Weekend Watch

As the weather teases us with some above-30-degree-days, I’m not going to suggest a romp in the park just yet, but I would suggest shaking off that cabin fever because things are heating up around Columbus. New events and activities are cropping up all over. But as new things come around, others go out for good. One such event going out for good is the Rockwell exhibit at the Columbus Historical Center. My son attended last weekend, and to quote, “It was totally awesome!” Is that descriptive enough for you?

While my son is unique for his passion for old-fashioned times, there are truly many interesting things kids will enjoy at the Ohio Historical Center whether they are history buffs or not. Particularly, the presence of a two-headed sheep in the natural history section of the museum will surely bring awe and wonder. And this can be enjoyed beyond the closing of their special exhibit of Norman Rockwell.

“Rockwell’s America” is the largest Norman Rockwell exhibit in the world. Visitors will travel through time in this exhibit as they recreate true Americana. "Rockwell’s America" will be on display though this Sunday, March 15th at the Ohio Historical Center at 1982 Velma Avenue – across from the Expo Center. If you have ever driven on Route 71, it is a hard building to miss. Check out ohiohistory.org for admission prices and directions.

As for a new event cropping up, the annual “Blooms and Butterflies” exhibit at the Franklin Park Conservatory is coming back. The exhibit begins tomorrow on Saturday, March 14th. It’s truly a beautiful site to behold at the Conservatory’s Pacific Water Garden as you share the space with dozens of illuminating butterfly species, fluttering their wings around you throughout the large netted room. And for those really feeling the winter doldrums, a day at the Conservatory in March is a fabulous way to rejuvenate the spring spirit. Check out fpconservatory.org for admission prices and directions.

As for an ongoing event, the annual illustration contest at the Library is in full swing! For all the budding artists out there, it’s not too late to get your pencils, pastels and paints ready for the Illustration contest at the Worthington library. The theme of the contest is “Get A Clue. Read.” The contest is currently going on until March 31st. Bookmark templates are available at the Worthington Library locations. Winning entry gets his/her illustration made into a bookmark, which is used to help promote the summer reading program. This is a great competition for those who are artistically inclined! I remember when I was a kid, entering art competitions in our local street fairs, and feeling the exhilaration from exhibiting my work for everyone to see. It’s a great self-esteem booster and art can be a wonderful self-exploration tool. Stop in at your nearest Worthington branch to find out more information.

Some other events of interest this weekend:
- St. Patrick's Day Parade in downtown Dublin
- St. Patrick's day crafts at the Worthington Park Library
- The Baby Expo at the Alladin Shrine