Capital Crossroads Special Improvement District and Discovery Special Improvement Districts send this Downtown News Network e-alert to Downtown Columbus business and property contacts. It is intended for re-distribution to downtown employees, residents and others. Content is collected and managed by Capital Crossroads and Discovery SIDs for their member property owners and their tenants.
 
Capital Crossroads SID Notes

Business Member Spotlight
Capital Crossroads is grateful to these businesses who have demonstrated their commitment to downtown by becoming Capital Crossroads SID Business Members.
Each month, we profile a business member; this month, learn more about Tri Village Downtown Self-Storage

If you are interested in more information regarding the Business Membership program, please contact Michelle Chippas at [email protected].

Annual Meeting Nominations Requested
Every year Capital Crossroads and Discovery Special Improvement Districts host an annual meeting and recognize individuals and organizations for going above and beyond in to help make Downtown great. Do you know someone who deserves kudos? Submit your nominations to Kacey Brankamp at [email protected].

Awards are considered in both districts for the following categories:
  • Aesthetic Contribution -- Completed projects that add to the beauty, street life, energy, brightness, colorfulness and attractiveness of downtown.
  • Outstanding Service -- A service in either the public or private sector that makes a significant contribution to downtown.
  • Outstanding Achievement -- An accomplishment or contribution of any kind to downtown, made in 2016 by a property owner, city division, tenant or civic organization that deserves recognition.
  • In addition, the SIDs also take nominations for Unsung Hero.
Safety Tip
These summer days are the perfect time to hop on your bike. Whether you ride to work or just run a few errands at lunch, remember these bike tips all summer long: 
  • Secure your bike with a u-lock and cable combination
  • Bug your bike with the City of Columbus
  • Know traffic laws
  • Always ride on the street
  • Always use a helmet
Got questions? We're here to help. Just call the SID Hotline at (614) 228-5718. The best tip of all? Save the hotline number in your contact list so we're always just a phone call away.

Back to School Market Style
When fewer children were on hand to help their parents staff their booths, it was clear back to school season had arrived. While students are trading days at Pearl Market for rides on the school bus, books and backpacks, you can get ready to learn too. Ask your favorite vendors why they participate in Pearl Market, or what goodies will hit the Market come September and October. Oh, and if you want your kids to make a good first impression on their new teacher, grab some delicious Market apples to send along. Merchants continue to provide retail therapy whether you're in the mood for fresh-baked goods, ground or whole bean coffee, or a little bling to dress-up an outfit. Plan to come to Pearl Market each Tuesday and Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., in Lynn and Pearl Alleys. The Market runs through October 14. Click here for more information. 

Expected vendors for the week of August 22 (T designates Tuesday vendors and F designates Friday vendors):

Perryn's Naturals (T),  Jenny Danko Designs (T), Christian Science Reading Room (T), Stand by Faith (T), Sweet Cheese (F), Fowl Mood Foodtruck (T), Kate's Kustom Wreaths (F), aerryel & perymon boutique (F), The Fat Girl Bakery (F), Paige's Produce (F), AntiaVee's Home Decor (F), Tutor Doctor of Central Ohio (F), Noeldoubt Designs (F), Pitabilities (T&F), Archetype Trading Co. (F), 8 Sisters Bakery (T&F), Persinger Farms (F), Great Harvest Bread Company (T&F), Seraglio (T&F), Woolf Farms (T&F), DeMassimo's Authentic Sauces (F), Eagle Family Candy Co. (T&F), Home Sweet Home Pies (T&F), B. Sage Studios (T&F), Paddy Wagon (T&F), Two Roasting Joes (T&F), The Sweater Lady (T&F),  Tatoheads (F), Midway Concessions (T&F), Mary's Catering (T&F), Matica (T&F), Hinton Apiaries (T&F), Beads Bracelets N More (T&F), Seminary Hill Farm (T&F), Cast Soap (T&F), Fornof Markt (T&F), Mrs. Turbo's Cookies (F), Darby Valley Farm (T&F), Judy's Pies (T&F), Henson Farms (T&F), Naked Growers (T&F), Legacy Candle Co. (T&F), Distinct Outdoor Decor (F), Griffy Pops (T&F), Organic GreenFix (F), a Mess of Good (T), engler Glass (T&F), Cindy's Handmade Originals (T) 

Discovery SID Notes

Sand Volleyball
Summer is here. Celebrate with a pick-up game of sand volleyball at Discovery Beach. Located across the street from Hills Market and Grass Skirt Tiki Room, the sand volleyball court is available for free play or to reserve for a special outing. Just go to Hills Market, sign a waiver, borrow a ball and get your game on. When you're done, swing by Grass Skirt to quench your thirst. To reserve the court, email Melissa Fast at [email protected]. Learn more about Discovery Beach here.

Save the Date -- Topiary Park Outdoor Movies
Films are based on popular books, and who doesn't love a night under the stars in the downtown version of the old-school drive-in. Movie-goers can enjoy a free movie, free popcorn, a food truck, activities and a venue like no other. The movies will begin at dusk on August 27 (Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs) and September 24 (The Hunger Games). Thanks to partners: Discovery SID, Columbus Metropolitan Library, Discovery Civic Association, Friends of Topiary Park, State Auto Insurance Companies, Motorists Mutual Insurance Company and Gateway Film Center.

Traffic Alert

HandsOn Central Ohio Seeks Volunteers
HandsOn Central Ohio is marking the 15th anniversary of the September 11 attacks by creating the 9/11 Flag Display on the Ohio Statehouse lawn. Volunteers will help plant nearly 3,000 flags, one for each victim of the attacks. Volunteers are needed on September 8 to set up the flags, and for other opportunities from September 10 - 12. For more information and to sign up to volunteer, contact Alison Davis at [email protected] by August 31.

High Street Improvement
The City of Columbus is nearing completion on plans to improve the west side of High St. between Goodale St. and Convention Center Dr. The east side is currently being done in coordination with the Greater Columbus Convention Center. The project on the west side is scheduled to finish design work in summer 2016. Public comments and suggestions are encouraged during the design phase. The planned improvements include: resurfacing and crosswalks; sidewalks, curb ramps and curb extensions; traffic signals and signage; storm water facilities and water lines; street lights and trees; bicycle sharrows and parking; plus more improvements for safety and traffic movement.

News and Notes

Support for Louisiana
Buckwheat Zydeco, who is a preeminent ambassador for Zydeco music and Louisiana culture, was scheduled to perform at Rhythm on the River on August 26. Columbus Recreation and Parks will partner with the American Red Cross at Rhythm on the River to collect donations to support Louisiana residents facing flooding. Donatos Pizza will also donate a portion of sales to the American Red Cross. Red Cross representatives will be on hand to collect, or you can donate here, by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS or texting the word LAFLOODS to 90999. Donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recovery from this disaster. 

COTA CMAX BRT Station Now Under Construction
Launching in 2018, COTA's first Bus Rapid Transit line, CMAX, will connect more than 211,000 residents and 170,000 workers along Cleveland Avenue to jobs, healthcare and educational resources and encourage economic development in the corridor. The 15.6-mile route will serve customers every 10 minutes between Downtown Columbus and SR-161 during rush hours, with service to Polaris Parkway/Africa Road every 30 minutes. For more information about COTA's CMAX, visit www.cota.com/brt

WICKED Ticket Lottery
A limited number of tickets for select WICKED performances at the Ohio Theatre will be sold to winners of an online lottery drawing. Tickets are $40 and limited to two per person. You can register and choose which performance fits your schedule. Winners will be notified by text or email and given a link with a special code to complete their purchase. You can enter by clicking here. Lottery participants may select a maximum of three performances. Deadline for performances 8/30 - 9/4 is 8/29 at 11:30 a.m.

Library Homework Help Centers Open
As thousands of central Ohio children and teens return to school this month, Columbus Metropolitan Library's (CML) Homework Help Centers reopen at all 23 locations. K-12 students will once again have a free place to get help with their homework from friendly staff and volunteers. Students have access to welcoming spaces to study and learn, as well as computers, printers, digital research tools and CML's catalog including eBooks. The Main Library hours are Monday - Thursday, 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. and Friday, 3 - 6 p.m.

Volleyball and Kickball Leagues at the Downtown YMCA
When the weather cools, you can find sports fun with the YMCA volleyball and kickball leagues. Get together a group of friends and get yourself signed up for the fall. Deadlines are around the corner. To get more information, contact Matthew Rice at [email protected] or 614.224.1132 ext. 186. Visit the Downtown YMCA website to learn more about membership, including a new pricing schedule. http://www.ymcacolumbus.org/downtown

Books for Breakfast Program
Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) is partnering with Columbus City Schools (CCS) and Panera Bread to collect new and gently used kids' books for the Books for Breakfast program. The goal of the program is to provide K-5 CCS students books to read both at school and at home at the breakfast table. Donated books will be available for students to read if they eat breakfast at school. Each day, approximately 25,000 CCS students take advantage of the district's free breakfast program. Collection boxes can be found at CML locations; ask a staff member for more information. Monetary donations can be made at any Columbus area Panera Bread location. Collection will end on August 30.

COTA Zoo Bus
COTA is making transportation between Downtown and the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium a lot easier again this summer. For trips to the Zoo or Zoombezi Bay, take COTA's Zoo Bus now through September 5 on weekends and holidays. Board at the Statehouse Downtown or leave your car at the Griggs Dam Park & Ride, and avoid paying for parking and gas. COTA is only $2 each way. Ask your bus operator for a transfer/coupon and receive half-off regular Zoo admission or $4 off Zoombezi Bay admission for the day of your ride.
http://www.cota.com/

Food Truck Food Court
Thursdays through October 27 (11 a.m.-2 p.m.), enjoy Food Truck Food Court at Columbus Commons. Find the the best in Columbus mobile eats featuring homegrown and international cuisine themes. http://columbuscommons.org

Special Events

Weekly Art Talks: Conversations & Coffee
Columbus Cultural Arts Center
August 25, Artist from the Ohio Art League Juried Exhibition
http://culturalartscenteronline.org

2016 Summer Fridays at the Statehouse
Fridays through August 26, noon-1 p.m.
Ohio Statehouse West Lawn
Enjoy a free lunch-time outdoor performing arts series staged on the West Plaza of the historic Ohio Statehouse. Summer Fridays at the Statehouse provides an opportunity for the public and downtown community to gather on Capitol Square to experience some of Columbus' diverse arts groups and to visit the beautiful Ohio Capitol. http://ohiostatehouse.org

August 26, Evolution (Food Truck: Philly Buster)

Exhibition: Transformations
Now through August 27
City Center Gallery
In Transformations, Ann Kim examines the fusion of cultures and beliefs by combining iconic mythological figures in various states of schism, fluid transformation, and mutual disappearance through mixed-media works. Transformations creates a multilayered dialogue that poses questions about the history of cultural exchanges amidst globalization and investigates the cultural beliefs of today's commonalities. http://uas.osu.edu

Exhibit: art unbound
Now through August 27
Columbus Metropolitan Library
Local artists were once again challenged to transform library books in disrepair that would otherwise have been recycled into remarkable works of art. The fan-favorite exhibit makes its return in the second-floor Carnegie Gallery. http://columbuslibrary.org

Choose to Read Ohio!
Now through August 31
Ohio Statehouse Map Room
This exhibit features Choose to Read Ohio books and authors from the 2015-16 list of selected titles and resource-packed readers' toolkits. Current and former Choose to Read Ohio posters and READ posters of Ohio authors are also on display. Choose to Read Ohio spotlights Ohio authors and promotes reading across Ohio. The State Library of Ohio manages the program in partnership with the Ohioana Library Association and Ohio Center for the Book. The goal of Choose to Read Ohio is to encourage Ohioans of all ages to read and enjoy books together. http://ohiostatehouse.org

Exhibition: Wall Scapes, an exhibition of paintings and wall sculptures
Now through August 31
Cocktail Party Artist Reception, August 19, 6 - 9 p.m.
Mac Worthington Gallery
The gallery is open Monday - Saturday, noon - 6 p.m., and admission is free. http://macworthington.com

Exhibit: Tongue
Now through September 2
Angela Meleca Gallery
This summer group show features: Erica Baum, Robert Buck, Youmna Chlala, Laura Lisbon, Ian Ruffino, Suzanne Silver and Ryland Wharton. http://angelamelecagallery.com

Exhibit: The State of Ohio
Cultural Arts Center
Now through September 10
This is one of the Ohio Art League's most prestigious exhibitions, as it brings together artists from around Ohio. OAL is an innovative leader for supporting artists during all stages of their careers, and for bringing artists and the community together. Come support them at the Cultural Arts Center. http://culturalartscenteronline.org 

Exhibit: Picasso: The Great War, Experimentation and Change
Now through September 11
Columbus Museum of Art
Columbus Museum of Art, in partnership with the Barnes Foundation, presents an exhibition featuring one of the greatest artists of all time, Pablo Picasso. Inspired by CMA's Picasso Still Life with Compote and Glass, 1914-15, the show features some 50 works drawn from major museums and private collections from around the world. The exhibition explores Pablo Picasso's work during the tumultuous years of the First World War. At this time, Picasso began experimenting with both cubist and classical modes in his art. Important canvases by Picasso's contemporaries, including Henri Matisse, Amedeo Modigliani, and Diego Rivera, will also be presented. There is an upcharge in addition to normal admission for non-members ($6 for adults; $3 for seniors and college students; $1 for K - 12 students). http://columbusmuseum.org

Toni Jo Coppa: The Many Parts of One
Now through September 23
Fresh A.I.R. Gallery
Coppa explains that her work is both cathartic and socially motivated. "The disgraceful stigma of mental illness labels a person and puts them in a stereotyped group. I'm hoping to break the negative attitudes towards common mental conditions like depression, anxiety and/or addictive behaviors," she says. "These disorders have affected my mood, thinking, behavior, and most obviously my art. Conjuring my feelings into a tangible form helps me to identify and manage them more clearly." http://www.southeastinc.com/fresh_air.php 

Exhibit: Department of Design Faculty Exhibition
Now through September 24
OSU Urban Arts Space
This fall Urban Arts Space welcomes The Ohio State University Department of Design Faculty Exhibition. The 2016 show of works by current faculty members and lecturers will feature design projects and studies that illustrate the value of design processes and practices within the context of research and discovery. http://uas.osu.edu

Exhibition: Ceramics as Deception
Now through September 24
OSU Urban Arts Space
Clay in and of itself is formless--it can become anything. Once fired, the medium becomes ceramic--permanent--what one may call a 'transformation image'; something undeniably material, wearing the evidence of its physical, social and spiritual factors in all their visible and tangible forms and attributes. http://uas.osu.edu 

Ohio Statehouse Grounds Tour
Fridays, Now through September 30
Ohio Statehouse West Lawn
The Ohio Statehouse has one of the most beautiful capitol grounds in the country.
This free 45-minute tour will highlight the Statehouse's exterior architecture, monuments, Civil War cannons, and foliage. Tours will leave from the West Plaza (High Street) and are weather permitting. http://ohiostatehouse.org

Ohio's Eight Presidents -- American Political Items Collectors
Now through September 30
Ohio Statehouse, South Hallway
In recognition of the United States presidential election of 2016, the Ohio Statehouse Museum Education Center, in partnership with the American Political Items Collectors, will showcase treasures from the political careers of Ohio's eight presidents and their campaigns. http://ohiostatehouse.org

Free Fitness Classes
Session 2: Now through October 1
No contract required. Whether you're a fitness junkie or your just starting out on your wellness journey, Columbus Commons free fitness classes make it easy for everyone to exercise. All classes are free thanks to UnitedHealthcare. Simply complete a waiver, and you'll be ready to participate in any fitness class. You can find a full list of classes here

Exhibit: Earthly Delights
Now through October 9
Ohio Arts Council's Riffe Gallery
The Ohio Arts Council's Riffe Gallery is presenting a new exhibition of contemporary photography by Ohio Artists, Earthly Delights. The images, curated by Kenyon College Professor Marcella Hackbardt, are inspired by the textures and places on planet Earth. The artists work in both analog and digital methods and use tools like social media and virtual reality. The collected work showcases different photographic processes, which reflect the artists' ability to explore the relationship between humans and Earth. You can learn more about the exhibit, including ancillary special events, here.

Community Education Program from CPD
Now through November 2 (Wednesdays), 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
This Citizen Police Academy is designed to give interested citizens an inside look at the values, philosophies and operations of the Division of Police, while offering an open forum for questions, discussion and exchange of ideas. For more information, you can click here.

Scritch Scritch
August 26-27, 8 p.m.; September 2-3, 8 p.m.
MadLab Theatre, 227 N. 3rd St.
Scratching noises in her walls and ceiling lead Rebecca on a wild, mysterious journey of discovery in this fascinating and funny world premiere by Christopher Lockheardt.Tickets are $15; $13 for students and seniors; $10 for MadLab members. http://madlab.net/index.html

Rhythm on the River: New Basics Brass Band
August 26, 7:30 p.m.
Bicentennial Park
More than 20 years ago tenderfoot college music students convened to try their hands at playing music that echoed America's oldest sounds, yet stepped fast-footed with modern soul and urgency. Today the New Basics Brass Band is still in existence and is successful as ever. "Whether reinterpreting others or showcasing their originals, NBBB causes a mix of happy feet, cold sweats and genuine awe at how the band can be so progressive yet authentically traditional at the same time." - Cincinnati CityBeat. http://sciotomile.com

4th and Main BBQ Block Party and Columbus 1/2K
August 27
4th & Main District
The newly dubbed "4th and Main District" is hosting these events to highlight its rebranding efforts. Participating bars and restaurants include Mikey's Late Night Slice, Hadley's, The Walrus, Dirty Franks and 16-Bit Bar+Arcade. Come enjoy live music, drinks and BBQ food trucks which will set up along the block. In addition to the block party, there will be a short, fun run to benefit Columbus Diaper Bank. http://www.4thandmainbbqblockparty.com/ 

Central Ohio Heart Walk
August 27, 8 a.m. - noon
Columbus Commons
This fundraiser for the American Heart Association features a 1-mile or 3-mile walk throughout Downtown Columbus. For more details, click here.

Think Like an Artist Thursdays: Back to School Themed
August 29, 5 - 9 p.m.
Columbus Museum of Art
Sample a variety of programs, performances, food and drink as CMA partners with local artists and creative producers to generate a lineup of engaging opportunities during Think Like an Artist Thursdays. Try yoga and meditation in the galleries, dabble in Open Studio Happy Hour with a cash bar, join a special docent-led tour of featured exhibitions, and experience special projects by featured local artists as they take over the museum to create interactive installations and performances. http://columbusmuseum.org

Rhythm on the River: BalletMet
September 2, 8 p .m.
Bicentennial Park
Join BalletMet for an evening of inspiration alfresco.This production features BalletMet dancers performing excerpts from the company's 2016-17 season, including both classical and contemporary works. With the backdrop of the city, enjoy some of the most iconic moments from Romeo and Juliet, The Nutcracker and Twisted 2, a collaboration between BalletMet, Opera Columbus and the Columbus Symphony Orchestra. Renowned for its versatility and innovative repertory, BalletMet, under the artistic direction of Edwaard Liang, ranks among the nation's top 20 ballet companies. http://sciotomile.com 

Open Streets Columbus: Reimagine or Streets Reimagine our Community
September 11, noon - 4 p.m.
Fourth St. between Main and Broad Streets
Remember playing in the streets? Well, the time has come again. Come enjoy the third Open Streets Columbus initiative. Part of Fourth St. will be temporarily closed to cars and opened up so that people can plan, connect with one another, support local businesses, and explore downtown by foot, bike, skates, stroller and more. The event is free and all are welcome. http://openstreetscolumbus.org 

Restaurant and Retail Reminders

For a complete listing of downtown restaurants, visit the DowntownColumbus.com website

Hadley's Bar + Kitchen to Open
260 S. Fourth St.
Hadley's will be opening on August 26, offering Chef Lauren Blake's vegan and vegetarian specials. There will be daily specials and $1.50 oysters Monday - Friday, 7 - 11 p.m. You'll also find 26 local, domestic and seasonal craft beers on tap and a menu of crafted cocktails. Hours will be Monday from 4 p.m. - 1 p.m.; Tuesday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 2 a.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 1 a.m. http://hadleysbar.com 

Graze Columbus
1 Capitol Square
614.728.9231
The former Milo's Capitol Cafe has been reimagined as Graze Columbus, a farm to counter, locally focused eatery, which utilizes an efficient customizable ordering process to create healthy, handcrafted meals from local pastures that are always in season.Graze sources theirr core proteins and farm fresh eggs from a collaborative of sixty local farms and pastures. You can obtain a protein packed and nutritious meal for less than $10. http://grazecolumbus.com

deNOVO Bistro Has New Digs
150 S. High St.
deNOVO has moved down the street to beautiful new location. You won't want to miss their delicious food in their new digs. http://denovobistro.com/ 

Salt + Pine
250 S. High St.
614.867.5161
Learn more about the fabulous chef at Salt + Pine from this feature story: 

Salt & Pine Chef Jeff Bereznay plans to add something new to the menu very soon. He gave us a hint or two, and he also shared some of his thoughts about food and cooking and, of course, downtown. Read on and get to know a world class chef and to take a chance to win a $25 gift certificate to Salt & Pine. Read more here.

Summer Cocktail Dinner
August 30, 6 - 8 p.m.
Hills Market Downtown
Drinks include Frose' (frozen cocktail with rose', strawberries and lemon); Watershed vodka with muddled mint, peaches and simple syrup; and Raspberry Lambic float topped with Johnson's vanilla bean ice cream. Food includes savory strawberry foccacia with a lightly dressed salad; fennel garlic pork shoulder with twice-bake fingerling potatoes; grilled peaches, zucchini and onions. Cost is $40. You can register here.

Koko Tea Salon & Bakery
361 E. Broad St. (The Seneca)
Koko Teal Salon & Bakery opened a second location downtown in May (their first location is on Mill St. in Gahanna). The menu includes delicious cupcakes, cakes, salads, macarons, quiches, bubble tea and more. They are open Monday - Thursday, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Friday - Saturday, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. http://kokoteasalon.com/

August Lobster Days
Saturdays in August, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Hills Market Downtown
Enjoy freshly made lobster rolls in the cafe. Get a single roll or pair it with a full meal including chips, lemonade and a Der Dutchman hand pie. http://hillsmarket.com/downtown

Charity Happy Hour
Benefitting Future Possibilities, Inc.: August 29, 5 - 10 p.m.
Hills Market Downtown
http://hillsmarket.com/downtown

Condado Tacos
132 S. High St.
Condado Tacos opened their second location at Columbus Commons. Enjoy thousands of taco combinations, more than 50 types of tequila, craft beers, chips and margaritas. They are open seven days a week: 11 a.m.-12 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m.-2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Don't forget happy hour, Monday - Friday, 4-7 p.m. where you will nab half off all margaritas and $1 off all tacos in the bar area. http://www.condadotacos.com/

PurePressed Organic Juicery
1457 S. High St.
PurePressed Juicery is now offering a variety of new specialty toasts, the perfect on-the-go snack or healthy breakfast. Options include avocado, strawberries and balsamic glaze on wheat or almond butter, bananas and honey on wheat. http://purepressedjuicery.com/

Food Truck Food Court
Thursdays, Now through October 27, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Columbus Commons
The Food Truck Food Court features local food trucks serving up some of the best eats Columbus has to offer. Enjoy unique dishes from Cupzilla, Daredevil Dogs, Giant Eagle Market District, Mikey's Late Night Slice, Mixing Bowl Asian Grill, Paddy Wagon, Pitabilities and Schmidt's Sausage Truck. The current featured food truck is En Place, where you can enjoy fancy fare in a casual setting, and Mai Chau. Food trucks will not be selling beverages, so stop by the Columbus Commons beverage tent ($2 cash only). http://columbuscommons.org

Events

For a comprehensive listing of events, visit Experience Columbus at
http://www.experiencecolumbus.com/events/ 

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