Dublin Life August/September 2026

dublinlife

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

Gianna Barrett President Dave Prosser Chief Creative Officer

Isabella Gaydosh-Bruce Business/Office Manager

Kathleen K. Gill Editorial Advisor

Elizabeth Wagner Sales Manager

Megan Brokamp, Jane Dimel, Rachel Hanz, Ella Jay Editors

Angelina Godfrey, Ellie Keehn, Grey Romohr, Abby Van Voorhis Editorial Assistants

Raygan Barrett, Colleen D’Angelo, Rita Johnson, Delaney Ruth, Zaina Shaik, Amanda Stevens Contributing Writers

Sarah Reese Media & Marketing Advisor

Circulation 614-572-1240

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Every Client is Different... and I Love That. Some buyers find the perfect home in a week Some take months. Some sellers need lots of preparation

Some just need a sign in the yard. Some clients text Some prefer email There's no "right" way. That's why I believe buying or selling a home isn't one-size-fits-all It's personal. Let's start the conversation

New Rides. New Rules. Shared Responsibility.

Dublin is a community on the move. Whether you are walking, biking, driving or using a scooter, our transportation network is designed to connect people to places safely. As new forms of motorized mobility become more common, the City is taking steps to help ensure these options can be used responsibly by everyone.

Dublin City Council recently updated the City Code with new micromobility regulations designed to make travel safer and more predictable. These updates are intended to support mobility, not restrict it. They establish guidelines that promote safety, reduce confusion and help preserve the accessibility and enjoyment of Dublin’s transportation network for all users.

Key rules and reminders include:

• Every ride is a responsibility.

• Always use courteous behavior while on our paths so all users may enjoy their experience.

• Riders under the age of 16 are now required to wear a helmet.

• Mini motorcycles and similar devices are not permitted on Dublin streets, sidewalks, paths or in parks.

• Class 3 e-bikes, which can help riders pedal up to 28 mph, are allowed on streets, but not on sidewalks or shared use paths.

• Maintain a safe speed and keep to the right of paths except when passing.

• Give an audible signal when passing.

• Parents or guardians who knowingly allow unsafe or prohibited riding may be subject to the same penalties as the rider.

City sta developed these updates after reviewing regulations in other communities, gathering public feedback, considering safety concerns and working across departments to create a thoughtful approach.

In addition to the Code updates, sta have developed and designed new directional, tra c and path etiquette signs for our shared-use path system. These signs, intended for both bicyclists and pedestrians, are being installed throughout the community in phases. Residents also should notice additional safety enhancements, including pavement striping and mirrors at curves and other locations where visibility is limited.

Education remains a key part of implementation. The City is sharing information through schools, community outreach, digital communications and public engagement to help residents understand the new regulations and the reasons behind them. Dublin Police o cers also are patrolling throughout the community, engaging with riders and families, answering questions and encouraging safe riding behaviors.

I encourage you and your family to take a few minutes to learn the new rules, discuss them at home and talk about what it means to be a courteous rider and neighbor. Together, we can build a culture of safety, respect and shared responsibility that keeps Dublin moving forward.

Sincerely,

Megan O’Callaghan City Manager City of Dublin

CommunityCalendar

AugustSeptember

FRI.-SUN., JULY 31-AUG. 2

Dublin Irish Festival Fri.: 4 p.m.-midnight

Sat.: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sun: 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

Coffman Park

5200 Emerald Pkwy. www.dublinirishfestival.org

SATURDAYS THROUGH SEPT. 26

Dublin Market

9 a.m.-noon

Bridge Park

6741 Longshore St. www.thedublinmarket.com

THROUGH AUG. 28

Dublin Arts Council presents “Thrown

Together: A Community in Clay”

Dublin Arts Council

7125 Riverside Dr. www.dublinarts.org

EVERY TUES. AND THURS. OF AUGUST

Empower Hour – Dublin Summer Fun Series

6-7 p.m.

Riverside Crossing Park 6625 Riverside Dr. www.dublinohiousa.gov

FOOD TRUCK WEDNESDAYS

Aug. 5, 12, 19 and 26

Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30

11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Coffman Park 5600 Post Rd. www.dublinohiousa.gov

MIDWEEK MUSIC

Aug. 5, 12 and 19

6-8 p.m.

Riverside Crossing Park 6625 Riverside Dr. www.dublinohiousa.gov

THURS.-SUN., AUG. 7-16

The Lightning Thief presented by The Abbey Theater of Dublin Varying times

Coffman Amphitheater 5200 Emerald Pkwy. www.dublinohiousa.gov

AUG. 9 AND SEPT. 13

2026 Second Sunday Speaker Series presented by the Dublin Historical Society 3-4:30 p.m.

Columbus Metropolitan Library: Dublin Branch 75 N. High St. www.dublinohiohistory.org

MON., AUG. 10, 24 AND SEPT. 14, 28

Knitting in the Neighborhood 6:30-8 p.m.

Columbus Metropolitan Library: Dublin Branch 75 N. High St. www.columbuslibrary.org

THURS., AUG. 13, 27 AND SEPT. 10, 24

Night Market at North Market Bridge Park 6-9 p.m.

Bridge Park 6741 Longshore St. www.visitdublinohio.com

SUN., AUG. 16 AND SEPT. 20

Coffman Homestead Open House 1-3 p.m.

Coffman Homestead 6659 Emerald Pkwy. www.dublinohiohistory.org

SAT.-SUN., AUG. 22-23 AND SEPT. 26-27

Guided Tours of Ferris-Wright Park & Earthworks

Sat.: 10 a.m.-noon Sun.: 1-3 p.m.

Ferris-Wright Park 4400 Emerald Pkwy. www.dublinohiousa.gov

CINEMA SATURDAYS

Aug. 29: Finding Dory; Draft Day Sept. 26: Zootopia 2; Superman (2025) 6 p.m.

Riverside Crossing Park 6625 Riverside Dr. www.visitdublinohio.com

SAT.-SUN., AUG. 29-30

Oktoberfest at Zoombezi Bay

10:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

Zoombezi Bay 4850 W. Powell Rd. www.zoombezibay.com

SAT., SEPT. 12

Japan FestOH!

Noon-7 p.m.

Riverside Crossing Park 6625 Riverside Dr. www.jascentralohio.org

FRI.-SUN., SEPT. 25-27

The Velocity of Autumn presented by The Abbey Theater of Dublin

Fri.-Sat.: 7 p.m. Sun.: 2 p.m.

Coffman Amphitheater 5200 Emerald Pkwy. www.dublinohiousa.gov

SAT., SEPT. 19

Steps of Hope: The Gardner School of Dublin Family 1-Mile Color Run/Walk 9:30 a.m.-noon

Coffman Park 5200 Emerald Pkwy. www.eventbrite.com

SUN., SEPT. 20

Bounty at Bridge Park

6 p.m.

The Exchange at Bridge Park 6520 Riverside Dr. www.dublinfoodpantry.org

SAT., SEPT 26

Mid-Autumn Festival and Ohio Moon Festival

Noon-9 p.m.

Riverside Crossing Park 6625 Riverside Dr. www.dublinohiousa.gov

TUE., SEPT. 29

Taste of Dublin

5:30-8 p.m.

The Wendy’s Company 1 Dave Thomas Blvd. www.dublinchamber.org

by Zaina Shaik

From Plans to Play

SportsOhio’s next chapter begins

“ Residents are going to be very happy about what we are producing. It’s exciting. It’s going to be unique. ”

General Manager Joe Bauserman

Aformer Ohio State quarterback, Dublin community leaders and experts in sports facility management are coming together to create a one-of-a-kind athletic campus in Dublin.

Almost two years ago, the City of Dublin purchased the SportsOhio property with a vision to combine it with the existing Darree Fields parkland, creating nearly 290 acres for a future Premier Athletic and Recreation Campus (PARC) for residents and visitors. After a competitive public process, Sports Facilities Companies (SFC), a national leader in operating sports and recreation facilities of all sizes and scopes, was brought in to manage the facilities.

The SportsOhio Steering Committee – including representatives from Visit Dublin, Dublin Youth Athletics (DYA), Dublin City Schools, the Memorial Tournament, the Greater Columbus Sports Commission and more – was assembled to provide expertise and community insight as the project moves forward. Guided by the vision and leadership of Dublin City Council, and supported by collaboration among City staff, SFC and community partners, the project continues to move forward with steady progress, thoughtful planning and ongoing improvements across the campus. The result is a facility that still feels like home to local athletes, while steady improvements are being made in furtherance of the broader vision – from upgraded landscaping equipment and autonomous field-liners and enhanced food and beverage options, to publicly available Wi-Fi, improved security enhancements, parking lot maintenance and other investments that support a more efficient, welcoming campus.

Right now, SportsOhio feels familiar: there are still youth clinics, summer leagues and local teams using the space. Recent growth already includes adult basketball and softball leagues, an NFL Flag Football league and nearly 20 percent more participation in golf camp. But with new hirings and partners joining the project, the pieces are in place to expand SportsOhio into a destination that will attract out-of-state tournaments to Dublin while serving as a campus residents can enjoy for years to come.

That vision is already beginning to take shape. In April, the Nike Challenge Cup brought hundreds of teams from more than 20 states and Canada to Dublin, with matches played at both Darree Fields and SportsOhio. The tournament marked the first major event held at SportsOhio since the City’s acquisition of the property and demonstrated the campus’ ability to attract visitors while supporting local athletic programming. That momentum continued in July, when SportsOhio hosted the Ultimate Long Drive competition, bringing another exciting athletic event to the campus.

In January 2026, SFC announced former fourth-round MLB draft pick and Ohio State quarterback Joe Bauserman as the general manager of SportsOhio. Bauserman brings more than 15 years of experience in facility management, athletics, real estate and operational leadership. He also has more than a decade of experience in individual instruction to young athletes. Aside from overseeing the day-to-day operations, Bauserman is strategically seeking out partners and sponsors that will help bring the City’s vision to life. He empha-

sizes the project’s focus on innovation and community engagement.

“Residents are going to be very happy about what we are producing,” Bauserman says. “It’s exciting. It’s going to be unique.”

The campus will not be an array of fields and courts. Instead, the City is looking to create a more cohesive facility that elevates the programming that residents have enjoyed for years. The PARC Vision Framework, adopted by Dublin City Council in April of this year, lays out how to integrate SportsOhio and Darree Fields into one connected and sustainable campus. The project will create more space for DYA programs and adult leagues, and it will also provide spaces for the families and supporters of those athletes.

“What separates a truly great complex from just an average facility is the atmosphere, hospitality, safety and family-friendly environment,” Bauserman explains. “The complete vision for SportsOhio is a destination that serves all sports and family entertainment needs in one welcoming and inclusive space.”

Another priority for the City is connectivity.

As the planned extension of University Boulevard through the West Innovation District moves through design, future transportation improvements will further enhance access to the campus, helping link athletic, recreational and economic development opportunities across the area. This goal to blend an athletic campus with recreational park space will create a truly oneof-a-kind experience right here in Dublin.

As facility and program improvements progress, opportunities for all ages will continue to grow. DYA programs will be able to use the facilities to invite more children to participate, while adults can compete, connect and enjoy the surrounding green space.

“We’re not getting away from what we currently do. We’re expanding on our local leagues and programs for the residents,” Bauserman says. “Allowing those things to flourish and grow will allow us to better impact Dublin itself.”

As Dublin looks ahead, SportsOhio stands as a symbol of progress – where vision meets action and the future of recreation takes the field.

Zaina Shaik is an intern for the City of Dublin. Feedback welcome at cpi@dublin.oh.us

Guiding Principles of the SportsOhio Steering Committee

Game Day, Every Day: Balance the excitement of tournament-scale events with everyday community and recreation use by providing flexible spaces that support year-round, multi-sport and multi-generational use.

Experience-Driven, CommunityInspired: Deliver a unique and memorable experience for athletes, families and visitors by creating a place that is distinctly Dublin.

Smart, Safe and Family-Friendly Design: A well-organized layout that enhances both functionality and user experience; a safe, family-friendly environment that accommodates large crowds and everyday use with clear circulation, intuitive hierarchy and effective wayfinding.

Connected and Accessible for All: Improve connectivity, ensure mobility for all ages and abilities. Make it easier to walk and bike by enhancing walks and paths throughout the entire campus.

Design with Nature: Celebrate nature as a unifying feature and make sustainability a focal point by growing Dublin’s tree canopy, protecting native plantings, supporting the local ecology and considering sustainability at every scale.

Financial Sustainability: Balance community needs with funding capacity and long-term viability by building partnerships, strategic and phased improvements, leveraging existing facilities, efficient operations and building in revenue-generating opportunities such as concessions, equipment rentals and retail.

Rooted in the District: Position the campus as an integral element of the West Innovation District and the greater Dublin community. Foster partnerships with district and community stakeholders to activate adjacent parcels, amplify economic and community impact and support innovation.

by Rachel Hanz

Defining a Destination

Visit Dublin CEO Scott Dring shares his impact on the Dublin landscape

“ It’s a great community to raise a family. ”

Scott Dring doesn’t just love Dublin; he lives and breathes it. You can find him enjoying a bike ride through local parks, volunteering at the Dublin Irish Festival or visiting downtown restaurants and stores any day of the week.

When he’s not enjoying it for himself, he is constantly talking about Dublin, thanks in part to his role as the president and CEO of Visit Dublin, Ohio and the 25 years he has lived in the community.

Over the past two and a half decades, he has enjoyed watching the city expand and is excited for the opportunities the future holds.

Finding his passions

When he was growing up in Centerville, Dring enjoyed boating at Caesars Creek State Park, visiting his family’s cabin in Kentucky and tailgating at OSU football games. He eventually went on to attend The Ohio State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism in 1989.

With plans to pursue a career as a reporter, he moved to Washington, D.C., and began working for local publications. After a few months, he decided the field was not the right fit for him and found an opening at the U.S. Travel Association that would change the trajectory of his career.

“(Reporting) just wasn’t my thing, and it was hard to live in D.C. It was an expensive town,” Dring says. “I loved to write, but I found marketing and public relations and lucked into… the travel and tourism industry, and I’ve been in it ever since.”

In the coming years, he moved to Florida, where he worked for the Kissimmee-St. Cloud Convention & Visitors Bureau and The Zimmerman Agency for a few years before moving back to Ohio for a position with The Ohio Division of Travel and Tourism.

While serving as the Division’s media spokesperson and assisting with the agency’s publications, Dring met his wife, Jennifer, who was working for the Ohio Legislative Service Commission, an agency the Division worked with at that time. In 2000, the two married and began planning their life together.

When looking for a place to put down roots and raise a family, there was one community that stood out to them. Having interned with the City of Dublin while working toward her undergraduate degree,

Jennifer enjoyed her time there, and the two knew it would be a good fit.

“We saw the opportunity to come to Dublin to (put down) roots,” Dring says. “It’s a great community to raise a family. I think that was what drove us initially to come here, was the community as a whole.”

Growth of a family and a city

In the coming years, while he and Jennifer watched their three children – Tyler, Olivia and Aidan – grow, they also watched from the sidelines as the city itself developed.

When Dring joined the visitors bureau in 2001, it had just moved into its own building and North High Street was the hub of activity as more businesses and organizations settled into the area.

While his kids attended and graduated from the Dublin City Schools, Dring watched the community become more connected thanks in part to the Downtown Dublin Strategic Alliance joining the historic and Bridge Park halves in spirit, as the Dublin Link connected them tangibly.

As the community was growing and with events such as the Dublin Irish Festival and the Memorial Tournament drawing more attention and visitors, Visit Dublin worked to bring awareness to the resources, businesses and activities in the community.

“I always hear the quote, ‘Build it, they will come,’ and for me, it’s, ‘Build it, market it, then they’ll come,’ because there’s so much stuff out there,” Dring says.

From Fairy Door and Espresso Martini Trails to offering a free pint to travelers

Awards and Accomplishments

Over the years, Dring has been involved in many organizations and has been awarded several accolades. Here are some of them.

• Columbus Business First CEO of the Year

• Business First’s “Forty Under 40” Honoree

• Nationwide Children’s Hospital mentor

• Certified Destination Management Executive Recipient

• Paul Sherlock Legend in Ohio Travel Award winner

from Dublin, Ireland, he says the visitors bureau’s marketing campaigns over the years have brought in not only hundreds of regional and national awards but also attention to what the community and its businesses can offer.

“It’s not only for a destination purpose, but I think it raises the profile of the city,” Dring says. “Somebody might come here to visit, and they might want to live here someday (or) they might want to start a business here someday.”

Dring himself found ways to get involved in the community as a business professional, a father and a passionate community member. Over the years, he was a member of several boards and organizations, including the Ohio Travel Association, the Dublin City Schools Business Advisory Board and the Dublin Youth Athletics Board.

Future change

After years of being a part of the landscape changes in Dublin, Dring says there are several things on the horizon he is looking forward to, including the opening of SportsOhio.

As a member of the SportsOhio Steering Committee and having led Visit Dublin through years of research, studies and campaigning for the complex, he says the feeling of seeing it all come together is priceless.

“(SportsOhio) is going to be an amenity for our residents for years, and it’s going to attract world-class events down the road,” Dring says. “So, it’s still in its infancy (regarding) what SportsOhio can become, but it’s rewarding, it’s exciting to see. That was our vision 15 years ago, and now it’s reality.”

Dring has spent 25 years promoting the city he loves, and his drive to bring awareness to Dublin has never faltered. As he and Jennifer enjoy the life of empty nesters with all three children pursuing careers and furthering their educations, Dring enjoys living and working in the very community he works so hard to share with others.

“I think the next five to 10 years are going to be amazing,” he says. “(In) the future, it’ll be a whole new realm. Right now, we’re very much a regional destination, bordering on being a national destination, but I think it’s going to push us over nationally (with) the things happening here in the next five to 10 years.”

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

Learn more about how Dublin’s tourism industry has changed over the years on page 20.

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Shutterbugs

A view of Dublin through the lenses of its residents

T urism Transformed

Dublin’s evolution from small town to national destination

By Ella Jay

On any given weekend in Dublin, you may find visitors gathering for dinner and drinks along High Street, making their way through the shops in Bridge Park, biking along the city’s extensive trail network or attending either a premier sporting event or local festival. Both sides of the Scioto River bustle with life, where an abundance of restaurants, parks, public art and entertainment venues have transformed Dublin into a destination of its own.

But things weren’t always that way – that steady flow of activity reflects a city that has seen monumental growth over recent decades. Once a community known primarily for a handful of signature events, Dublin has since evolved into a year-round hub for visitors, drawing people from across the region and beyond.

A destination takes shape

Twenty-five years ago, both Dublin and the destination marketing industry looked much different than they do today.

While community staples such as the Memorial Tournament and Dublin Irish Festival were attracting visitors, tourism offerings beyond those marquee events were limited. Historic Dublin served as the heart of the town, Bridge Park had yet to be developed and the city’s hospitality sector was still in its infancy.

At the time of the Dublin Convention & Visitors Bureau’s establishment in 1988 –renamed Visit Dublin, Ohio in 2020 – the city was home to only one hotel and a small number of restaurants. Destination marketing was largely print-based, and very little of it was distributed beyond Columbus.

“The city was small, but the potential was immense,” says President and CEO of Visit Dublin, Ohio Scott Dring. “City leaders had already put a vision in place of

what the city could be back in the ’80s and ’90s, and I think we’ve all taken that playbook over the years and grown and grown and grown that vision.”

Since then, a combination of strategic investments, expanded marketing efforts and new attractions have dramatically reshaped Dublin’s tourism landscape.

Today, Dublin boasts 18 hotels, 100plus restaurants, more than 150 miles of biking and walking paths alongside 65 parks, 70-plus public art installations, multiple adventure trail programs and much more – all of which help draw in 2.9 million visitors annually.

The city’s marketing has seen an equally drastic change. Now, Visit Dublin relies primarily on online initiatives, social media and video content – driven by digital strategy, data and real-time engagement. A reflection of that evolution, the reach of the visitors bureau has extended well outside of the region, with acclaimed campaigns and international news coverage putting Dublin on the map far beyond the Midwest.

“The digital world has totally transformed the way we communicate and the way we promote and sell destinations,” says Dring. “One of our greatest strengths has been the ability to adapt and evolve with that change, while continuing to position Visit Dublin as a leader in the industry.”

Big ideas, bigger impact

That ability to adapt has been central to Dublin’s tourism story. Through forward thinking and collaboration with community partners, Dublin’s visitors bureau has been able to embrace increasingly ambitious ventures – and they’ve paid off.

Alongside the City’s 35 percent reinvestment of bed tax revenue back into Visit Dublin, perhaps the biggest breakthrough

for the visitors bureau was the development of Bridge Park.

“When Bridge Park was announced, we knew it was going to be huge. We knew it was going to be a game changer when the Link was announced as well,” says Dring. “That’s when we felt we could really turn Dublin into a regional destination.”

Bridge Park was a catalyst for even bolder campaigns that showcased Dublin in entirely new ways. Among them were “Dublin in the Dark,” which brought crowds to

town to watch 2024’s solar eclipse; “The Other Dublin,” an award-winning initiative that drew visitors from all the way across the pond in Dublin, Ireland; “Love in Dublin,” which continues to market the city as a romantic getaway; and most recently, the record-setting “Human Shamrock” in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day.

However, the true measure of Visit Dublin’s success lies not in its promotional achievements, but in the trust it’s built with the community it represents. The organiza-

tion has maintained international accreditation through Destinations International since 2007 – an accolade only six percent of the industry’s 4,400-plus visitors bureaus hold – as well as maintained clean audits every year since 2001.

Additionally, it has backed key initiatives supported by residents such as the Downtown Dublin Strategic Alliance, the ongoing SportsOhio athletic complex and the establishment of DORA districts, among others.

“One of the biggest compliments we hear is that Visit Dublin ‘gets things done,’” says Dring. “Having the local community see us as a relevant organization and as an economic driver is very satisfying.”

Building the future

Even in its success, having collected more than 350 regional and national awards, Visit Dublin isn’t done yet. With multiple major developments on the horizon and continued investment throughout the city, the organization is already focused on what’s next.

In addition to the SportsOhio Premier Athletic and Recreation Campus (PARC), Dublin residents will see two more major developments on either side of the Scioto in the near future.

In Historic Dublin, COhatch moves forward with its Riverview Village, which will feature a nearly two-acre walkable space for local businesses, startups and nonprofits, as well as a new restaurant, bar and cafe concept. Across the river, Crawford Hoying and Cameron Mitchell proceed with their Bridge Park Block Y development, a mixed-use development that will add a boutique hotel, office and conference space, new dining concepts and additional public gathering areas.

“It’s going to be a whole other experience for visitors and residents as we activate the river,” says Dring. “We’ll have a canoe livery and kayak place down there as well.”

In coming years, Dring says Dublin can also expect additional developments citywide, including Bridge North, northeast of Bridge Park; Cosgray Commons, north of SportsOhio; and the revitalization of Metro Center further down the road.

“If you look at the past 10 years, the Link has exploded,” says Dring. “It’s easy for visitors to gravitate toward the downtown areas, but there’s so many other spaces that you might not think of right now, because they’re still in a developmental stage, but they can be just as much of a destination spot here in the coming years.”

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

Ride Smart. Ride Safe.

Helmets are required for riders under 16 and anyone on a Class 3 e-bike.

The City of Dublin is designed for connection. From vibrant districts and scenic parks to neighborhood streets, getting where you need to go is part of the experience.

As an Exceptional Community, we all share the spaces that move us and the responsibility that comes with them. Whether on a sidewalk, a shared use path or City street, safety starts with each of us.

Mini Motorcycles & Dirt Bikes

• NOT allowed in public spaces, including parks, sidewalks, shared use paths & streets

E-Bikes (Class 1 & 2)

• Allowed on streets & shared use paths

• Pedal or throttle assist up to 20 mph

Class 3 E-Bikes

• Allowed only on streets

• Riders must be 16 or older

• Pedal-assist only, up to 28 mph

Electric Scooters

• Allowed on streets with posted speed limit of 25 mph or under, shared use paths & sidewalks

Electric Skateboards & Hoverboards

• Allowed on streets with posted speed limit of 25 mph or under, shared use paths & sidewalks

Second SpeakerSunday Series

Dublin Historical Society brings history to life through community conversations

By Ellie Keehn

courtesy of Sharon Adamek, Mike Jewell and Lee Navin

After spending his career as a gastroenterologist, Dublin Historical Society volunteer Dr. Mark Stechschulte turned his attention to local medical history, researching five prominent physicians who lived in Dublin between 1830 and 1964. He was thrilled when he was asked to present his findings as the first speaker in Dublin Historical Society’s Second Sunday Speaker Series – revived after a nearly 10-year hiatus – this past March.

“When you walk around Dublin, you see a lot of that history, and I have a lot of fun researching it,” Stechschulte says.

His talk was well-attended, and many guests shared stories of their own. Stechschulte says that the series is great because attendees get to learn more about their shared connection to Dublin while also talking to people with different backgrounds and interests.

Stechschulte is excited that residents will be able to learn more about Dublin and American history from this year’s lineup, including talks on the Wyandot Removal Trail and Abraham Lincoln’s life.

Series origins

In fall of 2025, a committee came together to restore the Second Sunday Speaker Series, a free event on the second Sunday of each month that brings a historical expert to Dublin to give a talk on a specific topic. Dublin Historical Society President Mike Jewell and other volunteers thought it would help fulfill the Dublin History Museum’s mission to preserve

local history and help tell the city’s story. For the first year of the series, the society scheduled three talks, not knowing what the community’s response would be like.

“At first, we thought, ‘We can probably seat about 20 people, and that’s about how many people we’re going to get.’ As soon as it started out, (we were) like, ‘Uh-oh, we’re in big trouble.’ We got 50-60 people starting (to sign) up,” Jewell says.

As the series picked up traction, Jewell reached out to the Dublin Branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library. Now, each of the events are held down the street from the museum at the library to accommodate larger crowds.

“I think this is a great partnership with the Dublin Historical Society,” says Trish Piliado, manager of the Dublin branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library. “The library is able to provide the space and technology for the event, and we help market the event… In return, the Dublin Historical Society provides very knowledgeable and engaging speakers with topics that appeal to our community.”

This year’s lineup

To celebrate America 250, this year’s talks are related to broader American history – over the next few months, many speakers will also focus on connecting national history with Dublin’s.

On Aug. 9, the series hosts Heather Miller, a Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) Coordinator for the Wyandotte

Nation, presenting her talk, “The Legacy and Learnings of Wyandot Removal: An intertwined history of the Wyandot and Dublin, Ohio.”

During Miller’s talk, the audience will learn about Indigenous American history in Dublin and its tie to the Wyandot peoples through Kihue – a figure known to Dublin residents at the time as Bill Moose, who spent his final days in the Columbus area as the last native Wyandot. Miller will then share her process of marking the Wyandot Removal Trail.

On Sept. 13, Professional Abraham Lincoln Portrayer Kevin Wood will share the life and history of President Lincoln through the first-person perspective in his talk, “Abraham Lincoln: A New Birth of Freedom.”

“I talk about 1776, the Declaration of Independence, liberty, equality… Then I trace our nation’s history forward from that, and I mix in Lincoln’s personal story. It’s a program that fits nicely with that America 250 theme,” Wood says.

He aims to educate while also entertaining, making this event engaging for all age groups.

Second Sunday Speaker Series 2026

Sundays, 3-4:30 p.m.

Aug. 9: Heather Miller, “The Legacy and Learnings of Wyandot Removal: An intertwined history of the Wyandot and Dublin, Ohio”

Sept. 13: Kevin Wood, “Abraham Lincoln: A New Birth of Freedom”

Oct. 11: Becky Schisler, “Stories from 15 Years of Dublin Ghost Walks”

Nov. 8: Dr. Chris Hariasz, “Thaddeus Kosciuszko: Who is this Polish patriot and what is his connection to Dublin, Ohio?”

With the positive reception of the series, the Historical Society is also already committed to doing the Second Sunday Speaker Series again next year, and plan to focus more on Dublin history, specifically.

“The Speaker Series is a work in progress, but we’ve been absolutely thrilled,” Jewell says. “We’re already starting to accumulate, I’ve got a little folder now, of people (for) next year.”

FIVE YEARS IN A ROW!

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“The reason I do what I do is because I believe it’s important for people to understand the nation’s history, and this is a fun and interesting way to learn about (it),” Wood says.

Along with Miller and Wood, other upcoming speakers include founder and owner of the Dublin Ghost Walk, Becky Schisler, who will present stories from 15 years of ghost walks in October, and President of the Kosciuszko Foundation Ohio Chapter, Dr. Chris Hariasz, who will talk about Polish patriot Thaddeus Kosciuszko and his connection to Dublin in November.

Connecting the community

Since the series’ return, the Historical Society has worked to build its community connections to engage new audiences – including through its partnership with Dublin City Schools.

Vice President and Secretary of the Dublin Historical Society Katie Cook, who has taught in Dublin City Schools for more than 27 years, helped strengthen that partnership between the museum and the district.

“We’ve always had school tours to some extent, but as of two years ago, we wanted to do more. Last year, we did about seven or eight schools, and this year, we were up to about 12 schools total,” Cook says.

Visits to the museum and their other sites are now included in the district’s third-grade curriculum. Along with these programs, Cook invites her students and their families to attend the Second Sunday Speaker Series. With many students and families being from other countries, Cook says it’s a valuable resource for them to learn more about Ohio and Dublin.

“To do a program that appeals to a 9or 10-year-old and to a 90-year-old, that’s pretty diverse. That’s very important,” Cook says.

For longtime Dublin residents such as Stechschulte, the series also provides an opportunity to learn more about the places he walks past every day. Since retiring, he finds it very important to continue challenging himself intellectually. Conducting research and attending events such as the Speaker Series offers just that: Inviting conversation, community and a deeper understanding of the people and places around him.

“You can live here, like I did, for 25 years before you even start learning any of the history of Dublin. And when you come to these talks, I think that’s what it evolves into. You hear something, and there’s so much more to learn,” Stechschulte says.

Ellie Keehn is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

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good ideas

by Amanda Stevens

Keep Moving

Local gym and nonprofit empower people with Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease is a life-changing diagnosis affecting an estimated one in 336 people in the U.S. However, research demonstrates that regular targeted physical activity is one of the most effective ways to slow its progression.

Founded in 2015 by Dublin native Melissa Carlson, a certified personal trainer, pDNextSteps offers a variety of fitness options designed to help people with Parkinson’s maintain active lifestyles.

Now supported by local non-profit Changing Parkinson’s, pDNextSteps’ impact extends beyond central Ohio.

Fighting Parkinson’s with fitness

After acquiring certification in OhioHealth’s Delay the Disease program, Carlson started her program with just three participants in a boot camp class. However, since opening her gym in December 2018, membership has grown to 130 and counting.

Classes are offered six days a week, mostly in the morning, to accommodate members’ work schedules.

Carlson and other instructors teach classes such as total body conditioning, strength training, tai chi and yoga. There’s also a singing class to help with speech and a multitasking class to engage the body and the brain.

“When I first started, one thing that I wanted to be able to offer is variety because repetition is good, but it’s also good to challenge the brain and try different things,” she says.

Carlson says she aims to work within members’ ability levels, sometimes using balance bars or chairs to ensure safety.

“If someone is having some limitations, we can scale the program to meet their needs. We meet them where they’re at,” Carlson says. “But we also push them to be the best version of themselves and re-

ally fight the disease as much as they can, working on those activities of daily living and stuff that’s going to keep them living their best life for longer.”

More than movement

Compared to a commercial gym, pDNextSteps classes are tailored to Parkinson’s based on research findings, and emphasize aspects such as strength, balance, aerobic activity and functional movement.

“I can lift weights all day, but I need to work on bigger movements and stepping over things, like things that my body’s starting to slowly not do on its own. I have to relearn how to do that,” says Jessica Krauser, a pDNextSteps member who was diagnosed with Young-Onset Parkinson’s in 2019 at age 37.

Besides targeted exercise, pDNextSteps also provides community through support groups, holiday parties, game nights and more.

Members often socialize before and after classes, with some enjoying putting a puzzle together or chatting in the lounge area.

Krauser says this social outlet supports mental wellbeing, especially since people with Parkinson’s can experience apathy, depression and anxiety.

“A lot of times, we’re in our own heads that we feel and look worse than what we might be... so it’s hard for us to just go out anywhere in public,” Krauser says. “So, coming here with a group that knows you and supports you makes it much, much better.”

Exercise, education, community

In 2024, pDNextSteps joined 5KforJK, a nonprofit that Krauser and her friends, including Carlson, created from a fundraising walk.

Last year, the 5KforJK nonprofit rebranded as Changing Parkinson’s. Its initiatives include supporting pDNextSteps, raising funds through the 5K and raising awareness through The Secret Life of Parkinson’s, a podcast with more than 16,000 subscribers, co-hosted by Krauser, featuring candid conversations and interviews with people with Parkinson’s.

“Changing Parkinson’s is hopefully getting us to change the way people live, think and feel with Parkinson’s just through education that we’re providing them, the community and the exercise programs,” Krauser says.

With donor support, Changing Parkinson’s has also provided 1,400 Wish Kits to people newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s. The kits include items, information and encouragement with notes from pDNextSteps members sharing what they wish they’d known when they were diagnosed.

Community Connections

Another inclusive care resource available in Dublin is the City’s Forever Dublin Hub – a partnership program with Syntero – which helps residents aged 55 and older stay active in the community, with services such as fare-free rides within city limits via the Dublin Connector, and connection to resources for housing, meals, home maintenance, wellness, recreation options and more.

Since 2021, the 5KforJK walk has raised more than $100,000 annually for Parkinson’s research and local programs. This year’s 5KforJK is Oct. 4 at Olentangy Liberty Middle School in Powell. It features an accessible 1-mile route on the school track for the Keep Moving Walk, and for the first time, it will include a chipped/timed 5K for more competitive participants.

“My goal is to make sure that no one feels like they’re alone,” Krauser says.

The next step

While Carlson says the gym once relied on word of mouth, Changing Parkinson’s and Krauser’s podcast have expanded its connections. People with Parkinson’s traveling through Ohio sometimes drop in for a class, and through pDNextSteps’s home workout series, individuals across the world are able to participate as well.

Even with virtual options, members come from many communities, such as New Albany, Westerville, Johnstown and Springfield.

“We have quite a few people coming from the east side of Columbus. We hear from people, ‘I wish this was over (here),’” says Changing Parkinson’s Executive Director Katie Webster. “So that’s definitely an aspiration of ours, to think about how we can expand to reach more people and be more accessible to individuals.”

Additionally, Carlson is creating a certification process so others can start their own program.

“One thing we’ve learned from the podcast and from people traveling around is, ‘I wish I had an exercise program like this,’” Carlson says. “And it’s hard to build community, but also, we want to be able to (tell) someone, ‘You have the passion for this? Here it is. Go for it.’”

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

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dublin arts

by Raygan Barrett

Sundays at Scioto

A tradition rooted in music, nature and community

In 1983, the Columbus Symphony Orchestra played a concert to mark the dedication of Scioto Park, and something about that afternoon left a lasting impression. That single performance became the spark for the Dublin Arts Council itself, founded that same year, and for a free concert series that has returned to Scioto Park every season since: Sundays at Scioto.

More than four decades later, the series remains one of Dublin’s most cherished

traditions. Each Sunday lawn chairs and picnic blankets appear before the music even starts, kids run through the grass and neighbors catch up while enjoying the simple pleasure of gathering outdoors.

This year, the focus is community.

While the music has always been the draw, this year’s series puts an even greater emphasis on bringing people together. A few new additions reflect that focus:

An art-making table, staffed by volunteers from the Dublin Arts Council board, will give attendees of all ages a hands-on creative outlet before and during the concert.

A collectible poster, illustrated by local artist Kevin Lopes, will be available for a small donation – a small way for the community to take a piece of the season home.

A new family-friendly time from 4-6 p.m. gives families with young children time to enjoy the concert before getting ready for the upcoming week.

Dublin Scioto High School’s orchestra group, Irish Fiddle Frenzy, will open the Sept. 20 concert, giving local student musicians a chance to perform on the stage.

The 2026 lineup

This year’s diverse lineup of genres was crafted in partnership with Class Acts, a local entertainment agency, along with continued support from corporate and community sponsors that help keep the series free and open to everyone.

Sept. 13: Spikedrivers – Since debuting in 2003, the Spikedrivers have built a devoted following with a bluesy, upbeat, country-fried rock ‘n’ roll sound. Their catalog now spans four studio albums and three live records, and they bring a high-energy, roots-driven show to open the season. Opener: Will Freed – An up-and-coming artist who moves fluidly between blues and rock, Freed performs on guitar, harmonica and mandolin in addition to vocals.

Sept. 20: Andy Shaw Band – Independent since 2005, the Andy Shaw Band

has carved out its own lane in the reggae rock genre. After a six-year hiatus, the band returned in 2024 with more momentum than ever – their two newest singles quickly became the most-streamed songs of their entire discography. Opener: Irish Fiddle Frenzy – Made up of students from the Dublin Scioto High School orchestra program, this group performs traditional Irish reels and jigs, adding a local, youthful energy to the evening.

Sept. 27: Mojoflo – Mojoflo is a neofunk band built for the stage. Led by vocalist Amber Knicole, their performances are known for the unexpected – aerial routines, Soul Train lines and an unrelenting sense of showmanship. Opener: Paul Valdiviez – A multi-instrumentalist, entertainer and educator, Valdiviez has spent more than 15 years teaching drums, piano, guitar, composition and vocals, and performs both solo and with various groups.

Oct. 4: Joey Aich – Joey Aich closes out the series with the charm and electric stage presence that have made him a standout independent hip-hop artist. Opener: N’Shai Iman – Born Imani McCullough, this rising R&B and neo-soul artist hails from Detroit and is now based in Columbus. Known for her “Quiet Storm” vocal style, she blends the soulful depth of neo-soul with the modern textures of indie R&B.

In addition to the music, a savory and sweet food truck option will be available at each concert.

It’s all about the venue

Part of what makes Sundays at Scioto so special is the setting itself. Scioto Park is home to Leatherlips, Dublin Arts Council’s very first public artwork – a striking 12-foot stone sculpture honoring a local Wyandot leader, and a fitting symbol for a series rooted in community and place.

Beyond the outdoor amphitheater where the concerts take place, the park offers plen ty of reasons to arrive early and stay late: Riverboxes and the ARTbox for art explo ration, scenic river views along the water and nature trails for a pre-concert stroll.

Whether you’ve been coming since the early days or you’re discovering Sundays at Scioto for the first time this season, the in vitation is the same as it was in 1983: come gather with friends and family and enjoy the sounds of music while taking in the surrounding nature.

It’s free, it’s outdoors and it’s been bringing Dublin together for more than forty years!

by Delaney Ruth

Wild About Learning

Dublin City Schools’ creative approach to animal-assisted education and social-emotional learning

This summer, the typical sounds of the Indian Run Elementary playground were replaced by the soft whinnying of miniature horses and the ecstatic giggles of dozens of children. A group of children gathered in a tight circle, their eyes wide as they came face-to-face with their furry visitors. For many of the students, it was their very first time seeing an equine up close.

Thanks to local nonprofit Dreams on Horseback, Dublin City Schools’ elementary children were able to have this handson experience. The organization provided four Minis on the Move visits throughout the summer, assisting the district in its commitment to supporting student wellness and social-emotional health.

Dreams on Horseback says horses are known for their ability to read humans’ nonverbal cues and give clear nonverbal feedback. This helps people build confidence, regulate their senses and improve social skills. Horses are also known to be intuitive and nonjudgmental. Students who were initially nervous around the mini horses and ponies eventually warmed up to them because of the animals’ sensitive nature.

During the visits, an equine specialist taught the students about the different body parts of the animals. To provide sensory experiences, the children brushed their manes, fed them hay, petted them and helped guide the horses with a rope. The students laughed and squealed throughout the entire experience, creating memories many of them will never forget.

But this hands-on experience with horses represents only a portion of a larger mission within Dublin City Schools. Throughout the year, students encounter a variety of animals as educators discover that unique classroom companions –whether they have shells or four legs – can be powerful partners in student learning and growth.

Several times a year, Sells Middle School and Chapman Elementary School welcome visits from staff members’ dogs. Students feed the pups treats and take plenty of pictures. Similar to their equine friends, these four-legged visitors offer many benefits; their companionship is known to improve children’s behavior, reduce anxiety, increase attendance and help with socialemotional development. These special visits always lift the schools’ spirits, bringing joy to students and staff alike.

Over at Karrer Middle School, students have turtles as classroom pets. Teachers use the reptiles to help children learn about ecosystems, anatomy, thermoregulation and habitats.

The turtles have their own ponds, aquariums and enclosures to live in. They have rocks by the window to sunbathe, hollowed-out logs to sleep in and friends to spend time with. Plus, they get plenty of affection from the middle school students.

There are many animal lovers at Dublin City Schools, and the district works to introduce students to as many kinds as possible. Animals can act as a social bridge for students who may struggle to connect with their peers or teachers, helping create safe, non-threatening spaces for students of all abilities. Whether visiting for a day

or living in a classroom year-round, these animal companions help both students and staff learn, grow and thrive.

student spotlight

by Grey Romohr

The Brains Behind the Bot

Dublin Robotics Team wins award at International FIRST Robotics Competition

After a season spent designing, building and programming a robot from scratch, Dublin City Schools’ Bad Robots returned from Houston with one of the FIRST Robotics Competition World Championship’s most distinctive honors: the Judge’s Award.

The award recognizes teams whose achievements stand out in unique ways, both on and off the field. For the more than 20 students from all three high schools who make up the Dublin Robotics program, it was a recognition of not only their engineering skills, but also their teamwork, outreach efforts and commitment to inspiring future competitors.

The building process

This year, the team was represented by rising high school seniors Rei Albertson, Mary Piper Blaney, Mara O’Sullivan, Rachael Park and Samuel Wehnke. Since the Dublin Robotics program’s founding in 2002, it has been directed by instructor Greg King.

The Dublin Robotics program team has varying levels of experience in the field, but they all share a passion for technology, engineering and problem solving.

“This is my first year in robotics. But, kind of my entire life, I’ve been more into space and rockets and everything,” says O’Sullivan.

As O’Sullivan moved through high school, she set her eyes on engineering for college. She joined the program to experiment and find out if it was for her.

“I think that was a really good decision because I found I’ve learned so much in my first year here,” O’Sullivan continues. “And it’s going to translate so well to what we’re doing in college.”

Other students transitioned from middle school robotics programs to the Dublin Robotics program in high school. Wehnke, for example, started participating in FIRST programs when he was in the seventh grade.

“I’ve always been into messing around with electronics, playing with motors and just making things in general,” Wehnke says.

In preparation for robotics competitions such as the Buckeye Regional, Miami Valley Re-

gional and the FIRST Robotics Competition, the students in the program visited the shop every week to discuss, design and prototype a semi-autonomous robot together. As the weeks progressed, the team grew close and used one another as sources of motivation for their goals.

Skills to succeed

After leaving the Miami Valley Competition on April 4 and knowing FIRST was on April 29, the team went to work. They emailed companies a video explaining why they should go to FIRST and received $25,000 in donations and sponsorships from American Electric Power, Honda, Denso and more.

In that time, the team had also nearly reconstructed their entire robot, transforming key components such as its internal wiring and gathering system – all heavily reliant on hand tools as the team had limited access to advanced alternatives.

When the team finally arrived in Houston for FIRST, they were greeted by teams from around the world. Over the course of 10 matches, they were randomly sorted into three-team alliances. In each alliance, winning meant all three teams had to work together for a group score higher than the opposition.

“Because you keep switching up, you have to go talk to the teams (and) merit a lot of strategies,” says Park, a first-year with Bad Ro bots. “How does your robot work? How does ours work? How can they work together?”

Scoring points aside, the Bad Robots’ per formance depended heavily on their ability to coordinate with each other. Repairs had to be made quickly in-between matches, such as ty ing down a wire or even helping another team.

It wasn’t all building robots and splitsecond decisions, however.

Park developed her photography skills by taking pictures on the field, and Blaney put her public-speaking skills to the test during pit-judging for her second year at FIRST.

Pit-judging is a two-day process where a judging panel conducts spontaneous in terviews with teams at their pits. The judg ing panel asks questions on topics ranging from their build process and robot to their outreach and team’s impact.

Blaney recalls that she was nervous about pit-judging her first year. This year, judges were very impressed. Their impression won them the elusive Judge’s Award, a unique recognition of a team’s effort and growth.

Looking to the future

Although the international robotics com petition is over and the students are back in Dublin, the group says they aren’t finished.

In July, the Dublin Robotics team ran a week-long robotics summer camp for 10plus elementary and middle school teams. The camp aimed to educate and prepare students to compete at robotics tournaments with their own team-made robots.

The bonded group of seniors talk of going to the same colleges for similar engineering fields, from electrical to nuclear engineering at colleges such as The Ohio State University, Purdue University and Virginia Tech.

But before setting off for college, Dublin’s Bad Robots have their eyes set on the FIRST Robotics Competition in 2027.

“We really want to go to Worlds again next year,” says O’Sullivan. “We’re going to take all of our experiences from last year that got us there, use them, build upon them and then work through that next season to try and get us there again.”

Grey Romohr is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

by Abby Van Voorhis

A Taste of Nashville

Bristol Republic moves to Bridge Park

This fall, Bristol Republic moves from the Short North to bring its Southern-style barbeque and Nashville-infused entertainment to Dublin. When the restaurant opens in Bridge Park alongside its new cocktail lounge, The Saddle Club, diners can expect everything from slow-smoked meats and signature burgers to creative cocktails and Southern brunch. Head Chef Greg Roy and Beverage Director Kevin Thompson share the inspirations behind the menus – and a pair of their own recipes to try at home.

Bring on the barbeque

Central Ohio isn’t particularly known for its barbeque – a gap Bristol Republic’s Head Chef Greg Roy is excited to fill.

Roy has worked with Bristol Republic and its sister-locations since 2022. Columbus-born and Cleveland-raised, he’s been in the restaurant industry since he was 14. Inspired by renowned chef Anthony Bourdain and the Food Network, Roy found himself drawn to not just to the creativity of cooking, but also the uniquely-human aspect of food.

“Food became a huge thing in pop culture and has become more of an event for people rather than just sustenance or having to eat,” says Roy.

Roy carries that mindset beyond work and into his own backyard cookouts. Most recently, he cooked up a recipe for oxtails – a dish he calls the best thing he’s ever made.

Chef Greg Roy’s Oxtails

Yield: 8 servings

Oxtail

• 5 lbs. oxtails, trimmed

• 2 Tbsp. browning sauce

• 2 Tbsp. soy sauce

• 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

• 2 Tbsp. dark brown sugar

• 1 Tbsp. kosher salt

• 2 Tbsp. black pepper

• 1 tsp. allspice (pimento)

• 1 tsp. ground ginger

Fresh Seasoning

• 1 large yellow onion, sliced

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 green onions, sliced

• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, whole

• 1 Tbsp. fresh thyme leaves

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

Braising Liquid

• 4 cups beef stock

• 2 Tbsp. ketchup

• 1 Tbsp. tomato paste

Finish

• 1 large can butter beans, drained

• Additional thyme as needed

Marinade

Combine oxtails with: browning sauce, soy sauce, Worcestershire, brown sugar, salt, pepper, allspice, ginger, onions, garlic, peppers, thyme.

Mix thoroughly.

Marinate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight.

Cooking

Remove oxtails from marinade, reserving the vegetables and liquid. Brown in batches in a lightly-oiled Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Build the braise with the reserved vegetables and marinade. Cook 3-4 minutes in a pot, adding tomato paste, ketchup and beef stock. Bring to a simmer.

Cover and cook until tender in oven at 325 dgrees Fahrenheit for 3.5-4 hours, or simmer on stovetop for 3-4 hours. Add butter beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Reduce gravy. Remove lid and simmer until rich and glossy.

Serve With: Rice and peas, steamed cabbages

Raise a glass

Already known for its extensive drink menu, Bristol Republic Beverage Director Kevin Thompson plans to take the program a step further at The Saddle Club.

Thompson joined the restaurant industry at 17, and has been managing beverage operations across central Ohio locations since 2022. Born in New York and having lived in North Carolina, Florida and Tennessee, Thompson brings a range of experience to his creations.

“I’ve seen a lot of cultures… and when I’m creating cocktail menus, I tend to lean towards what I’ve experienced in food more than what I’ve experienced in the cocktail world,” says Thompson.

One example of Thompson’s travelinspired drinks is his Piña Drama Mama, an ube-centered tropical cocktail with hints of vanilla, coconut, pineapple and lime.

Alongside inventive drinks, The Saddle Club will also feature an extensive collection of rare bourbons.

Abby Van Voorhis is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com

Kevin Thompson’s Piña Drama Mama

• 1 1/2 oz. vodka

• 3/4 oz. ube syrup

• 3/4 oz. pineapple juice

• 1/2 oz. coconut cream

• 1/2 oz. lime juice

• Toasted coconut, for garnish

Ube Syrup

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup sugar

• 2 Tbsp. ube powder

• Pinch of salt

Syrup

Combine sugar and ube powder in small pot, whisk in water. Warm over medium heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved and ube powder is fully incorporated. Remove from heat, add a pinch of salt, let it cool. Store refrigerated.

Cocktail

Add vodka, ube syrup, pineapple juice, coconut cream and lime juice to a shaker with ice. Shake well until chilled and creamy. Strain into a coupe, rocks glass or small cocktail glass. Garnish with toasted coconut.

In life’s critical moments, knowing where to go for care makes all the difference. Mount Carmel Dublin Emergency Department is open 24/7, with low wait times and compassionate, expert care you can count on when it matters most.

by Abby Van Voorhis

Keeping Up with Trends

The BIA Parade of Homes returns to central Ohio

The BIA Parade of Homes returns to central Ohio this fall with a new collection of properties. For more than 70 years, the Building Industry Association of Central Ohio (BIA) has hosted this showcase for builders and designers to display their craft and creativity, and for central Ohio’s current and prospective homeowners to discover the newest home trends.

According to the City of Dublin, 73 single family homes were built in the city limits throughout 2025 and into the first half of 2026. These new builds averaged

roughly 3,000-4,000 square feet of living space and four to five bedrooms. This is more bedrooms than the three-bedroom average the National Association of Home Builders reported in 2024.

Renovations and upgrade projects are also popular among Dublin homeowners with the most common reported by the City including finished basements, outdoor living areas, pools, kitchen remodels, primary suites and open living spaces.

This year’s Parade features several homes in the Dublin area or nearby, making it an easy opportunity to find a spark of inspiration – whether you’re looking to sell, buy new or renovate your forever home.

One property presented by Virginia Homes is a spacious 4,458 square-foot, single-family home in the new Hyland Glen development near Park Place, with four bedrooms, four-and-a-half bathrooms and a 0.39-acre lot.

September 17-27 Thursday thru Sunday Noon-6p.m.

Quick Facts

How does Dublin compare to state and national homeownership rates?

As of 2024, Census Reporter places Dublin’s homeownership rate at 77 percent. This is 7 percent higher than the state homeownership rate reported by the Ohio Housing Finance Agency that same year, and 11.7 percent higher than the national homeownership rate for the first quarter of 2026 reported by the United States Census Bureau.

Epcon Communities Inc. is presenting a property in The Courtyards on Concord near Tartan Fields and a second property in The Courtyards of Hyatt Place in nearby Powell. These new-build, ranch-style homes also have the option to add a second level with a guest suite.

Homes featured in this year’s parade will be available to tour for free between noon and 6 p.m. Thursday-Sunday during the last two weekends in September. Continuing with its dispersed site model for a fourth year, the Parade shows a variety of home-types and price points to prospect all across central Ohio.

Abby Van Voorhis is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com

Luxury Living

Steve Smith (614) 205-3394

6842 McDougal Ct. – Spacious two-story home situated on a quiet cul-de-sac in Dublin. Offering over 2,700 sq ft, this home features 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a

High School! KELLER WILLIAMS CONSULTANTS REALTY www.SteveSmithAssociates.com

Neil Mathias (614) 580-1662

Walk to Historic Dublin and Bridge Park from this charming 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath brick ranch on a spacious 0.43-acre lot. Enjoy original hardwood floors, an updated kitchen, open living spaces, a 3-car garage, and the privacy of a single-family home—just steps from dining, shopping, parks, and the Scioto River. Purchaser of home has the first opportunity to purchase adjacent lot. Home: $825,000. Lot: $600,000. CUTLER REAL ESTATE www.TheMathiasTeam.com • Free home estimate available

Alli Close (614) 726-9070

5500 Muirfield Ct. – Dream of living behind the gates in Muirfield? A beautifully remodeled home on nearly 2 acres. Hearth room w/custom beams and limestone fireplace. The 14’ granite island kitchen is stunning! Main level owner suite w/bathroom of sleek tile floors and custom closet. Walkout LL w/a wood bar, woodburning fireplace and 5th Bedroom. Outside is a composite deck w/metal railing for an uninterrupted view of the trees and course. CUTLER REAL ESTATE www.dublinhomes.com

Shelley Kilgore (614) 603-7942

4954 Thornhill Ln. - Sold for $951,500. This exceptional Dublin ranch offered nearly 3,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space with four bedrooms, three full bathrooms, two primary suites, a four-car garage, and a detached recreation room perfect for a studio, office, or gym. Set on a private one-acre lot with a saltwater pool, this one-of-a-kind property generated immediate buyer demand, going under contract on the first day and selling for $51,000 over the asking price. RE/MAX PARTNERS www.shelleykilgore.com

7679 Finbarr Ct. – Charming & spacious 3-bedroom,

Steve Smith (614) 205-3394

Mature landscaping provides privacy, creating a peaceful outdoor setting. With plenty of room to grow and an unbeatable location, this home is one you won’t want to miss! KELLER WILLIAMS CONSULTANTS REALTY www.SteveSmithAssociates.com

Shelley Kilgore (614) 603-7942

2520 Haverford Rd., Upper Arlington - Beautifully updated Upper Arlington home with over 3,000 square feet, 4 bedrooms, including a first-floor guest suite, and 3 remodeled bathrooms. The stunning new kitchen features Taj Mahal quartz countertops, complemented by refinished oak floors and three fireplaces. Situated on a third-acre lot with a two-car garage and partial unfinished basement, just one mile from Thompson Park.$999,900 RE/MAX PARTNERS www.shelleykilgore.com

top homes

SOLD IN DUBLIN

Home prices in Dublin increased by 1.5 percent in May 2026 compared to the previous year. Homes sold for a median price of $634,000 after an average of 39 days on the market, which is six days more than the previous year. In May 2026, 196 homes were sold in Dublin, 45 more than last year.

43016

6417 Albanese Cir. 4 beds, 4 baths

$1,273,500

Sold 5/14/26

7818 Silver Rose Ct. 4 beds, 3.5 baths

$980,000

Sold 6/9/26

9594 Baronscourt Lp. 4 beds, 3.5 baths

$925,000

Sold 5/15/26

6465 Tanseyclose Ln. 4 beds, 3.5 baths

$882,284

Sold 6/22/26

7402 Riverside Dr. 4 beds, 2 baths

$800,000

Sold 6/2/26

6477 Tanseyclose Ln. 4 beds, 2.5 baths

$790,000

Sold 5/22/26

43017

3273 Ravello Dr. 2 beds, 3.5 baths

$1,500,000

Sold 6/16/26

6146 Balmoral Dr. 5 beds, 3.5 baths

$950,000

Sold 5/11/26

6675 Dale Dr. 3 beds, 4 baths

$950,000

Sold 6/2/26

5314 Hawthornden Ct. 5 beds, 4 baths

$925,000

Sold 5/29/26

8458 Invergordon Ct. 4 beds, 3.5 baths

$915,000

Sold 5/29/26

4750 Vista Ridge Dr. 4 beds, 3.5 baths

$910,000

Sold 5/29/26

Data from Franklin County Auditor and Redfin

by Colleen D’Angelo

D’Angelo

Road Trip

The magic of a girls getaway

F

or many women, daily life means finding the balance of work, family, caregiving, schedules, relationships and responsibilities. A girls’ trip creates a space where you can step out of those roles for a few days and enjoy being yourself among people who know you well. I ventured out on a girls’ trip to Big Sky, Montana this year, and it completely recharged my batteries.

Our group traveled from Tennessee, Arizona and Ohio to convene at a friend’s home up in the mountains and support Big Sky Bravery. The nonprofit’s premier black-tie event is called Fight Night and features boxing matches amidst tuxedos and evening gowns.

We joined the event to raise money for post-deployment decompression programs for active-duty special operations forces, which succeeded in securing more than $2 million dollars in donations that night.

The rest of the weekend was full of wonderful mornings in our pajamas, sipping coffee, hiking the mountains, watching for bears and dancing in our best western attire.

I returned home feeling energized by the laughter, tears, silly situations and deep conversations – a sentiment many other local ladies can relate to.

Tia Gannon just returned from her annual girls’ cousin trip to her condo in Madeira Beach, Florida. Madeira is a laidback town with water activities such as jet skis and parasails, plus John’s Pass for shopping and dining.

“It’s the perfect place to focus on ourselves and our relationships with no one needing anything from us for an entire week,” says Gannon.

The cousins always make a big seafood dinner with fish from one of the local markets and settle down with reality TV shows or rom-coms. The ladies love sealing their bond with something alike, such as the tiny

heart tattoos they got one year or matching permanent jewelry bracelets and anklets.

“It’s truly the week we all look forward to every year!” she says.

Maria Cramer-Kirkpatrick met a group of moms in 2011 who belonged to the Facebook page, “Operation Get My Body Back.” She was finding her path back to pre-pregnancy shape after baby number two, who will be 16 this fall.

What began as a fitness support group with members from all over the U.S. and Canada, turned into a motherhood support group and eventually a subgroup called “Operation Mama Talk.” The eight women in this subgroup grew to know one another better and in 2014 decided to all meet up. They hail from all over the U.S. and Canada and have traveled to Chicago, San Diego, Miami, Denver, Phoenix, Virginia Beach and San Antonio so far.

“We have shared the highest highs, the lowest lows and everything in between,” says Cramer-Kirkpatrick. “Whether I saw these women two weeks ago or two years ago, when we get together it feels like no time has passed.”

Melissa Paull has a group of six sorority sisters who were at Ohio University together in the mid-’90s. They currently live in cities from Dublin to Austin and Atlanta, but make it a priority to get together every year. Over the last few years, they have been celebrating their 50th birthdays at Rosemary Beach as Paull has a home there.

“Being together recharges my soul,” she says. “They are my biggest cheerleaders and secret keepers all rolled into one.”

Barbara Nelson has a 20-year tradition of traveling with her Michigan elementary school friends. The oldest friendship goes back to pre-school days – 56 years ago, to be exact – and they are spread across the country from coast to coast.

“Our girls’ trips began as a way to celebrate our 40th birthdays and we started in Las Vegas,” says Nelson. “We had so much fun retelling old stories, sharing collective school day memories and celebrating our long friendships that we decided to make it an annual tradition.”

Recently, they decided to experience how each person lives as a grown up, so they started visiting the cities where they

all settled after college. Each friend hosts in her hometown and shows off her workplace, where she raised her children and the best sights and restaurants of her city.

“Soon it will be my turn to bring them all to Columbus and Dublin so I can share my favorite spots,” she says.

Stephanie Brand and her childhood friends have been traveling together since 1998. They are committed to celebrating their special bond with an annual girls’ trip to fun locations such as Gatlinburg, Savannah, St. Augustine, Boston and Newport, Rhode Island.

“We loved the Cliff Walk and mansions in Newport as well as the historical tours of houses and witch trials in Salem,” says Brand. “Even though we made new friends in college, at work and in our new cities, we all know there is nothing quite like a sandbox friend.”

Anne Hunnell’s tennis friends traveled to Fire Island, New York, for the first time together in 2016. Her teammate, Blythe Brown, has a beautiful family vacation home where she spent summers growing up, and she invites her Dublin gang to share it.

The community of Point O’ Woods is an idyllic spot with no motorized vehicles, where bicycles are the primary form of transportation. Riding the ferry to the island, as there is no bridge, and leaving the real world behind is always an amazing way to start the trip.

The clay tennis courts are at the center of the community and they have an annual tournament that pits the P.O.W. locals against Brown’s Columbus friends. Hunnell proudly reports that the Ohioans remain undefeated. Afterward, they celebtrate with a large, homemade meal.

“We enjoy eating out on the deck at the family table and bonding during the food preparation and cleanup stages as much as during the meal itself,” says Hunnell. “We also love fighting over who gets to use the outdoor shower.”

So, as you can see, a girls’ trip isn’t just a vacation – it’s often a reminder that friendship is one of the most valuable relationships we have. The destination may be beautiful, but years later, what people usually remember most is the laughter, the late-night talks and the feeling of being fully seen and understood by dear friends.

Colleen D’Angelo is a Dublin Life columnist and freelance writer who has lived in Dublin for 27 years. You can find her on the pickleball court, in the yoga studio or on an airplane to international destinations. Contact her at colleendangelo1@gmail.com

Get Noticed!

bookmarks

Recommendations by Rita Johnson, Customer Services Specialist at the Dublin Branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library

Mad Mabel by Sally

Hepworth

Fifteen-year-old Mad Mabel once gained worldwide attention after becoming a convicted murderer. Now in her 80s under a new name, Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick is living a quiet life – until police start poking around following the mysterious death of her neighbor and name her as a suspect. Mad Mabel is told through alternating timelines as Elsie decides to share her side of the story for the first time and set the record straight.

Truly: An Inspirational Journey Through the Life of a Musical Legend by

Lionel Richie

Lionel Richie’s long-awaited memoir, Truly, revisits stories and lessons from his childhood through his breakout as a world-class entertainer. From growing up in Alabama during the Civil Rights movement to the formation and success of The Commodores and his solo career, Richie shares a behind-the-scenes look at his journey to becoming a cultural icon.

The Table Where We Meet: Lessons Learned From Dinner With 1000 Strangers by Jess

Janz

With Strangers founder Jess Janz shares her experience creating a grassroots dinner series that encourages deeper conversations in this new book. With only one rule – no work talk at the dinner table – and a lot of curiosity, dinner guests form real connections in minutes. Janz reflects on and shares insights from hosting dinners across North America through unforgettable stories and essays, exploring what it means to belong, how to engage with others and the desire for human connection.

Dog Affirmations: An Illustrated Journey Through Your Dog’s Thoughts by Andrea Cáceres

With adorable illustrations and humor, Andrea Cáceres brings you into the mind of your furry best friend in Dog Affirmations. Cáceres draws on inspiration from her own pet as she highlights the heartwarming bond between humans and their canine companions. Dog Affirmations is a perfect gift for any dog lover.

Dublin Life Book Club Selection

Editor’s note: To be added to the Dublin Life Book Club mailing list or for more information, email kgill@cityscenemediagroup.com. The club will meet Wed., Aug. 18 at 6 p.m. Location TBD.

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

This historical fiction novel follows Count Alexander Rostov, a Russian aristocrat sentenced to house arrest inside Moscow’s luxurious Metropol Hotel in the aftermath of the Russian Revolution. As decades pass within the hotel’s walls, Rostov forms unexpected friendships and discovers a rich, meaningful life in the midst of extraordinary political and social change.