Westerville November/December 2023

2023 Westerville

Holiday Gift Guide Restoring a Family Legacy Honoring Memories Award-winning Teacher Finding a Dream Home Westerville Holiday Celebration www.westervillemagazine. com

Craig & Samantha Buehler John & Tina Powell Kristel Smith Sonja Couture Genny Hart

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Family Restoration

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Honoring Memories

In every issue 6 Community Calendar 8 Faces 22 Student Spotlight 24 Living 28 On the Table 30 Bookmarks

24 4 November/December 2023

Dream House

Westerville homes 26 Luxury Living Real Estate Guide 27 Top Homes Sold in Westerville www.westervillemagazine.com

Westerville

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CityScene Media Group 1335 Dublin Rd., Suite 101C Columbus, Ohio 43215 614-572-1240 • Fax 614-572-1241 www.cityscenecolumbus.com Kathleen K. Gill Gianna Barrett Jamie Armistead

President/CEO Vice President, Sales Vice President, Operations

Dave Prosser

Chief Creative Officer

Rachel Karas Tyler Kirkendall

Editors

Maisie Fitzmaurice

Assistant Editor

Garth Bishop Amanda DePerro

Contributing Editors

Ainsley Allen Jane Dimel Ava Huelskamp Mike Maynard

Editorial Assistants

Megan Brokamp

Contributing Writer

Brandon Klein

Digital Editor

Rae Moro Laura Pappas

Advertising Sales

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Westerville Magazine is published bimonthly in January, March, May, July, September and November. For advertising information or bulk purchases, contact Gianna Barrett at gbarrett@ cityscenecolumbus.com.

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Dates and events are subject to change.

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Holiday Tree Lighting

Nov. 3-5 Curtain Players Theatre presents Early One Evening at the Rainbow Bar and Grille

8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday Curtain Players Theatre 5691 Harlem Rd. www.curtainplayers.org

Nov. 4 Solve a Crime: Murder at Eagle Nest Harbor 2-4:30 p.m.

Westerville Public Library 126 S. State St. www.westervillelibrary.org

Nov. 4 Touchdown in Uptown

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 6 November/December 2023

Noon-4 p.m.

Uptown Westerville www.uptownwestervilleinc.com

Nov. 7 Veterans Breakfast

8:30-10:30 a.m.

Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel 409 Altair Pkwy. www.westerville.org

Nov. 8 Artist Social

6:30-8:30 p.m.

Daylight Artist Collective 9 E. College Ave. www.daylightartistcollective.com

Nov. 10 Teen Night

6-8 p.m.

Westerville Community Center 350 N. Cleveland Ave. www.westerville.org

Nov. 14 Adult Sugar Cookie Decorating 6-7:30 p.m.

Our CupCakery 54 S. High St. www.ourcupcakery.com

Nov. 18-19 Black Wall Street Pop-Up

11 a.m.- 8 p.m.

Polaris Fashion Place Mall 1500 Polaris Pkwy. www.blkwallstreetpopup.com

www.westervillemagazine.com

Nov. 23-24 Thanksgiving Break

Westerville City Schools www.westerville.k12.oh.us

Nov. 27-Dec. 4 Snowflake Castle

Everal Barn and Homestead 60 N. Cleveland Ave. parks.westerville.org/programs

Dec. 1-10 and 15-17 Curtain Players Theatre presents Men on Boats

8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday Curtain Players Theatre 5691 Harlem Rd. www.curtainplayers.org

Dec. 1 Holiday Tree Lighting

6-9 p.m.

City Hall Courtyard 21 S. State St. parks.westerville.org/programs

Dec. 1 Sounds of the Season

8 p.m.

Fritsche Theatre at Cowan Hall 30 S. Grove St. www.westervillesymphony.org

Dec. 2 Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl Noon-7 p.m.

520 Park St. www.eventbrite.com

Dec. 2 Gingerbread Cottage Craft Show 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Westerville South High School 303 S. Otterbein Ave. www.gingerbreadcottage.org

Dec. 3 Music in the Library: Gary Puckett 2-3 p.m.

Westerville Public Library 126 S. State St. www.westervillelibrary.org

Dec. 3 Rudolph Run/Walk 3 Mile 2:30-4 p.m.

St. Paul Catholic Church 313 N. State St. www.runsignup.com

Dec. 5, 7 and 9 Christmas Open Houses

7-9 p.m. Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday Hanby House 160 W. Main St. www.westervillehabitatpartnership.org

Dec. 8 Soup for Shelter

MY COUSIN’S COTTAGE

5-7 p.m.

Otterbein Campus Center 100 W. Home St. www.westervillehabitatpartnership.org

Quality Resale Home Furnishings & Décor

Dec. 8 Progressive Christmas Concert

7-9:15 p.m.

Uptown Westerville State Street www.westervillehabitatpartnership.org

Dec. 21-Jan. 2 Winter Break

Westerville City Schools www.westerville.k12.oh.us

Soup for Shelter

Making Your Home Merry

Monday – Saturday 11 am – 6 pm Sunday 1 – 5pm

614-899-6110 16 E. College Ave, Westerville OH 43081 www.mycousinscottage.com www.westervillemagazine.com

November/December 2023 7

faces By Megan Brokamp

Photos courtesy of Leo Champlin

Man refurbishes 101-year-old mother’s antique dune buggy 8 November/December 2023

www.westervillemagazine.com

est. 1982

I

n July 2023, Leo Champlin finally revved the engine of the 1980s Volkswagen Dune Buggy he had been refurbishing for years. But for Leo and his family, it was much more than a vehicle.

Leo lives in Westerville just down the road from his mother, Lenora, who turns 101 this November. Although Lenora is known and loved by all in the Westerville community, her roots lie in Nelsonville in southeast Ohio.

In 1941, Lenora married Leo Ernest Champlin and moved to German Village in 1951, where they would raise their three children.

Leo Ernest spent his time as a mechanic while Lenora babysat much of the neighborhood. In fact, the couple even adopted one of the children she looked after, Dean Wesley Champlin.

Although the couple loved Columbus, Lenora couldn’t help but miss her family in Nelsonville. Thankfully, Leo Ernest had a solution.

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November/December 2023 9

In the early ’80s, dune buggies were a hot commodity in Athens, Ohio. So, he picked one up for $1,000 so the couple could take joyrides to and from southeast Ohio.

For about three years, Lenora and her husband spent free weekends with the wind in their hair cruising back and forth between the towns.

Unfortunately, the dune buggy craze died down in Athens, and without a place to travel, the Champlin buggy was left in the driveway for many years.

Shortly after, Leo Ernest was diagnosed with lung cancer and his health began to decline. As his health waned, the couple relocated to Westerville where they could be closer to their son Leo. Sadly, in 1991, doctors told the Champlins that Leo Ernest’s condition was terminal. Before his death, he signed over the beloved dune buggy to Leo. Although it was just a vehicle, Leo knew how many memories the buggy represented.

“I said, ‘Dad, I’ll redo that, and we’ll ride in it again,’” Leo says.

His father passed away that year, and the dune buggy remained parked in Leo’s driveway. Although Leo was eager to fulfill his promise, he had three kids to take care of and a full-time job to uphold.

For 27 years, the dune buggy waited patiently for its renewal, and Leo and his family never forgot about it.

“All along my mom and all my kids were saying, ‘Hey, when are you gonna restore that? Let’s get it going again!’”

Leo says.

Finally, in 2018, a recently retired Leo decided it was time to complete his long-time goal. However, this would be

Build Live Be

Inspired

no simple task. As an engineer, Leo was familiar with the restoration’s intricacies, but he still ran into quite a few unexpected roadblocks.

Notably, Leo discovered that the chassis was completely rusted. So, he bought a welding machine and learned to weld. He performed little tasks for years, turning to YouTube when his engineering expertise failed him.

In 2022, the internal parts of the buggy were finished. However, he wanted every part to be perfect, and to do this, he needed it to be painted with metal fleck, the way authentic dune buggies were. He searched long and hard for a painter and eventually found one to fulfill his vision.

After years of hard work, he parked the purple, fully refurbished dune buggy in his driveway this July. His kids were ecstatic to see the final project, but they were even more excited to see their grandmother’s reaction.

When Leo showed her the buggy restored, as if it had driven right out of her glory days, her reaction did not disappoint.

“Boy, her eyes lit up,” Leo says. “She went right over, stepped right into that dune buggy and said, ‘Let’s go.’”

Leo and Lenora drove around the block, her hair flowing in the wind just as it did in the ’80s. For Leo, it isn’t the fancy new

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parts or glistening purple paint job that makes him proud of his work. It’s the connection it has to his family.

“I don’t have a lot of use for a dune buggy,” Leo says, “but it’s for the family more than anything.”

Lenora was clearly a driving force behind Leo’s motivation to finish his project, but he never forgot the promise he made to his father.

“Every time I look at it, I think about my dad,” Leo says. “He’d be proud.”

The same month they took their dune buggy ride, Lenora took a fall on her way to a doctor’s appointment and fractured her hip. Although her recovery has had bumps in the road, she is working to regain her strength at a rehabilitation center.

However, Leo is not worried about her resilience. Lenora has lived 100 years, survived breast cancer and still remains eager for dune buggy joyrides. A fractured hip cannot dull her infectious spirit, and Leo is sure she’ll be back in the dune buggy again.

“I told her, ‘We still haven’t taken that ride,’” Leo says, “She (said), ‘I’ll be ready.’”

Megan Brokamp is a contributing writer at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

2023 Westerville

Holiday Gift Guide Make holiday shopping easier with these gifts sold right here in town

1 12 November/December 2023

2 www.westervillemagazine.com

Shop Local

this Holiday Season!

visit our sister stores in Historic Uptown Westerville!

Holiday Decor Gift | Home Decor Womens Apparel Mens Apparel Leather Goods Jewelry

33 N. State St., Westerville, OH 43081

3 1Cozy Cover-ups Turn to Megan Lee Designs for some positive messages, funny catchphrases and local fan gear that is printed on everything from clothing to homegoods. This "Be the One" unisex melange sweatshirt is the perfect thing to cozy up in during the cold months ahead. $48. www.meganleedesigns.com

34 N. State St., Westerville, OH 43081

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Give the Gift of Memories this Holiday Season!

2Book Lovers Unite Support local bookstores and artists by picking up a copy of Invisible Things by Andy J. Pizza and Sophie Miller at Birdie Books. Andy J. Pizza is a local artist whose studio is right across the street from this independent book lovers’ haven. $17. www.readbirdiebooks.com

3Give it A Spin Now Spinning Records has a vinyl collection ranging from classic rock to local bands. Pick up this debut record

by Columbus-grown band Post Coma Network and find new music made in your own backyard. $15. www.westervillemagazine.com

Video Tapes Photographs Film Reels Slides + Negatives Audio Tapes

­ November/December 2023 13

4Protect Your Noggin Pro-cyclists, skateboarders, and daily street commuters will look safe and stylish in this top-of-the-line helmet available at Westerville Bikes. The POC Sports' Omni Air Spin is light as a feather yet durable, providing ample airflow while riding. $150. www.westervillebikeshop.com

5Old School, New Tricks Old Skool Skate Shop has all your skateboarding needs, including these premade boards that come in new designs each week. Each pre-made board comes

with a complimentary skate lesson that can be cashed in once the snowy season ends. Starting at $100. www.oldskool skateshop.com

6Upgrade Your Accessories Stone and Sparrow Apparel has the cutest accessories from companies giving to communities. These bracelets are the finishing touch for any outfit, and the company that makes them gives part of their profits to CURE Childhood Cancer, making them a gift in more ways than one. $40. www.stoneandsparrowapparel.com

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5 14 November/December 2023

6 www.westervillemagazine.com

7

8

7What Time is It? Time for a

New Watch!

The only dealer of these beautiful timepieces in Columbus, Westerville Jewelers, has the newest line of SEIKO watches in stock for the holidays. This family-owned business also specializes in custom work and jewelry repair if you’re looking to buy or fix a personal piece. $225-700. www. westervillejewelers.com

8There’s No Place Like Home No matter where you are, this Fraiser Fir candle from Edwin Loy Home, trans-

ports you to a fireplace with a cozy blanket.

The crisp fir needles, heartening cedarwood and relaxing sandalwood will make anyone feel the warmth of the holidays. $6-72. www.edwinloyhome.com

9A Sip of Pop Culture These mugs from Cinda Lou Shop will have you humming a tune while enjoying your morning caffeine. With decorative options stretching from Taylor Swift to Dolly Parton, these coffee mugs are a perfect gift for the pop culture fanatic in your life. $15. www.facebook.com/CindaLouShop/

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November/December 2023 15

0A Drink, Wine Not? The holidays can be stressful. Customize a wine crate from Meza Wine Shop for the person you want to enjoy a drink with when it’s over. With your choice of wine, local candles and local glasses, this crate can be perfectly crafted for the person you have in mind. Starting at $67. www. mezawineshop.com

aLearn Your Roots Make sure your children know where they came from with Buckeyes A to Z from Pure Roots. This book touches on all Ohio State traditions, folklore and trivia facts to help you raise a diehard Buckeye fan. $15.95. www.purerootsboutique.com

bNo Need to Cook Sometimes it feels like most of the holidays are spent in the kitchen. Give someone the gift of not having to cook with a gift card to Giammarco’s Italian Restaurant. This beloved local sit-down gives the gift right back with a $10 bonus card for every $50 gift card and a $25 bonus card for every $100 card. www. giammarcos.com

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Fantasy Coiffures Salon Holiday Special: Peppermint Spa Pedicure and Finger Polish for $60 Safely offering hair, nail, waxing, facial and other specialty spa services 100 S. State Street • Located in Uptown

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cMade With Love Gift a piece of home with these handcrafted coasters from Ohio Art Market.

Each coaster displays a well-known Westerville landmark, making them perfect for showing hometown pride. $10. www.ohioartmarket.com

dLook Your Best, Feel Your Best Sometimes the best gift is a little TLC. This holiday pedicure package from Fantasy Coiffures is the perfect treat for

c

someone who deserves an excuse to relax, put their feet up and enjoy some time alone. $60. www.westerville.salon

eFunky and Functional These vases from My Cousin’s Cottage are a perfect addition to the flowers you plan to give to that special someone. The quirky consignment shop has a variety of unique vases in all shapes and sizes to match what you’re looking for. $8-25. www.mycousinscottage.com

e

Follw us on Facebook and Instagram for details! www.westervillemagazine.com

November/December 2023 17

G iv e

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fHandcrafted Homeware These angel decorations from Amish Originals make for an adorable addition to your holiday décor. Place them on top of the mantel to watch over the stockings or on the couch as a festive friend. $20-40. www.amishoriginals.com

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gTime’s a Ticking Tick, tock, go buy a clock! The Grandfather Clock Company has a selection of beautiful grandfather clocks that are the perfect gift for those who appreciate checking the time in style. $899-2,500. www.uptownwesterville.us/grandfather clockcompany

hWhat Goes Around Comes

Around Specializing in items with history, Westerville Antiques and Rustic Revamp takes you on a trip back in time. This rustic phonograph can be used as décor or – with an Edison bulb – repurposed into a beautiful light fixture. $95. www. westervilleantiques.com

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i iPicture Perfect Give the gift of memories this year by letting Keepsake Solutions turn old tapes into digital files. Whether it’s preserving old family movies or making copies to share, this gift will bring a smile to anyone’s face. $19.99 per tape. www.mydigitalkeepsake.com

jExtending an Olive Branch The perfect finish to any dish, A Twist on Olives has any type of olive oil or balsamic

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j vinegar you can think of. Look no further for customizable gift baskets that come with your choice of product and dishes. $100. www.atwistonolives.com

k rhodium-plated sterling silver. Pair it with matching stud earrings to complete the look. $450 for the bracelet, $65 for the earrings. www.morganstreasure.com

kTreasure Hunting Gift a bit of sparkle to that special someone in your life. The perfect finishing touch for any special occasion, this show-stopping cuff bracelet from Morgan’s Treasure stands out from the rest with its

November/December 2023 19

Pedaling for Pat

Pat Connor’s memory honored through loved ones’ ride in Pelotonia

By Maisie Fitzmaurice Photos courtesy of Kacey Connor and Pelotonia

C

ancer is a dreadful disease, and nearly everyone is impacted by it at some point in their lives, both directly and indirectly. Here in Westerville, cancer leaves an indelible mark on too many.

Including everyone who knew Pat Connor, a beloved husband, father, neighbor and friend to many in this community, who was taken too soon.

Knowing his fiercely strong and independent wife, Kacey Connor, would be reluctant to ask for support during his treatments, he asked his loved ones to stick together and offer support to her and their three young children, as well as each other.

“We recorded a video to send out to our close friends and in that video, my

20 November/December 2023

husband says we’re going to need the village, because this is going to be hard,” Connor says.

After a hard-fought battle, during which he never lost hope, Pat passed away in 2021, at 35 years old, from an aggressive bile duct cancer.

Assemble the Village A close friend of the family started a Pelotonia team in 2022 in Pat’s honor, calling it Pat’s Village. The team was extremely successful in its fundraising, collecting more than $25,000 for cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – the James that year.

Pat’s Village has raised $18,000 this year so far for a total of almost $45,000 raised

in total during the two years the team has participated in the ride.

Though Connor has always been an avid runner, never a cyclist, she decided to get behind the handlebars in 2023 for the 37-mile New Albany Loop. While she wished that her husband was riding with her, she was encouraged by the number of people who participated and donated in Pat’s honor.

“It’s a huge community and there are thousands of people who have died and that’s why people are riding, which is a hard concept to sort of take in,” Connor says. “But if you’re going to take that tragedy or that loss and turn it into something like that, I think that speaks for the organization that Pelotonia is and the people that participated.”

www.westervillemagazine.com

Connor says the relationships Pat kept throughout his life were very important to him, so it’s no surprise Pat’s Village saw so much participation and so many donations.

“He was like, ‘I could say that I didn’t get all the years that I wanted, but I had a good life because I surrounded myself with the best people,’” Connor says.

Warmhearted Westervillians Connor and Pat met while attending Otterbein University. Kacey was a basketball cheerleader and Pat was on the baseball team. After they graduated, they decided to stay in Westerville to raise their kids in the community they loved.

“It’s a community where you feel like they care and they do a lot of events and things to reach the community,” Connor says. “I think we just got comfortable here at college and then didn’t want to leave.”

Because of Pat’s love for others, he was a source of support for many in the community and beyond. Connor says Pat was positive, caring and considerate. He touched the lives of many including his former college teammates, coworkers, family, friends and even the consulting clients he worked with at his job.

“I just had somebody tell me the other day, ‘I still can see his smile and the way that he listened,’” Connor says. “When somebody talked to him, he was actually listening and he cared about what you had to say. I don’t think that happens as much anymore.”

Even two years after his death, he hasn’t been forgotten by the people he loved and supported during his time on earth.

“I put together a birthday party for him still and we do a celebration for his arrival to heaven and we had 80 people in my backyard,” Connor says. “I think a lot of times those things happen early on, but it continues because that’s just the impact that he made on people.”

Maisie Fitzmaurice is an assistant editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mfitzmaurice@cityscenemediagroup.com. www.westervillemagazine.com

Pat’s Village at Pelotonia.

Pat Connor with his three children, Quinn, Hazel and Everett.

The Connor family (from left to right): Kacey, Quinn, Hazel, Everett and Pat

Night of Impact Just how much money did Pelotonia raise this year for cancer research?

As done traditionally, the grand total of charitable funds raised in 2023 will be announced during Pelotonia’s Night of Impact, held in early November.

Last year, a check for more than $258 million was presented to The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – the James.

The funds have been used for research in immunotherapy treatments, targeted therapy for aggressive brain tumors and more. Since Pelotonia’s inception, these donations have helped to fund hundreds of research projects in the fight to end cancer.

November/December 2023 21

student spotlight By Jane Dimel

Photos courtesy of Matthew Wolfe

Leading with Love

Westerville teacher Matthew Wolfe wins significant musical theater award

W

esterville has the best teachers – and they have the awards to prove it. In September, Westerville South High School teacher Matthew Wolfe was named 2023 Stephen Schwartz Musical Theatre Teacher of the Year by the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers.

This national award recognizes exceptional middle and high school theater teachers, and anyone who knows Wolfe can agree he fits the playbill.

Wolfe is in his sixth year as a Westerville City Schools’ high school theater teacher and teaches the International Baccalaureate theater class at South.

He runs inclusive programs including the annual Black Voices Project and a summer enrichment program for middle and high school students. He has been the director of Troupe 513 at South for 10 years.

Wolfe with 2023 Westerville South graduate Cinn Villeda working on a scene for the 2022 prodcution of Legally Blonde.

Bitten by the Theater Bug Wolfe knew from a young age that he wanted to be a teacher, playing school with his grandpa and stuffed animals and taking charge wherever he could. He always wanted to be a positive figure in other kids’ lives.

In college, Wolfe studied English and theater at Otterbein University and laid plans to start his career as an English teacher before getting certified to teach theater.

“I (chose English) because it was my toughest class in high school,” Wolfe says.

“I would find myself just shutting down in English, … so when I had to pick a discipline, … I just (knew) I could help the other kids like me.”

Wolfe returned to Ohio after student teaching in New York and continued his education at The Ohio State University, where he earned his master’s degree in 22 November/December 2023

Educational Policy and Leadership before going to work at several different schools around central Ohio.

Wolfe took a step back from teaching after being diagnosed with Sateg 4 Melanoma in 2012, but he couldn’t be kept out of the classroom for long. He returned to take a position as a recruiter and adjunct faculty member for the theater program at Otterbein in 2013, and answered the call when Westerville City Schools rang.

“Two of the Westerville high schools, Central and South, needed a new theater director, and they called Otterbein. I picked up the phone, and they were like, ‘Do you have any alumni (who would be interested)? And I was like, ‘Well, I know of one,’” Wolfe says. “Ultimately, I landed at Westerville South. As soon as I walked in that school, I just knew. I knew I belonged there.” www.westervillemagazine.com

Teaching Trifecta After five years at Westerville South, Wolfe became the theater teacher at all three high schools.

Over the years, Wolfe has tailored his teaching style to fit his students and helps them learn to express themselves through their work.

He has been recognized for his inclusivity and advocacy for theater through numerous accolades, including an honorable mention for the 2022 Excellence in Theatre Education Award presented by the Tony Awards and Carnegie Mellon University, as well as the Westerville Great Educator and Educator of the Year.

Wolfe says he is always learning from his students and will continue fighting for more theater diversity.

“Being able to support and be with my students through the social injustice and the unrest and the politics of today, just knowing that they could express themselves, talk about it and that I was in a place where I could ask the people it was affecting the most, … I feel like I’ve gone through a major life change in the past five years as a result of that,” Wolfe says.

Wolfe strives to encourage and nourish students’ enthusiasm for theater and instill in them a lifelong love for theater, while leaving them with a legacy of love.

“I tell them I love them, and I try to normalize that,” Wolfe says. “In my time as a teacher, as the (Educational Theatre Association’s) Ohio chapter director, I hope at the end of the day that I can spark some of that legacy in the state, in my kids, so that they’ll fight for it … (and) that they’ll stand tall and remind everyone how important it is.”

Jane Dimel is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com. www.westervillemagazine.com

November/December 2023 23

living By Ainsley Allen Photos by Ray LaVoie

Stumbling Upon a Dream House

Duo makes new home the perfect space for aging in place

K

athy Kennedy and Steve Herminghausen weren’t in the market for a new house, but when they passed the for-sale sign around the corner from their home, they couldn’t shake the urge to visit the 1.1-acre property bursting with possibilities.

“We were perfectly content where we were and had no plans to move whatsoever,” Kennedy says. “We kept waiting and hoping someone else would put an offer down, but nobody did. Five days after seeing it for the first time, we owned a house.”

With hopes to make the space perfect for them, the two quickly went all in on their new home. So, knowing they couldn’t do it alone, they called a friend whose home renovations they loved.

Bill Maibach, co-owner of Custom Home Works, became a key part of the project from that point forward, and their journey began.

“We want to age in place here,” Kennedy says. “That was where most of our considerations came from.”

The main renovations included a 20by-24-foot addition that added a new master suite as well as a kitchen revamp that brought in all new appliances. Kennedy and Herminghausen did have a few non-negotiables, such as a “fabulous bathroom” and a walk-in closet you could “actually walk in.”

“When we got started, we didn’t originally think there would be that many changes,” Herminghausen says. “Bill told us in the beginning we would end up doing a lot more than we thought, and he was right.”

24 November/December 2023

Maibach brought a few ideas to the table including cathedral trusses throughout the home, a half-bath by the back entrance and additional windows throughout the home to take in the beautiful backyard.

The inclusion of sliding glass doors in the master bedroom gives a beautiful view of the 1.1-acre yard and growing garden. These doors, combined with the added windows, allow constant entertainment for their 14-yearold golden retriever-chow mix, Scout.

Perhaps the most surprising factor of the renovation was how it changed Kennedy and Herminghausen’s lifestyles – and the lifestyle of their fluffiest family member.

“When people ask how these renovations have changed our lifestyle, we say that it has changed (Scout’s) life the most,” Herminghausen says. “With the windows and the glass doors, she can just www.westervillemagazine.com

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sit right in (our) bed and know exactly what’s going on.”

Kennedy and Herminghausen have also found that they enjoy entertaining more in their new home and have developed a true dedication to transforming their new yard. Using only plants native to Ohio, they have taken what was once a monoculture space with six trees and filled it with color and wildlife.

Their impact can be felt throughout the entire property as they, along with the help of Maibach, have turned a home they didn’t know they wanted into a beautiful place to age.

Ainsley Allen is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com. www.westervillemagazine.com

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November/December 2023 25

Luxury Living what’s your style?

The Powell Buehler Group (614) 915-4588 7760 Golden Wheat Ln., Westerville – Best location in the neighborhood!

This stunning end unit luxurious condo welcomes you w/ gleaming hardwd floors & open floor plan. $485,000.

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214 Tinley Park Circle, Delaware – Luxury Bob Webb ranch condo in prime location!

Walk-in and be enchanted by the gleaming hardwood floors & elegant French doors opening to a versatile den. $450,000.

7297 Summerfield Dr., Lewis Center – Beautiful 1st floor owners suite with amazing private lot that backs to green space! $475,000.

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7447 Clancy Way – 3 bed 2 bath 2 car garage. Minutes to Uptown Westerville, Polaris, parks, schools and more. Ranch style home with master suite located in Sherbrook. New interior paint and flooring. Open floor plan. Huge deck and back yard to entertain and relax! Full basement with loads of potential to expand! Large kitchen with ample storage and counter space! $406,000.

27 Weyant St. – 3 bed 2 bath 1 car detached garage. Newer kitchen with stainless steel appliances, quartz counters and luxury vinyl flooring. Remodeled half bath with custom tile shower, vanity, toilet, lights and faucet. Wrap-around deck and large back yard. Minutes to schools, the Polaris shopping center and did I mention, walking distance to Uptown Westerville and all its charm!! $351,000.

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This spacious 4 BR 2.5 BA home has large bedrooms, formal living room, dining room and finished basement giving everyone their own space and plenty of room for entertaining.

Sunroom overlooking beautiful backyard The home is located less than one mile from Inniswoods.

Walnut Woods in Westerville introduces affordable 3-bedroom 2 bath new builds with builder incentives. Priced from $387,000! Includes ranches, two stories, some including owner’s suite on the first floor and traditional two-story with three- and four-bedroom homes with a wide range of designer options. Call me today, let me take you on a tour of this one or various communities.

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Call today for more information: 614-572-1240 26 November/December 2023

www.westervillemagazine.com

In September 2023, Westerville home prices were up 7.3% compared to last year, selling for a median price of $403,000. On average, homes in Westerville sell after 36 days on the market compared to 37 days last year.

There were 40 homes sold in September this year, down from 59 last year.

Top Homes Sold in Westerville

942 Memories Ln. 4 beds, 3.5 baths $726,000 Sold 8/24/23

331 Mainsail Dr. 4 beds, 2.5 baths $477,324 Sold 9/19/23

190 Generations Wy. 4 beds, 3.5 baths $665,000 Sold 8/24/23

595 Patricia Ann Ln. 4 beds, 2.5 baths $475,000 Sold 8/29/23

184 Walnut Ridge Ln. 5 beds, 3.5 baths $535,000 Sold 9/05/23

136 E. Schrock Rd. 4 beds, 3 baths $475,000 Sold 9/13/23

1234 Edilyn Ct. 4 beds, 2.5 baths $525,000 Sold 8/31/23

578 Westbury Woods Ct. 2 beds, 3.5 baths $461,00 Sold 9/26/23

49 Executive Ct. 4 beds, 2.5 baths $510,000 Sold 9/12/23

145 Linabary Ave. 3 beds, 2.5 baths $450,000 Sold 9/27/23

647 Northbridge Ct. 4 beds, 3 baths $485,000 Sold 8/16/23

388 Liberty Ln. 5 beds, 3.5 baths $435,000 Sold 9/15/23

All information is collected from the Franklin County Auditor Office.

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toddstonerealtor@gmail.com November/December 2023 27

on the table By Ava Huelskamp

Photos courtesy of Robb McCormick and Derrick McPeak

Lighting Up the Holidays

Westerville Holiday Celebration brings a night of community fun and seasonal activities

W

hether you’re a newcomer to the Westerville Holiday Celebration or a long-time attendee, you’re in for the same experience: something totally new.

After four decades of the celebration, Westerville Special Events Manager Derrick McPeak decided he needed to switch things up.

“In the previous years, we’ve had some strolling entertainment and some visits from Santa, but we are sort of reimagining the events this year,” McPeak says. “We’re going to take several city vehicles and deck them out with lights and we’re going to have a small parade of lights.”

Fire trucks, police cruisers, a snow plow and a train are among the vehicles that will fill the streets, with the highly anticipated tree lighting immediately following the parade.

The tree won’t be the only thing that lights up that evening. Kids can enjoy interacting with costumed characters such as the Grinch, Mrs. Claus, Santa’s elves and a special appearance from Santa.

The event is catered toward the whole family, so adults can look forward

28 November/December 2023

to finishing up some last-minute gift shopping in the businesses uptown that will have extended hours for the event.

Those old enough can also take advantage of the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area and purchase adult beverages at participating businesses.

Attendees can – and should – wrap up the night of community and holiday fun with free cookies and hot chocolate.

No matter how fresh the event is, however, one thing will always remain the same: “The inclusion of all of the city departments coming together to produce something for the community,” says McPeak.

Ava Huelskamp is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

www.westervillemagazine.com

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Warm a medium saucepan over medium heat. Use a whisk to mix whole milk, heavy cream, powdered sugar and espresso powder until small bubbles form around the edges of the pot.

Watch carefully to make sure the mixture doesn’t boil. Remove from heat and stir in the bittersweet chocolate chunks until they are fully melted. If the chocolate needs help melting, return the saucepan to low heat until the chocolate is melted smoothly. Pour carefully into mugs and top with plenty of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa or espresso powder for the adults or marshmallows and sprinkles for the kids.

Recipe courtesy of Erin Clarke. www.wellplated.com. Copyright 2023.

All rights reserved. www.westervillemagazine.com

November/December 2023 29

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From the Westerville Public Library

Recommended Youth Reads from Katie Ross, Youth Services Librarian

Lunch Every Day

by Kathryn Otoshi (Picture Book) Why do kids bully? Otoshi writes from the perspective of a bully named Jimmy. Jimmy’s routine is to take the lunch of the same boy every day. In a powerful gesture, this boy’s mother offers Jimmy a gift that will change his life. Based on a true story.

The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs

by America’s Test Kitchen (Juvenile Non-fiction)

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For online library resources such as ebooks, digital magazines, kids activities and more, visit www.westervillelibrary.org

Young chefs will find many recipes to try in this beautifully photographed book. Over 750 children tested each of the book’s recipes which use easy-to-find ingredients, and the instructions are clear and concise. Kids are sure to find several recipes they will enjoy cooking and eating.

Picturepedia: An Encyclopedia on Every Page

by DK Publishing (Juvenile Non-Fiction) This book doesn’t disappoint. Beautiful photographs and illustrations on a wide variety of subjects will keep kids and their adults engaged for hours.

Eric Loves Animals (Just Like You!)

by Eric Carle The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art has curated a book that shows Eric Carle’s love of animals and nature. The book contains quotes, well-known book characters, unreleased artwork and sketches from the Eric Carle archives. This is the perfect gift for kids who love animals.

Recommended Adult Reads from Mindy Bilyeu, Adult Services Librarian

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A Mile at A Time: A Father and Son’s Inspiring Alzheimer’s Journey of Love, Adventure, and Hope

by Travis Macy, Mark Macy and Patrick Regan (Non-fiction) Travis, a professional endurance athlete, struggled to see his father, Mark, battling early onset Alzheimer’s disease. In 2019, Mark and Travis Macy decided to participate in the World’s Toughest Race – a grueling seven-day, 400-mile marathon of trekking, climbing, biking and paddling through the jungle – for one final race together.

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