Columbus, Ohio's capital, has a rich and involved history. The capitol of Ohio was hotly contested up until February 14, 1812. Columbus was finally chosen because of its central location. One notable historical event occurred in 1908, when the Hoover brothers invented and implemented the first water filtration plant. Their efforts effectively reduced typhus deaths. Life in Columbus, Ohio is generally bustling with its many schools as well as a newly improved downtown area. In fact, the city was given the distinction as being the eighth-best large city to live in. Like many other large cities in the United States, Columbus has been hit by the economic downturn. Currently, Columbus has a higher unemployment rate than the national average. There are numerous opportunities for employment, though. Higher education is a very large employer. The technological and healthcare sectors are among the other large employers as well.
One of the best ranked restaurants in the Columbus is Lindey's Restaurant & Bar. There is a large variety of cuisine to choose from in Columbus that will excite the taste buds, as well as entice the eater to come back for more. Columbus, Ohio boasts some of the best arts, entertainment and tourist attractions around. Museums, including a Science and Industry museum, and the performing arts, including the ProMusica Chamber Orchestra and the Columbus Youth Ballet Academy, are major draws to tourists every year. Nightlife and shopping are varied and expansive in Columbus. There are a good number of night venues for adults to spend time socializing and having fun. Columbus is always a happening hive of activity.
Columbus did not exist prior to the government's decision in 1812. The city was named in honor of Christopher Columbus. On February 14, 1812, the capital city was founded. Columbus was officially chartered with a population of 3500 on March 3, 1834. The state legislature granted legislative authority to the city council and the mayor was given the judicial authority. John Brooks became the first mayor when the first elections were held.
An environmental project in 1908 was internationally recognized which was called The Columbus Experiment. It was during this time when the first water plant to apply filtration and softening was constructed. The Hoover brothers, Clarence and Charles, were the ones who designed and invented the water plant. Their invention helped reduce typhus deaths.
Columbus has an advanced system of highways making destinations within the city accessible and also its different suburbs. The highways have been improved in recent years accommodating the influx of new city dwellers. The city is well-grounded in both cultural and scholastic aspects. Columbus is the home of The Ohio State University, that's been hosting several educational programs and events. The city has a diversified economy based on banking, education, government, fashion, defense, food, health care, technology and more; all contributing to the city's expansion and growth. The city is acknowledged by the US Money Magazine as the 8th best large city to live in. Residents of Columbus are called Columbusites. There are over 750,000 residents inhabiting this great, big city.
Columbus offers a big city culture with a small-town atmosphere. Sophisticated shopping, excellent dining, and a competitive cost of living can all be experienced in this city. Whether pursuing an education, starting a business, or raising a family, Columbus, Ohio would be a great place. Residents take pleasure in the beauty of this place, with its museums, vibrant entertainments, and plentiful attractions making the life in the city fun and full of adventure. Restaurants, recreation opportunities, popular attractions are all in Columbus, Ohio.
The economy of Columbus is generally strong and diverse. The city is recognized as one of the best in Ohio for its vibrant economy. Government jobs provide the largest source of employment. The Metropolitan Area has over 100,000 college students. A large number of people are employed in higher education institutions. The popular institutions like The Ohio State University, Franklin University and Columbus State Community College, and other smaller schools and colleges have quite a number of workers.
The most popular companies with most Columbus jobs are Cardinal Health, Lowe's Research Company, Staples, IBM and JP Morgan Chase. The most common occupations in Columbus are management, professional, and related jobs, 34%; occupations in sales and offices, 27%; and service occupations, 15%. Most of the workers in Columbus Ohio, approximately 73%, work for companies. Fifteen percent of the employees work for the government and about 5 percent are self-employed. Popular and most commonly listed jobs in the city are for physical therapists, occupational therapists, cashiers, project managers, sales representatives, and assistant managers. The leading industries of the city are educational services, health care, social assistance, 19%; retrial and trade, 12%; while professional, scientific, and management, administrative and waste management service, 10%. These industries are hiring workers in computer equipment manufacturing, computer making, food service contracting and catering services, and computer storage device manufacturing. The average wage for jobs in Columbus, Ohio is $36,790 according to government data, and the median household income is $40,405. The unemployment rate of Columbus is 7.9%; it is higher compared to the national average of 6.9%. However, according to data, jobs in Columbus have increased by 44% since December 2008.
The city of Columbus, Ohio has numerous restaurants serving favorite dishes wowing diners and making every palate crave for more. Among the best restaurants in Columbus, Ohio are the following: Lindey's Restaurant & Bar is ranked as one of the best restaurants in Columbus. The restaurant has been around for 18 years already. It has been featured in the pages of The New York Times, USA Today and more. The residents' favorites in this place are the Eggs Rancheros, Hunan Pork Chop, New Zealand Rack Lamb, Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, Honey-Glazed Duck and others. The dishes range from $10-$35. Lindey's offers live jazz every month but only on the first Thursday.
Smith & Wollensky is a favorite for Columbus Fine Dining. This restaurant has just opened in 2002, but has earned reputation being one of the city's finest dining establishments. Smith & Wollensky features classy and expensive dining perfect for dinner dates and meeting important clients. Diners can have a delicious lobster in varieties served with fresh butter. Fish lovers can have freshly-grilled varieties like halibut, wild salmon and tuna. Steak and poultry lovers can enjoy prime-cut filet mignon with gorgonzola crust; lemon pepper chicken with whipped potatoes; and American lamb chops are among the top choices of the regular diners in Smith & Wollensky. Another favorite spot is the Barcelona Restaurant in German Village which opened in 1996. This restaurant is Columbus' premiere Spanish dining venue. This is a local favorite and is recognized by the Columbus Dispatch polls among the top 10 restaurants in the city. It has been famous for its authentic Spanish paella and other Spanish cuisine.
Columbus, Ohio is known for its museums displaying the culture and art of the residents now and in the past. The Columbus Museum of Art has a vast collection of European and American to modern art. This museum opened in 1931. The Wexner Center for the Arts is located in Ohio State University campus. It is a gallery for contemporary art and is also a research facility. COSI or Center of Science and Industry is a huge and large science museum.
The Ohio Historical Center and Kelton House Museum and Garden are other great places in Columbus, Ohio to see the different exhibits of antiques and preserved collections in the city. Renowned performing arts institutions are found in Columbus as well. The Columbus Symphony Orchestra, Opera Columbus, ProMusica Chamber Orchestra, BalletMet Columbus, and many others are in this great city. The residents and visitors can watch free performances by the Actors' Theatre throughout the summer. They usually showcase Shakespearean plays in the amphitheatre in German Village for the people to enjoy. The Columbus Youth Ballet Academy, founded in the 1980s, is initiated by Shir Lee Wu, a ballerina and artistic director. Her students have pursued their education at institutions such as the Julliard School and School of American Ballet. Some of her students won in different competitions and became finalists in other huge events such as the Concord De Dance de Paris.
The famous attractions in Columbus, Ohio have wowed many tourists and local residents, making their tours or vacations very memorable. The Columbus and Franklin County Metropolitan Park District and Inniswood Metro Gardens have a collection of several public gardens like The Highbanks Metro Park and Battelle-Darby Creek Metro Park. The Big Darby Creek is beautiful and has a diversified ecology. The Whetstone Park, which includes the Park of Roses, has a splendid 13-acre rose garden. The Chadwick Arboretum is in the Ohio State University campus and has a wide array of plants.
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is famous worldwide for its collection of animals including lowland gorillas, manatees, Siberian tigers, cheetahs, polar bears and kangaroos. The children and the whole family will surely have a great time in this place. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has been ranked as the best zoo in the United States in 2009. The Zoombezi Bay at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a 22.7-acre water park. It has 15 fabulous water slides, an action river, wave pool, private cabanas and many more. This is a brand new attraction in Columbus where the whole family can have loads of fun. This is a place fit for thrill-seekers.
Columbus denizens can enjoy the night at Martini Park. This is a nighttime spot for grown-ups to socialize and have fun after 6 P.M. This is located in the Easton Town Center. The place is a stylish cocktail lounge, also serving tapas and tasty dinners. This fine establishment offers Pineapple Navan, The Appletini—Martini Parks' signature drink, Strawberry Basil, Espresso, Coconut, Cherry Park and Decadent Chocolate which are the favorite choices of the patrons.
The cuisine is savory and magical. Pizza, lobster macaroni and cheese and others are not disappointing to the guests. Onyx Dance Lounge is another place for partying. The lounge opened in July 2008 and utilized high quality sound and lighting technologies. There are also VIP rooms for the party of groups of friends. The club is classy and fun. It is also a great place for bachelor or bachelorette party. There is a patio connected to Onyx for those who just want to have a break from dancing. Havana is another cool and fun option for a night adventure. The bar can be crowded on weekends but still a great spot to enjoy. Music videos vary from chill to rock and the bartenders are very friendly and welcoming. Other great places for an entertaining nightlife are Summit gay bar, Carlile Club, Wall Street, Axis and The Lodge Bar.
Spring fashion in Columbus, Ohio is currently a trend. The women are all set to get a fresh wardrobe. The spring color trends are focusing on pale. Champagne and beige with navy and stripes are reviving into this season for a chic style. With dress length, short is in and tunic as well. Accessories like big belts and jewelry are still in style. Wedge and strappy sandal, and also the gladiator shoes are fashionable this spring. For a casual look, jeans and ruffle blouse are back in style.
There are many beautiful shopping destinations around Columbus, Ohio ranging from old-fashioned village merchants to large suburban malls and everything in between. Columbus City Center has more than 85 shops and restaurants. Polaris Fashion Place, Ohio's largest shopping center has the upscale boutiques and shops like Macy's, Kaufmanns's, Saks Fifth Avenue, Von Mauer, JC Penney, and Sears. Easton Town Center is an eclectic destination of restaurants, retailers, and movie theaters. Worthington Square has the leading specialty shops. Other premier shopping destinations in Columbus, Ohio are Berwick Shopping Center, Carriage Place, Consumer Square West, Crosswood Commons Shopping Center, Easton Square Shopping Center, Emporium Marketplace, Global Mall, Graceland 1450, Kingsdale Center Mall and many more.
Columbus is a home to different beauty, health and fitness centers as well. Ecco Fitness Studio offers superior cardio and strength training equipment, with thirty-minute women's circuit, kickboxing, spinning and free personal training for all members each month. Children can have yoga and martial arts both for low monthly fees.
Tranquility Day Spa was established in 2004. The Spa is located in Oletangy Plaza, Bethel Road. The spa is designed to give the visitors peace of mind and balance of body and soul. They offer treatments for rejuvenation and relaxation. They offer services for men and women. The Spa is well-known for its Perfect Brow technique. In order to keep a healthy lifestyle, the CNHC or Columbus Neighborhood Health Center offers services for preventing or reducing chronic disease complications in diabetes, hypertension, obesity and heart disease. They provide education on nutrition and healthy lifestyle which are vital for keeping the body in good shape and prevent diseases caused by unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle. The Dieticians provide diet and nutrition counseling for individuals and families. They also give tips for losing weight and planning a healthy living, exercise activities and routines, and menu planning for special diets like low fat, or low salt diet. Personal coaching and professional advice are also offered for specific health and nutrition concerns.
The city of Columbus, Ohio is full of wonderful attractions and hotels for visitors to discover during their stay. 50 Lincoln Short-North Bed and Breakfast, located amongst Columbus' culturally-diverse Short North Arts District, this beautiful delight will win guests over with its cozy atmosphere and elegant style. The art district provides guests with plenty of options for great food, shopping and entertainment. Cambria Suites Columbus Polaris serves up sophisticated, upscale accommodations and excellent customer service. Located across from the Polaris Place shopping mall, guests enjoy easy access to a host of fine shops and restaurants. For a fun day trip guests can visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Residence Inn Columbus Downtown with its colorful, inviting décor, great location and friendly staff ensures that guests are sure to have an amazing time. Located near the German Village and the Arena District, options for dining, bars, and shopping are abundant. A number of golf courses are only a short drive away and guests can be pampered at the nearby Aura Yoga Spa Boutique or explore the fragrant botanical gardens at the Franklin Park Conservatory. Visitors can stay at the German Village Guest House. This enchanting gem adorned with classic décor and vibrant colors is in the heart of the beautiful German Village. On cool nights guests can cozy up to the inviting flames of the outdoor fireplace or explore the many restaurants and shops in the village. With brick-paved streets and the beautiful Shiller Park, the popular German Village is full of charm and adventure for its visitors to enjoy. Whether exploring the German Village or delighting in the eccentric vibe of the Short North Arts Districts, visitors are bound to have fun staying at these beautiful hotels.
Learning, reading and getting an education is always important to a society and an individual. Those who have an education have a better chance of success. This is not always the case but there is an added advantage of having an education versus not having one. This also goes along with having a quality education over someone who has not had the equivalent level of education. Though one must wonder: If it is indeed possible to get a good education as well as have a bit of fun at the same time?
The answer is yes. Ohio State University is one of the largest schools in the country offering a variety of courses of some of the highest quality. Earning them a spot to be listed as a Tier 1 school, ranked 56. Still there are other considerations that are taken when potential students are considering what school to attend. Aside from the costs and the programs offered, there is the notion of experiencing the ‘whole' college experience.
While not the only reason for going to college, partying and socializing is one of the main reasons that most students attend. It is their first time away from home and now they have a chance to come into their own. Students considering or currently attending Ohio State have the luck of attending not only a great school in terms of academics, but it is also ranked as being the second best in terms of party schools. This is not really a bad thing but the school is not too thrilled with it. Still it's part of who they are as an establishment and does not take away from its other more noteworthy achievements. So those considering Ohio State can think of the saying ‘Work hard to play hard'
Like every other major city, the importance of not only reliable but fast transportation is the key to ensuring that the people of that city can get to their destinations and appointments. Currently Columbus Ohio, and a few other major cities, is without the benefit of a high speed rail system. There are trains a plenty moving in and out of the city, but none of them are for the purpose of assisting its large populace get around in the city. There has been much discussion in regards to this, mostly a bit of arguing and disagreements as to whether or not the City really needs a passenger rail system.
The main issue is that the U.S Government is trying to force the hand of soon to be Governor of Ohio John Kasich. Funds were distributed to every state in the nation to be used for its transportation needs. In a letter from the director of transportation a stipulation has been placed on just how those funds are to be spent. 400 million dollars is to be used for the soul purpose of focusing on the 3C project, which is a plan to institute a railway system for passengers which will connect Ohio's three largest cities to one another. The future governor does not feel that this would be money well spent and wishes to instead use it on the roads and the current bus system that is in place.
The presidential office, feels that not only would this bring the country closer and become more accessible but by going through plans it would help to ease the unemployment crisis as well as boost the current floundering economy. Till this is resolved the people of Columbus Ohio still have the bus lines, cabs and bike lanes in which to get around the city.
The city of Columbus in Ohio has government branches which have been bestowed with independent powers. The responsibilities of each branch depend on the Columbus City Codes, on the City Charter or both. The local government of Columbus is basically composed of the mayor, city council, city auditor and the city attorney. The elected officials each have a term of four years. The mayor heads the administrative branch and is the chief peace conservator. He or she is also expected to ensure that the city ordinances are being implemented properly and to effectively supervise the city administration. To distribute the workload, there are departments and divisions created in the government. The directors of these departments are appointed by the mayor. The auditor is the chief officer in the accounting section of the government. The accounting department is responsible for maintaining the financial records of the city such as disbursements, assets, liabilities and receipts. The tax collection is also overseen by this department. The city attorney is Columbus' chief legal officer and heads the legal department. He or she acts as the city's primary adviser and counsel. The attorney has the power to defend against lawsuits and prosecutes for the city. The City Charter was adopted by Columbus in 1914. It was amended 61 times ever since its adaptation. It represents the basic rights, and responsibilities of the elected government officials and citizens that are not covered by the American constitution and the state constitution. The City Codes, on the other hand, represent the powers of the City Council that are not previously covered by the City Charter. The City Codes may be modified only by city council ordinances, while the Charter may be changed by the Columbus citizens' votes. One can fully understand Columbus government, structure, and legislative process through knowing the primary responsibilities of the city government officials. To learn more about the government of Ohio, go to http://www.columbus.gov/.