2022 Press Releases

May 19 - COLUMBUS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER ANNOUNCES JUNE EVENTS

News Date: May 19, 2022

COLUMBUS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER ANNOUNCES JUNE EVENTS

COLUMBUS – The Columbus Cultural Arts Center (CAC) has announced its June 2022 calendar of events.

Exhibitions:

Floral Arrangement
June 24 – July 30; Main Gallery

An analytical thinker, Evie Zimmer plans and executes her paintings with thoughtful intention. Her large works in oil abstract the floral and organic forms in striking complexity. She finds the visual energy of vivid colors and intricate designs mesmerizing, and hopes the viewers also sense that energy.

Opening Night: Friday, June 24, from 6-8 p.m.
Instagram Live virtual walkthrough: TBA

 

RED, WHITE, FREAK / WASH, WRING, REPEAT
June 24 – July 30; Loft Gallery

Culminating often as print-meets-sculpture, artist, writer and educator ¡Katie B Funk! creates work that explores memory and the body. Utilizing the flag as a focal point, what happens when disparate things are conjoined together – be it taped, stapled or stitched?

Opening Night: Friday, June 24, from 6-8 p.m.
Instagram Live virtual walkthrough: TBA

 

Programming:

Conversations & Coffee

Thursdays, noon-1 p.m.

This free program features a different artist every other week, sharing insights into their creative process.

  • June 2: Current Loft Gallery artist, Lynn Hetherington Becker, will be here to share more of her works, including painting, photography, installation and more!
  • June 16: Join us as we learn more about printmaker Christine Abbott, who is one of the many artists included in the Main Gallery’s current exhibition, Centered 2022.
  • June 23: Current Main Gallery artist, Evie Zimmer, will be here to share more about her current exhibition, Floral Arrangement.

 

COVID-19 Safety Protocols:

The health and safety of participants and staff is our top priority. We have implemented rigorous, department-wide procedures, which include:

  • Access to our studios is limited to registered participants and staff. Our galleries are open to the public.
  • Face coverings are optional.
  • If you are feeling sick (cough, fever, nausea, runny nose, etc.), you must stay home.
  • Only one person is permitted in the elevator at a time, with the exception of individuals requiring assistance and families/members of the same household.

Learn more about the Columbus Cultural Arts Center by visiting culturalartscenteronline.org or by calling 614-645-7047.

April 22 - COLUMBUS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER ANNOUNCES MAY EVENTS

News Date: April 22, 2022

COLUMBUS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER ANNOUNCES MAY EVENTS

COLUMBUS – The Columbus Cultural Arts Center (CAC) has announced its May 2022 calendar of events.

Exhibitions:

Centered 2022 – Student and Faculty Exhibition
May 13 – June 18; Main Gallery

Every two years, the artists of the Cultural Arts Center (students, faculty, and staff) show off the results of their creative efforts. Classes from nine different studios will present an amazing range of media and styles.

Opening Night: Friday, May 13, from 6-8 p.m.
Instagram Live virtual walkthrough: TBA

 

Beauty in Diversity
May 13 – June 18; Loft Gallery

Utilizing art as a way to express emotions and values, artist Lynn Hetherington Becker paints powerful portrayals of female subjects that aim to have viewers remember the beauty and power in diversity.

Opening Night: Friday, May 13, from 6-8 p.m.
Instagram Live virtual walkthrough: TBA

 

Programming:

Conversations & Coffee

Thursdays, noon-1 p.m.

This free program features a different artist every other week, sharing insights into their creative process.

  • May 12: Join us as we chat with Abby Feinknopf – a mixed media artist who will share more of her work including fabric collage, design and more.
  • May 26: After a winter storm delay, join us for the triumphant return of Mark Freshwater – singer, songwriter and pianist who will be here to share his many talents.

 

COVID-19 Safety Protocols:

The health and safety of participants and staff is our top priority. We have implemented rigorous, department-wide procedures, which include:

  • Access to our studios is limited to registered participants and staff. Our galleries are open to the public.
  • Face coverings are optional.
  • If you are feeling sick (cough, fever, nausea, runny nose, etc.), you must stay home.
  • Only one person is permitted in the elevator at a time, with the exception of individuals requiring assistance and families/members of the same household.

Learn more about the Columbus Cultural Arts Center by visiting culturalartscenteronline.org or by calling 614-645-7047.

April 14 - JAZZ & RIB FEST RETURNS TO DOWNTOWN RIVERFRONT AFTER TWO YEAR HIATUS

News Date: April 14, 2022

JAZZ & RIB FEST RETURNS TO DOWNTOWN RIVERFRONT AFTER TWO YEAR HIATUS

COLUMBUS – After two summers impacted by the pandemic, Columbus Recreation and Parks Department is
excited to present the 41st annual Jazz & Rib Fest from Friday, July 22, to Sunday, July 24, on the Downtown Riverfront.

“We could not be more thrilled to get back to business and put on the Jazz & Rib Fest, and to fill the streets adjacent to the Scioto River with live music, food vendors and people enjoying themselves,” said Bernita Reese, Columbus Recreation and Parks Department Director. “It has been a Columbus staple for more than 40 years, and a major highlight of the summer. With our tremendous line-up of artists, and of course the top-notch barbecue, we are anticipating a great event that’s fun for everyone.”

Additionally, BBQ Week – the week leading up to Jazz & Rib Fest (July 18-24) – will return. This popular Restaurant Week-style event was introduced last year as a way to support local restaurants during the pandemic. Restaurants, food trucks and other dining establishments around central Ohio will be serving up barbecue-inspired specials.

Hours for the 41st annual Jazz & Rib Fest are Friday, July 22, and Saturday, July 23, 11 a.m.–11 p.m. and Sunday, July 24, 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m.

Throughout the day and into the evening, the Jazz & Rib Fest will offer a diverse line-up of artists ranging from hip-hop and Latin-inspired jazz to big band belters to the home-town sounds of the Columbus Jazz Orchestra. Headlining performances include:

Robert Glasper – Friday, July 22, 6:30-8 p.m.: Singer/pianist/producer Robert Glasper is one of the founders of a new sound that has changed the face of a genre. His award-winning career straddles the worlds of hip-hop, jazz and neo-soul. Reminiscent of jazz legends like Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock, with a twist of hip-hop, R&B and rock.

Lalah Hathaway – Friday, July 22, 9-10:30 p.m.: The daughter of the late soul legend Donny Hathaway, Lalah Hathaway has forged her own way in music, using a lovely contralto to pursue various styles that mix R&B, jazz and pop. She’s also a pianist who won three Grammys in three years: best R&B performance for “Something” with Snarky Puppy in 2014 best traditional R&B performance for “Jesus Children” with Robert Glasper in 2015; and best traditional R&B performance for “Little Ghetto Boy” in 2016.

Spanish Harlem Orchestra – Saturday, July 23, 6:30-8 p.m.: Spanish Harlem Orchestra, the three-time Grammy winning salsa and Latin jazz band, sets the gold standard for excellence in authentic, New York style, hard core salsa. Whether in a concert hall or at an outdoor jazz festival, there is no easing you in — they come at you full force, from start to finish. Their energy on stage and their rich sound and musical precision leave audiences mesmerized until the last note is played. With an unwavering respect for the music’s storied history, the ensemble’s 13 world-class musicians and vocalists come together to create an unparalleled musical experience.

Boney James – Saturday, July 23, 9-10:30 p.m.: One of the most successful instrumental artists of our time, multiplatinum R&B/jazz saxophonist, songwriter and producer Boney James is a four-time Grammy nominee with four Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) Gold records and career sales topping three million units who continues to defy musical genres; a two-time NAACP Award nominee, a Soul Train Award winner and named one of the Top 3 Billboard Contemporary Jazz Artists of the Decade.

Kirk Whalum – Sunday, July 24, 4-5:30 p.m.: Best-known as the saxophone soloist on the Whitney Houston hit “I Will Always Love You,” Kirk Whalum began playing in his father’s church in Memphis. Raised on gospel music, R&B and Memphis blues, Whalum ultimately turned to jazz, receiving a scholarship from Texas Southern in Houston. After forming his own band and opening for pianist Bob James, he signed his first record contract and, several albums later, was nominated for a Grammy. A seasoned studio veteran, his trademark saxophone stylings have been heard on over 100 recordings, in which he has collaborated with a virtual “Who’s Who” of jazz, pop, R&B and gospel musicians.

Dee Dee Bridgewater with Columbus Jazz Orchestra – Sunday, July 24, 6:30-8 p.m.: Over the course of a multifaceted career spanning four decades, Grammy and Tony Award-winning Jazz giant Dee Dee Bridgewater has ascended to the upper echelon of vocalists, putting her unique spin on standards, as well as taking intrepid leaps of faith in re-envisioning jazz classics. Accompanied by hometown favorites, the Columbus Jazz Orchestra with its big band jazz sound, the two come together to create a unique experience exclusively for Jazz & Rib Fest!

For more information, visit www.hotribscooljazz.org.
Calendar Information – 2022 Jazz & Rib Fest
Date and Time: Friday, July 22, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Saturday, July 23, 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
Sunday, July 24, 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m.
Location: Bicentennial and West Bank Parks on the Scioto Mile
Information: hotribscooljazz.org
Jazz & Rib Fest is presented by Columbus Recreation and Parks Department and made possible through the generous
support of ABC 6 WSYX, FOX 28 WTTE, CW Columbus, Able Roof, Cavalier Distributing, G&J Pepsi, Jackie O’s Brewery,
Reser’s Fine Foods, U.S. Army Recruiting, Universal Windows Direct and Wright-Patt Credit Union.

March 31 - CITY OF COLUMBUS BEGINS USING NEW ONLINE PLATFORM TO AUTOMATE PERMITTING PROCESS FOR EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

News Date: March 31, 2022

CITY OF COLUMBUS BEGINS USING NEW ONLINE PLATFORM TO AUTOMATE PERMITTING PROCESS FOR EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

COLUMBUS – The City of Columbus has started to use a new platform to make it easier for organizations and residents to apply for permits to host festivals, races, marine events, block parties and film within Columbus. The new platform that will be used by the City, Eproval, was developed to manage the processing of event permits in local government event offices. Eproval allows people applying for festivals and events to have real-time visibility to see the status of their permit. It also automatically facilitates approvals between City administrators, which will allow applications to hold events to be processed more efficiently.

“As a technology-forward city, we are committed to focusing on the customer experience,” said Mayor Andrew Ginther. “Throughout the last two years, we have realized how important our City’s festivals and special events are. We are excited to welcome back events and festivals around the City, and Eproval will make it easier than ever for organizations to apply for permits and track where those applications are in the approval process. This latest implementation will save applicants time, reduce input errors, and improve transparency and communication for reviewers and approvers.”

“Thanks to the leadership of Mayor Ginther and the City, residents of Columbus will now enjoy a permitting process that is smarter, more efficient, transparent, collaborative and ultimately more satisfying for applicants, reviewers and approvers,” said Eproval’s Managing Director Jonathan Thompson.

Eproval is currently available to use online to apply to hold festivals, races, marine events, block parties and film in Columbus. Apply for your next event here: https://specialeventapplication.columbus.gov.

Learn more about Eproval at eproval.com.

March 30 - COLUMBUS RECREATION AND PARKS DEPARTMENT HOSTS ITS FIRST HIRING FAIR

News Date: March 30, 2022

COLUMBUS RECREATION AND PARKS DEPARTMENT HOSTS ITS FIRST HIRING FAIR

COLUMBUS – Columbus Recreation and Parks Department believes its workforce should be reflective of the community it serves and is bringing the hiring process to the people. Candidates interested in summer seasonal positions, part-time work or internships with Columbus Recreation and Parks are invited to Dodge Community Center on Saturday, April 2, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. for the department’s first hiring fair. Eligible and qualified candidates can be hired on the spot with on-site interviews and processing through human resources. By bringing the hiring process to the people we serve, we can help remove potential barriers that candidates might face in the application and interview processes. Current staff from many of our sections will be on-site to talk with and interview candidates for our summer positions including lifeguards, summer camp counselors, parks maintenance staff, event staff and more. We have positions for many interests and backgrounds, as well as resident-facing and behind-the-scenes opportunities. Pre-registration is preferred, but on-site registrations will be accepted at the event. Required documents, additional information and pre-registration can be found on our website at columbusrecparks.com/hiring-fair.

 

March 21 - COLUMBUS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER ANNOUNCES APRIL 2022 EVENTS

News Date: March 21, 2022

COLUMBUS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER ANNOUNCES APRIL 2022 EVENTS

COLUMBUS – The Columbus Cultural Arts Center (CAC) has announced its April calendar of events.

Exhibitions:

Jon B. Wahling Retrospective
April 1 – May 7; Main Gallery

A longtime weaving and fiber arts instructor at the Cultural Arts Center, Jon B. Wahling is remembered in this celebratory exhibition. The incredible breadth of his artistry in wood, fiber, paper, dye and paint will be showcased, with techniques in fiber solidifying his legacy in Columbus, Ohio and the American Studio Craft Movement.

Opening Night: Friday, April 1
Instagram Live virtual walkthrough: TBA

 

Beauty in the Balcony
April 1 – May 7; Loft Gallery

Artist and painter Lynda McClanahan will open “Beauty in the Balcony,” featuring oil enamel paint that challenges the hand and delights the eye. See how McClanahan has enlisted this unusual, demanding medium in pursuit of the beautiful.

Opening Night: Friday, April 1
Instagram Live virtual walkthrough: TBA

 

Programming:

Conversations & Coffee

Thursdays, noon-1 p.m.

This free program features a different artist every other week, sharing insights into their creative process.

  • April 14: Join us as we explore current Main Gallery exhibition Jon B. Wahling Retrospective, remembering Jon B. Wahling, a longtime weaving and fiber arts instructor at the Cultural Arts Center. This Conversation will be presented by Tracy Brown and Sandra Aska.
  • April 28: We will be joined by musician Scott Brooks who will tell us more about how the blues influenced the development of popular song in America in the program, The Singularity.

COVID-19 Safety Protocols:

The health and safety of participants and staff is our top priority. We have implemented rigorous, department-wide procedures, which include:

  • Access to our studios is limited to registered participants and staff. Our galleries are open to the public.
  • Face coverings are optional.
  • Social distancing – staying six feet away from others – must be observed at all times, with an understanding of the challenges and limitations for social distancing with very young children and individuals with disabilities.
  • If you are feeling sick (cough, fever, nausea, runny nose, etc.), you must stay home.
  • Only one person is permitted in the elevator at a time, with the exception of individuals requiring assistance and families/members of the same household.

Learn more about the Columbus Cultural Arts Center by visiting culturalartscenteronline.org.

Feb. 18 - COLUMBUS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER ANNOUNCES MARCH EVENTS

News Date: February 18, 2022

COLUMBUS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER ANNOUNCES MARCH EVENTS

COLUMBUS – The Columbus Cultural Arts Center (CAC) has announced its March 2022 calendar of events.

Exhibitions:

Tipping Point
Feb. 18 – March 26; Main Gallery

Artists Helen Hoffelt and Char Norman have traveled extensively together, gathering inspiration and materials from the environment. This exhibition is the result of a trip to Ecuador, specifically, Selva Vida Sin Fronteras – Amazon Reserve for Peace. The artists’ intent is to bring awareness to the issues and impacts and human responses to the environment. The work comprises a combination of materials and techniques, relating to the expertise of each individual artist as well as joint explorations and discoveries.

Opening Night: Friday, Feb. 18
Instagram Live virtual walkthrough: TBA

 

Reconnecting to the Earth
Feb. 18 – March 26; Loft Gallery

Fiber artist Marty Kotter creates unique art quilts from hand painted silk and pieced cotton works of landscapes, their inhabitants and climate related issues facing them. The silk gives a luminous vibrancy to each painting, and the quilting adds dimension and texture. Once we understand our living world, we can work toward reconnecting to the earth and living sustainably.

Opening Night: Friday, Feb. 18
Instagram Live virtual walkthrough: TBA

 

Programming:

Conversations & Coffee

Thursdays, noon-1 p.m.

This free program features a different artist every other week, sharing insights into their creative process.

  • March 3: Brent Payne, oil painter and Cultural Arts Center instructor, will join us to share more of his work.
  • March 17: Current Loft Gallery artist Marty Kotter will join the conversation to discuss her work and more of the current exhibition “Reconnecting to the Earth.”
  • March 31: Our first Loft Gallery artist of the year, Gail Fillinger (“One Woman’s Treasure” Jan. 7 – Feb. 12), will join us to discuss more of her prolific work with assemblage, collage and found object.

 

Artist in Residence

Applications are due soon!

Established in 2021, the Cultural Arts Center’s Artist in Residence is a chance for artists, designers, actors, musicians, playwrights, dancers, writers and more to explore their passions further in a three-month on-site residency. The residency provides a stipend, studio space (location/medium-depending), exhibition/performance opportunity at residency’s end, and the time for an individual creative to explore their field further while taking advantage of all that the Cultural Arts Center has to offer. The residency takes place twice a year, once in the spring/summer, and once in the fall/winter. Visit our website to learn more and apply today! Applications are due no later than 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, March 1.

 

COVID-19 Safety Protocols:

The health and safety of participants and staff is our top priority. We have implemented rigorous, department-wide procedures, which include:

  • Access to our facilities is limited to registered visitors and staff.
  • Face coverings are required indoors at all times.
  • Social distancing – staying six feet away from others – must be observed at all times, with an understanding of the challenges and limitations for social distancing with very young children and individuals with disabilities.
  • If you are feeling sick (cough, fever, nausea, runny nose, etc.), you must stay home.
  • Only one person is permitted in the elevator at a time, with the exception of individuals requiring assistance and families/members of the same household.

Guests can register for a visit online at CulturalArtsCenterOnline.org/Exhibitions or by calling 614-645-7047.

Feb. 9 - COLUMBUS RECREATION AND PARKS RECEIVES TOP HONORS FOR THE LINDEN COMMUNITY CENTER PROJECT

News Date: February 09, 2022

COLUMBUS RECREATION AND PARKS RECEIVES TOP HONORS FOR THE LINDEN COMMUNITY CENTER PROJECT

COLUMBUS – Last night, representatives from Columbus Recreation and Parks Department accepted a first place Award of Excellence from the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association (OPRA) for the Linden Community Center at the association’s annual conference. The department received the first place award in the Capital Projects: $2.5 million and up category. OPRA’s annual awards program recognizes organizations throughout Ohio that embody the vision, dedication and demonstration of excellence in parks and recreation.

The 55,000 square-foot state-of-the-art community center in Linden expands access to recreation. Opened in February 2021, the multi-purpose wellness and activity spaces bring new life to a cherished Columbus neighborhood. The Linden Community Center is part of Mayor Ginther’s One Linden plan, a comprehensive strategy to revitalize and reinvigorate the Linden neighborhood.

“The Linden Community Center is much more than just a building – it’s part of the fabric of the community and a gathering place for all people of all ages,” said Mayor Andrew J. Ginther. “Residents across the city have experienced great disruption over the last two years, making it more important than ever to have facilities like this where they can safely engage in positive activities and find critical resources including access to food, vaccines, social services and more.”

Despite the challenges associated with COVID-19 and typical weather delays, the center was completed within its $25 million budget. Since its opening, the center has demonstrated its value in achieving the goals of the One Linden plan. This has been accomplish as demonstrated by how many residents have used the center. More than 50,000 residents have visited, and more than 4,300 residents have participated in one of 200+ classes, summer camps or events. The center also connected residents with needed resources including COVID-19 rapid test kits and food, serving 3,900 summer meals and distributing 970 food packages. During the holiday season, the center handed out hot meals and distributed toys and warm weather clothing.

“Columbus Recreation and Parks is here to be of service to our community, and our programs and services are designed to improve the quality of life for all residents,” said Bernita A. Reese, CPRP, director of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. “The recognition from OPRA reinforces the impact the new center is already bringing to this cherished neighborhood.”

About the Linden Community Center: The Linden Community Center includes numerous features, including Columbus Recreation and Parks’ first-ever elevated walking track, a fitness room, dance studio, wellness clinic, and a demonstration/teaching kitchen complete with video recording/streaming capability. Additional indoor and outdoor features include:

  • Full regulation-sized, spring-loaded gym floor, the first at any Columbus Recreation and Parks site
  • Basketball, tennis, hockey, pickleball and futsal courts
  • Football, baseball and soccer fields
  • Professional-quality music studio with video and green screen recording capabilities
  • Art and ceramics studio
  • Multiple computers and a learning center
  • WIC wellness clinic
  • IGS solar panels
  • Sprayground
  • Park amenities including benches, grills, picnic tables
  • Multi-use programming and community partner spaces

Visit ColumbusRecParks.com for more information about the center.

Feb. 3 - COLUMBUS RECREATION AND PARKS COMMUNITY CENTERS TO HELP RESIDENTS KEEP WARM

News Date: February 03, 2022

COLUMBUS RECREATION AND PARKS COMMUNITY CENTERS TO HELP RESIDENTS KEEP WARM

COLUMBUS – With bitterly cold temperatures forecasted, Columbus Recreation and Parks will open warming centers at five community centers to give residents a place to keep warm during this Friday’s cold temperatures: the Barnett, Dodge, Linden, Marion Franklin and Thompson community centers will be open 9 a.m.-9 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 4. Contact information for the centers is available online.
As a reminder, masks are required in all City buildings, and residents should practice social distancing when possible.
To stay healthy and safe in extremely cold weather, Columbus Public Health suggests:
Try to stay indoors. If you must go outdoors, make trips brief, dress in several layers of loose clothing and wear a hat and gloves.
Stay dry and out of the wind.
Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold.
Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia such as slurred speech, confusion, uncontrollable shivering, stumbling, drowsiness and body temperature of less than 95°. Get immediate medical attention if you think someone has frostbite or hypothermia.
Keep emergency supplies in your car.
Check on elderly family, friends and neighbors.
Bring pets indoors.

Jan. 21 - COLUMBUS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER ANNOUNCES FEBRUARY EVENTS

News Date: January 21, 2022

COLUMBUS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER ANNOUNCES FEBRUARY EVENTS

COLUMBUS – The Columbus Cultural Arts Center (CAC) has announced its February calendar of events.

Exhibitions:

Frayed
Feb. 18 – March 26; Main Gallery

Artists Helen Hoffelt and Char Norman have traveled extensively together, gathering inspiration and materials from the environment. This exhibition is the result of a trip to Ecuador, specifically, Selva Vida Sin Fronteras – Amazon Reserve for Peace. The artists’ intent is to bring awareness to the issues and impacts and human responses to the environment. The work comprises a combination of materials and techniques, relating to the expertise of each individual artist as well as joint explorations and discoveries.

Opening Night: Friday, Feb. 18
Instagram Live virtual walkthrough: TBA

 

Reconnecting to the Earth
Feb. 18 – March 26; Loft Gallery

Fiber artist Marty Kotter creates unique art quilts from hand painted silk and pieced cotton works of landscapes, their inhabitants and climate-related issues facing them. The silk gives a luminous vibrancy to each painting, and the quilting adds dimension and texture. Once we understand our living world, we can work toward reconnecting to the earth and living sustainably.

Opening Night: Friday, Feb. 18
Instagram Live virtual walkthrough: TBA

 

Programming:


Conversations & Coffee

Thursdays, noon-1 p.m.

This free program features a different artist every other week, sharing insights into their creative process.

  • Feb. 3: Katie Davis and Nathan Gorgen – two of four total artists currently in the Main Gallery with Boundary Lines. Featuring Davis, Gorgen, Molly Jo Burke and Erin Furimsky, this exhibition is a dazzling display of installation, painting, ceramics and sculpture.
  • Feb. 17: Current Main Gallery artists Char Norman and Helen Hoffelt will join us to discuss their exhibition Frayed.

 

Artist in Residence

Applications are now open!

Established in 2021, the Cultural Arts Center’s Artist in Residence is a chance for artists, designers, actors, musicians, playwrights, dancers, writers and more to explore their passions further in a three-month on-site residency. The residency provides a stipend, studio space (location/medium-depending), exhibition/performance opportunity at residency’s end and the time for an individual creative to explore their field further while taking advantage of all that the Cultural Arts Center has to offer. The residency takes place twice a year, once in the spring/summer, and once in the fall/winter. Visit our website to learn more and apply today! Applications are due no later than 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, March 1.

COVID-19 Safety Protocols:

The health and safety of participants and staff is our top priority. We have implemented rigorous, department-wide procedures, which include:

  • Access to our facilities is limited to registered visitors and staff.
  • Face coverings are required indoors at all times.
  • Social distancing – staying six feet away from others – must be observed at all times, with an understanding of the challenges and limitations for social distancing with very young children and individuals with disabilities.
  • If you are feeling sick (cough, fever, nausea, runny nose, etc.), you must stay home.
  • Only one person is permitted in the elevator at a time, with the exception of individuals requiring assistance and families/members of the same household.

Guests can register for a visit online at CulturalArtsCenterOnline.org/Exhibitions or by calling 614-645-7047.

Jan. 20 - HONORING THE LEGACY OF KATHY ESPY

News Date: January 21, 2022

HONORING THE LEGACY OF KATHY ESPY

Today we mourn a great City leader whose many, many contributions include service to Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, Kathy Espy.

Kathy was an amazing leader and former President of the Columbus Recreation and Parks Commission. During her more than 15 years on the Commission, she was an inspirational leader who lived and expanded upon the department’s vision of putting people first. Under her guidance, the department expanded its trail system, opened a new community center, opened the crown jewel of downtown, the Scioto Mile, and expanded scholarships so all kids can participate in fee-based activities. Her contributions will be felt for generations to come.

We join the community in celebrating Kathy’s legacy, and are honored we had the opportunity to be touched by her inspirational life of achievement. The City of Columbus, Columbus Recreation and Parks Department and Central Ohio are truly better because of Kathy.

~Derrick Clay, President-Columbus Recreation and Parks Commission

Jan. 5 - REESE BEGINS TENURE AS FIRST WOMAN LEADER OF COLUMBUS RECREATION AND PARKS

News Date: January 05, 2022

REESE BEGINS TENURE AS FIRST WOMAN LEADER OF COLUMBUS RECREATION AND PARKS

COLUMBUS – Bernita A. Reese today began her tenure as the first woman leader of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. She joins the department from Huntsville, Alabama Parks & Recreation Department, where she served as the director.
Reese brings to the department more than 30 years of public, private and military recreation experience. Prior to her time in Huntsville, Reese was an assistant director for Columbus Recreation and Parks, overseeing the Community Recreation section. A National Recreation and Park Association certified professional, her previous leadership experience includes 12 years as the Divisional Manager for the DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs Department.
“I’m excited and honored to return to Columbus. In the three years I spent here, I came to know and love the city and its residents, the department and its staff,” Reese said. “I’m excited to build on the great work and writing our next chapter as our City continues to transform and grow.”
Reese said she’s excited about continuing the department’s work in support of the Mayor’s equity agenda.
“As parks and recreation professionals, we create healthy communities and play a fundamental role in enhancing the physical environments in which we live,” she said. “Our facilities, outdoor settings and services support the mental and physical health of residents of all abilities, ages, socio‐economic backgrounds and ethnicities.

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