The Westerville News

WICC Approves More Than $187,000 In Business, Uptown Awards - Night of Hope on Saturday - FACT Cleaning Alum Creek Trail

Gary Gardiner — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 10:31:07 GMT

The Westerville Industry and Commerce Corporation approved more than $187,000 in business incentives and Uptown improvement grants Thursday, supporting energy upgrades and improvement projects at the Westerville Public Library, three Generations properties, and the historic Masonic Lodge on South State Street.

The board approved $187,160.60 during its meeting at Westerville City Hall, including $58,547.60 through the BusinessWISE program and $128,613 through the Uptown Improvement Program.

Three BusinessWISE incentives were approved for completed improvements at Lake Shore Cryotronics on McCorkle Boulevard. The awards included $2,429 for exterior parking lot lighting, $16,293.60 for a building automation system and $39,825 for replacement of three rooftop heating and cooling units.

The lighting project upgraded the parking lot to more efficient LED fixtures, while the new automation system reduces energy use in unoccupied rooms, according to Tara Trigg of Westerville Electric. The company previously did not have a building automation system.

“These three projects were a little bit more than $1.1 million in investment in this property,” Trigg said. “And they’re doing more.”

Trigg said the rooftop heating and cooling project alone cost nearly $900,000. All three projects were complete, and the BusinessWISE awards represented final incentive payments.

The Uptown Improvement Program approvals included two $30,000 grants for Westerville Public Library projects.

One will help pay for restoration work at the Westerville History Museum, 110 S. State St., including reconstruction of the original chimney, tuck-pointing masonry joints, and repairs to the north wall. WICC Chair Rob Rishel said the project is estimated to cost $70,493.

A second $30,000 grant will support the library’s front lawn project at 126 S. State St. The project, already under construction, will turn the lawn into a more accessible public gathering and event space.

Rishel said the overall lawn project exceeds $1 million, with approximately $320,000 in work eligible for the Uptown Improvement Program.

WICC also approved three smaller grants to Jang LLC for awning projects at Generations locations in Uptown.

The board approved up to $2,808 toward a $5,615 replacement awning at 11 W. College Ave. Rishel said the awning had already been installed after the applicant waited for WICC to meet. The Uptown Review Board also reviewed and approved the project.

At 59 S. State St., WICC approved up to $1,485 toward a $2,970 project to enclose an existing awning over exterior stairs, providing additional protection from rain, snow and ice.

The board also approved up to $4,320 for an awning at 33 E. Park St., where Generations operates a dance studio in a former church building. The covering will be installed over rear stone steps. Rishel said the Uptown Review Board had approved the project.

The largest Uptown commitment went to Blendon Lodge No. 339 at 130 S. State St., where WICC approved two $30,000 grants for a two-phase restoration of the building’s windows.

Rishel said the lodge has been working toward the window project for several years following earlier restoration of the building’s brick exterior. The full window project is estimated at $164,000, and the lodge is raising additional money by holding a Saturday morning breakfast fundraiser.

The first $30,000 grant will support work on the south-facing windows. The second phase will cover windows on the north and east sides. The project also includes door repairs and repainting exterior trim, with original windows retained where possible.

The board approved both phases Thursday, so the lodge could proceed with the full restoration rather than completing only a portion of the windows. Rishel said the contractor was prepared to begin work around Labor Day.

What is WICC and BusinessWISE?

What is WICC?
The Westerville Industry and Commerce Corporation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community improvement corporation that serves as an economic-development agent for the City of Westerville and administers several business incentive programs.

What is BusinessWISE?
Westerville Incentive Savings for Efficiency, or BusinessWISE, is an incentive program for commercial and industrial electric customers making improvements that reduce electricity use.

Night of Hope Challenges Student Mental Health Needs

Westerville Education Challenge will hold its fifth annual Night of Hope on Saturday, Aug. 22, beginning at 6 p.m.at the Westerville North High School cross country course and McCann Stadium.

The event will include a 5K, a 1-mile event, and a family fun run around the track. Night of Hope is designed to promote mental health awareness and honor the lives of people lost to suicide. Mental health organizations will also be on hand to share information about available services and resources.

Money raised will support Westerville Education Challenge programs in Westerville City Schools, including Hope Squad, RoX, WEB (Where Everyone Belongs), Twinkle’s Care, student scholarships and Parent Prep.

Alum Creek Trail Cleanup Saturday Morning

Friends of Alum Creek & Tributaries (FACT) will host an invasive honeysuckle removal and cleanup Saturday morning, Aug. 22, along the Alum Creek Trail near Otterbein Lake in Westerville. The project begins at 9 a.m. and runs until noon.

Volunteers will meet on the west side of the river, south of the West Main Street bridge and east of 60 Collegeview Road. FACT will work alongside Otterbein University students participating in the university’s Community Service Plunge day.

Participants should wear sturdy work shoes, pants, and long sleeves. Volunteers may bring bow saws, loppers, and reusable beverage containers. FACT will provide a limited number of work tools and gloves, along with beverages and snacks.

Parking is available in the northeast rear corner of the Otterbein Point building lot, with access to the trail nearby.

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The Westerville News is a reader-supported publication by Gary Gardiner, a lifelong journalist who believes hyper-local reporting is the future of news. This publication focuses exclusively on Westerville—its local news, its influence on Central Ohio, and how surrounding areas shape the community.

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The Green Grape Report - Bright Future For East of Africa, Now Westar Park

Gary Gardiner — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 10:31:01 GMT

I’m afraid of what is happening with green grapes in Westerville’s grocery stores.

They’re all good.

That sounds like excellent news, and for anyone simply trying to buy grapes, it is. But for The Green Grape Report, which has spent much of the year sorting through soft, undersized, and insufficiently sweet fruit, the sudden disappearance of obvious bad choices creates a new challenge.

This is the point in the season when price becomes almost the only consideration.

For the second week in a row, I settled on the green grapes at Aldi. The packaging and PLU were identical to last week’s. The grapes themselves appeared essentially unchanged. They tasted the same, weighed about the same, and registered the same sugar content.

Only the price moved.

Last week, Aldi sold them for $1.29 a pound. This week, the price was $1.79, up 50 cents a pound in seven days for what appears to be the same product.

That was disappointing, especially because last week’s price was one of those rare produce bargains that required almost no qualification. The grapes were large, crisp, and very sweet, so at $1.29 a pound they were easy to recommend.

At $1.79, they remain easy to recommend, just with slightly less enthusiasm.

The reason is simple: The competition is still more expensive. Other stores around Westerville were hovering near $3 a pound, so Aldi remains the best deal even after raising its price by nearly 40 percent.

I did see a two-pound clamshell of Autumn Crisp for $6.99. With so many really good lower-priced options, I passed.

Earlier in the year, price alone could not determine where to buy green grapes. A cheaper bag might contain smaller grapes with softer texture and significantly less sweetness, so paying more could sometimes be justified if the quality difference was obvious enough.

That distinction has largely disappeared.

The green grapes I have been finding lately are consistently good. They are large enough to have some substance, crisp enough to snap when bitten, and sweet enough that the sugar arrives immediately. The disappointing early-season grapes that prompted so much caution seem to have receded from the market.

That changes the calculation.

When one store has good grapes for $1.79 a pound, and another has good grapes for about $3, the cheaper store wins. There is little reason to pay a substantial premium when the eating experience is essentially the same.

The Green Grape Report has spent much of the year focusing on origin, variety, firmness, size, and sweetness. Those things still matter, but at this point in the season, the quality gap has narrowed enough that the price tag deserves more attention than the label.

That is why Aldi wins again this week.

The grapes are no better than they were seven days ago, and they are certainly not cheaper. But they remain very good grapes at the best price I could find in Westerville.

For most of the year, the question was whether the grapes were worth buying.

Now the question is how much you should pay for them.

The Green Grape Report

Food Review by Gary Gardiner

Brand: No specific brand. Southern California.
Price: $1.79 a pound at Aldi.
Appearance: Bright color with few flaws. Grapes tight on the stems. About 20 loose grapes at the bottom of the bag.
Size: Slightly smaller than a cherry tomato. Uniformly shaped.
Crispiness: Solid with firm skin. Onomatopoeic crunch when bitten.
Taste: Sweetest since May 2026.
PLU Code: 4498

Weight: 8.59 grams per grape - average from 10 grapes
Size: 30x24mm
Sugar: 23.1%

Westar Park’s Street Lights

East of Africa has a new name, Westar Park, and the project’s street lights are on in what appears to be a celebratory illumination as the two-year development project nears completion.

The photo above shows the roundabout at Hoff Road on the right and the main road leading to Polaris Parkway on the left.

South from Polaris Parkway to the roundabout at Hoff Road.

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Sharon Woods Shooting Involved Westerville Officers

Gary Gardiner — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 10:31:26 GMT

A single frame from Genoa Township in-car video of the shooting shows the suspect reaching for his gun.

Westerville police quickly joined the search for a vehicle linked to an armed sexual assault Saturday, a response that led officers from neighboring Genoa Township and Westerville into Sharon Woods Metro Park and ended with a Westerville officer using a Taser in an attempt to subdue the armed suspect moments before a Genoa Township officer shot him.

Three Westerville officers were among the four officers who approached the suspect at the end of an approximately 45-minute standoff, Westerville Police Chief Holly Murchland said.

“Some of those officers that arrived early on were Westerville officers, but they’re members of our Delaware tactical team and negotiators,” Murchland said.

Editor’s Update:
Gaelan Pinchot, 28, has been identified as the suspect.
The black boxes over the officer’s face were placed there by the Genoa Township police department.

The response eventually included officers from multiple jurisdictions, tactical equipment, fire and medical personnel, and a Columbus police helicopter as authorities worked to contain the armed man, clear park visitors from the area and restrict access to the scene.

The incident began shortly after 1 p.m. Aug. 15 when a woman called Delaware County dispatch and reported she had been sexually assaulted and that her attacker had used a gun, according to Genoa Township Police Chief James McMillin.

The woman identified the suspect and his vehicle. A Genoa Township officer spotted a vehicle matching the description and followed it south on Cleveland Avenue while waiting for additional officers and confirming information about the driver.

Westerville Police Dispatch and Office Radio Traffic

This audio has been edited to remove unrelated responses and empty air time.

Westerville police records show how quickly the department became involved. A bulletin for the suspect was entered at 1:04 p.m. By 1:05 p.m., officers were receiving updates that the vehicle was traveling south on Cleveland Avenue, and dispatch later advised that the suspect was suicidal.

At 1:08 p.m., Westerville records show pursuit was authorized. Almost immediately, officers reported the vehicle turning into Sharon Woods.

The suspect drove into the first parking area, stopped, and got out with a handgun pointed at his head, according to police radio traffic and Genoa Township’s account of the incident.

Police radio traffic shows officers repeatedly trying to manage both the armed suspect and people still moving through the park. At one point, officers asked park personnel to stop traffic because vehicles were passing near the scene. Later, an officer warned that cars were still crossing a potential line of fire.

Murchland said securing a scene such as Sharon Woods requires officers well beyond those directly confronting the suspect.

“You have officers on the perimeter,” she said. “We have to make sure that, to keep people coming in and out of the park and secure the perimeter and things like that. And it takes a lot of people.”

She said the size of a perimeter also reflects the danger posed by gunfire.

“If you do have any type of shooting, those rounds can go a long way,” Murchland said. “They travel. So that’s another reason why we want to make sure the perimeter is large enough.”

During the standoff, the suspect repeatedly put the handgun down and picked it back up, according to Genoa Township and Westerville records. At 1:15 p.m., Westerville dispatch recorded that the gun was on the ground. A little more than three minutes later, officers reported that it was back in his hands.

McMillin said officers spent about 45 minutes trying to persuade the suspect to move away from the gun and surrender peacefully. The suspect at times paced and made erratic movements, and at one point checked the gun’s chamber, according to Genoa Township.

Shortly before 2 p.m., the suspect again put the gun down and officers began moving toward him.

McMillin said the suspect then bent over and grabbed the handgun. A Westerville officer fired a Taser in an attempt to stop him, but the Taser was ineffective.

As the suspect continued to pick up the weapon, a Genoa Township officer fired one shot, according to McMillin. The suspect remained standing, raised his own handgun to the side of his head and fired.

Police and medics rendered aid, but the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Westerville’s dispatch record notes the Taser deployment at about 1:58 p.m. and, within about a minute, a request for medics to move into the scene. By 2 p.m., a Westerville medic unit was going into the park. BCI was recorded on scene at 3:26 p.m.

Genoa Township continues to investigate the sexual assault that prompted the search for the suspect. McMillin said investigators found evidence that a rape occurred and that the suspect, who knew the victim, likely planned the assault in advance.

McMillin also credited officers from Westerville and other neighboring agencies who responded to Sharon Woods.

“I’m proud of my officers and those from nearby jurisdictions who responded,” McMillin said. “They spent 45 minutes trying to save the life of a man they believed had just committed a violent crime.”

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Daycare Construction Begins At State And County Line

Gary Gardiner — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 10:31:22 GMT

Crews began clearing trees last week for a new daycare at North State Street and County Line Road, marking the first visible construction activity on the site.

The daycare building will face County Line Road, with a driveway extending through the site to State Street. The project will occupy most of the property except for the separate corner parcel and will include parking, landscaping, and stormwater facilities.

The clearing stops short of the vacant parcel directly at the corner of State Street and County Line Road. That parcel is not part of the approved daycare project. Vacant land north of the new State Street entrance is also outside the development area.

Access to the daycare will be limited. Drivers will be able to enter from State Street only by making a right turn. The County Line Road driveway will be exit-only, with right turns required. The daycare parking lot will also connect with the neighboring office development’s parking lot.

A stormwater basin will occupy much of the area between the daycare building and State Street. The project also includes a bioswale, a shallow landscaped channel designed to collect, slow, and filter runoff.

The Westerville Planning Commission originally approved the daycare in January 2023 as part of a larger development that also included an office building along State Street.

Revised plans approved by the commission remove the office building from the current project while leaving the daycare largely unchanged, including its layout, architecture, fencing, and signage.

The revision also changed the stormwater plan. The original development called for underground retention beneath the parking area. With the office building no longer part of the current phase, the developer received approval for an above-ground stormwater basin on land that could be used for future development.

If a second phase is proposed later, the stormwater system would have to be modified. The developer told the planning commission there are no immediate plans to build the office because of construction costs and conditions in the office market.

Minor landscaping and lighting changes were also approved and could allow additional tree planting while meeting city requirements.

The tree clearing marks the start of construction on a project first approved in 2023.

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Taste of Westerville: The One Pizza - Eliminator's Late Performance To Small Crowd

Gary Gardiner — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 10:32:04 GMT

The Blue Plate Special Kitchen Restaurant Review by Gary Gardiner
One in a series from The Taste of Westerville Restaurants

When my family first moved to Westerville, on Timberbank Lane, a cul-de-sac with 13 houses, the backyard bordering Blendon Township, we ate a lot of free pizza.

There were five of us. Wife, me, three kids, and a cat. Pizza was often on the menu, especially with Domino’s “30 minutes or free” promise.

The house we moved into had sat empty for some time while the owner and builder settled their differences over construction details that neither party was satisfied with. We bought the house “as-is,” not really caring that the fill dirt around the basement wasn’t as specified, nor did we notice the two trees that were felled when the contract called for them to be spared.

For several months, the pizzas we ordered for Timberbank Lane were delivered to Timberlake Drive in Annehurst instead of our house in Springborough.

After the required 30 minutes, while someone on Timberlake Dr. enjoyed one pizza with all meat, another with all veggies, a large bottle of Coca-Cola, and another of 7UP, I called to ask why our pizzas had not yet arrived, knowing they had been sent to the wrong address. The delivery driver had now locked that address into their memory and was driving trance-like, rocking to “Footloose” or “What’s Love Got To Do With It” blasted from QFM96.

Eventually, Domino’s either got a new driver or figured our family had had enough free pizza.

We kept eating pizza. It just wasn’t free.

I’d put off eating at Jet’s Pizza, the only pizza joint at the Taste of Westerville, because I’ve lost my taste for it. Too salty. Too many carbs. Too pedestrian to satisfy my palate. It has all the ingredients. Tomato (pizza) sauce, meat (pepperoni and sausage), cheese(s), peppers (banana), and possibly crispy edges.

Jet’s met all these criteria, but it didn't convince me to bring pizza back into my diet.

I’m not sure any pizza will excite me as much as spaghetti carbonara, shrimp scampi, curried chicken, or a brown sugar-glazed pork loin. Jet’s comes close, with the strong basil flavor in the sauce and the sharp, greasy pepperoni. The cheese is adequate. The dough was thick, thicker than I prefer, and the edges could have been crispier.

I usually order a medium so I can save half for another meal, sometimes for breakfast the next morning. This time I ate more than half, leaving less for tomorrow’s hungry moments. Maybe it was better that I gave it credit.

Late But Not Too Little

Eliminator, the ZZ Top tribute band from Kansas City, played a lightning-delayed set to a crowd of about 50 at the Alum Creek amphitheater Sunday night.

The band was fully prepped to begin playing a few minutes before the scheduled start time, but a nearby lightning strike forced a 30-minute delay before they could take the stage.

Despite the sounds of air-to-air thunder, lightning did not appear again around the stage, and the band began a shortened but enthusiastic concert that was small only in the size of the crowd, not in the performance.

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Regional News - August 16, 2026

Gary Gardiner — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 20:00:56 GMT

Dublin

• Construction has begun on the Ellis Condos, an 89-unit condominium building at Bridge Park. The project is described as the final phase of the original Bridge Park development plan.

• Ohio University’s Board of Trustees met Aug. 13 at the Dublin Integrated Education Center to discuss strategic initiatives, partnerships, and capital projects.

• Dublin residents had access to city chipper service for storm debris after severe weather moved through the area. The service accepts branches up to 12 inches in diameter and longer than 5 feet, with a limit of one truckload per household.

• EASE Logistics announced that one of its executives was recognized for work advancing supply-chain workforce development and training initiatives.

• Ox-B’s announced plans for a new restaurant in the Dublin area.

Gahanna

• The Gahanna Planning Commission approved demolition of the 1969 McDonald’s at 359 Agler Road and construction of a new 1,978-square-foot restaurant. Plans call for one drive-thru lane with two ordering stations, a self-service window and 12 parking spaces, with construction expected to take about four months.

Grove City

• Two vehicles were struck by gunfire Aug. 10 on southbound I-71 near the I-270 interchange and Stringtown Road. No injuries were reported. The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office is investigating and searching for a suspect in a dark-colored SUV.

• Grove City announced a Mayor’s Pickleball Open.

• Grove City held its Back to School Bash on Aug. 15 at Town Center Park, with free activities, giveaways and family resources.

Groveport

• Groveport shared summer energy-saving recommendations, including closing blinds to reduce heat gain, using ceiling fans only while rooms are occupied and avoiding ovens and clothes dryers during the hottest parts of the day.

Harlem Township

• Harlem Township Day Festival was held Aug. 15 at Harlem Township Community Park. The event also included the unveiling of the township’s Parks Strategic Plan.

Hilliard

• Hilliard and SWACO launched the “Recycle Right, Make a Difference” campaign to improve household recycling rates and reduce contamination.

• Hilliard residents had access to on-demand chipper service for storm debris after severe weather. The service accepts branches longer than 4 feet or wider than 4 inches, while smaller debris may be placed with regular yard waste.

• Residents in Hilliard worked together to clear downed trees from roadways after storms moved through the area Aug. 11.

Lockbourne

• Storms on Aug. 11 damaged property and downed trees along Lockbourne Road. The National Weather Service later confirmed an EF1 tornado with estimated 100 mph winds caused damage along a path in south Columbus and the Lockbourne Road area.

• Lockbourne scheduled a special council meeting for Aug. 17 to discuss a SWACO trash collection agreement and an OPWC grant.

Minerva Park

• Minerva Park canceled its Aug. 11 Charter Commission meeting because of weather.

• Minerva Park scheduled a town hall with State Rep. Munira Abdullahi for Aug. 19. Mayor’s Court and Planning and Zoning Commission meetings were also listed for the week.

Obetz

• Obetz City Council approved new e-bike safety rules that took effect immediately. The rules require helmets for riders under 18, prohibit minors from carrying passengers and allow parents to be ticketed for violations.

• The Zucchinifest Car Show was scheduled Aug. 15 at Fortress Obetz, featuring classic and custom vehicles, live music and food vendors.

Reynoldsburg

• State Fire Marshal K-9 Finn retired after nearly a decade of service. A ceremony was held Aug. 11 at the Division of State Fire Marshal campus.

• Tomato Wars took place Aug. 13 during the Reynoldsburg Tomato Festival at Huber Park. “Team Student Council Ladies” won the tomato-throwing contest.

• CERTIFIED opened its fifth Ohio dispensary Aug. 14 at 7365 E. Livingston Ave. A ribbon-cutting was scheduled for Aug. 19.

Sunbury

• Sunbury City Council approved a downtown Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area allowing alcoholic beverages from noon to 9 p.m. daily within the district. Implementation still requires state approval.

• Dublin-based Fusion Hotels took over management of a Hampton Inn in Sunbury after a $6.25 million acquisition.

West Jefferson

• West Jefferson scheduled the final public pool day of the 2026 season for Aug. 16.

• West Jefferson Village Council was scheduled to meet Aug. 17.

• West Jefferson’s America 250 Ice Cream Social was scheduled as part of the Friday Night Uptown series and described as the final event in the 2026 series.

Worthington

• A major mixed-use redevelopment has been proposed on 17.6 acres in Worthington. The plan includes 250 apartments, 182 condominiums, 150 senior-living units, eight townhomes, 290 hotel rooms, and retail and office space. A public hearing is scheduled for Sept. 10.

• Friends Foundation of Worthington Libraries held a book sale Aug. 15 at Old Worthington Library.

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Westerville Obituaries - August 16, 2026

Gary Gardiner — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 20:00:48 GMT

Barbara “Sue” (Pierson) Elfner
July 13, 1946 – August 3, 2026

Barbara “Sue” Pierson Elfner passed away peacefully Aug. 3, 2026, at Willow Brook Run, three months after the death of her husband, Lynn Edward Elfner.

Sue was born in Buffalo, New York, and raised in Westerville, Ohio. She graduated from The Ohio State University in 1968 with a degree in education and married Lynn on Aug. 24 of that year. They shared nearly 58 years of marriage.

She taught in Delaware City Schools, spending much of her career as a tutor at Willis Intermediate and JVS from the early 1980s into the early 2000s. She remained active for many years with the Delaware Retired Teachers Association.

Sue enjoyed American history, music, collecting baskets and hymnals, decorating her home in a colonial and primitive style, and spending time at Lakeside, Ohio, which she called “Heaven on Earth.” Her home was once featured in Early American Life magazine. She was also known for her strong convictions and willingness to stand publicly for causes she believed in.

She is survived by her children, Angela “Angy” Zalenski and Bryon Zalenski, Amy Sordi, and Nathan “Nate” Elfner and Jennifer Elfner; grandchildren Megan, Abigail, Taylor, Marissa, Drew, and Rory; and other family members.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lynn; parents William and Ruth Pierson; brother David Pierson; and granddaughter Greta Ruth Corinne Elfner.

At Sue’s request, there will be no funeral or memorial service. Her family suggests honoring her memory by baking favorite cookies and sharing them with teachers or someone admired.

Wayne Raymond Skiba
May 19, 1956 – August 7, 2026

Wayne Raymond Skiba, 70, of Westerville, Ohio, passed away Aug. 7, 2026. He was born in Cleveland to Raymond and Mildred Skiba.

Wayne loved the outdoors, especially Red Mud Ridge, West Virginia, which he considered his favorite place. He was an avid deer hunter and fisherman and was known for his quick wit, stubborn streak, and ability to keep going despite numerous injuries over the years.

He was proud to be a father and deeply valued both his family and the friends he considered family.

Wayne is survived by his sons, Quinn Skiba, Adam Skiba, and Eric Skiba; granddaughter Aisling; and siblings Gail, Diane, and Lynda.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Joyce, and his longtime partner, Paula Brown.

Charlene Ann Myers
1941 – August 8, 2026

Charlene Ann Myers, 84, of Westerville, Ohio, passed away peacefully Aug. 8, 2026, at home surrounded by family.

Her faith and family were at the center of her life. Charlene was an active member of the Church of God of Prophecy and spent many years caring for and teaching children through home daycare, church daycare, and children’s church.

She was known for welcoming people into her home, making sure everyone was fed, and sharing her warmth generously. Charlene enjoyed flowers, baking, Christmas gatherings, and time with friends and family.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she will be remembered for her kindness, humor, joyful spirit, and the love she shared with those around her.

Karen Ann Walsh LeSueur
January 18, 1965 – August 10, 2026

Karen Ann Walsh LeSueur, 61, passed away peacefully Aug. 10, 2026, with family nearby. She was born as Karen Ann Walsh and married Rick LeSueur on May 20, 2006, in Columbus, Ohio.

Karen grew up in the Buffalo, New York, area and spent summers at the family cottage on Lake Erie with her sisters, Janet, Judy, and Christie. She loved card games, puzzles, campfires, sunsets, stargazing, and time outdoors.

She was a devoted stepmother to Laura, Nick, and Ben and cherished time spent with them and their families. Her Christian faith was central to her life. She was a member of Genoa Baptist Church and studied Scripture through small groups, online study, and graduate-level courses at Genoa Bible Institute.

Karen was an accomplished quilter who won awards at the Delaware County Fair and Ohio State Fair. She was active with the Westerville Quilt Guild and Morrow County Quilt Guild and donated many quilts to charitable organizations. Later, she turned to card making and knitting, creating thousands of cards and many scarves for charitable causes.

Karen and Rick traveled extensively, often camping and visiting state and national parks. Favorite trips included Land Between the Lakes, the Thousand Islands, the Grand Canyon, Washington, D.C., Dallas, and several visits to the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter.

Edward “Ed” Neugebauer
April 7, 1956 – August 10, 2026

Edward “Ed” Neugebauer, 70, of Sunbury, Ohio, passed away Aug. 10, 2026, at home. He was born in Columbus to Robert and Lillian Neugebauer and grew up in Westerville, where he formed friendships that lasted throughout his life.

Ed wrestled in high school and later coached girls softball. He was known for his colorful personality, storytelling, humor, and habit of calling almost everyone “Dale.”

A skilled mason, Ed learned the trade from Wilhelm Kurapkat and founded EN Masonry in the 1980s. He and his crews worked on many homes throughout central Ohio. He was honored with a lifetime VFW Post 8736 Auxiliary membership for his work on the Fallen Heroes Memorial and was also active with Fraternal Order of Eagles Post 3614.

Ed and his wife of 22 years, Linda, enjoyed their country home, Ohio State-Michigan parties, and time with family and friends. Though surrounded by Buckeye fans, Ed remained a devoted Michigan fan.

He is survived by his wife, Linda; dogs Kaylee, Kirby, Abby, and Ollie; sister Janis Shalosky and Lee Shalosky; brother Kurt Neugebauer; nephew Andy Shalosky and Carolyn Shalosky; niece Jamie Sumner and Ryan Sumner; and close friend Reece Harvey.

Curtis Ray Conley Jr.
December 26, 1968 – July 22, 2026

Curtis Ray Conley Jr., 57, of Westerville, Ohio, passed away July 22, 2026. He was born in Toledo to Curtis Conley Sr. and Kay Benore.

Curt enjoyed computers and valued the friendships he made with coworkers at Bonefish Grill. He was also devoted to his dog, Griffin.

He is survived by his father, Curtis Conley Sr. and Beth Conley; uncles Joe Conley and Hershel Conley Jr.; and his dog, Griffin.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Kay Benore; paternal grandparents Hershel and Daisy Conley; and maternal grandparents Adrien Benore and Helen Ginter.

Linda J. Bixby
December 8, 1945 – August 5, 2026

Linda J. Bixby, 80, a former resident of Worthington, Ohio, passed away Aug. 5, 2026. She was born to Albert Tilton Bixby and Jane Dixon Bixby.

Linda graduated from Whetstone High School, Otterbein College, and The Ohio State University. She taught French and Spanish in Columbus Public Schools for 30 years. After retirement, she continued teaching as an adjunct faculty member at Ohio Dominican University, Columbus State Community College, and Otterbein College.

She was active in the Presbyterian Church and was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Westerville. Linda especially valued mentoring students, beginning teachers, and pastors.

She enjoyed travel, meeting new people, art festivals, ceramics, Otterbein music and theater productions, dogs, wildlife, and nature.

Linda is survived by her sister-in-law, Linda E. Bixby; niece Jill; nephew Bill; her dog, Molly MacDog; many close friends; her church family; and generations of former students.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Jim; great-nephew Devon; and dogs Mike and Jeremy.

A memorial service will be held at a later date at First Presbyterian Church in Westerville.

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The Westerville News is a reader-supported publication by Gary Gardiner, a lifelong journalist who believes hyper-local reporting is the future of news. This publication focuses exclusively on Westerville—its local news, influence on Central Ohio, and how surrounding areas shape the community.

Westerville Sports News, August 16, 2026

Gary Gardiner — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 20:00:36 GMT

Westerville North

• Westerville North girls soccer is scheduled to play Worthington Christian on Aug. 18.

• Westerville North girls volleyball is scheduled to play Canal Winchester on Aug. 20.

• Westerville North football is scheduled to open its season Aug. 21 at home against Marysville.

Westerville Central

• Westerville Central boys soccer is scheduled to play at Big Walnut on Aug. 18.

• Westerville Central girls soccer is scheduled to play Big Walnut on Aug. 18.

• Westerville Central football is scheduled to open its season Aug. 21 at Marion-Franklin. The Warhawks are also scheduled to play at Westerville South on Aug. 28 and host Westerville North on Sept. 4.

Westerville South

• Westerville South boys soccer is scheduled to play Lancaster on Aug. 18.

• Westerville South football is scheduled to open its season Aug. 21 at Dublin Jerome. The Wildcats are also scheduled to host Westerville Central on Aug. 28 and play at Westerville North on Sept. 25.

Walnut Springs Middle School

• Walnut Springs volleyball has matches listed for Aug. 17.

• Walnut Springs football is scheduled to open its season Aug. 19 against Gahanna East.

Heritage Middle School

• Heritage volleyball is scheduled to open its season Aug. 17 against Hilliard Memorial Middle School.

Westerville Crew

• Westerville Crew fall registration opens Aug. 17 for youth and masters programs. No tryouts are required.

• Westerville Crew’s Novice Kickoff Week was scheduled for Aug. 12 through 16, with sessions from 4:15 to 6:30 p.m.

• The final Adult Learn-to-Row session was scheduled for Aug. 15 from 7 to 9 a.m. The program is open to adults 21 and older.

Community Sports

• WARM’s Hunger Heroes 5K is scheduled for Aug. 29 at the Westerville Sports Complex. The children’s race begins at 8:40 a.m., followed by the 5K at 9 a.m.

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Westerville Calendar - August 17-23, 2026

Gary Gardiner — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 20:00:34 GMT

Monday, August 17, 2026

• Arts Council of Westerville Meeting - 5:30 p.m. - Westerville Public Library, Meeting Room A
• Anime Club - 6:30–7:30 p.m. - Westerville Public Library

Tuesday, August 18, 2026

• Poetry Discussion and Open Mic - 7–8:30 p.m. - Westerville Public Library
• Java Central Jams - 7–8:30 p.m. - Java Central Café, 20 S. State St.

Wednesday, August 19, 2026

• Lunchbox Concert. Ken Parsons with Bob May - 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. - Java Central Café, 20 S. State St.
• Inside Out by Ceramic Artist Jim Bowling Opens - All day - Miller Gallery, Otterbein University, 33 Collegeview Road
• Finance and Facilities Board Committee Meeting - 4:30–5:30 p.m. - Westerville Public Library
• Creative Workshop - 4:30–5:30 p.m. - Westerville Public Library
• Westerville Writers Group Feedback Circle - 7 p.m. - Westerville Public Library, Meeting Room D

Thursday, August 20, 2026

• Westerville Industry and Commerce Corporation Meeting - 9:30–10:30 a.m. - Westerville City Hall, 21 S. State St.
• Community Artists of Westerville Art Social - 6–8 p.m. - Family Room Coffee & Bake Shop, 545 S. Otterbein Ave.
• Grief Authors. Alice Foeller and Gina Kitzmiller - 7–8 p.m. - Westerville Public Library

Friday, August 21, 2026

• Uptown Friday Nights - 6:30–8:30 p.m. - Uptown Westerville

Saturday, August 22, 2026

• Westerville Saturday Farmers Market - 9 a.m.–noon - COhatch and North High Brewing parking lots, 240 S. State St.
• Sustainable Beauty and Biodiversity. Gardening with Native Plants - 3–4 p.m. - Westerville Public Library
• Live Music at Java Central. Starlit Ways - 7–9:30 p.m. - Java Central Café, 20 S. State St.

Sunday, August 23, 2026

• Sounds of Summer Concert Series. Westerville Symphony Star Wars Showdown - 6:30–8 p.m. - Alum Creek Park North Amphitheater, 221 W. Main St.

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EMWTTSFM - The Siren Call of Flowers

Gary Gardiner — Sat, 15 Aug 2026 10:31:19 GMT

I grew up in a rough neighborhood. The two families across the street were tough old cooters. Neither had children. They spent their spare time building semi-tropical gardens in their backyards, which sloped toward Hogtown Creek.

I played in the creek as often as I could, digging through its banks for fossils left by ancient seas that once covered the land beneath my neighborhood. Erosion exposed limestone and prehistoric remains along the creek, a place that called like an Odyssean siren to a young boy who had been told to leave his muddy, creek-soaked clothes on the back porch beforecomong inside after another excursion for shark teeth.

My route to those tannin-stained waters took me beside the neighbors’ lush gardens, especially the closest house, where the owners had built an earthen above-ground pond stocked with koi long before the fish became popular pets. An arched Japanese-style bridge spanned the pond, beginning near the edge of the empty, heavily wooded lot that was my usual path to the creek.

I had beaten a trail through the empty lot’s wild bamboo and elderberry to a sharp bend in the creek, where heavy rains sometimes exposed a fresh layer of limestone. At one point along that trail, a break in the neighbor’s low hedge marked the property line. To my left, the rough path continued directly toward the creek. To my right was the more tempting route: through the neighbor’s yard, across the bridge over the koi pond, then down a small incline past a fern garden growing among rocks that must have been carried there from some distance. None matched the rocks I knew from my travels along the creek and through the swamps.

I could usually get across the bridge, past the pond, and make my way to the creek without being observed. Usually.

Except when the hibiscus were in bloom.

The first siren call was minor. It was the one that turned my head toward the bridge, where I would scan the yard and windows to see if anyone was watching. Then I would see the deep red hibiscus blooms on the two shrubs that flanked the bridge exit.

The real siren call.

I don’t remember the first time I sucked the nectar from a hibiscus blossom. But I’ll never forget the depth of its sweet flavor. The experience made it impossible for me to pass a flowering hibiscus without grabbing the soft petals, compressing them around the stiff central pistil. A firm jerk pulled the flower from its receptacle. A quick suck brought the nectar intended for bees, some of it destined for the hive and eventually for honey, onto my tongue.

Later in life, I kept several beehives on an east-facing Georgia hill overlooking a small cornfield surrounded by thick woods. When I tended the bees, I thought of my youth, when I would grab a hibiscus flower and suck the sweet, thick, perfect nectar into my mouth while looking over my shoulder. Then I would grab another and another and another, littering the ground with crushed petals as tell-tale evidence of my incursion before running away over the rocks, crushing ferns to get to the creek.

Now I get my flower satisfaction from the calendula I buy at the Saturday Farmers’ Market from White Walnut Flower Farm. They aren’t as sweet as hibiscus, but the golden petals scattered across my Sunday salad remind me of the days when I sucked sweetness from a flower pulled directly from the plant — and when I tested my mettle by cutting through the neighbor’s forbidden yard for the pleasure.

It brings me great joy.

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"Codger" Tree Pieces Available Next Week | Emerson School Roadway Almost Complete | Westerville News Briefs - Food and Business

Gary Gardiner — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 10:31:03 GMT

Westerville Offers More Pieces Of Fallen Heritage Oak

Residents can take home a piece of the centuries-old Otterbein Cemetery tree Aug. 20.

What remains of a white oak that stood in Westerville long before there was a Westerville will soon be divided among residents who want a tangible piece of the city’s history.

The city will offer more pieces of the fallen Otterbein Cemetery Heritage Tree on Thursday, Aug. 20, from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Westerville Service Department, 350 Park Meadow Road. City workers will cut pieces from sections of the tree saved after it fell during a storm in June.

The wood will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of one piece per person. Distribution will continue until the available wood is gone.

It is the second chance for residents to collect part of a tree believed to have been Westerville’s oldest. The city offered pieces of the oak at Otterbein Cemetery shortly after the oak fell, and residents quickly collected the available wood.

A Heritage Tree plaque dating the white oak to about 1674 is now missing from the rock that sat at the base of the tree. If that estimate is correct, the tree was about 352 years old when it fell, though other estimates put it closer to 400 years old.

Either way, the oak was growing decades before Ohio became a state in 1803 and nearly two centuries before Westerville was incorporated. It also predated Otterbein Cemetery, which was established in 1856.

By then, the oak may already have been approaching 200 years old. It remained as the community grew around it, eventually becoming one of Westerville’s most recognizable natural landmarks and earning the nickname “Codger” among some residents.

The Westerville Heritage Tree Project named the oak a Grand Champion in 1992. A description from that year listed it at about 114 inches in circumference and 106 feet tall.

Its centuries-long run ended when the tree came down in June, damaging gravestones as it fell. Removal of the tree also revealed evidence of an earlier effort to preserve it.

Crews found concrete inside a hollow portion of the trunk, apparently placed there years ago as part of an old method of repairing damaged trees. Scratched into the concrete was a name and address: “Thomas Seymour, 158 East Goodale St., Columbus, Ohio.”

The oak is gone from its place at Otterbein Cemetery, but more pieces of it will soon find new homes across the city.

Vine Street Work Races Toward Finish Before School Starts

Construction crews are pushing to complete key portions of the Vine Street improvement project before students return to school next week.

Recent rainstorms have slowed work in several sections of Vine Street between College Avenue and Home Street, leaving contractors with a tight schedule to finish paving, sidewalks, and other improvements.

The most immediate priority is making the street usable near Emerson Elementary and along Park Street beside Hanby Elementary. City officials and the contractor need those areas ready to handle the increased traffic from school buses and parents dropping off and picking up students.

Crews were working this week on new sidewalks and curb ramps near Emerson while paving continued on other portions of Vine Street. Heavy equipment and construction vehicles remained active along the corridor as workers moved from one section to another.

Although additional work may continue after classes begin, the goal is to have the areas serving the two schools safe and accessible when students return next week.

Bombay House plans upscale Indian restaurant in former Winking Lizard space

An upscale Indian restaurant and cocktail bar is preparing to open at 496 Polaris Pkwy. Bombay House Restaurant & Bar, owned by the Kondhare family, is taking over the restaurant portion of the former Winking Lizard/Lizardville space. The restaurant will seat 130 guests indoors and another 60 on its patio and is being designed as a destination for date nights, families, and other gatherings.

Bombay House plans to serve regional Indian dishes alongside familiar favorites such as butter chicken, chicken tikka masala and dosas, as well as Indo-Chinese selections. The menu will also feature vada pav, a Mumbai-style spiced potato fritter sandwich; misal pav, made with sprouted lentils and spices; and pav bhaji, a buttery spiced vegetable mash served with toasted rolls. The restaurant said it will announce its official opening date on Instagram.

Beignets & Brew plans Westerville location near Kroger

Beignets & Brew, a Florida-based coffee and pastry chain, is preparing to open its first Ohio locations, including one in Westerville at 7381 State Route 3, near the Kroger store. A second Central Ohio shop is planned for 2495 Hilliard Rome Road in Hilliard. Founded in Destin, Florida, in 2023, the company has grown to 25 locations, with more than a dozen additional shops listed as coming soon.

The chain specializes in beignets, the deep-fried pastries often associated with New Orleans, along with coffee and other beverages. Its menu includes traditional powdered-sugar beignets as well as flavors such as strawberry cheesecake, Nutella and turtle, plus beignet sundaes, chicken and beignets and breakfast sandwiches. Drinks include coffee, tea, smoothies and energy beverages.

Vertiv Earnings

Vertiv Holdings Co. reported a 24% increase in second-quarter sales and raised its full-year outlook as demand for data-center infrastructure continued to grow.

The Westerville-based company said net sales rose to $3.27 billion, while operating profit increased 44% to $638 million. Adjusted operating profit rose 51% to $738 million, and adjusted earnings per share increased 60% to $1.52.

Chief Executive Officer Giordano Albertazzi said demand tied to artificial intelligence and general computing continues to intensify.

Vertiv now expects full-year 2026 sales of $13.8 billion to $14.2 billion, with organic sales growth of 30% to 32%. The company projected adjusted operating profit of $3.29 billion to $3.37 billion and adjusted earnings per share of $6.65 to $6.75.

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The Green Grape Report Returns

Gary Gardiner — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 10:31:00 GMT

For several months, The Green Grape Report had nothing worth reporting.

The South American Autumn Crisp season ended, taking with it the large, crisp, remarkably sweet green grapes that had spoiled me through the winter and early spring. What followed from the early Mexican fields looked promising enough, but too often failed the central test: They just …

Residents Question Revenue Premise, Offer Ideas For 64 E. Walnut Site

Gary Gardiner — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 10:31:17 GMT

About 100 residents offered ideas Tuesday ranging from housing and public gathering space to a grocery store and arts center, repeatedly questioning the City of Westerville’s premise that 64 E. Walnut St. needs to generate revenue to support city services.

The discussion came during a city community workshop in which residents gathered at 24 tables, each…

Westerville Workshop To Focus On Future Of 64 E. Walnut

Gary Gardiner — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 10:30:37 GMT

64 East Walnut

Westerville residents will return to the debate over 64 E. Walnut St. Tuesday night, this time before the city has a redevelopment proposal for them to accept or reject.

The city will hold a community workshop from 6 to 8 p.m. Aug. 11 at the Westerville Community Center as officials reconsider the future of the property in Uptown.

The meetin…

Former Westerville city manager Dave Lindimore dies at 80

Gary Gardiner — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 10:30:50 GMT

George David “Dave” Lindimore, the city manager who helped guide Westerville’s growth and the development of what became Westar, died July 30. He was 80.

Lindimore spent 32 years with the City of Westerville, rising from finance director to city manager. During his tenure, Westerville pushed north into Delaware County and laid the groundwork for commerci…

Rain, Rainbows and a Smaller Crowd at Uptown Untapped

Gary Gardiner — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 10:30:41 GMT

Saturday evening’s Uptown Untapped took an unexpected turn when a rainstorm swept over the festival, sending people scrambling beneath umbrellas, tables and whatever shelter they could find.

Some called it a night. Others simply waited it out.

When the storm finally moved on, the people who stayed were rewarded with a very different festival experience. A…

Regional News - August 9, 2026

Gary Gardiner — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 22:09:52 GMT

Central Ohio regional news briefs

Columbus

Housing construction begins near Ohio State airport: Construction has started on a 336-unit apartment community at 2575 W. Dublin-Granville Road in northwest Columbus. It is part of a larger development expected to include nearly 500 apartments and townhomes near Ohio State University Airport.

Dublin

Former superin…

Westerville Calendar - August 10-16, 2026

Gary Gardiner — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 21:53:53 GMT

Monday, August 10, 2026

• Mindful Breathing for Seniors - 11:30 a.m.–noon - Westerville Senior Center
• Book Club at Westerville Senior Center - 2:30–3:30 p.m. - Westerville Senior Center
• Board of Education Meeting - 6–8 p.m. - Early Learning Center, 936 Eastwind Dr.
• Book to Movie Club - 6:30–7:30 p.m. - Westerville Public Library

Tuesday, August 11, 2026

Westerville Sports News - August 9, 20

Gary Gardiner — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 21:53:19 GMT

Westerville North

• Westerville North’s football schedule has been revised for the early part of the season. The Warriors are listed as opening Aug. 21 at home against Marysville, followed by a Sept. 4 road game at Westerville Central and a Sept. 25 home game against Westerville South.

Westerville Central

• Westerville Central’s early football schedule inc…

Westerville Obituaries -August 9, 2026

Gary Gardiner — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 21:52:51 GMT

George David “Dave” Lindimore
May 6, 1946 – July 30, 2026

George David “Dave” Lindimore, 80, passed away July 30, 2026. He was born in Zanesville, Ohio, to George Warne Lindimore and Ruby Fouts Lindimore and was raised in McConnelsville, where he graduated from M&M High School in 1964.

Dave attended Utah State University before earning his degree from Ohio…