Columbus Monthly – June 2026

COMPETITION SPRING 2026 COCKTAIL

THANK YOU

On May 14, Columbus Monthly’s Cocktail Competition brought together the city’s top bartenders and standout bar programs for an unforgettable evening.

We thank our sponsors, guests and participants.

Why cancer knowledge should be a part of every woman’s health plan

Women’s needs and circumstances are unique across the health care spectrum, making accurate, personalized knowledge essential. This is especially true when it comes to cancer, which can be caught early — and sometimes prevented — through awareness, screenings and comprehensive care.

While most types of cancer can develop in females and males (including breast cancer), there are several cancer-related factors that women should prioritize when planning for good health.

Learn about breast cancer symptoms and screening

Breast cancer is the second most-commonly diagnosed cancer in women, averaging more than 230,000 new cases each year in the U.S.

As with many types of cancer, early detection can make significant differences in outcomes for breast cancer patients.

“When breast cancer is caught in its early stages, about 99% of patients are doing well five years after diagnosis.” says Margaret Gatti-Mays, MD, section chief of the Division of Breast Medical Oncology at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James).

There are a few ways women can increase their odds of early breast cancer detection. Among the simplest is to know the symptoms, which can include:

• A breast lump

• Changes to the skin, including color and thickness

• Unexpected nipple discharge

• Pain or fullness in the breast or armpit

• Bra not fitting correctly

However, most patients have no symptoms and are diagnosed after mammograms. For women who are 40-plus (or younger, depending on risk), regular mammograms should become a part of annual health care. Mammograms can detect breast cancer in its earliest stages, which can dramatically improve the chances of survival.

“Know your body and be an advocate for yourself if something is new or different in your breast,” Gatti-Mays adds.

Scan the QR code to learn more about breast cancer care and research at the OSUCCC – James.

Raise the chances of gynecologic cancer early detection and prevention

Gynecologic cancer can begin in several areas of patients’ bodies, including the cervix, ovaries, vagina, vulva and endometrium (uterine lining). Of these conditions, endometrial cancer is the most frequently diagnosed, and the fifth most common cause of cancer deaths in women.

Gynecologic cancer symptoms can include:

• Abnormal bleeding

• Persistent bloating

• Changes in bladder or bowel habits

• Feeling full early, or not being able to eat a normal amount

Women should always learn their family histories to uncover possible increases in gynecologic cancer risk. For those at increased risk, genetic testing may help raise the chances of early detection, and even prevention. After diagnosis, genetic testing could help prevent secondary cancers, and lead to risk-reducing screenings and surgeries for family members.

“Genetic testing is important because there could be something in the blood or germline that caused cancer in a patient or family member,” says Floor Backes, MD, the director of clinical research for the OSUCCC – James Division of Gynecologic Oncology, who adds that genetic testing can also lead to improved cancer therapies. “Some genetic syndromes and mutations have shown increased susceptibility to certain treatments.”

As researchers work to develop new gynecologic cancer treatments, safe and effective vaccination has been a long-time reality for cervical cancer, with the majority of cases believed to be preventable through the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine.

“The most common cause of cervical cancer is HPV, which accounts for over 90% of cases” OSUCCC – James gynecologic oncologist Laura Chambers, DO, says. “While the immune systems of most people exposed to HPV will clear the virus on their own, those who have ongoing viral infections are at the highest risk.”

Scan the QR code to learn more about gynecologic cancer care and research at the OSUCCC – James.

Be aware of rising lung cancer rates in non-smoking women

In the past, lung cancer was largely considered a disease of older, male adults who smoke. That label has changed as awareness has increased, but a recent rise in lung cancer diagnoses among non-smoking women — nearly 20% of new cases — still comes as a surprise to many.

That increase is attributed to multiple factors, but high radon levels in the home — which can often go undetected — is believed to be the leading cause.

Lung cancer symptoms can mimic common, less-serious conditions, and include:

• Unexplained cough

• Chest discomfort

• Shortness of breath

• Fatigue

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancerrelated deaths for women and men. As rates rise among non-smoking women, many experts are calling for increased screening guidelines, which currently include people aged 50-80 years who have 20-pack-year smoking histories and are either active smokers or have quit over the last 15 years.

“We’re working to advocate for broader screening guidelines by emphasizing that anybody can get cancer,” OSUCCC – James thoracic surgeon Ioana Baiu, MD, says. “Lung cancer doesn’t discriminate and it’s important to educate yourself and listen to your body.”

Scan the QR code to learn more about lung cancer care and research at the OSUCCC – James.

Our picks for the best festivals, events and activities the Columbus region has to offer this summer.

Meet some leaders in the local LGBTQ+ movement. Plus, event listings for Pride Month.

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EDITOR AND GENERAL MANAGER, DISPATCH MAGAZINES

Katy Smith

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Kathy Lynn Gray Freelance writer and editor Kathy Lynn Gray spoke to the siblings bringing back Clintonville’s Fourth of July celebration at Whetstone Park, Page 14.

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CONTRIBUTORS

Peter Tonguette Longtime contributor

Peter Tonguette rounds up can’t-miss festivals, concerts and other events in our annual Summer Entertainment Guide, Page 23.

Shelley Mann Freelance contributor

Shelley Mann digs into the difficulties and rewards of creating and maintaining public art in Columbus, Page 10.

The Value of Public Art Is Real, Even If We Can’t Quantify It

“Design matters.”

Columbus real estate visionary Brett Kaufman, who is an artist himself, doesn’t mince words. As I suspect he often does with anyone who asks him for his thoughts, Brett talked candidly with writer Shelley Mann for this month’s story on the arts community’s quest to make Columbus a public art leader. Kaufman Development’s Gravity buildings on West Broad Street showcase some of the region’s largest and most exciting sculptures and murals by local, national and international artists. Bringing that to life meant Kaufman, a former banker, had to look at his profit and loss statement with an eye toward the unseen, but very real, benefits of investing in art for real estate projects. When art “draws people into spaces and cities, it also becomes good economic development,” Kaufman says. “I’ve been pushing that idea in Columbus my entire career, and at times it’s been an uphill battle, but I strongly believe it’s true.”

Design is the difference between a city that feels vibrant, hopeful, engaging— like a place where our aspirations become reality—and a city that feels cold, unwelcoming, boring and in decline. On a personal and emotional level, people absorb the effects of their surroundings, whether they are conscious of it or not. Seeing art all around you also has a

Katy Smith katy@columbusmonthly.com

way of activating people’s desire and ability to make art of their own, which has documented socioemotional and problem-solving benefits. In just one of many examples, research published in the journal Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health found that “creative arts interventions” can support better mental health and well-being in children and teenagers.

The desire for Columbus to become a public art destination is evident in much of the work that already has been done here by public agencies, nonprofit and cultural organizations and individuals, from the Short North to Gay and High to Franklinton and Dublin. Like Kaufman, other private real estate developers, notably Jeff Edwards and the Pizzuti family, prize art as part of the portfolios they deliver. Edwards in particular has some tremendous pieces on the way for his Downtown projects, efforts that are be-

ing coordinated by gallerist and consultant Michelle Brandt and Nannette Maciejunes, former Columbus Museum of Art executive director. You can learn the details of the latest sculptures to be unveiled Downtown in our story on public art that starts on Page 10.

I hope you’ll also enjoy the rest of the issue. It’s packed with the work of our special magazines team, who each month seem to gel even more than they did the month before. They—we—are united around a shared mission, a shared passion for telling the stories of Columbus with words and visuals that reflect our care, empathy, humor and curiosity. That same care resounds throughout the essay by Weiland’s Market co-owner Daniel Phillips that starts on Page 16. In Clean, he courageously shares his experiences on the way through and out of addiction and into success. We are humbled by the trust Phillips places in us to edit, photograph and publish this deeply personal piece.

Thanks to him, and to you, our readers, for your continued faith in the value of good storytelling. ◆

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Congratulations Class of 2026!

We’re proud of these 88 graduates heading off to 57 colleges and universities. They’re well prepared for their journeys, and we’re so excited about what’s ahead for them!

Allegheny College

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* Indicates more than one attending

front & center

PHOTO BY TIM JOHNSON

Widening the Lens You Are the Universe by Ibeliz Guadalupe is one of many public artworks, but creating them isn’t easy. Page 10.

Front & Center | Art

Art for All

Columbus wants to become known as a premier place to find public art. Doesn’t it?

Short North Alliance president Betsy Pandora has a stack of ideas for potential new public art installations on her desk, just waiting for someone to pick them up and fund them in the city’s most prominent and well-developed arts district. The Greater Columbus Arts Council launched a Public Art Suggestion Map, an online form where people are sharing ideas for projects all over Franklin County. A 2022 plan led by Downtown Columbus Inc., the organization helping steward the city’s urban core, platformed the community’s desire for more art there.

In Columbus, there’s no lack of enthusiasm for public art. What’s difficult is finding funding and navigating a complicated approvals process.

In 2025, the arts council issued its first Public Art Strategy, a comprehensive set of recommendations for cultivating a thriving public arts scene. While GCAC’s

document is filled with practical guidance, the feasibility of implementing the recommendations remains uncertain. Factors weighing against public art include decreasing levels of funding for the arts at the local, state and national levels and elected officials having to weigh funding public art against competing priorities such as affordable housing.

Major public art installations can take years and millions of dollars to complete, particularly if they’re large and structural, says Jami Goldstein, GCAC’s chief strategy officer. That’s true of some of the most recognizable pieces around the city—the Scioto Lounge deer along the riverfront or Current, the vibrant fiber sculpture floating above Gay and High streets. They can also take a good deal of politicking: Current, for example, required the agreement of multiple neighboring property owners.

Every public art project Pandora has

been part of has had its own fingerprint in terms of funding and approval. “What creates that complexity is every single time you do it, you almost do have to start from scratch,” she says.

Roadblock: Funding

Funding tends to be the biggest barrier to new public art initiatives, especially in a political climate where funding for the arts has been slashed. One of the Public Art Strategy’s recommendations is to establish a dedicated funding stream for public art in Columbus, an outcome GCAC continues to advocate for.

Often, Goldstein says, in cities that have a dedicated funding stream, money comes from the city’s capital budget. Percent for art is one of the most common arts funding mechanisms across the country, and these policies allocate a small percentage of a city’s budget for new or renovated public buildings to the

Story by Shelley Mann | Photos by Tim Johnson

Columbus muralist Adam Hernandez works on a new mural along the side of the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority on 11th Avenue.

commissioning and installation of public art. “That’s way down the road for us,” Goldstein admits.

In March, a recommendation from the joint city-Franklin County Funding Review Advisory Committee suggested redirecting the funding GCAC gets from the city’s hotel bed tax to the city’s tourism organization, Experience Columbus, while enacting a cigarette tax to fund local arts. GCAC received $8.68 million, or 39 percent of its budget, from the hotel bed tax in 2025. While there has been uproar across the arts community about talk of defunding the arts, Goldstein emphasizes that the recommended changes are part of a long-term conversation. It’s a long-ish conversation—any new cigarette tax would have to be approved by voters.

GCAC also receives funding through the city’s ticket fee, a 5 percent admissions fee on arts, cultural and sports tickets. While most of GCAC’s share is earmarked to fund arts organizations and artists, it also has a small budget for public art, including a mural assistance program for artists launched in 2023 that’s on pause this year due to funding cuts. The ticket fees also support projects such as She Moves With Color, a mural painted by artist Mandi Caskey on the second floor of the Moxy hotel in the Short North. It’s an updated version of one of the city’s most iconic pieces of public art: the Mona Lisa mural by Brian Clemons that has lived for more than three decades at Pearl Street and Cedar Alley. The new mural was created with support from the Short North Alliance.

The alliance and similar nonprofit organizations often act as a driving force for public art projects, helping to gather resources and find funding, whether that’s leading fundraising drives, seeking grant support or approaching real estate partners such as developers who want to allocate a share of their construction budget to art.

Dreaming It, Doing It

In Columbus, many private developers do invest in public art, Goldstein says, often because they understand the difference art can make in creative placemaking. For some, the love of art is also personal.

For his extensive Gay and High residential and commercial projects, developer and self-described art lover Jeff Edwards of Edwards Cos. wanted an anchor,

a work that would define the neighborhood’s sense of space. Janet Echelman’s Current unquestionably fulfills that role, quickly becoming a beloved icon for the neighborhood. It’s the first work of several Edwards says are destined for the Capital Line development set to transform the streetscapes along Gay Street and beyond, meant to encourage people to get out and walk and bike Downtown. Today, people gather under the sculpture in fair weather for public events and photo ops, says Nannette Maciejunes, former executive director and CEO of the Columbus Museum of Art, which manages the installation.

As part of Edwards’ Preston Park project along East Broad Street, a landscaped, elevated walkway over South 4th Street now sports a showstopping, world-class sculpture by the late French artist Jean Dubuffet. Edwards Cos. also has plans to unveil several works in the Gay and High neighborhood later this year, including a

light sculpture by artist Spencer Finch on a building exterior, a 40-foot light sculpture by Austrian artist Peter Baldinger on long-term loan from the Columbus Museum of Art, and a sculpture courtyard programmed by Lindsay Gallery, Chaos Contemporary Craft and Brandt Gallery, says gallerist and consultant Michelle Brandt.

“Design matters,” says Kaufman Development founder Brett Kaufman, whose developments in Franklinton have heavily incorporated public art. “It shapes the look, the feel and the energy of a place. It’s what attracts people to neighborhoods, retail and restaurants. And when it draws people into spaces and cities, it also becomes good economic development. I’ve been pushing that idea in Columbus my entire career, and at times it’s been an uphill battle, but I strongly believe it’s true.”

He contends public and private funding both play a critical role. “I’d actually

Dillon Beck in front of his mural at Seventh Son Brewery

argue the city, state and nonprofits should be leaning in even more than they are today. Most bankers and builders don’t see a direct return on investment in art,” says Kaufman, who has personally funded art in many cases when he hasn’t had a level of public or institutional support that matches the impact the work can have. “I think that’s shortsighted. There is a return, it’s just not always immediate or easy to quantify.”

Public Art, Public Spaces

A compelling and natural home for public art is, of course, public places. For its East 11th Avenue headquarters, the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority sought proposals from Ohio artists for a mural embodying its organizational values of community, commitment and collaboration. The public housing provider engaged muralist Adam Hernandez to create Whenever, Wherever, We Are, which incorporates patterns and colors inspired by textiles from West Africa and Latin America. “I want people to see themselves in it and know that they have inner power and inner beauty, no matter where they may find themselves in life,” Hernandez said in his artist’s statement. The city’s Recreation and Parks department named public art as a high priority in its 10-year master plan focused on building new parks, trails and facilities

The Makers Monument by Mark Reigelman in the Short North Scioto Lounge bronze deer sculpture by Terry Allen

as spaces for creating and celebrating art. Acknowledging that funding is finite and priorities are many, Deputy Director of Housing Strategies Erin Prosser says the city looks forward to working with GCAC to explore options for expanding funding, staffing and support for public art. “The city will continue to balance our investments in public art with additional community priorities including affordable housing, public safety and basic city services,” she says.

Moving Forward As Best It Can

As the organization works on solutions to its funding challenges, GCAC is implementing the pieces of its Public Art Strategy that are within reach today, from streamlining its process for installing public art to helping artists and property owners navigate the process.

In April, GCAC shared its City of Columbus Public Art Planning and Flow Chart, which guides artists and interested parties through the necessary project implementation steps including what boards or commissions may have approval power over a project. The agency also is working on developing workshops and short videos to further break down the labyrinthine process of bringing public art into being.

In the education realm, GCAC is engaged in conversations with Columbus College of Art & Design to implement a public art curriculum there within the next year or so, Goldstein says.

Education for Artists

One crucial aspect of supporting public art is providing education, skills training and experience-building opportunities for local artists. It’s all about cultivating an ecosystem that educates artists at every level around the idea of creating public art, says artist Marshall Shorts, who co-founded Maroon Arts Group.

In his King Lincoln-Bronzeville neighborhood, the ARtsway summer internship program provides technical mural education for high-school-aged youths. Partnering with community groups including Maroon Arts Group, All People Arts and Franklinton Arts District, the program mentors young artists on the business of murals and provides hands-on experience in completing large-scale art.

Dillon Beck, an up-and-coming artist whose ultra-pigmented sculptural tunnel Traversal is one of four new pieces of

public art slated for installation this year at Goodale Park, points to local festivals such as Alley Islands, held each May at Blockfort Gallery and Studios, and 934 Fest as ideal opportunities for firsttime muralists to experiment and learn the form.

Following Through Artist Adam Brouillette, a co-founder of Blockfort, says he’s become acutely aware of how many hurdles exist to making public art, from bureaucratic barricades to continual funding cuts. “What happens if we actually double down on art rather than trying to figure out ways to squeeze pennies out of it?” he says. “The

[GCAC Public Art Strategy] provides us an exact roadmap of what we need to do … now we need to give it money. And until that happens, that report is just a paperweight.”

Shorts agrees, saying public stakeholders need to see the plan through, build sustainability around it, and ensure it’s equitable and supports all neighborhoods—not just the city’s Downtown core.

“Does the city have the political will to support this initiative beyond just the research, beyond just having the plan? That will be the real determination of the success of public art in the city, and I think that remains to be seen,” Shorts says. ◆

Our Single Garment of Destiny by Julian and Adriana Voss-Andreae in Washington Gladden Social Justice Park

Acrobat With Chair and Acrobat With Chair II by Jerzy Jotka Kedziora in German Village

A Beloved Celebration Returns

Clintonville lost its Fourth of July celebration in 2020. Two siblings brought it back, fireworks and all.

By Kathy Lynn Gray

When the organizers of the annual July Fourth Clintonville fireworks extravaganza bowed out and asked younger community members to take over after 2019, no one stepped up, even after COVID vaccines made the longtime gathering at Whetstone Park possible again.

That’s when Myra Holderbaum and her brother, Nigel Carter, thought about their mother’s advice.

“If you want them back, you should do it,” Carina Carter told her children, who had grown up heading to the park every Fourth of July for all-day festivities, topped off by the night’s fireworks finale.

Last year, they did. And this year, they’re planning a second fireworks revival.

Some of the July Fourth daytime activities returned to Whetstone Park in 2023, thanks to a small but mighty group of volunteers headed by residents Amy Weyand and Cliff Wiltshire, who publishes the monthly Clintonville Spotlight newspaper. The annual breakfast, bike-decorating contest, pet parade, games and car show came back in 2023 and 2024. At summer’s end in 2024, Holderbaum and Carter gathered seven interested residents and set out to bring the fireworks back, too.

Razzle and dazzle firework shows aren’t cheap, and although the Clintonville display is held at a city park, paying for them is up to organizers. Last year Holderbaum was awarded a $2,000 grant from the city, but the remainder of the needed $80,000 came from fundraisers, businesses and residents. The largest donation, $5,000, was from Clintonville grocery store Weiland’s.

Another came from a woman who

Front & Center | Community

handed volunteers $2,500 when they were fundraising at the Clintonville Farmers Market.

Holderbaum says last year, people hesitated to get involved because raising $80,000 seemed impossible. That meant, for example, the seven core volunteers had to divide Clintonville into sectors and spend hours dropping flyers off house to house with their kids and other family members.

This year, with one successful event under their belts, Holderbaum hopes more people and groups will volunteer their time, effort and cash. The 2026 goal is to raise $100,000.

The biggest expense is the fireworks—$50,000 last year and $60,000 in 2026. Portable restrooms, budgeted at $10,000 this year, are the second largest expense. The city determines the number required based on the anticipated crowd, so there’s little wiggle room to reduce that cost.

Signs, flyers and notices on the Clintonville July Fourth Celebration Facebook page publicize the event. A big push this year is “250 for $250 for the 250th”, a plan to raise $250 each from 250 donors in celebration of America’s semiquincentennial. The $250 can come from one person or a group, Carter says, and donors will be recognized for their participation.

Carter and Holderbaum, who both are

raising families in Clintonville, say bringing back the fireworks is a passion project fueled by happy memories. “Fourth of July at Whetstone Park was a staple of our summers,” Holderbaum says. “It felt like such a gap when there was no community celebration. Anything that brings all these people together is a win and a tradition I can pass on to my kids.”

What’s it cost for Clintonville’s Fourth of July 2026 event?

Source: Clintonville July Fourth Celebration Inc.

The organizing committee is seeking participants in its “250 for $250 for the 250th” fundraiser. Learn more and contribute at clintonville-july-4th-celebration. square.site

Myra Holderbaum and Nigel Carter

PHOTO BY TIM JOHNSON

Front & Center | Housing

The Modular Model

Entrepreneur Letha Pugh shares insights on creating affordable housing—from building to leasing—in Columbus.

By Linda Lee Baird

From Bake Me Happy to Service! Relief, Letha Pugh is known for her work in the food industry. Now, she’s expanded her portfolio to include housing that’s affordable for industry workers. Her first modular home build in Driving Park is set to start leasing in July.

Pugh recently spoke with Columbus Monthly about her vision for housing in the Columbus region. This conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

What led you to real estate? I do love entrepreneurship, and I see a lot of opportunities and options for myself. I love the hospitality industry, but since the pandemic, I have been really in tune to [the fact that it’s] an industry where people really struggle financially. Across the city, there are a number of folks in the industry who probably really can only afford $800 to $1,200 a month [for housing].

Being able to provide housing at a cost people can afford means I have to work with public funds to subsidize the cost. The Affordable Housing Trust for Columbus and Franklin County helped me work through what that process looks like.

I didn’t dive in like, ‘Oh, I’m going to build a 20-unit apartment.’ I said, ‘OK, I’m going to start with a duplex. And I’m going to learn the process.’ I’m using a modular product. I think that makes the process a little bit easier.

Can you explain modular housing and how it saves time? There’s a couple of different versions. Basically, they build [the components] in a warehouse. So they’ll build the bathroom, living room, the bedrooms, and they ship it to me in four pieces. And then those four pieces are set into a foundation.

Another type that I’m looking at, they ship your walls to you framed out, and then [it’s] put together like a puzzle.

Pugh

Tell us about your prior experience in real estate? I started in 2023. My first three purchases were multifamily apartments. And I rarely have vacancies. I do get a sense of satisfaction, connecting with folks who this [home] is in their price point, they’re excited about it.

I think as I learn more about the financial piece, and then also plugging in public and private funds to make a project work, there is something a little bit exhilarating in it. Chasing and finding dollars that help bring the cost of a project down, I enjoy that.

I think there are some good landlords out here, and the good ones, they really

do try to treat their tenants like a decent family member. It’s built on trust. And so if you get folks who are honest with you and you see them working hard and they’re trying to make ends meet, you’re more than willing to give them some grace.

What comes next? I am looking to make some impactful projects. Part of the work [is] around [what I call] community-based scaling. It’s encompassing all parts of economic development: jobs, housing, treating people as humans and wraparound services. I see it through that lens. ◆

Letha

PHOTO BY TIM JOHNSON

Clean

Meat cutting is an art of precision. It’s exact—the opposite of the chaos wrought by drug addiction.

In this deeply personal essay, the author shares his experiences on the journey out of addiction and the success he later found. Daniel Phillips became co-owner of Weiland’s Market April 1, 2024.

I think the reason I was initially drawn to meat cutting, or the reason I still feel so happy when cutting meat, is that everything has a definition, a boundary. If you’re looking at a side of beef, the first through fifth ribs are the chuck. From the sixth rib down is the ribeye. You can put a saw right in between the fifth and sixth ribs, and you know cutting there creates two distinct and differently priced cuts of meat. I don’t know who decided this, but we don’t need to worry about that. It has been decided.

Similarly, when the ribcage ends, the big piece of meat that was a ribeye is now suddenly and most definitely a strip loin. You always have one ribeye and one strip that look almost identical because that’s the point where you separate the two cuts. It doesn’t matter how alike they look or taste: You have crossed over into something that has been one thing and is now another.

What a clean concept. The designated point having been reached, a line is drawn. Something ends and something else begins. We get very few of those.

I don’t remember the official last time I stuck a needle into my own arm, or if it was loaded with meth or heroin. It exists. There was a last time, and it was 15ish years ago. It was, procedurally, the same as any other time I did it. There was no epiphany, no great awakening, no rock bottom that I hit and then declared to the universe that I must change, setting off a chain of events where I conquered my demons and began to live the life I always was meant to live. It was more pathetic

Co-owner Daniel Phillips at the Weiland’s butcher counter

Essay by Daniel Phillips

Photos by Tim Johnson

and cold and slow than all that.

If you or anyone you love ever gets clean, don’t anybody think there is any beauty or glamour in crawling your way back into living a normal life. Or that you wake up one day as a changed person, never to go back. I relapsed several times before getting clean the last time. Every time I got clean, I thought it was forever; every time I went back out, I thought that was forever, too. It’s more of just a long reconditioning. You have to learn again what it means to eat meals regularly, pay bills, take out the trash, hold down a job, and probably most importantly, you have to learn again how to maintain relationships. You have to be accountable to people, and love them, and respect their love for you. That is hard.

My experiences have made me both more and less understanding and sympathetic toward people dealing with drug addiction. On the one hand, I’m sympathetic, way deep down. I’m even in a position to help them in certain ways. On the other hand, I know how tricky they can be: They lie and steal. That’s not a judgment; that is fact. When you have nothing, and the only thing that can dispossess you of the abject misery you’re feeling is $20, you will do just about anything to get it. For that reason, my

sympathy and compassion ends about 6 feet outside my front door. If you are living with a junkie, my best advice is to kick them out. They need it. I did a fair bit of sleeping outside in the cold, in the freezing rain, wet and miserable. I was kicked out of every place I called home, and if I hadn’t been, I don’t know that I ever would have gotten clean.

I never used to want to talk about my past. When I started at Weiland’s Market in 2014, I didn’t talk to anyone about it. It felt nice to just blend in with all the “normal” people and not think about where I had been or what I had done. As I started to gain more stability and success in life and work my way up at Weiland’s, it began to feel important to own that part of my life. I could look at people and say, “I was a low-down piece of shit, and I had nothing. Now I’m doing OK. If I can do it, I promise you can, too.”

Shortly after I got clean for the first (not the last) time, someone I knew overdosed and died. A woman who knew both of us told me, “He wasn’t like you. He was never going to get clean.” If there’s anything I want people to understand—people who are using and people who aren’t—it’s that there is no difference between me and that person. Not on the inside, not really. The people you

see struggling with drugs, the ones out there doing bad things, the ones who haven’t bathed in a month and have track marks up and down their arms—they still have a chance. There’s a person in there who is drowning. They might not make it out. But they still have a chance.

The way I choose to help people, whether it’s an employee or someone on the street, is by being open about where I’ve been, so they see it can get better. It isn’t promised, but it can. I tell them that I had top dentures by the time I was 27 because my teeth were destroyed by drugs. I tell them I slept outside in nasty weather. I tell them I stole. I tell them how hungry I was. How I know what true, deep hunger is—a hunger most people can’t even imagine. I know the true value of food, that’s how hungry I was. I tell them I’m the same as them. I tell them I want them to get their act together, because life can be so good. Anyone can do it. It’s hard, it’s really hard, but they can indeed do it.

I like setting the meat case because I start at one end and work my way to the other. I like it because there is a specific way to cut everything, and I cut it that way. When I’m done, the case is set and it looks beautiful, and everything is exact, and it’s clean ◆

The meat case at Weiland’s Market

Northland High Anchors Community

A coalition of volunteers at Northland High School is working to make the city’s first community campus school a vital neighborhood resource.

By Amy Bodiker Baskes

Something is stirring at Northland High School. Students, faculty and staff, parents and neighbors are asking, “How can we create a better school?”

Their initial answer: a Culture Festival, hosted in spring 2025, to celebrate the many immigrant populations found on Northland’s campus with student performances, traditional clothing and cultural artifacts, and global cuisine. With 51 nations and 28 languages represented in the student body, Northland’s international flavor is its superpower.

After over 300 people participated— record-setting attendance for Northland, where football nights might draw a few dozen fans and chronic absenteeism is one of the school’s biggest challenges—a second festival and community market was scheduled this spring.

This is thanks in part to Northland’s selection as Columbus City Schools’ first pilot community campus school, an opportunity granted in the settlement of the 2022 negotiations between the Columbus Education Association teacher’s union and the school district. Community campus schools focus on shared decision-making while tapping into the community’s resources to help students, families and neighbors—extending their

reach beyond the student body.

This approach to school improvement in Columbus is currently unique to Northland, but the community schools initiative, as it’s commonly known, has been around nationally for decades. While each school’s approach might be different, what is shared is the perspective that schools will respond uniquely to the specific needs of their students and neighbors.

“This sets each community campus school as the central heart and hub of its neighborhood, where you have this symbiotic relationship between the community and the school,” says Izetta Thomas, executive director and lead organizer for the Columbus Education Justice Coalition, who has helped spearhead the project.

As a community campus school, Northland’s decision-making is held in a steering committee, a team of stakeholders that might include neighbors and community partners, custodians and cafeteria workers, and students, teachers and administrators. Anyone is welcome to the monthly conversation where issues are collectively identified and then addressed together.

The steering committee has hosted community conversations on topics

ranging from food insecurity to technology. And there are plans for more festivals and the addition of a possible greenhouse on campus. Chris Monteiro, an English teacher who volunteers as the community campus coordinator, champions the effort. “It’s clear that it’s possible to scale this model, and that it’s what our schools and neighborhoods need for everybody to thrive,” he says.

As an all-volunteer effort, the team has its eye on hiring a full-time campus coordinator position to help strengthen the initiative’s capacity. City Council committed $250,000 to support the hire and larger project in April.

In the meantime, the team will continue its work. “We don’t have a volunteer capacity issue, and that is so rare to see,” says Marielle Henault, a Northland neighbor. “People keep coming and volunteering their time to be part of these conversations and projects, and happily so. The collective communal power has been awesome.”

This article was made possible by the Center for HumanKindness at The Columbus Foundation, which partners with Columbus Monthly to showcase kindness in the community. Learn more at ColumbusMonthly.com/Kindness. ◆

BY TIM JOHNSON

English teacher Chris Monteiro at a Northland High community campus school steering committee meeting

PHOTO

ProMusica Chamber Orchestra’s Soiree

ProMusica held its annual Soiree on March 23. The event began with a party for 275 guests at the Westin Great Southern Columbus. It continued with a concert at the Southern Theatre, where party guests joined other music lovers for a performance from vocalist Samara Joy, a recipient of multiple Grammy Awards. The benefit brought together a total of 835 people, with proceeds supporting the chamber orchestra’s artistic and outreach programs.

1 Lee Shackelford and Patti Shorr with Stephanie and Jack Green 2 Former U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown, Janet Chen and Connie Schultz with Tom and Mary Katzenmeyer 3 Kelly Clark and Sarah Irvin Clark

4 Tom Bosco and Gina Calcamuggio 5 Samantha Elliott, Michelle Galligan and George Barrett 6 Nancy Marzella and Amy Spiess 7 Mackenzie Kneiss, Kendall Beard, Marjorie Duffy and Mike Gladman 8 Mikayla Lee, State Rep. Dontavius Jarrells and Olivia Nathan 9 Cynthia López Olaya, Anna Teye-Kasongo and Julie Fletcher 10 Shannon Morgan, Janet Chen and Emily Toney

The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio’s Keyholder Event

The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio hosted its annual fundraising event, Keyholder, on April 22 at the Palace Theatre. Over 1,000 tickets were sold to the event, which also recognized the 25th anniversary of the Women’s Fund and raised more than $375,000 to support the organization’s work.

1 Taylor Carlson, Jenna Saponaro, Sara Orbe (back), Claire Coder and Jenni Genson

2 Cary Cox, Gabriela Vega and Sally Crane Cox with Paige and Michael Crane 3 Kelley Griesmer 4 Margaret Finley 5 LaShé Tatum, Kiko Yee, Becca Altimier and Brandie Samuels

6 Letha Pugh and Anna-Maria Teresa Temu

June 18

July 17

August 1

VICTOR/VICTORIA 1982 PG HAPPY PRIDE!

OHIO GOES TO THE MOVIES FREE

June 19

Lee Daniels’ The Butler 2013 PG-13

June 20 & 21

Casablanca 1943 PG 35mm

June 24

Spaceballs 1987 PG MEL BROOKS’ 100 TH BIRTHDAY

June 25 & 26

Hitchcock’s Family Plot 1976 PG SERIES PREMIERE 50 TH ANNIVERSARY

June 27

Cartoon Capers

June 27 & 28

An American in Paris 1951 75 TH ANNIVERSARY

July 1 FAN FAVORITE SELECTION

Stand By Me 1986 R

ROB REINER TRIBUTE 40 TH ANNIVERSARY

July 2

Pretty Woman 1990 R SERIES PREMIERE

July 8

The Great Gatsby 1974 PG ROBERT REDFORD TRIBUTE

July 9 & 10

The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad! 1988 PG-13 SERIES PREMIERE

July 11 & 12

Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones 2002 PG SERIES PREMIERE

July 15 & 16

Romancing the Stone 1984 PG SERIES PREMIERE

Silence of the Lambs 1991 R SERIES PREMIERE 35 TH ANNIVERSARY

July 18 & 19

South Pacific 1958

OHIO GOES TO THE MOVIES FREE

July 22

Coal Miner’s Daughter 1980 PG SERIES PREMIERE

July 23 & 24

Roman Holiday 1953

July 25 & 26

Some Like It Hot 1959 35mm

July 29

Shall We Dance 1937

July 30

Forbidden Planet 1956 70 TH ANNIVERSARY

COMEDY DOUBLE FEATURE

July 31

Sons of the Desert 1933

Abbott & Costello Meet the Invisible Man 1951 SERIES PREMIERE 75 TH ANNIVERSARY

Cartoon Capers

August 1 & 2

West Side Story 1961 65 TH ANNIVERSARY

August 5

Unforgiven 1992 R SERIES PREMIERE

SILENT FILM

August 6 & 7

My Best Girl 1927 plus a classic comedy short SERIES PREMIERE

August 8 & 9

Hitchcock’s To Catch a Thief 1955

August 12 & 13

Another Thin Man 1939

FRIGHT NITE FRIDAY WITH FRITZ!

August 14

Gremlins 1984 PG

August 15 & 16

Seven Brides for Seven Brothers 1954 35mm

WAYS to purchase 10-Packs: Day-of-show single tickets: General Public: $6 Seniors & Students: $5 All tickets are general admission and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Single tickets go on sale Mon., June 1.

A BIG THANKS TO OUR SEASON SUPPORTERS!

PHOTO OF ASH CAVE DRUM CIRCLE BY TIM JOHNSON

Columbus Outdoors Trails Pass

This free trails pass provides extra inducement to hike, run or travel by other means through such locales as the Alum Creek Trail, Darby Trail and Glacier Ridge Metro Park: Not only does the pass provide possible itineraries to follow, but those who check-in along the way can be entered to walk away with a $100 gift card to an assortment of area restaurants or businesses. experiencecolumbus.com/marketplace/outdoortrails

Columbus Recreation and Parks

It’s easy to forget that the Columbus region is a pretty ecologically exciting place. Making a stop at one of the region’s nature preserves is the perfect reminder of our rural roots. There are ample spots from which to choose, including the Hamilton Road Wetland Nature Preserve, the Hoover Meadows Nature Preserve and Mud Hen Marsh Nature Preserve. Free, columbusrecparks.com/facilities/ nature-preserves

Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens

Looking for a place to meditate amid the hubbub of summer in the city? The West Campus of Ohio State University has just the place for you—or three, to be precise, fanning out over more than 60 acres. This arboretum encompasses a trio of bucolic spots: the Learning Gardens, the Lane Avenue Gardens and Arboretum North. Free, chadwickarboretum.osu.edu/gardens

Beginner Bird Walks

May 23, June 13 and 27

Bird-watching need not be a specialized skill. Columbus Audubon makes it easy by inviting newbies and pros alike to go on bird walks throughout the summer. Attendees will gather at the Grange Insurance Audubon Center and then head outside. Binoculars are suggested (of course). Free, columbusaudubon.org

Summer Entertainment Guide 2026

FInsect Epiphany

Gather June 12-14 for a special weekend connecting with insects who make their music in the Ohio woods day and night.

By Peter Tonguette

or too many of us, the return of the insect population each summer prompts a hearty sigh. After all, who wants to contend with ants, gnats, mosquitoes and other invaders?

Author Barrett Klein has different ideas about our miniscule companions.

In his book The Insect Epiphany: How Our Six-Legged Allies Shape Human Culture, Klein does a deep dive into the many ways in which insects contribute more than mere annoyance. In fact, they are part of the glue that holds our world together.

“They affect how we do everything,” says Cassidy Drummond, education

coordinator of Arc of Appalachia, a system of nature preserves concentrated in southern Ohio. On June 12-14, at the organization’s hub in Bainbridge, Arc of Appalachia will host Klein for an event that will bring to life the theme of his book.

Up to 20 registrants can sign up for the event, also called Insect Epiphany, which will include presentations, workshops and outdoor excursions to scenic environs sure to be populated with all manner of insects. The cost is $325 per participant; lodging costs $50 for a shared room or $85 for a private room. Details can be found at arcofappalachia.org/insectepiphany.

OUTDOORS/NATURE

On the evenings of June 12 and 13, nocturnal insect discovery walks will be among the highlights.

“We do a lot of programs throughout the year that do take us outside at night,” Drummond says. “Last year, I did one called Summer Singers. We went out as a group, listening to crickets. It’s really fun.”

Daytime insect discovery sessions will take place on the afternoon of June 13 and the morning of June 14.

Also on tap is an “insect movie night” on the evening of June 13, and a session detailing “specimen care and curation” on the morning of June 14.

“You’re not expecting to learn as much as you might come away with,” Drum-

Participants in Arc of Appalachia’s Insect Epiphany event in June will get to meet insects such as this green lacewing, seen alighting on aniseroot growing in the Ohio forest.

Edible Blooms

June 6

Most of us are familiar with the cooking potential found in planting a vegetable garden, but the experts at the Dawes Arboretum aim to train you to look to your flower bed to enhance what you make in the kitchen. At this event, guests can learn about how to use flowers to cook. Stay for a taste test that is sure to be fragrant, if nothing else. dawesarb.org/events

Adventure Nights

June 26-July 25

On Friday and Saturday nights from late June through the end of July, the zoo’s Adventure Cove will get up and running at 6 p.m. even as the zoo itself is winding down for the day. Adventure Nights promise to include movies on Fridays, music on Saturdays, food, rides and, of course, some quality time with animals in spots like the Stingray Bay. Zoombezi Bay is also open ($24.95). Free, columbuszoo.org/adventure-nights

Blooms & Butterflies

Through July 5

mond says. “I know I’m always just blown away at the end of a course, and I’m not even taking it. I’m just leaning in here and there when I can.”

For those who can’t attend the weekend-long event, Klein will be in conversation with Ohio State University emeritus entomology professor Bruce McPheron at Gramercy Books in Bexley on June 10. A community lecture open to those not signed up in the event itself will also take place at Arc of Appalachia at 7 p.m. June 13.

One thing is certain: The insect community has never had a stronger advocate.

“He is a force of nature, quite literally, a genius,” Drummond says.

Butterflies may be all around us, but, as with roses, how many of us stop to ponder their beauty? Among the exhibitions at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Blooms & Butterflies will enable us to become more intentional observers of butterflies and their flowers. $25.20, or $21 for senior citizens, $17.33 for ages 3 through 12, fpconservatory.org

PHOTO COURTESY

JEFF WHITE

The Blooms & Butterflies exhibition will be at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens through July 5.

Wine Down Wednesdays

May 20, June 24, July 15, Aug. 19, Sept. 16

This CAPA-sponsored event wrings a festive evening out of what could be a drab weekday. On one Wednesday each month, the Lincoln Theatre’s rooftop patio will be the setting for good wine and even better jazz from pianist Bobby Floyd (May 21), drummer and DJ Don Carlos (June 24), guitarist Sean Carney (July 15), singer-songwriter Stephen Ballard (Aug. 19) and the Large Mouth Brass Band and percussionist Cedric Easton (Sept. 16). $39.72, capa.com

Opera Project Columbus

June 5-7

Based on Voltaire’s proudly cheeky novella, Leonard Bernstein’s Candide has satire built into its DNA, but the local troupe’s performance in the Timashev Family Music Building on the campus of Ohio State University is sure to draw out contemporary resonances in the timeless story. $44.52, operaprojectcolumbus.com

Buckeye Country Superfest

June 13

Once again, Ohio Stadium will temporarily relocate to Nashville—in spirit. Among the top-flight country-western artists on tap to perform in what is normally the venue for OSU sports are Tyler Childers, Sierra Ferrell and Lord Huron. $65 and up, buckeyecountrysuperfest.com

Picnic With the Pops

June 13-Aug. 1

Once again, the Columbus Symphony Orchestra will burst forth from its usual home inside the Ohio Theatre to bring music to the Columbus Commons during the summer months. Among the artists the orchestra will perform with are Wyclef Jean (June 20), Leann Rimes (July 18) and several hundred members of The Best Damn Band in the Land (July 31Aug. 1). $18.15 to $62.50 for general lawn admission, columbussymphony.com

Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival

June 19-21

Amid the flora and fauna of Gahanna’s Creekside District, jazz and blues artists will inspire attendees to get into a groove during the three-day festival. While festival-goers listen to the likes of Tito Puente Jr., Stephen Stringz, the Hoodoo Soul Band and Teeny Tucker, they can also feast on food and drink. One-day pass, $15; three-day pass, $30, creeksidebluesandjazz.com

Summer Entertainment Guide 2026

Ash Cave Drum Circle & Healing Gathering

The season’s musical happenings are punctuated by the chance to join an outdoor community drumming event in the Hocking Hills like no other.

Story and photos by Tim Johnson

Listings by Peter Tonguette

The pulsating sounds of drums filled Ash Cave and permeated into the surrounding forests of the Hocking Hills during the Ash Cave Spring Drum Circle & Healing Gathering held April 26. Facilitated by Iggy Garcia Mandriotti, a shaman of Peruvian descent who goes by Iggy Garcia, the event attracted seasoned and new drummers and dancers of all ages to share in the powerful rhythmic and healing properties of making communal music. Two more Ash Cave drumming events will be held this year on July 26 and Sept. 13. Further information about these and other drum circles can be found at iggygarcia.com and @safeinsoundwellness.

Lancaster Festival

July 15-25

Whether you prefer to draw with chalk on sidewalks, listen to classical masterpieces or sing along with A-list guest artists, the festival will nourish every variety of artistic taste. This year’s highlights include Broadway tunes sung by Morgan James and Michael Maliakel (July 21), a concert with Columbus Jazz Orchestra leader Byron Stripling and a cohort of his musical friends (July 24) and the finale featuring Lady A (July 25). Tickets vary, lancasterfestival.org

Jazz & Ribs Fest

July 24-26

Surely jazz or ribs on their own would make for a fun weekend, but the combination— well, who could ask for more? West Bank Park and Bicentennial Park is again the site of this annual attraction featuring fabulous musicians and delicious food. Free, hotribscooljazz.org

ProMusica Chamber Orchestra

Aug. 13-14

The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is an unfailingly beautiful place, but at least once a year, it is also a supremely tuneful place. The park will play host to the chamber orchestra’s Summer Music Series. Past editions have freely mixed classical and more surprising selections. Free, promusicacolumbus.org

Festival Latino

Aug. 22-23

For closing in on 30 years, the annual Festival Latino has been a picture of constancy with its commitment to saluting and recognizing all facets of Latino culture, but this year’s edition comes with a difference: The festival has pulled up stakes from Genoa Park for a new home at Columbus Commons and inside the Ohio Theatre. Free, capa.com

Güiro,

a frog-shaped percussion instrument

Photos clockwise from top: Iggy Garcia Mandriotti dancing; Christina Abdelshahid plays music; Kylee, 2, and Colt Wharton, 4, try their hand at group drumming; Aurora Solara plays a pair of singing bowls; and mallets lie on a drum.

Columbus Recreation and Parks sports leagues

Sports are not just for spectators, so for those who wish to spend their summer doing some sweating, the recreation and parks department offers numerous adult sports leagues, including pickleball (six-week season begins July 12), tennis (five-week season begins July 19) and indoor volleyball (five-week season begins Aug. 16). columbusrecparks.com/wellness/ athletics/adult

Columbus Clippers

In keeping with Columbus’ tradition of not being home to Ohio’s Major League teams but having the state’s coolest teams, the Clippers—the Triple-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians—will be in the swing of their season all summer long. Don’t miss out on promotions that make going to home games at Huntington Park easier, including Family Day Sundays, Tuesday Dime-aDog Nights and $5 Wednesdays. milb.com/columbus

Columbus Crew

For professional soccer fans residing in the Columbus region, summertime is synonymous with the Columbus Crew kicking their way to another playoff berth and, ideally, their first MLS Cup since 2023. The club plays at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field. columbuscrew.com

Columbus Eagles FC

The Crew is not the only game in town. Support women’s soccer by making yourself a regular attendee of the home games of the Columbus Eagles FC, who will play Greater Toledo FC on June 19 and Corktown WFC on June 27. Games are played at Fortress Obetz. columbuseaglesfc.com/wp

Summer Entertainment Guide 2026

U.S. Senior Open

The major tournament returns to the Scioto County Club this year.

Story and listings by Peter Tonguette

Photos courtesy of Greater Columbus Sports Commission

Sports fans are rightly impressed by such aging-butstill-dazzling athletes as LeBron James and Aaron Rodgers, but golf fans long have known that mastery is attainable in the sport into middle age and beyond.

“I’m 41, and I just picked up skateboarding. I don’t have a very long skateboarding career in front of me,” says Jesse Ghiorzi, director of marketing at the Greater Columbus Sports Commission. “But I started golfing seven or eight years ago, and I can golf for as long as I can

physically do it. ... You can pick it up at any age and play it for a really long time.”

The proof may be in the U.S. Senior Open, which on July 2-5 at the Scioto Country Club will invite golfers 50 and older to prove their mettle.

“The cool thing about open tournaments is they’re open, by definition,” Ghiorzi says. “It’s not just professional players or former champions. It’s anybody with a handicap index under 2.4.”

The pool of 2,780 entrants will be reduced to a 156-player field.

“Then we’ve got one person that will

Glen Day at the 2016 U.S. Senior Open at Scioto Country Club

ultimately lift the trophy in July,” says Ghiorzi, noting that recent champions include such impressive players as Padraig Harrington, Bernhard Langer and Steve Stricker.

“There are a lot of good golfers still out there,” he says.

This year’s tournament will take place for the third time at the Scioto Country Club, whose storied past—and first-class maintenance—made it a logical landing spot for the U.S. Senior Open in 1986 and 2016.

“It was designed by Donald Ross in

1916, and it’s obviously been updated since then,” Ghiorzi says. “It’s got ties to Jack Nicklaus, learning to play there as a kid. There’s not a whole lot of golf courses that can claim they had the greatest champion golfer learn the game there.”

Various ticket packages can be found at the USGA website.

With the popularity of golf skyrocketing, Ghiorzi says, it’s an especially good year to follow the game in Columbus.

“It’s the 50th anniversary of the Memorial Tournament,” he says. “It’s a really special year for golf in Columbus.”

WWE Monday Night RAW

May 25

Professional wrestling is the sort of sport where you buy a ticket claiming that it’s for a friend or perhaps a relative—but, in actuality, you’re the one who wants a front-row seat to all the mayhem. It’s OK: There’s no shame in checking out the pummeling and trashtalking sure to unfold at the Schottenstein Center. $57.95 and up, schottensteincenter.com/events/ detail/wwe-raw-2

The Memorial Tournament

June 1-7

Fifty years have elapsed since the founding of Jack Nicklaus’ tournament, but there’s nothing stodgy about watching the nimblest and most talented golfers globally converge on Dublin’s Muirfield Golf Club. Multiple ticket options are available for those who wish to take in the talent. thememorialtournament.com

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow-N-Fire

Aug. 22-23

Surely the drivers behind the wheels of monster trucks count as athletes of a kind? Whether they are or not, no one could argue that watching their oversize vehicles navigate the terrain at Nationwide Arena sounds like loads of fun. After all, some of the trucks have names like Bone Shaker and Mega Wrex. $32.50 and up, ticketmaster.com

Miguel Angel Jimenez at the 2016 tournament

Brian Henninger at the 2016 tournament

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Tavares Strachan:

The Day Tomorrow Began Opens May 16

The Columbus Museum of Art at The Pizzuti will be the site for an exhibition featuring Bahamas-born conceptual artist Strachan and the many modes in which he works, including sculpture, painting and what are said to be installations in large dimensions. The sure-to-besurprising, guaranteed-to-be-eyepopping show runs through Jan. 3, 2027. $5, or free for members, columbusmuseum.org

Actors’ Theatre of Columbus

May 21-Sept. 6

Nothing mixes quite like gentle summer breezes and riveting dramatic storytelling. This year, the troupe, which performs Thursdays through Sundays in German Village’s Schiller Park, will offer Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew (May 21-June 14), Peter and the Starcatcher (June 18-July 12), Shakespeare’s Othello (July 16Aug. 9) and Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None (Aug. 13Sept. 6). Free, theactorstheatre.org

Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum

Reopening May 22

Following a six-month closure for renovations, the institution on Ohio State University will reopen in May. For the cartoon deprived, leaders have seen to it that the wait will have been worth it: A new permanent exhibition, Story of Comics, will trace 400 centuries’ worth of comics history, while the exhibition Life is Complicated presents works by cartoonist Chris Ware from May 23 to Jan. 3, 2027. Free, cartoons. osu.edu

Water for Elephants

June 9-14

This Broadway musical wends its way to the Ohio Theatre with an impressive heritage: the material originated as a novel Sara Gruen. It then was fodder for a movie starring Reese Witherspoon, and finally, it became a musical thanks to the

Summer Entertainment Guide 2026

Mona Lisa, Reimagined

Story and listings by Peter Tonguette

Photo by Tim Johnson

When you next swing by the Short North, the Mona Lisa will still be looking at you in her own way, but she’ll be doing so from a slightly different perch.

After residing for more than 30 years on the side of a building on Bollinger Place, the arts district’s signature mural—artist Brian Clemons’ imaginative riff on Leonardo da Vinci’s painting of a woman with a curiously cryptic grin—has been retired from its longtime location.

“This mural has been an icon in the Short North now for decades,” says Betsy Pandora of the Short North Alliance, but even icons experience wear-and-tear.

“We started to notice that the exterior of the building was evolving in a way that we were likely going to lose the art,” Pandora says. “We took some measures, about five years ago, to try and stop her aging process.”

Those steps slowed but did not arrest the mural’s decline. Instead, leaders decided to commission a new mural in a new spot. Everything would be different— everything, that is, except for the subject of the piece.

“I think everyone cared deeply about the fact that this piece of art has had such a legacy and such an enduring history,” Pandora says.

After settling on a new location of high visibility—the side of the Moxy hotel on North High Street—artist Mandi Caskey was selected to summon into existence an all-new Mona Lisa. She’s still angled sideways, as in Clemons’ original, but she’s been given a new lease on life with bolder colors and kinetic swooshes.

“My approach was less about recreating the Mona Lisa exactly and more about translating her into my visual language,” Caskey says by email. “I wanted to preserve her essence while allowing space for my own style, textures and emotional tone to come through.”

Whether or not the new Mona Lisa, now called She Moves With Color, will have as long a shelf life as its earlier iteration is unknown. But for now, and likely for years to come, it will give visitors to the Short North reason to smile.

“I hope people feel a sense of curiosity when they come across it,” Caskey says. “Whether that’s recognizing something familiar in a new way or just being pulled in by its presence. Ideally, it creates a moment where someone slows down, even briefly, and connects with it.”

VISUAL ARTS, FILM AND THEATER

handiwork of the PigPen Theatre Co. No matter how it’s told, the story—about a man recollecting the time when he caught on with a circus—is sure to captivate. $25 to $158, capa.com

CAPA Summer Movie Series

June 18-Aug. 16

Who needs fresh air when the Ohio Theatre is showing classic movies all summer long? Among the vintage films to be shown during this year’s series are Casablanca (June 20-21), South Pacific (July 18-19) and two by Alfred Hitchcock: Family Plot (June 25-26) and To Catch a Thief (Aug. 8-9). More recent flicks include Spaceballs (June 24) and The Silence of the Lambs (July 17). $6, or $5 for senior citizens, students and children, capa.com

A Summer Abroad: International Film Classics

July 9-Aug. 13

Ohio State University’s Wexner Center for the Arts will satisfy film fans and travel buffs alike with its latest series. Numerous world cinema classics will deliver audiences to various far-flung destinations, including Jamaica in The Harder They Come (July 10), France in Golden Eighties (July 25), and Japan in Akira Kurosawa’s masterpiece Ran (Aug. 13). Numerous titles will be presented in newly restored versions. wexarts.org

“Sweeney Todd” Sept. 24-Oct. 18

Stephen Sondheim’s Demon Barber will relocate from Fleet Street to the Garden Theater in the Short North Stage’s production of the inimitably macabre musical. As memorable as the props, including knives and meat pies, is the music, including the standards A Little Priest and The Worst Pies in London. $43.35 to $98.80, shortnorthstage.org

Mandi Caskey’s mural

She Moves With Color on the Moxy hotel

It is better to give than to receive, and that doesn’t become any less true over the summer. Below is a sampling of area organizations and events in need of helping hands.

Columbus Arts Festival columbusartsfestival.org/engage/ volunteer

Columbus Gives Back columbusgivesback.org

Columbus Humane columbushumane.org/volunteer

Keep Columbus Beautiful columbus.gov/community/ department-of-neighborhoods/ keep-columbus-beautiful

Lutheran Social Services lssnetworkofhope.org/get-involved

Mid-Ohio Food Collective mofc.org/get-involved/volunteer

Summer Entertainment Guide 2026

VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES

ComFest

Just show up, spread peace and have fun. That’s the ComFest Way.

Sarah Adams of Lewis Center started going to ComFest while in college.

She had such a good time there, she thought she should help others have an equally good time at the annual event.

The Community Festival has been a staple of the last full weekend in June in Goodale Park for more than 50 years. It distinguishes itself by declining corporate sponsorships and instead relying on an all-volunteer force.

That has included Adams for about the last 11 years.

“I always attended, and then the more I attended, I thought, ‘Well, this place is run by volunteers. I should help it run,’ ” she says.

Some 3,000 shifts are available for volunteers to claim, and the roles available range from stage crews to bartenders to safety ambassadors to docents.

“The most recent years, I’ve been doing the merchandise booth,” Adams says. “Part of my interest there is because ComFest doesn’t have any sponsors, we need to earn the money to make the festival happen. By selling our own merchandise, we get to help fund the festival.”

Whether going as an attendee or as a volunteer, this year’s ComFest—set for June 26-28—offers the expected eclectic array. Four stages will present music of various kinds throughout the three days.

“A big draw is the local music,” says Marty Stutz, a spokesperson for ComFest, noting four stages to host area musicians and acts in various genres.

In an effort to attract younger crowds, ComFest has also hopped aboard the Silent Disco train. For the uninitiated, the idea is this: Several DJs each play music of their choosing, but it’s piped into the earphones of people in the Silent Disco space. “You can pick a channel of which DJ you want to dance or groove to,” Stutz says, but even if you don’t partake, it makes for some interesting watching.

“As you approach the Silent Disco, if you’re a bystander, you’ll see a whole bunch people just moving around,” he says.

The Street Fair will be populated by artisans, craftspeople and vendors selling food, and community groups and comedy acts will have a home at the Peace and Healing Pavilion.

“That sense of solidarity and meaning, to try to make the world a better place, really pulls not just volunteers but attendees together,” Stutz says. Those wishing to volunteer are directed to the ComFest website, but they can also join after they show up.

“People who may not know they can volunteer, and that they get lots of cool stuff when they volunteer, will sign up while they’re at the festival for a shift,” Stutz says.

ComFest volunteers Michael Quinn and Jermaine Smith

Comfest volunteer Connie Howard explains to Saida Omarova the Columbus Community Bill of Rights during the annual festival in Goodale Park June 28, 2014.

may

May 23-24

Asian Festival

Franklin Park, 1755 E. Broad St., Columbus; asian-festival.org

The free, annual celebration at Franklin Park highlights Asian cultures through food, performances, vendors and more. Prior to the festival weekend, catch the Asian Festival Dragon boat race, which takes place May 17 on the Scioto River near Bicentennial Park.

May 23-24

Ohio Black Expo

Genoa Park, 303 W. Broad St., Columbus; ohioblackexpo.com

The Memorial Day Weekend event boasts more than 100 vendors, music and even a college fair. The Family Zone includes bounce houses, games and face painting. Tickets start at $20. Admission is free for children 10 and younger.

june

June 12-14

Columbus Arts Festival Scioto Mile, Downtown Columbus; columbusartsfestival.org

The Downtown riverfront is the place to be during this annual festival showcasing a mix of visual artists, live music and dance performances, and local food and drink. Families can enjoy plenty of kid-friendly offerings, including hands-on art activities and interactive demonstrations. Admission is free.

June 18-20

Nelsonville Music Festival

Snow Fork Event Center, 5685 Happy Hollow Road, Nelsonville; nelsonvillefest.org

The southeastern Ohio festival is celebrating two decades with several dozen musical acts, retail vendors and a designated kids area with art, activities and more. Weekend passes start at $180. Admission is free for those 12 and younger, and discounted passes are available for teens ages 13-17.

Summer Entertainment Guide 2026

The 2025 Ohio State Fair

20 Local Fairs and Festivals to Explore

Summertime brings a bevy of entertainment options for all ages, with cultural events, arts and music showcases, and a host of fairs.

By Heather Lofy

From neighborhood street parties to big cultural celebra tions, summer in Columbus is packed with fairs and festivals worth putting on your calendar. These events are all about good food, live music and local traditions. Whether you’re looking for something family‑friendly or just an excuse to be outside, there’s a festival for every kind of summer mood.

Looking for more warm weather events? Go to the online version of this story at columbusmonthly.com/columbus parent for a list of September happenings.

To suggest an event we should con sider adding to our list, send an email to contact@columbusparent.com.

For more from Columbus Parent, see Page 47

THE GO-TO GUIDE

June 19-20

Powell Festival

Village Green Park, 47 Hall St., Powell; festival.cityofpowell.us

Enjoy live music, food trucks, local vendors, fireworks, and kids and family activities—including SuperGames inflatables. Admission is free.

June 20-27

Pickaway County Fair

Pickaway County Fairgrounds, 415 Lancaster Pike, Circleville; pickaway countyfair.org

June 26-28

ComFest

Goodale Park, 120 W. Goodale St., Columbus; comfest.com

Officially the Community Festival, but better known as ComFest, this summer mainstay is now more than 50 years old. The volunteer-run event has a robust music lineup but also features arts, workshops and a variety of vendors. Children can participate in special arts activities, kids entertainment and their own parade. Admission is free.

july

July 11-12

Westerville Music & Arts Festival

Heritage Park, 60 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville; westervillechamber.com/ music-arts-festival

The two-day festival showcases juried art and music for all ages, including a Saturday evening concert on the main stage. Due to Everal Barn renovations, there will be not be a youth art exhibit, but plenty of other activities are available for families. Admission is $2 for ages 10 and older.

July 11-18

Madison County Fair

Madison County Fairgrounds, 205 Elm St., London; madisoncounty fairoh.com

July 18-25

Lancaster Festival

Multiple venues, Lancaster; lancaster festival.org

This popular event, which started in 1984, is known for drawing nationally known musicians, and this year is no

exception. The finale concert will be performed by Lady A. Highlights for families include arts, a puppet show, a comic book camp (registration is required) and a magic show. Various musical performances occur daily. Ticket prices vary by event.

July 20-26

Franklin County Fair

Franklin County Fairgrounds, 4100 Columbia St., Hilliard; fcfair.org

July 24-25

Canal Winchester Blues & Ribfest

Historic Downtown Canal Winchester (centered around High and Waterloo streets); bluesandribfest.com

Two different stages host blues musical acts, and visitors will find plenty of ribs and a designated outdoor refreshment area during the 15th annual festival. Children’s activities also are offered. Admission is free.

July 24-26

Jazz & Rib Fest

Scioto Mile, Downtown Columbus; hotribscooljazz.org

Sponsored by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, the long-running Jazz & Rib Fest offers three full days of barbecue and music in a scenic riverfront setting. Admission is free.

July 26 to Aug. 1

Union County Fair

Union County Fairgrounds, 845 N. Main St., Marysville; ohiounion countyfair.com

July 29 to Aug. 9

Ohio State Fair

Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus; ohiostatefair.com

July 31 to Aug. 2

Dublin Irish Festival

Coffman Park, 5200 Emerald Parkway, Dublin; dublinirishfestival.org

The Dublin Irish Festival draws 90,000 people during its three-day celebration of Irish culture. National and international performers entertain guests on seven different stages at Coffman Park. The Wee Folk Area features crafts, stories and an inflatables play area. On July 30, a kickoff

5K race and Kids Dash take place in Historic Dublin. A sensory-friendly “Take-A-Break” space is available for those who need a pause from the festivities. Tickets start at $20; children 11 and younger are admitted free.

august

Aug. 9-15

The Hartford Fair

Hartford Fairgrounds, 14028 Fairgrounds Road, Croton; hartfordfair. com

Aug. 13-15

Reynoldsburg Tomato Festival

Huber Park, 1640 Davidson Drive, Reynoldsburg; reytomatofest.com

Celebrate the city’s agricultural roots with a lively weekend of tomato-inspired food, entertainment, family-friendly activities and community pride. Have a green thumb for growing tomatoes? Enter them into a contest. Children can participate in hands-on games and activities in the Kids Corner, as well as carnival rides. A special sensory time on Aug. 14 will offer rides and games with reduced lights and sounds. Admission is free.

Aug. 14-15

Columbus Food Truck Festival Franklin County Fairgrounds, 4100 Columbia St., Hilliard; columbus foodtruckfest.com

Sample menu items from more than 50 food trucks and catch live music and performances at this event, which marks its 15th year. Attend on Aug. 15 to take advantage of a Kids Zone with entertainment, activities and games for younger guests. Tickets start at $5.

Aug. 22-23

Festival Latino

John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons, 160 S. High St., and the Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St., Columbus; festivallatino.net

For its 29th year, Festival Latino is moving to a new home Downtown. The free, family-friendly event celebrates Latin American culture with a variety of live music and dance performances, food, art, fashion and children’s activities.

WOMEN INSPIRING &

June 23 • 5:00 - 7:30 p.m.

The Ellis | 777 North 4th Street, Columbus

2026

Our third annual Inspiring Women event will celebrate the women profiled in the May issue of Columbus Monthly and summer issue of Columbus CEO. These change agents and difference-makers include community leaders, entrepreneurs and more. The evening will bring together these remarkable women for a community celebration with networking, hors d’oeuvres, and mingling.

Presenting Sponsor

Gold Sponsor

Silver Sponsor

Breaking Barriers, Building Trust: Woman-Led Injury Law

Columbus Monthly Pride Guide

Columbus boasts one of the country’s most popular Pride celebrations—and for good reason.

The first official Pride March took place in 1982 and established a legacy of advocacy, visibility and celebration for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies that is still integral to the fabric of the city at large.

Columbus Monthly’s Pride Guide introduces you to some of the city’s established figureheads, like Stonewall Columbus executive director Densil Porteouss (Page 42) and the 2026 Patron of Pride LuSter Singleton (Page 44), up-and-coming names like Kaleidoscope Youth Center’s Lee Tepper (Page 45) and a list of ways to get involved in June’s festivities (Page 43).

Whether a longtime partaker in Pride festivities or newcomer, there’s a place for you to get involved, be visible and be proud.

Stonewall Columbus Pride March 2025

The Politics of Pride

Stonewall Columbus’ executive director Densil Porteous discusses Pride event partnerships in a fraught moment.

By Bob Vitale

Stonewall Columbus executive director Densil Porteous performs an odd balancing act these days for the organization that produces the city’s biggest Pride celebration. At the first Columbus Pride in 1982, legend goes, some people marched with their faces covered. In 2026, it’s more likely nervous corporate donors trying to stay anonymous.

Porteous sat down with Columbus Monthly Editor Katy Smith to talk about Pride in a fraught time for LGBTQ+ Americans and how he works with sponsors who are seeking less presence at an event that’s always been about visibility. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

How have politics in Washington and at the Ohio Statehouse, online and in the real world, affected Columbus Pride? We’ve been faced with some challenges. The politics of the [moment] may be impacting how we show up, but what we see on the other side is that people are really excited about coming together in community. When we think about what we’ve seen this year, how our community has come together ... it’s really been positive.

What about those challenges you alluded to, though? There are many of our large corporate partners who support us as they have in the past, but the public presence has had to shift. I understand that. I’m still thankful for their support. They’re not saying they’re not going to support us. They’re just saying they have to show up in a different way.

We’ve had some folks say they can’t march this year, but they’re still going to donate. Some folks say it’s for their team’s safety. Some folks say they’ve been instructed they can’t show up at the march or do anything on the festival grounds.

We’ve worked with a lot of our corporate partners to show their support without having to necessarily have their logo everywhere or show up with marchers or be at the festival.

Do you face backlash from your community around that? You can’t make everyone happy. Everyone is not getting exactly what they want. I use Bud Light and Anheuser Busch as an example. A couple years ago, when they had some issues, community members were like, “What are you doing still with them?” I said, “Well, let me tell you why. Because as an organization, they have given over $1.5 million. Have you?”

Does trying to strike that balance ever become too difficult, though? Last year,

we decided not to work with a couple partners because of their stance politically. Target, for example. We made the decision and said, “Hey we can’t work with you now, but maybe you’ll change.” We said the same thing to Columbus Police. And we said that publicly, but we were a partner in their change.

Have you seen change happen, particularly with Columbus Police? From where we sit, that relationship has gotten better. They’re thinking about how we can create a relationship that makes everyone feel comfortable. I understand, right? I’m a Black queer man with law enforcement. When I walk out my front door every day, I think about these things. But if we don’t start to create change, then change isn’t going to happen. ◆

Densil Porteous

PHOTO BY TIM JOHNSON

Pride Month Event s

By Lucy Clark

Whether a member of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, Columbus is home to a vibrant array of Pride celebrations in June. Catch the Stonewall Columbus Pride March, pop into a local drag show or stop by the Resource Fair to learn about the support systems in place throughout the city. Purchasing tickets early to listed events is recommended. This list is by no means exhaustive—check with local LGBTQ+ organizations and establishments for more events and performances as they’re announced.

JUNE 4 | Diversity Chamber of Central Ohio: Connect Series

The Diversity Chamber of Central Ohio invites “LGBTQ+ and allied professionals, entrepreneurs and community leaders for an evening of meaningful connections, visibility and celebration.” The free event starts at 6 p.m. and will be held at Slammers. diversitycolumbus.org/events

JUNE 7 | Stonewall Columbus Pride Brunch

Former Patrons of Pride Anisa Love/ Corey Williams, Caleb Mikayla GoinsRobinson, Zhané Dawlingz and Virginia West/Chris Equizi will be in attendance at Stonewall Columbus’ annual Pride Brunch, hosted at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Doors open at 10:30 a.m., and tickets are $100 for non-members. stonewallcolumbus.org/pride/brunch

JUNE 7 | South Side Pride

Parsons North Brewing Company, in partnership with German Village Farmers Market and Coquette Events, is hosting its first ever South Side Pride. Parsons Avenue will be closed for festivities with the goal of

Columbus Pride 2025

making attendance free. Details and fundraising information can be found at gofundme.com/f/support-southside-pride-columbus-new-glimmerof-hope

JUNE 13 | Reading the House Down: Columbus’ Premiere Sober Drag Show Clintonville Books is hosting Reading the House Down. Tickets are $15, and doors open at 7:30 p.m. clintonvillebooks.com/events

JUNE 14 | Lez Dance

Slammers will host DJ Dog Mom for its monthly Lez Dance for a night of dancing and community. Celebrations start at 9 p.m. slammersbar.com/ events

JUNE 16 | Pride Interfaith Prayer Service

LOVEboldly invites LGBTQ+ community members of any faith to join an interfaith Pride prayer service at City Creek Events. Service starts at 7 p.m. loveboldly.org/interfaith-prideservice

JUNE 19-20 | Stonewall Columbus Pride Festival and Resource Fair

Join over 200 vendors—including food, drink, merchandise and wellness resources—at Goodale Park to Celebrate the city’s LGBTQ+ community. stonewallcolumbus.org

JUNE 20 | Stonewall Columbus

Pride March

The annual Pride March—which had over 22,000 attendees in 2024— will step off at 10:30 a.m. at Broad

and High streets and head north on High toward Goodale Park, where celebrations will continue. Grab a spot early to watch the festivities. stonewallcolumbus.org

JUNE 20 | Paint With a Queen Pinot’s Palette in the Short North will be hosting Tova UraVitch for a guided paint-along, suited for complete novices to experts. Tickets are $50, and there are lessons at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. pinotspalette.com/shortnorth/ event

JUNE 27 | Stonewall Drag Race

Stonewall Columbus is hosting its second annual drag race, with multiple options for participation. Compete in a virtual 5k throughout the month of June, join runners at 11 a.m. on June 27 or cheer on from the block party. Costume awards also will be given out in several categories. Registration fees support Stonewall programming and help fund a Drag Artist Navigator position with the Greater Columbus Arts Council. stonewallcolumbus.org/ pride5k

Proceeding With Love

The 2026 Patron of Pride, LuSter Singleton, shares a message of visibility, love and unity.

By Lucy Clark

This story contains a depiction of suicide. If you or someone you love is experiencing suicidal ideation, call 911 if it’s an emergency; or call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255, Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386 or Trans Lifeline at 1-877-565-8860.

“Pride saved my life,” says LuSter Singleton, Stonewall Columbus’ 2026 Patron of Pride.

Singleton, a Black, queer, transgender artist, performer, writer and advocate, is a longstanding figure in Columbus’ LGBTQ+ community. Most recently, he co-produced Free Beer Tomorrow with Julia Applegate, a documentary about Summit Station, Ohio’s longest running lesbian bar. But his roots stretch broad and deep throughout the city.

This year’s Pride theme is “Until We’re All Free,” a message central to Singleton’s artistic and personal mission.

“It’s the same message I’ve had all my life,” he says. “I come from freedom fighters, Black folk in Zanesville. ... You keep going. You don’t sit back. I think that message has been lost. I’m proud that I’m here representing the invisible voices.”

Stonewall Columbus’ executive director, Densil Porteous, says visibility, especially for the transgender and drag communities, is pivotal for this moment.

“It’s a recognition of our drag community, but also the identities that are portraying these drag identities,” says Porteous. “We’re talking about LuSter a lot now because of Free Beer Tomorrow, but he’s done so much more and been around for long. This is a really important moment.”

Beyond the stage, Singleton has deep ties with formal institutional representation. He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Ohio State University, where he went on to serve as a coordinator for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender student services and as director

of ethnic student services. Singleton has worked with multiple of Columbus’ LGBTQ+ organizations, including being a board member for the Columbus Gay Men’s Chorus, working with Equitas Health as a program manager and serving as the coordinator for the Pride Festival’s family and teen area.

Singleton recalls the brush with Pride that altered the course of his life. He was a student at OSU, and in a dark place. He had recently put his newborn child up for adoption—a decision he kept a secret from friends and family. “I really didn’t want to, but it was the sensible choice and the choice I felt would leave the least amount of people burdened,” he says. “I didn’t count for the burden it would put on me. And I didn’t know how to be out—it wasn’t that I was ashamed, but it was just too exhausting.”

Singleton had decided to kill himself. But, before carrying out his plan to overdose on medications in his Ohio State University area apartment, he decided to take one more walk, heading south from campus.

“Long story short, I kind of walked into a Pride rally,” he says. “I ended up next to some Christian fundamentalists. I grew up a believer, and I’m still a believer. My great-grandmother told me, people will try to say that hate is a part of God, and it’s not. God is love—that is the first.”

There were children, he recalls, holding signs saying, “God Hates F***.”

“It made me think, ‘This ain’t right.’ It’s not right to teach someone to hate us. And the only reason that you don’t know that is because the visibility isn’t there.”

It was then that Singleton felt he needed to keep living. “It allowed this being you see here to emerge,” he says.

When asked what message he might have for readers, Singleton simply directs them to the song (Something Inside) So Strong by Labi Siffre. Many of the lyrics resonate with Singleton’s— and Stonewall’s—mission: “Something inside so strong/I know that I can make it/Though you’re doing me wrong, so wrong/You thought that my pride was gone, oh no/Something inside so strong, oh.” ◆

PHOTO BY TIM JOHNSON

LuSter Singleton

Therapeutic Leadership

Social worker Lee Tepper— board chair of Kaleidoscope Youth Center—lives and models healthy non-binary adulthood for their clients and 140,000 TikTok followers.

By Linda Lee Baird

It’s been almost a decade since Lee Tepper started an internship at Kaleidoscope Youth Center, an experience so meaningful that they joked when it was over that they would not give up their keys to the building.

True to their word, they stayed. They continued volunteering at KYC, which offers LGBTQ+ youth services and a safe space to land, eventually becoming a licensed social worker and stepping in to serve as KYC’s board chair. The 33-yearold says this level of dedication is a personality trait. “Everything I do, I’m in it until the wheels fall off.”

This comes through in their work as a clinician, educator and LGBTQ+ community activist. Tepper strives to be a role model for young queer people (especially young trans people), work that feels especially vital in today’s climate.

Tepper says their work involves tracking and interpreting state and federal legislation that restricts gender-affirming housing and healthcare. Next, they inform practitioners of the laws’ implications. They received a 2025 Outstanding Service to the National Association of Social Workers award for helping clinicians navigate gender-affirming care restrictions without harming clients’ mental health.

“I’ll do … trainings for therapists and other providers on how not to compromise the safety of your young person, but to still affirm them, but also not lose your license,” Tepper says, “and walk that line clinically and legally and ethically and professionally.”

Tepper moved to Columbus to attend Ohio State University in 2011, where they earned a degree in women’s gender and sexuality studies in 2015, later returning to OSU to obtain a master’s in

social work. A Cleveland native, Tepper says Columbus’ LGBTQ+ scene was part of their decision to attend Ohio State.

“I didn’t know anyone [in Cleveland] that was a queer adult. ... So I was like, ‘I want to go to a city that actually has a robust queer community.’ ”

As they adapted to Columbus, Tepper took on numerous roles, including as a cook at Whole Foods and a support staff member at a tattoo shop. “There’s a big overlap with the queer community and the tattoo community,” Tepper says, noting that tattoos can be born from past trauma. “I will talk to people and laugh and make them feel welcome.”

Tepper uses their ability to connect in a series of TikTok videos offering mental health resources for trans youth and their families—an additive to the therapy sessions Tepper provides as a

social worker. Posting as @enby_therapist, they have amassed nearly 140,000 followers. They say it’s important for people to see “a non-binary adult who’s happy and successful” and modeling what that can look like.

They’ve also created a workbook, A Survival Guide for Queer People Living Through Too Much, to help users navigate the emotions related to “the impact of living under hostile social and political conditions.” Proceeds from sales benefit KYC.

Erin Upchurch, former executive director of KYC—and Tepper’s former professor at OSU—says, “Lee lives their values out loud and is both unapologetic and non-negotiable in their commitment to safer spaces and collective liberation,” adding that Tepper is “a truly exceptional human being.” ◆

Therapist Lee Tepper

A special quarterly section of Columbus Monthly

Getting Students in School Educators and the state are working to combat high absentee rates in classrooms across Ohio. Page 48 +

The Go-To Guide: Fairs and Festivals to Explore

From county fairs to cultural events, the Columbus region is full of seasonal entertainment options. Find 20 familyfriendly picks in Summer Entertainment Guide on Page 38.

EDITED BY JULANNE HOHBACH

Showing up for School

State leaders and local educators are focused on combating chronic absenteeism and getting more students back in class.

By Peter Tonguette

How important is the issue of chronic absenteeism in Ohio schools?

“It’s a large enough problem that has Gov. DeWine weighing in,” says Cheryl Wyatt, vice president of the Success by Third Grade initiative at United Way of Central Ohio. The program aims to help students in six local school districts attain reading proficiency by the completion of third grade. Combating absenteeism is one component of the initiative. In April, DeWine and the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce rolled out an online statewide attendance

dashboard of enrollment and absentee figures that can be sorted by school district, school building and other variables. Parents can dive into the dashboard data at attendance.ohio.gov. As of early May, the dashboard did not yet include all Ohio schools due to the need for some districts to update data systems.

The dashboard numbers, which are updated weekly, show a sobering picture: For example, for the week of April 27, the dashboard showed 1,209,346 students enrolled across 739 reporting schools and districts but some 267,563 students, or 22.1 percent, were labeled chronically

absent. According to the state, a student is considered chronically absent if they miss at least 10 percent of the minimum instructional hours in a school year. More than a quarter of students across Ohio hit that threshold in the 2023-24 and 2024-25 school years.

Persistent student absences contribute to learning loss, Wyatt says, which is akin to a school-year-long version of the “summer slide.” This creates a snowball effect likely to impact graduation rates and even career prospects.

“When you get in a pattern of absence early on, that pattern tends to stay unless

TIM JOHNSON

BY

PHOTO

Tracey Colson, director of school improvement and family services for Whitehall City School District, which is working to boost attendance rates

something comes in and interrupts it,” Wyatt says. “By the time a young person meets a chronic level … the interventions can become so overwhelming. So how do we make this pendulum shift back to more preventative or what we call tier-one support?”

The focus on absenteeism comes on the heels of the 2025-27 state budget, which calls for attendance policies to be enacted by each school district’s board of education.

The dashboard is the handiwork of the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce and the Stay in the Game Attendance Network, formed in 2019 and now overseen by Battelle, whose aims include getting school districts to engage in productive, ongoing dialogue about absenteeism.

“When we work to support school districts, we really are identifying the root cause of why specific students, student groups, grade levels are not showing up and not coming to school,” says Gina Wilson, implementation manager of Stay in the Game Attendance Network. “We focus on how we are communicating and engaging different stakeholders in this process [and] really understanding the root cause of why students aren’t coming to school.”

Contributing Factors

Identifying those root causes is key, educators say—particularly given state officials’ goal to cut chronic absenteeism in half by the 2028-29 school year.

“When it elevates to a level of your governor, who is taking a look at trends across the state and recognizing that there is something that needs to be done differently, then it shows the priority,” United Way’s Wyatt says.

While measures such as legislative change and dashboards are shining a spotlight on the problem, educators point out that absenteeism is caused by a spectrum of challenges faced by students. For example, family issues often result in children attending school on an irregular basis. “Some of those barriers may be things like chronic and acute illness, family responsibilities at home [and] family transitions,” Wyatt says. “Maybe a family had a car, and they had to transport their child to school via car because they weren’t able to do the bus. But if … now the car is not working, that’s a family situation that suddenly has the potential to then impact a young person’s attendance.”

Another example is a student who lives in a multigenerational household who could be required to care for a grandparent or other relative who becomes ill or infirm. “The parent has to go to work but that elder cannot be left alone,” Wyatt says. “There are those life decisions that family members may make: ‘I need you to be at home because I need you to watch Grandma.’ ”

Whitehall City School District is among the Columbus area school systems determined to address absenteeism by identifying and attending to root causes. As of late April, the district’s chronic absentee rate on the state dashboard was 33.33 percent.

“We’ve been having really a proactive approach to addressing attendance in general,” says Tracey Colson, director of school improvement and family services for Whitehall schools. “How do we educate the parents, the caregivers, the community and the staff as to how attendance impacts student achievement?”

The district is one among several in the region that unilaterally mails or emails parents what they call “nudge” letters. They are dispatched to all students, but they aim to make the parents of absent

students aware of the problem. “The nudge letter is simply information about your particular child, letting you know where they currently are as it relates to their attendance,” Colson says. “A lot of times, parents don’t understand that if their child misses a minimum of two days a month for the school year, they can fall into that chronic absenteeism rate.”

When the district learns of a barrier impeding a student’s regular attendance, a team of school social workers can get involved. “They do a great job with navigating the resources and support, and knowing which families and which students are having an attendance issue, communicating with them, trying to figure out how we can address the barriers so we can get your child here to school on time,” says Colson.

Sometimes, students don’t want to go to school for more personal reasons. They might not have correctly sized clothes to wear or they lack basic hygiene items, so they are embarrassed to go to class. Student Success Stores, a local nonprofit, works to address these issues in multiple schools in Columbus and Whitehall. The store invites middle- and high-schoolers to pick up clothes, food

A Stay in the Game clap-in at Ohio Avenue Elementary School

and hygiene items at no charge. “If you know that, ‘I don’t have to worry about buying laundry detergent,’ or if I know I have all the necessary items that I think a lot of the time we take for granted … that is a barrier that we’re removing for students,” Colson says.

Sometimes students miss school for less concrete reasons. Disengagement or an aversion to school can be a major issue, Wyatt says. “Is there a lack of challenging or engaging instruction?” she asks. “Are young people bored? Are young people not recognizing the connection between an education and what that does for them?”

A failure to earn credits can cause a snowball effect as a student’s academic career progresses. “You have young people who make decisions early on and

then don’t really understand some of the ramifications,” Wyatt says. “They get into high school, and they realize they are significantly credit-deficient.” And then they can be tempted to give up and drop out.

The COVID-19 pandemic was actually a panacea for some students who felt uncomfortable or anxious about the social aspects of school, Wyatt says. As a result, returning to in-person learning has been a hurdle for some. “For some people who … had anxiety going to school, being home was great,” she says. “They had the opportunity to know some relief.”

At Whitehall, Colson emphasizes the importance of incentives to induce students who are disengaged to get back on track. For example, its high school hosted a midday break with a Dunkin’

Donuts truck, but it was carefully timed. “We did it on the Monday after spring break, so leading up … we kept saying, ‘Hey, we need you here on that first day back from spring break,’ ” Colson says. “They didn’t even know that the Dunkin’ truck was coming, but if you were absolutely on time, you got to go out, enjoy your lunch, get a midday break, get a gift card from Dunkin’ Donuts and just enjoy those fun festivities.”

Some solutions are deceptively simple. For example, Wyatt has observed that kindergarten can be plagued by chronic absenteeism. “My hypothesis is this starts prior to a young person entering the K-12 system,” she says. “The system of early learning or childcare [does not have] a mandate or requirement for attendance.” Educating parents about how attendance expectations change from pre-K to kindergarten is essential, she says. “There is not strong intentionality of bringing that communication [and] understanding of attendance from what you used to do in one system to what is now required in another,” Wyatt says.

Even the transition from elementary school to middle school can result in kids being lost to absenteeism. “When you hit middle school, most districts have a school day end at 2:30,” Wyatt says. “You have a fifth grader who, three months later, is now a sixth grader, and families have to make decisions of: ‘Do I give them a key?’; ‘Do they sit outside?’; ‘Where do they go?’; ‘I can’t get off of work to come and get them, if they don’t have a bus.’ ”

Colson understands that identifying the problems is just the first step on the road to improving student attendance. “I’m not seeing the progress that I want,” she admits. “We always want to see it happen immediately. I always say, slow and steady wins the race. … When I look at our data, it’s not bad, but it’s not great. It’s not where it needs to be.

“Do I think we will get there? Yes.”

Wyatt says such efforts will require a cross-section of community organizations, beyond school districts and nonprofit entities.

“It is challenging because organizations have their own vision and mission and agendas and boards and all the things,” she says. “Our job is to navigate through all of that, to help each person understand the perspectives of the others and to find a common ground.”

Students in United Way of Central Ohio’s Success by Third Grade program receive snacks and meals through Feed the Kids Columbus.

The Columbus Crew held a clap-in at Gahanna Lincoln High School’s new building as part of the Stay in the Game initiative.

2026

TOP DENTISTS

This list is excerpted from the 2026 edition of topDentists, a database which includes listings for nearly 260 dentists and specialists practicing in the greater Columbus metropolitan area. The Columbus list is based on thousands of detailed evaluations of dentists and professionals by their peers. The complete database is available at www.usatopdentists.com. For more information call 706-364-0853; write PO BOX 970, Augusta, GA 30903; email help@usatopdentists.com or visit www.usatopdentists.com.

Dental Anesthesiology

Jean F. O’Banion Blink Inc, 6670 Perimeter Drive, Ste. 250, Dublin, 630-816-3900,

Endodontics

F. Charles Arens

Central Ohio 6827 N. High St., Ste. 115 Worthington, 614-885-1191 centralohioendodontics.com

Matthew B. Balasco

Balasco 1525 Election House Road NW, Lancaster, 740-687-5900, balascoendo.com

David E. Claffey IV Grove City 4203 Gantz Road, Grove City, 614-277-9455, drclaffey.com

Elizabeth M. Claffey Grove City 4203 Gantz Road, Grove City, 614-277-9455, grovecityendo.com

Melissa M. Drum

The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, 305 W. 12th Ave., Columbus 614-247-2533, dentistry.osu.edu

Kinnison J. Edmunds

Columbus Endodontic Specialists, 145 Reynoldsburg-New Albany Road, Ste. 100, Blacklick, 614-577-1100, cbusendo.com

Christopher A. Ettrich Wedgewood 9773 Fairway Drive, Powell, 614-789-3636, wedgeendo.com

Sara M. Fowler

Ohio State University School of Dentistry, 305 W. 12th Ave., Columbus, 43210 614-292-2104, fowlerfamilydental.com

METHODOLOGY

topDentists, LLC has over 80 years of experience compiling peer-review referral guides in the legal, dental and medical fields. Using this experience along with the input of dentists across the United States, we have created a methodology that has been refined and improved over previous superlative guides. topDentists lists dentists and specialists who have been chosen through an exhaustive survey in which thousands of the nation’s dental professionals confidentially evaluate their professional peers. No payment is required to be selected nor is payment accepted

Joel G. Jose

Endodontic Associates, 1375 Cherry Way Drive, Ste. 200, Gahanna, 614-428-7320 eajose.com

Bradley P. Karkut

980 W. Central Ave., Ste. C, Delaware 740-363-1844

Sloan G. Lanctot

Central Ohio 6827 N. High St., Ste. 115, Worthington, 614-885-1191, centralohioendodontics.com

Shelly Lee

Lee and Murrin 1570 Fishinger Road Columbus, 614-459-2000, uaendo.com

Daniel P. Magness

Columbus Endodontic Specialists, 145 Reynoldsburg-New Albany Road, Ste. 100, Blacklick, 614-577-1100, cbusendo.com

Eric R. Menke

Central Ohio 6827 N. High St., Ste. 115, Worthington, 614-885-1191, centralohioendodontics.com

Matthew S. Niemiec

Microsurgical 825 High St., Ste. C Worthington, 614-436-2277, ohioendo.com

John M. Nusstein

The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, 305 W. 12th Ave., Columbus 614-292-9412, dentistry.osu.edu

Mark A. O’Banion

Capital 6670 Perimeter Drive, Ste. 250, Dublin, 614-659-7491, capendocolumbus.com

Mark L. Oleson

Dublin 6325 Emerald Pkwy., Ste. 2C, Dublin, 614-967-9225, dublinendo.com

David Oser

Upper Arlington 1570 Fishinger Road Columbus, 614-459-2000, uaendo.com

Ryan J. Pasiewicz

Central Ohio 6827 N. High St., Ste. 115, Worthington, 614-885-1191 centralohioendodontics.com

Lisa Poweski

Elite 450 Alkyre Run Drive, Ste. 290, Westerville, 614-891-7550 eliteendodonticsohio.com

Gregory S. Simpson

Buckeye 1301 Dublin Road, Ste. 101, Columbus, 614-488-3333, buckeyeendo.com

Steven M. Smith

Central Ohio 6827 N. High St., Ste. 115, Worthington, 614-885-1191 centralohioendodontics.com

Daniel Stentz

Columbus Endodontic Specialists, 145 Reynoldsburg-New Albany Road, Ste. 100, Blacklick, 614-577-1100, cbusendo.com

Kumar Subramanian

Central Ohio Root Canals, 161 Clint Drive, Ste. 300, Pickerington, 614-866-3636 centralohiorootcanals.com

Louis W. Susi

Columbus Endodontic Specialists, 145 Reynoldsburg-New Albany Road, Ste. 100, Blacklick, 614-577-1100, cbusendo.com

Emily Wang 843 N. 21st St., Newark, 740-344-6349,

Stephen W. Webster, Jr.

New Albany 5040 Forest Drive, Ste. 210, New Albany, 614-245-4332, newalbanyendo.com

in exchange for selection.

The nomination pool for topDentists consists of dentists and specialists that are current members of the American Dental Association and other dental societies. General dentists were asked to vote on nominees that are listed as specialists. Specialists are asked to vote only on nominees that are listed as General Dentists. Voting practitioners are also given an opportunity to offer more detailed comments on nominees and to provide additional nominations.

Voting professionals are provided the following criterion for determining if a nominee should be listed: Years of experience, continuing education, manner

with patients and physical results. All votes and comments are solicited with a guarantee of confidentiality.

Once the decisions have been finalized, the included dentists are checked against state dental boards for disciplinary actions to make sure they have an active license and are in good standing with the board. Then letters of congratulations are sent to all the listed dentists.

Of course there are many fine dentists who are not included in this representative list. It is intended as a sampling of the great body of talent in the field of dentistry in Ohio. A dentist’s inclusion on our list is based on the subjective judgments of his or her fellow dentists.

Michael E. Whitcomb, Jr.

Central Ohio 121 W. Wilson Bridge Road, Ste. 220, Worthington, 614-885-1191 centralohioendodontics.com

Jennifer W. Willet

Mill Run 3827 Trueman Court, Hilliard 614-850-9636, millrunendo.com

General Dentistry

Shirin Amini

Clintonville Family Dentistry, 4425 N. High St., Ste. 200, Columbus, 614-261-8700, clintonvillefamilydentistry.com

Taghreed As-Sanie

Dental Reflections Dublin, 4998 Rings Road Dublin, 614-799-5576 dentalreflectionsdublin.com

Melissa Baker

The Gentle Dentist, 69 E. Wilson Bridge Road, Worthington, 614-431-3311 coulmandental.com

Pooja Banga

Oral Health Center, 660 Cooper Road, Ste. 200, Westerville, 614-888-6811

Eric Batterton

460 W. Central Ave., Ste. F, Delaware 740-363-9741, ericbattertondds.com

Theodore T. Bauer

Schumacher & Bauer, DDS, 3600 Olentangy River Road, Ste. 500-B, Columbus 614-877-6202, columbusdentists.net

Canise Y. Bean

The Ohio State University School of Dentistry, 305 W. 12th Ave., Columbus, 43210, 614-688-5567, dentistry.osu.edu

Carolyn D. Bednar

Good Sleep Dental, 686 Corylus Drive SW, Pataskala, 614-980-8747, cdbednardds.com

Stephen Beetstra

Ohio State University College of Dentistry, 1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, 43210 614-688-3763, dentistry.osu.edu

Portia J. Bell

2710 Crossroads Plaza Drive, Columbus, 614-471-1161, drportiabell.com

Erin M. Biehle

Stonecreek Dental Care, 11295 Stonecreek Drive, Pickerington, 614-864-3196 helpmysmile.com

James E. Blank

Blank Dental Group, 9733 Sawmill Pkwy., Powell, 614-764-1013, blankdental.com

Kyle D. Bogan

North Orange Family Dentistry, 7325 Gooding Blvd., Delaware, 740-548-1800 northorangefamilydentistry.com

Lisa Briceland-Kolp

Postle Dental Group, 3734 Ridge Mill Drive, Hilliard, 614-850-4446, postledental.com

Chad N. Cacchio

1700 W. Lane Ave., Ste. 100, Columbus 614-488-1313, chadcacchiodds.com

Constance Camman

7219 Sawmill Road, Ste. 205, Dublin 614-791-0900, thedublindentist.com

Scott A. Campbell

Delaware Ohio Dental Office, 12 Lexington Blvd., Delaware, 740-369-5309 delawareohiodentist.com

Aaron S. Carroll

Carroll Family Dental, 2699 E. Main St., Bexley, 614-237-5000, carrollfamilydental.com

Katie A. Carroll

Carroll Family Dental, 2699 E. Main St., Bexley, 614-237-5000, carrollfamilydental.com

Philippe Chahine

Just Smiles, 1921 Rome Hilliard Road, Hilliard, 614-777-8668, just-smiles.com

Vishal K. Chitkara

Pure Dental, 5175 Morse Road, Gahanna, 614-475-7580, gahannadentist.com

Chris M. Clark

Clark Family Dental, 5133 Hampsted Village Center Way, New Albany, 614-855-5200, clarkfamilydentist.com

Michael V. Cook

Creative Smiles, 3791 N. High St., Columbus, 614-262-4150, creativesmilescolumbus.com

Jason T. Culley

Watermark Dental, 1225 Dublin Road, Ste. 040, Columbus, 614-488-9050 watermarkdental.com

Ryan Davis

Polaris Dental Care, 420 Metro Place, Ste. B, Dublin, 614-505-7027, polarisdentalcare.com

David A. Dixon

Columbus Family Dental Care, 1645 Holt Road, Columbus, 614-878-1397 columbusfamilydentalcare.com

Lisa D. Dubos

1200 Lancaster Pike, Circleville 740-474-1900, elydubosstewart.com

Justin W. Dugas

Dugas Dental, 27 Neverland Drive, Lewis Center, 43035, 740-548-0575, dugasdental.com

Fadi. S. El-Tamimi Dental Works, 3727 Easton Market, Columbus, 614-934-3204, easton.dentalworks.com

Doug B. Ferguson

Greentree Dental Group, 2027 Henderson Road, Columbus, 614-459-5511 greentreedentalgroup.com

Natalie K. Fisher

Bethel Grove Dental, 1914 Bethel Road Ste. 304, Columbus, 614-457-6649 bethelgrovedds.com

Michael P. Fleitz

426 Beecher Road, Gahanna, 614-939-4800, drfleitz.com

Augusto S. Fojas

387 County Line Road W., Ste. 125 Westerville, 614-882-0275, fojasdentist.com

James B. Ford

118 N. High St., Columbus, 43215 614-228-1113, drjamesbford.com

Robin C. Ford

Ford Family Dental, 6890 Perimeter Drive, Ste. A, Dublin, 614-761-1974, fordfamilydental.com

Robert W. Gardner

The Ohio State University School of Dentistry, 305 W. 12th Ave.305 W. 12th, Columbus, 43210, 614-832-7035, dentistry.osu.edu

Amy M. Gavin

Olentangy Modern Dental, 7100 Graphics Way, Ste. 3800, Lewis Center, 43035, 740200-5100, olentangymoderndental.com

Bradley Gilmer

The Dental Center at Easton Town Center, 4030 Easton Station, Ste. 250, Columbus, 614-414-0111, eastondentists.com

Jayme E. Glamm

Glamm Dentistry, 2164 Riverside Drive, Columbus, 614-487-0112, glamm.dental

DISCLAIMER

This list is excerpted from the 2026 topDentists database, which includes listings for almost 260 dentists and specialists in the Columbus metropolitan area. For more information call 706-364-0853 or write PO Box 970, Augusta, GA 30903 or visit www.usatopdentists.com. TopDentists, LLC has used its best efforts in assembling material for this list but does not warrant that the information contained herein is complete or accurate, and does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. Copyright 2011-2025 by topDentists, LLC, Augusta, GA. All rights reserved. This list, or parts thereof, must not be reproduced in any form without permission. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without permission of topDentists, LLC. No fees may be charged, directly or indirectly, for the use of the information in this list without permission.

Dr. Michael Fleitz and Dr. Joshua Bullock

MICHAEL P. FLEITZ, DDS, AND JOSHUA A. BULLOCK, DDS

Great patient care comes from established relationships with colleagues and staff. Just ask Dr. Michael Fleitz, who has practiced in the same location since August 2003.

Dr. Fleitz, a Toledo native, studied microbiology at Miami University before earning his dental degree from The Ohio State University, where he met his wife, Rachel E. O’Dell, D.D.S. After graduating in 2002, the two moved to North Carolina to complete residency programs at East Carolina in Greenville and UNC in Chapel Hill. In 2003, Dr. Fleitz began practicing in Gahanna, where he has been creating beautiful smiles ever since.

In the fall of 2019, Dr. Joshua A. Bullock joined the practice, continuing its thoughtful, individualized approach to patient care. “In an era where healthcare can often feel rushed and impersonal, I believe patients deserve to understand their options.”

A Central Ohio native from Circleville, Dr. Bullock completed both his undergraduate and dental education at The Ohio State University before transitioning seamlessly into clinical practice. He brings both skill and enthusiasm to his work, with a strong focus on patient education and transparency.

That philosophy is reflected in every aspect of the practice. From routine checkups to more complex procedures, patients are guided through their

choices with clarity and collaboration. Rather than pushing a single solution, the team ensures each patient feels informed and confident in their care and overall health.

Outside the office, Drs. Fleitz and Bullock’s commitment to learning continues. Self-described lifelong learners, they regularly pursue advanced training and stay current on emerging dental technologies. “Dentistry is always changing,” Dr. Fleitz noted. “If you’re not staying current, you’re falling behind— and that ultimately affects patient care.”

This dedication is evident in the practice’s newly renovated office, which has nearly doubled in size to enhance the patient experience. Their mission remains clear: “we strive to treat our patients in a comfortable atmosphere, using the latest technologies. We treat each patient and their needs as if they were family.”

Outside of work, Dr. Bullock’s life centers around family. He enjoys traveling, skiing in the winter, and staying active outdoors with his wife and two children.

Dr. Fleitz is equally active outside the office, having completed more than 90 marathons and ultramarathons over the past 20 years. He also founded the Janet Alexander Memorial Golf Tournament in 2010, which has raised over $150,000 to support cancer patients through Helping Hands in the Garden.

Together, Drs. Fleitz and Bullock remain committed to providing thoughtful, personalized care—ensuring every patient feels comfortable, informed and treated like family.

MICHAEL P. FLEITZ,DDS AND JOSHUA A. BULLOCK, DDS 426 Beecher Road Gahanna, OH 43230 614-939-4800

drfleitz.com

SPECIALITY:

Modern Family Dentistry with a focus on comprehensive and cosmetic dentistry

DR. FLEITZ

EDUCATION: Miami University, B.A. Microbiology; The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, DDS; General Practice Residency, Pitt County Memorial Hospital, Greenville, NC

DR. BULLOCK

EDUCATION: The Ohio State University, B.A. Biology; The Ohio State Universtiy College of Dentistry, DDS

Amy Glasgow

Linworth Family Dental, 6481 Nicholas Drive Columbus, 614-799-9500 linworthfamilydental.com

David J. Grammel

Canal Family Dentistry, 31 E. Waterloo St. Canal Winchester, 614-837-4113 canalfamilydentistry.com

Robert E. Green

Green Dental Delaware, 133 W. Hull Drive, Delaware, 740-363-3871, greendentaldelaware.com

Bobby Haddad

Fixari Family Dental, 10700 Blacklick Eastern Road, Pickerington, 614-259-7817 fixaridental.com

Tara L. Haid

Haid Dental, 6455 Post Road, Ste. A, Dublin 614-885-2610, haiddentalassociates.com

Jeffrey A. Hanin

Hanin Dental, 3370 E. Broad St., Columbus 614-237-2529, hanindentistry.com

Nicole Helfrich

Helfrich Family Dental, 1975 Guilford Road Upper Arlington, 614-488-1252, drhelfrich.com

Kyle R. Hickman

Havens Family Dental, 1582 N. Waggoner Road, Ste. B, Blacklick, 614-762-2737 havensfamilydental.com

Abraham Hoellrich

Grandview Dental Care, 1220 Grandview Ave., Columbus, 614-486-8654 grandviewdentalcare.com

Cheryl Hoffman

Hoffman Dental, 1600 Fishinger Road, Columbus, 614-763-6414, hoffmandentaloffice.com

Naimisha S. Hoffman

Legacy Family Dental, 6655 Post Road Ste. A, Dublin, 614-336-7643 legacyfamilydentaldublin.com

Tom Hoffman

Hoffman Dental, 1600 Fishinger Road, Columbus, 614-451-4400, hoffmandentaloffice.com

Jeffrey J. Holowicki

Smiley Dental Group, 5156 Blazer Pkwy. Ste. 200, Dublin, 614-907-8234 smileydentalgroup.com

John G. Imm III

Five Points Advanced Dentistry, 3440 Riverside Drive, Upper Arlington, 614-451-5434 ua5pointsdentistry.com

Laura Jaroncyk

Walnut Creek Dental, 3803 S. Hamilton Road, Groveport, 614-864-2466 walnutcreekdentalE..com

John W. Johnson

Midwest BioHealth, 5121 Forest Drive Ste. A, New Albany, 614-775-9300 midwestbiohealth.com

Benjamin Jump

Moundbuilders 1634 W. Church St., Newark 740-344-1810, mbgdental.com

Jason A. Kahan

Eastpoint Dental, 7334 E. Broad St., Ste. A Blacklick, 614-856-1413, eastpointdental.com

Phillip Katz

State of the Art Smiles, 156 W. Columbus St., Pickerington, 614-837-4506 stateoftheartsmiles.com

Jody Kear

Greentree Dental Group, 2027 Henderson Road, Columbus, 614-459-5511 greentreedentalgroup.com

G. Paul King II

Camelot Dental Group, 5005 Horizons Drive Ste. 110, Columbus, 614-451-5115 camelotdentalgroup.com

Jeffrey C. Kirian

740 N. 21st St., Newark, 740-306-4052 thedentist.us

John D. Koutras Koutras and Schooley, 1275 Olentangy River Road, Ste. 200, Columbus, 614-294-4007 koutrasandschooleydental.com

Christina M. Kulesa

Northstar Family Dental, 538 Polaris Pkwy. Westerville, 614-682-6213 northstarfamilydental.com

Benjamin R. Lamielle

Hilliard Modern Dental, 4083 Trueman Blvd. Hilliard, 614-529-9644, hilliardmoderndental.com

Cheryl J. Lampe

367 S. Main St., Pataskala, 740-927-4876 cheryllampedds.com

Jennifer L. Lape

Gentle Dental Care, 208 N. Columbus St. Lancaster, 740-653-8671, gdc-lancaster.com

Stephanie Lauer

Jerome Dental, 11904 Sycamore Trace, Plain City, 614-392-9169, jeromevillagedental.com

Paul M. Loper

6321 Livingston Ave., Ste. A, Reynoldsburg 614-864-7731, paulloperdds.com

Anthony G. Lordo

7811 Flint Road, Ste. A, Columbus 614-885-4754, drlordo.com

Elizabeth Love

Lifetime Dental Health, 1960 Bethel Road Ste. 240, Columbus, 614-451-2234 lifetimedentalcolumbus.com

James R. Male

55 Granville St., Gahanna, 614-471-3020,

Elizabeth A. Malys-Clark

Clark Family Dental, 5133 Hampsted Village Center Way, New Albany, 614-428-0347 clarkfamilydentist.com

Timothy O. March

March Dentistry, 1580 Fishinger Road, Ste. L, Columbus, 614-457-6161, marchdentistry.com

Melissa D. Mariani, Mariani, Legacy Family Dental, 6655 Post Road, Ste. A, Dublin, 614336-7643, legacyfamilydentaldublin.com

John M. Marque

Marque Dental Associates, 1582 E. Main St. Lancaster, 740-654-3980

Brittany S. McCarthy

McCarthy Dental Group, 17 N. Harding Road Columbus, 614-239-0051, mccarthydental.com

Kristen J. Medors 1580 Fishinger Road, Upper Arlington 614-457-3740, kristenmedorsdds.com

Julie D. Messerly 127 W. 6th Ave., Lancaster, 740-687-4484 messerlydental.com

Austin Meyer

Powell Village Dental, 10238 Sawmill Pkwy. Powell, 614-785-0107, powellvillagedental.com

Mark A. Miely 1840 Zollinger Road, Upper Arlington 614-682-7384, markamielydds.com

Timothy E. Moats

6877 High St., Ste. 105, Worthington 614-885-6698, timmoatsdds.com

Julie Montgomery

Dublin Dental Associates, 200 W. Bridge St. Ste. C, Dublin, 614-889-9661 dublindentalassociates.com

Hamid Namazi

Graceful Dentistry, 3525 W. Dublin-Granville Road, Columbus, 43235, 614-764-1178 gracefuldentistry.com

Michael E. Nemcik

Nemcik & Beers, 6251 Perimeter Drive Dublin, 614-766-0002, dentistrydublin.com

Donna C. Noll

Violet Family Dental, 151 Clint Drive, Ste. 300, Pickerington, 614-575-1155 violetfamilydental.com

Rachel E. O’Dell

Bexley Family Dentistry, 3140 E. Broad St. Columbus, 614-231-6825

Andrew C. Palmer

Tootle, Palmer, & Ankrom Dentistry, 120 Walnut Creek Pike, Circleville, 740-251-0072, tootleandpalmerdentistry.com

Sharon K. Parsons

Dental Associates Records and Parsons

2862 E. Main St., Columbus, 614-235-3444, dentalassociatesbexley.com

Neal S. Patel

Infinite Smiles, 7500 Sawmill Pkwy., Powell 740-881-2600, infinitesmiles.com

SPECTRUM DENTAL AND PROSTHODONTICS

Experience unparalleled, specialized dental care at Spectrum Dental and Prosthodontics. Led by Drs. Bradley Purcell, Ryan Mizumoto and Mohamed Abdelhamed, this practice provides world-class aesthetic, reconstructive and restorative dental services. As prosthodontists, these doctors specialize in the replacement of missing teeth and missing tooth structure and have advanced training to solve the most complex dental issues. With over 50 years of combined clinical and teaching experience, Drs. Purcell, Mizumoto and Abdelhamed pride themselves in sharing a similar treatment philosophy, practice vision and commitment to excellence. As nationally recognized educators, the practice encompasses an onsite teaching facility where the specialists offer a variety of educational programs for dentists and run one of the longest standing local study clubs, the Spectrum Dental Society.

One of the many features that makes Spectrum Dental and Prosthodontics unique is its exceptional team and in-house, full-service laboratory. The practice’s extensive range of services includes all phases of prosthodontic specialty care, including removable prosthodontics (dentures/partials), fixed prosthodontics (crowns/veneers, smile makeovers, full mouth reconstruction) and implant prosthodontics (implant crowns/bridges, all-on-x/ full-arch implant therapy). Drs. Purcell, Mizumoto and Abdelhamed are considered experts in implant dentistry, and they restore over 2,500 dental implants per year.

The 12,000-square-foot, state-of-theart facility offers the most innovative technology dentistry has to offer including 3D cone beam imaging, digital photography/facial scanning, digital impressions/smile design, 3D printing, milling and other computer-based technologies, allowing the doctors to deliver the highest level of personalized care and an extraordinary patient experience and outcome.

DR. BRADLEY A. PURCELL, DDS, MS

EDUCATION: Undergraduate: St. Louis University; dental degree: Marquette University; Internship/Residency: The Ohio State University

SPECIALTY: Prosthodontics

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: American Dental Association, American College of Prosthodontists, Seattle Study Club, American Society of Implant and Reconstructive Dentistry, Academy of Osseointegration, Advanced Dental Concepts, Spectrum Dental Society, Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society, Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society and National Jesuit Honor Society

DR. RYAN M. MIZUMOTO, DMD, MS, FACP

EDUCATION: Undergraduate: UC-San Diego; dental degree: Case Western Reserve University; Internship/ Residency: The Ohio State University SPECIALTY: Prosthodontics

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: American College Prosthodontists, American Academy of Fixed Prosthodontics, Seattle Study Club, Spectrum Dental Society • Board certification: Fellow, American College of Prosthodontists and Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics

DR. MOHAMED ABELHAMED, BDS, MS

EDUCATION: Undergraduate: Cairo University; dental degree: Cairo University, Internship/Residency: The Ohio State University; Fellowship: University of Maryland

SPECIALTY: Prosthodontics

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: American Dental Association, American College of Prosthodontists, Seattle Study Club, Spectrum Dental Society

Dr. Ryan Mizumoto, Dr. Bradley Purcell, Dr. Mohamed Abelhamed

James Pawlecki

Green Dental Delaware, 133 W. Hull Drive, Delaware, 740-363-3871, greendentaldelaware.com

Ashley P. Place

Legacy Family Dental, 6655 Post Road, Ste. A, Dublin, 614-336-7643 legacyfamilydentaldublin.com

H. Herb Postle III

Postle Dental Group, 3734 Ridge Mill Drive Hilliard, 614-850-0446, postledental.com

Jonathan Michael Price

Worthington Pediatric Dentistry, 8121 N. High St., Columbus, 614-888-3212 worthingtonpediatric.com

Katherine M. Qualmann

McCarthy Dental Group, 17 N. Harding Road, Columbus, 614-235-8612, mccarthydental.com

Mark D. Raisch

Advanced Dental Wellness, 4501 N. High St. Columbus, 614-267-5413 advanceddentalwellness.com

Thomas S. Rankin

Thomas S. Rankin, D.D.S., 5515 Scioto Darby Road, Ste. 201, Hilliard, 614-876-4224 rankinfamilydentistry.com

Nicholas Raptou

Raptou Family Dental, 136 Northwoods Blvd., Ste. A-1, Columbus, 614-433-7272, raptou.com

Daniel Reed

Worthington Dental Group, 89 W. Wilson Bridge Road, Ste. 165, Worthington 614-885-2022, worthingtondental.com

Michael J. Repasky

Dublin Dental Associates, 200 W. Bridge St., Ste. C, Dublin, 614-889-9661, dublindentalassociates.com

Aparna Sadineni

Dublin Metro Dental, 572 Metro Place N. Dublin, 614-766-5600, dublinmetrodental.com

Avneet Sandhu

Worthington Pediatric Dentists, 8121 N. High St., Columbus, 43235, 614-888-3212 worthingtonpediatric.com

Jeffrey P. Santilli 420 Beecher Road, Columbus, 614-939-5200 drsantilli.com

Jeffrey R. Schoning

4713 N. High St., Columbus, 614-261-0280 schoningdental.com

Shayer Shah

Newark Smiles, 1619 W. Main St., Newark 740-522-1133, newarksmiles.com

Nisha Shah Grosel

Grandview Dental Care, 1220 Grandview Ave., Columbus, 614-486-7378 grandviewdentalcare.com

Michael D. Shrallow

Pataskala Family Dental, 722 Corylus Drive Pataskala, 740-964-5138 pataskalafamilydental.com

Shelley D. Shults

Powell Dental Group, 39 Clairedan Drive, Powell, 614-436-4433, powelldentalgroup.com

Tod W. Siefert

Siefert Family Dentistry, 2880 W. Broad St. Columbus, 614-279-0674 siefertfamilydentistry.com

Andrew E. Skasko

Elite Dental, 5101 Forest Drive, Ste. A, New Albany, 614-939-0400, newalbanyelitedental.com

Samuel E. Smiley

Smiley Dental Group, 5156 Blazer Pkwy., Ste. 200 Dublin, 614-889-0726, smileydentalgroup.com

Eric Soller

Pediatric and Adolescent Dentistry 3535 Fishinger Blvd, Ste. 270, Hilliard 614-876-4277, peddentistry.com

Yuchan K. Son

Westerville Dental Associates, 627 Office Pkwy. Westerville, 614-882-1135, westervilledental.com

Howard M. Spector

Merit Dental, 1219 County Line Road Westerville, 614-839-8000, meritdental.com/ dental-office/westerville/

Heidi A. Stauffer

Stauffer Family Dental, 124 County Line Road W., Ste. A, Westerville, 614-882-2249 staufferfamilydental.com

Nicholas J. Terse

825 High St., Ste. B, Worthington 614-888-1896, drterse.com

Jeremy M. Thiel

Signature Dental, 825 High St., Worthington 614-846-7828, signaturedentaltoday.com

Barth M. Toothman

Toothman Dental Group, 1920 Bethel Road Columbus, 614-457-4585 toothmandentalgroup.com

Dena E. Towning

807 Kinnear Road, Ste. 160, Columbus 614-487-0965, towningdental.com

George M. Tzagournis

Tzagournis Dental Group, 385 W. County Line Road, Ste. 100, Westerville 614-882-4032, tzagournis.com

Prashanthi Vadhi

Vadhi Ohio Family Dental, 6023 E. Main St. Columbus, 614-864-6000, drvadhi.com

Maria Van Huffel

960 N. Hamilton Road, Ste. 107, Gahanna 614-476-8999, mvanhuffel.com

David H. Verzella

Prairie Dental Excellence, 4998 W. Broad St., Ste. 201, Columbus, 614-878-6417 prairie-dental-excellence.com

Steve C. Walton

5025 Arlington Centre Blvd., Ste. 220, Upper Arlington, 614-457-1481, tzagournis.com

Daniel H. Ward

1080 Polaris Pkwy., Ste. 130, Columbus 614-430-8990, drward.com

Paul E. Webb

2094 Tremont Center, Ste. 3, Columbus 614-486-2630,

Erin L. Whittaker

Whittaker Dental Group, 11 W. Cooke Road Columbus, 614-267-4243, flossyourteeth.com

George P. Wick

1234 Old Henderson Road, Ste. A, Columbus, 614-268-9443, georgewickdds.com

Michael Willmann

Pearl Dental Group, 3734 Ridge Mill Drive, Hillard, 614-850-0446, pearldentalcolumbus.com

James D. Worley

300 S. State St., Westerville, 614-882-1816,

Eric Zidel

Zidel Dental Group, 4575 Winchester Pike, Columbus, 614-837-2080, zideldentalgroup.com

Paula A. Zimmerman

Grove City Family Dentistry, 3031 Columbus St., Grove City, 614-875-2153, gcfamdent.com

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Michael B. Border

Rekos & Border Oral Surgery, 5155 Bradenton Ave., Ste. 100, Dublin, 614-764-9455, omfso.com

James P. Ellis

Ellis Oral Surgery, 420 Beecher Road, Ste. A Gahanna, 614-775-0222, ellisoralsurgery.com

Hany A. Emam

The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, 305 W. 12th Ave., Columbus, 43210 614-292-9855, dentistry.osu.edu

Erik W. Evans

Ellis & Evans Oral and Facial Surgery 420 Beecher Road, Ste. A, Gahanna 614-775-0222, ellisandevansoralsurgery.com

Timothy J. Frey

Oral & Facial Surgery for Adults & Children, 1161 Bethel Road, Ste. 303, Columbus 614-457-9337, ofsac.com

Haitham Hadeed

Central Ohio Oral Surgery, 13293 Summerfield Way, Pickerington, 614-522-0555

Byron T. Henry

Northwest Oral & Facial Surgery & Dental Implant Center, 6641 N. High St., Ste. 105 Columbus, 614-885-3339, nwofs.com

Sean Lindsey

Steiner, Rotenberg & Lindsey Oral Surgery & 5350 E. Main St., Columbus, 614-863-9500 omsandperio.com

Monte E. Masonbrink

Oral & Facial Surgery for Adults & Children, 10236 Sawmill Pkwy., Powell, 614-457-9337, ofsac.com

Gregory C. Michaels

Michaels Oral Surgery, 823 N. Columbus St., Lancaster, 740-654-6628, michaelsoralsurgery.com

Andrew Mullendore

East Columbus Oral Surgery Specialists, 6555 E. Broad St., Columbus, 614-427-0400 eastcolumbusoralsurgery.com

Gregory M. Ness

Oral & Facial Surgery, 1161 Bethel Road, Ste. 303, Columbus, 614-457-9337, ofsac.com

Chintan I. Patel

463 Waterbury Court, Ste. A, Gahanna 614-471-6600, northeastOMS.com

Gregory A. Rekos

Oral & Facial Surgeons of Ohio, 5155 Bradenton Ave., Ste. 100, Dublin, 614-764-9455, omfso.com

David A. Smeltzer

Oral & Facial Surgery for Adults & Children 1161 Bethel Road, Ste. 303, Columbus 614-457-9337, ofsac.com

Joshua T. Smith

Greater Columbus Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, 3824 Hoover Road, Grove City 614-875-1611, oralsurgerycolumbus.com

Claire Towning

East Ohio Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

1272 W. Main St., Building 6, Newark 740-522-0674, E.ohiojawsurgery.com

Larry D. Towning

East Ohio Oral & Maxillofaical Surgery

1272 W. Main St., Building 6, Newark 740-522-0674, E.ohiojawsurgery.com

Timothy S. Troiano

1830 Bethel Road, Ste. A, Columbus 614-457-1224, drtroiano.com

Douglas A. Von Kaenel

East Columbus Oral Surgery Specialists 6555 E. Broad St., Columbus, 614-427-0400 E.columbusoralsurgery.com

Brian C. Weaver

Riverstone Oral & Dental Implant Surgery 121 Commerce Park Drive, Westerville 614-568-0230, riverstoneoralsurgery.com

Jonathan T. Williams

Williams Oral Surgery, 3545 Olentangy River Road, Ste. 125, Columbus, 614-267-0385 williamsoralsurgery.com

Oral Pathology

John R. Kalmar

The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, 305 W. 12th Ave., Columbus 614-292-6577, dentistry.osu.edu

Susan R. Mallery

The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, 305 W. 12th Ave., Columbus 614-292-1472, dentistry.osu.edu

Orthodontics

Gregory W. Anderson

Associated Orthodontics, 6620 Perimeter Drive, Dublin, 614-889-9000, buckeyebraces.com

Ewa T. Byczek

Dublin Orthodontics, 6890 Perimenter Drive, Ste. B, Dublin, 614-718-2222, dublinorthodontics.com

Jesse Carmen

Carmen Orthodontics, 5225 E. Main St., Columbus, 614-864-5555, carmenorthodontics.com

Brandon D. Cook

Cook Orthodonitcs of Dublin, 5152 Blazer Pkwy., Ste. 200, Dublin, 614-734-9000 cookorthodublin.com

Bethany A. Crawford

Scioto Orthodontics, 6358 Scioto Darby Road Hilliard, 614-363-2525, sciotobraces.com

Brian E. Crock

Crock Orthodontics, 175 McMillen Drive Newark, 740-344-3372, crockortho.com

Lisa M. Davison

Davison Orthodontics, 517 Liberty Road N. Powell, 614-389-8346, davisonorthodontics.com

Cheryl B. Golden

Golden Orthodontics, 3015 E. Main St., Columbus, 614-235-4800, goldenorthodontics.com

R. Brian Hardy

Hardy Orthodontics, 4199 Gantz Road, Grove City, 614-871-8200, hardyortho.com

Lynnsay R. Hickman

Hickman Orthodontics, 6899 E. Main St., Reynoldsburg, 614-501-0042, eastcolumbusbraces.com

Erik W. Hrabowy

Hrabowy Orthodontics, 3140 E. Broad St., Ste. 200, Columbus, 614-235-2351, hrabowybraces.com

J. Larry Hutta

Hutta & Cook Orthodontics, 6641 N. High St., Ste. 104, Worthington, 614-885-2000, huttasmiles.com

James T. Hutta

470 Silver Lane, Ste. A, Gahanna, 614-855-8800, lovethatsmile.net

Elizabeth K. Johnson

Scioto Orthodontics, 6358 Scioto Darby Road, Hilliard, 614-363-2525, sciotobraces. com

Kaitrin K. Kramer

Nationwide Children’s, 700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, 614-722-5602, nationwidechildrens.org

Jenny R. Maple Maple Orthodontics, 260 Market St., Ste. E, New Albany, 614-775-1000, straightsmile. com

Amin Mason

Polaris Orthodontic Center, 1079 Polaris Pkwy.s, Ste. 130, Columbus, 614-781-6990, polarisorthodonticcenter.com

Catherine Scheurer McDevitt

A Winning Smile Orthodontics, 7100 N. High St., Ste. 105, Worthington, 614-888-8070, awinningsmileorthodontics.com

Ana M. Mercado

Nationwide Children’s, 700 Children’s Drive, Ste. T5D, Columbus, 614-722-5602, nationwidechildrens.org

Joseph M. Mess

Cook & Mess Orthodontics, 4775 Knightsbridge Blvd., Columbus, 614-457-6567, cookmessortho.com

Mark T. Musgrave

Musgrave Orthodontics, 98 W. William St., Delaware, 740-362-6952, musgraveorthodontics.com

Mark D. Pierce

3854 N. High St., Columbus, 614-262-3047, markpiercedds.com

Jeffrey A. Price

Hutta & Price Orthodontics, 470 Silver Lane, Ste. A, Gahanna, 614-855-8800, lovethatsmile.net

Aaron K. Rose

Rose Orthodontics, 980 W. Central Ave., Ste. D, Delaware, 740-272-4455, rosebraces.com

Rashelle D. Salaita

Salaita Orthodontics, 937 Polaris Woods Blvd., Westerville, 614-888-4577, westervillebraces.com

Jeffrey M. Shirck

Shirck Orthodontics, 196 E. Broad St., Ste. B, Pataskala, 740-331-4592, shirckorthodontics.com

Grant Slania

Hickman Orthodontics, 6899 E. Main St., Reynoldsburg, 614-501-0042, eastcolumbusbraces.com

Kent M. Underwood

Smile Doctors, 10220 Sawmill Pkwy., Powell, 614-761-9777, smiledoctors.com

Andrew B. Wade

Wade Orthodontics, 3404 Riverside Drive, Columbus, 614-451-7555, wadeorthodontics.com

Timothy G. Wigal

Wigal & Kluemper Orthodotics, 1590 Coshocton Ave., Mount Vernon, 740-397-2111, wigalkluemperorthodontics.com

Jared C. Zwick

Smile Doctors, 7420 State Route 161 E., Plain City, 614-889-7613, Pediatric Dentistry

Homa Amini

Nationwide Children’s Hospital, 700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, 614-722-5651, nationwidechildrensoma-amini

Ashley Anderson

Tiny Teeth of Dublin, 5699 Innovation Drive, Dublin, 614-215-9488, tinyteethofdublin.com

Carolyn A. Barber

395 N. West St., Ste. A, Westerville, 614-8989994, scottniemandds.com

Emmy Burns

Pediatric and Adolescent Dentistry, 3535 Fishinger Blvd., Ste. 270, Hilliard, 614-8764277, peddentistry.com

Daniel B. Claman

The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, 305 W. 12th Ave., Columbus, 614-2920371, dentistry.osu.edu

David O. Danesh

The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, 305 W. 12th Ave., Columbus, 614-6883763, dentistry.osu.edu

Lucia C. Gerstmann

Buckeye Pediatric Dentistry, 2000 Brice Road, Reynoldsburg, 614-575-2225, buckeyepediatricdentistryohio.com

Jillian N. Gray

Clintonville 4472 N. High St., Columbus, 614852-3622, clintonvillepediatricdentistry.com

Ann L. Griffen

The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, 305 W. 12th Ave., Columbus, 614-292-

1472, nationwidechildrens.org

Erin L. Gross

The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, 305 W. 12th Ave., Columbus, 614-2921788, dentistry.osu.edu

Kimberly Hammersmith

Nationwide Childrens, 700 Childrens Drive, Columbus, 614-722-5651, nationwidechildrens.org

Mitzi L. Hines

Hines Little Smiles 5770 N. Hamilton Road, Ste. A, Columbus, 614-423-6857, hineslittlesmiles.com

Benjamin Kwok

Little Smiles of Delaware, 1949 State Route 37 W., Ste. A, Delaware, 740-209-2400, littlesmilesofdelaware.com

Yoon-Mi “Sophie” Matracia

Dublin Kids Dental, 6235 Perimeter Drive, Ste. A, Dublin, 614-588-8350, dublinkidsdental.com

Scott W. Nieman

395 N. West St., Ste. A, Westerville, 614-8989994, scottniemandds.com

Sachin S. Parulka

Delaware Pediatric Dentistry, 6284 Pullman Drive, Lewis Center, 740-657-1562, delawarekidsdentist.com

Mindy A. Price

Worthington Pediatric Dentistry, 8121 N. High St., Columbus, 614-888-3212, worthingtonpediatric.com

Sidney D. Price

Worthington 8121 N. High St., Columbus, 614-888-3212, worthingtonpediatric.com

Joel Richards

Westerville Pediatric Dental, 110 Polaris Pkwy. Ste. 120, Westerville, 614-392-5911, westervillepediatricdental.com

Diego A. Solis

The Ohio State University Nisonger Center, 2879 Johnstown Road, Columbus, 614-3425795, nisonger.osu.edu

Janice A. Townsend

Nationwide Children’s Hospital, 700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, 614-722-2000, nationwidechildrens.org

Kevin T. Weitzel

Pediatric and Adolescent Dentistry, 3535 Fishinger Blvd., Ste. 270, Hilliard, 614-8764277, peddentistry.com

Periodontics

Fred Alger

221 N. Hamilton Road, Gahanna, 614-4787757, drfredalger.com

David A. Cacchillo

Cacchillo & Daniel Periodontics & Dental Implants, 7535 E. Main St., Reynoldsburg, 614-861-8077, cdperio.com

Ross Gordon

627 Office Pkwy., Ste. B, Westerville, 614665-7500, rgperio.com

Rashee Mannava

Central Ohio Periodontics, 7334 E. Broad St., Ste. B, Blacklick, 614-575-0070, CentralOhioPeriodontics.com

Thomas J. Miller II

Worthington Periodontal Specialists, 55 Caren Ave., Ste. 380, Worthington, 614-4501137, tjmperio.com

Shaun Rotenberg

Steiner, Rotenberg & Lindsey Oral Surgery & Periodontics, 5350 E. Main St., Ste. 204, Columbus, 43213, 614-863-9500, omsandperio.com

Fred O. Sakamoto

Central Ohio Periodontics, 7334 E. Broad St., Ste. B, Columbus, 614-575-0070, centralohioperiodontics.com

H. William Stehle

Periodontology Inc., 3600 Olentangy River Road, Ste. 500-A, Columbus, 614-451-5201, periodontologyinc.com

Jason C. Stoner

Stoner Periodontic Specialists, 5101 Forest Drive, Ste. B, New Albany, 614-683-5685, stonerperiospecialists.com

Prosthodontics

Mohamed Abdelhamed

Spectrum Dental, 55 Caren Ave., Ste. 270, Columbus, 614-885-7721, spectrum-dental.com

Andrew B. Gilbert

Gilbert & Goff Prosthodontists , 3360 Tremont Road, Ste. 120, Columbus, 614-4511300, gilbertandgoff.com

Douglas W. Goff

Gilbert & Goff Prosthodontists, 3360 Tremont Road, Ste. 120, Columbus, 614-4511300, gilbertandgoff.com

Edwin McGlumphy, Jr

Clear Choice, 6500 Emerald Pkwy., Ste. 125, Dublin, 614-203-5031, clearchoice.com/locations/dental-implants-columbus/

Ryan M. Mizumoto

Spectrum Dental and Prosthodontics, 55 Caren Ave., Ste. 270, Columbus, 614-8857721, spectrum-dental.com

Alejandro M. Peregrina

The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, 305 W. 12th Ave., Columbus, 614-2478389, dentistry.osu.edu

Bradley A. Purcell

Spectrum Dental and Prosthodontics, 55 Caren Ave., Ste. 270, Columbus, 614-8857721, spectrum-dental.com

Robert B. Stevenson III

3600 Olentangy River Road, Ste. C4, Columbus, 614-451-2767, robertbstevensonddsms.com

JAYME GLAMM, DDS

Glamm Dentistry

2164 Riverside Dr., Columbus OH 43221

614-487-0112

glammdentistry.com

Specialty: Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Invisalign, Botox, Restorative and Laser Dentistry

Education: The Ohio State University, B.S. in Human Nutrition (Magna Cum Laude); Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS); Residency, University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine

What is your philosophy of care? My philosophy is rooted in the belief that a smile is a powerful gateway to overall wellness. I don’t just treat teeth; I treat the whole person. My passion for dentistry translates into a commitment to comprehensive, conservative care that balances advanced science with meticulous artistry. I believe the best results come from partnership. No two patients are alike, so I prioritize listening to each person’s goals and concerns to create a personalized plan that fits their life, ensuring every patient feels welcomed, heard, and confident in their care.

MARK O’BANION, DMD

Capital Endodontics

6670 Perimeter Dr., Suite 250 Dublin, Ohio 43016

614-659-7491

capendocolumbus.com

Specialty: Board-certified endodontist, specializing in diagnosing and treating complex causes of tooth pain, while preserving your natural tooth.

Professional Memberships: AAE, ABE (Diplomate), OAE, Seattle and Coolidge Study Clubs, AAFE, ALD, Fotona Laser and Septodont Educator Education: SIU-SDM, UIC

What is your philosophy of care? Our philosophy is to ensure our patients are receiving exceptional care in a relaxed environment using state-of-the-art technology. Advanced techniques include the Fotona laser and Gentlewave techniques. Laser-assisted endodontics is an important new innovation and we have integrated lasers into all aspects of our care. We also believe that every patient should feel comfortable, thus we offer nitrous oxide and IV sedation to help ease dental anxiety. We provide the highest quality of care to our patients to preserve the natural dentition.

TARA L. HAID, DDS

Worthington Dental Group 89 W. Wilson Bridge Rd. Ste 165 Worthington, OH 43085

614-885-2022

Haid Dental 6455 Post Rd. Ste A Dublin, OH 43016

614-889-7661

Specialty: General, Restorative, Cosmetic, Laser and Family Dentistry

Professional Memberships: American Dental Association, Ohio Dental Association, Columbus Dental Society, Pierre Fauchard Academy, International College of Dentistry

Education: Ohio State University (DDS), Yale New Haven Hospital (General Practice Residency)

What is your philosophy of care? We have a compassionate team that treats every patient with respect and integrity. We strive to provide the highest level of care for our patients in a gentle manner, using the latest technology and cosmetic services available.

NeuroAnimation: Prevailing over Parkinson's -Marsha's Story

"I have Parkinson's, but it doesn't have me!"

Stimulation, where a battery pack placed in husband, she was faced with the reality of a wheelchair. This was devastating news. But, experience some visible tremors during the

remarkable gains being seen in clients with

were supposed to talk on that plane on that

different journey, one that Marsha confirms has completely changed her life. She made

imagine how this fifteen-day program could imagined.”

cheered on and encouraged by the rest of

hopeful, but a bit skeptical…until Day Three

.” Each day, she went home tired but gains. Her handwriting became legible, her that deafening phrase came in 2012, when she was referred to a neurologist because building intricate dollhouses for charity with forward and to keep doing those things she

encouraging, like the bar where everybody ordered herself a bracelet that echoed the but she says, “it does not have me.” Marsha changed her life and hobbies she loves, quilting and sewing, and

same promise of a better future by offering

growth through immersive technology. This experience has already helped clients with

more regain measurable mental clarity and

home & style

BY

TIM JOHNSON

Nautical Flair Bottles and vases decorate the sunroom in an art-filled Powell home, which hides a steampunkthemed basement bar, Page 66.

PHOTO

Baby grand piano turned into bookcase by Brian Riegel

Steampunk Style

An artist and author’s Powell home is a stylish blend of history and art, with a sci-fi surprise in the basement.

Story by Lucy Clark

Brian and Lisa Riegel’s Powell home in the Scioto Bluff neighborhood is a seamless blend of design finesse and personality.

The open living room-dining-roomkitchen, just off the entry room, is as visually appealing as it is inviting—but a closer inspection starts to reveal stories of the couple’s life and history, hidden in plain sight.

A large window with a handsome black trim overlooks their corner lot on a hill and invites in plenty of natural light, while cream walls and vaulted ceilings brighten it further.

The color palette is simple and grounded, allowing more eclectic pieces to shine without overwhelming. Brian is an artist who creates sculptures out of musical instruments, and his work can be seen on display throughout the home, like the bookcase he made from Lisa’s grandmother’s baby grand piano. Such works act as feature pieces without overtaking a room.

The kitchen and dining room introduce warmth with a heavy focus on wood, which holds some of those hidden stories.

The bistro table nestled against a bay window offering a river view in the backyard is made from a butcher’s block that

Photos by Tim Johnson

A saxophone and wood sculpture by Brian Riegel

once lived in a grocery store owned and operated by Lisa’s grandfather in Canal Winchester. The dining table also holds memories—its wood dates from the 1940s from Brian’s grandmother’s farm, which later was turned into a table by the person who makes tables for Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, Lisa says.

The Riegels purchased the home in 2013 after it had been on the market for only a day.

The 5,800-square-foot (including the basement), five-bedroom, four-bathroom home was built by Bob Webb Homes in 1994.

“We knew it was well-built,” says Lisa. The couple started on renovations that they say remain ongoing. “We have a whole laundry list,” she adds, including renovating their son’s room once he graduates from college and moving Brian’s studio.

The initial renovations, though, included reconfiguring the kitchen—a project led by Lisa. “We worked together, but the kitchen was her plan for functionality,” says Brian. For example, all the family’s spices are hidden in a bottom cabinet.

Across from the kitchen is an informal living room and fireplace, and beyond that is a sunroom. Also on the main floor are the primary bedroom and bathroom, connected by a walk-in closet. The bedroom is bright yet intimate and cozy—a deliberate downsizing from the original. The bathroom sports a deep standalone bathtub for Brian, and steam shower for Lisa.

Through a hallway off the kitchen are the other bedrooms, including their son’s and daughter’s rooms when visiting home. Lisa is an author, speaker and the president and CEO of Educational Partnerships Institute, and she records podcasts from her home office, also on the first floor.

Brian’s studio is accessible through the garage, where their cat, Little Mama, naps on storage shelves repurposed from the kitchen renovation. The artist’s space showcases his works-in-progress as well as the shiny brass of his materials. Many clients bring him sentimental instruments that no longer work, which he reconfigures into sculptures. Music stores also give him discarded instruments, some of which he repairs. Brian used to be an art teacher at Worthington Kilbourne High School, and he keeps a piece gifted to him by a former student on display.

Wall clock made by Brian Riegel

Brian and Lisa Riegel

Informal living room leading into sunroom

Pool table in basement

Open kitchen and dining room, featuring a table made from wood sourced from Brian’s grandmother’s farm.

Steampunk themed basement bar inspired by 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea

While the main floor is captivating, the Riegels’ basement is awe-inducing. Inspired by Jules Verne’s 19th century novel 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, the basement includes a lounge, pool table, Brian’s office, a game room and, most notably, a nautilus-inspired bar.

Science fiction, steampunk and underwater aesthetics combine with Brian’s artistic flair for a fantastical result.

The bar is shaped like a nautilus shell— inspired by The Nautilus, the submarine

Brian in garage studio

Rotary phone installed in the pool table by Brian

Elephants are on display throughout the Riegels’ home

Primary bedroom

piloted by Captain Nemo in Verne’s scifi saga, and Brian’s own creative imprint.

“We’re in a basement, and I’ve always loved the steampunk aesthetic and thought that would be cool, like a submarine,” he says. “And I’ve always loved the nautilus shape. It’s something that’s repeated throughout the universe everywhere, the spiral.” The bar top is made from 4,200 pieces of flexi ply— two pieces of plywood with rubber in between, which lets them bend. Brian hired someone to build it and did the coloring himself.

Nearby wall lights give off a nautical pattern, and the TV above the fireplace is designed like a porthole. Brian also has a musket and sword belonging to an ancestor on display nearby. The pool table in the center of the room is rigged up with lights and other artistic additions, courtesy of Brian.

His lower-level office sports several of his sculptures as well as an impressive wall of comic books Brian has been collecting since he was 5 years old.

“It’s a very relaxing house,” says Lisa. “It’s homey, but it’s not cluttered. There are plenty of spaces to sit and reflect.” ◆

INSPIRED DAYS START IN INSPIRED CLOSETS.™ Each customized space is designed around you, providing easy access to everything you need to confidently take on the day. Wherever it may take you. Get inspired at InspiredClosetsColumbus.com GRAND OPENING SALE $500 OFF ORDERS OF $5,000+

Top 25 Home Sales

April 1-30, 2026

PRICE ADDRESS

$3.2M 140 N. Parkview Ave., Bexley

$2.8M 2 Edge of Woods, New Albany

$2.7M 2405 Onandaga Dr., Upper Arlington

$2.56M 16 Wiveliscombe, New Albany

$2.5M 4480 Ravine Dr., Westerville

$1.85M 6577 Plesenton Dr. S., Worthington

$1.71M 7599 N. Goodrich Sq., New Albany

$1.7M 4267 Vaux Link, New Albany

$1.68M 11146 Harlem Estates Ct., Galena

$1.53M 6940 Clivdon Mews, New Albany

$1.5M 7612 N. Goodrich Sq., New Albany

$1.4M 1044 Glendale Ave., Grandview Heights

$1.37M 8174 Windy Hollow Rd., Johnstown

$1.33M 180 S. Riverview St., Dublin

$1.3M 3414 Loire Ln., Columbus

$1.25M 4650 Kingston Ct., Upper Arlington

$1.22M 2695 Henthorn Rd., Upper Arlington

$1.21M 386 Northview Dr., Bexley

$1.2M 690 City Park Ave., Columbus

$1.2M 211 Preston Rd., Columbus

$1.2M 2549 Brentwood Rd., Bexley

$1.2M 2031 Devon Rd., Upper Arlington

$1.16M 4415 Hickory Rock Dr., Powell

$1.16M 5821 Olentangy Blvd., Worthington

$1.15M 1165 Highland Dr., Upper Arlington

Columbus Monthly gathers home sales data from county auditor offices in Franklin County and its six contiguous counties.

food & drink

PHOTO BY TIM JOHNSON Otherworldly Galaxy Coffee celebrates four years as a queer-owned coffee truck, Page 76.

Food & Drink | Industry

Lucky 13

Thirteen years after opening its Downtown flagship, Wolf’s Ridge prepares for its next chapter, including a third location at the Worthington Inn.

By Linda Lee Baird

A lot has happened over the past 13 years in the brewing and hospitality industries. A peak, and then decline, in craft beer sales. A pandemic. Tariffs. Workforce uncertainty.

Since he opened Wolf’s Ridge Brewing in Downtown Columbus with his father Alan in 2013, Bob Szuter has been through all of it. He’s also managed to keep growing his brand while adapting it to the times.

Lauded for its excellent food and beers, Wolf’s Ridge certainly hasn’t been immune from larger industry pressures.

“Coming out of the pandemic, things just hadn’t come back the way we wanted them,” Szuter says of the Downtown restaurant and taproom. “The business was slowing down on both spaces.”

A bustling demand at Understory—the lounge, dining and event space Wolf’s Ridge opened in Neil Avenue’s Open Air building in Old North Columbus in 2022—helped offset some of the problems. But Szuter decided to do more

in the flagship space, starting with hiring a new management team last spring. He credits general manager Nick Pennino and assistant general manager Jason Flo-

rian with helping them “start that process of refocusing on the guest experience.”

The changes include adding a weekday lunch menu in late 2025, followed by the return of pizza, which became popular at the restaurant during COVID-19 and returned thanks in part to a fortuitous find: A pizza oven being auctioned off by the former Tommy’s on Lane Avenue. Szuter says they were able to purchase it for around $100.

The pizzas, priced starting at $17, are made on a stone hearth with a focaccia crust and serve up to two people. Now if guests “just want to come out and have some beer and pizza, we can do that,” Szuter says.

But those who prefer the dining room’s noteworthy, higher-end cuisine for lunch still have plenty of options—from a shredded duck melt sandwich ($13) that oozes with cheese and flavor, to the restaurant’s famed toad in the hole ($18), which Szuter says has been “a staple from day one.”

Alan and Bob Szuter, the father-son team behind Wolf’s Ridge

PHOTOS

Bone-in pork chop at Wolf’s Ridge at Worthington Inn

Some behind-the-scenes changes also are having an impact. Last year, Wolf’s Ridge turned its beer distribution over to a wholesaler. “That allowed us to refocus on our core competencies,” Szuter says. “We were able to just bring a little more focus on making the beer.”

A new chef is also at the helm. Tom Sommer came on board in March after serving as a private chef since 2021. Sommer says his favorite thing about the job is interacting with guests and co-workers. “Without others, I’d be one person cooking for one. Not a lot of fun in that.”

The changes at Wolf’s Ridge go beyond Downtown. Understory also has a new head chef and management team. “For the first time, at any of our locations, [the team is] all female, which is really cool,” Szuter says. “They’re bringing a lot of energy and excitement.”

Then, there’s the opening of the company’s third restaurant in the historic Worthington Inn. Chef Kristopher Ludwig, who has been with Wolf’s Ridge since the beginning at the Fourth Street location, is leading the Worthington kitchen.

“He really got excited about what that could be and sees the potential for it to be a pretty high-volume space, Szuter says of Ludwig, adding that the chef “lit up” when he first saw the kitchen.

Though he brings experience from Downtown, Ludwig has shaped the menu to meet the needs of the neighborhood. The goal, Szuter says, is a space people can stop in regularly, balancing affordable snacks and bar foods with higher-end options for people celebrating special occasions.

Guests can expect lunch items like French onion soup ($10), fish and chips ($23) a BLT ($15) or a vegetarian mushroom-based MLT ($13). Dinner offers confit cod cheeks ($22) and a sirloin fillet ($45); vegetarian options include mushroom-based scallops ($26) and a campanelle pasta ($24). Later this summer, a downstairs bar called the Wolf’s Den will further activate the space with small plates in a “retro vibe cocktail space,” Szuter says.

And of course, Wolf’s Ridge’s craft beers will be served. A nutty new English pale ale called Inn Keeper was brewed for the Worthington opening. “We’re really trying to honor the historical nature of the space,” Szuter says, “and just bring a little bit of life and energy back to that building.” ◆

MEET WOLF’S RIDGE’S EXECUTIVE CHEFS

Katie Rymer, Understory

Katie Rymer began her tenure at Understory in February. Her previous experience includes working at Vine + Forge and The Kee. Fun fact: Rymer has four parrots that she enjoys spending time with on her days off.

What’s one dish on your current menu that you are excited for guests to try? I am very excited about our new udon dish. It is a unique composition that is fully customizable for our guests. It reflects my commitment to using locally sourced, fresh and organic ingredients.

Understory, 2571 Neil Ave., Old North Columbus; understorycbus.com

Tom Sommer, Wolf’s Ridge Brewing

Tom Sommer took over as executive chef at Wolf’s Ridge in March, and owner Bob Szuter says he has “fit right into the culture.” He was previously self-employed as a private chef. While he enjoys fishing, his favorite time on his days off is devoted to his family.

What’s one dish on your current menu that you are excited for guests to try? Rather than specific dishes, I get excited for new ingredients that come with the seasons. For example, getting beautiful rhubarb to use as the acid along with local asparagus, Marcona almond and brown butter for an early spring take on a brook trout amandine, elevated visually by the vibrance of rhubarb.

Wolf’s Ridge Brewing, 215 N. 4th St., Downtown; wolfsridgebrewing.com

Kristopher Ludwig, Wolf’s Ridge at Worthington Inn

After over 12 years Downtown at Wolf’s Ridge Brewing, where he was a sous chef and then executive chef, Kristopher Ludwig recently headed north to take the helm at the Worthington Inn. He spends his free time with his wife and dogs, thrifting and fishing. He also says he’s a “big nerd” for culinary history and historical cookbooks.

What’s one dish on your current menu that you are excited for guests to try? Pork runs through my veins. We’re known for the tomahawk chop, so it’s definitely that one. At the [Downtown] location, it’s the butcher sauerkraut and wild game sausage, sharing my German heritage and love of wild game.

Wolf’s Ridge at Worthington Inn, 649 High St., Worthington; worthingtoninn.com

Four Years of Sparkles

Galaxy Coffee calls itself

‘Columbus’ queer-owned coffee truck,’ but offers a community space for all.

By Linda Lee Baird

Jevonna Morris took a winding path to owning Galaxy Coffee, which she opened in June 2022 as a self-described “queerowned coffee truck.” Before hospitality, she worked in city planning, where she was assigned to research the then upand-coming South Side Roots Café (now Mid-Ohio Kitchen at Reeb).

The concept sparked something for her. “I just got more and more frustrated I was not running it,” she says. She realized she didn’t want to research third spaces, or the places aside from work or home where people gather, primarily for conversation. Morris wanted to run one herself. She quit her job and started working at a Starbucks to learn the industry.

And then the pandemic hit—a moment that caused Morris to reevaluate her plans. But the concept of a coffee truck—outdoor, with flexibility to travel—seemed like a solution. Morris and her then-business partner Kels Wilson, who Morris met while working at Starbucks, started an Indiegogo campaign that raised $11,000 to start Galaxy Coffee. The truck began serving drinks in front of Clintonville’s Virtue Vegan Salon, with frequent stops at Columbus

SHORTHAND

Galaxy Coffee

3264 N. High St., Clintonville thegalaxycoffee.com

Hours: Open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekends.

If you go: Galaxy Coffee has a membership program called Friends of the Truck. Members receive “sparkles” for supporting Galaxy through donations and volunteer work that can be redeemed for free drinks and other perks.

Food

Public Health and festivals around town.

But owning a food truck often isn’t smooth ride. Engine troubles were common for Galaxy Coffee, and repair parts were difficult and expensive to come by during the pandemic. Finally, Morris decided to simplify things by finding a permanent location for the truck.

“I literally just walked up to different businesses and knocked on their doors and [was] like, ‘Would you want a food truck parked in front of your building?’ ” she recalls.

After not hearing back from her initial outreach to design business Between State, which was next to a corner lot at North High Street and East Como Avenue in Clintonville she had been eyeing, Morris stopped in with coffee and pastries. She received permission to rent the lot in early 2024, and Galaxy Coffee has been there ever since.

The space gave Galaxy room to implement Morris’ original third space vision. Patio seating is available next to the truck, giving patrons room to hang out and sip their beverages—many of which include the sparkling whimsy that Galaxy is known for. The Galaxy Latte ($7) is topped with a “brown sugar cloud foam,” Morris says, and dusted with pink and purple glitter. For a kick without the caffeine, the Sparkling Unicorn ($5.50) is a refreshing lavender blueberry tea lemonade that shimmers in the light.

Morris says they recently transitioned to making syrups in-house. The Hon-

ey Don’t Latte ($7) offers a great way to sample one: a locally sourced honey syrup flavors the drink, which is dusted with cinnamon for a warm, but not-too-sweet, flavor. Morris uses local vendors for many of her products: Coffee beans from Upper Cup, bagels from Sammy’s New York Bagels and vegan pastries from Happy Little Treats and Pattycake Bakery.

Morris is working on plans for community events, including a gallery on the patio, a board game night and book clubs. She says having a stable location has made her dream of founding a third space come true. “We now have regulars,” she says. “We did it. We made something.” ◆

Sparkling Unicorn and Galaxy Latte

Jevonna Morris

PHOTOS BY TIM JOHNSON

let’s eat

WHERE TO DINE THIS MONTH

Editor’s Note: Please call restaurants to check hours and menu availability.

$$$$ Very expensive, $30 and higher

$$$ Spendy, $21–$29

$$ Moderate, $13–$20

$ Affordable, $12 and under

NEW Restaurant has opened within the last few months.

Outdoor Seating

B Breakfast

BR Brunch

L Lunch D Dinner

2026 Best New Restaurant

2025 Best Restaurant

Let’s Eat is Columbus Monthly’s guide to area restaurants. The list is updated monthly with picks from our editors. Send updates and suggestions to letters@columbusmonthly.com.

AMERICAN

The Blue Danube

After shuttering in 2018, the classic Old North restaurant has returned, albeit with a smaller menu than it once had. But you’ll still find deep fried starters, soups, salads and sammies—and a sense of Columbus history—to wash down with a cold beer. 2439 N. High St., Old North, 614-261-9308. D $$

The Boat House at Confluence Park

With floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing river and Downtown views, the Boat House is an urban escape. Prominent seafood and raw bar options are served alongside meaty entrées like prime rib. Tip: Visit at happy hour for discounted drinks and appetizers while you watch the sunset. 679 W. Spring St., Downtown, 614-469-0000. BRD $$$$

Club 185

You’ll find cozy booths and stiff drinks at this dimly lit German Village hangout serving better-than-average bar fare like cheeseburgers, Anchor Bar wings and pizza. 185 E. Livingston Ave., German Village, 614228-3904. LD $

Flamin Feathers

Flamin Feathers is the second area restaurant from the owners of New Jersey-based Food Street. The restaurant focuses on Nashville-

Visit columbus monthly.com to read about the latest restaurant openings.

style hot chicken, which is available served as tenders, wings, sandwiches and on their signature Belgian waffle. The craveable Halal menu is rounded out with smashburgers, shakes and fried sides. 530 S. Hague Ave., West Side, 614-943-1429. LD $$

Harvest Bar + Kitchen

From the owners of Harvest Pizzeria, these locations offer the same wood-kissed pies plus salads, sandwiches, burgers and more. 940 S. Front St., Brewery District, 614-9477950; 2885 N. High St., Clintonville, 614947-7133. LD $$

Northstar Café

Northstar’s menu has a healthful emphasis on organic ingredients served in a casual, order-at-the-counter café setting. At peak times, it’s common to see diners lined up for the beet-laden veggie burger, pizzas, salads, rice-and-veggie bowls and oversized cookies. 4241 N. High St., Clintonville, 614-784-2233; 4015 Townsfair Way, Easton, 614-532-5444; 951 N. High St., Short North, 614-298-9999; 109 S. State St., Westerville, 614-394-8992.

BBRLD $$

Three Creeks Kitchen + Cocktails

Alumni of several well-known area restaurants are serving up classic dishes and creative cocktails at this family-owned eatery. Seafood and steaks feature prominently on the menu. 258 Granville St., Gahanna, 614468-8997. D $$$$

NEW Wolf’s Ridge at Worthington Inn

The historic Worthington Inn is back, serving American and English-inspired cuisine with an upscale twist. You’ll find entrées from fish and chips to pan-roasted airline chicken breast on the menu, with creative and wellmarked options for vegetarians as well. 649 High St., Worthington, 614-280-1500. BRLD $$$

COFFEE SHOP

Coffee Connections

Husband-and-wife duo Nate and Sharon Grenier moved to Hilliard in 2013, opening Coffee Connections not long after. Expect friendly service in this community-minded café, with quality coffee and baked goods. 5354 Center St., Hilliard, 614-664-3993; 4004 Main St., Hilliard, 614-664-3993. BLD $

Fox in the Snow

A bakery and coffee shop offering pastries made in-house daily and coffee from Tandem Coffee Roasters. Be sure not to miss the famous egg sandwich. 4203 N. High St., Clintonville; 38 W. Bridge St., Dublin; 210 Thurman Ave., German Village; 1031 N. Fourth St., Italian Village; 160 W. Main St., New Albany; 79 S. State St., Westerville. BL $

One Line Coffee

Although One Line’s Short North café is known as a place to get your Chemex pourover or Kyoto-style coffee fix, its coffee shop

The Boat House

in the River & Rich development also serves beer, wine and a small food menu. 471 W. Rich St., Franklinton, 614-929-5877; 745 N. High St., Short North, 614-564-9852; 41 S. High St., Capitol Square, 614-824-2642. BLD $

The Roosevelt Coffeehouse

A local coffee shop and roaster with a dogood mission, this nonprofit uses proceeds to fight injustices like human trafficking, hunger and unclean water. Roasts include blends from nationally renowned Stumptown and local One Line Coffee. 300 E. Long St., Downtown, 614-670-5228; 462 W. Broad St., Franklinton, 614-892-9633; 303 Green Meadows Dr. S., Lewis Center, 740-8031561. BL $

Upper Cup Coffee

This coffee shop started out in historic Olde Towne East and now offers a second location in Gahanna. A small menu of sandwiches complement its single-origin coffees that are roasted in-house. 121 Mill St., Gahanna, 614-383-7496; 79 Parsons Ave., Olde Towne East, 614-220-0206. BLD $

ETHIOPIAN

Addis Restaurant

The injera here is about as good as it gets with traditional Ethiopian dishes like tibs, kitfo, shiro wot and doro wot. 3750 Cleveland Ave., North Side, 614-269-8680. LD $$

Lalibela Restaurant and Bar

Some of the city’s best Ethiopian food is served at this modest East Side spot where diners gather around large platters of gomen, doro wat, shiro, tibs and more—all served atop injera. 1111 S. Hamilton Rd., Whitehall, 614235-5355. LD $$

Zara Restaurant & Bar

Find fresh and affordable East African cuisine like tibs, dulet and kitfo at this spot on the East Side of Columbus. 1383 S. Hamilton Rd., Whitehall, 614-826-1459. BLD $$

FILIPINO

Bonifacio

Krizzia Yanga’s eatery offers a modern take on Filipino home cooking, with frequent kamayan-style dinners served on banana leaves. Try dishes like lumpia, lechon and chicken inasal. 1577 King Ave., Fifth by Northwest, 614-914-8115. BRLD $$

Laguna Bay Bistro

Formerly Kuya Ian’s Bistro, this restaurant offers meals for all appetites, from an entrée plate with one side dish to a platter with three; family-style and catering options are also available. You’ll find Filipino beef, chicken, pork, fish and vegetarian dishes served with optional add-ons like spring rolls and skewers with traditional desserts rounding out the menu. 6863 Flags Center Dr., North Side, 614-948-3333. LD $$

ITALIAN

Bar Italia

Rick Doody brings Lindey’s beloved bread to accompany classic Italian dishes at this Easton restaurant. Bar Italia’s approachable-yet-refined menu offers wood-fired pizzas, red sauce pastas, meaty entrees and an extensive wine list. 4145 The Strand W., Easton, 614-702-2022. LD $$$

Gallo’s Kitchen & Bar

Expanding on the menu at its sister Tap Room locations, Gallo’s Kitchen is more upscale, serving walleye with Louisiana crawfish sauce, chicken étouffée and Pasta Russo. 2820 Nottingham Rd., Upper Arlington, 614754-8176. D $$

Lola and Giuseppe’s Trattoria

This quaint, husband-and-wife-owned bistro cooks up made-from-scratch Italian meals, with Italian wedding soup, chicken Marsala, Giuseppe’s Baked Rigatoni and meat lasagna. 100 Granville St., Gahanna, 614-473-9931. D $$

Metsi’s Wood-Fired Italian

Chef BJ Lieberman has repurposed the space that was previously home to Hiraeth into an Italian restaurant named for his favorite baseball team. The wood-fired hearth is well-utilized in main dishes like osso buco and herbed snapper. A negronicentric happy hour is offered from 4-6 p.m. 36 E. Lincoln St., Italian Village, 614-8244516. D $$$$

Moretti’s

An intimate neighborhood eatery serving traditional Italian fare with sausage made in-house, lasagna, veal française and crab cakes. 5849 Sawmill Rd., Dublin, 614-7170400. D $$$

Pelino’s Pasta

At their cozy restaurant, Vinny and Christina Pelino serve a prix fixe menu featuring

house-made semolina pastas and seasonal ingredients. Don’t skip the scratch desserts. Menus change monthly. 245 King Ave., Dennison Place, 614-849-6966. D $$$$

Speck Italian Eatery

Chef Josh Dalton tackles rustic Italian fare at this buzzy Downtown spot in the Nicholas building. The menu ranges from mortadella on house focaccia to rigatoni Amatriciana to scallop risotto. 89 N. High St., Downtown, 614-754-8544. LD $$$$

Vittoria Ristorante & Bar

This upscale restaurant brings together authentic Italian favorites with contemporary dishes. 10241 Sawmill Pkwy., Powell, 614791-8100. D $$$$

MEDITERRANEAN

Aladdin’s

Aladdin’s strives to provide its customers with authentic Lebanese dishes. The menu is loaded with fresh and healthy dishes at this colorful eatery, with lots of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. 2931 N. High St., Clintonville, 614-262-2414; 1425 Grandview Ave., Fifth by Northwest, 614-488-5565; 9711 Sawmill Pkwy., Powell, 614-389-5438; 6284 E. Dublin-Granville Rd., Westerville, 614656-7060; 7227 N. High St., Worthington, 614-430-1730. LD $$

NEW Allora Kitchen & Bar

This Clintonville restaurant in the former home of Gallo’s on High offers a full-service dining experience with a Mediterraneanleaning menu that also features steaks, sandwiches and American favorites. The sauteed octopus appetizer is an excellent way to start your meal. 4215 N. High St., Clintonville, 614-429-3661. LD $$$$

Del Mar

Cameron Mitchell expands into Mediterranean fare with the first Ohio location of Del Mar, which evokes the seaside theme of

BY

Metsi’s

PHOTO

TIM JOHNSON

its Naples, Florida, predecessor with a view of Easton’s fountain plaza. Seafood and lamb are the stars here, but don’t sleep on the sharables, including an excellent baba ghanoush. 4089 The Strand E., Easton, 614918-9298. BRLD $$$$

Lavash Café

This quick-service Middle Eastern eatery serves a mix of Mediterranean food, coffee and desserts. 2985 N. High St., Clintonville, 614-263-7777. LD $$

The Olive Tree Mediterranean Café

Traditional Mediterranean fare such as gyros, lamb kebabs and falafel, served in a relaxing café atmosphere. 3185 Hilliard Rome Rd., Hilliard, 614-527-8812. BRLD $$

Panini Opa

A mix of Greek and Italian fare makes up the menu at this spot on Bethel and Sawmill. This order-at-the-counter concept offers spanakopita, panini, gyros, grilled lamb chops and more. 4799 Sawmill Rd., Northwest Side, 614-336-8830. LD $$

NEPALESE

Everest Cuisine

Combining Nepalese, Tibetan and Indian fare, Everest Cuisine boasts authentic dining at affordable prices in Old Worthington. 652 High St., Worthington, 614-601-6004. LD $$

Jhapali Kitchen & Bar

Located next to GN International Grocery, Jhapali specializes in Indian cuisine and traditional Nepalese dishes such as chicken choila, thukpa, momos and sekuwa (flavorful grilled meats). If you enjoy variety, order one of the restaurant’s Nepalese thalis. 859 Windmiller Dr., Ste. 300, Pickerington, 614694-0300. LD $$

Momo Ghar

Since 2016, Momo Ghar has gained a loyal following thanks to the handmade dumplings that co-owner Phuntso Lama and her crew make by the hundreds, weekly. No trip is complete without the bestseller, jhol momo. 59 Spruce St., Short North, 614-4956666. LD $$

Namaste Indo-Nepali Cuisine

At humble Namaste you’ll taste Nepal via influential neighbors India and China. Familiar favorites like samosas, tandoori chicken and curries are all here, but the menu lets you know they’ve been seasoned Nepali style (think ginger, cumin, fenugreek, cardamom, coriander, cloves and mustard seeds). 1307 Stoneridge Dr., Gahanna, 614705-6077; 1279 Morse Rd., Northeast Side, 614-261-3636. LD $$

Sargam Restaurant & Bar

Specializing in Nepalese cuisine, Sargam’s menu includes momos and thukpa soup, plus a variety of biryanis and thalis. For dessert, be sure to try the gulab jamun or

sevai kheer. 1371 Hentz Dr., Reynoldsburg, 614-892-7474. LD $$

SANDWICHES

Alfie’s Granville

This charming eatery in the heart of Granville offers healthful salads and sandwiches like the Happy Tummy salad or the California Veggie sandwich (which can both be prepared vegan). Alfie’s new ghost kitchen delivers in Columbus. 221 E. Broadway, Granville, 740321-1111. LD $

Frank & Carl’s

A Bridge Park sandwich shop serving delicious subs and bagel sandwiches. Offerings range from the Roger Roger, served hot with capicola and giardiniera, to the Harvey, a veggie sandwich served cold. 6558 Longshore St., Dublin, 614-389-2851. BLD $

Goood Friends

Jackie O’s on Fourth is home to this takeout window featuring seriously goood Midwestern sandwiches. Highlights include the Ol Faithful (fried chicken with Le Delice de Bourgogne)

The Lox Bagel Shop

Kevin Crowley’s cute Short North shop offers handmade bagels that are boiled and then baked over a live fire. The shop’s namesake sandwich and the egg with pastrami sandwich are standouts. 772 N. High St., Short North, 614-824-4005. BL $

Newfangled Kitchen

Located next to the Drexel Theatre, this chefinspired sandwich shop reimagines the classic American meatloaf sandwich. Don’t miss The Fang, a meatloaf version of a cheeseburger. 2258 E. Main St., Bexley, 614-817-1099. LD $

Wario’s Beef and Pork

This no-frills, East Coast-style sandwich carryout from chef Stephan Madias saves the fireworks for the food. Try the steak sub done Wario’s Way or the killer chicken cutlet sandwich. Don’t skip the spuds. 4219 N. High St., Clintonville, 614-674-6200; 111 W. Nationwide Blvd., Arena District, 614-9148338. LD $$

and Warby’s Melt featuring Wario’s Wiz. 171 N. Fourth St., Downtown. D $$

Goood Friends

Juan José Saenz-Ferreyros

Dressed head to toe in pink with a multicolor ascot and perfectly quaffed hair, internationally renowned fashion designer Juan José Saenz-Ferreyros projects his professional and artistic acclaim.

He walks gracefully through his boldly colorful Berwick home with poodles Gucci and Coco Chanel, recalling his modeling career during his days growing up in Peru.

Saenz-Ferreyros, who was crowned Mr. Peru in 1987, moved to the United States in the early 2000s and to Columbus in 2014, enticed by the shopping and fashion culture at Easton.

The lower level of the home is dedicated to his work designing high-end fashion for his couture brand, Ferreyros Life. He also has a store called Juanjo Ferreyros Atelier in Lima, Peru. The sunroom is filled with at least 10 sewing machines. Stacks of neatly organized fabrics share

space with family photos, paintings and mannequins. Another room stores finished gowns in a kaleidoscope of colors, some even with a matching outfit for a dog or child.

The designer has made garments for pageant contestants including Miss Universe Colombia and Miss Peru USA, and his pieces have graced the runways of shows in New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C. and Columbus.

Saenz-Ferreyros often starts cutting straight into fabric without measuring beforehand, knowing from experience he’ll get the design, pieces and sizes correct. He weaves together medleys of colors, patterns, accessories and textures to meet each client’s personality and cultural background.

Asked if there’s someone he hasn’t yet designed for who he would love to work with, he responds with a smile: “Maybe Cher!” ◆

Photos and story by Tim Johnson

Juan José Saenz-Ferreyros

Painting and mementos on display

Mannequins sporting SaenzFerreyros’ creations

Doll modeling a design

EverydayKindness Heroes

Kindness is all around us.

We look to honor those who improve, heal, and unite our community, one selfless and extraordinary act of kindness at a time.

Look for monthly stories in Columbus Monthly celebrating kindness in Central Ohio.

The Center for HumanKindness at The Columbus Foundation has partnered with The Columbus Dispatch to highlight those making our community a better place. Help us inspire kindness by suggesting people, initiatives, or organizations to feature by emailing kindness@dispatch.com The Dispatch retains full editorial independence for all content.

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