The Ohio state flower is the carnation, but there are plenty of other beautiful flowers adding their colors to life throughout the state. One of them is the daffodil. Also known as the narcissus, the daffodil has been a symbol of rebirth for thousands of years because it's one of the first flowers seen every spring.
Realtor Jim Camp of Cutler Real Estate wanted to find a way to honor the nearly 800,000 Americans who have perished due to the COVID-19 pandemic. That figure includes nearly 27,000 Ohioans

At Cutler Real Estate, we pride ourselves on having the best Realtors in the business, who consistently exceed the expectations of buyers and sellers across Northeast Ohio, Columbus & Central Ohio, and Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky. We believe in an environment that offers industry-leading tools and excellent business support to help our real estate agents realize success.
That's why we recognize those agents who have gone above a...

December is a month full of holidays, and one that you won't want to miss is Brownie Day! It's happening on Wednesday, December 8th this year, and it's the perfect reason to sink your teeth into one of those chewy, chocolatey delights. Making your own brownies is certainly an option, but there are also some amazing Columbus bakeries where you can pick up a few pre-made treats.
178 W. Olentangy Street, Powell, OH 43065
They may have named their shop after their cookies, but they make great brownies, too. Mrs. Turbo's is the place to visit if you find yourself north of Columbus near Powell. They rotate their brownie selection often, so there's always something different to try. Popular flavors include S'mores, Peppermint Patty, and Coconut. The Buckeye Brownies are also delicious!
The brownies at Mrs. Turbo's are quite traditional. They're halfway between cake-like and fudgy, and they just might remind you of the brownies your mom baked at home.
1855 Northwest Blvd., Columbus, OH 43212
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If you need a reason to stop by a place called Chocolate Cafe, Brownie Day can be that reason! This bakery crafts a wide assortment of tasty treats, many of which are gooey and chocolatey. Their Assorted Brownies are a customer favorite. They're sold by the dozen and come in a variety of flavors, including Salted Caramel Pretzel and Double Fudge.
While you're in Chocolate Cafe, you may want to order a cocktail to go with your brownies. The Chocolate Cake Martini and Double Espresso Martini both pair well with chocolate. Since this space does operate as a full-service cafe, they also have a menu of sandwiches, salads, and soups.
1203 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43201
It's impossible not to be happy at a place called Happy Little Treats, especially if you're there to celebrate Brownie Day. This small bakery takes pride in their creativity. They always have colorful cookies and delectable donuts in their glass display cases. Their brownies are massive, and they make them both with and without pecans. Sometimes they even carry Oreo and blueberry brownies. You could easily buy one to share with a friend or family member — or eat it all yourself.
Happy Little Treats is a vegan bake shop, but even non-vegans rave about their products. They also have a coffee menu with plant-based options like their famous iced oat milk latte. If you're looking for something to bring home for breakfast the next day, try the vegan honey buns. They're as gooey and delicious as brownies.
5712 Westbourne Ave., Columbus, OH 43213
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Brownie Points was created by two sisters-in-law who are Ohio natives. The company started in their apartment kitchen and eventually moved to a brick-and-mortar store in Cleveland before relocating to Columbus. Since 1991, their brownies have brought smiles to countless faces. They've even begun shipping their brownies across the country.
At Brownie Points, they don't just have brownies. They have brownies in all different flavors and forms. The Chocolate Caramel Sea Salt is a fan favorite. If you like fruity flavors, then you may want to try the Raspberry Caramel Fudge. Not in the mood for chocolate? You're in luck! Brownie Points even has some non-chocolate flavors, like Very Vanilla and Butterscotch Sensations.
547 S. Drexel Ave., Bexley, OH 43209
If you're on the east side of Columbus near Bexley, this is a great place to get your brownie fix. Cherbourg Bakery is a nut-free, gluten-free, and dye-free facility, aiming to make baked goods as safe as possible for their customers. But have no fear — even without these ingredients, their baked goods are incredible. The Espresso Brownies are mouthwatering if you're someone who loves coffee.
In addition to brownies and other sweet treats, Cherbourg Bakery offers a lot of savory baked goods. You may want to pick up an olive oil mini loaf or a 3-cheese quiche to bring home for later.
1347 Cameron Ave., Lewis Center, OH, 43035
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Located inside the Oak Creek Center, The Fat Girl Bakery is a fun and laid-back place to indulge your inner chocolate lover. The owner, Amy, considers herself an expert in flavors, and she has lots of fun pairing them together in new and unique ways. Their Buckeye Brownies bring peanut butter and chocolate together for a fun twist on the Ohio tradition.
The Fat Girl Bakery is known for its friendly staff and welcoming environment. While some people do take their treats to-go, staying to enjoy your brownie in-house is definitely encouraged.
2209 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43201
Insomnia Cookies made a name for themselves by delivering cookies to college campuses late at night. But you don't have to be a college student to enjoy their baked goods, and you no longer have to stick with cookies, either. They now have brownies, cookie cakes, and even ice cream if you visit them on-site.
Of course, if you really don't want to leave the house, you can have Insomnia Cookies deliver some cookies and brownies to your home for Brownie Day. Placing an order via their website is simple, and they'll get cookies to you in no time.
106 E. Moler St., Columbus, OH 43207
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If you eat a gluten-free diet, then Bake Me Happy is a great place to get your brownie fix. This is a 100% gluten-free bakery. They specialize in nostalgic baked goods. So, as you browse their menu, you will notice gluten-free versions of classics like Zebra Cakes and SnoBalls. Don't worry — they do, in fact, offer a gluten-free version of colorful Cosmic Brownies, which are perfect for Brownie Day.
If you dine in, make sure you pair your brownie with a nostalgic beverage, too. The Cereal Milk Cold Brew is uniquely incredible, and guests also love the Strawberry Nesquick Cold Brew. The flavors will remind you of simpler times.
In this busy holiday season, don't forget to celebrate Brownie Day! Where will you sink your teeth into chocolatey goodness?

There's nothing quite like seeing the joy in a child's eyes when they receive a Christmas gift they really love. When you choose to skip the big-box stores and support local instead, you'll help keep the shopkeeper's dreams alive as well.
If you're ready to start your holiday shopping soon, you'll be glad to know that there are some great locally owned toy stores in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati. Here's a look at some of our favorites.
986 Medina Rd. Suite A, Medina, OH 44256
If you're looking for fun and educational holiday gifts, you'll definitely want to pay a visit to Smartickles Toy Store. This family-owned and operated business has been around since 1976. They carry all of the most popular developmental toy brands including LEGO, Colorforms, Melissa & Doug, and more.
Everything is priced very affordably and they carry a huge inventory of items. There are also lots of cool options for "big kids" too, so you may want to pay a visit even if you're not shopping for little ones.
30789 Pinetree Rd., Pepper Pike, OH 44124
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PLAYmatters Toys was voted Best Toy Store in the 2021 annual Northeast Ohio Parent Choice Awards — for good reason. This specialty shop sells premier-quality toys, dolls, games, and puzzles from some of the best toymakers around the world.
Not only will you find some great gifts here, but they also offer free gift wrapping with a selection of fun papers, so you can present the special child in your life with a beautifully wrapped gift without any hassle.
Do you want to make gift giving easy for family and friends? You can also go to PLAYmatters and create a wish list for your child. This takes the guesswork out of it and you won't have to worry about returning gifts that aren't quite right!
238 W. Main St., Ravenna, OH 44266
At Your Toy Connection, you'll find a huge selection of both modern and vintage toys. They have everything from toys that were popular in the 1960s to current items. While the inventory changes regularly, you'll likely find lots of Transformers, Star Wars items, POP collectibles, and more.
You can count on Your Toy Connection to offer excellent prices and their friendly staff is always happy to help. Whether you're looking for a special collectible piece or you just want to look around and see what strikes your fancy, you'll love spending time here.
1180 S. Main St., North Canton, OH 44720
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Sir Troy's Toy Kingdom is known for carrying high-quality, imagination-powered toys for both kids and adults who are kids at heart. This is one of the best places to get your hands on hard-to-find LEGO sets as well as items like MEGA BLOKS, Masterpiece Puzzles, the full line of Breyer Horses, COBI Military Sets, and more.
In addition to the North Canton store, you'll also find locations in Medina and Solon as well as a robust online store. This makes it easy to shop local for your holiday gifts no matter where you're located.
1239 Polaris Pkwy., Columbus, OH 43240
Founded in 2011, Dreamland is one of the most popular toy stores in Columbus. They carry a large selection of toy brands like Disney, Ty, Melisssa & Doug, Mattel, Fisher-Price, and more. They also have a selection of Squishmallows and giant fidget pops.
Need a deluxe scooter with LED wheels, a 3D Harry Potter puzzle, or a giant stuffed T-rex? You'll find all this and more at Dreamland!
672 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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If you're looking for some fun stocking stuffers or vintage toys for a child who is into collecting, you'll want to check out Big Fun Columbus. They always have a super cool selection, and since they buy old toys all the time, you can find cool new stuff every time you visit.
6840 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45227
For rare and unique gifts for kids (and adults!), you can't go wrong with Coolest Toys on Earth. This shop almost feels more like a cool toy museum than a retail store. They carry a huge selection of rare and high-quality toys, outdoor games, puzzles, science items, building kits, toys for younger kids, and more. A gift from this store is guaranteed to be one that will get a ton of use.
7723 Five Mile Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45230
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Looking for a gift that will last a lifetime? Check out the high-quality wooden toys at Flying Pig Toys. They carry many unique brands and have a constantly evolving selection. In addition to toys, you'll also find a wide variety of stackers and tons of books ranging from educational to silly. They even have a selection of pop-up baby books.
Flying Pig Toys offers a rewards program and the ability to make a wish list. This makes them a popular choice among parents in the Cincinnati area.
834 OH-125 #310, Cincinnati, OH 45245
If you have a kid (or big kid) in your life who is into vintage or collectible items, then you'll want to check out House of Plastik. They have a great selection of action figures, Transformers, My Little Pony, Star Wars items, and more. If you need some stocking stuffers, you can also get some great candy here.
Since they buy used items, you can always find something new and exciting. And, if you need to clear out some space and make some cash, you might be able to sell a few old items before the holidays arrive.
Where will you shop for fun items to spread Christmas cheer this year?

Trains, both toy and real, conjure up pleasant memories of days gone by. Bring a welcome touch of nostalgia to this year's holidays with a visit to these Christmas train rides and displays around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, 400 Center St., Dennison, OH 44621
You and your family have loved the book and the movie. Now experience the magic in real life on The Polar Express™ Train Ride at the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum. Storytellers are on board to read the book as elves lead everyone in games, songs, and other activities. Refreshments include beverages and cookies made by Mrs. Claus. The train makes a stop at the North Pole to pick up Santa, who will visit with the kids during the return trip. Trains run Friday through Sunday on the first two weekends in December. Visit the website for times. Tickets range from $45-$80.
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, 7900 Old Rockside Rd., Independence, OH 44131
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Take in the winter beauty of the Cuyahoga Valley on your own North Pole Adventure™. Everyone can enjoy cookies and cocoa as kids write letters to Santa and take part in singing and dancing with elves. When the train stops at the North Pole to hand-deliver the letters, there's a good chance that a special guest will come on board. The train leaves the station at 7:30 p.m. daily through December 19. Tickets are $45-$92.
EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Ct., West Chester, OH 45069
Remember the joy you felt watching your new model train circle the Christmas tree? Share that delight with your own kids at Christmas at the Junction. In addition to being the home of the world's largest indoor train display, EnterTRAINment Junction is a family fun center revolving around a railroad theme. Christmas at the Junction features a number of holiday train displays along with dazzling decorations, lively activities, and a visit with Santa. Festivities take place through January 2. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors open at noon. Admission is $15.95 per person when purchased in advance on the website.
Zanesville & Scenic Western Railroad, 5705 SR-204, Mt. Perry, OH 43760
During the holidays, the Mt. Perry Scenic Train transforms into the Santa Train. The 40-minute ride follows the historic Glass Rock Spur, named for the days when the line transported silica sand from Central Silica Company in nearby Glenford. Santa, assisted by the conductor, will be handing out gifts and treats along the way. The Santa Train departs each hour between 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on the second and third weekends of December. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for ages 3-13. Receive a discount with a donation of food or a new, unwrapped toy.
19201 Puritas Ave., Cleveland, OH 44135
For the 18th year, Puritas Nursery is treating the West Park community to their delightful holiday train display. Three separate train sets, each in a different size, are fascinating to watch for "kids" of all ages. As if that wasn't reason enough to visit Puritas Nursery, you can shop their great selection of mistletoe, wreaths, and holiday greenery, as well as a wide variety of gift items and stocking stuffers. View the trains during store hours, 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekends through December 31.
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, 33 W. Canal St., Nelsonville, OH 45764
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Over three decades, generations of families have made the Santa Christmas Train a part of their holiday tradition. Historic Hocking Valley makes a perfect seasonal backdrop for the two-hour trip to East Logan and back. Santa will be along for the ride to visit with each child and collect their wish lists. At the end of the journey, they will also receive a special candy cane treat. Trains run each weekend through December 19. Visit the website for departure times. Tickets are $21 for adults and $16 for ages 3-12.
751 N. Four Mile Run Rd., Austintown, OH 44515
Members of the Youngstown Model Railroad Association love to share their enthusiasm for their favorite hobby with others. One of their more popular activities is their holiday open house, which they have been conducting for more than 65 years. Held at the group's headquarters, the open house features one layout upstairs and another downstairs, with surrounding "towns" that include carnivals and other life-like details. Hours are noon - 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on the first two weekends of December. A $5 donation is requested from all visitors over the age of 11.
Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 County Rd. 99, Findlay, OH 45840
Real trains? Toy trains? No need to choose at North Pole Express. Quarter-scale trains are ready to take you through a glittering wonderland of trees and lights. Meanwhile, toy train displays await in the festively decorated museum and train barn. You never know when Santa and Mrs. Claus may pop in for a visit! Activities take place 5:30 - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Sunday through January 2. Admission is $4 for adults and $3 for kids 12 and under.
Crocker Park, 172 Crocker Park Blvd., Westlake, OH 44145
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Are your little ones a bit young for an actual train ride? Crocker Park's Express Train provides a healthy dose of excitement for kids who might not be ready for a longer trip. The whole family will enjoy the sight of Crocker Park done up in all its holiday finery. Before or after, kids can visit with Santa and get their picture taken at Santa's Village. The Express Train runs daily through Christmas Eve. Visit the website for hours. Tickets are $4 per person.
In many parts of the world, trains are still a major form of transportation. What exotic location would you travel to by train?