UPPER ARLINGTON | GRANDVIEW HEIGHTS | MARBLE CLIFF January/February 2026
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MAGAZINE
VO L UME 2 7 N U MB E R 1 | JAN U ARY/FEBRU ARY 2026
6 Community Calendar 8 Faces
Coats and Quotes
11 In Focus
Safety Training
14 Feature
Saving Star
18 Student Spotlight
18
Senior Spirit
22 On the Table Cozy Soups
24 Living
Remodeling for Functionality
28 Top Homes 29 Luxury Living 30 Bookmarks
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On the Cover: Elizabeth Poling Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Poling
@TriVillageMagazine January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
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PRO UDLY PRE SEN T S YO U R JA N / F EB
columbus/osu
Mon., Jan. 5
Winter Reading Games Opening Ceremony 10-11:30 a.m. Upper Arlington Public Library 2800 Tremont Rd. www.ualibrary.org Photos courtesy of Upper Arlington Public Library
Tues., Jan. 6
ProMusica Storytime 10:30-11 a.m Upper Arlington Public Library 2800 Tremont Rd. www.ualibrary.org
Fri., Jan. 9
Fleetwood Gold: Fleetwood Mac Cover Band 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. Natalie’s Grandview 945 King Ave. www.nataliesgrandview.com
Sat., Jan. 10
Mindful Vision Boarding Workshop 3:30-5:30 p.m McKinley Field 1661 Goodale Blvd. www.grandviewheights.gov
Thurs., Jan. 15
Music in the Atrium: Talisha Holmes 6:30-7:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library 1685 W. 1st Ave. www.ghpl.org
Mon., Jan. 19
No School - Grandview Heights and Upper Arlington Schools Martin Luther King, Jr. Day www.ghschools.org www.uaschools.org
Family Fort
Wed., Jan. 21
Adult Grandview Game Night 6-7:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library 1685 W. 1st Ave. www.ghpl.org
Sat., Jan. 24
Wed., Feb. 4
Orchestra Concert, Grades 5-12 6 p.m. Grandview Heights High School Auditorium 1587 W. 3rd Ave. www.ghschools.org
Family Fort After Hours 6-7:30 p.m. Upper Arlington Public Library - Miller Park Branch 1901 Arlington Ave. www.ualibrary.org
Fri., Feb. 6
Tues., Jan. 27
Fri., Feb. 6
Adult Acrylic Pour Painting 6:30-7:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library 1685 W. 1st Ave. www.ghpl.org
Blood Drive 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Municipal Services Center 3600 Tremont Rd. www.upperarlingtonoh.gov Valentine’s Date Night 6:30-8:30 p.m. Amelita Mirolo Barn 4395 Carriage Hill Ln. www.upperarlingtonoh.gov
Wed., Jan. 21
Blood Drive 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Municipal Services Center 3600 Tremont Rd. www.upperarlingtonoh.gov 6
To submit your event for next issue’s calendar, contact mbrokamp@cityscenemediagroup.com. January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
COMMUNIT Y CA LENDA R
Valentine’s Day Date Night UA
Erica Carlson and Friends
Thurs., Feb. 12
Mon., Feb. 16
Thurs., Feb. 12
Wed., Feb. 18
Music in the Atrium: Jamie Ravine 6:30-7:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library 1685 W. 1st Ave. www.ghpl.org America’s Birthday Party & Kick-Off to America 250 Noon-4 p.m. McKinley Field 1661 Goodale Blvd. www.grandviewheights.gov
Fri., Feb. 13
Coffee & Conversation with Superintendent Andy Culp 8:30-9:30 a.m. Larson Middle School 1600 W. 1st Ave. www.ghschools.org
Fri., Feb. 13
No School - Grandview Heights and Upper Arlington Schools Presidents’ Day www.ghschools.org www.uaschools.org Larson Middle School Band Concerts 6 p.m. Grandview Heights High School Auditorium 1587 W. 3rd Ave. www.ghschools.org
Thurs., Feb. 19-Sun., Feb. 22
The Addams Family presented by Upper Arlington High School Feb. 19-21: 7:30-9:30 p.m. Feb. 22: 2:30-4:30 p.m. Upper Arlington High School Performing Arts Center 1625 Zollinger Rd. www.uaschools.org
Galentine’s Day 6-8 p.m. McKinley Field 1661 Goodale Blvd. www.grandviewheights.gov January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
Fri., Feb. 20
Erica Carlson and Friends 10:30-11:10 a.m. Upper Arlington Public Library - Miller Park Branch 1901 Arlington Ave. www.ualibrary.org
Sat., Feb. 21
Black History Month 100th Year Celebration 2-4 p.m. Bob Crane Community Center 3200 Tremont Rd. www.upperarlingtonoh.gov
Sat., Feb. 21
Natalie’s Grandview Presents Jessica Willis Fisher 8 p.m. Natalie’s Grandview 945 King Ave. www.nataliesgrandview.com
Always check websites for updated information. 7
Faces
By Megan Brokamp, Photos courtesy of Doug Godard
Coats and Quotes Doug Godard’s mission to give kids the tools and warmth they need to succeed
D
oug Godard may no longer be a full-time real estate agent, but he’s working harder than ever to give back to his community. As the founder of Bonzy Charities, a published author and the organizer of a coat drive that donates thousands of coats to children in Columbus annually, he’s just getting started. Moving to UA Although Godard raised his family in Upper Arlington and is known and loved by much of the community, he didn’t call Columbus home until the ’80s. Godard was born in Akron and earned a bachelor’s in Marketing Management at Miami University. After college, he briefly lived in Chicago before relocating to Columbus for work. Godard relocated to Upper Arlington to pursue a career in commercial real estate at Coldwell Banker Richard Ellis Group, now known as CBRE Group Inc. It was here that he met his wife, Cheryl, a UA native. The two settled down in UA, where they raised three children. During his four decades at CBRE, Godard not only built his career but also found the spark that now drives his service-focused work. Recognizing a need In the early winter of 2019, during Godard’s days in commercial real estate, he noticed a coat at the front desk of his office with the label “Operation Warm.” Godard googled the name and discovered it was an organization that donated more than 800,000 coats to children in need annually throughout the U.S. and Canada. Godard was inspired by this mission and decided to organize a Coat Day for the students of West Broad Elementary School. In order to gain funds for the Coat 8
Day and for his future charitable goals, Godard established Bonzy Charities, Inc. Through Operation Warm, he purchased coats for each student. The Upper Arlington Rotary Club, of which Godard is an active member, stepped up to the plate and helped reimburse a large portion of the cost. More than 30 rotary members volunteered on the first Coat Day. On Dec. 18, 2019, Bonzy celebrated Doug Godard its first-ever Coat Day, partnering with Upper Arlington Rotary to ensure evNow, Bonzy donates more than 4,000 ery student at West Broad Elementary coats to children each year, and in 2025, School stayed warm with a brand-new it donated to Coat Days for eight schools winter coat. across central Ohio. “These kids are in these situations, not because of anything they’ve done. They’re born into these situations, and what we want to do is create a foundation,” Godard says. “Giving them a warm coat so they can go to school, cutting down the absentee rates, just giving them a chance to succeed in life.”
Then came COVID-19, but rather than halt the Coat Day, Godard arranged for coats to be drop-shipped to the school. The next year, he wanted to reach more schools in Columbus, so he began hosting multiple Coat Days at schools around the city, starting with roughly 2,000 coats.
Learning through literacy Godard’s coat drives were a hit, but as he conducted the drives, he learned of a need that went beyond outerwear. He asked the schools what their needs were, and teachers mentioned that, coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, students were behind in literacy. “As I looked into it, there was a national movement on financial literacy, basically teaching the kids the value of saving,” Godard says. According to the National Endowment for Financial Education, 29 states now require high school students to receive financial literacy instruction before they graduate as of 2025. But for students at the elementary and middle school levels, while there are state standards and a model
January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
From Broker to Bookmaker While he didn’t master the perfect sentence structure during his time in real estate, he still gained valuable experience to aid him in his goals to promote financial literacy. “In commercial real estate, I am very process-oriented,” Godard says. “I was involved in some pretty nice projects, and my project management skills from that transition to Financial Literacy Days.”
curriculum available, there’s no statewide requirement that districts teach financial literacy at those younger grade levels. “I said, ‘Okay, so maybe we’ll raise more money, and we’ll buy more books,’” Godard says. “I didn’t see the books I liked… So, I said, ‘Okay, I’m going to write books.’” Godard decided that, along with Coat Drives, Bonzy’s next project would be improving financial literacy, starting with elementary students. Godard had no professional writing experience, but he took inspiration from Dr. Seuss’s ability to transform complex ideas into simple concepts that young children can understand.
“I grew up with Dr. Seuss, and that phonetic awareness goes along with how the books are written, so it’s very easy for the kids to conceptualize,” Godard says. Godard wrote three books, all with a central purpose: using simple, accessible messages to teach students how to save. His first book, Best Day at the Zoo, follows twins Skye and Rey as they spend a long-saved-for day at the zoo, learning simple lessons about saving, budgeting, planning and giving through the choices they make along the way. The second edition, A Surprise for a Friend, follows these same principles,
January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
along with the third book, Your Dreams Can Come True, which was just published and is available now. “There’s a lot of great little lessons,” Godard says. “Not just financial literacy skills, but also lessons for life.” Godard is self-published, and he works with illustrator Nadia Ronquillo on each of his books. Although he doesn’t have a publishing company to filter his work through, he has built-in editors by his side to ensure his books are hardcover-ready. “When I have a book that’s pretty close to being finished, I send it out to my family, and it goes through what I call the Godard Gauntlet,” Godard says. “They don’t hold back… and it’s a much better product because of it.”
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Godard published his first book in June 2024, but his work didn’t stop there. He wasn’t content simply creating a resource – he wanted to play an active role in bringing it into classrooms. Thus, Financial Literacy Days took form. Financial Literacy Days bring volunteers into K–2 classrooms, where they engage students through lively readalouds of illustrated books. The program offers an easy, effective method for teaching financial skills while creating an avenue for banks to support local schools. The program began in Columbus, but now, volunteers travel nationwide. “I knew it was gratifying, but I had no idea the scale of the gratification,” Godard says. “The kids Literacy Day just light up with the books. The fact that they get a book to keep and take home… A lot of these Retirement never quite stuck for Gokids don’t have a lot of books at home, so dard. Splitting roughly 50 hours a week this is very special to them.” between Bonzy Charities and real estate
work with nonprofits such as the Community Shelter Board, he sees this not as slowing down but as the start of a new chapter – one that feels well worth the effort if it helps kids stay in school and learn how to save for their futures. “These are wonderful kids,” Godard says. “They just need a shot, and we’re giving them a shot.” Megan Brokamp is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mbrokamp@cityscenemediagroup.com.
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By Evan Che Stefanik
Photos courtesy of Dean Boerger
In Focus
Fit to Protect
Resources to make health and safety part of the daily routine
W
hen it comes to safety and security, one can never be too sure. A good regimen goes together with a healthy mindset. By learning self-defense, as well as how to maintain physical health, people can simultaneously better their lifestyle, mentality and their body. The Tri-Village area offers a variety of opportunities to enhance strength and confidence to protect oneself. These range from emergency medical courses that teach life-saving skillsets to physically involved programs that enable a positive exercise routine.
Whether somebody wants to pursue healthy ways to change their weight, clear their head or protect against danger, the Tri-Village area is a safe place to get active.
Breaking the norms Taekwondo is a Korean form of martial arts that teaches techniques for bodily combat, such as kicking, punching and physical coordination. Some of the benefits of taekwondo include gaining strength and flexibility, but the activity also strives to make students feel more in tune with their inner selves.
January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
Aside from its physical benefits, taekwondo also immerses students in a rich cultural tradition rooted in Korean history, with rituals such as color-coded belts marking progress and achievement. Hiram Ocacio, an instructor at C.K. Lee Taekwondo Academy, says that practicing taekwondo can feel self-fulfilling for participants. “For adults, taekwondo allows them to blow off some steam and do something after their working hours,” Ocacio says. “It also teaches discipline and respect.”
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According to Ocacio, taekwondo focuses on a diverse array of strategies that benefit physical health, such as physical conditioning and stamina training. Children can also gain valuable experience in and out of the dojo. Ocacio says that many parents report their students’ attention issues in school improved as a result of enrolling in taekwondo.
to exercise, from beginners taking a chance to veterans continuing their progress. Alex House, a club manager at Snap Fitness Gym, says that gyms work best for people when they foster a positive environment. “It’s a resource to have a gym you can go to at any time and feel encouraged to be there,” House says.
In your feelings
Defense against danger
Exercise releases endorphins into the bloodstream, which allows the body to feel good. However, exercising can require effort and discipline. The commitment to exercising is often made possible through self-love and the motivation that comes from a supportive community. Because of this, gyms and fitness centers that embrace a culture of acceptance feel welcoming to all people wanting
In addition to taekwondo, many local resources teach self-defense practices, offering classes from beginner to expert. Ronin Training Center and Columbus Martial Arts Academy both offer Brazilian jiu-jitsu, MMA, Muay Thai, boxing and judo, with programs for both kids and adults. Additionally, taking lessons in subjects such as CPR and first aid equips
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individuals with the skills to respond in life-threatening emergencies when every second matters. From cardiac arrest and choking to severe bleeding or drowning, fast bystander intervention can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival before first responders arrive, making CPR training one of the most powerful tools an everyday resident can have. This vital information can also lead to career opportunities, such as authorized training for aspiring private security professionals. Along with learning CPR and emergency medical response training, one can learn how to safely use firearms through organizations such as the Strategic Training Group. Owner and principal instructor of Strategic Training Group, Dean Boerger, says that access to courses such as Private Security Training, Emergency Medi-
January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
cal Training and NRA courses can help people explore the full spectrum of safety. “It makes you more aware of alternate conditions and how to respond to those more quickly,” Boerger says. “You’ll know how to handle and recognize issues immediately.”
participate in various kinds of specialized training. These include courses designed for current and soon-to-be mothers such as Fit4Mom, as well as other health-oriented activities, such as Ballet for Beginners and Fitness Floor Orientations.
A new resource
Going beyond the body and mind, some health-oriented experiences also work on spirit and cultural knowledge. Classes such as those involving sound baths, training with Reiki and tai chi help with functions such as physical balance and peace of mind while also enlightening users on the customs of other cultures. Samantha Charles, the community class coordinator at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center’s Integrated Health Department, says the facility offers various options and mostly concentrates on movement and yoga.
Some health initiatives expand beyond physical health to enrich the mind as well. These opportunities may include cooking lessons, entertainment events and educational field trips. For more specific needs that combine both physical and mental elements, such as pregnancy, there are often courses geared toward that specific topic. Bob Crane Community Center is a resource for wellness and recreation. With a membership at the new facility, people can
Culture and coordination
January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
“We focus on whole body health,” Charles says. “These classes calm the nervous system and improve focus.”
Why health matters Comprehending and committing to exercise, self-defense and forms of rescue can contribute to a longer, more enjoyable experience within the body. When people feel healthy, they tend to feel more confident, more connected and more hopeful. With so many options across Tri-Village, creating a healthier version of yourself has never been more accessible. Evan Che Stefanik is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback is welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.
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Saving Star
Grandview Heights eaglet makes miraculous recovery at Ohio Bird Sanctuary
By Ella Jay
F
Back at the Nest
From rescue to recovery Upon arrival at the Ohio Bird Sanctuary (OBS), Star’s prognosis was not favorable. “I think the 50-50 chance of survival (given by some) was generous. Star was in grave condition at intake,” says Curator of Animals at OBS Amanda Vanderford. “She was practically non-responsive … (she) was unable to lift her head and kept her eyes shut during our initial exam.” After Star’s initial exam revealed no external injuries, the OBS team began prioritizing lifesaving supportive care. This included heat and oxygen support, an intravenous catheter for fluid therapy and the collection of blood samples for testing.
According to Ohio Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Management Supervisor Gary Comer, the suspected cause of the eaglet’s illness and consequential fall may have been a result of avian botulism, contracted from an infected dead bird Apollo and Athena scavenged. While Athena originally fled the scene after the fall, her and Apollo have since returned to the nest, showing signs of recovery. In the meantime, Star will likely remain a nomad for five to seven years until she reaches breeding age.
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Photos courtesy of Amanda Vanderford/Ohio Bird Sanctuary
irst garnering attention around 2023, American bald eagle mates Athena and Apollo captured the hearts of local residents once more when they welcomed their first eaglet, Star, last April. Many flocked to the pair’s nest, which sits about 40-60 feet above the Scioto River in the Grandview Heights area, to catch a glimpse of the baby bird. However, on August 1, tragedy struck when Star and Athena fell from the nest while Apollo was away hunting. While Athena left the area, Star was left in critical condition and was immediately transported to the Ohio Bird Sanctuary in Mansfield by the Ohio Division of Wildlife. Seventeen days later, Star made a miraculous recovery and was released into the wild – a testament to the power of community, compassion and wildlife conservation.
“While sending more comprehensive tests to the laboratory, we did in-house tests to check for lead toxicity, which is, unfortunately, common in bald eagles and other scavenging species,” Vanderford says. “Star was negative for lead, which was a huge relief.” Within 72 hours, Star began to show signs of improvement, acknowledging her caregivers for the first time. From there, Vanderford says the eaglet’s treatment was
January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
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handled day by day. While her blood tests did not reveal a definitive diagnosis, the team’s supportive care seemed to be helping – with each day, Star grew stronger and stronger. According to Vanderford, Star began her rehabilitation process in a small enclosure, eventually moving to a larger space with room to walk. Finally, she graduated to a 12-by-12 room with stumps to hop on.
Wings that Wow With a wingspan of more than six feet and a weight of around 10 pounds, young Star was an aweinspiring sight even before her return to the sky. The average American bald eagle has a wingspan of 5.5-8 feet and a weight of 6-14 pounds, with female eagles typically 25 percent larger than males. “Once she made it to the 12-by-12 room, we were pretty confident she was going to be okay. She was feeding herself at this point and very much disliked her caregivers, giving us a lot of sass,” recalls
Vanderford. “The true test was putting her outside in our pre-release flight conditioning enclosure. After a couple of days in the outside space, she started flying.” Free to fly The following week, on August 18, Star was released at the Scioto Audubon Metro Park, roughly two miles south of her original nest. “Star told us when she was ready for release. Once she was flying strong and finding food in the flight enclosure on her own, it was time,” Vanderford says. The release location was carefully chosen by the Ohio Division of Wildlife, taking into consideration factors such as her age and time spent in rehabilitation. According to Ohio Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Management Supervisor Gary Comer, it was safer to release Star at this location, as she had reached the age when her parents would have begun urging her out of the nest. About 100 spectators and photographers gathered to watch the bird’s release. The moment Star’s crate was opened, she spread her wings and took off into the sky.
“Star’s release day was so memorable for our staff and (her) supporters … It was a huge accomplishment for everyone involved,” Vanderford says. “The best moment was when the crate door opened, and Star flew out. Everyone watched silently as she climbed into the sky. She flew overhead, circling all of us for some time.” After circling the audience for about 20 minutes, Star headed north back towards her nest. Compassion meets conservation Star’s journey back into the sky was not just a triumph for her, but an inspiring story that conveys the importance of wildlife conservation and the power of a united community. According to Comer, without the eagle family’s alreadydedicated group of followers noticing Star’s unusual behavior days before her fall, she may not have survived at all. Simultaneously, Vanderford says without the support of the community and donors, OBS would not have the necessary tools, resources and trained staff to give Star and other birds the specialized care they need. Star’s story also serves as a reminder of the value of protecting our wildlife. Conserving wildlife safeguards the natural balance of ecosystems, benefitting both the animals that inhabit them and the humans who depend on them. “This one story acts as a ripple effect to inspire and educate people all over about the importance of wildlife in and around our communities,” Vanderford says. “If people become interested in wildlife through stories like this, they are more likely to make informed decisions that protect and sustain wildlife populations.” Ella Jay is an assistant editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at ejay@cityscenemediagroup.com.
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January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
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Student Spotlight By Ali Hartzell, photos courtesy of Elizabeth Poling
Spirited Senior Upper Arlington senior finds community in sports
A
fter helping secure her first State Championship title in the fall of 2025, Elizabeth Poling had only one week of rest before beginning basketball season. As a three-sport athlete, Poling is used to having a busy schedule, and her senior year at Upper Arlington High School has been no exception. With her high school career ending, with only the spring semester left, Poling is excited for what is ahead. Getting active Her love for sports began at a young age, when she played in the Kiwanis Club Soccer League. Later, Poling joined a soccer club, where she made friends that she still has today. Like soccer, Poling started basketball when she was young. Poling initially started track in middle school to spend time with friends after school, but it quickly became an integral part of her life. “Now, (I’m) still with those same best friends and it’s just so fun to watch us grow up together,” she says Going into high school, Poling was struggling with the idea of quitting one of her beloved sports. Instead, she decided to continue all three.
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Balancing act Poling’s free time is scarce, but she has no complaints with her busy schedule. The community she found through her sports keeps her motivated to keep going, she says.
Going into her freshman year as a high school soccer player, Poling was very quiet. Through the guidance of her coach, Alex Zavodny and the camaraderie of her teammates, Poling opened up to the girls on the team and found her voice.
January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
Fun Fact Poling is a defensive midfielder in soccer, a point guard for basketball and runs the 200- and 400-yard races in track and field. Upperclassmen on the soccer team encouraged her to join the Bear Den, where she is now one of six leaders of the spirit section. The leadership team organizes a game of the week, where they get a large group of students to attend and cheer on the UA Golden Bears at home games. As a tri-sport athlete, Poling has experienced the spirit of the Bear Den herself. In November, the girls’ state soccer championship game garnered not only the support of the student section but the entire Upper Arlington community. The Bear Den rotates sports weekly, ensuring a variety of teams are supported throughout the year. To keep the energy high, Poling and her fellow leaders use megaphones and stunts to lead cheers, while also posting score updates on social media.
January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
“Upper Arlington is a place where everyone’s behind each other and there is no such thing as (being) alone,” she says. Along with leading the cheer section and completing successful sports seasons, Poling is involved with community service through First Community Church. For the past two years over spring break she has gone on a service trip to Tijuana, Mexico, where she spent the week building houses for underprivileged families. Poling’s own personal goals also inspire her to keep up the hard work. “What really motivates me is just to continue to strive for the best in the classroom, on the field, on the track, on the court…and keep up my best work no matter what,” she says. Paying off Poling’s self-discipline and support from her tight-knit community have motivated her to grow both as an athlete and a person. During her high school career, she was team captain for numerous teams, won two state championships in soccer and the 4x400-meter relay and became a threetime All-American in track. Even with these achievements, Poling still measures her success by her own personal growth. 19
Bear Den
Service trip
Some of Poling’s biggest sports inspirations are late basketball star Kobe Bryant and Olympic gold medalist track runner Sydney McLaughlin. Growing up in Upper Arlington gave Poling a strong foundation of support, friendship and teammates who have shaped who she is today. Now a senior, she loves being able to greet familiar faces in the hallway, a sense of community that helped her earn the title of Homecoming Queen in fall of 2025. The people she met in high school helped her to become the person she is today. “I wouldn’t want it any other way,” she says. Poling recently committed to Miami University to continue her track and field career. 20
Poling crowned Homecoming Queen
Miami isn’t just a school for Poling, but a family tradition. Her mother, aunt, uncle and grandfather all went to Miami, and now Poling will build on the legacy. The sense of community she felt when visiting Miami reminded her of Upper Arlington. Inspired by the classes she took while in high school, Poling will study systems and industrial engineering. Though she will miss her UA community and friend group, Poling looks to the future, thrilled about the possibilities. “I’m really excited (to see) how much of a better person I can make myself and just better myself, especially in my athletic career,” she says.
Ali Hartzell is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@ cityscenemediagroup.com
In her free time, Poling enjoys photography and film. She is a part of UA High School’s news channel, “Kickin’ It Live”.
January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
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On the Table
By Evan Che Stefanik
Soup for the Soul A compilation of the best soups in Tri-Village
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s the winter season carries on, some people crave a familiar staple to warm themselves up. Soup is a common comfort food, and although you can’t go wrong with a simple chicken noodle soup, there are several places to find creative flavors in the TriVillage area. Houlihan’s Original Baked Potato
Photo courtesy of Gina Fontana
Photo courtesy of Chelsea Brooks
Photo courtesy of Houlihan’s Upper Arlington
Enjoy this famous recipe for a signature soup that has made a name for itself in Houlihan’s locations all across the country. The Original Baked Potato soup includes bacon, scallions and cheddar cheese, making a homey meal that many soup-lovers swear by.
SÕW Plated Market
Hudson 29 Trio
SÕW Plated strives to improve its Enjoy your soup in style with a visit to the chic yet inviting Hudson 29. If you’re customers’ mental and physical wellbe- craving sides with your soup, the Trio is a gluten-free option that features a roasted ing using handcrafted, health-conscious turkey sandwich – guacamole and gouda cheese – and a choice of salad along with a dishes. With its Market Soup, customers cup of the daily soup. can taste a rotating selection of fresh, seasonal ingredients curated by none other than the chef. 22
January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
Grandview Cafe French Onion
RLING UPPER A
Step into one of Columbus’ consistently top-voted bar and restaurants, Grandview Cafe, for a sense of community and a warm meal. The French Onion soup, served in a cup or a bowl size, is topped off with delectable melted provolone cheese, plus a toasted baguette on the side.
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Pho Asian Noodle House and Grill Thai Tom Kah Gai For those with a more unique affinity in terms of soups, the locally-owned Pho Asian Noodle House and Grill offers PanAsian cuisine. The soup incorporates Thai coconut milk, herbs, mushrooms and chicken breast and packs a spicy kick to the taste buds. Nong’s Hunan Express Vegetable Tofu With multiple options available, Nong’s Hunan Express is a go-to source for soups in and around the community, especially for customers seeking Chinese cuisine as well as vegetarian and vegan meals. This soup slow-cooks silky tofu and fresh vegetables in a delicious broth. Evan Che Stefanik is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback is welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com. WWW.DAVEFOX.COM
January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
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Living
By Korrigan Craddock
Household Functionality
Redesigning a space in your home for efficiency
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gorgeous home layout can be appealing at first glance, but the real value lies in how well it supports your family’s routines, comfort and daily life. A functional space means something different for every household, and personalizing your home to support your household’s daily routines without adding stress or interfering with it can be a challenge. “It’s looking at what’s not working for you. I think that’s the best way to begin your approach to functionality,” says Tiffany Chandler, residential design director at Steller Construction. “Once you figure out what’s not working for you, then someone can help you figure out the best function and know whether it’s a redesign or just adding to your existing (space) to make it function better for you.” Mudrooms Every household’s problem area can be different, but Chandler says common areas, usually laundry and mudrooms, tend to be problematic, especially for households with children. As families grow and accumulate new routines and items, curating a space for long-term function can be difficult. With spaces such as laundry and mudrooms, features to consider include creating a designated spot to put book bags, additional storage and bench for shoes, and a place to put clothes during and after laundry. Many homeowners choose to install cubbies or locker-style cabinets with multiple shelves, creating designated spaces for each person or item. Some built-in cubbies include bench seating with additional storage underneath. Designers also consider how wet gear affects the home’s airflow. Mudrooms lacking proper ventilation often develop odors or moisture buildup. Adding a dedicated vent or radiant floor heat can extend the lifespan of the flooring.
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Kitchens The kitchen is another area that serves multiple functions within a limited space, from prepping meals to afterschool activities and family gatherings. With confined space for people – and supplies – square footage and storage are two factors to consider in making the most of your space. One project involved helping homeowners who wanted extra pantry storage in their kitchen. Originally, there were two small closets, one in the kitchen and one in the adjacent office. Steller Construction combined the two closets to create one large pantry, and instead of using a traditional door, they installed cabinet-looking panels for the pantry door to create a continuous aesthetic with the surrounding cabinetry. January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
Photo by Farid Nava
Adjusting cabinetry that homeowners already have is another effective way to enhance a space for functionality. Adding roll-out shelves is a simple adjustment that can help homeowners be more organized and create additional space for storage. Another aspect to consider is appliance zoning. As kitchen layouts become more advanced, kitchen work triangles – or layouts connecting a sink, stove and fridge for efficient cooking – have become less common. Instead, many designers craft kitchens with efficiency in mind, organizing the room so that appliances and tasks are placed in functional areas, such as a cooking zone, a prep zone and a cleaning zone.
January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
Photos by Marhsall Skinner
Before
After
Miscellaneous Spaces Sometimes a space just needs minor adjustments, such as moving a side table or lamp over a couple of inches, picking slightly more shallow cabinets, adding floating shelves or installing rollout shelves. Adding storage between two studs is one example Steller Construction has found for utilizing space for functionality. “It’s all about those little nooks and crannies that maybe you didn’t even realize were there that we were able to utilize for storage,” says Chandler. 25
Bathrooms Bathrooms are a big part of many people’s daily routines. Maximizing the space for functionality can ease daily stress. Storage in the bathroom is just as important as in any other part of the house. Wall storage around the sink or floating shelves above a toilet can help eliminate clutter and keep bathroom essentials organized. One project involved redoing a couple’s bathroom vanities to provide them with more storage. This couple’s original vanities and bathroom space were not working for their morning and night routines, so they decided they wanted a way to store their electric toiletries with easy access. 26
To help, the Steller Construction team installed cabinets that pull out to reveal outlets inside, creating storage for accessories such as a hair dryer, electric razor and electric toothbrushes. The layout of a bathroom can also make a big difference in both its functionality and privacy. Creating separate spaces for the toilet, shower and the vanity area allows for more than one person to utilize the bathroom without feeling crowded. These separate spaces can be achieved with half walls, creating nooks in the space or adding a sliding door. The doors in a bathroom can take up more room than you realize. Replacing a traditional swinging door with a sliding door can free space while also making the bathroom feel more open. January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
Photos by Farid Nava
Another project involved redoing a bathroom’s layout. The homeowners originally had an oddly shaped, two-room bathroom. One room had a small shower, toilet and vanity. The other room had a platform tub and another vanity. The homeowners wanted to upgrade their space to have a spa-like feeling with a steam shower and more storage. Steller Construction redesigned the layout by moving the toilet around to create space for the steam shower and adding a wall of cabinet storage. For enclosed showers, many older fans are not equipped to provide proper ventilation. Designers must evaluate the home’s existing venting capacity, especially for steam showers, January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
in order to prevent mold behind walls. If you’re considering adding a glitzy new shower, consider that a new ventilation system may be in order as well. Korrigan Craddock is a contributing writer at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com .
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Top homes sold in the Tri-Village area In October 2025, Upper Arlington home prices were up 15.9 percent compared to last year, while Grandview Heights home prices were only up 8.6 percent. The median home price for October 2025 in UA was $652,000 and $633,000 in Grandview. Homes stayed on the market in both cities for fewer days than the previous year with homes in UA after an average of about 36 days, and Grandview homes selling after about 30 days. A total of 43 homes sold in UA October 2025 and 10 homes sold in Grandview. (Data from Redfin)
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2060 Fontenay Pl. 5 beds, 5.5 baths $2,275,000 Sold 11/20/25
2671 Lear Rd. 3 beds, 2 baths $1,250,000 Sold 11/7/25
2450 Sandover Rd. 6 beds, 4.5 baths $2,198,000 Sold 10/1/25
1225 Brittany Ln. 4 beds, 3.5 baths $1,235,000 Sold 10/17/25
3012 Oldham Rd. 6 beds, 5 baths $1,875,000 Sold 10/1/25
4324 Langport Rd. 4 beds, 2.5 baths $1,050,000 Sold 10/14/25
4021 Fairfax Dr. 5 beds, 4 baths $1,800,000 Sold 10/14/25
4520 Tetford Rd. 4 beds, 3.5 baths $998,500 Sold 10/17/25
2777 Donna Dr. 5 beds, 5.5 baths $1,680,000 Sold 10/31/25
2600 Henthorn Rd. 4 beds, 2.5 baths $970,000 Sold 11/7/25
3445 Redding Rd. 5 beds, 4.5 baths $1,480,000 Sold 10/1/25
2197 Sheringham Rd. 4 beds, 4 baths $960,000 Sold 10/14/25
January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
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Cheryl Godard cherylgodard@kw.com 614-353-8711
Thinking about selling your home this fall or winter? Let’s connect! I have been helping Sellers prepare and sell their homes in UA and the TriVillage area for over 20 years and I would love to help you! Call or email me today and let’s get started! cherylgodard.com
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Showcase your home listings to every homeowner in the Tri-Village area. Your listings will also appear in the digital edition of the magazine, hosted on the Tri-Village Magazine home page: www.trivillagemagazine.com Contact Gianna Barrett today for more information: gbarrett@cityscenemediagroup.com 614-572-1255
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Submitted by Upper Arlington Public Library Whooo is Still Awake?
The Guest
by Brigette Barrager
by Emma Cline
Rhythmic, lyrical text and charming illustrations make this a fun read-aloud for young readers who are curious about the nighttime world. By the time dawn breaks and spiderwebs glisten with dew, everyone will be ready to yawn, coo and snuggle up for a cozy sleep.
Alex is a grifter with a shady past who finds herself in the Hamptons with Simon, a wealthy and capricious older man, who quickly discards her after a faux pas at a party. With dwindling funds and a broken phone, Alex must rely on her own resourcefulness as she navigates a series of increasingly desperate situations. Cline skillfully builds tension in prose that is at once precise and lyrical.
The Pine Cone’s Secret: A Life Cycle Poem by Hannah Barnaby
In this rhyming life cycle picture book, a pine cone becomes something new with each turn of the page, from a tower to a feast, from a magic trick to a Christmas tree. Extensive back matter on fun facts about pine trees and where to find them, along with a craft, is included.
Candle Island by Lauren Wolk
Lucretia and her mother move to a small island off the coast of Maine to get away from the paparazzi who constantly look for Lucretia’s mom, a famous artist. They also both want to process the death of Lucretia’s father, the man who held the family together. Lucretia begins a new life on the island, which is full of secrets, summer vacationers and the possibility of her mother’s location being found. Amidst all of this, Lucretia has her own secrets to keep, but may find that harder to do than she ever thought. Grandview Heights Public Library www.ghpl.org
Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner
Michelle Zauner, lead singer of Japanese Breakfast, explores her identity as a Korean-American, her complicated relationship with her mother and the overwhelming grief following her mother’s death. Zauner’s exploration of Korean cuisine serves as both metaphor and memory, making this not just a story about grief, but also one about love and resilience. The book beautifully explores the cultural ties that shape who we are.
Fable by Adrienne Young
After Fable’s mother had drowned and her father had abandoned her on an island of cutthroats to fend for herself, she made use of her deep diving skills to collect and sell valuable “pire.” Fable outsmarts the questionable characters she encounters on her adventures through the oceans and islands to track down the father who left her. The tale includes a bit of romance and a cliffhanger ending.
Upper Arlington Public Libraries Tremont Road Branch, Lane Road Branch and Miller Park Branch www.ualibrary.org 30
January/February 2026 • www.trivillagemagazine.com
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