January | February 2020

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812-372-8481 1901 Taylor Road • Columbus, IN 47203 www.fourseasonsretirement.com contentsJANUARY | FEBRUARY 2020

18 January | February 2020

PROFILE

Home is where the heart is Alisha Gaddis and Lucky Diaz Education Excellence welcome us into their house Diana and Jim Roberts get high marks

for their devotion to children Best Date Night Spots // Jim and Diana Roberts // Local Performers on the Big Stage

On the cover Alisha Gaddis and Lucky Diaz photographed by Angela Jackson

4 Columbus Magazine MEdley

6 editor’s note 8 What do you think? 10 BOOK NOOK

taste 12 Date night destinations

HOME & FAMILY 12 26 At home with Alisha Gaddis and Lucky Diaz

COMMUNITY 34 Columbus performers hit the road

IN EVERY ISSUE

42 Wedding 44 our side of town 46 The Big Picture 26 Columbus Magazine 5 medley editor’s note

Hello, Columbus Friends! I hope 2020 is off to a fantastic start for you. sA the editor of Columbus magazine, I thought the new year would be a good time to introduce my- self. My name is Emilee Miller, and my husband and I have lived in Bartholomew County our entire lives. We have two children and reside on the west side of Columbus. My magazine career, which began in 2005, has focused primarily on layout design and artistic direction. Last year, I was given the opportunity to add editor of Columbus magazine to my title. It has been exciting to come up with story ideas and collaborate with our talented writers and photographers, while still continuing to design the layouts. Recently someone was talking about one of our featured couples, and he said that they are the kind of people who choose to live in Columbus, not because they have to but because they want to. It might sound like a simple concept, but as a lifelong local, it shifted my perspective. My par- ents originally made the decision for me to grow up in Columbus, but now I live here because I choose to. I love Columbus, and I want to surround myself and my children with people who love it, too. There are many things I appreciate about Columbus as an adult that I didn’t notice as a child: the world-renowned architecture, the diversity of its citizens, the people who are passionate about their careers and our city, the restaurants (especially the ones that have my order memorized), the beautiful homes with their unique styles, the churches that welcome all with open arms, the schools that push our kids to their full potential, and the organizations that encourage us to be part of something bigger than ourselves. These are the people, places and groups that I want to share with you in Columbus magazine. In this issue, I hope you enjoy getting to know Jim and Diana Roberts, taking a look inside the home of Lucky Diaz and Alisha Gaddis, finding the best restaurants for a fancy date night, and seeing what five young performers from Columbus are up to these days. Wishing all of you the best year yet. Happy reading!

Emilee Miller [email protected]

6 Columbus Magazine January 22, 2020

Publisher Advertising Reader Services Bud Hunt Advertising Art Director Mailing Address AIM Media Indiana Amanda Waltz P.O. Box 3011 Columbus, IN 47202 Advertising Design Editorial Erin Caplinger, Ashley Curry, Advertising Inquiries Editor and Senior Graphic Designer Julie Daiker, Jessica Dell, (812) 379-5655 Emilee Miller Kassi Hattabaugh, Josh Meyer, Jessicah Powers, Tina Ray, Back Issues Senior Copy Editor Robert Wilson To order back issues of Columbus Katharine Smith magazine, please send $5 per Advertising Operations Manager issue (includes S&H) to the Contributors Lara Hunt mailing address above or call Samuel Castelan, Carla Clark, (800) 435-5601. Please include the Angela Jackson, Jana Jones, Advertising Operations Coordinator address to which your copies should Sara McAninch, Jon Shoulders, Cat Cooper be sent. PDF files are available Glenda Winders for a fee of $20 per page and are Account Executives permitted for personal use only. Rhonda Day, Jon Franz, Taylor Schrink, Joy Woodcock ©2020 by AIM Media Indiana All rights reserved. Reproduction of stories, photographs and advertisements without permission is prohibited.

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Columbus Magazine 7 medley What Do You Think?

In each issue of Columbus, we ask people for their opinions on a variety of topics. This month’s question: What resolutions have you made for the new year?

My goal for 2020 is to be In 2020 I would rather like My goal is to enjoy my time more present in the now to come and live with my in Australia while studying and not on my phone. boyfriend, either here in abroad. Columbus or somewhere — Alana Stagnolia else in the states. I am from — Jahna Smiley London originally. [Editor’s note: Steen married Jacob Waltermire Dec. 23 in Columbus.]

— Olivia Steen

One of my resolutions is My goal for 2020 is to to raise my child without keep on doing the same thinking too much about what as I am now, only better. is right and wrong, and to trust myself in his education. — Tom Pickett

— Delphine Seguy and Liam Odfy One of my goals for 2020 is to get caught up on home projects.

— Jim Clouse

8 Columbus Magazine Compiled By Carla Clark

My goal is to stay healthy, My resolution for 2020, on My goal for 2020 is to take see family more and do a career level, is I would a nice, long and relaxing productive things. like to advance into a full- vacation, because I babysit time administrative role, or great-grandkids every day. even possibly get back into — Bob Pitman baseball coaching or cross — Wilma Hayden country coaching full time.

— Alex Engelbert

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Columbus Magazine 9 medley BOOK NOOK

2019 National book award winner

“Author in Chief: “A Long Petal of “Disney’s Land: “Trust Exercise” The Untold Story the Sea” Walt Disney and By Susan Choi of Our Presidents By Isabel Allende the Invention of Her fifth novel, “Trust Exer- cise” is an ingenious blend- Historical fiction is one of and the Books the Amusement ing of voices of truth and my favorite genres, and this They Wrote” Park that Changed un-truth, youthful inexperi- beautifully written novel does ence and wizened cynicism, By Craig Fehrman not disappoint. Spanning the World” privilege and disadvantage, This is a book for historians decades and continents, the By Richard Snow all within the walls of a highly and readers who demand relationship of Victor and Scores of books have been competitive performing arts well-researched, factual infor- Roser unfolds. Fleeing per- written on Walt Disney and high school. Expect twists mation about the leaders who secution during the Spanish the entertainment colossus he and turns along the way. This shape our country. Fehrman’s Civil War, Victor enters a created, but Snow finds some is a book you’ll want to dis- decade of journalistic inquiry loveless marriage with his new running room, delivering cuss with others; as NPR said, informs a well-documented deceased brother’s pregnant an elegantly written chroni- “Book groups, meet your next history of the presidents’ wife, Roser, to save her and cle focusing on how Disney selection.” her unborn child’s life. books. created and funded the famed The two begin their jour- At the same time, “Au- park that bears his name. — Beth Stroh ney as refugees with hope thor in Chief” will appeal to Disney knew the importance and longing to return home those who often find the of characters in storytelling at some point in the future. past — and books about it — and so does Snow, examin- Through many ups and stale or irrelevant. Fehrman ing many of the people who downs, the two discover that reveals the humanity of the helped Disney on his passage home may not be what they men who’ve achieved the from idea to game-changing imagined after all. presidency through scores of park. previously unknown stories, — Theresa Wilson The book suggests lessons often shared in their own that extend to today: Passion words. for an idea and a plan are Their writing offers important, but so is research. valuable insights into their Disney’s focus and self-confi- dreams and frustrations, suc- dence allowed him to push on cesses and disappointments, despite family and friends who and definition of the role of told him that an amusement president. park was folly. He leveraged everything he — John Stroh owned to build an amusement park the likes of which the world had never seen.

10 Columbus Magazine — Jeff Rowe, Associated Press Reviews by Viewpoint Books & associated press

2019 National book award winner 2019 National book award winner

PROTECTION YOU CAN TRUST, FROM THE FAMILY THAT CARES CALL NOW!

“1919: The Year “The Yellow House” That Changed By Sarah M. Broom 812-755-6272 America” A newcomer to the literary By Martin W. Sandler world, this is a brilliant re- minder that natural disas- This latest book by Sandler, an ters often affect the least award-winning author of many advantaged among us more historical accounts for young significantly than we want people, tells a fascinating to believe. Broom’s memoir 30+ YEARS story of U.S. history through honors and haunts as she cre- compelling photographs, ates vivid images of what was LOCAL timelines and wonderfully her family’s home in pre-Ka- written text that both children trina New Orleans and the EXPERTISE and adults will appreciate. difficulty of returning “home” We may not realize how after its destruction. many movements — the end of World War I, Prohibition, — Beth Stroh women’s suffrage, labor strikes, the racism of the Red Summer and fear of an emerg- Family Owned & Operated ing Russian strength — all con- tributed to significant social and political change that be- gan in 1919. Sandler carefully connects this remarkable year to current events, too, making it a highly relevant book for our times.

— Beth Stroh

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Henry Social Club

12 Columbus Magazine Date Night Decisions

Where to go in Columbus for upscale dining

You’ve scheduled a date night

but are struggling with one

important detail: Where to eat?

You want something a little

fancier than grab-and-go fare.

Whether you’re out with a spe-

cial friend or a significant other,

here are four upscale options in

Columbus to try.

By SARA MCANINCH // Photography by jana jones

Columbus Magazine 13 taste

New York Strip & Chicken Carbonara at Upland Columbus Pump House

148 Lindsey St. | 812-799-3587 | uplandbeer.com/locations/columbus-pump-house Thai Connection

If you’re looking for the best view in 527 Washington St., the city, according to Tabitha Lewis, 812-657-3790 general manager at Upland Columbus thaiconnection.biz Pump House, then visit the restaurant on the river. With its brick interior and exterior, plus a wealth of windows that provide natural lighting, Upland For something refreshing and healthy yet has a lot of architectural appeal. substantial and comforting, Thai Connec- In addition to atmosphere, the tion manager Om Shanyapuk recommends restaurant offers a seasonal food her Tom Yum soup, a spicy lemongrass menu, beer brewed by the company, soup chock-full of herbs, mushrooms, wine and, more recently, a few cock- »onions and tomatoes. tails. For a date night, Lewis recom- “The Tom Yum is popular, and it can mends the 14-ounce New York strip be served vegetarian or with chicken or steak. Sourced from Fischer Farms shrimp,” says Shanyapuk, adding that her in Jasper, the steak is cooked to order Tom Ka, a coconut milk soup with veggies and topped with garlic butter. Sides and herbs, is another constant customer include Brussels sprouts and sweet favorite. “The Tom Yum is medium spicy, potato puree. so it’s OK for someone if they don’t like If you or your date aren’t red meat too much spice. It has the right balance.” eaters, the chicken carbonara is another great choice. The house-made fettucine is topped with a cream-based white sauce, bacon, prosciutto, a fresh grilled sliced chicken breast, onion and Parmesan cheese. The result is a “nice hearty meal,” says Lewis. With its extensive beer menu, Upland has a lot to offer by way of beverage options. She proposes that the Teddy Bear Kisses is the perfect pairing for the steak. The Russian Imperial Stout has notes of chocolate and coffee and a “dark roasty malt” flavor. For the carbonara, she says a “red wine would go really well with it.” Out of the three the restaurant offers, she suggests the cabernet. If you’re taking your sweetie out for Valentine’s Day, Lewis says there will probably be some sort of special menu option, although Upland hasn’t finalized its menu yet. Closer to the date, you can view the menu online at the company’s website or call the restaurant directly for information.

14 Columbus Magazine Sea and Land Combination & American Dream Roll at Taku Steakhouse 305 Fourth St. | 812-799-7956 | takusteakhouse.com

The interior of Taku Steak- more popular rolls is the dry and in a large or small size. house has three separate seat- American Dream. This chef’s If eating a fish-only dish on ing areas: hibachi tables, main specialty is generously sized a date doesn’t appeal to you, dining and the bar. While the and easily shareable. Rock Lay says the Sea and Land hibachi tables include a fun shrimp tempura is wrapped Combination is the perfect show put on by the chef who inside a seaweed paper called meal for two. This hibachi spe- prepares and makes the food, nori and then sticky rice. It’s cialty includes New York strip that space can be loud. Instead, topped with spicy lobster salad steak, chicken, shrimp and restaurant manager Kevin and crab meat, then the heat is scallops. You and your date Lay recommends that you and turned up when a spicy cream will also get soup, salad and your date sit in main dining, sauce is poured over all of it. To noodles or fried rice. With My- where it’s quieter and you can cool things down a little, Lay ers’s rum, strawberry liqueur, order anything on the menu, suggests one of the restaurant’s peach liqueur and tropical including the hibachi. many sake offerings. Served fruit juice, the Taku punch is a The restaurant is known hot or cold, this fermented rice sweet beverage that goes well for its sushi, and one of the drink can be ordered sweet or with this dish.

Columbus Magazine 15 taste

Now in its fifth year of busi- ness, Henry Social Club is known for its lively atmosphere and a “very diverse clientele that matches our very diverse community,” says Director of Operations Amy Holmes. As a destination spot for special occasions, the restaurant often has “a celebratory air” with music playing and a lot of social activity. Don’t let that deter you from your date night dining, though; the staff can try to seat you away from the main traffic and noise if you call ahead of time with the request. Since the menu changes frequently, Holmes recom- mends checking the restau- rant’s Facebook page for the daily options. For sure there will always be a wide selection of starters that are great for sharing. There will also be sea- sonal salads, seafood, pasta, a higher-end steak (think ribeye and filet mignon) and a special chocolate dessert. If you’re unsure about what to order from the extensive menu, ask for suggestions. In addition to its cocktails with homemade shrubs (also known as drinking vinegars), Henry Social Club offers wine and champagne options. “The alcohol selection, the wine list — all of those afford you the opportunity to try things that you haven’t tried before,” Holmes says. For a date night, she suggests starting with champagne or wine. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday nights for dinner only. Due to its popularity, Holmes says that “reservations are recom- mended” but not required. If Seafood, Pasta & Steak you’re planning a Valentine’s at Henry Social Club Day date night, the specialty menu that will be offered requires you to call ahead to 423 Washington St. | 812-799-1371 | henrysocialclub.com guarantee your spot.

16 Columbus Magazine Johnny’s Favorite Pizza & Grilled Chicken Festival Bowtie Pasta at Johnny Carino’s

870 Creekview Drive | 812-372-2266 | carinos.com

At Johnny Carino’s “there’s some- thing for everybody,” according to Manager Michael Stroh. Since all the food is made to order, custom- izations or dietary restrictions aren’t an issue, and the menu is varied enough that you and your date are sure to find something that tickles your taste buds. If you’re undecided about good date night fare, Stroh says a short noodle dish is perfect so “you’re not slurping anything.” He recom- mends the Grilled Chicken Bowtie Festival Pasta. The mix of sliced chicken, bacon, red onion, asiago cream sauce, garlic, tomatoes and, of course, bowtie pasta marries in your mouth for a smoky, creamy, pungent combination of flavors. A good beverage complement is a glass of the Twisted brand Moscato, which has the right amount of bubbles and finishes on a berry note. According to Stroh, it “hits the palate cleanly.” The turtle cheesecake is the perfect finish to the meal with its layers of rich cheesecake, chocolate, caramel, candied pecans and a dollop of whipped cream on top. For a shareable dish, Stroh suggests Johnny’s Favorite Pizza. Topped with pepperoni, sausage, bacon, black olives, mushrooms, green peppers, red onions, toma- toes and cheese, the supreme pie is cooked in a wood fire to give it a unique flavor. The smoky and earthy flavors of the pizza go well with the it gets a light dusting of powdered The 21-and-older bar area is adjacent Amalfi strawberry lemonade, which sugar. to the family-friendly fireplace room is a combination of Captain Morgan Johnny Carino’s offers multiple that offers other places to sit. You rum, strawberry puree, lemon juice options for your date night dining. If can even request candles on the and lemonade. If you want to end you crave a quieter setting, there are table if you call ahead. “The best part this date on a sweet note, order one intimate alcoves with dimmer light- is, when you think of a date night, or two cannoli. The crispy shell is ing. For a livelier mealtime, the fam- you think of great food, a great dipped in chocolate, then stuffed ily side has open views to the kitchen atmosphere, maybe some wine. We with a mixture of sweetened ricotta where you can interact with the staff have all that and some great prices, cheese and chocolate chips before and watch the food being prepared. too,” says Stroh.

Columbus Magazine 17 Profile

18 Columbus Magazine classACTS

Jim and Diana Roberts couldn’t help falling in love with each other and teaching

By glenda winders // PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGELA JACKSON

To say that Jim and Diana in Brown County. Jim started Roberts have devoted their at a disadvantage because he lives to education doesn’t even hadn’t gone to kindergarten, begin to tell the story of their but once he learned to read he commitment to the students began to excel. Diana recalls whose lives they touch. Today that he was soon in a reading Jim is the superintendent of group by himself because he Bartholomew Consolidated read so much better than any- School Corp., and Diana is a one else, and he remembers Tsecond-grade teacher at CSA the day he got his first library Lincoln Elementary School, card. but their dedication to learn- “That was my golden ing started many years ago in ticket,” he said. … well, school. The pair didn’t start dating They met in first grade at until their senior year at Elementary School Brown County High School,

Columbus Magazine 19 profile

and I thought it would be a cool place to live,” he said, “and we wanted to live close to our parents and where we grew up.”

On the road Over the next six years he and Diana earned master’s degrees, and when he took the job of assistant principal in Batesville, they decided not to leave their Columbus home. He commuted an hour each way for five years, and Diana drove half an hour to her job at South Decatur Elementary School. But when he became principal and Diana got a job in Batesville, too, it was time to move. “I knew it was important to be in the community,” he said. “You want to be seen at the grocery store by the students and their parents that you serve.” By this time Jim had com- Diana and Jim at their senior pleted a doctoral degree in prom in 1983. educational leadership, writ- ing his dissertation on ISTEP, the Indiana standardized test but they have been together that was new at the time. His ever since. They graduated research was some of the first from Indiana University in done in that area. 1987 — he with a degree in “I had a belief that socio- secondary education, physi- economics might be respon- cal education and math; she sible for passing the test,” with a degree in elementary he said, “and my research education. They married indicated that was indeed the that Labor Day weekend and case. Even now I look at kids went to work on that Tuesday. and wonder what it is like at Jim had received three job home. What supports do they offers and decided on Hauser have, how much sleep do they High School in Hope, so they get, how solid is their foun- moved to Columbus. dation, how many books are “I had grown up playing available to read, what’s their basketball against Columbus vocabulary like before they East and Columbus North, start school?”

20 Columbus Magazine Back to Columbus In 2016 he accepted the job of BCSC superintendent. “Dr. Roberts was a good fit for us in a number of ways,” said Jill Shedd, president of the BCSC school board. “We valued that he was from the area. Also, he values highly that a school corporation is an integral part of a com- munity, and he is committed personally to be a part of our community. Batesville is similar to Columbus in terms of the makeup of the commu- nity with the mix of large and small businesses, which we believed was advantageous. “When we interviewed him, he stated his respect for the work and team in BCSC and a commitment to continue the work with our leadership to get even better. He is a true professional, and he continues to be a great fit for BCSC and for Columbus.” The family was glad to come back to Columbus, a city they say feels like home. “Columbus is an outstand- ing community,” Jim said. “I love the diversity, and I love the collaborative spirit of ‘Let’s get things done the right way.’ There are always challenges and opportuni- ties, but we have people who care about each other, and that makes this a pretty good place.” The two agree that the kids here are great, too. Jim said “Columbus is an outstanding community. I love the the problems for which chil- diversity, and I love the collaborative spirit of ‘Let’s dren are often blamed usually aren’t their fault. get things done the right way.’ There are always “It’s the adults who have challenges and opportunities, but we have people who care about each other, and that makes this a pretty good place.” — Jim Roberts

Columbus Magazine 21 profile

Diana with some of her second grade students at CSA Lincoln Elementary School.

created all of these chal- pensation for teachers and to Brett Findley, principal at lenges,” he said. “We created decrease the growing amount CSA Lincoln, said Diana is the technology and put it in of stress that comes with their definitely a teacher who cares their hands and said, ‘Go keep jobs. While Diana acknowl- about her students. yourself busy.’ … Whatever edges these issues are serious, “Students are drawn to her societal ills go on across our she still loves what she does. because of the relationships country, we are a reflection of “The job is challenging, but she builds with them,” he said. that. If there’s a drug problem I love the kids the same as I “She holds them to very high within the community, then did when I began teaching,” expectations and demands you’ve got to assume that our she said. “The kids haven’t that they push themselves fur- kids might delve into that changed that much in the ther than they think they are arena, too.” classroom. Most of them want capable of. She is committed to learn and come to school. to putting the time and effort Support for teachers They’re happy to be with into making sure they are suc- The district is working to friends and the teachers who cessful, and when a student determine appropriate com- care for them.” achieves something new, she

22 Columbus Magazine “Students are drawn to her because of the relationships she builds with them. She holds them to very high expectations and demands that they push themselves further than they think they are capable of. She is committed to putting the time and effort into making sure they are successful, and when a student achieves something new, she will be beaming as she says, ‘I knew he could do it.’” — Brett Findley

will be beaming as she says, ‘I knew he could do it.’” Diana said one of the things she likes best about teaching at a project-based-learning school like CSA Lincoln is the challenge of coming up with fun, engaging projects. “I strive to make each school day meaningful and exciting so students like school and want to come each day,” she said. “If they feel special and loved, and they truly know you care about them, they don’t want to disappoint you, so they work hard, behave well and give it their all every day. “I wholeheartedly believe the quote by Carl W. Buech- ner, ‘They may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel.’ I try my best to make each child feel special and loved.” in school unless it’s for a con- state, writes the budget, hires ference or education-related new faculty and staff, ensures Little downtime travel. He has visited schools that buildings are in good With two busy careers, Jim in Zhejiang Province in China condition and makes changes and Diana haven’t taken a va- and Miyoshi, Japan — one of in technology. His job also cation since they moved back Columbus’ sister cities. involves serving on about a to Columbus. Jim doesn’t like In the summertime he dozen boards in the com- to be away when students are completes reports for the munity, and he is active in

Columbus Magazine 23 profile

Turning Point, which seeks to His favorite artist is Elvis rented several houses together prevent domestic and dating Presley, and he can perform a on the beach or went to the abuse. rousing impersonation of him Disney parks. Now those girls They do find time to relax on stage. Diana also enjoys are grown up, and all three are and enjoy their grandchildren. reading but said she is often IU grads, too. Still a voracious reader, Jim too tired at the end of the day Rylie is a nurse at Colum- typically reads nonfiction, to pick up a book. Her other bus Regional Health, and she much of it education-related, love is bicycling. and her husband have two and his favorite fiction author She said that when their children, Easton and Ivy, and is Stephen King. He said mu- three daughters were growing live in Columbus. Regan is sic is also important to him, up, they took annual spring a behavioral therapist who and he often uses song lyrics break holidays to Florida with works with autistic children in the many speeches he gives. other families where they in the Milwaukee area, and

Above: Johnny Radtke, Regan Roberts, Rashel Roberts, Rylie Thornsberry, Ivy Thornsberry, Bobby Thornsberry, Easton Thornsberry, Diana and Jim Roberts. Opposite page: Jim Roberts, as Elvis, with backup singers, Gina Pleak, Laura Hack and Suzi Bruin, performing during Crooners For CASA, presented by Advocates for Children, at The Commons in 2019.

24 Columbus Magazine photo by Carla Clark TR-35029885

Rashel works with children And Jim says that’s what who have speech and language he misses most now that he’s When difficulties. a superintendent. “We both “They didn’t go into got into teaching to be around Quality teaching,” Jim said, “but we’re kids and people and just do proud of the fact that they that,” he said, “but my career went into helping professions.” took me to a different place.” Matters! As for their own jobs, Jim He does get into classrooms and Diana say their greatest occasionally, and he enjoys be- fulfillment is working with ing a part of the Book Buddies people. program that pairs adults and “What I love the most is children for reading. He says being in the classroom teach- one of his favorite memories ing and having conversations is of a little girl running up to with the kids,” Diana said. him in a store to hug his leg “When I think about retiring, and crying, “Jim! Jim!” He I think I could do without the had to explain to her startled long hours and working on mother that he was her Book weekends, but I don’t know if Buddy and, in fact, the super- I could do without the kids.” intendent of schools.

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Columbus Magazine 25 Home & Family

By JON SHOULDERS Photography by ANGELA JACKSON

26 Columbus Magazine Making themselves at home

Nationally renowned music artists bring creativity to their Columbus house

By JON SHOULDERS Photography by ANGELA JACKSON

Columbus Magazine 27 home & family

Alisha Gaddis and Lucky Diaz consider their house on Lafayette Avenue to be more than just a place to live (well, for part of the year anyway, Abut more on that later). They see it as an opportunity for the kind of artistic expression that is so integral to their lives and careers. Alisha and Lucky tour extensively as Latin Grammy- and Emmy Award-winning music act The Lucky Band, previously known as Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band, which they formed 11 years ago in California. The group, which has released several successful albums of catchy kids tunes, has been covered by CNN, PBS, Bill- board, The Washington Post and People magazine, among other media outlets. Touring takes them all over the United States and abroad to Japan, China and Mexico. When the couple and their children, Ella, 16, and Indiana, 3, aren’t out on the road or at their home in Los Angeles, they’re likely to be found enjoying their Colum- bus home with friends and family. They began looking for a home in Columbus after their youngest daughter was nection brought them here, “We both come from cre- born to be closer to Alisha’s Lucky and Alisha say their ative backgrounds and were parents, Bob and Karen love of the community, art always the ones getting the Gaddis. The Gaddises reside and architecture in Columbus neighborhood kids together on the west side of Columbus, drew them in even more. They to put on a play and charging and Bob is approaching his consider their residential sur- a quarter for admission,” says 20th year as Columbus East roundings here in town to be Alisha, who also works as a High School’s head football as optimal a place for creativ- stand-up comic, published coach. ity as any stage or recording author and columnist. “So, While the family con- studio. of course, we wanted to be

28 Columbus Magazine “A guy we know describes the style of our house as Marfa, Texas, meets big-city living. We love mid-century modern, Americana and all different styles, but a house has to kind of dictate what design you do and what kinds of furniture you put in.” — Lucky Diaz

creative in how we did our home here and decorate it in a meaningful way.”

A style of their own Such TLC for their home is readily apparent. The walls and shelves are adorned with artwork from flea markets, set pieces from past TV shows and photo shoots the couple have done together, antique shops and elsewhere. “A guy we know describes the style of our house as Marfa, Texas, meets big-city living,” Lucky says. “We love mid-century modern, Americana and all different styles, but a house has to kind of dictate what design you do and what kinds of furniture you put in.” Alisha says she and Lucky have been working on the three-bedroom, one-bath- room home in one capacity or another since they acquired it three years ago, and Lucky, whose father was a contrac- tor, implemented many of the home design and repair skills he learned over the years without the need to hire outside help. They strove to strike a balance between re- storing the original character of the home, which was built in the 1880s, and adding their personal design touches. Alisha and Lucky under- took a three-month restora- tion and design journey, and one of the biggest jobs during

Columbus Magazine 29 home & family

that period involved ripping out the existing carpet to sand and paint the original 1880s poplar flooring in the front living area. “We couldn’t find a good belt sander anywhere, so I did it by hand and painted it,” Lucky says. Over the course of a month, he covered the freshly sanded floor with three coats of paint. “It was which the couple decided The kitchen also got a face- hard work, but it’s been a should be matte black for a lift that included new counters labor of love.” bold yet understated look. and shelves, repainted cabi- Another extensive job Gold-leaf address numbers on netry and new tile flooring. A consisted of tearing out the the front door transom win- free-standing garage behind home’s vinyl siding to expose dow and bright-hued porch the home now serves as a the structure’s original siding furniture contribute colorful, combination guest house and and then applying fresh paint, stylistic pops to the exterior. creativity space, with a new

30 Columbus Magazine roof and a glass garage door smaller spaces and appreci- to their home are two murals that opens onto a paved patio ate the honesty of a dwelling they commissioned by Lizzie with chairs and a large trough that’s not huge,” Lucky ex- Bilbrey from Indianapolis. planter procured from a seller plains. “There’s something fun One is in their bedroom, and in Ohio. about getting the most you the other is on the outside “With being city dwellers can out of every square inch of the fence that faces First most of our adult lives, we’ve of your space.” Presbyterian Church. Lucky learned to make the most of The most recent updates says they found Bilbrey’s work

Columbus Magazine 31 home & family

on Instagram and knew her style would be a perfect fit for their home.

Drawn to Columbus Lucky, a northern California native and former session musician, met Alisha, a native of Evansville, 12 years ago at the famed Comedy Store in Los Angeles where Alisha was headlining, and they married five years later. Alisha says her background in musical theater and acting is an ideal fit with Lucky’s musical chops for the various kids music projects and additional artistic en- deavors they have undertaken through the years. According to Lucky, they and their kids currently split their time into thirds between touring with The Lucky Band, residing in southern Califor- nia and living in Columbus. “I’m California through and through, but I’m also a design fanboy, so when I started learning about Columbus and the monu- mental architecture here, I

32 Columbus Magazine “We love the whole downtown, and there are people doing cool things everywhere here. As far as the home, we feel like the best way to pay homage to the art and architecture that’s here is to continue creating.” — Alisha Gaddis

got excited fast,” Lucky says. “Being so used to warmer weather back out West, it’s sometimes a shock to walk outside and suddenly you find it’s 25 degrees, but that’s not the biggest deal in the world. We’ve totally grown fond of Columbus.” Alisha says she and Lucky have come to appreciate the walkability and sense of com- munity that they feel pervade Columbus. “It’s such a unique area, and we try to spend as much time as we can here, even though it’s hard with touring and constant meetings on the West Coast,” says Alisha, who says Jill’s Diner on Seventh Street is her favorite place in the world to write. “We love the whole downtown, and there are people doing cool things everywhere here. As far as the home, we feel like the best way to pay homage to the art and architecture that’s here is to continue creating.” Lucky adds that the couple’s plans for their house aren’t necessarily finished yet, and they’ve thoroughly enjoyed each step of their design journey while honoring the home’s history and character. “We have some ideas in the future to make some more radical changes to the house and maybe knock down a wall or two but keeping its integ- rity,” he says. “We like how it’s taken shape, and now it feels like it’s really ours.”

Columbus Magazine 33 Community ‘ There’s no business like show business’

34 Columbus Magazine There’s no business like

Columbus roots helped nurture musical careers show business’ of these accomplished women

By glenda winders // Photography submitted

Mary Claire King performs on Broad- she was a child in the Mill Race Players. way. Marja Harmon sings and dances The women also credit other local in San Francisco. Chasten Harmon, her teachers, Sarah Kittle and Julianna sister, is in a new movie. Chaley Rose Jerome-Drerup, as well as John Johnson Jackson is on TV. Madelyn Claire Lego and Julie Hult, drama coaches at North. is onstage in Ohio. “Getting different expertise from Pretty impressive accomplishments different teachers is invaluable and mfor five women who started out in important,” Gordon said. “All of the Columbus, and they all say growing up voice teachers here in town tend to here contributed to their successes. work together.” “The sense of appreciation that our She said all of these teachers have community has for all of the arts is an reason to be extremely proud of the important piece,” said Janie Gordon, talent they have helped produce. who taught vocal music at Columbus “It’s really awesome to see these kids North High School for 17 years and doing so well in following their dreams continues to teach from her studio and their passions and not giving up,” and perform. She coached or directed Gordon said. “It’s a tough profession. all five of these singer-actors. “There’s There are a lot of knock-downs, and always something in our community you’ve got to pick yourself up and keep that people can tap into that has to do going. So many times the world around with performing. We’ve all grown up us tends to squash a lot of those hopes in a community where the arts have and dreams, and I’m super-proud been supported and nurtured and of those kids who just keep pushing rewarded.” through it.” Gordon worked one-on-one with We talked to these performers re- Marja Harmon and occasionally with cently to find out what’s been happen- Chasten. At North, King and Lego were ing since they left Columbus and what in the choir. She directed Jackson when they miss about home.

Columbus Magazine 35 community

“There’s something about Columbus and being black in Columbus,” she said. “We are a minority by a lot, but we were very supported by our commu- nity. It was a safe space to be a creative kid, and especially a creative kid of color.” She said this was the first place she ever saw color-blind casting. “They just cast the best person for the role,” she said. “I remember a play when a white girl played the younger version of the character and Marja played the older, with no explanation.” Her parents, Cheryl Owsley Jackson and Charles Jackson, as well as her brother have all moved away, but she is still in touch with Kittle. “She was the first person to nurture me and tell me I had a gift, and when I couldn’t afford voice lessons she told me to come for free. I love Sarah for that. I credit her for being we would all go to Applebee’s, where I am today.” CHALEY ROSE and for away games we’d go to For relaxation now she McDonald’s. These were very gets together with a group of simple, small-town Indiana, girlfriends one night a week for JACKSON traditional things that don’t dinner and wine, “to get away exist in my life now.” from the hustle and bustle.” Jackson majored in interna- She also likes hiking. tional studies at Indiana Uni- “There are beautiful places If you can’t resist holiday “I loved ‘Saturday Night versity after her mom talked to hike in L.A.,” she said. “I movies, you probably watched Live,’ and my mom gave me her out of musical theater, but like to go by myself, and at a Jackson in 2019’s “A Christmas free rein with the camcorder,” she found an outlet for her certain point when you’re com- Duet” and “Holiday Heist.” she said. “My friends and I passion with groups such as ing down, all you can hear is She also played Zoe in the TV mimicked the ‘SNL’ sketches Ladies First a cappella and IU the wind. I turn off my music series “Nashville,” and she has and did stop-motion and Soul Review. and just breathe.” made guest appearances on magic tricks. I also used to pre- “I got an incredible vocal But her main focus is always several TV series. She dropped tend I was in commercials.” education because the vocal on work. her last name professionally She lives in Hollywood now, coaches were often doctoral “At one point it seemed like and now goes by “Chaley but she looks back nostalgi- students of music,” she said. “I all of this opportunity was out Rose,” in part a nod to the cally at her days at Central learned a lot about harmonies of reach,” she said, “but now grandmother for whom she Middle School and Columbus and being able to hear and I’ve come to a point where it’s was named. East High School, where she fine-tune my ear. I thought all possible if I’m willing to do “I have a rose tattoo on my was the first African American maybe I’d be a backup singer the work, keep my head down, arm,” she said, “and I incorpo- homecoming queen. She was or dancer. I tried to put myself stay focused, stay creative and rated this year and named my also on the track team and was in a smaller box, but it just keep working on my craft.” company after her.” a gymnast and a cheerleader. didn’t work out. This was the Jackson’s next roles are Jackson said she always “Some of my fondest mem- dream.” in “The Pledge” on the CW knew she would be an actor ories are of Friday nights,” she She said Columbus was a network and an episode of and singer. said. “If we had a home game, great place to grow up. “Lucifer” on Netflix.

36 Columbus Magazine MARY CLAIRE KING

“It was easily the best day excited to try out for “Won- of my life,” King said of her derful Town.” When the Broadway debut, when she results were posted, she had played two roles in “War been cast for a more difficult Paint.” The stars of the show role than the one for which were Patti LuPone and Chris- she had auditioned. tine Ebersole, who, King said, “I was terrified as I didn’t “made me feel like I had my think I could pull off the own Tony Awards at home as quirky lead,” she said. “But opposed to being the rookie playing this role transported that I was.” me. For the first time I actu- Currently King is the un- ally felt like a different person derstudy for the role of Velma onstage, and it was the best Kelly in “Chicago,” also on time I’d had in my whole life. Broadway, and she is part of That’s when I knew.” an ensemble that is onstage For her successes she cred- for every performance. its Jerome-Drerup, Gordon, “Playing this role and being Johnson and Hult, along a part of this show have truly with the staff at Christie’s been a dream of mine since Dance Studio and teacher Ed I was 17 years old,” she said. Niespodziani, who created “This is the most significant “American Pie.” role I’ve played thus far.” “I am beyond grateful for She lives on the Upper the rich arts community in West Side of Manhattan near Columbus,” she said, “and I Lincoln Center now, but she was blessed with the most in- grew up on Washington Street credible teachers who believed with parents, Peter and Cathy that I could be on Broadway King, and two older siblings. long before I did. The best “While I essentially came team prepared me for this out of the womb singing,” she career from a young age. All said, “I loved to try everything of these wonderful teaching live experience that you share With her family still in Co- and found myself following artists gave me the tools that I with the audience and is dif- lumbus, King comes back to in my brother’s footsteps with still rely on today.” ferent every time you tell the visit, and she has performed soccer, basketball and track. She went on to study at same story — and, of course, with the Columbus Indiana Our parents instilled a solid Syracuse University, where the freedom to burst into song Philharmonic three times. work ethic within us, truly she earned a Bachelor of Fine and dance at any moment.” “Columbus will always leading by example.” Arts in musical theater. That And sing she does. In be my home,” she said, “and She sang in the Columbus led to several roles in regional addition to her theater work I still have relationships Indiana Children’s Choir theater that she said were King is part of a group called with all of my teachers and for five years and began pivotal for her. She said her RANGE a cappella. “Many friends, many of whom travel taking voice lessons in the favorite part of what she does members are friends from around the country to see me seventh grade, but she didn’t is the storytelling. Syracuse, and it’s truly my ar- perform. I miss Indiana fall, realize she wanted to be an “I love stepping into an- tistic family here in Manhat- holidays, our neighborhood, actor until her junior year at other person, often in another tan,” she said. “We’ve released riding my bike to my cousins’ Columbus North. She had a time, and learning what a full album and have lots of house and the Judson Erne principal role the year before makes them tick,” she said. songs on all music platforms Auditorium. I miss my family in “Bye Birdie,” and she was “I love that the theater is a and videos on YouTube.” the most.”

Columbus Magazine 37 community

love for choreography and improv/comedy while I was there. And out of all the roles I have had in my life, I feel that the most significant was when I was cast in the college production of “Wild Party” as Queenie. I put a ton of work into the audition, and it paid off. I felt I was finally performing in a way that felt professional and mature. The role was super challenging and gave me an opportunity to really hone in on all the aspects of musical theater that I feel I do really well.” Next it was on to New York City, where she has worked in many aspects of musical theater. Currently she is writing scripts, filming shorts with her friends, performing in concerts and musicals, and choreographing for other theater companies. “My favorite thing about my career is that it has no end destination; there is no finish MADELYN CLAIRE LEGO line in sight,” she said. “I am constantly evolving what I want to create. I get to do “Some people are just born important to my growth as an She credits Kittle for her anything and everything. I with this desire to perform artist. I had so many oppor- singing voice; Gordon, John- love to make people laugh and and be onstage, and I think tunities to be involved in the son and Hult for introducing getting to create things that I am genuinely one of those arts growing up. The people her to theater; and Beth’s pull people in.” people,” Lego said. “I don’t re- and groups I worked with Dance Studio, Elite Perfor- Lego said her best memo- member the specific moment there truly are what pushed mance and Christie’s for ries of growing up here were that I decided ‘This is for me,’ me to be the performer I am teaching her to dance. the Ethnic Expo parade, the but I also don’t remember a today.” “I found a love for the the- 4-H fair, the playground time when I didn’t want it to She was in the Columbus ater and performance in a way and movie theater in the old be my career.” Indiana Children’s Choir that was supportive, but they Commons, American Pie and Lego is based in New York and performed with the Mill never babied me,” she said. pool parties at the Holiday and is currently performing Race Theatre Co. She at- “I was held to high standards Inn. She comes home now in “Saturday Night Fever” in tended Columbus Christian and had high expectations to for the occasional Columbus Ohio, but she got her start in School, Central Middle School meet.” “fix,” and she performed with Indiana. and Columbus North High After high school she the philharmonic in the 2019 “The first time I stepped School, where she was also a headed to Western Illinois holiday concert. Her parents, onstage was at 3 or 4 years volleyball player. University, where she earned a Tom and Pam Lego, her two old,” she said. “I did church “I was a really busy kid,” Bachelor of Fine Arts. sisters and their families, and choir when I was really she said, “and it taught me “At WIU I was given insane her grandparents still live in little, and my parents knew how to manage my time and amounts of opportunity to Columbus. immediately that I had the balance the things I love with mold my own identity as an “My roots run deep in the bug. Columbus was incredibly the not-so-fun parts.” artist,” she said. “I found my 812,” she said. “Go Blue!”

38 Columbus Magazine has an expiration date. There about ourselves and teach oth- CHASTEN are intense highs and intense ers about themselves. It’s such lows.” a beautiful exchange. It makes What she loves most about the dark times worth it.” HARMON her work is the community. What she doesn’t like are “We hold each other up and comparisons and measures of together,” she said. “We sup- what constitutes “success.” port each other on the darkest “Our American mentality of days and say, ‘Keep going!’ has the horrible habit of rating ‘You can do this!’ ‘Don’t give everything, but I don’t sub- You’ll see Harmon in the nities. After graduating from up!’ We are a family. We get to scribe to that. What’s impor- movie “Paterson” and the Columbus East, she headed explore the human experience tant is showing up for yourself USA drama series “Damna- for New York City, where she through art. We get to learn and your art every day.” tion,” but she said the roles auditioned to join the New she plays are not what make York University musical the- her most proud. ater program with a self-pro- “I knew it would be a duced karaoke CD of a song terrifying journey, and it from “Rent.” has been,” she said. “Terri- “I’m sure they thought I fying and exhilarating and was crazy, but I had gumption exhausting and heartbreak- and it worked. I got in, and ing and rewarding beyond that changed my life forever,” belief. But it’s not about the she said. “I loved musical the- accomplishments. It’s about ater. It was such an amazing the strength to persevere. My form of artistic expression, greatest accomplishments and I was good at it. I fit right are in those low, low, low in. Musical theater people moments when I decide to were my people. It wasn’t until keep going, where I choose I got to NYU and found my not to quit.” people that I realized I was an The daughter of Tom and artist through and through, Mary Harmon credits Co- and I was in a school that sup- lumbus with helping form her ported that and afforded me into the person she is, but not opportunities to really shine.” always in the ways she might On the first day at NYU’s have hoped. Tisch School of the Arts, her “Columbus offers up some teacher told the class that gems of human beings,” she theirs would be a difficult and said, citing dance teacher unforgiving profession and Georgeana Dent and Jer- that if they could be happy do- ome-Drerup as mentors ing anything else, they should who helped to cultivate her go do it. Some members of the skills. “But growing up in class actually left, but Harmon Columbus as a young African stayed and later completed a American female was hard, Master of Fine Arts from the let alone being a female artist. Yale School of Drama. I think it’s crucial to have an “Boy, they were not kid- open dialogue with students ding,” she said. “This industry and to ask them what they is everything they said and need, especially if they do not more. There are no guaran- look like others in the room.” tees, no security. You are a But she said her high freelancer endlessly search- school experiences taught her ing for the next opportunity to create her own opportu- because every opportunity

Columbus Magazine 39 “I grew up singing in events and doing national anthems. It was all a part of my childhood, and I feel like Columbus gave me a lot of opportunities to learn how to perform in front of an audience at a young age. I always felt like the community was incredibly nurturing and supportive and still is very much so.” — Marja Harmon

Angelica is all hers. Other Taiwan, and there are only a roles have been in “The Book handful of states that I haven’t of Mormon” and “The Lion been to.” King.” Her first starring role Her early years left her with was as Aida in the musical of more positive memories than the same name. her sister’s. “Each show I’ve been in has “I grew up singing in events been really monumental for and doing national anthems,” me,” she said. “I have wonder- she said. “It was all a part ful memories and friendships of my childhood, and I feel from each one. But ever since like Columbus gave me a ‘Hamilton’ came out it has lot of opportunities to learn been a goal, and Angelica how to perform in front of Schuyler has been the goal.” an audience at a young age. I She worked alongside Lin- always felt like the community Manuel Miranda in “Merrily was incredibly nurturing and We Roll Along” in 2012 while supportive and still is very he was writing “Hamilton.” much so.” “He was always telling me Her parents were one of the he was ‘working on some- founding couples of the Af- MARJA thing,’” she said, laughing. She rican-American Fund, which performed with him again in promotes philanthropy in the HARMON “Hamilton” in Puerto Rico African-American commu- as a benefit for the victims of nity. Hurricane Maria. “I’m so proud of the work “I’ve gotten to meet and my parents are doing to help Chasten’s sister, Marja, is work with some amazing Columbus diversity,” she said. also based in New York, but people that I admire — the- “It’s exciting to see change she’ll be in San Francisco for ater giants like James Earl over the years every time I go the next year performing in Jones and Phylicia Rashad,” home.” “Hamilton.” Up until recently she said. “My Broadway debut One of her earliest influ- she was an understudy for was playing with them in ‘Cat ences was Jim Lazzell, her the roles of all three Schuyler on a Hot Tin Roof.’ “I’ve also vocal teacher at ABC-Stewart sisters, but now the role of gotten to tour in China and School.

40 Columbus Magazine community

“I loved to perform at my good at it,” she said, “but I was and her acting career took off. kind of endurance and taking parents’ home, but getting running from theater rehears- “One of the things I’m care of ourselves to be able up in front of strangers was a als to games, and it became really grateful for is how much to do that sort of thing with whole other thing, and I was too much. I realized I didn’t you get to learn about yourself consistency like we do. It takes shy,” she said. “He really en- care as much about basketball in this business,” she said, such stamina, such courage, couraged me to get out there. as I did performing. It was an “how far you can stretch your such fortitude. It pushes you, He said, ‘You have a gift, and easy choice to follow where craft and your mind and your and it shows you what you can you should share it.’ He was my heart went.” brain. And I’m grateful for accomplish and what you’re definitely instrumental in She studied with Gordon every win and every loss or capable of.” setting me on this path.” from middle school until setback or mistake because I As an example she points to From there she went on to she left for the University of learn from those.” having learned the parts of all Southside Elementary School, Southern California. Once She said doing eight shows three sisters in “Hamilton.” Central Middle School and there, she thought she would a week requires a lot of “There was a point where Columbus East High School, work in the business side of strength and endurance. I didn’t think I’d be able to where she got permission to the music industry. She stud- “We are athletes. We’re do that. But then a year later leave school at lunchtime for ied theater but wasn’t inter- using our bodies and our I’m asking, ‘Which one do lessons with Gordon. She also ested in the classical musicals voices intensely for a concen- you want? Let’s go.’ I would played on the basketball team the school was staging, so she trated period of time,” she come home and say, ‘My brain until her schedule became too started performing at local said. “I don’t know if people hurts, and I don’t think I can busy with theater. L.A. theaters. After college she understand how much time do this.’ And now here we “I love basketball, and I was joined her sister in New York, we spend cultivating that are.”

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Columbus Magazine 41 wedding

Beth Gibbs & Evan Burton Ceremony and reception in Florence, Italy Oct. 9, 2019

Beth Gibbs and Evan Burton were married at the Palazzo Gondi in Florence, Italy. The palazzo has a top floor terrace overlooking the city, showcasing the Duomo Cathedral and Palazzo Vecchio. “Our guests were able to see us get married while experiencing unique city sights not visible to most tourists. It is also fun to note that Leonardo DaVinci lived in the house in between projects, and it is said that he began painting the “Mona Lisa” in the Palazzo Gondi,” Beth said. Evan was born and raised in Columbus. They met at Indiana University and dated throughout college, but went their separate ways after school. “Three and a half years ago, we happened to see each other for the first time after eight years and both knew right then that we would be together forever,” Beth said. They decided to live in Columbus and began house hunting. They looked for a year before finally finding the perfect house. After officially taking possession, they were celebrating with family and Champagne. “Evan surprised me by getting down on one knee and asking me to be his forever. I was more than shocked, surprised and speechless. It was the perfect moment, in our dream home with our family,” she said. The wedding, described by Beth as “pure magic,” included 22 friends and family who traveled to Italy. The celebration started with a welcome reception at a local wine bar on a terrace with a view of the Arno River and Ponte Vecchio arched bridge. The next day included a bus tour of San Gimignano, a winery tour and dinner. “It was fun to be tourists with so many of our close friends,” Beth said. Their ceremony was the next day, and she said it was elegant and timeless, but also warm and comfortable. “No one goes hungry at an Italian wedding, and ours did not break that rule. Dinner was held in the famous court of the palazzo at a large, family-style table. There is nothing more magical than being with your new husband, with your amazing and fun family and friends belting out ‘Sweet Caroline’ in an Italian palace. We couldn’t have asked for anything better for our wedding and celebration,” she said. “We also think by having such a small wedding we were able to create an intimate celebration of our love and commitment to each other, take as much time as we wanted to enjoy the ceremony and say as much as we wanted for our vows. This made our wedding so much more meaningful, if that is possible,” she said.

42 Columbus Magazine photos by Gabriele Fani Photography

Columbus Magazine 43 our side of town

1 Christmas Village & Festival of Lights Parade The Commons & downtown Columbus Dec. 7

1. Lucky Diaz, Alisha Gaddis and Indiana Diaz, left; Connor, Ali and Piper Kozlowski, center; and Karen and Bob Gaddis. 2. Penny and Kyle Costlow 3. Dusty and Randy Blackburn with grandchildren, Easton and Nova Blackburn 2 3 4. Jim Miller, Jude Wilson and Capt. Mike Wilson at the Columbus Fire Department gingerbread contest 5. Travis Easterling and Tanish Killedar show the rabbit that appeared during the magic show. 6. In back, Scott Taylor, Gavin Taylor, Aubrie Driver and Hope Taylor; front, Jadelynn Taylor, Kinley Taylor and Bryson Taylor 7. Elowyn, Ryland, Hadley and Landry Books 8. Brian, Linda Jo, Luke and Haley 4 5 Hauersperger 9. Noel Adams and Zaylie Barngrover, front, and Dillon Davis 10. Mayor Jim Lienhoop waves during the Festival of Lights parade. 11. Dulce Arroyo, Santa Claus, Dario Garrido and Yaretzi Garrido 12. Dorel’s float, the parade sponsor

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARLA CLARK

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