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PrintHow the Wilkos article almost never happened
I have to admit that when I began to read freelancer Kendra Hovey’s pitch to write a story on Michael Wilkos, I was skeptical. Nothing against Wilkos, but he isn’t exactly a household name. Nor had he been suddenly thrust into the limelight recently. What could be compelling about a seemingly dedicated, relatively unknown nice guy doing good deeds?
Based on Kendra’s previous work for us, I didn’t immediately reject the idea. But after her introduction, I knew the only way I’d seriously think about it was if I could read a sample of the start of the story. She must have anticipated my doubts, because she did exactly that in the query. I was won over by her lively prose and fun hook: Wilkos as Columbus’s biggest fan.
Still, I was uncertain if the premise could hold up over 3,000 words. I trusted Kendra, though, and took the risk. I’m glad I did. She has delivered a compelling profile of, well, a dedicated, relatively unknown nice guy doing good deeds . . . who is Columbus’s biggest fan. To meet Wilkos, see page 52.
If you’re a subscriber, I extend my congratulations. You are receiving an additional treat with this issue: Columbus Monthly’s Restaurant Guide. (It’s also available on newsstands.) It’s a great resource for dining out, complete with listings of more than 1,000 establishments.
In addition, you’ll find two in-depth stories about the city’s growing restaurant scene. Assistant editor Taylor Swope chronicles the hectic days leading up to the opening of Milestone 229, a key piece of the new Scioto Mile, and freelancer Kerri Kennedy spoke with chefs who get really local by, say, grinding their own sausage on-site.
This time-consuming project is overseen by senior editor Jill Hawes, with help from assistant editor Emma Frankart. Two interns from Ohio State University—first Ryan Book and then Kelsey Givens—compiled the information for the listings. It’s not an easy task, but it must not be all that dreadful: Kelsey returned after working on the guide last year.
We’re having some fun on our website with a survey about Columbus icons. You can cast your votes in two categories: People and Places/things.
Here are some of the People contenders: Woody Hayes, Katherine LeVeque, Jesse Owens, Stefanie Spielman. Here are some of the Places/things nominees: Wexner Center, Short North arches, Ohio Stadium, Topiary Park.
Go to columbusmonthly.com to choose your favorites.
Ray Paprocki is the editor of Columbus Monthly.
