Northwest Columbus, OH December 2025

The Giving Season and the Gifts That Stay With Us

As the holidays approach, I find myself reflecting on what “giving” truly means. The most meaningful gifts aren’t always wrapped in ribbons — they’re the gestures, moments, and connections that stay with us long after the season ends.

This month’s issue captures that spirit beautifully. From Jill Dole’s two-dollar bill, a simple gift turned family tradition, to Alexa Geno’s plane ticket that inspired a lifelong love of travel and lan guage, and Delcina Brown’s vintage compact, passed from one woman to another — each story reminds us that thoughtfulness is the greatest gift of all.

We also highlight the power of generosity in action. The Mirth Project’s founder, Robin McAllister-Zaas, transformed one child’s heartbreaking comment into a nonprofit that brings joy to teens in need. Joseph’s Coat gives new life to clothing and dignity to families rebuilding their lives. And local businesses like Chambers Music Studio and Moore Brothers Landscaping show how kindness can be built right into the work we do every day.

For me, the most meaningful gift I ever received wasn’t something you could buy. Years ago, when my kids were little and I was balancing too much, a neighbor showed up at my door with dinner — homemade spaghetti and a note that read, “You don’t have to do it all tonight.” It wasn’t fancy, but it was exactly what I needed. That small act of kindness reminded me that generosity doesn’t have to be grand to be life-changing.

As you read this issue, I hope you’ll be inspired to give in your own way — whether it’s through time, talent, or simply a kind gesture. Maybe it’s cleaning out your closet for a local nonprofit, supporting a small business that gives back, or surprising a neighbor with dinner.

Because the best gifts aren’t about what they cost. They’re about connection, compassion, and the joy of knowing we made someone else’s day a little brighter.

Wishing you a warm, meaningful, and joy-filled holiday season — and plenty of mirth along the way.

LISA FEDERICO, PUBLISHER

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Lisa Federico | lisa.federico@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Madison Moroi | madison.moroi@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Brice Bunner | bunnerb@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Brice Bunner, Ashley Labaki, Courtney Stone Smith

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Alexa Geno, Aseel Brodd, Ashley Labaki, Ballard Designs, Chambers Music Studio, Christi Cartee, City of Worthington, Laura Witherow, Nicole Nk Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

Proverbs 3:5-6

A Present Beyond Measure

From

Small Businesses, Big Heart

A

Bringing Santa Home

The

DECEMBER 2025

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Buddy Box Connection staff celebrate the unveiling of their new name. 2: Dr. Samantha Jensen cuts the ribbon at Jensen Family Health and Wellness’ Worthington location. 3: Shaun, Dylan, and Stella stop for a photo at Worthington Christian Church's fall festival. 4: Northwest Columbus City Lifestyle publisher Lisa Federico speaks on the I Am Boundless panel. 5: Maya from Grounded Body, LLC is ready to massage attendees at the Worthington Night Market. 6: Sheraton Suites' Jessica Derosa, Dragana Arbutina, and Abigail O'Keefe celebrate winning the best soup award. 7: Attendees show appreciation at Seeds of Caring’s event at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum.

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business monthly

Sheraton Suites Takes Home WBN’s Best Soup Award

What makes a fall soup terrific? Just ask Sheraton Suites' Chef Patrick Pecoraro. His butternut squash bisque was crowned the number-one fall soup at the Worthington Business Network’s October Luncheon, and then the soup was given an award at the Worthington Area Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Luncheon and Awards Ceremony in November. Other entries included The Whitney House, La Chatelaine, and Greek Express. Congratulations to Chef Patrick and everyone at Sheraton Suites!

EmpowerHer Women’s Business Conference to Return in 2026

The Worthington Area Chamber of Commerce will be bringing back the popular Empower Her Women’s Business Conference in 2026. Empower Her is an impactful day-long event which brings together local women to share ideas and insights, build community connections, and inspire – with plenty of opportunities to learn and network. The event sold out in 2025 and is a perfect opportunity for any ambitious woman to connect and grow. For more information, visit empowerher2026.my.canva.site.

Interactive Session Helps Entrepreneurs Understand Emotions and Addiction Patterns

Starting or maintaining your own business is already a challenge, but it can be even moreso if you struggle with addictive behaviors. Entrepreneurship, Emotional Struggles, Addiction…and Success is an interactive online session hosted by Jennifer Schrappe, LPCC-S which helps entrepreneurs manage their emotional health by recognizing patterns of behavior, understanding how your emotions affect your business, and giving you the coping tools you need to manage stress and cravings. Tickets on Eventbrite.com .

PRESENT A Present Beyond Measure

Some gifts are more than objects, they’re moments that shape who we are. In this special feature, we asked some of our friends to share the most meaningful gift they’ve ever received. Whether it was a physical item, a kind gesture, or an act of unexpected generosity, these gifts left lasting marks. Changing perspectives, restoring hope, and strengthening connection.

From trinkets to travel, here’s three stories to feed your giving spirit this holiday season.

ARTICLE BY BRICE BUNNER

Just a 2-dollar investment?

We’ve all received cash as a gift at some point in life. And while it’s nice to have the freedom to choose what to spend it on, there can be so much more to holding that crisp bill than just to fatten your wallet. Jill Dole of The Timbrook Guesthouse in Worthington remembers a time when that bill was something more special than she could have ever guessed.

“When I was about nine years old,” Jill reminisces, “my maternal grandfather called my siblings and me into their living room where he opened up an envelope with four freshly printed two-dollar bills.”

“He was so excited to give each of us one,” continues Jill, “telling us that the government just started making them and he wanted us to have some of the first ones produced.”

The uniqueness of that gift, coupled with the excitement of her grandfather, made that gift more meaningful than any other single gift in Jill’s life. “I promised myself that day never to spend that bill. Every time I come across it in my purse, I can’t help but smile, remembering all the fond memories I have of my grandfather.” Says Jill. “In his memory, each of our grandchildren has now received their own crisp two-dollar bill, along with the story behind it.”

"Years later, I tucked that gift into my wallet for good luck - and it’s still there today."

Just a Plane Ticket?

When Alexa Geno was gifted a foreign-exchange opportunity, the ticket itself was just a formality—it was the experience that forever altered her life. “Being a foreign exchange student,” Alexa explains, “ended up being an unknown catalyst to my current career.”

Alexa is owner of Maison Voyage, a full-service travel agency that makes the foreign friendly. This friendliness was just one of the things that Alexa’s gift provided. “That gift helped my appreciation for new-to-me cultures and people and drove me to earn my fluency in 4 languages.” Says Alexa.

Just a Generational Tshatshke?

Delcina Brown is a successful advanced esthetician, and Master Make-up Artiste visionary who runs 614 Beauty. Her salon workspace is lined with vintage beauty pieces—“antique compacts and delicate treasures.” So, when a bride-to-be client of hers was getting a facial, a perfect gift idea clicked. But it was so much more than just a kind gesture for Delcina.

“The best present I’ve ever received was a vintage Art Deco compact that one of my brides gifted me from her grandmother’s collection.” Recalls Delcina. “It was such a heartfelt gesture, a piece of history passed from one woman to another. I keep it on display as a reminder that beauty, connection, and the bonds we form through this work are truly timeless.”

So next time you’re stumped with what to get that special someone in your life, remember the deeper story that can be held within even the simplest gifts.

STYLE THROUGH a Giving Heart

Discover how mindful closet edits and local donations turn personal style into meaningful community impact.

ARTICLE BY COURTNEY STONE SMITH

SUR(REAL) STYLE

When it comes to helping those less fortunate, many people see the need but don’t know where to start. Meaningful change doesn’t require a grand gesture or large donation. Sometimes, it begins with a single act—or a single garment in your closet.

Partnering with local organizations that meet real needs can make a tangible impact. While donation centers like Goodwill play an important role, some go further—placing clothing, shoes, and household items directly into the hands of families who need them most.

Cheri from Joseph’s Coat shared, “We gave over 64,000 clothing items to families who come to us for the things they need most. Each family member may receive ten tops, ten bottoms, accessories, and two pairs of shoes. That’s per person—not per family.” Each item is more than fabric—it’s warmth, confidence, and dignity restored.

For many, the simplest way to start is in the closet. Editing a wardrobe isn’t just about creating space—it’s about alignment. When we release what no longer serves us, those pieces can take on a second life. A coat becomes shelter from the cold. Shoes become a path maker toward possibility.

Locally, organizations like Hope Thru Housing in Worthington and St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store continue this mission, turning donated items into hope and opportunity for those who need it most.

Through Sur(real) Style with Courtney, wardrobe refinement becomes an act of mindfulness. Each edit is guided by intention—what we keep reflects who we’re becoming, and what we release carries the power to serve others. When we approach closet clean-outs consciously, style transforms from personal expression into quiet, elegant compassion.

Photo by Christi Cartee

ARTICLE BY BRICE BUNNER

SMALL BUSINESSES, BIG HEART

THIS Q&A WITH TWO OF OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES WILL GIVE YOU A TASTE OF WHAT THEY DO—SIMPLE OR OTHERWISE—TO MAKE THE SEASON BRIGHTER.

The holiday season isn’t just about sales and celebrations — it’s about community, compassion, and giving back. Local businesses often lead the way, showing that generosity can be just as impactful as growth. We spoke with Chambers Music Studio and Moore Brothers Landscaping to learn what this special time of year means to them and how they’re using their businesses to make a difference.

WHAT DOES THIS TIME OF YEAR MEAN FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

This season is always one of reflection and gratitude. As our students prepare for winter recitals, we see their confidence, discipline, and joy in full bloom—and it reminds us why we do what we do.

HOW DOES THE SPIRIT OF GIVING INFLUENCE YOUR WORK THIS SEASON?

The holidays bring a special focus on generosity and community. Whether it’s offering scholarships, hosting free community performances, or volunteering at local events, we aim to share the gift of music.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY THIS TIME OF YEAR?

We just completed a grant-funded project with Columbus Montessori Education Center and are in the process of starting a scholarship fund to give financial aid for any child who wants to learn music.

Moore Brothers Landscaping Chambers Music Studio

WHAT DOES THIS TIME OF YEAR MEAN FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

It’s all about families looking forward to the time they spend together, and our employees get to be a part of helping those families create endless memories.

HOW DOES THE SPIRIT OF GIVING INFLUENCE YOUR WORK THIS SEASON?

The spirit of giving is evident most in our employees who take such pride in helping to create our customers’ outdoor space.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY THIS TIME OF YEAR?

Our employees are true craftsman and the gift that keeps on giving. The effort they put in the work they do for our customers is an unsung blessing to the community.

Bringing

ARTICLE BY BRICE BUNNER

How a non-profit named The Mirth Project empowers the community to give local teens in need hope, joy, and love during the holiday season.

Santa Home

“It all started when my daughter told me about a conversation she overheard while volunteering for a local food pantry,” says Robin McAllister-Zaas, the founder of The Mirth Project, “she said ‘A little girl asked this boy what Santa was bringing him for Christmas—and he told her that Santa doesn’t stop at his house.’”

Overhearing that little boy’s heartache was the missing piece Robin needed to finally start the nonprofit she’d been dreaming of since she was a little girl—“I've always had a heart for volunteering and from a young age knew someday I'd have my own nonprofit, but it wasn't until 2017 that I finally found a niche that wasn't being filled.”

This simple, overheard snippet shook Robin to the core. “I couldn't stop thinking about that conversation.” She said, “Over the next year, I researched organizations that helped people at Christmas time and discovered that none of them focused on teens.”

Seeing this opportunity, and knowing how important holidays can be for this age group, Robin reached out to her community.

“We wouldn't exist without the support of our community,” Robin reflects, “I believe that everyone wants to give, they just need to be shown how.”

In the first year, with the help of social media, The Mirth Project was able to fulfill the wish lists of 125 low-income teens—and even spread “Mirth Magic” to another 175.

These simple wish lists are the stories that inspire Robin over and over again. Like the middle-school girl who received a tennis racket a Mirth elf brought.

“That tennis racket was a lifeline.” She explains, “The teen had been struggling with depression and that tennis racket allowed her to join the tennis team at her school. Because of that racket, she made some friends, her mood improved, and school wasn't so scary anymore.”

It's these snapshots—the lives being changed for the better—that makes The Mirth Project and its volunteers positively drip with holiday cheer. “Now our donors show up to support all of our additional

programs, whether it's purchasing items on teens wish lists or participating on one of our committees.” There are several ways to experience the Mirth.

But, like every non-profit, funding is the biggest challenge The Mirth Project faces. “We have big goals for our work, and finding people and funders who are interested in supporting the mission is tough.” Robin says, “I don't think it's lack of interest, though. It's lack of awareness around the kinds of problems former foster youth face through no fault of their own.”

Creating Mirth Magic is as simple as supporting a teen in need through the private Facebook group, or by following and resharing social-media posts from The Mirth Project (they’re aiming for 1,000 subscribers, to be a part of Tik Tok for good). Seeing the lives of low-income teens improve, whether by lifting them from depression, providing daily essentials, or giving Santa a reason to stop at their house, proves there is something truly magical about Mirth.

You can follow The Mirth Project on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Linkedin @TheMirthProject.

SMALL GESTURES, Big Impact

Six Simple Ways to Give Back This Holiday Season

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY LABAKI

Ashley Labaki is a writer and media specialist. After working with families and unhoused individuals for several years as a social services case manager, Ashley likes to give back by supporting nonprofits which assist struggling families and regularly donates to the Columbus Humane Society. She lives in Columbus with her two dogs.

For many of us, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Between juggling visiting relatives, hosting parties with friends, attending work events, or going the extra mile to create magical memories for our children, remembering to give back often falls by the wayside.

Our everyday responsibilities coupled with the extra yuletide duties might make it seem like finding time for altruistic generosity is an impossible task. But the truth is – it doesn’t have to be. Philanthropy isn’t one-size-fits-all and can fit into any busy schedule.

Doing service to those in need is an important part of fostering a strong community. One small act of kindness can inspire others to do the same, and before you know it, each neighbor feels supported, loved, and connected. When you invest in your community, you create a long-term impact that can change lives.

But charity and kindness don’t just benefit others, they can have tremendously positive effects on your life too. Altruistic acts not only give many people a sense of purpose, they also reduce stress, build empathy, and allow us to feel gratitude for the things we enjoy in our own lives.

Luckily, paying it forward is easier than ever and can be tailored to any budget or time constraint you may have. Several local organizations offer a wide range of opportunities for you to give money, donate items, or volunteer your time. Avid shoppers may enjoy selecting gifts for an Angel Tree child, participating in toy drives, or making creative meal bags for food pantries. If you’re an animal lover, the holidays are a wonderful time to consider spending time volunteering at local animal shelters, or even fostering a furry friend in your home for a while.

Whatever your schedule or circumstances, this curated list of ways to give back locally has something for anyone who wants to make the season of giving a little bit brighter for those in need.

FAITH MISSION SHELTERS

Did you know that Faith Mission shelters accept donations of new household items to give to those leaving the shelter as they move into their own home? New items such as cleaning supplies, pots and pans, utensils, cookware, and can openers can be dropped off at Faith Mission’s Grant Ave. location (245 N Grant Ave, Columbus, OH 43215).

FRANKLIN COUNTY CHILDRENS SERVICES HOLIDAY WISH

Are you an expert holiday shopper? Franklin County Childrens Services Holiday Wish and the Salvation Army's Angel Tree programs give you the meaningful opportunity to provide children in need with personalized gifts tailored to their interests. Visit  fccs.us/holidaywish or  easternusa.salvationarmy.org/ southwest-ohio/central-ohio/angeltree/ to sponsor a child and make their holiday.

St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital both treats and works to find cures for childhood cancers and diseases. Donations through  stjude.org or at events, like Ballard Designs’ Giving Tuesday fundraiser on December 2nd, help support their mission. Donations can also be made through Ballard Designs at ballarddesigns.com

FIREFIGHTERS 4 KIDS

For 48 years, Firefighters 4 Kids has done its part to provide toys for area children. While monetary donations are accepted, the real fun is the annual toy drive at Worthington’s Station 101 (6500 N High St, Worthington, OH) on December 13th. Toys can also be dropped off at any Franklin County Fire Department through Christmas.

by City of Worthington

WORTHINGTON RESOURCE PANTRY

Food insecurity affects many families in our area, but the Worthington Resource Pantry has opportunities to volunteer by helping shoppers or sorting groceries, and if in-person service isn’t your thing, they accept food and monetary donations too. Donations and volunteer sign-ups are accepted at  www.worthingtonresourcepantry.org

FRANKLIN

COUNTY DOG SHELTER

In addition to donations, the Franklin County Dog Shelter and Columbus Humane both offer volunteer opportunities to spend time with or even host a furry friend in your home. And who knows? You might just fall in love. Visit  columbushumane. org  or  www.franklincountyohio.gov/ Resident-Services/Dogs and get ready for some wagging tails.

realty report

CONFECTION

Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience

As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. While a simple cup of hot cocoa can warm the soul, why not take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board? Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy. Let’s explore the wonders of old-fashioned hot cocoa and all the accompaniments you can use to create your very own hot cocoa charcuterie board.

THE DELIGHTS OF OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA

Old-fashioned hot cocoa transports us to simpler times and brings with it a sense of nostalgia. The slow, traditional process of making hot chocolate from scratch – with real chocolate, milk and a touch of sweetness – provides a distinctly memorable experience for the holidays.

OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA

Ingredients

• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels

• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa

• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar

• 2 cups milk

• 2 cups half and half

• 1 pinch salt

• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions

Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER

CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA

CHARCUTERIE BOARD

Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure, and serve as a sweet centerpiece to your holiday gatherings.

Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.

VARIATIONS TO SAVOR

Indulge in some exciting recipes that are sure to elevate your hot chocolate into fun and festive beverages during the holidays and throughout the colder months.

MINTY FRESH WONDER

Embrace the festive season with a mint-infused hot cocoa. Fancify your beverage with a peppermint stick or make your

own crushed candy cane dust for a touch of holiday cheer. This minty delight is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect indulgence for cozy winter evenings.

SPICY AZTEC ELIXIR

Channel your inner adventurer with an Aztec-inspired hot cocoa. Infuse your drink with a touch of chili powder and a dash of cinnamon. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a festive presentation. This fiery blend will ignite your senses and warm you from the inside out.

GROWN-UP GRASSHOPPER

Transform your drink into a rich adult-only grasshopper hot cocoa by adding 2 oz. of crème de menthe or a shot of peppermint schnapps. Adorn with a crushed candy cane rim for a playful offering.

DECADENT SALTED CARAMEL INDULGENCE

Elevate your hot cocoa experience with a drizzle of homemade salted caramel. The combination of slightly bitter cocoa and sweet, buttery caramel is a match made in heaven. Sprinkle an extra pinch of sea salt for that irresistible contrast.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

DECEMBER 1ST

Wildlights

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium | 5:00 PM

Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo is the perfect seasonal adventure. Arrive early to see the animals before they head to bed, and then enjoy snacks, a holiday tree trail, light shows, and an immersive light tunnel sure to brighten even the darkest winter evening. Wildlights is included with any zoo admission ticket and runs until December 31st. Tickets at columbuszoo.org.

DECEMBER 3RD

Illuminated Shopping

High Street | 6:00 PM

Illuminated Shopping is back! If lights are your favorite part of the holidays, you won’t want to miss this chance to take in the sights and sounds of the season with live holiday music and shopping in Historic Worthington.

DECEMBER 5TH

Winterfair Fine Arts & Craft Fair

Bricker Building, Ohio Expo Center | 10:00 AM

The Winterfair Fine Arts & Craft Fair is the easiest way to find one-of-a-kind, handmade gifts and support local artists and crafters. Whether you’re seeking décor for your home or the perfect gift for a loved one, you can trust that each unique piece was made with passion. Winterfair runs from December 5th through December 7th. Tickets $7 at winterfair.org

DECEMBER 5TH

Columbus Symphony Holiday Pops

Ohio Theater | 8:00 PM

Join the Columbus Symphony in this annual tradition of holiday cheer, featuring lights, orchestral music, and the voices of the Columbus Symphony Chorus and the Columbus Children’s Choir. Runs from December 5th to December 7th. Tickets at columbussymphony.com

DECEMBER 13TH

Firefighters 4 Kids Toy Drive

Worthington Fire Department | 9:00 AM

Are you looking for a fun way to give back this year? Firefighters 4 Kids have spent decades doing their part to make sure no child goes without during the holidays. You can join in the fun during their toy drive on December 13th or drop off toys at any Franklin County Fire Department until Christmas.

DECEMBER 14TH

Old-Fashioned Cookie Exchange

3674 N. High St. | 11:30 AM

Calling all cookie-lovers! The Seasoned Farmhouse is hosting a charming, old-fashioned cookie exchange sure to delight anyone with a sweet tooth and a love for baking. Each guest will bake 4 cozen cookies at home and exchange them with other guests while enjoying a cozy lunch and talking about all things cookies. Tickets $85 at theseasonedfarmhouse.com

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Gathering Grace

The kitchen becomes the heart of every holiday, filled with laughter, aroma, and conversation that lingers long after the meal. With its open layout, natural light, and carefully chosen materials, this space makes entertaining effortless. Every cabinet line and countertop edge reflects a process built on listening, precision, and pride. The result is a kitchen that feels warm, works beautifully, and welcomes everyone home.