Westerville Magazine November/December 2025

Westerville magazine

CityScene Media Group

1335 Dublin Rd., Suite 101C Columbus, Ohio 43215 614-572-1240 • Fax 614-572-1241 www.cityscenecolumbus.com

Kathleen K. Gill CEO

Gianna Barrett President

Dave Prosser Chief Creative Officer

Isabella Gaydosh-Bruce Business/Office Manager

Jeannie Whitton-Smith Creative Director

Megan Brokamp Editors

Jane Dimel

Rachel Hanz Ella Jay

Luisa Christian Editorial Assistants

Ali Hartzell

Evan Che Stefanik

Amanda Stevens

Korrigan Craddock Contributing Writer

Rae Moro Media & Marketing

Laura Pappas Advisors

Sarah Reese

www. westervillemagazine .com

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Pickerington Magazine www.PickeringtonMagazine.com

Tri-Village Magazine www.TriVillageMagazine.com

Community Calendar

NovemberDecember

Tues., Nov. 4

No School – Westerville City Schools

Westerville Educator Day www.westerville.k12.oh.us

Fri., Nov. 7

Teen Night

5:30-7:30 p.m.

Westerville Community Center

350 N. Cleveland Ave. www.westerville.org

Fri., Nov. 7 and 21

American Red Cross: Blood Drive

10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Westerville Public Library

126 S. State St. www.westervillelibrary.com

Sat., Nov. 8

Taste of the Holidays

11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Market District

650 N. State St. www.westervillechamber.com

Sun., Nov. 9

Westerville Jazz Orchestra in Concert

3-4:30 p.m.

American Legion Post 171

393 E. College Ave. www.westervillejazz.com

Sun., Nov. 9

OtterCap Orchestra

7 p.m.

Capital University, Mees Hall

2230 E. Mound St., Bexley www.otterbein.edu

Tues., Nov. 11

Veterans Breakfast

8:30-10 a.m.

Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel

409 Altair Pkwy. www.westerville.org

Fri., Nov. 14

Puzzlepalooza

5:30-7 p.m.

Westerville Community Center

350 N. Cleveland Ave. www.westerville.org

Thurs.-Sun., Nov. 20-23

Mary, Victor & the Monster presented by Otterbein University

Thurs.-Sat.: 7:30 p.m.

Sun.: 2 p.m.

Fritsche Theater at Cowan Hall

30 S. Grove St. www.otterbein.edu

Fri., Nov. 21

Evening of Elegance: Sapphire Soiree 6-11 p.m.

Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel

409 Altair Pkwy. www.westervillechamber.com

Fri.-Sun., Nov. 21-23

Little Women presented by Westerville Central High School Theatre

Fri.: 7 p.m.

Sat.: 2 and 7 p.m.

Sun.: 2 p.m.

Westerville Central High School 7118 Mt. Royal Ave. www.wchstheatre.net

Sat., Nov. 22

Uptown Merchants Holiday Open House Noon-4 p.m.

Uptown Westerville www.shopuptownwesterville.com

Sun., Nov. 23

Holiday Kids Maker Market Event 1-3 p.m.

Westerville Community Center

350 N. Cleveland Ave. www.westerville.org

Wed.-Fri., Nov. 26-28

No School – Westerville City Schools

Thanksgiving Break www.westerville.k12.oh.us

Sat., Nov. 29

Small Business Saturday All day Uptown Westerville www.uptownwestervilleinc.com

Dec. 2, 4, 6

Hanby House Holiday Open House

Tues. and Thurs.: 7-9 p.m.

Sat.: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Hanby House

160 W. Main St. www.westervillehistory.org

Wed., Dec. 3

Young Leaders Toy Drive Wrap Up Party 5-8 p.m.

COhatch Polaris, The Meridian Room 1554 Polaris Pkwy. www.westervillechamber.com

Thurs.-Sat., Dec. 4-6

Alice in Wonderland presented by Westerville North High School Theatre 7-10 p.m.

Westerville North High School 950 County Line Rd. www.wnhstheatre.org

Dec. 5, 6, 12-14, 19-21

The Revolutionists presented by the Curtain Players

8:00 p.m. (matinees 2 p.m.)

Curtain Players Theatre 5691 Harlem Rd., Galena www.curtainplayers.org

Fri., Dec. 5

City of Westerville Tree Lighting Uptown Westerville www.uptownwestervilleinc.com

Sat., Dec. 6

Westerville Christmas Parade 10 a.m.-noon Uptown Westerville www.goodforwesterville.com

Sat., Dec. 6

Photos and cookies with Santa 1-4 p.m.

Howard Hanna – Kurt McCurdy Office 42 N. State St. www.howardhanna.com

Sun., Dec. 7

Rudolph Run 5K 2:30 p.m.

Westerville Sports Complex 325 N. Cleveland Ave. www.runsignup.com

Sun., Dec. 7

Handel’s Messiah Sing-A-Long presented by Westerville Symphony

7:30 p.m.

St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church 313 N. State St. www.westervillesymphony.org

Sun., Dec. 7, 14, 21

Uptown Scrooge: Abridged! presented by Good Medicine Productions 12:45, 2:45, 4:45 p.m.

Java Central 20 S. State St. www.goodmedicineproductions.org

Fri., Dec. 12

Progressive Christmas Concert

7-9:15 p.m.

Uptown Westerville www.westervillehabitatpartnership.com

Sun., Dec. 14

Uptown Ugly Sweater Snack and Stroll Noon-4 p.m.

Uptown Westerville www.shopuptownwesterville.com

Fri., Dec. 19

Uptown Holiday Ice Sculpture Tour

6 p.m.

Uptown Westerville www.shopuptownwesterville.com

Dec. 22-Jan. 5

No School – Westerville City Schools Winter Break www.westerville.k12.oh.us

Stephen R Malik, DDS –General Dentistry–Dr. Malik has more than 30 years of experience.

By Ella Jay

People Behind the Pages

How volunteers sustain the Westerville Public Library

At Westerville Public Library, volunteers aren’t just helping hands: They’re the heartbeat that keeps the library alive.

In 2024, library volunteers collectively logged more than 4,600 hours – from labeling books and helping in the Homework Help Center, to organizing fundraisers and facilitating the Summer Reading Challenge.

Behind those day-to-day contributions are specific groups which form the backbone of the library’s volunteer-driven mission: the Friends of the Westerville Public Library and the Westerville Library Foundation, assisted by the library’s Board of Trustees.

Together, these organizations not only provide vital financial and programmatic support, but also ensure the library continues to grow, innovate and serve as a resourceful hub for the community.

Friends of the Westerville Public Library

About 1,200 of those annual volunteer hours come from Friends of the Westerville Public Library, a nonprofit dedicated to the continual growth of the library. The Friends raise money through used book sales and the group’s gift shop. Over recent

Honoring Arlene

The Westerville Library remembers Arlene Roeder, a longtime Friends of the Library president and volunteer. She served from 1991 – becoming president in 1993 – until her passing earlier this year.

“Arlene (helped) build what we know today,” says Straley. “She really was the guiding light behind the entire thing.”

years, the group has funded the treehouse in the kids’ area, Hilda the Dragon (a temporary art installation that sat atop the library’s roof from 2019-2022) and delivery vans.

According to the group’s Interim President Lynn Straley – a library volunteer of nearly 15 years – the Friends also fund a handful of ongoing projects, such as the library’s reading programs, contributing about $12,000-13,000 to those initiatives per year.

“Anything the library needs that it cannot fund… our liaison brings to us and says, ‘Can you do this?’ and almost always, we say, ‘Yes,’” says Straley.

In March, the Friends of the Library was named Organization of the Year by the City of Westerville for its exemplary dedication to serving others.

“We had to be nominated by the library administration, so we were pleased with the nomination, but thrilled when we won. It just gave everybody a sense of accomplishment,” Straley says. “We were very grateful to be honored in that way.”

A testament to its impact, the organization has raised more than $241,000 since 2015 and delivered 67,525 items to 146 locations in 2024 alone, thanks to the newly-purchased delivery vans.

For Straley, knowing her work supports the library is the best part about being involved, along with the people she has met along the way – a sentiment she shares with fellow Friends Board Member Andi Allen.

Allen has also volunteered at the library for several years – inspired by her background as a bookstore owner – recently becoming the Book Team Lead.

“(My favorite part) is the people, on both sides, and every shift is like Christmas, like what’s in this box?” says Allen. “It’s also good for people who need flexibility… You can contribute without feeling pressure.”

Westerville Library Foundation

Another stalwart of the library, the Westerville Library Foundation ensures the library’s long-term financial stability through endowment management and fundraising and contributes about 500 volunteer hours each year. The Foundation funds programs such as 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten and Westerville’s Story

to someone who otherwise may not have access to them,” says Hibbard. “(Volunteering) is a wonderful way to give back to the community that gives so much to us.”

According to Ken Brandol, who has been an Outreach volunteer for 15 years, it’s also a great way to get involved after retirement. Brandol volunteers every Wednesday, pulling about 40 books per hour.

“It’s great for seniors. You can get out of the house, come here, and be around really nice people who treat you really well,” Brandol says. “And I never miss a volunteer meeting; they’re very informative.”

Trails, and in the past, facilitated Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

According to Ben Pacht, current and two-time president of the Foundation, the group recently hired a development specialist, Kaitlin Seebruch, who has drastically increased the Foundation’s donor base, revenue and awareness in the community.

“The library provides such great services to the community, and I think that’s worth supporting and sustaining,” says Pacht, who is also serving his sixth year on the board. “It’s a pillar of the community.”

While Foundation members take great pride in supporting the library, the job comes with other perks as well – such as witnessing patrons’ reactions of joy – according to longtime volunteer, Foundation board member and past president, Len Hibbard. Alongside his work with the Foundation, Hibbard assists with the library’s Outreach program, which delivers books and other resources to people throughout the community.

“It’s (about) the appreciation, the thank you’s and the warm smiles we get when we deliver a bag of books or other resources

Westerville History Museum

Also volunteer-run, the Westerville History Museum is a special facet of the library that offers additional resources and deepens residents’ understanding of Westerville’s unique past.

Volunteers regularly help with collecting, cataloging and preserving historical artifacts and documents, along with keeping the space and exhibits up and running for visitors.

One long-term volunteer, Bill Heaphy, has been helping at the museum for 18 years, logging more than 1,200 service hours. After retiring from a career with the Ohio Legislature Service Commission, Heaphy decided to volunteer as a way to give back after years of utilizing the library’s resources himself, and has been researching and cataloging ever since.

“It keeps your mind functionable, it’s substantive work, and the people are good to work with,” says Heaphy.

Within the past year, Heaphy has sorted through an estimated 1,700 items, going through about 140 items per month if they’re not too complex.

Be a Friend

Straley and Allen encourage anyone who may be interested to become a Friend of the Library. Becoming a member is easy and costs just $15 per year per individual, or $20 per family. Volunteer hours are few and flexible, and members can enjoy benefits such as discounts at the gift shop. To learn more, visit www.westervillelibrary.org/friends.

Over the years, Heaphy has watched the museum evolve and grow, but one thing that’s remained the same is the significance of preserving the community’s history.

“People should have resources available to trace their family, things like that,” Heaphy says. “And knowing something about your own town, your government, I think that’s essential.”

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

Library Love

Many of the volunteers have something in common: a special love for their local library.

Seeing all the services a library can offer, they chose to volunteer not only to give back, but to ensure those resources remain available to the community well into the future – and doing so at the Westerville Public Library just so happens to be a plus.

“This is a fascinating, amazing library. It has been for years and just keeps getting better,” says Straley.

“And the administration here is special, so focused on serving their patrons,” Hibbard adds.

By Korrigan Craddock

1 | 12 Days of Donuts

Assorted donuts

Starting at $21 • www.schneiders-bakery.com

Create a custom dozen of Schneider’s Bakery favorites to share with your loved ones.

2 | Seasoned with Love

Signature spice set

$59.99 • www.thephyllisannbrand.com

Spice up your holiday meals with this versatile seasoning set for potatoes, meat, vegetables and more from Phyllis Ann’s

3 | Have Yourself a Merry Little Mug

Mugs

$14.95 each • www.whereimfrom.com

Get a pair of matching Where I’m From Brutus mugs to share a cup of coffee or tea with a loved one.

4 | Crochet Critters

Crochet plush

Starting at $15 • www.beetlebugart.com

Beetlebug Art Collective has an array of unique artists’ creations to choose from, such as cuddly crochet plushies.

5 | A Drizzle of Magic

Three-part gift box of olive oil

$45 • www.atwistonolives.com

With a variety of fine olive oils to choose from, gift a bundle of three from A Twist on Olives, perfect for holiday cooking.

6 | Grill Master

Ohio State grill set

$59.99 • www.buckeyecorner.com

Show buckeye pride with this grill set from Buckeye Corner

8 | Sip, Sip, Hooray!

National champions glasses

$15.75 each • www.thewindowguyco.com

Cheers to the 2024 national champions. Celebrate Ohio State with these beer glasses from The Window Guy

9 | Yuletide Glow

Holiday candles

$26 • www.blendcandleco.com

Blend Candle Co. has more than 60 holiday scents to keep your home fresh and cozy, from Frasier fur and North Pole bakery, to gingerbread, sugar plum and more.

0 | Timeless Tidings

Christmas decor

Starting at $14.95 • www.edwinloyhome.com

Discover everything you need to make your home merry and bright with charming holiday decor from Edwin Loy Home

a | Deck the Pots

Succulents

Starting at $8 • https://over-grown.square.site/

A low maintenance and decorative succulent from Overgrown Cbus can be a great gift for any first-time plant parents.

b | Play, Eat, Sip, Repeat Smash Park gift card

Budget-based • www.smashpark.com/ westerville/

A Smash Park gift card is the perfect way to share the fun with a variety of activities such as pickleball, axe throwing, and duckpin bowling along with food and drinks.

c | Fall in Love (With a Book)

Blind date with a book

Starting at $20 • www.readbirdiebooks.com

For the book lover in your life, gift the unique experience of a mystery book from Birdie Books

d | All the Tunes

Vinyl records

Prices vary • www.facebook.com/CindaLouShop

A Gal Named Cinda Lou has a vast record collection – every genre, new and old – perfect for any music-lover in your life.

e | Run in Style

Running hat

$35 • www.columbusrunning.com

Gift a hat from Columbus Running Company , equipped for any form of exercise and available in multiple styles and designs.

f | Charmed

CBJ bracelet

$45 • www.thebluelineonline.com

With winter sports in full swing, show some team spirit and gift a Columbus Blue Jackets bracelet from Blue Line

g | Spruce Up Your Spritz

Drink your flowers

$34 • www.westervilleflorist.net

For a longer lasting gift for your gardening loved ones, consider this flower-inspired syrup set from Westerville Florist, perfect for crafting a cocktail or mocktail at home.

h | Fa-La-La-Latte

Coffee

$22 • www.espressoair.com

Choose a flavor to be delivered straight to your door with the Espresso Air Flight Club. Enjoy sitting by the fire, or on those long drives to-and-from your holiday festivities.

i | Chopping it Up

Ohio cutting board

$44.99 • www.amishoriginals.com

An Ohio-shaped cutting board from Amish Originals can double as a decorative piece and a serving platter, making for both a stylish and functional gift.

j | Self-Care Time

Absolute reboot gift certificate

$149 • www.ebbfloat.com

Treat someone to a relaxing wellness experience with a massage chair, float therapy session and more with this gift certificate to Ebb & Float

k | Dish It Out

Giammarco’s gift card

$5-500 • www.giammarcos.com

Enjoy meals made with fresh ingredients and family recipes, from meatballs, to lasagna, to ravioli with a gift card to Giammarco’s Italian Restaurant g

Honoring Service, Serving Heroes

Westerville Sunrise Rotary Club supports local veterans

By Ella Jay

Photos by Ella Jay and courtesy of Visit Westerville

Every year, the Westerville Sunrise Rotary Club finds meaningful ways to honor those who have served our country. From the Club’s signature Field of Heroes event to its support in the construction of the new Westerville Veterans Memorial, the Club’s dedication to veterans is woven into its mission of service, with its efforts highlighting both sacrifice and local commitment.

Through these tributes, Rotary members not only salute past sacrifices, but also fortify Westerville’s ongoing commitment to celebrating the many heroes who continue to strengthen and inspire the community every day.

Field of Heroes

Each Memorial Day weekend, rows upon rows of American flags are planted near the Westerville Sports Complex, transforming the area into the Field of Heroes – one of Westerville Sunrise Rotary Club’s most visible traditions.

Established 16 years ago, the event has since become a beloved community staple, and has grown from 1,500 flags to 3,000, according to Rotary Assistant Governor Patrick Knott.

Inspired by the Colonial Flag Foundation, Rotary member and then-President Larry Jenkins brought the idea back to the Club in 2009 with a definitive vision.

“One of my main goals was to bring back the real meaning of Memorial Day and remind people there’s a reason we celebrate,” Jenkins says.

The Field of Heroes is unique not only because it’s the first event of its kind in central Ohio; it also honors more than just veterans.

“You can commemorate veterans, but also anyone that has been a mentor to you, for example, a school teacher,” says Rotary Club President Jim Caldwell.

Alongside the dedication of flags, the initiative also includes various ceremonies and activities, including:

• Readings of names

• Flag retirement ceremonies

• Guest speakers

• A Saturday night concert

• A 5K run and walk

• An Ohio Village Muffins game

• Taps performances

This year’s Field of Heroes also featured the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall, a nod to its theme, “On Behalf of a Grateful Nation,” meant to honor the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War.

“My mission was to make sure that generation heard at least one more ‘thank you,’” says Andy Tompkins, Field of Heroes co-chair. “(The wall) is powerful, and gives people a chance to reflect and say hello to lost loved ones.”

While the event requires months of planning, many volunteers and special equipment – such as a semi-truck and forklift to transport the 8-foot-tall flags – the reward is worth the effort. The 2025 Field of Heroes raised $10,000 for its beneficiary, Honor Flight Columbus, joined by an additional $17,440 raised by the Columbus and Southeast Ohio Rotary District (District 6690).

“It’s the bow on a year-long effort and… none of it would have happened without robust support from the Club and the community,” Tompkins says.

Now, planning for next year is underway – the 2026 theme will be “We the People,” revolving around America250.

Westerville Veterans Memorial

In collaboration with the City of Westerville, the Club significantly contributed to the new Westerville Veterans Memorial.

Also located at the Westerville Sports Complex, near the Field of Heroes, the Memorial was completed in 2022 and dedicated that Veterans Day. Comprised of a pavilion, flag plaza, gardens and an interactive walkway, the Memorial serves as a meaningful space to gather, celebrate, honor and learn.

Not only did the Club confer a $200,000 donation to the Memorial’s construction, but several Rotary members were also involved in its planning, including Jenkins and Rotary member Julie Colley, who spearheaded the Memorial’s design efforts.

“The Memorial used to be at the Armory but it was decommissioned, so there was nowhere else like that to go reflect

Ongoing Tributes

Aside from Field of Heroes, Wreaths Across America and the Veterans Memorial, Rotary member Ron Pusateri says the Club supports veterans in several other ways throughout the year by:

• Contributing to Flag Day, Veterans Day and Fourth of July celebrations, including the Independence Day Vets & First Responders 5K Run/Walk

• Hosting the Annual Westerville Sunrise Rotary Golf Outing which supports the local VFW and American Legion posts and raised nearly $40,000 this year

• Maintaining a Veteran Rotary Committee, which recognizes veterans, helps them share their stories and allows them to oversee any veteran-related Rotary events or initiatives

Arts Alive!

and engage. It was important to bring that element back into the public space to enjoy and have somewhere to hold events,” says Colley.

Throughout the process, Jenkins and Colley gathered many ideas and stories from community members and local veterans, condensing them into the content that can be seen out on display today.

With so much to work with, the duo say they were extremely conscious about what they included, making sure it truly represented veterans’ voices and also included a space dedicated to service members’ families.

“Vets ship out, but their families hold things down at home,” Jenkins says. “Military service is unique in that way. It’s a family effort.”

Now, the Club carries on its role at the Memorial by continuing programming, working with Westerville’s VFW and American Legion posts, and ensuring that veterans are able to utilize the space.

“Field of Heroes is a great way to show gratitude, but it’s only five days out of the year. The Memorial gives us 365 days a year to show gratitude to veterans, gives them a space to reflect, and the community a space to honor and learn,” says Jenkins.

Wreaths Across America

Another annual initiative the Club partakes in is Wreaths Across America, a national organization that remembers and honors fallen veterans each December with the laying of wreaths on headstones.

The concept was brought to Westerville around 2018, when Rotary member Ron Pusateri – a veteran himself and a member of the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame – and his wife observed the event in Flint, Ohio. Impressed, Pusateri brought the idea back and began coordinating funding.

Every holiday season, the Club members help sponsor and lay roughly 525 wreaths at Otterbein Cemetery and an additional 200 at Pioneer Cemetery, many times assisted by extra, tagalong volunteers.

“I used to bring my kids when they were younger to help out with the wreaths,” Caldwell says. “It’s a really great thing to do with family and demonstrates the importance of service to children.”

The process also includes saying the name of each fallen soldier aloud as the wreaths are placed, emphasizing Wreaths Across America’s mission: to remember, honor and teach about the sacrifices of veterans.

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

By Amanda Stevens

Photos by Amanda Stevens

Electrifying Education

High school seniors gain skills and experience through pre-apprenticeship

While most students spend all day in class, five seniors from Westerville North High School spend time with the Westerville Electric Division (WED) as part of a paid pre-apprenticeship program aiming to build local talent.

About the program

During the summer between their junior and senior years, students begin working in June and continue completing the program until graduation.

Typically, students attend school and then work at WED from 10:45 a.m. to 5 p.m., though Director of Career and College Readiness Matthew Misener says students can still do extracurriculars.

“(The program is) so flexible with kids’ schedules. After school, if there is a practice or a game, they let them go, so they really work well with the kids,” Misener says.

During their pre-apprenticeship, students rotate working with different crews, including line workers, utility arborists and traffic technicians. A change from last year, students now rotate every few months, giving them more well-rounded exposure to the field.

“(The students) are doing great, and they’re liking the program,” says WED Field Superintendent Todd Head. “They really like the idea of rotating because, at this stage in their life, you don’t know what you don’t know… It just sets them up for what direction they’re going to go after high school.”

WED Electric Utility Manager Chris Monacelli emphasizes that students aren’t doing the work itself, but they’re shadowing and learning on the job site.

“Safety is super important to what we do, so we’re putting these students in a safe environment to learn,” Monacelli says. “We’re not putting them in any dangerous situations, and that’s very important to how we approach this partnership.”

Monacelli shares that students are fully integrated into the workforce and learn important skills, such as communication,

teamwork and accountability. Students also can receive in-house training for a commercial driver’s license, which Monacelli says makes students “infinitely already more effective in the workforce.”

The pre-apprenticeship sets students up for lining up jobs post-graduation, and some students continue working for WED, though they’re also employable at any other electric division.

Pre-apprentices, past and present

Anthony Lemus, a pre-apprentice this year, spent his first months shadowing arborists before moving to linework.

“I didn’t expect it to be as complicated,” Lemus says. “For arborists, the way they cut down trees has to be a specific way... so it doesn’t hit the line or hit any houses... It’s all very specific.”

Lemus says he wants to see if this is the right path. His friend, Carlos Valdenegro, was one of three students from the program’s inaugural class and spurred Lemus’ interest in the program.

Valdenegro now works for WED and is pursuing a linework apprenticeship.

“I just told (my friends), ‘Give it a try,’ because I wasn’t even 100 percent sure what I wanted to do going out of high school.” Valdenegro says. “This program guided me towards what I wanted to do.”

Lemus says the biggest adjustment for him was getting up early and working until 5 p.m. As his senior year progresses, he hopes to keep doing his best at school and WED. He also encourages other students to get involved in the program.

“Give it a try. It definitely doesn’t hurt.” Lemus says. “I think it’s a really great opportunity because it’s pretty much a job as well. You get paid to work here, and you learn a lot.”

Future pre-apprentices

Although the pre-apprenticeship is for seniors, Misener says the program has also attracted interest from younger students. He suggests any students who are interested in the program should maintain their grades and attendance in the meantime.

Misener, Monacelli and Head all anticipate the program growing and recommend that students attend the open house, typically held in March, as it offers an interactive experience and the opportunity to ask questions.

“When we host these open houses, it’s a great time to come in and see what we do,” Monacelli says. “Start to expose yourself to those trades. Get involved early. Start asking questions early.”

Amanda Stevens is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

By Ella Jay

Where History Lives

Westerville’s architecture tells the story of its past

In Westerville, history isn’t just tucked away into books or a museum – it’s built right into the homes, streets and neighborhoods you walk through every day. From Victorian-era residences to early 20th-century storefronts, the city’s architecture plays an important role in telling the story of its past.

With Westerville’s self-guided History Tours, assembled by the Westerville Public Library History Museum, you can step back in time and uncover the people and events that shaped the city, all while enjoying the character and craftsmanship of the historical houses and buildings that still stand today.

Main Street

Stop at 14 different locations along this 3.2-mile trek, spanning from State Street to Cleveland Avenue. On this tour, discover what some of Westerville’s most recognizable buildings once housed – from bustling businesses to beloved community gathering places. Learn about the wellknown Hanby House’s role in the Underground Railroad, how the construction of Alum Creek Park was designed to fight the unemployment crisis during the Great Depression or visit local memorials such as Astronaut Grove or First Responders Park.

College Avenue

Tour 10 locations during this short, 0.6mile walk, which highlights the area’s evolution alongside the growth of Otterbein University. See some of Westerville’s oldest houses – from a home-turned-business complex originally built in the 1880s, to one of the earliest houses established east of State Street – built during the town’s explosive growth spurt following the arrival of the railroad in the early 1870s.

Prohibition

A deep dive into Westerville’s fascinating, former reputation as the “Dry Capital of the World,” this 1.7-mile walk takes you to 18 sites, from those of infamous saloon

bombings during the Westerville Whiskey Wars, to the Anti-Saloon League Headquarters and more. Explore Temperance Row, where the Anti-Saloon League’s most prominent leaders built their homes, or the town’s only proven speakeasy, located in the basement of 56 W. Home St.

State Street

In just a little more than a half-mile, explore 21 different stops in the Uptown area with the State Street tour. Look to the many historical storefronts and landmarks that tell the story of Westerville’s early businesses and community hubs – from gathering places, such as the library, Masonic Temple and Church of the Messiah, to current-day shops, including Schneider’s Bakery, Graeter’s and Good Vibes Winery, which is housed in one of Westerville’s oldest remaining commercial structures from the 19th century.

Uptown Industry

Travel along the bike trail through the former industrial heart of Westerville, stopping at nine historical landmarks that shine a light on the mills, factories and workshops that once shaped the town’s daily life and commerce. Discover more about the former Bennett Manufacturing Company that brought Westerville its first supply of electricity, the former Kilgore Manufacturing building which was the town’s largest employer until 1960 or Cellar Lumber, the oldest continuouslyoperating business in the city.

Uptown Historical Plaques

For an all-encompassing Uptown tour, visit the 37 buildings and homes marked by bronze plaques that honor the district’s historical value and bring its history to life, block by block. The tour begins at Birdie’s Books at 74 N. State St. and ends with Otterbein University’s Towers Hall, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. In between, stop at additional locations such as the old Hotel Holmes, former Vine Street School, the State Theatre, First Presbyterian Church and more.

Otterbein Cemetery

Though not an architectural landmark, the Otterbein Cemetery Walking Tour in vites you to stroll through the old section of Otterbein Cemetery and take a step into history to look at 18 headstones that mark the legacies of some of Westerville’s most influential residents, from individuals such as George Stoner and John Hay wood – Haywood being the first mayor of Westerville – to notable families such as the McFaddens, Shoemakers, Fouses and others.

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

Top Homes Sold in Westerville

Westerville home prices increased by 2 percent in September 2025 compared to the previous year and sold for a median price of $400,000. Homes sold after 41 days on the market, compared to 35 days the previous year and 43 homes were sold, compared to 51 the previous year. (Data from Redfin)

8140 Schleppi Rd.

5 beds, 5.5 baths

$2,100,000

Sold 8/11/25

5615 Wild Pine Dr.

5 beds, 6 baths

$1,425,000

Sold 8/21/25

6941 Lakeside Ct.

5 beds, 5 baths

$1,200,000

Sold 9/4/25

4584 Coldstream Ct. 5 beds, 4 baths

$1,025,000

Sold 8/18/25

6432 Grasslands Ct. 4 beds, 4.5 baths

$930,000

Sold 8/15/25

4607 Pine Tree Ct.

4 beds, 4.5 baths

$886,000

Sold 8/5/25

All information is collected from Redfin.

Your Dream Home

8292 Rookery Way 4 beds, 4.5 baths

$876,000

Sold 8/4/25

5720 W. Medallion Dr. 4 beds, 4.5 baths

$837,500

Sold 9/11/25

7240 Duncans Glen Dr. 4 beds, 2.5 baths

$799,900

Sold 8/27/25

5430 Forest Highlands Ct. 4 beds, 3.5 baths

$770,000

Sold 8/15/25

6123 Wingstem St. 5 beds, 4.5 baths

$715,000

Sold 8/27/25

7380 Ferndale Pl. 4 beds, 2.5 baths

$675,000

Sold 8/22/25

By Luisa Christian

Locally Grown Goodness

Where to find Ohio-grown food this holiday season

There’s nothing like homegrown food for the holidays. This season, you don’t have to look far to bring something fresh and meaningful to the table – many Westerville-area businesses and farms are creating holiday dishes with ingredients sourced straight from Ohio soil.

From handcrafted meals and farm-fresh catering, to scratch-made pies and locally inspired restaurant menus, here are a few places where you can find locally grown goodness for your holiday season.

Nourish

With all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it can be hard to find the time to cook a healthy meal – that’s where Nourish steps in.

Nourish, a company that focuses on creating artisanal and handcrafted food, cooks and delivers delicious and healthy meals to your home. The company works closely with local farms and producers, and it specializes in egg-based dishes such as frittatas and strata, packed with the consumer’s choice of locally-sourced meat, vegetables, cheese and starches.

Jorgensen Farms

Jorgensen Farms, a local regenerative farm and beautiful event venue, caters to its guests’ culinary needs using foods grown from its personal homestead.

Established in 2002, it is one of Columbus’ first organic farms, and one of the region’s most sustainable. The Jorgensen family are fifth-generation farmers and believe that growing, cooking and serving local food is one of the best ways to reconnect with nature.

The menu is never set in stone, as it is adjusted seasonally and ingredients can be customized for dietary needs or to honor a traditional family recipe.

The Two-One

Located inside The Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel, visitors will find The Two-One, with speakeasy vibes and delicious, locally-sourced cuisine.

The Two-One was named after the 21st Amendment, credited for lifting the ban on alcohol in the U.S. Here, guests will find a menu focused around what the restaurant coins as prohibition style cuisine, featuring burgers, flatbreads, steaks and signaturestyle seafood items.

The Two-One takes pride in having locally-focused, fresh meals that were grown in Ohio soil.

Northstar Cafe

With several locations across Ohio, Northstar Cafe is a well-known name in the region’s dining scene.

Guided by the belief that “Food is Life,” Northstar only sells and creates meals with locally-grown and organic ingredients. Much of the menu rotates with the seasons, reflecting Ohio’s harvests, however some fan-favorites remain on the menu year-round.

A cold-seasonal favorite is the Northstar Hot Chocolate, and some returning staples include the Northstar Burger, the Buddha Bowl and the Cloud Nine Pancakes.

Ohio Pies

Emily Irvine, owner and baker of Ohio Pies, has turned pie-making into her love language. Every pie she creates is made entirely from scratch, ensuring every bite has a flavor that will bring back childhood nostalgia.

Irvine partners with local farmers to support sustainable agriculture practices that bring out the freshest flavors of central Ohio. New pie flavors align with the seasons, making them perfect additions to holiday celebrations. Customers can find Ohio Pies at Columbus area farmers markets, or order online – where more information can be found about the farmers behind each product.

Luisa Christian is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Dry Capital of the World

Exhibit now on display. westervillelibrary.org/exhibits

• bookmarks

From the Westerville Public Library

For online library resources such as ebooks, digital magazines, kids activities and more, visit www.westervillelibrary.org

Recommended Youth Reads from Katie Ross, Youth Services Librarian

You Can Sit with Me

By Rachel Tawil Kenyon

A young boy is a new student at school, and a fellow student recognizes the difficulty that comes with being the new person. She offers him a seat at the table and helps him become a part of the class. A gentle reminder that the greatest gift we can give is ourselves.

Pa, Me, and Our Sidewalk Pantry

By Toni Buzzeo

Jelly Bean and his family have a little free library outside of their house. When his mom loses her job, Jelly Bean realizes that sometimes food is more important than books. Jelly Bean brainstorms with his grandpa and together, they build a little free food pantry. With great joy, they fill the pantry with food and try to help those in need.

World Kitchen - Celebrations: Recipes from around the World

By Abigail Wheatley

Celebrations around the world have one thing in common: food! Discover the recipes families around the world make for their special holiday celebrations. Information about each holiday, cooking basics, the recipes and illustrations for each step of the recipe make this cookbook a standout.

Ada’s Violin: The Story of the Recycled Orchestra of Paraguay

By Susan Hood

Favio Chávez, an environmental engineer, moves to Cateura Paraguay. He sees the poverty in the village and wants to offer the children music lessons to keep them out of trouble. Realizing he doesn’t have enough instruments for all the kids who come, he works hard to make instruments out of materials from the landfill. With that, the Recycled Orchestra is born. Based on a true story.

Recommended Adult Reads

from Mindy Bilyeu, Adult Services Librarian

Christmas Crimes at the Mysterious Bookshop: Twelve Tales of Seasonal Suspense Set in the World’s Oldest Mystery Bookstore

Edited by Otto Penzler

For nearly half a century, New York’s famed Mysterious Bookshop has commissioned Christmas crime stories exclusively for its customers – until now. Christmas Crimes at the Mysterious Bookshop collects 12 of the best, each set during the holidays and taking place (partly) in the beloved bookstore. Featuring celebrated authors such as Laura Lippman, Jeffery Deaver and more, it’s the perfect festive read for mystery lovers.

The

Christmas Cookie Wars by

Eliza Evans

When widowed mom Melody Monroe takes over her sons’ school cookie committee to save their holiday spirit, she doesn’t expect to clash – or connect – with the infuriating principal, Jonathan Braxton. What starts as a bake-off soon turns into a battle of hearts, and with a dash of holiday magic, Melody may find that love is the sweetest recipe of all.

Thirst: A Story of Redemption, Compassion and a Mission to Bring Clean Water to the World

By Scott Harrison

At 28, Scott Harrison walked away from his glamorous but empty life as a New York City nightclub promoter to pursue something radically different. After volunteering on a hospital ship in West Africa, he founded a charity that has since brought clean water to more than 17 million people worldwide. Thirst tells the inspiring story of his transformation and mission to change lives through compassion and purpose.