Westside Messenger - September 24th, 2023

Messenger 

Westside 

September 24 - October 7, 2023 www.columbusmessenger.com Vol. L, No. 5 

An ‘Urban Oasis’ at 

Highland Youth Garden 

Messenger photos by Dedra Cordle 

The westside community came out for an evening of art and 

nature when the Highland Youth Garden hosted its first art exhibition 

at its indoor space on Sept. 13. Aptly titled “Urban Oasis: 

Seeds of Art Growing Community,” the event featured more 

than 40 pieces of artwork from six local artists who taught 

workshops for adults and children this summer at the Highland 

Youth Garden. A portion of their sales were redirected back into 

the community for programming and continued cultivation of 

the garden on S. Wheatland Avenue. The event, said HYG executive 

director Shelly Casto, was made possible thanks to 

Hilltop artist Karin Weston who applied for (and received) the 

Neighborhood Arts Connection Fellowship from the Greater 

Columbus Arts Council. Casto and Weston said they hope to 

host more art exhibitions from professional artists and budding 

student artists in the future. Above, artist Jeff Ostrowski poses 

with his mural that is located on the fence outside of the 

Highland Youth Garden House. 

Kevin Cullenen-O’Dea (right) looks at the artwork by Lee Ann 

Lander. He attended the event to support the six artists who 

contributed pieces to the exhibit, including his wife, Kara 

Cullenen-O’Dea. See additional photos of the event at columbusmessenger.com. 

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School board OKs 

agreement for SROs 

By Dedra Cordle 

Staff Writer 

A local law enforcement agency will continue 

to provide security services for the 

South-Western City Schools District. 

At its meeting on Sept. 11, the board of 

education unanimously approved a new 

agreement with the Franklin County 

Sheriff’s Office to provide security services 

at Franklin Heights and Westland High 

School. 

Under the terms of the agreement, the 

district will pay the department approximately 

$276,000 for the use of two 

deputies — or one at each high school — for 

the remainder of the 2023-2024 school 

year. 

Franklin Heights High School Principal 

Tim Donahue said the importance of the 

district having that partnership with their 

local law enforcement departments cannot 

See SCHOOL BOARD page 3 

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PAGE 2 - WESTSIDE MESSENGER - September 24, 2023 

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Marching in Arts in the Alley 


The 44th annual Arts in the Alley Music and Arts Festival may have kicked off in the evening on Sept. 15, 

but the official opening of the popular event happened the following morning when the community parade 

rolled through town. For more than an hour, over 50 civic associations, community groups, marching 

bands, and festively adorned floats parade through the heart of downtown Grove City, filling the air with 

music and laughter, and bringing delight and tons of candy to the children and adults who lined the streets. 

Among the parade entries who wowed the crowd were bands and groups from the westside, such as the 

Franklin Heights High School marching band, pictured here making their way through the route. 

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The Westland High School marching band performs on Park Street.


Mums & Mummies 

Kick off your Halloween fun this year 

with the Westgate Neighbors Association 

and Friends of Westgate Park as they partner 

for their 10th annual Mums & 

Mummies event on Sunday, Oct. 8 from 2 

to 4:30 p.m. at the Westgate Park 

Shelterhouse. 

Mums & Mummies is a free festival of 

fall garden mums and Halloween fun with 

something for every member of the family 

to enjoy. A costume contest for pets, children 

and adults will take place at 3 p.m. 

Other activities include games, trunk-ortreat, 

food, crafts, and a mum sale benefiting 

Friends of Westgate Park. The Dancing 

Witches of Westgate will also be returning, 

with a live performance scheduled at 4 p.m. 

For more information, visit westgateneighbors.org. 

Community Resource Fair 

The Hilltop Library, 511 S Hague Ave. 

in Columbus, will host a Community 

Resource Fair on Sept. 23 from 11 a.m. to 3 

p.m. Vendor tables are still available for 

community agencies. For additional information, 

contact Mike Alcock at 

malcock@columbuslibrary.org. 

SCHOOL BOARD 

Continued from page 1 

be understated. 

“School Resource Officers (SRO’s) continue 

to be an invaluable resource to students 

and staff in our four high schools,” 

said Donahue in a written statement. 

“When we are able to integrate law 

enforcement partners into our high school 

day, it helps to build positive connections 

with students they can rely on for life. 

Whether it be an emergency or sharing a 

success with an SRO at lunch, this vital 

school-community partnership helps students 

better know a friendly face in their 

community they can go to for support.” 

Deputy Dan Fahy has been the school 

resource officer at Franklin Heights for a 

little more than half-a-decade. He recently 

received a promotion at the department 

and will not be returning as the SRO this 

school year. Donahue said that he was “an 

extension” of the Golden Falcon staff, one 

who committed himself to after-school relationship 

building activities such as assisting 

with Special Olympics Buddy Ball 

games and visiting with students cheering 

on student-athletes at athletics contests. 

He said while his presence will be 

missed at the school, the newly posted 

deputy will still be a reliable source to students 

and staff inside and outside of the 

building. 

“While we will once again have a new 

SRO for the 2023-2024 school year, we 

know students will be able to rely on that 

school-community partnership with our 

new deputy in the same capacity they got 

to know and appreciate Deputy Fahy in.” 

In addition to providing protection for 

the building premises, the resource officers 

around the westside 

Food Truck and 

Fire Prevention Festival 

The Prairie Township Fire Department 

will host its annual Food Truck and Fire 

Prevention Festival from 12 to 4 p.m. Oct. 

8 at Fire Station 241, located at 123 Inah 

Ave. Participants can learn about fire safety, 

tour the station, and enjoy offerings 

from food trucks. The township’s zoning 

department will also be on hand for document 

shredding. For more information, 

visit prairietownship.org. 

School Help Centers 

Columbus Metropolitan Library will 

offer School Help Centers. Students of all 

grade levels will have a free place to get 

help with their schoolwork from staff and 

volunteers. School Help Centers offer students 

access to welcoming spaces to study 

and learn, as well as computers, printers, 

digital research tools and CML’s catalog, 

including eBooks. The hours of operation 

for the Hilltop and the Franklinton library 

branch will be from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday 

through Friday. Visit 

columbuslibrary.org/school-help to learn 

more. 

are required to investigate and document 

unruly, delinquent, and criminal acts within 

the school and neighborhood; participate 

in classroom and school assemblies; serve 

as a liaison with neighborhood businesses 

and residents in school related problems; 

and provide early detection of deviant 

behaviors in students. 

An additional objective of their role will 

be to encourage students to stay and 

attend school. 

The district’s agreement with the county 

is renewed on an annual basis. The 

Grove City Division of Police provides 

school resource officers at Central Crossing 

and Grove City High Schools. The city of 

Grove City provides the funding for the 

resource officers to be stationed at the 

schools rather than the district. 

Board members Chris Boso and 

Anthony Caldwell praised both the city of 

Grove City and the local law enforcement 

agencies for their partnership and their 

commitment to all of their schools. 

“The district and the city of Grove City 

have a strong working relationship that 

has helped support each other over the 

years,” said Boso. “This is just one other 

example of the strong working relationship 

with the city of Grove City.” 

“I appreciate the partnership that we 

have with the Franklin County Sheriff’s 

Office and the Grove City Police 

Department,” said board president 

Caldwell. “The safety and security of our 

kids is super important and having those 

folks there when we need them is really 

important and we appreciate those partnerships.” 

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A community celebrates their furry friends at Westgate Wags and Whiskers 


On Sept. 10, hundreds of individuals from across the westside and southwest communities 

came out for an afternoon of fun with their canines, cats, horses, rats, and even 

tortoises for the inaugural animal celebration known as Wags and Whiskers. Presented 

by the Westgate Neighbors Association and sponsored by BrewDog Franklinton and 

Schoedinger Pets, the four-hour long fiesta held at the West Gate Lodge on West Broad 

Street featured artisan booths for human shopping, crafts for children, and the showcasing 

of some of the most adorable animals in the area – a few of whom are still looking 

for their forever homes. Organizer Mari Ann Binder-Futty said the neighborhood 

group was not certain how many people would show up for the first Wags and 

Whiskers but was “delighted” by the higher than expected turnout. “This community 

loves their animals and we are so delighted that so many were able to come out and 

celebrate their furry, or not so furry, loved ones,” she said. Binder-Futty said they hope 

Wags and Whiskers, an event that also serves as a fundraiser for local animal shelters 

and rescue groups, will be bigger and better next year. Pictured at right, Westgate 

Wags and Whiskers committee member Gabbi Atwell Raymond takes a quick break 

from the action with best pal Ollie, 5. 

Lucy, (above) a 2-year-old “mostly poodle,” 

gets excited by the water feature. 

Bri Varney (right) and her beloved horse, 

Bubba wowed the crowd with their skills. 

Varney, a freshman at West High School, 

has competed in a number of equine 

events across the state and throughout 

the country. 

Mycroft, a 9-year-old English Bulldog, 

was all smiles at the event. 

Westgate resident Omar Roth allows his 

kitten, Bug to lick a bit of whipped cream 

off his fingers. 

Alison Cho (left), Anakin, and Antonia 

Tribuzzo (right) gather for a photo during 

the festivities. Cho said that Anakin is a 5- 

month-old cuddler who is looking for his 

forever home through the For the Love of 

Jane rescue organization.

www.columbusmessenger.com September 24, 2023 - WESTSIDE MESSENGER - PAGE 5 

Active Lifestyles 

Renew: Care for the Caregiver 

Have you or someone you know ever 

been a caregiver? If so, you know it’s a 

labor of love but can also be a demanding, 

exhausting and emotional journey with a 

loved one. But there is a day, just for caregivers. 

The fourth annual Renew will be held on 

Sept. 23 at Riverside Church, 2701 

Zollinger Road in Upper Arlington. Women 

who are the primary caregiver for a family 

member are invited for a day of respite and 

renewal. There is no cost to attend. 

Learn more and register at 

RenewForMe.org. 

A bi-monthly feature celebrating the 

wisdom, experience and contributions of our community’s senior citizens 

news and notes 

Wellness and foot care 

for senior citizens 

LifeCare Alliance provides a nurse at 

the Prairie Township Community Center 

weekly to provide free foot care and other 

wellness services. To schedule an appointment 

or for more information, contact the 

wellness office at 614-437-2878. 

Alzheimer’s support at Ashford 

The Ashford of Grove City Alzheimer’s 

support group meets the third Thursday of 

the month at 2 p.m. at 3197 Southwest 

Blvd. For more information, contact 

Bethany Watts at 614-582-4905 or 

bwatts@wallick.com. 

Al-Anon 

Al-Anon meetings are taking place from 

6 to 7 p.m. on Wednesdays at West 

Jefferson United Methodist Church, 36 S. 

Center St. Al-Anon is a fellowship of relatives 

and friends of alcoholics who share 

their experiences, strength, and hope to 

solve their common problems. 

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Fun ways for senior citizens to stay active 

Physical activity is an important component 

of overall health. Health experts 

advise that exercise can increase lean body 

mass, prevent conditions like diabetes and 

cardiovascular disease, improve balance, 

and positively affect mental health/cognition. 

Exercise also can foster socialization 

with others, helping people overcome boredom 

and isolation. 

As individuals get older, they may not 

be able to participate in all of the activities 

they enjoyed as youths, but that doesn’t 

mean older adults must resign themselves 

to sedentary lifestyles. There are plenty of 

entertaining ways to remain physically 

active that can accommodate any limitations 

a person may have. Explore these 

methods for staying active. 

Explore senior center offerings 

Community senior centers often fill calendars 

with a vast array of activities, some 

of which can include physical activities. 

Hikes, walking tours, dances, and other 

Parkinson’s support group 

The Grove City Parkinson’s support 

group meets the third Wednesday of each 

month at StoryPoint Grove City, located at 

3717 Orders Road at 1 p.m. The meetings 

club meeting 

activities all serve as entertaining ways to 

get out and about while meeting some fitness 

goals. 

Garden or do yard work 

The Office of Disease Prevention and 

Health Promotions says adults should get 

150 minutes of moderate exercise per 

week. Raking leaves, mowing the lawn, 

digging in flower beds, trimming bushes, 

and other outdoor tasks could help a person 

meet this quota in a way that doesn’t seem 

like exercise at all. 

Play games with grandchildren 

Little kids may inspire older adults to be 

more active, as it can be difficult to keep up 

with those youngsters. Take infants or toddlers 

for walks or push them in strollers. 

Attach a child seat or towing carriage to a 

bicycle and ride around the neighborhood. 

Play games that require movement, such 

as hide-and-seek or Marco Polo in the pool. 

If it’s snowing, have a snowball fight or 

make a snowman in the yard. 

take place in the assisted living area of the 

community, which is located around the 

back of the building. The meetings are 

open to all who want to learn more about 

Parkinson’s disease. For more information, 

call Kathy Hakes at 614-507-8458. 


Take up a new hobby 

Find hobbies that incorporate physical 

activity. Perhaps learning to salsa dance or 

taking Zumba will be fun? Pickleball has 

caught on across the nation. The sport is a 

mix of tennis, racquetball and badminton 

that caters to all ages. Joining a bowling 

Through technology, diet, fitness and medicine, 

adults are active, living healthier and longer. 

Today’s consumer wants choices that meet and 

exceed their lifestyle expectations. After age 55, 

you may be working and still managing all the 

responsibilities of home ownership. At some 

point, you may begin exploring options for a simpler 

lifestyle that affords more time to pursue 

travel, hobbies, and freedom to be on the go. 

Active adult communities offer the space and 

environment for a socially engaging resident 

experience. An active lifestyle is rich with social 

engagement, physical fitness, intellectual and 

educational endeavors, creative, regular programming, 

and entertainment events are directed by 

residents or led by your friends and neighbors in 

the community. 

While active adult communities are new to 

team is another way to get active and meet 

new people. 

Physical activity is important at any 

age. Seniors can explore fun ways to stay in 

shape and be active to reap all the benefits 

of exercise. 


Active adult living is carefree, 

maintenance-free and fun 

central Ohio, it is a growing segment of multifamily 

residential properties across the country. 

These communities are meant to provide all the 

comforts of a single-family home with the convenience 

of being in a walkable neighborhood or 

a short drive from shopping, dining, entertainment, 

and healthcare. Such offerings fit with 

active adult consumers’ priorities, which can 

include housing accessibility, affordability, ease 

of maintenance, outdoor spaces for relaxation, 

proximity to shopping and activities, social interaction 

and connectivity and access to support and 

concierge services. 

Active adult living provides a social lifestyle 

that comes with being empty nesters and/or 

retired and having more time to learn, play, 

explore and make new and lasting friends on the 

same journey. 

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Time is of the essence for Franklin 

County property owners who wish to schedule 

a Property Value Review, a process 

which allows property owners to have a 

voice in establishing their property value. 

The reviews are being held throughout 

the month of September at locations across 

Franklin County as well as virtually. The 

process allows property owners to discuss 

their opinion of their property’s new tentative 

value with auditor’s office appraisal 

representatives. 

To schedule a Property Value Review, 

visit the Know Your Home Value website 

or call the auditor’s office at 614-525-3388. 

“I encourage anyone who feels their tentative 

value is too high or too low to schedule 

a Property Value Review and ensure 

your opinion is heard,” said Franklin 

County Auditor Michael Stinziano. 

The reviews are part of the 2023 reappraisal, 

a once-every-six-year comprehensive 

property value update of all properties 

throughout the county that is required by 

state law. 

To prepare for a Property Value Review, 

homeowners are encouraged to provide documentation 

in support of their opinion of 


A team approach with you at the center 

Canal Winchester Health and Rehabilitation 

focuses on short-term rehabilitative care and 

assisted living while offering a full continuum of 

services. 

That continuum includes post-hospital rehabilitation, 

inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, 

skilled nursing as well as respite care. This gorgeous 

community is nestled on 7.5 acres off 

Gender Road with convenient access to shopping 

necessities and the charm of downtown Canal 

Winchester. 

Residents and families enjoy beautifully landscaped 

courtyards and pond, patios, a private dining 

room, and comfortable lounges to visit with 

each other and fellow residents. Social and recreational 

activities are planned every day of the 

week, and transportation services make it easy to 

enjoy the surrounding area. 

Dining at Canal Winchester features delicious, 

chef-prepared meals and resident-directed menu 

items. Our dining services team focuses on two 

primary goals: selection and enjoyment. We also 

have registered and licensed dieticians who work 

with residents to create therapeutic diets that 

allow for resident choice. 

Residents are offered flexibility through multiple 

dining locations and times. For special occasions, 

residents can host guests in the dining 

room. Guests are always welcome to dine with 

residents in the main dining room as well. Room 

service is available upon request. 

A team approach, with you at the center. 


the property’s value. Documentation can 

include photos of detrimental property conditions, 

a private appraisal, evidence of 

nearby home sales, or a copy of a conveyance 

form or purchase agreement. 

Final value determinations will be sent 


Franklin County auditor’s office is scheduling property value reviews 

When losing a loved one, religious traditions 

honor those lost and help bring us peace. You 

might know how your faith honors loved ones, 

but other faiths may be different. 

Christian: 

Loved ones usually send flowers, cards, or 

food to help a grieving family. Those who passed 

are typically dressed in something nice or their 

favorite clothing. 

Catholicism: 

Catholics mark death in three stages: the 

wake, the funeral mass, and the committal. It is 

tradition for mourners to wear dark clothing. 

Judaism: 

Traditional Jewish funerals are typically very 

simple. The loved one is washed thoroughly and 

is buried wearing linens called a tachrichim. The 

burial must happen within three days. Mourners 

grieve by sitting shiva with loved ones. 

Hinduism: 

Typically, Hindus believe their dead should be 

to property owners in December. 

For more information on Property Value 

Reviews, how to prepare for your review, 

and tentative property values, visit the 

Know Your Home Value site at audrkyhv.franklincountyohio.gov. 


Every faith has traditions 

to help families say goodbye 

cremated. Prior to that, the loved one will remain 

in their family’s home. Those attending the funeral 

ceremony will wear white clothing. 

Islam: 

In the Islamic faith, funerals are expected to 

occur as quickly after death as possible, with no 

viewing, wake, or visitation, and cremation is 

prohibited. While some Muslim communities 

allow women and children to attend, typically it is 

just men. 

Buddhism: 

Buddhists believe in samsara, the cycle of life; 

Buddhist funerals help loved ones progress into 

future lives. At the ceremonies, attendees share 

memories of the loved ones and their good deeds. 

It is tradition to leave a loved one’s body 

untouched for four hours so the soul can leave the 

body. 

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WESTSIDE MESSENGER - September 24, 2023 PAGE 9 

 

 

Franklin County Board of Commissioners: President John O’Grady • Commissioner Kevin L. Boyce, and Commissioner Erica C. Crawley 

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners and The Franklin County Office on Aging join with the Messenger Newspaper in providing this update on aging issues in Franklin County. 

Franklin County Office on Aging Presents the 

4th Annual Caring for the Caregiver Expo 

Spencer 4Higher Media LLC recently announced that the Franklin 

County Office on Aging will be the presenting sponsor for the 4th 

Annual Caring for the Caregiver Expo on Saturday, November 4, 2023, 

in Columbus, Ohio at The Boat House at Confluence Park. The 4th 

Annual Caring for the Caregiver Expo runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

The 4th Annual Caring for the Caregiver Expo is a free one-of-kind 

event that allows caregivers, first responders, essential workers, parents, 

grandparents and guardians a chance to enjoy pampering services like 

massages, mini manicures and facials. Attendees can also participate in 

various well-being activities, including yoga, aerobics and meditation. 

Community resources and information from health care organizations, 

businesses and government agencies will be available onsite. In addition, 

the Franklin County Office on Aging has planned a series of informative 

lunch and learn sessions. These sessions will cover a range of 

topics, including kinship services, housing resources, home repair information, 

probate court procedures and steps to ensure your wishes are 

honored, and more. 

"The Annual Caring for the Caregiver Expo marks the beginning of 

National Caregivers Month and I’m delighted to reveal the return of the 

Franklin County Office on Aging as our presenting sponsor," stated 

Brenda D. Spencer, President of Spencer 4Higher Media LLC and 

Founder of the Annual Caring for the Caregiver Expo. "Since its inaugural 

event in 2019, the Franklin County Office on Aging has been an 

ideal partner, steadfastly supporting our mission," Spencer added. 

The Franklin County Office on Aging provides centralized access to 

diverse programs and individualized services for older adults, dependent 

adults and their families so they can preserve their independence 

and stay in their own home. Franklin County residents 60 years old and 

older can access various programs and services through the agency, as 

well as support services for caregivers and kinship families, including 

adult day services, durable medical equipment, caregiver counseling 

and more. 

"The Franklin County Office on Aging is elated to serve as the presenting 

sponsor for the 4th Annual Caring for the Caregiver Expo," stated 

Director Chanda Wingo. "Caregivers often juggle the responsibilities of 

looking after loved ones, maintaining their jobs, and nurturing their own 

families. The tireless commitment and 24/7 care they provide takes a 

toll on their physical, mental and emotional health. This event offers 

them an opportunity to unwind, rejuvenate and recharge, ensuring they 

can continue delivering top-notch care for their loved ones," Wingo 

said. 

For more information about the 4th Annual Caring for the Caregiver 

Expo, call (614) 348-2667 or visit caringforthecaregiverexpo.com. 

### 

The Franklin County Office on Aging provides centralized access to 

diverse programs and individualized services for older adults, dependent 

adults, and their families so they can preserve their independence. 

Learn more at officeonaging.org and follow FCOA on Facebook, X 

(formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.



Mid-Ohio Market at Gantz Road to open this fall 

By Andrea Cordle 

Westside Editor 

The Mid-Ohio Food Collective’s community 

pantry in Grove City is the busiest in 

central Ohio. People in need of food used to 

come into the pantry, located at 3960 

Brookham Drive, to pick up needed goods. 

When the novel coronavirus hit in 2020, 

the food pantry could no longer allow people 

inside, but offered a drive-thru service. 

More than three years later, the drive-thru 

is still going strong. 

According to Mike Hochron, senior vice 

president of communications for the Mid- 

Ohio Food Collective, the drive-thru community 

pantry routinely serves anywhere 

from several hundred to over a thousand 

families each day. It operates 40 hours and 

six days a week. At times, it will be so busy, 

vehicles are lined up around the facility 

waiting for food. 

While those in need of food wait in their 

vehicles, inside volunteers pack up bags 

and boxes of food. They then load the goods 

into the vehicle. People have no say in what 

they get. 

That is about to change. 

This fall, the drive-thru service will 

close and the Mid-Ohio Market at Gantz 

Road will open. This will be the eighth 

market the food collective has opened in 

the Columbus area, and it will be the 

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largest. 

According to Hochron, the food collective 

purchased the property near the intersection 

of Gantz and Stringtown roads, where 

the Aldi used to be located. This location is 

less than one mile from the pantry at 

Brookham Drive. 

“This is a better fit,” said Hochron. 

How will the new market in Grove City 

work? Hochron said it will be just like 

shopping at a grocery store. Visitors will 

sign in, get a cart, and shop for what they 

need. 

“Only, they don’t have to pay,” he said. 

Hochron said not only is this more convenient, 

but it also helps to remove the 

stigma that can come with the need for food 

assistance. 

“I had a mother tell me that she loved 

shopping at our markets because she can 

put her child in a cart and shop, just like at 

other grocery stores, and her child did not 

know she was in a food pantry,” said 

Hochron. “This is a more dignified way to 

help families get the food they need.” 

Hochron said the opening of the Mid- 

Ohio Market at Gantz Road has not yet 

been determined, but he said it will be 

sometime this fall. 

“It was a grocery store, so we are 

already set up for what we need,” he said. 

FreshTrak 

According to Hochron, most (or 75 percent) 

of Mid-Ohio customers at the on-site 

community pantry in Grove City travel 

from at least three to six miles away and 

more than half come from six to 10 miles 

away. But they may not need to travel so 

far from home. 

For example, a customer may travel to 

Grove City from the westside of Columbus. 

There are two markets that would probably 

be closer. The Mid-Ohio Market at My 

Project USA is located at 3275 Sullivant 

Ave. on the Hilltop and the Mid-Ohio 

Market at Norton Road is located at 620 

Norton Road. 

Mid-Ohio Food Collective is encouraging 

customers to use freshtrak.com. This 

allows people to input their zip code to find 

food resources closer to home. 

Volunteers Needed 

According to Hochron, the food collective 

relies on volunteers, and they have more 

than 1,000 of them every week. The volunteers 

may sort and pack food, help to register 

customers, and work in the markets to 

assist shoppers. 

“We have a lot of volunteers from Grove 

City,” said Hochron. “They are helping to 

serve their neighbors. But we always need 

volunteers.” 

For more information on volunteering or 

on the Mid-Ohio markets, visit mofc.org. 

Glenwood UM Church 

2833 Valleyview Drive 

(Corner of Valleyview Dr. and Hague Ave) 

Saturday, September 30 

10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. 

Lunch - Bake Sale - Crafters 

75+ Basket Raffles • 2 Quilt Raffles 

news and notes 

Messenger photo by Andrea Cordle 

Rich Green is on his way out of the Mid- 

Ohio Food Collective’s community 

pantry in Grove City so customers in the 

drive-thru can pick up their goods. Green 

was volunteering at the food pantry on 

Sept. 13 with other employees from 

Bread Financial. 

SWCS College Fair 

The South-Western City School District 

will host its annual College Fair from 6 to 

8 p.m. Oct. 9 at Central Crossing High 

School, 4500 Big Run South Road in Grove 

City. 

This year’s College Fair will feature 

over 80 college and military representatives 

who will be in attendance to provide 

vital information and insights to eager students. 

The event aims to assist students in 

exploring various educational pathways, 

career choices, and future prospects. 

In addition to the wealth of institutions 

represented, there will be a dedicated 

Financial Aid informational session from 7 

p.m. to 8 p.m. This session will offer families 

valuable guidance on navigating the 

often complex world of financial assistance 

for higher education. District community 

partner I Know I Can, a renowned organization 

dedicated to assisting students with 

college planning, will also be present. Their 

knowledgeable representatives will be 

available to offer guidance, answer questions, 

and provide resources to help students 

on their journey toward higher education 

success. 

In an effort to streamline the informational 

exchange process and to enhance the 

day-of experience for our students, the district 

will be pre-registering students 

through a software called Strivescan. 

Strivescan is a software system designed to 

reduce the time students have historically 

spent filling out information cards for colleges, 

universities, and recruiters. To take 

advantage of this new system, register in 

advance at www.strivefair.com. 

For more information, visit swcsd.us. 

Free legal advice 

The Legal Aid Society of Columbus will 

offer free legal advice the first Monday of 

each month at the Westland Area Library, 

4740 West Broad St. Representatives will 

be on hand from 4 to 6 p.m. to discuss noncriminal 

legal matters like health benefits, 

medicare, and landlord issues. For more 

information, call the library at 614-878- 

1301.


Pets of the week 

These furry friends are 

available for adoption 

at local rescues and 

shelters 

WESTSIDE MESSENGER - September 24, 2023 PAGE 11 

Berry is a very handsome boy who started 

out quite shy but has really come out of his 

shell and enjoys human company. This 1-yearold 

has grown into a fairly large cat but he still 

has a baby squeak for a meow. Most of the 

time he is quiet but when he knows dinner 

time is near, he gets vocal. Berry would do 

best in a home with other cats as he likes to 

take cues from the more confident cats in his 

foster home. Adopt him from Friends for Life 

Animal Haven 

FYI: fflah.org 

Charlie is a 1-year-old boy who is eager to 

find his forever family. He is a sweet boy who 

likes to play. Charlie is available for adoption 

through Colony Cats however, he is currently 

residing at the Kitty Bubble Cafe. If interested, 

you can meet him in the Cat Lounge. Thirty 

minute visits are $10. To make a reservation, 

visit kittybubblecafereservation. The Kitty 

Bubble Cafe & Bar is located at 5566 N High 

St. in Worthington. 

FYI: colonycats.org 

Sydney is an affectionate and loving girl looking 

for a family and home to call her own. She 

has been described as a gentle soul. She 

loves to snuggle, gets along with children and 

with other dogs. A volunteer said Sydney is 

nothing but warmth and love. Adopt her from 

Franklin County shelter. 

FYI: franklincountydogs.com 

Beverly is an introvert with a playful side. This 

sweet girl is 3 years old and she’s looking for a 

comfy place to call home. The more time you 

spend with Beverly, the more and more she 

will open up to you. She begins to seek affection 

after getting to know you better, culminating 

with her cuddling with you and giving you 

gentle kisses. Her playful, goofy side comes 

out around her canine friends. She is up for 

adoption at the Franklin County shelter. 

FYI: franklincountydogs.com 

around the westside 

Breakfast at the Lodge to benefit Special Olympics 

The West Gate Masonic Lodge #623 is preparing breakfast once 

a month to benefit the Special Olympics. The public is invited to 

have breakfast the second Saturday of each month at 2925 West 

Broad St. Adults eat for a donation of $7 and kids can have a meal 

for $3. Serving is from 9 a.m. to noon. For more information, email 

westgate623@gmail.com. 

Produce giveaway at YMCA 

The Hilltop YMCA hosts a fresh produce giveaway the third 

Wednesday of each month from 4 to 6 p.m. at 2879 Valleyview 

Drive in Columbus. For more information, call the YMCA at 614- 

276-8224. 

Free lunch at Hilltop Methodist 

The United Hilltop Methodist Church will host a free community 

lunch every Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The church is located 

at 99 S. Highland Ave. 

Biennium 

Budget Highlights, 

Part 5 

In this part of my series about Ohio’s biennium fiscal 

2024-25 budget, I am highlighting more amendments 

I sponsored and co-sponsored related to K12 

education that the legislature approved, and that 

Governor DeWine signed into law. 

As I mentioned in my last issue’s article, the two 

most important amendments related to K12 education 

funding I co-sponsored were utilizing current 

salary inputs for the Fair School Funding Plan, which 

resulted in over $800 million more for our Ohio public 

schools and the establishment of a statewide task 

force to define the cost of educating economically 

disadvantaged students. In addition to these, 16 

more of my amendments made it into the final 

budget. 

Among them was language to assure that dollars allocated 

to schools for gifted student education get 

used solely for the benefit of these designated 

young people. Too often services for our most able 

students get spent on other needs. A second 

amendment increased funding for high school Advanced 

Placement testing. These two amendments 

will help to ensure that our best and brightest continue 

to be encouraged and challenged. 

Another amendment increased funding by 

$750,000 to the PAST Foundation, an organization 

providing advanced professional development to 

teachers in mathematics and science. This group 

has been successful at helping educators provide 

quality instruction in M/S curriculum. It has a 

proven track record of reaching large numbers of 

teachers (and, therefore, students) cost effectively, 

which has led to increased test scores for affected 

students. I also co-sponsored a measure that increased 

funding beyond the $300 million already allocated 

to career technical school facilities and 

equipment. Yet a third amendment established a 

permanent liaison position for school counseling 

within the Department of Education. 

We also wanted to make sure that our most vulnerable 

students were taken care of adequately. We increased 

funding limits for the Jon Peterson 

Scholarships, which help to fund extra services for 

autistic and other special needs young people. We 

added funding for adaptive sports programs and 

dyslexia professional development to help teachers 

better identify students with vision deficiencies. 

Finally, we relaxed a FAFSA completion requirement 

for high school graduation, instead making it part 

of financial literacy curriculum for high school students, 

and redefined the bus transportation penalty 

to reduce its financial effect on school districts already 

challenged with a shortage of drivers. 

I will highlight successful amendments in other 

areas of the budget in my next communication with 

you 

(Dave Dobos represents the 10th District in the Ohio 

House of Representatives, which consists of parts of 

West, Southwest, and South Columbus, Grove City, 

Urbancrest, and most of Franklin Township. He reports 

regularly on his activities in this position and his 

campaign has paid for this communication with you.) 

Paid Advertisement 

ONLY $65.00 

COLUMBUS MESSENGER 

SUBSCRIPTION 

4139 WEST BROAD ST. 

COLUMBUS, OH 43228 

614-272-5422


Voter’s Guide 


Photo courtesy of South-Western City Schools 

Cadets pay tribute on Sept. 11 

Westland High School Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AJROTC) 

cadets hosted their annual Patriot Day Ceremony to commemorate and pay tribute 

to the 22nd anniversary of Sept. 11. As part of the ceremony, the Westland High 

School chorale performed the National Anthem with first responders from Prairie 

Township. 

The Westside Messenger sent a questionnaire 

to candidates running for local 

Franklin Township 

Trustee 

• Mike Blevins, 

1855 Ransburg 

Avenue. 

O c c u p a t i o n : 

Retired Route 

Salesman for 

Nickles Bakery 

Education/military/ 

and/or political 

experience: I 

(one to be elected) 

attended South-Western City Schools. 

Immediately following high school, I began 

working at Nickles Bakery as a route salesman 

and also was a union steward for 20 

years. I retired in 2017 after 39-½ years. 

I’ve been involved in Boy Scouts, PTA, and 

many afterschool activities with my children/grandchildren. 

Goals if elected? I will work with the 

Administrator & department heads to 

instill teamwork. Hold office hours 2x 

week. Encourage my fellow trustees to hold 

at least one meeting a month in the 

evening. Work on the budget so we don’t 

have to come back to the voters as often. 

• Zachary J. 

Whitt, 3458 Lowell 

Dr. Columbus 

O c c u p a t i o n : 

Attorney/Financial 

M a n a g e m e n t 

Analyst with 

Northrop Grumman 

Corporation 



experience: I have a 

B.A. degree from 

Mike Blevins 

Zachary Whitt 

The Ohio State University and a law 

degree (J.D.) from Capital University. The 

past six years, I’ve worked for a large federal 

contractor in the corporate treasury 

office and prior to that, I was a civil servant 

with the Defense Finance & 

Accounting Service. 

Goals if elected? A Franklin Township 

resident for 12 years, I will use my education 

and extensive professional experience 

in law, finance, government accounting 

and contracting to passionately serve the 

community which has been so supportive 

of myself and my family. On November 

7th, I ask for your support. Thank you, 

Zachary Whitt. 

Editor’s Note - If there is no photo with 

the candidate’s questionnaire answers, one 

was not provided. 

office in contested races in the Nov. 7 election. 

The following are their responses. 

Prairie Township 

Trustee 

• Catherine 

Martinez 

Occupation: EXP 

Realty - Columbus 

Fox Group and 

Office Manager 

Savvas Ramone 

LLC 



e x p e r i e n c e : 

Associates of Arts - 


Columbus State 

Community College 

Goals if elected? To create a community 

that we can be proud of. I want to increase 

community involvement in township matters, 

ensure thoughtful development policies 

and preserve green space/build community 

gardens. 

• Mike McKay - did not respond 

• Doug Stormont - did not respond 

Prairie Township 

Fiscal Officer 


Catherine 

Martinez 

• Natalie McKay - did not respond 

• Alec Milam, 539 S Murray Hill Road, 

Columbus 

Occupation: Manager of Milam 

Properties and Manager of family residential 

demolition/hauling business 

Education/military/ and/or political 

experience: Graduated from Ohio 

University in 2017 with a Bachelor of 

Business Administration Degree, majoring 

in Finance. I am self-employed and have 

been in charge of running my family’s real 

estate portfolio and residential demolition 

and hauling business. I’m a member of the 

Prairie Township Zoning Commission, 

serving as Secretary. 

Goals if elected? If elected as Fiscal 

Officer, I will practice and enforce responsible 

financial management. I’ll ensure 

transparency and accuracy in financial 

reporting, promote cost-efficient financial 

activities, and professionally communicate 

with Trustee’s. My overall goal is to enable 

sound financial decisions that guarantees 

the continuity of the township’s financial 

success.


September 24, 2023 - WESYSIDE MESSENGER - PAGE 13 

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The National Trade Association 

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WANT TO RENT THAT APARTMENT 

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Advertise It!! 

CALL KATHY 

For Rate Information 

at the Columbus Messenger 

614-272-5422 


Donate your car, truck, 

boat, RV and more to 

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Advertise it here and in 

neighboring publications. 

We can help you. Contact 

MACnet MEDIA @ 

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HELP WANTED 

Bold Penguin Inc. seeks a 

Manager 

(Data 

Engineering) in Columbus, 

OH to dvlp mcrosrvce 

archtctre.l Send Cover 

Letter and Resume to: 

careers@amfam.com. 

Subject: Ref#MDE1 

Kings Kids Daycare 

in Grove City is hiring Fun, 

Loving Teachers for PT & 

FT shifts. Please email 

sarragc@outlook.com or 

call 614-539-0349 

Bold Penguin Inc. seeks a 

Systems Engineer in 

Columbus, OH to prform 

systm mnitring and 

mntence. Send Cover 

Letter and Resume to: 

careers@amfam.com. 

Subject : Ref#SE1 

Rentals 

CHILD CARE 

OFFERED 

Depend. Quality Child care 

in loving hm. Exp. Mom, n- 

smkr, hot meals, sncks, 

playroom, fncd yd. Reas. 

rates. Laurie at 853-2472 

Mother of 2 will babysit in 

my non-smoking Westside 

home. Ages Newborn to 

Kindegarten. 25 yrs. exp. 

Please call Maggie 

614-800-9538 

DATED SALES 

GARAGE/YARD SALE 

3368 Cameron St., G.C. 

Sept. 28, 29 & 30, 9a-4p 

Furn, tools, Longaberger, 

Match Box, dolls, antiqs, 

primitive, books, Christmas, 

Vera Bradley, quilts & more 

WANT TO BUY 

ANTIQUES 

WANTED 

Victrolas, Watches, 

Clocks, Bookcases 

Antiques, Furn. 

Jeff 614-262-0676 

or 614-783-2629 

WE BUY JUNK CARS 

Call anytime 614-774-6797 

We Buy Junk Cars & 

Trucks. Highest Prices 

Paid. 614-395-8775 

RENTALS 

HILLTOP DOUBLE 

3 BR, off street parking, 

Rent $1000/mo, dep. same 

2 BR Upper Unit, balcony 

Rent $900/mo, dep. same 

Bill Weygandt Realtor 

614-226-6767 

Eakin-1 Br Apt, crpt, appls. 

No Pets 614-560-3050 

USED VEHICLES 

96 Ford Thunderbird, 2 dr, 

V8, auto, runs & drives - 

$1400 OBO. 

614-357-6204 

BLACKTOP 

AGM OHIO 

SEALCOATING 

Free Estimates 

Cell 614-512-1699 

SANTIAGO’S 

Sealcoating & Services LLC 

Quality Materials Used 

FALL IS HERE! 

Driveway Seal & Repair! 

Top Seal Cracks! 

Reidential & Commercial 

Mulching, Edging 

& Clean-ups 

“Ask for whatever you need” 

BBB Accredited 

10/15 

FULLY INSURED A&M 

Call or text for Free Est. 

614-649-1200 

CITY WIDE 

ASPHALT & 

CONCRETE 

Blacktop & Concrete 

Licensed/Bonded 

Quality Work 

Competitive Prices 

Since 1981 

Call Craig Lantz 

Local Resident 

614-374-6217 

citywideasphaltand 

construction@gmail.com 

BBB A+ Accredited Contractor 

Grove City Chamber of Commerce Member 

CARPET CLEANING 

CLEANING 

HOUSE CLEANING 

20 Years Exp. 

Call Judy 614-746-0273 

INFORMATION 

10/1 

W/GC 

CARPET CLEANING 

Any 5 areas ONLY $75 

Home Powerwash-$99-$200 

614-805-1084 

Specializing in Pet Odors 

CARPET SALES 

CARPET 

Gray Saxony 

270 sq.ft. w/6 lb Pad 

$398.00 

Other Carpet AvailableA 

Phone or text Ray 

740-927-3504 

Delivery & Inst. avail. 

FOR ONLY 

$74.00 

You Can Reach 

Over 42,000 Homes 

In Our 

West & Grove City 

Areas 

For Info Call 

272-5422 

10/1 S/gp 

CONCRETE 

CITY WIDE 

CONCRETE & 

ASPHALT 

Blacktop & Concrete 

Licensed/Bonded 

Quality Work 


Since 1981 

Call Craig Lantz 

Local Resident 

10/1 

W/GC 

614-374-6217 

citywideasphaltand 

construction@gmail.com 

BBB A+ Accredited Contractor 

Grove City Chamber of Commerce Member 

ALL-CITY CUSTOM 

CONCRETE 

Small Concrete Jobs 

& Excavation 

41 Yrs. Exp. 

(614) 207-5430 

Owner is On The Job! 

GALLION 

CUSTOM CONCRETE LLC 

Specializing in Custom Colors & 

Custom Designs of Concrete. 

Including Remove & Replace 

45 yrs exp & Free Est. 

Licensed & Insured 

Reputation Built 

On Quality 

614-875-8364 

614-419-7721 

See Us On Facebook 

www.gallioncustom 

concrete.com 

EDDIE MOORE 

CONSTRUCTION 

Quality Concrete Work 

Lt. Hauling & Room Add., 

Driveways & Excavation 

Stamp Patios, 

Bsmt. Wall Restoration 

36 Yrs Exp - Lic & Ins. 

Free Ests. 614-871-3834 

www.hastingsnsons.com 

Driveways & Extensions 

Patio & Walkways, 

Porches & Steps, 

Garage/Basement Floors 

Hot Tub/Shed Pads, 

Stamped/colored concrete 

Sealing of new & 

existing concrete. 

FREE ESTIMATES 

Contact 

614-756-1754 

hastingsandsons. 

columbus@gmail.com 

AJ’s Concrete, 

Masonry 

Good Work - Fair Prices 

Block Foundations 

Driveways • Sidewalks 

Colored/Stamped Concrete 

Bonded-Ins. • Free Ests. 

614-419-9932 

10/1 W/SW 

10/1 A 

DRYWALL 

DRYW 

YWALL ALL & 

PLASTER REPAIR 

Textured Ceilings 

Popcorn Ceiling Removal 

Call Randy 

614-551-6963 

Residential/Commercial - BIA 

FENCING 

EAZY FENCE 

Chain Link - Wood 

No Job Too Big or Small 

All Repairs ~ Free Est. 

Insured. 614-670-2292 

GUTTERS 

Dave’s Gutter Serv. 

Cleaned, Repaired, Installed, 

Gutter Covers & Drains. 

614-875-9361/614-205-9057 

Low Price-Great Service 

5 & 6” Seamless gutters, 

covers, siding, gutter clng. 

Bill 614-306-4541 

HAULING 

ZANE’S DUMPSTERS 

Call 614-254-1131 

DEAN’S HAULING 

614-276-1958 

HEATING & COOLING 

HVAC & A/C 

Fast Service - Licensed 

614-633-9694 

HOME 

IMPROVEMENTS 

KLAUSMAN HOME 

IMPROVEMENT 

Siding-Windows- 

Doors-Roofing-Soffit- 

Fascia-Gutters-Trim 

Earn FREE Seamless 

Gutters with Siding Over 

1000 Sq. Ft. 

FREE Shutters with 

Soffit & Trim 

EPA Certified 

Member of BBB 

Financing Available 

Over 20 yrs exp. • Free Est. 

Licensed-Bonded-Insured 

Owner & Operator 

James 614-419-7500 

BLANTON REMODELING 

Call Bob for any 

Remodeling Work. 

Baths, Kitchen, Basement, 

Small Projects. 40 yrs exp 

Trash Removal. 

614-736-7911 

C&JHandyman 

Services LLC 

Minor Plumbing & Electric 

Install Hot Water Tanks, 

Dishwashers & Disposals 

All Interior Remodels 

Also Fencing & 

Interior/Exterior Painting 

Free Est. ~ 18 Yrs. Exp. 

CDC/EPA Approved Guidelines 

614-284-2100 

7/30 A&M 

10/1 A 

10/1 A 

HOME 

IMPROVEMENTS 

SLAGLE 

HOME REMODELING 

Baths, Kitchen, 

Plumbing and Electrical. 

All your Handyman needs 

No Job too Big or Small 

Over 30 Yrs. Exp. Lic.-Bond-Ins. 

Jerry 

614-332-3320 

HOME 

MAINTENANCE 

HOME 

REMODELING 

Classified Services 

9/31 

SW/W 

CandC 

Handyman Services LLC 

614-378-7469 

Int./Ext. Remodels, 

Water Heaters, 

Plumbing, Fence, 

Sidewalks, Decks, 

Int./Ext. Paintng 

& Electrical Work 

SINCE 1973 

Phil Bolon Contr. 

Windows & Siding 

Decks, Kitchens, Baths 

Room Additions, 

Flooring, Roofing 

Bsmt Waterproofing 

Deal With Small Non-Pressure Co. 

47 Yrs. Exp. - Refs. Avail. 

Lic.-Bond-Ins. 

10/15 

A/M 

Free Est. - Financing Avail. 

Member BBB Of Cent. OH 

O.C.I.E.B. ID #24273 

614-419-3977 

or 614-863-9912 

HANDYMAN SERVICES 

614-235-1819 

BATH REMODELS 

Expert Craftsmanship 

20 yrs exp - Sr. Discount 

614-633-9695 

Charlies Handyman 

Service 

Over 40 yrs. exp. 

Plumbing & Hot Water Tanks 

Doors & Locks 

Kitchen/Bath Remodels 

Dishwasher Installs 

Roofmg * Siding 

Porches & Decks 

614-319-6010 

LANDSCAPING 

A-1 QUALITY 

TREE & LANDSCAPE 

Family Owned 

Bed & Yard Maint. 

Weeding, Mulching, etc. 

Hedge/Shrub Trimming 

Payment Plan Available 

614-596-9504 

Insured - Free Est. 

10/1 A 

LAWN CARE 

SOWERS LAWN CARE 

Mowing-mulching-trimming 

Fall cleanup-614-397-0566 

Take Care of Your Ugly 

Grass Problem NOW! 

Lawn & Turf 

Repair & Seeding 


614-596-9504 

LET US MAINTAIN 

YOUR LAWN & GARDEN 

FOR YOU 

Summer, Spring, 

Winter or Fall 

WE DO IT ALL!!!! 

Lawn Cuts, Edging, 

Trees & Shrubs, Garden, 

Mulching, Hauling, 

Garden Pond & 

Home Maint. 

Free Ests. Low Rates 

$20 & Up 

Kevin - 614-905-3117 

MOWER 

REPAIR 

TREMONT 

MOWER REPAIR 

10/1 

We service 

W/GC 

Electric & Gas Powered 

Lawn Equipment 

&Snow Blowers 

614-357-6204 

PAINTING 

AMOS PAINTING 

614-732-7852 

BEST QUALITY 

40 yrs exp. I do the Work! 

Daniel - 614-226-4221 

PLASTERING 

& Stucco 

NEW AND 

REPAIR 

Established 1917 

Geo. F. Neff & Co. 

614-274-5629 

PLUMBING 

All About Drains & Plumb. 

Will snake any small drain 

$145. 614-778-2584 

MYERS 

PLUMBING 

Licensed Expert Plumbing 

New Const. & Fast Repairs 

Water * Sewer * Gas 

614-633-9694 

CHRIS’ 

PLUMBING 

“Plumbing & Drain Professional 

That You Can Count On” 

24 Hrs., 7 Days/Week 

No Overtime Charges 

24 Yrs. Exp. in Plumbing & 

Drain Cleaning Field 

Call For A Free Phone Estimate 

$100.00 For Any Small Drain 

614-622-4482 

30% OFF with AD 

POOL/SPA 

MAINTENANCE 

K&L Spa Cleaning 

Hot Tub Cleaning and 

Weekly Maintenance 

Keith 614-316-9809 

10/1 A 

POWER WASHING 

ABURTO 

PRESSURE WASHING 

•Homes •Roofs •Gutters 

•Driveways •Sidewalks 

•Parking Lots 

Quality • Free Estimates 


614-927-8968 

MRS. POWERWASH 

Any house wash $149+tax 

Single deck $69+tax 

2 Tier deck $99+tax 

Best Wash in Town 

Over 45,000 washes 

Ashley 614-771-3892 

ROOFING 

ROBINSON ROOFING 

& REPAIRS 

30 yrs exp. Lifetime Cols 

Resident. Reas. Rates. 

Dennis Robinson 

614-330-3087, 732-3100 

RETIRED 

ROOFER 

BBB “A+” Rating 

All Types of Roof Repairs 

• New Roof Installation 

• Flashing 

• Chimneys Rebuilt 

• Flat Roof Specialist 

• Roof Replacement 

avail. upon request 

All Work Guaranteed 

614-352-7057 

retired-roofer.com 


SEWING MACHINE 

REPAIR 

REPAIR all makes 24 hr. 

service. Clean, oil, adjust 

in your home. $49.95 all 

work gtd. 614-890-5296 

TREE SERVICES 

A-1 QUALITY 

TREE & LANDSCAPE 

Family Owned 


614-596-9504 

Insured - Free Est. 

Warren Brewer Tree Service 

• Tree Removal 

• Tree Trimming 10/1 

A&M 

• Stump Grinding 

• Bucket Truck Services 

Best Prices • Same Day Service 

614-878-2568 

BURNS TREE SERVICE 

Trimming, Removal & 

Stump Grinding. 

614-584-2164 

Arbaugh 

Tree Service 

Deadwood Thinning 

& Shaping of Trees 

Removal & 

Stump Grinding 

Bucket Truck Service 

614-837-1316 


10/15 A&M 

10/15 W/SW 

10/15A


WESTGATE UNITED 

METHODIST CHURCH 

61 S. Powell Ave., Columbus,OH 43204 

Come - Let’s Worship Together! 

Pastor Nancy Day-Achauer 

Worship Service 9:00 a.m. 

Sunday School 10:00 a.m. 

westgateumc@sbcglobal.net 

614-274-4271 

Be a Part of Our Local Worship Guide 

Our upcoming Worship Guide is geared toward celebrating faith and helping readers connect with 

religious resources in our community. Make sure these readers know how you can help with a presence in 

this very special section distributed to more than 25,000 households in the Westside area. 

Contact us today to secure your spot in our Worship Guide. 

614.272.5422 • kathy@columbusmessenger.com 

Messenger 

Westside 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STA 

RT ADVE 

RTISIN 

G NO 

W 

I ha 

v ONE 

FRONT PAGE 

AD OPE 

Reser 

eserve e that t space TOD 

A 

Y! 

Dat 

es to Adver 

ertise before the Election 

10/ 

8 

10/ 

/22 

11/ 

10/ 

2 Ad 

with Fre 

e St 

to r 

y · 11/ 

1 

Ad 

with 

Free Sto 

 

 

 

 

 

Please visit the 

Westside Church 

of your choice. 

List your Worship 

Services here. 

For info. call 614-272-5422 

 

 

 

 

- 

 

 

 


“eater Camp” 

mockumentary is amusing 

The fun-loving yet off-beat spirit of the 

1996 cult classic “Waiting for Guffman” is 

alive and well in a new movie called 

“Theater Camp”, now available on Hulu. 

Much like the nearly three decade old 

film on which most of its style is borrowed, 

“Theater Camp” revolves around an amiable 

group of inspiring ingénues who are 

united by their love of the stage. But unlike 

the satirical comedy that came from the 

genius minds of Christopher Guest and 

Eugene Levy, this film takes a much softer 

approach as it focuses on children who 

actually have talent rather than a group of 

talent-deficient adults who have not yet let 

go of their dreams of making it big on the 

bright lights of Broadway. 

While some of the most ardent fans of 

the comedy classic may not like that its 

younger spiritual sister lacks the bite of 

the world of theater, it has that same sense 

of zaniness that just might make you 

appreciate its effort enough to make you 

consider giving it your best attempt at jazz 

hands when its run is done. 

Cleverly conceived as a mockumentary, 

“Theater Camp” begins with unnamed and 

unseen filmmakers preparing for their latest 

production about a summer camp for 

talented children with their hearts set on 

performing on the largest theatrical stage 

in the world. They start by following famed 

theater camp founder Joan Rubinsky (Amy 

Sedaris) and her partner Rita (Caroline 

Aaron) as they go across the east coast 

recruiting talent for the upcoming summer 

adventure. 

Although the founder and her friend 

know what it is like to be mic’d up, they 

seem to occasionally forget they have 

microphones attached to their person as 

they are caught having frank conversations 

about the children they are observing 

on the stage. During one such recruiting 

mission, they discuss how awful one aspiring 

camper they came out to see is at acting, 

dancing, and singing but quickly 

change their tune when they learn that he 

comes from money and would be a boon for 

their bottom-line. In another, they lament 

the lack of talent of the children of today 

and question whether they should even 

continue to keep the camp doors open. 

The next show they attend happens to 

be the one that sends the production of the 

unnamed and unseen filmmakers into a 

tail-spin. In this middle school version of 

“Bye Bye Birdie”, the young stage hands go 

a little overboard with the strobe lighting 

in their effort to impress Joan and Rita. 

This causes the former to fall into a coma, 

thus sending the camp into even more 

fraught circumstances. 

But, as they say in show business, the 

show must go on and soon the unnamed 

and unseen filmmakers turn their focus on 

a motley crew of former students - or “performers 

who are full-time teachers” — and 

Joan’s business savvy son Troy (Jimmy 

The Reel Deal 

Dedra Cordle 

Tatro) who will lead the AdirondACTS theater 

camp for the summer. And what a find 

for the unnamed and unseen filmmakers 

this turns out to be because all of the “performers 

who are full-time teachers” have 

interpersonal drama and the “business 

savvy” Troy does not even know the definition 

of the word “repossession.” 

But perhaps best of all, childhood 

friends Amos and Rebecca-Diane - the lead 

acting teacher and the lead music teacher 

in the film played, respectively, by cowriter 

Ben Platt and co-writer/co-director 

Molly Gordon — have tasked themselves 

with writing an original play for the students 

as an homage to the camp founder. 

When the movie starts, they have yet to 

put any words and music and lyrics to 

paper. 

It is safe to say that all of the characters 

in “Theater Camp” are hot messes, which is 

what makes this film such a fun watch. All 

of the actors, the adult ones at least, play 

their characters with a sense of selfishness 

and you can’t help but wonder why any of 

these people have any contact with children 

at all — let alone multi-talented ones 

who are relying on these mentors to help 

them reach the bright lights of Broadway. 

While the children at the camp are not 

the primary focus of the movie, or even the 

primary focus on the faux documentary 

within the real movie, they each get a 

chance to shine and bring their characters 

to life. This even includes the ones who just 

want to be behind-the-scenes players or 

agents to the budding stars they meet at 

camp. 

Although the entire film is amusing, the 

first half in particular is where the laughout-loud 

jokes are — some of which you 

have to have some familiarity with 

Broadway or know of the earnestness of 

theater kids to fully enjoy — but the heart is 

found throughout all of the acts, much of it 

livened up by the wonderful cast who play 

those plucky camp and the overtaxed and 

overstressed adults whose love of the stage 

has been dimmed with age. 

If you loved, liked, or somewhat enjoyed 

“Waiting for Guffman,” chances are you 

will either love, like, or somewhat enjoy 

“Theater Camp.” It’s a bit softer in how it 

pokes fun at the world of theater and the 

actors, dancers, singers, and crew who live 

there, thrive there, and want to be there, 

but it has that ability of Guest and Levy to 

bring you a whole lot of joy while you’re 

watching the movie and even well after the 

final curtain has closed. Grade: B+ 

Dedra Cordle is a Messenger staff 

writer and columnist.

Westside Messenger - September 24th, 2023

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