iNSIGHT UA MARCH | APRIL 2021 The Community Center Question: Your Vote Counts on or Before May 4!

BI-MONTHLY NEWS FROM THE CITY OF UPPER ARLINGTON, UPPER ARLINGTON SCHOOLS & UPPER ARLINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY CityiNSIGHT MARCH | APRIL 2021 BI-MONTHLY NEWS FROM THE CITY OF UPPER ARLINGTON

The Community Center Question: Your Vote Counts on or Before May 4!

Over the years, the City has considered construct a community center without sued based on competitive market the community center issue on several any increase in City income or property rate memberships and usage fees, occasions. Residents desire for such taxes. with a goal of achieving a minimum a facility resurfaced through the 2018 cost recovery level of 85%. Parks & Recreation Comprehensive Plan The Task Force • Membership and usage fees should study process, with 81% of residents in a Recommendations be tiered, with options to accom- survey supporting a feasibility study for The Task Force recommendations modate senior residents and the a multi-generational indoor recreation include: operating budget should include a facility. In response, City Council formed • It is feasible for the City to construct, scholarship fund to assist residents the Community Center Feasibility Task operate and maintain a community facing financial barriers to Force in the summer of 2019 to lead a center. participation. study on the issue. • The facility should include program • Existing Senior Center and An extensive 18-month study pro- space for seniors and replace the Recreation program funds should cess ensued that focused on community current Senior Center. be redirected to support the engagement, transparency and financial • It should be more than a recreational community center. analysis. On December 16, 2020, the facility, serving as a central gathering • The community center business Task Force shared its findings and rec- place for the whole community. model should include significant ommendations with City Council, with its • The former Macy’s site at Kingsdale annual contributions to a fund for final report following early in January. is the preferred location. future capital expenditures, such In response to the Task Force’s con- • The construction cost of approxi- as maintenance and equipment clusion that it is feasible for the City to mately $54 million can be funded replacement. construct, operate and maintain a com- without an increase in taxes by using munity center, on January 19 Council ap- a combination of Tax Increment About the Proposed proved legislation to bring the proposed Financing (TIF) funds, excess City re- Community Center Upper Arlington Community Center serves, office lease revenues, hotel/ The Facilities issue to a vote of the people on May 4, motel taxes and private donations. The building program developed 2021, and to authorize various funding • A business model should be pur- through the Task Force process proposes mechanisms that will enable the City to upperarlingtonoh.gov MARCH | APRIL 2021 CityiNSIGHT 3 a seven-story building. Floors 1-5 would May 4 Ballot Language be dedicated to the community center programming, floors 6 & 7 would be set Should the City of Upper Arlington build a new community center on the aside for professional office use. site of the old Lazarus/Macy’s store at Kingsdale Shopping Center, using While the final programming would various City revenue streams but in no case from an increase in City income be determined with the project design or property tax, as authorized by legislation of City Council, including process, in general the community Ordinance No. 1-2021, Ordinance No. 2-2021, and Ordinance No. 3-2021? center facilities would include: • Level 1 - entry/lobby, indoor pool, YES, the City should build the community center multi-purpose event/party space, NO, the City should not build the community center locker rooms - fitness/exercise spaces • Level 2 services within the community center. @ 50% reduction in rentals. Under this - 3 gymnasiums (1 • Level 3 Negotiations are in process to finalize model, the subsidy necessary to support multi-purpose), adventure play, teen terms and prepare a formal agreement operations would increase the current space, child watch with this entity. subsidy by approximately $250,000. • Level 4 - Walking/running track Any remaining leasable space will overlooking gymnasiums be highly marketable, since the Kings- YES Or NO? • Level 5 - Senior program, shared dale site is surrounded by amenities, Below is a summary of what a YES vote classrooms, event hall/meeting including direct access to the community or a NO vote would mean for this issue space, outdoor multi-purpose center. and the community. terrace Operations Financials • YES - A community center at Kings- Construction Financials The community center business model dale funded with existing revenue The budgeted construction cost of $54 has been developed based on patron- streams and revenue generated million includes 23% for contingencies age and pricing structures for compara- by Continental Real Estate’s Kings- and inflation. This cost would be covered ble facilities in other communities. Some dale project. UA Schools receive using: of the keys to success include: the current Senior Center site, are • $40 million long-term debt • A focus on spaces that can be used guaranteed their current $123,000 • $5.4 million in private funds raised for multiple purposes annual revenue from the Macy’s site, through the Upper Arlington • Incorporating senior programming plus $50,000 per year and the value Community Foundation as part of a larger community facility of any additional millage added in • $8.8-$9 million in City reserves • Achieving staffing and operations subsequent school levies, • NO - The Macy’s site will be fully The debt service for this investment efficiencies by bringing programs redeveloped by Continental. The would be approximately $2.3 million per within one location community center will likely be re- year. This would be repaid using: • Providing a combination of mem- placed by a nine-story building that • $1.59 million in annual TIF revenues berships, drop-in fees, program- includes seven stories of multi-fam- generated by the Kingsdale devel- ming and facility rentals. ily housing. UA Schools receive an opment A Base-case pro-forma model additional $30-$40 per average UA • $500,000 annual hotel/motel projects full cost recovery, based on the home ($400,000) annually. revenues from the hotels on Lane proposed programming, a 3% market Avenue capture for memberships and 70% We encourage you to become • The remaining $210,000 would be program capacity. Under this model, the informed on this important community covered by rent and income tax current $530,000 subsidy that supports issue, so that when you complete your revenues generated by the office Parks & Recreation programming would absentee ballot or head to the voting spaces on floors 6 & 7 no longer be needed. booth on May 4, your questions have A Stress Test pro-forma projects a been answered in full. Visit upperarling- The Office Space tonoh.gov for details, watch for more The two floors of rentable office space cost recovery model of approximate- information from the City in the coming would total approximately 50,000- ly 75%. This exercise was undertaken weeks, and be sure to let us know if you 60,000 square feet. After issuing a to account for potential down years need more information, by emailing us request for proposals concentrated (recession, pandemic, etc.) and assumes at [email protected]. on health care providers, the City has reductions of 33% in memberships, identified a preferred partner to lease at 50% reduction in daily admission fees, a least half of this space and to augment 20% reduction in program capacity and 4 CityiNSIGHT MARCH | APRIL 2021 upperarlingtonoh.gov

CITY MANAGER UPDATE Steve Schoeny

more than $3.5 million in Coronavirus office uses. Current revenue projections Relief monies to good use, resulted in indicate that the City will benefit by cumulative savings of $6.8 million, or approximately $500,000 per year in new 17% of our operating budget. income taxes as a result. This translates to the City having one Redevelopment of the majority of of the healthiest General Fund balances the former Macy’s site at Kingsdale is in its history, with our unrestricted fund on track to begin within the next few balance - monies over and above our months, with Continental Real Estate 30% operating reserve, or “rainy day expected to bring its Final Development As we put the last 12 months behind fund” – increasing by more than $7 Plan for the first phase of its project to us, it is time to start thinking about the million to $12.5 million. the Board of Zoning and Planning in future. Despite all that has happened, we March. Valued at more than $60 million are strong financially, and we have some Business is Booming for the senior housing and apartment big opportunities in front of us. Despite the pandemic – or perhaps buildings, the vote in May will decide because of it – our Community whether Continental goes forward with Our Financial Outlook Development Department recorded its their third phase, a nine-story building When we entered the pandemic, the second highest year for construction with two stories of office and seven City’s finances were high on our list of value taking place in our community. stories of housing, or the City builds a worries. We slowed spending, canceled Over 3,500 permits were issued, new community center. programs that could not function under with a total value of $128 million. Of this, health guidelines and adjusted just more than $80 million was for residential Ready for What’s Next about everything else. work - home renovations, additions and We are doing a series of mailings and I am pleased to report that some new homes. Clearly, spending other events to educate our voters prior thanks to some luck, a good long- more time at home has prompted many to the May 4 election. You should look term development strategy and wise people to think about making their living for information in your mailbox early financial stewardship, the City actually spaces more modern and inviting. March. We are also working to schedule improved its financial position in 2020. Looking ahead to this year, while more group information sessions. On February 8, Finance Director Brent I don’t think we’ll quite see the record With continued pandemic gathering Lewis shared year-end highlights with breaking level of investment that restrictions, we are still figuring out the City Council. Not surprisingly, some occurred in 2019 - which topped $407 most effective way to do that. operating revenues were lower than million thanks to the School projects We will be making heavy use of our originally projected – such as fees and Lane II mixed-used development Facebook and Twitter accounts to share for Parks & Recreation programming. – it’s going to be high, as two notable information, and we will have a schedule However, this was more than made up commercial projects begin. of events at upperarlingtonoh.gov. by an increase in income tax revenues, After several years of planning, site If you have questions or if you have which came in over 3% higher than preparation for the Arlington Gateway a group that you would like for me or projections, and property tax revenues, redevelopment project has begun. one of my team to talk with, please email which were more than 1.5% higher than Valued at more than $100 million, it will me, at [email protected]. And, projected. include a mix of office, retail/restaurant when I say a “group,” it doesn’t have to In normal years, we typically spend space, apartments and structured be a formal group. If you and eight or below our budgeted obligations in parking. Much of the project site was nine friends want to do a Zoom meeting, the 1-2% range. As we entered into annexed into UA in 2005 to expand we will work with you to figure it out. the strange and uncertain pandemic the City’s commercial tax base, and in This is an incredibly complex landscape last spring, we made a readiness for redevelopment. project, and if you have questions, I conscious effort to tighten our belts Due to its location in the vibrant want to make sure that we have an and carefully consider the merits Lane Avenue commercial district opportunity to answer them with you so of budgeted expenditures before and with direct access to OSU’s West that you can make an informed decision proceeding with projects. Our Campus and SR 315, we anticipate the when you cast your ballot by mail or on conservative approach for the year, 139,000 square feet of office space will May 4. combined with our ability to put be filled with high quality, mid-to-large- upperarlingtonoh.gov MARCH | APRIL 2021 CityiNSIGHT 5

Recycling Expanded to Include UA Part of SWACO Study on Food Steve Schoeny More Plastic Containers Waste Diversion Activities Public Works Division 614-583-5350 www.savemorethanfood.org Did you know that nearly one million pounds of food is sent to the landfill every single day by residents and businesses in central Ohio? When food goes to waste, so does the time, money, and resources that went | SERVICES into producing and distributing it, not to mention the

opportunities we miss to help those in need in our community. By working together, we can make chang- es that improve our community and stop valuable

CITY resources from going to waste. Researchers at The Ohio State University are working with the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO) and the City of UA to test the effec- We are pleased to report that the Rumpke Recycling facility has tiveness of various food waste diversion education recently expanded its program to include a wide variety of plastic materials and activities. These outreach materials tubs such as: share tools, tips, tricks and opportunities to connect • Butter, cottage cheese and sour cream tubs with local resources to reduce food waste at home, • Fruit, pudding and applesauce cups saving money, resources, and meals for hungry neigh-

SERVICES SERVICES • | All yogurt containers bors. This study is focused on documenting behaviors These items should be rinsed clean before being put in your related to food waste and learning how central Ohio- recycling cart. Lids and labels can be left on but the foil tops that ans can best conserve resources, meals, and money sometimes come on yogurt containers should be removed. Items by reducing food waste. Insights from this study in that remain on the ‘no-no’ list include disposable plastic cups, as UA will inform future food waste reduction outreach well as plastic take-out containers and clamshells (like those used efforts across the region and beyond. for fruit & berries). Visit www.rumpke.com for a full list of accepted items and tips on how to recycle items properly.

Food Waste Composting Program Expanded Public Works Division 614-583-5350 Can You Help? Would you be willing to tell us a little about the food The City’s food waste composting program now features three loca-

CITY | CITY SERVICES that gets discarded in your home during a typical tions, making it more convenient for residents to join in our efforts

week by monitoring it and responding to two short to divert food scraps from the landfill and put them to good use as surveys? compost. Just collect your food scraps in a lidded container of your The study involves an initial five-minute survey choice, then bring it to one of the drop-off locations, where you will

CITY with instructions on how to monitor the types and find clearly marked, lime-green containers: quantities of food being discarded in your home over • Municipal Services Center, 3600 Tremont Road – at the south the following week. At the end of the week, you’ll re- end of the building by the Police entrance ceive a follow up 15-minute survey to report the food • Amelita Mirolo Barn, 4395 Carriage Lane – next to the front discarded. Respondents must be 18 years or older plaza and building entrance and should be responsible for at least half of the food • Fancyburg Park, 3375 Kioka Avenue – in the parking lot off preparation duties taking place in your home. All data Kioka Avenue and information about your household will be kept Program Rules: private.

SERVICES SERVICES • | Food waste ONLY To get started, using • DO NOT use plastic bags! BPI Certified compostable liners the camera feature on your ONLY smart phone, scan the QR • Please DO NOT overfill the containers code or type ‘go.osu.edu/ • Close the lids on the green bins when finished UAFood’ into your Internet browser on your phone or computer. CITY | CITY 6 CityiNSIGHT MARCH | APRIL 2021 upperarlingtonoh.gov

Park Projects

Oxford Park Playground natural park trails and nature education Replacement programs. In response, the division is working to improve and expand natural- ized areas across the park system. Two notable projects are in process this spring, with more on the horizon: • Miller Park - with help from Friends of Upper Arlington Parks, the natu- ralized park area at Miller has been cleared of invasive plants, in prepa- ration for a substantial planting of native trees and shrubs. The area will also have new amenities added, Oxford Park will be receiving a new including benches and nature play playground in 2021. Starting in March, the Upper Arlington Historical Society. components built from salvaged the design process will seek initial input The History Trail’s smart- timber. from park neighbors through surveys phone-friendly website includes com- • Burbank Park - as a once-thriving for both adults and children to identify plementary information about the stand of Ash trees died off as a general themes. Feedback will be used historically significant signs that can result of the Emerald Ash Borer, by the selected playground vendor to be found across our community. In the the area between Stonehaven and develop three design options to be coming months, as the program expands the Burbank parking lot has be- shared with the community via a second and bronze markers are installed, these come overgrown with invasives. round of engagement activities. Once a sites will be added to the History Trail This dense growth will be cleared preferred design is finalized, removal of interactive map and afforded their own and converted to a combination of the existing equipment is expected to resource page. turf and pollinator habitat, with a begin in July, with installation of the new Once the program has expanded to mulched footpath. playground complete by late fall. Watch incorporate existing sites, a longer-term for updates and how to participate in Details of the management plan goal is to begin seeking nominations upcoming e-newsletters and on the are featured as a special projects page from the community for prospective City’s social media platforms. on the Parks & Recreation section of our new sites, similar to the Wall of Honor website. In addition to featuring upcom- Program that today features tributes to Park Naturalized Areas ing improvements on this page, Ready more than 30 notable past UA residents. Management Plan for a Change? signs will be posted at the parks as a heads up to residents before Land Acquisition at any work begins. Fancyburg Park In late November of 2020, City Council UA History Trail authorized the purchase of a private uahistorytrail.com residence nestled in the southeast The recently completed Veterans Plaza corner of Fancyburg Park. This property upgrades at Mallway Park represent one was the last remaining site within the of the first locations in UA to be marked Fancyburg Park block to be privately with a UA History Trail bronze marker. owned. The second is a replacement educational Thanks to the cooperation of the The City’s Parks & Forestry Division is in marker that accompanies a refurbished home’s former owner, Anne Evelyn the midst of developing a management Ohio Historical Marker at the grave site Handley, the City was able to purchase plan for the naturalized areas within our of Bill Moose in Wyandot Park. the property at a reduced price in order parks. These areas include woodlands, The idea was conceived several to be able to expand the park. As part of wetlands and prairielands. years ago by the Centennial planning this agreement, as plans for renovating Resident feedback obtained for the committee. Today, the UA History Trail this quadrant of the park get underway, 2018 Parks & Recreation Comprehen- program has been made possible with they will include naming a future shel- sive Plan indicated a desire for more Council support and in partnership with terhouse at the park after Mrs. Handley’s upperarlingtonoh.gov MARCH | APRIL 2021 CityiNSIGHT 7

FROM CHAMBERS | Highlights of City Council & Its Policy Decisions

City Powered by 2021 CITY COUNCIL (from left): President Renewable Energy Brendan King, John One of the priorities identified by City Kulewicz, Vice President Council in the 2021-22 budget, is for the Kip Greenhill, Michele City to embrace environmentally- and Hoyle, Michaela Burriss, sustainability-appropriate practices, with Jim Lynch, Brian Close a goal of achieving zero-waste, zero- pollution and zero-emissions by 2030. A significant step toward that goal was realized at the start of this year, when the City signed a three-year contract with Constellation Energy, a subsidiary of Exelon Corp., to purchase country, helping to support the “Utilizing 100 percent renewable Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) to operation and development of facilities energy for our organization is vitally match 100% of its energy supply. Under that generate clean, renewable energy. important for our environment and our this contract, 100% of the City’s annual Due to favorable electric rates, the community,” said City Manager Steve electricity supply will be sourced from City will save approximately $5,000 per Schoeny. “It continues our goal of being various wind energy facilities across the year throughout the life of the contract, a regional leader in sustainability, and it with plans to use these excess will result in cleaner air, support energy funds to further sustainability security and will even help us attract new goals and education in our businesses and residents.” community. Upper Arlington is a platinum- rated member of the Mid-Ohio Regional At the start of the first Council Planning Commission’s sustainable2050 Meeting for 2021, Brendan King was program, which seeks to advance sworn into office for a one-year term sustainability efforts in the region. as President of Council, with Kip Greenhill sworn in as Vice President.

float entry. Mr. Handley’s winning efforts issues will allow the Parks & Recreation for his neighborhood became the stuff Department to complete the Northam of legend, and he was honored by UACA Park Vision Plan with phasing and as its Grand Marshal in the 2005 parade. budgeting details. It is hoped that both Park improvement plans are still the drainage plan and completed vision several years out but will focus on the plan will be shared with the community area that includes the old shuffleboard by early summer. courts, shelter, playground and the newly purchased property. Thompson & Fancyburg Parks Tennis Update One of many memorable floats built in front Northam Park Drainage Plan The tennis courts at Fancyburg and of the Handley property for the River Ridge & Phase I Improvements Thompson parks will be used by the neighborhood. A key component identified in the 2020 UA Schools for practice this spring, late husband – Carlyle Handley. Mr. Northam Park Schematic Design Study while their courts are temporarily out of Handley was a much beloved member was the need to improve drainage. This service. Typical hours: M-F, 3:30-5 pm, of the River Ridge neighborhood. A local study will develop a master drainage from mid-march through mid-May. The football coach and Cub Scout volunteer, plan for the overall park, and detailed courts will be available for public use he was perhaps best known for inviting design for Phase I of improvements, during this timeframe on a limited basis his neighbors over each year to help which are scheduled to be bid by the (away matches), with availability posted build their annual Fourth of July Parade end of the year. Addressing the drainage on the City’s website. 8 CityiNSIGHT MARCH | APRIL 2021 upperarlingtonoh.gov

Police Safety Virtual 2021 State of the City Address & Updates 2020 Community Awards The impacts of COVID-19 have reached into every aspect of our daily lives, and plans for our annual State of the City Address were no exception. Recognizing that this was not a time for gathering as a community, we put together a video that captures highlights and accomplish- ments from the past year. It can be found In early February, Police Chief Steve under the City Manager’s Office page of Nurse for the UA School District, serving Farmer and several of his colleagues our website - enjoy! as the single point of contact for the held a Zoom meeting to discuss some In true UA fashion, many individuals administration, medical advisory council, safety concerns and share tips with and groups helped their fellow commu- the school nurse team, and families. This residents, following several incidents in nity members during a challenging time. is an overwhelming task for one individ- the community that involved firearms. We are proud to share details of our ual and Gina handles it with profession- With more than 200 residents tuning 2020 Community Award recipients: alism and grace, fielding calls and emails in, the presentation was also recorded seven days a week, typically 14+ hours and can be found on the City’s YouTube Business – Front Runner, W. Lane Ave. a day. She works tirelessly keeping par- channel or the Police webpage. Front runner was recognized for helping ents, staff and administrators informed Watch for additional video safety many residents enjoy the limited number about the most up-to-date COVID-19 presentations in the coming months that of safe recreational activities available protocols. go into greater detail on specific safety in a crazy year. Their crew hosted safe Congratulations to our other nominees: UA topics. gatherings and held a shoe giveaway in COIVD-19 Senior Outreach; Shannon Guy & support of local health care workers. Nancy Schwartz Citizen Camera Partnership The increase of Community Enrichment – Youth – Markel Davis home security Veterans Committee & Upper A senior at UAHS, Markel is one the most video devices has Arlington Historical Society service-minded, action-oriented individ- helped the Police The committee worked closely with the uals. Last spring, he started serving lunch Division identify City to develop plans for recognizing for various police departments because and prosecute Veterans, and was instrumental in restaurants were refusing to serve them, several incidents. securing a $200,000 grant from the State raising the funds to pay for the food as Recognizing the value of these technol- of Ohio, and completing fundraising well as doing the onsite cooking. In the ogies in preventing and solving criminal months ahead of schedule. With help summer, he planned and executed a activity, the division has launched the from the UA Historical Society a series of candlelight vigil for fallen police officers Citizen Camera Partnership, an opt-in interpretative panels were developed, in Greater Columbus. In October, on program designed to build a database sharing stories of service of several hearing the Columbus FOP had lost their of properties with video cameras. Upper Arlington Veterans. annual Shop with a Cop sponsor, he By registering, residents and busi- Congratulations to our other nominees: committed to raising funds to support nesses are simply letting UA Police know Nancy Weir; Nathan Swords; Bishop Lord & this event. In mid-December, 100 Co- that cameras are in use on their property, Libby Hall; Upper Arlington Civic Association lumbus City Schools children were able with Police only requesting access to Directors; Community Center Feasibility Task to go holiday shopping with a police video footage following a crime or other Force; Tom Collins & Mike Haddow / Northam officer. Not only did Markel raise $10,000 notable safety incident in the immedi- Park Tennis; UA Caravan – Paula Koontz so 100 kids could shop, he got IHOP to ate area. The database is secure, with Gilmour donate breakfast and Coughlin Cars of registered participants’ information kept London to help transport the children. private and confidential. Community Safety – Gina Congratulations to our other nominees: Visit the Police section of the City’s Rancitelli Sarah Renner; Art Take Over – Led by Natalie website for additional details and to Gina transitioned from a role as Trem- Harrison; Connor and Kasey Kreps; Inaya register. ont’s Health Aide to the COVID-19 Lead Hussain upperarlingtonoh.gov MARCH | APRIL 2021 CityiNSIGHT 9 CITY STREETS Older Adult

The 2021 road construction season will • Bayford Court Assessment be another busy one, as our Engineering • Beecham Court Division oversees efforts to reduce a • Bristol Road backlog of necessary work as part of • Burbank Court year eight of the City’s, first 10-year • Chevy Chase Avenue Capital Improvement Program. Read on • Clairmont Road for a summary of this year’s projects. • Grenoble Road • Lear Road Northwest Blvd Storm Drainage • London Drive The Upper Arlington Commission on Estimated cost $2.84M • Longeaton Drive Aging is conducting an Older Adult Stormwater improvements between • Mackenzie Drive Community Assessment and Report, Barrington & North Star. • Mountview Road and is seeking participation from UA • North Devon Road residents aged 65 & older. McCoy Road Phase I • North Parkway Drive The assessment includes a Estimated cost $2.4M • Oxford Alley random-sample mailed survey as well Between Woodbridge & Kenny, project • Waltham Road as other opportunities to participate in includes pedestrian safety improve- discussions or focus groups. Residents ments on north side of the street, includ- selected to participate in the survey ing curb bumpouts, dedicated parking Brandon Road Improvements Estimated cost $700,000 will receive a mailed package from The for Thompson Park & replacement of Road widening, new perpendicular Commission and ETC Institute at the end the sidewalk along the park with an 8’ parking on east side of road, expansion of February/beginning of March. The shared-use path. Street resurfacing, and of existing sidewalk to 8’. survey can be completed on paper or spot curb/gutter repairs are also includ- online. ed. This project also includes a Assessment results will directly waterline replacement between Kenny Sustainable Sewer Solutions Estimated cost $1.2M inform the Commission in its efforts to & Mountview, and between Oxford & Rehabilitation of sanitary sewers in the facilitate improvements for housing, Clairmont. area bounded by Johnston Road, Bickley transportation, social participation, and Place, Anson Street/Donna Drive, and more. Feedback on a number of topics Street Reconstruction Surrey Hill Place. will help the Commission better under- Estimated cost $1.9M stand how to work with residents and Complete roadway reconstruction, other entities to help make our commu- replacement of all curb/gutter, driveway Sidewalk Maintenance Program Repair work in the area bounded by nity an even better place to age. improvements and ancillary improve- Zollinger Road, Tremont Road, Lane Questions? Concerns? Ideas? Call ments as necessary, such as storm sewer Avenue/Northwest Bldv, and North Star the Commission, at 614-583-5326. enhancements: Road. Property owners receive notice • Chester Road - between Wilshire & of necessary repairs for which they are Northam responsible unless damage is from the • Guilford Road - between Coventry & CityiNSIGHT roots of City-owned trees or utility man- BI-MONTHLY NEWS FROM THE CITY OF UPPER ARLINGTON Northwest holes. Residents may choose to make • Northwest Blvd - between Elmwood Production: repairs directly or as part of the City’s & Barrington Emma Speight, Community Affairs Director contract, which can realize cost savings. • Somerford Road - between Zollinger Phone: 614-583-5045 | [email protected] & Ridgecliff Full project details - including an • Vassar Place - between Northam & interactive GIS Story Map can be found Harlton under the Construction Updates page, at City of Upper Arlington upperarlingtonoh.gov. As construction 3600 Tremont Road Street Maintenance season gets underway, we also share project updates via our Facebook and Upper Arlington, Ohio 43221 Estimated cost $986,000 Phone: 614-583-5000 Road resurfacing and spot curb/gutter Twitter pages. upperarlingtonoh.gov repairs are scheduled for sections of the www.facebook.com/CityofUA following streets: www.twitter.com/@cityofua 10 CityiNSIGHT MARCH | APRIL 2021 upperarlingtonoh.gov

2021 Pool Operations & Swim Lessons PARKS & RECREATION 614-583-5300 NewsCITY NEWS AND USEFUL INFORMATION FOR RESIDENTS BITES UA Parks & Recreation’s goal is to open all three outdoor pools this summer. A Public Meetings decision will be made in April on the CITY CLERK’S OFFICE 614-583-5030 Spring/Summer Activity operating structure and hours, based on A full list of public meetings can be Guide where things stand with the pandemic - found on our Events calendar, at PARKS & RECREATION 614-583-5300 this could entail the use of a reservation/ upperarlingtonoh.gov. Highlights of time block approach similar to last year upcoming Council agendas are shared or return to the traditional full-day struc- on Facebook, with meetings live- ture. Either way, it will be possible to pur- streamed. Follow @CityofUA for updates! chase season passes this year. For timely updates, make sure you are registered City e-News to receive the department’s Activity Link Get timely service news and special e-newsletter or follow the department on project updates from the City by e-mail: social media. • City Insight - weekly e-news on City services, special projects & events 2020 Income Tax Filings • Activity Link - monthly programming Deadline: Thursday, April 15 updates from Parks & Recreation ritaohio.com/Individuals/Home/File • Arts Link - monthly art updates In UA, all residents aged 18 years and • Sentinel - monthly program updates over must file an annual income tax from the Senior Center return with the City, regardless of Visit the Connect section of our website, whether any tax is due. The City uses at upperarlingtonoh.gov, to register. the Regional Income Tax Agency (RITA) The Spring/Summer Activity Guide is for the processing of UA income taxes. Summer Seasonal Staff your guide to the events, programs RITA’s MyAccount platform allows PARKS & RECREATION 614-583-5300 and recreational opportunities offered taxpayers to electronically file their agency.governmentjobs.com/uaoh/ by the Parks & Recreation Department. taxes, update their accounts, send and Watch for your copy of the guide in the UA Parks & Recreation is seeking the receive secure messages, make pay- mail in early March, or view the online many seasonal employees needed for a ments and more, at www.ritaohio.com. version at parks.uaoh.net. Registration successful summer of youth camps, days RITA will NOT be offering any in-person begins March 10. at the pool, tennis programs & more! assistance this tax season and they Opportunities exist for teens, college encourage the use of online filing and Summer Day Camp Update students & teachers looking to fill their payments as much as possible. June 7-August 13 summers with rewarding experiences, The City’s Finance Department will PARKS & RECREATION 614-583-5300 plus adults & recent retirees looking accept information and documents. They to support their community. Positions After successfully offering a modified can be mailed or placed in the City’s include: version of summer camp in 2020, UA dropbox in the Kenny Road parking lot • Pools management, office support, Parks & Recreation is readying its plans of the Municipal Services Center, 3600 lifeguards for this coming summer. With the Tremont Road. • Summer camp directors & leaders COVID-19 vaccine now being admin- istered staff anticipates changes to the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide • Parks maintenance www.aarp.org • Tennis support positions state’s operating guidelines for camps and other activities. As a result, the The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides • Rental facility support positions virtual and in-person tax assistance free department is waiting to finalize camp details. The best way to stay informed of charge, with a focus on taxpayers Applications are available at govern- who are over the age of 50 or have mentjobs.com/careers/uaoh. on this and other programming is to register for the department’s Activity Link low-to-moderate income. For additional e-newsletter or watch for updates on details and to use the Tax-Aide locator, social media. visit aarp.org and type Tax-Aide into the search bar. upperarlingtonoh.gov MARCH | APRIL 2021 CityiNSIGHT 11

Clothes should be kept damp or wet Building Permit Reminder Statewide Tornado Drill to prevent the stains from setting. “Rust DEVELOPMENT 614-583-5070 9:50 am, Wednesday, March 24 removers” or “rust fighters” are carried If you have plans to remodel part of your www.ready.ohio.gov among cleaning products at grocery and home, our Community Development As part of Ohio’s Spring Severe Weather hardware stores. Department can help with an important Awareness Week, Franklin County Visit the Fire Prevention page on our first step: checking to see if your project Emergency Management and Homeland website to view this year’s schedule and requires a permit. The permitting and Security will participate in the annual map. inspection process allows our staff to statewide tornado drill. This is a timely ensure that new and remodeled build- reminder of how important it is to have Senior Center Update ings meet State and City minimum an emergency plan–both at home and at PARKS & RECREATION 614-583-5300 building codes and standards. This not work–and to practice it. UA Parks & Recreation continues to only ensures that your project is safe but evaluate the feasibility of safely opening starting a project without a Fire Hydrant Flushing the Senior Center during the pandemic. permit could result in a “stop work” April 26-May 7 The team has identified some important order, additional fees and in some cases FIRE DIVISION 614-583-5100 indicators that need to be reached in a need to remove the work already Fire hydrant flushing will occur week- order to resume onsite services: completed and start from scratch. days, April 26-May 7. This is part of an • Vaccinations will be an important Examples of projects that require a annual fire hydrant maintenance pro- part of the safety plan. While the permit include: gram that keeps hydrants in operable vaccine is available for older adults, • Constructing a deck condition. it will also be important for Senior • Finishing or altering a basement Most residents will notice no dif- Center Staff to have the opportunity • If framing is removed/added to a ference in their water supply, but a few to be vaccinated before reopening. kitchen/bathroom or the layout is could experience water discoloration • The decision to open the Senior altered after flushing has taken place. Refrain Center will, in part, be based on • If non-load-bearing walls and/ from doing laundry on the day hydrants Franklin County’s alert level staying or soffits are removed, altered or are flushed in your area. Before resum- at or below a Level 2 Public Emer- added ing laundering, partially fill washers on gency (orange alert). • Adding a porch or covered entry the cold setting until the water runs clear • It is essential that the facility and • Building a fence or replacing an Run a sample of water into a transpar- staff are prepared to resume onsite existing fence ent container to check for settling or services in accordance with all Ohio • If roof decking, exterior sheeting discoloration. Once the water is clear, Department of Health operational or framing is replaced, along with the washer can be spun out to drain the guidelines. shingles or siding tub for a normal laundry load. Turn on The department appreciates your • If an exterior wall and/or header all faucets and allow water to run until patience, and we hope to be able to framing is altered during window it appears clear. Some may experience serve you in person soon! replacement staining of clothes despite these notices. Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery® Sunday, March 14 UA Click2Fix To kick off Daylight Savings Time, clocks Visit the AppleApp or GooglePlay “spring forward” at 2 am, Sunday store and search UA Click2Fix to morning. The Fire Division reminds download our new smartphone you this is a good time to change the reporting app. Residents can use the batteries in your home’s smoke alarms. app to submit requests or notify the To stay safe, replacing batteries in all City of issues such as potholes, street- smoke alarms should be done at least light outages, damaged street trees, once a year. In addition, smoke alarms etc. You can also view the construction should be tested once a month and if an update map and contact staff using alarm chirps, warning the battery is low, the app’s Directory. Call Public replace the battery right away. Service at 614-583-5350 if you have any questions. T ING ON L S R C A H

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Strategic Plan Update

Throughout the 2020-2021 school year, where students and staff can thrive. The Upper Arlington Schools has remained district’s commitment to diversity, equity focused on the priorities in the 2019- Whole Learning This priority area focuses on building on and inclusion is a crucial part of this. 2024 Strategic Plan. Approved by the our district’s long-running philosophy “We are at the beginning of this Board of Education in August 2019, journey and our work on all aspects of the strategic plan identifies a focused of educating the whole child in order to make it a daily reality. diversity, equity and inclusion,” Imhoff set of recommendations that support said. “There is still a tremendous amount the district’s mission - to challenge and With this in mind, Upper Arlington of work to do to ensure that every support every student, every step of the Schools will be launching a new all-day member of our school community way. kindergarten program beginning this fall feels welcomed, valued, supported and “Everything we do remains rooted with the Golden Bears Class of 2034. The embraced.” in our strategic plan,” Superintendent Board of Education has been planning Part of this work will involve looking Paul Imhoff, Ed.D. said. “We are proud for this for the past few years - with the of the progress we have made since goal of launching all-day kindergarten closely at the K-12 curriculum. As an we launched our strategic plan in the as soon as the construction projects at initial step, all five elementary schools fall of 2019, and we know there is still a the elementary schools are completed in are implementing an expanded third- significant amount of work to do as we August 2021. grade local history curriculum that spans strive to provide the highest quality of “The Board of Education strongly 1800 to the present and includes the education and best experiences possible believes in all-day kindergarten,” Imhoff significant contributions of Pleasant for each and every one of our students.” said, “and they believe it will better meet Litchford and other individuals to Perry The 2019-2024 Strategic Plan the needs of our developing learners Township before it became Upper identifies two strategic priorities - whole so they are able to learn and grow Arlington. The history curriculum update learning and student and staff well- academically, socially and emotionally.” is the result of the work of a team of local being - with continuous improvement volunteers, including local authors Diane serving as the foundational element of Student and Staff Well-being Kelly Runyon and Kim Shoemaker Starr, the plan. The Quality Profile, the district’s whose book, Secrets Under the Parking Upper Arlington Schools believes accountability report, provides the Lot, delved into the story of Pleasant community with an annual update on our well-being is critical to fostering a safe progress. and inclusive learning environment CONTINUES ON PAGE 13 www.uaschools.org MARCH | APRIL 2021 SchoolsiNSIGHT 13 SUPERINTENDENT UPDATES Paul Imhoff, Ed.D.

All-in Learning is Our Goal this Spring

in place. We also have approximately frequent handwashing. One thing that 800 students learning in our UA Online will have to change is physical distancing Academy, our entirely digital learning - which will be significantly reduced in an option for this school year. all-in model. Our team has advised that it It’s hard to believe that we are coming As we’ve been saying all year, the is extremely important that we maintain to the end of winter and heading into Board of Education is committed to an increased level of physical distancing spring! having students back in school, five during lunch. As the month of February comes days a week, as soon as it’s safe to do As you know, the situation with to a close, I want to acknowledge Black so. The experts on our district’s Medical COVID-19 is constantly changing. History Month and our celebration of Advisory Team have suggested that a We will be sharing updates about the significant contributions of Black return to all-in is a possibility this spring our progress toward this goal on our Americans to our country. In Upper - and they do believe there is reason to website, www.uaschools.org. Arlington Schools, we are committed to be hopeful that there will be a significant We continue to be grateful for the keeping our focus on diversity, equity decline in cases yet this spring. flexibility and support that our families and inclusion at the forefront of all we Beginning at the end of January, have shown amid all the challenges and do both now and in the future. You can we began sharing with families the changes this school year. We remain read more about this commitment in the possibility of welcoming our school- steadfast in our commitment to provide Strategic Plan update in this issue. based pathway students for all-in the best experiences possible for our Today, I want to share an update learning in March. That is the Board students throughout this pandemic. about our schools and the situation with of Education’s goal — and I want to COVID-19. There has been much to be emphasize that. Our medical advisors Paul Imhoff, Ed.D. is superintendent of hopeful about in 2021. do feel it is realistic to work toward Upper Arlington Schools. You can follow We were excited to welcome our making this happen safely if we see him on Twitter @imhoffpaul. school-based students back to school in improvement on a variety of illness an enhanced hybrid learning model in factors. January after winter break. This learning A transition to all-in learning won’t model provides for more teacher-guided be a return to “normal” in our schools. learning and support for our students Students and staff will continue to follow each week while also maintaining the health and safety precautions during the health and safety precautions we’ve had school day - such as wearing masks and

Litchford and the Litchford family Amid the pandemic and economic forward, we will continue to seek out cemetery site adjacent to the current crisis in the summer of 2020, the Board efficiencies that preserve the overall Upper Arlington High School building. of Education called on the district to student experience while also The district is also continuing to creatively seek out cost savings and responsibly planning for growing work with descendants of Pleasant dip into the budget reserve. So far, the enrollment in the coming years.” Litchford and other community district has achieved approximately To view our Quality Profile and learn volunteers to determine the next steps $4.6 million in cost savings, primarily more about our strategic priorities, visit for honoring the history of the Litchford through a three-year hiring freeze on www.uaschools.org/qualityprofile.aspx. family cemetery site. new positions, with the exception of all- day kindergarten and the new executive Continuous Improvement director of diversity, equity and inclusion. The foundational element of the strategic “We are committed to being a plan is continuous improvement - and responsible steward of our residents’ this applies to every facet of the district, investment in our schools,” Treasurer/ from teaching and learning to finances. CFO Andrew Geistfeld said. “Going 14 SchoolsiNSIGHT MARCH | APRIL 2021 www.uaschools.org

New UAHS, Elementary Projects on Schedule, on Budget - With Big Milestones Ahead

As construction continues on schedule School and on budget in the first phase of the The new Upper Arlington High School facilities master plan, Upper Arlington Schools will be marking significant mile- stones in the coming months in prepara- tion for the completion of the final three projects. The new Upper Arlington High School, the new Windermere Elemen- tary School and the renovation project at Barrington Elementary School are on schedule to open to students for the start of the 2021-2022 school year in August. Last August, the new addition at Barrington, the new Greensview and Wickliffe, and the addition/renovation project at Tremont opened to students. After the current school year comes to an end on May 27, the district will be moving quickly to begin demolition of the old Wickliffe Progressive Elementary School building and decommission the existing Upper Arlington High School and walk with us through these halls in was filmed in the spring of 2020, before building, which has been in operation the safest way possible.” it became the temporary home of Wind- since 1956. This spring, the district will be ermere students and staff for this school “Generations and generations sharing a virtual tour of the existing year. The Wickliffe tour and virtual tours of Upper Arlington graduates have UAHS building before demolition work of the old Greensview and Windermere passed through the halls of the current on the current high school building is are available on the district website. high school, and it’s so important that expected to begin in early June. The “Although we aren’t able to host we honor the history of this building,” virtual tour will be available at big open houses right now, we still look Superintendent Paul Imhoff, Ed.D. said. www.uaschools.org/facilities. forward to bringing in our entire com- “We want to provide everyone in the A virtual tour of the old Wickliffe munity to see the amazing new learning community an opportunity to look back spaces inside our elementary schools and the new high school,” Imhoff said. This summer, additional The new Windermere Elementary School archaeological work on the high school site will also be done to continue the district’s research of the Pleasant Litchford family cemetery site adjacent to the existing school building. The dis- trict is also continuing to work with descendants of Pleasant Litchford and community volunteers to determine the next steps for honoring the history of the cemetery site. In the 1800s, Mr. Litchford was a master blacksmith who had been en- slaved in Virginia. After buying his own freedom and settling in the area that is www.uaschools.org MARCH | APRIL 2021 SchoolsiNSIGHT 15 now Upper Arlington, he built a success- ful business and purchased the land that is now home to the high school as well as Northam Park and Tremont Elementa- ry School. Among Mr. Litchford’s many contributions to the area were estab- lishing a school for African-American children and being a founding member of the historic Second Baptist Church, which provided an important voice in the anti-slavery movement. In late August last year, an archaeological team found one fully intact grave with a complete set of remains, along with two partially ex- humed graves and three fully exhumed graves. The upcoming archaeological work will look at new areas beneath and adjacent to the existing building. The renovation project at Barrington Elementary School During the 2021-2022 school year, work will continue on the UAHS site as crews continue to develop the site, UPPER ARLINGTON BOARD OF EDUCATION construct new athletic fields and possibly create a formal memorial near the site 2021 Upper Arlington of the Litchford family cemetery. This Board of Education summer, work will also continue on the From Left: Lori Trent, Jenny Wickliffe site to develop an additional McKenna, President Scott playground and outdoor learning space McKenzie, Vice President Carol for students to enjoy along with the Mohr and Nancy Drees existing “castle” playground. For more photos and information At the January 12, 2021, about the Upper Arlington Schools organizational meeting, the facilities master plan, please visit Board of Education selected www.uaschools.org/facilities. Scott McKenzie as president and Carol Mohr as vice president for 2021. McKenzie, who served as vice president for 2020, succeeds Nancy Drees as president. SchoolsiNSIGHT Thanks to a partnership with the City of Upper Arlington, Board of Ed- BI-MONTHLY NEWS FROM UPPER ARLINGTON SCHOOLS

ucation meetings take place in the Council Chamber of the City’s Municipal Ser- T ING ON Production: L S R C A vices Center, 3600 Tremont Road. In general, the meetings begin at 6 pm on the H Karen Truett

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Phone: 614-487-5027 U ing changes are possible. In the event that the COVID-19 pandemic necessitates E [email protected] ST. 1918 the Board of Education conducting a regular meeting via video-conferencing, a live feed of the regular meeting will be available on the Upper Arlington Schools Upper Arlington Schools YouTube account. Please refer to www.uaschools.org for the most up-to-date 1950 North Mallway Drive information. Upper Arlington, Ohio 43221 Phone: 614-487-5000 | www.uaschools.org Board of Education Meetings: • Tuesday, March 9, 6 pm — virtual or to be determined www.facebook.com/upperarlingtonschools www.twitter.com/UA_Schools • Tuesday, April 13, 6 pm — virtual or to be determined www.twitter.com/imhoffpaul • Tuesday, May 11, 6 pm — virtual or to be determined 16 SchoolsiNSIGHT MARCH | APRIL 2021 www.uaschools.org BITES From the Apple SCHOOLS NEWS AND USEFUL INFORMATION FOR RESIDENTS

UAHS graduates invited to claim their photo prints The Upper Arlington Alumni Association is helping Upper Arlington High School reconnect with the winners of the annual photo contest with their original artwork. The photo contest has been celebrating budding photographers at the high school since 2000. If you, your graduate, or someone you know was a proud winner and has a photo hanging in the hallways of the current high school building, please complete an online form - available under District News at www.uaschools.org - to make arrangements to pick up your photo from the school. If you have questions, please contact Scott Wittenburg at [email protected]. that outlines the components of dyslexia This is consistent with the programs While the photo prints will not be screening of students and dyslexia and interventions put in place under the moved to the new building, they have training for teachers. leadership of Dr. Kevin Gorman over the been digitized to preserve the history of Signed into law on January 9 by past several years in the Upper Arlington this contest. The UAHS Art Department Governor Mike DeWine, House Bill 436 Schools Student Services department. hopes to return as many photos as was developed by the International possible to their original photographers. Dyslexia Association (IDA) of Central Tremont Teacher in the Running Don’t miss this opportunity to claim your Ohio and the IDA Northern Ohio for National Award artwork! chapter. Assisting in the process were representatives, including Rowson, UA Schools Teacher Informed from several school districts that have New Dyslexia Law addressed the needs of students with A team of educators - including Upper dyslexia. Arlington Schools instructional leader Mike McGovern, president of IDA Andrea Rowson - helped craft a new law Central Ohio, praised Rowson for always finding time to work with him through the two-year legislative process. Under the new law, dyslexia screenings will be initially required for all students in kindergarten through grade 3 for the 2022-2023 school year. Beginning in the 2023-2024 school year, and every year thereafter, students will be screened only once between their Paula Eschbach, a fifth-grade teacher at kindergarten and first grade year. The Tremont Elementary School, is one of new law also requires that any student four finalists from the state of Ohio for who shows the markers of dyslexia the Presidential Awards in Mathematics based on the screening results be and Science Teaching (PAEMST). monitored for progress by the school. These are the highest honors that the www.uaschools.org MARCH | APRIL 2021 SchoolsiNSIGHT 17

2020-21 SCHOOL DATES Treasurer’s Notes Andrew L. Geistfeld End of second trimester (kindergarten- grade 5) & third quarter (grades 6-12) Upper approximately $4.6 million in cost Friday, March 12 Arlington savings, primarily through a three-year Schools is hiring freeze on new positions, with the Spring Break committed to exception of all-day kindergarten and Monday, March 15-Friday, March 19 being a good the new executive director of diversity, steward of our equity and inclusion. No school for students; staff report community’s This was one approach that the per schedule investment in Board of Education asked us to take Monday, March 22 our schools, due to the economic situation at that and we take this commitment very time. At the request of the Board of No school for students; staff report seriously. Effective and efficient use Education, we also dipped into our per schedule of our financial resources is crucial to budget reserve. The district has a Friday, April 2 ensuring that we can provide the high- long-standing practice of maintaining quality educational experiences that our a conservative budget reserve to help Kindergarten Parent-Teacher students deserve and our community stabilize the budget in the event of a Conferences expects. future crisis, and the board felt that the Wednesday, April 7 Every year, we rely on external, economic challenges presented by Grades K-5: school all day; morning and third-party review of our finances by the the pandemic met the standards for afternoon kindergarten conferences state auditor’s office. A team from the tapping into this reserve. auditor’s offices delves into our financial As we move forward, we are No school for students; staff report records and reviews our practices. keeping a close eye on several things per schedule This year, our district again earned that may impact our finances. That Tuesday, May 4 a clean audit opinion - recognizing includes the proposed state budget Primary Election Day our commitment to effective and and state funding for our schools, as accountable financial practices for our well as revenue generated by local Early dismissal (K-12), last day for community. property valuations. We also continue students Over the past year, our district has to monitor our projected enrollment Thursday, May 27 responded to the challenging economic growth, and we expect that will likely • Morning kindergarten ends at 10:05 situation facing our state and country be a significant factor in the financial am (Wickliffe: 11:05 am); afternoon by taking steps to seek out cost savings future of our district over the next kindergarten begins at 11:05 am while also preserving the overall student decade. (Wickliffe 12:05 pm) experience in Upper Arlington Schools. We are committed to continuing • Dismissal at 1 pm (Wickliffe 2 pm) Since the summer of 2020, we to seek out efficiencies that preserve for elementary students; 1:30 pm for have been carefully looking at our five the overall student experience while secondary students year forecast to creatively seek out cost also responsibly planning for all efficiencies. So far, we have achieved possible scenarios in the coming years. For the full school year calendar, visit: www.uaschools.org/calendars.aspx

United States government bestows on and science. “She brings science to life BECS Registration Now Open — kindergarten through grade 12 teachers. in meaningful and memorable ways,” and Space Is Limited! The program recognizes teachers for Buffer said. “There are no ‘failures’ in her Burbank Early Childhood School their contributions to instruction and class — only opportunities to grow and (BECS) is our high quality, tuition-based learning, as well as their ability to help learn.” childcare for children ages 2 to 5. BECS students make progress in mathematics Eschbach moves forward to the is accepting registrations for summer and science. national competition later this school 2021 as well as the 2021-2022 school Tremont Principal Jim Buffer praised year. A national committee will choose year for children ages 2 to 5. Eschbach as an innovative and visionary up to 108 winners nationwide for the For more information, please visit teacher of science and a role model for presidential awards. www.uaschools.org/burbank or call female students in the areas of math 614-487-5155. 18 SchoolsiNSIGHT MARCH | APRIL 2021 www.uaschools.org SERVE LEAD SUCCEED... SERVE LEAD SUCCEED

Wickliffe Progressive Elementary School staff, Upper Arlington High School congratulates the 26 student-athletes who students and families supported the families of committed to continue their education and athletic pursuits in college. Heart to Heart Food Pantry through a gift drive.

Jones Middle School teacher Alice Aichele got students Greensview Elementary School students learn about idioms to enhance laughing during a fun pool noodle activity to support reading comprehesion. student well-being.

Children at Burbank Early Childhood School enjoy a painting activity. Kindergarten students at Tremont Elementary School learn about spelling words with three sounds. www.uaschools.org MARCH | APRIL 2021 SchoolsiNSIGHT 19 SERVE LEAD SUCCEED... SERVE LEAD SUCCEED SERVE LEAD SUCCEED... SERVE LEAD SUCCEED

Students at Hastings Middle School and across the district shared many opportunities to learn more about Black history in America through posters, book displays, read-alouds, announcements and classroom learning honoring Black History Month.

Students ‘Spread the Love’

Upper Arlington Schools students in our school-based pathway and the UA Online Academy helped “Spread the Love” during the Valentine’s Day season to residents of Upper Arlington nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Through a partnership with the Upper Arlington Civic Association, our schools helped support a citywide drive for works of art, cards and letters to brighten the day of senior citizens and residents who have had limited community interaction due to COVID-19. UACA hoped to deliver 2,000 pieces of art during the month of February. LibraryMARCH | APRIL 2021 iNSIGHT BI-MONTHLY NEWS FROM THE UPPER ARLINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY National Library Week is April 4-10

National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American 4. On average public libraries offer Library Association (ALA) and is ______programs per year? celebrated by libraries each April. The A. 4.3 Million week is a time to celebrate the important B. 1.3 Million services and contributions of the nation’s C. 56, 000 libraries and staff. How well do you know D. 257,000 libraries? Test your knowledge with this quiz. 5. What percentage of Americans say that having a public library improves the 1. Which library is the largest library quality of life in a community? in the world, with more than 167 million A. 12% items? B. 35% A. The Library of Congress C. 94% B. Bodleian Library D. 83% C. Vatican Library 3. How many total libraries are there in D. New York Public Library Sources: https://www.loc.gov/, http:// the United States? www.ala.org/, https://www.imls.gov/, A. 260,562 2. In 2016 there were more than _____ https://www.pewresearch.org/ B. 57,698 in-person visits to public libraries?

C. 116,867 A. 1 Million C 5. A, 4. C, 3. D, 2. A, 1. Answers: D. 98,483 B. 47.5 Million C. 965 Million D. 1.3 Billion

Friends of the Library News LibraryiNSIGHT The Friends of the UA Library will hold a Media Sale in BI-MONTHLY NEWS FROM UPPER ARLINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY the Main Library’s atrium on Sunday, March 21 from 9 Production: am-3 pm. Shop a large selection of DVDs, CDs, VHS, Christine Minx vinyl records, and audiobooks at bargain prices. Marketing & Community Relations Manager Face masks and social distancing are mandatory. 614-486-9621 | [email protected] We may limit the number of people allowed in the atrium at one time depending on demand. Only the atrium will be open for the sale; the rest of the library will not be accessible. Upper Arlington Public Library The Friends are also planning a full sale for April 24 2800 Tremont Road & 25 to be held outside in the parking lot. Details aren’t Upper Arlington, Ohio 43221 yet available, but join the Friends’ mailing list at uapl. Phone: 614-486-9621 | www.ualibrary.org [email protected] to get updates on sales and other developments. www.facebook.com/UAPublicLibrary Thank you for your support! www.twitter.com/@UAPL www.ualibrary.org MARCH | APRIL 2021 LibraryiNSIGHT 21

A NOTE FROM OUR DIRECTOR Beth Hatch

provide the same level of pre-pandemic difference in your life, be a part of our service. story and let us know how the Library has Despite these challenges, we impacted you and your family by visiting anticipate offering computer access at https://www.ualibrary.org/support. our Main Library knowing that this is an Want to help even more? We’re essential and important service. We’re enlisting the help of supporters to currently planning how to staff our become library advocates in our public service departments for reopen community. A library advocate is and how to provide curbside and indoor someone who understands the value Although the Library is humming with checkout simultaneously. and importance of public library service, outdoor activity at curbside and walk We sincerely appreciate your and who can communicate that value up service, we eagerly await the day support and patience during this and importance to the community, when the inside of our buildings will be difficult time. We are working swiftly and government leaders, and other just as busy. diligently on plans to open our buildings residents. Our mission is to continue to and provide service safely. Advocates will receive action alerts expand service, but unfortunately there Many of you have told us that the on how to play a key role in educating is an estimated 11% loss of funding Library has had a tremendous impact on our community about why libraries and from the State of Ohio Public Library your lives and on the entire community. librarians are essential and how funding Fund and we are experiencing a severe We want to know your story. Did a plays an important part. Visit our website staffing shortage. This means for the Librarian help you with technology at https://www.ualibrary.org/support for foreseeable future the Library will be or research, or to get books into your more information. unable to expand to our full hours or children’s hands? If the Library made a

Miller Park Debuts Walk-Up Service

After 10 months of being closed due plus the browsing to the pandemic, the Miller Park Library and checkout of opened for walk-up window service on book bundles, January 11. DVD bundles, and Due to a staffing shortage, loss a small collection of revenue, and additional budget of individual items. requirements for increased cleaning, Miller Park staff Miller Park remained closed most of can also take on- last year while the Main and Lane Road demand requests Libraries partially opened. However, to retrieve items after the Library saw an uptick in revenue from their shelves near the end of 2020, hired an additional for checkout. This custodian, and shared staff among service is limited locations, it became possible to open to the Miller Park the beloved branch for limited services. Library at this time. Miller Park offers service Monday-Friday To have your from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., and Saturday from you’re waiting on, call 614-488-5710 and requested items sent to Miller Park ask the staff member to change your 10 a.m.-Noon. The building’s book drop Library, choose “UA Miller Park” as your is also open during these hours. pickup location. pickup location when using our online Branch Manager Kate Albers and Services available at the walk-up catalog. For previous requests that window include the pickup of holds, her staff can’t wait to see you. 22 LibraryiNSIGHT MARCH | APRIL 2021 www.ualibrary.org

that she has powers the supernatural OUR STAFF RECOMMENDS world distrusts, she must prove her worth while hunting for Quinton. Amari is a tough and likable heroine who doesn’t Not Your Sidekick shy from confronting the fearsome or the By C.B. Lee privilege and discrimination On top of normal teenage she experiences. Few Harry problems, like school, work, Potter/Rick Riordan mash-ups and crushes, Jessica Tran does live up to their name, but this not have any super powers. is the beginning of a series The issue is her parents are the that indicates it will hold its superhero protectors of the own. near-future town of Anover, so — Tracie Steele, Youth Services she has always wanted super powers, too. Instead, Jessica is hired for an Gordon Ramsay’s internship but soon learns Healthy, Lean & she is working for her parents’ arch-nemesis, Fit: Mouthwatering the villainous Mischiefs. Recipes to Fuel You Not only that, but she is for Life working with her crush, By Gordon Ramsay Abby! As her internship Gordon Ramsay knows how progresses, Jessica learns important it is to eat well, heroes and villains are not whether you’re training for a always what they seem to be. Perfect for marathon or just trying to live fans of superheroes ages 10 and above. healthier. And just because — Emma Root, Lane Road it’s healthy food, doesn’t mean you have to compromise on taste and flavor. As a Michelin-star super-chef who is also a The Wonder Boy of Whistle committed athlete, Ramsay shares his Stop: A Novel go-to recipes for when he wants to eat By Fannie Flagg well at home. Whistle Stop has become a ghost including royalty, who trust her with — Melanie Stanley, Adult Services town due to the railroad yards shutting intimate secrets -- until the day her down, but its memory, and those of its husband and a teenage girl claiming residents, are still alive. One of its former Plain Bad Heroines to be her younger sister arrive in town. citizens, Bud Threadgoode, decides By Emily M. Danforth The twists and turns that follow are both to take a trip back there, which sets Plain Bad Heroines is one of those rare heartbreaking and hopeful. This is a off a series of events that allow us to titles that presents a complex, time- fascinating and engaging book, based remember the town and reconnect with jumping story with a questionable on the author’s re-imagining of her its people. We learn some new “secrets,” narrator, and manages to not only make mother’s life in the evolving social and discover what everyone has been up to, it work, but makes it sing. Initially set in political landscape of 1950s India. and meet new family and friends. This 1902 Rhode Island at the Brookhants — Nancy Byron, Miller Park sequel to Fried Green Tomatoes at the School for Girls, we hear of the horrible Whistle Stop Cafe does not disappoint in tragedies that befell the students there, the least. Amari and the Night and the origins of the curse that still — Matilda Davis-Northrup, Technical Brothers surrounds the now dilapidated grounds. Services We soon fast forward over a century By B.B. Alston to the days before the initial meeting Amari gets an invitation to a summer of young actresses who will go on to The Henna Artist camp at the Bureau of Supernatural portray the unfortunate victims of that By Alka Joshi Affairs and discovers that otherworldly fatal semester, as well as the young After sneaking away from a husband who beings live undetected among humans. author who unburied them. Figuratively beats her and the only town she’s ever Understandably a bit freaked out, Amari speaking… maybe… what unfolds is a known, 17-year-old Lakshmi begins a agrees to go because she hopes it will whirlwind of self-discovery, romance, new life in the lush “pink city” of Jaipur, help her find out what happened to humor, and good old gothic horror. Plain India, as a henna artist and herbalist. her beloved older brother, Quinton, Bad Heroines will leave you eager to Over the years, she builds a successful who worked for the Bureau and has unfurl its lovely twists and turns. business among high-caste individuals, disappeared. Once she arrives and finds — Ben Claymier, Adult Services www.ualibrary.org MARCH | APRIL 2021 LibraryiNSIGHT 23 Digital Media Q&A

Q. What do you mean by “digital blockbusters, media”? travel guides, and The UA Library offers several ways for instructional videos. you to enjoy books, music, movies, Kanopy bills television, and magazines - including itself as “thoughtful digital versions that you stream or entertainment.” download to your personal device. You’ll find Digital media collections are available award-winning online and are available to browse and independent borrow at any time. cinema, world All you need to get started is an cinema, and Internet-connected device and your UA documentaries, plus Library card information. unlimited access to the Great Courses Q. Do I need to have a smartphone or series. for ages 2-8; and Hoopla’s Kids Mode, tablet? Hoopla’s collection includes which displays only movies, music, You can use your smartphone, tablet, television shows in addition to films, comics, and more, for ages 12 and or PC/laptop. You can also watch free featuring a large collection of Acorn, under. movies and television shows on your BBC, and PBS series. TV using a media streaming device like Q. How can I get help using your digital Roku or Amazon Fire TV. Q. Is digital media available for all media collections? ages? The staff of our Media Services Q. What are the best ways to watch All of our collections have content for all Department are available for help digital movies and TV shows from the ages. To find books for kids and teens, by phone. Book a 30-minute phone UA Library? try the special guides on Libby, our consultation by calling us at (614) 486- The library offers two services, Kanopy e-book and digital audiobook library; 9621, option 1, or by visiting our website and Hoopla, where you can watch a the Kanopy Kids collection, which at ualibrary.org. variety of genres, including popular includes educational entertainment

to help you get started on your taxes. Visit https://www.ualibrary.org/ NewsLIBRARY NEWS BITESAND USEFUL INFORMATION referencesrvc/topics/taxes-2020 for helpful information. Our reference staff Reading Recommendation serve as library advocates. Has the UA is happy to direct you to tax information Service Library made a difference in your family’s and locate specific forms, but please Need a good book? Our Adult Services life? Did a librarian introduce you to a note that we cannot give out tax advice librarians are here to help. Fill out our fabulous book or online resource? Did or answer specific tax questions. For reading recommendation request you learn something new at a program? assistance getting tax forms from form at https://www.ualibrary.org/ By sharing your stories, support and the library, please call the UA Library adultservices and we’ll respond via email time, you’ll help spread the word about Reference Department (614) 486-9621, within a few business days with a list of why libraries are essential to strong opt. 4; or (614) 486-3342. You may also 3-5 titles we think you’ll love. You can communities. Learn more and sign up at email us at [email protected]. also call the library at (614) 486-9621 for http://www.ualibrary.org/support. help selecting your next great read! Monthly eNewsletter Tax Season at the Library Keep up with UA Library news by Become a Library Advocate Tax returns must be filed with the IRS subscribing to our monthly eNewsletter. We’re looking for fans and supporters by Thursday, April 15. Our reference Join our email list at http://eepurl.com/ of the Upper Arlington Public Library to librarians have put together a guide dlQpbH. Presort Standard US Postage 3600 Tremont Road, PAID Upper Arlington, OH 43221 Columbus OH upperarlingtonoh.gov Permit #758

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R EVENTS & ACTIVITIES UACA Easter Egg Hunt 8-10:30 am, Saturday, March 27 Franklin Soil & Water Register March 1 @parks.uaoh.net www.uaca.org Tree & Plant Sale Order Deadline: March 29 Thanks to the UA Civic Association, the www.franklinswcd.org/products Easter Bunny is coming to you! Regis- tered families will have a personalized The annual Tree & Plant Sale is back as a visit, as the holiday hare hops into your smaller, socially distanced sale to accom- yard, hiding candy filled eggs. Plus, five modate everyone in a safe way. This year, lucky rEGGistrants will receive a Golden Franklin SWCD is offering bareroot trees, Egg, which can be redeemed for a prize shrubs and berry plants, as well as live basket donated by the Anthony Thomas stakes and seed packets, as well as Na- Candy Co. Registration is limited and tive Perennial Kits that will ship direct to spots will fill quickly. prescription drugs, the City’s Police Franklin county residents in early June. Division participates in the spring and To learn more and place your order, visit Prescription Drug fall Drug Take Back Days coordinated by www.franklinswcd.org/products. Take Back Day the Drug Enforcement Agency. Drop off 10 am–2 pm, Saturday, April 24 old and unused prescription drugs Municipal Services Center Parking Lot drive-thru style. For the rest of the year, POLICE DIVISION 614-583-5150 visit the Police Division section of our In addition to hosting the year-round website, at upperarlingtonoh.gov for drop-off unit for old and unused details of accepted items. Volunteer With Friends of UA Parks www.friendsofuaparks.com The Friends of Upper Arlington Parks is comprised of a group of volunteers that gather monthly in our community’s parks to clear natural areas of invasive species such as honeysuckle, buckthorn and garlic mustard. The group meets monthly on Saturday mornings at different park locations, typically from 9 am-Noon. Their work includes cutting the branches of invasive shrubs with pruning saws and dragging them to a pile for City crews to chip into mulch. Once the spread of these invasives has been effectively controlled, the group returns to plant native trees and shrubs. Upcoming dates and locations are as follows: • March 13 - Smith Nature Park • May 15 - Smith Nature Park