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From 24/7 emergency care to primary and specialty services, we’re committed to personalized, high-quality healthcare for you and your family. Whether it’s a checkup, second opinion, or advanced treatment, our teams are here to help you get better—and stay well.
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Real estate is a process—not a rush— and every market has opportunity when you start early and plan well.
For sellers, early preparation matters. Even if your move is months away, staging guidance and thoughtful prep done ahead of time can lead to a smoother, more successful sale.
For buyers, starting early helps clarify what truly fits—price, location, and condition—so when the right home comes along, you’re ready to move with confidence.
I’m here to guide you through the process—from the first conversation to closing day!
“Absolute best. There was no obstacle she wouldn’t work through for me. I couldn’t thank her enough.” J. Ferrell
A Message from Megan O’Callaghan, City Manager
Wellness has long been a priority for the City of Dublin, shaping how we serve our community. That focus is even more central today as we put new plans into action and invest in the long-term well-being of Dublin residents.
In 2025, we launched the Dublin Wellness Alliance, an initiative that brings together the City, community organizations and all four major regional health systems. Through this collaboration, we are advancing wellness programs, building innovative partnerships and expanding access to social, digital and mobility networks to foster a community where all residents can thrive physically, mentally and socially.
This year, the Alliance is launching “Dublin Families. Talk.
disconnected from services.
Looking ahead, we are planning for a premier athletic and recreation campus that connects community, drives economic development and delivers a uniquely Dublin experience. With world-class facilities and inclusive design, this campus will support residents and visitors of all ages and abilities. It will serve as both a cornerstone of community wellness and a source of local pride.
With a strong network of partners, expansive parks and recreation amenities, and a clear focus on resident needs, Dublin is increasingly recognized as a model for community-driven public health. Our success is built on collaboration and a shared commitment to creating a resilient, supportive and healthy environment for everyone who calls Dublin home.
Sincerely,
Megan O’Callaghan Dublin City Manager
THROUGH FEB. 27
Dublin Arts Council presents “In the Making” Dublin Arts Council 7125 Riverside Dr. www.dublinarts.org
SUN., FEB. 1
Warm Up Columbus
7:45 a.m.: Kids 1/4 Mile Race
8 a.m.: 5K, Half-Marathon and Half-Marathon Relays
8:03 a.m.: 10K, Marathon and Marathon Relays
Metro Fitness Dublin 655 Metro Pl. S. www.marathonerintraining.com
FRI.-SUN., FEB. 6-15
SIX: The Musical: Teen Edition presented by Abbey Theater of Dublin Fri. and Sat.: 7 p.m. Sun.: 2 p.m.
Abbey Theater
5600 Post Rd. www.dublinohiousa.gov
SAT., FEB. 7
Polar Bear Golf Open by the Dublin AM Rotary & Charitable Foundation
9 a.m. check-in, 10:30 a.m. shotgun start Safari Golf Club 4853 Powell Rd. www.polarbeargolfopen.org
SUN., FEB. 8
Galentine’s Party SUNDAY FUNDAY
10 a.m.-3 p.m.
The Exchange at Bridge Park 6520 Riverside Dr. www.facebook.com/madelocalevents
FRI., FEB. 13
No School - Dublin City Schools
Staff Professional Development Day www.dublinschools.net
MON., FEB. 16
No School - Dublin City Schools President’s Day www.dublinschools.net
FRI.-SUN., FEB. 20-22
SIX: The Musical: Teen Edition presented by Dublin Scioto High School Theatre
Fri. and Sat.: 7:30 p.m. Sun.: 2 p.m.
Dublin Scioto High School 4000 Hard Rd. www.scioto.dublinschools.net
TUES., FEB. 24
Davis/Scioto Orchestra Concert 6 p.m.
Dublin Scioto High School 4000 Hard Rd. www.scioto.dublinschools.net
FRI., FEB. 27
Dublin Education Foundation Elevate Education Fundraiser
6:30-10:30 p.m.
The Exchange at Bridge Park 6520 Riverside Dr. www.dublineducationfoundation.com
Sponsored by
For more events, visit dublinlifemagazine.com
WED., MARCH 4
Ohio Music Education Association
Preview Concert
7 p.m.
Dublin Scioto High School 4000 Hard Rd. www.scioto.dublinschools.net
THURS., MARCH 5
Celebration of Excellence
7-9:30 p.m.
Dublin Jerome High School 8300 Hyland Croy Rd. www.jerome.dublinschools.net
THURS., MARCH 5
State of the City of Dublin
6-7 p.m.: Community reception & engagement stations
7-8:30 p.m.: State of the City presentation followed by desserts
The Exchange at Bridge Park 6520 Riverside Dr. www.dublinohiousa.gov
FRI.-SUN., MARCH 6-8
Olympus: The Greek Rock Musical presented by Abbey Theater of Dublin Fri.: 7 p.m.
Sat. and Sun.: 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Abbey Theater 5600 Post Rd. www.dublinohiousa.gov
SAT., MARCH 7
10th Annual DWPC Gala Fundraiser: Casino Royale 6 p.m.
The Country Club at Muirfield Village 8715 Muirfield Dr. www.dublinwomensclub.org
SUN., MARCH 8
2026 Second Sunday Speaker Series: Tracing the History of Medicine in Dublin, Ohio presented by Dublin Historical Society
3-4:30 p.m.
Columbus Metropolitan Library Dublin Branch
75 N. High St. www.dublinohiohistory.org
SAT., MARCH 14
City of Dublin St. Patrick’s Day Parade www.dublinohiousa.gov
Pancake Breakfast
7:30-11 a.m.
Sells Middle School
150 W. Bridge St.
Parade
11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Metro Center, Historic Dublin
1 W. Bridge St.
SAT., MARCH 14
St. Paddy’s Pub Crawl
Historic Dublin and Bridge Park www.visitdublinohio.com
WED., MARCH 18
Jazz Band and Percussion Ensemble Concert
7 p.m.
Dublin Scioto High School 4000 Hard Rd. www.scioto.dublinschools.net
FRI., MARCH 20
Theatre III Cabaret
7 p.m.
Dublin Scioto High School 4000 Hard Rd. www.scioto.dublinschools.net
FRI.-SUN., MARCH 20-22
The SpongeBob Musical: Theater for Young Audiences Edition presented by Abbey Theater of Dublin Fri. and Sat.: 7 p.m. Sun.: 2 p.m.
Abbey Theater 5600 Post Rd. www.dublinohiousa.gov
MON.-FRI., MARCH 30-APRIL 3
No School - Dublin City Schools Spring Break www.dublinschools.net
Keep an eye out for upcoming performances from the Abbey Theater of Dublin
APRIL 9-19
The Pub’s Got No Beer MAY 29-31 AND JUNE 5-7 1776
Think of it like a tune-up for
Whether you’re living with anxiety, struggling with ADHD, or simply looking to improve your sleep, you can now experience sustaining relief with innovative technology that gently stimulates the brain’s natural ability to heal and regulate itself. Microcurrent Neurofeedback (MCN) is a safe, drug-free therapy that uses low-frequency electrical signals to reset the neural pathways and restore balance.
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by Robyn Gray
The City of Dublin has a clear vision: to become the Most Sustainable, Connected and Resilient Global City of Choice. This motto is far more than a helpful framework.
Those three key words shape decisions, anchor values and steer the community through both challenges and opportunities. Many refer to them as “our north star,” ensuring that the City’s work always aligns with its commitment to Dublin’s residents.
As spring approaches, a season when health naturally comes into focus, it’s a great time to reflect on two guiding principles: resiliency and connection. After all, being healthy isn’t just about numbers or measurements.
True wellness is about feeling supported, understood and connected – in our bodies, hearts and minds. It’s about knowing you’re part of a community that lifts you up. It’s this belief that inspires the work the City does every day in Dublin, turning its
commitment to well-being into meaningful action for its neighbors.
“Physical and mental health are deeply connected and influence nearly every as-
pect of well-being. They shape your quality of life, how you handle stress, your risk of disease and your longevity. Taking care of one directly benefits the other,” says Recreation Services Administrator Mollie Steiner. “This is reflected in our 150-plus miles of shared use paths, our 60-plus city parks, the Dublin Community Recreation Center, countless volunteer opportunities through our Outreach & Engagement division and our partnership with Syntero for mental health services.”
Supporting mental health in Dublin isn’t just about programs or partnerships – it’s about the real people behind every story. The simple check-in, a neighbor’s encouragement or a city initiative can make all the difference for someone who’s struggling.
Guided by that commitment to community connection, the City’s Outreach & Engagement team works to ensure that every resident feels supported and valued.
“Reaching out literally triggers a positive reaction in your brain,” says Outreach & Engagement Director Christine Nardecchia. “Some people call it a ‘helper’s high.’ Science has also proven that strong social circles and support are linked to better physical health.
No matter how you slice it, it’s great for you to reach out and be connected!”
And in Dublin, the City doesn’t just hope its residents discover connection or wish for them to build resiliency. It creates opportunities to make it possible.
One powerful example is the Dublin Wellness Alliance (DWA). Launched less than a year ago, this community-driven initiative is focused on strengthening the overall health and well-being of residents.
What sparked this? In 2024, the City put forth a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), knowing that real change required real insight. There could be no solution without identification. If the City was going to champion its residents, it needed to know about the gaps.
While the assessment confirmed something the team had already suspected, that Dublin residents are healthier than state and national averages, it also highlighted meaningful opportunities for growth.
According to the results, 75 percent of adults in Dublin said they don’t feel very connected to their neighbors; half of them reported a poor mental health day in the past month. Others shared concerns around access to food and healthcare. These findings made it clear: the City had an opportunity to strengthen how it shows up for the community.
“Humans need social connection for emotional support, to enhance happiness and to contribute to overall well-being,” Steiner points out. “Strong social ties also offer a sense of belonging and purpose, so we are focused on finding ways to help our residents gain connections within our own community.”
In early 2025, the City formally adopted the CHNA Strategic Action Plan, identifying four key priorities: improving healthcare access, enhancing transportation options, supporting youth behavioral health and strengthening community connections. The City transformed those insights into action by launching the DWA.
Joining City leaders and residents in this Alliance are outstanding community partners such as the Franklin County Public Health Department, Dublin City Schools, Syntero, the Dublin Food Pantry and all of central Ohio’s major healthcare systems.
With that strong team established, it was time to get the ball rolling. Cue the creation of Dublin Good Neighbor Week. This signature initiative of the DWA aimed to encourage residents to reach out to their neighbors and give back through acts of kindness.
Over the course of 10 days, the City asked residents to do three things: nominate a neighbor who goes the extra mile, pick up a Community Connections Challenge card to complete acts of kindness and
donate personal care items to the Dublin Food Pantry and One Dublin.
So how did it go?
Mission accomplished! And beyond the numbers were the stories of great Dublin neighbors.
“There were so many nominations about neighbors who do things without folks asking or never minding the proverbial cup of sugar at 7 a.m., or clearing neighbors’ driveways,” says Nardecchia.
Jill Bertsch shared a wonderful nomination about her neighbors, Ed and Kelli Joyce.
“They never hesitate to check on a door, look for packages delivered or share their delicious garden crops. They are always looking out for us. We are blessed to have them as trusted neighbors,” Bertsch says.
Another nomination from Emily Costanzo highlighted a triple-dose of neighborly goodness.
“Tom and Char and our other neighbor Patty... As a family of five with no relatives nearby, we consider them our grandparents across the street. They’ve helped us in countless ways… More than once, they’ve dropped everything to come to our rescue. Beyond their generosity, we treasure the simple moments too, sharing a beer on the patio and listening to stories from when they were our age,” she says.
Neighbors helping neighbors. Connections that begin through simple proximity and blossom into true friendships. These are the relationships that turn a place where you live into a place where you belong; that turn a neighborhood into a community.
As we look ahead, the City of Dublin and the DWA remain steadfast in their mission to foster a healthier, more connected community.
“Plans for 2026 include the launch of a parent-focused prevention campaign aimed at youth substance misuse and mental health, healthcare navigation resources, expanding awareness of the Dublin Connector services and continuing to promote and offer opportunities for community engagement and connection,” says Steiner. “It is vital that we focus on the health and well-being of our residents to support the extraordinary people who live here.”
Every act of kindness, every moment of connection, is a step toward a brighter future for Dublin – a future where wellbeing isn’t just something to strive for; it’s the place where people’s hearts find a home. And isn’t that what life is all about?
Robyn Gray is a Senior Public Information Officer at the City of Dublin.
The City of Dublin welcomes new Council members Greg Lam, M.D., from Ward 3, and Wendy Johnson from Ward 2. They join returning members Mayor Chris
Together, this energized team is ready to advance bold goals in community connection, revitalization, recreation and innovation – keeping Dublin moving forward.
by Jane Dimel
Local couple foregrounds education and helping the community
Over the years, both Larry and Shirley have been and continue to be involved in countless organizations as members and board leaders.
For Larry, this includes: membership at the Consumer Bankers Association and board positions at the Ohio Supreme Court of Governors on Grievance and Discipline and the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Committee (MORPC)
For Shirley, this includes: St. John AME Chair of Health and Wellness, Exercise, as well as the Eat to Live Ministry co-chair
For more than four decades, Shirley and Larry Seward have made their mark on the Dublin community in more ways than one.
With service-driven roles and involvement in boards across art, exercise and education, as well as numerous initiatives uplifting people of color and multicultural history, the couple has led their lives with compassion and care for those around them.
Their lives converged at Tufts University in Boston, where Cleveland native Larry and Brooklyn-born Shirley met, fell in love and got married in 1973.
Following graduation, they started their careers in Boston and stayed there for about a decade. There, sociology graduate Shirley began working in retail, and political science and government and urban planning graduate Larry continued with the Department of Defense after interning there in college. Larry then transitioned into a role for the Small Business Administration, ultimately leading to a new job opportunity in Columbus. This drove them to find a new home nearby and led to their Dublin move, where their family grew and blossomed.
Throughout their careers, the couple continued to pivot, with Larry moving from business development to banking to law, and Shirley working as a computer instructor and course developer before becoming a stay-at-home mom for their two kids, Tara and Scott.
With both kids now grown, they continue to stay active, both taking on post-retirement jobs.
For Larry, this includes working as the Outreach and Constituents Director for Congresswoman Joyce Beatty, a role he has held since 2017. In this role, Larry oversees district activities with the Congresswoman and her committees, as well as acting as a liaison across financial and insurance institutions, housing and non-profit agencies, veteran service and military installations.
Shirley has worked as a navigator for OhioKAN for the past three years – an organization where she connects with adoptive and kinship families. Drawing from her sociology background and love of listening to people, she helps curate a tailored
list of resources, from caregiving options to financial assistance.
“It’s a process, but I find the families are just so happy to have someone who listens, because they’re frustrated with the system,” Shirley says. “So, when we answer the phone, and we’re engaging, they relax, and I think the walls come down, and they’re able to see that someone really cares about them. That’s a very, very satisfying (feeling).”
Alongside their work, they have both been involved in various organizations and nonprofits, fostering their passion for working with older adults. This can be seen through Larry’s work on the board of LifeCare Alliance and Shirley’s volunteer efforts with its Meals-on-Wheels and VoiceCorps programs. They have also done work as parts of the board for the King Arts Complex.
They also continue to work closely with initiatives through their church, St. John AME, and on conservation efforts at Lucy Depp Park.
“We just believe our volunteer work is to help and keep that history alive. And it’s not just Black history, (which) is clearly important to us. We’ve been passionate
about volunteering and working in the community,” Larry says.
Through their involvement across various boards and fields, education and helping children have remained at the forefront of their mission.
Becoming a stay-at-home mom in the early 1990s, Shirley started working in the classroom with the PTO to stay involved in their kids’ education. Through her involvement, she helped highlight diversity by reading books and scheduling events to help teach the children about historical events and multicultural holidays such as Kwanzaa.
“I just tried very hard to enlighten everyone. It wasn’t just for my children, it was for all the children, and I could really see their smiles when I would read certain books to them, because they see different pictures, and some look like them. That was very satisfying for myself and also for the children, so I just made a habit of being as involved as a parent as possible,” Shirley says.
Over time, she also became involved with the Dublin Education Foundation, where her work primarily focused on providing teaching
“There’s a lot of history, a lot of passion for us to stay involved. Stay involved with Lucy Depp, teach these kids that history.”
grants. She also joined groups such as the district’s Diversity Task Force and Dublin Parents of Black Students to continue her work on encouraging multicultural education.
Now, Shirley continues her involvement through the PTO for her grandchildren alongside her daughter, Tara, from a more distant role by attending special events and providing feedback on the curriculum.
Shirley also enjoys teaching exercise and wellness as a fitness instructor. For more than 18 years, she has taught group fitness classes such as Zumba at Carriage Place Recreation Center and St. John AME.
Over the years, she has also taught fitness at the schools, Cardinal Health and more.
While Shirley has been involved with fitness and the schools, Larry has been involved with education from a different angle – first as a founding board member of the organization See Kids Dream, which provides service-learning curriculum to support schools across central Ohio.
In 2011, Larry and Shirley founded their own service-learning and mentorship program, Boys to Men, Girls to Women, which allows students to learn accountability and career readiness skills through
work on a community garden initiative at Lucy Depp Park and interaction with industry professionals across the medical, law, police and fire industries.
Their involvement keeps them very busy, as they run the mentorship program alongside work, volunteering and supporting their grandchildren in sports and extracurriculars.
Watching their grandchildren grow into high school and college, they are reminded of the projects their children have been involved with and continue to see importance in teaching the next generations about giving back to the community.
“That’s our focus long term, showing our grandchildren that not only can you volunteer, but you have to do it, make it a lifetime commitment,” Larry says.
This is a mindset they have brought with them in the mentoring program, emphasizing that all the kids stay involved in the community through work or volunteering. “It’s better to give than receive, and there is a certain pleasure you get from helping others. We try to be those types of folks,” Shirley says.
“And we pass it on to the kids,” Larry adds.
Jane Dimel is an assistant editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at jdimel@cityscenemediagroup.com.
Though Larry thought all his family came from North Carolina, a search into the document archives of the Lucy Depp settlement showed a certified witness on Lucy Depp’s death certificate with the last name Seward from 1928, showing a family connection right here in Dublin.
“We researched it quickly to find out that there was a Seward plantation next to the Depp plantation, so the families came up together,” Larry says. “There’s some history we never knew.”
When they’re not working or attending community events, Shirley and Larry stay active through a variety of hobbies.
Physical activity is certainly on the list. While fishing and golf are Larry’s favorite pastimes, dancing is Shirley’s go-to.
The two also enjoy music, often visiting venues such as Natalie’s Music Hall and Kitchen for concerts.
Family time is also very important. They spend time supporting their four grandchildren – Darian, Dominic, Braedyn and Tatum – at sports and extracurriculars, and celebrating Buckeye games, holidays and more with their family.
by Korrigan Craddock
Dublin City Schools provide educational training to promote student mental
Discussions around the importance of youth mental health have been on the rise in recent years.
According to the World Health Organization, one in seven adolescents experience a mental health condition, many of which are largely unrecognized and untreated.
“We have seen an increase in mental health issues among our youth, and it’s not just Dublin. It’s across the state, across the country and across the world,” says Tyler Wolfe, director of student wellness at Dublin City Schools. “We know that
students, many times, cannot access learning if mental health issues are present in their lives.”
Recently, the district partnered with The Ohio State University to establish a program that allows staff members to earn a master’s degree in social work. The goal of this program was to combat the overwhelming need for mental health support in schools in order to help students navigate school and life. This partnership nearly doubled the number of mental health specialists in the district.
Around three years ago when awarded COVID-19 relief funds, Dublin City Schools chose to invest it into mental health resources throughout the district in order to create a longterm support system
Partnering with OSU, the district covered the costs for 25 staff members to earn a master’s in social work, with the emphasis in school social work. The goal was to create an innovated solution to address the mental health workforce shortage.
The goal of the partnership was to create an educator to social work pathway as a “grow-your-own” program, meaning they chose staff working in the district already to earn the degree, then those who completed the program would be employed by the district as mental health specialists.
“We thought it would be a great opportunity to have people hired into these mental health specialist positions who have experience in Dublin City Schools, who
knew the parents, knew the kids and knew how our district operated,” says Wolfe.
The district held an information session to outline the program, which more than 100 people attended.
In the end, 42 people applied and went through a rigorous vetting process. That pool was narrowed down to 25 participants, including staff members from a variety of subject areas including art, science, math and some school psychologists as well.
Along with the recent partnership with OSU, Dublin City Schools has several other partnerships and programs throughout the district to help support student mental health and overall wellness.
“We want to do our very best to support all students in Dublin and especially students who are having mental health issues that are preventing them from accessing learning. We want to make sure that we’re doing everything possible because we know that kids don’t leave mental health issues at home,” says Wolfe.
Syntero – This partnership provides prevention-based mental health services in the schools. There are six Syntero clinicians that work directly in the schools to provide additional support.
OhioHealth – OhioHealth provides the district with a mental health specialist at one of the middle schools along with providing services for the athletic departments across the district such as athletic trainers.
Nationwide Children’s Hospital – The district works with Nationwide Children’s on suicide prevention and mental health education programs such as the Signs of Suicide (SOS) program, implemented in the middle and high schools.
Hope Squad – All the middle and high schools have a Hope Squad, a nationally recognized peer to peer suicide prevention program. Students are nominated by peers to help bridge the gap between students in crisis and counseling resources. The district has more than 200 Hope Squad members with 30 adult advisors.
ROX (Ruling Our eXperiences) – ROX is Coumbus-based non-profit organization specifically for girls, focusing on helping girls navigate self-defense, self-confidence, self-esteem and bullying. The district has about 30 ROX trainers, who are female staff members.
Ohio State – Another partnership with Ohio State is LiFEsports, a summer camp that provides food and programming for students who may not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in organized sports. The camp offered through Dublin City Schools is hosted on school grounds.
The district called the program the Cadre, which is a small group of people trained for a specific purpose or profession.
“We had a wide variety of people with varied backgrounds, which I feel adds to the diversity and the quality of our team,” says Wolfe.
The program took two years to complete. During the first year, the team continued working full time and attending evening classes in Dublin. In the second year, they completed internships throughout the district.
The group graduated in May of 2025 and have been placed throughout the schools as mental health specialists since the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year.
Each school in the district has at least one mental health specialist, with larger buildings having multiple.
Brenda Applegate, a newly appointed mental health specialist at Dublin Jerome High School, has been with Dublin City Schools for the past 20 years. She applied for the program after noticing the growing youth mental health crisis following the pandemic.
While the program expanded mental health support for students, it also created a built-in support system with staff to better help each other.
“In a district this large, it’s easy to work in isolation and not know others in your discipline. Building this connection makes it simple to reach out for support, resources and ideas. I no longer feel alone in my role. I have a community of Cadre members I can contact at any time,” says Applegate.
She has already seen the benefits daily throughout the school and in the classroom for both students and staff.
“Students receive assistance for emotional, behavioral and crisis needs that can reduce classroom disruptions and improve attendance and readiness to learn,” says Applegate. “Staff benefit from consultative support, resources and strategies for managing student mental health concerns, which can lower burnout and improve classroom climate.”
The impact of additional mental health specialists in the schools continues to grow in meaningful and preventive ways.
“Having a mental health professional in each building enables early identification and intervention, preventing problems from escalating and reducing the need for intensive services later,” says Applegate.
Korrigan Craddock is
Stephanie B., Tennis Instructor and Orthopedic ONE Patient Watch her story here
After multiple injuries and surgeries -- to her hips, shoulder and spine -Stephanie is stronger than ever. She continues to pursue her passion for teaching and inspiring young athletes on and off the tennis court. She credits her physicians at Orthopedic ONE for sharing faith in her determination to recover and return to the game she loves.
RANKED #1 IN OHIO, AND #3 IN THE NATION FOR ORTHOPEDICS!
In a modern world encompassed by constantly-evolving technology, the City of Dublin and the Dublin Police Department are redefining the practice of public safety. Their most recent initiative, the Drones as First Responders program, has allowed progress in the field to truly takeoff.
As the largest Drones as First Responders (DFR) initiative in central Ohio – with four drones, four docking stations, 21 operators and 24/7-365 operation –Dublin’s program is not just protecting its own citizens, but setting the stage for a broader utilization of innovation in the public safety sector.
The DFR program, established last year, stemmed from the success of the police department’s Drone Unit, which was introduced in 2020 as part of an initiative from the Dublin City Council to implement more technology in day-to-day police operations.
The five-drone unit completed thousands of missions supporting missing person searches, event security, crime scenes, traffic planning and more – but there were a few challenges.
“The technology was very new and really wasn’t up to par yet with what we knew we wanted to do in the long-term,” says Sergeant Andrew Clark, Drone Unit leader at the Dublin Police Department. “We wanted to wait for the technology to evolve and be really ready to
Additionally, under then-Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) law, the drones had to be transported to the scene via a cruiser and unpacked, deployed and operated manually by the responding officer – leading to a delay in between the time the drone was needed and when it actually
But, in 2024, new FAA authorizations allowing beyond-visual-line-of-sight flights and streamlined waiver approvals changed
“Now, it’s all flown through LTE cellular connection, we don’t have to have the remote controller in our hands. So, there’s no delay,” says Clark. “All we have to do is hop on the computer, open the dock, launch the drone, and it flies directly to the location we input.”
The DFR drones are docked at four different locations across the city – City Hall, Dublin Scioto High School, Dublin Grizzell Middle School and Washington Township Fire Department Administration Building. When a 911 call comes in that may benefit from a drone, an operator at one of the stations is notified, and a drone is launched to the appropriate coordinates.
“(The drones) can respond in about 90 seconds to anywhere in the city,” Clark says. “They have about a 3-mile range, they can go anywhere within that.”
Without traffic limitations, the drone is oftentimes the first to arrive at the scene, and when put into orbit mode, can establish and monitor a visual perimeter until officers arrive. Once officers reach the scene, they can take manual control of the drone. After the scene has been cleared, the drone returns home to its dock to recharge, which takes about 20 minutes.
“Priority calls are our focus, mainly anything that is not contained within a building. So, missing persons, fleeing suspects, suspicious persons or vehicles and (camera) hits of active crime,” says Clark.
The drones have also helped locate exact traffic accident coordinates, as well as support mutual aid requests from the fire department – such as assisting with water rescues, or providing overhead thermal monitoring during active fires.
One recent instance in which a drone proved extremely useful was in the case of an individual who had driven off road into a heavily-wooded area while suffering a mental health crisis.
According to Clark, officers could not locate the car on foot due to the area being heavily brushed, but were able to quickly locate the vehicle overhead using a drone.
Before drones take to the sky, Dublin police officers undergo thorough training to ensure every flight is safe, efficient and compliant. According to Clark, all drone operators are licensed through the FAA and must also undergo two in-house training segments, with an optional, more advanced third segment.
Additionally, in the name of accountability and transparency, policy does not allow for drones to be used for the unauthorized surveillance of citizens.
“A drone is only going to be issued in response to a priority call,” says Clark.
Alongside the DFR program, Dublin Police are also testing autonomous safety robots. Nicknamed DubBot and Bridge Walker by residents, DubBot patrols Rock Cress Parking Garage while Bridge Walker will soon patrol Riverside Crossing Park, providing 24/7 visual support in high-traffic spaces and two-way communication with officers or 911 in the case of an emergency.
“It’s another resource that’s bringing an additional layer to the public safety space,” says Clark. “If we’ve got something ongoing, we can get eyes in there ahead of time, and… potentially have additional video evidence.”
From there, officers were guided into place around the vehicle to verbally engage with the individual, getting them to safely exit the car and get the help they needed – successfully deescalating an otherwise tense situation.
“I think that’s just a great example of how (the drones) are used not only for efficiency, but officer safety and public safety,” says Clark.
In the short time since the Drone Unit and DFR program have been established, Clark says the investment has already delivered measurable benefits – improving resident and officer safety by increasing situational awareness, accelerating response time and offering more concise information during emergencies and investigations.
“Being able to take this (technology) and make what we do on a daily basis safer and more efficient is the biggest advantage,” says Clark.
Additionally, streamlining daily operations frees up officers to focus on other, high-priority tasks – showing that, while implementing innovative technology may never replace traditional policing, it certainly strengthens it.
Looking forward, Clark believes the program and others that are similar have the potential to expand and even influence a national trend. In fact, Ohio is currently pioneering the country’s first statewide DFR program, with rollouts expected this summer.
“Since we launched the program, we’ve flown over 240 missions in five months. So, I think the need for it and the benefit is absolutely there,” Clark says. “As time goes on, we’ll continue to see those benefits get greater and greater.”
Ella Jay is an assistant editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at ejay@cityscenemediagroup.com.
Nominate Columbus’ best arts, entertainment, food and events for CityScene Magazine’s annual Best of the ‘Bus! Nominate your favorites February 2-20
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade combines tradition with history
By Megan Brokamp
Since 1981, Dublin’s Greenest, Grandest Parade has transformed the streets into a sea of inflatable top hats, dancing leprechauns and festive energy. For more than four decades, it has grown into a cherished tradition, not just for spectators, but for the performers who bring it to life. Beyond the fun and fanfare, the parade stands as a celebration of community, heritage and shared tradition that unites the city each year.
Although the parade starts at 11 a.m. for spectators, for performers and parade organizers, preparation starts far earlier. Katie Humphreys walks in the parade with the 6th
Ohio Mounted Buglers and Renegade Drill Team. Prior to the big day, Humphreys and her team must ensure horses are clean, equipment is tuned and costumes are ready.
Additionally, they must make sure the horses are prepared for the rowdy parade environment. To do so, the team starts new horses with smaller parades beforehand with less overwhelming environments. They also place new horses with experienced riders and in between veteran horses.
City of Dublin Event Administrator Trish Lackey is the event lead for the parade, and her team also begins preparation months in advance. From spectator safety to the parade lineup, Lackey’s team develops strategies for whatever the weather or other unforeseen circumstances may throw their way.
Dublin’s parade is famous for its balloons, but these attractions require months of strategy before they hit the streets.
“We have (to ask), ‘How much helium do we need? What’s the weather? What’s the threshold of the balloons?’” Lackey says.
On the day of the parade, organizers and performers are up hours before the 11 a.m. kickoff. Humphreys and her crew are up around 6 a.m. getting trailers hooked up, making sure the horses are clean and heading toward the route.
For Humphreys, the long day is balanced by the moments along the route, where families take in the sight of mounted horses passing by.
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“It gives them something to look up to,” Humphreys says. “Some of these families have probably never had the opportunity to get that close to a horse, and they’re majestic creatures.”
The route spans 1.5 miles, starting at Metro Center and continuing through Historic Dublin. More than 100 bands, dancers and floats make up the parade, including local marching bands, Irish dancers, community floats, bagpipers and more.
Many of these organizations have participated in the parade, passing floats down through generations.
“It’s a family tradition,” Lackey says. “It’s really important to the community, especially multi-generational Dublin residents.”
The 2026 Grand Leprechaun is longtime Dublin resident Joe Fox. He worked in Dublin for more than 25 years as a chemist in research and development for Ashland Chemical and has spent 17 with the Miracle League of Central Ohio.
This year’s parade will take place March 14, running 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. For those looking to fuel up before the festivities, Sells Middle School offers an all-you-caneat St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast starting at 7 a.m. Spectators can keep the festivities going after the parade at the Downtown Dublin St. Paddy’s Day Pub Crawl.
Whether spectators come for the history, the music or the festivities that follow, the city’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities are open to everyone.
“Even if you don’t have a background of Irish heritage, everyone has a little Irish in their hearts on St Patrick’s Day,” Lackey says.
Megan Brokamp is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mbrokamp@cityscenemediagroup.com.
by Ali Hartzell
Dublin Police Officer Scott Brown was a school resource officer in Marion when he initially noticed the link between hunger and classroom performance in children and teens and wanted to do something about it. Upon arriving at Dublin Scioto High School, he started work on a nonprofit called Food for Thought to help combat this issue.
Brown previously held roles in law enforcement dealing with hostage negotiations, drug interdiction and traffic violations, and was deployed with the military in 2004. These intense experiences prompted a change in Brown’s career goals. He wanted to spend more time with his family and to give back to the community.
After more than a decade in Marion, Brown came to Dublin. Four years ago, he obtained the role as Scioto’s School Resource Officer, and started taking steps towards Food for Thought.
As a school resource officer, Brown had the opportunity to work with Ashley Kanney, the founder of Feed the Kids Columbus, an organization dedicated to providing food to elementary-aged children. Brown saw the need in high and middle schools as well, particularly at Scioto.
With students approaching Brown and other high school faculty with requests for snacks and food, even if they had eaten lunch that day, there was a noticeable pattern between academic performance and hunger in the high school students.
With this in mind, Brown went onto the state’s website to register his new nonprofit, Food for Thought.
The project jumped off the ground with large donations from the Dublin Education Foundation and Feed the Kids Columbus. Stocked with bags of food, Brown had the beginnings of an impactful program, but didn’t know where to start, or how to access the food-insecure population at the school without overstepping.
He initially placed food bags out for anyone to take, but realized that many of them remained at the end of each day. To break the stigma, Brown enlisted several students to take bags in front of other students to show that taking a bag wasn’t something to be ashamed of.
Now in its fourth year, Food for Thought has helped many students facing food insecurity, but has also built a connection between high school staff and students, and given them the opportunity to care for one another with a common purpose. As a school resource officer, Brown prioritizes connecting with students and their families. Through Food for Thought, this bond has been strengthened.
“I got the love of my job back (by) getting into something different and seeing the positive impact we can truly have on people,” he says.
On top of being a school resource officer and running Food for Thought, Brown is also working toward earning his master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Liberty University.
Brown also made the food bags smaller so that students could fit them into their backpacks for easy transportation.
Over time, he has learned what works for encouraging the students to take the bags. For example, instead of placing the bags out for a limited time, he found that having them out for an entire week yields better results.
Brown has perfected the process and now lines the food bags up in accessible areas around the school, such as the cafeteria and in the student resource room. If a school counselor is aware of a student in need, they can get bags on behalf of the student.
In cases where emergency assistance is necessary, such as after a house fire or a flood, Brown loads bags of food in his police cruiser to deliver the bags to the student’s home.
Student organizations, such as the National Honors Society and sports teams, volunteer to organize food items and pack them into bags. Teachers have noticed more energy and better performances in the classroom, and students with health needs have also benefited from the snacks Food for Thought provides.
Some students have mentioned that their families love the food items from the bags, feedback that Brown finds very helpful for the packaging of each bag. Through this program, food is reaching not just students, but their family members as well.
“You fill that gap in the community that people don’t always notice is there,” he says.
Food for Thought’s success has brought forth many goals for Brown. He hopes to connect with more schools in the Dublin area, and to work with food pantries such as the Dublin Food Pantry.
Recently, Brown was awarded the 2025 Community Service Award by the Ohio Attorney General for his dedication to promoting bonds between the police and the community through Food for Thought.
To make it easier to accept financial donations, he is working towards registering Food for Thought as a 501(c)(3) organization. This past Thanksgiving, Food for Thought handed out more than 100 bags of food. Through partnerships and support from Penske Truck Rentals, the Dublin Charity Cup and more local organizations, the program is continuing to change and adapt to meet student needs.
Ali Hartzell is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com
by Raygan Barrett
Arts Council
For the past 23 years, the work of artists, grades K-12, has filled the galleries of Dublin Arts Council in a special exhibition titled “Emerging.” This year, the vibrant exhibition is back under a new name: “In the Making ” The exhibition will be on view through Feb. 27 in the Dublin Arts Council galleries.
Why student art exhibitions matter
Student exhibitions are more than a chance to hang artwork on a gallery wall. They give students the opportunity to explore what makes their voice unique while discovering creative connections. Preparing their artwork for exhibition encourages critical thinking, problem-solving and storytelling.
Each January, Dublin Arts Council invites students and their families to an
This year’s award winners will be selected by Dublin Arts Council Curator of Exhibitions Nick Stull, alongside two guest professional artists. A designer and practicing artist, Stull brings extensive experience in exhibition design and curation to the jurying process, helping to shape the “In the Making” exhibition.
Student Artist Awards include:
• Best of Show: grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8 and 9-12
• Best Use of Medium: grades 9-12
• Best Technical Skill: grades 9-12
• Storytelling Through Art Award: all grades eligible
• Honorable Mentions: up to three per age group
All award winners receive gift cards from Blick Art Materials.
Quinn Summers stands with his welded sculpture, “Embers,” 2025.
opening reception for the exhibition. It’s a wonderful opportunity for students to be present to share their artwork with their families, peers and community.
Artists in the making
The student exhibition features an inspiring range of work, from crayon drawings to paintings to ceramics and metal sculptures.
Eighth grader Quinn Summers first submitted artwork in 2023, when he welded a stainless-steel sculpture titled “Swan.” He learned how to weld from his neighbor, a welder himself, who taught Summers in his home studio. “Swan” won Best in Show for grades 3-5 that year.
Saanvi Basireddy stands in front of her oil pastel pieces, “Whispering Waters” and “Yellow Grass Symphony,” with her 2024 certificate of participation.
“It was a cool opportunity to show off a cool thing I made,” Summers says. He returned to the exhibition in 2025 with “Embers”, a vase created using more advanced techniques he learned during welding classes he took at the Cultural Arts Center, earning an honorable mention.
Many students submit year after year, showing off their growing skills and passions. One such student, Saanvi Basireddy, is an eighth grader from Dublin whose oil pastel artworks and paintings have become an eagerly anticipated presence in the exhibition.
“I submitted my artwork so I could celebrate each paint stroke and the diligence behind every one of my artworks with the
By supporting “In the Making,” it becomes an investment in creativity, confidence and lifelong learning. Your involvement helps young artists develop both artistic and practical skills while strengthening a culture of support within our community.
Ways to get involved:
• Purchase artwork from the exhibition (all proceeds go directly to the artist)
• Make a contribution to the Dublin Arts Council to support student exhibitions and educational programming.
At Dublin Arts Council, our mission is to engage the community, cultivate creativity and foster lifelong learning through the arts. Visit us at 7125 Riverside Dr.
Gallery hours are Tues.–Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on the second Saturday of each month.
For more information visit dublinarts.org
Dublin Arts Council Gallery Upcoming Exhibitions
March 14-April 30
Weiting Wei
May 9-June 30
Diana Whitmer Frankco
July 11-Aug. 28
Kiln Room Dublin Group Exhibition
Dublin community,” Basireddy says. “I love painting because the canvas masterfully captures powerful moments better than any memory or snapshot could!”
When students engage with the wider community, something powerful can hap pen. “In the Making” connects students with professional artists and educators through workshops designed especially for participating artists.
For some students, the experience can be transformative – sparking mentorships, opening doors to new opportunities or even leading to the first sale of an artwork.
“It’s important to help students share their work with the community,” says Kayanaat Chaudhry, Dublin Arts Council administrative and community relations coordinator. “It builds confidence and helps them form meaningful relationships with peers and arts professionals alike.”
Raygan Barrett is the Director of Design & Marketing at Dublin Arts Council.
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by Cassie Dietrich
I
f you’ve ever watched a school board meeting, you’ve probably seen the same scene: community members seated behind nameplates, stacks of paperwork, a formal agenda, a few public comments and a series of votes. It can feel procedural – almost routine.
But in Ohio, a school board is not a ceremonial committee or rubber stamp. A Board of Education is the governing body of a public school district. Its decisions shape the quality, direction and stability of current local education and for years to come.
January is recognized as School Board Recognition Month: a statewide moment to acknowledge and better understand a form of public service that affects every child in every community.
In Dublin City Schools, this January brought new faces to the Board of Education. On Jan. 12, the district swore in new members Elizabeth McClain and Tara Seward, and welcomed back Tiffany deSilva. McClain, Seward and deSilva join Amy Messick and Chris Valentine, who have been on the Board since 2024 and 2003, respectively. During the Board’s annual organizational meeting, members took the oath of office, affirming a commitment not just to the district, but to public service, transparency and the students and families they represent.
One of the most important clarifications Ohioans can understand about school boards is that school boards do not manage the daily operations of schools.
Board members aren’t in classrooms determining curriculum lesson-by-lesson. They aren’t supervising staff or responding to individual student discipline. That work belongs to the superintendent and the district’s administrative team.
School boards govern. They are responsible for defining the district’s direction and holding the system accountable for results, focusing on longterm needs and outcomes rather than day-to-day operations.
This distinction matters because it helps explain both the limits and the significance of board service. When board members do their jobs well, they create the conditions for schools to succeed.
To an outside observer, a school board vote can look like a small moment: a motion, a second and a few yes votes before moving on to the next agenda item. But
those few seconds often represent months of behind-the-scenes work.
Consider a Board vote on something as common as a district-wide attendance policy. At the Board level, the responsibility is not to decide whether one student’s absence is excused, but to determine the district’s expectation for attendance, define the parameters for accountability and ensure the policy aligns with state law and local values.
From there, district leaders build procedures, train staff, communicate expectations to families and implement supports, all guided by what the Board established. One vote, on one policy, can influence how schools respond to chronic absenteeism, how families understand expectations and how educators intervene early.
Another common misconception is that an individual board member can fix an issue or make decisions alone.
In Ohio, a school board member has authority only when the Board is acting as a unified body in an official public meeting. That’s why board meetings matter.
The work of governance happens through debate, questions, public discussion and documented votes. And once a decision is made, board members are expected to support the Board’s official action, even when the decision wasn’t unanimous.
This model protects public interest and ensures that decisions are not made behind closed doors, through informal conversations or by individual personalities, so everything can be transparent, structured and accountable to the community.
School board decisions affect every resident, regardless of whether they have children enrolled in school.
Boards hire and evaluate the superintendent and treasurer. They approve budgets that reflect community priorities and ensure financial stewardship, and adopt policies that shape everything from safety protocols to academic expectations.
They also set district goals, approve long-range plans and provide oversight on complex issues such as growth, enrollment, staffing and facilities.
Strong schools stabilize neighborhoods. They attract and retain families. They support economic development and workforce readiness. They shape a community’s identity and future.
More important than any economic indicator or growth metric, school board governance impacts every child. It does so by setting clear expectations for learning environments, safety, support and opportunities across the district.
That’s what makes Dublin City Schools’ annual organizational meeting and swearingin meaningful. With new members stepping in, others stepping away and returning members continuing their service, the Board begins another chapter of public leadership –focused on the long view of what the district needs to sustain excellence.
And while School Board Recognition Month ended when the calendar turned to February, the work itself doesn’t. So, the next time a board meeting appears on the calendar, it’s worth remembering what’s happening in that room: neighbors doing the slow, steady work of governing a school district, together.
by Evan Che Stefanik
Entering kindergarten marks a memorable moment in childhood, one of kids figuring out how to communicate and express their personalities.
Each student’s experience is unique. One kindergartener at Glacier Ridge Elementary School – Lola “Lo” Kaufman – is mastering the dance to her own beat.
From diagnosis to direction
Lo has a rare peroxisomal disorder called Zellweger Spectrum Disorder, which affects her cognitive functions, bones, muscles and organs such as her kidneys and liver.
After Lo was born, her parents, Jake Kaufman and Sara Kear, noticed some unusual characteristics appearing and sought to understand them. Lo’s diagnosis came about two weeks ahead of her first birthday.
She completed her year of preschool at The Ohio State University’s Nisonger Center, a facility meant to care for children with similar challenges. There, she steadily progressed and was able to make choices on her own and move her body.
By the fall of 2025, Lo was prepared to manage her disorder in a more tradition-
al school setting for kids her age. So, she took the chance to step foot in her first public school classroom.
Lo splits her day between her kindergarten classroom and a specialized learning center with her intervention specialist, Alyssa Covey. Covey befriended Lo in preschool and now designs individualized educational plans for her.
“The biggest thing we’ve been working on is communicating her wants, needs and opinions,” Covey says. “We’ve been giving her opportunities to use her voice.”
At school, Lo gets around with a gait trainer and other helpful equipment, which her dad says she enjoys because, “it gives her some freedom to learn and to explore the world.”
She fits right in with her classmates, yet also experiments with buttons and switches
to trigger lamps, computer games and more as modes of communication. Lo also participates with her class in daily instruction curated to improve decision-making skills.
She loves to explore unique things, such as the texture of the classroom’s squeaky fabric steps, a vibrating pillow and an indoor bucket swing.
On the recess playground, Lo brings the fun. With the speaker on the back of her gait trainer, the young fan and her friends jam out to the music of Taylor Swift. Lo’s classmates appreciate her so much that their teacher established a rotating schedule for them to help and play with her.
“It’s a daily privilege for those kids,” Covey says. “She’s impacted them by creating this classroom culture of kindness and acceptance, and she’s given them awareness.”
Back at home, Lo enjoys spa days, and her younger brother, Miller, staying out of
her space. She also inherited her mom’s taste for spicy foods and usually eats a few eggs with salsa for breakfast.
By stirring meals over the stove, accessing the fridge and otherwise assisting with chores around the house, Lo practices her mobility and independence.
Since Lo’s vision and hearing capacities are limited, she often touches and taps with her hands on faces and necks to speak her mind to her family. Most of all, Lo has an affinity for sounds, and often dances to pop songs such as her all-time favorite, “Look What You Made Me Do” by Taylor Swift.
Her equipment empowers her both at home and in school. For instance, a couple months after receiving her cochlear implant, her parents watched Lo laughing with her friends at school for the first time.
“It’s absolutely been a very life-giving element for Lo, so we’re thankful we did the (cochlear) surgery,” Kear says.
It takes a village
Kaufman and Kear have raised Lo while publicly advocating for a clinical research trial into a potential method of therapy for the disorder. Throughout their mission to research Zellweger, her parents have contributed to global discussions and collaborated with important researchers.
“It’s very challenging to fund that research. It’s challenging to commit to that long term,” Kaufman says. “So, it’s been really valuable for us to see their level of passion and the sacrifices they make for us to do this sort of work.”
Together, they launched the “Hope with Lo” 5K race and a t-shirt that many of the teachers at Glacier Ridge wore in solidarity to support Zellweger awareness.
Through their work, the support of their community and their event, Kaufman and Kear have raised more than $200,000 for research so far.
“The event itself has been a really fun day of people showing up, supporting one another and celebrating Lo and other kiddos like her,” Kaufman says.
“This was a way for us to share more about Lo and how amazing she is, and we really have felt our community rally around us,” Kear adds.
Lo’s parents sometimes face emotions and challenges while caring for her disorder – but nothing changes their love for her. Her parents are confident that as Lo continues to grow, so will the research into Zellweger, as well as the inspirational effect she has on the world around her.
Evan Che Stefanik is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback is welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.
While not true martinis, espresso martinis’ ingredients are easily customized for personal preferences.
Espresso martinis typically use vodka, though spirits such as tequila, rum or bourbon work too. They also include coffee liqueur, with Kahlúa being one commonly used for its sweetness. Simple syrup can also be added.
Espresso is a key ingredient, though some venues swap in cold brew concentrate, which is more convenient during busy hours than a freshly brewed espresso shot.
After vigorous shaking and fine straining, espresso martinis are often garnished with three coffee beans, symbolic for health, wealth and happiness.
by Amanda Stevens
A flavorful guide to the Espresso Martini Trail’s unique takes on a modern classic
Whether they’re a creamy, flavorful companion to a savory dinner or an indulgent pick-me-up, espresso martinis have made a comeback, especially with a rise in specialty coffees and more refined ingredients since their inception in the 1980s.
Through Feb. 28, using a free mobile passport, Dublin’s self-guided Espresso Martini Trail allows visitors to try signature espresso martinis while supporting local businesses.
Classic tastes
With versatile ingredients, espresso martinis can have different, intricate flavor profiles.
Cocoa and nuts
For chocolate, hazelnut and vanilla flavors, Cap City Fine Diner and Bar includes Wheatley vodka, chocolate and hazelnut in its Café Martini.
The Dublin Village Tavern’s Espresso Patronum utilizes Patrón XO Cafe, a coffee liqueur with notes of chocolate and vanilla, while Fadó Pub & Kitchen Signature Espresso Martini can be made with Absolut Vanilla vodka, Maker’s Mark bourbon or Hornitos Reposado tequila.
The Rusty Bucket Restaurant & Tavern ventures away from the traditional espresso with its Cold Brew Martini made with coffee liqueur Cantera Negra Café that still offers those chocolate, hazelnut and vanilla profiles.
Sweet and tart
For sweet, fruity notes, Gene’s makes its espresso martini with vanilla and orange, serving it in an intimate setting adjacent to its sister wine bar and bottle shop, Coast Wine House
Citrus flavors also come from Italian liqueur Amaro Averno, used in espresso martinis at 101 Craft Kitchen and Pins Mechanical Co.
VASO Rooftop Lounge serves an espresso martini incorporating Ketel One vodka
for citrusy notes, and demerara, a sugar with a subtle caramel-like flavor.
Valentina’s modern Italian cuisine pairs nicely with its martini that also uses Ketel One, in addition to vanilla foam.
Vanilla voyage
Lovers of Italian food and wine may also enjoy Italian steakhouse Tucci’s Vanilla Bean Espresso Martini, which includes OYO Honey Vanilla Bean Vodka and Van Gogh Espresso vodka.
Other espresso martinis with OYO Vanilla Vodka can be found at North Market Bridge Park’s Market Bar, The Avenue; and The Pearl, which tops its martini with foam cinnamon.
For a blend of chocolate and vanilla, Modern Male Spa’s Black and White Espresso Martini incorporates vanilla vodka, Borghetti, chocolate syrup, cocoa powder and a complimentary cookie.
For more adventurous palates, the Espresso Martini Trail has some unique options.
North High Brewing offers a cold brew martini made with salted caramel vodka, brown sugar simple syrup and chocolate bitters.
Meanwhile, Getaway Brewing Co. has the Campfire Song, an espresso martini blending graham cracker vodka, creme de cacao, marshmallow syrup and Ancho Reyes Chile Liqueur for a smoky, sweet touch.
For those who prefer spices to spicy – especially of the pumpkin variety – Gallo’s
Pizza & Bar offers a Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini while Z Cucina di Spirito has a White Pumpkin Espresso Martini. For sweet tooths, Gallo’s also offers an espresso martini topped with strawberry dust.
The Roosevelt Room, to pay homage to its presidential namesake, alternatively provides a salty-sweet twist with its Popcorn Espresso Martini, which includes vanilla vodka, Borghetti and popcorn syrup.
Lastly, wine bar and bottle retail shop Vinoteca’s Identity Crisis mixes Bumbu Rum, Shanky’s Whip Irish whiskey, cocoa, Tahini and pineapple for an eclectic coffee cocktail.
Amanda Stevens is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.
by Ella Jay
During the winter, backyard birds can bring life to cold mornings; with flashes of red cardinals, flocks of bright finches and glimpses of cobalt blue jays contrasting perfectly against the sparkling snow. Wintertime is also when birds need help as temperatures drop and food becomes scarce.
In Dublin, backyard bird feeding is encouraged – as long as it’s done the right way. City of Dublin Nature Education Coordinator Barbara Ray helps residents understand how to responsibly support local wildlife without disrupting nature’s balance.
Unlike other wildlife, bird feeding is encouraged by the City because it supports songbird species that face unique challenges without creating the same risks associated with feeding larger animals.
According to Ray, those risks include learned dependency, habituation and food aggression, as well as an increased chance of accelerated population growth, damage to landscaping and conflict with pets and people.
To mitigate those unintended consequences and keep both animals and residents safe, the City of Dublin has an Out-
door Feed Ordinance in place prohibiting the feeding of wildlife such as deer, geese, raccoons, squirrels and more. However songbirds and other small, native backyard birds are the exception.
“If there’s food, (wildlife) will keep coming back,” says Ray. “But we want them to stay aloof and wild the way they normally behave… Now, birds, they have a bunch of pressures.”
There are several factors involved in feeding birds responsibly. Ray emphasizes one of the most important steps is to do so without creating an all-you-can-eat buffet for every other animal in the neighborhood.
“Feeders should be high enough that deer can’t reach them,” Ray says. “We also encourage cleaning up underneath the feeders on a regular basis so wildlife doesn’t learn to come there every day.”
Alongside keeping the feeder area tidy – which can be made easier using a seed-catching tray – Ray recommends feeders that prevent spillage, such as tube feeders, hopper feeders and even sock feeders for finches.
What goes into the feeder matters just as much. Black oil sunflower seeds, safflower seeds and suet cakes work best year-round, as they are high-energy options and less messy, while striped sunflower seed is another great
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option during snowy months. On the other hand, corn feed should be avoided.
Equally important is portion size. An additional way to prevent spillage, no more than half-a-days’ worth to one-days’ worth of food should be put out at once.
“Birds have a feeding cycle that’s usually in the morning, and by afternoon… they go back into shelter for the night,” says Ray. “And, if you’re just putting out enough seed that they finish up in half a day, you don’t really have that wastage on the ground.”
Most crucial for birds during freezing weather is water. Ray encourages setting out water in a heated bowl, preferably in an insulated, sheltered area such as among shrubs.
Lastly, keeping feeders clean and monitoring for any signs of disease among visiting birds is also essential.
“If birds are getting sick at their feeder, we ask people to take it down for several weeks, clean it and let the birds disperse… because disease can pass on easily from bird to bird,” Ray says.
Feeders can be cleaned with hot, soapy water and disinfected with a 10-percent bleach or vinegar solution. Even without signs of disease, feeders should be regularly cleaned every one to two weeks.
Responsible bird feeding fits into Dublin’s broader approach to wildlife conservation, environmental health and public safety because what happens in one backyard doesn’t just stay there – in a shared environment, what you do on your property matters, says Ray.
From disease prevention to neighborhood harmony, how residents interact with wildlife plays a large role in maintaining the balance that allows both people and animals to thrive in an urban environment.
“Urban cities are havens for wildlife (but) we should observe wildlife from a distance doing its natural thing,” Ray says.
As a Certified Wildlife Habitat Community of 25 years, Dublin takes pride in investing in nature-based solutions and education for residents of all ages – from maintaining its expansive green spaces, to supporting schoolyard habitats, to offering free educational courses, resources and more.
For more information, visit the City’s Nature Education webpage at www.dublinohiousa.gov/ wildlife-and-nature-education/ where you’ll also find Dublin’s Backyard, a YouTube series with Ray.
Ella Jay is an assistant editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at ejay@cityscenemediagroup.com.
You’re invited to an exclusive tequila tasting experience at Hollywood Ca sino. Every sip helps Central Ohio cancer patients and families receive essential support services, always at no cost! Grab a friend or two and enjoy an evening that gives back to the community!
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Home prices in Dublin were down 4.7 percent in November 2025, compared to the previous year. They sold for a median price of $615,000 and spent an average of 48 days on the market, up from 42 in 2024. There were 40 homes sold in November 2025, compared to 31 in 2024.
43016
5884 Dunheath Lp.
7 beds, 7.5 baths
$1,390,000
Sold 11/3/25
8151 Winchcombe Dr. 5 beds, 4.5 baths
$920,000
Sold 11/7/25
5834 Vandeleur Pl. 4 beds, 4.5 baths
$885,000
Sold 12/8/25
5940 Tarrin Ct. 5 beds, 4 baths
$880,000
Sold 11/4/25
4329 Wyandotte Woods Blvd. 4 beds, 4.5 baths
$870,000
Sold 12/2/25
7063 Dornell Ct. 5 beds, 4 baths
$825,845
Sold 11/10/25
43017
10320 Mackenzie Way 5 beds, 5 baths
$1,320,000
Sold 11/25/25
7325 Penneyroyal Pl. 5 beds, 4 baths
$1,040,000
Sold 11/25/25
6527 Quarry Ln. 3 beds, 2.5 baths
$995,000
Sold 11/18/25
8467 Tartan Fields Dr. 5 beds, 5 baths
$920,000
Sold 12/12/25
6848 Mcdevitt Ct. 4 beds, 3.5 baths
$850,000
Sold 12/15/25
9238 Golden Rose Way 4 beds, 3.5 baths
$802,500
Sold 11/14/25
Data from the Franklin County Auditor and Redfin
by Colleen D’Angelo
courtesy of Lauren Meder
Winters in Ohio can be rough, with gray skies, biting wind and frozen mornings. Yet spending time in the chilly temperatures has enormous health and wellness benefits.
That spirit is at the heart of the Columbus Metro Parks Winter Hikes Series, an annual tradition that invites residents of all ages to explore local parks during the coldest months and fall in love with a different kind of beauty. For many central Ohio families, winter hiking is about bundling up, slowing down and discovering how refreshing the outdoors can feel this time of year.
Physically, winter walking helps improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles and boost balance, especially on uneven trails. Cooler temperatures make it easier to stay active without overheating, and even a moderate hike can elevate energy levels.
Mentally, the rewards are just as powerful. Time outdoors has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood and sharpen focus. Rays of sunlight, even on cloudy days, support vitamin D production and help regulate sleep cycles. Add the quiet of snow-covered trails and the rhythmic scrape of boots underfoot, and it’s easy to see why many hikers say winter walks feel almost meditative.
The Winter Hikes Series is designed to be flexible and welcoming. Their website, www.metroparks.net/winter-hikes, features a group of walks that can be completed each designated month.
Make sure to print off a Winter Hikes card or pick one up at a ranger station. Complete seven parks to earn a special patch and all 19 parks to earn a medallion and additional swag.
For Lauren Meder, winter walks have become a meaningful family tradition. Having grown up camping and hiking herself, she has passed that love of the outdoors on to her children, Reid, 11, and Charlotte, 8.
Last year, Meder completed all 19 Metro Parks and her children finished seven. This year, they are all aiming to visit the entire list.
“Outdoor time turns into incredible shared experiences and memories,” says Meder.
The Meders bring their dog, Ollie, along for shorter hikes and enjoy discovering what makes each park unique.
At Blacklick Woods, the canopy bridge through the trees feels especially magical when lit during the holidays. At Battelle Darby Creek, spotting the bison never loses its sense of wonder. And at Blendon Woods, climbing structures give the kids a chance to play and warm up between trail segments.
Hot chocolate and snacks after hiking is a favorite objective for all involved, and the website lists the days when those treats are available at the ranger stations.
Dublin resident, Dawn Scheurle, is visiting the listed Metro Parks for the first time this winter. Her favorite so far is Inniswood Metro Gardens, where she wandered through the Sisters’ Garden, with snow crunching under feet and clinging to branches.
The Story Maze, with its winding paths, suspended bridge and hidden treehouse, felt like a quiet winter secret. She backtracked more than once, not because she was lost, but because she wanted to try alternate paths and see what else she could discover.
“I recommend stopping into the Innis House and chatting with the volunteers,” says Scheurle. “I learned about how the gardens evolve through the many seasons and got my passport stamped.”
The Winter Hikes Celebration will be held on Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Blacklick Woods Golf Course. Participants can hike the Audubon Sanctuary Golf Course paths, enjoy hot chocolate, warm up by the fire and collect their Winter Hikes patch, walking stick or medallion. A $10 Friends of Metro Parks membership is required to receive a patch or medallion.
February hikes include Glacier Ridge, Pickerington Ponds, Quarry Trails and Three Creeks, but hikers are welcome to enjoy any on the Metro Parks list.
Remember to dress in many layers, bring hand warmers, wear comfortable sneakers for paved paths and hiking boots for icy or uneven conditions.
Don’t hibernate this winter; stepping outside onto quiet trails invites reflection and benefits for your mind, body and soul.
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
by Josh Duke Information Services Specialist at the Dublin Branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library
Herbal Gut Health: Natural Therapies to Promote Healthy Digestion, Boost Your Microbiome, and Support Gut Repair by Maria Noël Groves
Celebrated herbalist Maria Noël Groves offers a beautifully-illustrated and accessible guide on holistic, digestive health that is also a pleasure to flip through. Learn about 40 herbs that can strengthen your microbiome, along with a fascinating blend of anatomy, physiology and recipes that distill complex gut-health concepts into practical protocols. Groves’ indispensable resource is one to return to again and again.
The New Rules of Women’s Health: Your Guide to Thriving at Every Age by Meghan
Rabbitt
This informative guide explains how diseases, hormones, fertility and perimenopause uniquely affect women, and how to manage care with clear, actionable strategies. Grounded in cutting-edge research, award-winning health journalist Meghan Rabbitt walks us through dauntingly complex science while giving her expert insights along the way.
Everyday Elixirs: Mocktails, Matchas, And Seasonal Drinks to Inspire Wellness by Blair
Horton
Nutritionist Blair Horton offers 80 seasonal mocktails that make for joyful and healthy sipping. With nourishing ingredients and herbal, spiced and floral syrups, she crafts non-alcoholic drinks that boost digestion, immunity and sleep. Try a tantalizing sip of Sleepytime Spritz, Nature’s Gatorade, Applerol Spritz and other fun and flavorful recipes sure to please at seasonal celebrations, or just as an everyday boost of deliciousness.
The Call of the Honeyguide: What Science Tells Us About How to Live Well with the Rest of Life by Rob Dunn
What if evolution’s greatest secret isn’t competition, but cooperation? In The Call of the Honeyguide, ecologist Rob Dunn uncovers astonishing alliances between species, from birds and humans to microbes and crops, arguing that mutualism shapes life itself. Lively, optimistic and thought-provoking, the book reimagines humanity’s future as deeply entwined with nature.
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., Feb. 25 at 6 p.m. Location TBD.
Theo of Golden by Allen
Levi
When someone named Theo arrives in the southern city of Golden, people begin to wonder who this kind, yet mysterious, man is. Intrigue grows when he begins to buy up all of the portraits at a local coffee shop and gives them to the subjects themselves.
