) to do the build-out.”

This tank was planned to take the place of an existing fireplace, but DRI and the Tanked team worked together to come up with a compromising concept. Though the built-in “fire” feature is now a combination of water vapor and LED lights, it gives the space a similar aesthetic without harming the fish in the surrounding tank.

If it wasn’t extraordinary enough to have an indoor pool and hot tub at the office, DRI designed a lounge area below the pool. Enter in a bathing suit on one side or business suit on the other, this dual space is another creative aspect of the project.

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January/February 2019

27

on the table By Kendall Lindstrom

A Growing Dream A

fter graduating from The Ohio State University, Megan Ada, owner of Asterisk Supper Club in Uptown Westerville, set off for medical school at Ross University in Miramar, Florida. Just three months later, she decided to drop everything and pursue her lifelong dream of opening her own restaurant.

“I’ve always loved science, but I always found myself going back to restaurants,” Ada says. “I enjoyed medicine, but it just wasn’t my calling. I knew I should do what my gut told me.”

Ada’s first step toward her dream was pursuing a culinary education at Johnson and Wales Culinary School in Fort Lau-

28 January/February 2019

derdale, where she honed her cooking abilities and learned about the real-world aspects of the industry, from food costs to health codes.

“I love everything about food,” Ada says.

“Learning about it, discovering flavors, preparing it, serving it and, of course, eating it.

Because of my love for food, the restaurant industry comes very natural to me.”

After finishing her schooling, Ada moved back to Ohio and purchased Westerville’s Sunny Street Café in 2010 and learned firsthand what it takes to own a business.

“My intention was to eventually own my own concept,” Ada says. “I like to be prepared and feel confident in my skills, so I felt owning a franchise would give me that business owner experience with guidance.”

Five years later, Ada decided that she was ready to make the leap.

“I really had no idea what I wanted to do,” she says. “I just knew that I wanted to create everything myself.”

Ultimately, it was Westerville itself that served as the ultimate inspiration for Asterisk Supper Club, which opened in April 2016.

“I knew I wanted to stay in Westerville because I had gotten to know the community really well,” Ada says.

She then discovered a vacancy in Uptown built in the early 1900s and fell in love with its old-time feel.

“I loved the character of it,” Ada says. “It was a perfect size for me.

Basically, the building itself is where I started my ideas.”

Ada and her mother, whom Ada credits for the beauty of the restaurant, then went to work on designing the space that would become Asterisk.

“Warmth and coziness was really important with creating the atmo-

sphere,” Ada says of their design vision. “I wanted it to be a place that people felt like they could stay for a long time. Westerville is such a beautiful community, so my mom and I wanted to embrace that.”

Ada then chose the unique cuisine that Asterisk offers, which centers around comfort food and exciting flair like an extensive afternoon tea, brunch, cocktail and dessert menu. They now even offer event tea parties for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, Christmas, and bridal or baby showers.

Just two years after the grand opening of Asterisk, Ada was approached by a building developer inviting her to open up a new restaurant in the Short North, which was coincidentally a long-term goal of hers.

“With the location and exposure of High Street, and being able to compete with www.westervillemagazine.com

Photos courtesy of Jenny Beck Photography

Megan Ada, owner of Asterisk Supper Club, plans to open another restaurant

Mark Davanzo, MD people I’ve always looked up to – it was a true honor,” Ada says.

This new restaurant, called Ampersand, will build again on Ada’s creativity and desire to explore new ideas. She says she is currently in the process of finalizing costs and permits and will hopefully begin construction on the restaurant soon.

Ampersand will feature a Japanese cuisine of ramen, sushi and a sake bar. Ada says the inspiration for this menu comes directly from her childhood experience living in Guam.

“My dad is from Guam, and the Japanese love touring Guam, so there is a large Japanese influence in the island,” Ada says.

“I grew up enjoying Japanese food and

always wanted to be a part of making this delicious and intriguing cuisine.”

Ada says the most rewarding part of her career thus far is when she’s alone in the restaurant at the end of the night and can really reflect on the journey to this point, along with the family, friends and team who have supported her along the way.

“Those are the moments that it’s important to live in,” Ada says. “(To) realize that this is a work of art that I’ve worked really, really hard to get to.”

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Kendall Lindstrom is a contributing writer.

Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Asterisk Strawberry Jam Makes 10 8-oz. jars

• 4 lb. strawberries • 2 lb. 10 oz. white cane sugar • 6 oz. lemon juice Cut stems off strawberries. If large, cut into quarters – small bite-sized pieces are desirable.

In a 12-qt. copper preserving pan or wide pan, combine strawberries and sugar.

Heat on medium heat to dissolve the sugar. Continue to stir but do not let it boil.

As soon as the sugar is dissolved, transfer to a plastic or ceramic bowl with lid.

Refrigerate overnight.

Place your mixture back into the pan.

Place a few spoons into the freezer on a plate (these will be used to test your jam to see if it’s finished).

Heat on medium-high Add 3 oz. freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Heat and continually stir the mixture until it boils and reaches 220 degrees Fahrenheit.

It will take approximately 30-40 minutes. The bubbles will get smaller as it gets closer to being finished.

Stir very often at this point to prevent burning.

When it gets to about 200 degrees Fahrenheit, add the remaining 3 oz. freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Foam will start to accumulate at the top of your mixture. Carefully skim off the top with a large spoon. Try not to leave any foam.

Take your spoons from the freezer and spoon a small amount of jam onto the spoon and place back into the freezer. Once the spoon is neither warm nor cold, take your finger down the spoon. If the mixture on the sides stays and doesn’t bleed into where your finger was, it is ready. If not, keep your mixture on the heat and try again in 10 min.

Start a second large pot of boiling water. This will be used to seal your cans. Be sure it is large enough to fit desired number of mason jars.

Remove jam from heat.

Immediately sanitize mason jars, lids and rings. This is very important to prevent bacteria. Be sure not to touch any part of the jar, ring or lid after sanitation.

Use a canning kit funnel, ladle into the mason jars. Fill to just below the lip. Be sure not to get foam into the jars.

Use the magnet stick from the canning kit to place the lid onto the jar. This will allow you to place it on the jar without touching it.

Tighten with the ring.

Carefully put your jars into the pot of boiling water. Be sure they are completely submerged.

Boil for 30 min.

The lids should not move when you push down on them. This is how you know they have sealed.

Store at room temperature in a cool, dry area. Jam will be good for one year. www.westervillemagazine.com

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bookmarks

From the Westerville Public Library

Recommended Reads

Jabari Jumps

Pass the Ball, Mo!

Little Shaq

Power Forward

By Gaia Cornwall (picture book)

By David A. Adler (reader)

By Hena Khan (juvenile fiction)

Jabari has passed his swim test, and he is excited to finally join his friends in the community pool.

But first, he needs to master one more challenge—jumping off the diving board.

Sports-fanatic Mo has found his new favorite sport— basketball! As the shortest member of the team, he is struggling to play as well as his teammates.

Can Mo learn to pass the ball before the big game?

By Shaquille O’Neal (first chapter)

Recommended Reads

201 7

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Fourth-grader Zayd Saleem dreams of being the next NBA star, but first he must make it onto his school’s star basketball team. Can Zayd convince his parents that basketball—not playing the violin—is his destiny?

from Megan Chrusciel, Adult Services Librarian

CaJohn Foods s Fiery John Hafounder brings rd the he at

community look at the Our annual eyes of its residents through the

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Little Shaq breaks his favorite video game and needs to earn the money to replace it. He learns everyday lessons while working with his teammates on and off the court.

Written by basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal.

All Fired Up!

Shutterbugs Oakstone Academy What’s New at the l Music and Arts Festiva kes Award-Winning Cupca

from Annamarie Carlson, Youth Services Librarian

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100 Things You Can Do to Stay Fit and Healthy: Simple Steps to Better Your Body and Improve Your Mind

By Scott Douglas Improving your health can be a daunting task; this step-by-step guide shares small ways to gradually improve your health and your life without being overwhelmed.

Every Body Yoga: Let Go of Fear. Get on the Mat. Love Your Body.

By Jessamyn Stanley This how-to book breaks down stereotypes about who is “allowed” to do yoga. It teaches the reader that yoga is for everyone, and the purpose of yoga should be to feel better, not about how one looks.

The RBG Workout: A Supremely Good Exercise Program

By Bryant Johnson Despite being an octogenarian, the Supreme Court justice manages to keep her body and her mind fit and sprightly. This humorous book will teach you how to do the same.

Natural Causes: An Epidemic of Wellness, the Certainty of Dying, and Killing Ourselves to Live Longer

By Barbara Ehrenreich This book delves into the ways in which our bodies will resist our best efforts to live longer and encourages the reader to focus on what really matters in life even when we aren’t in control.

The Westerville Public Library

126 S. State St. • Phone: 614-882-7277 • www.westervillelibrary.org Mon.-Thurs.: 9 a.m.- 9 p.m.; Fri. & Sat.: 9 a.m.- 6 p.m.; Sun.: 1- 6 p.m. www.westervillemagazine.com

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