Category Archives: Community News and Events

Helpful information about the community, including events. (Events may also appear on Calendar).

FOREST PARK CIVIC ASSOCIATION MEETING July Meeting

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Date: 14 July 2026

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:05 PM by Ashley Howard, Quentin Monden

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via roll call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Quentin Monden – quentinmonden@fpcivic.org, Ashley Howard – ashleyhoward@fpcivic.org

No Report

Guest Speakers:

Hugo Barragan – Franklin County Auditor’s Office – to discuss the new Property Value Updates. He had a  slideshow and handouts about the 2026 Property Value Update. He answered many questions about how to dispute your home value in order to lower your property taxes. Go to this website to check out the process: https://audr-kyhv.franklincountyohio.gov/ 

Sherrie Johnson Dantzler– YMCA Director

  1. Campfires across America at the North YMCA. This event will be held Wednesday, July 22, 2026, 6-8 pm. More than 1200 YMCAs in all 50 states will host a campfire–real or symbolic–bringing people together in a shared moment of connection, reflection, and belonging.
  2. The North YMCA is hosting its National Night Out event on Tuesday, August 4th, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This free community event features family fun, games, activities, food, and opportunities to connect with local first responders and community partners

Vice President  Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org   No Report

Secretary Lou Bernard – secretary@fpcivic.org

  1. Attendance:
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Present: AH, QM, MB, LB, CL, MSg, RW, DVM, EV, SL, MSt, KG, DP
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: KVM, LV
  • Area Reps in Attendance: 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, 11, 13
  • Area Reps Absent: 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14
  • Total meeting attendance: 29
  1. Reviewed minutes from June, no changes or corrections needed, minutes have been approved and were entered into the official records.
  2. Attendance Sheet thru July: Online

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cheryllutman@fpcivic.org

  1. See the spreadsheet/budget in the Forester.
  2. We’re excited to welcome a new business member in June and it looks like we have a new one in July as well! That brings our total paid business members to 4. We do need 10, but whatever folks are doing seems to be working.
  3. Expenses include printing the Forester, buying bags, paying our annual NCC dues, security patrols and the garage sale advertising.

Community Concerns/Announcements/Ideas 

  1. Beautification Committee – Eileen Kunkler – kunkler85@gmail.com
    • Need more nominations, only 1 received so far. August 1st deadline. Also looking for at least one other person to serve as judge.
  2. No August FPCA Meeting. We all go to the NCC Picnic -Tuesday August 11, 2026, 6pm – 8pm. NEW LOCATION: Warner Woods Pavilion, 4747 Central College Road, Columbus, OH 43081. NCC will provide: Protein options, buns and beverages. Please bring a dish to share.
  3. Gather at Gabby’s – 30 July 2026 – 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm. The last Thursday of each month is “Gather at Gabby’s”. Come and hang out with your friends, FPCA officers, and committee chairs and chat about what is going on in FP.

Public Relations Officer Mary Sguerra – marysguerra@fpcivic.org

  1. Congratulations! Our Forest Park 4th of July Parade Float won the Grand Marshal Award. Thank you to everyone who helped out and volunteered to walk & pass out candy and assisted Rita Woeste with the Bikes & Trikes part of it.  
  2. A Big THANK YOU goes to:
    • Pat Kelly for driving his pick-up truck, pulling the float and letting us decorate it.
    • Katrina at the Dairy Queen at Schrock Rd. for donating free cone coupons for the Bikes & Trikes event.
    • Kenny Wiseman for letting us borrow his trailer AGAIN to be used for the 4th of July float. 🙂
  3. Save the Date  – September 12th will be the Fall Forest Park Community Garage Sale  9-3 p.m.
    • Please let Mary know if you could help pass out the fliers on that day from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester@fpcivic.org

  1. The deadline for August Forester is Thursday July 16. Please submit photos/ads/articles ASAP and we are looking for photos from the parade, summaries from any other events in the neighborhood. Planning on one last form for membership in the August issue and that’s it for the year. 
  2. Rita will be out of town starting July 24th, and if Foresters are not printed in time, will need someone to help collect, count, bag and distribute Foresters around Sat. July 25 to Tues July 28th otherwise they will sit until August to be distributed. If there are any volunteers that could help do this, then we don’t have to worry. 
  3. We need a volunteer delivery person for Blue Ash Rd in FPE for the month of August. Still looking for 2 other volunteers for 2 areas in FPE as posted in the past.  
  4. Thanks to Matt Stone, Kate Stone and their friends for judging and assisting with Bikes and Trikes. The hot weather did not help us this year, and a small turnout of kids. For those who attended, great job.  

Supplemental Security Officer Daryl Van Mercetta – darylvanmercetta@fpcivic.org, Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@fpcivic.org      See report in the Forester.

Past President Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org  No Report

Civic Action/311 Officer  Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org

Ed clarified questions people had concerning 311 issues. There were many questions about cars parking on the street-abandoned or not being moved, blocking sidewalks, or parking the wrong way. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Business Representative Sheridan Landon – sheridanlandon@fpcivic.org 

Has made calls, and is still waiting to hear back from some folks.

Welcome Committee Chair Latia VanDyke – latiavandyke@fpcivic.org

Latia is behind on the Welcome folders. Updating some outdated information on documents. Laura is going to assist catching up

Volunteer Coordinator VACANT

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – mikestone@fpcivic.org

  1. Thank you to our outstanding Area Representatives for the time and effort you have dedicated to securing memberships from our longtime FPCA supporters. Your commitment is truly appreciated.
  2. Adding those in, we are now at 353. Our budget is based on 450, so we need another 97. We have an additional 46 new members not from the past two years. We also have 255 FPCA-friendly households from the past two membership cycles that have not yet been renewed. Our membership drive continues through Labor Day weekend, so please keep reaching out to the residents in your area.
  3. At the June meeting, Mike provided each Area Representative with a folder containing a list of households that have traditionally supported the FPCA. Mike asked for Area Reps to please review the info he gave you to see which memberships have been received since you were given the printed copy.
  4. If you were unable to attend the June meeting, you can pick up your folder at the July 14 meeting. Mike will also have blank household information sheets available to make it easier to sign up new and renewing residents. Mike apologized for not including those forms in the June packets.

Social Activities VACANT

NCC Representatives Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org,  Latia VanDyke – latiavandyke@fpcivic.org,

Ken Gilbert – kengilbert@fpcivic.org     See the full report online and in the Forester.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org

See full report on our website: https://www.fpcivic.org/development-reports/

Grant Writing Committee Chair  Quentin Monden – quentinmonden@fpcivic.org, Laura Hayes – laurahayes@fpcivic.org   No Report

Outreach Committee Chair  Michael Cote – michaelcote@fpcivic.org

See the full report online and in the Forester.

Website Administrators Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org (Website)  Ashley Howard – ashleyhoward@fpcivic.org  (Instagram/Facebook)  

Our website/Facebook page is always – always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check it out!! Please subscribe/follow us.

OLD BUSINESS

The Sign Team: We were hoping to have the city install 4 more signs at entrances to FP. The city refused our request. The 4 locations are: 1) Boxwood/Redwood, 2) Green Apple/Cleveland, 3) Tamarack/Sharbot, and 4) Tamarack/Rocky Pine Loop N. Last time (we replaced them, it cost $355/sign. DVM will call the local company we used in the past to get a quote.

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

The Board expressed its sincere appreciation to Scott Biggs for his dedicated service to the Forest Park Civic Association. Scott is resigning from his positions as Area 5 Representative, Facebook Updates Coordinator, and Website Updates Coordinator. His time, effort, and commitment to keeping residents informed and supporting the Association are greatly appreciated, and we thank him for all he has done for our community.

With Scott’s resignation, these volunteer positions are now vacant. We encourage anyone who is interested in serving the neighborhood to consider stepping into one or more of these roles. If you are able to help, please contact the FPCA. Your involvement makes a difference and helps keep our Association strong.

Meeting adjourned at 8:13 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

NCC Report for June 2026

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Submitted by Ken Gilbert

  1. NCC Picnic Tuesday, August 11th 6-8pm Warner Woods Pavilion
  2. NABA Golf Outing Thursday, August 27th Delaware Golf Club
  3. Columbus Public Health providing free back to school vaccine clinics
    • Wednesday, August 12th 12pm- 6pm Woodward Park Middle School, 5152 Karl Rd.
      • Call 614-645-6881 with questions or to register
  4. CPD
    • Our liaison Officer Hicks will be retiring in a month. 
    • Popeyes owners/managers meeting with CPD and City Council members later this month
    • Having problems with vagrants, excessive panhandling, indecent exposure, etc.
  5. The Bridge Ministry
    • Christian nonprofit helping those who struggle with homelessness, addiction, and long-term unemployment to rebuild. All are welcome regardless of religious beliefs.
    • Find more information at www.thebrige-ministry.com or calling 614-500-0656

July 2026 Outreach Report

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Submitted by Michael Cote, Outreach Chair

The Bhutanese Community of Central Ohio (BCCO) will host a nutrition workshop during market day at the New Americans Garden and Farm Stand, July 17, 2026, 10am – Noon, Friday. The Farm Stand and New Americans Garden is located in the heart of Forest Park in front of the North YMCA at the corner of Karl Rd and Sandalwood Blvd (1640 Sandalwood Pl). The Nutrition Workshop will be presented by the OSU Center for Community Outreach at the James Comprehensive Cancer Center. All are welcome to attend the workshop to learn ways to reduce cancer risk through good nutrition while taking advantage of buying fresh produce from local gardeners from the BCCO and New Americans community. The Farm Stand will be open every Friday,10am – Noon, throughout the growing season.

Mark your calendars for the annual National Night Out (NNO), Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026, 5-8 pm. As in previous years, the North YMCA is hosting the NNO for our community and is inviting everyone to come out to enjoy food, games, and camaraderie. This free community event is a unique, family-friendly opportunity to engage with police and community members who are serving to make our neighborhoods safe and friendly places to live. Free school supplies will be available to families that register at the North YMCA, 1640 Sandalwood Pl.  NNO is hosted by thousands of communities in the U.S., Canada and on U.S. military bases making it one of the largest crime-prevention and community engagement initiatives in the country. It got its start in Pennsylvania in 1984 as an event designed to strengthen relationships between neighbors and local law enforcement and to foster safer, more connected communities. 

The Northland Unity Festival this year will be held at the North YMCA (1640 Sandalwood Pl). Northland’s premier free community event will feature music, dance, food vendors, local crafts, and informational resources from local businesses and nonprofit organizations working in Northland.  Come join Northland’s celebration of the Unity Festival on September 19, 2026, 3-7 pm and enjoy being a part of the many cultures that make Northland the international gateway to Columbus. 

The Epworth United Methodist Church (UMC) has allowed the Forest Park Civic Association (FPCA) to use their building for monthly meetings for many years, and we wish to welcome their new Pastor, Norm Moxley to our community! In addition to serving at Epworth, Pastor Norm Moxley, will serve as Business Executive Manager at Maize Manor UMC. Pastor Moxley is energetic and plays for the Springfield Symphony Orchestra. We look forward to meeting him.

May 2026 NCC Report

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NCC Representatives    Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org,  Latia VanDyke – latiavandyke@fpcivic.org, Ken Gilbert – kengilbert@fpcivic.org

1. CPD: Precinct 1 new liaison, Rodney Mayberry – Not present due to voting. We hope to meet him soon.
2. Zone In Columbus: Lookout for new Zone In information being released around the end of the month. Zone-in-columbus.hub.arcgis.com
3. FACT & Consider Biking: Green Line received funding (roughly 27 Million for initial costs) 12 ft wide shared use path over 58 acres. It will include several parks and amenities along the path, and a bridge over Morse and a southern section to cross St. Rt. 3.
4. NABA: 161 Cleanup on Saturday, June 13th. Meet at the Jiffy Lube at 9am.
5. City of Columbus Liaison (Devin): 
-Dept of Neighborhoods Meeting on Thursday, June 25th 4:30 – 7:30pm at Woodward Park
-INPREM Food Pantry Fundraising Gala on Saturday, May 16th 10am at Kilbourne Run Park
6. NCC Picnic: Tuesday, August 11th at Warner Woods Pavilion 4747 Central College Rd.
7. Independence Day Parade Committee: Meeting Wednesday, May 20th and June 17th at the Karl YMCA at 7pm if anyone would like to attend.
8. Graphics and Code Task Force: Property tax re-evaluations to happen in June. Suspected increase is around 8.9%.
9. NCC is proposing a new logo. NABA and other Northland logos changing to match.
10. We have received our NCC Dues Invoice. Ken had ours.

May 2026 Outreach Report

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Submitted by: Outreach Committee Chair – Michael Cote – michaelcote@fpcivic.org

  1. The North YMCA hosted the Third Annual One Columbus Culture Day on May 1, 2026. Many residents in Forest Park celebrated a fun-filled evening of dance, music, and international food sponsored by the City of Columbus, Department of Neighborhoods, New American Program. The New American Program is an initiative designed to help immigrants and refugees integrate into the community by fostering economic, civic, and cultural engagement. Our celebration of diverse cultures is a hallmark of what makes Columbus such a vibrant and welcoming city.
  2. Northland High School held its Second Annual Culture Festival, May 8, 2026. Many residents of Forest Park joined students, parents, faculty, administrators, and staff to enjoy a memorable evening of dance, musical performances, cooking demonstrations, and a delicious international meal! The students of NHS demonstrated a level of talent, hospitality, and enthusiasm that exemplifies the richness and diversity of cultures that makes Northland such a wonderful place to live. Northland High School makes Northland proud to be the international gateway to Columbus. Go Vikings!
  3. Northland High School held its inaugural Northland Market, May 9, 2026. Over 80 vendors, crafters, organizations, and community groups were registered, including the FPCA. This was a great opportunity for  our civic association to network with organizations, meet new Forest Park residents, and we actually signed up new members! The Northland Market was a Community Campus School initiative to promote community networking and community involvement in Columbus City Schools. NHS deserves a resounding round of applause for organizing and hosting one the best community events ever held in Northland! With such an auspicious start we hope NHS will continue to host the Northland Market as an annual event for years to come. Go Vikings!

Mark your calendars for these upcoming events:

  1. INPREM Food Pantry will hold a Gala to fund The House of Hope, June 13, 2026, 4 – 8 PM, Woodward Park Community Center, 5147 Karl Rd.  After more than a decade of serving the community, INPREM is being forced to move. The food pantry located at 5757 Karl Rd has served over 58,000 families in Central Ohio. It hopes to continue its operation in the Northland area, provided it can find a suitable location. For details, please contact hope@inprem.org
  2. Rise Up CBUS will be held at Woodward Park Community Center, Thursday, June 25, 2026. The City of Columbus and Franklin County will host this free community event with food, music, and local resources from 4:30 – 7:30 pm. The purpose of the event is to promote community engagement, pride, and increased access to resources.
  3. Karl Road Library will offer the following special programs for children this Summer:
    • Chefs Battle with Cooking Caravan, 2 pm, June 15, 2026. 
    • Yoga with Baby Goats, 2 pm, June 17, 2026.
    • Please contact the library for details and registration. 614-645-2275

FOREST PARK CIVIC ASSOCIATION MEETING April Minutes

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Date: 14 April 2026

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:06 PM by Ashley Howard, Quentin Monden

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via roll call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Quentin Monden – quentinmonden@fpcivic.org, Ashley Howard – ashleyhoward@fpcivic.org

We would like to recognize the FPCA Members/Volunteers who were honored at the NCC banquet last Tuesday. 

  • Volunteer of the Year Recipients
    • Katie Van Mercetta
    • Michael Cote
  • Ed Vanasdale was recognized as a Dedicated Civic Volunteer Service Recipient
  • Dave Paul, who is the chair of the NCC Development Committee, was recognized for his 15 years of work dedication on the NCC Development Committee and as chairman of the committee. 

Special Thank You! To everyone who helped with our Membership Envelope stuffing on Saturday. Please be on the lookout for the membership applications in your mail. Remember that this year you can pay by check or via PayPal. Following up from our December community survey, it was identified that there were a couple areas where we wanted more specificity from the community than we had in our original survey, so we have included a bright pink slip of paper with 2 questions in the membership envelopes. These can be returned with your membership application. If you are not mailing in an application, you are welcome to email me a copy or picture of your completed survey.

Guest Speaker: None

Vice President  Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org

Thank you again not only to the volunteers who stuffed envelopes, but also — and especially — to the organizers, whose planning made the event run flawlessly.

Secretary Lou Bernard – secretary@fpcivic.org

  1. Attendance:
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Present: AH, QM, MB, LB, MSg, RW, DVM, KVM, EV, SL, LV, MSt, KG, DP, SB
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: CL
  • Area Reps in Attendance: 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 12, 13
  • Area Reps Absent: 1, 4, 6, 8, 9, 10, 14 (Areas 6, 8, 14 are VACANT)
  • Total meeting attendance: 24
  1. Reviewed minutes from March, no changes or corrections needed, minutes have been approved and were entered into the official records.
  2. Attendance Sheet thru April: online

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cheryllutman@fpcivic.org  Absent

  1. The fiscal year-end report was sent to all Board members. We ended the year in the red. If we could have collected on our arrears advertisers, plus had a couple more memberships, we would have made it. One of our arrears advertisers did send the remainder of their balance due, but it was a small amount relatively speaking.
  2. A couple of items:  The $25 is for the Statement of Continued Existence filing with the Ohio Secretary of State’s office. This needs to be filed about every 5 years.
  3. The remaining invoices from Paul for the annual mailing printing have been paid, but those checks have not yet cleared, so they will be on the next budget year. In addition, we still have the actual cost of postage and our bulk mailing fee that needs to be paid.
  4. The Treasurer’s Report was voted on and accepted.

Community Concerns/Announcements/Ideas 

  1. 161 Neighborhood Clean-up has started. They are held the 2nd Saturday of the month through October. Meet behind the Jiffy Lube (1800 Dublin-Granville Rd.) from 9:00-9:30 AM to receive supplies. Clean-up is from 9 AM until Noon. For more information visit Naba161TaskForce.org
  2. Columbus Dog Policy requires leashes (maximum 6 feet) in public, with strict poop-scoop rules and voice control in designated areas. See the city’s website for more information.

Public Relations Officer Mary Sguerra – marysguerra@fpcivic.org

  1. Community Garage Sale – May 16th – the sign up form will be in this month’s Forester.
  2. The 4th of July Float – Mary is looking for people to work with her. If you are interested, please contact Mary.

ForesterEditor Rita Woeste – forester@fpcivic.org

  1. June Forester articles must be sent to Rita by May 21st, Thursday.
  2. The new bags for Forester delivery are liked by many of the stuffers and delivery people.
  3. Canva will be the new platform for creating the newsletter. Rita has a new summer project – learn Canva!
  4. We are still looking for Forester delivery people in FP East , if you are interested contact Lou or Rita.

Supplemental Security Officer Daryl Van Mercetta – darylvanmercetta@fpcivic.org, Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@fpcivic.org

  1. Officer Hicks gave an update of the 18th precinct for the last 90 days.
    1. He pointed out that there still is a significant amount of vehicles that are getting stolen, especially in the AM when people start their cars up and leave them unattended. 
    2. Many cars are getting broken into with the vandals looking for guns.
    3. The Baymont Hotel on Morse is being shut down and boarded up for being a nuisance and many code violations.
  2. See report in the Forester.

Past President Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org – No Report

Civic Action/311 Officer  Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org

  1. 2 main issues for our area:
    1. People want to put in a mini-mart and gas station at the corner of Sandalwood and the access road (the old Chase Bank site).
    2. Columbia Gas wants to put a refilling station by Northland Plaza on Cleveland Ave.
    3. We are trying to get both groups to attend the May FPCA meeting to field your concerns/questions. We will keep you posted as more info comes in.
  2. The hotel next to the old Chase Bank site is being leased by the homeless shelter board as transitional housing before residents move out into the community on their own. There have been NO incidents coming from that property.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Business Representative Sheridan Landon – sheridanlandon@fpcivic.org – No Report

Welcome Committee Chair Latia VanDyke – latiavandyke@fpcivic.org

Welcome Folders for new residents were brought to the meeting and were given to the area representatives for distribution.

Volunteer Coordinator VACANT

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – mikestone@fpcivic.org

  1. Membership mailing is done. The USPS has enacted more fees causing our mailing to increase, making the new mailing fee to just below $3000. 
  2. Thank you to resident Andy Hunt for providing the use of your truck to help get all of the membership envelopes to the post office.
  3. Signs for Board, Chairs, and Area Reps will be delivered in the next week or so.

Social Activities VACANT

NCC Representatives Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org,  Latia VanDyke – latiavandyke@fpcivic.org, Ken Gilbert – kengilbert@fpcivic.org 

There was no regular meeting of the Northland Community council in April. Instead, the 2025 Awards Banquet was held at Villa Milano. Katie Van Mercetta and Michael Cote were honored as “Forest Park’s Volunteers of the Year”. The NCC also recognized “Dedicated Civic Volunteer Service”. Our own Ed Vanasdale was honored for his work with various aspects of community service in the Northland area. The leaders of the Northland Development Committee were also honored for their service: Bill Logan and our own Dave Paul. We were nominated for Civic of the Year, but did not win. The next meeting is Tuesday May 5, at 7 pm at Westerwood.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org

  1. Full report is on the website @ https://www.fpcivic.org/development-reports/
  2. Parade meetings are taking place at the YMCA at 7 pm on the 3rd Wednesday of every month.

Grant Writing Committee Chair  Quentin Monden – quentinmonden@fpcivic.org, Laura Hayes – laurahayes@fpcivic.org  – No Report

Outreach Committee Chair  Michael Cote – michaelcote@fpcivic.org 

See report online and in the Forester.

Website Administrators Scott Biggs – scottbiggs@fpcivic.org (Website/Facebook)   Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org (Website)  Ashley Howard – ashleyhoward@fpcivic.org  (Instagram/Facebook)  

Our website/Facebook page is always – always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check it out!! Please subscribe/follow us.

OLD BUSINESS

  1. National Night Out (NNO): Proposed shifting from a YMCA-hosted event to neighborhood-focused front yard parties. The board will explore grants to provide small stipends for local hosts. The Board will be meeting to create guidelines for residents who are interested in participating. 
  2. Community Events:
    • Family Picnic: The board aims to reinstitute this event and will begin recruiting a coordinator.
    • Beautification Committee: While prizes are budgeted, the program is currently on hold. The Association is actively seeking a volunteer Chair to manage the program and oversee the award process.
    • WE ARE LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS TO HEAD UP THESE 2 PROJECTS

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

  1. The Mulch Sale has been cancelled this year due to a lack of volunteers to help distribute the mulch to homes. We will work on building a volunteer base and hopefully bring it back next year. Sorry for the inconvenience.  ~Scott Biggs, The Mulchmaster, Area 5 Representative
  2. Leah Lewis from Columbia Gas was at the meeting to let us know that they will be back at the May meeting to explain the new project on Cleveland Ave.

Meeting adjourned @ 8:12 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

April 2026 Outreach Report

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Submitted by Michael Cote

Friends of Woodward Park will be kicking off Earth Day 2026 with a community event at Woodward Park and Nature Preserve on April 25, Saturday 2:30 – 4:30. Keep Columbus Beautiful will be providing litter pickup tools, safety vests, buckets and trash bags for about twenty volunteers to use during the Woodward Park Cleanup event. The Friends of Woodward Park is a newly formed group of volunteers from the Forest Park and Karmel – Woodward Park neighborhoods who are working with the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department to enhance and sustain the beauty and conservation of Woodward Park and Nature Preserve. Anyone interested in learning about the Friends of Woodward Park and helping with the Cleanup event on April 25 please contact:

Joanne Salyer, Karmel – Woodward Park Civic Association,  Karmelwoodwardparkbw@outlook.com and/ or Michael Cote, Forest Park Civic Association, michaelcote@fpcivic.org

The North YMCA will be hosting The One Columbus Culture Day sponsored by the Columbus Department of Neighborhood’s The New American Program on Friday, May 1, 4:30 – 7:30. This free event will offer international food, music, live performances, and valuable community resources.

Northland High School will be hosting its Inaugural Northland Market on Saturday May 9, 2026 10 am – 1:00 pm. The faculty and students of NHS have organized a fun-filled community event with music, games, local vendors, and food trucks. A table and chairs have been reserved for the Forest Park Civic Association. This is a prime opportunity to meet members and friends of the NHS community and introduce them to what our civic association does for the Forest Park community. We’ll need volunteers to dress up our booth and table with the FPCA banner and welcome flags. We’ll also need copies of the FPCA “brag sheet” and membership forms to distribute and sign up new members.  

Let’s work together to keep Woodward Park and our neighborhoods beautiful and green!

FOREST PARK CIVIC ASSOCIATION MEETING MINUTES

Date: 13 Jan 2026

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:04 PM by Ashley Howard, Quentin Monden

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via roll call.

OFFICER REPORTS

  1. Secretary Lou Bernard read the Slate of Candidates running for positions in the FPCA for 2026. Copies of the “Slate” were made available. Also copies of the FPCA Constitution & Bylaws, and Volunteer Code of Conduct were made available.
  2. Representative Munira Abdullahi swore in all Board of Trustees, Committee Chairs, and Area Representatives. Rep. Abdullahi is our representative for Ohio House District 9.

President Quentin Monden – quentinmonden@fpcivic.org, Ashley Howard – ashleyhoward@fpcivic.org

  1. Scott Biggs and Lou Bernard presented Ed Vanasdale with a plaque thanking him for his years of service and dedication to the FPCA.
  2. We had the Open Forum meeting on 12/9/2025. Additionally, we have shared a link to a Google Form survey to solicit feedback from the Forest Park Community. Thank you to everyone who attended the Open Forum and those of you who have completed the survey. We will have more details to share from the survey and open forum at our next meeting when we have more time. 

Guest Speakers:

  1. Representative Munira Abdullahi gave an update on things she is working on.
  • Her main focus is on affordable healthcare including controlling the cost of insulin and other needed medications. Her other main focus areas are in consumer protection and affordable housing.
  • She was able to secure $500k to Elevate Northland, and another $500k to help repair the lakes in Minerva Park. She is working hard to improve and bring money in and to improve the Northland area.
  • Rep. Abdullahi grew up and lives in the Forest Park neighborhood. She is passionate about helping our area and is always willing to listen to your concerns. Feel free to call or text – 614.500.0103 
  1. A lawyer representing the church that purchased the former Red Lobster building on Route 161 attended the meeting to discuss the proposed plans for the site and the variances required to move forward. Pastor Singh of Zomi Christian Church provided a brief overview of the church and explained the reasons for the relocation. General counsel for the church, along with a representative from the construction company, then outlined the requested variances, which include: (1) allowing the church to not sit within 25 feet of the service road and to use the existing Red Lobster footprint; (2) permitting parking in front of the building rather than exclusively behind it; and (3) reducing the requirement for a significant number of windows facing Route 161, as such a design is not conducive to the functional needs of a church. The speakers were asked by the City to come and present to the community that will be impacted. They were not seeking permission, just information – for us and for them. They are still in the process of planning, and do not expect to start construction for awhile.

Vice President  Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org   No Report

Secretary Lou Bernard – secretary@fpcivic.org

  1. Attendance:
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Present: AH, QM, MB, LB, CL, MSg, RW, DVM, KVM, EV, SL, LV, MSt, KG, DP, SB – 100% in Attendance!
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: none
  • Area Reps in Attendance: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13
  • Area Reps Absent: 6, 8, 10, 14 (Areas 6, 8,& 14 are all Vacant)
  • Total meeting attendance: 43
  1. Reviewed minutes from both Dec. 2025 meetings, no changes or corrections needed, minutes have been approved and were entered into the official records.
  2. Attendance Sheet thru Jan: online

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cheryllutman@fpcivic.org   No Report

  1. December was an extremely quiet month. Nothing was received in December.
  2. Our goal is 450 household memberships (that’s just 16% of the total residents!) to cover our minimum operating expenses. Imagine what we could do if we had more resources – more security patrols, more events, more opportunities to meet and get to know your neighbors. I encourage everyone who hasn’t joined yet to visit our website (fpcivic.org) and join!  It’s just $30/year per household.  Do you rent?  We welcome you to join as well!
  3. We did meet our income goal to balance the budget for 2025.
  4. Other income was advertising revenue.
  5. Our only expenses were the security patrols and supplies for our Welcome Committee.

Public Relations Officer Mary Sguerra – marysguerra@fpcivic.org   No Report

ForesterEditor Rita Woeste – forester@fpcivic.org

  1. All stories, ads, photos, and articles must be to Rita by Jan. 27th, Tuesday.
  2. The February Forester will be ONLINE ONLY!

Supplemental Security Officer Daryl Van Mercetta – darylvanmercetta@fpcivic.org, Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@fpcivic.org, Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) – dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

  1. The Supplemental Security Team put up the “Package Theft is a Felony” signs around the entrances to the neighborhood.
  2. See full report in the Forester.

Past President Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org   No Report

Business Representative Sheridan Landon – sheridanlandon@fpcivic.org   No Report

Civic Action/311 Officer  Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org   No Report

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Latia VanDyke – latiavandyke@fpcivic.org

Latia brought Welcome folders for Area Reps present. She will continue dropping off folders to areas without reps.

Volunteer Coordinator VACANT

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – mikestone@fpcivic.org

  1. We demonstrated our membership ceiling during the last cycle when leveraging mail-ins and digital reminders. To build on this success, we require a stronger, sustained activity.
  2. Area reps: We need all area representatives to actively engage with and cultivate membership within their specific neighborhoods.
  3. Extended membership committee: Expanding this committee is crucial for driving progress and managing growth.
  4. To coordinate these efforts, Mike is inviting all members and area reps to a planning meeting.
    1. Date: Wednesday, February 4 at 7:00 pm over at Donatos Pizza.   
  5. Ahead of our meeting, a preparatory questionnaire will be circulated to gather input and help us define a clear path forward. By February, we expect to establish key dates for critical activities, including the envelope stuffing day and other important benchmark periods.

Social Activities VACANT

NCC Representatives Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org,  Latia VanDyke – latiavandyke@fpcivic.org, Ken Gilbert – kengilbert@fpcivic.org

  1. Due to an urgency regarding the date, Ken presented that the Woodward Park Community Center Open House was Jan. 14, 5:30 – 7:30. Columbus Recreation and Parks is seeking community input regarding the development of the new linear park, Linden Green Line. Refreshments will be provided.
  2. His full report will be in the Forester.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org   No Report

Grant Writing Committee Chair  Quentin Monden – quentinmonden@fpcivic.org, Laura Hayes – laurahayes@fpcivic.org   No Report

Outreach Committee Chair  Michael Cote – michaelcote@fpcivic.org

See full report in the Forester.

Website Administrators Scott Biggs – scottbiggs@fpcivic.org (Website/Facebook)   Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org (Website)  Ashley Howard – ashleyhoward@fpcivic.org  (Instagram/Facebook)  

Our website/Facebook page is always – always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check it out!! Please subscribe/follow us.

OLD BUSINESS  None

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

Community members have requested that FPCA general meetings be streamed and made available online. The Board and members present discussed the requirements necessary to implement this, including staffing, equipment, and funding to purchase the necessary equipment. It was determined that, at this time, the association does not have sufficient personnel or equipment to effectively support live streaming or online access.

Meeting adjourned at 8:20 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

FPCA Open Forum

We want YOUR opinions at the FPCA OPEN FORUM

FOREST PARK RESIDENTS — WE NEED YOUR VOICE!

The Forest Park Civic Association is hosting an Open Forum on Tuesday, December 9 at 7:00 PM at the North YMCA (Studio A), 1640 Sandalwood Pl. (at Karl Rd.).

Whether you’re a long-time member or brand-new to the neighborhood, everyone is invited. We want to hear from members and non-members. This is your chance to tell us what’s working, what’s not, and what you’d like to see from the FPCA moving forward.

What matters to you?

• How should we communicate with residents?
• What information do you want more of?
• What issues are most important to Forest Park right now?
• What would make you attend more meetings or events?
• What do you love most about living here?

To help guide the conversation, we emailed a short Community Survey to all members — but everyone is welcome to fill it out. It only takes a few minutes, and two respondents will win a $25 Kroger gift card!

Take the survey here
Let’s shape the future of Forest Park—together. See you on December 9!

 

Security patrol cars

Meet our neighborhood’s Supplemental Security Staff at the November Block Watch.

Meet our neighborhood’s Supplemental Security Staff at the November Block Watch.

On behalf of all residents, the FPCA has a contract with a private security firm that drives through our streets. FPCA members can request the security patrol check on their homes when they are away. This is a free service available through The Forester Newsletter and online.

Many people have requested to meet with our security patrol staff so our volunteer Supplementary Security Chairs have arranged for a representative from the supplemental security company, US Protection Services, to attend the November Block Watch meeting on Nov. 11 at 6 p.m.

The Block Watch precedes each monthly FPCA General Meeting on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Epworth United Methodist Church.

November 11 FPCA Meetings

6:00 – 6:30 p.m. Block Watch Meeting/Supplemental Security Report
Columbus Police Liaison Officer Dan Yandrich and our Supplemental Security chairpersons provide police and security updates and answer your questions.

6:30 – 7:00 p.m. 311/Code Enforcement Issues Discussion/NCC Development Report
Learn about the latest development plans and requests, new businesses, updates from the Northland Community Council, and ask about code enforcement issues.

7:00 – 8:00 FPCA General Meeting
Updates from our many committees, upcoming plans, and other discussion about Forest Park issues and events.

Meeting Location: Epworth United Methodist Church, 5100 Karl Rd., Columbus, OH 43229
(At the intersection of Karl Road and Penworth Drive)

Everyone in Forest Park is always invited!

Learn more or request a Security Check at www.fpcivic.org/supplemental-security/