Tri-Village May/June2026

Spirit of Service

Elegance Escape

Fri., May 1

Young Art Explorers

10 a.m.-noon

UAPL Miller Park Branch 1901 Arlington Ave. www.ualibrary.libnet.info

Sat., May 2

Great Garage Sale

9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Grandview Heights www.grandviewheights.gov

Sat., May 2

UA Culture and Artisans Fair

10 a.m.-3 p.m.

St. Mark’s Episcopal Church 2151 Dorset Rd. www.upperarlingtonoh.gov

Sun., May 3

The Best Day in UA: Celebrating 100 Years of July 4th Traditions

3 p.m.

Bob Crane Community Center, Level 5 Event Center 3200 Tremont Rd. www.upperarlingtonoh.gov

Tues., May 5

16th Annual Yappy Hour

6-7:30 p.m.

Grandview Heights Public Library

1685 W. First Ave. www.ghpl.libnet.info

Wed., May 6

E-Cycle Waste Day

10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Municipal Pool Parking Lot 1350 Goodale Blvd. www.grandviewheights.gov

Thurs., May 7

GHS Jazz Ensemble on the Lawn

6:30-7:30 p.m.

Grandview Heights Public Library 1685 W. First Ave. www.ghpl.libnet.info

Sat., May 9

Spring Fling

11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sunny 95 Park 4395 Carriage Hill Ln. www.upperarlingtonoh.gov

Tues., May 12

GHHS Spring Choral Concert/ Awards Night

7 p.m.

Grandview Heights High School Auditorium 1587 W. Third Ave. www.ghschools.org

Wed., May 13

Trivia Night on the Lawn

6:30-7:30 p.m.

Grandview Heights Public Library 1685 W. First Ave. www.ghpl.libnet.info

Wednesdays, May 13-Oct. 21

Upper Arlington Farmers Market 3-6 p.m.

2151 Dorset Rd. www.commongreensohio.org

Thurs., May 14

LMS Spring Choral Concert

7 p.m.

GHHS Auditorium

1587 W. Third Ave. www.ghschools.org

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Sat., May 16

Grandview Heights Schools

Community Groundbreaking & Open House 1065 Oxley Rd. www.ghschools.org

Thurs., May 21

Last Day of School – Grandview Heights Schools www.ghschools.org

Thurs., May 21

Memorial Service

7:30 p.m.

Memorial Park 1135 W. Second Ave. www.grandviewheights.gov

Fri., May 22

Volunteer Appreciation Pool Party

6-8 p.m.

Municipal Pool 1350 Goodale Blvd. www.grandviewheights.gov

Sat., May 23

Memorial Parade

10 a.m.

Grandview Heights www.grandviewheights.gov

Sat., May 23

Splash into Summer Pool Party

1-3 p.m.

Municipal Pool 1350 Goodale Blvd. www.grandviewheights.gov

Mon., May 25

No School - Upper Arlington Schools Memorial Day www.uaschools.org

Always check websites for updated information.

Congratulations to our Upper Arlington H.S. and Grandview Heights H.S. classes of 2026! Sunday, May 24

Upper Arlington H.S. Commencement

9:30-11 a.m.

The Schottenstein Center 555 Borror Dr. www.uaschools.org

Mon., May 25

UACA Memorial Day Run

8:30-10 a.m.

Fire Station 72 3861 Reed Rd. www.uaca.org

Thurs., May 28

Last Day of School - Upper Arlington Schools www.uaschools.org

Fri., June 5

Arts on Arlington 6-9 p.m.

Mallway Park 2096 Arlington Ave.

Wed., June 10

American Red Cross Blood Drive

12-6 p.m.

Grandview Heights Public Library 1685 W. First Ave. www.ghpl.libnet.info

Grandview Heights H.S. Commencement 11 a.m.

Grandview Heights H.S. 1587 W. Third Ave. www.ghschools.org

Sat., June 13

Tour de Grandview 1-9 p.m.

Grandview Heights www.grandviewheights.gov

Sat., June 13

An Evening with Kelly Willis and Radney Foster 8 p.m.

Natalie’s Music Hall and Kitchen 945 King Ave. www.nataliesgrandview.com

Wed., June 17

Red, White, & Biz America250 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Wyman Woods Park 1520 Goodale Blvd. www.grandviewheights.gov

Sat., June 27

Hot 8 Brass Band 8 p.m.

Natalie’s Music Hall and Kitchen 945 King Ave. www.nataliesgrandview.com

More Than a Tradition

Upper Arlington native Bob Long shares decades of service

If you have attended the Fourth of July parade put on by Upper Arlington Civic Association at any point over the past few decades, you have probably seen Upper Arlington native Bob Long.

At the front of the Parade every year, there is a group known as the Spirit of ‘76. Consisting of two drummers, a piccolo player and a flag bearer, the group and its duties have been passed down for generations, with the Long family carrying on the tradition since its inception.

Although he retired from his role two years ago, UA native Bob Long continues to be involved locally through professional connections and service organizations as a way to give back to the community he grew up in.

Historical family connections

Born in 1953, Long grew up in Upper Arlington with his parents and older brother, Jim, surrounded by family and the knowledge that their history was intertwined with the community’s history.

His grandfather, Link Murphy, moved to UA in 1928, quickly making an impact. Throughout the 48 years he lived in the community, some of his impact included becoming the first chairman of the first Fourth of July Parade, the first medical director at First Community Village and helping raise money for the Marv Moorehead Memorial Stadium lights.

That service mindset was passed along to Long’s mother and father, especially through their involvement with service groups such as the Upper Arlington Rotary Club, until their unexpected passing due to a plane accident in 1966, when Long was 12 years old.

He and Jim were taken in by family so they could remain in Upper Arlington, where they stayed involved through sports and the Parade, until they graduated from high school in 1971 and 1969, respectively.

Professional impact

After high school, Long went on to study business at Miami University before moving back home to earn a master’s in business administration in 1978 from The Ohio State University.

Right after graduation, he began working for Xerox, and it was during his tenure there that he met his wife, Laurie, and the two married in 1982.

The mid-1980s to 1990s ushered in two new phases of Long’s life: fatherhood and a new career. As he welcomed his three children – Kelly, Andrew and Brendan – into the world, he began following his own father’s footsteps into the world of real estate.

Over the years, he worked with and led several teams and organizations throughout central Ohio, including the Daimler Group Inc, Long & Wilcox, LLC, and Vision1 Real Estate Advisors, where he works today. He also became a member of the Columbus Board of Realtors and Columbus Commercial Industrial & Investment Realtors and earned several awards and achievements in the field.

During his time with Long & Wilcox, LLC, the Central Ohio Building Industry Association named him the Developer of the Year in 2005. One of his biggest projects came a few years later when he helped

Roles and Awards Through the Years

• Member of Spirit of ‘76 (1969-2024)

• Member of Columbus Commercial Industrial & Investment Realtors (CCIIR) (1985-present), President (1996-1997)

• Member of Columbus Board of Realtors (1985-present)

• Member of Upper Arlington Rotary Club (1988-present), President (2001-2002)

• Member of TriVillage Mentor League (2001-2007), President (2004-2007)

• Awarded Developer of the Year Award by the Central Ohio Building Industry Association (2005)

• Board member of Northwest Counseling (2008-2012)

• Board Member of Greater Linden Development Corporation (2012-2017)

• Awarded the Erika Blumenstein Award from CCIIR, the Ohio Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors for lifetime contributions to the commercial real estate industry (2021)

create the first five-story luxury residential condominium complex in UA, known as Arlington Crossing.

“We were probably the pioneers. It’s not always great to be the pioneer, especially when the downturn hit when we were building it, but we survived,” Long says. “Today, with the community center across the street, it’s like the hottest property to live in… So what it’s evolved into took some time to kind of get there, but now people understand that, and I’m proud of what we did.”

Although Long says he felt the building may have been ahead of its time, he saw the space as a way to give back to his community in a way that would continue to benefit people for years to come.

“I really wanted to do something in Upper Arlington, and I wanted to do something that I thought would be good for the long-term benefit of the community,” Long says.

Leading through service

While his career and family life were taking shape, so was his service work.

In 1988, he joined the Upper Arlington Rotary Club to stay connected with his father and give back to his community.

Throughout his time as a Rotary member and his year as president of the Club, Long has helped countless people both locally – through organizations such as Meals on Wheels and Upper Arlington Special Olympics – and abroad.

One service project that stands out to Long is the Rotary’s ongoing partnership with the Mayan Families non-profit organization in Guatemala. Since the project’s inception in 2011, the Rotary and its members have donated roughly $2.5 million, according to Long, through establishing spaces throughout the community, including schools, daycares, water projects and senior housing.

“It’s been life-changing for the people there, but it’s kind of life-changing for the people in the Club,” Long says. “I’ve been down there four times, and it’s just pretty spectacular what they do.”

With 38 years of service under his belt already, Long has no plans of stop -

“Part of their DNA, I guess, was to give back,” he says. “It just started with my grandfather, and it’s been passed down. It’s just part of our family.”

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

Make this milestone unforgettable with a celebration space designed for gatherings that matter.

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• Beautiful, remodeled event space ideal for graduation parties, family celebrations, showers and special events

• Convenient Columbus location with easy access and plenty of parking for your guests

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• Giant screen to share your photos or to allow for live streaming

In Focus By Megan Brokamp and Jane Dimel

Star-Spangled Summer

America250 celebrations bring patriotic spirit to Tri-Village area

WSat., July 4

2026 July 4th Celebrations

Wed., July 15-Fri., Sept. 11

In Pursuit of Happiness: UA Community Art Exhibit

Concourse Gallery

3600 Tremont Rd.

Fri., July 24

Rubber Duck Derby & Dive-in

Movie: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

4 p.m.: Derby start time

9 p.m.: Movie start time

Grandview Heights Municipal Pool

1350 Goodale Blvd.

ith the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence approaching this July, the Tri-Village communities are coming together to spread national pride and camaraderie. Although the grand birthday does not fall until the Fourth, Upper Arlington, Grandview Heights and Marble Cliff are planning yearlong festivities to honor both national and local history.

Upper Arlington

In early 2025, Upper Arlington’s City Council passed a resolution declaring Upper Arlington an official America250 community. Shortly after, a committee was formed, comprised of the Upper Arlington Historical Society, Upper Arlington Civic Association, Upper Arlington Community Foundation, Upper Arlington Public Library, Upper Arlington Schools, Upper Arlington Education Foundation and the City of Upper Arlington.

The City officially kicked off celebrations with a dedication for the WalcuttLegg Cemetery History Trail Sign. Walcutt-Legg Cemetery is located next to Wellington Middle School, and in this small cemetery, Revolutionary War soldier and former UA resident Elijah Legg is buried.

The City and the Historical Society partnered to revitalize the signage marking this historical site. On April 19, a ceremony was held to honor the veteran, which included a presentation from Wellington students and additional educational activities.

On May 3, The Best Day in UA: Celebrating 100 Years of July 4th, takes place at the Bob Crane Community Center. America’s 250th birthday coincides with the centennial of UA’s Fourth of July celebration, and the Historical Society is hosting a free event to showcase the parade’s history and traditions.

The celebration includes tables from various float-building neighborhoods, where visitors can explore creations over the years, along with a Miss Arlington Table – an ode to the previous tradition of featuring Miss Arlington and her court during the parade, which took place from 1949-1998. There will also be surprise guests from the parade and informational panels throughout the fifth floor of the center available through mid-June.

The following weekend, this year’s Spring Fling will mark the unveiling of new signage around the Amelita Mirolo barn, highlighting both the history of farming in UA and the story behind the barn’s construction. The sign features the story of the barn, along with recognition of those who helped make the project possible. In addition, 17 native Ohio trees will be planted in the park to reflect Ohio’s status as the 17th state.

For UA’s 100th celebration of July 4th, the Civic Association will host an allout celebration with a special theme relating to America 250 and heightened fes-

America 250 events

Sun., May 3

The Best Day in UA: Celebrating 100 Years of July 4th Traditions 3 p.m.

Bob Crane Community Center, Level 5 Event Center

3200 Tremont Rd.

Sat., May 9

Spring Fling 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sunny 95 Park 4395 Carriage Hill Ln.

Wed., May 20-Fri., July 17

An American Town: Celebrating 250 Years

Bob Crane Community Center, Level 5 3200 Tremont Rd.

Sat., May 23

Memorial Day Parade 10 a.m.

First Ave. and Cambridge Blvd. (start)

Wed. June 17

Red, White, & Biz

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

Wyman Woods Park 1520 Goodale Blvd.

250 Facts for UA is an initiative led by the City and the historical society, unveiling facts about landmarks around the city throughout the year. The facts cover a range of topics, from UA’s ties to Seinfeld to the origins of the Golden Bear mascot. The historical society partnered with the City to release facts twice a month via social media and newsletters. Residents can also click to view facts around the city through a GIS map.

tivities, including a 12-plus-minute drone show preceding the fireworks display, live performances and more.

What began as a way to keep residents in town for the holiday has grown into a tradition that now draws visitors in and even brings former residents back to celebrate. That evolution reflects the consistent efforts of the Civic Association.

“The Civic Association is completely volunteer-led… These guys formed 100 years ago, they decided they wanted to start having a celebration of the state’s independence and they just kept going,” Upper Arlington Community Affairs Director Emma Speight says. “At the City, we partner with them and provide a lot of support for the day, but they’re the ones with the big binders and the to-do lists and the expenses. They put it all together.”

Additional initiatives include two special art exhibitions – An American Town: Celebrating 250 Years and In Pursuit of Happiness – as well as Movies in the Park screenings featuring Ohio-connected films such as Ready Player One and Little Giants

Grandview Heights

Preparations for the national milestone started in early 2025 in Grandview Heights as well, with a committee comprised of the City of Grandview Heights, the Village of Marble Cliff, Grandview Heights/Marble Cliff Historical Society, Tri-Village Chamber Partnership, the Grandview Heights Public Library, Grandview Heights Schools, ODNR Division of Wildlife and Ohio Goes to the Movies.

The celebration began at the January 2026 city council meeting with Mayor Greta M. Kearns and City Director of Administration Adam Maxwell presenting the proclamation of Grandview Heights as an official America250 community alongside the flag. Since then, the America 250 committee of Grandview Heights has hosted America’s Birthday Party in February with games, activities and patrioticthemed cupcakes, as well as facilitated a traveling, America 250-centric frame that has popped up around town for photo ops, with council members and others taking photos around the community to commemorate the year-long festivities.

Festivities continue in May with the Memorial Day Parade on Sat., May 23, with this year’s parade emphasizing its patriotic themes with America

250-themed floats set to take off on First Avenue at 10 a.m.

In June, the national pride and spirit will continue at Wyman Woods with a Red, White, & Biz event on the 17th. Created through a partnership between the City and Destination Grandview, the event will bring together local businesses with families and the community to engage and network through special America 250-themed meals starting at 11:30 a.m. Attendees will receive a red, white or navy shirt for a special drone photo of participants spelling out “250” at noon.

City of Grandview Heights Strategy and Engagement Manager Christy Clark shares that the photo is an exciting way to bring local businesses and local residents together – and an opportunity to show off their creativity through designing their own t-shirt.

“It symbolizes unity and coming together, so whether it’s just Grandview Heights or visitors, we are all coming together to celebrate a very, very special milestone in American history, and we’re making our own history by doing this,” Clark says.

Marble Cliff

Along with the nation’s birthday, the Village of Marble Cliff is celebrating a birthday of its own: 125 years. The village is partnering with Grandview on several of its America 250 initiatives, including the Memorial Day Parade, and also plans to expand on festivities with its own events.

The village’s annual Fountain Opening Ceremony, which marks the opening of the Cambridge Fountain, will have a special America 250-themed twist. The ceremony is scheduled for mid-May, weather permitting. A homecoming event is also scheduled for the end of the summer, which will include a community picnic.

Looking ahead to Fri., July 24, save the date for the third annual Rubber Duck Derby, back this year with a Christmas in July theme and a showing of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation – which stars Columbus native Beverly D’Angelo – in partnership with Ohio Goes to the Movies.

Megan Brokamp is an editor and Jane Dimel is an assistant editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Scioto Spotlight

U.S. Senior Open returns to Scioto Country Club

www.championships.usga.org

By Megan Brokamp

Nearly a century after Bobby Jones took the trophy at the 1926 U.S. Open, Scioto Country Club is once again preparing the course for major golf. June 2-5, the U.S. Senior Open returns to Upper Arlington, bringing a field of legends back to one of golf’s most historic courses.

Breaking it down

Conducted by the United States Golf Association (USGA), the U.S. Senior Open is a major championship on the PGA Tour consisting of a 72-hole stroke-play tournament, open to professionals and amateurs 50 years and older with a handicap of 2.4 or less.

The tournament starts with a 156-player field, before cutting to the top 60 after two rounds. Rather than a regular tour stop, it is a standalone tournament and is one of five senior major championships.

The Senior Open draws in major championships and wellknown PGA Tour players. Notable winners include Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Bernhard Langer. Ireland’s Pádraig Harrington returns as the defending champion, and the 2026 field is expected to feature a mix of major winners and fan favorites such as Ernie Els, Jim Furyk and Miguel Ángel Jiménez.

Rooted in history

The course is also notable for its ties to Nicklaus, who learned to play at Scioto around the age of 10. There, he was coached by Jack Grout, a mentorship which shaped Nicklaus’ legendary gameplay.

“The number of majors (Nicklaus) has won, what he and his family have done for the game of golf in general, has been unmatched in many ways,” Senior Director at United States Golf Association Hank Thompson says. “His relationship with us is important, and knowing that he did learn the game of golf right there at Scioto, it means a lot.”

Scioto is also celebrating a historic win. This year marks 100 years since Scioto hosted the 1926 U.S. Open. The course was only 10 years old at the time when amateur Jones took the trophy. Tournament directors plan to recognize the anniversary during tournament week festivities.

Following its first U.S. Open, Scioto went on to host the 1931 Ryder Cup, the 1950 PGA Championship, the 1968 U.S. Amateur as well as the 1986 and 2016 U.S. Senior Open, cementing it as a course built to challenge the game’s best.

Why Scioto?

As one of a select group of courses to have hosted five different PGA/USGA tournaments, Scioto has built a reputation for championship-level play.

Designed by legendary architect Donald Ross, Scioto is a strategic course which rewards smart golf. From subtly contoured greens to varied hole design, the course demands precision. In 2021, the course was restored by Andrew Green, whose goal was to restore the original design of the course while keeping it at championship-level status.

“The renovations (focused on) getting back to the ground game, playability and accessibility,” says Bob Becker, a superintendent at Scioto since 1999.

To be selected to host, the club must first reach out to the USGA. Then, officials inspect the course to determine its strength and level of demand toward players. Thompson explains that Scioto’s history with the Senior Open and additional USGA championship events played strong roles in the decision to award it the 2026 tournament. However, the culture of sports in Columbus also created a draw.

“Columbus is such a big sports market, whether you’re talking about Ohio State, the Blue Jackets, the Crew, the Memorial Tournament,” Thompson says. “Being that the market is so big and so sports conscious and interested, that was part of it too for us.”

Preparing for play

To prepare for the tournament, Scioto made a series of small improvements, such as making the rough more difficult and resurfacing bridges. They also created three entrances to accommodate fans.

The USGA starts preparation at Scioto at the beginning of May, bringing in vendors and team members to start the transformation.

After the tournament, vendors will remain in town through the end of July working on tear down, amounting to a 75- to 90-day period where the USGA team lives and works in Upper Arlington.

Along with visitors coming in for the tournament, the presence of these officials shopping at grocery stores, visiting restaurants and staying in Upper Arlington creates a positive economic impact in the community.

What to expect

During tournament week, spectators can choose their own viewing experience. Those looking to experience the action firsthand can follow groups from hole to hole or settle into grandstand seating at key vantage points, while a central fan area provides food, merchandise and live coverage throughout the day.

Complimentary off-site parking and shuttle service will be available for spectators, making it easy to access the championship grounds.

This year, the tournament happens to fall on another popular celebration: the Fourth of July. The USGA is working with the City of Upper Arlington and its police department to ensure parade day festivities flow smoothly in conjunction with the tournament.

To celebrate the holiday along with America 250, the USGA plans to have special programming for fans to enjoy. Another opportunity for engagement is the Youth Post Design Contest, which invites fans ages 17 and younger to enter drawings to be displayed onsite at the tournament.

Beyond contests and festivities, the real allure of the tournament comes with the intimate access fans have to the action, an experience that is unique to the game of golf.

“We basically have a 1/4-inch nylon rope that separates fans from players,” Thompson says. “We think it’s pretty cool to be able to do that and to be pretty close to the players and part of the action.”

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

Scioto is also set to host the U.S. Amateur Golf Championship in 2036. This marks the championship’s second visit to the club, with the first being in 1968 when Bruce Fleisher won.

Driven by Discovery

Young

scientist explores, one experiment at a time

Madan Chiang, an eighth-grade student at Larson Middle School, is driven by a passion for research, whether for science fair projects or Science Olympiad competitions.

Guided by a questioning mind, he treats every mystery as an invitation to investigate.

Science Olympiad

Chiang’s pull into science began in fourth grade and each science teacher since has introduced him to ever-broader topics, deepening his curiosity.

In sixth grade, Chiang joined Science Olympiad – a school club competing in events about science subjects from biology, chemistry and earth science, to physics, engineering, technology and more leading up to a national STEM tournament – and has stuck with it ever since.

“It’s just a really cool club because I can choose what science events I would get to do and learn a lot more about things I really enjoy doing,” Chiang says.

Chiang prepares for events both independently and with a teammate and coaches, balancing written knowledge tests in his chosen concentrations –Anatomy and Physiology, Metric Mastery and Water Quality – with hands - on challenges such as Experimental Design and Scrambler.

“I could write a book on how great he is,” Trillion Richter, eighth-grade science teacher and Science Olympiad advisor says, “he is a hard worker and always offers practical ways to help when opportunities arise. He’s consistently positive and lifts up the people around him.”

Aside from Science Olympiad, Chiang competes in science fairs and seeks out opportunities to assist his peers in class, inspired by the help he received and determined to pay it forward.

“If everyone helps each other, it makes for a better school and a better community,” Chiang says.

Inspired projects

Talking with his parents is Chiang’s wellspring of ideas, where casual conversations turn into the core of his experiments and discoveries.

“Ideas just spark from talking to my parents. I enjoy talking to them and we can find a good experiment together,” he says.

His work spans conducting experiments and collecting data to engineering a car that must stop just short of a barrier without cracking the egg secured to its front.

Chiang recently completed a study on how placement of a healthy food item affects consumption in a school cafeteria and earned a Superior rating at Regional Science Day, qualifying him for State Science Day at The Ohio State University.

“What makes Madan stand out, especially in mathematics, is his real curiosity about how things work – he doesn’t just memorize formulas or follow steps, but asks meaningful questions and explores different ways to solve problems,” Lori Downer, his Honors Geometry and Mathematics teacher, says.

Unlike team-driven tournaments, the science fair lets Chiang work more independently. He was first introduced to it by Learning Coach Mrs. Fields, who guided him through his first project and continues to support him in getting each new idea off the ground – a mentorship he’s deeply grateful for.

Last year, he also tested how video-game habits affect a person’s ability to distinguish AI-generated images from real ones, a project sparked by his fascination with AI.

He designed the study himself, surveying students in grades 6 through 8 with 10 AI-generated images and 10 real photos to see whether time spent playing video games influenced accuracy.

“It was super fun because I got to survey a bunch of kids and analyze the data,” Chiang says.

Beyond the lab

Outside the classroom, he balances his scientific curiosity with music, enjoying the best of both worlds.

He has played the cello for two and a half years, is finishing his second year in the Chamber String Orchestra and has been a member of the school orchestra since fifth grade.

“I love the sound it makes and I like playing to the emotions and for other people,” Chiang says.

He keeps track of his responsibilities by limiting what he takes on and making the most of study hall, where he finishes a large share of his schoolwork.

While science remains his primary passion, alongside playing his cello, Chiang also enjoys reading and playing board and video games with his brother and running track and cross country.

Though he admits he isn’t the fastest, he keeps coming back for the fun.

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

Future Curiosities

On the cusp of high school, Chiang has a short bucket list he’s eager to tackle once he’s a freshman – choosing his own classes, savoring open lunch outings with friends and treating the year like his next experiment.

This summer he plans to volunteer in the community and sharpen his public speaking abilities at OSU’s summer debate camp.

Getting a Taste

Celebrating Cinco de Mayo with the best Mexican restaurants in Tri-Village

If you’re on the hunt for a local Mexican restaurant to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, look no further. These restaurants all have a vibrant and warm atmosphere to pull you towards their mouth-watering dishes, and the best part is, they’re right in your backyard.

Cuco’s Taqueria

Located near Upper Arlington, Cuco’s Taqueria is the perfect family spot. Its colorful walls are decorated with artwork patrons have created, bright lights hang from the ceilings and an outdoor patio in the back of the restaurant is a great space to create your own artwork while exploring the expansive menu.

The fresh guacamole is a must-have, as are the nachos which are topped with lettuce, chorizo, queso and jalapenos.

Cuco’s offers seven types of margaritas, including flavor twists such as jalapeno, peach or prickly pear strawberry.

If you’re looking to start your Cinco de Mayo celebrations early, try Oaxaqueña on the breakfast menu. This dish con-

tains three enchiladas filled with egg and potato, topped with a black beans and cheese sauce, along with lettuce, tomatoes and sour cream on the side.

Local Cantina

Columbus-based Tex-Mex chain Local Cantina has a location in both Grandview and Upper Arlington. The restaurant serves from-scratch Tex-Mex alongside a high-energy atmosphere, fit for a quick dinner or a night out.

Mexican Food On-The-Go

Located on 1281 W. Fifth Ave., 2 Brothers Taco Truck has an array of tacos, including al pastor as well as the birria which is packed with flavorful chili spices and tender meat that fall apart as you bite into it.

Cilantro, a Latin-fusion food restaurant, also provides its exquisite flavors on wheels. Located on 993 King Ave., this restaurant provides mouthwatering dishes that range from various regions within Central America including arepas, empanadas and juices.

The menu offers a wide range of options, from traditional bites such as the Americano – filled with ground beef, lettuce, Monterey jack cheese, Pico and cream – to innovative twists such as the Horchata French Toast – consisting of brioche French toast, strawberry and maple syrup, cinnamon and powdered sugar.

Each taco is served on a fresh tortilla, with gluten-free corn tortillas available when requested. Guests can also opt to make any taco “weezy style,” an upgrade that includes a soft flour tortilla encased in queso and guac, all held together by a crunchy, outer corn shell.

To complement its tacos, Local Cantina offers a strong drink program. The Mustache Ride Margarita is a spicy twist on the house classic, offering a touch of zest to the traditional tequila cocktail.

Agave & Rye

With a myriad of chandeliers, colorful murals and various eye-catching statues adorning the dining area, the atmosphere sets the scene for the unique dishes and flavors that can be found at Agave & Rye.

Each taco comes with two taco shells. A hard-shell interior packed with meats, toppings and spices is wrapped by a soft shell to stop anything from falling out. To amplify its tacos, patrons can add on the “Love Cushion,” which consists of any sauce or dressing – such as queso or guacamole – to line the area between the soft and hard shell.

If you’re looking for more unique and indulgent flavors, check out the Luxe Collection. The collection offers options such as The Big Thumper, a taco filled with peppercorn kanga-

roo meat, mac and cheese donuts, roasted corn, sweet and spicy bacon crumble, green onion, habanero maple syrup, all encased with a Queso Love Cushion.

Habaneros

Habaneros offers a wide range of street tacos, tortas and quesadillas. The street taco options include chicken, fish, chorizo and more, and with an array of twelve tortas that are also packed with meats, cheese and various vegetables and sauces.

Habaneros’ Taco Tuesday deal allows patrons to mix and match different tacos, for just $2 to $2.50, with customizable toppings, including fresh pineapple.

Before you wrap up your night at Habaneros, be sure to check out the dessert menu.

You’ll find the classic fried ice cream with a crunchy layer made of cinnamon, sugar and cornflakes. This fried layer creates a warm and crunchy exterior, concealing a creamy sweet treat within.

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

Reduce, Refresh, Recycle

A local roadmap to a simple clean-out

Spring cleaning is a time to really buckle down, map out a list of all to-dos for purging everything from clothes to supplies, and let the fruits of labor shine with every checked box before the summer hits.

However, spring cleaning doesn’t have to stop at the curb of the driveway. A range of community programs and drop off options make it easier to part with items that no longer serve your space.

Cables and cords

Now is a good time to sort, safely dispose of old batteries and electronics and organize cords so they are easy to find and won’t become a hazard.

Upper Arlington offers recycling for old chargers, cables, small electronics and battery powered devices at its Public Service Center, 4100 Roberts Rd.

Grandview Heights residents can take cords, chargers, and other electronics to the SWACO Recycling Convenience Center at 2566 Jackson Pike, which accepts e-waste year-round.

Tip: Never place cords or electronics in curbside recycling –they tangle sorting machinery and contaminate loads.

Clothes and textiles

In Upper Arlington, gently used clothing can be donated through organizations listed in the UA Church Resource Directory, including Heart to Heart Food Pantry partners located throughout the community.

Grandview Heights residents can donate wearable clothing to the Goodwill Donation Center, 1759 W. 5th Ave.

Tip: Worn-out and torn clothing can also be repurposed into functional household items by turning them into cleaning rags, shopping bags, pet toys or stuffing for cushions.

Capsules and containers

Dispose of unused or expired medications safely through local take back programs, pharmacy drop boxes or disposal bags.

Upper Arlington residents are encouraged to use local take back programs or pharmacy drop boxes, with the Municipal Services Center accepting medications at 3600 Tremont Rd.

Grandview Heights residents may use regional take back programs. Deterra disposal bags – plant based, disposable pouches that use organic activated carbon to deactivate drugs and reduce environmental contamination – provide a quick and safe at-home option and are available at the Grandview Municipal Building, 1525 Goodale Blvd.

The Grandview Heights Library is another convenient option, partnering with the City Division of Fire & EMS to offer a limited supply of Deterra bags via Drive-Thru Pickup.

Tip: Medication containers can be recycled once empty, and labels are removed or blacked out.

Chemical and hazardous waste

For safe, environmentally responsible disposal of household hazardous materials, Upper Arlington and Grandview Heights direct residents to the SWACO Household Hazardous Waste Facility, 645 E. 8th Ave., which accepts paints, solvents, pesticides, automotive fluids and all household batteries.

Tip: Keep chemicals in original containers and never pour hazardous liquids down drains.

Food collections and composting

Upper Arlington residents can donate unopened pantry items to organizations such as Heart to Heart Food Pantry (First Community Church) at 1944 W. First Ave., which accepts donations for its drive-thru pantry.

Grandview Heights residents may give food through nearby community programs that work with regional hunger relief networks. The Grandview Heights Public Library maintains a donation bin supporting the Mid Ohio Food Collective, and Grandview Heights Schools frequently run collection drives, with donation points in the high school lobby and at home sporting events.

Residents can also support the Tri-Village Packers, a community funded, volunteer organization that partners with schools to identify students and families in need in the Upper Arlington and Grandview Heights districts to provide snacks and meals for them.

Upper Arlington also offers three food waste drop off sites at the Municipal Services Center (3600 Tremont Rd.), Amelita Mirolo Barn (4395 Carriage Hill Ln.) and Fancyburg Park (3375 Kioka Ave.) – where residents can deposit fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds and other compostable items.

Grandview Heights provides a 24/7 food waste drop off behind 1481 Goodale Blvd., on Douglas Street, accepting the same compostable materials.

Tip: When using a bag, only use BPI-certified compostable liners as plastic bags are not permitted.

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

Top homes sold in the Tri-Village area

In February 2026, Upper Arlington home prices decreased 6.8 percent compared to last year, while Grandview Heights home prices increased 168.8 percent. The median home price in Upper Arlington was $550,000 with an average of 38 days on the market. The median home price in Grandview Heights was $559,000 with an average of 30 days on the market. A total of 29 homes were sold in Upper Arlington, and a total of 9 homes were sold in Grandview Heights.. (Data from Redfin and Franklin County Auditor)

2378 Kensington Dr. 4 beds, 5 baths

$1,700,000 3/23/26

2731 Clifton Rd.

5 beds, 3.5 baths

$1,690,000 3/9/26

2367 Southway Dr.

5 beds, 3.5 baths

$1,650,000 3/5/26

1226 Lincoln Rd. 5 beds, 4.5 baths

$1,620,000 2/27/26

2167 Fairfax Rd. 5 beds, 4.5 baths

$1,610,000 2/19/26

2727 Westmont Blvd. 5 beds, 4.5 baths

$1,375,000 2/18/26

Keeping central Ohio lawns and businesses beautiful for almost 30 years

2900 Wickliffe Woods Ct. 5 beds, 3.5 baths

$1,300,000 3/5/26

2070 Ellington Rd. 4 beds, 2.5 baths

$1,210,000 2/12/26

1450 Arlington Ave. 5 beds, 3.5 baths

$1,100,000 2/6/26

1112 Elmwood Ave. 4 beds, 3 baths

$1,000,000 2/20/26

4545 Benderton Ct. 4 beds, 2 baths

$980,000 2/27/26

1940 Scioto Pointe Dr. 5 beds, 4.5 baths

$950,000 3/20/26

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Dig, Dig, Dinosaur

By Anjali Goswami

Illustrated by Maggie Li

This adorable picture book introduces children ages 2 to 5 to the concept of archeology. After reviewing the necessary equipment, young readers go on a fossil hunt for progressively larger dinosaurs. Peek-through holes make the adventure extra exciting, and the final fold-out pages are a delight.

Lonely Planet Kids America’s National Parks

Written

by

Alexa Ward

Illustrated by Mike Lowery

This overview of our country’s 63 national parks is a treasure trove of full-color photographs on every page, supplemented by small cartoon graphics. The four pages dedicated to each national park contain the best views and descriptions of the land and lists of things to see and do. It’s an engaging way to introduce children to the national park system, inspire imaginations and perhaps entice your family to visit them.

The Invention of Morel

By Adolfo Bioy Casares

Adolfo Bioy Casares’ classic novella was praised by his mentor Jorge Luis Borges. The narrative is in equal turns a mystery, a romance and a science fiction story. It begins with a fugitive, stranded on an island with inhabitants who – for an unexplained reason –can neither see nor hear him. Recommended to any classic film fan, as one of the central characters is inspired by the actress Louise Brooks.

BoyMom: Reimagining Boyhood in the Age of Impossible Masculinity

By Ruth Whippman

Whippman, a journalist and mother of three boys, combines memoir, cultural analysis and reporting as she tackles the complexities of parenting boys in today’s culture. Despite the term, BoyMom is not so much about moms raising boys but more about the societal messaging around masculinity in our culture, from infancy to young adulthood. This book is challenging, insightful and deeply thought-provoking and offers more than just easy answers and solutions.

She Didn’t See It Coming

By Shari Lapena

In this thriller, a wife and mother goes missing in her own apartment building. The police try to work with friends and family to see if she could still be trapped somewhere inside another unit. The problem? Everyone has secrets of their own and is holding their cards close to learn what really happened. As secrets are revealed, the family learns you never really know what is going on behind closed doors.

Fun City Heist

By Michael Kardos

Mo Melnick used to be the drummer in an almost-famous rock band. Now he rents beach umbrellas to tourists on the Jersey Shore. Quite unexpectedly, ex-bandmate Johnny Clay shows up to tell Mo that the band is getting back together for one last gig at Fun City, the beachfront amusement park where it all began. But Johnny doesn’t really care about the gig; he wants to use the performance as a cover to rob Fun City. Perfect for fans of Elmore Leonard and Donald Westlake.