Celtic Naturals- ‘Helping the Environment One Shower at a time’

Ahhh… the cleansing strength of lemon zest, the pleasing scent of cinnamon, and the recovery powers of magnesium sulfate…

Magnesium sulfate?

Celtic Naturals, a Dublin-based handcrafted soap company, is true to its name and its mission.  All of their products are based on natural essential oils, not synthetics, and every ingredient has a purpose.

Celtic Naturals- Aviary Soaps

I got the chance to sit down with Angela Buckley, owner and head soapstress of Celtic Naturals. Who better to understand the benefits of magnesium sulfate than an Ohio State graduate with an engineering degree?

“Your skin is your largest organ,” said Angela. “It’s important to keep it healthy just like the rest of your body.”

Before the birth of the one-year old Celtic Naturals, Angela was working at Ashland Chemical, headquartered in Dublin.

“I rode my bike to work every day, unless the weather would prevent it, and being in that outdoor environment can be hard on your skin,” said Angela. “I wanted to make something that would be helpful to all athletes. When you’re focused on your workout, it’s easy to ignore your skin.”

As a seasoned tri-athlete, Angela knows how distance running, biking and swimming can affect your skin’s health. Her passion for triathlons paired with her efforts for environmental activism created a series of products that are guaranteed all-natural and effective. Don’t worry–you don’t have to swim  laps all day to be a customer . Celtic Naturals is committed to crafting a product that is good for the environment and easy for everyone to use.

“I want my soaps to be useful,” said Angela. “Yes, they are more expensive than a 97 cent soap from a drug store, but Celtic Natural soaps don’t dry out your skin. So in the end you are using less lotion because the soaps are so effective.”

Celtic Naturals does carry a line of lotions as well as lip balms, bath salt-bombs, and hand sanitizer. There are three different product lines for what your skin may need:

The Sport Line - Chain Bite Citrus

The Sport Line : For the sport enthusiast. Keep your skin in 1^st place with soaps like Wetsuite A-Peel, Chain-Bite Citrus and Re-Cycle Mint.

The Aviary Line : For the outdoor enthusiast. It’s hard to stay clean when you’re gardening- try soaps with names inspired by birds- like Orange Oriole, Western Scrub Jay, Cinnamon-Bellied Flowerpiercer, or Brewer’s Blackbird (uses coffee to remove odors and dirt stains!)

The Heritage Line : The newest line from Celtic Naturals. Each soap is inspired by a different region and all have an antibacterial property. Try European Winters!

So why is magnesium sulfate good for your skin?

“Celtic Natural bath bombs are made out of Epsom salt which is primarily a magnesium sulfate,” said Angela. “ Research shows that magnesium can effectively enter the body through the skin.  Magnesium has been proven to reduce muscle soreness and spasms.”

You can find Angela’s products online at www.celtic-naturals.com or at Serendip, a unique store in Powell, Ohio. Your skin will thank you.

Angela Buckley

-post by Allison

 

Cheryl Herbert Earns Tech Columbus Innovation Award

Last night, central Ohio celebrated the Spirit of Innovation with the Tech Columbus Innovation Awards–honoring individuals, companies and technology teams who made notable strides in technology during 2009.

Chery Herbert -Dublin Methodist Hospital

We are proud to congratulate our own Dublin CVB Board President–Cheryl Herbert for receiving the Outstanding Woman in Technology Innovation Award.

Cheryl was honored for her work with Dublin Methodist Hospital — the first fully digital, wireless hospital in Ohio, and the first hospital in the nation to integrate a fully digital environment with evidence-based design principles that promote and enhance healing. The “high tech, high touch” hospital opened in 2008. Congrats, Cheryl!!!

 

Bring Your Event Home-Win a Weekend Getaway

I’ve learned a lot about this Emerald City. One thing I’ve noticed is the special pride that pulses through a Dubliner’s veins. You could say we “bleed green” and collectively I know we make this city’s heart beat. Our professional workforce, entrepreneurs, educators, religious groups, service volunteers even our seasoned golfers work together with a fantastic hum that keeps this community so alive.

Dublin (OH) Irish Festival

Those that have left Dublin, Ohio still take a piece of Irish Attitude with them and now–that connection can mean influence.  That’s why I am inviting Dubliners, local and abroad, to help make Dublin, Ohio an even better place to live and work. All you have to do is Bring Your Event Home.

You may have your “real job” but at the same time you might be affiliated with another organization. This organization could directly relate to your career or maybe it’s your favorite hobby. For instance, you could work for Cardinal Health by day and be a toy tin train collector by night. Perhaps you’re looking for wedding accommodations or you’re planning a reunion? Whether your group is professional or of personal interest, you can positively impact Dublin by referring your events to the Dublin Convention & Visitors Bureau.

What do meetings mean to the City of Dublin?

The economic impact of a meeting or function in Dublin reaches far and wide. Meeting and event attendees who stay at Dublin’s hotels spend money directly in the City on dining, transportation and entertainment. Could you imagine a Dublin, Ohio without these vital programs, services and events? Here are just some of the things that are funded (at least in part) by the City’s bed tax:

Old Man's Cave Chalets Hocking Hills OH

• Signature events like the Dublin Irish Festival
• PGA Memorial Golf Tournament
• Independence Day Celebration
• Dublin Arts Council programs
• St. Patrick’s Day Festivities
• Dublin Youth Athletics Programs
• Dublin parks

What do I have to do?
You don’t have to be your organization’s decision-maker or meeting planner. Most likely referrers are professionals actively involved in government agencies, medical or trade associations, hobby or religious groups on either a state or national level. You just have to let me know some basic information about your group. You can stay involved throughout the bid, if you choose. Having local influence during the selection process has proven to help the city be chosen. Open your group’s eyes to Dublin and I’ll try my best to bring them here.

What do I win?
Every month, those who submit a qualified lead will be entered into a drawing to win dinner for two at one of Dublin’s signature restaurants. If the lead you submit is booked at one of our 15 Dublin hotels, you could receive our Grand Prize–
A free weekend stay at Old Man’s Cave Chalets in the beautiful Hocking Hills. You’ll be able to wander through Ash Cave and see its waterfall or explore Conkle’s Hollow. With more than 10,000 acres of deep forests, hidden trails, soaring cliffs, and sheltering caves, Hocking Hills offers some of the most unique outdoor attractions in Ohio.

Who do I contact?

Allison Potter
614-792-7666
apotter@IrishisanAttitude.com
http://www.twitter.com/alli_dublincvb

Feel free to give me a call or an email– I would love to hear from you!

 

Love at First Sip: Java Jan Gourmet Coffee

I’m the only person in the office that drinks coffee. My morning routine of brewing my coffee forces everyone to listen to the angry bubble and drip
of the coffee pot. This is fine for most days, but sometimes I just need some variety. That’s when I turn to Java Jan Gourmet Coffee located just down the street from our nestled office in Historic Dublin Ohio. What I found was not only delicious coffee and espresso, but a friendly atmosphere and great service.

When I first entered Java Jan I was greeted by the head barista herself, Jan Antauer. My eyes darted to the lengthy menu of drink options that rests right above the shop’s cozy fireplace. Jan helped me with my Buckeye Mocha decision and just like her slogan, it was “Love at first sip.”

Would you like a cupcake with that coffee? Java Jan also neighbors Our Cupcakery, a local cupcake shop. The two work together to pair flavors. If you aren’t in the mood for coffee, Jan offers refreshing smoothies as well.

I chatted with Jan to learn a little more about Historic Dublin’s newest business.

Q: How did Jan Antauer become Java Jan?

A: I have always been interested in working closely with the public. Instead of setting up a restaurant, I decided to focus my energies on my favorite beverage: coffee. While visiting plantations in Costa Rica, Brazil and Jamaica my interest deepened. By learning the processes of growing, harvesting, roasting and processing–I was hooked. I became Java Jan.

Q: What are your hobbies?
A: Gardening and decorating

Q: What’s your favorite coffee?
A: Java Jan Highlander Grog is one of my favorites but I have many favorites. They are all available and made fresh daily in my shop.

Q: Why did you open your business in Dublin?
A: I live here, it’s perfect.

Q: What’s your favorite Dublin event?
A: Sláinte Thursdays. I welcome the opportunity to share our beautiful downtown Dublin with clientele, as well as visitors from outside of our community. (Note: Sláinte Thursdays are held from 4-7 p.m. on the third Thursdays during the warm weather months.)

-Post by Allison

 

Winter Family Fun–Dublin, Ohio Style

Oh, it’s a happy day when the kids go back to school after the break!  But if you’re a Dublin (OH) mom like me, you look at the calendar and see that in the next six weeks there are a couple of  long weekends in there where the kids will be at home again!  Here are a few activities to keep them occupied (and happy) in the bleak mid-winter.

Did you go to see a movie over the break?  We did and noticed a teaser for Percy Jackson and the Olympians.  If you have any 7-12 year olds in the house, I highly recommend this imaginative book series.  Check your local library for both book and CD formats.  Nothing like making a pillow fort at home and letting the kids listen to a great book!

Speaking of the Olympics, the Winter Games will start in early February in Vancouver, Canada.  Now is the time to take the kids to Mad River Mountain or The Chiller to teach them about downhill skiing or curling!  Did you know Dublin, Ohio operates an outdoor ice rink by the Recreation Center?  Bring your own skates and have great family fun!  Or pretend you are on a bobsleigh as you tackle the big sledding hill at Scioto Park next to the Dublin Arts Council’s Chief Leatherlips statue (part of the famous Art-in-Public-Places series). If there is any snow on the ground, you’ll find plenty of company on this hill!

Winter is a great time of year to visit the Columbus Zoo — the #1 Zoo the country (USA Travel Guide). Crowds are a little lighter this time of year and there are plenty of great exhibits to discover. The 100,000 gallon coral reef exhibit is captivating. Kids of all ages will enjoy seeing puffers, sharks, surgeonfishes and many more colorful species.

The Abbey Theater in the Dublin Community Recreation Center offers year-round family entertainment. Take advantage of this intimate setting (and minimal ticket charges) to introduce your kids to live theater—magicians, dance, plays, puppet shows, music and more. Upcoming shows include Toddler Theater (Jan. 27), Magic Man Carroll Baker (Jan.16), the music of Farmer Jason (Jan. 23) and the spectacular science of Doktor Kaboom (Feb. 6).

Many Dublin residents are currently serving overseas in the military.  How about sending a soldier a letter describing the snow or making a homemade Valentine to brighten their day?  Look at Anysoldier.com to find a local Ohio soldier.

Have fun and I’ll see you around Dublin!

-Post by Katie

 

New Year’s Eve

The countdown has begun.  2010 is just two days away and you are STILL trying to decide how to ring in the New Year?  We can help.  Below are some local (Dublin, Ohio) establishments that are offering something special on Thursday, December 31.

Getaway Package Deals:

Crowne Plaza Dublin Hotel. (600 Metro Pl. N. Dublin, OH 866/372-5566) The hotel’s family style NYE celebration features a (very) full package including overnight stay (with late check-out), a family dinner buffet, two drink coupons (per adult), New Year’s gear, Children’s activities, movies and games, a DJ and a dance floor and breakfast. $219.95/plus tax (for 2 adults & 2 children).

Columbus Marriott Northwest. (5605 Blazer Pkwy. Dublin, OH 614/791-1000) Plan a romantic NYE getaway for two and take advantage of a VIP package at an economical rate. Enjoy an overnight stay, chocolate covered strawberries, a bottle of champagne, four drink tickets and a breakfast buffet for two for just $179.95/plus tax.

Holiday Inn Express Dublin (5500 Tuttle Crossing Blvd. Dublin, OH 614/793-5500) Enjoy a great getaway AND a great rate with this new hotel’s special New Year’s Eve deal–save 50% off best available rates when you mention the “New Year’s Eve Special.”  (Valid 12.31.09 only)

Restaurants:

Digger & Finch Scottish Pub & Grille. (6720 Riverside Dr. Dublin, OH 614/889-8585) Savor dinner specials ranging from Grilled Twin Filet to Seared Ahi Tuna or Broiled Maine Lobster ($21.95-$27.95) that include a champagne toast, party favors and live music by Hat Trick.  Or just come for appetizers ($8 each) from 10 p.m.-1 a.m.

La Scala Italian Bistro. (4199 W. Dublin-Granville Rd. Dublin, OH 614/889-9431) Enjoy an evening of dinner and dancing with the Eddie Pollina Band. Three-course menu includes Beef Tenderloin with Shrimp Caruso and a toast. $110/per couple.

Mary Kelley’s. ( 7148 Muirfield Dr. Dublin, OH 614/760-7041) NYE special menu features include Prime Rib, BBQ Baby Back Ribs and a pasta dish.

Matt the Miller’s Tavern. (6825 Avery Muirfield Rd. Dublin, OH 614/799-9100) Visit this local favorite spot and enjoy a special menu for NYE … featuring Surf & Turf, Chilean Sea Bass and other options. Then savor a serving of Banana Bread Pudding (with liquid center) for dessert.

NYE on the Cheap:

If you are planning to hunker down at home and watch the ball drop on your new flat screen (from the comfort of your living room), you might want to pick up a pizza to enjoy during the countdown. Here are a couple of local deals:

• Bridge Street Pizza. ( 16 E. Bridge St. Dublin, OH 614/761-3169) Tucked into a little storefront in Historic Dublin, you might never know this place has the #3 voted pizza in North America. Enjoy a stone baked traditional pizza or a gourmet option like the Chicken Primavera or The Potsy. Holiday deal: two large one-topping pizzas for $18; or one large one-topping (plus 2 cans of pop) for $11.

• Donato’s Pizza. Multiple locations in Central Ohio)  Who can resist this hometown favorite? Special offer: pick up a regular pizza and enjoy Donato’s  29 cent wings deal … or check their Website for other great online offers.

-Post by Mary

 

Last Minute Dublin Stocking Stuffers!

If you haven’t finished your holiday shopping, there’s still enough time this afternoon. Each of us in the office came up with our favorite stocking stuffer ideas in Dublin, and we’re sharing them with you!

Allison: Java Jan is my new favorite coffee shop in Dublin. Jan, the owner (hence the name), sells sample packets of coffee for only $2.00 – they make an entire pot each. With flavors like Highlander Grog, Vanilla Hazelnut, and Chocolate Raspberry, you’re sure to find something perfect for any coffee lover!

Scott: Jewelry is always a big hit for a stocking stuffer in our family – and what better gift in Dublin, Ohio than some great Irish jewelry. Some unique ideas include a Silver Trinity Knot Pendant, Silver Celtic Knot Family Birthstone Pendant, or a Silver Claddagh Birthstone Ring. Visit one of the great jewelers in Dublin to pick out the perfect Irish Stocking Stuffer.

Mary: I come from a long line of tea drinkers, so I’m going to be giving small sample bags of TehKu Tea Company’s premium blended teas. With more than 100 varieties to select from, I’m having trouble narrowing down my choices—but I’m thinking Irish Blend, Cherry Blossoms and Snowflake. I can’t wait to share some of my favorite teas with my favorite people.

Josh: My two little girls get excited about almost any kind of candy, so the selection at MJ’s Candy Bar definitely garners their excitement. They carry M&Ms in an array of colors, chocolates from all over the world, and some Irish specialties. My family loves unique and funny gifts, so I’ll be checking out the novelty section of the store, which has some interesting oddities.

Kelly: I received a pair of earrings from Audacious Boutique this Christmas (an early present), and I love them already. The boutique not only has a vast array of earrings, but also bracelets, necklaces, and rings, all the perfect size to slip inside a stocking on Christmas Eve. My pair are green and gold: a perfect combination here in Dublin!

Andrea: I cruised through Ha’Penny’s looking for stocking stuffers I would like to see in my stocking this year.  I narrowed my list down, but anything in the store will do. My reasonable list includes:

1. Commenara wool sock for $17.50.  They are so soft and warm, they will keep my feet toasty all winter long.
2. Sticky note pads with Irish sayings – my favorites are below.
   “There are two kinds of people in this world: the Irish and those who would like to be Irish.”
   “My the Good Lord take a liking to you….but not too soon.”

From the Dublin Convention & Visitors Bureau, we hope you all have a wonderful holiday weekend!

 

Guess Who’s Coming to Dublin?

While 2009 may be coming to a close, many of us are looking ahead to 2010 … including the hundreds of police, firefighters and EMS personnel who
will be attending the 2010 Can-Am Police-Fire Games in Dublin, Ohio during the week of August 15-22.

To date, competitors from more than 100 different police and fire agencies have registered. These include the FBI, Calgary Police Service, Chicago Fire Department, Baton Rouge Police Department, CBP-United States Border Patrol, Correctional Service of Canada, Columbus Division of Police, Department of Homeland Security, Indianapolis Fire Department, Department of National Defence Canada, Federal Air Marshal Service, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, NYPD, Oregon State Police, New Jersey State Police, Tempe Police & Fire Departments and US Customs & Border Protection … among many others. And the list keeps growing. Daily.

During that exciting week in August, an estimated 2,500 competitors  (and their families) will travel to Dublin from across the globe to compete in 58 different sporting events—including SWAT,  Narcotics Dog, Tug of War, Karate and Toughest Competitor Alive.  The games are expected to generate an economic impact of more than $3.5 million to the local economy. Events will kick off on Sunday evening, August 15 at Coffman Park with a family friendly Opening Ceremonies featuring some amazing demonstrations. Best of all, events are free and spectators are encouraged to come out and cheer on the competitors.

So, while you are penciling in dates for your 2010 calendar—be sure to include the 2010 Can-Am Games. Really … this is going to be one unforgettable week in Central Ohio.

-Post by Mary

 

“Green Weekend” in Dublin: Holiday Heaven

Forget about Black Friday; I’m calling this Saturday and Sunday “Green Weekend,” because of Dublin’s many seasonal events and selection of unique holiday gifts.

The annual Chili Cook-off is today in Historic Dublin from noon to 4 p.m. For $5, you can sample nine Dublin residents’ recipes at La Chatelaine, J. Liu, and the Dublin Village Tavern. Vote for your favorite, and the top three will compete in the finals, 4:15 at La Chatelaine.

From 10 to 3, all three Dublin high schools are coming together at Sisters Sweet Shoppe (also in Historic Dublin) to auction off homemade gingerbread houses. The proceeds benefit the Ohio State School for the Blind’s Marching Band, which is performing in the Rose Bowl parade on New Year’s Day. It’s a great opportunity to celebrate the season in Dublin.

As for holiday shopping, check out these locally owned stores!

The Shoppes at River Ridge:

• Bliss
  Classic handbags, jewelry, greeting cards, home decor, and more.
  My favorite things: Spartina 449 handbags (a line started by my aunt and uncle!) and Grandmother’s Buttons jewelry.

• Audacious
  Trendy purses, scarves, watches, and jewelry.
  My favorite things: Miche bags, which have interchangeable covers for any occasion; OSU rhinestone beads; the selection of sparkly rings. (I just can’t resist sparkle!)

Historic Dublin:

• Ha’penny Bridge Imports of Ireland
  Irish gifts of all kind: clothes, pottery, jewelry, decor, even kilts!
  My favorite things: Celtic crosses, Irish nativity scenes, Belleek pottery. (This is one of the only places outside Ireland you can find it!)

• Create
  Children’s apparel and unique gifts, personally chosen by mother-daughter owners.
  My favorite things: Adorable sweaters (some of these make me wish I was still a little girl), uniquely adorned stockings and ornaments.

• Thalia & Dahlia
  Fine gifts and home appointments, from china pieces to handcrafted wreaths. New to Historic Dublin!
  My favorite things: Pretty picture frames, holiday serving dishes, handcrafted wreaths and other floral arrangements (made by Chris, one of the owners).

• Sisters Sweet Shoppe
  Sweets for all ages: gourmet truffles, candied nuts, peanut brittle, and the sisters’ signature homemade fruitcakes.
  My favorite things: New chocolate-dipped fruitcakes and their stocking stuffers, which are the perfect gift for anyone who loves chocolate. (But let’s be honest, practically everything in there could be considered my favorite.)

Hope your weekend is Green!

- post by Kelly

 

Holiday Greetings from the Green Team