CityScene May/June 2026

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History on the Fairway Memorial Tournament celebrates 50 years

By Megan Brokamp

THIS YEAR IS full of anniversaries, and the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday is celebrating a monumental one.

The annual tournament returns to Dublin June 1-7, marking 50 years of world-class golf at Muirfield Village Golf Club. To celebrate this milestone, the Memorial isn’t just looking back; it’s expanding the experience, from a weeklong celebration of its history to a broader festival that stretches beyond the course.

The Memorial’s origins

Sixty years ago, Columbus native Jack Nicklaus unveiled his vision for a hometown golf tournament that would honor the game’s rich history and traditions.

“My thought at that time was bringing major league golf to Columbus, Ohio, a place that gave me so much and supported me through all my youth,” Nicklaus says. “I wasn’t thinking of how significant it was going to be. I just wanted to make sure that we took care of the players well and we put on a good tournament.”

Construction for Muirfield Village, a course personally designed by Nicklaus, started in 1972. Completed in 1974, the course set the stage for the first Memorial Tournament, held May 27–30, 1976. A standout inaugural year made it clear the event was never meant to be just another stop on the PGA Tour.

At the time, Columbus had yet to grow into the nationally recognized destination it is today, and Dublin was

still a village with fewer than 1,000 residents. With national television coverage from the outset, the tournament quickly extended its reach far beyond central Ohio, drawing nearly 282,000 spectators in its first year.

Today’s tournament

Nicklaus’ hometown vision soon developed into one of the most respected stops on the PGA Tour. With its invitational format, its commitment to honoring the game’s legends and the continued involvement of its founder, the Memorial Tournament established a reputation that reached far beyond Dublin.

“We’re attracting the top players in the game to come play here, and they perform at a really high level during the Memorial,” says tournament Executive Director Dan Sullivan. “More recently, as the landscape of professional golf has changed, the Memorial continues to be a destination for the top players.”

The tournament’s impact continues beyond the fairways. Since its first year, the tournament has partnered with Nationwide Children’s Hospital Foundation, raising roughly $50 million for its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and additional initiatives, according to Nationwide Children’s.

The tournament expanded and formalized its philanthropic mission in 2010 with the creation of the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation. That commitment grew further in 2022

❝ The Memorial continues to be ❞ a destination for top players.

Memorial

Tournament Executive Director Dan Sullivan

Defining Moments

1977 – Nicklaus wins his own tournament, deeming it his “biggest thrill in golf.”

1993 – Paul Azinger makes an emotional comeback, winning just months after undergoing chemotherapy for non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

1999 – Tiger Woods secures his first of five Memorial victories.

2001 – Woods delivers a dramatic birdie on the par-3 17th hole to help secure his third consecutive Memorial Tournament title.

2013 – Muirfield Village hosts the Presidents Cup, bringing one of golf’s premier international team competitions to central Ohio.

Designing Muirfield

Muirfield Village was designed specifically for the Memorial Tournament, and the course has evolved throughout the decades to remain a top-tier playing experience. Improvements include:

Late 1980s-1990s: reshaping the greens to increase speed, repositioning bunkers and lengthening holes

Early 2000s: tee boxes added to stretch yardage, fairways narrowed and greens modified to add challenge

2013: clubhouse transformations and upgrades ahead of the Presidents Cup 2020-2021: all 18 greens rebuilt, bunkers reconstructed, tee boxes rebuilt, fairway adjustments

Dogs. Cats. Horses. Farm animals. Around here, we provide every animal we treat with the best, most advanced care possible. Backed by cutting-edge research, state-of-the-art diagnostics, and dozens of board-certified specialists, we deliver complete, compassionate care for animals of every kind. Yes, even cats.

“They provide the absolute highest level of care for all animals. Yeah. Even cats.”

weekendscene

with the addition of the Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation, co-founded by Stephen and Ayesha Curry.

Celebrating 50

The fan experience is a pivotal part of the tournament, and this year’s milestone adds flair to the celebrations.

The 50th anniversary is being marked with updated branding, a refreshed website with historical content and storytelling, and a year-long focus on celebrating the tournament’s history and defining moments.

Tournament play kicks off June 4, but celebrations begin May 28 with the FORE! Miler presented by The Ohio State Wexner Medical Center and The James, a 4-mile route through Dublin that concludes on the 18th green of Muirfield Village.

Additional festivities include:

• Practice rounds: June 1-3

• Family Night at Safari Golf Club: June 2

• Salute to Service Day: June 3

• Junior Golf Day: June 3

• Workday Golden Bear Pro-Am: June 3

• Memorial Honoree Ceremony: June 3

• Tournament Tailgate: June 3

• Fore!Fest: June 5-6 CS

Megan Brokamp is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mbrokamp@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Advice for staying healthy from local health care professionals Top Tips

Photos courtesy of Michael Burrell/iStock, The Gentle Dentist, OSU Frank Stanton Veterinary Spectrum of Care Clinic and 360 Vascular Institute

Pet Dental Health Tips

Kristen Miles, DVM

Assistant Professor and Medical Director at OSU Frank Stanton Veterinary Spectrum of Care Clinic

Periodontal disease is the top health issue for pets, affecting 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats by age 2. This progressive condition causes chronic inflammation, pain and infection. Left untreated, it can lead to jaw fractures and serious complications in the heart and kidneys, mirroring human dental health risks.

Here are some pet dental health tips: Schedule annual veterinary exams to assess your pet’s dental health. Your veterinarian will discuss periodontal disease stages, home care plans and the necessity of a Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT). A COHAT involves general anesthesia, IV fluids, dental charting and dental X-rays to inspect the mouth thoroughly. This vital procedure also includes professional cleaning and polishing to ensure your pet’s oral health remains in peak condition.

Daily brushing is the best way to prevent periodontal disease. To begin, select a pet-specific soft-bristled or finger toothbrush. Use veterinarianrecommended toothpaste only, as human varieties contain fluoride that is harmful if swallowed. Condition your pet by offering high-value treats after each step. Brushing before meals helps

them associate mouth handling with positive rewards like dinner, making the process much easier for both of you. Avoid hard objects such as bones, hooves or antlers, which can fracture teeth. Use the thumbnail test as a guide: if you cannot indent the product with your nail, it is too firm for your pet. Stick to safer chew toys to protect their oral health and prevent painful dental injuries.

When Knee Pain Is Vascular

Deepak Sudheendra, M.D., FSIR

Vascular and Interventional Radiologist at 360 Vascular Institute

Knee pain is often blamed on arthritis or injury, but many patients are surprised to learn that vascular conditions can also be a hidden cause. After evaluation by an orthopedic specialist or primary care physician, we collaborate closely to assess the vascular causes of knee and leg pain and determine the most appropriate treatment approach. Many venous, arterial and knee preservation procedures can be performed in the office, without incisions and with no hospital stay. Here are three important vascular causes of knee pain that may be overlooked:

Varicose veins may be the hidden source of knee pain. Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and varicose veins can lead to pain that radiates around the knee. Many patients are surprised to learn their veins – not their joints – may be the source. Symptoms that

worsen with prolonged sitting or standing – such as leg heaviness, fatigue, cramps, ankle swelling or bulging varicose veins – should prompt a vascular evaluation.

Smokers and diabetics should not ignore knee pain. For patients with diabetes, smoking history or high cholesterol, knee or leg pain with walking may signal peripheral arterial disease (PAD). When discomfort improves with rest, it may reflect poor circulation rather than arthritis alone. Cold feet, numbness or slowhealing wounds are additional warning signs. Early vascular treatment can improve circulation, relieve symptoms and help prevent future complications.

Knee replacement alternatives can improve knee pain. In osteoarthritis, abnormal inflammatory blood vessels can contribute to chronic knee pain. Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive knee preservation procedure that can significantly improve knee pain. By targeting these vessels, it can reduce pain and improve mobility. It is an excellent option for patients looking to delay or avoid knee replacement while still preserving knee replacement as a future treatment option.

Dental Health Tips

Missy Baker, D.D.S. Senior Dentist at The Gentle Dentist

Did you know that your  dental  health affects your overall health? Studies show that good oral hy-

giene not only decreases inflammation throughout the body, but it is also well documented that the bacteria in our mouths that cause gingivitis and periodontitis travel to blood vessels everywhere in the body, where they can cause damage. People with  dental disease are more likely to have coronary artery disease and stroke, and are at a higher risk for pneumonia and pregnancy complications such as low birth weight.

Establish healthful habits. Floss daily; if you do not floss, you miss 35 percent of your tooth’s surface. In addition to brushing and flossing daily, using mouth rinse with fluoride every day should become part of your routine to ensure optimal oral health.

Schedule annual check-ups. Visiting your  dentist  two times a year for a thorough cleaning and exam. Gum charting, cavity-detecting X-rays and oral cancer screening can help ensure you are appropriately monitoring your oral health.

Know what to avoid. Avoid a poor diet, especially one high in sugar; excessive alcohol use; tobacco use and chronic stress. Make sure you go to bed with a clean mouth. Do not go to bed without brushing and flossing your teeth.  Keep an eye out for teeth clenching and grinding (aka bruxism). Clenching and grinding habits often happen while we are sleeping and we don’t even realize we are doing it. It can lead to jaw soreness, headaches and not-so-happy temporo mandibular joints (TMJ). Catching clenching and grinding early means easy fixes – like a protective night guard or a little stress relief – so your teeth can stay strong, happy and ready to shine. CS

Taste of Summer Your guide to Columbus’ summer food and drink festivals

By Ella Jay

SUMMER IN CENTRAL Ohio means a full calendar – and an even fuller plate. From fresh-picked strawberries and garden-grown favorites to tacos, ribs and craft drinks, a long list of food and drink festivals across the Columbus area offers something for every craving.

Pick your produce

At the height of summer, local harvests take center stage. Whether you’re a strawberry lover, a garden goods connoisseur or a fan of festivals dedicated to one dish, these fests put the spotlight on the freshest flavors of the season.

Jeni’s Strawberry Jam

May 23-24

This event, hosted by Land-Grant Brewing Company and Jeni’s Ice Creams, celebrates everything berry with local sweet treats and fresh strawberries, 13 food trucks, more than 25

vendors and artisans, and a Kid’s Zone Strawberry Patch.

Marysville Strawberry Fest

June 13-14

Alongside its mainstay strawberry desserts, this festival features food and drinks, arts and crafts, games, a pieeating contest, live music, a cirque show, train and monster truck rides, and more.

Pickle Palooza Food & Drink Fest

June 27

This food and drink festival comes to Ohio for the first time this year, bringing a variety of unique pickle-themed

fare, specialty drinks, pickle-eating and brine-chugging challenges, and live music to Huntington Park.

Historic Hilltop Bean Dinner

June 27

This event celebrates more than 80 years of Hilltop history and connection with the Civil War with a bean dinner and other local eats, live music and entertainment, vendors, a classic car show, family fun and friendly competitions.

Reynoldsburg Tomato Festival

Aug. 13-15

For 60 years, this beloved festival has celebrated the tomato with its tomato contest, royalty pageant, spaghetti and pizza challenges, car and bike show, carnival rides, live music and, of course, its famous food fight: the Tomato Wars.

Obetz Zucchinifest

Sept. 4-7

An ode to all things zucchini, this fourday festival features plenty of themed food, live music and rides, plus a parade, a pageant, a car show and more.

Sip your way through summer

For those who indulge – sip, savor and stay a while. These festivals bring together craft beverages, lively atmospheres and plenty of reasons to raise a toast.

Grove City Town Center Wine & Arts Festival

June 5-6

This festival hosts more than 20 Ohio wineries, including Grove City’s own Plum Run Winery, giving attendees something to sip on as they stroll through a curated selection of local artists and food trucks.

Columbus Summer Wine Festival

June 6

Alongside two wine tasting sessions and live music, this event also features handmade goods for purchase from artisans, crafters and flea market vendors, right in the heart of Downtown.

Grove City Town Center Bourbon & Spirits Festival

Aug. 8

Attendees can enjoy bourbon and spirit tastings alongside several food trucks at this festival as they learn more about the tradition and growth of craft distilling.

Uptown Untapped

Aug. 8

A craft brew festival in the former dry capital of the world, this Westerville event features 20 Ohio craft breweries, local eats and live music, as well as games and entertainment.

Come hungry

Bring your appetite to these festivals. With savory staples, local favorites and no shortage of bold bites to try, these fests are all about big flavors and even bigger portions.

Columbus Chicken & Beer Festival

June 6

This family-focused festival brings together some of the best food trucks, breweries, artists and merchants in Columbus to celebrate one of the first neighborhoods established in the city.

Sazón Latin Food Festival

July 12

Attendees at this festival can indulge in a curated selection of Latin food vendors offering the best flavors of the Caribbean, Central America and South America while enjoying Latin music.

Jazz & Rib Fest

July 24-26

A summertime staple, this fest features award-winning barbecue pitmasters and other local food trucks, drinks and a weekend full of live jazz along the Scioto Mile.

The Ohio Eggfest

July 25

Despite its name, this event is all about barbecue, featuring 30-plus cook teams –who all use Big Green Egg Grills – as well as cooking demos and competitions, local vendors, drinks, kids’ activities and live music.

Columbus Food Truck Festival

Aug. 14-15

Turning 15 this year, this communityfocused festival gathers 50-plus gourmet food trucks, local artisans and makers, and features live music, other performances and a Kids Zone. CS

Ella Jay is an assistant editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at ejay@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Don’t forget about these local favorites – though classified as cultural festivals, these summer events draw in large crowds partially thanks to their crave-worthy cuisine.

Columbus Asian Festival, May 23-24

Dublin Irish Festival, July 31-Aug. 2

Columbus Greek Festival, Aug. 29Sept. 1

on the scene

Arts in the Summer Sun

Highlights of the Columbus Arts Festival from a longtime volunteer

By Rachel Hanz

Estep, Terry Gilliam, Guster and David Heasley

AS DONNA ESTEP enters her 15th year as the co-chair and volunteer for the Big Local Arts Village, she has extensive experience navigating the busy Downtown streets during festival weekend. For those looking for guidance, she has plenty of tips and tricks for maneuvering through the Columbus Arts Festival.

Once you’ve parked your car, make your way down to the festival grounds and then, Estep says, choose your own adventure.

“Get yourself a map and pick a direction. Do you want to see the local arts first? Do you want to go get a snack first? You know, you don’t want to start off on an empty stomach,” she says. “The biggest thing is just come out and have fun, because that’s the whole point.”

With more than 250 visual artists, live art demonstrations and four stag-

es filled with performances and shows over the course of three days, the festival brings local and national art together in the heart of downtown Columbus.

Come for the art

Throughout the festival grounds, Estep says, there are plenty of ways for visitors to interact with the arts and for artists to showcase their work.

Having a full-time booth – either independently or through the Emerging Artist program – is a great way for individual artists to highlight their craft, she says. Emerging Artists also have the benefit of having a mentor to help them stage their booths and assist with various other aspects of showing at a festival.

Chief Strategy Officer of the Greater Columbus Arts Council Jami Goldstein. This year’s class welcomes 19 artists from Franklin and surrounding counties who have not participated in a major outdoor festival before.

For a taste of some smaller artists –or those who are looking to show their work on a smaller scale – Estep recommends stopping by the Big Local Arts Village, which she helped create and volunteers at every year. With tables and wall spaces, artists can present their work in a way that fits their needs, Estep says.

Visual artists aren’t the only ones you can catch, as there are plenty of dancers, singers, poets, actors, fashion designers and performers who can be found at four stages around the festival grounds. One such performance includes the Columbus Jazz Orchestra, which will play at the Bicentennial Stage on Sunday morning. Save the Date

The Emerging Artists program celebrates 15 years this year, according to

Award-Winning Festival

The Columbus Arts Festival has won awards both local and national awards. It was named the No. 9 “Best Fine Art and Design Show” in the country in 2025 by Sunshine Artist magazine, placed in the top five two years in a row in USA Today’s Best Arts Festival category in its 10 Best awards, and is a four-time winner of Best Downtown Festival in the CityScene Magazine reader poll Best of the ‘Bus.

Stay for the fun

Picnic with the Pops

The same weekend of the festival, the Columbus Symphony’s annual Picnic with the Pops kicks off.

Presented by Nationwide, the series will fill Saturday evenings with music from June 13-Aug. 1. The summer concert series, which is returning for its 43rd year, is held at the Columbus Commons Bicentennial Pavilion with shows beginning at 8 p.m.

Every season brings new artists and arrangements to the stage, from Jefferson Starship in 2019 to Ne-Yo in 2023 and Dolly Parton’s Threads: My Songs in Symphony last year.

Guster

This season will welcome alt-rock band Guster on July 11. The Massachusetts band is no stranger to playing with orchestras – including the National Symphony Orchestra last year at the Kennedy Center – nor is it a stranger to Columbus, having performed in the city dozens of times during its nearly 35-year run. To learn more about Guster’s journey and see the rest of the season lineup, visit www.cityscenecolumbus.com.

Estep has seen countless people connect with artists when stopping by their booths to learn about and buy their art, but she says what stands out is how engaging the festival is for kids.

This year, Batelle is sponsoring the Kids Hands On Activity Village. The Village features a stage and countless family-friendly activities.

One of Estep’s favorite parts of the space is the Children’s and Teen’s Gallery by PNC Bank. Parents and guardians can watch from outside as their child picks out any piece of art – all made and donated by artists at the festival – to buy at a discounted price and take home.

“It allows them to have free rein over how they start collecting art, which develops your own personal likes and all of that,” Estep says. “I just think it’s wonderful to be able to see someone 7, 8 years old, come in, get a piece of art, and

then be so proud of that piece of art and take it home to hang.”

With everything from good food and music to live art demonstrations from local artists and interactive kids spaces, the festival offers a host of opportunities for visitors and vendors alike.

Estep has enjoyed being a part of the festival and helping fellow artists in any way she can, and the biggest thing she has noticed that makes Columbus different is its welcoming environment.

“Looking around at other festivals, there’s not too many people doing this kind of model,” Estep says. “It’s very unique, and it’s perfectly Midwestern, because we support each other and encourage each other.” CS

Rachel Hanz is the lead editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at rhanz@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Helping Hands

With hundreds of artists and thousands of visitors each year, it takes a village to run things smoothly. And that, Goldstein says, is where the volunteers come in.

“We couldn’t do the festival without (community partners) or without our volunteers,” Goldstein says. “We have a 100-person Coordinating Committee who works year-round, handling everything from our artist market to security to beverages, and then we have about another 300 on-site volunteers that help support us through the course of the weekend.”

As a member of the Coordinating Committee and a long-time volunteer herself, Estep says a big part of what keeps her coming back is the fellow volunteers and local artists she meets year after year.

“I just built a local art family with a lot of them,” Estep says. “When we see them, we’re like, ‘Hey, how are you doing? What have you been up to?’ And then they show us their art that they’ve been making. And it’s just getting a chance to reconnect with folks that maybe we only see once or twice a year.”

Museums, Murals and Movie Screens

Central Ohio showcases arts and culture through signature America 250 programs

By Amanda Stevens

s the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, Ohio is celebrating its contributions to culture and history across a variety of domains, including arts and entertainment.

With events occurring throughout the year, central Ohio is commemorating America 250 through programs including the Creativity Trail, Murals Across Ohio and Ohio Goes to the Movies.

Artistic road trip

Foremost in America 250-Ohio Commission’s celebration of arts and entertainment is the Creativity Trail, one of six experiential trails that are part of the commission’s Trails & Tales program. It features more than 100 sites across the state, showcasing the work of artists, writers and musicians, past and present.

The trail, which launched in February 2025, commemorates the state’s artistic contributions and has six themes: literature, music, glass and pottery, visual arts, folk and traditional arts, and carousel art. It includes a mix of historical sites, studios, galleries, public art and more.

In central Ohio, there are a dozen sites to explore, each offering unique works.

For instance, the Riffe Gallery and the Columbus Museum of Art feature Ohio artists, while the Ohio Statehouse rotunda features a permanent 9 foot by 12 foot oil painting, Ohioans in Space by Bill Hinsch, installed in 2024.

Meanwhile, Grandview Heights’ Ohio Craft Museum has a collection of more than 250 works in various media, including glass, clay, wood, fiber and metal.

For literary lovers, the trail includes the Thurber House, the historic home of renowned humorist, author, cartoonist, playwright and journalist James Thurber, and the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum, which has the world’s largest collection of material related to cartoons and comics.

The trails also features public art, such as Dublin’s Watch House and Circle Mound by Todd Slaughter, a copper house and spherical observatory placed atop a 220-foot diameter mound honoring early Indigenous American culture.

Other spots on the trail in central Ohio include:

• Richard M. Ross Art Museum (Delaware)

• The Grand Carousel at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium

• Wexner Center for the Arts

• Ohio History Center

• Columbus Commons Carousel

Commemorating community art

In partnership with the Ohio Arts Council, America 250-Ohio’s Murals Across Ohio Program features murals across all 88 counties, including both major cities and small towns.

The program debuted last year with 47 murals and has expanded to more than 400 murals on its interactive map, with more pieces still being added through the end of the year.

The murals – each unique in style and size, commemorate history, culture and community pride or envision a brighter future – and feature both local and out-of-state artists.

Columbus is home to at least a dozen murals on the map, such as Nichole “Nicki” Burton’s An Ode to the Historic Eastside at the Lincoln Theatre, and several others throughout the Short North Arts District, including The Journey by Los Angeles artists Ryan Sarfati and Eric Skotnes, Bellaire-born artist Dion Johnson’s Intersecting Energy, Short North Gothic by Steve Galgas and Mike Altman (from Cleveland and Cincinnati, respectively), as well as central Ohio artist Adam Hernandez’s Be the Light.

Surrounding communities including Grove City, Hilliard, Delaware and Westerville also have a handful of murals featured in the program.

Art Appreciation

To commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, the Columbus Museum of Art’s weekly 10 Minutes on the Dot series, which offers a deep dive on a single work of art with a CMA educator, is highlighting American artists throughout the year. The 10 Minutes on the Dot tours are hosted on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The event is free with general admission.

Stories in Art

As part of its signature America 250 program, Westerville is installing 12 vinyl murals throughout May and June, each depicting an under-told story of Westerville history. The kickoff for the mural program is on June 26 in Uptown Westerville, and the city is planning an interactive digital tour.

Boomin’ Birthday

Columbus’s July 3 Red, White and Boom! is one of the largest Independence Day celebrations in the Midwest. Following the fireworks, the City and several partners are hosting a festival Downtown on July 4, which will include performances by the Columbus Symphony, film showings at the Ohio Theatre, interactive historical displays and historical reenactors.

History in Song

For a unique retelling of the U.S.’s struggle for independence, 1776 offers comedy, drama and song. The musical will be performed by the Abbey Theater at the Coffman Park Amphitheater in Dublin from May 2931 and June 5-7.

Banding Together

On June 6 from 10 a.m.-9 p.m., the Central Ohio Community Band Festival offers a day full of music from several of central Ohio’s top community concert bands and celebration of America 250 at the Alum Creek Park Amphitheater in Westerville. Food trucks are on site all day and admission is free.

Lights, camera, Ohio

For film buffs, Ohio has no shortage of connections to blockbusters, with a plethora of movies shot here and starring native on-screen talent and behind-the-scenes crew, including directors, writers, producers, designers and more.

Ohio Goes to the Movies, a signature America250 event, highlights Ohio’s connections and contributions to filmmaking by providing free showings of more than 250 movies across the state through October.

The films included span genres and decades.

Showings in central Ohio include action flicks such as Ready Player One, which was directed by Steven Spielberg (Cin-

cinnati) and based on a novel by Ernest Cline (Ashland), and which sets much of its action in a futuristic Columbus.

There are also superhero films such as Captain America: The Winter Soldier, which filmed in Cleveland and is directed by Joe and Anthony Russo (Cleveland), and James Gunn’s Superman, which was filmed in Cleveland and Cincinnati, stars Isabela Merced (Cleveland) and is based on a character created by comic duo Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster (Cleveland).

For younger audiences, showings include animated features such as The Princess and

Participating Theaters

Dozens of theaters and venues around Columbus participating in Ohio Goes to the Movies include at least one showing. For a complete calendar of showings across Ohio, read more online.

I am Wrath (2016)

May 13, 7 p.m.

South Drive-In Theatre, 3050 S. High St.

Boomerang (1992)

May 28, 7 p.m.

Midtown East Community Enrichment Center at the Ohio Statehouse Atrium , 1 Capitol Sq.

National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)

May 30, 7 p.m.

Pickerington Community Theatre & The Wigwam Event Center, 10190 Blacklick Eastern Rd., Pickerington

The Princess and the Frog (2009)

June 15, 7 p.m.

Kingston Center, 3226 Kingston Ave., Grove City

The Princess and the Frog (2009)

June 16, 6:30 p.m.

Charleen & Charles Hinson Amphitheater 170 E. Dublin-Granville Rd., New Albany

The Butler (2013)

June 19, 7:30 p.m.

The Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St.

Inside Out 2 (2024) and Black Panther (2018)

June 27, 6 and 7:30 p.m.

Riverside Crossing Park, 6625 Riverside Dr., Dublin

the Frog, which features actors Jim Cummings (Youngstown) and Terrence Howard (Cleveland); Despicable Me, which features Denison University alumnus Steve Carell; and Inside Out 2, which was animated by Kristina Kovacs (Cleveland) and written by Meg LeFauve (Warren).

Audiences can also look forward to classic comedies, such as A Christmas Story (filmed in Cleveland); Boomerang, which features Ohio Wesleyan University alumnus Melvin van Peebles; and National Lampoon’s Vacation, starring Columbus-born actress Beverly D’Angelo. CS

Amanda Stevens is a contributing writer for CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

TRAVEL

XMarks the Spot

Map out summer fun with treasure hunts

By Amanda Stevens

From precious gems to hidden gold, treasure can be found across the world for those willing to search for it. Here are some different treasure hunts to embark on for summer vacation.

Adventures for all

An organized treasure hunt can be a unique way to explore a new city with friends and family, allowing visitors to solve puzzles and follow clues while sightseeing.

The United Kingdom’s Treasure Trails offers more than 1,200 self-guided walking tours with themes including treasure hunts, murder mysteries and spy missions. Popular excursions include finding a lost royal gem at St. Katherine Docks and the Tower of London, tracking down Shakespeare’s missing bones in Stratford-upon-Avon and hunting for stolen diamonds in Cambridge’s City Centre.

For beachside fun, Tropical Treasure Hunt in the U.S. Virgin Islands offers pirate-themed adventures on St. Thomas Island, varying in length and activities. Its Golden Age of Piracy treasure hunt, which was awarded Best New Tour of 2024 by Disney Cruise Lines, includes admission to the Pirates Treasure Museum, where participants must piece together a treasure map. Meanwhile, the Salty Piracy Adventure and the Ghosts of Piracy Past hunts feature snorkeling and a nighttime kayaking experi ence, respectively.

For a local excursion, Olentangy Caverns, which is open through Nov. 1, offers a treasure hunt maze. Each visitor receives three tokens, which they can use upon finding treasure shops in the maze to obtain treasures such as arrowheads or gems.

For adventures in nature, Franklin County Metro Parks’ annual geocaching trail features GPS-based hunts for 18 hidden containers across different parks. The GeoTrail is open May 31Nov. 30.

Riches and recreation

There are opportunities to potentially discover treasure in the midst of outdoor activity throughout the U.S.

Located along California’s scenic Gold Rush Trail (Highway 49), Marshall Gold Discovery State Park and historic gold rush towns – such as Placerville, Jamestown and Columbia State Historic Park – give visitors the chance to pan for gold, providing equipment and even lessons.

On the East Coast, treasure hunters can search for Spanish silver and gold scattered across the Florida coastline by a hurricane in 1715. This Treasure Coast – which stretches across Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River counties – is just one of many metal detecting adventures available in the Sunshine State.

For those seeking precious gems, Arkansas’s 37.5-acre field in the Crater of Diamonds State Park is the world’s only public-access diamond hunting site. Diamonds have been found continuously since 1906, with visitors finding an estimated one to two diamonds per day.

Additionally, Montana locations such as Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine in Philipsburg and Spokane Bar Sapphire Mine in Helena allow visitors to sift for gems, while Hiddenite, N.C.’s Emerald Hollow Mine is the only one in the world allowing public prospecting. CS

Amanda Stevens is a contributing writer for CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com

Million-dollar Mysteries

In 2010, art dealer Forrest Fenn’s memoir, The Thrill of the Chase, described the whereabouts of a cache worth at least $1 million in a cryptic poem. After many wild pursuits, it was eventually found in the Rocky Mountains in 2020.

Fenn inspired modern treasure hunts, as seen in books such as Jon Collins-Black’s There’s Treasure Inside , which gives clues to five treasure boxes hidden across the U.S., and Justin Posey’s Beyond the Map’s Edge, which hints at a treasure somewhere in the American West.

Other hunts have been running for decades, including Byron Priess’s The Secret (1982), which hides clues in 12 paintings and poems on the location of 12 buried boxes, of which only three have been found.

Even older unsolved treasure hunts include:

• The Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine in Arizona’s Superstition Mountains, arising around the 1820s-80s

• The 1822 Beale ciphers, which allegedly reveal the location of more than $60 million in buried gold, silver and jewels in Bedford County, VA.

• Aztec King Montezuma’s gold cache, which is believed to be in the canyons near Kanab, Utah, though treasure hunters since 1914 have come up empty-handed

TRAVEL

Save the Bees

Bee cities: what they are, where they are and how essential they are

By Sandhaya Kannan

Anyone who has stepped outside when the flowers are in bloom has come across those small, striped insects that can be a nuisance during a peaceful summer picnic. However, between pollination and enabling plant and food production, bees’ existence is essential to the ecosystem.

Though there are more than 20,000 species of bees, this insect has become endangered over time. For example, the rusty patched bumble bee has lost 90 percent of its population in the last 20 years.

To help combat this change, the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation and Bee City USA are working together to protect invertebrates – such as bees, butterflies and beetles – and educate communities across the U.S. about bees’ necessity.

Breaking down a Bee City

Bee City USA was founded in Asheville, N.C. in 2012 with the mission of protecting bees.

Celebrating Bees

The Lithopolis Honey Festival is an annual festival that serves local honey, wine and mead while hosting bake-offs, craft stations and live music.

If you are keen to learn more about bee conservation, the festival offers hive observation decks, honey-extraction experiences and even bee beards.

Save the Date Fri., Sept. 11-Sat., Sept. 12 Fri.: 3-7 p.m. Sat.: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Communities across the U.S. can apply to become Bee Cities by expressing their interest in bee conservation efforts and agreeing to uphold bees’ habitats in their local environments. These communities then commit to habitat restoration plans for invertebrates, action against littering and educational efforts.

Where are Bee Cities?

There are 255 Bee City USA affiliates, more than 480 campus Bee Cities and 48 U.S. states and territories – including Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia – that participate in bee conservation efforts.

Vandalia, a suburb of Dayton, became the first Bee City in Ohio in 2016. As of 2026, there are 11 Bee Cities throughout the state, including local municipalities Gahanna, Galena and Lithopolis.

Gahanna, a Bee City since 2017, has created gardens and planted wildflowers in meadows. Drive through the city, and you’ll notice wildlife dotting roundabouts and medians, as well as stimulated pollinator growth in the city’s 18 acres of prairie land.

Ohio college campuses such as Denison University have also participated in fostering nature’s pollinators.

Students create Bee Hotels, combining science and art to create habitats for bees on the Granville campus. This project meets Denison’s goal of promoting habitat restoration to align itself with Bee City goals.

Countries including Canada, France, Kenya and Brazil have also worked to preserve bees. Slovenia has been a pioneer in bee conservation efforts because of its ban on the insecticide neonicotinoid.

The Groot Swartberg Nature Reserve in South Africa also preserves bees by focusing on educating tourists who visit the park. The nature reserve displays Hive to Home exhibitions that demonstrate the importance of bees in their habitats, encouraging tourists to respect their surrounding ecosystem. CS

Sandhya Kannan is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com

Close Cultural Connections

Exploring the Sister Cities of Columbus

By Jane Dimel

Known as twin towns across Europe, the Sister Cities International initiative in the U.S. began in the aftermath of World War II, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower established connections and partnerships to facilitate diplomatic relations and cultural exchanges.

Starting in 1955 with Genoa, Italy, Columbus started building relationships to establish its global network. From Odense, Denmark to Hefei, China, Columbus’ relationships with its 10 sister cities across Europe, Asia, Africa and South America build upon opportunities for learning and collaboration, with educational, arts and cultural exchanges and delegations to learn more about their culture, systems and initiatives.

Columbus’ 10 Sister Cities

1 Genoa, Italy (est. 1955)

2 Tainan City, Taiwan (est. 1980)

3 Hefei, China (est. 1988)

4 Odense, Denmark (est. 1988)

5 Seville, Spain (est. 1988)

6 Dresden, Germany (est. 1992)

7 Herzliya, Israel (est. 1994)

8 Ahmedabad, India (est. 2008)

9 Curitiba, Brazil (est. 2014)

0 Accra, Ghana (est. 2015)

Cities to check out

Create your own culturally immersive and educational experience in Columbus’ sister cities.

Accra, Ghana

Sisterhood established: 2015

Connection: The Initiative for Food and Agricultural Transformation, a research program for sustainable agriculture worldwide

Experience: Known for its bustling Makola Market, Accra offers artistic and cultural experiences at its Artists Alliance Gallery, as well as at its commemoration for sociologist, historian and civil rights activist W.E.B. Du Bois at the W.E.B. Du Bois Memorial Centre for Pan African Culture.

Curitiba, Brazil

Sisterhood established: 2014

Connection: Marathon Exchange and more Experience: A city with an expansive municipal botanical garden and city parks, Curitiba pays tribute to the arts at its Museu Oscar Niemeyer and Ópera de Arame, while providing an avid sports culture with its Arena da Baixada and Couto Pereira soccer stadiums.

Odense, Denmark

Sisterhood established: 1988

Connection: Trips and delegations learning about sustainability and robotics efforts in Denmark

Experience: One of the oldest cities in Denmark, Odense is the hometown of Hans Christian Andersen – author of The Little Mermaid, The Ugly Duckling and The Emperor’s New Clothes, among

others – with opportunities to explore his homes and fairy tales through museums. Visitors can also learn about national history at the Museum Odense and the history of the country’s transportation at the Danish Railway Museum.

Tainan City, Taiwan

Sisterhood established: 1980

Connection: Agriculture and community aids, including an earthquake relief fund in 2016

Experience: The former capital of Taiwan for more than 200 years, Tainan City has a diverse food scene, including migao (sticky rice pork), eel noodles and coffin bread. It is also the epicenter of many cultures and historical happenings, from the Chimei Museum for art to the Ten Drum Cultural Village and Jingzaijiao Tile-paved Salt Fields. CS

Jane Dimel is an assistant editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at jdimel@cityscenemediagroup.com.

www.worthingtonartsfestival.com

Join the McConnell Arts Center as they present the 2026 Worthington Arts Festival, which had nearly 30,000 attendees in 2025 with more than 120 vendors from across the country. Located on the Village Green in Old Worthington, the festival has something for the casual browser to the serious collector. New for 2026: families can enjoy the Families’ Activity Tent with make-and-take crafts for kids of all ages.

Sponsors:

TRAVEL

Pets on the Go

How-to guide on traveling with furry friends

By Maggie Valentine

Photo courtesy of damedeeso/iStock

Vacation always sounds appealing, but the thought of leaving one of the most important family members behind is enough to make anyone hesitate. However, there are plenty of options that make it possible to bring your pet along on a trip while keeping their best interests in mind – no matter the distance.

When traveling with an animal, their individual needs are the most important factor for a safe trip. Some animals are not equipped to travel long distances and get stressed or carsick. Cats in particular have a hard time with leaving their familiar environments. If you have a choice and the animals do not need to travel, look into pet sitters or a boarding kennel. Other important factors such as destination and length of trip can help determine whether it’s best to bring your furry friend along.

On the road

Before long-distance trips, familiarize pets with the vehicle in which they’ll be traveling, allowing them to become comfortable with the environment. Once they’re comfortable, allow time for short drives with your animal to see how they react to a moving car. Keep pets calm by bringing some beloved toys or treats.

Here are some other tips for long car rides:

• Animals shouldn’t roam. In the car, especially on longer trips, animals will become antsy and restless, and will need to be contained to relax. If pets are not already cratetrained, they should be by the time you leave. Free roaming pets – particularly cats – can also become distractions to the driver.

• Take plenty of stops. Pets need time for exercise and, of course, the occasional bathroom break. When taking your pets outside, especially in new territory, always keep them leashed. Their collars should also have up-to-date tags and contact information.

• Bring a buddy. If you’re planning a solo trip with an animal, you may want to reconsider. Having another person along for the ride makes it possible for one person to drive and the other to pay attention to the pet.

In the air

Each airline has specific regulations for flying with pets, so it is important to research the requirements in advance.

Never fly a brachycephalic animal – such as a pug, bulldog or Persian cat – or an animal with respiratory issues, as lower-oxygen environments can affect their breathing. Here are a few more things to know before you go:

• Research airlines. Most airlines allow pets, but only with specific paperwork and regulations regarding crate size, breed, age and health.

• Use direct flights. Depending on the airline, you may be allowed to bring your pet along in the cabin. If not, pets will be placed in the cargo hold, which means it’s a good idea to seek a direct flight to prevent delays or loading errors.

• Notify the captain or a flight attendant. When flying with pets, especially if they are in the cargo hold, it is best to inform the flight crew. They may take special precautions or make arrangements to increase the chances of a safe flight for the animal.

Pets abroad

Taking your animals out of the country is seldom ideal, but sometimes necessary. Before traveling internationally, it is important to consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to ensure a proper return to the U.S. In general, it is best to research any location you are planning to bring your pet to be prepared for their new environment. Another helpful tip when traveling is to always have a pet first aid kit in case of emergencies.

The APHIS also features the proper regulation and requirements for interstate travel. CS

Maggie Valentine is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

First and Foremost

Anywhere you go with a pet, make sure their vaccines are up to date and their general health is good in case of foreign disease or other unexpected issues. To ensure your pet is suited for travel, it is best to check in with your veterinarian before starting your plans.

Thank you to our incredible Discover the Dream sponsors! Your generosity fuels hope, empowers dreams and creates lasting opportunities for the families we serve. We are deeply grateful for your commitment and continued support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®. Together, we’re making a powerful difference. Your partnership truly inspires everyone involved in this mission today.

First Stop: Ground Control

Traveler’s guide to the European Union’s new entry rules

By Rose Whaley

Photo courtesy of Bet_Noire/iStock

No matter the reason for your travel, be it business or pleasure, there are forms to be fill out and paperwork you need to bring with you.

The Entry/Exit System (EES) was introduced by the European Commission in 2016 and is a part of the revised Smart Borders Package. It was designed to replace manual passport stamping and make border checks more efficient while helping to prevent irregular migration and strengthen security.

Introduced this past October, the system has been gradually rolling out across 29 European countries, with full implementation expected this year.

EES take off

The European Union defines the EES as “an automated IT system for registering non-EU nationals travelling for a short stay, each time they cross the external borders” of any of the 29 European countries. A short stay is defined as a trip lasting up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Under the EES, border officers collect a traveler’s name, passport details, facial photo, four fingerprints and entry/exit dates. This information is stored securely in a central EU database and used to verify identity on future trips as well as make border checks faster and more efficient.

Border, visa and immigration authorities in the European countries using the EES, as well as law-enforcement authorities and Europol, may access traveler data for identity verification and security purposes. Under strict conditions, limited information may also be shared with transport carriers or transferred to certain international or-

ganizations or non-EU countries for return or law-enforcement purposes.

The goal of the system is to enhance the EU’s external border management by detecting and reducing incidences of travelers overstaying, preventing crossings without authorized documentation, supporting failed returns, improving how overstayers are identified, and helping authorities detect fraud and cross-border crime.

The EES applies to Europe’s border-free travel zone, encompassing 25 EU countries, plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Within this Schengen Area, travelers can move without internal checks as member countries share a common visa policy.

ETIAS

Complementary to the EES, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) adds another layer of border control for travelers entering Europe.

While the EES replaces manual passport stamping with biometric data collection taken at the border, ETIAS functions as an online pre-travel authorization for visaexempt travelers.

The ETIAS will require travelers from visa-exempt countries, such as the U.S., to apply online before visiting the EU. This requirement is expected to be implemented in late 2026.

An approved ETIAS authorization will be linked to the traveler’s passport and can be valid for up to three years, or until the passport expires, allowing visitors to enter participating countries multiple times for short stays.

Although part of the EU, Ireland and Cyprus are not implementing the EES because they are not part of the Schengen Area. As they maintain independent border controls, both countries will continue using manual passport stamping.

Frequent Flyers

For frequent travelers, European countries using the EES may introduce country-specific National Facilitation Programmes to streamline border crossings for non-EU nationals who visit Europe often.

To be eligible, travelers must meet the destination country’s entry requirements and several criteria.

They should have a valid travel document, which may include a visa or residence permit where applicable. Travelers also must be able to show economic status, using documentation such as bank statements, to demonstrate that they have the financial means to cover their stay. For more information, visit travel-europe.europa.eu

However, having ETIAS approval does not automatically guarantee entry, as border guards will still verify travelers’ documents and entry conditions when they arrive.

Before boarding

To travel under the new EES, visitors will need a valid passport. First-time travelers must provide a facial image and, in some cases, fingerprints when they arrive at the border.

Registering for the EES is brief, taking only a few minutes, though using a self-service kiosk or the Travel to Europe app – currently only available in Sweden and Portugal – can speed up the process. Travelers should begin planning early by ensuring their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their departure date and, once available, by checking when ETIAS becomes mandatory later this year. CS

Rose Whaley is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Step Into My Office

Home workspace trends, from pocket offices to full-size spaces

By Garth Bishop

Between the rise of remote work and the growing popularity of side hustles, the home office has spent the past few years advancing rapidly, moving away from the dark wood desks of previous decades to accommodate the ever-evolving needs of modern homeowners.

A Gallup study showed that about 26 percent of U.S. workers with remote-compatible jobs –which comprise about half of full-time jobs in the U.S. – worked exclusively remote this past year, with another 52 percent on hybrid schedules. A study by employment agency Robert Half indicated that 55 percent of job seekers preferred hybrid work, with only 16 percent expressing a preference for jobs that would keep them going into a physical office five days a week.

Making space

For offices and homework centers that turn back into bedrooms or kids’ playrooms on the weekends, Murphy doors and beds are popular features.

Some homeowners looking to improve their home office game have pre-existing offices that just need makeovers, but many are converting flex spaces, extra bedrooms and even basements into offices. Flex spaces are particularly amenable to these conversions, as multi-functional furniture makes it possible to quickly switch back if the room is temporarily needed for another purpose.

“There are so many different Murphy beds now,” says Karen Lipps, vice president of sales and marketing for Worthington-area contractor Steller Construction. “Some of them even have extension desks.”

For homeowners who don’t have that kind of extra space, an alternative might be to convert a smaller area, such as a walk-in closet or a section of a larger room that can be closed off. Worthington-area contractor Residential Designed Solutions has seen more pocket offices than full-sized offices of late.

“They might be integrated into a smaller space,” says RDS Senior Designer Dominic Luppino. “Not a coat closet, necessarily; something a little bit larger than that.”

Growing interest in pocket offices stands in contrast to the open-concept styles common among homes that are a few decades old.

“We’re recognizing that a lot of homeowners actually want to close some spaces off, or redesign (those) spaces,” says Brett Baker, business development and operations manager for New Albany-based builder and remodeler Speich and Company.

Some homeowners have even built accessory dwelling units in

the backyard, though it’s an expensive undertaking.

Popular features

Built-in bookcases, shelves and cabinets have been key components of home office transformations, making the office a convenient location for non-work endeavors such as children’s homework and paying bills – with the added benefit of removing desks, computers, document storage and more from other living areas. Other popular features include:

• Drawers equipped with electrical outlets

• Drawer fronts with pullout systems

• Custom cabinets that hold screens or other electronic equipment

• Cubbies for children’s homework and studying needs

Steller has worked with clients to install adjustable, RGB-equipped LED lights in either strips or recessed can lights, making it simple for the person using the room to change the lighting and make it easier to read on a computer screen. The company has also recently worked to install cabinetry equipped with motorized units that can turn a standard desk into a stand-up desk, potentially leaving enough room to accommodate an under-desk treadmill.

“You can have beautiful custom cabinetry, or you can have a very simple modified table that we have made to look like a cabinet,” Lipps says.

Another important factor is the office’s relationship to the rest of the house, a key consideration for those interested in converting an existing room into a home office. It’s generally a good idea to have a door that closes, partly so people using the room can concentrate and partly so residents aren’t constantly seeing the workspace and being reminded of everything they still have to do.

“When you’re finished, it’s easy to close up (and) walk out of the room,” Lipps says.

Establishing identity

If the space is closed off, it’s easier to distinguish the room from the rest of the house, which means it can be a good place to experiment with different décor such as paint colors, wallpaper and artwork. A home office can also be

a good space to display awards, collectibles and other keepsakes.

When there’s separation between an office and the rest of the house, it presents an opportunity to give the room its own personality, Baker says, pointing to French doors and transom windows as some of the features Speich and Company has been installing for clients. A separated space such as an office can also

Everything Home

be a good candidate for color drenching, the practice of painting everything in a room – walls, ceiling, molding, window casing, woodwork, etc. – the same color.

“The biggest thing is just defining the space,” says Baker.

Adequate electrical outlets are important components of home office spaces, and Baker notes that he often works with clients to upgrade their home Wi-Fi during the renovation process.

Windows can also make a big difference in creating a space people will want to use. Lack of windows may reduce the appeal of a basement office, but basement offices do tend to be quieter and more private than offices in other areas of the home, so they’re not without their advantages.

Getting a decent return on investment for a home office space can be tricky – prospective homebuyers tend to be swayed more by curb appeal, as well as bathrooms and kitchens – but a good office can contribute to the home’s appeal, as buyers may see a finished office space as a move-in-ready bonus. CS

Garth Bishop is a contributing editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Sunshine Power

Integrating solar energy into your home

By Sandhya Kannan

Photo courtesy of KangeStudio/iStock

You may have seen those reflective, rectangle-shaped panels lining the roofs of homes in your neighborhood and thought, ‘Why don’t I have some of those?’

For those looking to learn more about solar panels and ways to integrate them into your home, the best things to understand are their benefits and the particulars of financing them.

Cost of solar energy systems

On average, solar panels cost between $15,000 and $30,000, including installation and maintenance.

Of these, installation is often the most expensive. The cost to install a single solar panel can reach $3,800, according to data from a 2021 study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

In Ohio, the average per-watt cost of solar panels is between $2.50 and $2.75, depending on the size of the system, but homeowners who install them keep their eyes on future savings.

The average 25-year savings on electric bills for an Ohio resident is $46,331. Dublin homeowner and co-founder of Gold Path Solar Jake Trubiano, for example, worried about the cost of installing and the upkeep of solar panels, but saw a return on his investment when his family’s monthly electric bill went from $250 to $5.

How to make them work in your home

Roof type, location and electricity use are just some of the factors that can affect the cost of a solar panel system.

For one thing, because cost per unit goes down when buying at high volume, many homeowners opt for larger systems.

Homeowners with south-facing roofs and higher sun exposure tend to need far fewer panels. These roofs make solar panel energy much more effective, especially if they have a 30-degree angle to accommodate the angle of the sun’s rays.

Roofs with skylights or multiple planes have a harder time accommodating solar panels. The cost of installation tends to be higher for homeowners with these roofs, since they may need to reshape their yards or roofs to fit the panels.

The external work needed in order to accommodate solar panels is largely based on a homeowner’s location, but can range anywhere from $300 to

$1,000 to remove trees or other obstacles to the sun’s rays.

Tax and community benefits

Ohio homeowners with solar panels that provide up to 250 kW of energy can qualify for a tax exemption. Materials for solar panel installation – including the panels themselves, as well as inverters and batteries – are exempt from state sales taxes, saving homeowners roughly 5.75 percent.

The City of Columbus also partners with Solar United Neighbors for the Go Solar Columbus initiative, which offers incentives such as group plans for individuals who live in apartments or shared complexes. CS

Sandhya Kannan is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com

Ein Abenteuer in Dresden

Dresden Artist Exchange program looks back on 30 years

By Rachel Hanz

Photos courtesy of DonCee Coulter

WHEN COLUMBUS-BORN artist DonCee Coulter walked into the Green Vault at the Dresden Castle in Germany, he was mesmerized by all the treasures and artwork that surrounded him.

“I remember not being able to leave that place,” Coulter says. “I was with some other people, and they were getting frustrated with me, because they’re like, ‘No, you can’t spend all your time here... We’ve got to move on to the next (museum).’ And at that point, I was like, ‘You know what? Y’all go, I’ll meet y’all there.’ I was kind of stuck at this place, I was just so fascinated.”

That’s an experience Coulter says he will never forget, and it’s all thanks to the Dresden Artist Exchange through the Greater Columbus Art Council (GCAC).

Over the past 30 years, more than 50 Columbus-based artists have traveled to Germany, and, in turn, GCAC has hosted more than 50 German artists. The program has allowed artists around central Ohio and abroad to expand their craft while learning about a different community in a brandnew city.

Building blocks

Ray Hanley, then-president and CEO of GCAC, was a big believer in international cultural exchange, says GCAC Chief Creative Officer Jami Goldstein, but could not have created the program without the support of Columbus’ sister city, Dresden.

“Having that partner on the other side of the ocean is really, really, really important,” Goldstein says. “Someone who’s equally committed to making the exchange work, to being there for the artists, like we are here for the resident artists when they come.”

Both hosts work with the visiting artists to help provide housing, studio workspace and transportation accommodations. The window for the stay is open from March to November, and each artist can visit anywhere between 60 and 90 days, depending on their availability.

The artist exchange started after three German artists – Veit Hoffman, Stefan Plenkers and Rainer Zille – visited Ohio in 1994. The artists, alongside GCAC and the State of Saxony – known as Kulturstiftung des Freistaates Sachsen in German – created a program that would send its first Columbus-based artist abroad in 1995.

Though the Columbus-based artists are required to file a final report of their time in Dresden, the program is otherwise left open-ended so each person can make the experience their own, Goldstein says.

New experiences

The flexibility of the program allowed Coulter to take time away from his job and travel to Dresden in 2022. From May to August, Coulter enjoyed walking or biking to a local café and getting coffee with fellow artists and friends as he crafted each day.

“It was freedom,” he says. “It was basically get up in the morning and decide, ‘What am I going to do today?’”

With a background in fashion and cubism, Coulter creates three-dimensional scenes made of layered fabric. On his work days, he spent about eight hours at the studio, sketching out scenes, cutting or finding fabric, and more.

When he wasn’t working or needed a day off, Coulter would travel to different parts of Germany and nearby countries

to learn more about the spaces he was in as well as find new inspirations to put into his pieces. Some of his biggest inspirations came from the local architecture and fabrics he was surrounded by, and can be found in the pieces he made when he got back into the studio in Dresden.

In addition to the work and the places, the people caught Coulter’s atten-

tion as well. Getting the chance to dive in and talk with people from different backgrounds and ideologies opened his eyes to new ideas and perspectives.

“When I was in Dresden, for the most part, I kind of avoided the tourist area. So I’m literally there with the people… I was sitting down and having conversations with them,” Coulter says. “I would say, for the most part, that we had some really good, honest conversations, and I actually appreciated that.”

These new perspectives and conversations are at the heart of what the program has always been about, Goldstein says.

“Understanding each other’s culture is just really critical,” she says. “It’s critical for human relations. It’s good for business. The growth that we have when we experience another culture, when we’re immersed in another culture, is profound.”

As the travel window for 2026 approaches, GCAC is excited to send more artists abroad and prepares to host another round of artists, with the hope of hosting many more classes to come. CS

Rachel Hanz is the lead editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at rhanz@cityscenemediagroup.com.

ON VIEW Dates and shows are subject to change. Visit the websites for more information.

Gallery Exhibits

Art Access Gallery: Halim Flowers. A nationally known artist from Washington, D.C. comes to Columbus. Open June 5. www.artaccessgallery.com

The Arts Castle: Collage of America’s 250th. Fifty artists explore their views of the country and its history, capturing the freedom of expression, including maps decorated by local third graders. Open through May 29. www.artscastle.org

Blockfort: Cats Vs. Dogs. Local artists are invited to submit cat- and dogthemed works to raise money for Cozy Cat Cottage and Cause for Canines, juried by the gallery and guest juror Michelle Chiappa. Open May 1-30. Blood Harmonies. Work by siblings Anne and Mark Spurgeon exploring their shared artistic style influenced by their shared DNA. Open June 2-28. REALM. Sculptures created using lit components, ce-

ramics and found objects that emphasizes their awkward nature. Open June 5-28. www.blockfortcolumbus.com

Chaos Contemporary Craft: Touchdown Jesus. Works exploring and blurring the line between mythical and mundane by Aaron Burleson. Open through May 31. www.chaoscontemporarycraft.com

Columbus Museum of Art: Artemisia Gentileschi: Naples to Beirut. This exhibit brings together the Baroque painter’s Neapolitan period: Bathsheba (c. 1635–37) and Hercules and Omphale (c. 1635–37). Open through May 31. www. columbusmuseum.org

Dublin Arts Council: Impressions in Quilt and Watercolor. Works by Diana Whitmer Frankco depicting nature scenes, brought to life through canvas and fabric. Open May 9-June 30. www.dublinarts.org

Fresh A.I.R. Gallery: Mindscapes: Art as Sanctuary. In collaboration with the Hilltop Arts Collective, local high school and college artists explore creativity as refuge for reflection, healing and mental wellness. Open May 13-June 5. Nate Waspe: Chasing a destiny calling: Hidden Designs in Everyday Scenes. Blackand-white woodcut prints, capturing emotion and storytelling through bold contrasts. Open June 24-July 31. www. southeasthc.org

Hammond Harkins Galleries: Whiteland. Works by David Butler exploring whiteness within global and American culture. Open May 8-31. Rooted in Light. Photography by Isaac Harris, Janelle Bonfour-Mikes, Lindy Soffer, Bryn Reagan, Stephen Dorsett and Emma Parker exploring a variety of techniques through portraiture and abstract work. Open June 5-28. www.hammondharkins.com

Hayley Gallery: Through Rain Through Light. Landscape works by Dana Grubbe and Marianne Philip showing an appreciation for nature and meaningful destinations. Open May 16-June 8. The Abstract and the Real. Works by David Hunt and MahLeach Cochran featuring contrasting paintings by the two artists. Open June 13-July 13. www. localohioart.com

Hawk Galleries: 40th Anniversary of representing extraordinary artists. Figurative glass sculptures by San Francisco-based artist Latchezar Boyadjiev. Open May 2-June 27. www.hawkgalleries.com

Marcia Evans Gallery: Annette Poitau. Abstract oil paintings inspired by the earth’s organic colors, shapes and forms. Open through May 31. www. marciaevansgallery.com

Mac Worthington Studio, Gallery & Sculpture Park: Abstract expressionist Florals & landscape painting. Large-scale works by Mac Worthington. Open May 1-31. Summer Sculpture Park. Explore 120 large scale outdoor metal sculptures. Open June 1-30. www.macworthington.com

McConnell Arts Center: if it’s not okay then it’s not the end. Mixed media work by Morgan Rose Fee exploring climate anxieties and the natural world. Mysteries and Memories. Pieces by Susan Steiner inviting viewers to find the echoes of their own stories in a space of recollection and imagination. Luminosity. Interactive artwork by Cee that can be viewed on the outside or crawled into. Open May 7-July 1. www.mcconnellarts.org

Ohio Arts Council’s Riffe Gallery: Shared State. Curated by Jordan Buschur and Natalie Laneses, this exhibit consists of seven two-person exhibits pairing Ohio artists through material investigations and conceptual interests. Open May 2-July 10. www.oac.ohio.gov

Ohio Craft Museum: Best of 2026. The 43rd Ohio Designer Craftsmen’s juried

members’ exhibition featuring multimedia arts across a multitude of approaches. Open May 3-July 3. www.ohiocraft.org

The Ohio State University Faculty Club: Remembering Haiti. Paintings by Paul-Henri Bourguignon celebrating the cheerfulness of Haiti through his life’s works. Open through June 25. www.ohio-statefacultyclub.com

Open Door Art Studio & Gallery: The Nature of Magic. An enchanted journey through the wild beauty of the natural world, featuring work by various artists uncovering nature’s magic. Open June 6-July 17. www.opendoorcolumbus.org

Sean Christopher Gallery Ohio: 24th Anniversary Invitational: A Women’s Group Exhibition. Selected Ohio female artists celebrating the gallery’s anniversary. Open May 2-June 13. www.sean christophergallery.com

Studios on High Gallery: 4 Takes. Works by Susan Rossiter, Beth Himsworth, Neil Donovan and Deb Johnson in-

spired by Andy Warhol, Piet Mondrian, Edvard Munch and Louise Nevelson. Open May 2-June 4. Don’t Take the Bait. Work by Bill Meyer. Drawings and sculptures exploring the human challenges of facing temptations. Open June 6-July 2. www.studiosonhigh.com

Wild Goose Creative: Nature. Work by Liz Trap and Grace Johnson. Using natural and recycled materials, the artists express their view on nature through mixed colors, shapes and textures. Open May 8-June 3. www.wildgoosecreative.com

Find additional listings at www.cityscenecolumbus.com

Picks&Previews

Keep your eyes peeled for these events!

May

Jazz Arts Group presents

The Loren Lounge

May 1-3

Southern Theatre, 21 E. Main St.

Paul Loren and the Columbus Jazz Orchestra take audiences on a tour of vocal

styling from the 1950s to the 1970s and beyond. www.jazzartsgroup.org

Columbus Symphony presents Orff: Triumph of Aphrodite

May 1-2, 7:30 p.m.

Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St.

Join the Columbus Symphony musicians and chorus alongside BalletMet dancers for a spirited program blending nationalism, folk elements and the celebration of American patriotism and freedom. www.columbussymphony.com

Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey: The Greatest Show on Earth

May 1-3

Schottenstein Center, 555 Borror Dr.

The circus comes to Columbus with a high-energy, music-driven show, featuring an adrenaline-packed celebration of world-class athletes and performers.  www.schottensteincenter.com

BalletMet presents La Bohème

May 13-17

Davidson Theatre, 77 S. High St.

Mardi Gras comes to Columbus with vibrant choreography and puppetry in

this reimagining of the beloved story of loss and friendship.  www.balletmet.org

COSI presents COSI After Dark: Creature & Cryptids

May 14, 7-10 p.m.

COSI, 333 W. Broad St.

Dive into centuries-old stories of beasts and creatures that have shaped cultures around the world. From East Asian dragons to Appalachian cryptids and misunderstood monsters, explore folklore, fear and science.  www.cosi.org

Sonic Temple Arts & Music Festival

May 14-17

Historic Crew Stadium, 1 Black and Gold Blvd.

Enjoy four days of rock and metal’s biggest names – including My Chemical Romance, Breaking Benjamin and The Offspring –while celebrating modern rock music and culture. www.sonictemplefestival.com

Short North Stage presents The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

May 14-June 7

Garden Theater, 1187 N. High St.

Step into the cutthroat world of competitive spelling in this hilarious and

heartwarming journey of six pubescents going through the spelling championship of a lifetime.  www.shortnorth stage.org

North Market Apron Gala

May 15, 7-10 p.m.

North Market Downtown, 59 Spruce St.

Brought to life by a chef-driven food experience, the Apron Gala is celebrating the North Market’s 150th anniversary with a special twist as guests stroll through the historic market and enjoy exclusive bites and sips, live entertainment and more. www.northmarket.org

ProMusica presents Naked Classics: Appalachian Spring

May 15, 7:30 p.m.

Southern Theatre, 21 E. Main St.

Host Paul Rissmann explores Copland’s iconic “Appalachian Spring” through images, sound bites and interviews, discovering how Copland captured the essence of America’s landscapes and traditions. www.promusica columbus.org

ProMusica presents Copland & Shostakovich

May 16-17, 7 p.m.

Southern Theatre, 21 E. Main St.

ProMusica closes its 47th season with Shostakovich’s powerful “Violin Concerto No. 1,” Copland’s beloved “Appalachian Spring” and Strauss’ iconic “Blue Danube Waltz.” www.promusica columbus.org

Cancer Support Charity Golf Classic

May 18

The Medallion Club, 5000 Club Dr. Experience a day of fun and competition at the annual Golf Classic, and support all those affected by cancer, with proceeds directly benefiting Cancer Support Community Central Ohio. This year’s Honorary Chair is The Ohio State University basketball legend, Scoonie Penn, who led the Buckeyes to the Final Four in 1999. www.cancersupportohio.org

Bruno Mars

May 20, 7 p.m.

Ohio Stadium, 411 Woody Hayes Dr.

Sixteen-time Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Bruno Mars returns to Columbus on his The Romantic Tour. www.schottenstein center.com

Columbus Asian Festival

May 23-24, Sat. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Franklin Park, 1755 E. Broad St.

Stop by Franklin Park for a weekend filled with culture, live music, food and educational opportunities including everything from the Dragon Boat Race to table tennis. www.asian-festival.org

Ohio Black Expo

May 23-24, Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. noon-9 p.m.

Genoa Park, 303 W. Broad St.

Honor Black history with a weekend of food, music, art and local vendors. Enjoy a parade, performances by musicians and vocalists, and a beauty pageant. www.ohioblackexpo.com

Shadowbox Live presents Flannel: A 90s Rock Musical May 28-Sept. 6

Shadowbox Live, 503 S. Front St.

Step into the 1990s with Flannel, which follows Chance, a Rolling Stone photographer, returning to his hometown. Packed with iconic rock hits, emotion and humor, it’s a nostalgic dive into the ’90s.  www.shadowboxlive.org

Megan Moroney

May 29, 7 p.m.

Schottenstein Center, 555 Borror Dr.

Just a few years after her debut, multi-platinum singer and songwriter Megan Moroney hits the road for

her third studio album, Cloud 9.  www. schottensteincenter.com

June

the Memorial Tournament

June 1-7

Muirfield Village Golf Club, 5750

Memorial Dr.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday, showcases the world’s best golfers while benefitting charities including the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation, Nationwide Children’s Hospital and Stephen and Ayesha Curry’s Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation. www. thememorialtournament.com

Columbus Arts Festival

June 12-14

Downtown Riverfront in the Scioto Mile

This award-winning festival features more than 200 artists, four stages and dozens of food vendors, creating a weekend celebrating art. www.columbus artsfestival.org

Picnic with the Pops

June 13-Aug. 1, 8 p.m.

Columbus Commons’ Bicentennial Pavilion, 160 S. High St.

Fill Saturday summer evenings with a blend of music genres as the Columbus Symphony collaborates with a selection of artists for its 43rd annual concert series, presented by Nationwide. www.columbussymphony.com

Buckeye Country Superfest

June 13, 3 p.m.

Ohio Stadium, 411 Woody Hayes Dr.

The annual Buckeye Country Superfest returns to the ’Shoe with a stacked country rock lineup, headlined by Tyler Childers.  www.schottensteincenter.com

Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival

June 19-21

Gahanna Creekside District, 117 Mill St.

Enjoy three days of live music from world-famous groups and performers at the 27th annual Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival, presented by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com

Stonewall Columbus Pride Festival & Resource Fair

June 19-20, Fri. 4-10 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Goodale Park, 120 W. Goodale St.

Celebrate Pride with local nonprofits, resources and vendors. The march starts at 10:30 a.m. on June 20. www. stonewallcolumbus.org

Worthington Arts Festival

June 20-21

Village Green, 700 High St.

Drawing more than 20,000 visitors annually and featuring more than 120 artists, the Worthington Arts Festival, produced by the McConnell Arts Center, is one of the top community fine art and craft shows in central Ohio. www. worthingtonartsfestival.com

Josh Groban

June 24, 8 p.m.

Schottenstein Center, 555 Borror Dr.

Josh Groban and special guest Jennifer Hudson take the stage with an unforgettable evening of vocals and beloved hits. www.schottensteincenter.com

Lionel Richie and Earth, Wind & Fire

June 27, 7:30 p.m.

Schottenstein Center, 555 Borror Dr.

Award-winning singer, songwriter and producer Lionel Richie joins forces with Earth, Wind & Fire, one of the bestselling bands of all time, for a night of funk and soul.  www.schottenstein center.com

Find additional listings at www.cityscenecolumbus.com