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September 3, 2010  

Westside
 Fire levy set for November ballot
08/05/2010
Prairie Township residents will vote on a replacement levy for the fire department in November.
 Hilltop Kiwanis to "Stuff the Bus"
08/05/2010
The OSU Woody Bus is making a second stop on the Hilltop, and the Kiwanis hopes to fill it with even more goodies than they did last year.
 Franklin Township residents to finally get sewers
07/29/2010
Residents of the Mon-E-Bak in Franklin Township subdivision will have sanitary sewers by 2012, but not without a cost to homeowners.
 Township excited about new fire truck
07/29/2010
The Franklin Township Fire Department has added to their fleet.
 Public input sought for Westland Area Plan update
07/23/2010
The Westland Area Commission is moving ahead with updating the Westland Area Plan.
 Commission gearing up for busy end to summer
07/23/2010
The next two months will be extremely busy for the Southwest Area Commission and the community.
 Board extends superintendent's contract
07/23/2010
In a 4-1 vote, the South-Western City Schools board of education agreed to extend the contract of Bill Wise, superintendent, through July 2016.
 School board supports library levy
07/23/2010
“We need our libraries,” said Mindy Garverick.
 District opts out of program for healthier kids
07/23/2010
The South-Western City Schools board of education decided the district would not participate in the state program, Healthy Choices for Healthy Children.
 Prairie Twp. residents may see fire levy on ballot
07/19/2010
The Prairie Township Fire Department is looking to place a levy on the November ballot.
 EPA efforts will effect Franklin Township
07/19/2010
The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) wants to prevent degradation of Ohio’s waterways caused by improper use of storm-drains.
 Township plagued by illegal dumping
07/08/2010
Board of Health representative Melissa McArthur said the situation on Derrer Road made the area look like a “landfill”.
 New law lets townships tackle high grass
07/02/2010
Prairie Township residents will spend a lot less time looking at properties with high grass this summer.
 Commission green flags race track
06/24/2010
When Arshot Investment Corp. announced they wanted to redevelop Cooper Stadium and turn it into a racing complex in 2008, noise concerns propelled several civic associations near the vicinity of the former ballpark to oppose Arshot’s plans.
 Mosquito spraying starts June 17
06/17/2010
In order to reduce the number of adult mosquitoes, the Franklin County Board of Health will be spraying in Franklin Township beginning at dusk on Thursday, June 17.
 Pride on its way
06/17/2010
Pride will be coming soon, says the Southwest Area Commission.
 Bean Dinner to be bigger, better than ever
06/10/2010
It’s that time of year again. The Hilltop Bean Dinner will take place at Westgate Park on June 26.
 West Broad ready for bike lines
06/10/2010
Local businesses to keep parking spots
 Woodlawn slated for sidewalks
06/10/2010
Parents with school children walking on Woodlawn Avenue can look forward to a safer journey within a year.
 Juanita Kaufman award in need of nominees
06/10/2010
Since 2008, Franklin Township has been recognizing outstanding citizens who demonstrate a “high standard for the community.”
 Township cracks down on high lawns
06/10/2010
Not cutting your lawn could cost you if you live in Franklin Township.
 Sylvan Avenue bridge to close
05/28/2010
The Department of Public Service will close the bridge on North Sylvan Avenue between West Broad Street and Valleyview Drive on May 28.
 New chief to be named in June
05/27/2010
Franklin Township trustees reviewed assessments of four potential candidates for police chief during a special meeting May 19.
 "No" vote could mean loss of library
05/27/2010
If voters say “no” to a levy in November, Southwest Public Libraries may forced to close one of their locations.
 County calls for teamwork on casino district development
05/27/2010
With a new casino on the way, several changes are in the works for West Broad Street.
 ROAR disputes Arshot's findings
05/27/2010
In April, representatives from Arshot Invest Corp. visited the Southwest Area Commission to discuss the possible redevelopment of Cooper Stadium into a multi-purpose complex featuring a half-mile racetrack, hotel restaurant, conference center and an autom
 County finds funding for sewer fix
05/27/2010
After years of frustration by residents, funding for the Mon-E-Bak Farms and Brown Road sanitary sewer projects is finally available.
 Township gets grant for West Broad improvements
05/27/2010
The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is dangling a $1.9 million dollar carrot in front of Franklin Township trustees.
 Annexation will spread the wealth
05/13/2010
With the passage of Issue 2, the Westside is destined to be the home of Penn National’s Hollywood Casino and Franklin Township is hoping for a piece of the action.
 Contract trash hauler not a ballot issue
05/13/2010
Franklin Township trustees are weighing the possibility of contracting with a single trash hauler for the entire township.
 District not ready for all-day kindergarten
05/13/2010
The South-Western City Schools Board of Education would like to delay the implementation of all-day everyday kindergarten.
 Forecast gloomy for South-Western
05/13/2010
According to an updated five-year forecast, the South-Western City Schools District will continue to struggle financially in the future.
 PUCO rules against OAW rate increase request
05/13/2010
Water bills are about increase for some Prairie Township residents, but not by as much as many had feared.
 Columbus signs on for six more years of Win-Win
05/06/2010
The district’s board of education recently requested a financial analysis to weigh the benefits of remaining in the program.
 What's Happening on the Westside
05/06/2010
Looking for something to do? Check here first!
 SWACO issue will not be on the ballot
05/06/2010
Franklin Township trustees have been soliciting information from residents for months regarding the possibility of joining the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO).
 Township names interim police chief
05/06/2010
April 30 deemed Mike castle Day
 FT residents talkin' trash
04/29/2010
Residents weighed in on the possibility of Franklin Township joining the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO) during two public meetings April 24.
 New tool for parents
04/29/2010
At the April 26 meeting, the South-Western City Schools Board of Education heard about the parent assist module.
 Conservation starts in your own backyard.
04/29/2010
The pollutants carried in storm water are destructive to the world around us, but little changes in our own backyard can go a long way to protect streams, properties and habitat.
 Residents hear from Arshot
04/22/2010
Westside residents came out in droves to talk to Arshot reps about the company’s possible use of Cooper Stadium.
 Vacant houses to be demolished in Prairie
04/15/2010
Two vacant properties in Prairie Township are slated to be demolished.
 Board takes steps to change policy
04/15/2010
The South-Western City Schools Board of Education is one step closer to altering its phone first public participation policy.
 More cuts for SWCS
04/15/2010
The South-Western City Schools District will cut 49 full-time positions by the end of the school year.
 Metro Parks work to restore prairies
04/15/2010
April showers will bring prairie wildflowers this year.
 Road repair work to begin in Franklin Township
04/07/2010
Jim Stevens, road department supervisor, said the crack and seal project will begin on the northern end of the township and will work its way south.
 Central Crossing presents "The King and I"
04/01/2010
The Central Crossing High School theatre department will present “The King and I”, April 9 at 7 p.m. and April 10 at 2 and 7 p.m.
 Project gets flags flying on the Hilltop
04/01/2010
The Hilltop Kiwanis are helping residents display their American pride.
 Prairie Township to dip into rainy day fund
03/30/2010
Prairie Township will dip into their rainy day fund to pay for road improvement projects.
 District looks at reducing buses
03/30/2010
Tim Cox, the transportation supervisor with the South-Western City Schools District, is looking for ways to cut costs in the department.
 Grading scale under the microscope
03/30/2010
Lois Rapp, superintendent of curriculum at South-Western City Schools, said the grading committee is reviewing the grade system in the district.
 Township's new truck to take on new look
03/29/2010
The Franklin Township Fire Department is eagerly anticipating its newest addition. A shiny, black and red fire truck will soon join the department, complete with gold piping and a new logo commemorating the department’s 60th anniversary.
 WAC mourns loss of founder
03/19/2010
Dan Province, who founded the Westland Area Commission 20 years ago, is being remembered as a knowledgeable and caring person.
 Arshot to attend next SWAC meeting
03/19/2010
The Southwest Area Commission (SWAC) is gearing up for a big night.
 Commission's cleaning project to continue
03/19/2010
Fed up with the sight of litter along the main corridors, the Southwest Area Commission initiated a program last year that would get the community involved with ‘greening up’ their neighborhoods.
 Township already gearing up for next winter
03/19/2010
Spring is just beginning to break through, but Prairie Township is already preparing for next winter.
 Westsiders ready to 'Stand Up'
03/18/2010
Ohio legislatures have given a Westside casino the green light. Now it�s time for Ohio�s voters to have their say.
 Grant would give Whims Ditch residents a way out
03/11/2010
Questions arose during a March 4 Franklin Township Trustee meeting after news that Franklin County had applied for a grant to tear down 21 homes in the flood-prone Whims Ditch community.
 Township looks for Castle's replacement
03/11/2010
In reaction to news that police Chief Mike Castle is retiring, Franklin Township trustees passed a resolution March 4, to enter into a contract with the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police to aid in the search for a replacement.
 Auditor says district should make more cuts
03/11/2010
More cuts could be on the horizon in South-Western City Schools if district leaders take the state auditor’s advice.
 What's happening on the Westside
03/11/2010
Looking for something to do? See event listings here.
 Area plan gains steam
03/04/2010
City planners who are helping the Greater Hilltop Area amend its land use plan have turned to technology at the initial stage of the work.
 Public participation policy sent for further review
03/02/2010
The phone first public participation policy at South-Western City Schools will go back to the policy committee for review.
 Township may partner with SWACO
03/02/2010
In an effort to deal with the ongoing problem of illegal dumping in Franklin Township and to create a more efficient system of waste removal, township trustees are pondering the idea of joining the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO).
 Chief Castle set to retire
02/25/2010
After nearly 35 years with the Franklin Township Police Department, Chief Mike Castle announced his retirement at the Feb. 18 trustee meeting.
 Residents still waiting for sewer fix
02/18/2010
In 2004, the residents of Mon-E-Bak were told they could anticipate the completion of a new septic system. Six years later, not even the funding has been secured.
 Audit says district can cut $2.5 million
02/18/2010
The South-Western City Schools District Board of Education and administration have vowed to make tax dollars from the November levy last for four years.
 Board reviews public participation policy
02/18/2010
The administration at South-Western City Schools is reviewing the effectiveness of the call ahead public participation policy.
 SWAC plans public discussion of race track
02/18/2010
The Southwest Area Commission has been hoping for the developers of the vacant Cooper Stadium site to attend one of their monthly meetings for quite some time.
 Prairie Township forms CIC
02/18/2010
Prairie Township announced the formation of the Prairie Township Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) at the Feb. 10 board of trustees meeting.
 Street signs missing in Franklin Township
02/10/2010
A discovery was made when Franklin Township road crews recently went street by street, taking inventory of its street signs.
 OAW asks for less of an increase
02/08/2010
The latest public hearings for Ohio American Water�s (OAW) proposed rate increase invoked mixed emotions from residents.
 Kiwanis look to build community building - need your help
02/08/2010
Hilltop Kiwanis has supported the Hilltop, its residents and its children for 65 years. Now they are asking their community to support them.
 What's happening on the Westside
02/08/2010
Community events
 House approves resolution, casino issue headed to ballot
01/27/2010
The Ohio House of Representatives approved a resolution that will allow voters across Ohio to change the location for the Columbus casino.
 Ohio Senate approves casino move
01/26/2010
The Ohio Senate voted Jan. 26 to approve a proposed constitutional amendment that would permit voters to authorize a change in location for the Columbus casino.
 Westgate mural falls victim to graffiti
01/21/2010
The long-awaited �Heroes of Camp Chase� mural at Westgate Park wasn�t around for long before vandals left their mark.
 Hero hails from West High School
01/21/2010
Army Sgt. Phillip Clumm was announced at midfield during high school football�s biggest contest - the U.S. Army sponsored All-American Bowl.
 West Side Duals at Briggs
01/21/2010
West High School senior Derrick Neimeister claimed his 100th career win with a final round pin over Phillip Halko of Bishop Ready.
 Penn National will bet on Delphi
01/21/2010
Penn National Gaming is placing their bets on the city�s Westside.
 Decoding Hilltop gangs
01/14/2010
They go by names like Rolling 20 Crips, Hilltop Soldier Bloods, Hilltop Posse (HTP) and Tiny Rascal Gangsters (TRG), and can be found all over the Hilltop.
 Residents gain small victory in fight against OAW
01/14/2010
Steve Kennedy thinks residents are making headway in their fight against Ohio American Water.
 WAC votes in favor of casino
01/14/2010
The Westland Area Commission has added its support to the effort to bring a casino to the Westside.
 County Web site helps locate sex offenders
01/13/2010
Franklin County Auditor Clarence Mingo has announced an enhanced Web site feature that allows parents and other Franklin County residents to identify and locate registered sex offenders and predators who live near by.
 Franklin Township trustees will not support casino
01/08/2010
Franklin Township trustees are not throwing out a welcome mat for Penn National. While many local groups are rallying to bring a casino to the Westside, along with the jobs and tax dollars they claim are sure to follow, Franklin Township is simply
 Consumer group seeks reductions in OAW rate request
01/07/2010
Residential customers of Ohio American Water (OAW) would pay lower rates based on reductions sought by the Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel (OCC).
 Casino issue sparks controversy among residents
01/06/2010
Those seeking an answer to where a casino facility should be built in Columbus did not find what they were looking for at the Jan. 5 meeting of the Greater Hilltop Area Commission.
 Westside groups place their bets on casino issue
01/06/2010
One by one, organizations, associations and local governments are joining together in an effort to bring a casino to the Westside, although the margins of approval vary widely.
 Meeting to discuss casino on Westside
01/04/2010
The Westland Mall area on West Broad Street and the former Delphi plant on Georgesville Road are among several sites being considered for Columbus’ future casino site. According to local officials, public input will play a large part in the outcome of the
 Franklin Twp. cruisers damaged in pursuit
12/29/2009
Franklin Township will now be responsible for the repair of two of their own police cruisers after they were damaged in a pursuit.
 Township has problem with illegal dumping
12/29/2009
There is an ongoing problem on Broadlawn Avenue and in the Mon-E-Back subdivision regarding illegal dumping.
 Bedbugs invade Prairie Township
12/23/2009
Prairie Township is the center of a major bedbug infestation, and that infestation has made its way to the fire department.
 Forecast calls for more cuts
12/23/2009
At a recent meeting, the South-Western City Schools District Board of Education adopted an updated five-year forecast.
 District to help kids get fit
12/23/2009
State leaders want school districts to implement policies that will help combat childhood obesity.
 Reel Deal: 15 reasons I love "Avatar"
12/23/2009
Oh, “Avatar,” “Avatar,” why do I love thee so much already? Let me review thy reasons.
 Commission gets sneak peak of racetrack
12/23/2009
Long before the last pitch was thrown, Columbus residents have been conflicted about future uses for Cooper Stadium.
 Metro Parks purchases land in Prairie Township
12/18/2009
Prairie Oaks Metro Park recently purchased approximately 150 acres in Prairie Township.
 Land purchase for new senior center put on hold
12/18/2009
Prairie Township residents’ hopes for a new senior center may have to be put on hold.
 PUCO staff report recommends smaller rate increase for OAW
12/14/2009
A staff report to the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) is recommending much lower water/sewer rate increases than the ones requested by Ohio American Water (OAW).
 Mobilty plan passes, commission aims to keep parking on Broad
12/09/2009
The Greater Hilltop Area Commission has approved the Hilltop Community Mobility Plan, though they are taking steps to keep the recommendations provided for West Broad Street from coming to fruition.
 Greater Hilltop Plan Amendment underway
12/09/2009
What do you want to see on your Hilltop? The Greater Hilltop Plan Amendment is currently underway, and it’s your chance to make your wishes known.
 SWCS looks for extra funds for safety
12/08/2009
The South-Western City Schools Board of Education will try to secure federal funds to upgrade safety and security in the schools.
 West wrestlers take top spots at tourney
12/08/2009
Brandon Dean of Briggs High School achieved a fourth round pin over Troy Gundelfinger of Bishop Ready High School. The wrestlers faced off at the Dec. 5 Hamilton Classic
 What's happening on the Westside
12/07/2009
Looking for something to do? Check here first! Sumbit your events to westside@columbusmessenger.com.
 Greater Hilltop Plan Amendment public workshop to be held
12/01/2009
A public workshop will be held to discuss the Greater Hilltop Plan Amendment on Tuesday, Dec. 8, from 6–7:30 p.m. at Bishop Ready High School, 707 Salisbury Road.
 Prairie Township makes land purchase
11/23/2009
Prairie Township trustees approved the purchase of a .67 acre parcel of land located at 42 Pasadena Ave., just west of township headquarters for use as a community/senior center.
 Bringing the district back together
11/23/2009
Residents in the South-Western City Schools District believe, now that the levy has passed, it is time to bring the community together and move forward.
 Reel Deal: "A Christmas Carol" didn't brighten my spirits
11/23/2009
Other than asking your doctor for a prescription for antidepressants, what better way is there to get into the holiday spirit than by watching a Christmas themed movie?
 Speeding cars cause big troubles for Westland residents
11/19/2009
Speeding cars on Hilliard-Rome Road came up again before the Westland Area Commission when a resident along that road begged for speed limit signs.
 Trustees take aim at blighted properties
11/12/2009
Prairie Township trustees listened to complaining residents and are looking into homes and buildings at risk for fire due to unstable conditions and trash build up.
 Westland grad skates with "sole"
11/12/2009
Nate Eckhart is using his hobby to help change the world.
 Big changes ahead for West Broad Street?
11/12/2009
After nearly a year of work, the Hilltop Mobilty Plan is getting close to completion, but not everyone is happy with the findings.
 Halted project leaves "ramp to nowhere"
11/12/2009
Plans for constructing an extension on Galloway Road over the Conrail railroad tracks were scrapped several years ago, when land for much of the project couldn’t be acquired.
 Auditor's office helps find lost friends
11/12/2009
Donna Hebdo and her son, Brian Davis, were devastated when their sheltie, Lacey went missing.
 Back in the game!
11/12/2009
Students in the South-Western City Schools District are back in the game since the Nov. 3 election.
 Lady Bruins received All-State recognition
11/12/2009
Five members of the Briggs High School Volleyball received All-City recognition in 2009.
 Blockwatch Beat
11/12/2009
Fall is here and the holidays are right around the corner. It seems like yesterday that we were welcoming the early daffodils.
 What's happening on the Westside
11/12/2009
What's happening in your neighborhood? Find out here!
 H1N1 clinic to be held on Westside
11/04/2009
The Franklin Couty Board of health will hold a H1N1 Vaccination Clinic for all children, ages 6 months - 4 years; and children between 5 years and 18 years with underlying medical conditions on Thursday, Nov. 5, from 5-8 p.m
 Unofficial Election results, 11:55 p.m.
11/03/2009
Election results as of 11:55 p.m.
 Local candidates
10/30/2009
Election Day is Nov. 3. Here is a closer look at all of your local candidates!
 Forecast cloomy for SWCS
10/30/2009
In fiscal year 2010, the South-Western City Schools District will end with a cash balance of about $12.5 million. With decreased state funding and no new tax dollars, the district would see a $5.6 million deficit in 2011. In 2012, that number climbs to $3
 Good will on the Hilltop
10/30/2009
For a long time Frank Buck fought for a paved surface in back of his Hilltop home so he could walk on a ramp to get to his house.
 Bishop Ready volleyball advances in tournament
10/29/2009
The Knights got fired up after dropping game one of the match to Amanda Clearcreek.
 SWCS candidates night
10/27/2009
The South-Western Council of PTAs will host a School Board Candidates Night on Oct. 27
 Auditor's office can track absentee landlords
10/26/2009
The year 2011 will be a busy one for the Franklin County Auditor’s office.
 Residents take traffic problem to commission
10/22/2009
Residents along Hilliard-Rome Road who want something done to ease the increasing amount of traffic took their complaints to the Westland Area Commission.
 Will the construction ever end?
10/22/2009
The area within the boundaries of the Southwest Area Commission (SWAC) has become a haven for torn pavement, traffic headaches, detours and orange barrels.
 Commission seeking sidewalks
10/22/2009
For members of the Southwest Area Commission, the lack of sidewalks is a constant safety issue.
 Library closure begins Oct. 21
10/20/2009
The Westland Area Library, 4740 W. Broad St., is tentatively scheduled to be closed for repairs
 Franklin Township to purchase new fire truck
10/19/2009
After months of discussing financial plans and reviewing township finances, the Franklin Township trustees agreed to purchase a fire truck to be financed over the next four years.
 Letters to the editor
10/19/2009
Do you have something to say? Write a letter to the editor and read it here!
 Hilltop crime patrol initiative ends in success
10/15/2009
A patrol initiative focused on the Hilltop has ended its first run, and according to Sgt. Joseph Horton with the Columbus Division of Police, it was a big success.
 What's happening on the Westside (updated Oct. 15)
10/15/2009
Local event listing
 School board approves pay-to-participate
10/15/2009
The South-Western City Schools District Board of Education unanimously approved a pay-to-participate fee at the Oct. 12 meeting.
 Board questioned on annual pay raises
10/15/2009
The South-Western City Schools Board of Education was questioned on its vote to eliminate extracurricular activities and high school busing, while district employees receive annual pay increases.
 Hilliard-Rome problem not likley to be solved soon
10/14/2009
When Ron Phillips was looking for a house nearly 20 years ago, he found one he liked just off Hilliard-Rome Road on the far Westside of Columbus.
 District outlines possible cuts
10/14/2009
Leaders of the South-Western City Schools District warn more cuts will come if voters reject Issue 47.
 West Homecoming game photos
10/13/2009
Photos from the Oct. 9 game.
 Prairie Township trustrees take Fight to attorney general
10/08/2009
Prairie Township trustees had more news to share with residents in regard to the Fight the Hike Ohio, the consumer coalition against Ohio American Water (OAW) rate increases, at their Oct. 7 meeting.
 Camp Chase mural to be dedicated
10/07/2009
The Camp Chase mural, commissioned by Friends of Westgate Park and created by muralist Curtis Goldstein, will be dedicated on Saturday, Oct. 17, at 2 p.m.
 Trick-or-Treat schedule
10/06/2009
Trick-or-treat for both Columbus and Prairie Township is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 29, 6-8 p.m.
 African Children’s Choir set to perform
10/06/2009
The internationally acclaimed and grammy-nominated African Children’s Choir will be appearing in concert at The Church Next Door
 Franklin Township purchases generator
10/06/2009
Franklin Township trustees will be purchasing a generator to provide auxiliary power in emergency situations.
 Uptown on the Hilltop details announced
10/05/2009
The 2009 Uptown on the Hilltop Parade has been set for Sunday, Nov. 1.
 What's happening on the Westside (updated Oct. 5)
10/05/2009

 Fall Harvest Festival is this weekend!
10/02/2009
Glenwood United Methodist Church, at the corner of Valleyview Drive and Hague Avenue, will hold its annual Fall Harvest Festival
 Blockwatches help end Westgate crime spree
10/01/2009
Officer Ken Ramos, has a message for the residents of Westgate, “Shut your windows.”
 School board discusses pay-to-participate
09/30/2009
If voters approve a 7.4-mill permanent tax levy, the South-Western City Schools District will bring back athletics and extracurricular activities, but with a cost.
 District officials fear fiscal emergency
09/30/2009
Officials in the South-Western City Schools District say without the passage of Issue 47, the district could be in a fiscal emergency in 2012.
 Full schedule for West High School Homecoming
09/30/2009
Homecoming this year will be action-packed at West High School on Friday, Oct. 9, as several organizations offer activities leading up to the game at 7:30 p.m. against Marion-Franklin.
 New hours for Hilltop post office
09/29/2009
The Hilltop Post Office will reduce hours at the end of October.
 GHAC to host public safety forum
09/29/2009
Join the Greater Hilltop Area Commission Public Safety Committee, blockwatch leaders, and members of the Columbus Division of Police for a discussion on crime and safety on the Hilltop,
 Students new and old attend Burroughs rededication
09/29/2009
On Sept. 28, Columbus City Schools celebrated the rededication of the historic Burroughs Elementary School, 551 Richardson Ave.
 Issue 47 campaign kick-off rally planned
09/28/2009
The Grove City Church of the Nazarene, 4770 Hoover Road in Grove City, will be the setting for the Issue 47 campaign kick-off rally planned by Citizens for South-Western City Schools
 Blockwatch Leadership and Community Training Seminar
09/28/2009

 Sunday Safety in the Park with McGruff
09/25/2009
Looking for a free way to spend a day with your kids? Try Sunday Safety in the Park at Battelle Darby Creek
 What's happening on the Westside (updated Sept. 25)
09/25/2009
Looking for something to do?
 A Taste of India - this weekend!
09/25/2009
St. Marks United United Methodist Church, 5200 Sullivant Ave., will host A Taste of India on Sept. 26 at 5 p.m.
 Burroughs Elementary to be rededicated Monday
09/25/2009
Students at Burroughs Elementary School, 551 South Richardson Ave., are happy to be back in their home school, which has been renovated for 21st century learning.
 South Grener to see the light
09/24/2009
Residents on South Grener Road are about to see the light.
 Fight the Hike Ohio to meet in Prairie Township
09/24/2009
The next Fight the Hike Ohio rally has been scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 30
 West HS boosters to host first ever Alumni Athlete Homecoming
09/24/2009
The West High School Athletic Boosters invite all WHS alumni athletes to attend the first ever Alumni Athlete Homecoming Dinner on Oct. 9.
 Overpass will not be discussed at Sept. 29 meeting
09/23/2009
At the Sept. 16 meeting of the Westland Area Commission, commissioner Jo Ellen Locke announced that representatives from the City of Columbus will be on hand at a Sept. 29, meeting of the Chesapeake Farm Block Watch to discuss a potential railroad overpas
 Westside health facility to open Monday
09/23/2009
The long awaited Columbus West Family Health and Wellness Center, 2300 W. Broad St., Columbus, will officially open to the public on Monday.
 Commissioners up in the air over fate of the Coop
09/23/2009
The possible development of the Cooper Stadium property was the main topic at the most recent meeting of the Southwest Area Commission.
 Letters to the editor (updated Sept. 23)
09/23/2009
Something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 Ginther to host public meeting on liquor permits
09/23/2009
Columbus City Councilmember Andrew Ginther, chair of the Public Safety Committee, will hold a public meeting on Sept. 29 at 5:30 p.m., to discuss the state�s annual liquor permitting process, and how the public can work with the city to object to t
 Shelter house gets a shine-up
09/22/2009
The Friends of Westgate Park held a work day on Sept. 18 at the park.
 Buckeye Ranch Community Fair
09/22/2009
See photos of the Sept. 19 event.
 PT residents outraged over impending water rate hike
09/17/2009
Prairie Township will use a unique method to battle what they view as unfair utility rate increases.
 "Fight the Hike Ohio" combats higher rates
09/17/2009
Customers of Ohio American Water gathered at Ridgewood Park in Blendon Township on Sept. 16 to kick of �Fight the Hike Ohio (FHO),� a coalition of citizens and civic leaders trying to combat the impending rate increases.
 Highland garden wins top honors
09/17/2009
On Sept. 10, the new Highland Avenue Community Garden was recognized with two prestigious community garden awards.
 Meeting to discuss Rome-Hilliard overpass
09/17/2009
Residents who would like to see an overpass on the Rome-Hilliard Road as a way to alleviate traffic tie-ups at the railroad crossing are being invited to a meeting Sept. 29.
 Westgate kids help bundle babies for the winter
09/17/2009
Babies at Riverside Methodist Hospital will be warm and cozy this winter, thanks to students at Westgate Alternative Elementary.
 What's happening on the Westside (Updated September 17)
09/17/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Police cleaning up Sullivant, seeking help from buinesses
09/03/2009
The Columbus Division of Police is stepping up its efforts to clean up one of the busiest thoroughfares on the Westside, but they need the cooperation of area businesses if it’s going to work.
 Lack of buses slows traffic
09/03/2009
Students in the South-Western City Schools District are officially back-to-school. Already parents and drivers are officially fed up.
 Cops on the hunt for class cutters
09/03/2009
Columbus police officers are on the hunt for neighborhood kids cutting school.
 Church offers blessings for four-legged friends
09/03/2009
Pets are people, too.
 H1N1 info sessions held
09/03/2009
Washing your hands often and covering coughs and sneezes are two ways you can prevent the spread of the flu, says a public health nurse.
 Buckeye Ranch provides free family fun
09/03/2009
The Buckeye Ranch is offering Westside families a fun way to spend a Saturday without hurting your wallet.
 Reports are in on South-Western
09/03/2009
Despite making some strides, the Ohio Department of Education gave the South-Western City Schools District a designation of “continuous improvement” on the annual state report card.
 Blockwatch Beat: Your Westside resource
09/03/2009
Recently, new blockwatches have been springing up around the Hilltop and Columbus’ Westside. Existing blockwatches have been expanding. While this is a wonderful and exciting development, it calls for a quick refresher course on some of our “basics.”
 Letters to the editor (updated September 3)
09/03/2009
Something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside (Updated September )
09/03/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 HINI Flu Information Sessions to be held on Hilltop
08/31/2009
The Greater Hilltop Area Commission’s Human Services and Education Committee, in cooperation with Columbus Public Health and Franklin County Board of Health, is sponsoring a series of four public information sessions about H1N1 flu (Swine flu).
 No parking on S. Grener
08/31/2009
Motorists looking for a place to park their cars need not look on S. Grener Avenue.
 PT program helps residents replace sidewalks
08/31/2009
Trustees addressed the 2009 Sidewalk Replacement Program at the Aug. 26 Prairie Township meeting.
 FT sewer issue bubbles back up
08/20/2009
Residents of and near the Mon-E-Back Subdivision in Franklin County do not look forward to hot summer days.
 Schools go back to ballots
08/20/2009
The South-Western City Schools District will be back on the ballot Nov. 3, but with a reduced millage operating levy.
 Library levy on hold
08/20/2009
The Southwest Public Libraries (SPL) Board of Trustees have decided not to pursue a tax levy this November.
 SWAC chair steps down
08/20/2009
When the Southwest Area Commission meets Sept. 16, there will be new faces occupying major seats.
 Fighting his way to the top
08/20/2009
In his three years of fighting at the International Kickboxing Federation’s World Classic Amateur Kickboxing Championship in Orlando Fla., John Savage has encountered a variety of difficulties.
 What's happening on the Westside (Updated August 13)
08/13/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Townhip seeks funds for Grener project
08/13/2009
With the southern portion of South Grener Road under reconstruction, Prairie Township Trustees will seek additional funds that would finish rebuilding and rerouting the street.
 Community plots seeking gardeners
08/13/2009
It’s not too late to plant fall gardens, and Franklin County gardeners have a new place to get one started.
 Hilltop Mobility Plan unveiled
08/12/2009
Hilltop area residents, property owners and business people are invited to two workshops to offer their opinions about proposed recommendations in traffic patterns in the neighborhoods.
 Former parks employee receives Bricker Award
08/12/2009
Ten years after the death of a Hilltop resident who took great pride in the beautification of the Hilltop and especially Westgate Park, a group of residents has revived an award in her honor.
 FT police to try out Tasers
08/12/2009
Police officers in Franklin Township will soon have a new weapon added to their arsenal.
 Franklin Township going Green
08/12/2009
On Aug. 4, the Franklin Township Board of Trustees received an e-mail from the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) to gauge the township’s interest in becoming a member of the Central Ohio Green Pact – a program for local governments committed t
 Kiwanis to "Stuff the Bus" with OSU
08/11/2009
The Hilltop Kiwanis is asking for your help on August 22 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. to “Stuff the Bus” with school supplies.
 Westgate gets city's first rain garden
08/06/2009
When it rains, it pours, and some area organizations are encouraging Westside residents to take advantage of that.
 Voters turn down schools
08/06/2009
The start of the 2009/10 school year is just weeks away, but many students in the South-Western City School District have little to look forward to.
 PT looks to lessen construction costs
08/06/2009
Prairie Township officials are taking steps to encourage kids to walk to school, and they�ve found a way to help them do it safely and without breaking the bank.
 What's happening on the Westside (Updated August 6)
08/06/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what�s going on in your neighborhood!
 Vacant land slated for community gardens
07/30/2009
The Franklin Township land left vacant by Franklin County Children Services will soon be a community garden.
 What's happening on the Westside (Updated July 30)
07/30/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Run the Race against crime
07/22/2009
Kids on the Westside have a place to go. That's the message that Rachel Muha wants to get across.
 South-Western board signs contract with community
07/22/2009
In an effort to get yes votes, the Board of Education for the South-Western City Schools District offered to sign a contract with the community.
 National Night Out is Aug. 4
07/22/2009
Neighborhoods throughout Columbus are invited to join forces with thousands of communities nationwide for the 26th Annual National Night Out (NNO) crime and drug prevention event Aug. 4.
 Group fights motor sports complex plan
07/22/2009
Redevelop Our Area Responsibly (ROAR) intends to fight a developer's plan to build a motor sports complex at Cooper Stadium.
 Will bison roam again on Darby Plains?
07/22/2009
If prairie expert Jack McDowell gets his way, bison will once again roam the meadows of the Darby Plains, and with them will come the reemergence of plant and animal populations that have since died off.
 Dodge Rec Center quilts go to the sick
07/22/2009
Christina Encarnanze remembers when she was recovering in the Fisher House in Dayton from knee surgery at the Wright Patterson Air Force Base hospital and received a hand-made quilt.
 Fun at the Franklin County Fair
07/22/2009
The Franklin County Fair runs through July 25 in Hilliard.
 Westgate Diamonds win softball tourney
07/22/2009
The Westgate Diamonds were winners of the 2009 GBSA Intermediate Girls Softball Tournament.
 Kiwanis donate to Scouts
07/22/2009
Hilltop Kiwanis recently made a donation to Boy Scout Troop 410 to offset some of their community service projects.
 Westland Area to get new plan
07/16/2009
The Westland Plan, a document that outlines land usage, will be updated next year, the first time any changes have been made to it since it was written in 1994.
 Fuel Center questions answered
07/16/2009
When representatives for the Kroger Company came before the Southwest Area Commission in June to discuss placing a fuel center in the Southwest Square Shopping Center, commissioners expressed concern over two major issues.
 What's happening on the Westside (Updated July 16)
07/16/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Camp Chase to get a makeover
07/09/2009
One of the most well-known historic sites on the Hilltop is getting a makeover.
 WABA parade photos
07/09/2009
Independence Day parade held July 4 on West Broad Street
 HOTH asks commission for support
07/09/2009
Homes on the Hill is out trying to drum up support for a program where the city of Columbus can acquire vacant houses on the Hilltop and Westland areas and allow HOTH to fix them up and sell them.
 Westgate mural started
07/09/2009
The long anticipated History of Camp Chase mural at Westgate Park has finally gotten underway!
 Libraries prepare for cuts
07/09/2009
State budget cuts are still up in the air, but leaders of the Southwest Public Libraries (SPL) are preparing for the worst.
 What's happening on the Westside (Updated July 9)
07/09/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what�s going on in your neighborhood!
 Letters to the editor (Updated July 9)
07/09/2009
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 Bean Dinner photos!
07/04/2009
See photos from the 2009 Historic Hilltop Bean Dinner
 FT street bands together against church
07/04/2009
Armed with a petition signed by every household in their 27-home subdivision, residents of Willowbend Lane crammed the Franklin Township trustee meeting on June 25 to protest a proposed extension of their quiet cul-de-sac.
 Libraries may be on ballot
07/04/2009
The Southwest Public Libraries (SPL) Board of Trustees met in special session on June 25 to discuss options in the event that a proposal to slash $200 million from the Public Library Fund by Governor Ted Strickland is passed by the Ohio General Assembly.
 Community discusses district
07/04/2009
When South-Western City School District resident Steve Isaac attended a community meeting after the failure of the spring tax levy, he thought something had to be done.
 What's happening on the Westside (updated July 4)
07/04/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Cuts could close library doors
06/30/2009
According to the Ohio Library Council, Governor Ted Strickland has proposed a cut to state funding for public libraries of $227 million for fiscal years 2010 and 2011.
 Don't be bugged by the mosquito's bite
06/30/2009
It’s summertime and that means warm temperatures, cookouts and mosquitoes.
 Apartment complex monopolizes police resources
06/18/2009
Franklin Township police Chief Mike Castle asked the county prosecutor for help controlling crime at the Wingate Village apartments.
 Fuel center may add to congestion at intersection
06/18/2009
The application to place a Kroger Fuel Center in the Southwest Square Shopping Center on Harrisburg Pike and Eakin Road has been pending for over a year, but talks have recently taken off regarding the estimated $500,000 to $1 million investment.
 WAC looks for community input
06/18/2009
The Westland Area Commission will have an information table at the Westland Area Holiday Parade on July 4 where members will be getting the public�s vote on a new logo, as well as informing the public about the work of the commission.
 FT eyes unkept lawns
06/18/2009
If Franklin Township trustees determine an unkempt lawn to be a nuisance, the township will mow the property, then assess the owner for the labor.
 Empty lot to stay that way for now
06/18/2009
When Franklin County Children Services closed their building on Frank Road, it left 74 acres of open space.
 Overpass would take much cooperation
06/18/2009
Columbus Public Service Director Mark Kelsey visited the June 17 Westland Area Commission meeting and explained the process for getting an overpass on Hilliard Rome Road as a way to bypass the railroad crossing.
 What's happening on the Westside (updated June 22)
06/22/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what�s going on in your neighborhood!
 Hooping it up at Hillcrest
06/10/2009
Nestled between two buildings on West Broad Street is the most happening place to be on a Friday night.
 Citizens express concerns to police at forum
06/10/2009
Shortly after being introduced as the new chief of the Columbus Division of Police in March, Walter Distelzweig announced the department would hold several community forums to gather input from the city's citizens.
 It's Bean Dinner time!
06/10/2009
New attractions in the children's area will be one of the highlights of the annual historic Hilltop Bean Dinner to be held in Westgate Park on June 27.
 Some cuts come back if levy passes
06/10/2009
Harrisburg Elementary School will remain closed, even if voters approve Issue 2.
 West grad earns spot with OSU band
06/10/2009
West High school graduate, Matthew Berndsen has been named the 2009 assistant drum major for The Ohio State University Marching Band.
 Prairie Township strengthens fire department
06/04/2009
Prairie Township news
 Columbus Schools review graduation requirements
06/03/2009
Columbus City Schools Board of Education will face the task of deciding on increasing the district's graduation requirements as early as August.
 GHAC hears about city finances
06/03/2009
Columbus Public Service Director Mark Kelsey gave a presentation on the city's financial situation, explaining why the city is seeking a one-half percent increase in the income tax at a special election Aug.4.
 What's happening on the Westside
06/03/2009
(Updated on June 3)
 SWCS treasurer lays out cuts and costs
05/27/2009
Leaders in the South-Western City School District will move forward with an August levy attempt. They will also move forward with $8 million in budget cuts for the next school year.
 Hilltop Home and Garden Tour is a first
05/27/2009
Houses and gardens in the Westgate area south of Broad Street will be open for public viewing June 13, when the first-ever Hilltop Home and Garden Tour is offered.
 Westside community tries to create bond with police
05/27/2009
A plain-clothed police officer sat in the circle with a dozen or so children and asked “What do you think of police officers?”
 Bruins softball team win division
05/27/2009
The Briggs Bruins varsity softball team won the 2009 South Division City League championship.
 Enjoying a spring day at Westgate Park
05/27/2009
Westside resident Zachary Green, 10, waits for his big catch while fishing at the Westgate Park Pond.
 Work on Camp Chase Bike Trail to begin
05/21/2009
Also: Medal of Merit awarded
 SWAC and the Ohio EPA
05/21/2009
Residents in the Southwest area are often passionate about environmental issues in their community.
 Columbus Schools project deficit by 2013
05/20/2009
A pending state funding plan and delinquent property tax revenue will contribute to a projected $56 million deficit by fiscal year 2013 in Columbus City Schools.
 Suspects rounded up in Operation Hilltop
05/20/2009
Teams of federal, state and local law enforcement officers arrested 10 people on the Westside
 SWCS back to the ballot in August
05/20/2009
It's official - voters will see an operating levy on the Aug. 4 ballot.
 Franklin Township to purchase backhoe
05/20/2009
The Franklin Township trustees are now accepting sealed bids on a 1984 backhoe.
 Letters to the editor
05/20/2009
Readers speak out
 What's happening on the Westside
05/20/2009
Activities and events
Hilltop Kiwanis Scholarship recipients
05/20/2009
The Hilltop Kiwanis Scholarship recipients
It's market time!
05/20/2009
The Westside International Farmers Market
 Latest news: SWCS says yes to August issue
05/15/2009
At a May 14 special meeting, the South-Western City School District Board of Education said no to pay to participate and yes to an August issue.
 SWCS looks at what to do next after levy failure
05/13/2009
Residents in the South-Western City School District voted against the 8.3-mill tax levy in early May. Now district leaders are trying to figure out the next step.
 Columbus proposed tax increase on August ballot
05/13/2009
On May 11, Columbus City Council voted to place a 0.5 percent tax increase on the Aug. 4 ballot.
 Photo: Coming down
05/13/2009
This vacant commercial property, located on Briggs Road, was ordered by Franklin County Judge Harland Hale to be demolished by last Aug. 1.
 Photo: Going green
05/13/2009

 What's happening on the Westside
05/13/2009

 What is your Hilltop? A Story Collection Day
05/13/2009
The Hilltop Library and Ohio State University's Center for the Study and Teaching of Writing are co-sponsoring a day of story telling at the Hilltop Library from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 21.
 Letters to the editor
05/13/2009

 Prairie looks to improve West Broad corridor
05/07/2009
With improvements to the west and southern sides of the township in the works over the next decade, Prairie Township trustees took the next step in improving the township's east side.
 South-Western levy fails; cuts are to come
05/06/2009
"I am just heartsick," said South-Western City School Board of Education President Cathy Johnson after voters turned down the 8.3-mill operating levy on May 5.
 COTA asks GHAC for space on West Broad
05/06/2009
Construction work near where the Central Ohio Transit Authority parks some of its buses has sent the transportation company seeking a new location.
 FT gets federal funds to repair Hopkins Road
05/06/2009
The federal government allocated $75,000 to repair Hopkins Road in Franklin Township.
 Columbus Schools planning for student achievement
05/06/2009
The Columbus City Schools are looking for ways to make students more successful.
 Metro Parks levy passes
05/06/2009
People in central Ohio indicated they want to keep investing in the parks by passing the Metro Parks levy on May 5.
 Remember basic grill safety as summer approaches
05/06/2009
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reminds grilling enthusiasts and basic backyard cooks to remember grilling safety as the outdoor cooking season heats up.
 Columbus to seek income tax increase
04/29/2009
Imploring voters to maintain core city services, Columbus city officials announced April 27 they will ask Columbus voters to support a 0.5 percent tax increase on the Aug. 4 ballot.
 SWCS outlines possible cuts
04/29/2009
"This is just depressing," said South-Western City Schools Board of Education President Cathy Johnson after administrators outlined possible cuts at the April 27 meeting.
 Letters to the editor
04/29/2009

Big Run Park walking trail to be dedicated May 7
04/29/2009
Columbus Recreation and Parks will inaugurate the walking trail at Big Run Park on May 7 in conjunction with the start of the 12th annual Discover Franklin County Summer Walking Series.
Governor and Franklin Heights students test stream quality
04/29/2009
Governor Ted Strickland, staff from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and a biology class from Franklin Heights High School gathered at Battelle Darby Metro Park on Earth Day.
 What's happening on the Westside
04/29/2009

 Prairie Township approves Big Darby Accord project
04/23/2009
Following suit with the Franklin County commissioners and Columbus City Council, the Prairie Township trustees approved the next step in the Big Darby Accord project.
 Prairie Township to partner with Columbus Fire Department
04/23/2009
Prairie Township and the Columbus Division of Fire will partner in responding to calls in several areas.
 Franklin Township fires not arson
04/22/2009
"There is no arsonist in our area," said Franklin Township Fire Chief Richard Howard.
Columbus Schools review facilities plan
04/22/2009
The Columbus Board of Education discussed the district's overall facilities plan on April 21.
Photos: Westside cleans up for Earth Day
04/22/2009
Volunteers clean up Westside for Earth Day......
 What's happening on the Westside
04/22/2009
Find local events here......
 Letters to the editor (updated April 22)
04/22/2009
Readers speak out on school levy and more.......
 County commissioners OK SWAC land plan
04/16/2009
Eight government entities had already voted in favor of the Southwest Area Plan, but the final say on its adoption lay in the hands of the Franklin County Board of Commissioners.
 WAC election set for May 2
04/16/2009
Several petitions are being circulated by people interested in sitting on the Westland Area Commission (WAC) with election to those seats set for May 2.
Students and residents weigh in on SWCS levy
04/15/2009
Students in the South-Western City School District had a clear message for the community - "don't take away our opportunities."
Columbus City Schools stays steady in state audit
04/15/2009
An audit, conducted by the auditor of state, for Columbus City Schools for fiscal year 2008 shows no material weaknesses in the district's financial statements.
A life in baseball
04/15/2009
The year was 1947 and it proved to be a historic one for the world of baseball and for the country that calls the sport its national pastime.
 Letters to the editor
04/15/2009

"Charlie Brown" hits the Bishop Ready stage
04/15/2009
Join that round-headed kid, Charlie Brown, and his friends for family-entertainment at Bishop Ready High School.
Wal-mart comes through for Bruins
04/15/2009
Wal-Mart delivered new flat screens to Briggs High School on March 26.
Easter at Westgate Park
04/15/2009
The Easter Bunny stopped by the Westgate Recreation Center for the annual Easter Egg Hunt.
 Prairie Township gets a new ambulance
04/09/2009
By the beginning of fall, Station 241 of the Prairie Township Fire Department will respond to medic calls in a new ambulance.
CCS names new treasurer
04/08/2009
Nearly eight months after Columbus City Schools treasurer Michael Kinneer resigned his post, the Columbus Board of Education has named a replacement.
More employees extend contracts at SWCS
04/08/2009
At a special meeting on April 1, the South-Western City School District Board of Education approved voluntary offers from its classified support staff and administrators to extend current contracts for one year, foregoing increases in hourly and salary ra
 Franklin Township gets FEMA funds
04/08/2009
At their April 2 meeting, the Franklin Township trustees approved the purchase of a new backhoe using Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) dollars.
 Walk down a new trail at Darby Park
04/08/2009
People looking for a different activity or an afternoon or evening stroll have a new walking trial at Battelle Darby Creek Park that offers an opportunity to visit a horse training barn and a walk on a horse race track.
 What's happening on the Westside
04/08/2009
Look here to find out what's going on in your community......
 Letters to the editor
04/08/2009
Residents weigh in on the SWCS 8.3-mill operating levy......
 Prairie Township Senior Center has grown
04/07/2009
Nearly five years ago, a small group banded together and expressed interest to the Prairie Township trustees about forming a senior center.
 Duties lessened for new fiscal officer
04/04/2009
Franklin Township Trustee Don Cook voted against lessening the workload of the new township financial officer, Bonnie Watkinson.
 Residents weigh pros, cons of levy
04/04/2009
Hundreds of residents came to Westland High School on March 31 to attend a special community forum regarding a four-year 8.3-mill operating levy that will be on the May 5 ballot.
 New math requirements add up to more work
04/04/2009
Students in the South-Western City School District will soon need more math to graduate.
 Making a difference
04/04/2009
Children who attend the after school program at the Hilltop-Cherry Creek YMCA on the city’s far Westside got a lot of reading in last fall.
 What's happening on the Westside (updated April 4)
04/03/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what�s going on in your neighborhood!
 Letters to the editor (updated April 4)
04/03/2009
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 Residents worried new business may bring trouble
03/26/2009
A new establishment, Infinity Social Club, has opened at 3659 West Broad St. in Franklin Township in the space previously occupied by Big and Tall.
 District threatens to cut busing for Lincoln Village residents
03/26/2009
Administrators in the South-Western City School District say transportation costs will take a hit, unless voters approve the 8.3-mill tax levy.
 Grener project to eleminate pedestrian bridge
03/26/2009
Plans to renovate the South Grener Avenue corridor have reached the next level. Township trustees awarded Double Z Construction of Columbus the bid for the first phase of the South Grener Avenue project, at a meeting held March 25.
 PT sets new criteria for street lights
03/26/2009
Prairie Township Trustees have approved revising criteria for street light installation.
 Abandoned properties returned to township
03/26/2009
Prairie Township Trustees have approved the transfer of land at Mix and Stiles Avenue from the Central Ohio Community Improvement Corporation.
 FT purchasing new equipment
03/26/2009
Franklin Township will purchase a new backhoe using federal dollars.
 Residents who want yard waste service may have to pay
03/26/2009
The Columbus Department of Public Service is recommending a new yard-waste subscription program for weekly residential collection.
 How will city cuts effect Westgate Park?
03/20/2009
Recent cuts to the city’s budget have shut the doors to 11 Columbus area recreation centers, leaving patrons of those facilities to flock to neighboring centers. What many don’t realize, however, is that the parks and recreation centers that managed to re
 SWAC's plan hits a road bump
03/20/2009
Just as it was nearing completion, the Southwest Area Plan has encountered a problem.
 Library plans cost saving measures
03/20/2009
The Southwest Public Libraries (SPL) will cut its expenditures by an additional $100,000.
 Commission plans first of many cleanups
03/20/2009
When the city of Columbus announced a reduction in city services last month, the public voiced their fears that neighboring areas would soon see an increase of trash and yard waste along streets and in communities.
 WAC hopes May elections will draw residents
03/20/2009
Jo Ellen Locke, who serves as the elections chair for the Westland Area Commission, announced that the WAC election will be held Saturday, May 2, and that she hoped more than the 17 members of the commission would turn out to vote.
 Commission hopes to tackle area plan
03/20/2009
The Westland Area Commission hopes to soon be working on the revision of the Westland Area Plan, a document that deals with land use and development in the area.
 District works to realign with education plan
03/20/2009
The South-Western City School District is working to realign academic content standards as part of Governor Ted Strickland’s education reform plan.
 WAC makes plans for parade
03/20/2009
Members of the Westland Area Commission are beginning to make plans to participate in the Fourth of July Holiday Parade and set up an information booth afterwards.
 Blockwatch Beat: Your Westside resource
03/20/2009
Sick of the bad news that seems to be everywhere right now? The Blockwatch Beat has the cure - get outside, join a community group, and spend time with neighbors and friends!
South-Western Administrators Association forgoes pay raises
03/12/2009
“Without the passage of Issue 15, students lose out,” said Bob Rains at the March 9 South-Western City Schools Board of Education meeting.
Senior center to increase hours
03/12/2009
Senior citizens in search of activities can now attend the Prairie Township Senior Center three hours longer twice a week.
Photos: Bishop Ready Fashion Show
03/12/2009
The Mother’s Club at Bishop Ready High School presented their sixth annual fashion show, titled “An Irish Spring,” on March 8 at the Confluence Park Restaurant.
Trustees pass 2009 appropriations
03/12/2009
Prairie Township Trustees approved the 2009 Prairie Township permanent appropriations on March 11.
Funding still needed for Westgate mural
03/06/2009
Newly planted flowers won’t be the only splash of color the Friends of Westgate Park (FOWP) are adding to the scenery this summer.
Harris declines pay raise
03/06/2009
Columbus City School district Superintendent Gene Harris has declined a pay increase on a temporary basis.
Hair-raising tales lift spirits, raise funds
03/06/2009
Women have always had a love and hate relationship with their hair, and one Westside native is taking that relationship to the stage for a good cause.
Photos: Making it new again
03/06/2009
Westland High School students in Kathy Herron’s environmental science class made several pieces of furniture from recycled materials to donate to the Westland Area Business Association auction.
Photo: CCHS rocks the stage
03/06/2009
The Central Crossing High School Theatre Department will present Disney’s “High School Musical on Stage” at the school, 4500 Big Run Road South.
 Letters to the editor (updated March 12)
03/06/2009
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside (updated March 12)
03/06/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what�s going on in your neighborhood!
 Federal funding saves police recruits
02/25/2009
On Feb. 25, Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman and Public Safety Director Mitchell Brown met with 26 recruits of the Division of Police's 114th class to inform them that the layoff notices issued to them last month will be rescinded and that they will have
 Franklin Township budget still in the black
02/24/2009
Franklin Township�s preliminary budget was discussed on Feb. 21 and Feb. 23 amongst the road, fire and police departments with the township trustees, and though the budget has not been finalized, it appears the township is running in the black.
District looks at enrollment projections
02/24/2009
The South-Western City School Board of Education got an enrollment rundown at the Feb. 23 meeting.
 FT officials discuss development near Whim's Ditch
02/23/2009
Franklin Township trustees discussed their thoughts on the possible development of 50-plus single-family dwellings at an area located in close proximity to Whim’s Ditch at their Feb. 19 meeting.
 Food Max fire labeled arson, information sought
02/23/2009
Franklin Township Fire Chief Richard Howard advised trustees at the Feb. 19 township meeting that the Division of State Fire Marshal’s Fire and Explosion Investigation Bureau has declared the cause of the Jan. 26 two-alarm fire at Food Max grocery store a
Trustees OK Lincoln Gardens renovations
02/26/2009
A possible renovation project in Prairie Township has received the trustees� blessings. At a regular meeting Feb. 25, the board of trustees passed a resolution of support for the potential renovation of Lincoln Gardens, made possible through tax
District outlines possible cuts
02/20/2009
When voters rejected a combined 6-mill operating levy and 3.69-mill bond issue last November, the South-Western City School Board of Education said that drastic changes would have to be made in order to balance the budget for the 2009/10 school year.
 Possible development near Whim's Ditch
02/20/2009
With news of the struggling economy, financial woes and home foreclosures dominating the local and national headlines, some Southwest Area Commissioners were scratching their heads during the initial discussions of a proposed 18 acre, 51 unit single-famil
District swears in second new member
02/20/2009
For the second time this year, the Columbus City School District board of education welcomed a new member to its organization.
 Commission looks to clean up streets
02/20/2009
With the city of Columbus announcing a reduction in city services, including yard waste pickup and cutting noxious yards, the Southwest Area Commission discussed holding a spring cleanup day for the area.
 Bolton Field may see rezoning
02/20/2009
A proposal for rezoning land around the four airports in Franklin County will be forthcoming, and the Westland Area Commission got a heads-up look at how the proposal would affect Bolton Field.
 WAC takes steps to update area plan
02/20/2009
At the Feb. 18 meeting of the Westland Area Commission, members decided to take the first steps towards beginning the Westland Area Plan.
Classes aimed towards current job market
02/20/2009
While the national and regional economy suffers from an economic stall, Dr. Bill LaFayette of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce believes hope still exists.
 Metro Parks to seek spring levy
02/20/2009
Metro Parks officials are looking for a little more green to keep central Ohio green.
Photo: Waiting for the signal
02/20/2009
Briggs High School senior Daniel Jones knows he has the pin, its just a matter of waiting for the referee to smack the mat to claim a fall over Austin Mullins of Jamestown Greenview.
 What's happening on the Westside (updated Feb. 21)
02/20/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what�s going on in your neighborhood!
PT taking property owners to court
02/12/2009
Three Prairie Township property owners will soon receive notice of pending litigation from the township zoning department.
 FT residents may have slippery months ahead
02/11/2009
Franklin Township residents could be in for a slippery ride if the remainder of the winter season brings more snow.
 More trouble for Whim's Ditch?
02/11/2009
Ralph Horn, chairman of the Southwest Area Commission, visited Franklin Township trustees Feb. 5 to report that a property developer�s plans could have negative affects on township residents.
District to see cuts if levy passes or fails
02/11/2009
On Feb. 9, South-Western City School officials announced that a four-year 8.3-mill operating levy, that would keep the district in the black for the next two years, would be on the May 5 ballot, but they will still have to make budget cuts regardless of a
 Brooks discusses county roots
02/10/2009
County government has its roots in old England with some French �thrown in,� says Paula Brooks, president of the Franklin County Commissioners.
Kilroy discusses funding at Franklin Heights
02/06/2009
Had the November levy and bond issue passed, the South-Western City School District would have leveled Franklin Heights High School and built a replacement.
Sherrifs to stay in Prairie Township
02/06/2009
Two Franklin County Sheriff's Office deputy sheriffs will maintain their presence in Prairie Township this year.
 Messenger to publish bi-weekly
02/06/2009
Tough times call for strong, decisive actions. Business must be nimble, flexible, and look to the future to adapt to changing times.
 FT approves new fiscal officer, prevention vehicle
02/06/2009
Franklin Township Trustees voted to replace the damaged fire prevention vehicle in a two to one vote at a special meeting Jan. 28.
District works with UT for scholarships
02/06/2009
Students in the South-Western City School District will now have even more options after graduation.
Photo: Sledding at Big Run
02/06/2009
Jay VanGelder joined his son Parker, 8), and daughter Shelby, 6, who attend Alton Hall Elementary School for some winter fun on the derby hill at Big Run park Jan. 30.
Photos:CCHS leads winterguard/drumline competition
02/06/2009
Central Crossing High School hosted a two-day Winter Guard and Indoor Percussion competition Jan. 31 - Feb. 1.
 Letters to the editor
02/06/2009
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside (updated Feb. 11)
02/06/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what�s going on in your neighborhood!
Millage still in question
02/02/2009
Leaders in the South-Western City School District have already said they will pursue an operating only levy this spring. Now they are left to hammer out the millage amount.
 Road construction may decrease response time
02/02/2009
Fire Chief Richard Howard said once Clime Road closes during phase one of the upcoming construction, residents may experience a delay in emergency response.
 Local student visits DC
02/02/2009
A Central Crossing High School student became part of history after he traveled to Washington D.C. to witness the inauguration of President Barack Obama.
 SWAC looking to partner with others
02/02/2009
Lately, everyone seems motivated to make a positive impact on the environment, and the members of the Southwest Area Commission are no different.
 What's happening on the Westside
02/02/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
CCS swears in new board member
01/24/2009
Hours after President Barack Obama took his oath of office in Washington, D.C., Ramona Reyes raised her hand in front of a full room, vowing to serve the Columbus City School district as a board member.
District to make big bus buy
01/24/2009
By the start of the next school year, some Columbus City School district students will ride on shiny new buses to school.
 Local blockwatch reaches out to others
01/24/2009
A local blockwatch is stepping up their efforts to help improve Columbus neighborhoods. The Great Western Blockwatch and Civic Association, led by Coordinator Jay McCallister, was recently chosen as a recipient of the Vibrant Neighborhoods Toolbox curric
 Westland area adds new rec options
01/24/2009
Recreation opportunities on the Westside are moving ahead one step at a time.
Blockwatch Beat: Your Westside resource
01/24/2009
I am going to start the first Blockwatch Beat of 2009 by asking a simple question - who wants to save their community?
 What's happening on the Westside
01/24/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood! Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
Dancing to a different drum
01/15/2009
Students at Prairie Norton Elementary School recently had the chance to dance to the beat of many different drums.
Back to the ballot
01/15/2009
What’s next? Leaders in the South-Western City School District wanted that question answered on Jan. 8 at a community meeting at Central Crossing High School.
 Open houses scheduled for Hilltop Mobility Plan
01/15/2009
The City of Columbus Division of Transportation is hosting a series of public open houses to acquaint residents with efforts to develop a Hilltop Community Mobility Plan.
Hunters cause disturbance at cemetery
01/15/2009
At the end of December, a family gathered at Sunset Cemetery in Galloway for a service for their loved one.
 Prevention car still cause for trouble in FT
01/15/2009
Franklin Township Trustees again found themselves in a dispute over the fire prevention officer’s car at their Jan. 8 meeting.
 District gets first place nutrition award
01/15/2009
Milk – it does a body good and apparently, it does a district good, too.
 Hilltop to see new community housing
01/08/2009
The Columbus Housing Network (CHN) is one step closer to establishing a new housing community on the Hilltop.
Vacancies plague school board
01/08/2009
The Columbus City School district is now searching for two replacements – and possibly a third - for vacant seats on the board of education.
Stricter graduation requirements on the way
01/08/2009
The Columbus City School district board of education ushered in the new year ready to tackle the process of implementing stricter graduation requirements.
 Church helps out at tax time
01/08/2009
With the arrival of the new year comes a pressing, and sometimes expensive, responsibility - preparing and filing your taxes.
Columbus on track with OSFC
01/08/2009
Members of the Neighborhood School Development Partnership commended Columbus City Schools for staying on track with its Ohio School Facilities Commission facilities master plan.
 Photo: BR wrestler takes first
01/08/2009
Bishop Ready wrestler Dave Martello took the top spot on the winners podium of the 31st Annual Bishop Ready Winter Classic.
 What's happening on the Westside
01/08/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
Galloway man bikes across U.S.
01/05/2009
After touring the world in 80 days in 2007, Galloway resident Travis Casper wanted more.
 Old computers giving new hope
01/05/2009
A teacher at Wedgewood Middle School is going out of his way to make sure that students at his school have the tools they need to succeed.
Prairie Township approves pay hikes
01/05/2009
Though the nation’s economy continues on a downward spiral, the Prairie Township trustees have approved a two percent raise for non-union employees.
 FT approves plan, more meetings ahead
01/05/2009
Trustees in Franklin Township adopted the Southwest Area Land Use Plan at their Dec. 23 meeting.
Photo: Highland serves Christmas dinner
01/05/2009
Highland Elementary School food service worker Connie Toles checks with first grader Thomas Ricketts to make sure he had enough to eat on Christmas
 What's happening on the Westside
01/05/2009
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 First Night Columbus welcomes 2008
12/23/2008
Times Square moves a little west as central Ohio prepares to usher in 2009 with First Night Columbus on Dec. 31, filling High Street near the Statehouse with thousands of revelers on New Years Eve.
Organization gets a facelift
12/23/2008
After 20 years in existence, the non-profit organization I Know I Can is slightly tuning its tone.
 FirstLINK asks for help with pantries on overload
12/23/2008
As the economy continues its downturn and people lose their jobs, many are turning to food pantries for assistance that never have before.
Photo: CC beats Groveport in overtime
12/23/2008
In the last second of overtime, Tyler Miller made a freethrow to win the game for Central Crossing 69-68.
 Column: Help me not to make a fool of myself
12/23/2008
I like looking smart. The problem is, I tend to look like an idiot at the times I least want to. I’m not sure how that always happens. It’s one of life’s little irritating mysteries.
 Column: "In Pursuit of the Patch"
12/23/2008
Last January and February, my brother Chad and I braved below-zero windchill factors and ignored energy-sapping illness to earn a piece of embroidered fabric that measures roughly three inches in diameter.
 Letter to the editor
12/23/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
12/23/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Clime soon to see detours
12/19/2008
Franklin Township residents need to prepare themselves for orange cones, barrels and detour signs.
Safer travels to school
12/19/2008
The search is on for ways to make it safer for Stiles Elementary School students to walk and bike to school, through a study called Safe Route to Schools, which is funded in part by the Ohio Department of Transportation.
Photo: Neighbors celebrate together
12/19/2008
These four houses, located just south of Holt Road, serve as bright eye catchers to passing drivers.
District leaders bid farewell
12/19/2008
The Columbus City School district bid farewell to an administrator and board member at its last board of education meeting of the year.
 Area plan looks for additional approval
12/19/2008
Two years ago, the Southwest Area Commission asked the city of Columbus Department of Development and the Franklin County Economic Development and Planning Department to undertake the task of
Calamity days running low
12/19/2008
As the snow begins to fall and the sounds of winter fill the air, many children are looking forward to hearing three words during the week: “school is canceled.”
 Trustees hammer out maintenance protocols
12/19/2008
Franklin Township trustees hammered out protocols for when department heads should contact Jim Stevens, the road maintenance and building supervisor with maintenance issues at a special meeting
BalletMet puts new twist on old favorite
12/19/2008
What happens when ballet performers are allowed to put their own spin on a holiday classic?
Blockwatch Beat: Your Westside resource
12/19/2008
Merry Christmas everyone! ‘Tis the season for giving but also for taking.
 What's happening on the Westside
12/19/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
Two Hilltop rec centers to close in 2009
12/11/2008
Chuck Patterson, chair of the Greater Hilltop Area Commission, is worried that the Hilltop will experience a rise in crime as two of the three city recreation centers close and Columbus downsizes the police department.
Phone first policy approved
12/11/2008
Despite concerns from citizens, the South-Western City School Board of Education has adopted a new public participation policy.
Parents speak on coach's behalf
12/11/2008
Several students, parents and staff members turned out at the Dec. 8 South-Western City School Board of Education meeting to stand up for a coach.
Hands on at West Broad
12/11/2008
A group of students at West Broad Elementary are working hard for a good cause this holiday season.
Light the night
12/11/2008
A sightseer once called their quiet little cul-de-sac “Christmas Street.”
Photo: BR wrestler takes second place
12/11/2008
Bishop Ready High School’s Albert Rozman battles his way to a round 4 victory over Darius Rice of Columbus Africentric in the Dec. 6 Hamilton Classic wrestling tournament held at Hamilton Township High School.
 Hilltop plan to get an update
12/05/2008
The Greater Hilltop Area Plan may be soon be getting an update.
Longer days, smaller classes
12/05/2008
Cutting class sizes and adding time to the academic day are two high priorities Superintendent Gene Harris outlined for the district on Dec. 2.
District makes building plans
12/05/2008
Columbus City School district�s Ohio School Facilities Commission (OSFC) project has gained full force again, thanks to voters approving a bond issue on November�s ballot.
 FT discusses cost-cutting measures
12/05/2008
The Franklin Township Trustees learned the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will not pay as much as expected for clean-up of the September windstorm.
Photos: Let there be light
12/05/2008
A crowd of merry maker's congregate in front of the Ohio Statehouse during the 93rd Annual Ohio Statehouse Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony that was held on Dec. 1.
Photos: A slow start to the season
12/05/2008
Westland High School point guard Kemekea Washington fends off Chelsie Damron of Grove City High School
 Column: Naming baby means a battle on the homefront
12/05/2008
So what’s in a name? As I’ve recently come to find out - a lot.
 Letters to the editor
12/05/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
12/05/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
District weighs its options
11/26/2008
Since the defeat of Issue 81, the South-Western City Schools Board of Education is left to weigh its options.
 Commission set to scale down local government
11/26/2008
A commission to look into streamlining local governments in Ohio is forming and will begin its work soon.
 Groups search for noise study consultant
11/26/2008
When Arshot Investment Corporation announced their plans to convert Cooper Stadium into a multi-use motorsports complex in May, several concerns were raised by residents, namely the noise it could potentially bring to the area.
PT medics go high tech
11/26/2008
The fire department in Prairie Township is staying on the cutting edge of technology thanks to some help from donors.
Recipe for an education
11/26/2008
According to an old proverb, it takes a village to raise a child.
 Meals on Wheels rolls out new facility
11/26/2008
Meals on Wheels for Franklin and Madison counties are now being heated and distributed to volunteer drivers from a new facility on Harmon Avenue, less than two miles from the West Mound Street preparation kitchen.
 Recent attacks prompt women to be prepared
11/26/2008
Reports of a rapist having struck in west and northwest Franklin County have women everywhere seeking education on how to protect themselves.
Blockwatch Beat: Your Westside resource
11/26/2008
The Blockwatch Beat is standing up to fear and asking every single one of you to do the same.
Photo: Dotting the "i"
11/26/2008
Dr. Gordon Gee, president of The Ohio State University, marched with the East Franklin Elementary School Kindergarten Kazoo Band on Nov. 21, the day before the Buckeyes faced off against Michigan.
Photo: Bowling for Buckeyes in need
11/26/2008
Starting off with a with a strike was a good indication of the day to come as nine-year-old Columbus student Aaron Cook took part in the Beat Michigan Bowl for Bucks at Great Western Lanes prior to the big game on Nov. 22.
 Letters to the editor
11/26/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
11/26/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
SWCS looks to alter public participation policy
11/22/2008
If you want to address the South-Western City School Board of Education, you may have to call ahead.
CCS vows to spend wisely
11/22/2008
Two weeks after a victory at the polls, Columbus City School district Supterintendent Gene Harris assured voters the district will continue fiscal responsibility.
 Budget cuts may affect Westside rec centers
11/22/2008
The possibility of a community recreation center on the far Westside is in a holding pattern, says the president of the Westland Area Commission.
Voters will not see February issue
11/22/2008
The South-Western City School Board of Education will not go forward with a February ballot issue, but May is still on the table.
Area plan completed, unveiled
11/22/2008
After being implemented, analyzed, modified, showcased, redesigned and subject to yearlong public opinion, the final draft of the Southwest Area Plan was unveiled on Nov. 18.
PT, city barter for salt
11/22/2008
Have you ever driven behind a truck salting the roads and wondered how much it costs to buy all that salt?
 FT looks to salt alternatives
11/22/2008
Franklin Township implemented some changes regarding township de-icing procedures at their Nov. 13 township meeting following a closed information session with the Franklin County Department of Engineers.
 Fire dept. gets grant for equipment
11/22/2008
The Franklin Township Fire Department will soon have a little extra money coming their way.
 So you want to be a doctor?
11/22/2008
In the recovery room, Sara King gently placed her hand on the patient’s shoulder. He needed the comfort after undergoing a heart catheterization.
 What's happening on the Westside
11/22/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Columbus set to hike water, sewer rates
11/13/2008
Take a nice long shower while you can, because higher utility rates are likely on the way. Columbus City Council is planning to raise water and sewer rates in 2009 to meet expenses.
 PT roads will be slick this winter
11/13/2008
Prairie Township residents will need to drive more carefully after snowfall this year, because there will be less salt on the roads.
Photos: Honoring our veterans
11/13/2008
Major Mitch Gargac, of Columbus’ Westside, stands with his son Brandon (4), as they proudly honor those who marched in the Veteran’s Day Parade held in downtown Columbus on Nov. 7.
Photos: BR keeps us playoff victories
11/13/2008
Bishop Ready senior Joe Kulp tackles a Plymouth West running back in the regional playoff game on Oct. 8. The Silver Knights defeated Plymouth West 17-0.
 Moose celebrates 100 years
11/13/2008
In a time when it’s becoming more common to see a business shut its doors than open them, one Westside organization is celebrating its roots in the community and its plans for the future.
 What's happening on the Westside
11/13/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood! To submit events and announcements to this section, e-mail information to westside@columbusmessenger.com.
 FT fire levy passes by narrow margin
11/07/2008
Franklin Township voters narrowly approved the township�s Fire Protection tax levy by less than 200 votes on Nov. 4. Votes tallied 1,462 for the levy versus 1,281 voters against the issue.
Residents appove school levy
11/07/2008
Superintendent. Gene Harris’ prayers were answered on Nov. 4.
Voters deny levy, bond issue
11/07/2008
The majority of voters did not think South-Western City School�s Issue 81 was a �chance of a lifetime.�
 FT in for a slick winter
11/07/2008
Franklin Township residents could find themselves on a very slippery slope this winter because of a statewide salt shortage, according to the Franklin Township trustees at a meeting held Oct. 30.
 Columbus discusses leash laws
11/07/2008
Dog owners in Columbus may soon face changes to leash requirements in city parks.
Photos: Bishop Ready dominates
11/07/2008
Bishop Ready junior Matt Feeney runs for a first down in the second quarter in the Nov. 1 matchup against the
Photos: Explosion rocks West Broad Street
11/07/2008
K-9 handler Hope Ingalls and human remains detection dog Nakita carefully navigate through the rubble left behind from the West Broad St. explosion that shattered near by windows and showered debris on neighboring businesses on Oct. 31.
Photos: Cleaning up Lincoln Village
11/07/2008
Larry and Sherma Ferguson did their part to help clean up their community during the Nov. 1 clean up effort around the Lincoln Village area. Sixteen adults and a number of students were on hand for the third such
Some PT streets ready to shine
11/07/2008
Prairie Township trustees heard both sides of the argument on proposed street lighting in the Lake Darby Estates area, then proceeded with plans to establish a light district in preparation to have 29 lights installed and assess property owners $5 a month
 Letters to the editor
11/07/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
11/07/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Who won?
11/07/2008
Unofficial election results
 City invests $2.1 million in Hilltop
10/30/2008
The city of Columbus is doing its part to help some Hilltop residents keep their heads above water.
 Parking violations to get more expensive
10/30/2008
Ignoring parking laws in Columbus will get more expensive in the near future.
Decision time for SWCS voters
10/30/2008
“It will never be cheaper to build new schools than it is right now.”
For Columbus students, the choice is clear
10/30/2008
The appearance of vending machine soda has fizzled in the Columbus City School district, and its clear counterpart will now take its place.
 Westside sets its sight on food co-op
10/30/2008
As talk continues among Westside residents about the possibility of a food co-op, some have begun to look at successes in nearby communities for a path to follow.
Photo: Boo on Binns!
10/30/2008
Sisters Eleanor Grazier, 10, and Elizabeth Grazier, 5, make candy corn crafts at Boo on Binns, sponsored by the Westgate Neighbors Association Oct. 26.
Photos: Marching to a different tune
10/30/2008
Marching Bands from all four South-Western City high schools gathered together for the Fifth Annual Marching Band Showcase on Oct. 24.
Photo: "Our Town" at Ready
10/30/2008
Bishop Ready High School students Albert Rozman and Carissa Janczak appear as George Gibbs and Emily Webb in Bishop Ready�s fall production of Thornton Wilder�s �Our Town.�
 Photo: Westland does "Dracula"
10/30/2008
The Westland High School Drama Club will present their production of “Dracula,” a dramatization of Bram Stoker’s classic novel, in a three-act play written by Tim Kelly.
  Column: I'm technologically lazy, not challenged
10/30/2008
I am technologically lazy.
 Column: They're sisters in scrapbooking
10/30/2008
Dear Katie Holmes, Finally! You and I have something in common, other than Ohio born and bred.
 Letters to the editor
10/30/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
10/30/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
Haunt-spot a hit in Lincoln Village
10/23/2008
Judith Vaughn, a Lincoln Village resident, takes her Halloween decorating seriously.
Financial future shows cuts, student declines
10/23/2008
Rising expenditures and sluggish cash flow between now and fiscal year 2013, will contribute to the Columbus City School district’s budget deficit, according to a projected five-year forecast released Oct. 21.
 Resident questions township spending
10/23/2008
Franklin Township residents questioned township trustees at their Oct. 16 meeting regarding the upcoming fire levy, police protection and how township meetings are publicized to the public.
Passing of 75 means big changes
10/23/2008
The decision to replace outdated textbooks and buses, upgrade technology and begin a facilities construction and renovation plan rests in voters’ hands in less than two weeks.
 Officials say fire levy necessary
10/23/2008
Firefighters in Franklin Township want voters to know they are not trying to alarm residents with dire predictions if their upcoming levy does not pass.
Trustees consider sign codes
10/23/2008
Electronic billboards are not currently allowed in Prairie Township, but in the future they may start to replace traditional billboards.
Do they drive you batty?
10/23/2008
They are known as bloodsuckers and creatures of the night. People just do not like bats, but experts say there is really nothing to fear.
 Letters to the editor
10/23/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor! Submit yours to westside@columbusmessenger.com.
 What's happening on the Westside
10/23/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Fire chief presents expenses
10/16/2008
Tempers ran high at a special meeting held by the Franklin Township Board of Trustees on Oct 14.
Financial future for SWCS is bleak
10/16/2008
As residents prepare to vote on Issue 81, the South-Western City School Board of Education discussed their five-year financial future at its Oct. 13 meeting – and it looks a bit bleak.
 Parents work together to change West High School
10/16/2008
When Linda Patterson moved into the Columbus City School district last September, she perceived the atmosphere at West High School to be “chaotic.”
Harris speaks on behalf of Issue 75
10/16/2008
Columbus City Schools Superintendent Gene Harris called for public support of Issue 75 on the November ballot at the annual State of the Schools Address held at Fort Hayes Arts and Academic High School on Oct. 9.
 Columbus voters to see six ballot issues
10/16/2008
Columbus residents will have several bond issues before them when they vote on Nov. 4, but a vote for those issues won’t mean a dip in bank accounts, according to city officials.
Local district out-performs charter schools
10/16/2008
South-Western City Schools (SWCS) Deputy Superintendent Phil Warner said there are 1,120 students who attend charter schools who live within the SWCS district, and only 15 of them are meeting the academic standards of the students who attend SWCS.
 WAC discusses upcoming isues
10/16/2008
The country’s financial picture bought out numerous questions from Westland Area Commission members with the November election having several money issues on the ballot.
Photos: Ready dominates
10/16/2008
Bishop Ready Senior Joe Kulp tackles Notre Dame Running back for a loss in the 42-7 win for Bishop Ready.
 Letters to the editor
10/16/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
10/16/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 FT fire to reveal spending figures
10/10/2008
Franklin Township Fire Chief Richard Howard determined the cost effectiveness of allowing the fire prevention officer/investigator to take the township car home versus reimbursement, but he could not present the information at the Oct. 2 trustees meeting.
 Township to gain control over some vacant properties
10/10/2008
To make it easier to deal with vacant and abandoned tax-delinquent properties, the Prairie Township board of trustees voted to adopt Ohio’s Land Reutilization Program at their Oct. 8 meeting.
Residents weigh in on district's levy
10/04/2008
Election Day is just weeks away and leaders in the South-Western City School District want to make sure residents know the facts.
 Land Use Plan nearing completion
10/04/2008
An area plan is described as a set of guidelines for future developers to adhere to based upon the suggestions of community members.
 Ohioans facing five state issues
10/04/2008
Ohioans will face five state issues on the Nov. 4 ballot including four state constitutional amendments and a referendum.
Photo: Pie in your eye!
10/04/2008
Seven-year-old Jayden Staley (left), and Steven Beine (right), 8, had faces full of pie after a pie eating contest at the Hilltop Community Full Gospel Church’s annual Harvest Festival.
Photo: Cougars clawing thier way to the top
10/04/2008
Westland High School junior Angela Stevens fends off Hamilton Township sophomore Tawny Ross while she positions herself for a shot
 PT Fire urges residents to stay safe from fires
10/04/2008
A pot holder too close to a lit burner or a space heater left on overnight could be all it takes to start a home fire. I
 Letters to the editor
10/04/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
10/04/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Rainy days are here
09/27/2008
The city’s financial difficulties were a major focus of the Sept. 22 Columbus Council meeting.
The return of a Hilltop tradition
09/27/2008
A long-lost Hilltop tradition will be back with a bang the first weekend in October.
 Presenting a levy to voters
09/27/2008
Franklin Township Trustees discussed strategies to present their case for the fire levy to district voters at their Sept. 17 meeting.
 Land Use Plan nearing completion
09/27/2008
During a Sept. 22 special meeting, Franklin Township Trustees and Southwest Area Commission members got a taste of what the public will hear about the Southwest Land Use when it is presented on Sept 30.
 Noise study ahead for the Coop
09/21/2008
Now that baseball games are a thing of the past at Cooper Stadium, the Southwest Area Commission has begun discussing the potential of the Coop being transformed into a racetrack at their Sept. 17 meeting.
 Council to vote on rec center for Westland area
09/21/2008
Columbus City Council could be acting soon on the rezoning request on the land where the Westland Area Commission would like to see a community recreation center built.
 Property taxes to remain unchanged
09/21/2008
Homeowners in the Southwest portion of Columbus got a bit of good news at the Sept. 17 Southwest Area Commission monthly meeting.
Understanding report cards
09/21/2008
By now, Columbus City School district staff, students, and residents have learned the results of the district’s report card.
Photos: Blindsided by Ike
09/21/2008
Hurricane Ike ravaged cities across Ohio on Sept. 14 when 75 miles per hour winds tore across the state, causing downed trees and power lines.
Photos: Binns celebrates reopening
09/21/2008
The building, which opened for the 2008-09 school year, held a ribbon cutting ceremony Sept. 11.
Blockwatch Beat: Your Westside resource
09/21/2008
The Blockwatch Beat is grateful to be reporting this month from a situation wherein we are trying to make lemonade out of lemons.
 What's happening on the Westside
09/21/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
Wetside's Redd brings home the gold
09/12/2008
Basketball player and Columbus native Michael Redd has done it all as an athlete. He was a basketball star at both West High School and The Ohio State University, and now has a successful NBA career with the Milwaukee Bucks.
 FT trustees still battling on fire issue
09/12/2008
Franklin Township Trustee Tim Guyton and Fire Chief Richard Howard are trying to quell residents’ concerns about the costs associated with the fire prevention officer/investigator’s commute. Their message is that the township is not spending money reckles
SWCS levy millage reduced
09/12/2008
District leaders in South-Western City Schools said they have a plan to reduce the millage rate for Issue 81, a combined 6-mill operating levy and 6.33-mill bond issue.
 SPL to close Central Crossing library
09/12/2008
The Southwest Public Library (SPL) Board has decided to close its Central Crossing Library branch.
 Franklin Township cruisin' in style
09/12/2008
Franklin Township Police Department has four new cruisers to replace two older worn out versions. The price tag for all four new vehicles totaled $98,000, which Police Chief Michael Castle said has been paid in full.
She's a grand old flag
09/12/2008
At an outdoor assembly on Sept. 5, the students at Harmon Elementary School witnessed an event that school administrators called very special and patriotic.
PT posts lighting district assessments
09/12/2008
Prairie Township established its 2009 tax assessments for each lighting district in the area at the Sept. 10 trustee meeting.
 City council stirs debate
09/12/2008
The Columbus City Council is back in session after taking off the month of August. At their first meeting after their return, held Sept. 8, several people in attendance were ready to take issue with non-agenda items.
Photos: Trash talkin'
09/12/2008
The city of Columbus recently took ownership of five new diesel-powered bulk-trash trucks.
Photo: Silver Knights suffer loss to West Jeff
09/12/2008
Bishop Ready quarterback Brennan McCarty attempts to get free from West Jefferson defensive end Eric Love in the first quarter of action on Kile Field in West Jefferson on Sept. 5.
Photos: Tressel's boys barely survive
09/12/2008
Jim Tressel sings Carmen Ohio, with his players, after the game.
 Column: Adventures abound at OSU home game
09/12/2008
Coming from an unusual family, I am used to the odd discussions, but the one my sister and I had a few weeks back was a real mind bender.
Reel Deal: HBO's "True Blood" bites back
09/12/2008
My movie options for the weekend were extremely unappealing. I could go out of my way to find a theater that was playing the well-reviewed “Frozen River,” or I could begrudgingly watch “Bangkok Dangerous,” which looked monstrously stupid.
 Letters to the editor
09/12/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
09/12/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 GHAC addresses bond issues
09/06/2008
The rising rate of foreclosures in the Hilltop community and the upcoming November bond issue were among the agenda items for the Sept. 2 meeting of the Greater Hilltop Area Commission.
 Schools partner to save smiles
09/06/2008
Two groups of students will teach each other good dental hygiene this school year, thanks to a mobile dental clinic.
Our Lady serves a heap of help
09/06/2008
It’s a warm, dry Saturday morning in August, and the priests at Our Lady of the Hilltop Catholic Church on South Eureka Avenue are cooking breakfast. When they do breakfast, they do it with style—eggs, sausage, fried potatoes, and gravy. And most Saturday
Program helps kids prep for college
09/06/2008
Columbus City Schools Board of Education members addressed only one piece of legislation at a regularly scheduled board meeting Sept. 2.
Photos: NASCAR comes to West
09/06/2008
NASCAR driver Jeff Burton autographs a fender for Todd Barthelmas of Orient, Ohio, who made his way to West High School to meet his racing hero for the first time at a Sept. 3 event
Photos: Farewell to the coop
09/06/2008
One of if not the biggest influences in bringing baseball back to Columbus, stadium namesake Harold Cooper, threw out the final first pitch at Cooper Stadium to start the Sept. 1 game against the Toledo Mud Hens.
Photos: The Buckeyes are back
09/06/2008
In the second quarter of the opening game shutout on Aug. 30, it takes four Youngstown State defenders to take down Chris “Beanie” Wells.
Photos: Powwow comes to county fairgrounds
09/06/2008
Dan Fant, of Cleveland Ohio, displays a warrior's regalia of the LaKota tribe, during the Native American Indian Center of Central Ohio�s powwow that was held at the Franklin County Fairgrounds over the Labor Day weekend.
Reel Deal: “Hamlet 2” not all that heavenly
09/06/2008
We have all heard the old saying of “Those who can’t do teach,” which in my opinion is quite ridiculous, but in the movie “Hamlet 2,” it’s very accurate.
 Letters to the editor
09/06/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
09/06/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Trustee questions fire department spending
08/28/2008
Franklin Township Trustee Don Cook and Franklin Township Fire Chief Richard Howard clashed at the Aug. 21 trustees’ meeting over the use of a township vehicle.
 Elementary principal under investigation
08/28/2008
Officials in the South-Western City School District have hired a third party investigator after an elementary school principal was accused of sexual misconduct.
 Police procedure called into question
08/28/2008
Russ Aikman, head of security at Wingate Village Apartments, attended the Aug. 21 Franklin Township Trustees meeting to discuss township police procedures.
 Columbus report cards mostly unchanged
08/28/2008
For a second year in a row, the Columbus City School District has maintained a “C” on the state’s district report card for 2007-08.
SWCS report card results are in
08/28/2008
The Ohio Department of Education released its annual state report card and once again the South-Western City School District earned a “continuous improvement” ranking.
BAGS project packs hope for students
08/29/2008
The cost of school supplies can be stressful to any parent, but it can be even more taxing for those who cannot afford the extra expense.
 City asks for help with liquor permit objections
08/29/2008
The Columbus City Attorney’s Office and city law enforcement have begun their annual process for objecting to the renewal of liquor permits for problem businesses.
PT collecting from property owners
08/29/2008
Prairie Township cleared trash and trimmed tall grass with township funds at 26 neglected properties in a year’s time. Now, officials turn to the owners to collect for costs incurred.
Photos: Choo choo!
08/29/2008
The Columbus Garden and Railway Society will chug its way through the Hilltop Sept. 7 during their annual Open Tour with a stop at the home of Ed and Lottie Flowers.
Photo: Ready dominates season opener
08/29/2008
Franklin Heights and Bishop Ready high schools faced off for the season’s opening game on Aug. 22.
 Column: Is there anything more convoluted?
08/29/2008
Is there anything more convoluted and nonsensical than the state school report card and its accompanying array of ever changing tests, rules, procedures, and seemingly make-it-up-as-you-go scoring system?
 What's happening on the Westside
08/29/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Letters to the editor
08/29/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
TAG Team tackles graffiti
08/21/2008
To Courtney Dekle, the Hilltop holds the potential to become a premier central Ohio community.
Levy to last four years, officials say
08/21/2008
The Columbus City Schools Board of Education has made a promise it doesn’t intend to break.
 Hilltop looks to cameras for safety
08/21/2008
The Greater Hilltop Area Commission’s Public Safety Committee discussed a possible camera surveillance pilot program at a public meeting held Aug. 14.
 SWAC enjoys community involvement
08/21/2008
Since the establishment of the Southwest Area Commission in 2004, there have been problems getting the public involved during their annual elections.
Westside witnesses end of era
08/21/2008
How many times can the words “The end of an era” be written about a ballpark at 1125 W. Mound St.?
 September at Darby Metro Park
08/21/2008
The following are events scheduled for Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park during the month of September.
Blockwatch Beat: Your Westside resource
08/21/2008
How long does it take the brain to process the absurd versus reality? How about something so surreal that you dismiss it as something you “couldn’t possibly” have seen?
Reel Deal: "Tropic Thunder" storms box office
08/21/2008
Even before the hilarious trailers for “Tropic Thunder” started to hit the airways, all I heard was how “great” the cameo by Tom Cruise was, and how it was a “real comeback for him” after two years of couch jumping and mouth drivel.
 Column: Another true believer is born
08/21/2008
A couple nights ago I was coerced…er, rather persuaded to attend a makeover party, for a company that shall remain nameless, at the request of a friend.
Photo: Here comes football season!
08/21/2008
Bishop Ready High School played a scrimage football game against Centerburg High School on Friday, Aug. 15.
Photo: And the winner is...
08/21/2008
The Franklin Heights High School band boosters held a cruise-in on Aug. 10 at the high school on Demorest Road.
 Letters to the editor
08/21/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
08/21/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Hilltop gears up for Pride
08/16/2008
Neighborhood Pride is a combined effort between the city of Columbus and its communities that lives up to its name.
Levy issue stirs debate
08/16/2008
Residents in the South-Western City School District are butting heads over the need of a combined operating levy and bond issue.
Paving the way for road projects
08/16/2008
Sandra Ray lives in a Cape Cod, built in 1925, in a quiet neighborhood on Gladys Road.
Binns is back
08/16/2008
The culmination of planning, construction and anticipation will come to fruition this school year for Binns Elementary School students and staff.
District combines ballot issues
08/08/2008
Columbus City School district board of education members will present two issues combined into one on November�s ballot.
Briggs Road property still standing
08/08/2008
The Aug. 1 demolishment deadline for the Briggs Road property owned by Thomas Tonti of the Briggs Road Shopping Center Corp., has passed, yet the building still stands.
Restaurant helps family in need
08/08/2008
It may be small in comparison to the two other towering donation containers on the counter of Minelli’s Restaurant and Pizza on Sullivant Avenue,
A day all her own
08/08/2008
Franklin Township trustees honored long-time resident Juanita Kaufman for her remarkable dedication and service to Franklin Township over the years.
The things that he saw
08/08/2008
Journalism students often dream of getting that big assignment on their first job.
 Green Lawn celebrates its founders
08/08/2008
Men who started Green Lawn Cemetery were leaders in the community and performed a variety of jobs.
 Column: Jury duty inspires fun times
08/08/2008
This time last month, I received something dreaded in the mail. No, it wasn’t a severed head; it was a summons for jury duty.
 Letters to the editor
08/08/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
08/08/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 FT residents to see fire levy in November
08/02/2008
Franklin Township residents have one more issue to look for on the ballot in November.
Road project ahead of schedule
08/02/2008
Prairie Township residents who find themselves seeing orange over local construction projects will soon find some relief, but not for long.
 Keeping township land in townships
08/02/2008
Franklin Township Board of Trustees found that they have limited options to prevent the city of Columbus or Franklin County from annexing Franklin Township homes and businesses to their jurisdictions
 "Waste Less" at the State Fair
08/02/2008
Patrons of Ohio Proud food stands in the Taste of Ohio Café can help keep the fairgrounds greener this year by participating in a pilot program designed to reduce waste.
 Southworth showed you can't keep a good man down
08/02/2008
Nearly a century ago, a young boy in the ninth grade at a school on the city’s Westside was accused of throwing a spitball at his teacher.
 Keep wild animals in the wild, says ODNR
08/02/2008
When many people encounter wild animals that appear to be injured or orphaned, they want to do what they can to help. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife advises people to leave them alone.
Photos: Valleyview hog roast
08/02/2008
Roger Myers of the Valleyview Police Department holds nothing back as he races against others during a watermelon eating contest at Valleyview's annual hog roast on July 26.
Photos: Makin' a splash at the luau
08/02/2008
Friends Worship Center, 3030 Clime Road, hosted their annual Luau July 27.
Photos: The Turtle Lady visits WAL
08/02/2008
The Turtle Lady visited the Westland Area Library on July 29 and brought her troop of critters, in an effort to teach children about reptiles and encourage them to read about them.
 Column: "X:Files" ecstasy
08/02/2008
Like a mother who carries a child in her womb, I knew I would love the new “X-Files” movie before I sat down in the darkened theatre and gazed upon the visage of Mulder and Scully on the big screen.
 Column: Just like riding a bike...right.
08/02/2008
Okay ladies, you know how it goes. During the winter months, we snuggle up in jeans and comfy sweaters and feast on stews and pumpkin pies. Then the weather turns warm and we are shocked and appalled to learn that we no longer look oh-so-sexy in our favor
 What's happening on the Westside
08/02/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 West Nile found in PT
07/25/2008
An insect widely regarded as nothing more than a summertime nuisance has become a serious health concern for those living in Prairie Township.
 Bridge deemed unsafe
07/25/2008
Columbus Public Service Director Mark Kelsey has ordered the permanent closure of the Town Street Bridge across the Scioto River, effective at 7 p.m. on July 22.
 Gearing up for NNO
07/25/2008
Criminals beware – the community is fighting back!
Ready or not, it's fair time!
07/25/2008
Saddle up the family car, gather up the kids, grab your wallets and purses and head out to a 155-year-old celebration of the best Ohio has to offer in agriculture, arts, crafts, food, and entertainment.
Local artists team up for exhibit
07/25/2008
At first glance, the blue-and-green shiny object in Emily Grazier’s hand appears to be just a simple origami project, its geometric shapes forming a box.
 A new Metro Park nearby?
07/25/2008
Could Grove City be the next site for a Metro Park?
 Darby schedule for 2008
07/25/2008
Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park is located at 1775 Darby Creek Dr. in Galloway, four miles off Route 40 just east of West Jefferson. Here is a list of events for August.
 Mentel honored for leadership
07/25/2008
Citing his strong leadership skills and unwavering support for Columbus residents, the St. Stephen’s Community House, on the city’s east side, has named Columbus City Council President Michael C. Mentel the winner of the 2008 John Maloney Leadership Award
 SWCS summer registration
07/25/2008
The South-Western City School District will be holding summer registration for all elementary, intermediate, middle and high school students new to the district. Students must be registered prior to attending classes in any SWCS location.
Photos: FOWP clean up
07/25/2008
Sue Reeds, a member of Friends of Westgate Park, tills around the Westgate Park and Recreation Center entrance sign.
Photo: Keep on truckin'
07/25/2008
Mayor Michael B. Coleman, Columbus City Council members and other city officials previewed five new Columbus Fire emergency medic vehicles and two new ladders July 23.
 Letters to the editor
07/25/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
07/25/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Breaking News: West Nile Virus found in Prairie Township
07/21/2008
This season's first case of West Nile Virus has been detected in Franklin County from a mosquito trap in southern Prairie Township.
 FT residents deal with sewer problems
07/19/2008
Franklin Township has areas with serious sewer problems, according to Paul Wenning, a Special Projects Coordinator at the Franklin County Board of Health.
District adds bond issue to levy
07/19/2008
The South-Western City School District’s Board of Education has already agreed to place a six-mill operating levy on the November ballot. Now, the district will add a bond issue to the mix.
 City, county, no shows at SWAC
07/19/2008
At the June Southwest Area Commission meeting, commissioners expressed their displeasure at being kept out of the loop when it came to the discussion of a proposed motorsports complex that would fill the void left when the Columbus Clippers leave Copper S
 Farmer's market ready to roll
07/19/2008
The Westside is about to get a taste of homegrown goodness.
 City approves helmet law
07/19/2008
Though a majority of Columbus Transportation and Pedestrian commissioners publicly support a proposed youth bicycle helmet law, some still have questions.
 Judge's order never issued in FT zoning case
07/21/2008
Residents of Franklin Township expressed their frustrations at the Franklin Township Board of Trustees meeting held July 10 when Trustee Don Cook said the cease and desist order issued from Judge Harland Hale’s office was not served to Gary Gordon of Brow
 WAC wants partnership for new recreation center
07/21/2008
Westland Area Commission members discussed an issue often talked about in the area - a community recreation center - at their July 16 meeting.
Cost increases for road projects
07/21/2008
The increase in gas and oil prices hit the Prairie Township road and cemetery department hard, causing $35,000 of extra expenses, which the township plans to cover with reimbursements from Franklin County.
Good help hard to find
07/21/2008
The Girl Scouts of Columbus are looking for a few good girls and the adults needed to lead them.
 SWAC looking for new commissioners
07/21/2008
In 2004, local entities wanted to put a tire burning power plant in place of the trash burning power plant on Jackson Pike, located near Interstate 71.
 Help your canine friend perk up offensive breath
07/21/2008
It’s offensive, it’s a problem - it’s doggie breath.
Blockwatch Beat: Your Westside resource
07/21/2008
From fresh fruits and vegetables to walks with the dog on a lovely summer evening - ah, yes, July is here in full bloom! Also in it’s peak season is the crime of opportunity.
Reel Deal: Hellboy is devilishly funny
07/21/2008
Two years ago, I fell in love with the magnificently creepy film “Pan’s Labyrinth” and subsequently its writer and director Guillermo del Toro.
Photo: Fun at the fair
07/21/2008
Girls just wanna have fun and the Scrambler at the Franklin County Fair in Hilliard is just the place to do it for this trio
Photo: Good times with Goodguys
07/21/2008
The Goodguys Rod and Custom Association brought the 11th annual PPG Nationals to the Ohio Expo Center July 11-13.
Street vendors in PT face new rules
07/11/2008
Transient vendors within Prairie Township will need a permit to peddle soon.
 City moves closer to 2008 bond issue
07/11/2008
Columbus City Council is one step closer to placing $1.66 billion worth of bond issues on the Nov. 4 ballot.
 Valleyview Comes in under budget
07/11/2008
The village of Valleyview will be operating in 2009 on a $1.16 million budget, with only $124,300 of that amount coming from taxes.
State house architect honored
07/11/2008
The Ohio Statehouse, which stands majestically at the center of Columbus, got off to a shaky start.
Seniors get in on gaming with Wii
07/11/2008
Video games aren’t just for kids anymore.
Reel Deal: Super hero should save himself
07/11/2008
Forget fireworks, parades and picnics featuring high calorie foods, nothing says, “I celebrated Independence Day” quite like going to see a new Will Smith movie at the cinema.
Photos: Keepin' cool
07/11/2008
A day at the pool.
 Letters to the editor
07/11/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
07/11/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
7.85-mill levy and bond to face voters
07/05/2008
Voters in the Columbus City School district will have at least one issue to consider on the Nov. 4 ballot.
 Fire chief battles trustees for levy
07/05/2008
What started as a request from the Franklin Township fire chief to investigate millage amounts for a potential levy escalated to a heated discussion between the chief and the township trustees.
 Westgate hopes to lead the way with rain garden
07/05/2008
If all goes according to plan, Westgate will be the first public park in the area to feature a rain garden.
 On a mission to help those in need
07/05/2008
Maria Corna speaks in soft, articulate tones. Her dark eyes suggest a back story of tremendous strength and courage. Maria Corna, who immigrated to the United States at the age of 8, is a survivor. Her mission is to help others survive - and thrive - on C
Mussels released into Big Darby
07/05/2008
Endangered species can now call the Big Darby Creek home.
 Fair boasts new admission costs and entertainment
07/05/2008
The local fair season kicks into high gear with the Franklin County Fair July 12-19 in Hilliard with loads of free entertainment, animals, and thrill rides for the adventurous.
Reel Deal: "Wanted" won't leave you wanting more
07/05/2008
Wesley Gibson hates his life in the action movie “Wanted.” His girlfriend is cheating on him; his father left him when he was 7 days old; he loathes his boss and job; and nothing exciting happens to him. And the best part, he says, is he gets to wallow in
Photos: WABA parade
07/05/2008
Photos of the parade held June 28.
Photos: Historic Hilltop Bean Dinner
07/05/2008
See what happened at the 2008 Bean Dinner.
Blockwatch Beat crime alert
07/05/2008
In the past week, there have been numerous garage break-ins and several thwarted home break-ins. Remember to fasten all windows and close up your home even if you’re only going as far as your own backyard.
 Letters to the editor
07/05/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
07/05/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 $1.66 billion issue is "no new taxes"
06/27/2008
Columbus residents will have several ballot issues before them when they vote in November, but a vote for those issues won’t mean a dip in bank accounts.
JEDD may fund improvements
06/27/2008
The West Broad Corridor improvements originally slated for 2009 in Prairie Township have been pushed back to 2012 due to statewide budget constraints.
 BOOM! relocated
06/27/2008
Multicolored explosions will rock the skies over Columbus on July 3 in celebration of Independence Day, but construction on the Scioto Mile is forcing a change in venue this year for Red, White, & BOOM!
 Local government could see changes
06/27/2008
The efforts of state representatives Larry Flowers (R-19) and Larry Wolpert (R-23) to streamline local government have cleared the first hurdle.
 SWAC discusses future of area plan
06/27/2008
Franklin Township trustee Don Cook doesn’t like to see houses turned into businesses.
 Valleyview talking 2009 budget
06/27/2008
Valleyview Council will be considering what projects to work on in 2009 when the group meets in its regular session Monday, July 7.
 Local student gets trip to camp
06/27/2008
Prairie Lincoln student Kelsi Born gets involved in community work and likes horses.
Photos: Georgesville Fish Fry draws crowd
06/27/2008
The two-day festival included miniature rides, mechanical and pony, for the kids, carnival games, performances by the Midwest Cloggers and the consumption of 18,000 pieces of fish.
 Column: Lessons learned in the land of "Oz"
06/27/2008
I got back from Australia, or �Oz� as the Aussies like to call it, a couple of weeks ago.
Reel Deal: Carell's flick not so smart
06/27/2008
I have been introduced to many productions from the comedic genius Mel Brooks (personal favorite being “Blazing Saddles”) but never heard of his foray onto the small screen with the 1960’s spy spoof “Get Smart” until recently.
 FOTH beautification award nominations
06/27/2008
Get your nomination form here!
 Gas prices fuel city deficit
06/20/2008
Residents aren’t the only ones whose wallets are taking a hit as fuel prices continue to rise. The city of Columbus is also feeling the effects of price increases.
 SWAC left out of loop in fate of the Coop
06/20/2008
Members of the Southwest Area Commission have begun drafting an official letter to Columbus City Council, county commissioners, developers, and Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman, concerning the fate of Cooper Stadium.
PT makes building easy for developers
06/20/2008
Commercial developers eying Prairie Township as a potential building site will find it easier and less time consuming to build and renovate by the end of June.
 Avoiding Internet predators
06/20/2008
Many parents today find themselves searching for ways to keep their children safe while exploring the Web.
 Zoning issues continue in FT
06/20/2008
Residents of Franklin Township again solicited the help of trustees to protest a re-zoning application.
District saves money by leasing building
06/20/2008
Columbus City Schools has decided to lease space at the Kent Elementary School building to Ohio State University Chabad House.
 Parade falls early but still promises a patriotic punch
06/20/2008
With the snappy cadence of the drums and the red, white and blue of the holiday, the Independence Parade steps off through the Westland area Saturday, June 28.
 Hilltop Bean Dinner on June 28
06/20/2008
Event details
Reel Deal: "Hulk" less than "Incredible"
06/20/2008
To curb violent emotional outbursts, most people go to a therapist and seek help for their affliction via talking it out and taking prescription medication.
Blockwatch Beat: Your Westside resource
06/20/2008
It is that time again - summer safety tips and the reminders for keeping your property, yours.
Photo: Game on with Gee
06/20/2008
Dr. E. Gordon Gee, president of The Ohio State University, made a June 14 stop by the Westland Area Library to help promote the Summer Reading Club and its “Game On. Read.” theme.
Another eyesore on its way out
06/15/2008
Another Westside eyesore will soon be demolished as a result of several persistent residents and organizations.
District asks for $233 million levy
06/15/2008
The South-Western City School Board of Education voted to approve a $439 million school facilities plan at the June 9 board meeting.
CCS weighing levy options
06/15/2008
Columbus City Schools are getting closer to a decision regarding a levy for the November ballot.
 City regulates street solicitors
06/15/2008
Columbus drivers may see a decline in roadway solicitors this summer.
 New thrift store serves good cause
06/15/2008
Leanne Parden knows the meaning of killing two birds with one stone.
 PT settlers remembered
06/15/2008
Prairie Township pioneer Emmett Mix was a successful farmer with land off West Broad Street. He belonged to the Grange and had served on the board of control of the Ohio Agricultural Experiment Station in Wooster.
Reel Deal: Sandler's flick falls flat
06/15/2008
Almost all of Adam Sandler’s movies have major elements of ridiculousness to them, but like most people, I find myself wanting to see films he stars in.
 Letters to the editor
06/15/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
06/15/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Developers eye West Broad Street
06/07/2008
At his 30th town meeting, State Representative Dan Stewart (D-25), announced to an excited audience that developers are looking at the land where Westland Mall is located.
 Pride on the Hilltop
06/07/2008
Eight years ago, Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman initiated a program called Neighborhood Pride.
Rising from the ashes
06/07/2008
It’s been a long road for the owners of the Jerry Spears Funeral Home, but the Westside landmark is finally ready to open its doors once again.
 Cameras are for safety, not spying
06/07/2008
While cameras are watching us, who is keeping an eye on the camera operators?
PT to hold public meeting for Broad improvements
06/07/2008
A public meeting will be held to discuss the future of West Broad Street and what improvements mean for the businesses and residents of the area.
 FT residents oppose zoning issue
06/07/2008
Disgruntled residents of Franklin Township again protested a zoning issue, this time over a resident on Clime Road applying for a variance to build a large garage.
 Valleyview bolsters police force
06/07/2008
Two more officers are on duty in the village of Valleyview after two auxiliaries were sworn in as part-time probationary deputy marshals.
Parents upset over merger
06/07/2008
Ever since the introduction of the subject early in the school year, the merger of middle schools and high schools has been a hot topic throughout the Columbus City Schools (CCS) district.
Column: Zipping through the treetops
06/07/2008
As gas prices continue to soar, people are beginning to look closer to home for adventure destinations.
Reel Deal: Chick flick is pretty, not witty
06/07/2008
What caters to women, has relationship advice and sob stories, plugs designer clothing and accessories and is often time consuming?
Photos: Camp Chase service
06/07/2008
The 113th Camp Chase Confederate Cemetery Memorial Service was held June 1.
Photos: Prairie Norton PTA car show
06/07/2008
The Prairie Norton Elementary School PTA host their first car show at the school June 1.
Photos: Downhill Derby
06/07/2008
Taylor Buskirk, 14, starts her first ride of the day down the long derby hill at Big Run Park.
This week's submitted photos
06/07/2008
Send in your photos! Submit yours to westside@columbusmessenger.com
 Letters to the editor
06/07/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
06/07/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Picture perfect park
05/29/2008
The Friends of Westgate Park have received a grant to help bring a little color into a section of Westgate Park.
Bishop Ready student headed to tundra
05/29/2008
Just one week after the polar bear was listed as �threatened� by the Endangered Species Act, a Bishop Ready High School sophomore has been chosen to be a polar bear ambassador, representing the Columbus Zoo.
 Risng gas prices fuel car arson increase
05/29/2008
As gas prices go up, more cars go up in flames.
 COSI teaches forensic sciences with CSI: The Experience
05/29/2008
Behind an old hotel in Las Vegas, the body of Penny Golden lays between the Dumpster and the bike rack.
Columbus picked for bike tour
05/29/2008
According to Mayor Michael Coleman, Columbus is ready to kick its “transportation revolution” into high gear - and it doesn’t have anything to do with streetcars.
 Bees become buzzworthy
05/29/2008
Where are the honeybees going? They are vanishing and according to Barry Conrad with the Central Ohio Beekeepers Association (COBA), that means big trouble for us.
It happened in Ohio
05/29/2008
Students at Kent State University and Ohio National Guardsmen stood 225 feet away from each other on May 4, 1970 - and confronted an even wider divide politically and culturally as the shots were fired that killed four and wounded nine.
Photos: Super Sumos
05/29/2008
Sumo wrestlers Bayanbat Davaadalai, and Kelly Gneiting were a big hit at the 2008 Asian Festival held at Franklin Park.
 Column: She's really crazy (about polka dots!)
05/29/2008
My mother thinks I’ve lost my mind...or at least misplaced it.
Real Deal: Jones back with a bust
05/29/2008
The year is 1957 and apparently, the Soviets got the release of the Tears for Fears song “Everybody wants to rule the world” a few decades before it came out in the 1980s.
Guest Column: Blockwatch Beat
05/29/2008
Your Westside resource
 Letters to the editor
05/29/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
05/29/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Police stepping up with Strike Frce
05/15/2008
The 2008 Summer Strike Force is ready to roll, and Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman has a message for would-be criminals in the city, “The strike force is going to get you and put you in jail.”
Public input to shape district plan
05/15/2008
The community has spoken but will the South-Western City School District Board of Education listen?
 Putting out the fires
05/15/2008
"Hilltop Arsonist" released on probation
 FT police chase ends with fatalities
05/15/2008
Police were within designated jurisdiction to pursue the uncooperative driver in a chase that ended fatally, said Franklin Township Chief of Police Mike Castle.
Costs on the rise, income declines
05/15/2008
The South-Western City School District was supposed to get an increase in state aid but Treasurer Hugh Garside said that is not the case.
 Descendent searches for history on darby settlers
05/15/2008
Columbus has a lot of history, but unfortunately a lot of it has been lost, according to a local family who longs for some of their lost family history.
Reel Deal: No rush to see "Speed racer"
05/15/2008
Despite being a cartoon-watching junkie in the early days, “Speed Racer” was never much on my radar, unless you count tuning in just to sing along with the theme song.
Photo: Jumping for joy
05/15/2008
Westland High School freshman Allie Thomas clears 4-foot, 8-inch hurdle during the high jump competition at the 21st Annual Teays Valley Invitational.
 What's happening on the Westside
05/15/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Stewart focuses on linked local issues
05/11/2008
Dan Stewart, state representative of the 25th House District, supports proposed statewide legislation as a step toward solutions to an increase in vacant houses and scrap-metal thefts, two linked problems on the Westside.
 Mayor's streetcars derailed
05/11/2008
In the face of public opposition, and at the request of Mayor Michael Coleman, Columbus City Council has put the brakes on spending $2 million for designing a High Street streetcar line.
 Local bikers ride for charity
05/11/2008
Now that the warmer weather has arrived, motorcycle enthusiasts are itching to get out and ride.
 Valleyview on an upswing
05/11/2008
The village of Valleyview is making progress.
College acceptance getting harder to come by
05/11/2008
The Columbus City Schools (CCS) Board of Education, at their May 6 meeting, heard detailed new requirements for Ohio high school graduates stemming from the passage of Ohio Core in the Senate.
 Franklin Township blocks zoning request
05/11/2008
Franklin Township Trustees will protest a request by a resident to re-zone an area of Brown Road.
PT seeks funds for West Broad project
05/11/2008
Prairie Township hopes to piggy-back its application to help fund a portion of the West Broad Street Improvement Project on a separate state application to fund a multi-million dollar road safety project.
Who wants to race?
05/11/2008
A lot of things have changed since the Soap Box Derby racing program began in 1934. Not only has the sport become more popular on a global level, but today it is more competitive than ever.
Photos: Good-bye PT eyesores
05/11/2008
As a result of cooperative actions between Franklin County, Prairie Township and Central Ohio Community Improvement Corporation officials, three derelict apartment buildings have been demolished
Photos: Folk Festival
05/11/2008
The Central Ohio Folk Festival, a weekend of music from the past, was held May 3-4 at Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park
Reel Deal: "Iron Man" a solid choice
05/11/2008
Even though spring still has the nation in its clutches, it is time for the summer blockbuster season in Hollywood. That means wicked computer graphic imagery, big budgets, bigger explosions and little plot.
 Column: Stop the food insanity!
05/11/2008
America is getting fat (or fatter depending on the expert du jour) and it does not surprise me given the size of portions served at fast food and sit down restaurants.
 Letters to the editor
05/11/2008
Something on your mind? Tell us about it! Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
05/11/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
District hears opinions on building
05/03/2008
"We have a buy one get one free opportunity - so to speak," said South-Western City School District Deputy Superintendent Phil Warner at a community facilities dialogue meeting on April 17 at Franklin Heights High School.
 Public weighs in on streetcars
05/03/2008
With so many other things that need funding, Columbus is on the wrong track in considering a $103 million streetcar line, numerous residents told City Council April 28.
 FH gets top ranking
05/03/2008
The Franklin Heights Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) program has added another feather to their cap.
SWCS budget on track
05/03/2008
At the April 28 South-Western City School Board of Education work session, Treasurer Hugh Garside gave his budget updates and compared them to the five-year forecast.
Saving the monarchs
05/03/2008
With summer vacation fast approaching, parents everywhere are scrambling to find fun and educational activities to keep their kids busy.
"Capture the Moment" at OHS
05/03/2008
News photographers step into the line of fire, risk death and disease and emotional trauma to emerge with the images that define our lives.
Local author to host signing
05/03/2008
A Global Positioning System (GPS) can help one find a route, measure distance and altitude, give time of day.
Ohio snakes slither into summer sun
05/03/2008
The weather is warming up and humans are not the only ones basking in the sun. The snakes have slithered out too.
Photos: A long journey travelled
05/03/2008
The African Children�s Choir performed at The Church Next Door, 5755 Feder Road, for two worship services April 27.
 Column: Columbus is a "cultural wasteland"
05/03/2008
So Columbus is a cultural wasteland, at least according to a recent report from the Columbus Partnership comparing it to 15 other cities.
 What's happening on the Westside
05/03/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
Groups get big bucks for beautification
04/26/2008
Spring is here and with it comes the usual beautification projects for neighborhood streets and parks.
 GHAC giving youth a bigger voice
04/26/2008
The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow, and the Greater Hilltop Area Commission wants to make sure that they have a voice.
 Construction gets moving in FT
04/26/2008
After a three-year hiatus, construction will begin in June to better traffic flow on Chippewa Street and Hague Avenue.
 Senior center move gets costly for PT
04/26/2008
Due to unanticipated internal improvements to the new space, the estimated cost to move the Prairie Township Senior Center met an increase of $6,850
Trucker pen pal rolls into Harmon
04/26/2008
To the second graders in Beth Gottshall’s class, their pen pal, Roadway trucker Don Robinson, is “real cool” and “gives us all kinds of stuff.”
 Metro offers new alternatives
04/26/2008
While attending classes in the South-Western City school district, Cassie West was maintaining a 4.0 grade point average but wasn’t feeling challenged.
 Long time librarian to retire
04/26/2008
Assistant Director of Southwest Public Libraries, Jan Niepert, sits in her Westland Area Library site office surrounded by over 35 years of mementos, pictures of her family and cards from devoted staff.
Reel Deal: You won't forget "Forgetting Sarah Marshall"
04/26/2008
Upon learning his beloved girlfriend of five years is coming to see him, struggling musician Peter Bretter (Jason Segal) finally gets off the couch, puts away his obscenely large bowl of cereal, cleans his place and takes a shower.
 Letters to the editor
04/26/2008
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
04/26/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Children's Hospital bringing care center to West Broad
04/19/2008
Nationwide Children’s Hospital will close its Primary Care Center at 50 Old Village Road in Hilliard and replace it June 8 with a larger facility in a portion of 2857 West Broad Street, formerly the location of the Hilltop Market Place.
Harris defends graduation rate
04/19/2008
America's Promise Alliance released a report titled "Cities in Crisis: A Special Analytic Report on High School Graduation," on April 1.
 Columbus council weighs in
04/19/2008
When it comes to spending on surveillance cameras and other items, Columbus City Council members don’t want to be left out of the picture.
 YMCA holds day of fun for good cause
04/19/2008
The YMCA of Central Ohio helps to improve the lives of thousands of people each year.
District cracks down on "cyber bullies"
04/19/2008
At the April 14 South-Western City School Board of Education meeting, members set a new harassment, intimidation and bullying policy into place.
 Bringing "pride" to the neighborhood
04/19/2008
Members of the Westland Area Commission are mulling over the idea of inviting Neighborhood Pride to the area, perhaps as early as next year.
CCS emphasizing citizenship
04/19/2008
Columbus City Schools (CCS) reviewed the Ends Monitoring Report on Citizenship and the Columbus Annenberg Education Model at the April 15 board of education meeting.
Blockwatch Beat: Your Westside resource
04/19/2008
What is a Blockwatch?
Real Deal: A "Prom Night" to forget
04/19/2008
When I am in a foul disposition, or not wanting to use much brainpower, I like to curl up and watch a nice teen horror movie, mainly one from my “Friday the 13th” ultimate edition DVD collection.
Photo: West High presents "Grease"
04/19/2008

Photos: Bishop Ready reins in a big win
04/19/2008
On April 14, Bishop Ready freshman Katie Ardrey pitched a two-hitter to give the Silver Knights a 5-0 win over Jonathan Alder’s Pioneers.
 Jazz musician visits Highland
04/19/2008
Drummer, bandleader, composer, and vocalist T.S. Monk, son of legendary jazz musician and composer Thelonious Monk, performed to a an eager house of Columbus jazz enthusiasts
 Letters to the editor
04/19/2008
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
04/19/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Groups look to boost development on Westside
04/15/2008
The Hilltop is at a crossroads and residents need to take action to keep it from going down a slippery slope, a consultant told members of the Parkview Community Outreach Team April 5.
 GHAC seeking nominees for commission seats
04/15/2008
If the idea of sticking up for your community before potential developers and Columbus City Council appeals to you, then here’s your chance.
 Valleyview beefs up police force
04/15/2008
The village of Valleyview gained another police officer when council approved the hiring of Bryan Alcorn as a part-time deputy marshal at its April 7 meeting.
 Council to dish out funds for the arts
04/15/2008
Columbus will be contributing to the financial stability of the community’s 16 largest cultural organizations while a long-term plan is drafted, and City Council wants to make sure it has a voice in where the money goes.
 PT gets “sign” from SWACO
04/15/2008
Prairie Township will get a second welcoming sign this summer, similar to the one at the eastern edge of the township.
 Westside food pantry adds services
04/15/2008
They shop for food, pushing a cart up and down the aisles, selecting items to feed their families for the next several days.
 FT blows through funds for new leaf vaccum
04/15/2008
This fall residents of Franklin Township can expect lawns with fewer leaves as the Franklin Township trustees authorized the purchase of a $24,500 leaf vacuum, which includes a $500 trade-in for the old machine.
 Glenwood Pool to close this summer
04/03/2008
Some kids on the Westside are going to be looking for a new place to cool down when the weather heats up this summer.
District gathers input on new buildings
04/03/2008
Should the South-Western City School District add a fifth high school? Should it house grades K-3 in one building and grades 4-6 in another? Should there be a ninth grade learning center?
CCS hears progress of master plan
04/03/2008
Carole J. Olshavsky, Senior Executive in charge of the district’s school construction and renovations program, gave a status report on the Facilities Master Plan (FMP) at the Columbus City Schools (CCS) board of education meeting April 1.
Westside kid on a roll!
04/03/2008
Most local 11-year-olds spent their spring breaks outside trying to catch a glimpse of the sun or on vacation with their families. Chaz Dennis spent his at the bowling alley preparing for state championships.
Teachers face background checks
04/03/2008
Time is running out to get South-Western City School District employees checked for a criminal background.
Just don't call it a trolley!
04/03/2008
Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman is ready for the city to hop on board the proposed streetcar project by spending $2 million for the design of the line that would run along High Street from downtown to the Ohio State University campus.
Blockwatch Beat: Your Westside resource
04/03/2008
When last you heard from “The Blockwatch Beat,” crime was the main topic. It still is, but this time you’re just going to get an update.
 Column: An Easter emergency to remember
04/03/2008
Easter weekend, I debated whether to watch a DVD or go to a movie. Either way, I was going to have a relaxing holiday weekend. All that changed when I experienced the worst pain of my life and ended up in the ER.
 Letters to the editor
04/03/2008
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
04/03/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Franklin Heights ROTC gets top rankings
03/28/2008
The Navy Junior Reserve Office Training Corps unit at Franklin Heights High School has been chosen the best ROTC unit in the state - for the second consecutive year.
Wihl sworn in as FT fiscal officer
03/28/2008
After seven years of service, Crystal Cook stepped down from the position of fiscal officer for the Franklin Township Board of Trustees.
Hoye named to advisory panel
03/28/2008
At the March 26 Prairie Township Board of Trustees meeting, members appointed Ashley Hoye Sr. to fill the township’s vacated seat on the Big Darby Accord Advisory Panel.
CAHS celebrates 150th anniversary
03/28/2008
They’re proud as peacocks over at the Capital Area Humane Society, celebrating its 125th anniversary this year.
Man's best friend or enemy?
03/28/2008
Pit bulls - are they a friend or foe?
Photos: Honoring those who make a difference
03/28/2008
It takes a special person to make a differnce in the lives of children, and the Hilltop Kiwanis has found a way to honor one of those special people.
Photo: Taking it to the big stage
03/28/2008
Highland Elementary third graders will perform an original play titled “The Scientific Method Saves the Day” at 10 a.m. on April 7
 Column: He's "The Boss" of her
03/28/2008
August of 2000 marked the last time I went to a concert, at least one of my choosing. I went to go see Pearl Jam and had a terrific time.
 First Saturday at Green Lawn
03/28/2008
The work of Hannah Neil, founder of the first charity in Columbus, is the focus of the April 5 First Saturday at Green Lawn program.
 Low cost rabies clinic
03/28/2008
The Franklin County Board of Health, Columbus Public Health, the Columbus Academy of Veterinary Medicine, along with the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department are holding a rabies immunizations clinic on April 11 from 1-3 p.m. at the Big Run Park Shelt
 Letters to the editor
03/28/2008
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
03/28/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
Doctors Hospital to get new ER
03/13/2008
A new emergency department and medical education center will be built at Doctors Hospital on West Broad Street that should be open in 2010.
 JAG program faces "devastating" cuts
03/13/2008
Unless residents of Franklin County take immediate action to prevent reduced federal funding for the Byrne/Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program.......
 Schrack resigns as township trustee
03/13/2008
Franklin Township officials will soon be searching for a new trustee.
 Digging out from Blizzard 2008
03/13/2008
What comes after 20.5 inches of snow?
Design firm chosen for project
03/13/2008
The South-Western City School District is moving forward with a possible $325 million development project.
 Prairie Township exploring JEDD
03/13/2008
Prairie Township hopes to improve the West Broad Street Corridor by establishing a Joint Economic Development District (JEDD), which will redirect taxes back to the township.
Dancer looking for Irish luck
03/13/2008
A local boy will head to Ireland this month to put his dancing skills to the test.
SWACO controlling additional landfill
03/13/2008
The “top of the hill” is a great place to be if you are a sea gull seeking a free meal, especially if your dining options change with the next hauler dumping a load of trash at the SWACO landfill.
 Local school gets schooled on gangs
03/13/2008
“It’s scary,” said a concerned parent with children in the South-Western City School District.
 Column: A day with Jane marks one off the list
03/13/2008
I am not a big fan of making a lot of goals, but I am very happy when I can cross one off a list.
 Column: Stringing along wasn't all that easy
03/13/2008
It sits in the corner wondering why I have forsaken it.
Photos: Prairie Norton celerates Health Safety Day
03/13/2008

 What's happening on the Westside
03/13/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
Construction approved for Westside Family Health Center
03/07/2008
Columbus City Council March 3 approved a $6.1 million construction contract for the Westside Family Health Center at 2300 W. Broad St.
Teachers to get 2.5 percent increase
03/07/2008
The Columbus City Schools Board of Education voted to approve an agreement with the Columbus Education Association at their March 4 board meeting.
 Valleyview passes budget, fills seat
03/07/2008
Valleyview Council approved the budget for the coming year, showing anticipated income of $994,114 with expenditure of $630,277.
 CPD helps citizens get smart
03/07/2008
A big part of staying safe in your community is being knowledgeable about what crimes are being committed and where they are happening.
 SWCS hears department reports
03/07/2008
The support services for the South-Western City School District gave their department reports at the Feb. 25 work session. Items discussed were nutritional services, student enrollment and transportation.
CCS uses Linden area as a model
03/07/2008
Schools in the Linden area have become a topic of several debates throughout Columbus, one subject being talk of the elimination of middle schools.
Ohio Historical Society gets Irish
03/07/2008
Around St. Patrick’s Day, everyone wants to be Irish.
 Firefighters open new offices
03/07/2008
President Jack Reall and the Columbus Fire Fighters Union have announced the public open house of their newly renovated offices.
Reel Deal: Don't turn up your snout to "Penelope"
03/07/2008
Let me firmly state that I do believe in curses. In fact, I know that there is one placed upon the relatives of my mom’s side of the family, myself sometimes included.
 Column: "Call My House, Lose My Vote"
03/07/2008
I am starting a new grassroots movement and looking for lemmings, er...sheep, sorry…converts in time to marshal numbers large enough for the general election in November.
Phots: BR Knights named champs
03/07/2008
The Bishop Ready Silver Knights claimed the 2008 Division III Central District Boys Basketball Championship at Columbus Fairgrounds Coliseum.
Photo: CCHS goes to State
03/07/2008
Central Crossing High School senior, Jason Faiella made a return appearance to the State Wrestling Tournament held Feb. 28 - March 1.
 What's happening on the Westside
03/07/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
State of the Schools addressed
02/29/2008
Amid budget set-backs and academic challenges, the South-Western City School District shows signs of improvement and plans to continue the trend in 2008.
 City plans for 2012
02/29/2008
One of the last three Columbus 2012 Bicentennial Commission’s neighborhood meetings took place at West Mound Elementary School Feb 21.
 Cops get cruisers in FT
02/29/2008
The Franklin Township Police Department will receive new police cruisers sometime this spring.
Town Center plans presented
02/29/2008
The final four contenders vying for the Big Darby Accord Town Center project presented master plan ideas to community members and Prairie Township trustees on Feb. 26.
 Columbus cans recycling, supports homebuyer education
02/29/2008
Rumpke of Ohio will continue to offer curbside recycling to Columbus residents for a fee, but the city will no longer be picking up part of the cost.
Police protection remains in PT
02/29/2008
Prairie Township renewed its contract with the Franklin County Police Department in order to maintain police protection in the area.
Photos: Central Crossing wrestlers head to State
02/29/2008
Central Crossing freshman Andrew Higgins wrestled his way to the championship match of the 103-pound weight class at the Division I District Championship held Feb. 22-23 at Hilliard Darby High School.
Photo: One step at a time
02/29/2008
Firefighter Joe Leffe, of the Columbus Division of Fire, climbs his way to the top of the Rhodes State Office Tower on Feb. 23 for the 2008 Firefighters Climb for a Cure to benefit the Cyctic Fibrosis Foundation.
Photos: Georgian Heights rocks out
02/29/2008
Local musician George Mobley can usually be found on stage with McGuffey Lane or the George Mobley Band, but at the Feb. 21 Georgian Heights Family Fun Night, Mobley took the opportunity to play to a much younger crowd.
Photos: Wedgewood dedication
02/29/2008
Columbus City Schools Superintendent Gene T. Harris was joined by Wedgewood Middle School students for the ribbon cutting ceremony as part of the new school’s dedication celebration.
Column: Thursday the 13th
02/29/2008
The 18 to 49 age group is the target audience coveted by purveyors of products, everything from cars to camera phones.
 Letters to the editor
02/29/2008
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
02/29/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Clime Road will be widened
02/22/2008
The city of Columbus plans to widen Clime Road to three lanes from Harrisburg Pike to Georgesville Road, Tim Lucks of the Franklin County Engineers Office told the Southwest Area Commission on Feb.20.
 Hope remains after home destroyed
02/22/2008
With the help of friends and family, two Prairie Township residents look to rebuild after losing all that was left.
Columbus schools promote citizenship
02/22/2008
The Columbus City Schools (CCS) prime focus on Feb. 19 was instilling the ideas of diversity and citizenship in their students. Dr. Gene Harris, superintendent, gave clarification of what this policy will look like at CCS.
Students strive to beat the bell
02/22/2008
Throughout theweek of Feb. 18, CCS is doing a drawing for the “Get to School Getaway” incentive for NBA basketball tickets through the Michael Redd Foundation, Michael Redd of the Milwaukee Bucks, and an organization called Clarity Creative.
 SWAC hears about environmental issues
02/22/2008
Southwest Area Commissioners learned about foreclosures, vicious dogs and vandals from Judge Harland H. Hale of the Franklin County Environmental Court
 Columbus to construct sidewalks near schools
02/22/2008
Walking to school will get safer this year for children in three Columbus neighborhoods thanks to Mayor Michael B. Coleman’s Operation Safewalks.
Reel Deal: Don't jump to see "Jumper"
02/22/2008
Come watch Kurt Wagner, also known as the Incredible Nightcrawler, “Bamf” his way across the globe in the first spin-off of the successful “X-Men” movie franchise.
Reel Deal: Dedra's Oscar picks
02/22/2008
When I was 13, I had two main goals in life. The first was to successfully climb Mt. Everest (including coming back alive), and the second was to win an Academy Award for Best Actress.
 Guest Column: Take a vacation in your own backyard
02/22/2008
Let’s face it, leaving town is not always possible and time and money are cruel adversaries. However, who says you must leave town to vacation? Who made that rule?
Photos: Hang on tight!
02/22/2008
The World’s Toughest Rodeo came to Columbus Feb. 16 at Nationwide Arena. Eight professional cowboys got six rides total; four on the broncos and two on the bulls in just a 90 minute time frame.
Photos: Bishop Ready prevails
02/22/2008
The Bishop Ready Silver Knights boys varsity team squared off against North Union at Hilliard Davidson on Feb. 16 for the sectional game.
Blockwatch Beat: Your Westside resource
02/22/2008
What makes you happy?
 Letters to the editor
02/22/2008
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
This week's submitted photos
02/22/2008

 What's happening on the Westside
02/22/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
Board of education questioned
02/15/2008
“I wonder why we are not following the law,” asked Rick Redfern of Grove City at the Feb. 11 South-Western City School Board of Education meeting.
 City to lose 75 jobs
02/15/2008
Columbus City Council Feb. 11 passed budget amendments that will avoid employee lay-offs in 2008, but would also eliminate 75 positions.
 Residents get schooled
02/15/2008
Detective Thad Alexander of the Columbus Division of Police provided a crash-course in identifying gangs and gang activity at a meeting hosted by the Great Western Block Watch on Feb. 7.
 Ready to rally for sidewalks
02/15/2008
Westside resident Jo Ellen Locke feels fortunate to have sidewalks in front of her residence. Some living in areas near her, however, are not as fortunate. And it has her concerned.
PT eyesores almost gone
02/15/2008
Prairie Township trustees made further progress in the destruction of the apartments located on Stiles and Mix Avenues on Feb. 13 at the regularly scheduled meeting.
Soaring to new heights
02/15/2008
Our nation's symbol is making its way back into the buckeye state.
Reel Deal: "Fool's Gold" lacks sparkle
02/15/2008
On paper, “Fool’s Gold” seems like it would be an ideal movie to help cure those pesky winter blues.
 Column: Campaign spotlight aimed in wrong direction
02/15/2008
The presidential election of 2008 looms on the horizon. To me, it feels as if we’ve listened to political pundits rehash this yet unfinished race for the better part of this century.
Photos: Westland vs. Central Crossing
02/15/2008
Westland High School senior Demarcus Jackson takes it in for 2 of his 27 points in the Division I, sectional match up against Central Crossing High School. The Cougars came out on top 66-59.
Photos: History rolls into Stiles
02/16/2008
The Ohio Historical Society’s “History To Go Van” rolled into Stiles Elementary Feb. 11 to bring the state’s history to life for fourth graders.
Photo: Spike Lee honored
02/16/2008
Columbus City Councilwoman Priscilla Tyson presents filmmaker Spike Lee with a resolution in honor of his receiving the 2008 Wexner Prize at a Feb. 11 meeting.
 Central Crossing names honor roll
02/16/2008

 Letters to the editor
02/16/2008
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
02/16/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Hilltop residents come together
02/08/2008
The Westside of Columbus has been on a downward trend economically over the last several years. Recent business closings have served to amplify the situation, forcing residents and community leaders to take notice and take action.
Valleyview gets full-time chief
02/08/2008
The position of police chief in the Village of Valleyview is now a full-time position, and Matthew Ti Myers, who had been the part-time chief, has been elevated to full time.
CCS talks uniforms, discussion tabled for now
02/08/2008
The Columbus City Schools board of education was surprised by the recommendations of the District Uniform Committee on the issue of whether or not CCS should institute mandatory school uniforms for the district.
 Columbus council passes $650 million budget
02/08/2008
Columbus City Council passed Mayor Michael Coleman’s $650 million budget for 2008 Feb. 4, with plans to propose additional spending by the end of the week.
 New police initiative keeps residents informed
02/08/2008
The South Ogden Avenue Block Watch greeted the nineteenth precinct’s new liaison, Officer Ken Ramos, and introduced a new program to help citizens report crime with the insistence that any information helps.
 Times are hard, but he's got a plan
02/08/2008
The financial storm clouds mounting overhead don’t have the Governor from Duck Run hiding his head, as Ted Strickland proposed programs to boost education and employment in his State of the State address Feb. 6.
 Area groups identify issues
02/08/2008
Failing infrastructure, job development, personal safety, city code and zoning laws are issues of concern throughout Columbus communities.
 Local dentist to fix smiles for free
02/08/2008
A Westside dental office is again offering a unique Valentine present for the needy of the community - a day of free dental care.
New Directions leads way to new life
02/08/2008
Cooking is Vivian Taylor’s passion and she is working at what she likes, although it took her a long time to get there.
 911 services improved
02/08/2008
A new emergency service is now live, allowing 9-1-1 communication technicians to pinpoint the location of wireless “cell” calls made in the City of Columbus.
Reel Deal: "There Will Be Blood."
02/08/2008
When the closing credits started rolling on “There Will Be Blood,” I was not sure how to take this movie.
Photo: WHS drama club "springs" to life
02/08/2008
The Westland High School Drama Club will present their production of “Once Upon a Mattress,” a musical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale “The Princess and the Pea.”
Photo: Wintergaurd and Drumline Competition
02/08/2008
Central Crossing High School held its Indoor Winterguard and Drumline MEPA Competition on Feb. 2-3.
This week's submitted photos
02/08/2008
Photos submitted by Westside Messenger readers
 Letters to the editor
02/08/2008
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
02/08/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
Westgate plays ball
02/03/2008
Kids looking to “play ball” at Westgate Park this summer will find a few surprises – and improvements – waiting for their arrival.
CCS meetings discuss levy
02/03/2008
As expenses go up and revenue stays flat or shrinks, Columbus voters should expect to see a school tax levy on the ballot in November, district officials explained at the first of a series of four public meetings.
MRSA hits SWCS
02/03/2008
Three cases of MRSA have been reported in the South-Western City School District.
Value-added program assessed
02/03/2008
At the Jan. 28 South-Western City School District Board of Education special meeting, district leaders assessed the value-added program.
 Parking plans screech to a halt
02/03/2008
Columbus City Council temporarily put the brakes on a $14 million parking garage project at High and Rich Streets, after property owners Otto and Joyce Beatty complained that the construction would harm business for their tenants.
 FT welcomes long-awaited ride
02/03/2008
Franklin Township acquired their long-awaited new Ford 550 truck on Jan. 21 to replace the almost 15 year-old road maintenance truck.
PT hears zoning request
02/03/2008
Prairie Township trustees approved a request to add auto repair to the list of permitted uses for 480 South Grener Road on Jan. 30.
Photo: Seeing red
02/03/2008
Robin Coolidge, with the Cardinal Health Orchestra String Quartet, plays at Columbus City Hall Jan. 28 amid a sea of red apparel
Reel Deal: "Rambo" falls short
02/03/2008
Twenty years after the last “Rambo” graced the screen, he is back with a vengeance. The question is; why is he back?
 Letters to the editor
02/03/2008
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
02/03/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 One more empty building
01/25/2008
As yet another business prepares to close its doors, the Westside of Columbus is beginning to look more and more like a ghost town.
 No more teacher strikes?
01/25/2008
Columbus City Schools (CCS) Board of Education member Carlton Weddington informed the board at the Jan. 22 meeting that there are two pieces of legislation that came before the Ohio School Board Association and are
 Wedgewood elects coucnil
01/25/2008
The residents at Wedgewood Village Apartments are stepping up and taking charge.
 Westage resident seeks civic organization
01/26/2008
There may be one more name added to the ever-growing list of community based organizations on the Westside.
100th birthday brings memories of past
01/26/2008
“I remember little things,” said Anne Markey, referring to the day her father left Germany to serve in World War I. She was eleven then.
Board member vies for student health
01/26/2008
Columbus City Schools (CCS) Board of Education member Betty Drummond expressed clear frustration with the district’s ability to offer “non-core” course offerings
Green Lawn announces contest winners
01/26/2008
Two veteran photographers are among the winners in the 2007 photo contest at Geen Lawn Cemetery.
Blockwatch Beat: Your Westside resource
01/26/2008
There is a new face on the streets of the Westside.
Reel Deal: Try "27 Dresses" on for size
01/26/2008
When you go to see a romantic comedy, like, “27 Dresses,” you know it will more than likely follow the same formula as romantic comedies before. If you do not know the formula, allow me to brief you.
 Column: 1968 - That's not the way it was
01/26/2008
It was a year of assassination, war, riots, and protests. A year many historians feel was a turning point for America, both politically and culturally. It was 1968.
Photos: Bruins beat the Bulldogs
01/26/2008
Briggs High School player Josh Allen pulls up for 2 of his 24 total game points in the Briggs home game against South High School.
 What's happening on the Westside
01/26/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
SWCS could get big bucks
01/21/2008
The South-Western City School District could see new facilities in the near future.
 Westland kids beat the bell
01/21/2008
When in high school, there are several reasons why a student might roll into class late.
 Willow Creek still in the dark
01/21/2008
The city of Columbus told residents of the Willow Creek subdivision that street lights would be added to their neighborhood after voters approved the last bond issue. Several years have passed and those residents are still in the dark.
 WAC advises citizens to speak up
01/21/2008
The Westland Area Commission is encouraging its members and the community to become involved with activities leading up to the bicentennial celebration of the city of Columbus.
PT follows nuisance cases
01/21/2008
Prairie Township residents expressed concern regarding recent zoning violations and ongoing nuisance cases that plague the township at the Jan. 17 regularly scheduled trustee meeting.
 FT to allow vacation rollover
01/21/2008
Franklin Township trustees worked to correct the excess vacation hours that have accumulated among township officers over the last two years at the Jan. 10 regularly scheduled meeting.
Reel Deal: She'll be back
01/21/2008
When I first heard about a television series called “Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles,” I thought of one word-Lame.
Photos: Cowboys shot down
01/21/2008
West High School’s Shawn Hamilton (3) tries his best off two Grove City Greyhounds at the away game on Jan. 12.
Photo: Cougars slash Cruisers
01/21/2008
Groveport players double team Westland High School’s Kaylee Baker during the Jan. 11 matchup that took place at Groveport Madison High School.
 FC helps keep the heat on
01/21/2008
In an effort to help Franklin County residents with the escalating cost of heating their homes during the winter months, Franklin County Commissioners and Franklin County Job and Family Services
 SWACo says 2007 was record year
01/21/2008
The Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO) has reported record amounts of materials recycled at its 190 drop off recycling locations throughout Columbus and Franklin County.
 Westside volunteers needed
01/21/2008
AARP Tax-Aide, the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation service, hopes to launch a new Westside location this year, but needs volunteers for tax counseling and/or leadership positions to make the new location possible.
 Letters to the editor
01/21/2008
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
01/21/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Valleyview Council seeks new member
01/13/2008
The Village of Valleyview is looking for a few good people who are interested in serving on the village council.
Westside, meet Westin
01/13/2008
Armed with a striped bandanna, a wide-brimmed hat, rosy cheeks, and a full handle-bar mustache, the new face of West High School athletics corralled students and supporters of the buff and brown Cowboys for the first time
New year, new building
01/13/2008
Students at Wedgewood Middle School learned the true meaning of “Out with the old, in with the new” on Jan. 7.
 Children Services looking for volunteers
01/13/2008
We’ve all heard the saying, “A little bit goes a long way.”
CCS sets levy committee
01/13/2008
Columbus City Schools are starting the new year with a new committee.
SWCS get organized
01/13/2008
At the Jan. 7 organizational meeting, the South-Western City School District Board of Education named its new president.
 Historical Society honors Chase
01/13/2008
The Chase Manhattan Bank carries his name. He introduced national paper currency to the United States to finance the Civil War, and put his own picture on the $10,000 bill.
Reel Deal: No love for "P.S. I Love You"
01/13/2008
When I saw the trailer for “P.S. I Love You” a few weeks back, I thought ‘eh, I think I’ll skip it.’
 Column: The job makes not the man
01/13/2008
Although I no longer work as a substitute teacher, one of my great joys is running into my “kids” from Brookpark Middle School.
Photos: They be jammin'
01/13/2008

 GHAC launches Wen surveys
01/13/2008
As a way to increase participation from members of the community and to generate interest in the events that shape the future of the Hilltop, the Greater Hilltop Area Commission has launched an online survey
 Winter tips for safety on ice
01/13/2008
Recent cold temperatures left waterways ice covered across the state, and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Watercraft urges outdoor enthusiasts who venture onto frozen lakes and ponds for
 What's happening on the Westside
01/13/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Driving towards a greener future
01/06/2008
As the residents of Columbus strive to start the new year off on the right foot, Mayor Michael Coleman is working to ensure that 2008 is the city’s greenest year yet.
 Mix Avenue buildings ready to fall
01/06/2008
Prairie Township Road Superintendent Dave McAninch announced final project deadlines for the long-anticipated demolition of the apartments at Stiles and Mix Avenues at the Jan. 2 regularly scheduled meeting.
 FT approves purchase of new medic
01/06/2008
Franklin Township trustees ordered a new medic for the fire department.
Westside store caters to vets
01/06/2008
A lot of people talk about supporting the troops.
 Westside native's poems inspire
01/06/2008
When Grove City resident Eva Dimel hears of something that has happened to a friend or even a tragedy that has befallen someone she doesn’t know, the first thing she does is offer a prayer.
A little piece of home
01/06/2008
The American Legion Junior Auxiliary from post 532 recently folded 300 pocket-sized flags to fit into the pockets of military personnel.
 Dog license deadline fast approaching
01/06/2008
In 2007, 10,000 lost or stray dogs were picked up or brought to the Franklin County Dog Shelter, and most of those were unlicensed.
 If at first you don't succeed, quit again
01/06/2008
It’s tough to be a quitter, especially if you’re trying to quit smoking, according to the American Lung Association of Ohio.
 Local volunteers needed
01/06/2008
AARP Tax-Aide, the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation service, hopes to launch a new Westside location this year, but needs volunteers for tax counseling and/or leadership positions to make the new location possible.
Reel Deal: "Juno" tells of teen drama
01/06/2008
The topic of teen pregnancy has not often been featured in Hollywood movies.
Photos: Westside wrestlers face off
01/06/2008
Ahmed Jilo of West High School was visibly upset after his loss in the championship round to Josh Wilbur of Hamilton Township. The wrestlers were competing for the top spot in the 125-pound weight class of the Bishop Ready Winter Classic held Dec. 27-28.
Photo: Student designs Christmas cards
01/06/2008
When the Wal-Mart Distribution Center came up with the idea for a contest for children of their employees 12 and under to make a card that would be sent to all of the employees during the holiday season, 10-year-old Caylee Goodman signed up.
 Letters to the editor
01/06/2008
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
01/06/2008
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 MRDD levy will hit ballot in March
12/28/2007
The Franklin County Commissioners voted to place a 3.5 mill levy on the March 4 ballot to fund the Franklin County Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities.
 Westside getting new Legion post
12/28/2007
Ben Aycock is a busy man.
Cheer team reaches out to youngsters
12/28/2007
The #1s gather together at the Step 1 All-Stars annual Christmas party on Dec. 20.
Author's book will benefit libraries
12/28/2007
The German heritage of Grove City lives on via the animals inhabiting author Janet Shailer's world of Dutch Pike Trilogy, a children's book featuring a trio of stories based on local rural life.
 First Saturday at Green Lawn
12/28/2007
The founding of Mount Carmel Hospital is the topic of the First Saturday at Green Lawn program for the start of the new year.
 Mayor seeks input on bike path
12/28/2007
With goals of greatly improving the biking culture in Columbus, making it safer and easier to get around by bike and helping people get fit, Mayor Michael B. Coleman is pushing for the 2012 Bicentennial Bikeways Master Plan in partnership with MORPC and o
 Westside volunteers needed
12/28/2007
AARP Tax-Aide, the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation service, hopes to launch a new Westside location this year, but needs volunteers for tax counseling and/or leadership positions to make the new location possible.
 Visit Battelle in Jaunary
12/28/2007
Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park is located at 1775 Darby Creek Dr. in Galloway, four miles off Route 40 just east of West Jefferson.
 Blockwatch Beat: Your Westside resource
12/28/2007
The weather outside may be getting colder, but the chill in the air won’t stop the criminals.
Reel Deal: "Sweeney Todd" a cut above the rest
12/28/2007
Usually when Johnny Depp and Tim Burton collaborate for a movie, I will want to see it.
 Guest Column: Help is on the way to remedy mortgage crisis
12/28/2007
Caveat emptor has always been an integral concept in free market economies.
Photo: Nothing to celebrate
12/28/2007
Members from the Central Crossing High School girls varsity basketball team celebrate a good play though reasons to celebrate were few and far between for the Comets.
Photo: For our four-legged friends
12/28/2007
Leslie Steffes and her first grade class at Westgate Alternative Elementary collected critical need items for the Capital Area Humane Society as a holiday service project.
They signed the dotted line
12/20/2007
Nearly eight months after contract negotiations began, the South-Western City School Board of Education and the South-Western Education Association (SWEA) have reached an agreement.
Middle schools may go
12/20/2007
Middle schools may be a thing of the past for Columbus City Schools.
PT building codes to be enforced locally
12/20/2007
Prairie Township Trustees voted to establish a local building department within Prairie Township in order to enforce and regulate building codes more efficiently and cost effectively at their Dec. 19 regular meeting.
Columbus City Schools make big advancements
12/20/2007
Columbus City Schools got a boost by a report released by the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) on Dec. 13, which demonstrates Columbus City Schools (CCS) students have realized over a year’s worth of academic growth within a normal school year’s tim
 Money down the drain
12/20/2007
Mayor Michael Coleman and Columbus City Council are flushing $106 million down the drain, and there’s more to come.
 First Night Columbus welcomes 2008
12/20/2007
New Year’s Day is in sight and revelers can celebrate the end of 2007 on Dec. 31 at First Night Columbus held at multiple indoor and outdoor venues scattered throughout downtown Columbus.
Vets honored with Christmas wreaths
12/20/2007
Vietnam veteran Mike Hogan appreciates the idea of placing wreaths on graves of military veterans at Christmas time.
CCS says goodbye to Cabot
12/20/2007
Columbus City Schools honored departing board member Jeff Cabot on Dec. 18 for his six years of service to the Columbus City Schools (CCS) with a plaque commemorating his years of service
 Free tax service seeks Westside volunteers
12/20/2007
AARP Tax-Aide, the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation service, hopes to launch a new Westside location this year, but needs volunteers for tax counseling and/or leadership positions to make the new location possible.
 Column: Christmas magic changes with time
12/20/2007
Heading into the holiday season with a spirit of more downs than ups, I was searching for that one favorite holiday memory that would bring the warmth of giving back home.
 Column: Blessings come in all shapes and sizes
12/20/2007
There’s just a day or two to get out those final few Christmas cards.
Photos: Flipping out!
12/20/2007
Central Crossing High School's Katie Swank Kavanaugh performs her routine on the balance beam at the Dec. 18 Central District quad gymnastics meet hosted by Westland High School.
Photos: Binns students give to others
12/20/2007
Students at Binns Elementary, temporarily relocated to Stockbridge Elementary on the city’s south side, sponsored a “Giving Tree” on Dec. 18.
 What's happening on the Westside
12/20/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Valleyview may see full-time police
12/17/2007
Valleyview Village Council is considering making the office of police chief a full-time position, although a former council member questions the urgency of the legislation.
 Columbus officials beg for bolstered budgets
12/17/2007
Columbus department heads came to City Council Dec. 6 with their hats in their hands, asking to have some of their anticipated 2008 budget cuts restored.
 Volunteers needed to create area plan
12/17/2007
Franklin Township trustees want to find residents and business owners with an interest in the township’s future to join a planning committee organized by the Southwest Area Commission.
 WAC revisits Blauser property rezoning
12/17/2007
After having rejected a request for rezoning rural land in far western Franklin County, the Westland Area Commission reversed its vote and approved the issue last week.
 City striving to improve neighborhood partnerships
12/17/2007
Columbus City Council is working hard to ensure they have a good working relationship with their neighborhood organizations.
You say goodbye, I say hello
12/17/2007
It was a night for saying hello and goodbye at the last official South-Western City School Board of Education meeting of the 2007 year.
 MOPH looks to increase ranks
12/17/2007
The first Purple Heart Medal, originally referred to as the Badge of Military Merit, was issued during the Revolutionary War by George Washington.
 Holidays prime time for teen trouble
12/17/2007
One of the best gifts parents can give their teens during the holidays - and throughout the year - is a clear message about the dangers of drinking, drug use and driving, experts agreed at a Nov. 27 panel discussion.
Owl watching a hoot in winter
12/17/2007
If you are someone who is fascinated by owls, now is the time to get a glimpse.
 Keeping your pet safe from winter weather
12/17/2007
We know how to keep ourselves safe from the cold winter weather but what can we do about our furry four-legged friends?
 West High students named to All-City teams
12/17/2007
The following West High School student athletes were named to Columbus City League All-City Teams:
 District earns auditor's award
12/17/2007
Auditor of State Mary Taylor’s office presented the South-Western City School District with the Making Your Tax Dollars Count Award for fiscal year 2005.
 Protect your home this holiday season
12/17/2007
With more than 32 million homes decorating real Christmas trees this season, according to the National Christmas Tree Association (NCTA), there is no doubt that this holiday season will bring cheer.
 Holiday shopping safety tips
12/17/2007
Holiday shopping can be fun but The Columbus Division of Police warns that it can also be dangerous. They offer the following safety tips:
Reel Deal: Golden Compass lacks direction
12/17/2007
Under normal circumstances, I do not talk about religion (and I really don’t intend to here) but I do believe in respecting a person’s right to worship, or not, whom they choose.
Reel Deal: This film not for the squeamish
12/17/2007
If you stumble upon a drug deal gone wrong and take the $2 million that is supposed to go to Mexican drug lords, don’t come back later to the scene of the crime to give water to a dying drug trafficker.
Photo: Falcons grounded by Cruisers
12/17/2007
Josh Caldwell of Franklin Heights High School gets a hand on the ball to stop the shot by Groveport’s Todd Ferguson in the Dec. 11 varsity game at Groveport.
Photo: Westgate students win contest
12/17/2007
Three students from Westgate Alternative Elementary, 3080 Wicklow Road, were recently selected winners of the National Fire Prevention Poster Contest sponsored by the American Red Cross of Greater Columbus.
 What's happening on the Westside
12/17/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
CCS makes deal with Nationwide Arena
12/10/2007
A long-time feud between Columbus City Schools and Nationwide Arena may soon be coming to an end.
PT Senior Center on the move
12/10/2007
The Prairie Township Senior Center will relocate to a smaller, less expensive venue in 2008.
 Zone initiative picks up speed
12/10/2007
The lines of contact between Columbus and its residents are growing as City Attorney Richard Pfeiffer markets a Zone Initiative program designed to enhance communication across the city.
SWCS sign contracts with some employees
12/10/2007
The South-Western City School District Board of Education has voted to approve employee contracts, but it is not with the South-Western Education Association (SWEA).
 Slippery situation in FT
12/10/2007
Franklin Township roads will remain snowy longer than usual in the next few months.
 Shelter board seeks help from community
12/10/2007
As the temperatures drop, those who do not have shelter, seek it.
"Sweeney Todd" devours Palace Theatre
12/10/2007
The musical “Sweeney Todd” might ostensibly be about murder and cannibalism but, according to cast member Lauren Molina, there is more for audiences to chew on than these gory details.
Westside online poll question of the week
12/10/2007
Do you think the upcoming hike in water rates for Columbus residents is justified?
 Photos: Holiday happenings at Franklin Park Conservatory
12/10/2007
The Victorian gingerbread home created by Suzanne Karpus,
Photos: FH Band gets crafty
12/10/2007
Marie Weekly of Parkersburg, W. Va., and Jacki Haycook of Grove City work on crafts to display at their booth during the Holiday Craft Bazaar held by the Franklin Heights High School band boosters Dec. 1.
Photos: Silver Knight Christmas party
12/10/2007
The annual Silver Knight Christmas Party, sponsored by the Bishop Ready junior class, boys basketball teams, National Honor Society and Beta Club was held Dec. 2.
 Take home a cat this Christmas
12/10/2007
Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve, the Capital Area Humane Society is encouraging central Ohio residents to celebrate the holiday season by becoming a “forever family” for a homeless cat or kitten.
 Get green for the holidays with SWACO
12/10/2007
The Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO) says give the gifts that keep on giving this holiday season by practicing the “3-R’s” of reduce, reuse and recycle.
 Letters to the editor
12/10/2007
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
12/10/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 SWEA threatens to strike
11/29/2007
The members of the South-Western Education Association (SWEA) are one step closer to a strike.
 Columbus water rates on the rise
11/29/2007
As Columbus residential water and sewer rates rise, city officials are being warned that this tide is not likely to recede any time soon.
 Illibuck hails from Westside
11/29/2007
The rivalry between Ohio State and Michigan is one that runs deep through the hearts and souls of Buckeye fans everywhere. However, Michigan is not Ohio State’s only rival.
 OHC clothes drive extended
11/29/2007
The Ohio Hispanic Coalition is in the middle of a winter clothes drive for the Hispanic/Latino community in central Ohio.
 New opportunities for special needs cheerleaders
11/29/2007
It seems that anything with the word star in it is destined to be a big hit. Now the Grove City Cheer Center has their own “Super Shining Stars.”
 Column: Bringing out the Christmas crazies
11/29/2007
It was 4 o’clock in the morning and close to freezing outside.
 Reel Deal: No need to "Rush" to theaters
11/29/2007
There are some movies that go above and beyond to get any kind of reaction.
 Photos: Game over for Silver Knights
11/29/2007
Bishop Ready Silver Knight Assistant Coach Bill Brintlinger consoles his son, Bishop Ready senior running back/linebacker Shea Brintlinger, after the teams 28-6 loss to Youngstown Ursuline Nov. 23 in Canton.
 Photos: Falcons start season flying high
11/29/2007
West High School’s Domonique Wade gets a block on Dorrell Taylor of Franklin Heights during the season opener for both teams.
 Photo: Westgate Hawks finish perfect season
11/29/2007
The Westgate Hawks followed an undefeated 2007 season with a CCFL championship Nov. 3.
 Pryce holds local office hours
11/29/2007
The district office of Congresswoman Deborah Pryce (R-Columbus) announced the scheduling of community office hours in Hilliard.
 Letters to the editor
11/29/2007
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor! Submit yours to www.columbusmessenger.com.
 What's happening on the Westside
11/29/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
CCS contemplates levy
11/24/2007
The Columbus City Schools Board of Education announced the upcoming creation of a Columbus City Schools Operating Levy Advisory Committee to research and make recommendations to the board regarding the addition of a levy to the 2008 ballot.
 City looks to lose jobs
11/24/2007
As Columbus looks to add police officers to its force in 2008, it could also eliminate as many as 101 full-time and part-time positions across all departments
 Columbus water rates to rise
11/24/2007
The Columbus Department of Public Utilities is recommending an 18 percent increase in water rates and a 10 percent hike in sewer rates for 2008, as the city is inundated with rising costs and unfunded mandates.
 WAC asks city for sidewalks
11/24/2007
The president of the Westland Area Commission asked Columbus City Council to work toward getting sidewalks in some areas and also building a regional recreation center.
PT readies for wrecking ball
11/24/2007
Franklin County and Prairie Township continue to take action toward the eventual destruction of vacant properties located on Stiles and Mix Avenues.
Reel Deal: "Beowulf" a big adventure
11/24/2007
Somewhere along the educational lines, you are bound to run into “Beowulf” a tenth century epic poem written in Old English about the adventures of a great Scandinavian warrior of the sixth century.
Blockwatch Beat: Winter weather tips
11/24/2007
A change of weather means a change of the type of criminal activity that we experience. Gone is the stolen lawnmower, replaced by the stolen snow blower. To keep yourself and your property safe during the cold months, the Blockwatch Beat has some great ti
Blockwatch Beat: A hilltop gem
11/24/2007
If you haven’t had dealings with the police department, and I don’t mean criminal dealings, you may have never seen the Columbus Police Academy, located at 1000 N. Hague Ave.
Photo: One "Crazzy" ride
11/24/2007
There were 78 teams, 1,100 feet of plastic tubing, and a whole lot of seventh-grade imagination behind this years Finland Middle School Roller Coaster Derby.
 City tree lighting a family affair
11/24/2007
Join Columbus Recreation and Parks Department Director Alan McKnight, Mayor Michael B. Coleman and members of Columbus City Council for the official tree lighting ceremony at Columbus City Hall, Tuesday Nov. 27 at 5 p.m.
 OSU leaders to be honored
11/24/2007
Three presidents of The Ohio State University who are buried at Green Lawn will be recognized at the Dec. 1 First Saturday at Green Lawn program.
Photo: Local league named champs
11/24/2007
The Westland Youth Traveling Football Team has been named 2007 champions of the Carl J. Fulton Pony League.
Photo: BR seniors excel
11/24/2007
Bishop Ready High School seniors Mary McAllister and Jennifer Colley pose with Bishop Ready principal Celene A. Seamen following the announcement of their selection as semi-finalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program.
 Letters to the editor
11/24/2007
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
11/24/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Buckeye Ranch looks to move west
11/15/2007
As the Hilltop Marketplace prepares to close its doors, another business is hoping to open them back up.
SWEA holds rally
11/15/2007
They have been working without a contract and they are fed up with it.
 SWAC continues area plan
11/15/2007
Members of the Southwest Area Commission are combing the community looking for people to serve on a variety of committees
 Columbus to see more police officers next year
11/15/2007
Columbus will put more cops and cruisers on the streets in 2008, and will be using a $12. million communications emergency response vehicle to link up with agencies across the state and the country.
 SWCS discuss future finances
11/15/2007
The South-Western City Schools Board of Education held a community forum on Nov. 7 to discuss the five-year forecast.
 Coop out, Westland spared
11/15/2007
On Nov. 13, the Franklin County Commissioners approved a resolution that allowed the city of Columbus to annex Cooper Stadium from Franklin Township.
Ohio sends trees to troops
11/15/2007
Waters’ Christmas Tree Farm in South Solon answered the call of duty Nov. 13, as they participated in Operation Evergreen
Cleaning up the Hilltop
11/15/2007
On Nov. 3, members of the Columbus Division of Police 112th recruit class had other options for their community service project, but chose the Hilltop
 Green Lawn gets wreaths for vets
11/15/2007
Dec. 15 marks a first for Franklin County.
 Be safe this holiday season
11/15/2007
Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is urging the public to keep safety in mind when preparing holiday meals.
 Senior dogs make good friends
11/15/2007
Not all dogs who end up at the shelter are puppies and young adults.
 Winter wonderland at Darby
11/15/2007
Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park is located at 1775 Darby Creek Dr. in Galloway, four miles off Route 40
 Column: Beltway mentality hinders good government
11/18/2007
While the affliction cannot be found in any medical journal, the malady known as “beltway mentality” has a way of infecting many otherwise well-meaning legislators
Photos: Mayor inspects "warriors"
11/18/2007
Columbus City Councilwoman Maryellen O’Shaughnessy and Mayor Michael Coleman on Nov. 12 inspect the city’s snow plow fleet
Photos: A sad day in the 'Shoe
11/18/2007
The day before Veterans Day, students in the “Block O” section of Ohio Stadium show their patriotic pride
Photo: Ohio Theatre marquee shines again
11/18/2007
One of the shining lights of the downtown Columbus scene is now even brighter, with the completed renovations to the marquee of the historic Ohio Theatre
Photos: Briggs teams finish season ahead
11/18/2007
The Briggs High School girls’ tennis team is on a roll!
Photo: DAV honors Westside businesses
11/18/2007
Chapter 142 of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) presented awards to several Westside businesses for their assistance in a yard sale held to benifit the organization.
 What's happening on the Westside
11/18/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 CCS superintendent to receive pay hike
11/08/2007
In spite of financial problems and possible budget cuts, two high-profile employees with Columbus City Schools will soon be bringing home bigger paychecks.
 One less itch to scratch in PT
11/08/2007
Prairie Township residents will have one less itch to scratch next summer.
 FT fire gets state grant
11/08/2007
The Franklin Township Fire Department applied for a $2,000 grant from the State of Ohio and received $3,000.
 Local church falls victim to theft
11/08/2007
The Faith Community Church at the corner of Alkire and Demorest roads wants neighbors to keep a watchful eye.
 County helps domestic violence victims
11/08/2007
In order to combat violence, Franklin County Commissioners presented a $320,000 check to Gail Heller, Executive Director of CHOICES for Victims of Domestic Violence, Inc. on Nov. 6.
 Stivers announces candidacy
11/08/2007
State Senator Steve Stivers (R-Columbus) has announced his candidacy for the 15th Ohio Congressional District serving part of Franklin County, Madison and Union counties.
 Adoptable dogs want good homes, Michigan victory
11/08/2007
There’s an incurable and highly contagious condition running rampant among adoptable dogs at the Franklin County Dog Shelter (FCDS) – Buckeye fever.
 2007 unofficial election results
11/08/2007
See who won and who lost
 A Coleman "threepeat"
11/08/2007
Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman and Columbus City Council President Michael Mental were encouraged by Democrats sweep of council
 What a nut!
11/08/2007

 What's happening on the Westside
11/08/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 "Got milkweed?"
11/01/2007
If you ask most fifth-graders about their dream vacation, they would probably describe to you a trip to Disney World or a visit to the beach. Lindsay Birnbrich of Galloway, however, is not most fifth-graders.
 West Broad discussion continues
11/01/2007
The possible redevelopment of West Broad Street is a hot topic around the Hilltop. For this reason, it was no surprise when several residents were in attendance at part two of the market analysis report presentation on the area.
 CCS may eliminate 60 positions
11/01/2007
Columbus City Schools (CCS) Chief Financial Officer, Dr. Michael Kinnear, announced during his five-year forecast at the CCS Oct. 16 board meeting that if the current trends continue, 60 teaching positions may have to go unfilled or get eliminated.
 Children Services needs holiday volunteers
11/01/2007
With the holidays right around the corner, many people have already begun seasonal preparations. In all the ensuing hustle and bustle, however, those who need the most help can be easily forgotten.
 Westsider knows wonders of walking
11/01/2007
Hilltop resident Ann Nicholson and her sister Bea Fulton were looking for a different type of exercise a few years ago when they learned about what is commonly known as the sport of the people.
 Column: Big let down for Indian fans
11/01/2007
It’s autumn and time for annual rituals.
 Guest Column: Trips with kids can be fun and cheap
11/01/2007
Traveling with your children can be fun. No really, it’s true. It can be done with little money and even less stress.
 Guest Column: Blockwatch Beat
11/01/2007
Why is a blockwatch or community policing important? Why should be we involved in our neighborhood?
 Trick or treat!
11/05/2007

 HBA hopes to revitalize West Broad
10/25/2007
Once upon a time, West Broad Street was a happening place. If the Hilltop Business Association has its way, it will be again.
 Columbus police look for input
10/25/2007
A town meeting held by the Columbus Division of Police on Oct. 23 was intended to be way to “keep the lines of communication open between the public and the division,” said Sgt. Rich Weiner, communications director for the department.
 SWCS talk five-year plan
10/25/2007
At the South-Western City School Work Session, held on Oct. 22, the board unveiled their five-year forecast.
 Some PT residents may see increase on water bill
10/25/2007
At the Oct. 24 Prairie Township Board of Trustees meeting, a piece of news was discussed that had residents in attendance a bit upset after hearing it.
 FT to join SWAC in planning
10/25/2007
The city of Columbus will begin forming a committee comprised of residents and business owners from the Southwest section of the city along with those from Franklin Township.
 Strickland shows support through Learning Center
10/25/2007
African-American males face a gauntlet of obstacles in obtaining a college degree and owning a home, and even the best and the brightest are confronted with the barriers of low expectations and scant support.
 Beat the crowds at voting booths
10/25/2007
Ohio voters may request absentee ballots without stating a reason.
 Green Lawn to honor fallen police officers
10/25/2007
Police officers killed in the line of duty and who are buried at Green Lawn will be recognized Nov. 3 at the First Saturday at Green Lawn program.
 Reel Deal: Movie takes viewers on must-see adventure
10/25/2007
“Into the Wild” is a movie that will surely split the viewing audience in two or maybe even the person watching.
 Photo: Creepy crawlies!
10/25/2007
It’s easy to see that it’s Halloween on the Westside!
 Photos: Buckeyes spear Spartans
10/25/2007
No. 1 ranked Ohio State, led by Head Coach Jim Tressel continued its undefeated 2007 season with a 24-17 win over the Michigan State Spartans on Oct. 20.
 Photo: Comets fall to Panthers
10/25/2007

 Letters to the editor
10/25/2007
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
10/25/2007

 Westside crime rates higher at night
10/18/2007
In 2006, the Westside, or zone three, lead Columbus in homicides and was the busiest area of the city for police calls between the hours of 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.
 Columbus schools plan for future
10/18/2007
The Columbus City School board heard the five-year fiscal forecast from Chief Financial Officer, Dr. Michael Kinnear, at their Oct. 16 meeting.
 CCS discusses communication lines
10/18/2007
At the Oct. 16 meeting of the Columbus City Schools Board of Education, Superintendent Gene Harris discussed Executive Limitations nine, provision one.
 WAC assured council hears them
10/18/2007
Members of the Westland Area Commission who have attended Columbus City Council meetings say they are telling council members about the issues facing their area.
 High-flyin' family fun a short trip away
10/18/2007
Eighty years ago, young pilots guided war birds across the skies of Europe. Twenty years later, they returned to the heavens over Germany in sleeker and faster aircraft.
 Advice for cat lovers
10/18/2007
Is your cat using your house as its litter box?
 Reel Deal: "Chick-flick" brings comfort in common grou
10/18/2007
There is a scene in “The Jane Austen Book Club” where one of the characters is waiting for the light to change so she can cross the street to go to the hotel where her just graduated high school student is waiting to commence their affair.
 Photos: OSU reclaims number one spot
10/22/2007
The Buckeyes claimed a 48-3 victory during their home game against Kent State Oct. 13, leading to a No. 1 ranking in BCS polls.
 Photo: Franklin heights serves it up
10/22/2007
The Franklin Heights High School lady falcons varsity volleyball team squared off against Olentangy Liberty on Oct. 11.
 Photo: Westland defeated by Groveport
10/22/2007
Cougar quarterback Jarod Smith (11), was just seconds away from being tackled by the Groveport Cruisers at Westland’s home game on Oct. 12.
 Photos: 2007 Westland Open
10/22/2007
The 2007 Westland Open was held Oct. 13 at Westland High School.
 What's happening on the Westside
10/22/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 PT candidate drops out
10/11/2007
Prairie Township voters will have one less name to pick from at the polls on Nov. 6.
 Wise named Superintendent
10/11/2007
When South-Western City Schools Superintendent Dr. R. Kirk Hamilton announced he was leaving his position to become the deputy executive director of the Buckeye Association of School Administrators, the board knew they would have big shoes to fill.
 Harris says CCS on upward swing
10/11/2007
Fort Hayes Metropolitan Education Center was abuzz Oct. 4, the night of the annual State of Columbus City Schools address.
 Teachers exercise their "writes"
10/11/2007
Members of the South-Western Education Association (SWEA) were on hand to deliver a big message at the Oct. 8 South-Western City Schools Board of Education meeting.
 FT asks burning question
10/11/2007
Franklin Township fire and police have been trying to find the person burning garbage late at night in the Eastfield area.
 Township prepares for auction
10/11/2007
The eclectic items at the Franklin Township auction on Oct. 20 will range from clothing to a dump truck.
 Local librarian earns award
10/11/2007
The Ohio Library Council has named newly retired office manager Martha Hamilton as their Supportive Staff Member of the Year for 2007.
 Westsiders honored for volunteering
10/11/2007
When Jean Purdy and her husband retired, they would go out to lunch and other places. Often they wouldn’t get home until after dark. Soon, their children began to worry.
 Low-income cancer screening
10/11/2007
An Ohio agency that screens low-income women for cancer just received more funding.
 Letters to the editor
10/11/2007
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
10/11/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Mayoral candidates debte issues
10/06/2007
In a debate with incumbent Mayor Michael Coleman, challenger William Todd said that to attract and retain residents, Columbus needed
 New partnership helps Columbs go even greener
10/06/2007
Everywhere you look, companies, organizations, and even households are going green.
 Todd's campaign in question
10/06/2007
What started out as a Columbus mayoral race between a popular incumbent and a long-shot challenger has mushroomed to include the Columbus school district and its teachers’ union, a conservative think tank and the IRS.
 Teachers awarded school supplies
10/06/2007
Under the guise of a school assembly, two teachers at North Franklin Elementary School, Anne Varsanyi and Barbara Sullivan, were surprised to learn that they were picked to receive over $1,400 worth of school supplies
 Fire departments celebrate Fire Prevention Week
10/06/2007
Imagine it's late at night and you are woken up by the sounds of an alarm and the smell of smoke.
 Westsiders receive Civitan Awards
10/06/2007
Two Columbus servicemen received awards on Sept. 27 for "performance above and beyond the call of duty."
 CCS recognizes Kiwanis fair
10/06/2007
At the Oct. 2 meeting of the Columbus City Schools Board of Education, the board unanimously approved a resolution of appreciation for the Downtown Kiwanis Club of Columbus for co-sponsoring "The Columbus Kiwanis College Fair"
 P-51 pilot recalls flying days over Europe
10/06/2007
Columbus is a long way in time and distance from the skies over World War II Berlin, but the recent Mustangs and Legends: The Final Round-Up air show transported Westsider Richard Krauss across the years
 Mayor Coleman, ADA, lunch on the lawn
10/06/2007
To raise awareness for diabetes testing, the American Diabetes Association and Mayor Michael Coleman are hosting events for "Step Out to Fight Diabetes" this fall.
 PT newsletter now available
10/06/2007
The Prairie Township Board of Trustees has announced the release of the Prairie Township Fall/Winter 2007/2008 Newsletter.
 Photot: Just a-swingin'
10/06/2007
Harmon Elementary Fall Festival photo
 Photos: The passing of the crown
10/06/2007
Holly Finchum, the 2006 Queen, crowns Jordan Baumann as Bishop Ready's 2007 Homecoming Queen during the football game Sept. 28
 Photo: Flying high
10/06/2007
La Pistolera, a P-51 Mustang owned by Rod Lewis, was one of over 100 vintage aircraft perched on the flightline at the Rickenbacker Airport during the Gathering of Mustangs and Legends
 Letters to the editor
10/06/2007
Something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
10/06/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what's going on in your neighborhood!
 Teacher contract negotiations halted
09/29/2007
Negotiations between the South-Western City Schools Board of Education and the South-Western Education Association (SWEA) have come to a standstill.
 PT cleaning up unwanted art
09/29/2007
If you take a drive through any town, chances are you are going to see two things.
 SWCS discuss Homestead Tax
09/29/2007

 FT Trustees discuss lending legalities
09/29/2007
The Franklin Township Trustees wrote a letter to the Franklin County Prosecutor's office questioning the legality of the township lending its equipment to employees.
 Westland seniors to work polls
09/29/2007
South-Western City School students in the Youth at the Booth program will make their presence felt at the polls for the general election on Nov. 6.
 SWCS enrollment holds steady
09/29/2007
With over 17 elementary schools, five middle schools, five intermediate schools, and four high schools, there is sure to be plenty of students in the seats.
 Messenger receives IFPA awards
09/29/2007

 Column: High tech not always picture perfect
09/29/2007
If digital photography is supposed to make life so much easier, then why is it causing me so much stress?
 Photos: Gholston finds goal line
09/29/2007
Ohio State defensive end Vernon Gholston (50) scoops up a fumble, after Anderson Russell’s sack of Northwestern
 Photos: Redd hosts tournament
09/29/2007
Westside's Michael Redd is putting his seasonal time-off from the Milwaukee bucks to good use.
 Letters to the editor
09/29/2007
Something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor!
 What's happening on the Westside
09/29/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Don't worry, it's on our side
09/21/2007
"No one wants to take the long walk."
 Columbus to annex the Coop
09/21/2007
At the Southwest Columbus Area Commission meeting on Sept. 19, a Columbus City official confirmed what township residents had suspected - the city plans to annex Cooper Stadium.
 SWCS teachers debate contracts
09/21/2007
Their contracts are up and negotiations are underway between the teachers of the South-Western City School District,
 SWAC to create development plan
09/21/2007
The Southwest Columbus Area Commission (SWAC), with the help of the city of Columbus, Franklin County and Franklin Township, will create a plan for future developments
 CCS Monitoring Reports revealed
09/21/2007
The Columbus City Schools Superintendent Gene Harris introduced the results of the Columbus City Schools (CCS) Monitoring Report at the Sept. 18 board meeting.
 Tire dumping a growing problem in FT
09/21/2007
Police keep finding old tires dumped in Franklin Township alleys.
 Westsider celebrates 100 years
09/21/2007
Since 1907, the world has become a different place. One thing that hasn't changed, however
 Octocer at Green Lawn
09/21/2007

 Helping out Cozy Cats
09/21/2007
How about having a glass of wine to help some homeless cats?
 Column: Family leaps at book opportunity
09/21/2007
I once smeared tuna fish oil and catnip on my shins to entice a cat to curl around my legs.
 Column: Blockwatch Beat
09/21/2007
I know that I am getting older when it feels like it was yesterday when I was writing this column in the spring!
 Reel Deal: Movie asks big questions
09/21/2007
Any movie that can work that poem from Emily Dickinson and use it in a context that actually pertains to the movie,
 Columbus catches up with 20 new cruisers
09/13/2007
The Columbus Division of Police, racing to get its cruiser fleet up to full strength, received a boost from City Council Sept. 10.
 SWCS to see new faces after the election
09/13/2007
The South-Western City Schools Board of Education will see some new faces next year. Board President Jim Lester and Vice President Gary Leasure will not run for re-election.
 Coach accused of verbal abuse
09/13/2007
"What is the district's policy on background checks?"
 Darby Accord receives top honors
09/13/2007
A plan that Prairie Township is intricately familiar with has won an award for excellence.
 Senior Services in hands of voters
09/13/2007
The Franklin County Senior Services levy will expire at the end of the year unless voters approve Issue 14, a five year, .9 mill replacement levy on Nov. 6.
 FT to repair salt barn
09/13/2007
Last year, the Franklin Township Trustees received a deal on road salt in exchange for ordering more than they usually buy. The weight of the extra salt caused the walls of the salt barn to bow.
 Mustangs and Legends fly into town
09/13/2007
The roar of more than 100 World War II P-51 Mustangs, guided by the same legends whose exploits live on in the planes they continue to pilot, will be heard in the sky over Rickenbacker Airport on Sept. 27-30.
 Westside artist honors women
09/13/2007
There is no denying the direct and profound impact art has had on society and in personal lives.
 Photo: Buckeyes zap Zips
09/13/2007
Akron quarterback Chris Jaquemain gets sacked for a 10-yard loss by Ohio State University’s James Laurinaitis
 Letters to the editor
09/13/2007
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor! Submit yours to www.columbusmessenger.com.
 What's happening on the Westside
09/13/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Reunion notices
09/13/2007
Is it time for catching up? Read the Westside Messenger for information about all local reunions. To submit reunion information, e-mail to westside@columbusmessenger.com.
 CCS teachers say students need to get in shape
09/06/2007
The Columbus School Board listened to teachers’ concerns for Columbus City School (CCS) students’ health as a result of declining physical education programs in CCS at the Sept. 4 board meeting.
 Westside's Michael Redd to hold local tournament
09/06/2007
Phil Jackson, one of the most successful coaches in NBA history, once said, “Good teams become great ones when the members trust each other enough to surrender the ‘me’ for the ‘we.’”
 Hilltop may see mobility improvements
09/06/2007
A hot topic around Columbus this summer is sidewalks and pedestrian safety, and the Hilltop area isn’t one to be left behind.
 Author's tales include Camp Chase
09/06/2007
Mary Katherine Ransburg became so fascinated with first-person story telling from a woman’s point of view that characters began forming in her mind.
 Photo: Buckeyes ice Penguins
09/06/2007
Quarterback Todd Boeckman (#17), a junior from St. Henry, Ohio, hurls the football as the Ohio State
 Column: Novel stirs urge to travel
09/06/2007
I was thumbing through Newsweek recently and came upon an article by David Gates about how 2007 is the 50th anniversary of the publication of the novel “On the Road” by Jack Kerouac.
 Reel Deal: "Halloween" remake horrifyingly disgusting
09/06/2007
"Halloween" was an exciting, suspenseful, psychological thriller that haunted audiences across the United States.
 What's happening on the Westside
09/06/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Reunion notices
09/06/2007
Is it time for catching up? Read the Westside Messenger for information about all local reunions.
 Pounding pavement safer for CCS kids
08/30/2007
Students at Columbus City Schools will now have a safer walk to school, and just in time to strap on their backpacks and head in.
 Townships seek resident input on Town Center
08/30/2007
Residents from Prairie Township, Brown Township and the City of Columbus were seated in the auditorium of Westland High School on Aug. 28, awaiting discussion about the proposed Darby Accord Town Center.
 Franklin Township to repave Brown Road
08/30/2007
The Franklin Township Trustees held a special meeting Aug. 23 in the hopes of receiving state money to repave a portion of Brown Road.
 Local gas station to host mock explosion
08/30/2007
At 7 a.m. on Sept. 6, a mock Improvised Explosive Device (IED) will detonate at the Marathon Station in Franklin Township and the Township fire department will be dispatched.
 Project Mentor helps out students
08/30/2007
It may take a village to raise a child, but Columbus Public Schools and city officials are looking for 1,000 people to help keep the class of 2012 on target to graduate in five years.
 SWCS happy with district scores
08/30/2007
The school year just started and already South-Western City School board members are talking report cards.
 PT continues West Broad talk
08/30/2007
A public hearing on improving existing roads and further talks on the West Broad Street Corridor Proposal were the main topics at the Prairie Township Board of Trustees meeting held on Aug. 29.
 2007 general election candidates and issues
08/30/2007
A listing of the official filings
 Big pets at big risk
08/30/2007
Have you noticed the bigger humans get, the bigger their pets get?
 Column: Practice makes perfect for FT fire department
08/30/2007
It is no fun being in an accident and emergency response is not a humorous topic for firefighters and emergency room doctors.
 Column: NFL player's punishment not harsh enough
08/30/2007
The other day I was watching an NFL pre-season game. The talk was not about football, but rather Atlanta Falcons’ quarterback Michael Vick and his dogfighting case.
 Photos: Franklin Heights Falcons flying high
08/30/2007
With time and options running out, Franklin Heights quarterback, Rian Kennedy chose to run for it,
 Prehistoric playtime
08/30/2007
“Walking with the Dinosaurs: the Live Experience,” made its way into Columbus with a roar as they opened the 4-night event at the Jerome Schottenstein Center on Aug. 22.
 What's happening on the Westside
08/30/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Reunion notices
08/30/2007
Is it time for catching up? Read the Westside Messenger for information about all local reunions.
 Hamilton to leave SWCS
08/23/2007
"It will be difficult to replace someone with his expertise," said the South-Western City School District Board President Jim Lester after hearing Superintendent Dr. R. Kirk Hamilton was leaving.
 Prairie Township discusses West Broad
08/23/2007
If Prairie Township officials get their way, the slowly diminishing section of West Broad Street running from I-270 to Rome-Hilliard Road will soon be a lot busier.
 SWCS hold steady on report cards
08/23/2007
The Ohio Department of Education (ODE) released its annual state report card on Aug. 14 and the South-Western City School District kept its ranking.
 CPS teachers recognized for advanced curriculum
08/23/2007
The Columbus School Board Superintendent Gene Harris took the opportunity to honor 57 advance placement teachers at the Columbus School Board meeting on Aug. 21.
 Book focuses on Westside athletics
08/23/2007
Tom Blake has made his mark as a coach at Brookhaven High School, guiding his football team to an undefeated record 3 years ago.
 Surprising encounters
08/23/2007
Ohio is not the first place you would expect to find a coyote but they are here - in all 88 counties.
 Column: Some loves aren't meant to last
08/23/2007
My love affair with baseball is ebbing away.
 Blockwatch Beat: Your Westside resource
08/23/2007
Guess columns from your neighborhood blockwatch
 Photos: Ready, set, food fight
08/23/2007
Julie Delgado, a 15-year-old Central Crossing student, decided enough was enough when she got completely covered in goo during a food fight
 Pryce will not seek re-election
08/23/2007
Congresswoman Deborah Pryce (OH-15) announced that she will not seek re-election in 2008.
 Columbus fire hits streets for good cause
08/23/2007
Teams of fire fighters from Columbus Local 67 will fan out across the city Aug. 30 through Sept. 1 with boots in hand
 What's happening on the Westside
08/23/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Reunion notices
08/23/2007
Is it time for catching up? Read the Westside Messenger for information about all local reunions.
 West Mound Elementary ready to re-open
08/16/2007
West Mound Elementary School, located at 2051 West Mound St., is one of six reconstructed Columbus Public Schools (CPS) featuring an open house and a dedication ceremony in the month of August.
 Hamilton to receive award
08/16/2007
A surprise award and tax relief were the main focal points at the South-Western City School Board of Education meeting held on Aug. 13.
 Prairie Township aims to improve pedestrian safety
08/16/2007
Prairie Township is making an effort to ensure that their children have a safer walk to school.
 GHAC to study West Broad
08/16/2007
At the Aug. 14 regular meeting of the Greater Hilltop Area Commission, commissioners heard a presentation from a man who plans to turn a dying piece of West Broad Street back into the
 John Burroughs under construction
08/16/2007
John Burroughs Elementary School (JBES) is one of many schools being scheduled for refurbishment this coming fall.
 WAC debated zoning change
08/16/2007
The Westland Area Commission approved a request for rezoning a piece of property along Norton Road so a woman can turn a house into a restaurant and real estate office,
 PT passes sidewalk ordinance
08/16/2007
Prairie Township’s Aug. 15 meeting began with a brief public hearing regarding the 2007 Sidewalk Improvement Program.
 Local business to help Whim's Ditch
08/16/2007
A Franklin Township business owner wants to make improvements to his property that he hopes will benefit his neighbors by easing flooding along Whim’s Ditch.
 Prairie Township to hold public meetings
08/16/2007
Prairie Township officials will be holding two public meetings during the remainder of August concerning economic developments within the township.
 Column: Domestic violence leads to family tragedy
08/16/2007
Recently I watched a story on Discovery Health about a woman who had half a face.
 Photo: Country artists return to roots
08/16/2007
The hometown boys from Rascal Flatts returned to Columbus on Aug. 12 to send the Ohio State Fair out with a bang.
 Letters to the editor
08/16/2007
Have something on your mind? Write a letter to the editor! Submit yours to westside@columbusmessenger.com.
 What's happening on the Westside
08/16/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Reunion notices
08/16/2007

 Clippers flying the Coop
08/09/2007
On Aug. 2, local politicians and corporate leaders joined businessmen on their lunch breaks and girl scouts waving banners to break ground for the Columbus Clippers’ new stadium.
 SWCS hire "new" treasurer
08/09/2007
South-Western City Schools has a new treasurer on board and it might be a name you recognize.
 Prairie residents discuss Town center
08/09/2007
An open-door policy was in effect at Prairies Township’s Town Hall on Aug. 8. Representatives from the Big Darby Accord and the Town Center Plan were on hand to address questions and concerns from residents during the
 One-stop shopping for scholars
08/09/2007
Prospective students now have a “one-stop shop” Web site for information on Ohio’s universities, two-year colleges and adult career centers, the first piece of Gov. Ted Strickland’s new University System of Ohio.
 Hospital's neighbors not happy
08/09/2007
An Aug. 7 forum on Children’s Hospital’s expansion plans brought complaints from residents about historic preservation and minority hiring.
 Columbus agencies hungry for help
08/09/2007
The agencies that help needy Columbus residents obtain food and housing are hungry for additional funding and volunteers, and struggle to keep a roof over their own heads, City Councilwoman Charleta Tavares heard Aug. 6.
 CPS parents call teachers "unqualified"
08/09/2007
Parents with children enrolled in Ecole Kenwood, a French immersion Columbus Public School, expressed dismay with the hiring of three teachers that do not speak fluent French at the Columbus School Board meeting Aug. 7.
 OCHO is more than meets the eye
08/09/2007
The Ohio Hispanic Coalition (OHCO), a non-profit organization that provides extensive services to the Hispanic/Latino communities, has moved, but they still call the Westside home.
 Post office construction near completion
08/09/2007
Long-awaited improvements to the traffic pattern and parking lots at the Hilliard Post Office at 4000 Leap Rd. are finally nearing completion.
 Photos: NNO leaves crime in the dark
08/09/2007
National Night Out, which took place on Aug. 7, was a huge success all over town, despite the sweltering heat.
 What's happening on the Westside
08/09/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood! To submit events and announcements to this section, e-mail information to westside@columbusmessenger.com.
 Reunion notices
08/09/2007
Is it time for catching up? Read the Westside Messenger for information about all local reunions. To submit reunion information, e-mail to westside@columbusmessenger.com.
 Columbus schools pass with flying colors
08/02/2007
“It’s a good day in Columbus Public Schools,” said district superintendent Gene T. Harris, followed by a roaring round of applause from the crowd.
 City tackles parking problems
08/02/2007
Are you tired of searching for a parking space downtown? Sick of circling blocks for the sacred spot? So is most of Columbus.
 NNO gives crime a going away party
08/02/2007
Are you afraid of the dark?
 Prairie Township projects go green
08/02/2007
On Aug. 1 at Prairie Township’s Board of Trustees meeting, two Franklin County sheriffs began by reporting that the number of arrests has been declining as of late, while juvenile vandalism still remains a problem.
 FT fire department prepares for improvements
08/02/2007
A Franklin Township fire station is getting new flooring after trustees awarded a contract for the work at their July 26 meeting.
 Ferocious felines at the fair
08/02/2007
If you visit to the Ohio State Fair, where the Marcan Tiger Show will be presented three times daily through Aug. 12, you might catch the cats involved in a favorite hobby: napping.
 Teen takes game global
08/02/2007
As most childhood passions begin, it starts with waking up early Saturday or Sunday morning, flipping on the television set and settling down to watch your favorite cartoon.
 Hoopties hit Harrisburg
08/02/2007
They’re big, they’re bad, they’re ugly and they’re coming to Harrisburg.
 Mayor aims to take over City Center
08/02/2007
Mayor Michael B. Coleman and Capitol South Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation announced today that they were filing suit to take control of City Center Mall.
 Photo: Swing, batter, batter, batter, swing!
08/02/2007
Curt Schilling holds the Columbus Clippers scoreless as he pitches seven innings for the Boston Red Sox Triple-A affiliate Pawtucket at the Cooper Stadium on July 31.
 Photo: Ladies and gents, it's fair time!
08/02/2007
Gov. Ted Strickland opened the first day of the Ohio State Fair by praising attractions throughout the grounds of the Ohio Expo Center
 What's happening on the Westside
08/02/2007
Be sure to read the Westside Messenger to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood!
 Reunion notices
08/02/2007
Is it time for catching up? Read the Westside Messenger for information about all local reunions.
 Police heliport will soon call Westside home
07/26/2007
Development in the Hilltop Area is about to take flight.
 Council approves hammered-out ordinance
07/26/2007
The thieves who tore out the air conditioner from Reeb-Hosack Community Baptist Church netted $14 when they sold the copper pipes to a local scrap yard.
 Leash laws debated
07/26/2007
On Thursday, July 19, members of Columbus City Council held a special meeting – a “Doggie Dialogue” – in order to
 State fair steeped in tradition
07/26/2007
Traditions abound at the 154th Ohio State Fair-from fishing in the Natural Resources pond to corn dogs in the midway and heritage displays of handcrafts-and it is time to create new ones with family and friends.
 Local groups make house a home
07/26/2007

 Harry Potter book casts spell on readers
07/26/2007
Anticipation filled the air of Pickerington’s Barnes and Noble July 20 as young wizards and witches eagerly awaited the release of J.K. Rowling's final book in her popular series, â