Posted by Debbie Conkel on November 23, 2011 

We invite all Central Ohioans to visit State Auto as we celebrate a holiday tradition that began in the 1930s.  State Auto's Christmas Corner, located at 518 E. Broad Street, features a life-size Nativity display in the area just east of our building.  The 75+ human and animal figures of the Nativity have been lovingly restored over the past several years.  Six different scenes from the Nativity story have been recreated with amazing richness of detail.  Descriptions of each scene, along with a cell phone tour of the display are available.

The display is lighted in a special ceremony on Wednesday, Dec. 7, beginning at 5:30 p.m.  The ceremony, which is free and open to the public, features the Columbus Children's Choir and other dignitaries.  The display will be lighted daily after that through January 1.  Local choral groups perform on weekend evenings at the display; please see schedule below.

The culmination of the Christmas season takes place on Christmas Eve at 7:30 p..m, when the Baby Jesus figure is placed in the manger of the Nativity.  David Harrison, president of Columbus State Community College, will perform the honors.

For more information, please contact Debbie Conkel, Corporate communications, 800-444-9950, ext. 4946.

Choir schedule (all performances begin at 7 p.m.):

Fri., December 9 - Columbus State Gospel Vocal Ensemble
Sat., December 10 - Signs of Christmas Choir
Sun., December 11 - Columbus Maennerchor/Damenchor
Fri., December 16 - Grove City Chamber Singers
Sat., December 17 - Meredith Temple Church of God in Christ Choir
Sun., December 18 - Powell United Methodist Church Choir

Posted by Veda Gilp, November 11, 2011

The Cultural Arts Center will present Convergence, an exhibition of painting; and cutting, printing, and paper art, November 19 - December 24, in the Main Hall Gallery. The Artist will be receiving visitors in the Gallery on December 3 from 1-3 pm. Gallery hours are Mondays from 1-4 pm and 7-10 pm; Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 am-4 pm and 7-10 pm; Fridays and Saturdays from 9 am-4 pm; closed on Sundays. Visit online at www.CulturalArtsCenterOnline.org.

The artist explains her exhibit, "Root imagery is a continuation of the trees and electrical wire shapes I used previously which focus on the abstract negative shapes of the images. Juxtaposing and layering images lead to connections both physical and metaphorical. Hanging cutouts in front of and adjacent to each other creates a sense of place and a sense of space. Light plays an important part in the work. The conceptual ideas are what interest me, but the physicality of the processes of cutting, erasing, printing and painting is what keeps me going."

Julie Friedman is an accomplished multi-media artist specializing in drawing, painting, and printmaking. She has exhibited extensively both locally and nationally. She is adjunct professor at Kent State University, Cuyahoga Community College, and John Carroll University; and is the Director of Gallery West at Cuyahoga Community College in Cleveland, Ohio. 

The Cultural Arts Center is a home for the visual arts, and welcomes both novice and accomplished artists to its studios and galleries. The center is a program of the city's Recreation and Parks Department.

Posted on November 11, 2011 by David Wayne 

The Columbus State Gospel Vocal Ensemble, directed by Emma Easton, will celebrate its fifth anniversary by hosting the Gospel Performing Arts Expo '11, themed "Authentic Joy!" Friday and Saturday, November 18 and 19.

The event will feature two days of performances from gospel singers, comedians, spoken word artists, actors and more. There will also be workshops on performing and the business of music, as well as an Artistic Career Fair, Friday, from 4-6 p.m. in the Columbus State Conference Center, WD fourth floor.

In addition to the Gospel Vocal Ensemble, community talent includes the Expo Youth Choir, ages 6-16, The Triedstone Baptist Church Choir, saxophonist Wynueco Washington, Zion's Melody, Vessels of Christ, Malcolm Morgan & New Revelation, Erich Barnes, Michael Haywood, the JELANI  Dancers, Colin/Cedric Easton & Co., Urban Comedy Sketches by StewJacks Entertainment, Lady Louise & 40+ Models, and more. On Friday, NIA Performing Arts presents an after dark theater presentation entitled "Down Memory Lane."

The finale on Saturday includes an awards ceremony recognizing local living gospel legends: Pastor Michael Reeves, Lady Patricia Ross, Bishop Mel Griffin, Mr. Frank Cleveland, Sr., Mr. Ron Ryles, Camille Doughty-Banner, and Mrs. Martha Abbott.

Registration ranges from $10-$35 and is open to the public. The career fair is free.

For more information or tickets, contact Easton at 287-5377, ext. 1677 or visit the Gospel Ensemble website.

Posted by Veda Gilp on November 10, 2011

The Cultural Arts Center will present Paintings from Life, an exhibit of works from Life Painting Classes curated by Susan Ward, through November in the Loft Gallery. The Artists' Reception is Sunday, November 20, 1-4 pm. Talk with the artists at Conversations & Coffee, Thursday, November 17, 12-1 pm. Gallery hours are Mondays from 1-4 pm and 7-10 pm; Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 am -4 pm and 7-10 pm; Fridays and Saturdays from 9 am-4 pm; and closed on Sundays. Visit online at www.CulturalArtsCenterOnline.org.

Susan Ward explains the exhibit, "These works demonstrate the wide range of personal interpretations possible when depicting the human form. Nineteen artists are included in this exhibit. Even though the subject is similar throughout the show, the medium, style, and approach to the subject are unique to each individual. Styles range from expressionistic to naturalistic and hit many different balance points between the two extremes."

Susan Ward is the Instructor of the Life Drawing and Painting classes at the Cultural Arts Center. All artworks included in the show are products of students in these classes.

The Cultural Arts Center is a home for the visual arts, and welcomes both novice and accomplished artists to its studios and galleries. The center is a program of the city's Recreation and Parks Department.

Posted on November 4, 2011 by Kacey Brankamp

It would've been hard to miss the announcement that the Hills Market is planning to expand to Downtown this spring with all the media it received.

The Hills Market signed a lease for 12,000 square feet at 95 N. Grant Ave (formerly Wilson's Auto) in response to the demand for services in an area with a dearth of retail.

The complete story on the Hill's announcement can be found at the following links:

Columbus Business First

The Columbus Dispatch

ColumbusUnderground.com

Posted on October 31, 2011 by Veda Gilp

Mark your calendars for Nov. 4, 5 - 9 PM when the Cultural Arts Center and the Ceramic Studio will present the annual Ceramics Sale featuring faculty and student work: soup tureens, soup bowls - $10 with soup tasting, and a soup cookbook made specifically for this occasion. One of CAC's most popular events: the soups are deliciously memorable, and the tureens are works of art. The SOUP'S ON cookbook is only $15! There's something for every taste and budget for giving and keeping.  Dessert; wine; entertainment. Free admission and Free event parking in Mound & 2nd lot. www.CulturalArtsCenterOnline.org.

The Cultural Arts Center is a home for the visual arts, and welcomes both novice and accomplished artists to its studios and galleries. The center is a program of the city's Recreation and Parks Department.

Posted on October 28, 2011 by Anne Touvell

You won't want to miss our fifth and final Evenings with Authors of the Fall 2011 season when Karen Russell will read from her debut novel, Swamplandia!

The accolades for this debut novel catapulted it to the top of bestseller lists from coast to coast. Recipient of the National Book Foundation's 5 Under 35 Award; featured in The New Yorker's list of "20 Under 40 Authors to Watch"; nominated for the Orange Prize, Karen Russell's stellar talent leaves others breathless in her wake. Swamplandia! is a rundown tourist attraction in the Everglades of Florida, owned by a clan of alligator wrestlers. To reveal more would be to rob the reader of the experience of getting to know the BigTree family, each of them vivid and exuberantly rendered characters set in an equally vivid and exuberant story. With wit and intelligence and heartfelt emotion, Russell has created a brilliantly unique story. She is a native of Florida, and is currently a writer-in-residence at Bard College in upstate New York.

She will be reading on Thursday, November 3, at 7:30 p.m. at the Columbus Performing Arts Center, 549 Franklin Avenue. A book signing and an informal coffee and cookie reception will follow the reading. Tickets are $20 general admission in advance and at the door, with discounts for students and seniors. Tickets are available on our website, www.thurberhouse.org, or by calling 614-464-1032 x. 11.

To purchase tickets: http://www.thurberhouse.org/karen-russell.html

Praise for Karen Russell and her work:

"Lavishly imagined and spectacularly crafted... Ravishing, elegiac, funny, and brilliantly inquisitive, Russell's archetypal swamp saga tells a mystical yet rooted tale of three innocents who come of age through trials of water, fire, and air." - Booklist, starred review

"Brilliant, funny, original... Also creepy and sinister... Karen Russell's SWAMPLANDIA! is every bit as good as her short stories promised it would be. This book will not leave my mind." - Stephen King

"This impressively self-assured debut novel may be the best book you'll ever read about a girl trying to save her family's alligator-wrestling theme park." - O, The Oprah Magazine

Posted on October 24, 2011 by Ohio Department of Transportation

Beginning at 8 p.m. tonight, the following ramps will be closed as part of the I-71/670 Columbus Crossroads project. If travelling in downtown Columbus, we encourage you to plan ahead and consider the alternate routes listed below. Please remember to allow extra time for your commute. Also consider sharing a ride or taking the bus.     

CLOSED: Entrance Ramp from Broad Street to I-71 North and I-670 West

Detour: Broad Street west to 4th, north to I-670 east to I-71 north

Reason: To allow two through lanes of traffic during construction and provide safe, adequate room for the construction workers. Once the first project is complete, there will be three lanes of traffic in both directions on I-71.

Reopening: 2013

CLOSED: Exit Ramp from I-71 North to I-670 West
    
Detour: I-70 west to 315 north   
Reason: To begin construction of a "crossover" -
a shift in the I-670 travel pattern. The crossover will
allow crews to get construction underway sooner, safely and more efficiently.
Reopening: November 2012

CLOSED: Entrance Ramp from Jack Gibbs Boulevard to I-670 West  

Detour: Cleveland Avenue south to Mount Vernon Avenue, west to 4th Street, north to I-670 west. Another detour is north on Cleveland Avenue, west on 5th Avenue to I-670 west.   
Reason: To begin construction of a "crossover" -
a shift in the I-670 travel pattern. The crossover will
allow crews to get construction underway sooner, safely and more efficiently.

Reopening: November 2012

 Attention Drivers: 

While traveling through the I-71/670 construction zone, you will notice that the highway lanes are slightly narrower than you are used to. Highway lanes are typically 12 feet wide, however, some lanes in the construction zone will be 11 feet wide with a one-foot space between the outside lane and the barrier wall.

Narrowing these lanes allows construction crews to work safely while traffic is moving in the nearby travel lanes. The concrete barrier wall is a protective measure for both the driver and construction crews. Please follow the posted speed limit and use caution when driving through the construction zone.

Posted on October 24, 2011 by Charmaine Sutton

November events at the Lincoln Theater include:

 Nov 10   Jazz Arts Group - One Night Only - jazzartsgroup.org

Nov 19 & 20 - Thiossane West African Dance Institute - fall showcase 730p  $10  

Wed, Nov 16 - College sharing    6:30p, $5

Nov 22 - CAPA present R& B artist  LEDISI, 8p  $40  

Find more information at: lincolntheatrecolumbus.com

Posted on October 20, 2011 by Columbus Landmarks

Tour begins at Columbus Landmarks, 61 Jefferson Avenue. Saturday, October 22nd; Sunday, October 23rd, Monday, October 24; Tuesday, October 25; and Wednesday, October 26.

Architecturally-interesting Columbus sites - from historic homes and museums to hotels, former funeral homes and Victorian charmers- all have stories to tell! Locations may vary each night on this eerie bus tour as the spirits move us.

Posted on October 19, 2011 by Charmaine Sutton

Don't miss Magic of the Night, celebrating its 5th year as the ultimate "haunted" magic show, featuring spectacular Halloween-themed illusions, ghostly phenomena and awe-inspiring special effects.

Spooky, but not bloody or gory, Magic of the Night is just good, clean, haunted Halloween fun and a one-of-a kind theatrical experience for the entire family.

Seats are disappearing fast. Reserve yours at ticketmaster.com, call the CAPA ticket office at 469-0939 or visit our website.

http://www.magicofthenight.com/

A Haunted Magic Show takes place on Oct 21 at 7PM. 

Posted on October 19, 2011 by Columbus Landmarks Foundation

Come walk with us and see the beauty of one of Columbus' most architecturally-significant neighborhoods by lamplight and lantern. Learn why this street enjoys the reputation of being the most haunted neighborhood in Columbus.

Dates include Friday, October 21; Friday, October 28, and Sunday, October 30. 6:30-9pm.

Tour begins at Topiary Park, 480 E. Town Street. Tickets are $10 for members and $20 for non-members.  

Posted on October 13, 2011 by Sherry Mercurio

While Franklin University continues to grow and adapt to an ever-changing world, the University's commitment to providing students with the academic preparation needed for success remains as strong as ever.  To ensure the academic and physical infrastructure necessary to support our students' continued success, earlier this year the University expanded its Main Campus, downtown with the purchase of a 15,000-square-foot building located at 360 S. Grant Ave.

The addition of the building on Grant Ave. to the University's Main Campus allows Franklin to provide additional professional office environment for its growing number of full-time faculty members. This latest addition further reinforces Franklin's position as the southeast anchor of the city's Special Improvement District, which, along with the completion of the 70/71 split project, will create a new neighborhood gateway on Grant Avenue.

With renovations now complete, the new building houses the University's College of Arts, Sciences & Technology.  Faculty and administrative staff now occupy 34 office spaces, 14 workstations, and multiple huddle and conference spaces.

The purchase and renovation of the building on Grant Ave. is the latest milestone in Franklin University's strategic growth plan, which sets out to strengthen its resources and offerings by expanding educational opportunities to ever greater numbers of students across the country and around the world.

Members of the community are invited to join University officials, members of the University's Board of Trustees, area government, and civic and business leader representatives for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new Grant Avenue building, on Friday, Oct. 21 from 1:15-3 p.m. The ribbon-cutting will take place at 1:30 p.m.  Please RSVP to rsvp@franklin.edu by Friday, Oct. 14.

Posted on October 13, 2011 by Melanie Houston

Click here to see a short news clip of President Obama's recent vist to Fort Hayes High School.

Submitted on October 10, 2011 by Charmaine Sutton

ArtFUSION 2011 A Sinful Celebration

Indulge in a night of Italian Mischief. Join us in celebrating ArtFUSION 2011, inspired by Bad Boy of Baroque art - Caravaggio and the history of Italian decadence.  Every autumn, Art network presents ArtFUSION, in conjunction with Art Celebration, to raise funds for the Columbus Museum of Art.  ArtFUSION is the art event of the year for young professionals.  Enjoy cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, dancing and entertainment in the beautiful Columbus Museum of Art.  October 22, 2011, 8:00 pm - Midnight.  Tickets $100, after October 1^st $125.  To purchase tickets, contact Kristy Emch at 614.629.0344.

Posted on October 5, 2011 by Nancy Burton

• From I-71 south, take the Main Street exit and go east on Main to Parsons Avenue.  

• From I-71 north, take the Broad Street exit and go right, or east, to Parsons Avenue.

• Access the I-71 north ramp directly from Parsons Avenue between Mooberry and Main Street. 

• Access I-71 south from Parsons Avenue by going west on Main Street and turning south onto the entrance ramp.

Posted on October 4, 2011 by Nancy Burton

From about 11 pm - 5 am Monday night through Wednesday, weather permitting, I-71 south will be reduced to one lane from 5th Ave to Broad Street so that crews can restripe lanes and install portable concrete barriers. From about
8 pm - 5 am tonight through at least Wednesday, Spring Street will also be reduced to one lane from Hamilton Avenue to Jefferson Avenue for barrier installation.

Get up-to-date traffic and construction information 24/7/365 as well as information about the I-70/I-71 Corridor at www.odot71670.org. 

Posted on October 4, 2011 by Nancy Burton

As part of ODOT's Columbus Crossroads project, a $200 million interstate and neighborhood improvement project, traffic patterns on Interstate 71 south are changing. Crews restriped I-71 south last night. Now there are two lanes on the left for I-71 south. One of those lanes used to be the exit-only lane for Spring Street, but since that exit closed on Sept. 28 the lane will now be for thru-traffic.

If you want to access I-670, there will also be two lanes on the right, although you won't notice the two lanes until after you pass the exit at 11th Avenue.

Posted by: Valerie Goettler

Our Academy is growing!

Register for classes at all 4 locations!

 Downtown  | Gahanna Vista Plaza

Worthington (MAC)  |  Reynoldsburg Summit High

It's not too late to register for dance classes at BalletMet.  Registrations are currently being accepted at all four locations, including our newest partner location in Reynoldsburg! 

BalletMet's high-quality dance curriculum and professional faculty, and the approval of BalletMet's flexible credit model by the Ohio Department of Education for Physical Education and Fine Arts Credit, led to Reynoldsburg High School engaging BalletMet to teach classes as part of the school's curriculum at the new Reynoldsburg Summit High School campus. 

In addition to teaching high school students during the academic year, BalletMet will offer community classes in a variety of dance disciplines several evenings a week and on Saturdays for children, teens and adults.  Click here for more information on the Reynoldsburg Summit High School program and available classes.

After a successful first year, BalletMet's partnership with the McConnell Arts Center in Worthington continues this year with a variety of classes for all ages. Please contact  (mcconnellarts.org 614-431.0329) to register for classes.

In addition to the Reynoldsburg and Worthington locations, classes are available at our Vista Plaza studio in Gahanna and at our Dance Centre in downtown Columbus!   Register today.

Posted by: David Wayne

Ohio law requires that one percent of any allocation for a construction project funded by the State of Ohio must be used for public art. Two examples of the Percent for Art program at Columbus State are the 5-piece Vault installation that includes pieces on two sides of Cleveland Avenue, and Light Sails, the glass and steel sculpture in the courtyard of the Columbus campus.

The renovation of the Columbus Hall Library will include a piece of public art by a local artist that the Columbus State Percent for Arts Committee and the Ohio Arts Council have selected. The Committee is considering a work proposed by Olga Ziemska, a CCAD graduate who took classes at Columbus State while earning her degree at CCAD. Ziemska is currently working on the final design of the proposed piece to be presented to the committee in October.

Olga Ziemska at work on a large outdoor sculpture.

Ziemska will be on the downtown campus on Welcome Back day, Wednesday, September 28. She invites students and employees to stop by her table to offer feedback on aspects of her proposed design.

Olga Ziemska is a sculptor and public artist who lives and works in Cleveland. She is a recipient of many prestigious grants and awards including a Fulbright Fellowship in 2002 and a Creative Workforce Fellowship in 2009. In 2007, Ziemska was selected as a Wendy L. Moore Emerging Artist by the Museum of Contemporary Art in Cleveland. She has participated in several residencies nationally and abroad, including Centre of Polish Sculpture in Poland. Her work is exhibited both nationally and internationally, with work reviewed in Sculpture magazine. For more information about her work please visit www.olgaziemska.com.

posted by: Valerie Goettler

The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission is seeking volunteers to assist with bicycle and pedestrian counts at selected locations in central Ohio on Wednesday, September 28 from 7-9 a.m. and 11 a.m.-1 p.m. MORPC encourages a community interested in doing their own counts to do so during the same time. Volunteers are asked to register either online at http://www.signupgenius.com/go/fall1255 or by contacting Joe Fish at jfish@morpc.org or 614.233.4123. Once registered, volunteers will receive a map of their specific location as well as forms and instructions to be used for the count. First-time volunteers will need to attend a training session on Thursday, September 22 at 4 p.m.

Posted by: Charmaine Sutton

STIRRING SPIRITS: CENTER FOR ARCHITECTURE FUNDRAISING EVENT 

OCTOBER 7, 2011

Come join the Columbus Architecture Foundation and design professionals from around Columbus on October 7, 2011 at COSI for STIRRING SPIRITS - a black attire event and fundraiser supporting the mission of the Center for Architecture and Design.

Enjoy the beautiful Columbus skyline from the edge of the river. Your ticket include hors d'oeuvres, desserts, beer, wine and a special signature cocktail, and the funk sounds of the Hoo Doo Soul Band. It's a black out so don your favorite black outfit with, naturally, an added splash of color!

For more information, tickets, and registration, please visit the Center For Architecture and Design website, http://columbuscfa.org/.

Posted by Melissa Ricksecker on September 23, 2011

By now you may have seen or heard the media splash about the upcoming Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) I-71/670 construction project that is getting underway now. The Discovery District Development Corp (DDDC) invites you to learn more about this project - and how to be ready - directly from the experts who can help your company prepare for one of Central Ohio's largest roadway construction projects ever. We hope you will be able to attend one of these upcoming information sessions.

• MORPC will host an information session for downtown businesses on September 26 from 3 to 4:30p.m. at the Vern Riffe Building, 31^st floor conference room. Public parking is available in the attached Riffe Center garage which may be entered from Front St., or in the Statehouse parking garage which is connected to the Riffe Center via an underground walkway. Additionally, several parking garages and lots are within a two-to-four-block walking area.

RSVP to Lynn Robinson at lrobinson@morpc.org if you wish to attend this session.

• On October 13 at 7:30 a.m., members of the ODOT I-71/670 Design Build Team will address the DDDC membership at our monthly meeting. The meeting will take place at State Auto Insurance Company, 518 E. Broad St., in first floor conference room. Parking is available in the visitors' lots at the north entrance of the building (enter lot from Washington St.).

RSVP to Missy Ricksecker at missy.ricksecker@cmaohio.org if you will be attending this presentation.

 Agenda:

ODOT will outline details of the project and how your employees, customers, and patrons can stay in the know. MORPC, COTA and Consider Biking will be there to explain other travel options, and how to tailor transportation plans that meet the unique needs of your employees and visitors.

Posted by Melanie Houston, on behalf of ODOT, on September 16, 2011

It is difficult to predict how travel times will be affected, so ODOT advises you to plan ahead: map out alternate routes to reach your destinations, and consider leaving your car at home at least one or two days a week by taking the bus, sharing a ride or riding your bike to local destinations. You might also approach your employer about working from home from time to time, or adjusting your schedule so your commute does not occur during peak travel times in the morning and evening.  

Posted by Melanie Houston, on behalf of ODOT, on September 14, 2011

The first lane restriction will begin in mid-September, followed by a number of ramp closures in late September and through October. Once confirmed, ODOT will announce specific dates to the public and post them on www.odot71670.org every time there is a restriction or closure. *   

ODOT will also post extensive signage to show drivers the way around closed ramps and exits. They will provide advance notice to the local media and regularly post updates at www.odot71670.org. Two travel lanes will be maintained on I-71 and I-670 throughout construction, with just a few exceptions when heavy bridge beams must be put in place during overnight hours. *All work is weather dependent; it may be postponed or cancelled without prior notice.

Posted by David Wayne on September 13, 2011

As the higher education calendar ticks down to the start of autumn quarter, the presidents of The Ohio State University and Columbus State Community College will kick off the beginning of a new and innovative educational partnership in Delaware.

When the quarter begins on September 21, The Ohio State University at Marion will offer a wide range of general education courses on Columbus State's Delaware Campus.

All students attending the Columbus State Delaware Campus will have a variety of options to choose from. It may include enrolling in Columbus State courses at Delaware and transitioning in time to Ohio State courses at the Delaware Campus or at Ohio State Marion or at other Ohio State campuses. Each option can take them toward an Ohio State baccalaureate degree.

"The arrangement is a win-win for both schools," says Dr. David Harrison, president of Columbus State. "The new, state-of-the-art building is already the front door to higher education for 1,000 of our students per quarter. Since it's designed to accommodate 2,000 students we can easily share space with the estimated 400 Ohio State students."

Gregory Rose, Ohio State Marion dean and director, concurs. "The last decade has demonstrated Delaware's desirability as an entry point to higher education for students in northern Franklin and Delaware counties. The Ohio State-Columbus State collaboration in Delaware will serve this growing student base, while providing efficiencies for both institutions."

A public open house will be held beginning at 4:30 p.m. on September 14.  At 5:00 p.m., presidents Gee and Harrison will make brief comments and then, to celebrate the new partnership, will plant a buckeye tree on the grounds of the Delaware Campus.

Posted by Melissa Ricksecker on September 13, 2011

President Barack Obama will discuss his bipartisan proposals to grow the economy and create jobs during a visit to Columbus on Tuesday.

According to the White House, Obama will visit Fort Hayes Arts and Academic High School, located at 546 Jack Gibbs Blvd.

He is scheduled to speak at 2:15 p.m.  

Obama will highlight his American Jobs Act proposal to put workers back on the job by rebuilding and modernizing schools across the U.S.  

The American Jobs Act proposes a $25 billion investment in school infrastructure that will modernize at least 35,000 public schools.

Watch Obama's address on 10TV.  If you're not near a television set, you can see it on 10TV.com.

Posted on September 7, 2011 by David Wayne

Columbus State Community College's summer commencement will find students who faced challenges and adversity walk away with diplomas to begin exciting new chapters in their lives. A total of 486 students have petitioned to graduate for the ceremony.

Sharon Wilkins Holley began her journey before her husband passed away seven years ago due to various medical issues. "My husband needed an advocate at the end of his life to navigate the medical system," say Holley, 38. "I found that opportunity through the Paralegal Program. I am now working in a law office on workers' compensation issues and I spend my days advocating for injured workers."

Medical issues of her own led Linda Thumboli, 55, to persevere. Despite fighting cancer and combined with the loss of several family members in recent years, she never gave up. Her medical treatments required the removal of 70% of her stomach. Then Thumboli had to be trained to eat all over again. She will graduate with an Associate of Arts.

For Alexandria Axline, a job in a group home led her to a new career. The 24-year-old had enrolled in the environmental science program. "I was very close to finishing but when I began working in a group home assisting adults with developmental disabilities I started to question my plans," she says. "After weighing my options and praying I changed direction and began studying in the field of human services." Axline's long-term goal is to open her own day habilitation center for adults with developmental disabilities.

Ashley Watts was homeless for a short time with her children before turning her life around. Her original goal was to become a nurse. "After visits with my career counselor I decided that social work is what I wanted to do," says Watts, 26, who will graduate with an Associate of Arts degree. She plans to transfer to Ohio State where she will major in Social Work.

Graduating with his brother was the plan for Eric Rogers. The pair enrolled together in the accounting program. Last year, Eric's brother, Brent Kreuter , 41, died in a motorcycle accident. "The last year has been a constant struggle not having him here to go through this with me, but thanks to the determination and dedication that he showed, I have learned to keep going and work my way through the struggles," says Eric, 37. He will graduate with an Associate of Applied Science in Accounting.

Reuel Barksdale, Associate Professor of Business Management at Columbus State, is the keynote speaker. Class valedictorian Jacob Goodfleisch, 35, will also speak.

Graduation begins at 10:00 a.m., Friday, September 9, 2011, at Veterans Memorial Auditorium, located at 300 W. Broad St., Columbus. The event is free and open to the public. The ceremony will also be available on a live stream at http://www2.cscc.edu/services/graduation/.

Posted on September 6, 2011 by Craig Vander Veen

Broad Street United Methodist Church will be having a Street Fair on Sunday September 18. Come to the church and meet your neighbors. The fair will include live musicians, a magician, a meal provided by City Barbecue and more. The street fair will begin at approximately noon immediately following the 10:45 worship service. All are welcome.

Posted on September 1, 2011 by David Wayne

Summing up the decade of the 1960s takes more than a book. Over the past couple of years, two Columbus State Community College instructors have edited a comprehensive collection of those turbulent times. From the Vietnam War and Civil Rights movement to the Beatles and flower power, Encyclopedia of the Sixties: A Decade of Culture and Counterculture covers the era with more than 1,100 pages of text and photographs.

Western Civilization instructors James Baugess and Abbe DeBolt have spent two years compiling more than 500 entries for the collection. A third instructor, Dr. Marilyn Howard, a key contributor, wrote nearly two dozen entries in her areas of expertise: African-American history and popular culture.

Baugess says, "I had only contributed three entries when the original editor failed to produce a manuscript. Greenwood Press, the original publisher, asked me to start the project from the beginning. The new publisher, ABC-Clio, wanted it in two years time and I knew I could not go it alone. That's why I brought in Abbe DeBolt as co-editor.  Abbe's expertise in art and her background in international affairs proved invaluable."

The two-volume encyclopedia will be published on December 31, 2011, and retail for $189.00. Pre-publication sales have begun on Amazon.com.

Posted on August 30, 2011 by David Wayne

The Delaware Campus will host a stop on Ohio State's annual Roads Scholars Tour on Thursday, September 1. Each year, The Ohio State University invites new faculty and staff to tour locations where OSU has campuses and partnerships. An estimated 50 people from Ohio State will take part this year. President Harrison will address the group when they arrive at Delaware.

The new partnership between the Columbus State and Ohio State begins Autumn Quarter when the Ohio State Marion branch begins offering classes on our Delaware Campus.

A "Partnership Celebration" for our two schools is planned for Wednesday evening, 4-6 p.m. September 14, at the Delaware campus, where both Dr. Harrison and OSU President E. Gordon Gee will say a few words and plant a Buckeye tree on the campus. 

Posted on August 26, 2011 by Nate Oliver

During the second week of September (9/11 - 9/17), the library will launch "Tech Training Week @ Your Library" which is a technology training promotion week involving all public libraries in Franklin County.

The Columbus Metropolitan Library is a participant in the state wide Connect Ohio / Every Citizen Online technology training program. The training sessions are a part of the federally funded Connect Ohio grant, which is designed to encourage an increase in the adoption of broadband internet service in Ohio. The program includes three technology training classes: Introduction to Computers, Basic Internet and Using the Internet. During Tech Training Week, the library will expand offerings to include classes on social media. All classes are offered at the Main Library as well as Hilltop, Gahanna, Northern Lights, Karl Road, Reynoldsburg and Linden branches. As part of Tech Training week, the library is expanding class offerings to include the Southeast and South High branch libraries. The library will also begin offering classes in Spanish at the Hilltop Branch and Somali at the Northern Lights branch as part of a new partnership with Columbus State Community College.

To sign up for classes, call the library information line at 645-2275.

Posted on August 16 by Nancy Recchie

Columbus Landmarks is accepting nominations for its 2011 Design & Preservation Awards.

Each year, Columbus Landmarks honors individuals and institutions that have made exceptional strides in promoting historic preservation and producing quality urban design in central Ohio.

The deadline to nominate is today, August 16, 2011

Click here to make a nomination

Save the date to congratulate the winners!

Posted on August 16, 2011 by Nancy Burton

The Columbus Crossroads project, one of the largest highway projects in Ohio, is kicking off this September with reconstruction of the I-71/670 interchange. This first phase of I-70/71 construction will be completed in 2014. The $200 million I-71/670 project will improve safety, reduce congestion, and connect neighborhoods. It will add a new travel lane on I-670 and reduce weaving across traffic lanes to exits. Twenty-two new bridges will be built, including one with a first of its kind cultural wall designed with community input.

 Click here for a larger view.

Click here for a larger view.

Please direct questions to Nancy Burton at the Ohio Department of Transportation.

Posted on August 15, 2011 by Melanie Houston

Join State Auto Insurance Companies and the Jazz Arts Group of Columbus for Jazz on Jefferson, a free concert featuring the Vernon Hairston Trio with special guest, vocalist Mary McClendon. The event will take place at noon on Friday, August 19 at the Jefferson Center in Thurber Park.

Bring your lunch for the concert or enjoy food carts available in the park.

Posted on August 10, 2011 by Georgeanne Reuter

Experience the grandeur of the 19^th century and learn about life in the era of the Civil War, the Underground Railroad and the beginnings of Columbus as a city.

Starting on Sunday, July 3, 2011 the Kelton House Museum and Garden, 586 East Town Street, Columbus, will offer an audio tour of the Museum in addition to the traditional tour led by costumed docents. The audio tour features the voices of Museum Director Georgeanne Reuter and Educational Coordinator Mary Oellermann as they describe the 19^th century home of the Fernando and Sophia Kelton family. Visitors will also hear actors portraying fugitive slaves and abolitionists during their visit to the Underground Railroad Learning Station in the Museum Lower Level in an interpretation narrated by Salmon P. Chase.

On Sundays the audio tour will be available from 1 - 4 pm; the docent led tours will begin at 1, 2 and 3 pm.

Monday through Friday, 10 am - 4 pm, the audio tour will also be available on a drop-in basis.

All tours: Adults $6, Seniors $4, Children 6 and over $2.  For more information, call 614.464.2022.

Posted on August 5, 2011 by Sherry Mercurio

Franklin University is proud to announce a team of its MBA students have won this year's GLO-BUS competition. The team, comprised of students from Franklin's first MBA cohort from the Wroclaw School of Banking in Poland, finished first out of 491 teams from 51 colleges and universities. Adding accolades to winning the competition, the team also received the highest possible score. 

Franklin students participate in GLO-BUS, a global business simulation designed by McGraw-Hill to educate students in business strategy, as part of the MBA capstone. The exercise serves as an ideal opportunity for Franklin MBA students to display everything they've learned in the program and translate it into a real-world situation. And the value of what Franklin students are learning in the program is demonstrated by how they fare against teams of students from other institutions.  In October, these students, along with their cohort, will be the first MBA graduates from one of Franklin's international partner schools. 

For the full release visit:  http://www.franklin.edu/news-community/news-events/

Posted on August 4, 2011 by David Wayne

Are you fascinated by the work of the professional cook and the culture of the restaurant kitchen?  If so, Find out what it takes to make a chef by experiencing a day in the life of a Columbus State culinary student.

You'll come into our kitchen classrooms and find out how we train professional chefs. The Hospitality Management Culinary Apprentice program at Columbus State is a full-time three- year program accredited through the American Culinary Federation.

Students take a full class load and work full-time as an apprentice to finish the 6,000 apprentice hours they must complete to become an Executive Chef. Experience a small piece of the high pressure grind of classes and apprenticeship. Attend in true "Ruhlman" style. Be prepared to work directly with the students and the teachers.

Monday, August 8, 2011

Garde Manger I: 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

International Cuisine: 1:00-4:30 p.m.

Light breakfast and lunch will be served. Attend one class - or both.

RSVP to Elissa at eschneid@cscc.edu (I have room for 8 in each session).

Posted on August 4, 2011 by Valerie Haulk 

Grant recently invested in a robot from MAKO Surgical Corporation that allows specially trained physicians to perform MAKOplasty Partial Knee Resurfacing - a less invasive surgical option in our continuum of care for patients with early to mid-stage osteoarthritis that boasts rapid recovery time and improved surgical outcomes.

"It's a big advance," says Sharat K. Kusuma, MD. "A lot of patients with arthritis on one or two parts of the knee who normally would have received total knee replacements could be candidates for this treatment."

MAKOplasty uses 3D computer mapping and an interactive robotic arm system to resurface the diseased portion of the knee and replace it with an artificial implant.

"The technology allows us to position the implant components much more accurately than conventional surgery and preserve more of the natural knee structure," says Robert E. Bartley III, MD.

The decision to bring this equipment to Grant was based on physician feedback and desire to offer patients an alternative to more invasive surgical options. And, it's one more reason for patients and physicians to choose Grant and the Bone and Joint Center for orthopedics care.

Posted on August 1, 2011 by Valerie Haulk

The Renaissance Hotel and Latitude 41, together with the OhioHealth Foundation, invite you to join us for an evening of cocktails and culinary delights on August 4, 2011 from 5:30 - 8:00pm.

Featuring:
- Latitude 41
- Barcelona
- Knead
- Middle West Spirits
- Basi Italia
- Black Creek Bistro
- Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
- Brother's Drake
- Goose Island
- The Refectory
- G. Michael's Bistro
- Tessora Limone 

Proceeds from A Taste of Columbus support Defining Moments, the first ever campaign for cancer care at OhioHealth and Riverside Methodist Hospital. Help us meet our challenge to provide a portal of entry for the differentiated cancer care experience offered to patients and families. Help us on this journey of exceptional cancer care.
Experts at treating people. Experts at treating cancer. 
 

The Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel Pool Deck
Fifty North Third Street, Columbus, Ohio
Valet parking available for $3
Tickets are $50 and can be purchased at www.atasteofcolumbus.com.
Entertainment provided. Business attire.

Posted on July 20, 2011 by Nate Oliver

At the end of July, the Main Library will open a new space on the first floor designed specifically for public computer users. This room will provide free access to 90 newly updated public computers with internet access, Microsoft office products, resume software and more. Each computer work station will have a private cubicle and space for up to two people to work together. As part of the renovation to the room, unused offices were removed, opening up a panoramic view of the Topiary Park for the public to enjoy. Customers may have 3 one hour sessions on the computers per day. All you need is a library card!

On the third floor, in the space previously used for public computers, a new space will be dedicated for laptop users. There will be room for several dozen customers to sit comfortably while charging up and using laptops or other devices. Free wireless internet service is provided. In addition to this new space for laptop users, the third floor provides many services including a computer lab with a variety of free classes, a large meeting room for public use, three small study rooms, access to thousands of books, periodicals and reference materials and expert librarians in the areas of job and career help, business, finance, entrepreneurship, health, grants, local history, genealogy and more.

Posted on July 18, 2011 by Jennifer Poleon

This Friday (July 22) is the return of Game Show 2 at CMA. To give you an idea of what to expect, here's our interview with our fabulous host Susie Starliner.

How would you describe Game Show?
It's really just a classic game show, but with a creative twist and an extra sexy host (me)!

What should we expect from the next CMA Game Show?
Expect more exceptionally witty banter from myself and co-host/hunk Tod Tabler with hot new games, cash bar, prizes and some super secret, super sexy special guest appearances!

Tell us about Wonderland and Fake Bacon's involvement.
Well, I heard that there were a lot of really smart people in those groups, plus who could ignore all of the creativity coming out of Wonderland Columbus and the hilarity of the Fake Bacon crew?  I'm a woman that appreciates the talent that the Columbus community has to offer. Sexy!

What kinds of fabulous prizes can people win?
Anything from video games to spa treatments. All of the prizes are being sponsored by Small Business Beanstalk and come from local, independent businesses.

Do people have to participate or can they just watch and be entertained?
There will be plenty to keep people entertained, however, we encourage participation. It's a chance to display your creativity, and Columbus has some VERY creative people. And, of course, if you press your luck, there's a distinct possibility of a fondue pot in your future.

Can you tell us anything more about the grand finale game that Wonderland is creating?
Well let's just say it will be the sequel of all sequels.

In the spirit of James Lipton...
What is your favorite word?
Sensuous.  It rolls off of my tongue like hot butter.

What is your least favorite word?
Impossible.

What turns you on?
Creativity, bocce ball and '70s soul music.

What turns you off?
Doubters, and when Tod doesn't wash his toupee!

What sound or noise do you love?
Squeals of excitement.

What sound or noise do you hate?
Whistle tips and that wah-wah-wah sound.

What is your favorite curse word?
I love you.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
Professional Sherpa.

What profession would you not like to do?
Survey says: Air Traffic Controller.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?
Whoopee!

Game Show 2 returns to the Columbus Museum of Art this Friday July 22, 2011 from 8 - 10 pm. Purchase advance Game Show tickets or some tickets may be available at the door. You can also RSVP on Facebook.

Art Speaks. Join the Conversation.

Posted by David Wayne on July 18, 2011

The Educational Talent Search program will continue at Columbus State Community College until at least 2012 following the renewal of a federal grant. Senator Sherrod Brown's office notified the college of the $230,000 award. The grant is expected to continue for up to five years for a total of $1.15 million.

The grant allows Columbus State to continue partnering with Columbus City Schools, the community and the families of low-income and first-generation college students. The goal is to assist a new generation of students to access college and find success. The office of TRiO programs, which offers Upward Bound, Student Support Services and the Educational Talent Search program will oversee the grant distribution.

"This TRiO program focuses on getting middle school students from low-income, first generation families and under-represented groups into the college pipeline," says Dr. Jan Rogers, vice president for Student Affairs.

Services offered include academic, financial, career counseling, career exploration, exposure to the college campus and assisting with preparations for college entrance exams.

The renewal grant is given through the U.S. Department of Education. The previous grant in 2006 totaled just over $1 million.

Posted by Nancy Colvin on July 15, 2011

In the newest iteration of Ground Control, Kota Ezawa provides a mash-up of audio and video footage through his unique animation. Beatles Über California blends the iconic British band's 1964 performance on The Ed Sullivan Show with the Dead Kennedy's song "California Uber Alles." Seen together, Ezawa provides us with an opportunity to consider the impact of a seemingly revolutionary band, still clothed in suits as opposed to punk rock's preference for ripped tshirts and jeans, in relation to the restraint necessary for a television performance.

Ground Control is an exhibition program of video and sound work by contemporary artists.  Screened within the elevator on the south side of the building, the program will present the work of some of the most innovative media artists working today. 

http://www.columbusmuseum.org/exhibitions/

Posted on July 12, 2011 by David Wayne

For the first time in its history, Columbus State Community College has more than 20,000 students enrolled for summer quarter. In terms of attendance, the 10-week session is traditionally the smallest quarter of the year.

As classes begin today there are 20,486 registered students. That's a 7.6 percent increase over last year's first day of summer quarter when 19,035 students were registered. (The college averages about 30,000 students per quarter during the rest of the academic year.)

Many central Ohio students who attend universities across the state enroll in summer courses at Columbus State. Their course credits then transfer back to their home university.

Columbus State was founded in 1963.

Posted on July 8, 2011 by Sherry Mercurio

As registration begins for another fall term, Franklin University is proud to once again provide additions to its list of undergraduate and graduate programs.  The University now offers it's M.S. in Instructional Design and Performance Technology and the M.S. in Accounting, as well as its newest undergraduate majors in Information Security and in Criminal Justice.  These new programs mark the latest additions to Franklin's growing list of academic offerings, the number of which has nearly doubled in the past five years.  Beyond increasing the number of programs, the University has included majors outside the University's traditional business core, in areas such as Arts, Sciences and Technology, and Health and Human Services.

For those looking for customized training, Franklin also offers customized training through its Center for Professional Training and Development.

No matter what the academic or professional area of study, Franklin University offers innovative curriculum in a format that fits with the schedules of today's busy, working adults.

Posted on June 27, 2011 by Melanie Houston

From June through October of 2010, Discovery Special Improvement District (SID) staff interviewed more than 60 people representing 31 property owners in the Discovery District. Discovery SID, created by property owners in 2006, is a private sector organization that works to improve the safety and image of the Discovery District Neighborhood.

When asked what physical improvements they would like to see in the district, community leaders and property owners expressed a breadth of ideas. People generally expressed a desire to see more connecting fabric in the neighborhood including retail services, restaurants and coffee houses. Several individuals also wanted to see more housing and additional entertainment and cultural facilities. Specific suggestions for physical improvements to the district included:

• Upgrades to Broad Street
• Building on surface parking lots
• Increased number of trees and greenery
• Traffic calming improvements
• More green space (with a potential water feature)
• Repeating elements along major streets (e.g. icons, public art, topiary bushes, banners)
• Gateway signs
• New light fixtures

Desired outcomes of improvements included a pedestrian-friendly walking environment, a strengthened sense of community and pride in the Discovery District, and improved connections into and within the district.

Stay tuned for future updates on the Discovery District Neighborhood Visioning Plan.

Posted on June 24, 2011 by David Wayne

Columbus State Community College continues a strong showing in Community College Week magazine's 2011 annual Top 100 Associate Degree and Certificate Producers. This year, among two-year institutions, Columbus State jumps to No. 37, with 1,768 completed degrees. That's a 7 percent increase in diplomas granted.

The new ranking is based on figures from the 2009-2010 academic year, the most recent year for complete results. Among two-year schools last year, Columbus State was No. 39 after awarding 1,652 degrees the previous year.

"I'm more excited about a 7 percent increase in graduates than a 20 percent jump in enrollment," says Columbus State President David Harrison. "We have to measure our success as a college on the success of our students." 

The college's Sport and Exercise program continues to be a standout nationally. With the exception of one four-year institution (University of Phoenix), Columbus State awarded more sports and fitness associate degrees than any college in the country - 85 in all.

Columbus State was also in the top 15 among community colleges in awarding associate degrees in areas related to the following general fields:

• Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences: No. 4 nationally, with 68 diplomas awarded.
• Engineering Technologies: No. 7 nationally, with 176 degrees awarded.
• Health Professions: No. 15 nationally, with 421 degrees awarded.

Community College Week reports that the number of associate degrees was up 7.9 percent nationally, a record increase.

Data for the analysis are collected by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics.

Posted on June 22, 2011 by Georgeanne Reuter

Throughout 2011, the Kelton House Museum & Garden will commemorate the 150^th anniversary of the Civil War through a series of lectures and activities. All programs will be held at the Museum, 586 East Town Street, Columbus. These programs are made possible in part by the Ohio Humanities Council, a State Affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

An Afternoon with the Colonel's Lady: Apparel of the Mid-19^th Century

Sunday, July 17, 2011, 2:00 p.m. ($5/person)

Always wanted to wear a hoop skirt and portray Scarlett O'Hara? Now is your chance. Lynda Kerr will present a lively look into a woman's life in the era of the Civil War through costume and accessories. Lynda will unveil the secret of the layers of clothing worn by women during the era of the Civil War.

Closest to the skin were the drawers made of cotton or linen and trimmed with lace, a chemise, and stockings held up with garters. The next layer featured the corset and a crinoline or hoop skirt. Next came the petticoat bodice or corset cover, followed by the bodice, skirt (often held up with "braces"), belt and slippers. Over it all was a shawl or jacket, accompanied by gloves, boots, parasol, and bonnet. Ladies would always carry a purse, handkerchief, fan and perhaps a watch pocket. Whew!

Lynda Kerr has been a re-enactor since 1995 when she saw her first Gettysburg re-enactment. She became spellbound by the sites and sounds of the transformed town of Gettysburg and the battlefields. She began to research period attire and to make costumes for family and friends, finally creating a business called the Colonel's Lady Civil War Attire. She is a member of the Civil War Preservation Trust, The Charlotte Civil War Round Table, the United Daughters of the Confederacy--Stonewall Jackson Chapter 220 and the Dixie Rose Relief Society.

Twelve Oaks Barbeque

Sunday, August 14, 2011, 1:00 p.m. ($5/person general admission OR $20/person general admission and barbeque dinner)

Step back into Margaret Mitchell's Gone with the Wind as the book's Twelve Oaks Barbeque comes to life. Hear Scarlett's "fiddle-dee-dee" and experience Melanie's sweet personality. Other characters from the book as well as the period will enlighten and entertain. Help us find Rhett Butler in the Rhett Look-Alike Contest.

Child's Play: Games in 19^th Century America

Sunday, October 16, 2011, 2:00 p.m. ($5/person)

Learn games that never cease to entertain. Ellen Ford will teach your children about how their 19^th century counterparts would have spent their leisure time. Child-appropriate tours of the Museum will be available.

Finding Your Past: Basic Training for Your Civil War Ancestor Research

Saturday, November 5, 2011, 2:00 p.m. ($5/person)

Learn the basics of genealogical research using central Ohio archives and computer resources.

Reservations recommended for all events. For more information, call 614.464.2022 or visit www.keltonhouse.com.

Tours of the Kelton House Museum will also be available during all the programs. Experience the grandeur of the 19^th century and learn about life in the era of the Civil War, the Underground Railroad and the beginnings of Columbus as a city.  Tours are led by costumed docents.

General Information

The Kelton House Museum & Garden is located at 586 E. Town Street in downtown Columbus.  Built in 1852 by Fernando Cortez and Sophia Stone Kelton, the House has been preserved with Kelton family treasures from the 1800's.  Strong Abolitionists, the Kelton family hid fugitive slaves and gave long term support to a particular African-American family. In 1975, when Grace Kelton, the granddaughter of Fernando and Sophia, died, her will entrusted the property to the Columbus Foundation with the stipulation that her family home be preserved and used as a museum of local history and the decorative arts. In 1976, The Junior League of Columbus took on the task of renovating and restoring the house and garden to create a museum of 19^th-century life.

Today, the Kelton House Museum and Garden is a community service of the Junior League of Columbus that offers an ongoing program of house tours, special events and educational opportunities. An active volunteer program provides a training ground for individuals interested in historic preservation, the decorative arts, American History and museum management.

For more information about the Kelton House Museum and Garden log on to www.keltonhouse.com or call 614.464.2022.

Posted by Karen Hollern on June 20, 2011

The Board of Trustees of The Catholic Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Loren P. Brown as the new President & CEO of The Catholic Foundation.

Ohio native and current resident of Perrysburg, Ohio, Brown comes to the Foundation from The Leona Group LLC, a national school management company, where he headed strategic initiatives.  For the past decade, Brown served as school board president for two Toledo schools managed by The Leona Group LLC.  Brown has spent nearly 25 years serving the social and human service needs of people and communities throughout Michigan and Northwest Ohio, including Holy Cross Children's Services under the Archdiocese of Detroit.

"We are blessed to have found in Loren Brown someone who has devoted his career to working with religious, social service and non-profit organizations that care for children, families and communities,"  said Most Reverend Frederick F. Campbell, Bishop of Columbus.  "The diocese welcomes the opportunity to work with Loren through The Catholic Foundation."

Brown brings significant experience and expertise to his new role.  Prior to his work with The Leona Group, he was Executive Director for Holy Cross Children's Services, a Catholic, nationally accredited, non-profit child welfare and social services organization.  Brown also served as Director of Administrative Services for the Lucas County (Ohio) Mental Health Board - East Center, the Toledo/Lucas County Criminal Justice Council, and the Comprehensive Addiction Service Systems (COMPASS) in Toledo, Ohio.

The Catholic Foundation's mission is to inspire giving and assist donors to provide for the long-term needs of the 23-county Diocese of Columbus.  It is one of the oldest and largest Catholic diocesan foundations in the country, distributing more than $55 million in the diocese since 1985.  For additional information about The Catholic Foundation, please visit www.catholic-foundation.org.         

Posted on June 17, 2011 by Georgeanne Reuter

Experience the grandeur of the 19^th century and learn about life in the era of the Civil War, the Underground Railroad and the beginnings of Columbus as a city.  

Starting on Sunday, July 3, 2011 the Kelton House Museum and Garden, 586 East Town Street, Columbus, will offer an audio tour of the Museum in addition to the traditional tour led by costumed docents. The audio tour features the voices of Museum Director Georgeanne Reuter and Educational Coordinator Mary Oellermann as they describe the 19^th century home of the Fernando and Sophia Kelton family. Visitors will also hear actors portraying fugitive slaves and abolitionists during their visit to the Underground Railroad Learning Station in the Museum Lower Level in an interpretation narrated by Salmon P. Chase.  

On Sundays the audio tour will be available from 1 - 4 pm; the docent led tours will begin at 1, 2 and 3 pm.  

Monday through Friday, 10 am - 4 pm, the audio tour will also be available on a drop-in basis.  

All tours: Adults $6, Seniors $4, Children 6 and over $2.  For more information, call 614.464.2022.  

General Information   The Kelton House Museum & Garden is located at 586 E. Town Street in downtown Columbus.  Built in 1852 by Fernando Cortez and Sophia Stone Kelton, the House has been preserved with Kelton family treasures from the 1800's. Strong Abolitionists, the Kelton family hid fugitive slaves and gave long term support to a particular African-American family. In 1975, when Grace Kelton, the granddaughter of Fernando and Sophia, died, her will entrusted the property to the Columbus Foundation with the stipulation that her family home be preserved and used as a museum of local history and the decorative arts. In 1976, The Junior League of Columbus took on the task of renovating and restoring the house and garden to create a museum of 19^th-century life.  

Today, the Kelton House Museum and Garden is a community service of the Junior League of Columbus that offers an ongoing program of house tours, special events and educational opportunities. An active volunteer program provides a training ground for individuals interested in historic preservation, the decorative arts, American History and museum management.   For more information about the Kelton House Museum and Garden log on to www.keltonhouse.com or call 614.464.2022.

Posted on June 15, 2011 by Teresa Black

The 2011 Columbus Arts Festival held several milestones: it was the 50^th anniversary, it was the last year in the Discovery District, and it survived what some have called one of the worst storms they had ever experienced during a festival.

As devastating as the storm was, it was equally heartwarming to see the artists, staff and volunteers work together to ensure the show would continue on Sunday.  From cleaning up storm debris to reconstructing tents and repairing damaged art - the show did go on and the patrons did return!

Now that life has returned to normal for us in Columbus, it is important that we don't forget those artists who suffered losses.  An Artist Relief Fund has been established and, to date, has reached almost $7,000 of the $10,000 goal.  To donate to this fund, go to https://columbusartsfestival.org/get-involved/artist-relief-fund.php before the June 30 deadline.

On a brighter note, this was the most successful of the three shows that have been held in the Discovery District.  New features, including the Emerging Artists program, Savor the Arts cuisine showcase, and Connect a Million Minds, were very well received by patrons.  State Auto Insurance was one of many sponsors, hosting the Patron Party for the second year.

Though we are sad to see the Columbus Arts Festival leave the Discovery District, we have enjoyed having it in our neighborhood these past few years.  The festival brought greater visibility to the District and was well-aligned with the existing arts and education resources available here.

On a personal note, I truly enjoyed my first-year experience as a member of the Festival Coordinating Committee and look forward to working with the wonderful staff, volunteers and artists in the years to come.  The planning for the 2012 show will begin soon - contact Leah Alters, Festival Director, for information on how you can get involved!

Posted on June 10, 2011 by Melanie Houston

Bring your family out to the Topariary Park this Saturday - June 11 - for the first in a series of summer jazz concerts. Jazz concerts are free, so please bring a blanket and picnic and enjoy the tunes. Storytime for the smallest ones begins at 11am, with the concert to follow at noon. For more information, please contact Friends of the Topiary Park.  

Posted on June 7, 2011 by Melanie Houston

The Other Paper recently interviewed a number of stakeholders and community leaders in the Discovery District to get their take on the Arts Festival's final year in the neighborhood. Check out the full article at: http://www.theotherpaper.com/news/article_fde2b040-8cc9-11e0-aa63-001cc4c03286.html

Posted on May 27, 2011 by Jami Goldstein

Recognized as one of the top arts festivals in the country, the Columbus Arts Festival is a juried show, with more than 1,000 artists competing for approximately 240 booth spaces. Continuous entertainment, interactive art activities and great food from area restaurants are also featured. The Columbus Arts Festival is one of city's largest and most successful events, attracting approximately 350,000 attendees. Following are some of the new and exciting initiatives happening for the 50th anniversary:

Emerging Artists
This new program has been designed to help promote Central Ohio artists who are new to presenting their work at festivals. Ten artists from Central Ohio will be selected by the Festival jurors and in addition to a lower booth fee they will also receive assistance from Festival staff on how to best present their work to the public and an opportunity to display their work at the Festival Patron Party.

Savor the Arts presented by Dine Originals
In partnership with Dine Originals, Savor the Arts will showcase cuisine as an art form and bring gourmet fare back to the Festival. The Savor the Arts tent will feature special menus developed by local restaurants, wine and beer tastings and more. Participating restaurants include:  Barcelon Restaurant and Bar, Barrio, Black Creek Bistro, Deepwood, Due Amici,  Elevator Brewery & Draught Haus, G. Michaels Bistro, Katzinger's, Mozarts,  Refectory  Restaurant & Bistro, Rigsby's Kitchen, Tasi Cafe and The Top Steakhouse.

All Hands On Art
The Columbus Arts Festival will be expanding the Hands On Activity offerings with the addition of an adult's only area that will open at 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, June 3 and 4. A perfect gathering place for young professionals groups or friends, creative activities involving glass, metalworking and more will be offered in conjunction with a Signature Bar offering the 50th Festival Signature Belvedere vodka drink, Liquid Art.

Connect a Million Minds Day
Connect a Million Minds Day presented by Time Warner Cable on Saturday, June 4, will explore creativity and imagination through the lens of science. Activities will showcase the different aspects of art and science with the help of  BalletMet, CATCO, Columbus Museum of Art, WCBE and COSI.. These organizations and their artists are committed to helping Festival patrons explore the science behind art and the art behind science. A wide range of art forms will be represented including visual arts, dance, music, theatre and more.

Commemorative Print
As part of the celebration and to engage the central Ohio community, local artists from Franklin and surrounding counties were called to submit designs for the Columbus Arts Festival Commemorative Print to help capture the spirit and vibrancy of the arts in Columbus-and represent the impact the Columbus Arts Festival has had on the city over the past 50 years. The top design by Amy Neiwirth was selected by a public vote.  Click here to view Niewirth's winning design for 50th Anniversary Commemorative Print, Columbus in Color.

The Art of Collecting
On February 24, a panel of art professionals and collectors provided tips on how to purchase art and why Festivals make good options for beginning or building an art collection. The tips shared by the panelists will be used on the Festival Web site as well as through social media and the mobile app.

Expose Yourself
Juried artists as well as local artists will demonstrate how they create their work at the Expose Yourself demonstration tent.

Festival Mobile App
The new Festival Mobile App will allow visitors to locate artists, food vendors and menus, watch the latest weather report and much more. The app will also be used throughout 2011 for the festival's move to the Riverfront, keeping patrons up to date with the new layout, timeframe and special events.

VIP Package
The VIP area will be a tent (next to Savor the Arts) for VIP ticket purchasers, sponsors, special guests and board members to come and relax. A copy of the Commemorative print, a Festival t-shirt, comfortable seating, free water and snacks, a private cash bar, restrooms, personal shopping assistance and other VIP amenities will be available. VIP packages will be sold prior to and during the festival for $95. Couples package with one commemorative print for $170.  Passes are good for the entire weekend.

The Columbus Arts Festival presented by Time Warner Cable will be held June 3, 4 & 5, 2011. Hours are 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, June 3 and Saturday, June 4 and 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, June 5. For more information visit www.columbusartsfestival.org.

Posted on May 18, 2011 by Melanie Houston (Article by Jami Goldstein)

The Columbus Arts Festival, presented by Time Warner Cable and produced by the Greater Columbus Arts Council will celebrate its 50th year of bringing the best in fine art and fine craft to Columbus, June 3, 4 & 5, 2011. The Columbus Arts Festival is rated by AmericanStyle magazine as one of the top festivals in the nation and each year hosts hundreds of juried artists from across the United States, as well as a few international artists. Music, poetry and community performance stages, hands-on arts activities for kids and adults, exhibitions of local student artwork and quality food and beverages round out Columbus' favorite outdoor summer event.

To celebrate this momentous occasion, the Columbus Arts Festival is creating a BIG festival experience-diverse, inclusive and creative with an emphasis on engaging a broader spectrum of the community. The 2011 celebration will incorporate more community partners-local artists, local collectors and patrons, local restaurants and small businesses.

The community can enjoy the history of the Festival at a mini-museum of Festival artifacts (photos, posters, pins etc. from prior Festivals) and also sneak a peek into the future by highlighting the move back to Columbus' Riverfront for the 2012 Columbus Arts Festival.

To view a 50th Anniversary of the Columbus Arts Festival video visit: http://columbusartsfestival.org/anniversary-video.php.

Thurber House is offering a buy one ticket - get one free deal for the upcoming special event with award-winning author, Justin Cronin, at 7:30 pm on Tuesday, May 17^th, at the Columbus Performing Arts Center.

Cronin’s book, The Passage, was named one of the ten best novels of the year by Time Magazine and is a New York Times bestseller. The first in what will be a post-apocalyptic vampire trilogy; The Passage is a relentlessly suspenseful adventure and an epic chronicle of human endurance in the face of unprecedented catastrophe and unimaginable danger. After a breach at a secret U.S. government facility unleashes the monstrous product of a chilling military experiment, it takes little time for the world as we know it to die, and another to be born – a new primal landscape of predators and prey.  For more information about this event visit the Thurber House web site at http://www.thurberhouse.org/a-special-event-featuring-justin-cronin.html 

To receive the special deal on tickets, please call Thurber House at 614-464-1032 ext. 11 and mention the Discovery District buy one-get one free deal.  Offer limited to two free tickets with two purchased tickets.  

Hope to see you at the event on Tuesday, May 17, 7:30 pm, at the Columbus Performing Arts Center, 549 Franklin Avenue. 

Posted on May 2, 2011 by Sherry Mercurio

Over the past two years, Franklin University has strengthened its global presence and further distinguished itself as an innovator and leader in the export of higher education through the signing of agreements with partner institutions in ten countries.  This global presence was augmented in 2010 when the U.S. Department of State (DOS) designated Franklin a sponsor within the DOS Exchange Visitor Program (J-Visa). This designation provides the University with the opportunity to increase its mutual understanding through educational and cultural exchanges between the people of the U.S. and its international partner institutions. 

May 1 thru May 12, MBA program coordinators from seven of Franklin's eight MBA partner universities will travel to the University's Main Campus in downtown Columbus, Ohio to participate in an academic and cultural exchange of ideas and to familiarize themselves with one another's institutions. This exchange, made possible through the University's J-Visa designation, facilitates efforts to keep Franklin abreast of what is happening in the world as well as better serve our students as they prepare for an increasingly global economy and workplace.   

Franklin currently participates in agreements with the Wroclaw School of Banking in Poland, the University St. Kliment Ohridski-Bitola in Macedonia, the National Mining University (NMU) in the Ukraine, Okan University in Istanbul, Turkey, the University of Economics of Bratislava in Slovakia, Mangalore University in India, Sichuan University in China, Vietnam National University in Vietnam, and the Modern College of Business and Science in the Sultanate of Oman.

Posted on April 28, 2011 by Melanie Houston

In 2010, Discovery Special Improvement District (SID) staff members Cleve Ricksecker and Melanie Houston began a neighborhood visioning project in the Discovery District. The project was initiated as a way to designate approximately $200,000 to $300,000 in "seed" funds that were set aside to leverage improvements to the public realm.

From June through October of 2010, SID staff interviewed more than 60 people representing 31 property owners in the Discovery District. Below is a brief summary of what community leaders see as the major strengths of the district:  

Institutions

People consistently stated that the Discovery District's greatest strengths are its institutions, including educational and cultural institutions.

Large employers

Respondents noted the importance of corporations, such as Grant Hospital and Motorists and State Auto Insurance Companies, as large employers and contributors to the SID.

Arts and learning

Interviewees identified "learning" and "the arts" as a major strength. This makes sense given that the district contains the Columbus College of Art & Design, the Columbus Metropolitan Library and the Columbus Museum of Art, and has hosted the Columbus Arts Festival in recent years.

Cultural amenities         

Aside from the Art Museum and Library, interviewees cited the other smaller cultural amenities including the Jefferson Learning Center, the Thurber House, and BalletMet as assets.

Topiary Park

Topiary park-with its expansive green space and well-tended topiary figures - received multiple mentions as a gem in the district.

Historic elements

Historic elements of the district were also mentioned numerous times, including homes on Franklin Avenue and homes and business offices on historic Town Street.

Clean and safe neighborhood

Other strengths mentioned included a clean and safe neighborhood, with certain areas feeling very livable and walkable.

Eclectic mix of people and entities

Finally, interview respondents noted that they enjoy the eclectic mix of people and entities within the district, the presence of the Columbus Arts Festival and the attention it brings to the district, and the large population of students and young people.

Posted on April 18, 2011 by Jennifer McNally

Friends of the Topiary Park is delighted to present a third season of free, family-friendly concerts. PBJ & Jazz at the Topiary Park: Jazz for Kids and Families is a collaborative effort between Friends of the Topiary Park, Jazz Arts Group, Friends of the Library, Discovery Special Improvement District, and the Columbus Museum of Art. 

"These fabulous concerts and related activities are a fun way for families to enjoy cultural events and educational opportunities in the Discovery District. Amid the current economic challenges, this special partnership gives each participating organization the opportunity to reach new audiences," said Friends of the Topiary Park Executive Director Jennifer McNally.

PBJ & Jazz concerts are one-hour long interactive concerts designed to introduce jazz and American music to young children and their families. Featuring some of Columbus' finest musicians and ensembles, PBJ & Jazz concerts are introduced by retired music educator Rebecca Ogden.

This free summer series will be held on the second Saturday of June, July August, and September. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic and a blanket. 

• June 11: Matt & Natalie Adams
• July 9: MinanDya
• August 13: Erik Augis, Lisa Clark, & Friends  
• September 10: Bryan Olsheski & Friends 

PBJ & Jazz at the Topiary Park concerts follow family storytime at 11 a.m. at the Main Library. The noon concert will conclude with a hands-on art activity, from 1 to 2 p.m., presented by the Columbus Museum of Art. In the event of rain, concerts and art activities will be held inside the Main Library at 96 S. Grant Avenue.

PBJ & Jazz at the Topiary Park: Jazz for Kids and Families is presented by Friends of the Topiary Park and sponsored by the Discovery Special Improvement District, the Jennifer Michel Keefer Memorial Fund at the Columbus Foundation, and Friends of the Library. In-kind support is provided by Columbus Recreation and Parks and the Discovery Special Improvement District. 

Please visit www.TopiaryPark.org or www.JazzArtsGroup.org for more details.

Posted on April 12, 2011 by Melissa Ricksecker

AT-A-GLANCE
WHAT: Open house at historic Sloter mansion
DATE: Sunday, April 17, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
LOCATION: 475 E. Town St. (across from Topiary Park in Columbus' Discovery District)
ADMISSION: $5 suggested admission. Proceeds benefit CCAD Scholarship Fund.

COLUMBUS, Ohio-Columbus College of Art & Design (CCAD) and Loth, Inc., announce a public open house at the Sloter Mansion, 475 E. Town St. on Sunday, April 17 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. This is the first public viewing of the historic home since it was left to CCAD by Ronald C. Sloter in 2007. CCAD has partnered with Loth, Inc., Coalesse Furniture, and Maharam Textiles to allow visitors to view the home and experience the opulent turn-of-the-century architecture, including a room adorned from floor to ceiling in Rookwood Pottery tiles.

In addition, some unique modern furniture is staged throughout the house, including Danish-inspired Hans Wegner pieces and the emu collection from Coalesse. The settings have been used by Interior Design students from CCAD as backdrops for their hand-drawing / sketching class projects. The sketches will be showcased during the open house.

Loth Director of Sales John Myers said, "We are excited to not only be able to show off this treasure of Columbus architecture but to also highlight the work of the CCAD students."

Suggested admission is $5. Proceeds from the open house benefit the CCAD Scholarship Fund.

For details about the event contact John Myers, director of sales / education environments, at LOTH, Inc. Phone: 614.487.4141; email: jmyers@lothexperts.com.

Posted on April 4, 2011 by Melissa Ricksecker

The CCAD Spring Art Sale is Saturday, April 16 in the Loann Crane Center for Design.

Twice a year, the CCAD art sales are, in a word, successful: in three words, really, really successful. The 2010 Spring Art Sale brought 1,125 guests through the doors, raised more than $8,600 for scholarships, and meant more than $40,000 in earnings to our 100+ student and alumni vendors. Those are some big numbers.

So why do Columbus's most enthusiastic art patrons come to these events year after year? Maybe it's because the work of more than 100 artists, working in a wide range of media, is for sale in one place. Or maybe people come out by the hundreds to support the future education of CCAD students-and the success of those who have already graduated. We like to think it's a little bit of both. We also believe it's because the work created by our students, alumni, and faculty/staff is just that good.

Read more at the CCAD News Blog.

Posted on April 1, 2010 by Pat Shannon

You won't want to miss this very special event with Pulitzer Prize-winning and #1 New York Times bestselling author, Anna Quindlen!  She is returning to Thurber House for a special evening of conversation, hosted by her longtime friend, Pulitzer Prize-winner, bestselling author, and previous Thurber House Literary Picnic featured guest, Connie Schultz!

In what is sure to be a captivating evening full of sharp insights and wickedly funny banter, Anna and Connie will talk about many aspects of Anna's life and career, including a look at her latest novel that the New York Times Book Review calls 'spellbinding.' Every Last One is a riveting story that captures the beauty and breathtaking fragility of family life.

Quindlen is the author of five novels, seven works of nonfiction, and was a columnist for Newsweek and the New York Times, and Schultz is a multiple award-winning writer, columnist for The Cleveland Plain Dealer, and wife of U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown.

Tickets for this blockbuster event are going fast, so act now and don't miss your chance to be a part of this unique and wonderful evening!

This special event will take place on Monday, April 4 at 7:30pm at the King Arts Center, 867 Mt. Vernon Avenue.  Tickets for the reading are $25.  They can be purchased online at www.thurberhouse.org, or by phone at 614-464-1032 ext.11.

Posted on March 30, 2011 by Charmaine Sutton.

On Wednesday, April 13, 2011, the Center for Architecture Foundation will present, "Stirring Souls: Columbus Master Plans Past, Present and Future" a fundraising event to benefit the mission of the Center for Architecture. Speakers include Keith Myers of MSI Design, Inc., Barbara Powers of the Ohio Historical Society, and Ed Lentz, Local Historian. The event reception, located at 380 E. Broad Street, begins at 6:00pm with the presentation to follow at 6:45pm. Tickets are $50 and space is limited, so rsvp by April 8. Click here to download the full event details.     

Posted on March 28, 2011 by Melissa Ricksecker

They've been featured in the hottest magazines and interviewed byThe New York Times.They have a weekly show on eastvillagerradio.com and a regular DJing gig at Riff Raff's, NYC's fabulous new tiki/nightclub. They just got back from SXSW where they video blogged from the HP Trailer Park. You can check out their creds at their website, www.andrewandrewdotcom.com/ .

Now AndrewAndrew is (are?) coming to The Discovery DIstrict for an unforgettable fundraising event at Columbus College of Art & Design (CCAD). The mirror-image DJ-duo will perform at Masters of Design, the 2011 CCAD Senior Fashion Show event, Friday, May 13. The self-proclaimed "iPad DJs" are mixing music for the runway and at the highly anticipated "après-runway" dance party.

"The crux of their allure isn't technology, it's their radical commitment to mirroring each other," wrote New York Times journalist Michael Schulman in his article, Mirror Images in the D.J. Booth. "When they moved in together in an apartment in Chelsea, they kept only the clothing that matched, and threw away whatever didn't. Everything else went, too-last names, hometowns, separate identities, separate lives. The only birthday they now celebrate is September 9, the date they made their first official appearance as AndrewAndrew."

Check out www.ccad.edu/fashion for more information about the event and to purchase tickets.

All proceeds benefit CCAD's general scholarship fund.

Posted on March 25, 2011 by Craig Vander Veen

The Broad Street United Methodist Church Chancel Choir and the Chancel Choir of Indianola Presbyterian Church will present K. Lee Scott's Requiem on Sunday morning, April 3,2011 at 10:45 a.m. at Broad Street United Methodist Church, 501 E. Broad Street.  

Scott's Requiem is a non-liturgical Requiem drawing on texts from the Psalms, Revelation, a hymn text by Timothy Dudley-Smith and two texts by John Donne. Over the past few decades, K. Lee Scott has emerged as one of the foremost American composers of music for the Church. His compositions include anthems and hymns that have been included in several recently published hymnals and several large works, including his Requiem.  

Accompaniment for the Requiem will be a chamber group of instrumentalists including cello, flute, harp, timpany and organ. Gary Everts and Doug Slusher, Director of the Indianola Presbyterian Church Choir, will share the conducting. Solos will be sung by Cynthia Mahaney and Nancy Roberts.

Posted on March 17, 2011 by Craig Vander Veen

The Jefferson Center Gazebo is getting a face lift. A contract has been awarded by the City of Columbus, and the work will be completed this spring before the Columbus Arts Festival. Click here to see the Gazebo Layout Plan.

Posted on March 15, 2011 by Melissa Ferguson

Experience the new CMA! On January 1, 2011, the Columbus Museum of Art unveiled renovations made to its 1931 Italian Renaissance Revival building, now named the Elizabeth M. and Richard M. Ross Building, and new Center for Creativity. Along with the renovations, CMA also unveiled a new visitor-centered experience.

The renovation project included:

• Transforming Derby Court by raising the floor to improve accessibility, installing a luminous skylight, and improving acoustics.
• Reimagining the entire first floor as a Center for Creativity
• Renovating, installing new seating, and improving acoustics in the auditorium.
• Performing upgrades to make the building more accessible for all visitors
• Upgrading heating, ventilation, humidity control, and air conditioning systems
• Upgrading lighting throughout, especially in the galleries
• Reconditioning all hardwood, terrazzo, and marble walls, ceilings, and floors
• Restoring original decorative building features

The rejuvenated galleries feature beloved masterpieces dynamically presented in a new thematic context. The overarching theme for the reinstallation of the Museum's permanent collection is "Creative Change." It highlights the changes that have influenced art from the Renaissance until today and focuses attention around specific strengths of the collection. The galleries are more visitor-centered, with many new interactive elements to engage visitors by making connections with the art works on display. 

Building renovations were made possible by funds raised through the Art Matters Endowment and Capital Campaign. To date, CMA has raised $51.5 million for the ongoing Art Matters campaign which will help CMA achieve three goals: sustainability, competitiveness, and public value.

Posted on March 15, 2011 by Sherry Mercurio

At the March 10, 2011 Board of Trustees meeting of the DDDC, the following new officers were voted in for a one-year term:

President: Melissa Ricksecker, Director of Marketing & Communications, Columbus College of Art & Design

Vice President: Craig Vander Veen, AIA, LEED AP, Senior Project Manager, Rogers Krajnak Architects, Inc.

Treasurer(Second Term): Debbie Conkel, Senior Publications Editor at State Auto Insurance Group

Secretary: Harlan Schottenstein, Adjunct Faculty at Franklin University and Owner, Bernard Schottenstein Investment, Inc.

The meeting was held at the Shot Tower on the campus of Ft Hayes Metropolitan Education Center.

The City of Columbus has recognized the growth and energy in the Discovery District and plans to augment aspects of the physical environment of the district in its 2020 Strategic Plan. The Creative Campus, including a new Long Street cap over I-71, will create neighborhood amenities and interesting connections to the neighboring King-Lincoln District and to downtown and the Arena District. Proposed plans to encourage Topiary Park infill housing will enliven the existing neighborhood and provide the residents needed support retail uses and other amenities.

“It’s an exciting time to be involved in the Discovery District” Ricksecker said. “The district is truly blossoming into a cultural neighborhood that is interconnected and vibrant.”

Posted on March 11, 2011 by Melissa Ricksecker

CCAD's first-ever evening show is coming up fast... Friday, May 13. Save the date or get your tickets now, before prices rise on March 15!

• 7 p.m. VIP Cocktail Party (Designer Ticket holders only)
• 7:30 p.m. General Admission Cocktail Party Opens
• 8:30 p.m. Runway Show
• 9:15-11 p.m. Apres-Runway Dance Party

For event details, including pricing, visit www.ccad.edu/fashion.

Posted on March 10, 2011 by Sherry Mercurio

Franklin University, a leading educator of working adults, is proud to have been recognized by two individual marketing entities for its 2010 marketing campaigns.

The University was named both a Silver and Bronze award winner in the 26^th annual Educational Advertising Awards.  Silver status was awarded in the Direct Mail category for the Finish Bachelor's Degree Campaign as well as Bronze status awarded in the Total Advertising Enrollment Campaign.  This year's event received entries from more than 1,000 colleges, universities, and secondary schools from across the country and several foreign countries.

Franklin University was also named a winner in two categories in the Eighth Annual Service Industry Advertising Awards (SIAA).  The University received a Silver award for its fall enrollment campaign in the Total Ad Campaign category and a Bronze award for its Indy 84 advertisement in the Newspaper Ad-Single category.

Nearly 2,000 entries were received in this year's SIAA competition.  A panel of judges from across the country evaluated and rated entries in 12 groups and 27 categories for execution, creativity, quality, consumer appeal, and overall breakthrough advertising content.  More than 400 advertising agencies and 1,000 institutions participated in this year's call for entries.

Posted on March 8, 2011 by Pat Shannon

Thurber House is offering buy one, get one free tickets to the upcoming special event with Suze Orman on Wednesday March 16, at 7:00 pm at COSI.

Suze Orman will be talking about her first new book in four years, The Money Class: Learn to Create Your New American Dream. A two-time Emmy Award-winning television host, New York Times mega bestselling author, magazine and online columnist, writer/producer, and one of the top motivational speakers in the world today, Orman is undeniably America's most recognized expert on personal finance. She is the contributing editor to "O" The Oprah Magazine, the Costco Connection Magazine and for the last nine years host of the award winning Suze Orman Show, which airs every Saturday night on CNBC. Orman is also the winner of seven Gracie awards, more than anyone in the 35-year history of this prestigious award. The Gracies recognize the nation's best radio, television, and cable programming for, by, and about women.

For more information, go to http://www.thurberhouse.org/a-special-evening-with-suze-orman.html.  This is a limited offer and is only available by calling Thurber House at 614-464-1032 ext. 11.  Ticket price of $35 includes parking in the COSI parking lot.

Posted on March 7, 2011 by Charmaine Sutton 

Fashion Designer, Korto Momulu debuted her 2011 Fall collection at the Athletic Club of Columbus Saturday, February, 26, 2011.  The event raised over $6,000 for Amani Liberia, an organization dedicated to the education and empowerment of women throughout Liberia.

The event was hosted by the Women's Committee at The Athletic Club of Columbus.

Posted on February 28, 2011 by Charmaine Sutton

DesignGroup's Hocking College Energy Institute, located on the Logan campus of Hocking College, was awarded LEED® Platinum Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). This project is the first LEED Platinum educational building in the state of Ohio. The project received a total of 56 out of 69 points encompassing each category of LEED NC 2.2 and earned more points than any other project in the State of Ohio under the LEED NC rating system! It also meets the American Institute of Architects (AIA) 2030 Challenge for energy efficiency.

DesignGroup is an architecture firm located in the Discovery District. For more information visit www.designgroup.us.com.

Posted on February 21, 2011 by Charmaine Sutton

Korto Momolu, international fashion designer and stylist will bring her "2011 Fall Collection" directly from the runway stage of New York to Columbus in the "Peace through Fashion" fashion show.

"Peace through Fashion" will benefit Amani Liberia in the education and empowerment of women throughout Liberia. The show is hosted by The Athletic Club of Columbus' Women's Committee, 136 E. Broad St., Columbus, Ohio 43215 on Saturday, February 26th. Doors open at 7:00pm. Tickets can be purchased by email: peacethroughfashion@gmail.com.

A preview party featuring Korto will take place on Friday, February 25, time and location TBD. Korto will be available for a limited number of individual interviews on Saturday, February 26th before the show.

The goal of "Peace through Fashion" is increasing awareness and gaining support for the women's empowerment movement that has blossomed in Liberia after the end of a brutal 14 year civil war. Amani Liberia is a nonprofit organization that teaches Liberian women how to create, market and manage projects and businesses through textiles and sewing.

Korto, a native Liberian, will return to Liberia in May to unveil her 27 piece collection designed specifically for the women of Liberia, which will be shown in Monrovia and Yekepa, Liberia. This unique, fashion forward collection will be used to inspire and energize the imagination and creativity of women throughout Liberia.

This will mark Korto's first return visit to Liberia since she and her family left the country due to civil war in 1990. This momentous step demonstrates the significance of the Amani project and the Liberian women's movement. Korto's fresh take on fashion mingled with her heart for women blends into a vibrant opportunity for the women of Liberia.

For more information and updates on "Peace through Fashion" visit the Facebook fan page at: facebook.com/PeacethroughFashion.

Posted on February 14, 2011 by Melanie Houston

In 2010, Discovery Special Improvement District (SID) staff members Cleve Ricksecker and Melanie Houston began a neighborhood visioning project in the Discovery District. The project was initiated as a way to designate approximately $200,000 to $300,000 in funds that were set aside for improvements to the public realm. Just as it sounds, the idea for this project was to develop a vision for what could be in the Discovery neighborhood. Although you can't do much with $300 thousand alone, the idea was that the funds would serve as seed money to make Discovery District as distinctive as other great neighborhoods in Columbus such as the Short North or German Village.

From June through October of 2010, Executive Director Cleve Ricksecker and Communications and Special Projects Coordinator Melanie Houston interviewed more than 60 people representing 31 property owners in the Discovery District. Representatives were chosen from educational institutions, cultural amenities, large employers, the Discovery SID and Discovery District Development Corporation (DDDC) boards, and churches throughout the district. We asked each interviewee about the strengths and weaknesses of the district, improvements he or she would like to see occur, and long term visions for the Discovery neighborhood.

Through these interviews we learned that property owners-- ranging from CEOs to neighborhood residents-- believe there is great potential for the district. Stay tuned for upcoming blogs regarding specific findings from the neighborhood visioning interviews... 

Posted on February 11, 2011 by Melanie Houston

Franklin University received mention in the Business First on Friday, February 11, 2011 for it's recent purchase of a former law office at 360 S. Grant Street. Click here to read more: http://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2011/02/10/franklin-university-expands-campus.html?ed=2011-02-11&s=article_du&ana=e_du_pub

Posted on February 7, 2011 by Pat Shannon

Plan to attend and bring a friend to the Discovery District Development Corporation's Annual Meeting on Thursday, February 10, at 4:30 pm in the Forum Room at the Columbus Museum of Art.  Network with neighbors, find out what's happening in the district, and hear the latest plans from our special guest speaker, Jamie Greene, AIA AICP, of ACP Visioning+Planning, Ltd., and Project Manager for the Columbus Bicentennial 2012.  For background information, visit the website at http://columbus2012.org/  Bring your ideas for ways the Discovery District can join the celebration.
 
Following the meeting, take a tour of the recently unveiled renovations at the Columbus Museum of Art. Light refreshments and beverages will be available.  

Posted on January 31, 2011 by Carol Zelizer

A project as big as the $1.7 billion - 15 year- I-70/71 construction project is bound to affect historic buildings and districts abutting the improvement - or so you would think.  ODOT concluded that aside from direct impacts where buildings are removed (ET Paul and Carabar) or clearly impacted by noise and vibration (Shiloh Baptist Church), there were no other adverse effects caused such properties.  Several area organizations disputed the ODOT findings by pointing out that the project introduces "new transportation elements into the existing landscape" - Lester Drive and Elijah Pierce Boulevard - and "visual, atmospheric or audible elements that diminish the integrity of the property's historic features (Federal regulations)." The Ohio Historical Society as the area's SHPO (State Historic Preservation Office) concurred with ODOT and, not unexpectedly, the Federal Highway Administration concurred with them as well.

Indeed, this project will expand the freeway trench from 6 to 10 lanes of traffic introducing more traffic, noise, and pollution to the area.  In order to expand the trench, vegetation currently abutting the freeway will be removed and replaced with perpendicular retaining walls.  Whatever pedestrian character exists in portions of the project area (i.e. the East Town Street Historic District) may be strained by the introduction of new streets, not currently there, and the further separation of neighborhoods that were once intact.

Why do FHWA and ODOT, as its agent, want findings of "no adverse effect?"  Because, the law requires that adverse effects be "mitigated" and that means flexibility in dealing with the community and money to make things better.  The almighty dollar rears its ugly head.

While ODOT takes great strides in making sure every "T" is crossed and every "I" is dotted in complying with the federal guidelines concerning this project (with excruciatingly technical data in support of its findings), some people feel it would be more helpful if ODOT would stand back, open its eyes and see what is really happening to the City's downtown neighborhoods affected by this project.

Posted on January 28th, 2011 by Amanda Fondriest

The opening of "Seventh Dream of Teenage Heaven" brought large crowds to the Canzani Center Gallery.

The opening of CCAD's most recent exhibition, produced by the Bureau for Open Culture, brought large crowds and several international and award-winning artists to CCAD's Canzani Center Gallery Thursday evening.

The opening event culminated in a participatory psychic event and a post-party dance party.

Seventh Dream of Teenage Heaven features 42 works by 17 artists in a wide range of media, including photography, video, painting, sculpture, social intervention, and sound installation. On-hand for the opening reception were featured artists Dennis McNulty (Dublin, Ireland), Ben Kinsley (Pittsburgh, PA), Lara Kohl (Brooklyn, NY), Jeremy Kost (New York, New York), Alejandro Vidal (Barcelona, Spain-actually, he was stuck in New York do to the weather, but he was there in spirit), Malcolm Cochran (Columbus, Ohio), and Cassandra Troyan (Chicago, IL).

Read more at Columbus College of Art & Design News Blog

Posted on January 31, 2011 by Melanie Houston

Read about the Discovery Special Improvement District security ambassador, Rich Smith and his efforts to keep the Discovery District a safe place to live and work: http://www2.cscc.edu/stories/2-year-degree-stories/Rich-Smith.shtml

Posted on January 27, 2011 by Melanie Houston

Check out Columbus Underground's recent interview with President David Harrison: http://www.columbusunderground.com/cscc-president-shares-ideas-on-urban-development

Franklin University, a leading educator of working adults, is pleased to announce it has been named a semi-finalist in the Outstanding Technology category in this year's TechColumbus Innovation Awards.  On Feb. 3, TechColumbus will host this year's awards ceremony, showcasing Central Ohio's many achievements by honoring its top innovators.  The evening of networking, prestige, and celebration will be highlighted by the announcement of winners in 12 award categories to an audience of more than 1,200 attendees. 

This semi-finalist designation was presented on behalf of Franklin's Academic Information Services team, part of the Academic Affairs organization at the University, which works closely with the University's faculty on defining and implementing technology solutions that supplement the University's unique pedagogical approach.  The team's innovations this past year were centered on two major initiatives: upgrading the University's learning management system to incorporate the use of the latest Web 2.0 technologies and extending the University's design technology infrastructure to support the online delivery of courses internationally. 

"It is an honor to be a semi-finalist for this award and to be recognized for our innovations," said MarKel Snyder, Franklin's Director of Academic Information Services. "We look forward to the event and to be surrounded by our peers, colleagues, and mentors."

The TechColumbus Innovation Awards celebrate the spirit of innovation by recognizing outstanding technology achievements in Central Ohio.  This prestigious evening showcases the region's advancements and promising future.  For more information, visit www.techcolumbusinnovationawards.org.

Franklin University's Center for Professional Training and Development (CPTD) is proud to announce it has been named a host training site for the University of Cincinnati NIOSH Education and Research Center.  Created by the Occupational Health and Safety Act in 1970 to conduct research and training of health and safety professionals, NIOSH makes recommendations for the prevention of work-related illnesses and injuries. For more information visit www.franklin.edu.

The Discovery Special Improvement District (SID) recognized three outstanding organizations at its 2010 Annual Meeting of the membership on November 18, 2010.

The Catholic Foundation was awarded for its Outstanding Aesthetic Contribution to the district for renovating and updating the former Wendy's building at 257 E. Broad Street.  Executive Director of Discovery SID Cleve Ricksecker said, " How many organizations do you know that can or would make a former fast food restaurant look like a church? That would take a vacant former Wendy's that sat empty for many years and redevelop it a landmark building? The answer is 'one': the Catholic Foundation and its building committee, chaired by Joe Molnar." Jennifer Damiano, Executive Director of the Catholic Foundation, hired David Meleca at Meleca Architecture to make the building both aesthetically pleasing and functional for the foundation.

The Columbus Metropolitan Library received the 2010 Award for Outstanding Service to the district. "The Columbus Metropolitan Library is an institution whose service is not only appreciated by its neighbors, but also recognized around the world. International visitors are blown away by our library because American libraries and, in particular, Ohio libraries have a tradition of receiving strong support, support which many countries lack," said Mr. Ricksecker.  The Library's service to Columbus and the Discovery District has not waivered even in tough economic times. After experiencing severe budget cuts from the State over the past several years it has retained Sunday hours at its main branch at 96 S. Grant. The library also continued to offer daily tutoring and storytime to primary school kids and as well as continuing its ESL, computer, and business information classes.

OhioHealth was awarded the 2010 Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Discovery District. OhioHealth's investments in the Discovery District over the past several years approach $100 million. Recent investments include a new surgical center at 6th and Town and the Grant Bone and Joint Center on Town Street. Mr. Ricksecker stated, "Grant Medical Center promotes public health in its own backyard. It is an active part of the SID's security network and the SID's largest single contributor. Ohio Health ties its own mission to the health of the surrounding neighborhood." The community is fortunate to have such noteworthy and high caliber institutions, each in their own regard, located right here in the Discovery District.

Representatives from each organization--The Catholic Foundation, the Columbus Metropolitan Library and OhioHealth's Grant Medical Center-were present to receive their awards.

The Columbus Metropolitan Main Library was selected as the first organization to be highlighted in the newest section of the Discovery District website, the member spotlight section. Please read and learn about what makes the Main Library such a significant institution right here in the Discovery District: /.

Check out other fun things happening at the near-downtown Main Library branch in this You Tube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zOUyvClUgFI

Grant’s Volunteer Services Program invites you to make a difference in the lives of others … right here … in downtown Columbus!

Grant Medical Center’s volunteer services program is made up of a group of extraordinary individuals who selflessly devote thousands of hours each year to support the hospital staff and patients as volunteers. Grant’s volunteers are an integral part of making the hospital experience as pleasant as possible for patients and their families and to provide hospital staff with support whenever and whenever possible. YOU are invited to become one of these extraordinary individuals today.

Whether helping escort patients and visitors through the halls, delivering mail, flowers, books, and magazines to patients’ bedsides, or providing “comfort care” to patients in the Ambulatory, Emergency, or other departments, the volunteers at Grant afford a special “human connection” that often eases the stress for patients and their families during difficult times.

Becoming a volunteer is easy. Simply visit www.ohiohealth.com; click on the “jobs and volunteering” tab at the top; click on the “jobs and volunteering” tab on the left; then click on “volunteer at Grant Medical Center;” then click “online volunteer application” under the title of “How to become a Grant Volunteer.” You will then be called for a brief meeting and to be provided additional information regarding opportunities, orientation, testing, and more.

For more information, contact Sophie Ferenz at 614-566-9292 or sferenz2@ohiohealth.com.

The Discovery Special Improvement District (SID), under the direction of Executive Director, Cleve Ricksecker, has begun a neighborhood envisioning process (i.e. series of informational interviews with property owners and representatives) for the Discovery District. At this time, the SID has interviewed over 35 representatives from organizations, businesses, and properties in the Discovery District regarding what they see as the strengths and challenges of the district, opportunities for capital improvements, and a long-term vision for what the Discovery District could become. Envisioning interviews will continue through October of 2010, and the SID hopes to interview approximately 50 stakeholders by that time. Next steps include a compilation of neighborhood suggestions and opportunities for improvements to be presented at the Discovery SID Annual Meeting on November 18th at 4pm at the Catholic Foundation (257 E. Broad Street). Please contact Melanie Houston at 614-645-5256 with questions regarding the project or the Discovery SID annual meeting.

There is now a new way to see Columbus AND get active.  A new walking cell phone tour of art, architecture and historical sites was officially unveiled on September 2, 2010.  Earlier this year, Columbus residents had a chance to submit “What I Love about Columbus” to the Create Columbus Commission. That information become the Columbus Public Health Columbus Art Walks, a pocket sized walking map of the Discovery District with the Arena District and State House maps to follow later this fall.

Columbus Public Health Healthy Places Program headed up this project to give residents and visitors a unique opportunity for physical activity.  Adults should get at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day.  Those 30 minutes can be in short 10 minute increments-perfect for walking between impressive Columbus sites.  You are guaranteed to learn something new about our wonderful city and be healthy at the same time.

The Discovery District was highlighted in the travel section of The Philadelphia Sunday on July 18, 2010. Check out the story at http://www.philasun.com/news/678/29/Cultural-Columbus.html

Please plan to attend a media event with Mayor Michael B. Coleman and Health Commissioner Dr. Teresa C. Long to officially kick off Columbus Art Walks!

Thank you for your participation in creating Columbus Art Walks. The project continues to be a success with the Discovery District map printed in June and the State House and Arena District maps coming this fall.  Your participation was instrumental in highlighting great art, history and stories about our city of Columbus!

When: Thursday, September 2, 2010 at 2 p.m.

Where: State Auto Insurance Building 518 E. Broad Street

             Mural of A Street Called Home by Aminah Robinson

             at Washington Ave and Boone Street

A recent article in the Toledo Blade highlights Discovery District attractions including The Columbus Museum of Art, Thurber House, Columbus College of Art & Design, Topiary Park, Kelton House, Columbus Historical Society and a new Discovery District cell phone walking tour. To read the full article, go to http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100617/ART16/6170315.

The Columbus Public Health Department has recently published a walking map of public art attractions in the Discovery District. Click here to view the newly released map or contact the Discovery Special Improvement District at 614-645-5256 to request hard copies of the map.  

The map was created with support from the Columbus Landmarks Foundation, Neighborhood Design Center, Greater Columbus Arts Council, Discovery Special Improvement District, Create Columbus Commission, American Institute of Architects Columbus, and the Columbus Historical Society.  

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) determined many years ago that the spaghetti which constitutes our current 70/71/670 downtown freeways is massively underperforming and a huge safety hazard for drivers traversing their way near and through the City's central core.

Their solution?  A complete overhaul of miles of  freeway "trench," and on and off ramps, the reworking of collector and distributor streets (sounds absolutely sterile doesn't it?) and 13, count 'em, 13 new bridge crossings. 

This construction is huge.  Big in money - $1.7 billion, as of this printing, and rising - and big in time - Phases 1-6 to take as long as 10 years into the future.

The neighborhoods to the east and south of downtown will be most affected and that means thousands of people will be inconvenienced, hassled and, minimally, rerouted for the foreseeable future.  I can see the road rage now.

But this is not simply an attempt by ODOT to re-build a system that has outlived its usefulness (a system designed 50 years ago to move up to 125,000 cars daily now contends with more than 175,000 cars and spawns as many as 3 or 4 accidents daily). This is an opportunity as well. 

"An opportunity?" you say.  "Yes," resoundingly.

Listen up -  $1.7 billion is going to be put into the infrastructure serving our downtown.  What we do now will affect the face of downtown for generations to come.  So, now is the time to hang on every word that ODOT and the City say about this construction.  Now is the time to make downtown more accessible, more walkable, more inviting.  Now is the time to reconnect the downtown to neighborhoods that were severed by the construction in the 60's in the name of urban renewal.  Now, folks, is the time to pay attention and get involved.

To date, many affected downtown residents and workers are making themselves heard through individual organizations (of which there are many) and their specific needs.  But who is championing the cause of downtown as a whole?  Who is sitting at the table with ODOT to make sure there will be a commitment to comprehensive, high quality improvement throughout?  Who is trying to garner every single dollar possible for this project?

You may answer the City.  And you would be right.  The development department, the public safety department, and the parks and recreation department, as well as City Council, all have a hand in shaping the construction and its effect on downtown - whether for motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists and mass transit..

And the City is doing its job.  But, the City shouldn't be alone in negotiating with ODOT and that is why the Discovery Special Improvement District has formed a new Neighborhood Advisory Group, comprised of representatives of over 10 area groups to address the neighborhood issues raised by this construction.

The group's mission: to keep the neighborhoods informed of ODOT's progress; to focus on what is achievable, to get as many resources from ODOT as possible to make the street improvements desirable and not just "traversable";  and to ensure that the improvements are consistent and comprehensive throughout all affected neighborhoods.

I believe ODOT and the City want to do the "right thing"   Conversations had with many people suggest that.  But because money and time are constant constraints, trade-offs will need to be made.  We want to have an input in the multitude of choices that come with a construction of this magnitude.

Look for more information in the coming weeks and months about the specifics of the construction - What are the "Urban Avenues?"  What are Complete Streets?   Will they be inviting, pedestrian and bicycle safe, with slow moving traffic?  Will the reconstructed bridges look like the CAP over High Street leading to the Short North?  What are the implications of such an improvement on the historic districts surrounding downtown?   The questions are endless; the answers, yet to be determined.

The big question?   Will the result of $1.7 billion and years of planning and construction just look like another plate of spaghetti?

Let's hope not.

One month into our tenure as 2010 DDDC officers, and 'hit the ground running' only begins to describe the experience!  It's an exciting time to be a part of the Discovery District, and we plan to share our thoughts and impressions with you throughout the year.  While the website itself is designed to promote the District, this blog category will focus on the Development Corporation membership organization.  So, keep checking back and if something we write resonates with you, let us know!

This year, the Discovery District Special Improvement District and the Discovery District Developmental Corporation hope to engage members and trustees in a creative "visioning" process for the district. From streets lined with topiary bushes to dashes of red splashed throughout the district, the sky is the limit on what the Discovery District can do if we put our great minds together. Comment on this blog to let us know your creative ideas for bringing a sense of identity and community to our district of arts, culture and knowledge...