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Short North Community News Archive 2014-2015
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015
Short North Foundation Awards Funds to Six Neighborhood Programs and Organizations in 2015
The Living Orb, by Daric Gill, created for the "Find Me In the Park" program. © Gill The Short North Foundation awarded grants totaling $4,250 to half a dozen programs and organizations this year. Following the spirit of the grants, these various projects and programs benefit Short North area residents, unite the neighborhoods, and incorporate or preserve public works of art and architecture.
A project of the Short North Alliance and partner galleries and art institutions, Blank Spaces, the Short North Temporary Mural Series, completed installation this fall with grant suppport. Images of artwork were printed on vinyl and heat-adhered to the exterior brick facades of buildings along High Street. The grant money allowed an expansion of the annual project to 19 locations – almost twice as many as last year – with new sites concentrated at the northern end of the neighborhood.
Another art project that received funds, Find Me in the Park: It’s TREEmendous, is a Columbus Recreation and Parks Department initiative consisting of a series of mini art installations in the form of small tree houses (fairy houses) installed temporarily in city parks. The structures remained at various park locations through the end of September. The SNF grant specifically funded the Goodale Park installation, “The Living Orb.” Created by artist Daric Gill, the tree house sitting atop a Silver Linden tree remained dark during the day and lit up at night.
Music and movies were included in the grant dispersement. The Goodale Park Music Series, a free outdoor concert series founded in 2009, sponsored by the Short North Civic Association, features live music from Columbus performers as well as art, craft vendors, kids activities and food carts. Screen on the Green, a public movie series also held in Goodale Park throughout the summer and founded in 2009, provides free family friendly entertainment helping to unify the burgeoning Short North neighborhood. Harrison West Jazz Stage, a late summer/early fall jazz concert series held on Sunday afternoons at the Harrison Park Gazebo in Harrison West, was another grant winner. The volunteer-run concert series was founded by two Harrison West residents, Dara Schwartz and Mark Subel, in January 2013 in an effort to build awareness of local jazz talent and to spread the spirit and enthusiasm for Columbus arts, while celebrating the Harrison West neighborhood.
Last but not least, the Doo Dah Parade’s annual celebration of liberty and lunacy that winds through the Short North on the Fourth of July received support this year. The free parade is produced by The Friends of Doo Dah, a volunteer-run nonprofit 501(c)3 charity, and the grant money financed the rental of portable toilets during the parade.Visit shortnorthfoundation.org for more information.
NOTE: The Living Orb, by Daric Gill, was created for the “Find Me In the Park” program commissioned by Columbus Parks and Recreation. Artists were asked to design fairy houses as part of an interactive experience with children, and others, to allow them to investigate city parks in a new way. Gill’s treehouse remained in Goodale Park through September and was funded in part by a Short North Foundation grant. View Gill’s blog about the creation and installation at https://dgillart.wordpress.com2015/07/11/orb/
Public Presentation on Nov. 18 Park Pavilion Design Competition
A competition for designing a pavilion in the Italian Village Park located on Hubbard Avenue between Pearl and Kerr streets is now in the final stages, and members of the community are being asked to attend a presentation on Wednesday, November 18 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Junior Achievement Center’s gymnasium space at 68 E. Second Ave. in order to engage in the selection process. Three finalists will present, and the ensuing conversation with the community will provide the advisory panel with feedback, giving them an opportunity to hear what people think, what concerns them or interests them about the proposals, in order to make their selection of the winning design. The three finalists are the design team of Jonathan Barnes Architecture & Design and Implement Studio, Tim Lai Architect and WSA Studios and CYP Studios. The proposed budget for the project, which includes additional landscape design – benches, a play area and equipment, bocce courts, as well as the pavilion stage, lighting and storage – is $350,000. The pavilion will not only serve as a gathering place for community events, but ideally maintain and express the identity and spirit of the neighborhood. The competition is being managed by The Neighborhood Design Center in conunction with the Columbus Departments of Development and Recreation and Parks.
FGP Fundraiser Holiday Gala
The Friends of Goodale Park Annual Holiday Gala will be held Wednesday, December 2 at the beautiful home of Richard Bauer who hosted the first-ever FGP Gala many years ago. Guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, silent auction, and entertainment by Tom Crumley, owner of T. David Collection, and regular pianist at Club Diversity. Join friends and neighbors at 841 Dennison Ave. from 6 to 9 p.m. A $50 donation is requested at the door. Early bird tickets are $40 and can be purchased online or at Samson, 772 N. High St. One hundred percent of the tickets price goes for park improvements. If you can’t attend, please consider a year-end donation. Visit www.goodalepark.org or Friends of Goodale Park on FB to learn more.
Seeking Nominations for Neighbor of the Year Award
The Harrison West neighborhood is a place full of inspirational individuals. For the fourth year, the Harrison West
Society wishes to recognize the contributions of vital community leaders.
The Harrison West Neighbor of the Year award will be given to a person who has demonstrated extraordinary involvement in the community and inspires others to make Harrison West a better place. This can be any memeber of the central Ohio community: a neighbor, co-worker, friend, business, or community leader. There are no additional requirements or restrictions.
To nominate a deserving individual for the award, submit a short narrative on why someone you know deserves this honor (500 words or less) no later than December 1, 2015 to neighbornomination@harrisonwest.org. The award winner will be announced at the Harrison West Society’s Winter Celebration on December 16, 2015 at 6 p.m.Questions? Contact Tim Price at president@harrisonwest.org
ComFest Welcomes Applicants for Community Project Grants
The ComFest Grants Committee is accepting applications from non-profit community organizations seeking funding to support their special projects geared to promote social change and social justice. Special projects are defined as activities occurring within a specific timeframe to service the organization’s mission. That does not include festivals, parades, seminars, conferences or general operations.
The Community Festival Grants Program, established 10 years ago, began funding in 2006. Among the recipients that year were Simply Living Radio Station WCRS, the Free Press, Friends of Alum Creek, Friends of the Homeless, and SIDS (Short North Improvement District) among others. Earlier this year, ComFest gave eight Columbus non-profit organizations a total of $15,000 in project grants. The committee is especially interested in innovative new projects. The Central Ohio Green Education Fund’s new 24-hour, women-operated green radio station, WGRN, received $1,700 to purchase and install an antennae in 2015.
Grants may be requested in amounts ranging from a minimum of $250 to a maximum of $3,000. Applicants must show community support for their project in the form of documented cash or in-kind matching resources, which may include volunteer activity. To read the Community Festival Grant Program guidelines, visit the grants page of the ComFest website, www.comfest.com. If you are unsure whether your project qualifies for potential funding, email grants@comfest.com. The application deadline is January 15, 2016.SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
Goodale Park Summer Walks & Talks: Cream-of-the-crop experts invited to participate
Enjoy another round of Walks and Talks this year offering a series of presentations by experts on garden-related topics and informative walking tours organized by the Friends of Goodale Park with co-sponsor Borror Properties.
The meetings take place in the Goodale Park Caretaker’s Residence at 6:30 p.m., with a 30-minute tour of the park (tours will vary for each event). One-hour speaker presentations will begin at 7 p.m. Guests are asked to meet at the northwest entrance of the Caretaker’s Residence in the center of Goodale Park. Help yourself to refreshments and light snacks. All tours and presentations are free and open to the public.Wed., October 14: Autumn Tree Tour (Rain Date: October 18) Rick Frantz, GIS Analyst, City of Dublin, FGP Trustee and Volunteer Arborist
There's no better time for trees than the fall! (OK, maybe when the magnolias are in bloom, that's better, but autumn is a solid second!) Board member and arborist Rick Frantz is back with a brand-new tree tour filled with fall and folklore. Join us for a wonderful walk in Goodale Park.
Since 1987, the Friends of Goodale Park has worked diligently to preserve, maintain and enhance Goodale Park. To learn more, visit www.goodalepark.org or email Julie at volunteercoordinator@goodalepark.org
Harrison West
Jazz Stage Returns to Harrison West with Free Sunday ConcertsThe Harrison West Jazz Stage returns for its third season starting September 13 at the Harrison Park Gazebo, welcoming new sounds and flavors to Harrison Park, including a pop-up farmer stand.
The series kicks off with the laid-back guitar styles of the Tom Davis Trio, to the energetic swing, ragtime and pop influences of The Dew Droppers the following week. Acclaimed saxophonist Pete Mills will bring his modern saxophone-driven quartet to the stage, while local group La Charanga Tres will conclude the series finale with their lively Cuban and Latin-influenced jazz arrangements. Adding to the local vibe, Yellowbird Foodshed will host a pop-up farmer stand for two of the concerts where residents and patrons can shop seasonal, local Ohio produce.
For more information, visit www.Facebook.com/HarrisonWestJazzStage
Harrison West Jazz Stage Sunday Concert Lineup:September 13: Tom Davis Trio • Food truck: Dog People + J-POPS
September 20: The Dew Droppers • Food truck: Por’ketta
September 27: The Pete Mills Quartet • Food truck: Ajumama + J-POPS
October 4: La Charanga Tres! • Food truck: Dos Hermanos + J-POPS
October 11: Rain date
WHERE: Harrison Park Gazebo at W. 1st Ave. and Harrison Park PlaceTIME: 1 to 2:30 p.m. Sundays
COST: Free
You are Invited to March in the Columbus Day Italian Parade! Sunday, Oct. 11 at 1pm
Anything Columbus. Anything Italian. Anything Columbus-Italian!
It’s not just a parade. It’s a parade with a High School Marching Band Competition!
Seven, count them, seven area high school marching bands will compete for top honors and a giant trophy and a check! The bands will perform in marching form with a “stopped performance” on High Street between Buttles and Warren. Then, they’ll march on towards their final BIG performance under the main tent at the Columbus Italian Festival.
Car lovers will appreciate the many beautiful automobiles revving their powerful Italian and American engines as they
escort Italian and Columbus officials to the festival, including one of Columbus’s favorite: Columbus-Italian uomo di famiglia, Grand Marshal-Ohio House of Representative Michael Stinziano!
Want to have your own car float or marching group? We’d love it! Just please pre-register with us before October 9.
Santa will be here too! Will you? You don’t want to be in the bravado? Then come on out and cheer the bands and parade on!
Please let us know that you’d like to be in the Columbus Day Italian Parade. There is no entry fee, unless you’re a politician or a political activist group. Lineup is on Dennison Ave. Route: East on Buttles Ave. to High St., North on High St. to Warren Ave., East on Warren Ave. to Fourth St. Contact Deb Roberts at 614-228-1868 or email mzdoodah@yahoo.com
Columbus Italian Festival 2015: Parking is High Priority This Year
Celebrate Heritage, Family, Friends and Food
Rick Brunetto, renowned orchestra leader, excels in golden oldies music and traditional Italian music to complement the festival’s tastes of Italy.
Located at 720 Hamlet Street
TASTE OF ITALY: Monday, October 5, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. • Free Parking. For Taste of Italy information please call (614) 294-8259 Ext. 7
FESTIVAL HOURS: Friday, October 9, 5 to 11 p.m. • Saturday, October 10, Noon to 11 p.m. • Sunday, October 11, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
ADMISSION: Adults $5 and their children under 12 admitted free
MASS TIME: Sunday, October 11, 9 a.m. inside the church
MARIA’S MILES RUN/WALK: Sunday, October 11, 10 a.m.
PARADE: Sunday, October 11, 1 p.m.
www.columbusitalianfestival.com
Parking is a high priority this year to accommodate the festival’s valued guests. The Wagenbrenner Company has generously made a part of the old Jeffrey Mining lot available for festival parking. The entrance will be on the east side of North 4th St. and Neruda across from the festival for a nominal parking fee of only $10 per car. Parking signs located on 4th St. will guide you to the lot. Handicap parking is available at Capitol City Awning Company lot across the street from the Smith Bros. Hardware Company for $10 per car. Additionally, there will be a drop-off at the festival entrance at 4th and Lincoln Streets for your convenience.
Additional parking is available at the Columbus State Community College South lot at Long and Cleveland Ave. Parking on this lot is free and festival shuttle buses are available for only $2 per person round trip. Riders will pay the bus fee at the festival admission gate. Multiple buses will facilitate shorter wait times.
The shuttle buses will be available the following times: Friday, 4 p.m. to 12 a.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.; Sunday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Columbus State Directions: The parking lot is located at Cleveland Ave. between Long and Spring Streets. From East Broad St. go North on Washington Ave. then TURN LEFT on Spring St. and LEFT into the Columbus State parking lot.
Thank you for your valued patronage to help preserve our beloved historic Italian Church for generations to come in Italian Village.
FESTIVAL PARKINGOld Jeffrey Mining Lot Across From Festival $10
HANDICAPPED LOT: Capitol City Awning across from Smith Bros. $10
SHUTTLE BUSES: From Columbus State Community College, Long & Cleveland South Lot Free parking to catch $2 Shuttle • Pay at Gate
JULY/AUGUST
Goodale Park Summer Walks & Talks
Cream-of-the-crop experts invited to participate
Rachel Tayse Baillieul © courtesy photo Enjoy another round of Walks and Talks this year offering a series of presentations by experts on garden-related topics and informative walking tours organized by the Friends of Goodale Park with co-sponsor Borror Properties.
The meetings take place in the Goodale Park Caretaker’s Residence at 6:30 p.m., with a 30-minute tour of the park (tours will vary for each event). One-hour speaker presentations will begin at 7 p.m. Guests are asked to meet at the northwest entrance of the Caretaker’s Residence in the center of Goodale Park. Help yourself to refreshments and light snacks. All tours and presentations are free and open to the public.Wednesday, July 8: “Building an Herbal Wellness Kit” presented by Brooke Sackenheim, mgr, Ohio Herb Education Center
Every kitchen herbalist has a couple of simple remedies to turn to when minor aid is needed. Be prepared! Everyday herbs such as peppermint, ginger, calendula, chamomile and lavender can easily double as a fix for minor scrapes, bug bites and bruises. Learn how simple salves, essential oils, liniments, and tea bags can find a place next to your bandages in your first aid kit.
Wednesday, July 22: Mixing Edibles and Ornamentals (Palms and Peppers among the Petunias) Dr. Mark Miller, Community Outreach & Education Manager, Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
In this presentation, we’ll take an innovative approach to making your garden truly functional. Join us as we learn about a wide range of topics revolving around mixed-use gardens. Some of the themes we’ll visit are “Mixing and Matching Edibles and Ornamentals,” “Cultural Considerations,” “Space Issues,” “Making Your Edibles Attractive,” “Companion Planting,” “Crop Rotation,” “Making Your Garden Truly Low-Maintenance,” and “Attracting the Good Guys.”
Wednesday, August 12: Urban Homesteading presented by Rachel Tayse Baillieul, co-owner Swainway Urban Farm
Homesteading is a way of life where you provide as many resources for yourself as possible. Urban homesteaders make the most of limited space and community to grow food, keep livestock, and tread lightly on the earth. Learn how Columbus resident Rachel Tayse Baillieul has grown her homestead in the city and be inspired to fulfill your gardening, food preserving, resource efficiency, and animal husbandry goals.
Wed., August 19: Summer Tree Tour Rick Frantz, GIS Analyst, City of Dublin, FGP Trustee and Volunteer Arborist
What's the deal with Goodale's trees? Why do we post about them so much?It's because we have a great collection of trees that we're really proud of! Want to learn more? Join board member and arborist Rick Frantz as he shares interesting facts about some of the park's trees. Historical notes, medicinal uses and peculiarities will be noted so there's something for everyone. The only thing you'll need to know prior is that you have an appreciation for trees!
Wed., October 14: Autumn Tree Tour (Rain Date: October 18) Rick Frantz, GIS Analyst, City of Dublin, FGP Trustee and Volunteer Arborist
There's no better time for trees than the fall! (OK, maybe when the magnolias are in bloom, that's better, but autumn is a solid second!) Board member and arborist Rick Frantz is back with a brand-new tree tour filled with fall and folklore. Join us for a wonderful walk in Goodale Park.
Since 1987, the Friends of Goodale Park has worked diligently to preserve, maintain and enhance Goodale Park. To learn more, visit www.goodalepark.org or email Julie at volunteercoordinator@goodalepark.org
Harrison West: Public art finalists will join neighbors at community potluck
By Matthew WilliamsSure, Columbus rings July in with Red, White and BOOM! But this year, July is going to end with a bang, too. On Saturday, July 25, beginning at 6 p.m. at the Harrison Park Condos Community Center, the Harrison West Society, in partnership with the Columbus Public Art Program, will host a community potluck to kick off open voting for a public artwork in Harrison Park. The art budget is $90,000 with funding provided by the Harrison West Society and the Columbus Public Art Program. The piece will be the last of five art pieces originally planned for the park.
Administered by the city, a call for artists was issued in November 2014. Ohio artists were invited to submit examples of their past work, and more than 20 artists responded. Their submissions were reviewed by an art advisory panel consisting of neighborhood representatives, nonparticipating artists, a design professional, a member of the Columbus Art Commission (CAC) and a nonvoting advisory representative from the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department.
The panel was charged with recommending three artists to create site-specific public-art proposals for the park. The qualifications of the artist finalists were then submitted to the CAC – who has code- required approval authority over any art placed on city property or in the public right of way – for review and approval.
The three finalists – Jon Barlow Hudson, Todd Kime, and Xan Palay – will be on hand to present their proposals and explain their visions for a work of public art in Harrison Park. After the presentations, attendees will be able to talk with the artists, vote for their favorite proposal, and enjoy treats prepared by their neighbors. (And of course, crow about their own tasty recipes!)
Voting will continue online through August 7 on a website sponsored by the city. Voters will be able to watch recordings of the artists’ proposals online as well, so keep an eye on harrisonwest.org for more information on the voting website.
The proposal with the most votes will be announced on the Harrison West and city of Columbus websites in mid-August, after which, the proposal will be submitted to the CAC for conceptual approval. Once this approval is secured, the Columbus Department of Development will enter into contract with the artist and determine a timetable for completion. The goal will be to have the final sculpture installed in summer 2016.
Please plan to dust off your art-critic hat, whip up your best shareable dish and join us on Saturday, July 25, 2015, from 6 until 9 p.m. in the Harrison Park Condos Community Center, 575 W. First Ave. Let’s meet some artists and nosh and mingle and celebrate this exciting step forward for Harrison West.MAY/JUNE 2015
Hubbard Mastery School Bazaar: Sign up to be a vendor during the Annual Short North Yard Sale on June 6
Hubbard Mastery School Courtesy Photo The Hubbard Mastery School will be hosting a bazaar during the Short North Yard Sale on Saturday, June 6. The school, located at 104 W. Hubbard Ave., will open its doors and playground to vendors and yard-salers who would like a space to sell their wares during the neighborhood sale, which takes place 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine, throughout the Short North. Booth fees at the school are $40 for the day, paid in advance, with 100 percent of that cost supporting the Hubbard School PTO. The 2014-2015 school year is the first year for this Pre K-6 public school. Supporting a quality, affordable, nearby school in the area is important to keeping our neighborhood family friendly. Vendors are expected to bring their own tables, chairs, set up, and display items. A 10’ x 10’ tent is permitted. The application deadline is Mon., June 1, 2015. Visit FriendsofHubbard.org and http://form.jotform.us/form/51146223239146
Tour Homes Needed
September 19 and 20, 2015, will be the 41st annual Short North Tour of Homes and Gardens. The Short North Civic Association is in the process of putting together the tour and is looking for homes to add, committee volunteers and tour guides. Please let the SNCA know if you are interested in presenting your home on the tour or volunteer-ing: Email Pat Lewis at pklcmh@aol.com
Short North Yard Sale June 6: Register Online
The Short North Civic Association will host this year’s Short North Yard Sale on Saturday, June 6 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The daylong treasure hunt takes place in the neighborhoods in and around the Short North, including Victorian Village, Harrison West, Italian Village, Dennison Place, and The Circles. You can participate by registering your sale or join in with several neighbors and have an even bigger event. Register online at www.shortnorthcivic.org. The online registration allows the public to view information about your sale. Check back often for the up-to-date list of registered sales!
Foundation Accepting Grant Requests: Organizations supporting area art and architecture projects encouraged to apply
The Short North Foundation is accepting requests for grants between $500 and $2,500 from area organizations with projects taking place in or around the Short North. Specifically, the Foundation seeks projects and programs that benefit Short North area residents, unite Short North neighborhoods, and incorporate or preserve public works of art and architecture.
The deadline to submit a grant proposal is Monday June 1, 2015, at 5 p.m. Projects requiring multiple-year funding will be considered. Past projects that have been funded by the Foundation include the Harrison West Jazz Stage, Goodale Park Music Series, Screen on the Green movie series in Goodale Park, Harrison Park Art Awards, tree plaques in Goodale Park, flowerbeds in Italian Village Park, Columbus Art Walks, Gate restoration in Goodale Park, and the Columbus International Film & Video Festival. To request guidelines and a grant application, email shelley.mann@gmail.com
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
ComFest Logo Contest Design the 2015 T-Shirt!
Each year, ComFest organizers hold a logo contest to select a new design for the festival T-shirt. With hundreds of volunteers wearing the T-shirt bearing the chosen logo at the festival, the winner becomes a part of ComFest history. The designer is mentioned on the website, in the program, and receives valuable goodies in compensation. The contest is open to anyone, and guidelines are available on the Comfest website. Entries must be brought to the shelter house in Goodale Park on Thursday, March 5 at 7:30 p.m. when the logos will be judged. Visit www.comfest.com to learn more.
Family Drum Circle at Northside Library
Queen Jajla Courtesy Photo The Columbus Metropolitan Library welcomes children of all ages and their families to a Family Drum Circle with Queen Najla (Shirley Parish) at the Northside Branch, 1423 N. High St., on Tuesday, February 24 at 6:30 p.m. Children can enjoy interactive creative music-making with their families using rhythm, song, and dance. Box drums, conga, djun djun, and other percussion instruments will be available. For more information, call the library at 614-645-2275 or contact Shirley Parish at 614-252-9484.
Short North Foundation Awards Four Grants Funds help support area concert, film and park projectsThe Short North Foundation has awarded grants totaling $3,500 to the Harrison West Jazz Stage, the Goodale Park Music Series, Screen on the Green movie series in Goodale Park, and the Italian Village Society (Italian Village Park project). The foundation seeks to fund projects and programs that benefit Short North area residents, unite Short North neighborhoods, and incorporate or preserve public works of art and architecture.
Harrison West Jazz Stage is a free late summer/early fall jazz concert series held on Sunday afternoons at the Harrison Park Gazebo in Harrison West. The volunteer-run concert series was founded by Harrison West residents Mark Subel and Dara Schwartz in January 2013 in an effort to build awareness of Columbus’ local jazz talent and to help spread the spirit and enthusiasm for Columbus arts while celebrating the Harrison West neighborhood.
Former Victorian Village resident Alexandra Fox created the Goodale Park Music Series in 2009, a free, outdoor concert series featuring live music from Columbus performing acts as well as live art, craft vendors, kids activities and food carts. The series is sponsored by the Short North Civic Association.
Screen on the Green is a public movie series held in Goodale Park. The free, outdoor movie nights are made possible by funding through the Short North Civic Association, the Gateway Film Center, the Short North Foundation and ComFest.
The Italian Village Society’s grant will go toward improvements to Italian Village Park, specifically to installing a dog waste bag dispensing station that will be maintained by the society as well as the Amicis of Italian Village Park.
The foundation has been giving grants since 2000, then as the Short North Neighborhood Foundation. Early grants went toward funding projects such as pocket parks, public art and neighborhood murals. Starting around 2005, after the Short North Special Improvement District was established and began funding some of those specific projects, the foundation shifted toward awarding grants to neighborhood groups.
The name changed in 2007 to be more reflective of representing the entire Short North district. The group has now transitioned into an organization that has representation from every other Short North entity (i.e. groups from Victorian Village, Italian Village, Harrison West, etc.) and works as a roundtable to share information, look at what the neighborhood needs and manage the endowment to distribute annual grants.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014
Restoration of Goodale Gates: FGP garners State Historic Preservation Office Award
(L to R) Stan Sells (Friends of Goodale Park), Rick Miller (Columbus Recreation and Parks), Peter Krajnak (architect),
Steve Bush (smARTworks), Justin Bower (Quality Masonry), Burt Logan (CEO, Ohio History Connection)The Friends of Goodale Park was among the recipients of the Ohio History Connection (formerly the Ohio Historical Society) 2014 State Historic Preservation Office Awards for the restoration of the 1870 Goodale Gates on West Goodale Street. The award was presented on Saturday, October 18, 2014, during the State Historic Preservation Office Awards Luncheon at the Ohio History Center in Columbus. Stan Sells accepted the award on behalf of FGP. It is a distinct honor for FGP to be recognized for the restoration/preservation of this important historic element of Goodale Park. In addition, Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, Rogers Krajnak Engineering, Quality Masonary Company and smARTworks were recognized for their respective roles in the restoration of the gates.
http://goodalepark.org/fgp-honored-for-historic-preservation-efforts/Seeking Nominations Neighbor of Year Award
The Harrison West neighborhood is a place full of inspirational individuals. For the third year, the Harrison West Society wishes to recognize the contributions of vital community leaders. The Harrison West Neighbor of the Year Award will be awarded to a person who has demonstrated extraordinary involvement in the community and inspires others to make Harrison West a better place. This can be any member of the central Ohio community: a neighbor, co-worker, friend, business, or community leader. There are no additional requirements or restrictions. To nominate a deserving individual for the award, submit a short narrative on why someone you know deserves this honor (500 words or less) no later than December 1, 2014 to neighbornomination@harrisonwest.org. The award winner will be announced at the Harrison West Society’s annual Winter Celebration on December 17, 2014. Questions? Contact Kristen Easterday at president@harrisonwest.org or 614-561-2348.
OCTOBER 2014
(LtoR) Magnolia Thunderpussy Records store owner Chuck Kubat, with daughter Charlotte Kubat, Chris Jericho, and employee Raad Shubaily on September 26, 2014. Chris is on tour with his band Fozzy and was at the store for a signing promoting the band’s new release “Do You Wanna Start A War?”
Photo | Gus Brunsman IIITwo Fall Tree Tours in Goodale Park
Back by popular demand, two Fall Tree Tours in Goodale Park! Friends of Goodale Park will be hosting two fall Walks and Talks focusing on the colorful fall foliage in the park. The tours will be led once again by arborist Rick Frantz – a hit on the summer Walk and Talk series. He has far-reaching knowledge of the Goodale trees that is thoroughly entertaining to listen to. Did you know that there are over 700 species of trees in the park? Please join the Friends at the Caretakers Residence in Goodale Park at 6:30 on October 15 and 29 to learn and enjoy. Light refreshments will be served. Visit Facebook for updates.
What Do You Think about Public Art? Harrison West Prepares for Final WorkThe Harrison West Society is about to launch a program to add a fifth and final work of public art to Harrison Park and is seeking your input. Four sculptures designed by CCAD students and selected by residents of Harrison West from more than 30 submissions currently line the Olentangy Recreation Trail as it winds through Harrison Park. You may also have noticed a large concrete pad along Harrison Park Place near Funk-ee-Town. That pad was installed to receive a fifth work, but budgetary constraints halted the art program after the initial four.
Using money from the neighborhood’s Gowdy Field fund and, hopefully, a match from the Columbus Art Commission, the Harrison West Society can finally commission the final piece of art – and what a piece it promises to be! In a few months, the society will be seeking submissions from major public artists for a signature work that will define the Harrisown West neighborhood. But first, they want to hear from you. They have worked with the city’s planning division to develop a survey from which they will be able to get a sense of what locals would like to see in the new work, and they invite you to visit the survey site and share your thoughts. The survey is only four questions long, so surf over to www.columbus.gov/planning/hpart/ and offer your thoughts on public art. www.harrisonwest.orgHubbard Mastery School Wants Volunteers
The Hubbard Mastery School, a pre-k through grade 6 school, opened in August at 104 W. Hubbard Ave. in the Short North and is inviting the community to contribute to its continued success by donating time and/or money to the school. Principal Susan McGeean said they are always looking for volunteers. She recommends the Reading Buddies program for those who want to help children enhance their love of books and reading. Anyone wishing to visit on a weekly basis to read with students can attend a Reading Buddies Training held monthly. The next training is Monday, October 6 from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Columbus Downtown High School, 364 S. Fourth St. “If they can’t attend training and would still like to give time weekly,” said McGeean, “they can email me and we will assign them to a student” and train them. There are a variety of other ways individuals can help the school. Those with a specialty can speak to classes, provide expertise to teachers, assist with projects, or donate money for field trips, supplies, or food for events and activities. If you are interested in volunteering time or resources, contact Susan McGeean at 614-365-5564 and smcgeean1322@columbus.k12.oh.us or call Krista Bower at 614-365-8869.
Italian Parade on Sat., October 11 at 11 a.m. follows 1st Annual Maria's Message 5K Run/Walk
Kenton Ridge, 2013 Competition Winner
Photo | Gus Brunsman IIIKenton Ridge, 2013 Competition Winner
The annual Columbus Italian Festival presented by Saint John the Baptist Italian Catholic Church is scheduled October 10-12 at the corner of North Fourth and E. Lincoln streets in Italian Village. The festivities include the Columbus Italian Parade that will march through the Short North Arts District and Italian Village. The parade will have at least six competing High School marching bands, dancers, classic and new cars, Santa Maria replicas, and other entries featuring Italian history and culture.
The parade has been moved to Saturday this year and will follow the first Annual Maria’s Miles Run/Walk, a fund-raising event to benefit Maria Tiberi Foundation. 10TV’s Dom Tiberi lost his daughter Maria Tiberi, a senior majoring at graphics design at The Ohio State University, in a tragic car accident in 2013 that by all accounts could have been prevented. Tiberi has now dedicated his life to spreading a message, Maria’s Message, about the dangers of distracted driving with the hope of saving lives. The 3-mile run starts at 10 a.m. at N. Fourth and E. Lincoln streeets in Italian Village. The parade begins at 11 a.m. at Dennison and Buttles avenues, spans one mile, and includes occasional stops for the bands to perform briefly. The competition is held in the Big Tent at the festival once all the bands have gathered there.WHAT: Columbus Italian Parade and Competing High School Marching Bands
WHEN: Saturday, October 11 @ 11 a.m. Bands begin lineup at 9:30 a.m.
WHERE: Buttles and Dennison avenues east to High, north to Warren, and east to the Festival at Fourth Avenue for the band competition.
INFORMATION: mzdoodah@yahoo.com www.columbusitalianfestival.com or 614-228-1868
Donate Winter Coats to Help Needy Neighbors
The annual Winter Coat Extravaganza, a benefit drive organized by New Life United Methodist Church in the Short North, needs coats, and the church has put out a call for help from the community to contribute to the project. Donations will be taken through Tuesday, October 28; the event is scheduled Wednesday, October 29 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Please consider donating clean coats with buttons, lining and hoods intact, and zippers that work. Needy neighbors layer their clothes for protection from the freezing cold, so larger sizes are always in demand. Long woolen coats are not appropriate.
The call for help never ceases. Well over a thousand needy neighbors visit the church’s Clothing Room each month, so consider contributing throughout the year. Other items in high demand during the winter months include gloves, boots, socks and blankets. Donations are accepted Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8 to 11:30 a.m. at 25 Fifth Ave. Visit www.newlifeunitedmethodist.org to learn more.DROP OFF: 9 to 11:30 a.m. Tues. and Wed. Or call 614-294-0134 to schedule a drop at New Life United Methodist Church, 25 Fifth Ave. across from Enchanted Shoe Repair.
Global Gifts Volunteer Orientation
Global Gifts is a non-profit store that sells only fair trade products from over 40 countries around the world. You can become a volunteer and assist with a variety of tasks throughout the store – from helping customers and working the registers, to unpacking items and merchandising. Learn about fair trade artisans, their products, and the importance of fair trade. Get retail experience as you learn more about unique and talented artisans from developing countries. Vounteer orientation is scheduled on Saturday Oct. 25 from 10 to 11 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 16 from 5 to 7 p.m. at 682 N. High St. in the Short North. Call 614-621-1744 to find out more.
Fall Fair Trade Trunk Show October 2 - 13
Get autumn-ready at Global Gifts’ Fall Trunk Show. Visit the Short North location from October 2-13. Unique and handcrafted fair trade styles from around the world will be available for a limited time. Store hours: Monday-Thursday 11am-7pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-9pm and Sunday 11am-5pm. www.globalgiftsft.comStreet Performers and Vendors Need Gallery Hop Permits
Businesses often like to coordinate performers or vendors to be in front of their buildings on Gallery Hop nights. In order to ensure a positive experience for businesses, street performers, and the public at Gallery Hop, those who make arrangements with performers or who plan to vend outside of their location now need to apply for a permit. The Short North Alliance holds a community market license for the High Street corridor in order to oversee the public right of way on Gallery Hop nights and issues the permits. The application will need to be submitted monthly, can be completed by the performer or vendor, and is due at the 15th of every month. If you do not have a permit, you cannot be vending or performing on the sidewalk. Once permits are distributed, the SNA will email a Gallery Hop permit location map to the applicant, including the permit number and locations for all performers and vendors. This information will not only be helpful for preventing non-permitted performers and vendors from participating, but can also be used as a marketing tool. Gallery Hop Business newsletter information and Gallery Hop vendor or performer applications can be sent to melanie@shortnorth.org or found online at www.shortnorth.org.
JULY/AUGUST 2014
New Neighborhood Event: Goodale Park Summer Walks & Talks
The Friends of Goodale Park organization is offering a new summer series to educate and entertain garden lovers. “Goodale Park Walks and Talks” will feature talks by experts in gardening along with a brief tour of the park so listeners can enjoy the outdoors before the presentation. All events will take place Wednesday evenings 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Caretaker’s Residence in Goodale Park. Guests are invited to gather at the west entrance for the tour of the park at 6:30 p.m. followed by the presentation at 7 p.m. Refreshments will be provided. All events are free and open to the public.
Wednesday, July 16: "Wildlife in My Own Back Yard!" presented by Randy Rogers
Birdwatcher Randy Rogers will discuss ways to make your lawn more bird and wildlife friendly, improving the environment one yard at a time. Have a photo of some of the wildlife in your own yard? Bring it along to share and discuss. Randy Rogers is on the board of Green Lawn Cemetery, Cedar Bog Nature Preserve, and the Ohio Ornithological Society, and has volunteered with the Metro Parks for the last 15 years. He holds a B.S. in Recreation and Wildlife from Ohio University and is retired after 28 years of service as a major in the Ohio Army National Guard.
Wednesday, July 23: “Goodale Park Summer Tree Tour” led by Rick Frantz
FGP arborist and board trustee Rick Frantz knows a little something about trees in Goodale Park! Back by popular demand, this tour includes the history, uses and interesting facts about the more unique trees of Goodale Park, as well as some you may have in your own yard. Rick Frantz graduated from The Ohio State University with a degree in Natural Resources, majoring in Urban Forestry. He works in municipal forestry and has been with Friends of Goodale Park for over 10 years.
Wednesday, August 13: “Container Gardening” presented by Judith Arnett
Limited gardening space? No problem! Discover the art of growing vegetables, herbs, annuals, perennials and more, in containers. It’s easier than you think, and you can get really creative with the implementation of unusual containers. Judith Arnett is President of the Central Ohio Water Garden Society. She has been a Master Gardener for the past 18 years. She is also a member of the Hilliard Garden Club, the Greater Columbus Dahlia Society, and the Columbus Area Military Wives Club. She has served on the Hilliard Shade Tree Commission for the past 12 years, and is a volunteer at the Community Gardens on Rings Road in Dublin.
Wednesday, August 27: “Gardening with Winter Pizzazz” presented by Dr. Mark Miller
Do you have a fabulous spring garden, good summer garden, moderately colorful fall garden and dreary winter garden? That's an all-too-common result when Ohio gardeners buy most of their plants in spring after a tough winter. Learn about plants you can add to your landscape for all-year interest, and which are especially eye-catching in winter. Dr. Mark Miller is the Education Manager at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. He is a graduate of The Ohio State University (Horticulture/Environment & Natural Resources). He is President of the Friends of the Topiary Park, and a member of the North American Association of Environmental Education.
“Goodale Park Walks and Talks” is made possible by both the hard work of amazing volunteers and the generous financial support of friends and neighbors. To learn how you can help support the future of free educational programs in Goodale Park, email volunteercoordinator@goodalepark.org
Amici’s of Italian Village Park Has Funding for New Projects: Seeks Ambitious Crew
Several years ago the Italian Village Society commissioned the Amici’s of Italian Village Park to oversee the park’s development and maintenance. The Amici’s functioned quite well for awhile under the leadership of Steve Hurtt and Diana Lessner; however, the past couple of years has seen a decline in interest and participation of the group.
Now that significant funding has been secured from the Columbus Foundation and the Wood Companies for the maintenance of the park and development of a new pavilion, it is time to reinvigorate the Amici’s and charge them with the important tasks of overseeing the design of the pavilion and planning events for the park and the pavilion. The IVS is hoping to develop the park into an urban oasis that is alive with activities throughout the year – activities like an annual festival, farmer’s market, and concert series.
If you would like to join the Amici’s and help make Italian Village Park all that it can be, please attend an IVS meeting on the second Tuesday of the month or email IVS President Larry Totzke at italianvillagesociety@gmail.com. Meetings are held at the Second Avenue Elementary School Building. Park in the school lot and enter from Second Avenue at the Columbus Junior Achievement BizTown/Donatos entrance.Columbus Landmarks Art Walks & Talks
Columbus Landmarks and Columbus Public Health have scheduled dozens of guided “Art Walks & Landmark Talks” this summer and fall. The walks began in June and will continue to be held on Monday evenings and some Sunday evenings from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. through September. Among the upcoming scheduled tours are two in the Short North including the Wonder Bread Factory at 728 Hamlet St. on Sun., July 27 and St. Francis Church at 386 Buttles Ave. on Mon., August 11. Visit www.columbuslandmarks.org to see the entire list of walks scheduled in a variety of neighborhoods. Sample videos of some previous walks can be accessed on the website as well.
Parking Lane Markings on Neil Avenue
A number of traffic calming measures were created with the recent speed limit changes on portions of Neil, Third, and King avenues in the Short North. One new development completed in June was the painting of stripes on Neil Avenue to designate parking lanes. This is intended to visually narrow the street in an effort to reduce traffic speed. Area residents are concerned for the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists after the speed limit signs were changed in March to reflect 30 mph instead of 25. The traffic calming measures are a factor in the new speed study being done to determine proper speed limits for the area. The study should be completed by next spring.
Limestone Sofa Removed
Photo © Gus Brunsman III The Short North Special Improvement District and Short North Alliance removed the public artwork known as the Limestone Sofa on Friday, July 11, 2014.
The artwork, created by artist and University of Akron Art Department Chair Robert Huff, was commissioned by the Short North Special Improvement District in 2004 as a part of the group’s effort to add public art in pocket parks along High Street. The artwork commemorates the site’s history as the furniture district and was designed to look like a couch from a used furniture store located in the area. Often mistaken for cement, the couch is carved from one single 20,000 lb block of limestone.
Since that time, the artwork has sustained damage due to vandalism. The artwork was removed for repairs to be made to it over the next six months. Once repaired, it will be installed in the exterior sculpture garden of the Cultural Arts Center in downtown Columbus where it will be protected from further vandalism. Formerly a rest area for homeless individuals, the site will be re-landscaped now that the artwork has been removed.
The Short North Alliance continues to pursue public art projects throughout the Short North Arts District and will at a later date consider this or a nearby site for a future public art project.Return to Homepage www.shortnorth.com
MAY/JUNE 2014
New Neighborhood Speed Limits: Higher or lower depends on how you look at itThe speed limits on Neil, Third, and King avenues in the Short North area have changed. The limit is now 30 mph – specifically on King and W. Third avenues between High Street and Olentangy River Road, and on Neil from Goodale Street to King. The change was made on March 27, 2014. In addition, the speed limit on West Fifth Avenue between High Street and Olentangy River Road is 35 mph, but the West Fifth Avenue speed reflects a change only if you compare it to the outdated speed signs that have been in place over the years.
The 25 mph speed limit signs that drivers have seen posted since 1995 on all of these designated streets (in response to the reconstruction of I-670 and the Spring-Sandusky Interchange) should have been changed in 2003 because they were temporary, but they were not replaced until recently. A city project to build medians (delayed and incomplete until 2012) apparently discouraged or prevented the city from making the sign change. For years (we now learn), the legal speed limit on Neil, Third, King and Fifth on the west side of High has been 35 mph. Even though the 25 mph posted signs were unenforcable, there have been incidents of motorists inappropriately fined, according to a local news accounts.
The speed change on Neil, Third, and King avenues has reduced the limit from 35 to 30 mph but would appear otherwise judging from the longstanding 25 mph speed limit signs. In fact, many area residents concerned for the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists are hoping that after traffic calming measures are implemented and a new speed study is made within a year that a 25 mph limit will be reinstated.
A public forum was held in January at the Goodale Park Shelter House to discuss the speed limits and traffic calming features. The Short North Civic Association, Harrison West Society, and University Area Commission, voicing the concerns of residents, worked with the city to lower the limits.SPEED LIMITS
30 mph • Neil Ave from Goodale Street to King Ave • W. Third Ave from High St to Olentangy River Rd • King Ave from High St to Olentangy River Rd
35 mph • W. Fifth Ave from High St to Olentangy River Rd
TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES/PARKING AND PEDESTRIAN STUDIES
• Collins and Neil Avenues: Enhanced crosswalk installed
• King and Hunter Avenues: Crosswalk study
• Neil Avenue: Parking lane markings to visually narrow the road and discourage speeding
• Neil Avenue between Collins and Goodale: Parking study
• Enhanced Speed Trailer Program deployed
• Increased police presence.
Recreation and Parks Master Plan Final Forum May 21
Columbus Recreation and Parks welcomes the public to a free meeting for discussion of the Columbus Recreation and Parks Master Plan. The plan’s purpose is to evaluate, recommend new or enhanced programs, parks, facilities and services. Representatives will present preliminary findings and recommendations at the meeting and invite a public response. This will be the last opportunity for the planning team to hear what you have to say about the future of Columbus parks.The event is scheduled at the Martin Janis Senior
Center, 600 East 11th Ave. on Wednesday, May 21 from 6 to 8 p.m. Visit parks.columbus.gov for more information.
Do You Have a Great Garden to Show?
The Friends of Goodale Park is planning a garden tour on Sunday, June 15 and would like to present some new gardens this year. Homeowners in the Victorian Village area near the park who are interested in showing their landscape work or decorative gardens on this tour are welcome to contact the organization by emailing mweisz@columbus.rr.com. The tour typically runs from late morning to mid-afternoon and features speakers in Goodale Park presenting talks of special gardening interest each hour as well as maps to guide visitors to the gardens near the park. Visit goodalepark.org
Homes Still Needed for 40th Annual Tour
September 21, 2014, will be the 40th annual Short North Tour of Homes and Gardens. The Short North Civic Association is in the process of putting together the tour and is looking for homes to add. Please let the SNCA know if you are interested in presenting your home on the tour: Email administration@shortnorthcivic.org
Foundation Accepting Grant Requests: Organizations Supporting Area Art and Architecture Projects Encouraged to Apply
The Short North Foundation is accepting requests for grants between $500 and $2,500 from area organizations with projects taking place in or around the Short North. Specifically, the Foundation seeks projects and programs that benefit Short North area residents, unite Short North neighborhoods, and incorporate or preserve public works of art and architecture.
The deadline to submit a grant proposal is Tuesday July 1, 2014, at 5 p.m. Projects requiring multiple-year funding will be considered. Past projects that have been funded by the Foundation include the Goodale Park Music Series, Screen on the Green movie series in Goodale Park, Harrison Park Art Awards, tree plaques in Goodale Park, flowerbeds in Italian Village Park, Columbus Art Walks, Gate restoration in Goodale Park, and the Columbus International Film & Video Festival.
To request grant guidelines and a grant application, email shurtt@urbanorder.com
Short North Yard Sale June 7 Register Online
The Short North Civic Association will host this year’s Short North Yard Sale on Saturday, June 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The daylong treasure hunt takes place in the neighborhoods in and around the Short North, including Victorian Village, Harrison West, Italian Village, Dennison Place, and The Circles. You can participate by registering your sale or join in with several neighbors and have an even bigger event. Register online at www.shortnorthcivic.org. The online registration allows the public to view information about your sale. Check back often for the up-to-date list of registered sales!
Goodale Park Ceremony for Gates
A dedication of the South Gates of Goodale Park is scheduled on Sunday, May 18 at 2 p.m. The event will include a visit by Dr. Lincoln Goodale and a replication of the Masonic ceremony that took place when the gates were first dedicated in the 1870s. Words by Columbus Landmarks Association, music and refreshments that harken back to the 1870s are part of the event. Visit www.goodalepark.org
All Our Wonderful Wild Animals! Rising Local Star, Adventurer Coyote Peterson to Appear Monthly at GFC
On Saturday May 24, Columbus’s own Coyote Peterson, recently snapped up by the Discovery Networks, will launch All Our Wonderful Wild Animals, a new, exciting program for kids and families at the Gateway Film Center highlighting Ohio’s wildlife and spreading the word about conservation. The free monthly event will mix live presentations with screenings of Coyote’s adventures while developing his show “Breaking Trail.”
Kids will love meeting this local adventurer in person then watching him on the big screen wrangling alligators, rescuing pythons, or catching Columbus’s monster snapping turtles. It’s a one-of-a-kind learning experience.
Each month Peterson’s program will focus on a different wildlife theme. Special guest naturalists from Columbus Metro Parks, wildlife rehabilitators from the Ohio Wildlife Center, and other local animal experts will help Coyote talk about the amazing animals of Ohio. From owls and raccoons, to deer, coyotes and even the great American Bison – Ohio is home to them all!
Using adventurous videos, natural wildlife artifacts and LIVE animals the Gateway Film Center and Coyote Peterson will take your family on an incredible, hands-on, animal-filled adventure in the comfort of an all-digital movie theatre.
This event will recur one Saturday every month from 10-11 a.m. and is completely free to the public. Check www.gatewayfilmcenter.com for upcoming dates.
Coyote Peterson is the host of Breaking Trail, an animal adventure series that will begin airing this fall on Discovery Digital Network’s channel Animalist. Coyote and his film crew will travel to and film in several locations across the US this summer including Florida, Arizona and Montana getting up close and personal with some of the country’s most amazing animals. www.coyotepeterson.com
Gateway Film Center, 1550 North High St., is Ohio’s first dedicated film house featuring indie and foreign films and all the big releases too. Convenient parking is available in the South Campus Gateway parking garage, accessible from both 9th and 11th avenues.
Harrison West Adopt-a-Bed Program
Harrison West has a couple dozen planting beds and green spaces that need regular maintenance through the spring, summer and fall—too many for Columbus Recreation and Parks to tend without help. The HWS Parks and Green Space Committee stepped up in 2012 and began an Adopt-a-Bed program. We encourage neighbors to volunteer to weed, pick up litter, and deadhead one bed or green space regularly through the growing season. We ask volunteers to visit their beds at least one time each month from March through November. With regular maintenance, most beds can be polished up in less than an hour each month.
In addition, we sponsor group workdays twice each month where volunteers get together to clean an entire park and to socialize. Our workdays are always the last Saturday of the month and the Wednesday before the last Saturday. We always have doughnuts at our Saturday event, and after our Wednesday event, which we’ve dubbed “Cleanup and Cocktails,” we often go out for a drink and a bite at a neighborhood eatery. Generally, we rotate our work area among Harrison Park, Side by Side Park and Harrison West Park, though we do take on special projects as well. For example, on April 26, with Side by Side Park largely finished, the team picked up litter in the little spit of land between Olentangy River Road and SR315 from West 3rd to West 5th Avenues. On May 31, we’ll be doing a honeysuckle abatement project at the south end of Harrison Park.
Saturday events begin at 9 a.m. and generally wrap up by 11 a.m. “Cleanup and Coctails” runs from 6 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Our events are also listed on the Harrison West calendar, which can be viewed at harrisonwest.org.
People interested in adopting a bed should contact Bob Mangia at parks@harrisonwest.org. Volunteers who just want to show up on a scheduled workday should meet at the park scheduled for maintenance that month. We have a few tools to share, but volunteers should bring their own trimmers, gloves and other favorite gardening tools if they have them. It probably doesn’t need to be said, but volunteers should dress appropriately. We do occasionally encounter poison ivy and other plants that can cause a rash as well as critters who live along the river. Volunteers should cover up as much skin as they can without risking overheating in the sun. Closed-toe shoes are a must.
www.harrisonwest.orgUpcoming Schedule:
May 28: Harrison West Park
May 31: Honeysuckle Abatement at South
End of Harrison Park
June 25: Harrison Park
June 28: Harrison Park
July 12: Honeysuckle Abatement
July 23: Side by Side Park
July 26: Side by Side Park
August 27: Harrison West Park
August 30: Harrison West Park (or Honeysuckle Abatement along Battelle Property)
September 24: Harrison Park
September 27: Harrison Park
October 22 Side by Side Park
October 25: Side by Side Park
November 8: General Winterizing
Herculean Honeysuckle Hewing in Harrison West
The Harrison West Society Parks and Green Space Committee will continue its assault on invasive honeysuckle this year with not one, not two, but three abatement work days. And we need your help.
We’ve made some really great progress over the last three years removing honeysuckle along the river in our neighborhood. This year, we want to do some mop up operations on the east bank of the Olentangy River and begin working on the west bank.
On Saturday, May 31, 2014 from 9:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., Karl Hoessle from the Columbus Ecological Restoration Program will be on site at the south end of Harrison Park to help us clear the last of the old growth. Karl will bring a truck and chipper (and maybe his new spiffy ATV with a winch), and we’ll work down to the Superior Beverage property line. Hands to cut and haul brush to the chipper will be our contribution to the effort on this challenging work site. Volunteers need not stay for the entire event; any time you can give will be appreciated. Some volunteers will be on site as early as 8 a.m. to prep for the chipper’s arrival, and early risers are welcome to join them. Volunteers should meet at the Harrison Park gazebo or just come down to the worksite. As always, the committee will provide doughnuts.
On Saturday, July 12, 2014 from 9:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., Karl will join us again to begin working on the West side of the river south of West 3rd Avenue. Volunteers should meet at the Harrison Park gazebo; we can walk over together. If you want to volunteer but need to start later than 9:30, just come directly to the worksite, which will be along the Olentangy Recreation Trail south of West 3rd and the “tunnel.” (Yes, we’ll still provide doughnuts!)
Finally, in August we’re planning to mop up the riverbank adjacent to Battelle’s property north of West 3rd Avenue. We’ve hit that area hard for two years now, so we should have a comparatively easy day pulling up new growth and clearing the last remaining stands of honeysuckle. A final date and further details will be forthcoming, so keep an eye on harrisonwest.org for more information.
Our neighborhood parks just keep getting better, but getting them to their best takes a lot of work. Don’t leave it to “the other guy” to keep us on the upswing. Be proud of your neighborhood and join us in making Harrison West an even better place to live, work and play.– Matthew Williams
MARCH/APRIL 2014
Ride COTA Free Beginning May 5, 2014The first Monday in May will see a new COTA route in the Short North area. The service, dubbed “Cbus,” will transport passengers down High Street from Second Avenue in the Short North south to Sycamore Street in German Village and back north along Front Street, returning to High at Nationwide Boulevard. Riding “Cbus” will be free until the end of 2014. Curtis Stitt, COTA’s CEO, says COTA is looking for ways to maintain free operation into 2015. If financing cannot be obtained, the price will likely be 50 cents. Cbus will run Monday through Thursday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays until Midnight, Saturdays 9 a.m. to Midnight, and Sundays 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Rush-Hour Meter Restriction Lifted in Short North
The parking meter restriction on High Street between Poplar Street and King Avenue during rush hour from 7 to 9 a.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. has been eliminated. The City removed regulatory signs and reprogrammed the 122 meters in February. Rick Tilton with the Department of Public Service said the restrictions were lifted because Columbus has changed since those restrictions were imposed many years ago. Providing the public with the convenience of parking during rush hour makes sense because people use those hours to shop and dine and do business on High Street. The Short North Parking Working Group had a hand in influencing the City to move forward. “Those are the people who are there, the eyes and ears out there for us, and their feedback is invaluable,” said Tilton. The City is conducting a parking study with the help of the Working Group. A public meeting is scheduled on Thursday, March 13 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Goodale Park Shelter House to kick off the project and gather public input about parking issues, challenges and ideas throughout the district. An online survey is at www.surveymonkey.com/s/ColumbusShortNorthParking
Homes Needed for Tour in September
September 21, 2014, will be the 40th annual Short North Tour of Homes and Gardens. The Short North Civic Association is in the process of putting together the tour and is looking for homes to add. Please let the SNCA know if you are interested in presenting your home on the tour: Email administration@shortnorthcivic.org
New Mini Mural Series Installed: Viewpoints: Murals by Young Professional Working Artists
The Short North Alliance and 11 partner galleries and art institutions with the support of the Create Columbus Commission launched the second installment of the highly popular Short North Temporary Mural Series. The exhibition, titled Viewpoints: Murals by Young Professional Working Artists, kicked off February 28, with openings at each participating gallery in the Short North Arts District.
This installment builds upon the 10x10x10 Mural Series that remained on view from August 2012 to September 2013. The name 10X10X10 came from its concept – ten murals, ten galleries, and ten openings that took place on August 3, 2012.
Produced in partnership with Orange Barrel Media, the murals are on the exterior brick facades of 11 buildings along High Street in the Short North and consist of high resolution images of artworks printed on vinyl and heat-adhered to buildings. The process results in a work of art that looks painted on the building.
The 11 artists were on site for the February 28 opening at each participating gallery to share their insights on the experiences of young professional working artists in Columbus. Representatives from Michael B. Coleman and Columbus City Council President Andrew J. Ginther’s teams kicked off the opening with remarks at Brandt-Roberts Galleries.
All participating artists are either young professional artists under the age of 40 or are young at heart emerging artists who regularly support and mentor artists under 40. The series showcases works that reflect the perspectives or viewpoints of these artists.
Monthly programming designed to engage young professional audiences, including artist talks, guided tours, and contests will occur throughout 2014.
In addition to galleries in the Short North represented in Viewpoints, the exhibition also includes works contributed by the Columbus Museum of Art, Wexner Center for the Arts, Open Door Art Studio, and Art Access Gallery.
Following is a complete list of participating galleries, artworks, featured artists and their hometowns, and mural installation locations:
Joey Monsoon, young at heart - Inez, Kentucky: Remember Your Spot, presented by Lindsay Gallery, installed at 700 N. High St.Wallace Peck, young at heart - Columbus: Lady Liberty, presented by Open Door Art Studio, installed at 1209 N. High St.
Douglas Rosenfield, 33 - Columbus: Camp 18, presented by pm gallery, installed at 1130 N. High St.
Kate Valeska, 29 - Columbus: Good Morning, presented by the Wexner Center for the Arts, installed at 1204 N. High St.
Laine Bachman, 36 - Columbus: Monkey Queen, presented by Sherrie Gallerie, installed at 721 N. High St.
Jordan Tate, 32 - Louisville, Kentucky: New Work #169, presented by the Columbus Museum of Art, installed at 1081 N. High St.
Beth Himsworth , young at heart - Columbus: Koi Garden, presented by Studios on High, installed at 765 N. High St.
Maria DiFranco, 26 - Westlake, Ohio: Domesticating the African Wolf, presented by ROY G BIV, installed at 944 N. High St.
Joe Lombardo, 29 - Elyria, Ohio: Lot Primaries, presented by Art Access Gallery, installed at 459 N. High St.
Tom Baillieul, young at heart - Columbus: The City of Columbus - Air and Rail from Coast to Coast, presented by Terra Gallery, installed at 608 N. High St.
Winnie Sidharta Ambron, 32 - Indonesia: Victorian Portrait, presented by Brandt-Roberts Galleries, installed at 650 N. High St.
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
Mini-Mural Project Evolves: Working artists under 40 featured in ‘14
by Margaret Marten
Sid Chafetz’s Emily Dickinson - Amherst Maid, sponsored by Sherrie Gallerie, was part of the first Short North mini-mural project. Ten mini-murals, high-resolution photographs of an actual work, were placed on buildings in 2012 and removed a year later. New ones will be installed in 2014. © Short North Alliance The vinyl mural project installed in August 2012 featuring reproductions of works by ten Columbus artists, placed on various Short North buildings by Orange Barrel Media, came to its finale in September 2013 after a year and the murals were taken down. Columbus art consultant Ralph Rosenfield came up with the idea of the vinyl art in 2012 after learning that the Pizzuti Co. would be removing three iconic Short North murals to make way for a hotel and retail development.
The Short North Alliance recently announced that the vinyl mural project will resume in 2014 with the installation of new mini-murals this spring. A $7,500 grant from the Create Columbus Grants Program of the Create Columbus Commission (CCC), a young professional organization, will help fund the project. “Viewpoints: Mini Murals by Working Artists Under 40” will consist of 11 vinyl murals celebrating and showcasing diverse viewpoints of working young professional artists.
The original series, “10x10x10: 10 Murals, 10 Galleries, 10 Openings,” was a collaboration with 10 Short North galleries. The new project will expand and incorporate works from galleries outside the district – The Wexner Center, the Columbus Museum of Art, and Bexley’s Art Access Gallery – and utilize new locations in the Short North. “We’re going to constantly be changing these things, and it’s a stimulant,” said Rosenfield. “People who come down can always, on an annual basis at least, expect to see something different, something exciting.”
The vinyl murals are hung using a shrink-wrap effect that reveals the texture of the wall so the murals look painted.
Harrison West Winners: Mark Subel and Dara Schwartz, 2013 Neighbors of the Year
Dara Schwartz and Mark Subel © Photo courtesy of Harrison West Society The Harrison West Society has named Dara Schwartz and Mark Subel of Bradley Street as the 2013 Neighbors of the Year. The pair received numerous nominations recognizing their actions supporting, promoting, and improving the neighborhood over the past several years. Schwartz formerly served as vice president of the HWS and continues to volunteer her time and energy designing graphics for the society, including informational postcards encouraging neighbors to join the group, even designing the invitations for the Holiday Party where she and Mark Subel were recognized. Subel heads the HWS Communication Committee and maintains the news content of the HWS website and social media. In 2013, the pair organized the Harrison West Jazz Series, a program of free concerts at Harrison Park that utilized the park’s gazebo and brought hundreds of neighbors from throughout the district and jazz fans from across the city together for four free Sunday jazz concerts in September. Mary Martineau, the 2012 neighbor of the year and society secretary, presented Schwartz and Subel with the award. Visit harrisonwest.org to learn more about the organization and activities.
Short North Winter Sale January 17-19
It’s the biggest sale of the year: the Short North Winter Sale. Many area merchants are offering discounts on various items such as clothing, furniture, candles, art, and accessories to push inventory to prepare for new incoming spring inventory. The three-day sale is scheduled January 17 - 19, featuring amazing offers from the district’s favorite shops. Many merchants will stay open late. Please check merchant listings for individual store hours. Not all stores are open on Sunday. Come early for the best selection. Visit Short North Arts District on Facebook for updates.
Public Meeting on Speed Limit
The Ohio Department of Transportation recommends increasing the speed limits on Neil, King, and W. Fifth avenues based on area traffic studies. The findings suggest that the speed limits on both Neil and King avenues could be raised to 30 mph, and on W. Fifth Avenue, they recommend a 35 mph limit. Some residents feel that such increases might be hazardous to pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists, and that greater speeds might reduce appreciation for the neighborhood. A public meeting regarding the proposed speed limit increases is scheduled for January 13, 2014 at 6:30 p.m. in the Goodale Park shelter.
Goodale and Italian Village Parks Receive Beautification Grants
The Fish Gate at the northwest corner of Goodale Park, on Dennison at Buttles Avenue, is in store for long-awaited repairs and maintenance. The Friends of Goodale Park were awarded a $20,000 grant from the Joseph A. Jeffrey Endowment Fund administered by the Columbus Foundation for this civic beautification project. The Fish Gate was designed by Isabell Terrell, Columbus’ first female architect, and built in 1899 using stones donated by William H. Fish. The Jeffrey Grant money, once combined with funds from five other grants for a total of nearly $60,000, will be used to replace worn stones, perform a gentle cleaning, repoint the mortar joints, and seal the gate’s three stone columns to make them weatherproof.
The Italian Village Society has also received a Joseph A. Jeffrey Grant, in the amount of $10,000, to support renovations to Italian Village Park at 801 Kerr St. and Hubbard Avenue. The fundraising is still ongoing, but the Italian Village Society hopes to combine the Jeffrey Grant money with other funds to construct a pavilion in the park that would be used for group picnics and as an entertainment stage.
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